38 | Hard work, persistence and an open mind Mike oversees a team of 14 staff, including relief milkers, across his two farms. Sue Russell Hard work, persistence and an open mind are the qualities that have driven Michael Omega from humble beginnings in the Philippines to a successful career in New Zealand’s dairy industry. “If you work really hard, stay committed to your goals, and stay open to opportunities, great things are possible,” Michael says. His story began in August 2007, when he arrived in New Zealand and started work as a dairy farm assistant in Otautau, Western Southland. His dedication and passion for learning soon paid off — within just a year, he earned a place among the Top 5 finalists for Dairy Trainee of the Year, an early sign of the success to come. By 2009, he had moved to Balfour as an Assistant Farm Manager, and two years later stepped up to Farm Manager at Rosehill Farm in Gore. “I’ve learnt valuable skills and had wonderful experiences at all the farms I’ve worked for. I’ve been very lucky to have supportive owners who encouraged me to fulfil my dreams,” Mike shares. Mike’s next chapter began when he took on a contract milking role at Rosehill Farm, giving him the means to grow his business. Partnering with his brother-in-law, Gie Tolentino, the two entered an equity partnership, managing four dairy farms in the Riverton–Tuatapere area. By 2022, they were overseeing operations across herds totalling 2,600 cows, a remarkable achievement for two first-generation migrants pursuing their dreams on New Zealand soil. “Moving to New Zealand has given me opportunities I never imagined possible,” Mike says. Today, Mike remains connected to his roots, continuing to work on his original property - Rosehill Farm, North Chatton Road - after withdrawing from the four-farm partnership. He has also taken on a new contract milking role with BMD Farms Ltd at Tapanui, Otago, a property that is 60% flat and 40% rolling country, set alongside a picturesque river. The farm is home to 1,350 mixed-breed cows, with production this season forecast at around 600,000 kgMS, a 30% increase from last year. When NZ Dairy caught up with Mike in September, calving was well underway, with only 250 cows left to calve. “When the farm was sold to BMD, I was contacted and asked to continue as contract milker. That stability means a lot to me,” he says. “Working with my new employer, Matthew and Adam Haugh, has been a very positive experience.” The Omega family continues to live in Gore, where Mike’s wife works as a teacher aide at St Mary’s School. Their eldest daughter, 18, is in Year 13 and set to attend university in Wellington next year to study law; a dream she has cherished for years. Their younger daughter, 12, is in Year 7. Meanwhile, Gie remains with the company that owns the four farms, now directly managing one of them. “Working with my new employer, Matthew and Adam Haugh, has been a very positive experience.” RURAL PEOPLE » Omega Milk Ltd “I’m currently contracting two farms,” Mike says. “Looking back, I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. Dairying has its challenges, but also plenty of opportunities. You just have to be ready and willing to take them.” Mike oversees a team of 14 staff, including relief milkers, across his two farms. His advice to aspiring dairy workers is simple but powerful. “Think strategically. As you move up, responsibilities and pressures grow, but so do the rewards.” With calving expected to wrap up by mid- October, Mike looks forward to another busy, bright, and productive season ahead - a testament to how far determination and vision can take you. Southern Vegetation Control Limted Agricultural Spraying PROUDLY SERVICING FARMS ACROSS SOUTHLAND/OTAGO www.southernvegetationcontrol.co.nz (+64) 027 4 713 705 022 646 1959 www.hargestagri.com • ROUND BALING • SQUARE BALING • DRILLING We are committed to delivering cost-e ective, friendly and e cient service throughout Southland & Otago.
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