Farm Talk April

SOUTHERN RIVERINA & MID MURRAY MONTHLY RURAL MAGAZINE

APRIL 2020

Breeders share sheep honours PAGE 13

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Stimulus in a pandemic

By ROB BROWN

PUBLISHED BY DENILIQUIN PASTORAL TIMES 230 Cressy Street, Deniliquin NSW 2710 Phone (03) 5881 2322

Advertising Leesa Muir

Sarah Bain Kylie Davis

Production Ged Munro

Editorial Zoe McMaugh Daniel Hughes Olivia Duffey

Front Cover Hay War Memorial High School students Demi Ellis and Georgia Booth with some of the school’s best performing sheep at the Deniliquin Show.

Results from the 140th annual event are on pages 13 to 15.

May 2020 issue To be published May 4, 2020.

Advertising booking deadline April 17, 2020.

Contact your local advertising representative: Deniliquin Leesa Muir (03) 5881 2322 leesa.muir@denipt.com.au Finley Sarah Bain (03) 5883 1033 sarah.bain@ southernriverinanews.com.au

Information contained in this magazine is presented only after being carefully researched.

However, there are differences in state and regional regulations and conditions. Farmers are asked to check their own advisors. FARMtalk can assume no responsibility for the contents.

With so many government programs already in train and changing, and new ones about to start, there’s a bigger risk than normal that people will miss out. And right now, any money spent in the region is good for us all.

The first step is the most important: find someone who can help narrow down what you are likely to be eligible for and work out how best to apply correctly without adding to the chaos.

This might be advisers, rural counsellors, or even a friend who is a great info hunter — providing they know to check with people who know the detail.

If you want to hunt online, the most detailed information seems to be treasury.gov.au, or search COVID in Centrelink.

The list below is a brief summary of what might be relevant to you or your family or friends. ● Employees or sole traders earnings affected: If your income falls 20 per cent or more compared to January 1 earnings. Ring the CL hotline to see if you are eligible for Jobseeker allowance – about $15,000pa for a single and $26,000pa for a couple, and an extra $550/fortnight from April 27 for up to six months. From what I can understand, these are not asset tested and have less restrictions, but are income tested. ● Employers including business owners who are employed by their businesses: At least $10,000 before June and $10,000 after June, or up to $50,000 before and after June based on your employee PAYG payments January to June 2020. It’s vital to talk to your accountant about how the rules work for you. ● Employers of Trainees or Apprentices: If your business has less than 20 full-time equivalents, the Federal Government will reimburse half of apprentices’ wages for nine months from January 1.

The cap is $21,000 per apprentice. ● People entitled to $750 government payment: This is paid people on certain programs at two dates — March 14 (paid March 31) and July 13. The programs are – Age Pensoin, DVA, disability pen-

Page 2 — ’Farm Talk’, April 2020

sion, carer payment and allowance, Youth Allowance, Austudy, New Start, Job seeker, parenting payment or partner allowance, and pension concession card, Commonwealth Seniors card and Veterans Gold Card. So it makes sense to check to see if you are eligible. ● People entitled to an extra $550 per fortnight COVID-19 Supplement: This starts from April 27 for people receiving Jobseeker, Youth Allowance, parenting payment, Farm Household Allowance and special payments. ● Parents with dependent children: If your income has dropped for whatever reasons, check if you’re getting the full benefits — part A, B or parenting payment, or Youth Allowance if your children are 16 or over. If you were receiving benefits on March 12, you should be getting the March and July $750 payments. And if you are eligible for the parenting allowance, you will be entitled to an extra $550 per fortnight from April 27. ● Seniors (over 66): If you are not receiving the age pension, then check if you are eligible for the Commonwealth Seniors card — both will get the two $750s mentioned above. Also check that Centrelink has the right assets and income. A $10,000 asset overestimate could cost $780 per year. An overestimate of $1,000 of income could be costing $500 a year.

And if you are a farmer, your home title should be disregarded if you’ve lived there for 20 years. However some farmers will be better off switching to the farm household allowance (see below). ● People with money stuck in superannuation: If you are below the age when you can normally access super and meet the distressed rules, you

can apply to get $10,000 of super out twice. For most, this should be a last resort. ● People with superannuation paying a pension: If you want to reduce the amount coming out of super, you can cut your payments in half and still stay in the nil tax world. ● Farm household allowance: This is about $15,000pa for a single and $26,000pa for a couple. Eligibility became easier in September and will be even more so from July (asset cap of $5.5m and easier income test). Add $550/fortnight per person from April 27 and the two $750 per person, if eligible, from March 15 and July 13. ● Farmer nil or low rate loans: See the NSW RAA and Regional Investment Corporation websites for options for working capital, core debt or new debt for farm improvements. And talk to your banks to see if the massive drop in rates. ● NSW Farmers Drought measures: These are still there including the transport subsidy (now including fertilizer etc), and the emergency water infrastructure.

Talk to a Rural Financial Counsellor. ● Drought affected Farm Supply business: If your income has taken a hit, see if the Regional Investment Corporation no/low interest loan can help. ● COVID affected loan support: This is in two parts.

In all likelihood, your bank will be looking to give you a repayment holiday of some type. The second is the Coronavirus SME Guarantee Scheme – where the government will guarantee half of up to $250,000 of ‘unsecured’ debt for working capital. ● For tax paying businesses: Fortunately, for some it is business more or less as usual. Businesses can now buy and deduct up to $150,000 per item, plus accelerated depreciation for larger purchases. For those with FMDs or looking long term, this may be unique opportunity to give the economy a kick and improve your tax position.

■ Rob Brown (pictured) is a family strategy adviser and managing director of Peppin Financial Planning Pty Ltd.

Peri’s little Gem gains national yard dog title When Peri Chappell took in a working dog named Gem 21⁄2 years ago, the young dog was ‘‘completely shut down and barely moved around sheep’’.

Now, Gem has a national title under her belt.

Gem and Peri returned from the March Australian Yard Dog Championships with a win in the improver section.

It means Gem is the top dog in that category in Australia, and can now graduate to the open class. ‘‘There were handlers from five states competing, and there were 45 dogs in the improver class,’’ Peri said. ‘‘Heading in to the finals we were leading by just two points, and we held on to win the section by just one. ‘‘At the Deniliquin trials just a few weeks earlier (held as part of the Deniliquin Show) we went in to the finals with a lead and then lost, so there were a few nerves.’’

The March 18 to 21 Australian championships were held in Lucindale, South Australia.

It was the first time Peri has competed at that level. ‘‘Lucindale is the pinnacle of trialling — the national championships,’’ she said. ‘‘It was not only my first time competing at Lucindale,

it was the first time I had ever competed in South Australia. ‘‘While anyone can enter the competition, to be in the improver section you must have previously won at maiden and novice levels. ‘‘I decided to enter because they are the Australian championships, and I wanted to travel a bit and just have a go.’’

With all other scheduled trials cancelled due to the Coronavirus pandemic, Peri said it may be a while before she can trial Gem in the open section.

But she said as soon as events start, she will be aiming to reach finals in that next level. ‘‘I want to go back to Lucindale next year and try and qualify for the top five.’’

Peri, who until earlier this year ran a dog rescue business form her Deniliquin farm, rescued Gem from a pound 21⁄2 years ago.

She said while it has taken some work, she managed to help the once anti-social animal build her confidence to be among the country’s best. ‘‘She was afraid of the world when I first got her, but now she’s a very social dog. ‘‘At trails if she sees any children, she’ll pulling because she just has to go and meet them. ‘‘On the working side of things, it was just about

■ Gem with her Australian Yard Dog Championship ribbon. bringing out her natural instincts. ‘‘Three years ago she wouldn’t even stay in the yard or sack sheep, but now she’s a champion worker.’’

Peri took two dogs to

Lucindale to compete, entering Fat Boy in the maiden but missing out on a top five finish.

■ Results from the Deniliquin Yard Dog Trails competition can be found on page 14.

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’Farm Talk’, April 2020 — Page 3

Check hay to prevent losses The NSW Rural Fire Service is calling on all Mid Murray Zone farmers and landholders to carefully manage their hay bales this fire season.

It comes after a number of hay shed and hay stack fires, resulting in expensive losses for farmers.

NSW RFS Inspector Doug Adamson said farmers should check their hay stacks on a regular basis and ensure any valuable stock and machinery is stored separately. ‘‘Hay shed fires have the potential to cause considerable damage to farming infrastructure,’’ Insp Adamson said. ‘‘RFS Brigades within the Mid Murray Zone attend numerous hay stack fires every year. ‘‘In some fires, the loss of hay bales and storage sheds has been extensive, but worse still these fires have also damaged or destroyed expensive farm machinery

■About 5500 hay bales went up in flames in a shed fire between Moama and Mathoura in February, causing millions of dollars in damages. and supplies that were stored nearby.’’ Farmers should regularly inspect hay bales by breaking them open or by inserting a crowbar or metal rod to assess temperature.

‘‘If the bar or metal rod comes out hot then there is a problem and the hay bale needs to be pulled apart as soon as possible to cool,’’ Insp Adamson said. ‘‘There is considerable risk

of hay igniting when it has been stacked while wet or not cured, so we recommend hay is stored in a dry, wellventilated area away from other machinery at all times.’’

Mid Murray Zone The BushďŹ re Danger period will end in the Mid Murray Zone at midnight on Tuesday the 31st March 2020.

Council areas in the Mid Murray Zone include Edward River, Murray River and the southern part of Murrumbidgee.

From Wednesday 1st April 2020 permits to burn will not be required, however all standard conditions still apply.

Standard conditions include notifying neighbours and the Mid Murray Zone Fire Control Centre on 03 5898 4100, LQVWDOOLQJ D À UH EUHDN À UH À JKWLQJ HTXLSPHQW LQ ZRUNLQJ order on site and having a responsible person on site.

Timber can also be burnt from the 1st April 2020.

Page 4 — ’Farm Talk’, April 2020

Family business rewarded for 55 years of dedication The name ‘Taskers’ is synonymous with a quality agricultural and machinery service in Deniliquin.

For the last 55 years, the family business has been the local area’s New Holland dealer.

That long-term affiliation was officially recognised at a New Holland dealer meeting in March, held in the Hunter Valley.

Owner Jamie Tasker said it was an honour to be recognised for supporting an industry he and his team love.

But he said the challenges association with the industry are placing immense pressure on businesses like theirs. ‘‘We love the agricultural industry and the characters it produces,’’ Mr Tasker said. ‘‘But we do get disheartened with politics that effects the industry, including policies which restrict access to productive water.’’

â– Taskers Deniliquin owner Jamie Tasker (second from left) with New Holland network development manager Murray Grant, Australia and New Zealand general manager Bruce Healy and Australia and New Zealand managing director - agriculture Brandon Stannett.

Buicks and Taskers in Deniliquin was particularly started by Jim Tasker in Hillmans.

1930, initially dealing in cars Mr Tasker said it was his and mechanical repairs — father, Warner, who steered

the company to accommodate the region’s largest industry. ‘‘My dad began to steer the business towards agriculture and farm machinery, and once Jim retired dad took on Fiat tractors in 1965 and then New Holland, which were two separate companies back then,’’ Mr Tasker said. ‘‘Then in 1996 the Fiat group purchased New Holland. ‘‘Meredith (my wife) and I began running the business in 2005 when dad became ill and mum retired to look after him. ‘‘Dad passed in 2006, and Meredith and I are still running the business today.’’ Taskers Deniliquin is a specialist when it comes to all things farm machinery. It not only provides new and used farm machinery, but full servicing and repairs to ensure your machine runs efficiently.

Overcoming COVID-19.

The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is changing our lives, and the situation is changing daily.

I request that you all keep up to date with the latest advice from health experts on how to prevent the spread of the virus.

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I am well aware about the impact this virus will have on our region – both on our already overstretched medical facilities; and on farms, businesses and workers still recovering from drought and bad water policy.

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Helen Dalton MP for Murray

HelenDaltonMP

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www.helendalton.com.au.

P 03 5881 7034 • E murray@parliament.nsw.gov.au • 228 Cressy Street, Deniliquin NSW 2710

’Farm Talk’, April 2020 — Page 5

How to transition to green feed

By LINDA SEARLE With a bit of rain, you might be starting to get a bit of growth.

Tempting as it is to rely on this green pick there are a couple of key points to remember.

Always transition ruminants to a new diet slowly.

Ideally this should take at least two or, ideally, three weeks.

The rumen relies heavily on all the bugs in it to digest the feed.

Different types of bugs break down different types of feed and it takes time to repopulate the space with the right sort.

Make sure there is enough energy in the feed for your stock.

Stock can waste a lot of energy chasing green pick around a paddock if it is too spread out. Most lush feed is mainly water.

This means stock need to eat a large volume to get enough energy. This is a big issue in twin bearing ewes.

Twins take up a lot of room in the abdomen, leaving only a small space for the rumen.

It is essential that twin bearing ewes are fed an energy dense diet, so they can physically eat enough to supply the energy they need.

Length of the feed is also important. Sheep can graze quite close to the ground, but cattle need a bit more length before they are able to eat it.

Another potential issue on lush green feed is metabolic issues.

Grass tetany (magnesium deficiency) and milk fever (calcium deficiency) are common as the large amount of potassium present blocks absorption of these minerals.

One of the best ways to prevent issues in sheep is to provide a lick containing calcium and magnesium.

A simple homemade lick for sheep can be made from

two parts limestone, two parts salt and one part Causmag.

Likewise, cattle can be fed Causmag-treated hay or a special transition diet designed for dairy cattle that are about to calve.

You may also use vitamin D injections for dairy cattle thought to be at high risk for milk fever.

Clinical cases can be treated with flow packs containing straight magnesium, straight calcium or 4-in-1, which contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorous and glucose.

You can also use oral treatments containing these elements.

Before putting onto green feed, make sure clostridial disease vaccination is up to date.

This could be done using either 3-in-1, 5-in-1, 6-in-1 or 7-in-1.

Animals that have not been vaccinated before need a priming dose and then a

booster dose, ideally two weeks before moving them onto lush pasture.

Previously vaccinated stock should get another booster if it has been more than six months from their last vaccination.

Clostridial disease occurs because the nutrient-rich environment of the gut of livestock on green feed causes an overgrowth of these bacteria.

In the case of pulpy kidney, the bacteria, Clostridum perfringens type D, also produces a deadly toxin, which can kill your nicest, biggest, fattest lamb just before they are able to top the local sale.

We always seem to lose more stock on feed than when it is dry. By using some preventative measures now, you can insure that green grass translates into green cash rather than green carcasses. â– Linda Searle is district veterinarian with Murray Local Land Services.

$QQXDO :DWHU $XFWLRQ )ULGD\ WK 0D\ 5LYHULQD )LHOG 'D\V *ULIILWK 249 – 257 Barham Rd, Deniliquin Contact Les Booth on 5881 2261 or 0428 796 607

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Page 6 — ’Farm Talk’, April 2020

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Bushfire period to end, but extreme caution still required The Bushfire Danger and safety conditions still period ended at midnight on apply.

Tuesday, March 31 in the Mid ‘‘Even though a permit is Murray Zone. not required to conduct a This includes in the Ed- burn, all of the conditions ward River Council and outlined in Rural Fire Act and Murray River Council areas, regulations still apply,’’ Insp and the southern part of Adamson said.

Murrumbidgee. ‘‘It can be dangerous if they From Wednesday, April 1, are not followed, such as a permits to burn will not be fire escaping, and you will be required however Mid fined if you do not comply Murray RFS Inspector Doug with the act.’’

Adamson said all standard Insp Adamson said it is

Safety steps for burning stubble Burning stubble is an important tool to enable the establishment of the next crop in the rice farming system.

The Ricegrowers Association of Australia says it is important that all farmers implement best practice when burning stubble to ensure this practice is available long into the future.

Best practice stubble burning includes: ● Contacting the RFS to notify them of your intention to burn. ● Contacting your neighbours. ● Ensuring adequate fire breaks are in place to avoid fires escapes and protect paddock trees. ● Ensuring equipment is on site. ● Burning as close as possible to the middle of the day so that burning can be completed before nightfall when an inversion layer (low mixing height) is likely. ● Checking the ‘mixing height’ information in the MetEye section of the Bureau of Meteorology’s website (www.bom.gov.au/australia/ meteye/?ref=ftr). This provides excellent information on current and predicted burning conditions including wind speed and direction. ● Burning dry stubble; mulching and leaving to dry

for at least four days in warm conditions will create a cleaner burn and reduce the volume of smoke. If stubble is not mulched the drying time will be longer and burning should be delayed accordingly. ● Avoiding burning when winds are variable i.e. when winds are gusting and varying in direction. Wind speeds of five to 25km/h are best. Strong winds can lead to fire escapes. ● Avoiding burning when the wind direction is towards towns or other residential areas. This will reduce the chance of affecting others, including the likelihood of human respiratory problems. ● Be prepared to sow as soon as possible after burning as this minimises the risk of ash being picked up by strong winds and blown across neighbouring properties.

If the wind direction changes sending smoke over roads, call 000 immediately.

They will refer the call to the local authorities who will advise of what action to take.

Further information can be found at https:// riceextension.org.au/ documents/2018/ 5/17/stubble-burning-inautumn.

essential landholders are aware of weather conditions at all times when conducting a burn. ‘‘At this time of year burns are fairly manageable but we have had years where they have gotten out of control or escaped, but that is because not enough care is taken,’’ he said. ‘‘You need to have a proper fire break in place, firefighting equipment in working order and on site and be in attendance while the fire is alight. ‘‘You should always be aware of the weather conditions and make decisions based on that, including starting your burn on the downwind side and not burning too much. ‘‘Please remember to notify your neighbours of any burns, as well as the Mid Murray Fire Control Centre.’’

Rob Brown

Paul Marshall

Jodie ^ĞŌ ŽŶ

■ Doug Adamson.

Insp Adamson said the RFS is expecting people to start burning timber in the near future.

If you see a fire unattended, call Triple Zero (000).

For more information visit www.rfs.nsw.gov.au or call the Mid Murray Fire Control Centre on (03) 5898 4100.

Ben Chartres

Naldo-Rei Casanova

Marie Muldoon

zŽƵƌ ůŽĐĂů Į ŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ƐƉĞĐŝĂůŝƐƚƐ ŵĂŬŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ĐŽŵƉůĞdž ƐŝŵƉůĞ ͻ ^ƵĐĐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ͻ ^ƵƉĞƌĂŶŶƵĂƟ ŽŶ ͻ ZĞƟ ƌĞŵĞŶƚ WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ͻ WĞƌƐŽŶĂů /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ͻ /ŶǀĞƐƚŵĞŶƚ ͻ ƐƚĂƚĞ WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ ͻ ĞŶƚƌĞůŝŶŬ ͻ &ĂŵŝůLJ tĞĂůƚŚ Θ ƵƐŝŶĞƐƐ WůĂŶŶŝŶŐ

ĞůŝǀĞƌŝŶŐ ĂĚǀŝĐĞ ĂŶĚ ƐŽůƵƟ ŽŶƐ to our region since 1958 Contact the team at Peppin on 03 5881 1866 or ĞŵĂŝů ƐŽůƵƟ ŽŶƐΛƉĞƉƉŝŶ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵ

Since 1958

CONSULTING

’Farm Talk’, April 2020 — Page 7

Lauren’s an farming inspiration Lauren Mathers always knew she wanted to be a farmer, she just never imagined it would be farming pigs.

Growing up on her parents’ NSW rice and beef farm in Tullakool, the move to pork came from a passion for selling her own produce and owning her first Berkshire sow, Doris.

She started Bundarra Berkshires in 2011 and it has grown into a free-range pork and charcuterie enterprise with farm visits and stays available.

The Barham farm is 100 acres of roaming space for around 90 sows.

Lauren launched the venture solo to begin with and was later joined by husband Lachlan, who also runs his own business. ‘‘It was great fun and I loved the challenge of starting something new,’’ she said.

They started small, but after two years of driving across the countryside with their daughter in the back seat to get their meat cut up at butchers, Lauren had enough.

To pick up their smoked pork they would have to travel to Melbourne, while other cuts would be packed up boxed 50km drive away. ‘‘I took a real interest in the butchery side of things, in saving the whole animal and finding all these amazing different cuts on the pig and thought — I should just do this myself,’’ Lauren said.

While pregnant with her second child, Lauren and Lachlan cleaned out an old shed and transformed it into a butchery where Lauren began learning and playing around with recipes. ‘‘It was tough,’’ Lauren said. ‘‘We just did it out of cash from the business. We didn’t get any loans or anything, and by the time I had my second daughter we had it finished.’’

But the joy of starting a family and having her second child on top of her workload came to a screeching halt when she hit an emotional

■ Christy O'Brien, Suzie Shearer and Lauren Mathers at the Echuca-Moama International Women's Day in March 2020, where Lauren was guest speaker. Photo by Cath Grey. wall and as she described, ‘‘fell off the wagon’’. ‘‘I had a pretty massive nervous breakdown and post-natal depression, but I was totally in denial,’’ she said.

Needing a break, she took her two daughters, Lucy and Frida, to live with her parents in northern NSW for a few months while Lachlan kept on top of things at the farm, one of the best things she could have done. ‘‘It made me realise I can’t do everything and it’s not fair on the family if I try, so that was a good learning step for me,’’ she said.

Falling pregnant in 2014 with her third child brought back fears she might experience more post-natal depression and what frame of mind she would be in, and in early 2015 it happened again. ‘‘I got Bell’s Palsy at one stage and had another nervous breakdown,’’ she said. ‘‘I really had to step back and assess what I was doing and really make my health a priority, it was pretty hard. ‘‘I was a total mess.’’

But having been aware of what could be coming, and planning for it, her fears evaporated when her son was born and the experience was a lot easier.

Lauren delegated the everyday running of the farm and butchery to her staff but

Page 8 — ’Farm Talk’, April 2020

kept her hand on the helm of the business, while looking after her three children.

And, just to keep her on her toes, she worked in the catering business Burbury and Mathers she started three years ago with her friend Cynthia Burbury. ‘‘I’m constantly managing anxiety through my life every day,’’ Lauren said. ‘‘I find I’m always aware of my behaviour and mood now and how it impacts other people. ‘‘I think we all go through these journeys as women as we have children, discovering who we are, what we want out of life and what’s important to our family. ‘‘When you have kids, priorities change. ‘‘You need to adjust to make sure you’re putting the right things first, it’s not always about work. You work to live, not live to work.’’

Lauren has passed down her passion for protecting the environment to her three children — Lucy, 9, Frida, 7, and George, 3. ‘‘They’re aware of their impact on the Earth and where our food comes from,’’ Lauren said. ‘‘I don’t want to give them climate anxiety but awareness for the planet and animals is a huge part of our family.’’

It’s a family affair on the farm. Daughters Lucy and Frida look after the piglets, nursing back to health any that become sick.

“It’s great to see the kids taking it on, asking questions about it and recycling, it’s really cute,” she said.

Being ethical is really important to Lauren. She is working towards making the business carbon-neutral and recently transitioned to compostable bio-film packaging, as well as planting a tree for every order placed online.

As a woman in the meat industry, Lauren said she struggled gaining respect and still harboured inhibitions. ‘‘There’s things I let Lachie take care of, like if a pig goes missing at the abattoir,’’ she said. ‘‘I always get him to call because I just feel like I’m not going to be taken seriously. ‘‘There’s still a lot of work to be done in that space.

There are things known typically as a man’s job and it just shouldn’t be like that. ‘‘Being heard and taken seriously is a challenge especially in industries that are typically male dominated. ‘‘In the meat industry it’s taken me a long time to earn respect.’’

A proud, strong woman, Lauren is an advocate for female education and equality. ‘‘Women are definitely being heard more now,’’ she said. ‘‘A lot more women have been holding off having kids and getting educated and doing some awesome things. ‘‘Women carry the weight of the world on their shoulders, there’s always women contributing to society, giving their children and husbands advice all the time. ‘‘I think a lot of people take women for granted sometimes and I think if you took women away the world would fall apart — I think women secretly run the world.’’

■ February program participants (back, from left) Nathan Denny, Niall Barlow, Milly Mertz, Chantelle Shevels , Michael Clark, Jessica Gilmore, Jeremy Robertson, Cameron Robertson, Sophie Pisasale and Jack Hogan; (front) Benjamin Pearse, Maggie McDonald, Renee Burke, Sonia Frost, Nicole Harrison, Kimberley Beer and Charleton Glenn.

Program for future rice leaders A group of 17 community members and the rice industry’s future young leaders have graduated from the RGA Tier 1 Leadership program in February.

The program focussed on industry leadership development, including learning about the opportunities the rice industry offers, personality types, governance, advocacy, lobbying, communicating effectively and presenting the best story to the media.

It is the third tier 1 program to be held over the last two years.

Deniliquin finance broker and founder of Grass Roots Finance Chantelle Shevels was one of the participants to graduate from the Introduction to the Rice Industry program in February.

Chantelle was born and bred on a mixed cereal and dairy farm at Mayrung, and is now based in Deniliquin.

She began her career in accounting, with a focus on compliance and client management, and then worked as a transport fleet manager and stepped into mortgage broking in 2010.

Grass Roots Finance was born from pairing her accounting background with her commercial experience.

Chantelle said she first wanted to get involved in the RGA’s program to get a better understanding of water policies and how they will

affect businesses in the local region. ‘‘The Ricegrowers’ Association is highly reputable and highly educated with its grasp on water policies,’’ she said. ‘‘The quality of presenters was second to none, and I found that I was able to develop my leadership skills as well as my understanding of the rice industry as a whole. ‘‘There was a diverse group of people that took part in the program, with just two of us from the finance industry, and I enjoyed hearing other people’s thoughts on research and development, policy and advocacy. ‘‘It was an excellent opportunity to broaden my network with like-minded professionals and I would highly recommend it to anyone thinking about participating in the program. ‘‘If you don’t step out of your comfort zone from time to time you’re not learning anything new. ‘‘My favourite part of the program was being encouraged to step out of my comfort zone and learning important lessons along the way.’’

Five participants from the course will be selected to tour Canberra and learn from leaders in government, lobbying and farmer organisations.

The Tier 2 Leadership Pro-

gram, hosted in conjunction with the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation, is an ambitious program which aims to develop a cohort of emerging leaders in the rice industry.

Participation in the pro-

gram will improve the participant’s confidence and skills, which will benefit not only the rice industry but the region as a whole.

Tier 2 has been postponed as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.

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Phone - Jason Neutze: 0429 337 341 Operations: 02- 6954 6777 0499 220 981 Phone the Office (03) 5886 1228 Email: operations@masagwork.net.au www.masagwork.net.au ’Farm Talk’, April 2020 — Page 9

Prepare for greater winter cereal disease pressure

By JOHN FOWLER While the focus of the world is currently on human diseases, winter cereal growers need to be preparing now for increased crop disease pressure this coming season.

The dry conditions of the two last years have caused an increased risk of cereal disease, including crown rot, Rhizoctonia root rot, yellow leaf spot on wheat and spot form net blotch on barley.

The reason for the increased risk is the dry conditions of the past two years.

These diseases are carried over on stubbles which have been very slow breaking down under the dry conditions. The fungal spores are still present and will readily infect crops this season.

Crown rot is often the main crown/root disease of wheat in the Deniliquin district.

It usually requires a twoyear break from cereals to adequately control it, but even longer breaks may be required at present.

Growers sowing wheat into country that has grown wheat or barley in the last three years need to be aware of the increased risk they face.

Steven Simpfendorfer, a plant pathologist with NSW DPI, presented a paper to advisers on preparing for the disease risk at the recent GRDC Advisers Update in Wagga Wagga. He indicated that a survey of 11 paddocks

in south western NSW last year showed that 64 per cent of paddocks had a high level of Fusarium spp (the fungus causing crown rot), and 18 per cent had medium levels.

He reminded growers that spores will carry over on any undecomposed stubble from 2017, 2018 or 2019. He proposed four steps for growers to take.

Step #1: Know before you sow.

Growers need to be aware in advance, of the risk they face. This can be achieved by undertaking a Predicta B disease test. This will give an indication of whether the disease pressure is low, medium or high. It is important that the agronomist taking the test uses the recommended protocol and latest risk categories.

Step #2: There are presowing options for paddocks where the disease pressure is shown to be either medium or high.

They include: ● Sow more tolerant wheat or barley varieties. The NSW DPI ‘Winter crop variety sowing guide’ (available on their Web page) indicates relative varietal tolerances to crown rot. ● Sow at the start of the recommended window. This is always a good idea in areas west of Finley, as the hot dry finish we experience causes more yield loss in most seasons than frost. The added disease pressure is another reason to adhere to this guideline if possible. (Grow-

ers in more frost prone areas need to avoid sowing earlier than the recommended window for their varieties.) ● If possible, inter-row sow. This reduces proximity to the spores on previous stubble.

Steven Simpfendorfer indicated that cultivation is not recommended. ● Be conservative with nitrogen application at sowing.

While a starter fertiliser with moderate amounts of N is OK, avoid higher application of N at sowing. Rely more on top dressing nitrogen later in the season. ● Remember, current seed treatments give suppression only, so do not rely on them alone to manage crown rot.

Step#3: Sow quality seed.

Seed not only needs to have good germination but also good vigour.

Seed vigour is closely linked to seed size. If possible, seed should be heavily graded to remove all small grains. Larger seeds will

have greater vigour, which is important to get the crop away before the onset of disease pressure.

Some fungicides will also reduce seed vigour, so be sure to talk with your agronomist about what is safe to use.

Step #4: Assess infection levels at head emergence.

Crown rot infections are more noticeable later in the season. Head emergence is a good time to walk through crops to determine the level of infection. This step is encouraged so that informed decisions can be made for following seasons.

The first indication of crown rot will be white heads throughout the crop. Examine the base of these plants, if it a dark honey brown in colour, it will be crown rot. In some, but not all, cases there will a pink colouration caused by the fungal spores.

Free testing NSW DPI is offering free sample testing for crown rot for wheat and barley being sown into stubble paddocks.

Collect 60 dry, intact main tillers per paddock (separate years) and send to: Cereal Stubble Testing Steven Simpfendorfer NSW DPI, 4 Marsden Park Rd Tamworth, NSW, 2340 ■ John Fowler (pictured) is an extension agronomist with Murray Local Land Services.

■ The base of a wheat plant showing pink fungal spores. ■ White heads of wheat caused by crown rot.

Page 10 — ’Farm Talk’, April 2020

Growers offer barley experience

By JOHN LACY Many of the dryland and irrigated layout barley crops in the group booklet were sprayed for the spot form of net blotch to which all barley varieties are susceptible.

It’s increased in severity over the last two to three seasons.

Barley on barley results in a high risk of leaf spot and burning stubble only partly reduces the spores on the stubble.

So avoid two barley crops in a row to reduce the risk and severity.

One unwatered irrigated layout Planet crop was sown into burnt barley stubble and yielded 2.9 tones per hectare without a post sowing fungicide.

Planet is more susceptible than Latrobe. Some paddocks had the spot blotch during tillering.

Treatment was with Prosaro, Tilt or Stingray, and feedback was that Prosaro

on April 28 and May 1, and tillered well.

The two spring watered Planet crops were sown at 60kg/ha and 75kg/ha for 6.1t/ha and 4.1t/ha hectare (later sown May 20).

The 6.1 tones per hectare crop had high biomass and high 600heads/m2.

The five unwatered irrigated planet crops were sown between 40kg/ha to 85kg/ha for similar yields.

If you are planning on sowing Planet early in late was better. You can mix them April or early May, the May establishment group feedwith herbicides. back was to lower the Planet One farmer used the rela- sowing rate to between 40kg/ tively expensive seed treat- ha and 60kg/ha. ment Systiva at a cost of $15 to $22 per hectare depending on sowing rate.

It works well as a preventative but is an upfront cost.

Nominations for the rice He said he would change to a industry awards are now crop spray this season. open.

The awards are a way to The average dryland sowing rate was 64kg/ha with formally recognise the latest advancements in the indusno yield trend. try, bringing growers and The two Planet crops were industry together to celebrate sown at 75kg/ha and 85kg/ha the success of individuals

We were surprised by the Oaklands dryland NVT results with the small yield difference between Planet and Latrobe.

In 2017, Planet yielded 4.9t/ha and Latrobe 4.7t/ha, and both yielded 3.6t/ha in 2019.

Spartacus CL yielded 5t/ha in 2017 and 3.5t/ha in 2019.

Many farmers at the meeting said they like Spartacus CL. Barley flowers about 10 days before wheat and has better frost tolerance, but has less acid soil tolerance.

■ John Lacy (pictured) is an independent agriculture consultant based in Finley.

Rice industry awards who are at the forefront of best practice.

To nominate go to https:/ /agrifutures.smartygrants.com.au/SunRiceGrower2020, or for more information go to https://riceextension.org.au/ rice-industry-awards.

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Keep calm and carry on

By JUSTINE KEECH Living where we do we all know that farming is an essential service and now urban Australia is beginning to wake up to the fact too.

What they don’t know is that along with toilet paper, plain flour and hand wash, glyphosate has become as rare as hen’s teeth.

Without glyphosate the business of weed control becomes very difficult and this impacts on farm productivity.

Dusty ploughs are back in service in Western NSW after plentiful rain which goes to show the versatility of Australian farmers.

Whilst there is no need to panic — the word from farm merchandise suppliers is that many of their clients are looking to ‘COVID proof’ for the future and keep larger stocks of essential chemicals, fertiliser etc on farm.

With this in mind, and the potential decrease in income from off farm employment over the next few months, now is the time to talk to your professional team (accountant, bank manager, financial planner and insurance broker etc) about how you can manage your cashflow.

Especially if you need to pay for merchandise.

We want to help any way we can.

All insurance policies can be paid by the month so if you are looking down the barrel of an insurance renewal (and many farmers are over the next few months) talk to your

broker about how you can access monthly payments.

In most cases it will not cost you anything more to pay by direct debit and can be reversed next year.

Many other facilities such as utilities offer similar payment options so consider using these free options in order to help iron out your cash flow.

Check out options that are currently on offer from the state and Federal Government (see Rob Brown’s column on page 2) for subsidies and support could also be very helpful.

We need our farmers to carry on — let us know if we can help.

By the way: Peppin Insurance is open for business on 5881 1866 or 0427 811 866.

The doors of our office are closed for any non-essential contact but staff are available from 9am to 5pm.

Stay safe.

■ Justine Keech (pictured) is managing director of Peppin Insurance, a general insurance broker specialising in rural and regional insurance.

Heavy demand, but low supply Pesticide and weed chemicals are currently in high demand for farmers, but pressure on supply chains could cause a delay in autumn spraying.

Elders Finley branch manager Stacey Doolan has noted a significant increase in demand for the weed killing agents due to the recent heavy rainfall. ‘‘We currently have a high demand on chemicals since the rainfall in early March.

They (chemicals) have been heavily sought after since farmers are now having to double spray their farms. ‘‘As much as we really wanted the rain, we didn’t want it at that time.’’

Ms Doolan said impeding the ability for suppliers to meet demand is the rapidly spreading COVID-19 pandemic. ‘‘A lot of the product ingredients are being delayed due to the Coronavirus isolations throughout the shipping and manufacturing

industry before they reach Australia,’’ she said. ‘‘The Chinese chemical suppliers were temporarily shut down but are now back up and running.’’

There was already a shortage of supplies in Australia due to lower stock demands due as a result of water shortages and low rainfall in previous years.

Ms Doolan said Elders will continue to provide as many services to farmers and is confident the cropping season will see ‘‘little impact’’. ‘‘The warehouses stock up based on what demand has been in previous years, which is why there is a wait on chemicals. ‘‘Farmers are very resilient and certainly will be able to adapt in the climate we have now. ‘‘We will also continue to do deliveries to farms if farmers are self-isolated which around this time of the year they are anyway.’’

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Page 12 — ’Farm Talk’, April 2020

2020 DENILIQUIN SHOW RESULTS

Breeders share sheep honours The Merino Sheep and Meat & Dual Purpose competitions were well represented by local families, surrounding schools and other district producers at the Deni Show on Saturday, March 7.

Poll Boonoke, Heley Ridge and Wanganella studs each did particularly well in the Merino Sheep section while Closeup, Finley High School, O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn and Aberline were the stand outs in the Meat & Dual Purpose section.

Results are as follows: Merino sheep Elders pair of lambs: Best Pair of Unshorn Ram Lambs – Poll Boonoke, 1; Avenel, 2; Poll Boonoke, 3. Elders pair of Ram Lambs Overall Winner – Poll Boonoke, 1.

Dual Purpose Merino Ram: Merino Ram 2 teeth or Less – Poll Boonoke, 1; Avenel, 2; Wanganella, 3. Overall Winner – Poll Boonoke.

Unhoused Medium Wool Ram: Merino Ram Lamb, milk teeth – Wanganella, 1; Avenel, 2; Poll Boonoke, 3. Champion Unhoused Medium Wool Ram – Wanganella.

Reserve Champion Unhoused Medium Wool Ram – Avenel.

Strong Wool Unhoused Ram: Merino Ram Lamb, milk teeth – Poll Boonoke, 1; Wanganella, 2; Poll Boonoke, 3. Champion Unhoused Strong Wool Ram – Poll Boonoke.

Reserve Champion Unhoused Strong Wool Ram – Wanganella.

Grand Champion Unhoused Merino Ram – Poll Boonoke (strong wool).

Reserve Grand Champion Unhoused Merino Ram – Poll Boonoke (medium wool).

Unhoused Medium Wool Ewe: Medium Wool Unhoused Ewe, 2 teeth or less – Heley Ridge, 1, 2 and 3. Champion Unhoused Medium Wool Ewe – Heley Ridge. Reserve Champion Unhoused Medium Wool Ewe – Heley Ridge. Grand Champion unhoused Medium Wool Ewe – Heley Ridge.

Breeders Pair Of Merinos – Heley Ridge, 1 and 2.

Supreme Champion Ram – Poll Boonoke.

Supreme Merino Exhibit – Poll Boonoke, 1; Heley Ridge, 2.

Meat & Dual Purpose Poll Dorset: Ram Under 1 Year – Finley High School, 1; Closeup, 2 and 3. Pair of Rams – Closeup, 1; Finley High School, 2. Ewe Under 1 Year – Closeup, 1 and 2; Finley High School, 3. Pair of Ewes – Finley High School, 1. Group 1 Ram 2 Ewes Under 1 Year – Closeup 1; Finley High School, 2. Champion Poll Dorset Ram – Finley High School.

Reserve Champion Poll Dorset Ram – Closeup. Champion Poll Dorset

Ewe – Closeup. Reserve Champion Poll Dorset Ewe – Closeup.

Suffolk: Ram Under 1 Year – Closeup, 1 and 2. Ewe Under 1 Year – Closeup, 1 and 2. Group 1 Ram 2 Ewes Under 1 Year – Closeup, 1.

Champion Ram – Closeup. Reserve Champion Ram – Closeup. Champion Ewe – Closeup. Reserve Champion Ewe – Closeup.

White Suffolk – Ram Under 1 Year – G Treweek, 1 and 2. Ewe Under 1 Year – G Treweek, 1 and 2.

Group 1 Ram 2 Ewes Under 1 Year – G Treweek, 1. Champion Ram – G Treweek. Reserve Champion Ram – G Treweek. Champion Ewe – G Treweek. Reserve Champion Ewe – G Treweek.

Dorper: Ram Under 1 Year – Aberline, 1. Ewe Over 1 Year – Aberline, 1 and 2. Ewe Under 1 Year – Aberline, 1 and 2. Group 1 Ram 2 Ewes Under 1 Year – Aberline, 1.

Champion Ram – Aberline. Reserve Champion Ram – Aberline. Champion Ewe – Aberline. Reserve Champion Ewe – Aberline.

White Dorper: Ram Under 1 Year - Aberline, 1 and 2. Ewe Over 1 Year – Aberline, 1. Ewe Under 1 Year – Aberline, 1, 2 and 3. Group 1 Ram and 2 Ewes Under 1 Year – Aberline 1. Champion Ram – Aberline. Reserve Champion Ram – Aberline.

Champion Ewe – Aberline. Reserve Champion Ewe – Aberline.

Lincoln: Ram Over 1 Year – J & A Beattie, 1 and 2. Ram Under 1 Year – J & A Beattie,1. Ewe Over 1 Year – J & A Beattie, 1. Ewe Under 1 Year – J & A Beattie, 1. Group 1 Ram 2 Ewes – J & A Beattie, 1. Champion Ram – J & A Beattie. Reserve Champion Ram – J & A Beattie.

Champion Ewe – J & A Beattie.

Reserve Champion Ewe – J & A Beattie.

Wiltshire Horn: Ram Under 1 Year - O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn, 1.

Ewe Over 1 Year – O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn, 1, 2 and 3. Ewe Under 1 Year – O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn, 1 and 2. Group 1 Ram and 2 Ewes Under 1 Year – O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn, 1. Champion Ram – O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn. Reserve Champion Ram – O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn. Champion Ewe – O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn. Reserve Champion Ewe – O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn.

Lamb: Poll Dorset Sire under 49kgs – Saber, 1. Poll Dorset Sire Over 49.1kgs – Saber, 1 and 2; Finley High School, 3. Stud Ewe Lambs – G Treweek. Champion Poll Dorset Sired – Saber. Champion Other than Poll Dorset Sire – G Treweek. Champion Pen – Saber.

Champion of Show: Ram – Finley High School Poll Dorset. Ewe – Closeup Suffolk. Group 1 Ram & 2 Ewes – Closeup Suffolk.

Supreme Exhibit – Closeup Suffolk.

■ Peter Nadin from Australian Food & Agriculture, Annie Romanin and judge John Jamieson with Boonoke’s Supreme Merino Exhibit.

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’Farm Talk’, April 2020 — Page 13

2020 DENILIQUIN SHOW RESULTS

Joe’s Package was top dog A large crowd watched on as man and his best friend got to work herding sheep at the 2020 Deniliquin Show Yard Dog Trials on March 6 and 7.

There were even a few puppies there to watch and learn as some of the region’s best dogs competed in the trials.

Each dog showed great obedience and it was obvious they do well on the farm with their owners day to day.

It was a tight competition, but thrilling for the crowd to watch.

Taking all day, the competitors gathered on Saturday, March 7, keen to hear the results.

Results were as follows:

Open – Joe Spicer and ‘Package’, 1; Joe Spicer and ‘Basil’, 2; Michael Botterill and ‘Aussie’, 3; Joe Spicer and ‘Clue’, 4.

Improver – Robyn Taylor and ‘Hammo’, 1; Nick Foster and ‘Drake’, 2; Peri Chappell and ‘Gem’, 3; Dale Thompson and ‘Sheba’, 4.

Novice – Anthony Quinn and ‘Frank’, 1; Roland Pell and ‘Clancy’, 2; Marc Braybon and ‘Jock’, 3; Paul Flanagan and ‘Boof’, 4.

Maiden – Darren Harcoan and ‘Trigger’, 1; Dale Thompson and ‘Kliff’, 2; Marc Braybon and ‘Jock’, 3; Paul Flanagan and ‘Boof’, 4.

Encourage – James Kennedy and ‘Duke’, 1; Rachel Clancy and ‘Jazz’, 2; Felicity Nolan and ‘Becky’, 3.

Junior Encourage – Hugh Burton and ‘Tank’.

■Finley High School students Alison Kleinschmidt, Ben Bauer and Niamh Mason with Finley High School bull ‘Percy’.

School’s top beast Finley High School had a great day out at the Deniliquin Show on Saturday, March 7 with multiple wins and many more placings in the beef cattle judging.

The school bull ‘Percy’ was a particular standout for the judges, claiming most of the school’s ribbons and earning the title of Best Junior Beast of Show.

Students also found success in the led steer section, claiming that award as well.

Results:

Male under 16 Months – Roly Park, with ‘Quradn’, 1.

Male 16-20 Months – Finley High School, ‘Percy’, 1; Black Angus, 2.

Junior Male Champion – Finley High School, ‘Percy’.

Male Over 24 Months – Procress, ‘Moose M2’, 1.

Senior Male Champion – Progress, ‘Moose M2’.

Male Under 16 Months – Progress, ‘Quiet Dream’, 1; Tocumwal Pine Lodge, ‘Vicky’, 2; Swan Cout, ■(From left) Open section winner Joe Spicer, Yard Dog ‘Lee’, 3.

Trials steward Marc Braybon and third place getter Female 16-20 Months – Black Michael Botteril.

Angus, 1; Progress, ‘Perfect

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Page 14 — ’Farm Talk’, April 2020

Storm’, 2; Finley High School, ‘Pippa’, 3.

Junior Female Champion – Black Angus. Reserve champion – Progress, ‘Perfect Storm’.

Female Over 24 Months – Progress, ‘Collies Maggie’, 1; Finley High School, ‘Narla’, 2; Finley High School, ‘Maggie’, 3.

Senior Female Champion – Progress, ‘Collies Maggie’. Reserve champion – Finley High School, ‘Narla’.

Pair Of Junior Heifers – Progress, 1; Roly Park, 2; Finley High School, 3.

Group of Three, both sexes – Progress, 1; Roly Park, 2; Finley High School, 3.

Best Junior Beast of Show – Finley High School, ‘Percy’.

Champion Female of Show – Progress, ‘Collies Maggie’.

Champion Bull of Show – Progress, ‘Moose M2’.

Grand Champion Beast of Show – Progress, ‘Collies Maggie’.

Funclass Led Steers – Finley High School.

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2020 DENILIQUIN SHOW RESULTS

Michaels win Supreme Exhibit Deniliquin’s Anthony Michael and his wife Felicity left the 2020 Deniliquin Show proud of their prized jersey cow, Mayberry Crystal 3, who was named the Supreme Dairy Exhibit on Saturday, March 7.

Judge Emmalea Wishart spent a long time deciding the Supreme winner, a tough decision with three quality cows up for the awards.

They were Junior Champion Heifer Hawova Jacot Jean 2nd from Finley High School, Senior Champion Heifer Mayberry Crystal 3 from A & F Michael & family and Champion Cow Silhouette TBone Extra from the Steenholdt family. ‘‘I placed the jersey cow my supreme today just for her overall capacity and strength,’’ Miss Wishart said. ‘‘She is ready to calve, she is calving on the 20th of this month, and I just find that she has got that potential to go on to be an awesome cow. ‘‘I really like the holstein heifer as well, she was a very close second, but it was just the maturity of the jersey that put her where she was today.’’

Results: Heifer born on or after November 1, 2019 – Finley High School, Hawova Jethro Velvet, 1; Finley High School, LP Kingdoc NellieNova, 2.

Heifer born August 1, 2019 to October 31, 2019 – Finley High School, Hawova Jacot Jean 2nd, 1; Griffiths family, Aroona Jacot Netta 3607, 2; Finley High School, LP Ammo Neave-Nikola, 3.

Heifer born May 21, 019 to July 31, 2019 – Finley High School, Hawova Mario Tide, 1; Griffiths family, Aroona Atwood Jana 3587, 2; A & F Michael & family, Mayberry Odette 2, 3.

Heifer born January 1, 2019 to April 30, 2019 – Griffiths family, Aroona Mario Ada 3547, 1; Finley High School, Lochgelly Park Onslow Carnation, 2; Finley High School, Mayberry Grace 6, 3.

Junior Champion Heifer – Finley High School, Hawova Jacot Jean 2nd.

Reserve Junior Champion Heifer – Finley High School, Hawova Mario Tide.

Honourable Mention Junior Champion Heifer – Finley High School, Lochgelly Park Onslow Carnation.

All Australian Heifer Holstein Calf under 12 months – Finley High School, Hawova Jacot Jean

■ Deniliquin’s Inga Steenholdt with Champion Cow ‘Silhouette TBone Extra’, judge Emmalea Wishart, Deniliquin’s Anthony Michael with Senior Champion Heifer and Supreme Cow ‘Mayberry Crystal 3’ and Finley’s Melina Tidcombe with Junior Champion Heifer ‘Hawova Jacot Jean 2nd’.

2nd, 1; Finley High School, Hawova Mario Tide, 2; Griffiths family, Aroona Jacot Netta 3607, 3.

Rising Star Jersey Calf under 12 months age – A & F Michael & family, Mayberry Odette 2, 1; Finley High School, Mayberry Grace 6, 2; A & F Michael & family, Mayberry Noeline 4, 3.

Heifer born July 1 to December 31, 2018 – Griffiths family, Aroona Dempsey Desiree 3521, 1; A & F Michael & family, Mayberry Sox 5, 2; Steenholdt family, Wyoming Tequila Coco, 3.

Heifer (dry) born 2017 – A & F Michael & family, Mayberry Crystal 3, 1.

Senior Champion Heifer – A & F Michael & family, Mayberry Crystal 3.

Reserve Senior Champion Heifer – Griffiths family, Aroona Dempsey Desiree 3521.

Honourable Mention Senior Champion Heifer – A & F Michael & family, Mayberry Sox 5.

Two or three year-old Cow in milk – Strong family, Merrivale Milkmaid 102, 1.

Mature Cow in milk – Steenholdt family, Silhouette Tbone Extra, 1.

Champion Cow – Steenholdt family, Silhouette TBone Extra.

Reserve Champion Cow – Strong family, Merrivale Milkmaid 102.

Most Successful Exhibitor – Finley High School.

Handler results: Up to Year 3 – Oliver Waters, St Michael’s Primary School Deniliquin, 1; Samuel Strong, Deniliquin North Public School, 2. Year 4 to 6 – Chloe Alexander, Finley Public School, 1; Patrick Hibberd, Finley Public School, 2; Catherine Mi-

chael, Edward Public School, 3.

Year 7 to 10 – Tamzin Bell, Finley High School, 1; Chelsea Alexander, Finley High School, 2; Melina Tidcomb, Finley High School, 3.

Year 11 and over – Kelsey Hislop,

St Mary of the Angels Secondary College Nathalia, 1; Jack Michael, Deniliquin High School, 2; Dela Gargaro, Finley High School, 3.

Champion Junior Parader – Kelsey Hislop.

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CHEAP FENCE NCE PIC CKETS

Made on Site Proudly Australian Made

Black Heavy 1.65m $4.40ea Black Heavy $6.20ea

SQUARE BALE CRA CR RADLE FEEDER

ROUND BALE CR RA ADLE FEEDER • Fully Galvanised • Heavy duty construction • Australian made • Suits round bales

$

575 each

$

430 each

GAL RHS - FI FIR RST GRADE

PAIN NTED RHS - FIRST GRADE 20mm x 20 x 1.6mm 25mm x 25 x 1.6mm 25mm x 25 x 2.0mm 40mm x 40 x 2.0mm 50mm x 50 x 2.0mm 75mm x 75 x 2.5mm 89mm x 89 x 3.5mm 100mm x 100 x 3.0mm 50mm x 25 x 2.0mm

• Fully Galvanised • Heavy duty construction • Australian made • Suits big square bales

$12.50 L 75mm x 50 x 2.0mm $15.00 L 100mm x 50 x 2.0mm $18.00 L 150mm x 50 x 2.0mm $35.00 L $45.00 L $95.00 L $155.00 L $140.00 L $33.00 L

REINFORC RCING IN NG MESH F62............................ $56.30 ea F72............................ $67.70 ea F82............................ $88.00 ea F92............................ $113.00 ea Building Film 200UM $98.00 ea Plus a full range of accessories to suit

$60.00 L $78.00 L $105.00 L

20mm x 20 x 1.6mm 25mm x 25 x 1.6mm 25mm x 25 x 2.0mm 30mm x 30 x 1.6mm 40mm x 40 x 2.0mm 50mm x 50 x 1.6mm 50mm x 50 x 2.0mm 65mm x 65 x 1.6mm 75mm x 75 x 2.0mm

1890 each Call us for a Distributor in your area

Page 16 — ’Farm Talk’, April 2020

$99.00 L $170.00 L $40.00 L $70.00 L $79.00 L $107.00 L

Roofing Iron: Zincalume $7.50 L/M Colorbond $13.70 L/M

Stock 6.1m, 7.62m and 9.14m

Groove Tube: 100mm x 6.1m ....$42 ea 100mm x 8m .......$55 ea

Top Hat - 7.5m length: 40mm........................................$15.00 ea 50mm........................................$25.00 ea 64mm........................................$28.00 ea 75mm........................................$32.00 ea 96mm........................................$45.00 ea

No welding required, all screw.

Full range of brackets to suit.

STRAINE IN NERS BLACK STRAINERS 100NB 2400MM 5.0 WALL 80NB 2400 MM 5.0 WALL 50NB 3100MM 3.0 WALL

$49.90 MAIN POST $38.90 BACKING POST $22.00 STAY

GAL STRAINERS 100NB 2400 MM 4.0 MM WALL 100NB 2700 MM 4.0 MM WALL 50NB 3250 MM 3.6 MM WALL

$

89mm x 89 x 2.0mm 100mm x 100 x 3.0mm 50mm x 25 x 2.0mm 75mm x 50 x 2.0mm 100mm x 50 x 2.0mm 150mm x 50 x 2.0mm

ROOFING PRO PR RODUCTS Gal Purlins: C100-15 ............. $5.52 M C150-15 ............. $7.67 M C200-15 ............. $9.47 M

ACCESS GRID ENGINEERED • 4m x 2m • Engineered 2t per axle • Heavy duty construction • Australian made

$13.50 L $16.00 L $20.00 L $25.00 L $42.00 L $40.00 L $52.00 L $60.00 L $85.00 L

$52.80 $62.60 $33.00

Ph: (03) 5881 5541 Mobile: 0427 203 334 Fax: (03) 5881 6146 Cnr Wakool Road and Kelly Street, Deniliquin