Come and learn about ad‑lib calf feeding

We are hosting a field day for Synlait farmers who are interested in lifting calf‑rearing outcomes and improving youngstock performance through practical, farmer‑tested approaches to ad‑lib calf feeding.

Synlait’s Farm Manager Nicky Halley is taking the session which will be held on 23 April. Everyone is welcome.

“There’ll be no PowerPoints or long lectures!” says Nicky. “Just simple farmer-to-farmer learning based on our experiences and a bit of a discussion.”

Two farmers who have been trialling ad-lib feeding will share their experiences – including what worked what they’d change and the results – in terms of growth, health, labour, efficiency and long-term value.

Nicky and his team trailed ad-lib calf feeding this season.

They made their own set-up and will takes through what equipment was needed, teat placement, feeding routines, hygiene and staffing.

Nicky’s team used SenseHub ear tags to monitor the health and behaviour of two calf groups – one fed ad‑lib and one on a standard restricted‑feeding programme. This side‑by‑side comparison has provided valuable insights under real farm conditions.

The Field Day will include a practical look at the costs, efficiencies, and early modelling around long‑term benefits for heifer development and overall farm profitability.

A joint farmer‑led session will close the day, with discussion on lessons learned, weaning strategies, and what the data from the calf wearables is showing across the two feeding systems.

If you’re interested in joining us, please get in touch at milksupply@synlait.com.

Save the Date
Date    |             Thursday, 23 April
Time    |             10:30am – 12:30pm, followed by lunch
Location |        Dunsandel Farms – Calf Sheds, 505 Waikimihia Road, Dunsandel

Protect our industry: please arrive with clean boots to prevent the spread of disease, pest or weed.