A MOVE to diversify their business has helped dairyfarmers Lorraine and Brian Robertson, remain in the industry during its downturn.

After major milk processors Murray Goulburn and Fonterra lowered prices below the cost of production in May last year, the Robertsons, who supply to Fonterra, said they “didn’t see a milk cheque” as their business equity dropped by $200,000.

Dairy crisis: Volatility still rules as confidence wanes...

Fonterra Australia milk supply manager Matt Watt would not be drawn on whether Fonterra, which claims to be paying more than Murray Goulburn, could guarantee it would not cut its price before the end of the season

Fonterra stretch payments to 120 days:

Along with other multinationals such as Unilever and Nestle, Kellogg’s and Fonterra already had their suppliers on 90-day terms, a punishing delay for family businesses who have to pay staff and a slew of other costs within the month.