The 2009 Australian Fodder Industry Conference (AFIA) held in Fremantle WA last July was a well attended event which builds on the recent years of growth for the industry.

Presented with the theme of ‘The Challenges of Change’ the conference again drew together many levels of players in the fodder industry to hear on issues relevant to them. Climate Change, economic forecasts, dairies in the Middle East and grower testimonials were some of the topics presented amongst many others over the 2 days. It also saw the launch of the Fodder Care accreditation program which AFIA has developed to bring contractors and growers together under a more formal and structured framework..

Colin Peace, AFIA CEO, went on to say that Fodder Care is unique for the fodder industry.

‘Up until now hay growing and the relationship of grower and contractor have been conducted in many ways. This didn’t always work out well and now with an Exporter emphasis on quality and consistency, we thought the time was right to implement Fodder Care and offer everyone a chance to lift to a new level of working together.’

Numbers at the conference, 250 out of a possible 300 members, also demonstrated the commitment of people during these tight financial times. Lyall Schulz, President of AFIA, saw this as another unique feature of our industry in a time other industries struggle to get numbers and cohesion at any time.

‘For an agricultural sector to show up and participate like they did is really pleasing. We would encourage all involved in the fodder industry to come along next year in South Australia to see what we do and I am sure you will get something out of being a member.’