The program is supported by Gardiner Foundation, and this year Millaa Millaa State School embraced the ‘Farm to Plate’ theme – crafting a vibrant sculpture and a detailed learning journal to document its journey.
Millaa Millaa triumphed in the program, while gaining valuable learning experience and insights into dairy farming.
The Queensland school’s winning entry – Holly the Holstein – celebrated the local dairy industry, showcased student creativity and highlighted strong community ties.
Holly the Holstein stood out not only for her vibrant design, but for the rich educational journey behind her creation. Teacher Hanna Wood explains how the program aligned seamlessly with their curriculum.
“We integrated the cow sculpture into lessons on health and visual art. Students learned about dairy farming practices while creating maps of an ‘ultimate dairy farm,’” Hanna says.
“These maps showcased features like water troughs, effluent ponds and shelters for calves, now proudly displayed in our classroom.”
The program’s experiential learning approach was further enhanced by a visit to Meadowlands Dairy Farm, where farmers Brad and Annalisa Daley shared their sustainable farming practices with the primary school students.
“The visit made the program authentic and impactful. Students were captivated by the connection between what they learned in class and real-world dairy farming,” Hanna adds.
Behind the creation of Holly the Holstein
Adorned with paddock grass prints, symbolic farm maps and local birdlife illustrations, Holly the Holstein became a vibrant tribute to the dairy heritage of Millaa Millaa. The name stemmed from a beloved children’s book by local author Russell Smith, which further deepened the students’ connection to the project.
After-school art sessions involved brainstorming ideas, from ear tags to dung beetles, which reflected the intricate ecosystem of dairy farms. Every student contributed creatively, with personalised ear tags adorning Holly’s rubber boots and clay dung beetles celebrating biodiversity.
Local businesses, including Mungalli Creek Dairy, added to the community spirit, even donating ice cream for the cow’s grand unveiling.
“The sense of community was incredible,” says Hanna.
“Parents, local businesses, and even former students pitched in. Holly is now part of our classroom family – symbolising the unity and creativity of our school and community.”
The impact of Picasso Cows
Millaa Millaa students didn’t just decorate Holly – they immersed themselves in the world of dairy farming. The program left an indelible mark on students’ understanding of dairy farming and nutrition.
Hands-on activities, from making butter to crafting balanced lunchboxes with dairy, helped embed the importance of dairy in a healthy diet. Students also engaged in a virtual classroom session with Dr Sandra Iuliano from The University of Melbourne, deepening their knowledge about bone health.
“Students loved highlighting the dairy items in their lunchboxes and sharing recipes they made with their families,” says Hanna.
“This program made learning about the dairy industry fun, hands-on, and memorable.”
Join the herd
Those interested in bringing Picasso Cows to classrooms in their area are encouraged to explore resources on the Dairy Australia website and express their interest in participating.
Businesses or organisations looking to sponsor the program and help expand its reach can also get involved.
“This program injects joy into schools and brings communities together. It’s a chance to learn, create, and celebrate the importance of dairy in a uniquely meaningful way,” Hanna says.
For more information or to get involved, visit dairy.edu.au/picasso-cows.
This article is courtesy of Gardiner Foundation.
