A training program to improve milk production in the developing Chinese dairy industry

The Chinese government has been concerned about the inability of Holstein heifers imported from Australia to perform to their genetic potential. Therefore, the Australian government initiated an extension program to address the nutritional, environmental and health management of these animals. This involved developing appropriate resources and providing on-site training at workshops in four Chinese provinces (Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, Hebei and Heilongjiang) that have been the major recipients of Australian cattle and together account for 65% of China's dairy herd. Training resources were developed in the form of a comprehensive reference manual, a set of 12 applied fact sheets and an interactive DVD. Training has been delivered to over 285 key dairy extension workers and farmers from across China, with over 90% of participants giving a positive appraisal for all workshop sessions. The growth of dairy farming in China is likely to be the key driver of continued demand for dairy heifers from Australia and associated support for training, which must now be the initiative of the Chinese government.