Celebrating 90 Years of Leadership in South Australian Dairy

For nine decades, the South Australian Dairyfarmers’ Association (SADA) has been the steadfast voice of this state’s dairy community – advocating, protecting, and championing the interests of the farmers who keep South Australia nourished.

SADA’s story began in the early 1900s, when local dairymen recognised the need for unity and fair representation. In 1907, the Adelaide and Suburban Dairymen’s Association was formed with two simple but powerful goals: establish strong rules and secure a fair price for milk. By 1935, with regional groups negotiating against a growing number of milk buyers, farmers understood that only a unified state body could safeguard their livelihoods. At a meeting in the Oriental Hotel that year, the South Australian Dairymen’s Association was officially formed, built on values that still guide us today: mutual protection, a united stance on price, and orderly marketing of South Australia’s milk supply.

Within months, that determination was tested. In February 1936, members took decisive industrial action, a milk strike, to demand fair treatment. Their success led to the establishment of the milk equalisation scheme, a pivotal reform that delivered stability for decades and cemented SADA’s role as a powerful advocate for producers.

As we mark our 90th anniversary, we honour the unity, courage, and vision of those early pioneers. Their legacy lives on in SADA’s ongoing commitment to fair policy, industry sustainability, and the long-term viability of every South Australian dairy farm.

This milestone is not only a celebration of our past, but also a tribute to the resilience of our farmers, the strength of our partnerships, and the enduring importance of a united voice.

We invite you to join us and become part of this landmark celebration of South Australia’s dairy industry, its history, its people, and its future.

Click here for more information.

DATE & TIME

Friday, 15 May 2026

LOCATION

Morphettville Racecourse