Shayla McGrory

Shayla’s so committed to her role, she’s even honoured a promise to one of her farmers to wear a cow onesie to a local kids’ agricultural day!

“I enjoy working with farmers to get a positive outcome, and there are plenty of fun opportunities like that one to mix things up a bit!”

Shayla’s work so far has involved supporting farmers and facilitating events to provide a platform for farmers, experts and other sector stakeholders to share knowledge and research. Sometimes her role is just to be a listening ear for farmers.

“The aim is to bring farmers, experts and other sector stakeholders together so they can share knowledge, tools and research, so it becomes easier for farmers to be productive and profitable.

“By connecting everyone from farmers and rural professionals to sector groups and organisations, we can make sure everyone’s aware of regional challenges. I also talk to farmers about the value of contributing to and using farm data such as DairyBase.

“My work has also included talking to the regional council on their certified farm environment plans, so I can understand their expectations on farmers and how they can achieve them. I’m especially keen to see if farmers’ existing plans can be adapted where needed, to reduce the workload.”

Another thing Shayla appreciates about the dairy sector is its career opportunities.

“People can start from a farm assistant position, and with commitment and a good attitude, can move their way 'up' and do very well. Our farmers are and should be proud of how well we farm, I enjoy being part of that. There is always something new to learn or being developed.”

• Find out more about DairyNZ’s other Lower North Island regional team members.
• Check out our nationwide regional teams.