A changed outlook and, at the same time, reduced funding from falling milk production also calls for a repositioning of Dairy Australia priorities to respond to industry needs. The Company’s priorities over the coming year are to best position the industry to recover from the drought and to help dairy farmers: o Build resilience to climate variability and adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change; o Increase farm profitability and take advantage of strong world prices; and o Strive for continuous improvement and a sustainable contribution to the Australian economy and the wider community. APPRECIATION At the conclusion of Dairy Australia’s fourth year in operation, I would like to thank the Australian Dairy Industry Council, Australian Dairy Farmers and the Australian Dairy Products Federation for their continued support. The Australian Government has recognised the returns from investing in dairy by its matching research funding. We have enjoyed the benefits of working closely with the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Mr Peter McGauran, and the Parliamentary Secretary, Sussan Ley. Departmental officers in Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Foreign Affairs and Trade, as well as state-based Departments of Primary Industries have joined in the collaboration that underpins and has become a hallmark of the Australian dairy industry. During the year, the Board welcomed one new director, Kelvin Jackson, a Gippsland dairy farmer and a director of the Bonlac Supply Company and the Toora and District AB Co-operative. Finally, the activities of Dr Mike Ginnivan and the staff of Dairy Australia must be acknowledged. Their commitment to the dairy industry is unchallenged. Their ability to identify and respond to needs and work among industry to get the most out of its resources for the collective good is to be commended. Max J Roberts Chairman
Go to top
