PEOPLE

Anyone who can more than double the average score in any field of endeavour must be doing something right. Some might attribute such success to luck, but in the field of breeding dairy cows, luck rarely enters the equation. Hard work, high standards and dedication to the task combine to produce a track record many can envy.

Arie and Dineke Philipsen immigrated to Canada in 1998. As they have welcomed their two children into their farming operation near Lacombe, Alberta, they are undertaking some expansion.

I live in France, so my day starts around 9 p.m. I leave my home in the town of Gueltas and my girlfriend, Françoise. We live in the Morbihan region in the center of France.

Gary Sutcliffe knew he wanted the farmer connection – but did not necessarily want to be a farmer. The Huron County resident arrived from England in 2002, settling near the village of Walton, Ontario.

When referring to a dairy farmer’s support team, it is common to hear a nutritionist, veterinarian or banker called out for the regular assistance they offer. Seldom mentioned is the farm’s equipment dealer, who also provides steady support by supplying and maintaining the equipment it takes to get the job done.

With international trade issues at the forefront this summer, Progressive Dairyman Editor Karen Lee interviewed Yves Leduc, director of policy and trade, Dairy Farmers of Canada, to find out what it means for Canada’s dairy industry.