Brian Leslie receives Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to the dairy cattle industry

Brian Leslie’s auctioneering career began when he was just 15 years old and he’s now a lead auctioneer at Dairy Livestock Services Australia, a Nutrien Ag Solutions business.

Brian says he was very surprised to receive the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).

I was lost for words initially because it certainly wasn’t expected. I’ve had the privilege of working in this industry for 43 years now and I love what I do, but I wasn’t expecting any awards.

“The dairy industry has really lifted the standards across areas like genetics, animal welfare and productivity. While things like labour shortages, weather conditions and other market challenges continues to weigh on overall production, the industry is still experiencing positive growth with a steady outlook for the 2023/24 season,” says Brian.

Brian was also instrumental in the establishment of International Dairy Week Australia.

“We started this event over 30 years ago to help promote dairy cattle to a higher level and it’s been able to put a spotlight on our local industry for the rest of the world to see. I’ve had the opportunity to travel the world judging cattle and the Australian Dairy Cow is indeed right with the absolute best anywhere,” says Brian.

Dairy Livestock Services Australia Managing Director Scott Lord says it’s been an honour to work alongside Brian for the past 15 years.

“Brian’s reputation in the dairy industry is second to none. His knowledge of cow pedigrees coupled with his photographic memory, allows him to align past events with current genetics and modern day breeding to achieve top results for cow pedigrees,” says Scott.

“Brian’s auctioneering skills are far superior to anyone else in the industry, but more importantly he takes his role as a mentor to others very seriously and is passionate about supporting young livestock agents to achieve their goals in this industry.”

Nutrien Ag Solutions South-East Region Manager Jon White has also praised the OAM recipient.

“The dairy cattle industry has benefited enormously from Brian’s wisdom, passion and dedication over the years and there is no one more worthy of this important recognition,” says Jon.

For more information visit Dairy Livestock Services | Industry Leading Dairy Livestock