| 9 DAIRY PEOPLE » Chris and Desiree Giles Gore farmers set sights on new horizons Chris and Desiree Giles. Karen Phelps Waimumu Downs in Gore is up for sale presenting a great opportunity for potential buyers. Established in 2014 it offers 268 hectares of effective area, including a 206-hectare milking platform. The property’s self-contained nature and efficient management make it an attractive prospect for buyers looking for a turnkey operation, says equity partners Chris and Desiree Giles. “We’ve streamlined operations to make it a turnkey property for the next owner,” Chris explains. “Through strategic management and well-planned infrastructure, we’ve managed to keep our staffing lean with just one full-time employee and a parttimer.” The farm’s infrastructure is a standout feature, with a 50-bail rotary shed equipped with DeLaval plant. The Giles have invested significantly in the property over the years. “We’ve invested heavily in pasture improvement, essentially re-grassing the entire property,” says Chris. “We’ve also expanded our operation significantly. When we started, we were milking 400 cows on 143 hectares. Now, we’ve added two extra blocks and increased our herd to 550 cows.” Currently, the farm operates on a grass-only system, with all stock wintered on-farm. Production levels are impressive: “We’re pretty happy with our production, doing 520-530 kgMS per cow.” While the sale marks the end of an era for the Giles family, it also heralds an exciting new beginning. The couple has already found a smaller farm nearby, which will see them downsize from 398 hectares to 135 hectares if they are successful in purchasing it. This move aligns with their goal of entering farm ownership and pursuing new agricultural projects. “Leaving will be bittersweet. However, we’re looking forward to the new opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.” Giles’ commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative farming practices is evident in their plans for the new property. As 2020 finalists in the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust competition, they aim to implement various eco-friendly initiatives, including strategic tree planting and advanced effluent management systems. “Our vision includes strategic tree planting for shade throughout the paddocks, moving beyond traditional shelterbelts,” Chris explains. “We’re also keen on implementing riparian plantings along creeks, complemented by grass buffer strips. This approach allows us to capture nutrients, which we can then remove entirely through mowing and baling.” Their off farm rural involvement is also important for the couple. Chris has been an integral part of the local agricultural community, serving as the vice-chairman of the Southern Field Days for the past decade. “It’s a very involved role, but I absolutely love doing it,” he says. “It’s all about being with bloody good people. It’s a very community-driven field days, so it’s a great chance to catch up with people and socialize as well. The recent Southern Field Days event was a resounding success with record numbers.” As the Giles family prepares for their next adventure, they reflect on the support they’ve Beet Harvesting Strip Till Precision Drilling Full Cultivation Direct Drilling Full Silage Service Bailage and Hay Much Spreading Fertilizer Spreading Aerating / Ripping Contact Erik | 027 204 8019 0800 SGTDAN (748326) Gorton Street, GORE Ph: 208 3965 E: admin@sgtdan.co.nz received, particularly from Chris’ parents, Alan and Debbie. “They came for one year when our first child was born and stuck around. We’ve been very lucky,” says Chris. With their children Danielle, 13, and Andrew, 11, the Giles are looking forward to this new chapter in their lives.
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