The South Island Dairy Event (SIDE) is coming to Lincoln University from June 24-26 for the event's 25th year.

SIDE event chairperson Jonathan Hoets says the conference is about embracing change, not just learning new strategies or techniques.

"We've spent a fair amount of time tailoring the event to the climate we are in with the theme excelling through challenges."

Hoets said the event is "by farmers for farmers", with all members of the SIDE committee directly involved in primary industry.

"We sourced advice from other farmers on how to shape the event, and in certain areas this year, we have steered away from animal health and are focusing more on business development."

The event has grown to be New Zealand's largest dairy conference and was established in 1998 as a platform for South Island-based farmers to increase their dairy farming knowledge and skills.

"We believe that empowering dairy farmers is crucial to creating positive opportunities for growth," said Hoets. "By attending SIDE 2024, participants will have the chance to learn how to improve their businesses while adapting to changing consumer demands and regulatory requirements."

Keynote speakers at this year's event include Dan Pronk, an ex-Australian SAS medic, Fonterra's chief science and technology officer, Jeremy Hill, and Siobhan O'Malley, founder of Hemprino and Meat the Need.

On the first day of the conference, Monday, June 24, attendees can choose to attend a field trip to the Lincoln University Research Dairy Farm (LURDF) to learn about the latest research topics, such as plantain and EcoPond.

The second day of the event, Tuesday, June 25, will feature workshops on various topics, including leadership, succession planning, successful winter grazing systems, and preparing your business for a natural disaster.

"The workshops are very hands-on and interactive this year, and there are a lot of networking opportunities.

"There will be rural professionals there as well who are very specific to dairy farming, so farmers can ask questions and look at very specific products they have in store."

The event will feature a dinner on Tuesday evening.

BrightSIDE is back again this year, focusing on those entering or new to the dairy industry. Attendees will spend the morning at SIDE listening to keynote speakers before heading off for a practical day at LURDF.

"BrightSIDE was formed a few years ago, and it's our way of giving back."

Farmers can register for the conference and BrightSIDE on the SIDE website.

"We encourage farmers to come along and get immersed in the experience,' Hoets said.

by Claire Inkson