Farmers from across the lower North Island recently gathered for a first-of-its-kind workshop focused on unlocking the potential of dairy beef.
Held in Masterton and jointly run by Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) and DairyNZ, with funding support from MPI, OSPRI and CRV, the ‘Unlocking the Synergies - Dairy Beef Workshop’ explored how dairy and beef producers can work more closely to lift outcomes for both.
“It was a fantastic collaborative event that kickstarted conversations between dairy farmers, beef finishers, calf rearers, consultants, and others across the value chain,” says Lesley Coppell, B+LNZ’s Extension Manager for Wairarapa and Tararua.
“Key takeaways for me included the importance of strong relationships between dairy farmers and calf rearers, understanding sire genetics, and the many opportunities for the wider industry to support farmers.”
The day featured a line-up of speakers from across the value chain covering everything from regulatory updates and market insights to practical tools and on-farm experiences.
Starting with OSPRI’s Tracy Beauchamp, who shared NAIT updates and disease management insights, Lauren Hale from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) then highlighted the support available from MPI’s On-Farm Support team.
Next, Daniel Carson from Mīti shared a Canterbury-based approach to non-replacement calves – and even sent Mīti Bites for attendees to sample, thanks to MPI’s support. B+LNZ Genetics’ Jim Inglis and Fonterra’s Rebecca Hickson unpacked the genetic potential of dairy beef systems including traits like low birthweight, short gestation, and high growth rates.
To close off, BakerAg’s Richmond Beetham and Chris Lewis facilitated a farmer panel featuring a diverse mix of farmers – Ed Handyside, Mike McCreary, Fraser Smith, and Alex Gibson – who generously shared their experiences and lessons learned across dairy, calf rearing, and finishing operations.
“The farmer panel was a real highlight for many with great engagement from attendees.”
Next steps
B+LNZ’s Extension team are taking expressions interest in forming a B+LNZ Innovation Group to continue trialling ideas, sharing learnings, and guiding future work in this space.
Lesley says, “We’re just scratching the surface, but there’s real momentum here, and we want to harness that.”
For farmers interested in being part of an ongoing group or staying in the loop on future events, get in touch with your local B+LNZ or DairyNZ Extension Manager.
Learn more about our group learning opportunities visit B+LNZ Focus Groups.