AUSTRALIAN Jersey genetics are making their mark on the world stage after a successful joint trade mission to World Dairy Expo in the United States.
For the first time, Jersey Australia organised a combined trade site at the Expo, also including Holstein Australia, Genetics Australia, AgriGene, Central Sires Co-op with support from National Herd Improvement Association of Australia (NHIA) and the aim of promoting all Australian genetics.
The “team Australia” approach has been hailed a success with plans for similar missions in coming years.
Jersey Australia general manager Glen Barrett said the mission would build on the high levels of consumer awareness and interest in Australian genetics and Jerseys.
“I think we are making a mark,” Mr Barrett said.
“We had a regular stream of people visiting the stand, and consumer awareness in our products was high. There were a number of people who commented positively on using Australian bulls now and in the past.”
There was interest from across the globe.
“We saw representatives from Turkey, Guatemala, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Canada and other countries and we opened wide market opportunities and interest,” Mr Barrett said.
“Consumers from anywhere in the world are now more aware of Australian Jerseys.”
The delegation left the Expo with high hopes for Australian exports.
“It’s looking very positive for genetics from Australia,” Mr Derksen said.
“A lot of farmers are wanting to tap into cow families bred by Australian breeders, which emphasises that Australian breeders have done a world-class job in developing cow families that are recognised internationally as the best you can get from anywhere.”
