Open Day

Open Farm Day Dookie Dairy

Nestled in the scenic pastures of Dookie, this innovative dairy farm stands as a shining example of how tradition and technology can thrive together. For over 12 years, Farm Manager Stuart Beverly has led a 180-cow operation that’s not just keeping pace with the future — it’s helping shape it. What sets this farm apart is its unique partnership with the University of Melbourne and Lely, bringing together world-class research and industry-leading robotics. By combining automated milking systems with a pasture-based grazing model, Dookie Dairy Farm offers a truly forward-thinking, sustainable approach to modern dairy.

Where technology works with nature

At Dookie Dairy Farm, cows graze freely in the paddocks and decide for themselves when to walk to the robots and be milked. These high-tech systems don’t just milk the cows; they track their health, monitor feed intake, and tailor nutrition plans for every individual cow, every 8 hours.

According to Stuart:

“Cow comfort, traceability of anything that’s happening, and feed control — those are the biggest game changers. We’ve cut down on treatment costs and time out of the vat, and we’re on top of health issues before the cow even knows there’s something wrong.”

This smart approach doesn’t just keep the cows healthier — it’s also boosting production. The farm has seen a 20% increase in milk yield, and daily milkings have gone up to 2.6 per cow. And with the robots operating 24/7, there’s less pressure on labour, more flexibility, and better consistency across the board.

See It for Yourself

This Open Day is your chance to explore how technology is reshaping dairy farming. Whether you're a dairy farmer, student, researcher, or simply passionate about innovation, come and see how Dookie Dairy Farm is setting the standard for the next generation of agriculture.

📅 Date: Wednesday the 7th of May
📍 Location: Dookie Dairy Farm
⏰ Time: From 10:00 to 14:00

Here’s what you can expect:
🕙 10:00 – Arrival and welcome
🗣️ 10:15 – Opening speech by Farm Manager Stuart Beverly
🚜 10:45 - 12:00 – Rotate through three interactive stations, each showcasing a different aspect of the robotic milking system.
🥪 12:00 onwards – Enjoy lunch, walk around the farm at your own pace, and chat with our team of experts

And to top it off – we’re offering the chance to visit the nearby Dookie University campus after the farm tour. Whether you're curious yourself, or exploring future opportunities for your kids, it’s a great chance to learn more about agricultural education and research in the region.

Come meet the cows, explore the tech, and get inspired. The future of dairy is here — and you’re invited.