International Dairy Week set to boost region and showcase Australian excellence

In Summary

International Dairy Week (IDW) will return to the Tatura Park Exhibition Centre from Saturday 17 to Thursday 22 January 2026, bringing the largest annual dairy event in the Southern Hemisphere to Greater Shepparton.
The event attracts more than 4,500 attendees from across Australia and over 20 countries, featuring more than 265 breeders and exhibitors and over 1,100 cattle entries.
IDW showcases advancements in dairy genetics, technology, machinery, education and business, with seminars, workshops, elite cattle sales and industry networking opportunities.
The program includes community-focused events such as the Tatura Food Truck Festival on Saturday 17 January and is expected to deliver a significant economic boost to the region.

Recognised as one of the top five cattle shows in the world, IDW attracts more than 4,500 attendees from every Australian state and over 20 countries. The event provides a significant boost to the local economy and places the region on the global stage.

Held each year in the third week of January, IDW has grown into a premier showcase that reflects the scale and professionalism of the World Dairy Expo in the United States, while maintaining the distinctive character of Australian dairy.

The program features the latest advancements in genetics, technology, machinery, marketing, and education. The event is a key platform for businesses to connect directly with farmers, engage with international visitors, and demonstrate cutting-edge solutions that support the future of dairy farming. Visitors can take part in seminars, workshops, and networking sessions with leaders shaping the future of the dairy industry.

With more than 265 breeders and exhibitors on site, more than 1,100 cattle entries, the event includes elite cattle sales, and opportunities to explore progeny and technology displays, the week serves as a major hub for both business and knowledge exchange. The event also welcomes the broader community with family-friendly entertainment, live music, and activities designed to introduce visitors to the Australian dairy sector.

The program will kick off with the Tatura Food Truck Festival on Saturday 17 January, running from 4pm to 9pm at Tatura Park. The festival offers a family‑friendly atmosphere with a variety of food trucks, market stalls and live entertainment for all ages.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, welcomed attendees and emphasised the importance of the dairy industry to Greater Shepparton.

“International Dairy Week is one of the key hallmark events for our region. Greater Shepparton is one of Australia’s largest dairy producing regions, accounting for 20 per cent of Victoria’s milk production. This week is more than an event, it’s a celebration of what makes our dairy industry exceptional,” he said.

“The event will inject more than $2 million in our visitor economy supporting the accommodation, retail, hospitality and visitor attraction sectors keeping businesses busy and the economy strong.

“Council welcomes all attendees, breeders, exhibitors, and staff, and encourages visitors to explore Shepparton & Goulburn Valley during their stay. There are so many fantastic experiences to enjoy, from outstanding museums to delicious local food and activities for all ages.”

International Dairy Week Director, Declan Patten, said the 2026 event highlights the continued importance of regional agricultural showcases.

“The level of participation we’re seeing for 2026 demonstrates the confidence the industry has in this event and the value it brings to farmers, businesses and the broader community,” he said.

By bringing together farmers, businesses, industry organisations, and dairy enthusiasts, International Dairy Week continues to be a vital forum to connect, compete, learn, and celebrate the excellence of Australian dairy.

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