But MILK is just MILK...right??

But MILK is just MILK....right??


RAW MILK - is in its natural state...completely unprocessed.
It is considered by many nutritional experts to be the most beneficial to our health. Sadly it is ILLEGAL to be sold for human consumption in Australia ("BATH MILK" is a blackmarket
loophole). While I do not personally agree with this law, I refuse to market my milk as 'not fit for human consumption' - and won't be enticed into knowingly breaching it. The risk to my family and farm is SIX FIGURE FINES, FARM CLOSURE, and JAIL TIME. The government should have looked at implementing a regulated raw milk market, ensuring that strict testing, and food safety protocols are adhered to.


PASTEURIZED MILK - required by law in Australia
(along with only Scotland and Canada).

This is the process of heating milk to a minimum 72C,

held at temperature for a minimum 15 seconds then snap chilled to 3C and bottled. In theory it kills all the 'bad bacteria' in the milk. Sadly it also damages some of milk's health giving properties, particularly the enzymes and probiotic effects. It is the least damaging process we subject milk to - this milk
still has the CREAM ON TOP.

While we at 4REAL MILK run as close as possible to the legal requirements, to minimise damage to our milk - big company employees have told me personally of their processing regime - heating milk to 85C not 72C, holding it at temperature for a ridiculous 4 minutes, when 15 seconds is all that is required. What you are left with are highly damaged goods that have been rendered into a longer life product, devoid of nutritional value...instead of fresh milk as it started out.

HOMOGENIZED MILK - is NOT a requirement of Australian law.

Unquestionably one of the most damaging things we can do to milk. The milk is forced through
tiny tubes at pressures as high as 6,500psi, to effectively break up the fat globule into tiny
fragments - that cannot reform as cream. Obviously, all the milk is subjected to this process - destroying its entire structure. The fats, proteins, enzymes and lactose are absolutely
destroyed. Milk is turned into a product that is no longer recognised as a food source to a
growing number of our population.
Much of the allergy and intolerance that people are today experiencing can be attributed to this product destruction. We have had feedback from 1,000's of family members (including my wife and kids), friends, and followers - who are not suffering their 'usual reactions' from the consumption of our UNHOMOGENISED MILK. Science and mainstream medicine may refer to this as ANECDOTAL EVIDENCE, I refer to is as REAL LIFE EXPERIENCE (y)


LOW FAT MILK

All major milk processors DO NOT simply skim the cream, and offer you a low fat milk product.
There is again a serious level of damage done, as all the majors homogenise the low fat milk, to give you the illusion of there being none present. There is almost always by-products added back in, as the highest flavour and nutritional component has been removed - they try and artificially boost it back up. Yes we are all becoming increasingly aware that 'low fat' equates to 'high sugar'!! We also now know that without the fat present, our body is not able to readily absorb the rest of the milk's nutrients. Recent research is uncovering sustantial evidence that neither the fats nor sugars in milk are creating any challenge to our body, until they are extensively damaged.


A2 MILK

A2 is a naturally occuring genetic difference in dairy cows - it is not breed exclusive. Cows can be tested as individuals, and a herd of mixed breeds can in fact be 100% A2. As a rule the Holstein breed is about 50% A2 - Guernseys are the dominant breed at about 80%. A2 has a different protein in the milk. We are getting an increasing number of people sharing their joy of being able to change to our milk, from A2, without any negative reactions. Our cows are not tested or milk separated, it would be 50% A2 at best...so I remain sceptical that the benefit people are experiencing is from the A2 protein alone.


ESL MILK - (Extended Shelf Life)

Is a level of treatment that falls somewhere between 'fresh' and 'long life' milk...but is always homogenised without exception. The heat inflicted on the milk through this proces has risen from 72C for basic pasteurization, to a whopping 125C!! It commonly has a shelf life of 28 days, or twice as long as pasteurised only milk. Big milk companies love this concept, as adding shelf-life to milk means money to them - all the while they continue to sell ESL milk as fresh milk, and you are none the wiser. The level of illness experienced from a growing sector of our society leads me to believe that the increased level of damage we are imposing on foods like milk in recent years is the true catalyst for our body's struggle.


UHT MILK - also know and promoted as LONG LIFE MILK (for your convenience!)

Ultra Heat Treated Milk is flash heated to over 200C...and literally renders every organism within the milk - DEAD. This product is also ALWAYS Homogenised, effectively combining the two most damaging processes we can inflict on milk. No matter what the NUTRITIONAL PANEL says is contained, it is not in a form available to your body or digestive system. It truly is NO LIFE MILK...extremely misleading marketing...but of course, absolutely legal.


MILK POWDER - dried and concentrated milk solids.

There are now 2 main methods, either through heat and evaporation...or freeze drying. The jury is still out, as to whether there are substantial health benefits in the freeze dried version. I reamain sceptical that our body can ever gain maximum nutritional value from such an excessive and obtrusive process.


FRESH MILK

MILK is a living organism - the process of it going off, or souring is actually a good sign. We as a society have become brainwashed, into believing that milk should last...and not go off.
Thanks to excessive processing through human intervention, milk has been damaged to the point of being closer to death - giving the illusion of it 'lasting longer'.
MILK is a perishable food - and while all major milk companies are chasing technologies to
give 'their milk' a longer shelf life....Farmer Gregie is committing 'retail suicide'. At Scenic Rim 4REAL MILK, we are promoting the health benefits to YOU, of milk that won't last, and
consider that to be much more important to our future...over and above the profits generated by extending shelf life.

Here's a handy tip no one tells you about when you are shopping. Milk is only required by law to be stamped with a 'used-by-date'. No requirement for a 'date of bottling'. Many of us go for the longer date when shopping - yet some milk with a long date, may already be 2 weeks OLDER than the 4REAL MILK with a short date right next to it. Consumers are none the wiser.

To be honest - if we are unable to make an informed decision, placing a greater emphasis on our eating habits and food choices than we have for the past 3 decades...we will all be in a world of pain - literally!! Until now, most of the information available has been little more than convenient propaganda - pushed onto you in the interests of Corporate Greed. It only seems fair to balance out this debate with some good old fashioned honesty and truth...just saying.


Cheers,
Farmer Gregie :)

Is Our Purpose Real...Or Just A Figment Of Our Imagination??

So we do have a greater purpose right....?

There is a higher meaning to what we are about - what we are desperately hoping to achieve. YES. But to my core, there remains a fragility that is neither logical, or rational.

The brain will attempt to function, and at every turn, every obstacle...be overridden by fear and emotion. Thankfully in my case today, that power subsides quickly...in a matter of only minutes or hours.  Three very short years ago, in the depths of clinical depression, I would be frozen by such fear, and so overwhelmed by emotion - that my dysfunctional state could last for weeks...or even months!!

To this day, and through my incredibly loyal following - the tools that helped me shake the BLACK DOG, can be viewed in the public forum of FaceBook...on almost a daily basis. The greatest lesson learned, was the ability to embrace the enemy...before letting go. Many have shared similar experiences, and some have thanked me for sharing this advice, personally experiencing great results from this technique. 

You must understand, previously, through my formative years, teen years, in fact all the way through to 40 years of age - my concept of dealing with something was to try and push it away...and so this constant battle was 'feeding' it, while draining me. Eventually the level of attention had etched the enemy into the brain - like scars from a physical injury. Just like a classic movie, the footage was played internally, on an endless loop. Of course the ongoing effects were obvious to all - creating a storm of emotion, followed by the worst fog haze you will ever imagine.

"Harden up...take a spoonful of cement powder!", the well-wishers will only be too happy to offer such advice. I would suggest that to be about as effective as saying, "Put a band-aid on the leg, to stop the bleeding - where the TIBIA is sticking out through the skin!".

To be honest, my diagnosis, and the subsequent recovery from depression has been the most enlightening life experience I've ever encountered - and is quite literally the catalyst to all that is happening in my life today. When I say I believe all things happen for a reason, that is genuine. While I would never wish the depths of depression, and the despair and hopelessness that goes with - upon anyone...it all makes sense to me now. 

This has been the most critical, formative, and enjoyable part of my life so far. I was simply not equipped to cope with the challenges I now face on a daily basis. My perception is greatly heightened, and an ability to think on the fly continues to astound even myself. Unfortunately, what has come with that has been an increased level of impatience.

My new found purpose? To educate and re-connect city and country people. My message has become increasingly animated in recent times, as I have heard many happenings within the dairy industry...that have shaken even me! The urgency of my message has been accelerated, as we are fast running out of time. Personal decisions must be made NOW, to change our spending habits, to support local business and farms, to work together for a beneficial net outcome.

I stir the pot...I antagonise...I polarise !! But with due respect - I always LISTEN first. My intentions are at times so poorly interpreted by some followers - that they instantly spew venomous remarks straight back at me...and promptly UNLIKE my page - some even stop buying 4REAL MILK. 

Let's play devil's advocate...these people, so disgusted with my lack of sensibility and professionalism - to the point of boycotting everything "FARMER GREGIE" on principle...do maybe some of them drink ICEBREAK? Possibly have a can of COKE a little too often? Pop a can of PRINGLES...or a packet of PEANUT M&M's? I wonder how their personal relationship is going with Craig Garvin, Warwick White, John Bryant and Bill Duncan?

What the?? Well they are the respective company CEO's (so the google search tells me...happy to be corrected due to my lack of research) - so it must make logical sense that my EX followers have formed close personal relationships with all of their food sources? Seriously...I'm not joking! It makes sense right?

OK...joking :) Get a grip people! I've been accused of whingeing and being especially rude or mean-hearted by some. If only they opened their mind to the message, and it's importance. Anytime you see me re-post a message, my intention is not to shame these people - it's their message posted in a public forum...they posted it. The objective is however to analyse their sentiment, and explain just how flawed, unrealistic or unreasonable it is. I feel compelled to offer an alternative view, as a means to an end - education. 

You must understand, that in the past 18 months of running tours on our family farm, hosting thousands of visitors - I've yet to experience the vitriol of some online followers. Our guests are always very receptive of my message, polite in their questions, and without exception...applaud loudly when leaving.

So yes, there is method in my madness...and it works for me. People genuinely fascinate me. Some will continue to make judgement calls and decisions based on hear-say and propaganda. Sadly, a very small number will hide behind their profile pic...or avatar - saying and doing things they would never do, "face to face". Farmer Gregie will remain methodical and analytical...as he dissects the human brain, and its relentless thought processes.

So Where To For The Bobby Calf ??

It has been a hot topic for farmers to contend with in recent years. Unfortunately there is great confusion caused by 'half truths' and mis-information pedalled by minority groups. Please read on to understand the very real challenges that we as farmers face on a daily basis.

Every decision made at farm level must be based on the impending financial outcome. If we as farmers take actions that will knowingly 'LOSE' money - or are forced by external regulations or lobby groups to do so, the viability of the farm itself is jeopardised. I can tell you from first hand experience, that as farmers scramble...or even fail to stay afloat - one of the first things to suffer is animal health and wellbeing.

It's all very well to point out the problem - and lay blame for its existence. The reality is...we already know the problem. Minority groups with their 'shock' tactics offer no genuine solution.

At the moment one such group is offering the following 'solutions'...
1. buy a stuffed bobby calf to show you support (and fund their business no doubt)
2. vote with your $$ and boycott all dairy products (and help inflict greater hardship onto the farms...where bobby calves will continue to be born)

They state, and I paraphrase, "If the treatment of bobby calves is to improve, it is imperative that the industry becomes accountable and for the public to exercise their consumer power."

Sadly for the bobby calf - the consumer is exercising their power on a daily basis. Through their buying habits, they have in fact sealed the fate of the bobby calf, as an unwanted by-product of the Dairy Industry.

It's a very honourable thing - to want to make a difference - to make a positive and lasting change. But it is much more important, and proactive to do enough research, to be armed with the knowledge and tools, to effectively do so.

While such lobby groups continue to complain loudly about the injustice of reality...farmers are left to cope with the situation at ground level. The very good news is that many farmers make the effort to do what is right. Although the consumer has chosen not to prolong the life of the bobby calf - the farmer will do their best to offer comfort and prevent illness during the 'unwanted' bull calves' short life.

Yes - here at the Dennis family farm, we feed our bull calves on the bottle beyond their day of birth...ensuring that they neither have too much or too little milk. This is critical to their good health, as they are extremely vulnerable - facing life threatening complications during that first (and often only) week of life. After feeding them one last time at about 7 days of age, we then load them onto our own ute - personally responsible for their safe delivery to our local abattoir, only 20 minutes from home. We do aim to minimise stress or suffering experienced by our bull calves at every opportunity.

I like to think personally, that we as farmers, are more about practical solutions. Transparency is important - as the message surrounding our actions is conveyed. So unless the 'activists' have a lasting victory...in their endeavour for you - the consumer - to stop consuming all dairy products immediately, or better still - become vegans...we - the humble dairy farmer, will continue to deal with what is very real, each and every day.

Sad but true - the bobby calf remains...the unwanted by-product of 'consumer demand'.

Scenic Rim 4Real Milk

As we are brought into the world, we all start equal...at zero. With no life experience, no preconceived ideas, no judgement to pass, or standards to follow. So the process begins, as we are molded by those closest to us, and the environment surrounding us. Our personality develops, our confidence grows, our morals and ethics are instilled, remembered and later acted upon - as if almost by reflex.

With such diversity in our own great country, Australia.... of cultures - nationalities - religions - political beliefs, and the wide and varied combination of blends within and across these differences - there's little wonder we as a society don't always agree on everything.  This is very healthy by the way, as it creates the intricate fabric with which our communities are woven. It is as beautiful as it is fascinating!

It is in fact my fascination with people, and my desire to 'save the world', that I find myself drawn to the current phase of my life. With the fast pace of our lives today - so much to do...so little time, that many are neglecting some of life's most critical aspects. As a collective, we're becoming a more and more disposable society. Our desire for financial success, to buy the 'toys' we don't need. Our 'entitlement' mentality is creating complacency, our apathy continues to cause instability. Our lack of time and effort to properly nourish our bodies and stimulate our minds. Our reliance for science and medicine to prolong our lives, artificially.

This lack of balance is now negatively impacting on many aspects of life - but most particularly health. The 'obesity epidemic' spirals out of control, Type 2 Diabetes is now afflicting people in their 20's and 30's, Cardiovascular Disease is growing exponentially and food allergies are on the rise. The severity and number of attacks and subsequent injuries stemming from drug and alcohol use, or those suffering from mental health is an endless stream.

During my own recovery, from a diagnosis of Clinical Depression only 3 years ago, I felt compelled to undertake a 'post-mortem' on my own life, to that point in time - January 2010. My life as I knew it was over...though fortunately not in the literal sense, as I had enlisted the necessary help prior to becoming suicidal. Beyond the 'fog haze', fatigue and nausea that filled my days, I became committed...even obsessed to do whatever it took - to once again feel well.

In years to come, I will possibly look back at those first 6 months of 2010, as the most influential of my life. I already acknowledge quite openly today, that Depression was the best thing that has ever happened to me. Sadly - I'm aware that it does not end so well for many sufferers and their families. But personally, it was that period of analysis, the endless questioning, the search and ultimate discovery of purpose, that found me 'reborn'...as Farmer Gregie!!

I 'see' things. Always have. My ideas are often, well, out there! During my quest to find that absolute purpose, and comprehend the role I must play, I began to see with a clarity I'd not previously experienced. The ideas were not new, but the conviction of belief and the confidence to implement these ideas was quite foreign to me. It has however resulted in some challenging times for other members involved in our family business. Despite my ability to justify all recent projects on farm - they have effectively been 'Executive Decisions', by yours truly. I have carried the burden of scepticizm and uncertainty, keeping the faith that our business will eventually be rewarded.

We are genuinely reaching a critical time in history - that only the future will judge. Here in Australia, we are on the verge of becoming a 'net importer' of food. How is this even possible - with such a small population base in proportion to our fertile agricultural land? The triggers that have always assisted stability in the market-place are no longer working. 'Supply and Demand' has in the past been the driving force in maintaining the necessary equilibrium...whether that be here in Australia - with our domestic market, or Internationally - with exports.

It would appear to me, as a naive country boy, that our supply chain has become as dysfunctional as the legislation that protects it. What we do know for a fact, in my little corner of the world - South East Queensland, is that there is currently a supply shortage of MILK (as of today...not next year), for which your local Dairy Farmers are being rewarded at...below the cost of production.

I much prefer to stick to what I am aware of - so I won't digress into the many other food industries being crippled. But surely there is no problem for the consumer - you are still getting fresh milk every day? The truth is, your fresh milk is being trucked over longer and longer distances up and down the east coast of Australia, to fill the shortfall SEQ is currently experiencing. Particularly disturbing is the reality of this situation - there's every chance that a dairy farmer within an hours drive of your house...is bleeding money every single morning he or she gets out of bed. The situation is not likely to abate (having lost over 10% of Qld's dairy farmers since Australia Day, 2011) as forecasts indicate we may lose almost as many again, in the next 12 months.

You must also understand, that milk is a perishable item. It is a living organism, with a limited shelf life. We can only extend that shelf life, by rendering milk itself completely devoid of life - ah yes...UHT milk! But even if we avoid going to the extreme of Ultra Heat Treating our milk, we are losing precious days in transit...in and out of cold storage, before your 'fresh' milk arrives. There is a fast growing movement of people who believe strongly in getting back to local, fresh, minimally processed foods.

It is absolutely critical - that the general public are aware of the wider ramifications of their buying habits today. To maintain a high level of stability in our local fresh food supply, producers must be rewarded 'fairly' for their product. Without financial viability...more and more of our food will be produced offshore, beyond the controls of Australia's very strict health regulations.

So yes - today I am driven by this desire for the truth to be known, and the knowledge to be shared. Through the recently formed tourism arm of our business - 'Farmer Gregie' is able to share the fragility of the dairy farmers' situation, with the many 1,000's of visitors we have the pleasure of hosting on farm. Scenic Rim Robotic Dairy is also becoming increasingly involved with Schools and Education - our core target audience is intentionally domestic, not international.

This gives us the perfect opportunity explain the potential benefit, of the harmonious co-existence of consumer and farmer, of city and country. As a vocal advocate of the health benefits to you, the consumer, of locally produced fresh food, we are absolutely thrilled with what is about to unfold. A product launch is scheduled for May 2013 - at which point Scenic Rim Robotic Dairy will become the home of SCENIC RIM 4REAL MILK !!



The Dennis family will literally be in control of the entire process of milk production...from the feeding and milking of our Holstein cows one day, to the bottling of milk on site the next, to transporting directly to your local shop....

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS :)

We Do What We Love - 'cause We Love What We Do!

We do what we love, 'cause we love what we do,
Come the end of the day, while thinking it through,
With a beer in my hand, and a tear in my eye,
I can't help but think what I'm doing - and why?

Am I filling a need, putting food on a table
Or being used and abused...by the owners of a label?
More than 80 hour weeks - every day of the year,
The work just gets done, without thought or fear.

So try as we might to explain the true facts...... 
To paint the picture as our industry cracks!
There'll be no turning back, beyond the point of no return
As I continually attempt to stir emotion and concern.

A failure I feel as my message is lost,
The reception farmers get is as cold as frost!
From the consumer - the processor - Woolies or Coles -
It's as clear as crystal, farmers have no control!

We'll get what we're given, and take what we get
No ability to negotiate - our prices are set.
So be it - each day - 14 hours at a loss...
Like a rolling stone, farmers don't gather moss.

With the best of intention and the highest of hope,
The work's being done...and the farmer will cope.
Yes fresh milk you'll have - for as long as we can...
That time's nearly up...wasn't part of my plan!

The Farmer Gregie Story.....so far

I was recently asked to nominate for Dairy Farmer of the Year. While I did so - reluctantly, I felt quite deflated when I hadn't made the final. Bizarre! Only 3 finalists. Somehow, after compiling my story, I felt so confident that I was  a worthy finalist...if not winner!

Probably biased I know - I'm still so proud of my personal progress and that of our farm over the past couple of years. Here's my nomination.

Our current Dairy Operation is very much a family enterprise. The Dennis Family has owned and operated this farm as a dairy since the 1930’s. My Nan, Rita and grandfather Hal (who passed away before I was born), took ownership of the farm, and started their family almost eight decades ago. My Uncle Ray, and father Darrell, were both born onto this property, and have lived their entire lives here to date. Their wives, Aunty Rose, and Brenda (Mum), remain actively involved to this day also. I am third generation on this property, and fifth generation dairy farmer (to my knowledge). Now our marriage into its 18^th year, with two fantastic children, my immediate family has offered great stability to my life. Particularly my wife Trish (who is a polar opposite personality type to me – having just done the Myers Briggs personality test), who keeps me grounded, and injects the structure when needed in my life.

The farm has seen many transitions – from the 20 cow herd, milked by hand in the 1930’s, through Box Bales – to a 6 a side Herringbone in 1972 – to the 50 platform Rotary and milking 360 cows in 1991(and being the second largest dairy in Queensland) – to leaving the dairy industry in 2003 as a direct protest against deregulated milk prices  – to re-entering in 2007 by rebuilding a 10 a side herringbone with second hand components and milking 120 cows – to installing 3 Lely Astronaut Robots in 2010 and increasing numbers to 200 cows  – and the installation of a 4^th robot in 2011 – to today growing towards 250 milkers through natural increases. I’ve always looked outside the box, setting up a Mobile DJ business (Gregie DJ) in 2003 – I continue to do gigs today, into my 10^th year. I also worked full-time as a Surveyors Assistant in 2007, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I was seriously looking into becoming a Surveyor, at my then boss’ recommendation, when the opportunity to restart our dairy arose. A Surveyor that I did a lot of field work with had mixed feelings when he heard of my decision, as he told me, “You are the best ‘Chainman’ I’ve ever worked with.” I had a lot of respect for Doran, so that meant a great deal to me.

Although my direct involvement in the farm has been since leaving school in 1986 – it has been somewhat stifled. My father and uncle have remained heavily involved in daily operations, to this day. While that has offered great stability, it has acted as an unintentional ‘hand brake’ over the past few years. As they start to wind down, they only see the work involved in future projects – rather than the benefit. In hindsight, this may have led to the best thing that has happened in my life – a diagnosis of Clinical Depression in January, 2010. My impending recovery put a lot of pressure on my family and the farm. During this time however, I was absolutely committed to do whatever was necessary – taking on board professional psychological advice. This time of reflection and self- analysis gave me a great insight into where I’ve come from – where I’m heading – and who I am. As tough a time as it was, I immersed myself in a couple of major projects. Firstly completing High School (with High Destinctions) through USQ Distance Education, at the age of 40. I was accepted into the Psychological Science intake in 2010, as I felt an empathy towards others suffering from mental health issues. However I declined that invitation, as my outlook changed dramatically while I was on the mend, and I began to see endless opportunities on the very farm that I thought was ‘marking time’.

Only 4 months into the recovery process, I heard that work had started on the first robotic dairy (De Laval VMS) in South-East Qld. Robotics had always interested me, but I had falsely believed they were not a viable option in the past – based solely on opinion. So I immediately began researching the options online – believing the Lely Astronaut was the best fit for our farm. I clearly remember Dad telling me, “You can’t even do a full day’s work yet – how can you possibly take on a project like this?”, in May 2010. It wasn’t intended negatively, Dad was just trying to be realistic. I said to him, “I know – but I can feel I’m getting better.” One rather large obstacle remained (other than family doubters) – Lely do not install robots in an area until they have an established Lely Centre, to provide the necessary level of support. Not easily deterred, I booked flights to Victoria for Dad, myself and Derek Acheson of Teknodairy (I felt he was a key candidate for the Lely Centre). Before the flight home, Dad and Derek were both hooked. Within a month Derek had successfully negotiated the commencement of the Jimboomba Lely Centre. Through my co-ordination, and a great deal of support, our first cow was milked robotically only four months after our visit to the Warren and Williams’ robotic dairies, in October 2010. In that short time we’ve seen tremendous productive efficiencies of between 15% and 20% each month, with reduced labour. My wife used to do the morning milking with me, which made for a very long day for her. One of the biggest benefits for the farm, is that Trish has now been able to take over the bookwork, and Myob from Mum and Aunty Rose.

One of my most influential mentors is without doubt my father. Although the younger brother of the partnership, he always took the leadership role with financial and management decisions – particularly with the high growth phases of the dairy through the 70’s and 80’s. He wasn’t necessarily a pioneer, but always quick to analyze and adopt new and improved systems or technology. We built one of the early Herringbone sheds over 40 years ago, and in 1991 built a 50 platform Rotary. These improvements enabled rapid expansion and efficiencies on farm at their time. We have never relied on contractors, when it comes to farm work. With all our own implements, we are able to best work in with weather patterns, through the entire hay-making process, to annual planting of ryegrass, and ongoing fertilizing and irrigation. By growing all of our animals fibre requirements we are able to control both cost and quality. Our farm has always diversified, with Uncle Ray overseeing these sidelines. With beef cattle (as many as 600 head) from the 70’s to the 90’s – hay sales (of up to 20,000 square bales a year) over the past 15 years in particular. I am heading up our current venture into tourism as Farmer Gregie (with over 500 visitors in our first month – and already booked another 15 busloads for the remainder of 2012).

I feel very passionate about the impact we can have, through a simple viewing of our Robotic Dairy, to the wider population. With a perfect location (one hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast), I’m particularly looking to base our core business on school kids – over 1,000 schools within an easy day trip of our farm. Cows are now literally milking 24/7 – offering great flexibility in viewing hours. As the gap continues to widen – between city and country – I see this venture as something I must do. I honestly believe our impact can be targeted at public awareness – far beyond exposure to the dairy industry. It will stimulate interest at school level in food production, agriculture, and future employment possibilities in rural areas. This will inevitability stimulate conversations at home with mum and dad. For some time now I’ve said, “I don’t want sympathy from our urban friends, but we can’t even expect empathy for our efforts – when they have no knowledge or exposure to our commitment, in providing for their families.” Early feedback has been exceptionally promising. Our ventures have always been calculated and costed. They are not always successful, but we are happy to give things a good go, and cut our losses should the outcome not live up to expectation.

Dad was always an avid reader of dairy magazines and newspapers, and I continue to do so. Publications like The Australian Dairy Farmer, Holstein Journal, Dairy News, The Northern Dairy Farmer and Young Dairy Network Newsletter, give me a great insight into the current and future trends of our industry. He also networked through local branch committees like QDO and National Party (being President of both) and attending regional and state meetings as a delegate. That exposure kept him in touch with developments and changes – he was always open minded to possibilities. This also influenced my path into committees – as President of HFAA Moreton Sub Branch, Vice-President Qld HFAA, Federal Classification Committee and Federal Delegate. I’ve also enjoyed involvement in my sporting clubs – Vice President BDTA (Tennis), Match & Management Committee/Vice Captain Beaudesert Golf Club, District Delegate Woodhill Cricket Club, Manager/Coach Beaudesert Wombats U7’s Soccer Team. I have recently been invited to nominate for a board position on the Northern Dairies Management Committee, which I have submitted. I was also fortunate to attend a RYLA Camp (an initiative of the Rotary Club) in 1994, and was subsequently invited back as a leader in 1995, and RYLA Camp Administrator in 1996. This experience provided a great boost for my confidence and self-belief, both on a personal and professional level. I have also just attended a 2 day Lead-Up Seminar (1^st of three parts), already utilizing some tools – understanding where others are coming from. I have at times struggled with family not understanding my position – as I’m sure they have equally struggled with me not seeing theirs.

Trish and I are also very supportive of our children’s (Jewel 14 and Jack 6) involvement in sports and physical activities. From gym, tennis, swimming, soccer, cricket, school stage productions and hip-hop dance, as well as musical instruments like flute and guitar. I feel that many of the lessons learnt from these disciplines are applicable to life. I have always been actively committed to my sporting teams, playing for the Woodhill Cricket Club for 20 consecutive years, 12 years for Lyndale Pennant Tennis Team (until they disbanded), Indoor Cricket for over 20 years (representing Beaudesert in Super-League), and more recently moved into golf (due to a couple of niggling injuries), at The Beaudesert Golf Club. Having lowered my handicap to 12, I’ve also captained the Pennant Golf Team. Aside from the physical fitness, sports are a great reality check – bringing out the best…and worst in people.

I have learnt a great deal from Dad over the years, from cow – to feed – to people management. My specialty has remained cow health/milk production and breeding programs. Since 16 years of age I’ve managed the breeding program, continuing to favour purebred Holsteins. We were actively involved in showing our cattle during my first 18 years. We had some great success, the highlights including Senior Champion and Best Udder at the 1996 Qld State Feature Show, Supreme Junior Champion 2000 and 2002 Qld State Feature Shows, Reserve Senior Champion 2000 and 2001 Brisbane RNA, All Australian Progeny 1998, 1999 and 2000. Queensland Cow of the Year 2000, 2001 and 2002. Runner-Up Australian Cow of the Year for 6 consecutive years. Perhaps a highlight for me personally, was the honour of being the youngest ever recipient, at 36 years, of the Holstein Master Breeder Award in 2006 (for points accumulated by cows bred over a 20 year period). We were also Most Successful Exhibitor (All Breeds) at our local Beaudesert Show on 7 consecutive occasions, immediately prior to our hiatus from dairying.

The transition over the past three years however, has been huge. My responsibilities were increased, particularly with finances and daily operations, as we re-entered dairying, because it was my decision (in fact mine alone) to come back. As I become increasingly aware of my true ability to view future possibilities, I have continued to struggle with the resistance offered by many (or all) family members who were simply unable to conceive my vision. As my father and uncle continue to live and work (70 hour weeks!) on farm, their drive for expansion and improvements has subsided, but their work ethic and commitment to a common cause has remained second to none. Perhaps this makes the position our farm is in today, even more impressive than I realize – as it is only for my dogged determination and belief, that progress was made. I have always done extensive research and cost/benefits before proceeding with any such project. Today I predominantly use the internet at first, following up by direct phone contact, tracking down the true facts – rather than personal opinion. Too often I’ve seen uninformed opinion become the platform for somebody’s truth, and that can result in very costly mistakes.

The major challenge facing the dairy industry is undoubtedly the structure of the supply chain. It is the one area we have the least control over as farmers – but it has the greatest impact on our bottom line. This is already placing pressure on the major milk processors, by passing on price cuts at farm gate to retain margins. I was personally disappointed with the contract offered to us by Parmalat last year. In fact, I made a counter offer – outlining our requirements at farm level…but unfortunately they declined my offer. I have personally not felt the stress of coming off contract on December 31 (although I understand some of my family have). I have every confidence that our farm is well positioned to find a home for our milk supply – and have continued to make calculated decisions based on the future as I believe exists. The best way to counter market forces is with a positive public campaign, through social media (I now regularly update my newly established ‘Scenic Rim Robotic Dairy’ facebook page) and our new tourism venture. Only through the support of widespread public pressure, and empathy, will the supermarket chains adjust their decisions and strategies. Not until they see a potential financial backlash, will they pay attention – as they are so ‘money driven’. I am currently reviewing the possibility of on farm processing at a future date, as it would perfectly compliment the tens of thousands of visitors we will likely see on an annual basis.

The only certainty about climate change, is that it will continue to happen. To what extent it will affect different regions around Australia is not an exact science. It is just as important to be proactive, making provisions for future forecasts, as it is to remain flexible, adapting to changes that may not yet be known. My preference has always been to remain proactive, avoiding future pitfalls where possible – but I understand that uncertain times (with both environments surrounding global weather and financial patterns) will demand reactive decisions, when necessary.

The biggest impact on our herd over the past 3 years has been the extended hot, wet conditions. We’ve seen some serious health issues within our milking herd, most particularly mobility with stone bruising and foot-rot, and mastitis like I have never before seen. The environmental strains we are now dealing with do not discriminate – as most farmers I’ve spoken to in South-East Qld, and Northern NSW have been pushed towards and beyond 400,000 bulk somatic cell counts. Fortunately I’ve just negotiated finance for the next major project on farm – with commencement of construction of a 256 cow Artex Free-stall Barn with Promat Gelmats set for mid-August this year (I think they may be the first in Australia). Completion is expected prior to October’s end. Only for my relentless actions, is the project going ahead this year – as I was strongly deterred by other family members, and our bank. While all other dairy farmers in the region have helplessly thrown their hands in the air, I refused to accept this debilitating health issue could not be resolved. Cow comfort and health is to me, of equal importance as the public perception of our responsible actions as producers of food. Despite its $650,000 price tag, my conservative cash-flows have suggested a 5 year ROI. Once I had done the sums, I informed my family and bank that the project needed to happen this year, as I was not prepared to subject our cows to another unprotected summer. I also let the bank know that I would source finance, whether they wanted to be a part of it or not. By approaching a finance broker (who for a big part of the process looked the likely victor), I continued to work with both parties, offering all financials requested – with absolute transparency. Our bank obviously saw the solidity of the cash-flows I presented, and perhaps a benefit in retaining our business. Whilst I am relentless in making these projects become a reality in a short period of time, it remains possible only through the support of the family unit. The resistance I encounter has definitely improved my negotiating skills, forcing me to validate any position I foresee.

The two other key areas I’ll be targeting in the near future (directly related to climate change), are power savings and water efficiency. Firstly, we will be putting enough solar panels in place to provide our daily power usage for the dairy shed and four houses on the farm. Unfortunately that meter usage was too large to qualify for the recent State rebate scheme – but my calculations still show a solid benefit displacing peak-rate power costs (at 27c/kWh and growing). The other three meters on farm qualified for the rebate, and will generate a payback of 44c/kWh. Close to $100,000 worth of solar panels will be installed in the next 12 months. Water pressures on irrigation farms in the Scenic Rim will continue to grow, as priority has swayed towards the urban population base. Although currently using conventional irrigation – I have placed a 5 year time frame on the transition to centre pivots (although my Dad has stated, “It won’t happen in my lifetime”). Dad however remains the main man when it comes to irrigation. As he nears 70, his workload is as unsustainable as it is irreplaceable. Our farm layout would enable 3 pivots, covering about 70% of the existing irrigation land. Between water efficiencies, power and labour savings – even greater profitability will be generated, moving forward.

For myself personally, possibilities seem endless. I was fortunate to be invited to speak at last years’ Northern Dairies Conference on the Gold Coast, about our robotic dairy. I like to help where possible by sharing my experiences – I have just been invited to speak at the New Generations Forum in Coffs Harbour, October 2012 (a Sub-Tropical Dairies initiative), and am being considered as a Speaker for the upcoming Dairy Australia Conference, relating to my recovery from Clinical Depression. Derek Acheson (Jimboomba Lely Centre) has also requested my services, (in a professional capacity) for the upcoming Lely Astronaut installations. Lely Australia require that a Lely Centre have at least 2 qualified technicians, so I offered to do the 10 day training with Derek in 2010, and am officially trained as a Service Level 1 Technician. As my awareness grows, of the positive impact I can have beyond our farm gate, I am equally conscious of balancing those obligations with a strong core business. Without question, the people I surround myself with will become key.

While I was asked to nominate for the Australian Farmer of the Year Awards, I feel a little inadequate. Despite the tremendous progress made on our family farm over the past few years, I personally feel like a ‘work in progress’. I have so many projects queuing up for the coming years that I’m confident the best is yet to come. Perhaps though, that future will only be possible, via the foundations laid in the past couple of years. The sentimental side of me would truly cherish an award such as this, during ‘The Year of the Farmer’. Perhaps the greatest aspect though, would be the impact I could have beyond agriculture, as the recipient of this honour. It is always easier to ‘preach to the converted’, but my message moving forward is far wider reaching. Through the soul-searching forced upon me only a couple of years ago – I feel as though I have found my purpose in life, by reconnecting our city cousins, with their rural heritage. It just happens to be that the vehicle of choice is doing what I love!

Welcome to the Global Village!

It would be fair to say I've had more than a gutful of the treatment being dished out to Aussie farmers. Maybe I'm just a little cranky today. The 'smoke and mirrors' within the dairy industry, are equally contributing to consumer misconception.

The Supermarkets have been extremely successful with their SPIN surrounding $1 a litre milk (the WAR ON MILK, as I prefer to call it). They have publicly maintained there was no flow on effect to the farmer. Even the extensive Senate Inquiry was satisfied there was a benefit to the consumer, and chose not to take action against the marketing giants. Thankfully through a growing public backlash, we can expect them to pull the pin on $1 milk. Sadly they will shift their focus to another easy target, and cripple yet another industry in the process.

At processor level, the pinch is certainly being felt. One by one, almost all the major processors have dramatically cut milk prices to the farmer - by anywhere between 10% and 30% depending on your location. We have just be given a taste of things to come for the next two years...and to be honest - it is leaving a bitter taste in my mouth. Our family farm is nearing the end of honouring a 5 year Supply Agreement with Parmalat. The average price we received for our milk in that period was 55c/L. We felt this was acceptable, although were disappointed that is never rose with CPI (between 2007 - 2012). The offer on our table yesterday, will see our average price for the coming 2 years drop to 41c/L.

Loyalty within some agricultural sectors would certainly appear to be a thing of the past. For the consumer, locally produced fresh food appears to be heading in the same direction.

As farmers though, we must wear our share of responsibility. The large processors and huge supermarkets have really have done a great job - pitting farmer against farmer within supply groups, against other supply groups, between states.....The farming community should be banding together - all around our country. Seriously enough of the "us and them", the "haves and the have not's". Are we not all trying to achieve the same objective - putting food on people's plates...every day of the year? I have never been able to understand the animosity that continues to plague sectors of our great industry - I never will.

Dairy Farmers in every corner of Australia deserve nothing less than a solid financial reward. There are not many people left in our great country - who are more dedicated to their cause...tirelessly working 80+ hours every week, for you...THE CONSUMER. The tragedy is that many dairy farmers (mostly family businesses) have already been unnecessarily forced to exit the industry. Worse still - many farmers are now faced with the prospect of undertaking that workload at a loss, while hoping to survive.

And for the next generation....? We never lose hope that common sense will prevail.