2026 Australian Dairy Youth Travel Scholarship

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Australian Dairy Youth International Travel Scholarship

The Australian Dairy Youth Association (ADY) is excited to announce the 2026 Australian Dairy Youth International Travel Scholarship is now open.  The ADY Travel Scholarship is  an initiative designed to support the development of the next generation of leaders in the dairy industry.

With funding of up to $5,000, the scholarship will assist one or two young dairy professionals aged 21–25 to undertake education, training or work experience overseas.

The scholarship aims to support young people in the dairy sector to expand their knowledge, develop leadership skills, and gain valuable international experience. By exploring dairy systems and opportunities beyond Australia, recipients will return with new ideas, skills and perspectives that can contribute to the future success of the Australian dairy industry.

Scholarship Details

  • Scholarship Value: Up to $5,000

  • Eligible Age: 21–25 years

  • Purpose: Education, training, or work experience overseas

  • Focus Areas: Skills development, leadership growth and personal development

  • Not Available for travel for YBS Program

The selection committee may choose to award the full $5,000 scholarship to one applicant, or split the funding between two recipients, awarding $2,500 each.

Supporting the Next Generation

Owen Daly, Chair of the Australian Dairy Youth Committee, says international exposure plays an important role in developing the future leaders of the industry.

“This initiative is designed to inspire and empower the next generation of dairy professionals, ensuring they have the tools and experiences necessary to drive innovation and excellence within the industry.

“This is a unique opportunity for young dairy professionals to broaden their horizons, enhance their capabilities, and make a meaningful impact on the future of the Australian dairy industry.”

How to Apply

Interested applicants should download the ADY Travel Scholarship How to Apply & Requirementsfor full details on eligibility and application requirements.

For further information, please contact:

Key Dates

  • Applications Close: May 31st 2026

  • Scholarship Interviews: Late June 2026

  • Winner Announcement: 31st July 2026

About the Australian Dairy Youth Association

The Australian Dairy Youth Association (ADY) is an initiative of Australia’s registered dairy breed organisations. ADY supports the development of the next generation of dairy farmers and industry leaders through programs that build farming knowledge, leadership capability and industry engagement.

The founding members of ADY are:

New look for Jersey Great Australian Challenge

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An event that recognises the finest Jersey cows in Australia is being relaunched with a new name and format.

Jersey Australia has changed the make-up of its on-farm challenge which has been consolidated into a national competition.

The former Great Southern and Great Northern events have ended with club and regional winners now going directly to the national title.

The event will be known as the Genetics Australia Great Australian Challenge with Genetics Australia becoming naming rights sponsor for the next three years.

Jersey Australia general manager Glen Barrett said it was time to focus on the national title.

“The Great Southern and Great Northern events served the organisation well for many years but with changes at club level we felt it was better to build value into the Great Australian title,” Mr Barrett said.

“It will still operate the same at a club level but we have consolidated the competition and removed the intermediary stages. It ultimately brings the Great Australian into the primary focus of the on-farm challenge and we believe this will lead to stronger engagement at a national level.”

The change will enable clubs to better schedule local events throughout the year rather than building up to the Great Southern and Northern challenges that were traditionally judged mid-November.

Winners of the Genetics Australia Great Australian Challenge will be announced at the Jersey Australia annual awards night at Noosa on May 28, 2026. The Challenge is expected to attract 2000-2500 entries from across Australia.

The on-farm challenge is one of the most popular events for Jersey farmers and has been running for about 25 years.  “Everything is done on farm so judges see the cows in their natural working environment,” Mr Barrett said. “It’s straight out of the paddock and into the competition.”

Mr Barrett said Jersey Australia was pleased to continue and extend its partnership with Genetics Australia. While involved at club level, this is the first time Genetics Australia has sponsored the Great Australian challenge.
Genetics Australia CEO Anthony Shelly said the Challenge was a good match for the company.

“Jersey breeders are an important part of our business, especially on the international stage, and this is an opportunity to contribute to an event that recognises some of the best Jersey cows in the Australian breeding program,” Mr Shelly said.

 

 

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Dear Members

Jersey Australia, in partnership with Holstein Australia, is pleased to announce important updates to the publication of our respective Breed Association Journals.

Starting from September 2025, the AUSTRALIAN DAIRY BREEDS JOURNAL will replace the Australian Jersey Journal and the Australian Holstein Journal. These publications have been a vital source of information and news for Australian breeders for over 50 years, and we are excited about the possibilities of combining them into a single, unified magazine.

The AUSTRALIAN DAIRY BREEDS JOURNAL will continue to feature key stories, Association news, updates, and achievements of members and their cows, while offering the added benefits of a consolidated publication. It will be published four times a year—in September, December, March, and June—in a full-colour magazine format.

We look forward to delivering an outstanding first edition to all our members.  Advertising rates and deadlines are in the attached media kit.

The AUSTRALIAN DAIRY BREEDS JOURNAL will also look at expanding to include other Australian Dairy Breeds following the inaugural publication.

 

Yours Faithfully

 

 

Glen Barrett                                                    John Crowther

General Manager                                            Interim CEO

Jersey Australia                                              Holstein Australia

2025 Annual General Meeting – Notice of Meeting

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Dear Members

It is my pleasure, on behalf of the Board of Jersey Australia, to invite you to the 2025 Jersey Australia Annual General Meeting.

The 2025 Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday July 2nd 2025 online.  Members are also invited to Join the Board in person at AgriBio.  5 Ring Road Bundoora Vic 3083.

A members discussion forum will be held following the Annual General Meeting.  Members attending the meeting in person are also invited to join the Board for dinner following the Annual General Meeting. Bookings are essential.

Please confirm your attendance via email to Glen.Barrett@jersey.com.au or mobile 0418 466 371

The 2025 Jersey Australia Annual Report can be downloaded by clicking on 2025 Annual Report

Glen Barrett

Returning Officer

 

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Meeting Zoom details.

Topic: 2025 Annual General Meeting

Time: Jul 2, 2025 01:00 PM Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81993429524?pwd=F1vKDUFh6aXz3chNaJSjbB2Vx5bmyH.1

 

Meeting ID: 819 9342 9524

Passcode: 210676

 

Please note under Association rules all person joining online must be able to have live video to allow for accurate recording of attendance.

 

RE: 2025 Board Elections

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Dear Members

I advise that at the conclusion of the nomination period on Wednesday May 21st 2025, a total of three (3) valid nominations were received and accepted for the vacant 5 Board positions. Nominations were received from the following;

  • Jamie Drury
  • David Boyd
  • Cornelius (Con) Glennen

As per the constitution of Jersey Australia, all nominees will be automatically appointed for a 2-year term at the 2025 Annual General Meeting as there is insufficient nominees to have an election.

With only 3 nominations received, 2 vacancies remain on the Board which the Board may choose to fill if they see fit to do so.

The Annual General Meeting is on Wednesday July 2nd at 1pm. The meeting will be held on Zoom with the option for members to attend in person. Zoom details will be provided closer to the meeting date.

The Board will be in Melbourne in person for the meeting. Members wishing to join the meeting in person are more than welcome and to also join the Board for dinner on Wednesday evening. Bookings are essential for those planning to join the meeting or for dinner in person.

Please confirm via email at Glen.Barrett@jersey.com.au if you are attending in person TO

Kind Regards

Glen Barrett
Returning Officer

Jersey Australia and Holstein Australia Joint Statement of Intent

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The Boards of Jersey Australia and Holstein Australia advise members that they have committed to exploring opportunities that enhance the delivery of services, strengthen breed associations, and increase value to their members.

Jersey Australia and Holstein Australia Boards affirm their intent to work together to investigate the feasibility of what can be collectively achieved. The Boards have agreed that every option available to the Associations, from the concept of sharing staff through to a single breed association that can achieve synergies and benefits for our members and the wider Australian dairy industry, should be examined.

The Boards are committed to driving positive and constructive change and see this as a proactive step in strengthening collaboration across the registered dairy sector, ensuring our organisations are well-positioned to meet the current and future needs of members and the broader industry.

This is also an opportunity to set a framework and industry example of the benefits consolidation and step change can bring. No matter the final outcome, maintaining the individual integrity and direction of each breed is the key priority.

We recognise both the opportunities and complexities associated with such an initiative. This process will be conducted with appropriate transparency, due diligence, member consultation, and a clear focus on the strategic interests of both associations.

We encourage members to reach out to their directors to discuss any questions they have.

In Collaboration

 

 

Geoff Akers and Gino Pacitti

Presidents – For and on behalf of the Boards of

Jersey Australia and Holstein Australia

 

Australian Dairy Youth Academy Launches New Learning Program 

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The Australian Dairy Youth Association is pleased to announce the 2024 Dairy Youth Academy, to be held in Melbourne in September. 

Taking place over 3 days, the Dairy Youth Academy is an innovative educational program designed to enhance and grow the skill set of young people aged 18 to 25 years. The program aims to support both on-farm and off-farm capabilities within the Australian dairy industry, equipping the next generation with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. 

Program Essentials: 

  • Dates: Tuesday 10th to Thursday 12th September 2024 
  • Location: Dairy House at AgriBio and Dairy Australia, Melbourne 
  • What’s Included: All meals, accommodation, airport transfers 
  • Age Group: 18 to 25 years 
  • Program Cost: $499 per person 
  • Focus: Educational and informative learning to enhance skill set & career opportunities 
  • Support Areas: On-farm and off-farm capabilities 

Program Highlights: 

This comprehensive learning program offers a unique opportunity for individuals to gain valuable insights and practical knowledge that will empower them to make significant contributions to the dairy industry. The Academy Sessions are designed to cover a broad range of topics relevant to modern dairy farming and industry practices, ensuring participants are well-prepared for future challenges and opportunities. 

Day 1: AgriBio, Bundoora 

Genetics 

  • Understanding Australian Breeding Values 
  • Using ABVs for corrective mating 
  • Multi-country indexes 
  • What’s new in the AgriBio space 
  • Transfer to Melbourne & dinner 

 Day 2: Dairy Australia 

Nutrition 

  • Cow diet – energy &protein 
  • The impact of nutrition on fertility • Economic feeding for production 

Leadership &Governance 

  • The role you can play in guiding your industry 
  • Industry leader panel discussion The value of data 
  • Maintaining good data records 
  • The industry value adds of your data Personalised one-on-one industry leader sessions 

Team building 

  • Group dinner & guest speakers 

Day 3: Dairy Australia 

Education, Training &Courses 

  • Courses & career opportunities – dairy skills 
  • Career opportunities &courses – beyond the farm gate 
  • One-on-one & group mentor sessions 

Marketing & Social Media Panel Discussion 

  • Issues facing young people in dairy 
  • How can the dairy industry better support young people? 
  • Lunch & departure 

Why Attend? 

  • Skill Enhancement: Gain new skills and knowledge tailored to the needs of the dairy industry. 
  • Professional Growth: Enhance your capability to contribute effectively on and off the farm. 
  • Affordable Investment: At just $499 per person, this program offers exceptional value for aspiring dairy professionals. 

How to Apply: 

Interested participants should email AustDairyYouth@outlook.com for further information or contact Adam Sawell 0401 096 507 or Glen Barrett 0418 466 371 direct. 

This is an excellent opportunity to invest in your future and take a significant step towards a successful dairy industry career. The full program can be viewed here. > ADY Camp – Project Plan

Applications close Friday 16th August 

To register: jersey.com.au/product/australian-dairy-youth-academy-september-2024/

About ADY 

The Australian Dairy Youth Association is an initiative of Australia’s registered dairy breed associations. ADY supports the development of our next and future generations of dairy farmers and leaders through programs that grow and nurture farming and leadership capabilities. 

Founding members of the Australian Dairy Youth Association are Holstein Australia, Jersey Australia, Guernsey Australia, Illawarra Cattle Society of Australia, Australian Red Dairy Breed and Brown Swiss Australia. 

Australian Dairy Youth Association Launches International Travel Scholarship

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The Australian Dairy Youth Association (ADY) is thrilled to announce the launch of an exciting new international travel scholarship aimed at fostering the next generation of leaders in the dairy industry.

With a generous grant of up to $5,000, this scholarship provides financial assistance to one or two people aged between 21 and 25 years, allowing them to pursue education, training or unique work experience opportunity overseas.

The primary objective of this scholarship is to support young dairy professionals in their quest for skills development, leadership enhancement, and personal growth. By gaining international experience, scholarship recipients will be well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the Australian dairy industry upon their return.

Key Details:

  • Scholarship Value: Up to $5,000
  • Eligible Age Group: 21 to 25 years
  • Purpose: Education, training or work experience overseas
  • Focus Areas: Skills development, leadership, personal growth

Frances Hayden, chair of the Australian Dairy Youth Committee, believes that international exposure is crucial for the personal and professional development of young people in the dairy sector.

“This initiative is designed to inspire and empower the next generation of dairy professionals, ensuring they have the tools and experiences necessary to drive innovation and excellence within the industry.

“This is a unique opportunity for young dairy professionals to broaden their horizons, enhance their capabilities, and make a significant impact on the future of the Australian dairy industry,” says Frances.

The value of the scholarship is $5,000. The selection committee may choose to award the scholarship in full to one applicant or split the scholarship into two separate $2500 scholarships.

How to Apply:

Ready to make your mark? Download the How to Apply and Scholarship Requirements information sheet.

Interested candidates can also email AustDairyYouth@outlook.com for further information or contact Adam Sawell 0401 096 507 or Glen Barrett 048 466 371 direct.

Key Dates:

  • Applications Close: Thursday 11th July 2024
  • Scholarship Interviews: Tuesday 16th July 2024
  • Winner Announcement: Friday 19th July 2024

About ADY

The Australian Dairy Youth Association is an initiative of Australia’s registered dairy breed associations. ADY supports the development of our next and future generations of dairy farmers and leaders through programs that grow and nurture farming and leadership capabilities.

Founding members of the Australian Dairy Youth Association are Holstein Australia, Jersey Australia, Guernsey Australia, Illawarra Cattle Society of Australia, Australian Red Dairy Breed and Brown Swiss Australia.

2024 Jersey Australia Annual General Meeting

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Notice of Meeting

Dear Members

It is my pleasure, on behalf of the Board of Jersey Australia, to invite you to the 2024 Jersey Australia Annual General Meeting to be held on Friday May 31st 2024 at Moama on the Murray.

We are excited this year to be hosted by the Northern Districts Jersey Breeders Club and we look forward to seeing you all at “Moama on the Murray” 69 Dungala Way Moama NSW 2731 for the Annual General Meeting.

We also recognise the value of ensuring members who cannot travel in person, can also attend so we will be streaming the AGM via video link. Members can access the meeting on zoom via the following details:

The 2024 Jersey Australia Annual Report is available to download at 2024 Annual Report

Glen Barrett
Returning Officer

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Glen Barrett is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Jersey Australia 2024 Annual General Meeting
Time: May 31, 2024 09:30 AM Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney

Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84518161502?pwd=WXVwUUpxVFQzelIyZ2RiaWFHOU84UT09

Meeting ID: 845 1816 1502
Passcode: 900499

Australia to host World Jersey Conference in 2025

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Australian jerseys cows will be showcased to a global audience with the World Jersey Conference coming in 2025.

The World Jersey Cattle Bureau has agreed to host its annual conference in Australia for the first time since 2011.

The conference will start April 6 and finish at the Royal Sydney Show Jersey judging on April 21. A preliminary itinerary has been developed and will take visitors through Victoria and the NSW south coast, starting at the Gippsland Jersey Autumn Fair and visiting Western Victoria before moving to Northern Victoria where the Dairy’s Finest sale will be part of the program.

The delegation will then continue to Bega and along the south coast to Sydney.

Up to 100 people from across the globe, including Europe, North America, New Zealand and Asia are expected to join local Jersey farmers on the tour.

The conference was last held here in 2011 when Australia stepped in after the tsunami hit original host Japan. It had been planned to return to Australia in 2021 but was deferred because of COVID-19. This year the conference is in Denmark and it was held in Guatemala in 2023 and virtually from Rwanda in 2022.

One of the highlights of the Australian program will be a Future Leaders Forum with Jersey organisations around the world being invited to sponsor a potential future leader to attend.

Jersey Australia general manager Glen Barrett said hosting the conference would build on the international marketing done in recent years to promote Australian Jerseys.

“Part of our reason for applying to host this event is to capitalise on the global marketing we have been doing in recent years,” Mr Barrett said. “We see this as a celebration of Australian Jerseys, with a strong focus on Australian cow families and sires.

“The visitors will see some great Jerseys along the journey.”

Jersey Australia has led a joint trade site at World Dairy Expo in Madison Wisconsin, USA for the past two years which has led to improved international product recognition and sales.

“There is growing interest in the export market,” Mr Barrett said. “We had our first shipment of heifers to Indonesia last year, more heifers are about to be shipped to Pakistan, the Chinese market is growing again and there is a shipment being prepared to go to the UAE,” he said.

“There is certainly a growing market for Australian Jersey heifers and Australian genetics.”

Domestically, Jersey numbers have been increasing year-on-year and Jerseys now account for more than 15 per cent of the national herd, up from 10.5 per cent 15 years ago.

Mr Barrett predicted that interest in local Jerseys would spike after the conference. “Bringing international Jersey breeders here to see first-hand the high-quality cattle we’re breeding from high-quality Australian bulls will definitely benefit our local industry,” he said.

“The conference rotates around the world and we think we have the best Jersey cows in the world so we wanted to showcase them.

“This will be a great opportunity for Australian businesses to support the event and promote their Jersey genetics and products to the world.”

The World Jersey Cattle Bureau represents Jersey breeders, and their organisations, around the world. There are five world regions of the Bureau – Africa, Asia/Oceana, Europe, Latin America and North America. World conferences have been held since 1949.

A local committee is being formed to support the conference tour planning.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Glen Barrett 0418 466 371