Emerging dairy leaders will explore how New Zealand’s dairy industry tackles challenges and drives innovation through Gardiner Foundation’s 2027 New Zealand Study Tour.
Applications are now open for the fully funded, eight-day program, which will visit leading dairy operations across the South Island in mid-March 2027.
The annual tour brings together people working on and off farm to experience different farming systems, exchange ideas with industry leaders and develop their leadership skills.
It forms part of Gardiner’s long-standing investment in people who contribute to the future of dairy businesses and communities.
Gardiner Foundation general manager people and community development Jenny Wilson said learning beyond familiar settings could open up new ways of thinking.
“Seeing how another dairy industry operates encourages people to question assumptions, consider different approaches and recognise opportunities they might otherwise miss,” Ms Wilson said.
“The value extends beyond the places we visit. Participants learn from each other, build lasting connections and return with ideas and confidence they can put into practice.”
Previous participant Luke Johnson, who runs his family’s fourth-generation dairy farm in Neerim South, Gippsland, said the tour offered practical ideas to bring home.
“The tour gave me a fantastic insight into how we can improve our own farm through genetics, labour management or new technologies,” Mr Johnson said.
Delivered with support from Australian Dairy Conference, Australian Dairy Products Federation and Lions Club of Strzelecki, the tour connects emerging leaders from across the Australian dairy industry.
Ms Wilson said the program welcomed people with an interest in contributing, whether or not they already held a formal leadership role.
“Leadership can start with improving something in your workplace, sharing knowledge or getting involved in your local community,” she said.
“We want to help people recognise their capacity to contribute and take the next step.”
The program is open to people aged 20 to 40 with at least two years of full-time or part-time dairy industry employment. People working in farming, processing and service roles are encouraged to apply.
Applications are welcome from all Australian dairying regions, with the majority of participants expected to come from Victoria.
Full eligibility details and the online application form are available at gardinerfoundation.com.au/people-in-dairy/new-zealand-study-tour/.