For Tania Luckin, imagining Victoria’s dairy industry without Gardiner Foundation is impossible. Over the past two decades, she has seen firsthand how Gardiner’s investment in people has strengthened leadership, innovation, and community across the industry.
“It would be very difficult to imagine an industry without Gardiner because what Gardiner has provided is opportunity, for future leaders and for people within their own communities who go on to give back to the industry.”
Tania and her husband run a 500-cow dairy farm in South West Victoria, having built and managed several dairy businesses over 20 years. Named Great South West Dairy Farm Business Managers of the Year in 2016, Tania is also a Non-Executive Director of Dairy Food Safety Victoria and a former Dairy Australia board member.
Her leadership journey was supported by Gardiner through the Australian Owner Manager Program, a course designed to strengthen strategic thinking and business capability among regional leaders.
“The people programs at Gardiner have empowered farmers like myself. They’ve educated us to take on leadership positions, and I’ve been fortunate to work with some amazing, intelligent people who, like me, are prepared to give back.”
Tania believes Gardiner’s influence extends beyond its programs, it has helped shape a culture of resilience and professionalism across the dairy sector.
“Our industry is incredibly dynamic. We have good times and we have tough times, but Gardiner is always there. Sometimes they’re in the foreground, sometimes behind the scenes, but they’re always part of the solution.”
Looking ahead, Tania says the future of the industry depends on the next generation stepping forward.
“We have some incredible young people out there who could be future leaders. I encourage every one of them to put their hand up when Gardiner comes calling. Whatever the opportunity, take it, because it will shape you and it will strengthen our industry.”
Watch Tania’s story below to hear how Gardiner’s investment in leadership continues to inspire dairy farmers to step up and give back.