Find out how young people at the 2025 NZ Dairy Event are changing the future of dairy farming. Are you ready to help the next generation of dairy leaders?
The 2025 New Zealand Dairy Event in Feilding started on January 20th, showing off the skills of young people in the dairy industry. The event focused on how vital youth are in dairy farming. It highlighted their talents in both showmanship and judging competitions. The enthusiasm and dedication of these young dairy enthusiasts not only highlight their potential as future leaders in the industry but also reaffirm the importance of nurturing the next generation of dairy farmers. The Summer Sensation Sale was a big success, showing a substantial market for quality animals. This offers farmers chances to improve their herds and make more money.
Follow them on Facebook to stay current and see many great photos.
Mastering the Ring: Terri Packard’s Showmanship Secrets Unveiled
The 2025 NZ Dairy Event began with an engaging workshop led by renowned US judge Terri Packard. Famous for her showmanship skills, Packard engaged the audience with a detailed demonstration using two heifers. The presentation illustrated the key techniques for helping a heifer perform at its best in the show ring. Packard emphasized the importance of space in the ring and offered practical tips to help young presenters manage unforeseen challenges, equipping them to perform effectively under pressure.
Youth Excellence on Display: Team Noddy’s Triumph in Open Country Youth Challenge
The Youth Challenge, backed by Open Country, showcased the remarkable skills of young dairy enthusiasts and left a lasting impact on the participants. Team Noddy, with members Jess Wells and Amy O’Rorke, won, demonstrating that dedication and skill can overcome challenges. Nine-year-old Violet Simons’s exceptional clipping skills garnered special attention, serving as a testament to the future potential of young people in the dairy world.
Exemplifying Expertise: Youth Navigate Breed-Specific Judges’ Challenges
The distinctive judging competition for different breeds provided a significant platform for young dairy enthusiasts to showcase their skills and knowledge. It was here that they could demonstrate their expertise and sharp eye for quality, showcasing their talents and passion for the industry.
Gabby Steiner from Norsewood and Xavier Gread from Waihi represented the Ayrshires with fresh views. For Jersey NZ, Riley Taylor from Rahotu and Xavier Taylor from Tahiti were impressed with their smart decisions. On the Holstein Friesian side, Jacoba Gread from Morrinsville and Braydon Schroder from Rohotu showed dedication and keen judgment.
This competition underscored the participants’ hard work, knowledge, and the critical role of young individuals in elevating breed quality within the New Zealand dairy industry. Their dedication and sharp judgment inspired others and directly contributed to shaping a promising future for the dairy industry in the capable hands of these young enthusiasts.
Locks of Love: Mullets Shorn for a Cause at the NZ Dairy Event
Quinn Steiner and Ethan Thorpe significantly impacted the charity auction by offering their unique mullets for bidding. Their selfless act of kindness, coupled with the enthusiastic participation of the attendees, played a crucial role in raising an impressive $950 for prostate cancer research. This charitable gesture added a heartwarming touch to the event and underscored the shared values of generosity and community spirit that underpin the dairy industry.
Summer Sensation Sale Soars: High Demand for Quality Genetics Spurs Profit Opportunities
The Summer Sensation Sale was a big hit, demonstrating a strong demand for top-quality livestock. The average price for live animals was $7,720, indicating good market conditions and a chance for farmers to invest in better genetics to improve their herds. The sale had competitive bidding, especially for a Holstein that sold for the highest price of $16,000, highlighting the value of superior breeding and genetic potential.
Raffle Calf Triumph: Steven Leov Secures Prestige Jersey in Pioneering Fundraiser
The raffle, where attendees could select from five calves through bidding, was a significant success at the event. It raised substantial money for charity, fostered community unity, and made a significant and tangible contribution to advancing prostate cancer research. Steven Leov won and chose a Jersey calf from Ferdon Genetics. This raised funds and showed how dairy people work together and share. The Jersey calf comes from strong family lines. It will be a great addition to Steven’s herd, proving the quality of the genetics.
The Bottom Line
The first day of the 2025 NZ Dairy Event showed how important it is for the dairy industry to support its younger generation. The energy, enthusiasm, and quick learning abilities exhibited by the youth at the event exemplify their potential to emerge as future leaders in the farming sector. Mentoring and providing support to young people is essential in cultivating their passion for the dairy industry and guiding them towards implementing sustainable farming practices and fostering innovative ideas for the future. The successful Summer Sensation Sale highlights a strong demand for high-quality livestock. This offers an excellent opportunity for farmers to improve their herds and profits by investing in better genetics.
Key Takeaways:
- The first day of the 2025 NZ Dairy Event emphasized youth’s crucial role in the dairy industry, showcasing their adaptability and skill in various competitions.
- Terri Packard’s workshop highlighted essential showmanship skills, offering valuable insights into handling and presenting heifers effectively.
- Team Noddy, featuring young participants and two rookies, won the Open Country-sponsored Youth Challenge, exemplifying team spirit and competence.
- The Summer Sensation Sale saw high demand for livestock, with the top price reaching $16,000. This reflects a robust market for quality genetics.
- A charity auction at the event raised $950 for prostate cancer research, demonstrating the community’s spirit of generosity and support.
- The raffle calf initiative successfully raised funds, and Steven Leov selected the prestigious Jersey calf, highlighting innovative fundraising efforts.
- The positive results and enthusiasm at the event underscored the potential for youth to drive the future of dairy farming in New Zealand.
Summary:
The 2025 New Zealand Dairy Event in Feilding focused on the role of young people in dairy farming. It began with a workshop by U.S. judge Terri Packard, teaching showmanship skills. Team Noddy, with some rookie members, won the Youth Challenge by showing great adaptability. The event also held a charity auction, raising $950 for prostate cancer by auctioning off mullets. The Summer Sensation Sale highlighted a strong market, with animals averaging $7,720 each. There was also a raffle, where Steven Leov won a prized Jersey calf, helping raise funds for the event. These activities showed how young people’s skills and passion can help shape the future of dairy farming.
Learn more:
- The Stars Shine at the 2014 World Dairy Expo
- Stone-Front Artist Raspberry Triumphs at Minnesota State Show 2024
- Life Lessons Learned from the Dairy Cattle Show Ring: A Guide for Young People
Join the Revolution!
Join the Revolution!Bullvine Daily is your essential e-zine for staying ahead in the dairy industry. With over 30,000 subscribers, we bring you the week’s top news, helping you manage tasks efficiently. Stay informed about milk production, tech adoption, and more, so you can concentrate on your dairy operations.
