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Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Home Features Our Goulburn Valley 2025 Building stronger foundations

Building stronger foundations

STEADFAST MISSION... Dairy Australia in Murray is dedicated to supporting farmers in the industry, navigating a period of change and challenge to ensure a profitable and sustainable future. Pictured back row from left are: Phoebe Dillon (Farm Engagement Lead), Kylie McKee (Regional Manager), Nicolette Hart (Communications Manager), Shane White (Extension Officer). Front row from left: Rachel Chittick (Communications Advisor), Lauren Mackey (Extension Officer), Laura Morfield (Farm Engagement Lead), Liz Byrne (Project and Administrative Officer), and Ross Read (Extension Officer). Absent: Tasha King Photo: Supplied

As we navigate a period of evolution in our industry’s support structures, I am reminded daily of why our work at Dairy Australia in Murray matters so deeply. At its core, our mission is unchanged: to support dairy farmers in building sustainable, profitable operations that can withstand challenges and thrive into the future.

A Team Built for Connection.

Our strength lies in our people. The Murray Extension team – Ross Read, Lauren Mackey, and Natasha (Tash) King – serve as the crucial link between research and on-farm application. Their expertise ensures that farmers have access to knowledge and tools that deliver tangible business results.

Working alongside them, Farm Engagement Leads Phoebe Dillon and Laura Morfield bring a highly personalised approach to support. Their role goes beyond routine visits – they take the time to sit down with farmers, understand individual business goals, and co-design pathways to profitability. This hands-on model recognises that no two farms are the same, and that droughts, feed shortages, and market shifts rarely follow neat timetables. Agility is at the heart of our approach, allowing us to respond to seasonal pressures quickly and effectively.

STEADFAST MISSION… Dairy Australia in Murray is dedicated to supporting farmers in the industry, navigating a period of change and challenge to ensure a profitable and sustainable future. Pictured back row from left are: Phoebe Dillon (Farm Engagement Lead), Kylie McKee (Regional Manager), Nicolette Hart (Communications Manager), Shane White (Extension Officer). Front row from left: Rachel Chittick (Communications Advisor), Lauren Mackey (Extension Officer), Laura Morfield (Farm Engagement Lead), Liz Byrne (Project and Administrative Officer), and Ross Read (Extension Officer). Absent: Tasha King Photo: Supplied

Supporting the Murray Region

Together with the Murray Dairy Board, we are committed to ensuring every farmer – whether managing 50 cows in the west or 500 in the northeast – has equal access to support. Our workshops build technical knowledge, while one-to-one engagement provides tailored guidance. This balance of group learning and individual support creates a strong safety net for our dairy community.

Looking Forward

I am confident in our team’s ability to deliver what matters most to farmers across the Murray. We are here, committed, and ready to build on strong foundations that will serve our dairy community well for years to come.

Kylie McKee is Regional Manager for Dairy Australia in Murray. For more information about services and support available in your area, contact the team at dairyaustralia.com.au/murray or phone (03) 5833 5312

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