THE 33rd International Dairy Week (IDW) event wrapped up on Thursday, January 19, with an outstanding annual showcase of the Australian dairy cow at the Tatura Park Exhibition Centre, drawing in crowds, competitors and exhibitors from the north and south.
IDW has established itself on the national and international stage as a premier event bringing together the latest developments in Australian dairy cattle, farming practices, dairy knowledge, breeding, genetics, machinery, equipment, technology, environmental management and services.
Held during the third week of January each year, IDW boasts it is the place to be for all dairy farmers, breeders, producers, companies, organisations and others operating within the industry.
The weeklong event included seven National Breed Shows and a National Youth Show with more than 1000 head of cattle competing for recognition by Australian and international judges and the chance to be Australia's Grand Champion.
This year's Grand Champion was an Ayrshire: Paschendaele Klassy Tri Time exhibited by Munden Farms and Eagles from Nilma North, just near Warragul in West Gippsland, a first for the breed at IDW.
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The Grand Champion was announced on the final day of IDW and was sponsored by the City of Greater Shepparton.
The 2023 program included the inaugural Australia's National Red and White Holstein Show which Canadian Mr Callum McKinven judged.
He said while it was a smaller show, he was impressed with what he saw.
"I was really surprised and didn't expect the quality I saw," said Mr McKinven.
He commended breeders for their efforts and believed there was a "positive future" for the breed in Australia.
"The future of the breed separate to the black and white has got stronger and stronger as I have seen happen in North America.
"I think it will happen here," he said.
The Grand Champion of the inaugural Red and White Holstein Show was Bluechip EV Shesaawesome Apple–ET, exhibited by Cherrylock Cattle Co from Tallygaroopna, the biggest team at this year's IDW.
The 2023 Lex Brunn Memorial Award winner was Mark Patullo, who began as a young man in the industry in Gippsland before moving to the Goulburn Valley.
One of his many achievements was the development of the Ayrshire breed in Australia.
Mr Patullo, on receiving the award, said he was feeling "very emotional", and it was a great honour to be considered in the same calibre as previous recipients.
This award was established in 2002 to acknowledge those in the industry who are not seeking recognition or awards but have made significant contributions.
The critical role of women in the industry was also a focus with the Bette Hall Award presented on Thursday evening, January 19, as part of the Women in Dairying event, which celebrates strong, passionate and successful women.
This year's recipient was South Australian dairy farmer Mandy Pacitti from Myponga.
More than 150 breeders were on–site showcasing the best of their stud animals.
Several workshops and seminars were held, providing the latest information on a wide range of dairy–related topics – specifically aimed at improving commercial operations.
The site stands allowed numerous sponsors to provide displays and face–to–face contact about their services.
As usual, there were industry breakfasts, dinners, courses and other networking opportunities for all.
For those to improve their breeding stock, there were cattle sales and a chance to secure elite dairy progeny.
The event maintained a family–friendly environment; music and entertainment were provided for the kids, and a chance to learn more about the Australian dairy industry.
Turn to page 8 for Southern Farmer's IDW coverage.
