BACKGROUND Gardiner Dairy Foundation was established via legislation in Section 65 of the Dairy Act 2000, in partnership with Victorian farmer, processor and manufacturer groups and the Victorian Government, to increase the international competitiveness of the Victorian dairy industry. Gardiner Dairy Foundation was created with $62m in funding from the sale of assets, including milk brands, as part of deregulation of the dairy industry. The Foundation’s constitutional responsibility is to maintain the current real value of the legacy. Responsible management of the funds is an ongoing priority as the income produced supports Gardiner Dairy Foundation’s annual investment in key industry projects. The fund now has $97m under management and has invested $60m in more than 730 projects for the benefit of the industry. OUR VISION To invest in emerging leaders and practices to help develop a long-term future for the dairy industry. OUR MISSION In line with the strategic intent our mission is to: • Professionally manage the fund and its investment portfolio • Work cooperatively with industry organisations and stakeholders to improve the Victorian dairy industry • Foster innovation, enhance capability and act as a catalyst for change • Provide an independent and flexible source of funding that benefits the industry in ways that may not be possible for other support organisations