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WISH-LIST FOR 2024

We have been increasing our milk output since 2015. A combination of existing producer expansion as well as new entrants have transformed the sector.

But we  need even more vigour in our dairy enterprises. There is a tacit acceptance that milk production has plateaued. That is an erroneous mindset. We need more farms to convert from lower-profitability enterprises to dairy production. There is potential to facilitate the entry of several thousand more producers and that should be encouraged. We need to highlight a viable production model based on the existing scale average dairy unit. Up to 100-cow units can now be managed with one full-time labour unit, allied to seasonal and part-time assistance. That is a worthwhile aim. Lifestyle, income and work/life balance can all be accommodated. The reality is that many spouses work off farm. It is an economic family arrangement that can be enhanced by the development of a cost-efficient dairy enterprise. 

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