DISTRICT dairy farmers have been encouraged to “ride out the rough times”.
Cohuna dairy farmer, John Keely told a social gathering of farmers that he was positive that the industry had a future.
His words were endorsed by Murray Dairy chairman, Rick Cross who expressed confidence that the fortunes of farmers will improve.
“We’ve got a positive future; you’ve just got to believe in it,” he said.
The two farmers were part of a panel that put some perspective on the industry’s current woes and added some humour during a free social evening at Cohuna that attracted about 150 people.
Murray Dairy, the local service arm of Dairy Australia, provided a free meal and an opportunity for dairy farming families to collectively share a night away from the farm.
Murray Dairy engagement and communications officer, Melva Tyson said that the Look Over The Farm Gate program was designed to help provide a break from the stresses of the farm and to encourage farmers to check on each other’s well-being.
“It is an excuse to see each other and have a bit of fun,” she said.
Mr Keely, a fourth-generation farmer who represents the region on the United Dairyfarmers of Victoria policy board, mentioned the plight of farmers during the 1970s when cows were being shot because they could only yield just $1 a head at auction.
“Now, a good cow can be sold for $1000; back then, interest rates were 17, 18 per cent, now they’re never been so low,” he said.
“The industry ebbs and flows. We’ve just got to be prepared to ride the rough times.
“Agriculture is a long-term job.”
Rural financial counsellor, Dominic Baxter said that the district dairy farming community was managing better than Mallee dryland farmers who not only face drought conditions, but disappearing services.
He advised farmers that government assistance packages are available and urged them to seek assistance if required.
Mr Cross urged farmers to continue to talk among themselves and support each other and to remember that “it’s not your fault” that the dairy industry faces challenges.
