DairyPod is an agriculture industry podcast delivering insights and advice from trusted voices in Australian dairy.
Episodes feature a rotating panel of expert hosts, dairy farmers, industry advisors and thought leaders. Together they explore engaging topics tailored for Australian dairy farmers and our unique farming conditions.
Produced by Dairy Australia, a national services body working towards shaping a profitable and sustainable dairy industry.
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Reducing emissions - another avenue to profitability (00:15:38)
Dairy Australia’s Carbon Farming Extension Advisor, Scott Jardine, speaks with West Victorian dairy farmer Brad Collins about how taking a practical approach to understanding and then reducing farm emissions not only improved sustainability on his farm but also boosted profitability and efficiency. Brad shares his experiences - from the motivation to first measure his farm's carbon footprint to implementing carbon management strategies such as solar-powered irrigation, soil health improvements and feed optimisation. He explains the lessons he learned and how he sees a clear alignment and benefits between sustainability and profit with plans to continue improving his learning. For more information about measuring and managing farm carbon, reach out to the local Dairy Australia team or visit Greenhouse Gas Emissions | Dairy Australia. Farmers can also register for one to one, personalised session with a farm carbon expert at:Managing Farm Carbon one to one support | Dairy AustraliaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Milk quality: driving value across the industry (00:27:57)
In this episode, Dairy Australia’s Development & Regional Adaptation Lead, Kristen Davis, speaks with National Milk Quality & Biosecurity Lead, Zoe Vogels, about the vital role of milk quality and her enduring passion for the dairy industry.Zoe reflects on her background as a dairy veterinarian and outlines her current role at Dairy Australia, where she leads the annual Milk Quality Awards. She explains what the awards measure and why they matter. The conversation also offers practical guidance for improving milk quality, explores the impacts of mastitis, highlights key biosecurity considerations, and discusses the innovations shaping the future of milk quality.Find more information and resources on milk quality and the 2025 Milk Quality Award winners, at dairyaustralia.com.au/milking/milk-quality-and-mastitis See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Practical checks for improved irrigation outcomes (00:32:25)
In this episode, Cath Lescun, National Soils & Water Lead at Dairy Australia, chats with Dr James Hills, Livestock Production Centre Leader at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, to discuss the essentials of irrigation planning and management. They cover the key steps and checks before irrigating — from preparation and pressure testing to understanding soil types – along with practical tools and methods for assessing soil moisture, calculating how much water to apply, understanding readily available water (RAW) and getting irrigation scheduling right. A timely update for dairy farmers, whether already irrigating or holding off due to seasonal conditions. For more information, resources and support on soils and irrigation contact your local Dairy Australia team or visit dairyaustralia.com.au/soils-and-water/irrigation See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Managing Pinkeye in dairy herds (00:48:13)
In this episode, Dairy Australia’s National Animal & Health Welfare Lead, Dr Stephanie Bullen speaks in depth with veterinary surgeon Dr Mac Kneipp about his early experience growing up on a sheep and cattle property to his research findings and advice for dairy farmers managing cattle with pinkeye. Dr Kneipp shares insights into the causes of pinkeye in cattle — including evidence linking the condition to eye damage, not just bacterial infection — and offers practical advice to help dairy farmers manage and reduce the risk of pinkeye on farm. For more information and resources on animal care, visit dairyaustralia.com.au/animals/health-and-welfare. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Young farmers’ dairy experience in Ireland (00:38:55)
In this episode, Dairy Australia’s Extension Advisor Shannon Logan catches up with South Australian farmer Alex Dohnt and Western Australian farmer Jordyn Dyke to talk about their recent experiences during farm visits from the Young Dairy Network (YDN) Ireland tour. They discuss what they learned from visiting Irish dairy farms - exploring the differences and similarities to Australian systems- and share the cultural experiences, new networks made and the practical ideas and fresh perspectives they are excited to bring home. For more information about local Young Dairy Network and events contact the Dairy Australia regional teams or visit dairyaustralia.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Research update – Kikuyu’s potential (00:13:49)
In this episode, Dairy Australia’s Principal Scientist John Penry and University of Sydney’s Professor Richard Trethowan discuss one of DairyUP’s groundbreaking projects: research into Kikuyu ryegrass and how it could benefit Australian dairy systems. Backed by the largest dairy R&D investment in NSW in recent years, this multi-year study explores the genetic diversity, biomass development, nutritional value, and disease resistance of Kikuyu strains. With early results showing promising disease resistance and a potential edge in nutrition, tune in for the latest project update. DairyUP is a $16 million collaboration rejuvenating dairy research across Australia—funded by the NSW and federal governments, universities, and industry. You can read more about the DairyUp Exploring genetic variability of Kikuyu research project update here.For more information on the most common pasture species and varieties commonly grown on dairy farms in Australia visit Pasture Options| Dairy Australia. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Animal health in wet conditions: Lessons from flooding (00:32:25)
What happens when an entire dairy farm goes under water? In this episode, Dr Stephanie Bullen, Dairy Australia’s National Animal Health & Welfare Lead, speaks with veterinarian Dr Sam Rowe from UniVets Livestock, about his on-the-ground experience working with flood affected farmers across New South Wales dairy regions in May 2025. They discuss impacts on animal health – including mastitis, lameness and disease outbreaks – and the practical strategies that helped some farms fare better than others. The conversation covers ways farmers can better prepare herd and farm systems in flood and severe wet weather events. For more information and resources, visit Wet Conditions & Floods. Related links Animal Health If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Practical feeding tips for challenging conditions (00:37:21)
In this episode, Dairy Australia’s National Animal Health & Welfare Lead, Dr Stephanie Bullen speaks with Donna Woerz from Debenham Australia, about how dairy farmers can navigate feed shortages in wet and dry conditions. Donna shares insights on why fodder supplies are tight, what practical steps farmers can take to manage their feed budgets and how to get the most out of what’s on hand. From effective fibre to alternative feeds, transition diets and young stock care, this is a practical discussion for making smart, informed feeding decisions through tough seasonal conditions. For more resources to help manage feed and other on-farm challenges, visitDairy Australia – Issues and Emergencies Related links Feeding & Farm Systems If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Enhancing farm business management – Tactics for the year ahead (00:31:07)
This episode features an excerpt of a recording from a recent Dairy Australia webinar focused on the key settings and decisions shaping the current dairy season. Greg Duncan, Dairy Australia’s Farm Business Program Lead, joins farm consultants Fiona Smith and Tom Farran to share practical insights from their work with dairy farmers. Topics include: planning and responding to milk price announcements managing the impacts of drought and flooding making tactical decisions around herd, feed, water, input costs and cashflow. For more information and support with your farm business management needs, visit Farm Business Watch the full webinar: Tactics for the year ahead | Enhancing farm business management Related links Contact Us Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) - DAFF Help with farm management decisions | Drought support | Farm management | Agriculture Victoria Issues & Emergencies Events If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Situation & Outlook – Mid-year 2025 (00:22:57)
In this episode, Dairy Australia’s Analysis and Insights Manager, Eliza Redfern and Bendigo Bank Agribusiness Senior Agricultural Analyst Sean Hickey, explore the Mid-year Situation and Outlook (S&O) report. Eliza and Sean discuss the Dairy Farmland Values Report – a first for the industry – and the key drivers and factors across agriculture that impact land prices across dairying regions. They also look at the grain markets and the current world events influencing grain prices, and what lies ahead. Access the full S&O report: Situation & Outlook If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au Related links: Industry ReportsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Farmers have their say: Dairy Australia’s five-year plan (00:21:43)
In this episode of DairyPod, dairy farmers Rachael Napier (Murray Dairy Board Chair) and Paul Bennett (Dairy Australia Board member) share how farmers across the country have helped shape Dairy Australia’s new five-year Strategic Plan. Alongside host Greg Duncan (Dairy Australia), Rachael and Paul reflect on the extensive consultation process, the key priorities raised by farmers – including profitability, productivity and sustainability – and how these insights are guiding the organisation’s future direction. Find out more at dairyaustralia.com.au/strategy. This episode features a conversation with: Greg Duncan, Agribusiness Program Lead, Dairy Australia (host) Paul Bennett, farmer, Dairy Australia Board memberRachael Napier, Murray Dairy Board Chair) If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Milk, mates & match day: A World Milk Day special (00:25:10)
In this special World Milk Day edition of DairyPod, Dairy Australia’s Karl Ellis is joined by sports commentator and milk enthusiast, Dwayne Russell and proud dairy farmer and AFL fan, Evan Nicholas. Together, they dive into the heart of what makes milk great – from footy fields to farm gates. Hear stories of childhood milk moments, the role of dairy in Aussie sports culture, and the deep pride behind producing one of the world’s most nutritious foods. Pour yourself a glass and join the celebration of the ‘simple greatness’ of milk. Learn more about the ‘simple greatness’ marketing campaign promoting the value of Australian dairy at https://bit.ly/3YUB3dQ. This episode features a conversation with: Karl Ellis, Economic Sustainability and Competitiveness Manager, Dairy Australia Dwayne Russell, sports commentator on Fox Footy and Sports Entertainment Network (SEN)Evan Nicholas, Victorian dairy farmer, Murray region If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The value of promoting our industry (00:21:13)
In this episode, dairy farmers Tania Luckin and Sarah Kelly join Dairy Australia’s Head of Marketing Glenys Zucco to discuss how the industry is being promoted and protected in the public eye. The trio speak about how important it is to have farmers involved in dairy industry promotion for authenticity and transparency, reflecting on the successful Dairy Matters campaign – which ran from 2019 to 2024 – as well as looking ahead to Dairy Australia’s next five-year marketing strategy. To find out more about how Dairy Australia is promoting the industry and how you can get involved, visit dairyaustralia.com.au/promotingdairy or speak to your regional team. This episode features a conversation with: Tania Luckin, South-west Victorian dairy farmer and former Dairy Australia Board member Sarah Kelly, Gippsland dairy farmer and Farmer Ambassador Glenys Zucco, Head of Marketing, Dairy Australia If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dairy’s commitment to long-term sustainability (00:12:40)
For over a decade, the Australian dairy industry has been internationally recognised for commitments to tangible goals and targets established through the Australian Dairy Industry Sustainability Framework. Dairy farmer Simone Jolliffe joins Dairy Australia’s Rebecca Joyce to discuss these industry-wide commitments on the Framework’s four key sustainability priorities: Enhancing economic viability and livelihoods, improving the wellbeing of people, providing best care for animals, and reducing environmental impact. Simone and Rebecca also delve into the results from the latest dairy industry Sustainability Scorecard, which revealed some great progress being made towards our industry’s goals. Find out more at Industry Sustainability or access the recent scorecard. This episode features a conversation with: Simone Jolliffe, dairy farmer, Dairy Australia Board member and Australian Dairy Industry Council Sustainability Steering Committee memberRebecca Joyce, Dairy Australia’s Sustainability Implementation Lead If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fall Armyworm: Risks and management (00:39:40)
This episode is part of a series that focuses on Fall Armyworm (FAW), a destructive horticultural and field pest that was detected in Australia in 2020. Queensland dairy farmer, Melvyn Zischke, shares his FAW experience with Dairy Australia’s Dr Brenda McLachlan, Dr Melina Miles (Department of Primary Industries, Queensland) and New South Wales agronomist Peter Beale. The panel also discuss a range of potential options to minimise the impact of FAW in autumn planted pastures and forage crops, as well as the risks involved. To find out more about FAW and access resources for dairy farmers, visit Fall Armyworm | Dairy Australia. This episode features a conversation with: Dr Brenda McLachlan, Development & Regional Adaptation Lead, Dairy Australia Dr Melina Miles, Principal Entomologist, Department of Primary Industries, Queensland Peter Beale, Senior Agronomist, New South Wales Local Land Services Melvyn Zischke, dairy farmer, Darling Downs, Queensland Related links Fall armyworm | The Beatsheet If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Making research-based ryegrass choices (00:44:11)
In this episode, South Gippsland dairy farmer Graeme Nicoll joins Mikaela Baker (Dairy Australia) and Kevin Smith (Agriculture Victoria) to share practical insights into how he selects the most productive and profitable ryegrass for his farm using Dairy Australia’s Forage Value Index (FVI). They discuss how the FVI ratings for Annual, Perennial and Italian ryegrasses are determined using independent data from Pasture Trial Network sites around Australia, and how the FVI continues to evolve. To find out more about the FVI and access the 2025 data, visit Forage Value Index | Dairy Australia. This episode features a conversation with: Mikaela Baker, Dairy Australia Extension Advisor & Farm Engagement LeadProfessor Kevin Smith, Professorial Fellow, Agriculture Victoria Research and Professor of Pasture Science, The University of Melbourne Graeme Nicoll, dairy farmer, Fish Creek If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Farm safety: Employee onboarding and induction (00:18:39)
Hear from New South Wales dairy farmer, Simon Scowen, as he joins Dairy Australia’s National People Lead Mick Fuller to discuss the importance of a safety-first culture in the workplace – particularly when it comes to onboarding and training for new employees. For more information about employee inductions, visit Getting started | The People in Dairy Related links: Farm safety starter kit | The People in DairyFarm Safety Manual | The People in Dairy If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Benefits of a multispecies pasture system (00:31:13)
In this episode, hear from Irish dairy farmers Gillian and Neil O’Sullivan as they discuss their farming system and successfully changing from a conventional, monoculture pasture system to a multispecies pasture system. The couple joins Dairy Australia’s Cath Lescun and Donna Gibson from Gardiner Foundation for this conversation, where they also share the reasons behind making the change. For more information and to access resources across all areas of soil, effluent, water and irrigation management, visit Soils & Water | Dairy Australia. This episode features a conversation with: Cath Lescun, National Soils & Water Lead, Dairy AustraliaDonna Gibson, Program Manager, Research and Innovation, Gardiner FoundationGillian and Neil O’Sullivan, Irish dairy farmers If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dairy pathways: Transition from school to workforce (00:15:56)
In this episode, Dairy Australia’s Carly Potts is joined by Jade Pepper to discuss career opportunities and staff retention within the dairy industry. Jade is a farmhand and trainee at Wallis Dairy in Bega, New South Wales. She speaks about her pathway into the dairy industry – which came through a school-based apprenticeship with Australian Training Company – as well as the transition from school to the workforce, and ways the industry can support staff retention. To find out about how Dairy Australia provides support with employing and managing people, and building skills for successful careers in dairy farming, contact your regional team or visit People | Dairy Australia. Related links Home - Australian Training Company If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Improving soil health and function (00:30:40)
In this DairyPod episode, Dairy Australia’s Cath Lescun sits down with Professor Helen Suter and dairy farmer Simon Scott to discuss how dairy farmers can potentially improve soil health through the use of multispecies pastures. Hear more about a new University of Melbourne study that examined the forage production of multispecies pastures and the impact on soil properties. The panel discuss the results of this project, and some of the applications it can have for dairy farmers interested in implementing biodiversity in their farming. For more information and to access resources across all areas of soil, effluent, water and irrigation management, visit Soils & Water | Dairy Australia. This episode features a conversation with: Cath Lescun, National Soils & Water Lead, Dairy AustraliaHelen Suter, Professor of Soil Science, The University of MelbourneSimon Scott, dairy farmer from Barongarook, Victoria If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wellbeing and farmer resilience (00:41:37)
Since 2013, the Regional Wellbeing team at the University of Canberra has surveyed Australians in remote, rural and urban areas to better understand community liveability, wellbeing and resilience – crucial research supporting the future of Australian agriculture. In this episode, hear key insights with Gardiner Foundation’s Meghan Lodwick and Professor Jacki Schirmer from the University of Canberra, who is leading this research. The 2024 Regional Wellbeing Survey is open until 31 January. Find out more and take the survey: Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management. Further information can be found at Home - Regional Wellbeing Survey. If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Farm safety: Protecting kids, staff and visitors (00:15:55)
“I’m not only looking at hazards for the adults on farm – I am also now looking out for these hazards for not only my children, but those of my staff and the friends who come to visit.” Hear from South Australian dairy farmer Jen Stolp, who speaks to Dairy Australia’s National People Lead Mick Fuller about how she and her husband keep their children safe when running a business that is also their backyard. Jen outlines the policies and procedures their business has in place to create a safe workplace and culture on their farm. For tools to build and maintain your safety system for children in the workplace, visit Visitors, Children and Traffic | The People in Dairy Related resources Farm Safety Manual | The People in Dairy Farm safety starter kit | The People in Dairy If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Situation and Outlook – December 2024 (00:11:14)
In this episode, Dairy Australia’s Eliza Redfern and Helen Quinn sit down to dissect the December Situation and Outlook report and Dairy Farm Monitor Project (DFMP) results. The pair discuss the impact seasonal conditions had on DFMP results in Victoria and New South Wales, as well as the key challenges and opportunities ahead of the upcoming season. To read the full reports and results, visit Industry Reports | Dairy Australia. If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fall Armyworm: Impact and control (00:37:06)
This episode is part of a series that focuses on Fall Armyworm (FAW), a destructive horticultural and field pest that was detected in Australia in 2020. Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland Principal Entomologist, Dr Melina Miles, has been investigating FAW since it arrived in the country and discusses the topic with Dairy Australia’s Dr Brenda McLachlan. They explore the potential impact on dairy farm crops and pastures, as well as delve into pest control options to minimise risks and the challenge presented by pesticide resistance. Find out more and access resources at Fall Armyworm | Dairy Australia. Related links Fall armyworm | The Beatsheet If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cows and connections: Local business supporting dairy (00:22:40)
In this episode, Dairy Australia’s Head of Marketing Glenys Zucco speaks to Rex James Stockfeed Managing Director, Sam James. Sam reflects on his personal experiences helping Australian dairy farmers through tough times, the business’ role in the dairy industry and how it has evolved. He also speaks about the business’ recent commitment and involvement in Dairy Australia’s Picasso Cows program as a sponsor, and its benefits to the industry. To find out more about how Dairy Australia promotes Australian dairy through consumer marketing, school and health and nutrition, visit Promoting Australian Dairy | Dairy Australia. Interested in sponsoring the Picasso Cows program? Send an email to schools@dairyaustralia.com.au. Related linksPicasso Cows Discover DairyJames Stockfeed & Fertilizers - Home If you have suggestions for future podcast episodes, you can get in contact with us by emailing dairypod@dairyaustralia.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
