The 2019 United Dairyfarmers of Victoria (UDV) Conference is set to tackle a range of ‘hot issues’ threatening the viability of Victoria’s dairy sector.
“The risk of activists illegally entering farms, causing business disruption and potentially introducing significant disease is top of mind for farmers across Victoria,” said Mr Paul Mumford, UDV President.
“We fully support consumers making choices in the foods they eat and we are proud to provide some of those healthy, safe options, but we do not support people forcing their views on others or raiding farms.
“We are excited to announce that Superintendent and Agriculture Liaison, Peter Greaney, from Victoria Police will be addressing our 2019 conference,” he said. “We have been liaising with Victoria Police and we are grateful for the support they have provided.
Superintendent Greaney is the Operational Support Superintendent for Western Region and the Head of Practice Livestock Theft and Farm Crime based in Geelong. Mr Greaney has worked in crime investigation, intelligence, counter terrorism and security investigations, training and emergency management.
“We know many of our members are concerned for the safety of their families and their animals, so it is fantastic to have Superintendent Greaney speaking at the Conference and informing what we anticipate will be a passionate debate about how the agricultural sector should respond to this threat,” said Mr Mumford.
The UDV 2019 Annual Meeting and Conference will be held on Friday 10 May at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
The theme of the 2019 Conference is ‘Dairy in a Changing Climate’. The dairy industry is facing a changing regulatory climate, a changing social climate and a changing climatic environment. The 2019 Conference will look to expand the discussion around the challenges facing the dairy industry in a changing world.
The Conference is free for all farmers, and registration can be done online here or by calling the UDV office on 1300 882 833.
Media Contacts:
Paul Mumford, UDV President, 0439 790 469
Heather Smillie, VFF Stakeholder, Media & Communications Officer, 0400 874 589
Media wishing to attend the UDV Conference should register their interest with Heather Smillie, VFF Stakeholder, Media & Communications Officer.