IDW History

International Dairy Week (IDW) began in 1990 with humble beginnings as a Holstein show and sale, alongside an all-breeds youth show that featured international speakers discussing global dairy trends. In its early years, the event attracted mainly Holstein dairy farmers and young enthusiasts eager to test their cattle-leading skills. The Tatura Showground, located in the heart of Australia’s most densely concentrated dairy region, was chosen as the venue. Held in the peak of Australia’s hot January summer, the show was conducted in the open air, with the only shade for exhibitors and spectators provided by a large gum tree. At the time, few could have imagined the extraordinary growth and success IDW would eventually achieve.

Driven by hard work and vision, IDW gradually expanded to become the largest international dairy cattle show and sale in the Southern Hemisphere, gaining increasing recognition on the global stage. As interest grew, additional dairy breeds were invited into the show ring and offered for sale. Jerseys and Brown Swiss joined in 1997, followed by Ayrshire and Guernsey in 1998, and Illawarra in 1999, ensuring representation of all the main dairy breeds in Australia.

Facility improvements mirrored this growth. In 1997, IDW moved undercover with the installation of a large hoecker, spanning 25 meters and covering the entire width of the football ground, marking a significant step up from the open-air beginnings. Over the following years, the stature and reputation of IDW continued to rise. In 1998, the City of Greater Shepparton took an active role in supporting and promoting the event, successfully securing a $2.6 million grant from the Victorian State Government. Announced in 1999 by the Hon. Premier Jeff Kennett at the opening of IDW, the grant funded the first stage of new facilities, completed for IDW 2000. These improvements included a large hosting arena measuring 80 meters long by 40 meters wide, as well as upgraded cattle wash and housing facilities, laying the foundation for the world-class event IDW is today.

From its modest beginnings under the shade of a gum tree to becoming a globally recognised showcase of Australian dairy excellence, International Dairy Week stands as a testament to vision, perseverance, and the enduring passion of the dairy community.