Big crowds expected to gather for the highly anticipated Canadian Dairy XPO, this April 6th and 7th in Stratford, Ontario.
Now entering its 4th year with new spring operating dates, the Canadian Dairy XPO has become the annual meeting place for professional dairy producers to efficiently see the latest in global innovations and learn from global industry leaders. New this year, producers and exhibitors will show off their industry pride by wearing and displaying the 100% Canadian Milk "blue cow" brand that represents their valued commodity. It does not stop there. In early 2015, the Canadian Dairy XPO named Stratford, Ontario as their proven long-term home and committed to making a major capital investment in site upgrades, to better accommodate large crowds and a growing dairy qualified exhibitor base. With their building partner, WeCover Structures the groundwork and investment was set to build a large 400ft x72ft state-of-the-art permanent Cow Coliseum, complete with a unique 120ft pedestrian access bridge. Cow Coliseum construction is well underway and is slated to be complete for early March. The City of Stratford also stepped up with a commitment to guarantee surplus parking and a financial commitment to upgrade service roads to and from that surplus parking.
"When we were presented with the opportunity to partner with the Canadian Dairy XPO on the new permanent Cow Coliseum structure, we were highly motivated," states John E. Weaver President/co-owner of WeCover Structures Inc. "Not only is the impact of the event on the Canadian dairy industry now proven, but so is the WeCover commitment to the Canadian dairy industry. We feel that the social and business atmosphere in the Cow Coliseum is both unique and valuable to both dairy producers and industry alike. This steel and fabric free span structure is ideal for the dairy sector and we look forward to the producer reaction at CDX 2016."
Brand leaders John Deere Canada and Shur-Gain are also significant supporters of the WeCover Cow Coliseum, as Co-Presenting Sponsors with interactive displays within.
New features in the WeCover Cow Coliseum this year include the Global Dairy Innovation demos, representing the countries of Israel, UK and Australia. The National Milk Bar is a new hospitality area serving 100% Canadian Milk; alongside the DeLaval Beer Nut Depot and John Deere Kidz Zone.
"The Canadian Dairy XPO is well known for its focus on 100% dairy, making it an ideal location to launch our dairy solution products into the Canadian marketplace," states Noa Yonish, Marketing Manager for Afimilk, based out of Israel and a participant in the Global Dairy Innovation demos. Afimilk has two product launches for the Canadian market: Afimilk MCS (Real time classification) and AfiLab (Automatic detection of NEB). Also engaging in the Global Dairy Innovation demos is Fodder Solutions International out of Australia with the Fully Automated Fodder Growing System and ADF Milking out of the UK with the Automatic Teat Dipping and Flushing System.
An official ribbon cutting ceremony for the new WeCover Cow Coliseum will take place the first morning of the XPO, with VIP officials in attendance.
The Milking Robot Showcase will have four manufacturers represented this year, showcasing the latest in robotic technology; an increasingly upward trend for next generation and expanding herds. To compliment this showcase, one of the two producer panels in the Purina Dairy Classroom will feature a Milking Robot Producer Panel, with one producer representative from each robot manufacturer speaking on their operation and their personal experiences with the technology.
"Dairy farmers have many reasons to make the time to attend the XPO," states Frank Louwagie from Hillmanor Farms. Frank is a 2nd generation dairy farmer from Mitchell, Ontario who will be participating in the Milking Robot Producer Panel, happening on the first day of the Purina Dairy Classroom (Wed April 6th) and representing Lely robotics. "I attended the XPO last year, for the first time and wished I had gone every year. One day is hardly enough! Whether you're looking to improve on farm efficiencies, increase milk production, advance genetics or simply be educated, the expo is the one stop shop for Canadian dairy producers."
All four milking robots featured in the WeCover Cow Coliseum have secured a signature producer-customer to sit on the interactive Milking Robot Producer Panel. Frank is participating alongside Chris Frizzell of Valleyville Farms (representing Boumatic), Joe & Barb Terpstra of Cranbrook Farms Ltd. (representing DeLaval) and Jack Danen of Danensview Holsteins (representing GEA).
On the second day of the Purina Dairy Classroom, the On-farm Processing Panel will feature four of Canada's elite on-farm processors showcasing their operations via the classroom big screen; discussing start-up, regulations, processing, branding, distribution, marketing and profit margins. Featured speakers are: Jenny Butcher of Little Brown Cow Dairy (Ontario), Bonnie den Haan of Sheldon Creek Dairy (Ontario), Hennie Bos of Bles-Wold Dairy (Alberta) and Hetty Smyth of Armadale Farms Dairy (New Brunswick).
In addition to international speakers, interactive producer panels and virtual farm tours; the infamous Dr. Pol from the Nat Geo WILD TV show 'The Incredible Dr. Pol' will be speaking on both mornings in the Dairy Classroom. Dr. Pol will deliver a special message for youth in dairy and give insight into running a family business in the public eye under camera.
"The speakers and topics at the 2016 Purina Dairy Classroom are truly world class and we are very proud to be a part of such a high calibre event," states Barry Sutherland, Ruminant Technical Services Manager for Agribrands Purina Canada Inc. "We are convinced that producers from every segment and region of our industry will benefit from the wide variety of subjects that are being presented. We encourage everyone to review the agenda and actively participate in the sessions that are being offered both days. "
The total value proposition attending dairy producers will receive for their $25 admission investment is calculated in excess of $150 dollars. In addition, producers can show off their industry pride this year and wear blue cow apparel or stop at one of the 2 DFC blue cow retail outlets onsite and in turn you pay only a $15 gate admission.
"The Canadian Dairy XPO has made its mark as the largest commercial dairy stage in Canada. A place where Canadian dairy families can see global innovations, be educated and connect with fellow producers," states Wally Smith, President of DFC. "Dairy Farmers of Canada is pleased to support efforts around building spirit and commitment behind the 100% Canadian Milk symbol. When our industry comes together, we project stability and fortitude for the future."
Ongoing fundraising efforts for 4-H dairy youth will continue, with the Select 4-H Heifer Calf Draw and the Gay Lea Skyview Café featuring grilled cheese and milkshakes; and don't forget the Junior Farmers Feed Bunk for a hot sandwich and 100% Canadian milk.
Looking to have a little fun? Attend the popular night time function CheeseFEST on the first night of the XPO with a live duelling banjo band, a massive 100% Canadian Cheese buffet, local spirits and blue cow blueberry punch!
Jordon Underhill, CDX GM & Founder, concludes "We understand and respect that dairy producers are busy 365 days a year, regardless of the season and we thank them in advance for their continued support of our Canadian dairy showcase to the world. With steadfast support from our 10 Founding Partners, we are excited about the value created for CDX 2016 and into the future. See you in April!"
3.8.2016
