Ruralweekly
MARCH 2017 EDITION NO.7
Roma Saleyards continue to evolve FULL STORY PAGE 6
2 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Roma’s First Texas Longhorn Sale
welcome Welcome to the first edition of Grazier and Farmer for 2017. This issue focuses on the diversification of agriculture. From blueberries to Texas Longhorns, mini-goats to cotton, we look at the creative foundation producers utilise to make the best out of their land. The recent heat wave impacted crops but some plants can turn that around. Grapes and blueberries may have lost some leaves from the heat but their crops still did well. Queensland also welcomed its first Texas Longhorn sale in Roma in February. While not really for commercial use, the sale attracted a large contingent of buyers from as far south as Tasmania and as far north as Charters Towers. They are looking for a novelty factor in their beasts with good colour and big horns. Dynamism is a key element to living in Southwest Queensland and many sheep producers can attest to that. Cluster fencing is continuing to ramp up with 15 new clusters set to be created this year. I hope you enjoy reading this edition of Grazier and Farmer. It may serve simple as some food for thought or as some inspiration to value-add or recreate your own agribusiness.
TEXAS Longhorns have a legendary status in old-school Western movies and books. Now in Australia this famed cattle breed is becoming a reality. Roma Saleyards hosted the first ever Texas Longhorn cattle sale in February. A consignment of 48 head was offered and 41 of the legendary breed sold to buyers from as far north as Charters Towers and as far south as Tasmania. Prices topped at $8000 for a heifer. A bull sold for $3500 and a cow and calf reached $3100. The average price for the sale came to $2318 a head. Vendors from Tambo approached Landmark to conduct the sale at Roma because of its excellent sale facilities. Texas Longhorns breeder Gordon Davidson of Tambo says there will now be an annual sale in Roma. “We are rapt with the support we got,” Mr Davidson said. “Prices were up and down but cattle of all grades were on offer to meet a wide variety of buyers. We use Roma because of the excellent facilities they provide us including wider ramps for wide-horned cattle.” Mr Davidson said, jokingly, that the breed could be used to help knock mulga down but that the real purpose behind breeding and selling Texas Longhorns is to have trophy
SALE FIRST: Texas Longhorn at the Roma Sale
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED:
bullocks. “Texas Longhorns survive in all conditions,” Mr Davidson said. “They thrive in Mexico and don’t just rely on just grass, they rely on trees too.” Mr Davidson said he does not expect the Texas Longhorns
to compete with Brahmans or Santa Gertrudis as far as growing beef for the plate. “It will be an annual sale and is only a niche market.” Buyers of Texas Longhorns look at the novelty factors – wide horns and colour.
GENERAL MANAGER Erika Brayshaw Email: Erika.brayshaw@chinchillanews.com.au
DISCLAIMER: The information contained within Grazier and Farmer is given in good faith and obtained from sources believed to be accurate. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. The Western Star will not be liable for any opinion or advice contained herein.
contact us EDITOR Martin Volz Phone: 07 4672 9927 Email: editorial@westernstarnews.com ADVERTISING Greg Latta, Tori Johnson, Stacey Hewlings, Western Star Phone 07 4672 9927 Email greg.latta@westernstarnews.com
All material published in Grazier and Farmer is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission for the publisher.
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
GRAZIER & FARMER 3
How to care for your new blinds
Lately we’ve had a number of people ask us how best to clean and maintain their blinds
6547810aa
So, to help, here are some tips on semi-regular cleaning that will help you prolong the life and look of your new blinds. For hard plastic blinds, regular dusting with a static dust glove or soft clean cloth is recommended – excluding real wood blinds. A citrus based or non-ammonia based cleaner diluted with water can also be used. For vinyl blinds, such as rollers or roman blinds, alternative cleaning methods are needed to preserve the quality of the material. You can remove simple excess dirt by using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, or a microfiber cloth. For a more thorough clean for stains, use a sponge dipped in a solution of weak diluted soap or dishwashing detergent and water. Ensure that the sponge is well-wrung before applying to your blinds. Lightly wipe the affected areas and immediately follow with a towel to soak up excess moisture – continue until the stain is removed. Once the stain is removed, allow your blinds to air dry. Over time blinds may show signs of fading from sun exposure. Many ranges of Andersens blinds have a block out coating to help protect them from premature fading. Particular vertical and roller blinds also have anti-fade pigments that ensure no colour change. For any questions on how to care for and maintain your blinds, or help on choosing the right blinds for your home, come and have a chat to us in our showroom in McDowall St.
pinto ns e St se
COME SEE OUR GREAT R ANGE OF BLIN DS!
r e nd
A
For a free measure & quote call 4622 5629 or visit 113 McDowall Street, Roma CARPET • TIMBER • VINYL • TILES • RUGS • SHUTTERS • BLINDS • AWNINGS
4 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Wool enthusiasts Prize money up for grabs for all young sheep and wool enthusiasts LEADING Sheep is calling out to all young sheep and wool enthusiasts to help share their creative solutions to challenges within the industry. Charleville Department of Agriculture and Fisheries senior extension officer Nicole Sallur says the competition, called the Sheep and Wool Challenge, is not limited to just dealing with the major problems plaguing the sheep and wool industry. “It could be as small as finding a cheap and easy way to feed out supplements in the paddock,” Mrs Sallur said. “It could be stopping a wild dog going through a grid opening on a fence.” Entries to the competition involve making a YouTube video of the problem and the solution. The video, which can be a maximum two minutes long, will be judge by a panel. “It will be judged in terms of positive message, how innovative the idea is and its relevance to the sheep and wool industry,” Mrs Sallur said. Winners of the competition may be provided
with an opportunity to collaborate with companies for “potential commercial release” of their invention. Prize money totalling $10,000 is also up for grabs. For entrants in the over 18 years old category, prize winners receive $5000, second place $3000. In the secondary school
category, earnings totaling $1000 and $500 are split between the school and entrant. A choice award will also be presented, prize money totalling $500. Leading Sheep says the aim of the Sheep and Wool Challenge is to provide a platform for younger people involved in the industry to get their “ideas out and
about.” Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Bill Byrne says: “Young people are the future of the industry, and their ideas are what will continue to build sheep and wool enterprises in Queensland.” Entries are open until July 31.
❝
“Young people are the future of the industry, and their ideas are what will continue to build sheep and wool enterprises in Queensland.” — Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Bill
The Local you can trust
6551645aa
Byrne
We offer • Road worthy certificates • Service & repairs to air conditioners • Wheel alignments
• Diagnostics Scan Tool • Competitive Rates • Courtesy cars available • Experienced workmanship • Local family business
Nicholas and Rochelle Ferguson Office 4625 5654 • Mob 0438 190 330 138 Arthur Street, St George
ABOUT US Balonne Airwork is a pilot owned and operated aerial agricultural services business, with a strong reputation for delivering market leading services to large corporate, through to smaller family run farming enterprises. With a head office in St George and additional bases throughout south-west Queensland, we are able to offer highly mobile and versatile aerial services to our clients throughout south-west Queensland and beyond. We work hands on with our clients and their agronomists, providing crop spray programs and extensive application reporting for aerial services, including;
SPRAYING
AERIAL SEEDING
LOCUST CONTROL
FERTILISING
PASTURE REGENERATION
SPREADING
“Jason and Samantha would like to say a huge thank you for the support that Balonne Airwork has received over the past 10 years”
• Moolabah Airstrip, 290124 Moonie Highway, St George Qld 4487 • PO Box 114, St George Qld 4487 • 07 4625 1660 • 07 4625 1662 0429 892 538 (Jason) • 0428 887 100 (Samantha) • jason@balonneairwork.com • facebook.com/Balonne-Airwork www.balonneairwork.com
6551655aa
• Log book services and repairs on all vehicles
GRAZIER & FARMER 5
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
User-friendly wire Tougher and stronger in the face of pests
CLUSTER fencing continues to provide graziers with an opportunity to restock sheep with a more limited wild dog threat and Charleville’s Western Rural is providing fencers with more options. Australian owned and made in Sydney, GalMax ProTough wire is a cluster fencing dream. Western Rural manager Josh Griffiths said the wire was developed to stand tall and tough in the face of pests. “It is the strongest we believe because the top and bottom lines are 3mm tensile,” Mr Griffiths said. “The vertical picket wires are 2.6mm and horizontal are 2.6mm.” The wire has been designed to not only to help keep wild dogs out but to also act as a safeguard against the threat of kangaroos. Anyone who fences knows the difficultly that comes with making sure the strain is just right to keep livestock in and pests out. GalMax ProTough write has been specially created with a 90 degree angle finish to make fencing a graziers dream. “The 90 degree angle finish make it easier to tie the bottom line off as compared to an apron wire,” Mr Griffiths said. The the wire has gained interest among graziers in the last month. “Most graziers like the product because of the heavier wires,” Mr Griffiths said. “A lot of customers also prefer Australian made.” The interest is there to buy this wire.” The Longreach Shire Council has taken Western Rural up on their lead of stronger, more user-friendly wire by buying the product to help keep feral animals out of the town.”
NEXT LEVEL: Western Rurals Joe Tully and Josh Griffiths stand next to the tall GalMax ProTough wire.
PHOTO:CONTRIBUTED
For All Your Building Needs...
• New Homes • Renovations • Extensions
• Commercial & Industrial • Sheds
Mitchell QlD 4465 | info@serenitysheds.com.au 0427 969 426 | www.serenitysheds.com.au
• Garages • Garaports • Rural Sheds • Barn Sheds • Industrial Sheds • Skillion Sheds
• Site specific engineering • Member of a large national buying group • Class leading software • Manufactured from high quality Australian steel
Your local supplier of Aus-Steel Sheds
4622 4890 | 0429 660 897 | brett.cherry@bigpond.com QBCC Lic No: 1113651 6364757ab
• Gable Carports • Patios • Skillion Carports • Park Shelters • Stud Frames
• Standard or custom sheds • We offer everything from kit supplies to Council approval and erection • Total Peace of Mind
Call us today, we’ll help you design the right shed to suit your requirements
6551615aa
Taking care of you since 1998
6 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
OVERHEAD: The view of the Roma Saleyards from above.
PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED
Roma saleyards Heading for a bright future
For the last five decades, the Maranoa has watched the Roma Saleyards take its place as an iconic feature of Australian agriculture, and over this time the facility has adapted to the constantly evolving cattle industry. Since the official opening of the cattle selling facility in 1969 until now, the Roma saleyards has undergone a number of upgrades, with the latest being a three bay truck wash facility. In the first year of operation, 56,251 head of cattle moved through the yards, however in more recent years, the Roma Saleyards has seen over 400,000 head of cattle processed annually. In the yards there has been significant upgrades over the decades, with an increase in selling pens, cable yards and water yards, a second set of scales and an undercover weighbridge viewing platform. The Roma Saleyards has held the title of Australia’s largest cattle selling centre for many years, and in 2017 that title still remains, as the facility continues to be one of the jewels in the crown of the Maranoa. Now, Maranoa Regional Council is aiming to bring the Roma Saleyards into the 21st Century, through the construction of a new multi-purpose facility, ensuring it retains this title for many years to come. This improvement will support future growth and development
The current besser block building and donga amenities will be replaced by a multipurpose facility.
of the site as the industry progresses. The new facilities will provide a safe working environment for staff and contractors, whilst an interpretative centre will capitalise on the growing tourism market seeking to immerse themselves in an authentic outback experience at the Saleyards. Councillor Peter Flynn, Portfolio Chair for Roma Saleyards, said an important community consultation phase will take place soon. “Council is asking all residents to have their say on the plans for the proposed multi-purpose facility during the month long consultation period, with the upgrade set to secure our longstanding title as Australia’s largest cattle selling centre well into the future,” Cr Flynn said. “The Roma Saleyards is more than just a cattle selling centre, it’s a major part of our regional identity and we want the entire community’s involvement to ensure we achieve the best outcome – not just for the saleyards, but for the industry.” Council has applied for state and federal funding to support the implementation of this project. Community Consultation for the multipurpose facility will take place from Tuesday, April 4 until Wednesday, May 3. For more information about the consultation period, please contact Council on 1300 007 662.
❝
The upgrade are set to secure our longstanding title as Australia’s largest cattle selling centre well into the future — -Cr Flynn
Plans for the proposed multipurpose facility will be released in April.
GRAZIER & FARMER 7
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
The Pump House Chinchilla
For all your pumping and irrigation requirements
WATER supply is a crucial part of any successful grazier or grower’s rural infrastructure, which is why The Pump House Chinchilla has made itself the number one store for all your pumping and irrigation requirements. Stocking leading brands like Grundfos, Davey and Mono, The Pump House has an extensive range of pumps, pipes, tanks and irrigation equipment. The team of experienced and knowledgable staff at The Pump House have made it their mission to offer the latest trends in design, installation and service. As well as their retail branch, The Pump House Chinchilla store can offer the customer a turn key innovative solution to meet their budget and requirements. Store manager Nathan Smith said The Pump House was presented as a business worth considering for rural people in the Maranoa, Balonne and Murweh areas. “We do service and repairs and we’re a retail outlet for pumps, pipes, fittings and all kinds of irrigation equipment,” he said. “It’s a locally-owned, family-operated business and we’ve got 75 staff across four stores, who are all highly-qualified. “We can offer brands that nobody else can, at prices that are affordable for everyone.” Call The Pump House Chinchilla on 4662 7949.
ALL YOU NEED: The Pump House at Chinchilla has all your rural supply needs.
Save Money! Install a solar pumping system today. $5595
PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED.
Leaders in PUMPinG & irriGation
Call for a quote today.
6520102aa
Custom-made solar pumping solutions to suit your needs.
8 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
BRIGHT FUTURE: Cr Peter Alexander, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister James McGrath, Murweh Mayor Annie Liston and Murweh CEO Neil Polglase met at Morven regarding expansions to Oakey Beef Exports. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED.
New cattle yard on horizon A new cattle holding yard may be on the cards at Morven’s railway terminal
Mayor Annie Liston met with Oakey Beef Exports officials at Morven railyards. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED.
MUWERH Shire CEO Neil Polglase said the council has submitted an application to receive Federal Government funding from Building Better Regions to build the facility. “This will enable stock to be spelled prior to transportation only on rail,” Mr Polglase said. Morven was chosen for the site because of its cross-roads position for cattle moving from the west, north and south. “Cattle travelling from west of Quilpie will be trucked into Quilpie, placed on rail there and spelled in Morven,” Mr Polglase said. “North of Augathella cattle can be trucked to Morven before being transferred to Oakey.” At this point all cattle on the rail line will make their way to Oakey Beef Exports. “The cattle will be scaled and paid for from Morven,” Mr Polglase said. While the application to build the holding
yards is being assessed, Murweh Shire Council is looking to source land to put the yards on. For now, satisfying Oakey Beef Exports demand is a top priority. The facility will be owned and operated by the council and Mr Polglase said they will look at other “avenues” for cattle sales at a later date.
❝
The cattle will be scaled and paid for from Morven
— Muwerh Shire CEO Neil Polglase
GRAZIER & FARMER 9
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Fencing Contractor tackles wild dogs Sheep and cattle are starting to make their way back to Western Queensland and Cam said it was largely due to exclusion fencing. “Anyone who wants to stay in sheep, must fence for the dogs,” he said. It’s as simple as that. “The media have played an important role in highlighting the challenges people face with these wild dogs, by sharing stories about people who have been fencing off their own back to try and stay ahead of the problem.
“It is good to see recognition of just how widespread the wild dog problem is, and I’m glad to be part of the solution.”
INFORMATION ❚ For further information about JTL Rural Fencing visit www.jtlruralfencing.com.au or phone Cam on 0428 524073.
OUTBACK GLASS & ALUMINIUM Office: (07) 4622 2297 A/H: 0457 440 400
Installation of:
Shower Screens / Mirrors Windows Wardrobe Doors Fly Screens
Barrier Screens Reglazing
outbackglass.oga@bigpond.com
6551657aa
When JTL Rural Fencing owner Cam Pouliot worked in South West Queensland in the 1980s and 90s, wild dogs were evident
But since working in the region over the past two years has brought home how much the problem has increased. Cam has been fencing his whole working life in Queensland and Victoria, specialising in agricultural and wild dog fencing. He uses only the highest quality materials with modern machinery and equipment. “I’m happy to travel, and love getting out into Western Queensland where I lived and worked for many years,” he said.
10 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Accreditation necessary
IN TALKS: The Charleville Pest Management and Chemical Accreditation workshop conducted by AgForce.
PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED.
Wild dog ejectors up for sale across the country Martin Volz CHEMICAL accreditation certificates are now compulsory for graziers and farmers who want to step up their fight against wild dogs by using ejectors. AgForce Projects’ Damien Ferguson was in Charleville a couple weeks ago to demonstrate how to use the wild dog ejector. It may not be new technology, first trialled in Australia at Armidale some 60 years ago, but it has been kept off the market for farmer use for in Queensland until recently. The device is fitted with a bait head - a lure/bait of meats glued together. Once the wild dog toys with the device lure, a sweet paste (often strawberry jam mixed with 1080) is squirted into the back of the wild dogs’ mouth. “The wild dogs then lick the top of the ejector because it is sweet,” Mr Ferguson said. “The lure is key and you put the wild dog
M44 ejector ejector where you would normally set a trap.” The workshop, called Pest Management and Chemical Accreditation, is part of a series of 50 training seminars to be completed across the state. Attending the seminar provides graziers and farmers with certification to buy the 1080 capsules that need to be placed in the ejector. For now ejectors and 1080 capsules are available from Animal Control Technologies Australia. “Not many rural supply stores have it yet – they will stock more capsules as demand increases,” Mr Ferguson said. Get Trapped in Brisbane also supplies ejectors.
AgForces Damien Ferguson was on hand to train graziers and farmers in the use of wild dog ejectors.
earthmoving & civil constructions speciialists GRAVEL SUPPLY
BULK HAULAGE
MATERIAL SUPPLIES
Red ridge gravel White ridge gravel Decorative stone Road base
Crusher dust Flood rock Sand Loam
Andrew Stansbie 0447 004 020
EARTHMOVING
CIVIL CONSTRUCTION
SERVICES
Maintenance & Construction for Roads & Dams Culverts & Drainage Bulk Earthworks Trenching
EQUIPMENT Pier Holes Stick Raking & Seeding Gravel Pads & Yards Rural Maintenance Grading
www.dmacroma.com.au
Scrapers Dozers Excavators Graders
Skid Steers Screening & Crushing Body & Side Tippers Front End Loaders
Email Us admin@dmacroma.com.au
GRAZIER & FARMER 11
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Richard Lomman stands with his fast-growing plantation of blueberries. PHOTO:CONTRIBUTED
A northern blueberry bush is proving successful in St George.
PHOTOS :CONTRUBUTED
Blueberry Bonanza One St George grape grower has diversified his operation to include a more unique fruit Martin Volz WHILE it is still in a trial phase, Richard Lomman now focuses on growing blueberries. “I happened to know people who were growing blueberries,” Mr Lomman said on how the idea ever came up to trial the berry. Beneath a protective tunnel and in specialised pots, Mr Lomman planted 5000 blueberry bushes back in 2015. “We are part of the Murray-Darling Basin Diversification program and if we didn’t have that opportunity it would be a stumbling block,” Mr Lomman said. The 2016 harvest was “reasonable” and the
bushes are still growing to around 2 metres tall. “They are still small plants, the heat in December put the bushes into a vegetative mode of growing,” Mr Lomman said. “There was a bit of leaf burn and they shoot out from where the leaves burned.” The bushes at his farm are a northern variety which remains evergreen and able to handle hot climates. There have been challenges
❝
along the way. Blueberries love acidic soil and seeing that St George’s dirt is not quite the right fit, a more suitable variety is trucked in. Since the blueberry farm is still in a trial mode, berries are picked individually by hand to maintain quality. “We are a small operation and want to make sure they are ripe,” Mr Lomman said. The bushes continually crop for four to six months.
The future with blueberries is more positive than grapes at the moment
— Richard Lomman
“They just keep giving,” Mr Lomman said. Knowing when to pick can be a challenge. “Some bushes will be growing berries, some will be fruiting and some will be ready to pick.” From his farm gate berries make their way to St George, Roma, Goondiwindi and Brisbane. Mr Lomman’s focus is on providing local markets with fresh produce during winter – before larger operators’ fruit ripens in Spring. “It is exciting,” Mr Lomman said when asked about the future viability of his operation. He has cut grape production in half, from 30 acres to 15. “The future with blueberries is more positive than grapes at the moment.” At this St George farm, blueberries will be picked from June.
Bateman Shearing PTY LTD Affiliated with the Merriman Shearing School Training our Wool handlers and Shearers of tommorrow
Forbe Mobile: 0427 056 269
6551493aa
Family Owned
12 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Balonne Fencing Services
Quality, Efficiency and reliability PROVIDING quality, efficiency and reliability are key aspects of Balonne Fencing Services operation. Owned by Andrew and Cindy Doonan, they travel around the Balonne Shire and further afield to help graziers and farmers get their infrastructure on the right track. Operated since 2011, Balonne Fencing Services have travelled to Dirranbandi, Cunnamulla, Eulo, and Thallon. "We are doing lots of exclusion fencing because lots of people want to develop pastures and crops," Mrs Doonan says. Born and bred on the land, the couple say they love helping customers add value to their property and help decrease crop or livestock destruction or assist in drought-proofing an area. Balonne Fencing Services understand what the needs of
❝
We base ourselves on providing high quality work
— Cindy Doonan
property owners are and what they want to achieve. Aside from fencing for properties, the couple also operate on a commercial level, completing fencing projects with Balonne Shire Council and Ergon Energy. "We base ourselves on providing high quality work," Mrs Doonan says. Before a project beings, the Doonans’ provide customers with a consultation. It is a one-stop shop service where the fence is erected and the site is cleaned.
BALONNE Fencing Service equipment PHOTOS:CONTRIBUTED
ONE sTOp sHOp • • • •
CONSULTATION SUPPLY MATERIALS ERECT FENCE CLEAN SITE
QUALITY - EFFICIENCY - RELIABILITY
WE PERSONALLY COMMIT TO PROVIDING HIGH QUALITY WORK • Exclusion Fences • Rural stock fences • Electric fence
• Security / Commercial fences • Trenching & Post driving • Supplying quality materials
Andrew Doonan - 0418 152 776 • PO Box 117, St George Qld www.balonnefencingservices.com.au • E: admin@balonnefencing.com.au
6551618aa
OUR ExpERIENCE ExTENDs TO:
GRAZIER & FARMER 13
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Horse Enthusiasts: BLM have you covered
Nick Doulman, Kylie Hamilton, Kerry Sipple and Keith Richardson with the new BLM red cap for horses.
BUY T LOCAL BUY T NOW With a warehouse full of stock Banks Bolts have what you want when you want it
PHOTO:CONTRIBUTED
South West Qld’s Tool & Fastener specialist stocking an extensive range of... • Fasteners including bolts, screws, & rivets • Hand tools, tool kits & tool boxes • Power tools & air tools • Hose, tubing & fittings • Abrasives Mail order available! All stock freight free City pricing for Country folk!
P: 4622 4333 E: Darren@bbfqld.com.au Mitchell Road Roma
6551624aa
BEACHPORT Liquid Mineral have diversified their series of sea-mineral liquid supplements for livestock. A new release, dubbed Red Cap, is now available at Charleville’s Elders branch, offering horse enthusiasts an opportunity to look after their four-legged friends just as much as cattle or sheep. Red Cap has been designed to help hardworking horses recover and grow out from a young age. For manager Keith Richardson, choices do not just stop at mineral supplements. Mr Richardson says the Charleville branch is acting as an organiser for the control of brigalow country using Graslan. “If someone wants to do 1000 acres we can organise the treatment,” Mr Richardson said. “If people don’t use Graslan then they are blade plowing and pulling brigalow for the rest of their lives.” Elders will also be selling quantities of Graslan for farmers dealing with smaller Brigalow threats. Away from vaccines and pesticides, Mr Richardson says he is looking forward to a strong push of local AuctionsPlus sales. “The fact that we are in a position to make sales in the north, south, east and west directions offers people with a lot of access to different markets,” Mr Richardson said. “There is no freight, yard or due fees and the cattle are promoted from home.” In other news the Charleville branch welcomed its new territory sales manager, Nick Doulman on January 1.
14 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Alan Tite feeds mini-goats who love to do all kinds of tricks
PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED
Mini-Goats a hit at Museum AT Meadowbank Museum, near Roma, two studs co-exist in different proportions
One, Bunge Mini-Goat Stud will see kids hit the ground this April. The other, Meadowbank Shorthorns stud, showcases some of the biggest cattle to be grown on grassland pastures. Robyn Goldsmith looks after the mini-goats while her partner Alan Tite sees over the Shorthorns. “We have a camping area and campers like to play with the mini-goats,” Ms Goldsmith said. When asked how campers react to mini-goats Ms Goldsmith says they point their finger and say with surprise: “Look, mini-goats!” None of the mini-goats are higher than 63cm, making them safe for play with the
elderly and young tourists. “They don’t eat too much but they eat a handful of weeds,” Ms Goldsmith said. “At night they eat a handful of grain and a biscuit of hay – they are spoilt.” The goats learn tricks fast like jumping on your back and picking objects up. “I’d like to sell them to hobby farmers,” Ms Goldsmith said. “They are a good pet to mow
lawns and eat weeds.” A doe sells from $250-$1000, bucks start at $400 and a wether costs $150-$450. “They are gentle and loveable, easy to train.” The mini-goats require worming every six months. Ms Goldsmith says for now she is content to build up herd numbers. There is the possibility she will show them on the show circuit in coming years.
❝
They don’t eat too much but they eat a handful of weeds
— Robyn Goldsmith
Meadowbank Shorthorns at Roma THE stud has been focused on building a genetic base in cattle so that they run and fatten well on grass
Alan Tite with his stud cows. Shorthorns do well on dryland pastures, suitable for Southwest Queensland. PHOTOS:CONTRIBUTED
On the other end of the size spectrum, Meadowbank Shorthorns stud has been focused on building a genetic base in cattle so that they run and fatten well on grass. “We are concentrating on genetics that allow cattle to grow in dryland pastures,” Alan Tite said. “The focus is on breeding British breeds that do well and fatten well in this environment.” When asked why he chose to make a stud based on a British breed Mr Tite says it boiled down to Shorthorns’ advantages: fertility and
TOUGH JOB? ROUGH ROAD? NO PROBLEM.
SXS1000 2017 PIONEER
YXE700 WOLVERINE
4622 5710 | www.dnrmotorcycles.com.au | bikesales@dandrmotorcycles.com.au
mothering ability. The commercial aspect of the cattle operation sees steers sold through Roma Saleyads to feedlots while stud cattle are sold privately around the
Meadowbank cattle.
Roma area. “We build rapport with breeders,” Mr Tite said. “Most bulls go to cross-breeding enterprises and it is good to follow through how the bull do
in the paddock with clients.” Mr Tite looks at the specifics like how the bull manages his workload with cows and how he holds up in dry conditions. Mr Tite says good temperament is a priority, if any of his stud stock show the opposite he does not sell them. “Colour is also important. A mob or roan Shorthorns leads to meat which is quality and tender.”
GRAZIER & FARMER 15
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Charleville’s Oasis of Dates BEYOND the mulga and gum trees that circle Charleville, a date plantation grows. Outback Date Farm’s caretaker, Buck Rodgers, keeps busy pruning, spraying and mulching the 150 trees - 110 females and 40 males. Mr Rodgers said he had always enjoyed horticulture and working with dates had provided him with some new ag techniques. “It is a juggling situation when the male and female flowers pollinate,” Mr Rodgers said. Pollination, which takes place in August, is best completed through human intervention. Talcum powder is mixed with male pollen, placed in a cylindrical aluminium device, and with a big breath, blown over the female flowers. The female tree will then grow 10 bunches of dates, weighing 10kg each. The oldest trees were planted three years ago by
plantation owner and Lutheran pastor Mark Hampel. Mr Hampel, who will be travelling throughout South-West Queensland serving church-goers, first came across a date farm while working at an Alice Springs school. After 10 years of learning about dates Mr Hampel started his own plantation of thirty trees in Rosewood. “There were a lot of offshoots from the dates and I was looking for a place to grow them in Western Queensland,” Mr Hampel said. He found Charleville, where the climate is suitable for the trees to grow and has a history of the fruit. “You can see massive 100-year-old dates in Charleville scattered here and there,” Mr Hampel said. The Murweh Shire Council rezoned 15 hectares of public land for the Outback Date Farm to buy and install a recyclable sewerage system to irrigate the dates. Murweh
KUBOTA TRACTOR M7040SUHD 70hp Diesel Engine | Hydraulic Shuttle Shift Transmission | Rops With Sun Canopy | Self Level Loader With 3rd Funtion Valve | Gp Bucket | Worklight
KUBOTA DIESEL ENGINE RK60 6.0hp Horizontal Diesel | Water Cooled | 65kg Weight | Optional Electrical Start | Available up to
Outback Date Farm caretaker Buck Rodgers examines ripening dates.
Shire Director of Environmental and Health Services Richard Ranson oversees the sewerage recycling system. “We are utilizing a resource that is otherwise wasted and discharged onto land,” Mr Ranson said. The date plantation is expected to yield its first crop next year and will also be open for tours. Locals and tourists alike will be the first to eat the fruit as it becomes available and the farm will be open for tours. Away from Charleville, the dates will be sold at green grocers, markets and Middle Eastern stores around Australia. Mr Hampel said the Outback Date Farm will also market its produce internationally during the Northern Hemisphere winter. At capacity, the plantation will consist of 800 trees.
KUBOTA TRACTOR BX 25 23hp Diesel Engine | Hydrostatic 2 Range transmission | R.O.P.S Frame | 60” Cutting Deck Backhoe – with 12” & 8” Buckets Front loader with 4 in 1 bucket 3 Point Linkage | Rear PTO
KUBOTA RTV X900W
ydrostatic Transmission | R.O.P.S R O P S Frame 22hp Diesel Engine | Variable Hydrostatic | Tow Bar, Front Bar & Sun Canopy | Payload 755kg Towing 590 kg | Hydraulic Lift Tray
www.blacktrucksales.com.au
16 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Scott Brimblecombe of ‘Ashwood Farms’ at St George is the first local grower to pick cotton and is much relieved after a tough season. He thinks early season sucking insects impacted fruit retention and the extreme heat has probably reduced boll size. He estimates the initial yields for what is otherwise excellent cotton in the 11 to 12 bales/ha range but will be subject to gin turn-out.
Cotton picking in St George PICKING has started on St George’s cotton crops. Growers have experienced the full range of Queensland’s weather; great early season rains filling dams; plagues of sucking insect pests; extreme heat stress. “There won’t be record breaking yields like the past couple of years given early insect pressure and heat stress,” Cotton Growers Services (CGS) St George manager Greg Mills said. “There has been wide use of a new generation insecticide, Transform, to manage
green mirids.” Transform is soft on beneficial insects, only targeting sucking insect pests brought on by winter and spring rains. The summer heat wave also challenged cotton growers, who have been growing the new Bollgard 3 varieties of cotton. “It was a cool start to summer but farmers then got hammered by temperature,” Mr Mills said. “Water demand was exceptional. The positive part is that most growers managed water well. There have been some good yields but some farmers might be looking
at 10 bolls to 15 bolls a hectare.” Most growers have used 100 % of their summer water allocation and delved into their carryover supplies. Beardmore Dam is now empty and growers are looking for another wet winter to replenish stocks. An increasing use of digital mapping software is aiding cotton farmers in shaping how individual areas of their fields are performing and how they handle the crop nutrition, irrigation and even the use of plant growth regulators. Known as Normalised Difference Vegetation
Index (NDVI), the software allows farmers to monitor where irrigation water is pooling or falling short of crop requirements. Cotton growers can then make informed decisions about the need for corrective landforming and fertiliser application rates from the continuous cycle of maps NDVI generates during a crop season. Mr Mills said the software also allowed growers to examine other factors. “NDVI has a broad application, we can also examine field performance in relation to hail, nutrition and insect damage and crop yields.”
w
TAYLOR’S MECHANICAL SERVICE
Excavator & Grader Hire Locally owned and operated earthmoving services
Phone: 4622 2349 ROMA & SURROUNDING AREAS
92-94 t S r e c n Spe Roma Phone: 07 4622 2521
6551666aa
0428 336 190
6551663aa
• Excavator • Dam Building & Cleaning • Grader • Firebreaks • Stick Raking • Loader • Bobcat • Road Construction & Maintenance • 25,000 Litre Water Truck • Gravel Pads • Quad Axel Float • Gravel Supplies • General Hire • Semi & Road Train Side Tippers
✔ RACQ Approved Automotive Repairer ✔ RACQ Approved Auto Glass Repairs and Replacements ✔ General Servicing ✔ Towing 24/7 ✔ Washdowns ✔ Batteries ✔ General Servicing & Repairs
GRAZIER & FARMER 17
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Riversands Wines Tourists enjoy range of St George wines Martin Volz
RIVERSANDS Wines is looking forward to welcoming a large contingent of tourists this winter as retirees travel through St George. Owner David Blacket said most tourists that come to St George are surprised to learn that grapes are grown and wine is made in Southwest Queensland. One of the major attractions – a joint cotton/vineyard tour that gives passerbys some true insight into how agriculture works in the St George area. “Tourists get up close and personal with farmers,” Mr Blacket said. “They see innovative cotton farmers and try our wines.” Wine grape harvest has just finished up at Riversands Wines. The vineyard of 50 acres is a mixture of table and wine varieties. After a successful table grape harvest that saw prices average at $50 a box, the wine grape season was challenged by heat stress. “Most grapes got through virtue of canopy and vine protection,” Mr Blacket said. “If the temperature goes above 42 degrees, we can get sunburnt grapes.” Riversands will bottle 4000 cartons of wine this year, made up of 50 tons of grapes. The remainder of the wine grape harvest will be sold off to other wineries. “There were delays harvesting because of the ripening process. They are late because of the cool and cold spring. That slowed growth down.”
Wine grape picking crew celebrate putting Chardonnay 2017 in the bin.
Gail Fry with a bunch of midnight beauty table grapes
Kelly Carson working hard in the shed.
FERG & SONS SHEARING CONTRACTORS “NO Job TOO small NO Job TOO BIG!!”
3 Generations of Contractors 6551578aa
David Blacket with Menindee seedless grapes. The variety yielded over 2 boxes/vine this year
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED:
Contact: Colin Ferguson Mobile: 0427 278 265 • Home: (07) 4626 5278
18 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Karen and Bill McLennan checking on their olive grove at Sommariva.
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED:
Pulp: Cattle protein feed Making the most of what is in front of them Martin Volz WITH a mixed cattle/olive operation east of Charleville, Karen and Bill McLennan focus on making the most of what is in front of them. This April the McLennan’s will crush produce from their 2000 olive trees. The end products – an assortment of jarred olives, olive oil and skin lotions – leave a lot of leftover pulp. Noticing this, the McLennans’ decided to feed the pulp to their livestock. “We just knew it contained protein and they liked it,” Mrs McLennan said. During crush season, which is every second year, 2000 head of cattle on Sommariva cannot get enough of leftover olive pulp. “They eat as much as we can put out,” Mrs McLennan said. Pulp is loaded into tubs on the
Production in full swing at Sommariva Olives
back of a truck, mixed with salt and tipped into troughs around the property. “Within 24 hours it is gone,” Mrs McLennan said. To make olive pulp even more of an all-round feed for livestock, the McLennans have been trialling an olive pulp-based lick block complete with mineral supplements vital to cattle. They bought a lick block press and prepared their first blocks last crush season. “We were using molasses and that did not allow the block to
❝
The pulp can be turned into fire bricks, fertiliser or paper too
— Karen McLennan
set,” Mrs McLennan said. “The cattle still loved it.” This crush season the McLennans will make lick blocks again, using drier ingredients like powdered molasses to help the high-protein feed set accurately. When asked how it feels to make use of matter that would otherwise be discarded, Mrs McLennan said “it feels pretty good.” While the pair are focused on olive production and using the leftovers as a direct cattle feed, it turns out there are other options. “The pulp can be turned into fire bricks, fertiliser or paper too,” Mrs McLennan said. For now Sommariva Olives is focused on supplementing feed to their livestock and making high-quality olive products.
GRAZIER & FARMER 19
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Andrew Kelly, Executive Director and Co-Founder, Bio Pacific Partners (NZ), who spoke at 400M in 2016. PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
New ideas Investors explore 12 new ideas at Toowoomba for FLA's AgTech Investment Forum
Deb's Cafe 18 Main Street BOLLON Q 4488 PH: (07) 4625 6118
Opening Hours: MON-Sat: 7aM-8PM SuN: 8aM-7PM
Lyons said. Investors are looking to AgTech as a growing sector over the next decade, with AgFund’s 2016 report highlighting $3.23billion of venture investment globally. “At 400M you may see a pitch from the next Uber in livestock logistics, the next payWave for harvest contractors or perhaps an Airbnb for agistment.” “There’s a small but growing community in AgTech investment in Australia as well as growing interest from overseas investors." We’ve got some great agtech capability in this region, with AgDNA, AgDATA, Farmscan Ag, TTQ, CSIRO, and of course the University of
Southern Queensland’s Institute for Agriculture and the Environment. FKG’s Pulse Data centre is also going to be a key piece of infrastructure for the region going forward.” The event will be held on May 18 at the Armitage Centre, Empire Theatre. ABC Landline presenter Pip Courtney will be the conference MC. 400M event sponsors include NAB, BlueSky and FKG.
Ann LEAHY MP
MEMBER FOR WARREGO
Supporting agricultural profitability 6551684aa
What does 400M actually mean? In truth, all good innovation is about solving a problem, and at 400M, we explore how we can best utilize the finite resource of 400 million hectares of arable land. The program is not just about the pitches, but also the success stories of leaders in the industry. Food Leaders Australia CEO Ben Lyons said after the success of last year’s event, the 2017 offering would highlight projects seeking to commercialise and seek investors. “The idea is to get this type of initiative and conversations going across the country to increase productivity across Australia,” Dr
6551686aa
INVESTORS, potential in the agricultural technology and innovation space at the upcoming 400M AgTech Investment forum in Toowoomba. There are 12 ideas ready for investment, with pitches covering livestock, horticulture, broadacre farming, supply-chain and more at the event. 400M is an event to inspire the wider region, and companies within it, to think differently, expand on an idea, and explore commercial potential. FLA is ensuring one of Australia's largest agricultural regions is on the front foot of this AgTech wave.
Ros Harvey from The Yield
20 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Clusters are a team effort NEW cluster fences are being added onto the existing seven in Southwest Queensland.
Bollon CAM and Bollon South clusters getting together for a workshop on fence and wild dog management. PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Southwest Natural Resources and Management (SWNRM) project manager Jon Grant says 1900km of fencing is in the process of being put up which will result in a total 1.9 million hectares being protected against wild dogs in Murweh, Paroo, Maranoa, Balonne and Quilpie shires. “The new clusters will be leveraged off the existing seven clusters, providing significant cost efficiencies,” Mr Grant said. For graziers who join a cluster, the work does not stop at simply putting a fence up. SWNRM approves cluster members after determining the economic impacts and potential to the grazier’s operation. “We also look at their existing pest management work effort and have they worked together with other graziers,” Mr Grant said. “We ask how would this grazier be a team player in the process of maintaining the fence.” Once a group of graziers form a cluster they need to create a pest control plan to meet their needs, the clusters needs and SWNRM standards. That way taxpayers, who fund $2500 of fencing a kilometre, “get the best return possible” in the form of increased productivity and thriving outback communities. Mr Grant says existing clusters have seen a great turnaround in breeding with some graziers lambing rates rising from 17% to 100%. In some cases there is a 200-300%
Coban clusters fence near Cunnamulla. increase in profit gross margins. Paddocks are also getting better ground cover because livestock are not being pushed away by wild dogs into stressed grazing patterns. “There is better ground cover and better weight gain because of less-restricted grazing,” Mr Grant said. Maintaining positive growth in terms of livestock numbers and profits is not a one-man job. “If the person next door doesn’t work together to achieve the goal, wild dog numbers will continue to grow,” Mr Grant said. Applications for a new round of cluster fencing funding totalling $2 million from Queensland Feral Pest Initiative, is available at SWNRM, closing April 21.
Balonne Veterinary Service Dr Tamaryn Grimmer B.V.Sc (Hons) Veterinary Surgeon
Servicing Balonne & Paroo Shires www.stgeorgevet.com.au
PO Box 600 12027 Carnarvon Hwy St George 4487
Phone: (07) 4625 5929 Fax: (07) 4625 5095 vets@stgeorgevet.com.au
4625 5929
Local Reliable Skilled New Residential Buildings Renovations & Extensions Re-Modelling Steel Work Commercial Buildings Sheds & Carports Concreting
0428 225 099
dan@murraybuildersroma.com.au
QBCC: 1216708
GRAZIER & FARMER 21
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Maddix Lovett and Coben Ayers attended the Texas Longhorn sale. PHOTOS:CONTRIBUTED
The Longhorns arrive! QUEENSLAND’S first ever Texas Longhorn sale ‘Trails West’, came to Roma sale yards on Saturday February 25, drawing buyers and visitors from all over Australia. People lined the catwalks and lanes throughout the morning, all wanting a glimpse of the iconic cattle breed,
before filling the bull ring to watch the sales. Councillor Peter Flynn, Portfolio Chair for the Roma Saleyards, said it was great to see visitors join the special tour, and general feedback from vendors, buyers and sale attendees was positive.
The White family were very happy following their purchase of a Texas Longhorn.
Michael Bethel of Horseshoe B Longhorns giving one of his heifers a scratch.
Lachlan, Tessa, Lexis and Ruby loved checking out the Longhorns, especially the calves.
Roma locals headed out to the Roma Saleyards for the Texas Longhorn sale.
The Lamb family of Banana travelled to Roma for the sale.
John and Megan Hoare of Gunns Plains, Tasmania made the big trip to Roma for the Texas Longhorn Sale. :
Volunteer tour leader James Stinson with grandson Angus.
No Bills before Bales Campaign 2017
Landmark Quilpie is offering you a delayed billing arrangement on sheep and shearing expenses for wool clips consigned to Landmark Quilpie for the 2017 wool season. This offers key features are:
No Chemical Bills* No Shearing Supplies Bills* No Freight Bills* No Bills to Pay before your first bale sells or 3 months*
Contact Landmark Quilpie on 4656 1516 for more information *terms & conditions apply
:
KHB Construction are now operating in Mobile Ready Mix Plant for your Concreting needs. Its structure is highly compact. Servicing all areas including remote locations, for small to large projects. Qualified trades persons available to lay the concrete if needed. Please contact us on 0427134041 or email bully@khbconstruction.com.au for your free no obligation quote today! BSA:1208771
22 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Excel for livestock keeps the head clear GRAZIERS got together at Charleville’s Racecourse complex to learn the ins and outs of Excel last week. Run by Pastoral Profit, the seminar covered how to use Excel methodology and systems for agri-businesses. Topics involved how to incorporate livestock numbers, revenue and expenditure, linking separate spreadsheets, categorizing different types of stock onto a spreadsheet. The spreadsheets aid farmers and graziers in making decisions about livestock, where they are making money and how it is being spent. After learning the Excel methodology participants turned the figures into a variety of pie and column charts. Invoicing other businesses was also covered in the session.
Excel trainer Simone Parker with Stephanie Parker and Angie Bowden . PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Zach Duff, Renee McKee, Paul Everingham and Denielle Simms of Tanbar Station, Windorah flew into Charleville for the seminar.
Heather Turnbull, Nicole Green and Andy Phillips learned about how to integrate livestock numbers into excel documents.
Danielle Holz and Charlotte Campbell, Augathella, plan to use Excel to keep track of their cattle numbers.
Marianne Wilson and Margaret Vetter enjoyed learning new tricks of the Excel trade.
GRAZIER & FARMER 23
Tuesday, March 28, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Australian All Energy Solutions Are you horrified about YOUR power costs? Do you want to significantly reduce your bill? Chat to AAES to discuss your options TODAY! COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC SOLAR SYTEMS | HYBRID SYSTEMS
OFF GRID SYTEMS | SWER LINE SYSTEMS | SOLAR PUMPING
Call 0414 636 099 and book your appointment with Paul
1300 137 227 www.aaes.com.au Mike King Electrical | Electrical Contractor No. 73599
ORDER TODAY TO BEAT THE END OF FINANCIAL YEAR RUSH BLACK TOYOTA now taking pre-orders
s r e c u d o r p y ar
im r p r o f s l a s e r d e b g m in e z a m m e A rc o F g and A
THE FAMILY VEHICLE FOR THE FARM
2016 Prado GXL
$62,990 Driveaway
2.8L 4 Cylinder Turbo Diesel, 6 Speed Auto Sat Nav, 3 Zone Climate, Reverse Camera
BLACK TOYOTA
Committed to the Future
DALBY | OAKEY | CHINCHILLA | ROMA | WARWICK 1800 MY TOYOTA (1800 698 696) blacktoyota.com.au
6530503aa
on the all new Landcruiser Ute