“We couldn’t do this without our team. They are integral to everything.” That’s the first thing that Te Awamutu dairy farmers Jayson and Stacey Thompson have to say about their team.
“Everyone brings different ideas, knowledge and perspective to set us up for success, and are a key part of the story we are generating. That’s why it’s important to us that we support our staff, making sure the farm is a happy place to be, and they come to work because they want to.”
Today, August 6, is Farm Worker Appreciation Day, which is a chance to showcase the great work of our dairy farmers, both employers and employees. Jayson and Stacey share how they care for their team, and how they are supported themselves on farm.
Jayson and Stacey Thompson, along with farm owners Andy and Sarah Storey, and their farm team.
“We have a budget for personal development for every team member to progress their growth – whether that be attending a work-related course, getting a licence, or signing up to a gym. This is important because we know that if they care for their wellbeing, that brings better outcomes for the farm and animals,” explains Jayson.
Outside of this, everyone is encouraged to have hobbies and interests off the farm, including joining the local Young Farmers club and getting involved in the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards in the next year.
“Getting off the farm gives you a break, takes your mind off work, and provides something to work towards. For me I have an interest in motorbikes which helps put me in a different mindset as it must have my whole attention and focus,” says Jayson.
“But it also includes catching up with friends and family, going to the zoo with our boy, and just enjoying life.”
They do regular one-on-one catch ups with the team, celebrate birthdays, and have nights off the farm as a whole team, including with the farm owners, to help build team morale. Different roster options were also available depending on what suited the team, with some prioritising extra income, and others wanting more work/life balance.
“While we are trying to be the best managers we can, we couldn’t achieve that without the support of our farm owners, Sarah and Andy Storey. They are a big part of the farm, always available to bounce ideas off, and are willing to share their expertise, to support our success, and the success of our team,” says Jayson.
“At the end of the day, they acknowledge that we are part of the same community, and they want both us and our team to have the opportunity to achieve our goals.”
Jayson and Stacey Thompson, with son Reg, on their farm.
Jayson and Stacey have a team of 6 full-time staff, along with casual staff, and contract milkers on 500ha of land across three blocks, with around 1200 cows.
Their staff are also ready to sing their praises, with team members Jordan and Kharn appreciative of having great managers, farm owners, and working in a supportive team.
“Jayson and Stacey really show that they care for us as people, not just employees, and go out of their way to support us, with both work goals and personal growth, or dropping off meals if someone is really unwell,” they explain.
“They listen to different ways of doing things, take on feedback, all while staying focused on caring for their team, land and animals.”
DairyNZ people lead, Jane Muir, says that Farm Worker Appreciation Day gives the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work of our farmers and their teams.
“On this day, I take time to reflect on the hard mahi of every person working on a dairy farm. Every year brings new challenges, and across the country, farm teams step up and face these, getting on with it – like they always do.
“It is not an easy job, but it is a critical and rewarding role nurturing cows and land to produce quality food. Working together as a team is what makes it happen and why it is important to recognise our people and the good work they are doing.
“Today, let’s take the time to celebrate, and thank, people who work on dairy farms across New Zealand and reflect on how great leadership makes farm teams thrive. Investing in your people will always improve outcomes for your farms, and the wider sector.”