Year of the Farmer profile

BRADLEY Broad says dairy farming is in his blood.

When asked what inspired him to continue the family enterprise, the Sutton Grange farmer said: “I think it’s bred in me really.”

The Broad family has been farming on its 500 dryland acres for three generations, but has been in the agriculture industry for four generations.

Mr Broad has been continuing the family tradition since he left school and sees it more as a “way of life” than a profession.

“It’s great to be able to work with family and be outdoors. It’s not a job, it’s a way of life. Catching up with other farmers is always good too,” Mr Broad said.

This year the Broads’ dairy cattle peaked at 220 milkers and the milk is supplied to Parmalat (Pauls) in Bendigo.

The Broads try to produce all their own feed and also do some hay contract work.

“We are pretty much on the farm 24/7. The average day would be around 13 hours if all goes well but sometimes you feel like your head never hits the pillow,” Mr Broad said. “You are always looking for ways to increase production and lessen the work load but that’s the same with all farming I guess.”

With some uncertain challenges ahead, Mr Broad knows very well how tough the industry is getting.

“It’s getting harder and harder for anyone in agriculture.

“People our age don’t want to get into farming due to long hours and lack of recognition.

“There will always be a demand for dairy products so hopefully people will see that farmers need a fair price that will have them getting somewhere rather than just getting by.”

Like many dairy farmers, Mr Broad identifies milk prices as the biggest challenge ahead.

“The supermarkets selling milk for $1 a litre is really hitting farmers.

“Selling milk at that price is less than the cost of producing it. Nobody is making money at that price, it’s all about getting customers into their shops and it’s costing the farmers.”