Talking Dairy

• Breeding for the long game | Ep. 97

  When it comes to herd improvement, it’s easy to focus on high heritability traits like milk production and liveweight - where the gains are faster and more visible. But what about the traits that take time?In this episode of Talking Dairy, Jac McGowan and Dr Rhiannon Hancock, a scientist at NZ Animal Evaluation, talk about why low heritability traits deserve a place in your breeding strategy – especially if you’re playing the long game.Rhiannon explains how even small genetic gains in these areas can build over time, leading to big wins for herd productivity and long-term profitability. Find out:Why heritability mattersWhy slow progress is still real progressPractical tips for long-term herd improvementListen for the full story behind the science. This episode was inspired by the myth-busting story in the Feb-April edition of Inside Dairy – available at dairynz.co.nz/inside-dairy Resources for more information on this topic:Is focusing on low-heritability traits valuable when making breeding decisions? | DairyNZAnimal - Breeding Decisions | DairyNZBreeding Worth | DairyNZBull Search | DairyNZ Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected] Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

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• Smart dry-off strategies | Ep.96

  New Zealand dairy farmers are making great progress in reducing antibiotic use at dry-off - but how do we keep that momentum going? With antimicrobial resistance on the rise, selective dry cow therapy has become an important tool for protecting both herd health and the long-term effectiveness of antibiotics. The key is making smart, informed decisions that safeguard milk quality while keeping cows healthy.In this episode, we’re joined by Mitch Cooper, a Veterinarian and DairyNZ’s Senior Technical & Policy Advisor, and Veronica Oostveen, a Southland dairy farmer and DairyNZ Area Manager. They break down the latest research and share practical strategies to help you:Use data to make smarter treatment decisionsCut antibiotic use without compromising cow healthManage dry-off risks effectivelyApply proven strategies that have dropped somatic cell countsVeronica shares how selective dry cow therapy has improved her herd’s health and performance, and Mitch explains why responsible antibiotic use matters for our future.Tune in for the latest research and insights. Find the DairyNZ tools and resources mentioned in this episode:Dry cow strategies | DairyNZdairynz-guideline-14-dry-cow-strategy.pdfdairynz-technote-14-dry-cow-strategy.pdfHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected] Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

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• $10 payout - now what? | Ep. 95

  It’s been a season of shifting gears. We started with high costs and cautious optimism, but as the months rolled on, things began looking up - better milk prices, easing interest rates, and a bit more breathing room financially. But what does that actually mean for your farm? And, more importantly, how can you make the most of it? In this episode of Talking Dairy, we take a close look at how the season has played out and what’s on the horizon. Mark Storey, Head of Economics at DairyNZ, and Paul Bird, Senior Business Specialist , break down the key trends shaping farm finances right now. They unpack why this $10 payout isn’t quite a record in real terms, and why it’s important to invest extra income wisely. We also discuss the challenges still at play, including dry conditions in many regions and what that means for feed and milk production. With farmers feeling more positive about the future, we look at what’s driving that confidence and what risks - both locally and internationally - could shake things up next season. With a new season just around the corner, now is the time to be thinking ahead. What financial moves should you be making? How can you set your farm up to stay resilient, no matter what’s coming? Tune in to find out.  Find the DairyNZ business tools mentioned in this episode: All DairyNZ business tools  Cashflow budget tools for different suppliers DairyNZ Economic Tracker tool Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected] Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

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• On the move: Reducing stress during transport | Ep. 94

  You put a lot of care into your cows, so it’s only natural to want the best for them - even when they leave the farm. But do you know what happens once they’re on the truck? And are you confident they’re set up for a smooth journey?In this episode, we’re talking about simple, practical ways to help your cull cows travel well. Dr. Stacey Hendriks and Penny Timmer-Arends share three key things that make a big difference. They also explain what happens beyond the farm gate and why good preparation matters. Transport can be tough on cows, but with a few easy steps, you can help them arrive in good shape. Tune in to hear what farmers are already doing and pick up some practical tips to make transport easier on your cows. Useful linksTransporting stock | DairyNZHave feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected] Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

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• Expert insights to grow productive farm workplaces and what to expect at the People Expos | Ep. 93

  Looking for fresh ideas to boost productivity on your farm? Want to build a strong, high-performing team without adding more hours to your day? The People Expo is back, packed with insights to help you create a farm workplace that runs smoothly and delivers results. In this episode of Talking Dairy, we talk to event partner Dairy Women’s Network CEO Jules Benton and leading economist and key speaker Shamubeel Eaqub. Jules shares what’s in store, why these expos are a must-attend for farmers who employ people, and how they can benefit your farm business. Shamubeel gives a sneak peek at the big-picture workforce trends shaping dairy businesses and what they mean for your farm.With four events across March and April, this is your chance to gain insights, get inspired, and walk away with practical ideas to put into action. Listen in now, then make sure you get along to a People Expo near you. Events are free, lunch is provided, and registrations are essential—visit dairynz.co.nz/peopleexpo to sign up today.Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected] Follow DairyNZ on socials for the latest updates: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

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