Dairy farmers unite in Melbourne for skills forum
28 July 2025
Twelve passionate dairy farmers from across the country gathered in Melbourne from 27-29 May for the 2025 Farmer Ambassador Skills Forum, an intensive program designed to equip participants with the tools and confidence to champion the Australian dairy industry.
This is an annual forum that forms a key part of the Farmer Ambassador program. Over the course of the three days, participants took part in a series of personal and professional development sessions focused on shared values, personality profiling and leadership, media, presentation delivery, and amplifying their voices through social media.
The forum built practical skills, teaching farmers to craft messages, use communication channels and connect with peers across states.
Tasmanian dairy farmer, Montanna Gilroy described the experience as both eye-opening and energising.
“The Farmer Ambassador program is an incredible program for farmers to be involved in each year,” Montanna said.
“I am honestly blown away by how engaging the content is and how much it encourages you to think outside the box and see the bigger picture. I’m so grateful to be a part of this year’s group.”
Fellow ambassador Josh Cables echoed this sentiment.
“I really appreciated the opportunity to join this fantastic program this year. It was great to meet so many like-minded people,” Josh said.
The forum highlighted the importance of farmers leading the conversation about their industry, particularly in a climate where transparency and trust are increasingly valued by consumers. By fostering skills in communication and promotion, the Farmer Ambassador program is ensuring the next generation of dairy leaders are confident in sharing their stories and promoting the vital role dairy plays in Australian lives.
The 2025 ambassadors return to their farms with new skills, confidence and a shared commitment to proudly represent the dairy industry.
Now in its sixth year, the Farmer Ambassador program has now formally trained over 100 farmers. If you or someone you know would be interested in being involved in future programs, please contact Jess at jess.phillips@dairyaustralia.com.au
The forum built practical skills, teaching farmers to craft messages, use communication channels and connect with peers across states.
Tasmanian dairy farmer, Montanna Gilroy described the experience as both eye-opening and energising.
“The Farmer Ambassador program is an incredible program for farmers to be involved in each year,” Montanna said.
“I am honestly blown away by how engaging the content is and how much it encourages you to think outside the box and see the bigger picture. I’m so grateful to be a part of this year’s group.”
Fellow ambassador Josh Cables echoed this sentiment.
“I really appreciated the opportunity to join this fantastic program this year. It was great to meet so many like-minded people,” Josh said.
The forum highlighted the importance of farmers leading the conversation about their industry, particularly in a climate where transparency and trust are increasingly valued by consumers. By fostering skills in communication and promotion, the Farmer Ambassador program is ensuring the next generation of dairy leaders are confident in sharing their stories and promoting the vital role dairy plays in Australian lives.
The 2025 ambassadors return to their farms with new skills, confidence and a shared commitment to proudly represent the dairy industry.
Now in its sixth year, the Farmer Ambassador program has now formally trained over 100 farmers. If you or someone you know would be interested in being involved in future programs, please contact Jess at jess.phillips@dairyaustralia.com.au