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Unprecedented cattle prices recorded at autumn sales
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Bred from one of Australia’s largest Angus Stud
“On the prices received, they are making $6.50 to $6.70 /kg liveweight, with the bulk of the calves, at 300kg, selling for $2100 to $2300.
Recent calf and weaner sales across the Monaro have realised unprecedented prices. Prices in excess of $2700 per animal have been recorded across sales in March and April. Fewer cattle and a couple of outstanding seasons are contributing factors, according to retired stock and station agent, John Mooney. Drought years in 2018 and 2019 saw the region destocked to a large degree.
“Compare that with sales in 2019, which saw tops of around $720”, he said. “I bought cattle in 2019 for $720 and sold them six months later for $850. “The same type of cattle this year are selling for $2200 – nearly a 300 percent increase.” Mr Mooney said Angus cattle are very popular this year and have been selling well – “there is a trend towards Angus and people are paying a premium for them.”
The change in seasonal conditions is resulting in many graziers holding on to stock, especially heifers, to rebuild their herds. Mr Mooney estimated the quality of cattle going through Cooma saleyards this season is probably the best he has seen in the last 50 years, with stock carrying an extra 30kg to 40kg of weight from previous years. “The majority of the calves have weighed from 280kb to 340kg, liveweight” Mr Mooney said.
He said heifers are selling for almost equal prices to steers, mainly because numbers have been reduced by about a third from those of three years ago due to destocking. “There is still good money to be made on cattle”, Mr Mooney said.
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Chairman of the March 4 Delegate forum, Grantley Ingram introduced Ed Storey of WoolProducers Australia, Michael Crowley of the MLA, John Roberts of AWI, and Andrew Michael of MLA. Industry leaders from Meat & Livestock Australia, Australian Wool Innovations and WoolProducers Australia gathered in Delegate in March as part of the lead up to the Delegate Show and the Monaro Stationhand Challenge. And one of the biggest topics discussed was chemical defleecing, and how it might eventually ease the pressure of shearer shortages locally. The Delegate Pastoral & Agricultural Society was delighted to host ‘An Evening with Ag Leaders’ on the night, which attracted a large number of local producers. Amongst the guests were MLA director and principal of the Leahcim Poll Merino Stud, Andrew Michael; WoolProducers Australia president, Ed Storey; AWI chief executive officer, John Roberts; and MLA general manager – producer consultation and adoption, Mick Crowley.
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Those gathered included a wide range of men and women, and farmers of varying ages, all of whom were pleased to have the opportunity to talk with our current agriculture leaders. One of the main focuses during discussions was research into chemical defleecing, which in the face of nationwide shearer shortages has been of keen interest to local producers. Research is being conducted by the University of Adelaide, where studies from 2014 have been expanded upon to show very encouraging progress. The original research of eight years ago was based on creating a weakened zone within the wool staple by altering systemic amino acid supply. The challenge was to keep the zone strong enough to retain the fleece on the sheep while a protective covering of wool grows underneath, but also weak enough to allow
easy and painless removal of the fleece. The university’s deputy head Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Professor Phil Hynd has indicated that through 15 years of research, his team is now making a weak point in the wool fibre for a brief period of time without causing significant fibre loss. While still working on the best application technique, Professor Hynd explained producers would wait 3-5 weeks for the wool to grow out underneath the weak point, and then the fleece could be removed without combs or cutters. There is still some way to go on developing an engineering solution to remove the fleece, but the fibre breaks easily, and the process results in a better quality product with no second cuts or skin pieces. The latest updates on the chemical defleecing research were given at the Delegate forum after CEO Roberts outlined what AWI was funding in wool harvesting research and doing about the shearer shortage. Mr Roberts said AWI is happy with the progress of the chemical defleecing research and considers it an effective use of grower funds. It was pointed out that chemical defleecing may not replace shearing, but could certainly give producers options, something that the local producers in Delegate say they are eager to have. Many agreed that wool harvesting is the most serious problem facing producers in the industry, with the general shearing rate lifted to $4 a sheep last year, and continuing to rise in some cases. Mr Roberts says that AWI is waiting on updated reports on the next stages of research, with reviewing of a delivery method and machine harvesting options to be undertaken over the next three months.
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YOUR FARM
Memorial shear for Mitch On Saturday, June 18 this year the first Annual Mitchell Power Memorial Quick Shear will be held in Mitch’s hometown of Bombala. The date would’ve been Mitch’s 23rd birthday, and there has already been an outpouring of support for the event. “Mitch was one of the best. As well as being a great mate, son, partner and brother, he was a very talented shearer,” the event organisers say. “He travelled all around Australia and New Zealand pursuing his love of shearing.” Shattering everyone around him and rocking the community, Mitch sadly took his own life late last year. “We are organising the quick shear in memory of Mitch and what he spent every day doing,” organisers say. “We would like to use this event to focus on mental health in the shearing industry and to encourage young men just like Mitch to speak up if they aren’t doing too well.” All proceeds of the quick shear will go to ‘Standby’, which is a counselling and support network with counsellors specifically trained to help people like Mitch’s family get through the tragedy of suicide. Representatives of ‘Standby’ will even be coming along to Bombala on June 18.
Opens, and there will be a team novelty event that is sure to prove a very popular part of the day.
Imperial Hotel Bombala, and there will be merchandise available for purchase.
The first Mitchell Power Memorial Quick Shear will be held at Bombala’s newly re-opened Imperial Hotel, with nominations at 10am ready for an 11am start. Sheep will be supplied by Delegate Station.
A Calcutta will be run for the Open Finalists, followed by the Finals presentation of cash prizes, which stand at an impressive total of $14,500 cash across 1st, 2nd and 3rd. There will also be prizes for 4th place.
“All offers of support for the event is greatly appreciated, and we thank the community for its kindness and generosity,” organisers say.
Categories will include Novice, Intermediate and
Food and beverages will be available through the
The first Annual Mitchell Power Memorial Quick Shear will be held in Mitch’s hometown of Bombala on June 18.
If you’d like further information, please email Adelleberry@icloud.com or hvranek@hotmail.com
LOCAL LAND SERVICES Local Land Services is here to help you manage pest animals and weeds, grow your agricultural productivity, and connect you with likeminded landholders caring for country. We have specialist staff based across the Monaro. Call us on 1300 795 299 to find out how we can support you, or visit www.lls.nsw.gov.au for more information.
AUTUMN EDITION 2022
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Age is no limit to capabilities Miranda McGufficke with her parents Michelle and Alan.
As the youngest R.M. Williams Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) Rural Achiever Award finalist, Miranda McGufficke of Cooma says age is no limitation to your capabilities. “Being only 21, and currently studying a Bachelor of Agriculture and Bachelor of Business, I wasn’t sure if it would be beneficial to take part in the Rural Achiever Award. I thought it may have been a better experience for people who had completed studies and already established a career, but it was a very rewarding experience and my age did not limit what I could take away from the program.” Miranda was one of eight Rural Achiever Award finalists who spent a week at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. “I was amazed at the diversity of my fellow Rural Achievers,” says Miranda. “We ranged in age from 21 to 30 and they were all different occupations, including a midwife and a teacher.” One of the highlights of the week for Miranda was winning the Rural Achiever debate. On the negative team for the topic ‘Is there too much regulation in Australian agriculture?’, Miranda was the fourth and final speaker, discussing the need for more clarity and understanding. Miranda and the other Rural Achievers also visited Government House and Parliament House where they were presented with RAS Akubras by the Governor General Margaret Beazley.
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Miranda was also able to get a first hand look behind the scenes of the show, working with stewards and other volunteers, and was able to appreciate the logistics of organising such a big event. They also took part in the grand parade, leading the alpacas, and also met Princess Anne and her husband Sir Timothy Laurence. Miranda says not only is the Rural Achiever Award about encouraging young people to become leaders and further their education and achievements, but it is also about contributing first to their local communities. “I would like to thank the Cooma Show Society, particularly Danielle and Leanne Mackay for encouraging me to enter in the Rural Achiever. “It was about so much more than just the title of Rural Achiever Award finalist, it was a great opportunity and experience. I would encourage any young person from a rural community to support their local show, and enter the Rural Achiever Award program.”
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YOUR FARM
Florance is a wool ambassador “We are delighted that Florance has been chosen to receive the 2022 AWI scholarship and be trained to become a local face of sustainable wool production. The program is a great way to not only communicate the positive messages of the wool industry to the wider public, but also encourage youngsters into the industry.”
Young woolgrower Florance McGufficke from Cooma is the winner of an AWI scholarship through which she will become a trusted ambassador for the Australian Wool Industry. The AWI 2022/23 Emerging Young Leaders Scholarship will allow Florance to participate in the prestigious Cultivate – Growing Young Leaders program run by Action4Agriculture. This two-year training package will give Florance exposure to some of the country’s top media and communication specialists and equip her with skills to accelerate her journey in agricultural leadership. Florance grew up on a sheep and wool enterprise near Cooma and spent her early years in ‘daddyday-care’ following her father Alan around the sheds and paddocks. It was a formative time for Florance who has gone on to complete a double degree of Bachelor of Agriculture and Business at the University of New England, and stands at the cusp of a career in the wool industry. “I believe this scholarship will help me navigate a future in this fast and progressive world with selfconfidence and resilience,” Florance said.
A selection of Young Farming Champions alumni that have been supported by AWI through the program in the past includes 2021 NSW RAS Rural Achiever veterinarian Dione Howard, 2019 Australian Woolbroker of the Year Samantha Wan, and winner of the Leadership category of the 2018 Victorian Young Achiever Awards, Dr Jo Newton OAM. “The Young Farming Champions have the ability to empower young people to embrace rural and regional Australia, to explore the supply chains and diverse agricultural enterprises, and share this information with various audiences to increase transparency and reduce the amount of misconception between the producer and
Florance McGufficke has won an AWI scholarship. consumer,” Florance added. Florance, who grew up on a sheep and wool enterprise in Cooma is on a mission to improve communication between consumers and wool producers. “Wool is the solution to the future of sustainable fashion. I know the benefits of this luxurious fibre, and I have a desire to be a leading advocate for the future of the wool industry.”
ALUDA K HEREFORDSH
As part of the scholarship, Florance will hone her skills by engaging with school students as part of The Archibull Prize and the Kreative Koalas – Design a Bright Future Challenge. Once graduated from the Cultivate – Growing Young Leaders program, Florance will join the Young Farming Champions, a network of early professionals advocating and leading for agriculture.
AWI Acting CEO, John Roberts, says this year marks a decade since AWI first started supporting the Young Farming Champions program. “Through Action4Agriculture, the program continues to not only help build the capability of young rural people to farm with resilience and confidence, but also provides a great platform to spark the next generation’s interest in an agricultural career,” John said.
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www.jemalongwool.com.au AUTUMN EDITION 2022
7
Rose Vale Blueberry Farm
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Looking for a property to run their 50 Merinos and 20 Angus cattle, Jane-Lee Bobbin and her partner Zeek Stokes found the ideal 300-acre property, Rose Vale, at Rose Valley near Cooma. Previously owned by Don Smith, the property also came with 1,600 established blueberry plants and 11 acres of asparagus.
While it is not their area of expertise, Jane-Lee and Zeek are learning what they can and hope to keep the asparagus and blueberries going.
CHILDREN’S
“Don has been so helpful,” says Jane-Lee. PARENTS’
“Whenever I have a question, I can just ring him up and ask.”
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This year, the couple invited the public to come out and pick blueberries themselves, pay by the kilo and take them home to enjoy.
Jane-Lee says in terms of
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:Otherwise, we just need to mow the grass around the plants throughout the year as needed.
“Don says the climate and altitude makes for good growing conditions for the blueberries and asparagus. He has an excellent irrigation system set up, but as I said, we have been fortunate to not have to use that these last two seasons.
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“We also spray them with an organic oil once a year. They then flower in September and through October and November the fruit is starting, so we drop the nets on them then.
“Don used to hire backpackers to come in and do it and he would export them to Asia, Japan mostly, or take them to local markets. We don’t really have the time to be doing that, so we thought it would be nice to invite people to come and collect them themselves. We had lots of good feedback, and people really enjoyed bringing their kids along for the experience. We hope to do it again next season.”
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“After they have been picked, we just leave the plants until June when we prune them back, similar to how you would prune a rose. We also give them some fertiliser, only about 15g per plant.
“In terms of the asparagus, at the moment we are really just using that for ourselves and family and friends.
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“We’ve been really lucky with the rainfall, as we haven’t had to worry about the irrigation at all. The blueberries are ready for picking from after Christmas to early February.
“When it comes to the picking, it’s a really manual job,” says Jane-Lee.
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“It took many years for Don to establish these crops, so we are fortunate to have the opportunity to make the most of them. “If there is anyone out there who has more knowledge about blueberries or asparagus, we are happy to hear from them and learn as much as we can. Right now we are just trying our best, with Don’s help of course.”
Locals develop management tool The Farming Forecaster app’s new destocking drought module will give producers an improved understanding of timely drought decision making.
Locally developed pasture and livestock management tool, the Farming Forecaster application - farmingforecaster.com.au - now has added capability to strengthen producers’ preparedness for drought. The online tool developed by a partnership of farming groups including Tablelands Farming Systems, Monaro Farming Systems and Bookham Agriculture Bureau, the Southeast Local Land Services and the CSIRO’s Agriculture and Food, is expanding further thanks to funding from the Department of Primary Industries, Climate Smart Pilots Project. The Farming Forecaster is the first of its kind to combine weather, soil moisture, pasture production and livestock performance information at farmers’ fingertips allowing them to make timely and informed decisions during increasingly volatile and variable conditions. This project is building on the very successful development and launch of Farming Forecaster back in 2020. The GrassGro model which is being used to provide pasture forecasting data to the Farming Forecaster website, will have the capacity to deal with destocking into drought containments/lots during dry times or drought. Over the years, grazing producers have recognised the multitude of benefits of using drought containment areas (droughtlots) to destock and completely rest paddocks during drought. The strategy results in improved pasture recovery, faster response to rainfall, better management of ground cover, protection of topsoil, as well as improved management of stock and improved mental health of producers because they are not having to drive into bare paddocks every day to feed stock. The destocking drought module will be a valuable tool in drought preparedness and will give producers an improved understanding of timely drought decision making and the consequences for groundcover and pasture availability. Setting up and using drought containment areas (droutghtlots) has become a critical part of the landscape with many producers using this strategy as part of managing pastures and stock during drought. The key improvements to the forecasts in
Farming Forecaster are the development of new rules that account for destocking. This addition to the pasture-livestock models will allow comparisons between destocking into droughtlots with supplementary feeding versus leaving stock in the paddock with supplementary feeding. Early decision making is critical during dry and times of drought, the longer you leave it, the less choices you have. The Farming Forecaster website currently provides producers with a tool to assist in making timely and informed decisions about pasture growth rates and stock management. The destocking drought module will be an important addition to farmingforecaster.com. au as it will provide measured data around destocking paddocks into droughtlots and provide producers with forecasts of how the use of droughtlots might affect pasture availability and ground cover.
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It will help to demonstrate the value of protecting the soil and maintaining groundcover during periods that can potentially have long-term damage on farm’s natural capital. Previous experience and research has shown that resting pasture may increase demand for supplementary feeding in the short-term but enable faster recovery and improved profitability in the longer term. One of the most important issues for any farm business emerging from drought is the need to restore the business to optimum productivity and profitability as quickly as possible, as well as looking after the natural resource by being better prepared to cope with drought. Training will be made available on how the module improves Farming Forecaster with its use of scientific data to compare pasture outlooks and pasture availability in drought. The Farming Forecaster tool now has the capability to get producers on the front foot when it comes to drought and help build resilient ecosystems that will recover from drought quickly. This destocking drought module is being produced as part of Climate Smart Pilots and the NSW Primary Industries Climate Change Research Strategy backed by the NSW Climate Change Fund. AUTUMN EDITION 2022
9
Massive Oats in the Monaro
Massive is a premium forage oat variety bred from a joint Australian/North American breeding program with Upper Murray Seeds. Massive was bred to provide good early feed while having the capacity to survive tough conditions. It is very quick to first grazing and has excellent growth during Autumn, Winter, and Spring.
Oats into very fertile soil at 85kg/ha. He says, “They were sown into cold ground, so initially took some time to get up, but once it got the 3 leaf, the growth was amazing!” The oats were sown into an old Lucerne stand which was used to bulk up for a silage cut. 120 kg DAP/ha fertilizer was applied to the crop.
Massive is a much-loved variety sown in many areas across Australia including the Monaro region of New South Wales. Andrew Rolfe better known as Rolfey is an agronomist and part-owner/operator of Kenilworth Grazing located in Maffra, New South Wales. After seeing Massive Oats in a local trial, Andrew made the decision to implement the very-late maturing variety into his pasture system. He says, “It stood out well in the local trial and it made me want to try it.”
Andrew was impressed with the performance of Massive Oats, stating “Things that stood out were its tillering ability, large leaf resulting in a bulky stand with plenty of tonnage/ha.” Andrew measured approx. 8t/ha dry matter, cut and was “very pleased with the result”.
In August 2021, Andrew sowed Massive
Massive Oats along with Upper Murray Seeds’ range of premium grasses, clovers, lucerne and forage cereals are available from South East Rural this autumn.
Andrew Rolfe standing in his paddock of Massive Forage Oats
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YOUR FARM
Bombala shearers (Photos: Charlie Maslin). Left: Marty Black and Wayne Peisley of Bombala have been in the shearing industry a combined 99 years between them. Centre: A conservative estimate shows that Marty Black has shorn over 1.1million sheep throughout his career. Right: Wayne ‘Poteye’ Peisley started pressing in 1971 on this old Ferrier wool press, which was installed at ‘Gunningrah’ near Bombala in the early 1890s.
Charlie Maslin of ‘Gunningrah’ near Bombala shone a light on two local shearing legends recently, with his social media post on Marty Black and Wayne Peisley proving popular throughout the district. “Christopher ‘Marty’ Black has shorn here since 1974, after being a rousy the year before he took up the hand piece in 1973,” Charlie wrote.
“Both he and ‘Poteye’ pictured beside him have had three generations of their families work in this shed for us, since about the 1950s.
would have shorn over 1.1 million sheep in his time! I won’t repeat his reaction to that!”
“These two alone have been in the shearing industry a combined 99 years between them!
Charlie even included the figures - 9+ months shearing season, say 4 days per week allowing for wet weather, and an average of 140 sheep per day.
“Today over lunch we calculated, on a very conservative estimate, under the peer review of other shearers, that Marty
“Today for example his tally was over 150 in the tail end of his career…do the maths!” Charlie wrote.
“His record day, in this shed in the 1980s was 297, and a stuff up in the count out robbed him of valuable time to break the 300 mark!” Charlie referred to the post as “a small tribute to a remarkable fellow”, and it attracted many positive comments on the skills, work ethic and sharp wit of both Marty and Wayne.
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Local Land Services delivering positive outcomes for South East landholders Local Land Services is here to help you manage pest and weeds, grow your agricultural productivity, and connect you with likeminded landholders caring for country.
In 2021, we launched our ‘koala karaoke’ project, where we provided more than 110 landholders with audio monitors to record the distinctive bellows of male koalas during the breeding season.
With specialist staff based across the Monaro, and the entire South East region, we are proud to be part of the local community and proud to offer a wide range of services to support our region’s primary producers and landholders.
These devices help us gain a better understanding of the distribution of koalas across the landscape, while also complementing the existing network of monitors on public land.
One of these services is our coordinated pest animal control programs, such as baiting, aerial shoots and trapping. Our staff are on the ground to provide tailored advice, access to baits and can help set up group control programs. In 2021, we supported landholders to carry out coordinated pest animal control measures on more than 8.5 million hectares of land across the South East region, helping improve agricultural production and protect our native species and biodiversity. Our teams also enhanced, rehabilitated, or protected significant species and endangered ecological communities on almost 900 hectares, which includes work to restore, enhance and expand koala habitat across the Monaro, which was significantly damaged during the black summer bushfires.
Through the initiative, we are also working with more than 20 landholders to enhance and expand over 40 hectares of koala habitat, while also supporting feral pig and deer control programs, allowing native vegetation to recover after the fires. This work was one of many positive outcomes South East Local Land Services delivered last year, which can be found in the newly released South East Local Land Services 2021 Annual Achievements Report. Fay Steward, Local Land Services Chair said while 2021 challenged everyone in ways not seen for many years, it was great to see how staff and landholders could adapt to difficult circumstances. “Many communities within the South East region were still recovering
financially and emotionally from the catastrophic bushfires of 2020 when the full impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was felt,” Ms Steward said. “Fortunately, our region was spared the extensive flooding recently experienced in other parts of the state; but even so, the high rainfall has created even more challenges than ever to primary producers. “I wish to acknowledge the skills and dedication of the South East Local Land Services workforce for their commitment to working collaboratively with community and industry specific groups, local Indigenous communities, and landholders. “We will continue to focus our efforts and resources through the strong partnerships and networks we’ve established to assist our farmers, communities and stakeholders with landscape management, biosecurity, emergency management and primary production.”
The South East annual achievements report can be viewed at www.lls.nsw.gov.au/what-we-do/plansand-publications/annual-reports. Landholders interested in finding out about the services provided by Local Land Services can contact their closest office by calling 1300 795 299.
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12
YOUR FARM
Berridale Merino Ewe competition The 92nd Annual Berridale Merino Ewe Competition is running again this year on Friday and Saturday May 6 and 7. The Berridale Agricultural Bureau is proud to say its Merino ewe competition is the longest running competition of its kind within Australia. The first Berridale Agricultural Bureau committee formed in 1926 and the competition has run annually ever since except for a few years during World War Two and in 2020 due to COVID. The committee is looking forward to running this impressive competition once again this year especially after seeing some of the best mobs of sheep presented last year throughout the Monaro - not to mention one of the best seasons that we have ever seen. As much as we all have enjoyed the rain, it has presented different types of challenges for each an every farmer and their sheep this year.
of Hollow Mount Merino Stud Bigga, is returning to judge the competition after judging last year and this year he will be joined by Matthew Coddington, stud principal of Roseville Park Merino Stud. Both men are distinguished members of the Merino industry with a lifetime of knowledge between them. They will be assessing sheep on four main criterias; Type, Uniformity, Wool Coverage and Balance of the year’s drop. Everyone is welcome to attend the competition, with it being a great couple of days to learn a thing or two about Merino sheep, catch up with old friends and farmers and have a look about the district. Both days are fully catered with morning tea and lunch provided and our presentation dinner will be held on the Saturday night. For more information please contact Sarah on 0447 098 429.
David Zouch, the stud manager
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Regional voices needed for health panel NSW Farmers is encouraging people with a strong interest in rural and regional health to put their hand up for a new advisory body.
“We need a commitment, focus and funding to deliver the services that are needed, and this will be a great way to let government know what those needs are.
The NSW Government has opened expressions of interest for the new Regional Health Ministerial Advisory Panel, with Regional Health Minister Bronnie Taylor saying it would be integral in improving health outcomes for people across rural and regional NSW.
“Providing health services in rural and remote communities has a whole different set of challenges and we need people with those experiences to have their say on how we can build future success.”
Sarah Thompson, a NSW Farmers member and retired occupational therapist, said country communities experienced a lower level of access to health services, and welcomed moves to improve services. “Regional, rural and remote communities deserve excellent health care and that’s what we want to see achieved,” Mrs Thompson said.
According to the NSW Government, the inaugural appointments to the panel will be for a period of up to three years – following selection by Minister Taylor and approval by Cabinet – and will meet at least every three months. For more information including the expression of interest form, please visit: www.health.nsw.gov.au/ministers/Pages/ regional-health-ministerial-advisory-panel. aspx
Farmer survey on farm issues
Experienced livestock farmers in the region are being invited to complete an anonymous survey to help researchers understand the onfarm issues and challenges that negatively impact livestock outcomes. The information collected will include various factors about the farmer themselves, the farm, animals, nutrition and husbandry as well as challenges to improvement. This survey forms part of a larger PhD thesis being completed by Natarsha Williams from the Melbourne Veterinary School of the University of Melbourne. “I have been a veterinarian for 30 years and have developed a specific interest in livestock welfare following seven years working as a District Veterinary Officer, where livestock welfare investigations formed a significant part of that role,” Ms Williams says. “Unfortunately, on farm situations of unacceptable livestock welfare still occur, and this project aims to understand the circumstances around which that occurs, reoccurs or is ongoing.” Those farmers participating will to take part in a 20-minute questionnaire about their observations and opinions of farms where livestock welfare is poor and factors that may contribute positively or negatively to livestock welfare. The survey also asks a number of questions that are the same as those included in the Australian Government Census. This will allow a comparison between the participants in this study and all livestock farmers, all farmers and all Australians with an occupation. Livestock producers from all over Australia who are over the age of 18 years and have worked with non-dairy cattle, sheep and goats for at least 6 months are invited to complete this survey. “It is valuable to collect thoughts from a range of industry participants, and I would greatly appreciate your involvement,” Ms Williams said. The survey does not require farmers to provide their name, contact details or any other identifying details, it is anonymous. The only person that will know that you have participated, is you. It’s easy to do and can be completed on a computer or smart phone by visiting https://melbourneuni.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/ SV_6x6kIsHQm9rKQaW For further information please contact Natarsha via email on natarsha. williams@student.unimelb.edu.au
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As part of his 2021 Nuffield Scholarship studies, Monaro grazier Andrew Rolfe has spent a month overseas researching best management practice techniques used in farming systems across the United Kingdom. Andrew’s trip abroad is the first of two blocks of travel he will undertake this year as he completes his Nuffield Scholarship. His trip to the UK has unearthed new techniques
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YOUR FARM
and ways of farming that Mr Rolfe believes can be successful on the Monaro. Embracing the use anaerobic digestive plants for energy production is one method Andrew thinks Australian graziers can adopt from their UK counterparts. “One thing I found really interesting was the use of anaerobic digestive plants. There is a real potential for that in Australia.”
Andrew and his wife Zoe run the family owned farming business
Rolfe Agriculture at Maffra, a Prime Lamb flock enterprise comprising
9000 ewes across 3800 hectares. Andrew is hoping his Nuffield Scholarship will allow him to
identify and combine global best
management practices to develop an intensive management system that will enhance production
and drought preparedness for
Australia’s Merino sheep industry.
“You can take whole crop or silage essentially and when the cow digests that and produces methane, it is a biogas that can be injected right back into the line.
“I want to research the efficiacy of
‘If it’s hard to make good hay, you can make silage, put woodchips in for the cow to digest, and you will get 80 percent nutrients put back and can capture the carbon off that.”
during medium seasons through
such a system and also explore other avenues to increasing
productivity and preparing for drought,” Andrew said.
‘Intensifying production systems confinement feeding, increasing
forage crop production and closer stock management for example, offers potential for producers
to retain fodder and trade stock opportunely.
BROWNLIE BORDER LEICESTER STUD
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an international insight During Andrew’s 28 days in England, he met with some of Europe’s highest ranking agricultural advisors. Andrew has the opportunity to discuss farming practices with George Eustice, the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs of the United Kingdom.
England farming systems, in
The travel component of the Nuffield Scholarship saw the 135 scholars come together for a conference in Norwich where discussion focussed on climate change, carbon emissions, and Ukrainian conflict.
consumer,” Andrew said
“We spoke online with a number of Ukrainian farmers, it was confronting to see what is happening to their land,” Andrew said. “The scholars conference had a diverse mix of people from many different industries. Everyone was very passionate. Through visiting a range of
particular sheep producers,
Andrew was able to take note of
the differences between Monaro and UK farming practices.
“Agricultural tourism is really big in the UK. I think we can work towards reducing the
gap between farmers and the “We could look at more farm open days. We should be proud of what we are doing as custodians
“The Netherlands are amazing farmers. Their agricultural output
is $180 billion Euro each year. They have excellent soil and a really innovative.” Andrew is encouraging locals to apply for a Nuffield Scholarship
Are Ewe Ready To Start Shearing? Ring now to avoid missing us when we are in your area next.
with applications for the 2023 intake open until June 17. Nuffield Scholarships are spnsoreres by the Australian Wool
Innovation.
of the land.”
In June, Andrew is set to
complete his second round of overseas travel for the
global focus program. He
will visit farms in Singapore, Canada and the United States. While looking
forward to studying best
management practices in
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Nutrien Ag Solutions is committed to providing clients with services and expertise to better their farming operation.
Farm Succession
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There is no better time to start planning for farm succession than right now! No matter your age or the age of your children or even your grandchildren, start planning now with the end game in mind so that you have choices. This doesn’t necessarily mean knowing what everyone wants or having a documented succession plan. Rather it’s about starting with an idea or vision of how YOU might want it to work out in the future in relation to your possible retirement and your long-term plans for the farm business, farmland and any other potential businesses and assets that you have or may want to acquire. Once you have an idea or vision of how you might want it to pan out, start writing your ideas down and creating a loose plan to achieve your vision. It can and will change along the way but it’s an opportunity and your responsibility to get clear on what you want and need and to set expectations early about your potential plans. It’s also important to talk about your plans and encourage open and respectful discussions that allow all family members to voice their perspective without criticism or judgement. Be
mindful that verbal contracts hold weight as memories of being told “This will all be yours one day” can play a critical role in future succession planning conversations and potential conflict. If you haven’t already started planning for succession, then today is the day to start. It’s not too late and it never gets any easier, in fact it often gets more difficult the longer you wait! By starting early, you have time on your side. Time to grow your assets and not just through capital appreciation but though opportunities, investments and possible acquisitions that give you and your family choices into the future. Give us a call and talk through some options and learn more about the process with your local RFC. We’re independent, confidential, and free. 1800 319 458 Clare Boardman 0429 028 307 clare@rfcsnsw.com.au
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YOUR FARM
Once in a lifetime experience
Pictured above, Chloe with former Cooma resident and RAS announcer, Tim Dreverman. Right: Chloe with judge Peter Gooch and his wife. While she didn’t take home the title, Chloe Campbell says the experience of representing Bombala in The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman was prize enough.
female RAS Councillors, their areas of expertise, the diverse walks of life they have come from and the barriers they have overcome, including sexism.
Spending a week up in Sydney to get a behind-the-scenes look at the organisation that goes into the Sydney Royal Easter Show,
“We also visited Government House where we met the Governor General, and also had the opportunity to visit NSW Parliament.
Chloe said she has a new appreciation of the work of the volunteers.
“We were also given the opportunity to attend some formal dinners with many influential people, including Princess Anne, the NSW Premier, the NSW Police Commissioner and Dugald Saunders, which was a surreal experience.”
“It was a really great, once in a lifetime experience,” Chloe said. “We first took part in a training day, with training in public speaking and just general getting to know one another. Then we were given a tour before the show opened to the public and did our interviews for the competition. “Through the week we were given rotations to all the different sections at the show and were given the opportunity to do some sashing of events as well. “We also had a mentoring day with some of the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) Councillors and the NSW Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders. This was a really interesting day, getting to hear from lots of
On the final day, the Young Woman finalists had to give an impromptu speech, responding to questions from judges. As a nurse and medical student, Chloe was asked about health in regional and rural areas, how she juggles those commitments with her partnership on the family farm, her work with the Bombala Show, of which she is the Junior Vice President, and she was also asked about the bushfires and the current
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She is proud to have been given the opportunity to represent Bombala in Sydney.
Molly Wright of Peak Hill was named the NSW Young Woman 2022, with Imogen Clarke from Nowra as runner up. “I would like to congratulate Molly and Imogen,” says Chloe. “I am so proud of them and I think they will do a wonderful job.” The Bombala Show has been a part of Chloe’s life since a young age when she used to enter paintings, cooking and fairy gardens, and later competing in showjumping events, which has taken her to the Canberra Royal Show.
“I want to thank the community of Bombala, and I hope, having been able to speak with many influential people over that week, I was able to shed a light on the community and give it the recognition it does not often receive. “I hope I have done them proud. “I would also like to thank birdsnest who provided me with many outfits to wear to the many formal events I attended.”
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AUTUMN EDITION 2022
19
Sydney Royal Easter Show results
Local breeders and graziers have enjoyed success at this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show. Greenland Merino Stud, from Bungarby, won several championships and Adina Merinos collected a reserve championship. In the fleece competition, Countegany’s Mary Goodwin scooped the pool. The results are: Reserve Champion Ultrafine March Shorn Merino Ram, Champion Superfine March shown merino ewe, Grand Champion Superfine merino ewe. GREENLAND MERINO STUD, BUNGARBY NSW 2630 Champion Superfine March Shorn Merino Ewe GREENLAND MERINO STUD MERINO EWE M29909 Grand Champion Superfine Merino Ewe GREENLAND MERINO STUD MERINO EWE M29909 MERINO AUGUST SHORN RAMS Ram, showing 6 teeth and over; reserve champion fine medium ram: ADINA PEAK VIEW NSW, MERINO RAM A24219 Reserve Champion Fine Medium August Shorn Merino ADINA MERINO RAM A24220 Ram
Greenland’ s March shorn junior champion and reserve champion rams with Greg and Tom Alock and judges.
Greenland’s Grand Champion super fine ewe with Greg, Matthew and Ben Alcock and judge Jeff Rayner.
MERINO MARCH SHORN RAMS Ram, showing not more than Junior - not more than 2 permanent teeth. GREENLAND MERINO STUD MERINO RAM M29936 POLL MERINO MARCH SHORN EWES Ewe, showing not more than Junior - not more than 2 permanent teeth. GREENLAND MERINO STUD POLL MERINO EWE M29910 Champion Superfine March Shorn Poll Merino Ewe GREENLAND MERINO STUD POLL MERINO EWE M29910 GRAND CHAMPIONS Grand Champion Superfine Poll Merino Ewe GREENLAND MERINO STUD POLL MERINO EWE M29910 Reserve Champion Fine March Shorn Poll Merino Ram GREENLAND MERINO STUD POLL MERINO RAM M29921 Reserve Champion Fine Medium March Shorn Poll Merino Ram GREENLAND MERINO STUD POLL MERINO RAM M29930
MERINO AND POLL MERINO PRODUCTION CLASSES Highest Scoring Ram GREENLAND MERINO STUD POLL MERINO RAM M29930
2022 SHEEP FLEECE RESULTS
SHEEP FLEECE TOPMAKING TYPE WOOL Skirted Fleece, Fine Merino, ewe or wether. 1 23 MARY GOODWIN COUNTEGANY NSW 2630 2 24 MARY GOODWIN Skirted Fleece, Medium Merino, ewe or wether. 1 25 MARY GOODWIN CHAMPION COMMERCIALLY GROWN MERINO FLEECE, IN THE TOPMAKING TYPE WOOL SECTION. MARY GOODWIN, COUNTEGANY NSW 2630 - RAS/ASC COUNTRY SHOW CHAMPIONS CLASS Skirted Merino Fleece. 2 28 GREENLAND MERINO STUD 3 27 MARY GOODWIN SHEEP FLEECE SPINNERS TYPE WOOL Skirted Fleece, Fine Merino, ewe or wether. 1 59 MARY GOODWIN 22 MARY GOODWIN 2 CHAMPION MERINO EWE OR WETHER FLEECE IN THE SPINNERS TYPE WOOL OPEN CLASSES. Winner 59 MARY GOODWIN CLASS: 595 - Skirted Fleece, Fine Merino, ewe or wether. 1 61 MARY GOODWIN 60 MARY GOODWIN 2 CHAMPION COMMERCIALLY GROWN MERINO FLEECE IN THE SPINNERS TYPE WOOL SECTION Winner 61 MARY GOODWIN SHEEP FLEECE GRAND CHAMPION GRAND CHAMPION MERINO FLEECE, for the best Merino Fleece in the Show excluding Classes 573 to 576, 601 and 628 to 644. Winner 59 MARY GOODWIN
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Working towards Hawkweed eradication Last week, Snowy Monaro Regional Council hosted a community season update on the progress of combined Hawkweed Eradication efforts in the region. Representatives from National Parks and Wildlife (NPWS), Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC), Local Land Services (LLS), Tate Animals, and Cropbusters came together to update and inform local landholders of new and exciting advances in weed detection and eradication. Attendees were treated to a packed schedule, featuring: •
a live Orange Hawkweed plant used as a close-up Hawkweed identification tutorial
•
results of predictive modelling to identify potential new sites
•
outcomes of intensive ground grid searches
•
summary of drone survey remote detection and machine learning analysis
•
meet, greet and demonstration of weed sniffing with Connor the weed detector dog and animal trainer Steve from Tate Animals
•
contractors Ryan and Michelle from Cropbusters in Cathcart demonstrated aerial spraying hard to reach weeds using their well-equipped drone spray unit
Hawkweed is highly invasive and grows in thick groupings of up to 3800 plants in one square metre. They pose a serious threat to biodiversity and agricultural productivity with the potential to invade landscapes across conservation areas, native grasslands and farmland. The plant can be found in bushland, in pastures, on roadsides and in gardens. Hawkweed is a serious weed in temperate and subalpine areas of the world. They spread quickly and: •
Damage conservation lands
•
Reduce agricultural productivity
•
Form dense mats and outcompete other species
•
Reduce native plant numbers
•
Reduce habitat for native animals
•
Send out runners to rapidly expand
It is critical that if you think you’ve found Orange Hawkweed on your property, or anywhere else, that you do not attempt to remove or control the outbreak yourself. Please contact Council or NSW DPI immediately for advice and assistance by calling: •
Council on 1300 345 345, 24/7 phoneline
•
NSW Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244
In areas as large and sparsely populated as the Snowy Monaro, we rely on community assistance to spot and report these emerging biosecurity threats. Council thanks our attendees, agency partners and everyone in across the region doing their part to keep our region and our state safe from Hawkweed.
The Berridale Agricultural Bureau Present
92
nd
MERINO EWE COMPETITION
67
MAY
2022 Contact:
See what the Monaro can produce.
Sarah Rogers 0447 098 429
AUTUMN EDITION 2022
21
Australian Fire Danger Rating System Update Signage Concept Approved Fire danger ratings are changing – and here’s your first glimpse of what they’ll look like. As part of a national project, led by the NSW RFS, the new Australian Fire Danger Rating System will be rolled out in September.
Livestock & Property Riverina Livestock Agents provide a range of livestock and property marketing services
Contact Aaron Mackay 0419 432 728 Justin Lewis 0400 309 448
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YOUR FARM
The new system has four levels led by science and community research – Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic. It’s designed to be more accurate and reliable, and simpler for the community to use.
new signs and a public education campaign. Over the next few months, we’ll be providing regular updates and opportunities to learn more about the new system.
The rollout will be supported by
Input needed for African Lovegrass research
Snowy Monaro landholders are being encouraged to have their say to help shape research into the potential biocontrol of African lovegrass.
Researchers from the NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) are working on a project – underpinning agricultural
productivity and biosecurity by weed biological control that will focus on 11 target weeds, including African lovegrass. Landholders are being called on to voice their opinions to help the NSW DPI better understand stakeholder attitudes and perceptions into the research of biocontrol methods to fight African lovegrass. The project is administered by the Department of Agriculture, Water, and the Environment and led by AgriFutures Australia. Biological control (also called ‘biocontrol’) of weeds uses natural agents (insects and plant diseasecausing microorganisms) to reduce the negative impact these plants cause to primary production, the environment and/or the community. Feedback can be contributed through a NSW DPI survey available on Snowy Monaro Regional Council’s website. Several steps are required when investigating potential biocontrol agents and it can take several years for an agent to be approved for release. Firstly, the plants proposed for biocontrol research must be endorsed through a national committee called
the Environment and Invasives Committee.
Then, before a potential biocontrol agent is approved for release it must be demonstrated it poses a very low (or negligible) risk to the environment. An extensive risk analysis is conducted to determine whether the proposed agent is specific to the target, and information is gathered from consultation with a wide range of stakeholders including technical and scientific experts and landholders and managers. To assist with the first step, this survey aims to understand the range of stakeholder attitudes towards African lovegrass and its potential nomination as a suitable candidate for biocontrol research. “We need your input to understand views and perceptions of both the negative and positive impacts of the plant in relation to economic, environmental, or other aspects,” a NSW DPI spokesperson said. “This survey is extensive and contains many questions that are mostly based on preliminary work conducted in 2020 that explored the views and attitudes surrounding this issue in a small sample of stakeholders.”
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Students across regional NSW are putting safety first, as a free quad bike safety program kicks off across the state for kids aged 16 years and older. As part of Youth Week, SafeWork NSW has partnered with Tocal College to deliver over 400 free training events for quad bikes and side-by-side vehicles in regional and remote NSW schools. Minister for Fair Trading Eleni Petinos said the program will provide practical skills for young people operating high-risk vehicles on farms and at work. “These types of vehicles can be dangerous, and that is why this Youth Week we are encouraging young people to take part in this free training. Students and their teachers will be taught how to safely use and maintain quad bikes and side-by-side vehicles,” Ms Petinos said. “Tragically, since 2011 there have been 168 quad bike deaths in the country, 43 of those
in New South Wales. Fifteen percent of fatalities are children under the age of 16. “Safety is my first priority, so we must ensure students using these vehicles are protected and are learning the best safety practices. “I encourage all eligible students and teachers to take part in this free one-day course. While quad bikes are great farming vehicles, they are also the biggest killer on Australian farms and must be operated with care.”
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If we don’t have it, we will do our best to get it in!
BULK�BUY! Mobile�EFTPOS� available
ROSEMEATH�RD,� BOMBALA,�NSW�2632 0427�584�564
High performance herd completely free of north American blood Graded and priced to suit all budgets, No supplementary feeding Fully vaccinated with Vibrovax, Pestigard and 7in1 www.spartaangusstud.com or find us on Facebook
LE W A S 2 NO LE 2 S B 20 LL ILA BU VA A
Call Stephen: (02) 64586632 or Lionel: 0429077379
AUTUMN EDITION 2022
23
FOR ALL YOUR AERIAL NEEDS