A rollercoaster ride for Waikato dairy farmers
The 2023-24 season has been a roller coaster ride for Waikato dairy farmers, according to Federated Farmers dairy section chair, Mathew Zonderop.
In an industry first, Dairy Australia and the National Centre for Dairy Education Australia (NCDEA) are next week offering an internet seminar to update farmers with information and best-practise recommendations on lameness and maintaining dairy cattle hoof health.
The ‘webinar’ will start at noon on May 10, running for 90 minutes. Featured experts will include New Zealander Neil Chesterton speaking on farm management to prevent lameness.
Karl Burgi, US, will address issues on dairy hoof health and preventative trimming.
Jakob Malmo, Australia, will talk about treating lameness.
Dairy Australia animal welfare manager Bridget Peachey says lameness challenges the industry and must be minimised.
“Getting the latest information into your lameness programmes will ensure better outcomes for cattle,” Peachey says.
“Lameness affects the welfare and productivity of cows. It is imperative all farmers are on top of [managing it].”
Dairy Australia spokesman Shane Hellwege affirms the internet as a way to reach farmers and service providers.
“At the NCDEA, we know how difficult it can be for framers to leave the farm to attend relevant information sessions.
“A webinar is an interactive, real time event where you can see, hear and ask questions of presenters from your own home. This format will make it easier for farmers and service providers to access information that will benefit their businesses.”
