14 October 2024 An udderly insightful trip for Farm Management students

Lincoln University students took their farm management knowledge to the field, learning from some of the best in New Zealand’s dairy industry.

Lincoln University students took their farm management knowledge to the field, learning from some of the best in New Zealand’s dairy industry.

Our Postgraduate Advanced Farm Management students recently undertook an immersive trip to Dairy Holdings’ Terrace Farm in Rakaia.

Organised by Senior Lecturer Victoria Westbrooke, the visit was designed to bridge the gap between classroom theory and practical application. 

“Each student led discussions on topics like governance which we've covered in class this semester, engaging with Dairy Holdings' team to see how those ideas apply in their large-scale dairy farming operations.”

Hosted by Dairy Holdings CEO Colin Glass, the day’s focus was on key areas such as management, sustainability, and technology. 

Glass shared insights on the company’s core operational principles—people, pasture, and process – before opening the floor for students to engage in insightful kōrero with the team. The interactive approach allowed students to dive deep into the practical challenges and innovations shaping the dairy industry.

Glass said “we were delighted to host such an enthusiastic group of students. This visit offered a valuable opportunity to showcase the bright future of the agricultural sector, particularly in dairy, while inspiring the next generation of industry leaders.” 

Image Credit: Dairy Holdings

These conversations didn’t just remain on the farm; students will use the valuable insights gained for their major projects this semester, applying real-world practice to their academic work.

Reflecting on the experience, one student said "it was an awesome afternoon picking the brains of top innovators within the dairy industry.” 

Another commented, “Dairy Holdings' focus on people as the driving force behind business success was really interesting to me."

Another found the trip was “a very warm welcome, followed by a wealth of information and knowledge shared with us from some very impressive people.”

Glass highlighted the importance of partnerships like this, which contribute to the growth of future leaders in the industry.  

"We are proud to uphold our long-standing relationship with Lincoln University and are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead."

The visit left students inspired and equipped with a deeper understanding of the complexities of managing large-scale dairy operations. 

Now it’s time for more discussions back at The University – and, of course, those all-important due dates on the insights they’ve gathered.

Image Credit: Dairy Holdings