The Australian dairy industry is committed to supporting investment and successful operation of Automatic Milking Systems (AMS). A three-year project known as 'Milking Edge' is a joint initiative of the NSW Department of Primary Industries, Dairy Australia and DeLaval.
Built on a decade of successful research and development led by Future
Dairy, as well as the experience of almost 50 commercial farms around Australia who have decided to invest in the technology, the project will enable better decision-making around the consideration, purchase and implementation of AMS.
The project leader is NSW DPI development officer for dairy Dr Nicolas Lyons. Dr Lyons has an extensive knowledge around farming systems, technology and robotics. Upon finishing his PhD with FutureDairy at the University of Sydney, he has spent the past four years actively engaging and communicating with farmers, service providers and industry around technology adoption and optimisation of robotic dairies.
The project will develop tools, resources and networks for farmers and service providers, specifically interested in AMS. This will include the creation of topic-based modules for farmers and advisers to understand how implementing AMS can impact different on-farm management practices and routines.
A dynamic interactive tool will allow farmers, in conversation with their advisers, to better understand the impact of adopting AMS from a management, performance and financial point of view. These will also be part of a tailored training program to help build wider industry capacity.
The success of the project will also rely on the delivery of an innovative communication and engagement strategy. Along with the traditional field days and discussion groups, the project will implement a modern communication platform, using social media and an online community of practice (eXtensionAUS that has already been successfully implemented in the cropping industry).
"It is great to see industry supporting a national collaborative project aiming to accelerate the uptake and successful operation of technology as an enabler to build a productive and sustainable dairy industry into the future," Dr Lyons said.
Dr Lyon will be working with NSW DPI project officer dairy ù robotic milking Jessica Maloney and a postgraduate student based at University of Sydney Juan Gargiulo, who is supported by NSW DPI and the Dairy Research Foundation. D
Contact: Dr Nicolas Lyons, email or mobile 0401 650 073. Follow the NSW DPI Dairy Facebook Page to receive the latest news and updates about precision dairyfarming.