UPDATE: The Nicholson family’s dairy farm on Jones Island, NSW, is back in action just months after a catastrophic flood devastated their operations in May 2023. Quick decisions and innovative strategies have propelled their recovery, with milk production now exceeding pre-flood levels.
Following the flood, which recorded water levels half a meter higher than the previous 1929 record, the Nicholsons faced a dire situation. All paddocks were submerged, and vital equipment was damaged. Sam Nicholson, who runs the dairy with his wife Rachel and their three young children, recalled the urgency of their decision-making process. “We knew what it would be like. The longer you don’t milk, the greater the risk of mastitis,” he stated.
To mitigate the damage, the family sent 120 cows to neighboring farms for care, ensuring they would return healthy and ready for production. This swift response was crucial, as access roads were flooded and their milking machinery required complete replacement.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including a broken foot and a hospital stay due to leptospirosis, the Nicholsons took decisive action. They received $75,000 in Category D grant funding, which, while helpful, would only cover a month’s worth of hay. Yet, they have continued to invest in their farm, including expanding their dairy facilities and purchasing 100 Holstein and Brown Swiss milkers.
The family’s resilience is paying off. In the 10 weeks since the flood, the pastures have recovered, and the cows are now grazing on newly sown rye. “We didn’t milk for two months, but we are quickly making up that volume,” said Mr. Nicholson. The first milk carrier rolled down their access road at the end of July, marking a significant comeback for the farm.
As the Nicholsons continue to navigate the aftermath of the flood, they remain optimistic about the future. The challenges they overcame have strengthened their resolve, and the support of their tight-knit dairy community has been invaluable. “We love the lifestyle, and we love the cows – they all have different personalities,” Mr. Nicholson added, reflecting on their commitment to dairy farming.
The Nicholsons’ story is not just about recovery; it represents the power of community and resilience in the face of adversity. As they work towards a stable future, their experience serves as an inspiring reminder of the strength found in unity and determination.
Stay tuned for further updates on their remarkable journey in rebuilding their dairy farm and the broader impact on the local agricultural community.
