Helping heifers grow
Dairy farmers can easily track the performance of their replacement heifers and ensure they reach their genetic potential.
LIC communications manager, Clare Bayly, says there are a number of things to consider when choosing a calf, but having a friendly nature and size are the first things to look out for.
"If a calf takes a special shine to the child then that's always a good start, but probably the most important consideration is its size, to ensure the calf won't get too big to handle."
Bayly says there are other traits to look out for such as colour, body shape, skin and hair, and health which is all outlined a special website developed by the cooperative – www.calfclub.co.nz.
"Many young farmers work hard each year to select, prepare and show an animal at their local event.
"www.calfclub.co.nz provides them with a simple guide for this, and although the parents or farmer will have the final say in which animal is best, it's good for the child to learn about what makes a good calf, and how they can choose the right one for them.
"The website explains it all, and it may just encourage a first step into a successful farming career."
LIC has also written to more than 1000 schools encouraging them to make use of the website with their students, and also add their event to the calendar on the website so local staff of the cooperative can attend.
Registrations are pouring in from all over the country, Bayly says.
"Calf Club is a rural tradition in New Zealand, and although it tends to be known as livestock or pet day now, the objective and popularity of the events remains in rural communities.
"Many adults today, in the city or country, look back with nostalgia on the fun they had, either as children or parents, at Calf Club.
"The website provides the kids with the answers they need so they can then apply that learning in the paddock with their pets.
"LIC staff also get a huge amount of satisfaction and have lots of fun attending their local and much loved community events," Bayly says.
The website also includes entry details for the cooperative's annual Calf Club art competition, which rural children are encouraged to enter with artwork of their calf.
Prizes include iPads for the best school, calf care hampers and a Stallion mobile calf feeder valued at $3900.
