Step out for a night of entertainment to support our DAIRY FARMERS

FARMER Power, a not-for-profit organisation run by dairy farmers for dairy farmers, will be hosting an event in Geelong on May 31 to help raise the awareness of the plight of Australian dairy farmers, with dairy farmers themselves conveying their stories.

With “Slamming” Sam Kekovich to be the MC for the night, and entertainment from magician Matt Hollywood and folk music star Kayla Dwyer, this is sure to be a great night.

With this event, Farmer Power is endeavouring to raise the awareness of issues facing the dairy industry and believes that instead of just treating the symptoms, we need to treat the causes.

The viability of the dairy industry has been in decline since the introduction of deregulation. Where there was once more than 23,000 dairy farmers in Australia, there are now less than 6,000.

Latest figures in Victoria since 2017 show that the state has lost another 235 dairy licences, and the price of milk paid to dairy farmers is basically below the cost of production.

In dairy farmers’ eyes, this has devalued the price of their product and is at the very heart of where they believe their problems stem from.

The impacts of the $1 a litre milk war has had a profound effect on dairy farmers, rural communities, businesses and dairy farmers’ lives and that of their families.

The continuing loss of dairy farms, culling of herds, and loss of production is all leading to a shortfall in milk production, with Australia well on the way to becoming a net importer of dairy products.

Farmer Power executive officer Garry Kerr said he was looking for organisations that are prepared to either provide sponsorship or donate product to assist us in raising funds for the coming event.

“Alternatively, we would appreciate help with promoting the event or possibly even book a table or part table for the event to enable Farmer Power to continue our good work on behalf of dairy farmers.”

The event will take place at the Novotel Hotel Geelong on May 31 from 7pm with tickets starting at $150.

For more information, phone Garry Kerr on 0412 586 925.