ADC president Ben Geard said given the current COVID-19 climate, the annual event would need to be postponed for the first time in 18 years.
“The board has been adamant all along that we would only proceed if there was absolute confidence that we could deliver ADC in full scale as one of the most notable forums on the dairy calendar,” he said.
“Farmers and networking lie at the heart of our annual gathering and we know how important it is for them to interact and engage with industry members.
“Whilst unfortunate, the health and safety of Australians and our dairy farming community is the priority and we do not wish to undertake any activities that will compromise or jeopardise this position.”
Board members had hoped normality would return but recent coronavirus restrictions had led them to believe activities would not return to normal for some time.
“Travel restrictions are obviously the most impacting on the ability to host ADC, with approximately 500 farmers converging each February at locations across the country,” Mr Geard said.
“It is with much reluctance that we reschedule but the only option at this given time.
“However, despite the current climate, we remain optimistic that things will improve over the course of the next 18 months and we can host Australia’s dairy farming community here in Tasmania with a particular emphasis on bringing our dairy community together.”
Mr Geard said his thoughts were with industry members and farmers across the country.
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