Flávia Tonello and Her Daughter Build Dairy Farm Succession

Flávia da Silva Tonello began working with dairy cattle alongside her family in May 2006 in the rural community of Linha Formiga. She was born and raised in the countryside, although she spent about three years living in a town before returning to rural life.

“I have always lived in the countryside; I was born and raised there. There was a time when we moved to town, but I have always liked rural life and the countryside,” she said. Flávia later completed degrees in Agribusiness and Commercial Management, and applies that training to the administration of the property.

Her responsibilities include both production and farm management. Flávia said women participate in several parts of agricultural work, including daily tasks and business administration. “Women are always there, dedicating themselves and working. They are part of agribusiness and are present in production,” she said.

Flor de Lis grew up accompanying her mother among the cattle. “Since I was born, my mother used to bring me to the cowshed. I stayed nearby, even in my pram, and was always with the cows,” she said.

In 2015, Flor de Lis joined the Calf Club project run by the Municipal Department of Agriculture. Over eight years, the programme provided instruction in animal handling, care and rearing. The experience contributed to her decision to study veterinary medicine.

Flor de Lis is now enrolled in veterinary medicine at the Federal University of Fronteira Sul, on its Realeza campus. “Before, I knew the animals through contact and handling. Now I know them through anatomy, histology and science. I think living with my family was the main incentive to continue in this field,” she said.

After graduating, Flor de Lis intends to return to the family property and apply her university training to the dairy operation. “My main idea is to come back here and do things differently, with more techniques,” she said. The planned succession combines Flávia’s experience in production and administration with her daughter’s technical education in animal health and management.

The family’s story was highlighted in coverage of International Rural Women’s Day, observed on October 15. The occasion recognises women’s involvement in food production, farm administration and agricultural development. In the Tonello family, the next generation’s planned return is linked to continuing the dairy work begun by Flávia while incorporating knowledge acquired through veterinary studies.