SDFF Case Study

Excerpt from the Dairy - Devondaler, Murray Goulburn Cooperative Newsletter January 2007

Young Dominic Pye probably doesn't appreciate the Sustainable Farm Families workshop that his parents have undertaken.  The nine year-old can't find chocolate biscuits in the cupboard anymore.  But for Bessiebelle suppliers Naomi and John Pye, the three year program has meant fitter bodies and a committment to health, well-being and farm safety.

Since joining the program they've come to realise their own health is as much a production input as water, pasture, cow genetics and milk harvesting.  The program involved spouses and partners, and if the farm was a family partnership, sometimes other family members as well.

The initial two day workshop involved measuring blood glucose, cholesterol, wasit/hip ratio, body mass index as well as blood pressure.  Anyone with anything out of the ordinary was given a referral to see their doctor or health professional.  "But there were no nasty surpises" said Naomi.  The group visted a supermarket to learn about food ingredients and labelling.  The program also included a relaxation exercise.  "It was one of the most popular elements of the course" said Naomi.  "A lot of participants afterward said that was really worthwhile."  The participants also received education on nutrition, exercise, mental health, sexual health and OHS.  Naomi said "For some people that was the first time they'd discussed some things - especially the men.  When men get together all they talk about is footy and grain prices and all those important things in life."

John is a convert to the program, being initially reluctant to devote two precious days to the program.  "But having completed it I would say it is suitable for many groups, everyone comes away with benefits.  Naomi said "it was an excellent program"  Young Dominic, however probably has another opinion as the chocolate biscuits are now a thing of the past!!!