Dairy trailblazer honoured

John was named the 2024 recipient and was presented with the award at the Dairy Muster in Gippsland because he lives in Leongatha, a town in the region.

“John Mulvaney has inspired us, challenged us and has made us all better, and we are extremely thankful for it,” Callum Moscript said, dairy farmer and MC of this year’s Dairy Muster in Gippsland.

Peter Notman, a dairy farmer at Poowong (nearby Leongatha), principal of Notman Seeds, and long-term friend of John, was tasked with delivering the tribute.

Peter said up until morning tea, people were still contacting him with comments and anecdotes about John, who spent several decades as a farm consultant to the dairy industry.

John was a trailblazer in the field of farm consultancy.

Peter said John was renowned for not minding anyone overhearing him when he was talking with another person – because as a farm consultant, John believed farmers learned from each other.

“John dedicated his life to doing health checks on our dairy industry and families,” Peter said.

John Mulvaney was employed in the 1970s at what was then Melbourne University’s McMillan Rural Studies Centre, located at Warragul.

It then became the Victorian College and Agiculture and Horticulture, McMillan campus.

The centre delivered courses focused on farming and agriculture.

“John ran a dairy challenge course for us farmers and it was packed with information, innovation, productivity, insights and profitable strategies,” Peter said.

“John was eventually poached by Murray Goulburn to head up their field services team.

“John saw the opportunity for on-farm advisory roles when the agriculture department stepped back from more practical support.

“John turned field services into a really progressive on-farm delivery and support course.

“Farmers didn’t just get a visit from John or another member of the field services staff, they got value on-farm.”

In the late 1990s, John established his own on-farm consultancy business, and would visit two to three farms each day.

“John quickly realised he needed a better format so he started discussion groups, so he could help more farmers more often,” Peter said.

Those discussion groups led into focus farms and both formats encompassed dairy farms across Victoria, into NSW, in South Australia and Tasmania.

“Many people realise they and their farm business have benefited from the wisdom of John, and his ability to talk to each and every one of us,” Peter said.

“He’d also be able to talk about things that were hard and simplify them for you to make them easier.

“He made economics engaging and interesting, and helped you to understand the milk prices.

“He was always saying, grow cows, not tractors.

“And he was a great mentor. He believed in investing in the next generation of farmers, consultants and industry leaders.

“He truly wanted farmers and their families to succeed. He craved the opportunity for us all to succeed.

“His allegiance is led with integrity.

“Your legacy is real and lasting, John, and you have truly earned this honour.”

ADIC chair Ben Bennett said the award recognised an industry contributor from anywhere across Australia, who has made a significant contribution to the dairy industry and manufacturing sectors.

“John Mulvaney worked with farmers and farm businesses of all sizes across the country, helping people achieve their dreams and improve their operations,” Ben said.

“John’s contributions extend beyond individual consultations. He has authored thought-provoking articles, developed industry benchmarks and introduced innovative concepts.”

There are many videos online in which John discusses those concepts and how to apply them on the farm.