Community
12 February, 2025
New insights available to Fonterra supplying farmers
FONTERRA Oceania has introduced Farm Insights Reports for its Australian suppliers, providing enhanced support to improve efficiency and profitability for farmers while also creating positive outcomes for the environment.
These reports are tailored to individual Fonterra-supplying farms, using data to identify opportunities for cost savings and productivity opportunities.
Fonterra Oceania farm performance manager Gavin Hunt said the reports provide insights that can assist farms’ productivity and profitability while reducing inputs along the supply chain as well as lessening their overall carbon footprint.
“Our message to suppliers is that an efficient, productive farm is an environmentally sustainable farm,” he said.
“The insights we’re providing highlight exactly where changes can be made to deliver measurable benefits.
“It’s a win-win for both the environment and a farm’s bottom line.”
The reports draw on a combination of data, including information provided by supplying farms and Dairy Australia’s Dairy Farm Monitor Project, coupled with Fonterra data on milk quality and production.
They cover areas such as nitrogen use, greenhouse gas emissions, milk production and animal health, providing actionable steps and potential cost-saving opportunities.
South west Victorian dairy farmer and Fonterra supplier Tim Beswicke described the reports as a “game changer” for his business.
“When Fonterra showed me my Farm Insights Report, I thought it was brilliant,” he said.
“It’s a big difference for us, to be able to track our business from year to year, as seasons change each year, this can show us in a bad season if we’ve done well.
“To show us where we can improve to save money, or get an increased profit return, I think it’s huge.”
Mr Beswicke’s report revealed that by growing an additional 500 kilograms of dry matter across his farm, he could potentially save $30,000 annually on purchased feed.
It additionally outlined an opportunity to increase his milk production, which would result in a potential of a further $50,000 return to his business over 12 months.
Fonterra has supported its farmers on their sustainability since 2021 with Farm Environmental Plans (FEPs) which capture a snapshot of a farm’s environmental footprint.
At the time of printing, more than 50 per cent of Fonterra’s suppliers have completed one of the plans.
Farm Insight Reports are the next step, offering an action plan for improvements and demonstrating Fonterra’s commitment to supporting farmers in the long-term
“By turning data into meaningful actions, Farm Insights Reports are supporting farmers to improve their business, and in return, support us to build a sustainable milk supply for the future,” Mr Hunt said.
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