Young Deniliquin Dairy Farmers Shine on Global Stage
Source: DairyNews.today
A group of five young dairy farmers from Deniliquin, along with their mentor, have returned from Belgium after representing Australia at the prestigious 2024 Young Breeders School, marking one of their most successful outings to date.
Led by mentor Callum McPhee, the Australian contingent secured a ninth-place finish among 25 competing nations, underscoring the skill and dedication of the group. The event, which draws participants aged 13 to 25 from around the globe, focuses on enhancing dairy-related skills, networking, and show preparation.
“The competition was a fantastic learning experience,” McPhee said. “It covers such a broad spectrum of skills — from foundational to advanced techniques. There was something valuable for everyone.”
Beyond the competition, McPhee highlighted the spirit of collaboration among participants, even across national boundaries.
“Despite being a competition, the camaraderie was inspiring,” he said. “We saw people from countries I didn’t even know had cows, helping each other. It was a testament to the global dairy community.”
A legacy of dairy farming runs deep for McPhee, whose family has operated Hillview Park Holsteins since 1956. His participation provided fresh insights into showmanship, which he hopes to bring back to future local competitions.
“Gaining a firsthand perspective on the showmanship aspect was invaluable,” McPhee explained. “It’s something I can incorporate into my own practices and share with others in the community.”
The Australian delegation included Ryan Barker from Tasmania, Bridget Liebelt from South Australia, Elly Simms from New South Wales, and Hayden King and Patrick Anderson, both from Victoria. The August trip also offered opportunities for sightseeing, including visits to the Barenbrug seed research facility and regional dairy farms.
Since its inception in 1999, the Young Breeders School has become a cornerstone event in the dairy industry, fostering growth and expertise among the next generation of farmers.
McPhee encouraged aspiring participants to seize the opportunity, urging them to look out for details on the 2025 program.
“It’s an experience like no other,” he said. “For young farmers with a passion for dairy, it’s a chance to learn, connect, and grow on a global scale.”
“The competition was a fantastic learning experience,” McPhee said. “It covers such a broad spectrum of skills — from foundational to advanced techniques. There was something valuable for everyone.”
Beyond the competition, McPhee highlighted the spirit of collaboration among participants, even across national boundaries.
“Despite being a competition, the camaraderie was inspiring,” he said. “We saw people from countries I didn’t even know had cows, helping each other. It was a testament to the global dairy community.”
A legacy of dairy farming runs deep for McPhee, whose family has operated Hillview Park Holsteins since 1956. His participation provided fresh insights into showmanship, which he hopes to bring back to future local competitions.
“Gaining a firsthand perspective on the showmanship aspect was invaluable,” McPhee explained. “It’s something I can incorporate into my own practices and share with others in the community.”
The Australian delegation included Ryan Barker from Tasmania, Bridget Liebelt from South Australia, Elly Simms from New South Wales, and Hayden King and Patrick Anderson, both from Victoria. The August trip also offered opportunities for sightseeing, including visits to the Barenbrug seed research facility and regional dairy farms.
Since its inception in 1999, the Young Breeders School has become a cornerstone event in the dairy industry, fostering growth and expertise among the next generation of farmers.
McPhee encouraged aspiring participants to seize the opportunity, urging them to look out for details on the 2025 program.
“It’s an experience like no other,” he said. “For young farmers with a passion for dairy, it’s a chance to learn, connect, and grow on a global scale.”
