MEDIA RELEASE:  Wednesday 11 March
For immediate release

North Island dairy event postponed due to sponsorship shortfall

The Dairy3 organising committee is postponing the three main dairy farmer events planned for May in Palmerston North, Hamilton and Whangarei because of a shortfall in sponsorship.

The three "Big Day Off" events run in association with Dairy3 will continue as planned on 25 March in Palmerston North, 2 April in the Waikato, and 17 April in Whangarei.

Dairy3 is a joint venture between Massey University, DairyNZ and North Island dairy farmers and an annual Dairy3 main event focused on inspiring, informing and motivating has been run since the Ruakura and Massey Farmers' Conferences merged in 2003.

Dairy3 organising committee chairman, Woodville dairy farmer Keith Riley said the new format for Dairy3 (of several one-day events at different locations rather than a three-day event in one place) proposed for this year had been well-received.

"We changed the format in response to sponsor and farmer feedback to allow more people to participate in Dairy3.  Unfortunately sponsors have been unable to commit this year, due to the current international financial situation, and this left us with a significant shortfall in funds. 

 "It simply would not have been financially responsible to continue with the event in the current circumstances," Keith said.

"We see there is still a very important role for a top-quality, relevant event for the dairy industry such as Dairy3 in the North Island.  Together with Massey University and DairyNZ we'll be reviewing the situation later in the year and as part of that, talking to farmers and our sponsors to make sure we have the support to continue."

The Big Day Off events going ahead in March and April, are designed for people just starting out in their dairying careers.  They provide practical tips and tools in a fun, interactive and hands-on environment at a cost of $20 payable at the door.   Silver Ferns star mid-court player Laura Langman will open the day with some insights and learnings from her rise to sporting success and workshops will cover topics such as making the most of your farming career, managing your money, milk quality, bike maintenance and feeding cows.

25 March 2009, Palmerston North - No. 4 Dairy Farm, Massey University
2 April 2009, Waikato - The Red Barn, SH29, Piarere
17 April 2009, Whangarei - Westpac Research Farm, Jordan Valley Road, Hikurangi

For more information go to www.dairy3.org.nz   or contact:  Keith Riley, Dairy3 Chairman and Manawatu dairy farmer - Phone 027 453 0882