Aussie Farmers Explore Opportunities in New Zealand’s Agriculture

Farm tour with a group of Kiwi farmers.

Recently, two producer groups from southern and central Queensland embarked on an eye-opening agribusiness tour of New Zealand’s South Island, facilitated by Toowoomba-based Bush AgriBusiness. The experience provided valuable insights despite the varied landscapes, climates, and production systems experienced.

Why Venture to New Zealand?

According to Bush AgriBusiness principal Ian McLean, the initiative reinforces a core philosophy: agricultural producers, irrespective of their geographical location, are inherently engaged in managing landscapes, livestock, and risks associated with capital.

“While there are notable differences across regions, there’s a treasure trove of knowledge in the management practices of other producers. We believe that stepping outside one’s comfort zone and connecting with other business managers can yield invaluable insights applicable to one’s own operations,” Mr. McLean explained.

The group of 23 traveled by bus, looping around the southern portion of the South Island, starting and ending their journey in Queenstown. Highlights included visits to a variety of farms including deer, lamb, beef, dairy, and wool producers, along with meetings with Beef & Lamb NZ representatives and a farm app developer.

Mr. McLean expressed his gratitude for the hospitality shown by their Kiwi counterparts, particularly acknowledging Abacus Bio, a consulting firm that organized part of the itinerary, as well as Tim Emery, who works with the Zanda McDonald Award.

Key Takeaways

Participants noted several common themes from their experience. A significant emphasis was placed on the importance of attitude in both business and interpersonal relations, as well as the necessity of keen financial management to support sound decision-making.

Furthermore, Mr. McLean shared some of his insights:

• Regulatory Environment: “I was surprised by the extent of regulations governing farming practices, particularly regarding enterprise changes and animal husbandry treatments. Australia is fortunate in comparison, although some land condition monitoring practices could benefit us in the long run.”
• Grass Management: “The New Zealand farmers are adept at managing grass, with practices tailored to their higher stocking rates and varying seasonal pasture growth. They have a clear understanding of the cost-benefit ratio associated with fertilization.”
• Technological Innovations: “We witnessed a dairy farm utilizing electronic collars for virtual fencing and monitoring animal health, a practice we didn’t see on beef farms. The economic feasibility for commercial beef remains uncertain.”

This enlightening tour was organized by Bush AgriBusiness, supported by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund through the SQNNSW Innovation Hub and funded by the participating producers.

As a parting gift, the group presented each visited business with a copy of Beef Central’s “Cattle Baron” board game, hoping to share a taste of the Australian beef industry. Mr. McLean expressed enthusiasm for hosting their Kiwi counterparts in Australia for a reciprocal tour next year.

Angus McGilvray of Womblebank Mitchell presenting John Falconer of Clachanburn Deer with a Cattle Baron board game and Bush AgriBusiness tea towel.

Some of the picturesque scenery along the way.