As summer approaches and much of Australia prepares for the long hot months ahead, it is time to reflect on the effect of heat stress in our dairy calves.

Pasture quality is crucial for achieving profitability, high milk solids production, cow condition score targets and good in-calf results. But what a pain it has been trying to manage quality during this season of stop-start growth.

Global dairy commodity prices have risen sharply in recent months, as indicated by GlobalDairyTrade (GDT) auction results and European spot pricing.

Murray Goulburn has bought Mitsubishi Corporation's remaining 24.1% in Tasmanian Dairy Products Co Pty Ltd (TDP) for A$4.8 million, taking 100% ownership.

Being a dairy farmer and an environmentalist, I have been perplexed by the banter and politicking over the regional council's One Plan implementation.

With the payout down and dry conditions looming, what's the last thing dairy farmers need now? An ageing political mouth with an overactive media secretary using the industry to try to make political capital.

The Australian dairy industry is worth about A$3 billion to the economy of Gippsland, Victoria, a regional business forum heard recently.

Judges have awarded gold medals to 84 of the 1407 wines at this year's Air New Zealand Wine Awards.

The new entry criteria for the 2016 New Zealand Dairy Manager of the Year means dairy workers with a variety of backgrounds, experience and skills are able to enter.

A new trial at the Northland Agricultural Research Farm near Dargaville is looking at alternatives to importing feed.