BrightSIDE
BrightSIDE seeks to inspire and attract young and new people to the dairy industry, provide them with skills, tools and knowledge to succeed and thrive in a dynamic industry.
1st April
BrightSIDE
In 2026, BrightSIDE will take place on Wednesday 1st April.
80
Delegate Places
BrightSIDE is limited to 80 delegates each year.
About BrightSIDE
BrightSIDE provides a platform for students and young people to ignite curiosity and ambition among young individuals in the industry, connect with experienced professionals, and learn some hands-on skills.
Whether you're passionate about science, technology, animals or machinery, BrightSIDE will open your eyes to one of New Zealand’s most exciting and future-focused industries.
Delegates will walk away inspired, informed, and ready to explore the opportunities within dairy.
The delegate fee includes SIDE content, morning tea and lunch, a SIDE Goodie Bag, and a BrightSIDE Hoodie (if register before the 20 March 2026).
BrightSIDE is a hands-on, interactive day designed to showcase the diversity of skills in modern dairying.
Delegates will roll up their sleeves in practical modules including (subject to change):
- Measuring the yield of a fodder beet paddock and learning the real-world maths behind pasture performance
- Culturing a mastitis sample to explore the science of animal health
- Exploring how collars are used to support on-farm decision making
- Taking a soil sample and interpreting results to guide fertiliser applications
- Plus, a Fonterra tanker will be onsite at lunchtime - always a highlight!
In the afternoon, students will hear from an inspiring panel of young industry leaders sharing their career journeys, highlights, and how they’re shaping the future of dairy.
Date
BrightSIDE 1st April 2026
Time
9:00 AM - 3:00PM
Location
Ashley Dene Research Development Station, Springston
BrightSIDE 2026 - timetable
Registrations and goodie bags given out at the venue
| Schedule | Group 1 | Group 2 | Group 3 | Group 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM - Registration | All | All | All | All |
| 9:30 AM - Welcome & H&S | All | All | All | All |
| 9:45 - 10:30 AM | Module 1 | Module 2 | Module 3 | Module 4 |
| 10:30 - 11:15 AM | Module 4 | Module 1 | Module 2 | Module 3 |
| 11:15- 12:00 PM | Module 3 | Module 4 | Module 1 | Module 2 |
| 12:00 - 12:30 PM | Lunch & Fonterra tanker | Lunch & Fonterra tanker | Lunch & Fonterra tanker | Lunch & Fonterra tanker |
| 12:30- 1:15 PM | Module 2 | Module 3 | Module 4 | Module 1 |
| 1:15 - 3:00 PM - Speaker Panel | All | All | All | All |
BrightSIDE Scholarship!
Are you passionate about agriculture and eager to shape the future of farming? The BrightSIDE Scholarship is here to support your journey.
This scholarship has been established as a part of the BrightSIDE programme to continue our mission of empowering future farmers beyond BrightSIDE's one-day event. It’s our way of giving back and investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders.
The BrightSIDE Scholarship is open to: Past BrightSIDE attendees pursuing further education or training in agriculture.
Individuals aiming to:
- Enter university-level training in agricultural studies, or
- Begin a career in the dairy industry with a recognised training provider, or
- Enhance their expertise as a working farmer through a high-level course
Successful applicants will receive funding up to $3000 to support their education or training in agriculture.
How to Apply
Take this opportunity to grow your future, contribute to the success of agriculture, and become a leader in the field. Watch this space for information on how to apply for 2026.