Getting the right calves, growing them well, and making the numbers stack up.
For beef farmers and calf rearers sourcing calves from the dairy system, profitability starts well before a calf arrives on your property. This one‑day workshop is focused on the key drivers of profitable dairy‑beef systems – calf sourcing, nutrition and growth, and the real economics behind calf rearing.
The day is structured into three practical sessions designed to build understanding, confidence and stronger supply‑chain relationships.
Expect a practical day with plenty of discussion, real‑world examples, and ideas you can take straight home.
Speakers
- Nadine Olsen – Ruminant & Forage Technical Services Manager, Nutritech.
- Rebecca Hickson – Dairy Beef Development Manager, Fonterra.
Sessions
Session 1: Calf sourcing – setting yourself up for success
The foundations of a profitable calf are laid on the dairy farm. This session focuses on how you can make sure the calves you're sourcing have the right genetics, early feeding and calf care before they reach you.
This session will cover:
- What genetics matter for dairy‑beef performance.
- The impact of colostrum, early nutrition and calf care on lifetime growth.
- Key questions to ask dairy farmers when sourcing calves.
- What “good practice” looks like on‑farm.
- How better conversations can lead to better calves and longer‑term relationships.
The aim of this session is to equip calf rearers and beef farmers with the knowledge and language to confidently engage with dairy farmers, improve transparency, and build trust on both sides of the gate.
Session 2: Feed and nutrition – hitting the ground running once calves arrive, consistent growth is critical
To be profitable, calves need to grow fast and efficiently without compromising health.
This session will cover:
- What calves need nutritionally for health and growth.
- Feed options and systems that support efficient weight gain.
- Managing the transition from milk to meal and pasture.
- Linking nutrition decisions to animal performance.
The focus of this session is on practical feeding strategies that support early growth and set calves up for the next stage of their system.
Session 3: The economics – are your calves paying their way? Good growth is only part of the picture
This final session brings it back to the numbers.
This session will cover:
- The true costs of calf rearing.
- Financing options for buying your calves.
- Understanding margins, not just calf price Identifying key leverage points to improve profitability.
This workshop is ideal for calf rearers and beef farmers who want better calves, clearer conversations with dairy farmers, and systems that deliver reliable performance and returns.
Registration
Registration is essential.