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Robyn Williams.
Twenty years ago the South Island Dairy Event (SIDE) launched its forum for farmers to gain and apply the knowledge, skills and technology needed to improve their business. SIDE chairwoman Robyn Williams spoke about this year’s event.
SIDE has moved to Dunedin for 2018. Why the change?
For our 20-year anniversary we’re doing things a little differently, changing the venue and cutting down to two days, but still with time for fun and our keynote speakers and workshops. Monday night’s dinner at Forsyth Barr Stadium will have a surprise twist, and longer tea breaks will allow more networking.
SIDE’s 2018 theme is ‘It starts with us’. What does this mean?
Farmers can be good at putting other people first yet not paying enough attention to their own needs. Our ‘personal wellness’ provides a strong foundation, better equipping us to help our people and businesses grow. It also enables us to take on and adapt to new innovations and technology, all of which will help to keep our sector strong. ‘It starts with us’ includes telling our good news stories nationally and internationally.
What other topics will SIDE’s workshops address?
All sessions will address the big issues affecting dairying, e.g. people, water, nutrients and herd performance.
‘Innovation and Technology’ will look at using technology and innovation to maintain NZ’s position at the front of global dairy markets.
‘People and Business Growth’ will address ways farmers can refocus their energy and work to take charge of their direction; this will challenge farmers’ thinking about their current situations.
‘Media, community and environmental engagement’ will look at how to engage with our wider communities, telling and celebrating our stories.
SIDE aims to support anyone in dairy farming.
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