“Farming never felt like work, and it still doesn’t, 10 years later,” says first-generation dairy farmer Cameron.
“We’re creating a great product, seeing an animal grow and reach its potential, while developing and improving the land.”
He says it’s also gifted their children a childhood where they can build huts and feed calves.
“We’re able to show and teach our kids the joy of animals, the land, and the outdoors, as well as a work ethic and a passion for exploring and interacting with the natural environment.”
Achieving farm ownership requires extreme focus, dedication and sacrifice, says Cameron.
“You need to know your ‘why’ to stay resilient,” says Cameron Bierre
Along with investing and having goals, Margaret and Cameron’s advice to those on their journey towards farm ownership is clear.
“Save, save, save and invest. Hold off on the ute and new bikes. Be financially tight, very, very, tight. It really is a race to your first 100k for contract milking and first million for sharemilking.”
A key part of winning the First Farm Award for the couple is mentorship and connection.
“We want to link with landowners looking for succession options. Often, the great equity partnerships or lease- to-buy opportunities aren’t advertised, and winning this award validates that we are in the position to take up these options.”
The couple are excited for the future of the industry and look forward to being owners of a dairy farm and active within their rural community and wider dairy industry.
“The world’s demand for natural, sustainable sources of protein will only increase, and New Zealand dairy farmers are in the best position to supply what the modern consumer wants.”