Darnlaw Farm was finally able to open its gates to the public after several previous failed attempts at hosting the Gold Cup Open Day due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The day was well supported by visitors and trade suppliers and was one of the first face-to-face events for many in the dairy industry since early last year.
There was positive news from industry commentator Chris Walkland who explained how the market is the most positive it’s been for weeks.
He said:
Butter and skimmed milk powder future prices are heading up, market milk volumes are dropping off fast and are 12-13% lower than at peak, offering the best chance of firming prices.”
The day focused around ‘embracing change’ – a factor that’s been key to the family’s success in creating the progressive dairy business that is at Darnlaw today.
By taking the tradition of family farming and adding the latest robotic technology, the Sloan’s have ensured the future of their business whilst it has evolved to meet the needs of the wider family by understanding the requirements of a new generation of farm worker.
The provision of a more bespoke milk supply through their Jersey herd has not only helped to increase farm revenue but also the ever-evolving demands of the end consumer.
Milking system
The 190 pedigree Holstein Master Breeder herd are milked through three Lely robots, while the 70 cow pedigree Jersey herd are milked conventionally through the farms existing herringbone parlour.
Robert Sloan said: “With the Hosltein herd housed all year round and the Jersey herd grazed in the summer the farm has a unique position of two very different systems running side by side.
Our combined aim is to produce milk, but, in an attempt to protect ourselves from price volatility we incorporate diverse income streams to our business and invest in technologies to try and make the farm ever more efficient.
“Our main aim of the day was for everyone to take away at least one piece of information that may help them when they get back home. It’s how we’ve learnt in the past and something I believe is integral to business progression.”
