Applications are now open for the Gardiner Foundation’s 2026 New Zealand Study Tour, an eight-day leadership and learning experience for Victorian dairy farmers and industry professionals.
Now in its 18th year, the tour provides participants with the opportunity to explore New Zealand’s world-leading dairy sector, connect with industry innovators, and gain insights into sustainability, workforce and regulatory challenges shaping the future of dairy.
Delivered with the support of the Australian Dairy Conference (ADC) and the Australian Dairy Products Federation (ADPF), the tour combines practical farm visits, industry discussions and leadership development opportunities.
Gardiner Foundation CEO Allan Cameron said the program continues to play a vital role in developing industry leadership and knowledge.
“The New Zealand Study Tour immerses participants in a dynamic operating environment that challenges their thinking, broadens their perspective and strengthens their leadership capacity,” Mr Cameron said.
Among the 2025 participants was Isabella Dare, Environmental Manager at Bega Cheese’s Koroit facility, who said the experience offered valuable insights into sustainable farming and data-driven decision making.
“Seeing how New Zealand farmers collect and use data to improve their environmental footprint was inspiring,” Isabella said. “It’s encouraged me to bring new ideas back to my work here in Australia.”
The Gardiner Foundation has supported the New Zealand Study Tour since 2008 as part of its long-term investment in building capability and leadership across Victoria’s dairy industry.
Applications open Thursday 16 October 2025 and close at 5:00PM (AEDT) Monday 17 November 2025.
For more information or to apply, visit: https://gardiner.blickdevone.com.au/people-in-dairy/new-zealand-study-tour/