Discover the new leadership at Holstein UK! Meet President Nick Helyer and Trustee Iain McLean. How will their expertise shape the future of dairy farming?
The Holstein UK Annual General Meeting, held on June 26th at Blunsdon House Hotel in Wiltshire, saw Nick Helyer elected as the new President and Iain McLean elected as a trustee for Northern Ireland. This occasion highlights the society’s commitment to innovation and leadership within the dairy industry.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Andrew Jones and his family for their time and dedication to Holstein UK over the past year,” stated Wallace Gregg, outgoing Holstein UK Chairman.
Closing a Noteworthy Chapter: Holstein UK Bids a Heartfelt Farewell to Outgoing President Andrew Jones
Closing a noteworthy chapter, Holstein UK bids a heartfelt farewell to outgoing President Andrew Jones of the Rossett herd. Over the last year, Andrew has made significant contributions to society, demonstrating unwavering dedication and actively participating in numerous events alongside his wife, Jenny. His efforts have considerably strengthened the fabric of Holstein UK, and he departs with profound gratitude from the entire community.
As we turn the page, Nicholas Helyer of the Clampitt herd steps into the role of President with a warm reception. Nick’s association with Holstein UK dates back to 1965 when he and his family began the Clampitt herd with a handful of bulling heifers. Over the decades, Nick has witnessed and contributed to society’s growth into a formidable organization. His herd has flourished under his stewardship, yielding impressive production levels and showcasing Nick’s expertise in dairy farming. His experience includes terms as President and Chairman of the South and Wiltshire Holstein Club, Chairman of Salisbury NFU, and Chairman of the Salisbury Discussion Club. Nick also served on the Holstein UK Board of Trustees from 2004 to 2012 and chaired the CIS Board from 2007 to 2012.
Nick Helyer: From Humble Beginnings to a Legacy of Excellence in Dairy Farming
In 1965, Nick Helyer began a journey defining his legacy in dairy farming. Alongside his family, Nick founded the Clampitt herd with a few heifers. This small start has grown into a significant enterprise, spanning 561 hectares and housing 230 cows that produce 11,149 liters of milk annually. Their diet includes maize, lucerne, and grasshays, ensuring high productivity and quality with 4.22% butterfat and 3.28% protein content.
Nick’s journey in agriculture began in the sixties at college, where he built the foundation of his expertise. Since 1965, he has been a dedicated member of the black and white societies, engaging deeply with the community of breeders.
Nick’s leadership extends beyond his herd. He has served as President and Chairman of the South and Wiltshire Holstein Club and held chairman positions at Salisbury NFU and Salisbury Discussion Club. From 2004 to 2012, he was a trustee on the Holstein UK Board, and from 2007 to 2012, he served on the CIS Board, ending his tenure as Chairman.
Even after these formal roles, Nick remains committed to advancing the breed and supporting fellow breeders through knowledge sharing. With his wife, Topsy, he looks forward to further contributing to the society and its members in the year ahead.
Nick Heyer’s Visionary Leadership: Pioneering Innovation and Cultivating Community Engagement
Nick Helyer’s dedication to the Holstein breed is central to his identity, underscoring his advocacy for innovation in dairy farming. His ambitious plans for the year ahead aim to elevate society’s standing.
Engagement with members is crucial to his presidency. Nick and his wife, Topsy, will actively participate in society activities, providing hands-on support and fostering collaboration. This engagement reflects a genuine effort for collective success.
Nick’s passion for advancing the breed is evident in his knowledge-sharing and mentorship approach. He values experiential learning and offers his expertise through workshops, consultations, and industry discussions, promoting an environment where continuous improvement is the norm.
Looking ahead, Nick’s vision extends beyond maintaining the status quo. He aims to push boundaries in sustainability, genetic advancements, and cutting-edge technologies, ensuring the Holstein breed remains robust, productive, and profitable for future generations.
Reflecting on Leadership: Wallace Gregg’s Heartfelt Tribute and Well Wishes for the Future
Outgoing Holstein UK Chairman Wallace Gregg reflected on the presidency transition, saying, “I sincerely thank Andrew Jones and his family for their dedication over the past year. Andrew participated in numerous events with his wife, Jenny, and his leadership has been invaluable. We wish Nick the very best in his new role.”
Strategic Leadership and Steady Continuity: Steve Hill’s Chairmanship and Re-Elections Mark a New Chapter for Holstein UK
Steve Hill steps into the role of Holstein UK Chairman, bringing his strategic vision and effective leadership. Steve has represented the North Midlands since 2019 and aims to push the Society toward innovation, quality, and community engagement.
The elections also reaffirmed the roles of William Williams (Clwch) and Andrew Williamson (Ingleden) for a second term, representing North Wales and Northern regions. Their experience and dedication are vital for the Society’s sustained growth and cohesion. William and Andrew’s continued service strengthens the Society’s strategic and operational direction.
Iain McLean’s Election: A Forward-Thinking Addition to Holstein UK’s Leadership Roster
Iain McLean‘s election as the new trustee representing Northern Ireland marks an exciting addition to Holstein UK’s leadership. Iain’s extensive experience and dedication to the dairy industry will significantly benefit the organization. His family’s Priestland herd, established in 1911 and achieving pedigree status in 1994, speaks volumes about their deep-rooted passion and commitment.
The 140-cow Priestland herd, milked twice daily with precision, showcases this commitment, resulting in high productivity and notable show circuit success. A highlight includes Priestland 5446 Shot J Rose winning the Champion Holstein title at the 2021 Balmoral Show.
Iain’s forward-thinking approach aligns with Holstein UK’s mission. He is eager to leverage the Society’s services to help members maximize their herds’ potential, reinforcing his commitment to innovation and support within the community.
Holstein UK: A Pillar of Excellence in Dairy Cattle Breeding and Innovation
Holstein UK is dedicated to advancing the breeding of profitable, robust, and productive dairy cattle. Committed to innovation and quality, the organization continually enhances the services offered to its members. As a charitable foundation, it includes two subsidiaries: the Cattle Information Service (CIS) and the National Bovine Data Centre (NBDC).
The CIS excels in milk recording and health testing, providing reliable services through a state-of-the-art laboratory that supports the advancement of dairy farms nationwide.
The NBDC focuses on data analysis to improve dairy production standards across the UK, establishing itself as an industry leader.
UK Dairy Day, an annual event organized by Holstein UK, reflects the organization’s dedication to the industry. Scheduled for September 11th, 2024, at the International Centre, Telford, this event fosters innovation, networking, and knowledge sharing among industry stakeholders.
Key Takeaways:
- Nick Helyer, a long-time member and advocate of Holstein UK, was elected President, and Iain McLean was chosen as a new trustee.
- Outgoing President Andrew Jones received commendations for his dedicated service and impactful tenure over the past year.
- Nick Helyer, with a rich history in dairy farming and extensive leadership experience, aims to further the development and innovation within the society.
- Wallace Gregg stepped down as Chairman and was praised for his significant contributions. Steve Hill assumed the role and ensured continuity in leadership.
- The society continues to emphasize its mission to assist members in breeding profitable and productive dairy cattle through innovative services and quality standards.
Summary:
Holstein UK, a dairy cattle breeder and society, has appointed Nick Helyer as the new President and Iain McLean as a trustee for Northern Ireland. Nick has been instrumental in the growth of the Clampitt herd and has served on the Holstein UK Board of Trustees from 2004 to 2012. He aims to elevate society’s standing through hands-on support and collaboration, valuing experiential learning through workshops, consultations, and industry discussions. Steve Hill, representing the North Midlands since 2019, takes on the role of Holstein UK Chairman, focusing on innovation, quality, and community engagement. Iain McLean, representing the North Midlands since 2019, is the new trustee for Northern Ireland, demonstrating deep-rooted passion and commitment to Holstein UK’s mission. The organization also includes two subsidiaries: the Cattle Information Service (CIS) and the National Bovine Data Centre (NBDC), which focus on data analysis to improve dairy production standards across the UK.
