There is nothing quite like decades of experience to give one a refined perspective.

That is just what retiring dairy industry consultant, highly regarded John Mulvaney, has developed. 

While it applies to dairying, having interviewed him, his view resonated for me for all farmers. The headline message is – farming has a cultural problem.

Mr Mulvaney gave the example of the respect dairy farmers in New Zealand have in the broader community: “In New Zealand and, in fact, to some extent in Tasmania, if you are a very good dairy farmer who has grown wealth in the industry, you’re put up on a bit of a humble pedestal,” he said. 

“There is a tendency in Australia if you do that, they’ll cut you down pretty quickly, or they’ll be told to pull their heads in. We don’t want anyone to know we’re doing well.”

This is not just an ego issue. It is also possibly slowing down growth. Dairy farmers here, according to Mr Mulvaney, like to hold their cards very close to their chest.

“When you do come across highly profitable dairy farmers, they are reluctant to put themselves out there,” he said.

Is this sounding at all familiar?

The dairy industry needs to shake off its gum-boot wearing, working-seven-days-a-week martyrdom image. 

It is actually one of the most complex and advanced industries in genetics and productivity gain, still very much family based, with a deep relationship with its animals. And it should be waving its credentials around so consumers take more pride in the industry and are less tempted to find alternative food sources.

It’s also giving young people the wrong impression of the industry, discouraging them from a career in agriculture.

There is another fundamental problem – equating productivity growth with success and making it the ultimate goal. But that often is not the most profitable path.

“Increased production only enhances a business if it’s intrinsically profitable to produce that little bit extra,” Mr Mulvaney said. 

He has concluded that the most successful businesses have one thing in common, no matter where they are in Australia. 

“Once we have our production system correct, as in generating a profit, we don’t change much. A really good dairy farmer has the ability to make very complex decisions seem simple.”

So here’s the challenge. Be proud of what you do, walk tall and know that you’re doing one of the most important jobs; producing food for a very hungry planet. 

Share what you have learned and open your mind to others’ ideas. Now is the time to grasp the nettle and sell what we have and gain the respect we deserve. 

The entire November 25, 2020 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire November 25, 2020 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!