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Matthew and Pippa Gunningham
Disillusioned with farming in the United Kingdom, Matthew and Pippa Gunningham decided to try their luck in Tasmania.
"In the UK, we experienced a great deal of pressure when we were farming - in particular the red tape that exists, and the demands of the general public to change how we farmed," Matthew says.
"The cost of land in the UK is also extremely high in relation to its earning capacity."
When they moved here five years ago, they purchased a 120 hectare farm at Mawbanna in Tasmania.
"Since then, we have been able to purchase adjoining land," Matthew says. "The farm is now 280 hectares and we are currently milking 700 cows."
One of the things the Gunninghams like about dairying in Tasmania is the perception of dairy farming.
"In Tasmania, farmers are viewed in a very positive light," Matthew says. "We are seen as major contributors to the regional centres in terms of both jobs and export earnings.
"Farming, and the need for farming, is well understood, much more than in the UK."
Matthew and Pippa see opportunities for further growth, and believe that the climate is one of Tasmania's best assets.
"The climate is very good for pasture-based dairy farming," Matthew says. "Tasmania has a very clean, natural environment and there is little pollution. As well as being great for dairy farming, it is also a great environment in which to bring up children.
"One thing to be wary of, however, is that the summers can be very dry compared to the rest of the year, which is something we weren't used to. We have had to ensure that we have sufficient funds to get the grass growing during these times.
"We know that there is strong demand for our milk and we are encouraged to grow supply, which means that we will be able to further grow our business over time."
Gunningham Family
