A recent field day at the Poukawa Research Farm brought together a full group of farmers to learn about beef-on-dairy performance, hear updates from key industry partners, and see how the Dairy Beef Opportunities (DBO) work is helping lift value across dairy systems.
The day was a sell-out, with 50–60 farmers attending to learn more about the DBO work and the wider beef-on-dairy space. The event was supported by Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ), Fonterra and Silver Fern Farms, each sharing insights on how farmers can capture more value from beef-on-dairy calves.
The DBO programme aims to improve genetics, strengthen dairy–beef pathways and help farmers capture more value from calves already in the system. The $20.9 million programme is a joint initiative between DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb New Zealand, the Meat Industry Association, and members of the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand, with support from the Ministry for Primary Industries via the Primary Sector Growth Fund (PSGF). The Government is investing $10.49 million into the project with the remaining funds coming from sector partners.
“It was great to see such a strong turnout of livestock industry stakeholders keen to learn more about the commercial realities and opportunities of beef-on-dairy, and the important role that selecting the right beef genetics plays across the value chain," says Duncan Elliott, Operations Specialist at B+LNZ. He provided an update on the DBO overview and the latest progress from the Dairy Beef Progeny Test work at the field day.
Rebecca Hickson from Fonterra highlighted the importance of genetic selection, especially choosing sires that deliver easy calving, strong growth and the traits valued by finishers and processors. Greg McSkimming from Silver Fern Farms outlined how their beef on dairy supplier programme, backed by major customers like McDonald’s, is offering real premiums for calves bred with the right genetics.
A key part of the day was viewing the comparison animals in the yards. Farmers were able to see the type differences between beef-on-dairy and beef-on-beef animals while Duncan and Rebecca explained the study design, genetic makeup and early observations. Duncan noted, “When viewing the different types of beef-on-dairy and traditional beef animals flowing through our beef production systems, it becomes clearer that selecting the right genetics is a key consideration to maximise value.”
Duncan also reinforced B+LNZ’s commitment to dairy farmers through levy funded work. “B+LNZ’s investment is focused on practical tools and research that help farmers make better decisions on farm,” he said. The event also acknowledged the contribution of the Informing New Zealand Beef and Dairy Beef Progeny Test farmer participants, whose involvement continues to strengthen Progeny Test data for the sector.
More information about the Dairy Beef Opportunities programme is available on our website.