34 | nzdairy The perfect next step for the family Calving got underway on August 10. Sue Russell Seizing an opportunity to buy into a 50:50 sharemilking situation on a farm in Edendale, Southland, just 10 minutes drive from their previous situation, has meant 2024 is a milestone year for Shaun and Nikoia McKelvie and family. Sharemilking jobs don’t pop up very often these days and for the couple it meant another major step forward in their farming journey and one step closer to realising an ultimate vision of farm ownership. With land already owned with their home on it close by this new farm was the perfect next step for the family. It meant there was no need to uproot and move to a new home to live in. The new farm is 217 ha and comprises rolling flat country. The 700-cow herd consisting of predominantly jersey cross genetics, purchased from the new farm’s owner, are well used to their situation, and are milked through a 54 bale rotary with automatic cup removers and teat sprayers. “The shed works well for the herd. We have two stand-off pads as well. One staff member from the previous farm came over with us. Two existing staff from the property remained on the farm, meaning we had a full complement of staff from the start,” Shaun says. When NZ Dairy spoke with Shaun the herd was being wintered off the farm at the farm owners runoff 10min down the road at Morton Mains, and fed kale and swedes. Calving got underway on August 10; the herd returning to the farm in calving groups about a week before their calving dates. “The first four weeks of calving were flat-out and our LIC rep Shari White came out to discuss the next mating plan to get the best genetic gains and we built a plan around that. We’re also fortunate enough to have a couple of the cows in the herd we purchased that are contract cows to LIC.” Asked what his production prediction is for this first season on the farm Shaun expects within the vicinity of +350,000 kg/MS, the target is 500kg/ ms/c or more. The sharemilking contract the couple have entered is based on multiples of three years and the expectation is that they will remain where they are now for a minimum of nine years, seeing their children, currently aged 14, 12 and 10 through school and beyond. “And hopefully putting us in a position to be able to buy into our first farm after that period.” When not on the farm Shaun says he enjoys a spot of hunting and describes the area as a great little community to live in. DAIRY PEOPLE » Maxnco Farms Nikoia is also busy at times off the farm, running a successful dance studio, providing students in the local community with the chance to learn from a professional. Shaun says that it’s important, especially with a family, to have a good balance between work and family life, and living off the farm they are now sharemilking on allows this space. He says these first months on the new farm are a chance for him to get to know the property well. Bruce Trotter, the farm’s owner, has some plans ahead to work on some aspects of its infrastructure, such as an exit race. “I think it’s really important that I get a season or two under my belt and then make any decisions around farm management systems that will result in greater gain.” Mark Potter Ph.027 471 3053 potterspraying@gmail.com Know for sure. Know for sure. Most of the farms in the district are dairying and Shaun says he’s really grateful to have the opportunity and pleased that they have secured a 50:50 sharemilking position, which has secured the family’s future in the district for some years to come.
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