The theme for this year was “Conversations: Finding Your Voice.” Wally Smith, president of Dairy Farmers of Canada, kicked off the annual event with a strong message for dairy producers to be advocates for the dairy industry in their own communities.

Dean Lee, creative director for advertising agency DDB, spoke about finding his voice through creative inspiration. The morning session ended with a compelling presentation by Andrew Campbell on the power of social media for farmers.

In the afternoon, Ian Hanomansing, CBC News anchor and journalist, answered a myriad of media-related questions to an engaged audience for more than an hour. In between presentations, delegates had the opportunity to attend breakout sessions and partake in networking with conference exhibitors and fellow dairy producers.

We were honoured to have Minister Steve Thompson of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations in attendance at our welcome reception. He spoke on the subject of governmental support for the dairy industry as a backbone of our provincial economy. The formal gala featured a speech by Minister Naomi Yamomoto, Minister of State for Small Business who further asserted government respect for the dairy industry.

Planning for the 2014 event is already underway for Nov. 26-28, 2014 at the Vancouver Convention Centre and Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel. Visit the website for more information on the event and conference speakers.  PD

—From BC Dairy Conference