I was involved in all aspects of a 1000 herd dairy farm in South Island New Zealand. Being from a farm myself and having a variety of experiences I was able to jump straight in and take a fair amount of responsibility regarding calving, breeding, mating, young stock management, looking at nutritional information to ensure stocks nutritional needs where being met, attending to sick animals, as well as other roles.

Regarding my time away I probably had a unique experience. I was part of a family farm living alongside my boss and his family. They also helped me in setting up my bank account, arranged transport, provided a car and familiarised me with the area.  I didn't expect to have the experience I had but my employer and his family went above and beyond anything I had expected in terms of how well I was looked after. Being on the other side of the world I was a part of a family and had a home away from home. Being a part of a family environment everyday during my time away and being under their care truly made my experience unforgettable and is something I will always be grateful for.

 

Do you have any advice for students considering a similar placement?

Get into contact with other classmates who are perhaps going to same country and arrange to meet up. Get involved with local clubs and associations. I got involved with a young farmers club and a rugby team and created a great network of people that allowed me to do a variety of activities. In my opinion, the experience is what you make of it, if you sit back and do very little outside of work times can be slow. Developing friendships and getting involved within local communities has a substantial amount of benefits. What I say to people is, how much you put in is equal to how much you will get out!

 

 

What was your favourite moment?

My whole time away was unforgettable. I have made friends and memories for life and experiences I will look back upon with great fondness. Perhaps one memory that comes to mind was having Christmas with the family watching the children open their gifts Santa and myself had got them.

I only wish I was able to stay longer.

 

 

Joel McCluggage

BSc Agricultural Technology