Many Bay of Plenty sharemilkers are struggling financially but thanks to the support of banks and the majority of farm owners, most are continuing to farm.

This is the belief of the Bay of Plenty Federated Farmers Sharemilkers Employers sub section retiring chairman Scottie McLead.

The downturn won't last long says retiring sharemilkers chairman. Photo: File.

'This downturn is not going to last long, and those in a strong position will be the first to seize opportunities.”

The down turn in milk prices mean sharemilkers have the additional loss of equity with lower cow values but farm owners are also losing equity.

'In these circumstances, meaningful discussion between both parties to agreements needs to take place with some give and take involved,” says Scottie.

'There have been very few disputes in the Bay of Plenty with most issues sorted with sensible discussion between owners and sharemilkers, something we have been encouraging.”

Scottie stepped down as chairman after 24 years in the role at yesterday's Bay of Plenty Federated Farmers 70^th annual provincial conference and annual general meeting at Edgecumbe.

Ian Law was elected as chairman and Stuart McHardy as deputy. Scottie didn't attend the meeting and his final report was read by Alan.

Variable order sharemilkers who didn't put aside funds in the high payout years will also be finding the going tough, his report said.

'It's important that sharemilkers make money. They have to work hard at it, but that is the nature of the industry.

'Stress will certainly hit some people harder than others. It is important to recognise when you and others around you are under too much stress and solutions must be sought.

'Contract milkers are in the fortunate position of knowing exactly what they will receive from the outset, given the production.”

Scottie says the sharemilking system is still the most effective path to farm ownership.

'Young farmers will still have to work hard, and like their predecessors, make some sacrifices along the way.

'Although there is a trend for employees to work fewer hours, sharemilkers will still have to expect to put in long hours if their ultimate goal is to own a farm.”

The industry faces a number of issues, including animal welfare, environmental effects, milk temperature and quality, labour relations and health and safety, which everyone involved needs to focus on, he says.