The Kiama region, celebrated as the birthplace of Australia’s milk cooperative movement, continues to embrace its dairy industry, which remains central to the rolling green hills and the charm that draws tourists. 

Our local dairy farms are experiencing exciting times, with the average age of farmers being younger than the national average, reflecting a dynamic shift in the industry. 

As farms grow in size, they’re creating more employment opportunities for young people, many of whom come from urban environments, including a significant number of young women. 

This rejuvenation is not only sustaining our community but also ensuring that the rich tradition of dairy farming continues to thrive for future generations.

“As a local dairy farmer, I’m incredibly excited by the number of young people applying for jobs on our farms, particularly those who often come from urban backgrounds,” Matt Parker, a local dairy farmer, says. 

“It’s refreshing to see their enthusiasm and the way they’re building strong social networks within our community. The training opportunities available now are fantastic, and it’s been wonderful to watch these young people grow in their roles.

“For the last 18 months, Dairy NSW has provided us with a workforce specialist, and like many industries, we’ve been experiencing labour shortages. Having this support has been a game changer for our business, allowing us to attract and retain some truly talented young people,” he adds.

Matt Parker and Imogen Coe

When Wollongong local Imogen Coe left school in Year 11, she didn’t have a farming background, but she had a dream of working with animals. 

Today, Imogen is thriving as a trainee on dairy farms across the Southern Highlands and South Coast. She’s gaining hands-on experience in milking and calf rearing while learning the intricacies of pasture management and animal health through Dairy NSW workshops. 

Beyond work, Imogen is building connections with fellow young farmers through the Young Dairy Network. “It’s the best decision I’ve made,” says Imogen. 

Imogen Coe journey to being a dairy farmer trainee  https://youtu.be/KmvnstIO73Y?si=B_CNIHXL4LyA2RQS

Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson always dreamed of being a physiotherapist, but when her plans took a turn, she found herself thriving in an entirely different field—dairy farming. 

Mia’s journey began at Tate Dairies in Albion Park, where she’s now deeply involved in calf rearing, animal husbandry, and learning about sustainable farming practices. 

Through Dairy NSW workshops, Mia has expanded her knowledge in areas like feed management and animal nutrition. "I never imagined I’d love this work so much," Mia shares. 

The social aspect of the job, including connections made through the Young Dairy Network, has been a surprising bonus. "It’s more than just work, it's a community," she says. 

Mia Thompson the high-tech world of the dairy Industry and its opportunities https://youtu.be/JGyq0gqVGjk

Growing up in Griffith, Ethan Halliburton never imagined he’d find himself working on a dairy farm. With his grandparents running a large poultry farm, his experience with farming was limited to chickens—not cows. 

But life has a funny way of steering you in unexpected directions.

Ethan moved with his family to the Illawarra when he was four years old. After completing the HSC he was at a crossroads, considering his next career move and looking for part-time work while he made his decision. 

One night, while out at a trivia event, a chance encounter with dairy farmer Craig Tate’s wife would set him on a path he hadn’t considered.

“I was looking for something to do while I figured out what I wanted,” Ethan recalls. “I met Craig’s wife at trivia, and she suggested I give him a call about working on their farm. I’m not big on cold-calling people I don’t know, so it took me a week to build up the nerve to make the call.”

Ethan Halliburton’s unexpected journey into dairy Farming https://youtu.be/4-Z1zGlzvhg

That call turned out to be the start of Ethan’s new role as a trainee dairy farmer on the Tate family farm. Although he still has plans to join the armed forces, Ethan is grateful for the hands-on experience he’s gained on the farm.

“Working for the Tates has given me an opportunity I never expected. I didn’t know anything about dairy farming, but Craig and his team have been incredibly patient in teaching me the ropes,” Ethan says. “I’m learning something new every day, and it’s been a great way to develop practical skills.”

As for Craig Tate, he’s happy to have Ethan on the farm and sees potential for a longer-term career in the dairy industry.

With a smile, Craig adds, “You never know—he might change his mind and decide to make dairy farming his career. We’d be happy to keep him around.”

Whatever path Ethan chooses, he remains grateful for the opportunity to explore dairy farming.

“I’ve still got my eye on the armed forces, but I’m really thankful for the experience I’ve had here. It’s given me a better sense of direction and some valuable life skills,” Ethan says.

For now, Ethan continues to build his knowledge of the dairy industry, soaking up the lessons learned on the farm as he prepares for whatever his future holds.