Tasmania Online FarmPoint Tasmania
Home Resources Subscribe/User Account MyFarm News Items Feature Articles Calendar of Events Discussion Forum Search Latest Pages Feedback Links Library Content Crops & Pastures Livestock Biosecurity Climate Change Community & Health Drought, Bushfires & Emergencies Farm Business & Trade Government Websites Grants & Funding Market Reports MyFarm Natural Resource Management (NRM) OH&S On-farm Management Permits, Forms & Fees Regulations & Guidelines Research & Development Training, Education & Recruitment Useful Resources Water Weather & Climate Weeds, Pests & Diseases
 
Home : News Items : New and improved dairy benchmarking
Advanced Search
Printer Friendly Page 

New and improved dairy benchmarking

The TIAR Dairy Centre (incorporating the former DPIW Dairy Branch) has provided a free benchmarking program for the Tasmanian dairy industry for almost 30 years. It is most likely Australia's longest standing dairy benchmarking program.

Two new features have been added into this year's dairy benchmarking program which will be of additional benefit to dairy farmers.

  • Feed conversion efficiency
    Feed conversion efficiency will be calculated for all participants this year. Feed conversion efficiency is a key performance indicator for all intensive animal industries as it is a driver of productivity and profitability. Benchmarking participants will now have the information to compare the feed conversion efficiency of their business (measured by kg milksolids/kg dry matter) with industry standards.
  • Greenhouse gases emissions
    Benchmarking participants will now be able to assess the size of their carbon footprint. The benchmarking program will calculate greenhouse gas emissions and enable farmers to understand what impact a carbon trading scheme could have on the farm business. 

Dairy farmers have the option of entering the Impact ANZ Dairy Business of the Year Award (DBOY) and competing for prizes or just receiving the same reports as Award entrants by participating in dairy benchmarking. Entry to both programs is free.

  • Impact ANZ Dairy Business of the Year Award prizes
    DBOY Winner - $1,000 plus $3,500 fertiliser
    DBOY Finalists - $750 x 3 entrants
    Most Improved - $1,500
    Profit Award - $1.500
    Share Dairy Farmer Award - $1,500
    Pasture Utilisation Award - $400 cash x 4 entrants
    Random draw for new entrants - $500
    Closing date for entries

The closing date for entries is mid January 2010. Earlier entries are preferred as analysis can be completed and results made available to entrants to assist achieving business efficiencies.

Please contact Mark Fergusson, TIAR Dairy Centre, phone 6430 4901 for more information and an input form if you are interested in benchmarking your dairy farming business.