A Field Day at Bostocks Creek on Thursday 9 July offers an opportunity for local farmers and industry stakeholders to learn from the business journey of Pete and Marnie Kerr as they complete their final year of the WestVic Dairy Focus Farm program.
After realising their dream of purchasing a dairy farm in Bostocks Creek 2022, Pete and Marnie quickly transitioned into the demanding realities of farm ownership, balancing day-to-day farm operations, business development all while raising a family.
To support this stage of their journey, the Kerrs became a Focus Farm.
A Focus Farm is supported by a peer group made up of a WestVic Dairy team member, farmers and service providers who provide guidance, expertise and practical advice to support Focus Farmers to achieve set goals over a defined period.
"We have been Focus Farmers for the last four years, and we've really enjoyed sharing our journey with the group, looking at all the figures and making decisions and developing the farm out," says Pete.
With the backing of the peer group, the Kerrs have made significant strides in building a resilient and productive operation.
A clear indicator of their success is the recent expansion of their business, with the purchase of a block they had previously been leasing.
To achieve this growth, the business has focused on building profitability, reducing debt, and increasing equity through a strong understanding of farm business performance.
By analysing stocking rate, production levels, business costs, and milk production efficiency, they have identified key areas for improvement and implemented practical, effective solutions.
The upcoming Field Day will give attendees insight into the Kerrs’ journey, the strategies, challenges, and achievements that have helped positioned their business for success.
"The Focus Farm program concludes this July and we're having an open day as our last day of the program,” says Pete.
"We'd love for everybody to come along and see where the business is at and what the program has been all about."
Event Details:
Date: Thursday July 9
Time: 11:00am – 2:00pm
Location: Bostocks Creek
Registrations are essential and can be completed via the WestVic Dairy website (dairyaustralia.com.au/westvic-dairy): Bostocks Creek Focus Farm Field Day | Dairy Australia.