UK Dairy Day, the UK’s free to attend dairy trade event returns to the International Centre in Telford on Wednesday 13th September. Trade stand space has already sold out, and over 300 dairy related businesses from across the UK, Europe and further afield will be joining together for this one-day dedicated event for the dairy supply chain. The event brings together all facets of the dairy industry; farmers, students, breeders, geneticists, vets, feed merchants, dairy equipment suppliers and milk buyers – plus professional service providers, charities, and colleges.
The 2017 event will feature new zones never to have been seen at the show before. This includes the NBDC Dairy Breed Village, Making More from Milk Zone and the Calf Rearing Zone.
The NBDC Breed Village will be a dedicated area where breed societies can promote their clubs and membership. Sponsored by NBDC (National Bovine Data Centre), it will be located adjacent to Hall 3, where the cattle stalls are positioned; there will be displays and representatives from Guernsey Cattle Society, Jersey, Shorthorn Society and Ayrshire. The NBDC will also be showcasing dairy performance statistics and the type classification service.
In the Newport Suite, visitors can learn about farm diversification in the Making More from Milk Zone. Meet and seek advice on how you can add value to dairy enterprises and milk production through many initiatives like vending machines, making ice cream or yoghurts, or creating a new supply chain. According to Government Statistics about half of all UK farms use some form of diversified activity in their farming business and these bring an average of £10,400 extra revenue per farm. Other benefits of diversifying your farm include making better use of your farm’s physical resources and characteristics, finding new uses for your existing skills and integrating the farm with the rural economy. The Making More from Milk Zone aims to share real farmer stories about diversification to offer inspiration to others looking to add value.
The Calf Rearing Zone will be sponsored by Volac and will be located outside of the International Centre. Tips on birthing, growth, health, hygiene, feeding and husbandry will form part of this practical zone. According to AHDB raising calves is the second largest annual expense of a dairy business’ production costs after feed, therefore getting calf management right is crucial.
With less than 3 months to go to UK Dairy Day 2017 plans are really stepping up. Join in with the excitement on social media by following @ukdairyday on Twitter and liking UK Dairy Day on Facebook. UK Dairy Day 2017 is Dairy Pro accredited and visiting will allow farmers to gain 3 points. This includes Livestock Production Systems (LP), Business Management (BM) and Personal Development (PD). The seminars, external demonstrations and knowledge trail at the event also give Dairy Pro members the opportunity to gain further points.
Sue Cope, UK Dairy Day Event Director, commented; “The dairy industry is one of the most forward-thinking sectors – constantly changing, innovating, and trialling new techniques. We’re excited to bring new zones and features to the event this year, adding value to both our show and the dairy industry. If you’re looking to learn, seek advice, test new products and equipment, then UK Dairy Day is the place to be this September!”
Provided by UK Dairy Day