27 March 2025 Integral Health Dairy Farm opens to the public

That’s why last weekend the gates of the Integral Health Dairy Farm (IHDF) were opened to the public. The event hit maximum capacity with 100 people eager to learn more about what the future of dairy farming could look.

The IHDF, residing at the Ashley Dene Development Station, uses an alternative system of dairy farming. It’s focused on a holistic view of farming and has shown measured improvements in the health of soil, plants, animals and the community. It’s a demonstration of how these current dairy farms could feasibly transition to more sustainable, healthy methods.

It's not just our academics who are driving this change. Agriculture and Life Sciences students are a key part of developing and testing these methods.

Along with milking an artificial udder and taking a few milk-flavoured lollies, guests were invited to check out four different informational stations throughout the day.

The first gave them a quick introduction to the farm and its goals. They were given a brief overview of the purpose of the farm and why it was better for cows, the environment, the community, and the milk that would go to market.

The second station was about the different options available to the animals in their day to day lives. A range of plants grow among the pastures, providing cows a choice in diet. They also have access to dedicated medicinal plantings. Cows can self-medicate by grazing at the edge of these fenced-off spaces. The plantings create a physical shelter from wind and sun, and provide safe space for insects, birds and small animals.

The cows also have access to scratch brushes. These help remove dirt and parasites from their skin. It’s also enjoyable for the animals and provides enrichment.

The third station was all about the technology used to monitor the animals and the land. These devices are vital to ensuring the farm is productive and sustainable.

The final station invited guests into the farming shed to see how the cows are milked, and how the many changes across the farm benefited the milk produced there.

Guest feedback showed lots of praise for how clean the farm was, and how great it was to actively consider the health of the cows and environment.

Another open day is already being lined up with more spaces for people to attend.

You can learn more about the Integral Health Dairy Farm here.