Farewell Phil Hentschke, Welcome Bronte Symonds

It is with great sadness that Holstein Australia announces the departure of HA Classifier Phil Hentschke.

Mr Hentschke (or otherwise nicknamed Dr Phil by some farmers) said the decision to end his classifying career was not made lightly.

Mr Hentschke said “I have loved my role as Classifier because it’s given me the opportunity to use all of my expertise that I have gained in my previous work arenas”.

In the past he has worked as veterinarian, has farmed his own stud and lectured at the Roseworthy Agricultural College in SA.

Over many years, Phil acquired an abundance of knowledge that complemented his classifying skills exquisitely, which in turn has gained him the respect of our members.

Mr Hentschke said “I have looked forward to each tour I have been involved with and working with the breeders has been extremely rewarding”.

Phil has maintained a strong passion and interest in the interrelation of dairy conformation and productivity and has judged, supported and encouraged members, particularly the Youth of the dairy community.

He has dedicated his time to mentor and judge at many youth camps across the country making him a valued and active member of the industry at a grassroots level.

 “I have enjoyed and appreciated the opportunity to visit so many beautiful areas of our impressive countryside and have loved seeing the cows, especially the good ones” said Mr Hentschke.

Holstein Australia CEO Rohan Butler said “we would like to take the opportunity to thank Phil for his efforts over the course of his long journey with Holstein Australia, especially over the last 18 months in his unofficial role of ‘classifier that isn’t locked down’. We would have been extremely lost without him”.

Mr Hentschke said he will use his time to re-establish ties in South Australia with friends and family after many years on the road.

“I’ve enjoyed the fellowship of the breeders and I have many great memories to treasure forever. I wish everyone all the best” said Mr Hentschke.

Over the past 6 weeks, Phil has been mentoring new Classifier Bronte Symonds.

Mr Symonds said “I’m extremely lucky to have been paired with Phil and I can’t speak highly enough of him”.

Bronte Symonds appointed new HA Classifier

That being said, Holstein Australia is pleased to welcome Bronte Symonds to the Holstein Australia’s Classification Team.

Mr Symonds has a range of valuable skills, education and training including certificates in AI, mating programs, cattle scoring and trait correction and has previously been employed with industry representatives.

If you’re a South Australian, you may recognise Bronte; not only has he been active within the industry, he is no stranger to the show ring and has achieved the title of Master Breeder.

HA CEO Rohan Butler said “we’re thrilled to be able to attract such a strong candidate, not only with a background in dairy services but someone who also has good cow knowledge, a passion for dairy cows and a farming background all rolled into one”.

With growth in classification services estimated to rise over the next twelve to eighteen months, Mr Butler said he is grateful to find someone with Bronte’s skill set.

Mr Symonds is currently in the Mount Gambier region and is heading on tour in Far North Queensland next week.  If you need to book, please contact Leanne Summerville on 0458 931 061 or email lsummerville@holstein.com.au