Since the storms and floods of early 2021 devastated the region, Dairy NSW has played a pivotal role in fostering recovery and development through Program 3: Supporting Industry Development in Dairy.
A key initiative under SFIRP Program 3 has been the delivery of tailored training workshops for the NSW dairy industry service provider sector. These workshops have provided crucial skills, fostered collaboration, and prepared the sector for future challenges.
From Good to Great: Presentation Training with Esther Price
On November 14, 2024, Dairy NSW hosted a presentation training workshop, “From Good to Great Presentations,” facilitated by the highly regarded Esther Price. The workshop attracted eight participants, with places filling quickly due to Esther’s outstanding reputation. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many already reporting improved facilitation skills when working with farmers.
The one-day session equipped participants with confidence and practical techniques to rethink their approach to preparing, planning, and delivering presentations. Designed to benefit both novice and experienced presenters, the course addressed common challenges, such as overcoming stage fright, and helped refine advanced presentation techniques. By the end of the day, participants gained the skills needed to leave lasting impressions on their audiences, ensuring their messages resonate long after delivery.
Shaping the Future: Extension Planning Workshop
On November 15, 2024, service providers gathered in Sydney for the “Ready to Shape Our Future” workshop. Hosted by Dairy Australia, this full-day session aimed to inform the National Extension Plan, a strategic initiative designed to guide extension practices through 2030.
The workshop encouraged robust discussion on critical topics, including barriers to implementing practice changes on farms, strategies to overcome these challenges, and the future of extension. Participants also gained insights into Dairy Australia’s current extension initiatives and were invited to join an ongoing community of practice to contribute to the program’s evolution.
Strengthening Disaster Resilience: Industry Focus Workshop
The final workshop, held on November 19, 2024, in collaboration with Local Land Services, advocacy groups, milk processors, and other stakeholders, focused on disaster preparedness and recovery. Hosted at Norco’s venue, the “Industry Focus Workshop” brought together community leaders, including service providers, rural financial counsellors, and regional development group members, to share experiences and identify effective strategies for disaster resilience.
This highly interactive session reviewed successful approaches from other industries and explored how these practices could be adapted to strengthen the NSW dairy industry. Attendees gained valuable insights into disaster preparedness, recovery strategies, and opportunities for collaborative growth.
These workshops exemplify the dedication of Dairy NSW and the broader industry to building a more resilient and innovative sector. By equipping service providers with new skills, fostering collaboration, and addressing critical challenges, the SFIRP Program 3 has left an indelible mark on the NSW dairy industry. As we approach the program’s conclusion, the insights and connections gained will continue to drive recovery and development, ensuring a brighter future for NSW dairy farming.
Dairy NSW extends our thanks to all participants and facilitators for their invaluable contributions.
