30 | nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Omega Milk Ltd The current herd will increase to 1650 Currently six people work alongside Mike at BMD. Sue Russell Mike Omega continues to build his farming career with the ultimate goal of farm ownership and the steps he’s taken so far, since arriving in New Zealand from the Philippines, evidence just how hard he is prepared to work to achieve his goals. Since calling New Zealand home, back in 2017, he’s cut his teeth in the dairying industry by working, first in Otautau, Western Southland, then advancing in 2009 to an assistant manager role at Balfour before managing Rosehill Farm, near Gore two years later. Equity partnership with his brother-in-law created the opportunity to manage four dairy farms in the Riverton-Tuatapere area and by 2022 Mike was overseeing 2,600 cows. “I’ve been so well supported in my farming journey so far, by wonderful people who were prepared to give me opportunities to grow and learn. I’ve wasted none of those chances and that brings me to where I am today,” says Mike. And that place is working as a contract milker for BMD Farms Ltd at Tapanui, home to 1,350 mixed breed cows, while continuing to supervise Rosehill Farm. BMD Farms Ltd is owned by Matthew and Adam Haugh and with the recent purchase of the neighbours 200ha, the current herd will increase to 1650. “Hopefully another shed can be built. At the moment we’re just milking from the old shed, better able to cope with a herd of this size.” While the bulk of Mike’s time is spent at BMD, he maintains regular contact with the farm manager at Rosehill. Mike says, a standard contract for a contract milker is usually one year, however indications are that he will remain at Rosehill longer than this. “It’s good to know this and to have the other farm ticking along well under the farm manager. This is a very good region to settle in and put down roots.” Mike’s family live in Gore. Wife (Sheilah Marie) and two daughters enjoy living in the district, however changes are afoot as eldest daughter (Samanthan Mikaela) embarks on a law/commerce degree at Victoria University, while (Shane Mikelle) remains at St Peters School in Gore. BMD farm is a mix of 60% flat with the balance rolling hill and its near the (name?) river. Datamars Collars have been introduced at Rosehill farm, while BMD farm will do complete Halter next season. “Perhaps I can share in the cost of introducing them on to this farm. It’s a thought!” So far the milk production season has been kind at BMD, tracking 125,000kgMS up on the previous year and Mike believes there’s more production to be gained, though with the increase in the herd size its going to be a case of balancing milk production costs while ensuring the herd remain in good condition for as long as possible through the season. Currently six people work alongside Mike at BMD, however, again, with the increase of 300 cows into the herd, he’s contemplating hiring another two farm workers. “It’s important always to find the good balance for everyone as a herd size is increased. The team I have all enjoy working here and our farm management systems are working well for the farm’s size and situation.” One thing Mike is certain of – the decision all those years ago to shift to New Zealand and start a new life for himself and his family, has been the right one to make. He’s a firm believer that in dairying, there’s every opportunity to advance if you’re prepared to set your goals and work hard every day. “It’s a great life and not without its challenges of course, but I wouldn’t swap my life for any other. We’ve met so many positive, highly skilled people in our time farming and that’s what has really helped us advance so well to achieve our dreams.” 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 We are committed to delivering service throughout Southland & Otago. • ROUND BALING • SQUARE BALING • CULTIVATION • DRILLING
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