Donovan’s Dairy
From sceptic to sustainability leader: a dairy farm’s climate shift
James Mann has transformed Donovan’s Dairy over the past 15 years into a climate-smart, resilient and profitable operation. Working with his son and team, James reshaped the 2,600-head South Australian dairy through innovations in genetics, renewable energy, pasture diversity and circular economy feed systems. By embracing collaboration and innovation, James shows that sustainable dairy farming isn’t just possible – it’s smart business.
Fifteen years ago, James Mann was sceptical of climate change - focused on running his dairy and beef business, letting results speak for themselves. But growing community expectations and his involvement with Dairy Australia challenged his thinking. "If you don't tell your story, someone else will," he says. This shift sparked a bold transformation. Together with his son Adam and the team at Donovan’s Dairy, James reshaped the 2,600-head operation into a climate-smart, resilient, and profitable business. Their approach centres on four key pillars: grass, cows, energy, and people.
Genomic testing since 2014 has enabled selective breeding for health, fertility, and longevity. Fewer cows now produce more milk, significantly reducing enteric methane emissions, which make up around 60% of the farm’s total. Feed supplements like Agolin support methane reductions through targeted dietary strategies, boosting herd health, fertility, and productivity.
On the land, James moved away from ryegrass monocultures, trialling and adopting multi-species swards supported by compost-based fertilisers and biological inputs. These changes cut synthetic nitrogen use by 70% and water use by 20%, while boosting soil health and pasture resilience, especially in dry years. A modern effluent system recycles water and nutrients back into paddocks, closing the nutrient loop and reducing reliance on external inputs.
Energy use has transformed, with solar and battery systems now supplying much of the farm’s needs, guided by smart energy management plans. Participation in a grid stabilisation scheme further reduces emissions and improves financial returns.
Feed inputs embrace a circular economy model, using repurposed food waste like cottonseed and confectionery by-products—turning potential landfill into valuable nutrition for the herd. Smart machinery, precision pasture tools, and early adoption of variable-rate technologies help manage grazing and inputs sustainably.
Throughout, James’ focus has been on practical, profitable sustainability - trialling innovations carefully, scaling successful practices, and staying committed to long-term goals. Genetics, soil health, renewable energy, and smarter feeding systems all align to make the business more climate-ready. James has worked closely with industry consultants, nutritionists, solar specialists, and other businesses, drawing on a network of expertise to guide the farm’s climate-smart transition.
Key lessons include setting clear breeding goals, starting small with pasture innovations, focusing on species diversity, and building strong partnerships.
Today, James’s farm shows that emissions reduction and climate adaptation are not just possible in dairy, they are smart business. His story offers a powerful, real-world example for industries leading Australia's transition to a low-emissions future.
Please note that the information provided has been submitted by the organisation and has not been independently verified.
