Fonterra Insights Reports identify cost and environmental benefits for Australian dairy farmers
Fonterra Oceania has launched new Farm Insights Reports for its Australian suppliers, providing enhanced support behind the farmgate to improve efficiency, profitability, and create positive outcomes for the environment.
Introduced this season, Farm Insights Reports are tailored to individual Fonterra-supplying farms, using data to pinpoint opportunities for cost savings and productivity gains.
Reports build on sustainable farming practices, connecting the dots between efficiency and sustainability, helping farmers make informed decisions to benefit both their businesses and the environment.
Video: Introducing Fonterra's Farm Insight Reports
Fonterra Oceania Farm Performance Manager Gavin Hunt said the reports are designed to assist farmers in reducing their carbon footprint and identifying areas for improvement.
“These reports provide valuable insights that can ultimately lead to more productive and profitable farms, all while reducing inputs along the supply chain and a farm’s overall carbon footprint,” he said.
“Our message to suppliers is that an efficient, productive farm is an environmentally sustainable farm. The insights we’re providing highlight exactly where changes can be made to deliver measurable benefits. It’s a win-win for both the environment and a farm’s bottom line,” Gavin said.
The reports draw on a combination of data, including information provided by supplying farms, Dairy Australia’s Dairy Farm Monitor Project, coupled with Fonterra data on milk quality and production. They report on areas including nitrogen use, greenhouse gas emissions, milk production, and animal health, outlining actionable steps and potential cost saving opportunities.
"Our message to suppliers is that an efficient, productive farm is an environmentally sustainable farm."
One example is nitrogen use, where a Farm Insights Report will look at usage data, comparing it to other similar sized farms in the area to create a regional benchmark. This analysis identifies whether the same or higher yields of homegrown feed could be achieved with less nitrogen, offering both environmental and financial benefits.
Potential cost benefits in tens of thousands identified for Larpent dairy farmer
In Larpent, southwest Victoria, dairy farmer and Fonterra supplier Tim Beswicke described the reports as a “game changer” for his business.
Tim’s report revealed that by growing an additional 500 kilograms of dry matter across the farm, he could potentially save $30,000 annually on purchased feed. In addition, it outlined an opportunity to increase his milk production.
“When Fonterra showed me my Farm Insights Report, I thought it was brilliant,” he said.
Larpent dairy farmer, Tim Beswicke, with Fonterra Oceania Farm Performance Manager, Gavin Hunt.
"Our production is very good, but if we can increase it by five per cent, the report showed we can get a return of around $50,000 to our business over 12 months."
“It combined our production data with our Dairy Base and showed us a dollar figure of savings to be realised.
“Our production is very good, but if we can increase it by five per cent, the report showed we can get a return of around $50,000 to our business over 12 months.
“To show us where we can improve to save money, or get an increased profit return, I think it’s huge," Tim said.
Supporting farms on their sustainability journey
Since 2021, Fonterra has supported farmers on their sustainability journey with the introduction of Farm Environmental Plans (FEPs), capturing a snapshot of a farm’s environmental footprint. Today, more than 50 per cent of Fonterra's suppliers have completed one.
Farm Insight Reports are the next step in a farm’s sustainability journey, providing an action plan for improvements. Supported by Fonterra’s Farm Source Professional service offer and team of regional experts in the field, Farm Insights Reports demonstrate Fonterra’s commitment to supporting farmers for the long-term.
“By turning data into meaningful actions, Farm Insights Reports are supporting farmers to improve their business, and in return, support us to build a sustainable milk supply for the future,” Gavin said.