At the Ellinbank SmartFarm in West Gippsland, innovation for the dairy industry is not confined to laboratories or theory. It is tested, refined, and proven in the paddock, and Dr Joe Jacobs, Principal Research Scientist at Agriculture Victoria, has spent his career ensuring that this work delivers real results for farmers.
“We’re very fortunate that the research we undertake here is applied in nature and rapidly adopted by the industry. Whether it’s fertiliser use, soils, pastures, or dairy nutrition, the goal is always the same, practical outcomes that make a difference on farm.”
Ellinbank is home to DairyFeedbase, one of Australia’s most significant dairy innovation programs, jointly funded by the Gardiner Foundation, Agriculture Victoria, and Dairy Australia. The 230-hectare farm, with its 450 high genetic merit Holstein Friesian cows, serves as a living laboratory where science meets practice.
“The Gardiner Foundation is a key partner in the research we undertake here at the SmartFarm,” Joe said. “Programs like DairyFeedbase give us certainty around funding, which lays the foundation for large-scale research that is critical for the industry’s future.”
DairyFeedbase brings together cutting-edge research across genetics, feed efficiency, emissions reduction, and digital technology, all aimed at improving productivity, profitability, and sustainability for Victorian dairy farmers.
“I often think back to when Gardiner was established 25 years ago,” Joe said. “The people who set it up had the vision for these kinds of large, integrated research projects that drive real progress across the industry.”
As part of its partnership approach, Gardiner works with Agriculture Victoria to ensure that science stays connected to the people who use it, farmers, processors, and the wider dairy community.
“A key part of setting our strategic plan is to work with industry, and that includes the Gardiner Foundation as a key input into what’s required for the future,” Joe explained.
Looking ahead, Joe says collaboration will remain central to innovation.
“We’re really grateful to have the Gardiner Foundation as a key partner, and I hope this relationship continues well into the future. It’s partnerships like this that allow us to translate research into impact.”
Watch Joe’s story to see how Gardiner-supported research at Ellinbank is shaping a more sustainable and resilient dairy industry for the next generation.