mmg.com.au

The International Dairy Week Committee is hard at work finalising a program of events for the week of January 20 to 24, with the aim of providing something for everyone — from paddock to plate.

Behind the scenes IDW has launched a new website, an online entry system and have also taken on the world with e-newsletters and Twitter.

Some of this year’s events will include:

●Seven National Shows featuring the best Australian cattle from the Guernsey, Ayrshire, Illawarra, Brown Swiss, Jersey and Holstein breeds.

●A two-day machinery and trade show focusing on commercial dairy needs.

●A series of information seminars covering a range of topical issues pertinent to dairy farmers and the dairy industry.

●Cattle sales featuring great opportunities to purchase Holstein and Jersey cattle.

●Cheese and wine tastings along with enormous networking possibilities.

The free seminars will be held on the hour from 9am on the Wednesday and Thursday, and a great line-up of speakers is being organised by supporting companies.

The full line-up is available on the IDW website at www.internationaldairyweek.com.au

One workshop will feature Tim Abbott, supported by ABS Australia, speaking on ‘‘Using Top Genetics as a Revenue Generator for Commercial Herds’’.

Mr Abbott is no stranger to the Holstein world. He currently owns St Jacobs ABC which samples 15 bulls per year, mostly Holstein and RW Holstein but a few Jerseys. They provide ABS Global distributors around the world with a source of high type genetics focused on show ring, cow families and high type sire stacks.

Brian Leslie, who is busy lining up a great array of cattle for sale, feels there is no greater Australian event than IDW for Holstein breeders and supporters.

He said International Dairy Week would see a great line-up of international experts take to the ring to judge a fantastic array of Australian cattle from renowned and new breeders around Australia.

‘‘IDW is recognised as the third largest dairy cattle show in the world. A win or a place at International Dairy Week is a marketing plus and I encourage all owners to enter,’’ Mr Leslie said.

‘‘With the fantastic support of all IDW sponsors we are able to provide an expo event second to none of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and I am again expecting a large contingent of international visitors to take in the best of the Australian dairy industry.

‘‘Also, what a chance to catch up with all your mates in the dairy world and have the opportunity to make more.’’

International Dairy Week takes place at Tatura Park from Sunday, January 20 to Thursday, January 24 and entry is free to all events.

‘‘Without question, dairy producers will want to include the 2013 International Dairy Week as their one-stop event to view Australia’s dairy industry products and services,’’ Mr Leslie said.