Talking Sh*ds - with Lachlan Barnes

While many modern dairy farms boast generations of inherited family infrastructure, Philip (Phil) and Symone Vines built their operation entirely from the ground up. The couple bought their very first cow, aptly named ‘Hope,’ in 2009. By 2013, they had purchased their 292-acre property in Simpson, Victoria, all while managing a second farm and working off farm on the side.

Today, a decade into their robotic milking journey, they have accomplished what traditionally takes multiple generations of farming to achieve - and they did it on their own terms.

Nestled in the beautiful landscape of Chudleigh, Tasmania, Elton Vale is a farm defined by both rich heritage and a progressive approach to modern dairying. Today, third-generation dairy farmer Shannon Barwick is steering the family business into a new era. Alongside her partner Will, Shannon is proving that automation and voluntary cow traffic aren't just for indoor barns - they are a perfect match for Australian pasture-based systems.

From a walkthrough dairy in the 70’s to cutting-edge robotics today, the Rushton family has always looked ahead. At Benlock Jerseys in Fairy Dell, the transition to automated milking hasn't just changed how they milk; it has redefined the balance between work and family life.