Bobby calving standards reviewed

• Fonterra New Zealand is leading the way, effectively banning euthanasia of bobby calves from mid-2023. Photo by Dairy Australia.

By Daisy Baker,
June 22, 2022

New obligations for Fonterra farmers in New Zealand regarding the treatment of bobby calves will take effect next year with similar changes anticipated in Australia.

From June 1, 2023, Fonterra New Zealand will require all suppliers to ensure their non-replacement calves enter a value stream – either beef, calf-veal or petfood.

A bobby calf is defined as one that is less than 30 days old, weighs less than 80 kilos liveweight, is usually a dairy breed or cross and is sold for meat or reared for dairy beef.

A new clause has been introduced within Fonterra’s Terms of Supply which means calves can only be euthanised on-farm in New Zealand when there are human reasons for doing so.

“We understand sale options in parts of New Zealand are currently limited, which is why we're actively collaborating with the wider industry, investing in R&D and exploring long-term solutions such as dairy-beef partnerships and opportunities,” a Fonterra New Zealand spokesperson said.

“While the majority of farmers won't need to alter their current practices as a result of this change, we know that for some it will be a challenge.

“This is why we let farmers know about this change one season before it comes into effect, allowing time to assess options and plan any changes to current management practices, including for those with autumn calving herds.”

Fonterra Australia has not issued the same changes, but currently euthanasia practices are subject to regulation and supported by industry training programs delivered by Dairy Australia and local Regional Development Programs.

“We support the ongoing work being led by Dairy Australia to improve the value chains for all animals born on the farm, which lines up with the Fonterra NZ policy,” Fonterra Australia responsible dairy manager Corrie Goodwin said.

“There are common challenges to cease this practice in both NZ and Australia and we are working with Fonterra NZ and Dairy Australia to work towards establishing value chains to enhance and ensure that there are sustainable options to support improved calf management.”

Currently Dairy Australia stipulates standards for farmers regarding calf health and welfare when it comes to the treatment and sale of bobby calves.

Ringarooma dairy farmer Jane Sykes said management of bobby calves will be another challenge for the industry going forward, as farmers try to make a profit amid changeable milk prices and
rising inputs.

“There are challenges for jersey breeders especially around bobby calves and things like that. Because jersey calves are typically smaller so in order for them to reach the weight limit and sell them on the calf truck, it’s often not profitable,” she said.

“A lot of people are often cross-breeding them with beef or using sex semen.

“The whole industry is going to have challenges with bobby calves.”

Fonterra Australia has recently introduced Farm Environment Plans which farmers can opt-in to participate.

This includes a Healthy Calves module which enables farmers to review their current calf management and identify opportunities for improvement.