Our recent OPEN DAYS

I've been overdue for a post! Below is a recent story in the Young Dairy Network newsletter....

I'm a 4th generation Dairy Farmer (to my knowledge) - 3rd generation on this property. It has been owned and operated by the Dennis family for 80 years. My Uncle Ray (71yrs) and Dad, Darrell (68yrs) were born and raised on this property - as was I (and our 2 children, Jewel 14 and Jack 6). They both continue to work full-time and are still actively involved in the decision making processes of day to day operations. What started as a 20 cow milking herd in the 1930's (with 4 box bales for hand milking) - grew to 360 cows milked on a 50 rotary platform in the mid '90's, and the 2nd largest dairy in Queensland - to today, being the first Lely Robotic Dairy in this state. Next year our annual production will surpass that of the 1990's - 2.3M litres through 4 Lely Astronauts....from only 240 milking cows!

The farm is in a transitional phase, as my responsibilities surrounding financial and operational management, and future direction increase. Ray and Darrell's wives, Aunty Rose (70yrs) and Mum, Brenda (63yrs), also remain active - although currently handing over the books/accounts to my wife Trish. They will remain a vital key to our new direction on farm - as we venture into tourism and education. Their life experiences (on and off farm), and natural ability to interact with visitors is invaluable. My dad and uncle are also happy to offer an insight into days gone by - the way technologies have changed the daily routines and workload on farm.

My mentors on farm have been quick to adopt new technologies thoughout my life - so this has obviously impacted my own thought processes. The decision to go robotic was a combination of factors and timing. I was personally coming off a diagnosis of Clinical Depression (January 2010) when I was asked (April 2010) about long time locals Matt & Alison Cahill's venture into a De Laval robotic dairy. Being a bundle of positivity, I was happy to inform people, including Dennis family members, why it was not a great idea - pointing out all the probable pitfalls...based on my robotic knowledge of absolute ZERO!! I was however prompted to do extensive online research - so you can imagine the frosty reception I received in May, at the suggestion we look into the robotic option on our farm. The timing of my Depression was also key, as it forced me to review what the future held for my family and myself, as dairy farmers.

Not easily deterred, I booked a flight to Victoria for Dad, our dairy technician (Derek Acheson) and myself, in June - to visit two Lely Robot farms in Gippsland, with Jurgen Steen from Lely. By July we had signed a contract for 3 Lely Astronauts - and milked the first cow robotically in October 2010! Undoubtably the best decision made on our farm to date, it did however take until the latter part of 2011 before family members were able to physically see the improving production results. The first six months after start-up were particularly draining, as I was forced to run almost entirely on belief in a vision...that no one around me could see. Almost another year on, we are exceeding targets, that even I had set. For the first time in my 26 year working life - our 200 cow milking herd has hit a 30L average, at 2.7 milkings per day, while maintaining components of 4.0%F and 3.3%P.

I never try to sugar-coat the commissioning proccess - telling other farmers, "However tough you think it will be...it's worse than that!" We simultaniously have to shift our personal perception of the best management practices (formed through decades of experience) - while educating the entire milking herd of a new way, dispelling all they've learnt through their whole life. Yes it is true, sadly, the cows adapted quicker than the farmers! Throughout this proccess, of some rediculiously long hours (several times working more than 100 hour weeks), and broken sleep - the one constant remained - my committment and belief to make this new system work. I knew what we were dealing with on farm was only temporary, and I continued to push that line to all involved in our operation.

For many years now, I have held a strong desire to offer public viewings at milking time. My concerns have grown in recent years, at the void between city and country. While I would be the first to admit, as a farmer, we're not looking for sympathy - it would be refreshing to receive a genuine empathy - for the efforts we go to, supplying their demands. Obviously the fixed milking times of a conventional dairy were not compatible school hours or day trippers. Robots seemed to be the perfect fit, as cows would now be milked around the clock. Our shed layout is deliberately 'transparent', and has many good vantage points and open spaces, all under cover. I did the initial setout - with viewing areas and future visitors in mind.

It is early days, but we've had an incredible couple of weeks, with in excess of 300 visitors to launch our new venture. The timing appears to be especially good, as recent surveys of Primary and High School students have shown us a glaring lack of awareness, when it comes to food production. We farmers may be a dying breed, but that only strengthens my resolve to make a positive impact amongst the wider population.

The true reality of our elusive freedom!

As I near the end of my usefulness, regarding the RAW MILK debate - I eagerly await someone to take the baton......Any continuation needs to come from outside the dairy industry. As a farmer, I'll be seen to be persuing financial gain in the outcome. The truth is, I already receive the main benefit - of drinking real fresh milk - every single day.

In undertaking this project - I understood only too well the scale of the obstacles in place. The multi-million dollar companies clearly have vested interests in maintaining the supply chain's 'status quo'. While it continues to amaze me, in a deregulated market, the farmer has no opportunity to compete in the market place. This, of course, thanks to FSANZ deeming RAW MILK to be unfit for human consumption.

There must be a hidden agenda at play here - because there has not been 1 single death in Australia, related to the consumption of RAW MILK (in the past 3 decades). Despite a growing 'black market' of health concious consumers over the past 10 years, there have still been no reported deaths in our country. FSANZ are well aware of this market, as they are now putting 'plain clothed' inspectors into health stores - with the very real threat of huge fines, and possible closure. So powerless do these stores now feel, that only one of the ten I sent a petition flyer to, responded - with a reluctance to take a position of support for this issue.

Over the past month, I have shared my blog and petition with many forums on facebook and twitter - including TODAY, SUNRISE, MORNINGS, ACA, TODAY TONIGHT, 612ABC, 97.3FM, B105......and many personal 'health crusaders'. Unfortunately none of the above, (and many more) have been interested in picking up on this depravation of our CIVIL RIGHT to choose....in a free country!

Perhaps in part - because this battle has been fought (and lost) many times in recent years. Perhaps this issue just doesn't tug at the heart strings....to attract the all important TV ratings that drive our modern networks. Perhaps it's just too hard to try.

It is after all - the LAW. Does that make it right? I am greatly concerned that, through a cleverly coordinated campaign of PROPAGANDA - our government (via FSANZ), have educated the greater population of Australia. The lesson learnt? "Raw dairy products carry too great a health risk". As I like to say, "We need to separate opinion from fact!"

FSANZ did carry out an extensive review of Dairy Products, over the past 3 years. Their resultant document of 119 pages, contains both opinions....and facts. The FACTS overwhelmingly support the very low level of risk, associated with our consumption of raw dairy products - both domestically and globally. Unfortunately, their outcome (based almost entirely on hypothetical opinion) condemned the food safety of raw dairy products.

Our current 1332 signatures is a great start - but that's all it is. It is such a small, insignificant percentage of Australian consumers, that it simply confirms FSANZ position - the level of demand does not warrant another review. To add any momentum, this argument now needs support from a heavyweight - from within the health or nutrition sectors (or both).


http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/legalize-the-sale-of-raw-dairy-products.html

Will the sun continue to rise for the humble dairy cow?

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As multi-nationals continue to apply the pressure to milk processors, it inevitably flows onto the dairy farmer. In so doing, the life of our beautiful dairy cow comes under threat. Why? Simply because the extreme financial pressures faced by our current generation of farmers, transpires as increased volumes and productive efficiencies. While the farmer's price received for milk has dropped by over 20% (since the milk price wars on Australia Day 2011), our operational costs continue to rise. And as cost cutting must occur at farm level - this becomes the neccessary evil - for the dairy farmer to remain viable.....to stay afloat! The more viable the farm - the more available are the funds required, to maintain the highest level of animal health.

The dairy farmer does not have the ability to form a relationship with you - the consumer, and market directly. If this was legal, an increased profit margin at farm-gate, would allow the farmer to produce less milk per cow, reducing the pressure on her,and improving her level of health.


The government has ensured that RAW MILK remains illegal (unfit for human consumption), through FSANZ recent revision of current legislation. This outcome, despite their knowledge that 100,000's of Australian citizens consume raw milk on a daily basis (both dairy farmers, and a growing black market of health concious consumers). Without a single related death reported in the past 30 years in Australia, their decision smacks of hypocracy. It does however insure, that the profit driven supply chain (proccessors and retailers) remain in tact.

Perhaps worst of all - is the infringement of your civil right to choose, in this apparently 'free' country we call home. Today there is an abundance of relavent information available, and a fast growing body of evidence, supporting the known health benefits of raw dairy products. Minimal risks have also been highlighted - from fresh milk produced by healthy cows, fed a pasture based diet. Surely we are capable, and must be permitted to make such choices - for ouselves and our families!

 

http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/legalize-the-sale-of-raw-dairy-products.html

Petition - Legalize raw dairy products

             

                                  http://milkingitforreal.blogspot.com.au/2012/03/but-it-is-dangerousright.html

                                                                                                        Blog - Milking it...for real !

Mothers

After a restless night - feeling for Craig and Tom. Had my own 'near death' experience with Mum in July 2010. Here's a little something I put together this morning...for all our Mums.
As a fellow dairy farmer - I though that 'Milking It' was the best spot to post it.

Beyond the call, they do, whatever needs be done
And self-lessly their actions for a daughter...or a son

I saw it in my Mother, as her work would never end
It's continued in my sisters, as they couldn't buck the trend

Most of all I see it every day - in my own life
As a mother's work continues for my children, by my wife

Their desire to serve is constant as they focus on the prize
That one day their kids will shine, they'll just be a different size

For anyone who's experienced the bond between their Mum
Though different for us all, there is no 'rule of thumb'

They're as many and as varied as their children yet unborn
But from day one they're powerless, starting to transform

Yes with a heart of gold and intentions without doubt
Little things in the day to day is what Mothers are about

No matter what the challenge - no matter how seemingly tired
Throughout their days - until the end, it's just the way they're wired

So life goes on, continuing the legacy.....as a son
Too true as it is said, "A Mothers work is never done"

RIP Karen

But it is Dangerous....Right?

My fascination with the outlaw-ing of raw milk continues to grow. It did serve a valuable purpose in its day. Prior to effective sterilization of dairy equipment, and more recently, the implementation of bulk refrigeration at farm level, there were genuine risks to consumers.

Today however, the bacterial prevalence is of a much lower level. The disease and viral infections that did in fact cause many deaths a hundred years ago, have been completely eliminated in Australia today. To my knowledge, a likely risk comparison could be draw to eating from a salad bar, or fast food outlet - with an outcome of maybe a 'belly ache'.

In fact, if you are highly motivated, please read (at least in part) the 119 page FSANZ document I've linked. The premise of their recent 'Assessment' (P 1007), and subsequent decline of legalization, appears to be based on HYPOTHETICAL RISK and SCIENTIFIC ASSUMPTIONS!

Wouldn't it be a common courtesy, that FSANZ at least base their 'assessment' on FACT, and real evidence from within Australia? I'm happy for OPINION to be expressed - but not when it comes to the legislation dictating our food choices. As tax paying citizens, we deserve better!

http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/_srcfiles/P1007%20PPPS%20for%20raw%20milk%201AR%20SD1%20Cow%20milk%20Risk%20Assessment.pdf

http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/legalize-the-sale-of-raw-dairy-products.html

Raw Milk Petition

    

As I have stated over recent posts and blogs, I've been working on a petition. The end target is FSANZ - the endeavour to have them re-address their 2011 review of the sale of raw dairy products in Australia.

Their outcome is just as surely flawed, as it is biased. There was seemingly no consideration given to the health benefits of cow's milk, in its unproccessed state. The life threatening health risks can be considered no greater than that incurred when consuming many of our daily foods.

In a democracy, don't we at least deserve the right to choose the dairy products we purchase and consume. During FSANZ's review, the general public were invited to lodge submissions, regarding their preference to purchase raw milk. I am yet to speak to anyone who was personally aware of this invitation.

The intention of the petition is to create a level of awareness at federal level (through FSANZ), as to the true extent of public sentiment surrounding the RAW MILK debate. For this to achieve any positive outcome, the sharing and support of this concept needs to be of 'epic proportions'!

Seriously - while I'm thrilled with nearly 250 signatures in 3 days....we'll need 10's of thousands, if not in excess of 100,000, to get the attention required!

http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/legalize-the-sale-of-raw-dairy-products.html

Real MILK....straight from FARM to YOU

It is important when reading this blog, to realise that the aim is not to discount the health benefits of milk, as we've come to know it - in its processed form. The reality is without legislative change, it will remain your only legal option as a consumer. It is much more about the freedom of choice - in a proudly democratic country! Enjoy...

The older I become, the more elite company I keep. Having been born on a dairy farm and spent my entire life here to this day - I am fortunate to be one of a very small percentage of this country's population to consume fresh - raw - cow's milk....legally, on a daily basis. All my life, until recently, I have taken for granted the growing number of health benefits that accompany this privilege.

As an over-regulated 'democracy' in Australia, we have the ambiguous situation today, that despite the near elimination of any remaining life threatening illness, transmitted through the consumption of raw milk, FSANZ (Food Standards of Australia & New Zealand) are happy to take the choice away from consumers. They concluded after a recent assessment (P1007), raw dairy products present too large a health threat, to be legalised.

I find this astonishing in a country where you can legally buy and consume as much alcohol as you choose beyond the age of 18, and smoke as much tobacco you desire. A country that you can , as an individual, eat as much junk food as you can stomach - or for that matter, supply to young children, as their parent or guardian. Of course these are choices you are free to make, with a wealth of available research to assist in the decision making process.

The choice is yours at least...but not when it comes to fresh, natural milk!!! No that is surely dangerous stuff. The irony is that while FSANZ feel obligated to maintain the status quo in Australia (a country whose food production standards - at dairy farm level - are perhaps the most stringent in the world) - in excess of 95% of the world's population, have the freedom to buy and consume raw cow's milk - legally. My fellow Australian dairy farmers are currently meeting quality standards (prior to processing) superior to the existing regulations governing the sale of raw milk in most parts of the world.

We are indeed entering interesting times. With life threatening illnesses such as heart disease, many forms of cancer, and especially growing incidence of type 2 diabetes inflicting people in their 20's and 30's. For the first time in known documented history, the life expectancy for young people today, is lower than that of their parents. Much of the scientific research undertaken over the past 40 years, is strongly linking the rapid rise of these concerns to the over-processing of the food we eat. In real terms - the destruction and reconstruction of many of our staples.

Few foods are more severely adulterated than milk. The process of pasteurization was invented to remove the threat of dangerous pathogens that existed more than 100 years ago. Unfortunately the result is to also kill many of milk's nutrients, and most importantly enzymes and probiotic properties. Prior to this process, milk contains its own enzyme (lactase) to assist in the absorption of milk sugars, or lactose....hence the sharp spike in dairy intolerance in recent decades. Homogenization was developed for customers' convenience, not having to shake the bottle to mix in the cream. This process literally smashes milk's molecular structure into tiny fragments, so they are unable to reform - which then has a detrimental affect on the way our body absorbs the fat content.

The gap between raw and processed milk will continue to widen in the coming years. The ongoing decline of locally produced fresh milk is inevitable, due to reduced farm-gate margins, and subsequent dairy closures. For this reason, we will see a rise in the need for UHT milk. Why - because milk will require a longer shelf life, as it takes more time to get from farm to shop. The process of Ultra Heat Treatment is even more destructive than pasteurization - rendering milk as little more than 'white water'. The carbon footprint will also be negatively impacted - as more fuel will be burnt in moving milk over great distances to the people.

There is some very interesting reading available on the web, including this quote - "Raw milk is a unique living food and differs from all other foods. Raw milk innately contains many different enzyme, and bacteriologic systems (organic acids and others) that actively kill pathogens when and if they are introduced."


Check the article - http://editor.nourishedmagazine.com.au/articles/fsanz-update-raw-dairy-in-us-support-nourished-community

Change is only possible through overwhelming pressure from consumers. There is already a groundswell of domestic demand for raw milk. As in any market place, demand will determine that supply be maintained - illegal or otherwise. That has recently been in the form of bath milk, pet milk, or 'share cow ownership'. Despite FSANZ apparently calling for public submissions to their recent assessment (of which I'm guessing most of you were unaware?), they received about 100 requests from individuals whose desire to purchase raw milk was expressed. Is that a representative portrayal of public sentiment? Who could blame FSANZ for disregarding such a minute representation of our population.

Only with great pressure comes change. Perhaps through the voices of in excess of 100,000 concerned Australians, FSANZ' resolution towards this growing problem will be reviewed. We need for the pros of this arguement to be weighted as heavily as the cons.

In an age where we seem hell bent on sanitising and sterilising anything we consume, perhaps we've lost sight of the even greater hazard - eliminating its nutrient content. Even with our best endeavours, absolute elimination of such pathogens is simply not a realistic goal. We co-exist with them every day, through the surfaces we touch - the air we breathe - and they're found in many of the foods we consume legally. It's an unavoidable part of the lives we live. Cause and effect. Perhaps it is finally time to properly reassess 'food safety'?