104 | nzdairy ON FARM » Meadowvale Supporting the Filipino dairy farming community Anne Boswell Eric with son Justice drencing the young stock. South Canterbury dairy farmer Eric Tao-ey has forged a remarkable path in New Zealand’s dairy industry since his arrival from the Philippines in 2007. From humble beginnings as an assistant herd manager to becoming a contract milker of 800 cows, Eric’s journey reflects both determination and a commitment to uplifting his fellow Filipino workers in the industry. Eric’s early experiences on New Zealand dairy farms were not easy. He initially arrived through an agent, but finding the right employer proved to be a challenge. “I changed farms a few times, trying to find the right employer,” he says. “I learned my lesson, and I treasure every moment of where we are now.” After working as an assistant herd manager, Eric worked his way up to become farm manager on another farm in 2012. In 2014 he moved to his current farm, managing 800 cows on 410 hectares for Tom Lambie. This area includes a 100-hectare support block that allows for efficient supplementary feeding strategies. Eric’s work ethic and dedication did not go unnoticed, and after three years as farm manager he and Tom discussed the next steps in Eric’s career. “I became a contract milker for Tom in 2017, which we are still doing,” Eric says. Now, Eric leads a team of four staff, all of whom are Filipino. The herd’s average production sits at 440kgMS per cow, with a goal to reach 450kgMS by incorporating in-shed feeding, including grain, palm kernel and a special feed blend recommended by their consultant. Eric’s impact extends beyond the farm. Since 2011, he has been a Director on the Board of the Filipino Dairy Workers of New Zealand, a volunteer organisation addressing the challenges faced by Filipinos in the New Zealand dairy industry. “It has been good to serve since 2011,” he says. “It is a nice way to connect with fellow dairy farmers.” Over the years, Eric has seen significant progress in how Filipino workers are treated in New Zealand’s dairy sector. He estimates that 20-30% of contract milkers in New Zealand are Filipino, many of whom aspire to become sharemilkers and even farm owners. Eric and his family also have aspirations of sharemilking, but are mindful of the challenges involved. “Going sharemilking is expensive – you really have to work hard and save hard,” he says. While farm ownership remains a dream for many, Eric is rational about his own family’s plans. “I am happy that two of our four boys are interested in farming, but we are happy with our sharemilking role for now,” he says. “We plan to stay with our farm owner for as long as he’ll have us.” TONY BRADY FENCING m Proud to support Meadowvale IMPORTERS & DISTRIBUTORS OF FARM MACHINERY Ph: 03 688 2031 Email: sales@pwtractors.co.nz 70 Racecourse Rd, Washdyke, Timaru www.paulwilkinstractors.co.nz Instead, Eric and his wife are focusing on building a real estate portfolio as a way to diversify their investments. “You really have to support one another when it comes to this job,” he says, emphasising the importance of teamwork and long-term planning.
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