Cows and Carbon Can Be Friends, a Dairy Innovation Day 2025 Wrap Up
More than 150 farmers, researchers and dairy industry leaders gathered at The Barn in Mount Gambier on Wednesday 28 May for the 2025 DairySA Innovation Day, diving into the timely question: Can cows and carbon be friends?
Set against the picturesque backdrop of South Australia’s Limestone Coast, the event brought clarity and optimism to the complex relationship between dairy farming and climate change. The program was designed to shift the conversation away from obligation and towards opportunity, demonstrating that environmental sustainability and on-farm profitability are not just compatible, but mutually reinforcing.
The event was expertly emceed by Elizabeth Mann, Extension Team Lead for SA, TAS & WA at Dairy Australia, who guided attendees through a packed day of insights, discussion and practical takeaways. Across the program, a stellar lineup of national and international experts delivered presentations that explored emissions reduction, soil health, pasture resilience, genetics, regenerative systems and carbon management, firmly anchoring science at the heart of future-proofing the dairy industry.
Tanisha Shields of Rabobank set the tone by examining how emissions data is shaping global supply chains and why carbon transparency is fast becoming essential for market access. Anouk van Breukelen, from Wageningen University in the Netherlands, presented her groundbreaking work on breeding climate-smart dairy cattle, offering a genetic pathway to reducing methane emissions through selective breeding. Dr Anna Thomson from Agriculture Victoria introduced the Resilient Forages project, highlighting the potential of multi-species pastures, blends of grasses, legumes, and herbs to help dairying systems adapt to a changing climate while maintaining productivity and profitability.
Angela Avery, Research Director at Agriculture Victoria, introduced DairySoils, a five-year project under the DairyFeedbase initiative focused on transforming soil and nutrient management on dairy farms. Through technology and bioscience, the project explores how to better measure and manage soil variability, promote deeper rooting systems and healthier soil microbes, and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers by harnessing natural nutrient cycles.
The program also featured a compelling farmer panel with Reggie and Lachie Davis and Andrew Jenkins, who shared practical insights from their own adoption of regenerative practices such as composting, diverse pastures and soil health improvement. These real world case studies brought the science to life, offering tangible examples of how sustainability efforts can translate into on farm results.
Attendees participated in breakout sessions, providing deeper dives into methane reduction technologies, soil science innovations and carbon measurement tools, empowering farmers to tailor knowledge to their own operational goals. The energy and engagement across sessions reflected a collective desire to move from discussion to action.
The event recognised the achievements of emerging industry leaders through a TAFE graduation ceremony, celebrating students who had completed their Certificate IV in Agriculture. Later in the day, the Young Dairy Network International Tour Panel gave the audience a glimpse into the upcoming YDN Ireland Tour, as participants shared their aspirations and expectations for the international experience. Their passion and ambition underscored the vital role young people will play in shaping the future of the dairy sector.
Updates from the South Australian Dairy Farmers Association and remarks from Minister Clare Scriven reinforced the importance of policy alignment and industry collaboration. The day concluded with the much-anticipated Gather & Graze networking session sponsored by Graincorp and a two-course dinner sponsored by BioGro.
Dinner guests were treated to a presentation from Professor Paul Wood AO, who challenged attendees to consider the future of protein by exploring the growing world of alternative protein sources. His discussion delved into the nutritional, sensory and sustainability factors that could influence consumer choices and reshape the future of the food system.
The message was clear: Cows and carbon can indeed be friends!
DairySA extends a big thanks to all speakers, sponsors, exhibitors and attendees who contributed to the success of this year’s event.
