When I joined Dairysafe six years ago, I had limited dairy sector background and appreciation. In the years since I’ve learned a lot and enjoyed my time immensely.
I’ve seen firsthand the complexities and demands of the dairy industry, from farming and transport to manufacturing and point of sale. There are substantial enterprises throughout the supply chain constantly facing challenges.
We have seen the introduction of milk contracts, volatility in milk prices, and farmers continually confronted with adverse weather and climatic events. Severe fluctuations in operational costs have affected the entire supply chain, and finding and retaining skilled labour has been particularly challenging, especially since the onset of COVID-19.
We’ve witnessed potential supply disruptions due to the pandemic and the potential threat of emergency animal diseases. While the number of small family farms has decreased, larger farms with generational succession or corporate backing have grown, investing in infrastructure and tech such as robotics.
I’ve observed businesses across the supply chain navigate the ups and downs with resilience, innovation and intelligence, allowing them to sustain and grow amidst the industry’s constant challenges.
Against this backdrop, Dairysafe has sought to add value through strong engagement and support, which has fostered trust. We’ve focused on ensuring that SA brands and premium products are not compromised by negative food safety incidents. SA dairy businesses, while excelling in many areas, still require support, particularly where there are knowledge gaps.
Dairysafe has applied its strategy by developing digital systems, bridging the training gap, delivering industry workshops, producing guidance materials, implementing a contemporary audit program, conducting export audits, and producing a fit-for-purpose office and meeting space. This has been possible through the support and direction provided by a wonderfully skilled Board and our dedicated and talented staff.
With ongoing strong demand for milk locally, nationally, and internationally and SA’s wonderful artisan manufacturers, I’d like to think the sector will continue to achieve significant growth in production and exports, invest in training tailored to dairy processing, verify sustainable practices, and develop clear career paths in dairy.
I wish the dairy sector, and the Dairysafe team, a bright future.