For the first time a real robotic milking machine will be on display for all dairy farmers and the community to look at. A robotic calf milking machine will be in operation with real calves.

"This is a great opportunity for our dairy farmers and the whole community to see the latest in dairy farming technology with over 50 exhibitors displaying their products. There will also be a lot of farming equipment there which is relevant to all farmers in general, it's going to be a great couple of days." said Melissa Balas, Senior Environment & Sustainability Officer with Bega Cheese.

The Future Ready Dairy Farms Expo is being held at the Bega Showground on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 November. Admission is free for everyone. Donations can be made for the Snowy Hydro Care Flight Helicopter at the Bega Cheese site or the Kiosk run by the Bega District Netball Club.

As part of the event proceedings we are having a presentation to acknowledge the latest group of farmers who have completed BEMS projects and to thank the organisations who have supported the program and provided funding. Dr Mike Kelly Federal Member for Eden Monaro and Mr Andrew Constance NSW Member for Bega will be in attendance and providing presentations.

"Other speakers at the Expo include Mr Steve Coats Dairy Australia, he will be giving a presentation on current research that is happening in the dairy industry and the future direction. Mr Chris Phillips also from Dairy Australia will be giving a presentation on the carbon price and what it means for dairy farmers, both very relevant presentations for the dairy industry." said Melissa Balas.

The Future Ready Dairy Farms Expo is a one off not for profit event being co-ordinated by Bega Cheese and funded by the Dairy Australia MAADI Project funded by the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry.

For further information please contact:
Melissa BalasSenior Environment & Sustainability Officer
Bega Cheese
02 6491 7777 or 0408 669 637