Episode 125 - Finding Security

Farm ownership can seem out of reach for young dairy farmers, but Biddy and Braden Barnes have shown it’s still possible with hard work, careful planning and the right opportunities. Anne Lee speaks with the Canterbury couple about their journey from contract milking and share milking to buying their first farm, and how winning the Fonterra and ASB First Farm Loan in conjunction with the NZ Dairy Industry Awards helped give them the confidence and financial backing to take the next step.   Host: Anne Lee, Senior Journalist, Dairy Country Guests: Biddy and Braden Barnes, 2026 Fonterra and ASB First Farm Loan Winners   Biddy and Braden discuss how they built equity through herd ownership, calf rearing and property, the challenges of finding a farm in a competitive market and why they chose to purchase a 200ha dry-stock property near Sheffield with plans to convert it into a 750-cow dairy farm. Anne, Biddy and Braden also explore the different pathways into farm ownership, the opportunities and risks of contract milking and share farming, the importance of understanding farm contracts and why seeking advice and support can help young farmers make informed decisions.   Sign up to the weekly DAIRY Country email newsletter here: https://dairycountry.co.nz/sign-up/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.