Filming at Rakaia Island Dairies finished recently for a segment of a new television series called Just The Job.
The programme puts soon-to-be school leavers in the workplace of their choice for a short time, under the watchful eye of a mentor and the relevant industry training organisation.
Livia Forian, from Selwyn College in Auckland, spent two days on Doug and Dave Turner's Rakaia Island Dairies, learning about the work involved on a modern dairy farm and the support offered by the Agriculture Industry Training Organisation.
Livia remembers hand-milking the village cows for her family in Hungary when she was nine. Now she's a Kiwi, and has experienced dairying Kiwi-style - and she's keener than ever to get started.
"I love it. It's hands-on, working with animals. It's a bit different, but it certainly brought back memories."
During the two days, Livia helped set out fence breaks, feeding out, learned about irrigation and the training programmes offered by Agriculture ITO, and of course helped in the milking shed.
Rakaia Island Dairies' assistant operations manager, Johan Geerts said that with her enthusiasm, a liking for animals and the outdoor life, Livia would be welcomed by the industry.
Dairying offers young people great opportunities and good money, he said.
"There have been a number of changes in New Zealand dairying over the past ten years because of increased growth. With this significant expansion, more job vacancies are available for people interested in the exciting and varied career opportunities within the industry".
Andrew Shepherd, training adviser for the Agriculture ITO, said the training his organisation is subsidised by the industry and government funding, making it very affordable.
"Our people are learning on the job, applying the skills and theory they learn straight away. It benefits both the employee and the employer, and offers people new to the industry support and social networks through contact with their peers."
He said the Just The Job programmes were a good way for more young people to learn about the opportunities offered by farming, and the support both new and experienced staff can tap into.
The programmes are expected to air in September and October. |
