The rally, hosted by Victorian farmer advocate group Farmer Power, was attended by hundreds of dairy farmers, industry representatives and supporters. It began at Federation Square and the march ended at Parliament House. 

“It was something I felt compelled to do, it’s dire circumstances but [it was important to me] to connect with likeminded people who have passion about the situation,” Mrs Carins said.

The rally was estimated to have been attended by about 500 people and Ms Carins said as soon as she stepped out onto the street she felt a kinship with the crowd.

“I just felt like they were my people, they were my farmers,” she said.

There were horse and cars decorated for displays, tractors and four-wheel-drives and one farmer even brought a real life cow to the event.

The rally made its first stop at Parliament House and then carried on to the Treasury Office where protested chanted for someone to make an appearance and address the crowd.

Mrs Carins said she made a last minute decision to attend the rally.

“It feels fantastic to have a lot of Australia behind you, to know that the public is backing us,” she said.

It’s very heartwarming and encouraging.”

Ms Carins said while she believed the rally to be a success it was important that farmers “kept up the momentum” to drive change in the sector.

“We need to keep going but I think the message is being heard.”

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