Queensland’s dairy industry is showing signs of recovery after decades of decline, with fresh milk production increasing by up to 30 percent since 2021, according to industry advocates.
The stabilization and growth are being attributed to a collaborative effort between dairy farmers, processors and the state government, culminating in the launch of a new Queensland Dairy Plan. The plan focuses on bolstering the industry against future challenges, including climate change and natural disasters, whereas also promoting innovation and attracting new entrants.
EastAUSmilk, a key advocacy group for dairy producers in New South Wales and Queensland, reports that between 15 and 20 new dairy farms have commenced operations in Queensland since 2021. The state’s fresh milk production now exceeds 282 million litres annually, a significant increase from previous years.
“Dairy farmers have expanded substantially in the last five years, some doubling and tripling production,” said Eric Danzi, Chief Executive Officer of EastAUSmilk. “Being prepared and having help is very important,” added Tim Bale, the newly elected president of EastAUSmilk, emphasizing the need for proactive support.
The industry’s turnaround marks a stark contrast to the steep decline experienced since the deregulation of the Australian dairy industry in July 2000. Queensland once boasted 1,580 dairy farms; that number has dwindled to 220, though these remaining farms now manage a herd of over 66,000 cows.
The Rozynski family, operating farms in the Mary Valley, exemplifies this renewed success. After participating in protests against supermarket milk price wars in 2016, the family’s operation has grown to supply Maleny Dairies with milk from nearly 600 Brown Swiss cows. “Last year, Jason went to a meeting with some people from Switzerland who said that we’re possibly in the top five biggest farms in the world for Brown Swiss,” said Lisa Rozynski. “For a little country farm in the middle of Imbil, for us to have that, we’re just like, ‘Wow’.”
The Rozynski’s are celebrating 80 years on their family farm this year, having weathered floods, droughts, and industry crises. Their children, Angus, 14, and Payton, 16, are also embracing the future of the industry, with Payton aspiring to become a large animal veterinarian. “What I like about growing up on a dairy farm is it teaches you a lot of ethics and lifelong skills that you’ll have forever,” Payton Rozynski said.
The Queensland Dairy Plan, launched at Cedar Pocket near Gympie, aims to address key areas for growth, including climate resilience, feed options, pasture management, automation, and support for both entering and exiting the industry. Barb Gear, whose family farm was showcased at the launch, highlighted the challenges of modern dairy farming, including the constant threat of flooding. “Weather’s changing all the time, our property is half of it goes under flood,” she said. “In 2022, we lost 20 head through floodwaters.”
Despite these challenges, the Gear family continues to invest in their operation, currently milking 470 Holstein Friesians and utilizing ear-tag identification technology to optimize breeding programs. “It’s the love of the cows that gets you in,” Ms. Gear said. “Seeing that little baby calf be raised up, and they know you.”
Queensland Primary Industry Minister Tony Perrett emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the industry through research, development, and extension services. “I seek to see fresh milk production in this state grow and in doing so, the department will play its role, particularly in research and development and extension,” Mr. Perrett said.