FEW issues, organisations, companies and leaders in the dairy industry have escaped Bill Pyle's pen.
But after 12 years of putting his opinion on the line, the former United Dairyfarmers of Victoria president has decided to shelve The Pyle Perspective in The Weekly Times.
The former Gippsland dairy farmer has had a colourful history in the dairy industry.
An almost endless list of committees, boards and organisations are credited to Bill's name include forming the UDV, Victorian Farmers and Graziers Association and National Farmers' Federation.
He has also been involved with a number of herd improvement organisations, including the Australian Dairy Herd Improvement Scheme.
"Every now and then you have to say what you have to," Bill said.
"I always responded to what happened because there is always something to be said.
"I wrote what I wrote because I believed in it, but in doing so made sure I was constructive, positive and consistent."
Never afraid to speak his mind, Bill has been fanatical about herd improvement and agricultural education.
"My first column was on ADHIS and how vital it was, and 12 years later there's still not enough people taking advantage of the great knowledge the organisation can provide, which is surprising," he said.
"My true affection for the dairy industry and especially the wonderful people involved has always been my driving force.
"I have enjoyed writing and sharing these thoughts and hope they have stimulated some lively discussions between readers, as that is what they were intended to do."
But the milk is not totally leaving Bill's veins. The industry stalwart is planning to write the story of change in dairy during the past 100 years while spending more time with his wife, Bev, children and grandchildren.
