NZ Dairy Summer 2025

As 2025 comes to an end Andy and Debi Whitehead can hardly believe that their dream of owning a farm is becoming a reality - Page 8 Long farming journey pays off SUMMER 2025 www.waterfordpress.co.nz

2 | nzdairy Contents #nzdairy #yourstory www.waterfordpress.co.nz   Acer Properties Ltd �� 03 Aaron Tosland �� 06 Andy and Debi Whitehead �� 08 Benio Dairy Limited �� 10 Scott Aitchison �� 12 1 Arrow Ltd �� 14 Alistair McFetridge �� 16 Jason and Kaylene Bennett �� 17 Datona Ltd �� 18 Hillier - Wadham �� 20 Kaiwaiwai Dairies �� 22 Lockerbie Farms �� 24 Hayden McDonald �� 28 Josh and Becs Dondertman �� 30 Maple Fern Jerseys �� 32 Nick Gilbert �� 33 Open Country Dairy �� 34 Oppertunity Farming �� 38 Premier Dairies Ltd �� 41 Reshure Farms �� 42 Perks Farm �� 44 O&H Milking �� 46 Rogan and Michelle Borrie �� 48 Kate Cummings �� 51 Te Kahika - Stephenson �� 51 Sherraine Holsteins �� 52 Greg Ingrid McCracken - Te Hana �� 54 Jaspreet Singh - Farm Right �� 54 Kass and Emily Rauber �� 55 Waitapu Farms �� 56 Ethan and Sarah Koch �� 57 Milkyland �� 58 Alan Henderson (Cranleigh) �� 58 Kemra Farms �� 59 Zarnie Fergusson and Richard Williams �� 60 Dairy Trust Taranaki �� 62 W.D. Davenport Co Ltd �� 64 Bay Vets �� 66 Northland Milking Systems Ltd �� 68 Forsi Innovations �� 69 Crawford Platforms �� 70 Fabish & Jackson 2010 Ltd �� 71 Dairymaster Milking Systems �� 72 Don Chapman Waikato �� 74 Morrison Agri �� 75 Moa Rotary Platforms �� 76 QWS - Quality Water Services. �� 77 Optium Ag Ltd �� 78 Cameron Contracting 2002 Ltd �� 79 Guthrie Ag Works Ltd �� 79 Milnes Transport �� 80 Brent Wallace �� 81 Astra Farms �� 82 Faull Farms �� 82 Ag & Industrial Matamata Ltd �� 83 Malvern Holstein Stud �� 88 16 | Support gets Ali McFetridge through 66 | Practice enters a new phase 06 | Passionate pedigree Jersey breeders OUR PARTNERS: T&C’s: These conditions are prescribed for the sake of understanding between the Waterford Press Ltd and its clients. Accounts for advertising are due for payment within seven days of publication of the newspaper. Accounts not paid within this time may incur a penalty until the account is paid. 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| 3 nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Acer Properties Ltd The large volume of milk that went into the vat last season – 425,000kgMS – was underpinned by the favourable forecast. Russell Fredric Family farm Acer Properties which milks 600 Friesian cows at Putaruru had its best ever milk production last season. The 190 hectare farm is an equity partnership between Angela Rose and her son James and his wife Rosie. Angela’s husband Colin passed away at the age of 60 in 2017 at a time when James and Rosie had been on the farm as lower order sharemilkers and we were going through a succession process when Colin became ill. The large volume of milk that went into the vat last season – 425,000kgMS – was underpinned by the favourable forecast and actual farmgate payout which enabled running a system five operation with plenty of supplementary feed, along with the growing 45 hectares of maize. “That was our best by a long way,” James says. The per cow production of 685 kilograms represented 115% of their body weight. “The cows have probably always been capable of that but the conditions around cost of feed and the payout last year really made it worthwhile to pump the feed into them. The last four or five years we would have been a system four, but last season we were well into the system five range; it was a suitable season for it.” Imported feed comprised palm kernel extract, soybean meal, kibbled maize, and wheat straw. “It [straw] helps with rumination, helps to slow everything down in the gut with digestion. Gone from a system four to five • to page 5 Servicing and maintaining any brand of platforms and installing new Waikato Milking System rotary platforms. Two branches who cover the whole of the North Island.  Matamata & Inglewood  0800 662 6455  www.moamilking.co.nz

4 | nzdairy The cows are milked through a 50 bale rotary shed. BackING Acer Properties from the ground up DAIRY PEOPLE » Acer Properties Ltd

| 5 nzdairy It’s a buffer so when we’re feeding those concentrates it helps to balance things out, and with acidosis.” The amount of maize grown, about 1000 to 1100 tonnes a season, represents 25% of both the area of the farm and of the cows’ diet. “We’re in a pretty good area for maize growing, getting up to that 25 tonne a hectare mark in a good year. Maize loves effluent, it’s a pretty amazing crop really.” Outside of planting and harvesting, it is otherwise a low-labour crop, James says. In addition to being a great means of utilising effluent, the maize is a safe feed and, stored in bunkers adjacent to the farm’s feed pad, the large amount available provides good food security. Breeding for the entire herd is by artificial insemination, with calving this year running from July 19 to late September. The farm employs three full-time staff and a part-time calf rearer. The cows are milked through a 50 bale rotary shed which has Protrack automatic drafting, plus they have had Halter collars and its virtual fencing system since June 2023. Accuracy with pasture management and with saving time have been two significant benefits. “Particularly in the spring when we’ve got half a dozen different herds of cows, they all get an accurate amount of grass and it only takes a couple of minutes to sort it all out.” James bases the allocation of feed on square metres per cow. “When we start calving we allocate 80 square metres per cow per day. When the cover starts to lift we increase to 100 square metres and remain at this level all season, adjusting the supplement ration as the grass growth fluctuates. “It’s quite a simple system when you look at it like that, although we feed a lot of different things.” “When we start calving we allocate 80 square metres per cow per day.” • from page 3 Proudly supporting Acer Properties Ltd • All farm veterinary services • Equine dental care only on clinic location • Lifestyle block services • Full after-hours service for clients, always speak to the vet directly! office@putvet.co.nz 07 883 7530 www.putvet.co.nz putaruruveterinaryservices SHANE’S MOBILE MAINTENANCE LTD Workshop site: 20 Patetere Street, Tirau Proud to support Acer Properties Ltd Specialising in: Cowsheds: Rotary, Straight Rail, Herringbone, new, alterations or repairs, maintenance & servicing Truck Bodies: New Decks, Repairs to Decks, alterations or Repairs on wear & tear Repairs & Maintenance to all farm machinery and equipment Shane & his team can be contacted at: 20 Patetere Street, TIRAU Phone 07 883 1560 Mobile 0274 935 350 Email shane@mobilemaintenance.co.nz DAIRY PEOPLE » Acer Properties Ltd The 190 hectare farm is an equity partnership between Angela Rose and her son James and his wife Rosie.

6 | nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Aaron Tosland The Okaiawa Tosland Farm was originally established by Aaron’s grandparents. Nicki Woodlock Life on the farm in Okaiawa, South Taranaki, brings true joy for partner and Farm Manager Aaron Tosland. A devoted family man, Aaron is in his first year of partnership on the farm with his father, Derek. He enjoys the variety of farm life, connection to the land, and the opportunity to work and live alongside his dad and wife Brenda, as they navigate farm succession planning following the death of Derek’s mother, Aaron’s grandmother, Gloria. Farming 460 registered Jersey cows across a combined 141 hectares, Aaron leads a small team consisting of a full time worker and relief milkers. Aaron’s father Derek still works part-time on the farm. Derek’s Jerseys on the farm are part of the Derriland Stud, whilst Aaron’s Jerseys are registered under the Lexland Stud. The Tosland farm produces 180,000 kilograms of milksolids under an all-grass system. Aaron rears 135 milk fed calves and grazes heifers off farm. The Toslands are respected and passionate pedigree Jersey breeders in Taranaki, with four generations of family farming history across two farms. Aaron says: “The Jersey is the most costeffective animal in dairying. You feed them half as much as a Holstein, yet they’re the most productive. Jerseys have a beautiful, gentle nature, and being slightly smaller cows, they’re easy to work with”. The Okaiawa Tosland Farm was originally established by Aaron’s grandparents, Alex and Gloria Tosland. Just two kilometres up the road is another family farm, founded in 1922 by Aaron’s great-grandparents, Harry and Pearl Tosland - a property Aaron has recently purchased to serve as a 60-hectare support block for their Jersey herd. Aaron declares, “I’ve wanted to be a farmer all my life. I wanted to carry on the family legacy”. Aaron is proud to continue this legacy into the future with his wife Ella and three children, Tillie, Rubi and AJ. Thanks to the foresight of his family, the Okaiawa Tosland Farm is in excellent condition, with no major projects needed. Aaron and his father have recently completed re-fencing the newly purchased support block. Passionate pedigree Jersey breeders The Okaiawa Tosland Farm has had Allflex SenseHub dairy cow collars for two and a half years and has found them to be a game changer. Aaron states, “The Allflex collars have changed things altogether at mating time”. The collars allow for targeted and timely interventions to improve reproduction, health, nutrition, and welfare. Aspiring to breed a bigger more productive Jersey cow, the farm employs strict criteria for udder, stature, feet, and milk production, with the farm buying semen from bull companies LIC and FOR ALL YOUR AGRICULTURAL REQUIREMENTS • Pasture Renovation • Round Bales: Hay / Silage • Bulk Silage • Digger Hire • Truck Hire • Metal Supplies Call Gary 0274 483 574 or Daniel 0275 037 747 www.taranaki-vets.co.nz Clinics - Stratford ▪ Manaia ▪ Hawera ▪ Patea ▪ Waverley Proudly supporting the Tosland Family CRV. A passionate advocate for Jerseys, Aaron is a member of Jersey New Zealand and highly recommends it as a welcoming organisation that is always looking for new members. For the past two years, he has served as President of the Hawera Jersey Club - the oldest Jersey club in New Zealand, founded in 1909. The club hosts annual heifer days, open days and field days for farmers to evaluate young stock, promote good practice and share knowledge of Jersey farming. The farm has had an association with the Stratford A & P Show, the Egmont A & P Show, and the Semex National On-Farm Competitions, achieving success and winning awards at each. The farm also takes part annually in the On-Farm Club Show each February. Into the future, Aaron’s plans for the farm include building a 60-bale rotary milking shed. Aaron reflects, “Long term, my goal is for my kids to continue the family legacy. Hopefully, they will have the passion to carry it on”.

| 7 nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Aaron Tosland The Tosland farm produces 180,000 kilograms of milksolids under an all-grass system. $12,999 NO BULL, REAL WORLD PRICING. THE SMART FARM CHOI CE. YMF Finance available! Terms and Conditions apply Phone 027 4540073 Craig for full details Phone 06 278 4756 309 South Road, Hawera www.baileymotorcycles.co.nz Zero Deposit Zero Repayments for 12 months 5.95%P.A. Fixed Rate^ • Residential • Commercial • Alterations • Concrete Work Johnny 027 777 5625 / Doma 027 777 5635 / Rob 027 777 5627 johnny@johnnyneilbuilding.co.nz / Office or Admin - Pauline 027 777 5024 • Re-roofing • Cowsheds • Feed Pads • Driveways & Races Gerard Hansen Licensed Immigration Adviser 021 770 132 gerard@alpinenz.co.nz alpineirnz.co.nz Need help with your employment needs? Get In Touch.

8 | nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Andy and Debi Whitehead Kinatai Farms creating a succession plan. Andy, Debi, Lynette, Peter, Kallum and Bradley. Karen Phelps As 2025 comes to an end Andy and Debi Whitehead can hardly believe that their dream of owning a farm is becoming a reality. Their journey with farm owners Peter and Lynette Johnson began in 2011 thanks to the Johnson’s goal of wanting a clear and viable pathway to succession made trickier without having family members wanting to take it on. The Whiteheads were 50/50 sharemilking on the Coastal Taranaki farm at the time. Their local accountant came up with a workable structure and Andy and Debbie joined Peter and Lynette as co-owners and principals in Kinatai Farm Ltd. They continued sharemilking but the new contract saw them taking 70% of the milk cheque while taking on 100% of the costs. “It’s an unusual arrangement but it’s very fair and equitable especially because we have a share in a block of land in partnership with our son Troy on Tai Road. We pay 100% of rates, insurance, any lease arrangements and so on but it means there’s no issue about where fertiliser’s being used or what’s happening with silage or supplements or any of the other areas that can sometimes be a little contentious,” Andy explains. It was and still is a win for everyone as it allowed the Johnsons to get some money out of the farm while keeping some income from production, and the Whiteheads weren’t overburdened by debt. In 2023 the Whiteheads bought another quarter share taking them up to 75% ownership and in 2026 they will have full ownership of the 135 hectare effective farm milking 400 cows. With their dream now (nearly) a reality Andy and Debbie are working out a succession plan of their own that will be a win-win for those next in line. One of their two sons Kallum is buying into Kinatai Farms Ltd. and their ‘third son’, Bradley Hare who has been working on the farm for the last seven years is lining up with his partner Bex Anderson to become a lower-order sharemilker in 2027. Already he’s taking more responsibility for the day-to-day decision making that keeps the farm running. Now approaching 60 and with as many community commitments taking him off farm as ever, Andy’s well ready to give the next generation their opportunity to start on the pathway to farm In 2026 they will have full ownership sinclairenergy.co.nz CENTRE APPLIANCE SERVICE SCAN ME FOR A FREE SOLAR QUOTE CALL 06 761 8084 Trusted electrical solutions for farms, homes, and businesses — backed by local experience and 24/7 support. Call Troy - 027 857 5747 Proudly supporting Debi and Andy

| 9 nzdairy “It’s only been one year and I’ve probably got more pleasure out of seeing that wetland attract all the wildlife than from any other part.” DAIRY PEOPLE » Andy and Debi Whitehead Bradley and Andy discuss the positive start to the season. ownership just as he had. Seeing Bradley’s farm managing decision’s already paying off as the herd’s somatic cell count more than halves, with a submission rate as high as 90% in three weeks, and milk production continuing to rise, Andy’s confident that he’s ready to start that journey. Right up there with the joy of farm ownership for Andy and Debbie is the satisfaction they take in having created a wetland out of half a hectare of a paddock where many years before the Oaonui River used to flow. Helped with partial funding from Fish and Game Taranaki they recontoured the area with a digger to ensure it would withstand the drier summers, and they’re already being rewarded with numbers of royal spoonbills, pied stilts, cattle egrets, cormorants and a variety of native ducks, explains Andy. “I’ve been farming nearly 40 years and I’ve seen the loss of habitat on dairy farms, especially on the coastal plain, as it gets drained and turned into pasture. So when we saw the wildlife haven created by the flood back in 2023 we wanted to make it permanent. It’s only been in for one year and I’ve probably got more pleasure out of seeing that wetland attract all the wildlife than from any other part of my farming journey. “

10 | nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Benio Dairy Limited Regan Smith has spent the past six seasons working on a 200ha effective dairy unit at Pukerau. Karen Phelps It’s been a mighty big year for Regan Smith, proud farmer, adventurer – a man not afraid to change his own course in life. Benio Dairy Ltd, has been the vehicle through which he’s embraced the opportunities the industry presents, driven by a strong focus to seize opportunities, learn and grow. The year started with being named Otago/ Southland Dairy Manager runner-up in the regions Dairy Industry Awards; the second time he had entered. He’s most proud of the three merit awards he received – The Fonterra Dairy Management Award, the VetSouth Environmental Sustainability Award and the Dairy Training Ltd People and Leadership Award; not a bad effort for someone who didn’t come from a farming background. Embracing the opportunities presented We’ve got the experience& equipment to do the job right. We pride ourselves on top results. Maitland, No 5RD, Gore 0274 318 148 | 027 623 7440 petercorcorancontractingltd@outlook.com www.petercorcorancontracting.co.nz Sales: Hay: Paddock & Shed Stored, Standing Grass, Conventional & 4 x 4a Rounds He’s spent the past six seasons working on a 200ha effective dairy unit at Pukerau, 78 km north-east of Invercargill, owned in an equity partnership by Kayne Smith and Bruce and Sue Cunningham. “They have been great people to work for and I’ve learnt so much during my time here. Farm management opens up all sorts of challenges, including understanding how to get the best out of the team and how to grow the stamina to cope with all the ups and downs.” The last time NZ Dairy spoke with Regan, in March, he was very much looking forward to experiencing a well-earned break, taking the winter months off to experience a Contiki Adventure through Europe. “We had 24 nights in total on the contiki and then 5 weeks of solo travel with one of my friends. We saw so many amazing places and the group I was with were a lot of fun. I’d recommend a Contiki tour to anyone.” That time away, however, gave Regan the opportunity to draw breath and really reflect on what he wanted to do on his return. “The plan had been to move into a contract milking role to further my aspiration toward farm ownership, however I started to realise that what I most enjoyed was being around people and the technology side to dairying.” Returning from his adventures, Regan is still on the Pukerau Farm and when NZ Dairy spoke with him in September, calving was 80% through. “It’s gone well and the weather has been pretty kind to us.” Cow numbers have grown to 750, with the addition of a new feed pad, with the focus on reducing feed waste compared fed out on the paddock. “The feed pad also provides the herd with a large area to stand off in wet conditions.” So, with a new direction in mind, Regan’s in the process of training up a new team member to take over. Asked what lies ahead, Regan is philosophical but one thing he knows is that there are a heap of opportunities ahead. “I am a social person and thrive on interacting with people. I’m still so passionate about the dairy industry but will put myself in a place where I can engage with farmers and support them to develop their business’s well.” It’s a case of ‘watch this space’ with the hope of another opportunity in the future to see where Regan’s farming pathway leads. “For sure it will be connected with this industry I love.”

| 11 nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Benio Dairy Limited Cow numbers have grown to 750, with the addition of a new feed pad, with the focus on reducing feed waste. 0508 678 464 | cplimesolutions.net.nz

12 | nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Scott Aitchison Scott Aitchison is wearing many hats Bernadette Cooney Morrinsville dairy farmer Scott Aitchison has had a busy year. Since May, he’s taken on the dual roles of Federated Farmers Morrinsville Branch Chair and Waikato Vice Dairy Chair, adding leadership responsibilities to an already demanding dairy operation on State Highway 27. “I’ve always believed that if you’re going to make a living in this industry, you should also help shape it,” says Scott. “Dairying is where I want to be for a long time and for my kids if they want to as well.” Scott and his wife Emma, raise their four children on the home farm just East of Morrinsville and milk around 750 cows across two platforms. The Aitchison’s home farm spans 82 hectares, where they milk 250–300 Friesians, while the adjoining block runs 480–500 cows. They also rear about 1000 calves each season, a side venture he describes as “a job nobody else wants to do, but one that helps keep the income steady.” He describes his operation as mid to high input, with herds predominantly fed 3 to 4 kgs of a palm kernel-based blend daily all season, alongside two bales of grass silage and five hundred kilos of maize silage per cow some bought in, and some grown on farm. Milk production averages 450–500 kg of milk solids per cow across both platforms. Raised on a dairy farm in Tatuanui, Scott left to pursue an accountancy route, which at its peak saw Scott become CEO of a multi-million-dollar clothing retail company with 65 staff based out of Sydney. But when he and Emma started a family, the pull of the land proved stronger. “We’d always planned to come back once we had kids,” he says. “My parents were incredible in helping us get established, and we bought our farm in 2017 through some very clever succession planning on their part.” As a Federated Farmers leader, he’s vocal about the challenges facing local dairy farmers, despite current market conditions that many may interpret as a “dairying boom.” “There’s more confidence in the sector again,” he says, “but most farmers I talk to aren’t splashing out. As a result of high costs and interest rates in the last few years, a lot of farmers are more focused on debt reduction.” Federated Farmers is an impressive organisation that just doesn’t shout about its wins enough he says, and he encouraged more people to join the rural advocacy group, particularly as politically a lot had changed in the industry over a short time. “If we had more memberships Fed Farmers could do even more, and faster.” One big example locally, Fed Farmers has been actively involved in debating the Waikato Plan Change (PC1) which seeks a 20% improvement in water quality across the Waikato and Waipa Milk production averages 450–500 kg of milk solids per cow across both platforms. Photo: Dianna Malcolm. “Most farmers I talk to aren’t splashing out. As a result of high costs and interest rates in the last few years, a lot of farmers are more focused on debt reduction.” Contact Mike 027 291 2046 mike@nwlivestock.co.nz Agricultural contracting company based in the Waikato Grass silage | Maize silage All forms of cultivation Bailing | Digger work 027 450 0125 walling.contracting.ltd@gmail.com @wallingcontractingnz Walling Contracting Ltd catchments by limiting nutrient discharges. “PC1’s been in the works for 12 years,” he says. “Fed Farmers have been fighting to make it practical for farmers and ensure their voices are heard in Environment Court processes all the way.” 07 8888 158 (ext 225) | 027 702 5462 glen@wtcl.co.nz GLENCLOTHIER Proudly supporting Scott Aitchison

14 | nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » 1 Arrow Ltd Jonny says technology can be great, but it is only as effective as the people using it. Karen Phelps Smart tools are shaping today’s dairy farms, providing effective results when used efficiently. Among those keeping up to date with some of the smartest tools of the trade is One Arrow Ltd farm operator Jonny Brown, who oversees the 340 hectare Dairy Holdings farm, which was converted about 20 years ago. One Arrow, home to 1285 cows this season, reflects the balance between practical daily routines and carefully selected technology to keep operations ticking over without over-complicating them. At Bankside, between Rakaia and Dunsandel, the farm stands as a testament to how routine and technology combine in modern dairying. Jonny oversees the day-to-day running of the property, adopting both hands-on management and a range of tools to help the farm operate smoothly. During peak milking, the day begins at 3.30am when the first staff member brings in the herd, while another starts at 5am, and two more join at 7am. With two milkings each day, it takes about three and a half hours to move the herd through the 54-bale rotary shed. Between milkings, the team turns to irrigation, calf feeding, and shifting breaks before the cycle repeats. It’s a demanding schedule that requires precision and good systems, which is where technology comes in. A demanding schedule that requires precision hello@plainsirrigators.co.nz

| 15 nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » 1 Arrow Ltd With two milkings each day, it takes about three and a half hours to move the herd through the 54-bale rotary shed. CropX, a moisture monitoring system, aggregates data from soil to sky and provides a clear view of field conditions. Jonny says it has been working well since adopting it four to five years ago, offering insights that support irrigation decisions and paddock management. While the farm makes use of tools, Jonny keeps the process simple. “I keep an eye on the information that’s given to me by the milk company,” he says. However, systems like MaxT and Milking By Time (MbT) have helped improve efficiency in the shed. MaxT sets a maximum time per cow, ensuring clusters come off promptly without affecting production or udder health. MbT has also been of great value, standardising routines, monitoring rotation times, and making milkings more consistent for both cows and staff. Data plays a role in herd management too. Jonny inputs detailed records into MINDA, LIC’s herd management platform, which helps him make faster, better decisions. It is that system, and others, that appears to be working well for One Arrow, after it won the Fonterra Te Tihi Award for over 90% milk quality excellence for the last three seasons. However, Jonny says technology can be great, but it is only as effective as the people using it. The key focus for the team at One Arrow is to make the best decision with the information they have on the day, particularly around animal welfare and sustainability. Looking ahead, Jonny expects technology will continue to evolve, but believes its value will always depend on how well it is applied. “The data is only as good as the person inputting it and then the person using it.” He believes there is no right or wrong direction to go in for farmers considering their options. “There’s some very good farmers with technology and there’s some very good farmers without technology,” he says. PERMBRAND.CO.NZ permbrand Contact PHILL SHAW 027 570 2772 Email: phill@permbrand.co.nz • Rotary, Herringbone & Robotic Sheds • Molasses’ Systems • PKE & Pellet Systems • Silos • Augers • Mills - New Generation - Skiold DISC MILLS • Mineral Dispenser’s • Dust Kits • Air Fluidizer Kits AND MUCH MORE FROM THE COMPANY THAT UNDERSTANDS MEAL FEEDING Proudly supporting 1 Arrow Ltd FERTILISER SPREADING | FARM MAPPING GPS TRACKING | VARIABLE RATE SPREADING LIVESTOCK CARTAGE | DAILY FREIGHT CONCRETE SUPPLIES | GRAIN CARTAGE SHINGLE SUPPLIES | FERTILISER SUPPLIES Leeston: 03 3248 070 | Dunsandel: 03 3254 039 reception@ellesmere.co.nz Ultimately, the winning formula at One Arrow does not depend on adopting every new tool on the market, but in knowing how to use the ones they do embrace well.

16 | nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Alistair McFetridge True grit and support gets Ali McFetridge through Emma Bailey By his own admission Taranaki dairy farmer Ali McFetridge is lucky to be here after the conversion of his dairy shed nearly cost him his life. Ali farms 64 hectares in Inglewood with an adjoining 23 hectares of lease land, milking 200 cows. In April 2023 he was working on the roof of his shed, getting ready for the project when he fell through it. The terrible accident saw him fall five metres down to the concrete pad below with his shoulder and head taking most of the impact. This was along with broken ribs, a punctured lung, his skull cracked on both sides and multiple brain bleeds. He was alone in the shed as he lay there unconscious. “I shouldn’t really be here. I was out cold for about 30 minutes. Somehow I was able to call the right person who knew where to find me and what to do.” When that “right person”, Alan Bunning got to him he thought his friend was dead. Ali was flown to Waikato Hospital where the extensive recovery began. While Alan and many others helped keep the farm up-and-running. “In farming it’s all about community. Some things can’t really put into words – it’s about all the people that had my back when I was up against it, they are what kept me going.” “Dana Manson is my trusted worker who has done the majority of the milkings since my accident.” She had been his relief milker prior to the accident for a couple of years beforehand. On April 22 this year work began again on the cowshed. Undertaken by Harry Darke Builders, the rebuild entailed demolishing the existing 16 bale rotary cowshed, effluent and existing yards and replacing it with a 28 bale rotary cowshed, a new yard and adjoining pens, loading yards and new effluent system. The shed was back supplying mid August and was 95 per cent completed by November 1. “It has been made much more functional, especially with the new high pressure wash system on the yard gate and the drafting facilities for weighing and drenching. The speed of the milking time is getting better as the cows get used to it. “It was never an option not to finish the shed, I am not someone to let things beat me. I look back with a sense of pride after what I went through and Ali with Alan on the right. the support I had and now to see where we have got to.” Working with Inglewood based Moa Milking and Pumping made the conversion less challenging. “They were very diligent and easy to deal with. It was a complex site but they were always there to solve any problems that arose throughout the build. “We started calving which was a bit stressful because we still had a lot of contractors on the site.” This is his eleventh season on the farm, having purchased it in 2015. Having been through what he did, he focuses on keeping things simple now and going back to grass-roots farming. “I’m trying to make it a sustainable operation so some stage down the track I can step back and someone else can manage it. “As much as I love farming it is very demanding now from day to day. It’s not often you get a second chance at life so, I want to take the opportunity I’ve been given to spend more time with my kids, family and friends doing the things I love.” “I shouldn’t really be here. I was out cold for about 30 minutes. Somehow I was able to call the right person who knew where to find me and what to do.” Servicing and maintaining any brand of platforms and installing new Waikato Milking System rotary platforms. Whether you’re a seasoned farmer or just starting out, our commitment to excellence ensures that you get the best products and services. Two branches who cover the whole of the North Island. Matamata & Inglewood Inglewood & Stratford 0800 662 6455 www.moamilking.co.nz • Round Hay & Silage (plus sales) • Conventional Hay Baling • Fert Spreading • Hedgemulching • Hay/silage cartage • Tip Trailer Work OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Phone Amanda: 06 752 0698 Mobile: 027469 7353 GOBLE CONTRACTING Outstanding in Your Fields

| 17 nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Jason and Kaylene Bennett Continuing a family legacy spanning generations Alexia Anderson Jason and Kaylene Bennett are continuing a family legacy spanning generations on their Tuatapere farm, in Southland. Operating a full-season once-a-day dairy (OAD) system, the Bennetts milk about 490 predominantly Jersey cows, a breed Jason’s grandfather milked in the 1940s, under the stud name Elmsbrook Jerseys. Jason’s father, Neville, continued the tradition after establishing the Beach Valley stud, a name the Bennetts have proudly continued. “The love for the Jersey breed is generational,” Kaylene says. “The Jersey is a versatile breed, production per kg of liveweight can be very efficient. The fact we have a market for our Jersey heifers and Jersey bull calves is a real bonus leading to minimal bobby calves.” Their 190 hectare dairy farm, which has two support blocks - 79 hectares purchased 13 years ago and another 77 hectare property they added to their business profile earlier this year. While their herd is not formally registered through Jersey NZ, the Bennetts treat their cows with pedigree precision, with each one DNA tested and mated to nominated sires. Their breeding philosophy centres on structural soundness, fertility, and strength, with traits like udder capacity and support being key to ensuring success in their OAD system. “We AI to jersey bulls for five weeks before switching to beef semen,” Jason says. They consistently achieve an 85 percent six week in-calf rate and a 92 to 97 percent submission rate in the first three weeks. Among the sires that have shaped their herd, CRV bull Ruanui Terific Diesel has left a big impact, particularly for udder quality. The Bennetts use a mix of CRV and ST Genetics sires to help introduce desirable traits and maintain genetic diversity. Production remains important, but not at the expense of longevity or fertility. “We feel that there is no point in breeding for production if a cow cannot get in calf and last in the herd,” Jason says. Alongside their dairy herd, the Bennetts have built a thriving business rearing and selling Jersey bulls, a venture that has gained momentum in recent years. Their annual bull sale, now in its third year, has attracted strong demand, with bulls sold both on-farm and via the BIDR platform. They started with 50 bulls in their first and second year, followed by 73 in the past year and plan to rear 100 in the coming season. Technology and data also plays a role in their progress, with the Bennetts herd testing four times a year, alongside DNA, BVD, Johnes, and A2 testing. Jason’s work with a TOP classifier for Jersey NZ adds another layer of expertise and continuous assessment within their breeding programme. Their breeding philosophy centres on structural soundness, fertility, and strength. However, it’s not just cattle the Bennetts are passionate about. They also foster youth involvement within agriculture. Through Gateway programmes, their annual Adopt a Calf initiative, and biannual farm visits for local schools, the Bennetts help young people experience hands-on learning in farming and animal care. Jason and Kaylene have also raised their five children on the farm, who each possess their own strengths, interests and successes. Two of them are already showing a keen interest in dairying, suggesting the Beach Valley Jerseys legacy will continue for at least another generation. 77 CLYDE STREET, INVERCARGILL, PH (03) 214 4254 www.southlandhonda.co.nz SOUTHLAND HONDA For the best Parts, Sales & Service in the south Complete Silage, Baling, Cultivation, Effluent, Spraying & Excavator Contracting Service Phone: 03 225 8488 Rabco Ag Ltd E-mail: admin@rabco.nz Web: www.rabbitt.co.nz

18 | nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Datona Ltd The team lifted production on Canlac Dairy from a previous record of 580,000 kgMS to 719,000 kgMS. Kim Newth Canterbury dairy farm business Datona Ltd has steadily evolved to become a regional heavy hitter that’s leading the way on efficiency, production, staff retention and environmental performance. Datona Ltd is named after Dana Carver and Tony Coltman, who first bought into a local dairy equity partnership in June 2013 when it had just one 1350-cow farm on 335 effective hectares, employing six staff. Fast forward 12 years and the total effective area is 1164 hectares, wintering 3350 cows, with the business now employing 16 permanent staff. Achieving this rate of sustainable growth in little more than a decade is impressive. “Our strategy, along with our business partners Richard and Chrissie Wright, has always been to take one step at a time and build on it,” says Tony. “When we first came on board, we had big boots to fill as we were taking over a Dunsandel farm, managed by then shareholders Russell and Leanne Clearwater, that was already very high performing. We lifted production on that farm [Canlac Dairy] from a previous record of 580,000 kgMS to 719,000 kgMS, which was the record before we added Quantum Dairy [which then lifted the effective area from 335 hectares to a 510ha]. “Along the way we put in Protrack/in shed feeding and added a 600-cow feedpad. Every improvement has been about lifting performance and boosting efficiency while ensuring costs are well-controlled.” This ongoing drive for growth and efficiency led to an opportunity to take on another Canterbury dairy farm in 2019. Tony and Dana were overseeing it as 50/50 sharemilkers for six years before purchasing it this year, [Rahi Partnership Ltd]. “It was 100% funded through borrowings against Datona to get it going, but in six years we’d paid off all the debt and then some. When the previous owners decided to sell, we bought it.” Decisions on acquisitions are made in consultation with Richard and Chrissie, who, Tony says, are very successful farmers and hugely supportive. Ashley Grange (137ha) was acquired in 2023, with all R1yr heifers now grazed there in their first winter. A bare land block - Links (230ha) – was purchased late last year. “Now it’s just a matter of making sure it’s all working and performing to the level we want.” The vision shaping Datona Ltd is aspirational – to lead the dairy industry by excelling with top 5% production, top 5% financial returns, with aesthetically presented farms where all environmental standards are exceeded and staff are happy and healthy. “We have very stable staff now with little turnover. It’s a good roster and there’s good infrastructure; people want to stay. I coach the guys and talk to our unit managers and 2IC’s most days.” Strategic growth, top performance drives success Tony says the Kiwi Cross herd they started out with was good and has only become better through the years. “We put Allflex Collars on last year – that was our first year with the collars and we’ve made that work. We’re now in the process of DNA testing the animals. We’re large-scale and we want an elite herd where every cow is a winner.” Record farm production to date at Canlac/ Quantum is 1,122,511 kgMS, equating to 510MS/ cow. Looking ahead, Tony and Dana see further room for growth - whether in buying more shares or more farms – while continuing to excel in all areas. FERTILISER SPREADING | FARM MAPPING GPS TRACKING | VARIABLE RATE SPREADING LIVESTOCK CARTAGE | DAILY FREIGHT CONCRETE SUPPLIES | GRAIN CARTAGE SHINGLE SUPPLIES | FERTILISER SUPPLIES Leeston: 03 3248 070 | Dunsandel: 03 3254 039 reception@ellesmere.co.nz 0 0 FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS PROUD TO SUPPORT CANLAC HOLDINGS youngelectricalltd.co.nz Cow Track Lime Supply & Lay • All Shingle Supplies • Truck & Trailer Hire • Hedge & Stump Removal Direct Drilling • Tree Shearing • Farm Tracks & Driveways • Fodderbeet Planting • Pivot Rut Filling Cultivation • Grader & Digger Work • Reversible Ploughing • Supply & Installation of Irrigation Pipe RD2 Leeston 027 534 9161 e: chris@chrisswanson.nz CULTIVATION & EXCAVATION CONTRACTORS

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