Holstein Australia’s new interim Chief executive officer, John Crowther, is no stranger to the dairy industry. With nearly a decade at the Association, most recently as Export and Operations Manager, he brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the Holstein community.
As he steps into the interim role, John shares insights into his journey, his vision, and his commitment to engaging with members across Australia.
John’s roots in the dairy industry run deep. Growing up on his family’s commercial dairy farm in Katunga and later in Yarroweyah, Northern Victoria, he developed a strong appreciation for dairy farming from an early age.
“After my parents sold the herd in the early 2000s, I spent over a year relief milking in the local area,” he said. “That eventually led to a full-time job at Max Harde’s registered Holstein herd, Ladino Park, where I really started learning about breeding programs and registration processes.”
That experience sparked his interest in Holstein Australia, though at the time, he admits, he knew little about the organisation. A few years later, after relocating to Melbourne and working in various roles, an opportunity arose to join Holstein Australia in 2010. “From there, I haven’t looked back,” he said.
For John, one of the most rewarding aspects of his work is connecting with members.
“It’s always great to talk to members, whether it’s helping them register their herds or working through any challenges they’re facing,” he said. “That connection is vital to keeping the Association strong.”
With a particular focus on collaboration, John is committed to ensuring that Holstein Australia continues to support breeders and stakeholders in meaningful ways.
He is also focused on ensuring that members’ voices are heard and their needs addressed.
“Being available – whether it’s for a phone call, a meeting, or an in-person discussion – is so important,” he said. “I’ll be working towards the best outcomes for everyone involved.”
John’s appointment as interim CEO comes as the Association focuses on developing its future strategy, with a membership engagement process underway.
“In reality we’ve been working on this for a few months. We’ve recently completed a member survey, which asked some challenging questions about how members see the future of the Association. Over the next couple of months we’ll be engaging further with members, the Breed Development and Conformation Committee, Member Advisory Committee and Board to explore the themes from the survey.”
Outside work, John is a passionate Melbourne Demons supporter and enjoys heading to the footy when he can. He also relishes watching his kids play sport on the weekends – although he admits that can sometimes be more stressful than relaxing! When time allows, a camping trip provides the perfect escape.
For those who don’t know him well, there’s one fun fact that may come as a surprise: “I’m not sure about the pedigree, but as the youngest of nine kids I’m certainly from a sizeable herd!” he said.
With his deep industry knowledge, commitment to the Holstein community, and a member-first approach, John is well-positioned to lead Holstein Australia through this transition period and on to a new chapter.
Members can expect John to be hands- on and engaged, ready to listen, support, and champion the breed he has been passionate about for decades.
Source: Holstein Australia
