Welcome to our 35th Seymour Alternative Farming Expo
Reaching this milestone is something truly special.
For 35 years, this show has been a celebration of our region’s rich agricultural heritage, hardworking producers, talented exhibitors, and the strong community spirit that surrounds us.
The expo has grown into a much-loved annual tradition that brings together families, farmers, businesses and visitors from near and far.
This year feels particularly meaningful.
In recent times, many of the communities surrounding Seymour have faced the devastating effects of bushfires.
Many families, farms, and businesses have been impacted, and the road to recovery will be a long one.
We acknowledge the strength, resilience, and generosity shown in the face of adversity.
Rural communities understand hardship, but we also understand how to stand shoulder to shoulder and support one another.
There will be fundraising for the CFA at the event, as well as an opportunity for
patrons to meet with local council who will be on-site.
As we mark our 35th year, we honour those who have built this event over the decades, committee members, volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors and supporters.
Without your commitment and passion, this expo would not be what it is today.
To everyone who has contributed in big or small ways over the years, thank you.
This year’s program reflects both our proud traditions and the fresh energy that keeps our event evolving.
Whether you are here for the livestock, the exhibits, the entertainment, the food, or simply the atmosphere, we hope you take the time to soak it all in.
Most importantly, we hope this year’s show provides a moment to pause, reconnect and celebrate what makes our community so special.
In times of challenge, coming together matters more than ever.
Farming innovation on show
It is a pleasure to welcome you to Mitchell Shire and to the 2026 Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.
Now in its 35th year, the expo remains a standout event on the agricultural calendar, reflecting the strength, creativity and adaptability of our farming community.
Each year the expo brings together an impressive mix of exhibitors, producers and industry experts, offering practical ideas, new technologies and fresh perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing agriculture today.
Whether you are deeply embedded in the industry or simply keen to learn more, the program offers something to inform and inspire.
The event is also a celebration of Seymour and the Goulburn region.
Local producers will once again highlight the quality of our food and wine, while nearby businesses, cafés and accommodation providers are ready to welcome visitors throughout the weekend.
It is a great chance to explore the town, reconnect with familiar faces and enjoy everything the area has to offer.
For those visiting from outside the shire, I encourage you to take the time to discover Seymour beyond the expo gates.
The Discover Mitchell Instagram and Facebook pages and the visitor information booth at site T11A are a great place to start.
As anyone who knows Seymour will tell you, the weather can keep us on our toes, so it is worth packing for a bit of everything.
I extend my sincere thanks to the volunteers, organisers and community members whose commitment and hard work continue to make this event possible.
Their efforts ensure the expo remains a valued and enduring part of our region.
I hope you enjoy your time at the 36th Seymour Alternative Farming Expo, and I look forward to welcoming you to Mitchell Shire.
Cr John Dougall
Mitchell Shire Council Mayor
Editor: Geoff Adams Stories: Jaci Hicken Design: McPherson Media Group Published by McPherson Media Group
Seymour Alternative Farming Expo event manager Joanne Bartlett.
Mitchell Shire Council Mayor John Dougall.
FEATURED PRODUCTS
Minimum 1mm thick Australian made steel walls ARMA Liner
700gsm our Liner is clipped on not tek screwed 50x50mm hot dipped Galvanised trusses Metal fittings
Matilda water tanks are engineer certified 40% heavier that some other corrugated tanks (more steel and heavier liner) 20 Year Warranty
Expo checklist
Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 Seymour
Alternative Farming Expo. For updates, visit: seymourexpo.com.au
Location: Kings Park Recreation Reserve, 55 Tallarook St, Seymour. When: 17–19 April, 2026
Hours: Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm. Tickets should be purchased online at: seymourexpo.com.au
Small Farms Learning Hub
With a focus on innovation, each 45-minute lecture in the Small Farms Learning Hub will explore the latest technology, alternative practices and trends in farming.
Family (2 adults, 3 children)
Child (aged 5-15)
Child (under 5) Free Free
Getting there
• By car: From Melbourne, take the Hume Fwy about 100 km north to the Seymour exit. Then drive to Tallarook St.
• By bus: Travel in comfort with V/Line, Australia’s largest regional public transport operator. Book a bus ticket online at: www.vline.com.au
• By train: Regular train services operate to Seymour. For timetables and ticketing, visit: www.vline.com.au
Paid parking close to venue
Paid parking managed by local community and sports groups is available at the following locations: Seymour War Memorial, Seymour Swimming Pool and Seymour Bowls Club on Lesley St; the Seymour Club on Elizabeth St; 35b Emily St and Edward St behind Seymour Toyota, Tallarook St (next to ALDI car park)
Abilities parking is available near Gate 4 on Lesley St. All paid parking is subject to availability.
10 am
Free
parking
Free parking is available on surrounding streets, please read signs for details. Parking time limits will be enforced by local council. Site services include:
• Gourmet and fine food and drink stalls at affordable prices.
• Customer information is located next to the football club rooms.
• ATM facilities.
• Families with young children are welcome, with children’s activities, changing facilities and plenty of shaded areas.
• A complimentary parcel pick-up service is available at the expo. Please request at time of purchase and items will be delivered to Edward St Exhibitor Gate for collection.
• Mobility scooters are not available to hire.
Pets not permitted
No pets are permitted due to the livestock on site. Any pet animals, with the exception of assistance dogs, are not permitted to be brought into the park by the general public.
Contact details:
Phone: 1300 178 881
Email: admin@seymourexpo.com.au
Website: www.seymourexpo.com.au
FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY
Training Working Dogs
Paul Macphail Beloka Kelpies
11 am Ten Top Tips for Healthy Productive Chooks
Megg Miller OAM Australasian Poultry Magazine
Noon Growing Hemp
David Brian Southern Hemp
1 pm Introduction to Beekeeping
Andrew Stanish, Australian Bee Supplies
2 pm State of Agtech: Adoption, Trends and Future Tech
Pete Walsh Farmers to Founders
3 pm Aquaponics Control Systems
Andrew Kendrick DesignWise Engineering
Training Working Dogs Paul Macphail Beloka Kelpies
Ten Top Tips for Healthy Productive Chooks
Megg Miller OAM Australasian Poultry Magazine
The Nuts & Bolts of Building with Hemp
David Brian Southern Hemp
Introduction to Beekeeping
Aaron Lewtas Off-Grid Energy Australia Multi-day tickets available seymourexpo.com.au
Andrew Stanish Australian Bee Supplies
Aquaponics Control Systems
Andrew Kendrick DesignWise Engineering
Going Off-Grid with Solar & Battery
Information session on the role of the Goulburn Broken CMA
Aquaponics Control Systems
Andrew Kendrick DesignWise Engineering
The Nuts & Bolts of Building with Hemp
David Brian Southern Hemp
Introduction to Beekeeping
Andrew Stanish Australian Bee Supplies
Going Off-Grid with Solar & Battery
Aaron Lewtas Off-Grid Energy Australia
Farm Lectures
Presented by Seymour Agricultural and Pastoral Society, Farm Lectures provide practical information on general farming and agriculture.
10.00 am Cattle Basics
An open discussion driven by you, bring your questions.
Selection, Fencing, Feeding, Handling, Health, Calving and more.
Stephen Koch, Atriem Murray Greys
11.00 am Building Soil Health in Practice
Learn how to recognise what healthy soil looks like, identify limitations, and make practical improvements that compound over time to support ongoing regeneration.
Ian Mot, Vital Soils Services
Noon Farming Q&A Session for all
Bring your questions: buying a farm and stock, pasture, infrastructure, farm layout, finance, marketing, etc, etc… a session to help make your farming more enjoyable, safe, efficient (time, money & energy) and hopefully profitable.
Malcolm Cock, VFF Stock Sense
1.00 pm Seven Sheep Essentials
Want to get into sheep for lifestyle or commercial farming? Learn Seven Sheep Essentials to get your sheep journey off to the best start. Take-always include the best apps to use, fencing and pasture tips and understanding the lifecycle of sheep breeding.
Jill Noble, Hallston Valley Farm
2.00 pm Babydoll Sheep
A smaller (not miniature), dual-purpose meat and wool sheep. Pam Beerens, Babydoll Shepp Breeders Australia.
Sheep Secrets
Got sheep already, want to take them to the next level? Want to get started with sheep, make it as easy and enjoyable as possible and avoid frustrating mistakes? Learn the secrets.
Jill Noble, Hallston Valley Farm
Cattle Basics
An open discussion driven by you, bring your questions.
Selection, Fencing, Feeding, Handling, Health, Calving and more.
Stephen Koch, Atriem Murray Greys
Drones in Agriculture – A Practical Perspective
Experienced operators will talk about the practical applications of drones. Aerial spraying, water inspection, stock management, pest control, and more. Properties small and large.
Alastair Tame, Drone Pilot
Farming Q&A Session for all
Bring your questions: buying a farm and stock, pasture, infrastructure, farm layout, finance, marketing, etc, etc… a session to help make your farming more enjoyable, safe, efficient (time, money & energy) and hopefully profitable.
Malcolm Cock, VFF Stock Sense
Babydoll Sheep
A smaller (not miniature), dual-purpose meat and wool sheep. Pam Beerens, Babydoll Shepp Breeders Australia.
Country Kitchen and Butcher Shop
Sink your teeth into some delicious cooking demonstrations in the Country Kitchen and Butcher Shop.
9.50 am Pork Side Break Down
Pork Carcass & all the different cuts that come from a side of pork
10.30 am Dutch Baby Skillet Pancakes
11.10 am Breaking Down of Lamb Carcass & Lamb Forequarter Breakdown Showing Different Cuts, For Different Dishes
11.50 am Kids’ Session — Nuts for Doughnuts Hot Jam Doughnut Beignets
12.30 pm Break Down of a Beef Forequarter
Demonstrating all the cuts that come off a beef forequarter, Blade, Brisket
1.10 pm Carnivore Collective
All-Time BBQ Hour
Kettle Weber, Smokers, Traditional Reverse Sear Rib-eye, Smoked Smash Burger, Tandoori Chicken Skewer, Boneless Whole Chicken, Lamb Rack, Porchetta, Pulled Lamb, American Pork Spare Ribs
2.40 pm Poultry Break Down
How to get 20 Different cuts out of 1 Chicken Carcass.
Beef Butt Breakdown
Showing what a butt of beef is, where it comes from off the beef carcass and the cuts of meats that come from the butt and there uses
Birria Pizza Mexican meets Italian
Pork Shoulder Breakdown
Showing Different Cuts, For Different Dishes & The Vestiary of Pork shoulder
Kids’ Session — Kids Gone Viral
Christmas Crack
Honey Butter Toast
Souvlaki
Break Down of Beef Argie
This is the section off the beef carcass that carries all the prime cuts, see how many prime steaks come off a beef carcass. Showcasing beef from Habbies Howe. Featuring Guest Speaker Scott McKay Owner of Habbies Howe
Carnivore Collective
All-Time BBQ Hour
Kettle Weber, Smokers, Traditional Reverse Sear Rib-eye, Smoked Smash Burger, Tandoori Chicken Skewer, Boneless Whole Chicken, Lamb Rack, Porchetta, Pulled Lamb, American Pork Spare Ribs
Preparation of Pork Loin Pork loin breakdown showing all the different uses, cuts and preparation for an Italian Porchetta
Generating revenue from agri-ventures
Learn what agri-ventures/agri-tourism worked and didn’t work for Hallston Valley Farm. Explore other case studies and options that might work for you and your farm/land.
Jill Noble, Hallston Valley Farm
Poll Highland Cattle; the alternative
The Poll Highland is the Scottish Highland without the horns. You now have a choice. Word is getting out on the advantages of NO horns. Find out how to breed the horns out but still have all the Highland traits.
Julia Webster, Poll Highland Cattle Society
Cattle Basics
An open discussion driven by you, bring your questions.
Selection, Fencing, Feeding, Handling, Health, Calving and more.
Stephen Koch, Atriem Murray Greys
An introduction to Boer Goats
Experienced producers will take you through the breed including their basic care, nutrition and husbandry requirements. What makes a good Boer goat and how best to look after it.
Dean Smith, Boer Goat Breeders Association of Australia
Babydoll Sheep
A smaller (not miniature), dual-purpose meat and wool sheep. Pam Beerens, Babydoll Shepp Breeders Australia.
Preparation of Beef Brisket & Beef Flank
Showing How Secondary Cuts of Beef can be Amazing Good.
Kids’ Session — Brownie, Blondie, Brownie
Peanut Butter Dtuffed Brownie Biscoff Blondie, Brownie Roulade
Venison Demo with Paul Boag
Showing the preparation of Venison Carcass from the field! Talking about Field Dressing & the Different cuts and what they are used for
Venison
French Dip Sandwich Steak & Mushroom Burger
Pork Shoulder Breakdown
Showing Different Cuts, For Different Dishes & The Vestiary of Pork shoulder Salami & Sausage Demo
Carnivore Collective
All-Time BBQ Hour
Kettle Weber, Smokers, Traditional Reverse Sear Rib-eye, Smoked Smash Burger, Tandoori Chicken Skewer, Boneless Whole Chicken, Lamb Rack, Porchetta, Pulled Lamb, American Pork Spare Ribs
Lamb Hindquarter
Preparation of lamb loin and leg and all the different cuts that come from a hindquarter.
Waste not, want not: Regional growth success
Waste management is rarely something people think about until it stops working.
Across regional Victoria, however, the collection, transport and processing of waste and recyclables is an essential operation that keeps regional cities running.
Northern Victoria-based company FOOTT has spent more than three decades building a business around that work.
Founded in 1992, the company now employs more than 100 people and operates a fleet of more than 50 trucks servicing communities across northern Victoria and southern NSW.
It provides a range of waste, recycling and event solutions and delivers domestic waste collection services for Greater Shepparton City Council, Strathbogie Shire Council and Benalla Rural City Council.
Materials collected across the region are processed at the company’s Shepparton recycling facility, where recyclable plastic bottles, aluminium cans, cardboard, paper and plastics are sorted and compacted into bales to optimise storage and transport.
FOOTT chief executive officer Andrew Yeoland said the company’s growth had closely reflected the development of regional Victoria.
“FOOTT is proud to be a trusted waste, recycling and events solutions business servicing northern Victoria and southern NSW,” Andrew said.
“Our growth has been built on investing in regional communities, creating local jobs and expanding our services as the region continues to grow.”
Since late 2023, FOOTT has also operated four depots as part of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme. Located in Shepparton, Cobram, Benalla and Yarrawonga, the CDS Vic depots have processed more than 81 million containers, returning over $8,100,000 to regional communities.
In addition to operating the depots, FOOTT also manages the logistics and processing for all CDS containers across northern Victoria from Mildura to Wodonga.
The company also supports a range of initiatives through its FOOTT Cares program, which provides sponsorship and support to community groups, events and organisations.
Beyond its operational work, FOOTT also hosts educational tours of its facility for schools and community groups, offering insight into how recycling systems operate.
Andrew said maintaining strong connections with the region remained central to the company’s approach.
“We’re proud of the team we’ve built and the role they play supporting communities, businesses and events right across regional Victoria,” he said.
FOOTT chief executive officer Andrew Yeoland with heads of logistics and business integration Zane Foott, operations Brendan Ryan, people, culture and safety Caitlin Baker, and finance Lachie Telford. Photo: Prue Peters Photography.
Heat-hardy breed suits Victoria
Since 1933, the Brahman breed has continued to revolutionise the nation’s cattle industry.
Developed by crossing thin-skinned, heat-tolerant Indian breeds with traditional English cattle, today’s Australian Brahman were developed by northern cattlemen who realised that traditional breeds were unable to withstand the ravages of northern Australia’s cattle ticks, heat and drought.
Today, the breed’s influence covers Australia, with stud and commercial live cattle exports to many overseas countries a clear indication of the breed’s adaptation over a wide spectrum of climatic conditions.
The growth and development of the Australian Brahman has been described as the greatest livestock revolution in history.
It has transformed the northern beef industry into an efficient and highly profitable enterprise which contributes millions of dollars annually towards domestic and export income.
In the more temperate weather conditions found in Victoria, Brahmans offer improved drought resistance, a boost in production by up to 40 per cent through hybrid vigour and an ability to increase overall herd fertility, milk production and reproductive longevity.
They also provide an outcrop in genetics which has the potential to increase stud value.
For more information on how to maximise your herd, email the Australian Brahman Breeders
Association at abba@brahman.com.au or visit the Brahman site at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.
Practical equipment for tough times
There’s no question that farming is demanding, especially right now.
Rising input costs, uncertain seasons, and ongoing economic pressure mean every decision on the farm carries more weight than ever.
Investing in the right equipment is not just about convenience, it can directly impact safety, efficiency and longterm profitability.
At Brazzen Yarra Valley, we work alongside farmers every day, so we understand the realities you’re facing.
Our focus is simple: Provide strong, reliable livestock equipment that makes your operation safer and more efficient without adding unnecessary costs.
Our fully galvanised cattle, sheep, and horse handling equipment is built to handle Australia’s harsh conditions. From heavy-duty panels and gates to crushes, feeders, and complete yard systems, our products are designed to perform season after season.
Safety is at the core of our designs. We aim to protect both livestock and handlers by creating equipment that improves stock flow, reduces stress, and minimises the risk of injury during yard work.
We also understand that many farmers in our region have recently been impacted by devastating fires.
Brazzen Yarra Valley provides strong, reliable livestock equipment designed for Australia’s harsh conditions.
Rebuilding infrastructure after a fire is not easy, and the financial strain can be significant.
Brazzen is here to support fireaffected farmers in the area, helping you restore safe and functional stockyards so you can move forward with confidence.
When times are tight, equipment must deliver real value.
Brazzen products are built for durability and priced competitively,
allowing you to invest wisely in your operation without overstretching your budget.
Beyond the equipment itself, we pride ourselves on personal service.
We are here to listen, offer practical advice, and help you select the right set-up for your property, livestock, and goals.
Farming is more than a profession, it is a commitment to the land, your animals, and your community.
The company supports fire-affected farmers by helping them rebuild safe and functional stockyards at competitive prices.
In challenging seasons, having dependable equipment and trusted support can make all the difference.
At Brazzen Yarra Valley, we are proud to stand beside our local producers, offering practical, cost-effective solutions to help you rebuild, adapt and move forward stronger than ever. Visit us to learn how Brazzen Yarra Valley can help make your farm work safer, more efficient, and ready for the future.
Despite being bred to survive the brutal conditions of northern Australia, Brahman cattle are equally at home in Victoria’s climate extremes.
FAMILY FUN & ENTERTAINMENT
Huskies sled pulling showcased
Jake Greaves has transformed his passion for working dogs into Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours, a full-time operation that officially launched in 2010.
The business owner acquired his first husky, Koda, in 2005, and began building his first working team in 2008, running sled tours in Dinner Plain.
“We currently have 68 huskies, and we keep them for their entire lives,” Jake said.
“The majority of our dogs have been rescued, often coming to us needing extra structure, patience and training.
“They’re not just working dogs to us, they’re family.”
The team will bring its huskies to perform live pulling demonstrations using wheeled carts.
“We’ll be bringing a team of our huskies to perform a live pulling demonstration using our wheeled cart, showing how strong our huskies actually are, pulling 2.5 times their own body weight,” Jake said.
However, rides won’t be offered at the expo.
“The focus will be on live demonstrations and giving people the chance to see the dogs up close,” Jake said.
“Our dogs are trained for running larger tours rather than small tracks.”
Jake emphasises that huskies require significant commitment.
“Huskies are amazing dogs, but they are not for everyone,” he said.
“They’re a high-energy working breed and need a lot of exercise.
“Unfortunately, many huskies are surrendered because people underestimate their needs.”
Wildlife Wranglers, Jake’s other business, will also feature at the event.
“We’ll also be bringing a selection of our wildlife from our other business Wildlife Wranglers, including crocodiles, snakes,
lizards and possibly a dingo,” he said.
“Animal attendance will depend on the weather and temperature to ensure their comfort and welfare.”
This winter, Howling Husky Sled Dog Tours will operate at Mt Hotham, Dinner Plain, Mt Baw Baw and Mt Buller, seven-days-aweek throughout the snow season.
Car club clocks up many years
For decades, the Seymour Car Club has proudly showcased the region’s finest vehicles at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo, becoming a beloved community tradition.
President John Phoenix said the club was passionate about sharing its knowledge and educating visitors about automotive history, with a particular focus on classic vehicles.
“It was only about five cars initially,” John said.
The club’s collection spans automotive history from a 1927 classic to a 2017 Holden Commodore, representing the end of an era for Australian car manufacturing.
“The expo is just for the Seymour Car Club,” he said.
“We normally have 20 cars on display on the oval, and a little gazebo on the fence with our banner.”
The team will be there to answer any questions about the cars on display, owning a vintage car or joining the club.
“Throughout the whole day, we’ve always got at least two members
that man the area, ready to give out information,” he said.
Since 2011, the club has built extensive expertise in automotive exhibitions, particularly excelling in show and shine competitions across the region.
John said the hardest part of owning a vintage car was the upkeep.
“The maintenance is one of the hard things, as it’s getting harder for some lighter metal cars,” he said.
“We don’t have any Australian cars any more, so we rely on imports, and it’s hard to get Commodore parts at the moment even.”
Visit the Seymour Car Club display to discover the district’s most impressive vehicles and chat with passionate enthusiasts about car ownership and automotive history.
The club will also have information on club membership for any budding car lovers.
Seymour and District Car Club president John Phoenix with Judy McGrath.
The car club will be at the event for all three days.
Watch huskies perform live pulling demonstrations at the expo.
From logs to laurels
Brandon Kroon has transformed his childhood fascination with chainsaw carving into an internationally recognised career, winning the US Open International Carving Competition in 2022 along with receiving the Carvers Choice Award.
The artist, who operates under BK Carving, began his journey in 2013 after being inspired by carvers he saw as a young child.
“I started chainsaw carving back in 2013, and it became a fulltime job in 2014,” Brandon said.
“Similar to the Seymour expo, I had seen it done when I was a very young kid and I was inspired by it.”
Brandon’s entry into the field was humble.
“We had a pretty big log supply at home and enough space, I picked up the saw one day and gave it a shot,” he said.
“By all means, it wasn’t very good, my carving wasn’t great when I started.”
His skills developed through connections with other Australian carvers.
“I saw carvers at Seymour, it would have been either 2013 or 14, and I got to have some great interactions with them,” Brandon said.
“It was the next year; I was carving with them there.”
Brandon’s work spans diverse subjects from native wildlife to abstract human forms.
“A lot of my work is commissionbased, so a lot of the concept is already there, and I just have to do my best to translate it into the wood,” he said.
“I love doing native animals. We are so lucky to have so many in this country.”
The artist emphasises the importance of adaptability in his craft.
“You never know what sort of log you are going to get, and every log is unique and different,” Brandon said. This year, sometime after the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo, Brandon plans to compete in Canada and the United States.
“It’s a great opportunity to really get creative, try new things and carve alongside some of the world’s best carvers,” he said.
Supertank to lure in crowds
The Berkley Supertank returns, bringing cutting-edge lures and baits that will transform your fishing success.
The tank itself is 12 metres long and four metres high, holding 14,000 litres of water and full of barramundi.
Expert demonstrator Michael Cooke will share his decades of knowledge, showing exactly how lures perform in real conditions.
“We’ve been doing a lot of years at Seymour and all the other shows for about 25 years,” Michael said.
“We show people how lures work, how to use them in the different ways, when you should be using lures, but more importantly, the speed work, and then we talk about some freshwater lures.”
Unlike typical fishing seminars, these demonstrations offer a rare underwater view of how fish actually respond to different lures.
Michael has been a trusted presence at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo for over 15 years, drawn back by the welcoming community spirit.
“The people are really nice and are always happy to sit down and watch the shows,” Michael said.
Outside the show itself, Michael will be selling lures at a nearby marketing stand to encourage attendees to put their newfound knowledge to practical use.
Even returning visitors will discover fresh insights, as Michael continuously updates his presentations with the latest fishing innovations and techniques.
“There’s always something new coming out as far as lures, always new releases, so we also carry a bit of a range of the newest rods and reels out,” he said.
From complete beginners to seasoned weekend warriors, every angler will gain valuable knowledge from the Berkley Supertank experience.
“Anybody who enjoys fishing will get something out of it and all of that knowledge is going to help you become a better angler,” Michael said.
“Please come and say hello and then obviously get around and have a good day because it is a really great expo.
“It’s always a pleasure to be there.”
Inspired by carvers he saw as a child, BK Carving chainsaw carver Brandon Kroon started chainsaw carving in 2013 and transitioned to full-time work by 2014.
Berkley Supertank demonstrator Michael Cooke at the 2024 Seymour expo educating crowds on the latest bait and lures.
SUSTAINABILITY & INNOVATION
Dig this for soil health
Eco Guardians is launching SoilFood this autumn, a microbial soil stimulant made entirely from organic food waste diverted from landfill.
“SoilFood is a pathogen-free microbial soil stimulant that is helping to close the loop on nutrient loss from our soils,” Eco Guardians sustainability and partnerships manager Marcelle Swanson said.
“The product is incredibly high in carbon and organic matter and actually feeds and encourages the microbiology in the soil.
“This directly improves plant health by recreating a natural nutrient exchange between the plant roots and the soil life.”
The company’s unique rapid dehydration process locks in maximum carbon, organic matter and nutrition to create a pathogenfree, highly nutritious microbial soil food backed by science and nature. The waste materials repurposed include fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, pasta, rice, bread, tea, coffee grindings and food scraps.
“Every batch of SoilFood is rigorously tested to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety, quality and performance,” Marcelle said emphasising safety standards.
Revolutionise farming with organic solutions
Vitec Organics owner Bill Bowring is showcasing three decades of Australian-made organic farming solutions at the upcoming Seymour expo.
The Victoria-based manufacturer specialises in liquid fertilisers and livestock supplements designed to support local agriculture.
“We do Australian-made organic supplements and fertilisers, focusing on Australian products and Australian-made products,” Bill said.
“We manufacture in Victoria and work directly with farmers to ensure the best price and most success.”
The company produces a comprehensive range of products from fish and kelp fertilisers to livestock supplements, serving all of Australia, all agriculture, pasture, horticulture and home gardens.
Vitec Organics caters to diverse
customers with products ranging from one to 1000 litres serving home veggie gardens all the way through to commercial farming venues.
At the expo, visitors can expect hands-on support and product demonstrations.
“At the Seymour expo, we will have a range of everything,” Bill said.
“We will have fertiliser in smaller sizes, packet sizes and livestock supplements as well.
“We can help organise soil testing if needed and talk through the different products, and the best application.
“We can help anyone from commercial farmers, right down to your hobby farmers that are looking to get started with liquids.”
“Products undergo comprehensive laboratory analysis, including nutrient profiling and pathogen clearance, and comply with all relevant EPA requirements.
“SoilFood is not just about preventing food waste from entering landfill; it’s also about improving our soils, naturally.
“Every year, more nutrients are taken from the land than are returned, while millions of tonnes of food is thrown away, only to break down in landfills, where it releases methane.”
Unlike compost, SoilFood is the result of rapid dehydration, rather than decomposition, making it more consistent and safer than compost as well as being higher in organic matter, carbon and available nutrients.
Because it is naturally low in phosphorus, SoilFood can be applied to all soil types and plants. Every 3 kg bag diverts 15 kg of organic food waste from landfill and feeds 120 square metres of soil. More information is available at soilfood.au
The business offers innovative solutions including build-yourown spray tank kits available through their website.
Established in 1989 by agricultural scientist Ted Sloan, Vitec has built its reputation over three decades by supporting Australian farmers.
The company uses premium King Island kelp collected from pristine shores, with local collectors’
hand-selecting the finest bull kelp husks for processing.
“Our big thing is supporting local farmers,” Bill said.
“The business has been around for 30 years, supporting Aussie farmers for three decades, focusing on regenerating soil and reducing chemical inputs.”
For details, visit www.vitec.com.au
Vitec Organics is a family-run business
Eco Guardians is launching SoilFood, a microbial soil stimulant made from organic food waste to improve plant health and soil microbiology.
SoilFood is high in carbon and organic matter, feeding soil microbiology and recreating a natural nutrient exchange with plant roots.
Transforming aquaponics with smart tech
Andrew Kendrick has been practising aquaponics for 15 years and founded Wiseponics to address industry gaps seeing a need for a smart control system.
The company provides consulting services and products for aquaponics enthusiasts and commercial operators.
“We also provide information and consulting in particular for recirculating aquaculture,” Andrew said.
“We are probably for your advanced hobbyist right through to commercial operations.” Wiseponics is developing products to reduce risks associated with aquaponics systems.
“We have a couple of different products we are designing at the moment to ease the burden, because there is a lot of risk,” Andrew said.
“It is about fixing the limitations and also maximising the efficiency of the system.
“We can help you build your whole aquaponics system or with just the control module.”
Andrew has extensive experience with a range of fish species.
“‘I’ve personally grown out trout, rainbow trout, Murray cod and native catfish,” he said. For beginners, he recommends starting with hardy species.
“Native catfish are quite tough, quite resilient and they play well with each other,” he said.
“Something like Murray cod, they are a nice fish to have in, but they are very aggressive, so they are quite happy to kill each other, making them a bit trickier to look after.”
Temperature management affects fish selection and growth rates.
“If they are going in a greenhouse where it is going to be a bit warmer, something like a native catfish will do very well,” he said.
Growth times vary significantly, with trout reaching harvest size within six months, while native catfish take six to 18 months.
The systems support diverse plant cultivation.
“You can grow pretty much any fruit and vegetables off the aquaponics system,” Andrew said.
“I’ve had tomatoes, rock melons and watermelons.”
“I’ve got a glasshouse full of tomatoes at the moment, just growing off the fish water.”
in central Victoria.
Drones boost yields
Velterra Drone Solutions is revolutionising agriculture across central Victoria with cutting-edge drone technology that promises to boost yields while reducing costs.
“We work across all agriculture,” Velterra Drone Solutions owner and pilot Ricky Connelly said.
“I started off with viticulture because that is my background.
“I’ve been in wine for about 15 years and understand the growth cycle from start to finish.
“The drones themselves are mostly used in broad-acre farming in other parts of the world.”
Drones offer significant advantages over traditional farming methods, particularly in sensitive growing conditions.
“Drones suit any plant where once it gets later in the growing season, you don’t want to do any damage to the crops, or if there is anything that needs to be sprayed when conditions are quite wet,” Ricky said.
“Generally, grains and corn, wheat, and canola tend to be quite good as well.”
The efficiency gains are substantial.
“You can have a small drone that will fly over, and it can map up to 150 hectares in an hour,” Ricky said.
“Once you have processed all that into one image, you can then sit with your agronomist and have a look through and say, ‘we need to be a little bit more targeted in these zones’.”
This precision approach delivers economic benefits.
“Instead of doing a blanket application across the whole field, you can be customised in different areas,” he said.
“This means you are using your inputs a lot more selectively, intelligently and cutting down on the costs.
“And all that data can be imported into a larger spray drone, so it can do it autonomously.
“As it flies over the field, it will adjust the rate at which it is spraying based on where it is.
“For broad acre, especially in places with a lot more irrigation because you are using lower inputs for your spraying or more concentrated inputs, you are not using as much water.”
Velterra Drone owner and pilot Ricky Connelly is using cutting-edge drone technology to revolutionise agriculture
Starting aquaponics with hardy fish species like native catfish for beginners due to their resilience and compatibility.
Data collected can be imported into larger spray drones for autonomous spraying.
Seymour Toyota is a trusted dealership
Seymour Toyota has been serving the local community for over 20 years, establishing itself as a trusted dealership just an hour from Melbourne’s CBD.
Seymour Toyota dealer principal Adam Dove emphasises the business’s commitment to transparency and community support.
“Clear pricing, honest answers, no run-around, just a straightforward dealership experience you can trust,” Adam said.
The dealership offers a comprehensive range of services including new Toyota vehicle sales, pre-owned vehicles of all makes and models, and commercial vehicles.
“We service most makes and models, both passenger and commercial vehicles,” Adam said.
“No matter where you purchased your vehicle, our experienced team is ready to provide reliable maintenance and repairs to keep you on the road and your family and business moving.”
Seymour Toyota’s service area extends across multiple regional towns including Euroa, Nagambie, Seymour, Puckapunyal, Broadford, Kilmore, Heathcote, Lancefield, Wallan, Beveridge, Wandong, Bylands, Longwood and Yea.
“Supporting community clubs and non-profit organisations is important to us, and we’re committed to investing in the people and programs that make our community stronger,” Adam said.
The business provides flexible financing options through Toyota Access loans and fixed rate car
loans, along with extended warranty and roadside assistance products.
Vehicle servicing is available six-daysa-week, including tyres and wheel alignments.
For those attending the Seymour Expo, Adam confirmed test drives can be arranged, with the dealership being “just a short walk from the showgrounds.”
Located at 21 Emily St, Seymour, the dealership can be contacted on 5735 3000 or visited online at seymourtoyota.com.au
Crossbreeding with
Boosts production by 20% to 40% depending on levels of nutrition and stress
Combines complementary desirable traits in the one animal or the one breeding system Improves lowly heritable traits such as fertility, milking ability and longevity Improves yield Improves foraging ability Improves drought tolerance 3 3 3 3 3 3
Seymour Toyota is the dealership redefining trust and transparency and only an hour from Melbourne.
Pre-production model shown
FARMING & LIVESTOCK
Ancient breed thrives in modern Australia
Jason O’Loghlin operates the O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn Sheep Stud at Blighty, NSW, about three hours north of Melbourne. His operation runs Wiltshire Horn sheep across 75 hectares, a breed he has worked with since 2001.
Jason began attending the Seymour Expo in 2009 after initially entering sheep farming through assistance work.
“I started with commercial sheep due to a lady having an injury through a poultry club and doing some assistance and helping there,” he said.
“I researched them and thought, these sheep look okay.”
The Wiltshire Horn, a shedding meat sheep breed, boasts an extensive history dating back thousands of years.
“There are documents and articles that go back to Rome and Roman times and them moving with the Armada,” Jason said.
“There have been skeletal remains that have been excavated at the foot
of Stonehenge that are thousands of years old, and they are identical to the skeletal structure of the modernday Wiltshire Horn.”
According to the Australian Wiltshire Horn Sheepbreeders Association, the breed may have descended from sheep brought to Britain by Romans as the original British meat sheep. In the 18th century, it was possibly the most numerous sheep in Britain, with total numbers in the millions.
The breed offers practical advantages for modern farming.
“They don’t require shearing, crutching, obviously no mulesing,” Jason said.
“They are excellent mothers, and they raise very, very good lambs, and they taste even better.”
The breed standard requires ewes over 80 kilograms and rams over 100 kg.
Hornless Highlands steal hearts
The Poll Highland Cattle Society Inc. members have been breeding hornless Highland cattle since its formation in 2015, offering a safer alternative to the traditional horned breed.
Poll Highland Cattle Society Inc president Julia Webster said the organisation was created by people who “loved the horned Highland breed, but saw a need for hornless Highlands for more safety with handling for owners, vets and in saleyards”.
“We have bred the horns out of the traditional Highland cattle, that is really where it started,” Julia said.
“A poll is a Highland, except that it doesn’t have horns, because it is genetically bred out.
“They are easy to handle.
“They are safer to humans as well as the other cattle.”
The hornless breed retains all characteristics of traditional
Highlands, including their distinctive double coat.
“They originated from Scotland, where they like the hairy cow, or the hairy coo, as they call them over there,” Julia said.
“That is really why people fall in love with them because of their shaggy coats and their docile personalities.”
Julia, who has been breeding Highlands since 1991, runs 60 to 70 head including calves on her 35 hectare property.
“You fall in love with them, and then you just want more and more,” she said.
The cattle shed their long winter coats at winter’s end and regrow them around March and April.
The society registers poll, horned and miniature highlands, with standard size being 122 cm at hip height.
For more information, email info@pollhighland.com.au, phone 0493 236 320 or visit pollhighland.com.au
The Wiltshire Horn sheep breed has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with evidence linking them to Roman times and Stonehenge.
O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn sheep are known for shedding and meat and offers practical benefits for modern farming such as no shearing.
The Poll Highland Society will have some of its unique breed on show at the expo.
Catrin and Rose are beautiful Poll Highland cows.
Breeding practical Murray Greys
Atriem Murray Greys co-principal Stephen Koch operates a seed stock stud focused on commercial cattle rather than show animals.
“We operate a seed stock stud, so we don’t necessarily produce show cattle,” Stephen said.
“Our cattle can be shown, but we focus squarely on commercial cattle and commercial clients.”
The operation produces bulls and females for commercial herds, both purebred Murray Grey and crossbred cattle across properties in Tallarook, Kildean and around Seymour.
“We have a number of clients that crossbreed, including Angus and Hereford, using our bulls,” Stephen said.
“We also sell genetics into Queensland and they are crossed with Brahmins, which we tend to call it Grayman, a Murray Grey Brahmin cross; they do very well.”
Stephen emphasises the breed’s light-coloured coat for practical reasons.
“We focus on a light-coloured coat for two reasons: Heat tolerance is the key one, but also it is a point of difference,” he said.
The operation runs about 75 breeders across multiple properties and maintains strict selection
criteria based on docility, fertility and longevity.
“Our very first criteria for any of our cattle is natural docility, and we can assess that, because we weigh every calf the day it is born in the paddock in front of its dam,”
Stephen said.
The business also focuses on structural soundness, particularly for bulls weighing 1000 to 1100 kilograms.
At the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo in April, Stephen faces scheduling challenges as an autumn calving operation.
“Our maiden heifers are carved now,” he said.
“They calved earlier than our cows, so we are always trying to work out which animals to bring at the last minute.
“Whichever animals are available at the time come out of the paddock into the expo, which are not tied up in pens, so un-led cattle.
He also volunteers with the Seymour Agricultural and Pastoral Society, setting up cattle displays and delivering lectures on cattle basics and handling throughout the expo.
Alpaca companions for families
Eden Rise Alpacas owner Samantha Schwebach operates what she describes as a stud farm in Glenaroua, housing 50 alpacas in total.
“We have 28 breeding females and 22 males, but they are not all stud males; they range in age from young males, teenagers, to adults,” Samantha said.
“We started off quite small, we went larger and then we downsized again, to have more quality than quantity.
“We breed our alpacas mainly for small acreage and hobby farmers, so people are after something that is healthy and friendly as well.”
Alpacas have a long lifespan, living 20 to 25 years, depending on their health and care.
The animals are social creatures requiring companionship.
“You certainly need more than one alpaca as they are a herd
animal and they are very sociable, so a minimum requirement would be two alpacas for small acreage, three would be ideal,” she said.
Eden Rise Alpacas focuses heavily on socialisation and training.
“We halter train our alpacas and handle them quite frequently,” Samantha said.
“Quite often our alpacas are more approachable than normal, but we spend the time to do that.”
Baby alpacas, known as cria, begin halter training around four to six months old.
The farm caters to a range of customer needs, from families seeking friendly animals to farmers seeking herd guards.
“Quite a lot of people who have Airbnb-type properties will often seek out alpacas,” she said.
“More often than not, young families that are going into small acreage will seek out a more friendly alpaca, something that will be good around children.
“There are the alpacas we have on the other scale, when someone wants them as a herd guard.
“You don’t want them to be overly friendly because they have a job to do.
“A friendly herd guard probably won’t work, but if you are after a friendly animal that you can spend a bit of time with, then Eden Rise Alpacas is the stud for you?”
Alpacas have a long lifespan of 20 to 25 years and are social animals that require companionship.
Atriem Murray Greys co-principal Stephen Koch focuses on producing commercial cattle rather than show animals.
The operation produces bulls and females for commercial herds, including purebred Murray Grey and crossbred cattle.
Eden Rise Alpacas is a stud farm in Glenaroua with 50 alpacas.
The farm focuses on breeding alpacas for small acreage and hobby farmers.
Heritage breeds shine
Willow Drive South Suffolk and English Leicester Stud farmer Barry Shalders has been breeding South Suffolk sheep since 1993 at Grassmere near Warrnambool.
“We are probably one of the biggest in Australia at one stage, but we have scaled down because I’m semiretired now,” Barry said.
The operation now runs about 80 ewes and sells around 40 to 50 rams annually to farmers for meat production.
“They are easy lambing, quick maturing, fast-growing lamb,” he said.
“They have little or no lambing issues with small maiden sheep.
“We sell probably half our rams to people with maiden ewes and we do sell them through to just about every other breed as well.
“These days, a lot go to shedding breeds, which I think makes them more sellable, with a bit of skin on them.”
The stud has also taken over an English Leicester operation,
described as one of the oldest studs in Australia.
Starting with half a dozen ewes, Barry now has 15 rams available this year.
“They are a heritage breed,” he said.
“The English Leicester wool is one of the better ones for hand spinning.
“We probably sell half of our fleeces to spinners at the moment.”
At the Seymour expo, where the stud has exhibited for several years, Willow Drive South Suffolk and English Leicester Stud will display both breeds.
“We will possibly have some South Suffolk rams that we will have for sale, if they are not all sold by then,”
Barry said.
“We will have English Leicester, probably have a couple of rams that can be sold and some on display as well.”
Meet
Australia’s
most adorable sheep
Epridell Farm owner Bec Waddell has found her passion in breeding some of Australia’s most distinctive livestock.
“We are only a small farm,” she said.
“We started out with Highland cattle and had been breeding them for many years.”
The farm’s journey took an exciting turn when Valais Blacknose sheep arrived in Australia in 2020.
“We started off with the Bred Up program when the sheep first landed in Australia and then fairly quickly moved into pure Valais because they are addictive, and they are absolutely adorable,” Bec said.
The appeal of these Swiss sheep lies in their similarity to Highland cattle.
“The reason I fell in love with them is they are similar to, well, they remind me of the Highlands, but in the sheep version,” she said.
“The big shaggy wool and the long horns, both the ewes and the rams, have the big horn set, so they are similar in that way to the Highlands.”
She also praised their temperament.
“They are a very docile sheep, quite a friendly sheep, and similar to a dog.”
Operating on a small scale allows for intensive care.
“We have about 10 pure ewes on our farm at any given time, and it is very hands-on,” Bec said.
“They are not like a sheep, more like a gorgeous lawn mower.”
The farm, located 10 minutes from Ballarat at Bald Hills, serves a unique market, with its largest clientele comprising therapy animals, farm stays, and BnBs.
The couple divides responsibilities, with Bec handling the “cute fluffies”, while her husband breeds Charbray cattle.
At Seymour expo, where they’ve exhibited for four years, the farm showcases its animals to potential buyers.
“We love Seymour. It is such a great expo,” Bec said.
“It is a very exhausting weekend because it is so full on, we are always very busy, but it is brilliant, and we get to talk about sheep and cows all weekend, so what more could you ask for?”
South Suffolk will be showcased at the Seymour expo.
Epridell Farm has a passion for breeding unique livestock such as Highland cattle and Valais Blacknose sheep.
Supporting Regional Industry
Trusted waste, recycling and event solutions for businesses, construction projects and events across Northern Victoria and Southern NSW.
Crack secrets to healthy chooks
At the Small Farms Learning Hub, Meg Miller OAM, writer for Australasian Poultry Magazine, will share her decades of experience with backyard chickens and offer practical advice for beginners and experienced keepers.
Meg’s passion for poultry began with a practical consideration for her small acreage property.
“I have always been interested in traditional breeds of farm stock,” Meg said.
“I live on a small acreage and really couldn’t do much with ruminants, four-footed, so I had poultry.
“You can have more variety with your poultry in the same area.”
Her expertise has grown far beyond basic chicken keeping.
Meg now judges multiple poultry species and has developed particular expertise in egg assessment.
“I judge turkeys and jungle fowl and guinea fowl, and I judge eggs, and I’ve developed an incredible passion for eggs, because an egg is not just an egg,” she said.
This specialised knowledge allows Meg to diagnose flock health issues simply by examining eggs.
“I can tell by the shell that’s a bit rough, and that could be an indication of, not enough water, or whether a hen is a little bit stressed,” she said.
Meg emphasises that successful chicken keeping starts with understanding chicken behaviour and psychology.
“If you understand what chooks are like, and they’re very smart, much smarter than we take them for, you can give them a better life,” Meg said.
“They hate strangers. They’re really nervous about new birds, different coloured birds and all that.”
For those starting their poultry journey, Meg suggests keeping things straightforward initially.
“I think it’s easier to start with one of the red hens, because availability is easy, they’re pretty, and they’ve been bred to perform,” she said.
Conquest Pools
But Meg cautions against mixing certain breeds without proper planning.
“The red hens and the traditional breeds don’t actually like each other,” she said.
“They need lots of space.
“You need a big hen house and yard for them to get on.”
To find out when Meg Miller OAM will be speaking about top tips for healthy, productive chooks, check the Small Farms Learning Hub schedule.
For beginners, Meg Millar OAM recommends starting with red hens due to their availability and performance.
CFMOTO drives farming future
For more than 35 years, CFMOTO has built a global reputation as a world-class powersports manufacturer, specialising in ATVs, side-by-side vehicles and motorcycles.
Since entering the Australian market in 2005, the brand has become a trusted name among farmers, with over 50,000 vehicles sold nationwide.
From rugged ATVs to hard-working UTVs, CFMOTO understands what Aussie farmers demand from their machinery.
Now, the company steps confidently into a new era with the launch of its first-ever electric UTV: the UFORCE U6 EV, released in August 2025.
Built on the proven UFORCE 600 platform, this pioneering model brings true workhorse capability to the electric category.
Its practical 110 km* range allows farmers to simply charge overnight and start fresh each morning — no fuel runs, no fuss.
And at $24,490 ride away, it enters the market at almost half the price of some competitors, making advanced electric technology more attainable for rural Australia.
One of the most game-changing advantages is its silent operation. Beyond improving operator comfort, it delivers real-world benefits on the farm.
A Victorian sheep farmer recently noted how invaluable this has been during lambing season.
With no engine noise startling the mob, stock checks become calmer, quicker and far less stressful, an immediate advantage that only electric power can provide, opening the door to a wider variety of applications.
Beyond silence, the UFORCE U6 EV delivers serious capability: instant torque from its electric motor, 800 kg towing capacity, 250 kg rear cargo tray, and the added comfort of zero engine vibration and no fumes.
Practical, powerful and purpose-built for everyday farm life, the U6 EV is a versatile new tool for operations big and small.
Backed by a two-year vehicle warranty and five-year unlimited kilometre power battery warranty, CFMOTO’s UFORCE U6 EV isn’t just an electric alternative, it marks the next evolution in farm-ready performance.
*110 km on a single charge: achieves a range of 110 km at a constant speed of 30–40 km/h after a full charge, under temperatures of 20–25°C.
CFMOTO is a trusted name among farmers.
WHAT’S ON
This pull-out section includes a comprehensive guide to all the exciting events and an easy-to-read map to help you find all the must-see exhibits at this year’s Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.
WHAT’S ON | FRIDAY, APRIL 17
TIME DETAILS
9.50 am Pork Side Break Down
10.00 am Training Working Dogs with Paul MacPhail from Beloka Kelpies
10.00 am Cattle Basics with Stephen Koch from Atriem Murray Greys
10.15 am Rein Cowhorse presented by Ozsort and VRCHA
10.30 am Dutch Baby — Skillet Pancakes
10.30 am Hemp Building Demonstrations with David Brian from Southern Hemp
10.30 am Private Fire Fighting Vehicles with Country Fire Association
10.45 am Wildlife Demonstration
11.00 am Beloka Kelpie — Working Dog Demonstrations
11.00 am Ten Top Tips for Healthy Productive Chooks with Megg Miller OAM from Australasian Poultry Magazine
11.00 am Building Soil Health in Practice, with Ian Mot from Vital Soils Services
11.10 am Breaking Down of Lamb Carcass
11.15 am Drone Spraying & Mapping Demonstration with Velterra Drones
11.45 am Howling Huskies — Sled Dog Demonstration
11.50 am Kids’ Session — Nuts for Donuts — Hot Jam Doughnuts Beignets
Noon Growing Hemp with David Brian from Southern Hemp
Noon Farming Q&A Session for all, with Malcolm Cock from VFF Stock Sense
12.15 pm Rein Cowhorse presented by Ozsort and VRCHA
12.30 pm Break Down of a Beef Forequarter
12.45 pm Beloka Kelpie — Working Dog Demonstrations
1.00 pm Introduction to Beekeeping with Andrew Stanish from Australian Bee Supplies
1.00 pm Seven Sheep Essentials with Jill Noble from Hallston Valley Farm
1.10 pm Carnivore Collective — All-Time BBQ Hour
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
Farms’ Learning Hub
Lectures
Arena
Farms’ Learning Hub
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
Farms’ Learning Hub
Lectures
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
1.15 pm Wildlife Demonstration Snake Safe site
1.30 pm Drone Spraying & Mapping Demonstration with Velterra Drones
2.00 pm State of Agtech: Adoption, Trends and Future Tech with Pete Walsh from Farmers to Founders
Farms’ Learning Hub
2.00 pm Babydoll Sheep with Pam Beerens from Babydoll Sheep Breeders Australia Farm Lectures
2.00 pm Hemp Building Demonstrations with David Brian from Southern Hemp T44
2.00 pm Horses, Livestock and Bushfires with Country Fire Association L1
2.15 pm Howling Huskies — Sled Dog Demonstration
2.40 pm Poultry Break Down
2.45 pm Rein Cowhorse presented by Ozsort and VRCHA Equestrian Arena
3.00 pm Beloka Kelpie — Working Dog Demonstrations Main Oval
3.00 pm Aquaponics Control Systems with Andrew Kendrick from DesignWise Engineering Small Farms’ Learning Hub
3.15 pm Wildlife Demonstration Snake Safe site
ALL DAY
All Day Bunnings Kids’ Activity Tent
All Day Farmer Darryl
All Day Kids’ Rides
All Day Kids’ Face painting
All Day Peter Hodge Camel Rides
All Day Seymour District Car Club Display
All Day Australian Travelling Fishing Show Berkley Supertank
Corner
Corner
Corner
Corner
All Day Cattle Livestock Hub & Cattle Yards
All Day Sheep Livestock Hub
All Day Alpacas Livestock Hub
All Day Poultry Poultry Pavilion
All Day Bendigo Woodturners
All Day Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations with BK Carving
All Day Balloon Twisting
EXPO SITE LISTINGS
Exhibitor Name................................................... Sites
3099 Jerky E37
3Rs Retro Recycle Revival Tyre Art CP21
A Country Affair C22
Adelaide Balloon man EB70
Adjusta Mattress Australia & New Zealand ..... T28
Advanced Therapy Massagers EB36
Aeolis Leather E13
AEON Guardians EB10
Affordable Plants T43
Agbiz Assist EB48A
Agriculture Victoria EB48
AgriFutures Australia Goat Fibre Program T48
Agroecopower C17
All Aussie Opals CP44
All Sheds L22
Alpaca Association — Victoria Central Region LP7
Aqua Plus Filtration EB60, EB61
ArticCreations CP12
Atriem Murray Greys CY1
Aussie Bush Hats E11
Australian Bee Supplies C54
Australian Brahman Breeders’ Association CY3
Australian Colloidal Silver EB50
Australian Deer Association E35
Australian Heritage Angora Goats LP4
Australian Travelling Fishing Show Berkley Supertank L76
Avant Equipment L27
Babydoll Sheep Breeders Australia LP3
Barrel Brothers Furniture B60
Bauer GmbH Australia B18A, B32
Bedrock Liners T81
Beer Auto Group L75
Beloka Kelpies Main Oval
Bendigo Country Clothing E2
Bendigo Woodturners E50
Berrigan Economy Harrows B72
Bertolis Agricultural & Industrial E31
Best Ever Boots E23
Biggles Books CP42
Billy & Bear T38C
Biolink Probiotics 4 Plants E18
Boats & More Shepparton & Echuca L79
Boost Juice E12
Brazzen Yarra Valley B5, B16
Brett Tools B89
Bridgewater Berets CP45
Buffalo Built B43
Bug Busters R US Pest Control C41A
Bunnings Kids Corner
Bunyip’s Hemp Farms C11
Burder AgAttachments B41
Bushmans Tanks L76, L77, L78
Bush Sweat Sauna Co T29
Buttons N More CP3
Byron Nuts EB67
Callipari/Ned Kelly Red CP43
Campbell Floats B14
Camping mat warehouse C41
CFMOTO Australia T13
Cheeky Rascal Cider L24
Chintin Botanicals CP32
Chiropractic Life
L33
Chooktred Pty Ltd B25
Clayton Scoble C3
Cloud 9 Hanging Chairs C16
Cluckington B9
CMI Hino Melbourne L60
Cod Pro Shop T79
Coffee a la Carte C53
Coffee and Snacks L19
Conquest Pools T69
Coopers Pet Covers C31A
Country Fire Authority L3
CPR Gutter Protection EB19
Crafty curls T32
Cranky Croc Camping T80
CV Sheds L70
Danish Bakehouse FCE3
Dawes & Vary Riordan Lawyers E27
Debbie Bullen CP6
DesignWise Engineeering L6
Dine with a Difference FCL3
Discover Mitchell T11A
Dr Drums Furniture E41
Duncan Equine Group L25
East Coast Generators T2
Eastern Hill Cricket Club C36
EB Mawsons & Sons EB9
Eddies Cider C2B
Eden orchard L35
Eden Rise Alpacas LP1
Enchanted Wood by Bushwares CP25
Enloq Loaders B8
Epridell Farm C8
Equisolaus LP2
Eye Muffs By Reptiler EB59A
Faizan Naveed FCL2
Falcon UAV B50
Farm & Diesel Mechanical Maintenance B93
Farmer Darryl Kids Corner
Farmer Little L7
Farm Implements B67, B92
Farm Tech Machinery B49
Fat Rat Trading T39
FATV Jerky L16
Fence-Line Solutions B95
Fera Australia C1
Firepits R Us L5, L9, L13
Food Symphony EB21
Foott Waste EB52
Formplex Weatherboards C52
Fossey’s Distillery C13
Four Seasons Gutter Protection EB54
Frazer Ag Equipment B29
Frontier Leather ....................................................... C31B
Frontline Socks B75
Frontline trays and trailers T49
Fruits of Strathmore CP46
G- Force Auto Gates C30
Gallagher Australia E4
Garden Express T71, T73
Geelong mobile icecream FCL8
Genuine Pet Products L29
Georgena Hennebery CP2
Glenda’s Machine Knits
Glenwaters Native Fish
GMV Fruit Fly Program
Goldfields Revegetation Native Nursery
Gone Walk About Australia
Good Country Hemp
Goulburn-Murray Water
Goulburn Broken Catchment Management
Goulburn Valley Ag
some grub
GENERAL EXHIBITION BUILDING
EXPO SITE LISTINGS
Exhibitor Name................................................... Sites
Liz Langford Knits
CP11
Loaded Barrel Distillery C37
Local Botanicals Hemp Oils and Creams T31A
Lucas Mill E16, E17
Lucky Strike Gold B40
Lyndi creations CP20
Made With Love By Tracey CP33A
Mama Melisse L36
Marianne BUNNING Framing C29B
Matilda Water Tanks E44
Max & Moe CP13
Melbourne Polytechnic EB49
Merimbula’s Sweet N Sour Lolly Shop C24A
Micks Signs E39
Midland irrigation — Karcher and bar products B37, B38
Mimi’s Creation’s T34
Mitchell Shire Council EB7, EB8
Mobishear Australia C43
MOJO HATS n More C44
Moose Crossing Pty Ltd t/a TurmeriX Victoria EB3
Morris Outside EB64
Mountain View Contracting B36
Mozzie Fire E19, E20
Mr Bees Manuka EB66
Mr Bratwurst FCE2
Munro Engineers B48
Murray’s water boring L73
MyFire Australia C33
My Slice of Life L37
Nanna’s Kitchen C14
Nannystouch CP38
nbn Local L66
Network Seeder B63
Niagara Medical Therapy EB65
North East Shepparton Trucks L71
Norwood Products T76
Nutrien Ag Solutions E43
O’Connors Farm Machinery T61
O’Loghlin Wiltshire Horn Livestock — Sheep Off-Grid Energy Australia EB17
OMG Decadent Donuts Whittlesea FCL4
On Point Brewery FCL5
On The Go Safety C46, C47, L53
Opa Greek street food FCL7
Original Spirit Company B78
Osa Living EB51
Pachinko Hats L14
Pacific Gas EB38
Paramao International EB26
Para Park Co-operative Game Reserve T38B
Paton Industries ....................................................... B18B
Paul Boags Outdoors T38A
Pauline Hansons One Nation C10
Pegs Shed E9
Peter Hodge Camels B110
Pinnacle Firepits B39
Pioneer Water Tanks E14
POWER N PLAY T7
Power Of The Bee
Professional Nibbler C34
ProSideSelect Pty ltd ............................................ C42A
Protect Our Farms Inc B55
QuikFence B19
Quik Spray | GreenPRO B65
R & R Merkets and Events CP24
Rachel’s Krafty Gifts CP28
Rapid Results E36
Rawleigh’s Healthcare C20
Redgum farm rustic furniture B69
Redneck Oven Co FCE1
Red River Stock Yards T64
Relens Showbags T33
Ridgeline of New Zealand T26
Riverina Jerky and Biltong C24B
Riversdale Irises L17
Rivsteel Sheds & Trailers B57
Rmb collections CP10
Roadking Chassis B88
Rob the tool man B45
Rock DeSigns E49
Rosenow Industries B94A
Rumble Drilling T50
Rural and Outback Trailers T78
Rural Automation L20
Rural Group L65
Rural Tanks and Garden Beds E34
Rustic Timber Creations CP23
Ryebucks Portables B52
Salami Shack EB55
Sanita Health & Well Being EB47
Sea Shepherd Melbourne EB18
Sensual Bliss CP37
Septic Science C39
Sew Sweet EB42
Sew’n’Sue CP35
Seymour & District Car Club Main Oval
Seymour FM 103.9 EB1
Seymour Mowers & Motorbikes T24
Seymour Tyrepower T1
Shannons lnsurance C56
Shaz’s coffee & snacks EB4, EB5
Shearasun Brewing Co. FCB6, FCE4
Shedfast E46
Shepparton Lasers C28
Shepparton Motorcycles T11
Shooters Fishers & Farmers Party Victoria T40
Showdem Promotions EB27
Silvan Park Belted Galloways CTL 10
Smoke N Racks FCB5
Smokin Joes Barrels EB16
Snedden’s Fencing Products E33
Snowgum Distillery C6
Step Flex Orthotics
Stihl Shop Seymour
Strawberries Galore Victoria
CP26
Precision Planters T82
Soilcharge E5
SoiLife ............................................................................ B68
Solahart Eastern Ranges E24
Southern Cross Gold Consolidated EB22
Southern Hemp T44
Southern Skin Cancer Clinic EB74
Spoil Yourself CP29
Spot On Drones B74
Sproutwell Greenhouses L57
WHAT’S ON | SATURDAY, APRIL 18
TIME
DETAILS
9.50 am Beef Butt Break Down Country Kitchen/Butcher Shop
10.00 am Training Working Dogs with Paul MacPhail from Beloka Kelpies Small Farms’ Learning Hub
10.00 am Sheep Secrets with Jill Noble from Hallston Valley Farm Farm Lectures
10.15 am Rein Cowhorse presented by Ozsort and VRCHA Equestrian Arena
10.30 am BIRRIA PIZZA — Mexican meets Italian
10.30 am Hemp Bilding Demonstrations T44
10.30 am Private Fire Fighting Vehicles with Country Fire Association L1
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
10.45 am Wildlife Demonstration Snake Safe site
11.00 am Beloka Kelpie — Working Dog Demonstrations Main Oval
11.00 am Ten Top Tips for Healthy Productive Chooks with Megg Miller OAM from Australasian Poultry Magazine
Farms’ Learning Hub
11.00 am Cattle Basics with Stephen Koch from Atriem Murray Greys Farm Lectures
11.10 am Pork Shoulder Break Down Country Kitchen/Butcher Shop
11.15 am Drone Spraying & Mapping Demonstration with Velterra Drones
11.45 am Howling Huskies — Sled Dog Demonstration
11.50 am Kids’ Session — Kids’ Gone Viral — Christmas Crack, Honey Butter Toast, Souvlaki
Noon The Nuts & Bolts of Building with Hemp with David Brian from Southern Hemp
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
Noon Drones in Agriculture — A Practical Perspective with Alastair Tame, Drone Pilot Farm Lectures
12.15 pm Rein Cowhorse presented by Ozsort and VRCHA
12.30 pm Break Down of Beef Argie
12.45 pm Beloka Kelpie — Working Dog Demonstrations
1.00 pm Introduction to Beekeeping with Andrew Stanish from Australian Bee Supplies
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
Farms’ Learning Hub
1.00 pm Farming Q&A — Session for All with Malcolm Cock from VFF Stock Sense Farm Lectures
1.10 pm Carnivore Collective — All-Time BBQ Hour
1.15 pm Wildlife Demonstration
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
Safe site
1.30 pm Drone Spraying & Mapping Demonstration with Velterra Drones Rear Oval
2.00 pm Aquaponics Control Systems with Andrew Kendrick from DesignWise Engineering
Farms’ Learning Hub
2.00 pm Babydoll Sheep with Pam Beerens from Babydoll Sheep Breeders Australia Farm Lectures
2.00 pm Hemp Building Demonstrations with David Brian from Southern Hemp
2.00 pm Horses, Livestock and Bushfires with Country Fire Association
2.15 pm Howling Huskies — Sled Dog Demonstration
Oval
2.40 pm Preparation of Pork Loin Country Kitchen/Butcher Shop
2.45 pm Rein Cowhorse presented by Ozsort and VRCHA Equestrian Arena
3.00 pm Beloka Kelpie — Working Dog Demonstrations Main Oval
3.00 pm Going Off-Grid with Solar & Battery with Aaron Lewtas from Off-Grid Energy Australia Small Farms’ Learning Hub
3.15 pm Wildlife Demonstration Snake Safe site
ALL DAY
All Day Bunnings Kids’ Activity Tent
All Day Farmer Darryl
All Day Kids’ Rides
All Day Kids’ Facepainting
All Day Peter Hodge Camel Rides
All Day Seymour District Car Club Display
All Day Australian Travelling Fishing Show Berkley Supertank
Corner
Corner
Corner
Corner
All Day Cattle Livestock Hub & Cattle Yards
All Day Sheep Livestock Hub
All Day Alpacas Livestock Hub
All Day Poultry Poultry Pavilion
All Day Bendigo Woodturners
All Day Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations with BK Carving
All Day Balloon Twisting
WHAT’S ON | SUNDAY, APRIL 19
TIME
DETAILS
9.50 am Preparation of Beef Brisket & Beef Flank Country Kitchen/Butcher Shop
10.00 am Information session on the role of the Goulburn Broken CMA Small Farms’ Learning Hub
10.00 am Generating Revenue from Agri-Ventures with Jill Noble from Hallston Valley Farm Farm Lectures
10.15 am Rein Cowhorse presented by Ozsort and VRCHA Equestrian Arena
10.30 am Kids’ Session — Brownie, Blondie, Brownie — Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownie, Biscoff Blondie, Brownie Roulade Country Kitchen/Butcher Shop
10.30 am Hemp Building Demonstrations T44
10.30 am Private Fire Fighting Vehicles with Country Fire Association L1
10.45 am Wildlife Demonstration Snake Safe site
11.00 am Aquaponics Control Systems with Andrew Kendrick from DesignWise Engineering
Farms’ Learning Hub
11.00 am Poll Highland Cattle; The Alternative with Julia Webster from Poll Highland Cattle Society Farm Lectures
11.00 am Beloka Kelpie — Working Dog Demonstrations
11.10 am Venison Demo with Paul Boag
11.15 am Drone Spraying & Mapping Demonstration with Velterra Drones
11.45 am Howling Huskies — Sled Dog Demonstration
11.50 am Venison — French Dip Sandwich, Steak & Mushroom Burger
Noon The Nuts & Bolts of Building with Hemp with David Brian from Southern Hemp
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
Noon Cattle Basics with Stephen Koch from Atriem Murray Greys Farm Lectures
12.15 pm Rein Cowhorse presented by Ozsort and VRCHA
12.30 pm Pork Shoulder Break Down — Salami & Sausage Demonstration
12.45 pm Beloka Kelpie — Working Dog Demonstrations
1.00 pm Introduction to Beekeeping with Andrew Stanish from Australian Bee Supplies
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
Farms’ Learning Hub
1.00 pm An Introduction to Boer Goats with Dean Smith from Boer Goat Breeders Association of Australia Farm Lectures
1.10 pm Carnivore Collective — All-Time BBQ Hour
1.15 pm Wildlife Demonstration
1.30 pm Drone Spraying & Mapping Demonstration with Velterra Drones Rear Oval
2.00 pm Going Off-Grid with Solar & Battery with Aaron Lewtas from Off-Grid Energy Australia
Farms’ Learning Hub
2.00 pm Babydoll Sheep with Pam Beerens from Babydoll Sheep Breeders Australia Farm Lectures
2.00 pm Hemp Building Demonstrations with David Brian from Southern Hemp
2.15 pm Howling Huskies — Sled Dog Demonstration
2.40 pm Lamb Hindquater
Kitchen/Butcher Shop
2.45 pm Rein Cowhorse presented by Ozsort and VRCHA Equestrian Arena
3.00 pm Beloka Kelpie — Working Dog Demonstrations Main Oval
3.00 pm Wildlife Demonstration
ALL
DAY
All Day Bunnings Kids’ Activity Tent
All Day Farmer Darryl
Day Kids’ Rides
Day Kids’ Facepainting
All Day Peter Hodge Camel Rides
Day Seymour District Car Club Display
All Day Australian Travelling Fishing Show Berkley Supertank
All Day Cattle
All Day Sheep
All Day Alpacas
All Day Poultry
All Day Bendigo Woodturners
All Day Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations with BK Carving
Safe site
Hub & Cattle Yards
Hub
Hub
FOOD & DRINK
Victory Meats is a cut above
Victory Meats is back, having carved out its place at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.
Owner and operator Victor Bonacci will return with comprehensive talks and handson demonstrations covering the big four meats, beef, pork, lamb and chicken, plus an informative venison breakdown session.
Across the three days, he will break down a full cow, a whole lamb as well as the chicken and pork.
His mission is to educate attendees on the intricate process and skill involved in breaking down a carcase properly.
“There’s so many secondary cuts people don’t realise,” he said.
He said demonstrations appealed to everyone, from those doing home processing to experienced professional butchers.
“It (the demographic) is pretty much right across the board,” he said.
“Home kills from people to farmers that are doing their own lambs and people who are interested in general.
“I also do a sausage demonstration, which is just making sausages and going through the process, so people
understand the binding process and how it all comes together.”
For people hoping to learn from the master himself, he encourages curiosity.
“Please come with any questions, no question’s a silly question,” he said.
“I’m fully equipped with a microphone and two camera angles, overhead and side views, ensuring everyone can clearly see the techniques and follow along with the demonstrations.”
Victory Meats will partner with fellow exhibitor Secret Gardens Catering to create an exceptional ‘beast to feast’ experience for all attendees.
Victor will cut a piece of meat off a carcase and Adrian Hensley from Secret Gardens Catering will cook it up and serve it to guests.
“Adrian and I have this little bit that’s worked out really well,” he said.
“I’ll prepare a fresh cut, then Adrian steps in to collect it and cook it immediately on the barbecue so attendees can taste and experience that specific cut.
“We prepare an extensive tasting board featuring smash burgers alongside premium cuts like ribeyes and flat iron steaks, all available for attendees to sample and compare.
“We’ve been working really well with Adrian for quite a few years now.”
Dig into kids’ cooking sessions
Secret Gardens Catering owner and chef Adrian Hensley is preparing for another year at the Seymour expo with an expanded program of cooking demonstrations.
“The first cab off the rank, is being school holidays all the way through, we will be doing a kids’ session every day,” Adrian said.
The children’s program will feature three distinct themes: Nuts for Doughnuts, showcasing hot jam doughnuts and beignets, and Kids Gone Viral, exploring popular social media recipes.
“We are looking at some viral Instagram, Facebook recipes that have come up in the last 18 months and will have a crack at some of them,” Adrian said.
The third kids’ session, Brownie, Blondie, Brownie, will demonstrate three variations: peanut butterstuffed brownies, Biscoff blondies, and brownie roulade.
“With the kids’ sessions, I was going to do brownies in three different ways,” Adrian said.
“I have retired my daughter, who had done the sessions with me for the last 10 years, so we will probably bring up some volunteers from the crowd to help me along.”
The popular All-Time BBQ Hour returns.
“Our All-Time BBQ Hour is coming back again, and we have collaborated with Carnival Collective, so will be using their ranges and rubs in that,”
Adrian said.
The collaboration extends to Victory Meats, with butcher Vic participating in joint demonstrations.
“He jumps in, and we finish it off together, and I really enjoy that collaboration between Vic and myself because we bounce off each other during his session,” Adrian said.
“The highlight will be a piece of porchetta cooked in the Weber kettle.”
A venison session is scheduled for Sunday.
“I just love doing the Seymour expo, it is just something different,” Adrian said.
“Some of the kids’ sessions will have interactive components and with the other sessions, there is always a bit of something to try at the end of it, plenty of samples.”
Secret Garden chef Adrian Hensley is back again with his muchloved cooking demonstrations.
Victor Bonacci from Victory Meats demonstrates how to make the perfect cut.
HOW TO PLAY:
1. Pick up your entry coupon as you enter the gate
2. Look out for these symbols around the expo, and fill in the letters to win (location hints on the site map on page 30–31)
3. Hand your coupon in at the expo office Enjoy the expo until the prizes are drawn
MAJOR PRIZE!
Explore the expo, find the letters and go in the draw to WIN an ECU Remap from AgroECOPower valued at $2900
Drawn on Sunday, April 19
Portable Lithium Jump Starter Pack donated by Cranky Croc Camping, site T80
Toy New Holland Skid Steer donated by Rural Group / AEH, site L65
5 Blocks of Honey Fudge donated by Wondermazing Honeybees, site EB46
Small Planter donated by Precision Planters, site T82
Goods Hamper donated by Marianne Bunning Framing, site C29B
Iron Boot Scraper donated by Squatting Frog Nursery, site B97
Samsung 43-inch HD TV donated by Watters Electrical, sites B33, B35
Avant Scale Model donated by Avant Equipment, site L27
Working Dog Collars and Rain Gauges donated by HiWater Concrete Tanks, sites C50, C51
Adventure Pack donated by Fat Rat Trading, site T39
Yin Yang Metal Wall Sign donated by Rock DeSigns, site E49
Ground Feeder filled with merch donated by Duncan Equine, site L25
Kelpie instincts unleashed
Working and dogs and pups in training will wow crowds with the Beloka Kelpies demonstrations at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.
The Australian kelpie, developed in the 1800s, has earned widespread recognition as one of Australia’s most capable working dog breeds.
“They’re popular because of their ability to push big mobs around and working through the yards,” owner Paul Macphail said.
“They’ve got good force with the bigger mobs.”
Drawing on over 30 years of sheepdog training expertise, Paul delivers exceptional demonstrations featuring top-quality working dogs at this year’s expo.
“They’ll see good quality pups showing off their natural abilities and instincts as well as the fully trained dogs moving a small flock around the pens,” he said.
Beyond the popular demonstrations, Paul conducts educational sessions in
the learning hub, returning this year with additional practical insights.
“We talk about how to train, how to start with a puppy and how to train them right through,” he said.
Farmer, one of Paul’s finest dogs with prestigious Beloka Kelpie bloodlines from the 1990s, will appear at the expo alongside Magic, Cash, and several promising puppies.
This year’s anticipated star performer, Bubbles, will be absent
from the expo as she prepares for motherhood.
“They’ll be a few main work dogs and a few up-and-coming puppies to show as well,” he said.
He has been part of the expo for about 10 years and highly commends the event.
“It’s an outstanding expo, wellorganised and compact, featuring numerous exhibitors and diverse attractions,” Paul said.
Beloka Kelpies Bubbles and Farmer ready to do their job at the 2025 expo.
Beloka Kelpies owner Paul Macphail at a previous Seymour expo giving one of his working dog talks.
Region unites to stop fruit fly
For growers across northern Victoria and southern NSW, fruit fly isn’t just a nuisance, it’s a direct threat to yield, market
That’s why the success of the Goulburn Murray Valley Fruit Fly Area Wide Management Program is something every farmer in the region can celebrate.
Through a co-ordinated, area-wide management approach, the program has delivered measurable results.
In hotspots such as Cobram, fruit fly populations have dropped dramatically, with broader reductions recorded right across the Goulburn Murray Valley.
For commercial orchardists and growers, that translates to lower pressure at harvest, reduced spray reliance, and stronger biosecurity confidence when accessing domestic and export markets.
What makes this project different is its practical, boots-on-the-ground focus.
Instead of leaving control solely to individual growers, the initiative coordinates trapping networks, data monitoring, community education, and the removal of unmanaged host trees that act as breeding reservoirs.
The result?
A genuine area-wide suppression model that works because the whole region is involved.
For producers, this collaborative approach reduces reinfestation
risk from neighbouring properties and townships, one of the biggest frustrations in fruit fly management.
When backyard trees, public spaces and commercial orchards are all part of the solution, everyone benefits.
The program’s “No Flies On Us!” campaign has helped strengthen grower awareness while reinforcing practical on-farm strategies such as timely baiting, hygiene management, and monitoring.
Importantly, it demonstrates how industry and community alignment protects the long-term viability of
one of Australia’s most valuable horticultural regions.
If you’re serious about safeguarding your crop and maintaining market confidence, now is the time to stay engaged.
Whether you are a fruit grower, vegetable grower, backyard gardener, government organisation, state government organisation, land care group, community service club, ethnic group, school, plant nursery, hardware supply or environmental group, you can help stop the spread of fruit fly in the GMV.
You can contact Greater Shepparton City Council and request the regional co-ordinator to conduct a workshop for your group or supply you with the knowledge to fight the fight against fruit fly.
Make sure you are a part of the fruit fly solution, not part of the fruit fly problem.
Learn more about the program’s strategies, data insights and how you can stay involved at fruitflycontrol.com.au
VHC Fabrication is a small family-run fabrication business based in Cobram, Victoria, specialising in strong, highquality custom metal fabrication designed to bring your ideas to life.
Our most popular products include dog kennels, horse stables and chicken pens, built with fully welded galvanised steel frames and heavy-duty mesh for durability and safety. Everything we build is fully customisable, so you get the right solution for your animals, property or vehicle.
We also manufacture ute trays, dog boxes, hunting hoists, tack storage and custom fabrication projects.
See our range at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo. Special expo pricing available.
Euroa Secondary College students helping stop the spread of Queensland Fruit Fly.
“No Flies On Us!” campaign has been rolled out across the Goulburn Murray Valley.
Turf grown for Victoria
For more than 50 years, StrathAyr has been providing turf to sports stadiums across Australia and the world, proudly grown on its farm on the Goulburn River flats of Seymour.
When it comes to premium turf surfaces across Australia, they have built a reputation for delivering performance where it counts.
From major stadiums to family homes, their turf is designed to handle Victorian conditions with durability, efficiency and consistency.
StrathAyr is set apart by its commitment to quality and innovation. Each variety they supply has been specifically bred and selected for the Victorian climate, combining exceptional wear tolerance with improved water efficiency.
This makes their turf a practical solution for anyone who wants a lawn they can rely on year after year.
With freshly harvested instant turf available in slab form, maxi rolls, and sprigs, there is a specialist solution for every project.
From backyard cricket to the big leagues, it’s all possible with StrathAyr. Beyond supplying quality turf, StrathAyr provides genuine technical expertise.
Their team works closely with customers across regional Victoria to help with variety selection, site preparation and long-term turf management.
It’s this hands-on, relationship-driven approach that has made them a trusted partner for councils, sporting clubs, contractors and homeowners around the state.
StrathAyr is excited to be getting out in the local community, exhibiting at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo again this year.
With a strong focus on giving back, StrathAyr is a proud Seymour resident, sponsoring local sporting clubs and associations every year.
Whether you’re developing a lifestyle block, planning a commercial landscape or simply want your lawn to outshine the neighbours, the expo is an ideal opportunity to explore StrathAyr’s premium turf offerings.
Come on down, have a chat with the team, and learn a little about turf along the way.
StrathAyr turf is grown on the Goulburn River flats.
StrathAyr Turf is quality turf.
Premium water tanks by Matilda: quality, durability and value
Matilda Water Tanks has 20-plus years of experience delivering and installing premium water tanks across the district.
Matilda Water Tank owners and Braidwood farmers Luke and Nicole Pinniger could see a gap in the market for high-quality water tanks with professional customer service.
This gap has been filled by the familyowned, independent company that provides its water tank customers with clear communication and value for money.
From Luke’s years of experience with tank issues as a tank installer and state manager, Matilda Water Tanks has designed the strongest tank on the market while keeping prices competitive.
Matilda Water Tanks use a minimum of 1 mm thick Bluescope Zincalume or Colorbond steel in the tank walls.
With larger joins, 100 mm spacing between the bolts and 180 mm overlap.
All tanks have a 20 mm rolled foot at the bottom to help stabilise the tanks and prevent them from sinking into the pad.
With capacities from 27,000 to 500,000 lt, whether you require a tank for fire protection, stock supply or domestic use, Matilda Water Tanks has a tank to suit your needs.
Matilda Water Tanks, available in Zincalume and eight standard Colorbond colours, offer extraordinary value for a rainwater tank and are among the most competitive tanks on the market.
Matilda Water Tanks use ARMA Fresh Liner, which has been certified to Australia’s Drinking Water Guidelines and Australian Standards AS2070 and AS/NZ4020.
The ARMA liner is BBA, PFAS-free and meets EU Reach standards.
Under independent testing conditions, the liners were rated on lineal weight (weight per square metre) and were found to weigh 700 g/m².
This was of particular interest because the closest competitor’s liner weighed under 500 g/m².
The high density of Matilda Water Tanks’ liner makes it one of the
heaviest liners in the Australian domestic water tank industry, with the extra weight meaning extra density.
This testing also identified Matilda Water Tanks’ ARMA Liner as the best in relation to shear strength, tear strength and puncture resistance. For one of the best water tanks on the market, phone Matilda Water Tanks on 1300 304 311 or visit matildatanks.com.au
Matilda Water Tanks
Cluckington chicken tractor combines a coop, run, nesting box, and roosting space in a single mobile unit, allowing pasture-raised hens without the need for protective fencing.
offers three sizes catering to different flock sizes, with the option for high or low density coops, suitable for various farming operations.
Coops to cluck about
A Cluckington chicken tractor combines a chicken coop, a fenced run, a nesting box, and roosting space into one compact, mobile unit.
The aluminium coop allows pastureraised hens without requiring protective fencing, while addressing problems associated with permanent coops, such as rat infestation and waste management.
Cluckington owner Brendan Hughes believes his company produces superior chicken tractors.
“We believe we have the best chicken tractors in the world,” Brendan said.
“They are handmade, and there is nothing else like them.”
The tractors address common chicken-keeping issues by enabling mobility.
“Because they are so easy to move, the chickens can get fresh grass every day,” Brendan said.
“Chickens are no longer living in their own squalor, and it is very easy for the user, because you collect the eggs from the outside and you put the feed and water in from the outside.”
The design prevents rodent problems.
“They are fully predator protected, and because they are mobile, you don’t get any issues with rodents, because there is nowhere for the rodents to nest,” Brendan said.
“Once you get rodents, they are very hard to get rid of, so the best thing to do is keep them moving.”
Cluckington offers three sizes: the Backyarder (1.5×1.8m) for 1–10 hens, the Homesteader (1.8×3m) for 10–30 hens, and the Farmer (3×3.6m) for 30–60 hens.
“You can have high density in the coops,” Brendan said, explaining how farmers use them in orchards and beef operations, with larger alternative broiler units also available.
“Or run with low density and move the coop less often,” he said.
“We have got an orchard that is no longer buying fertiliser, no longer buying pesticides for the orchard, because the chickens are in the coops, running between the rows.”
The aluminium construction ensures durability.
“Most chicken tractors on the market are hard to move and the quality is poor,” Brendan said.
“Whereas Cluckington chicken tractors are fully aluminium, so they will last a lifetime.”
For areas with persistent foxes, Cluckington’s Pred-X electric hotwire kits provide additional protection through hot wire systems that move with the coop.
Cluckington
Sustainable timber fencing for Aussie homes
Norwood Products, located in Geelong since 1992, is a leader in the post and rail timber fencing industry.
All the timber is sourced from Australian sustainable forests and built to last in Australia’s tough conditions.
Norwood Products makes one-rail to four-rail post-and-rail fencing, along with gates, to complete the project.
“Norwood products are a quality fence made out of hardwood, which is sustainable,” Norwood Products Matthew Bird said.
“It depends on the application whether you need a one, two, three or four rail fences.
“Think about if you will be holding animals or is it about the look you would like around your property.
“Post and rail fences are all about aesthetics and giving your home a bit of prestige.
“Many people have traditional farm gates and post and rail fences as the entry to their homes along the front, then down the driveway to create a beautiful feature entrance to their property.”
Norwood Products also offers a large range of timber bollards and logs and steppers for playgrounds and other landscaping needs.
Using iron bark, spotted gum, forest reds and Queensland white Cypress offers a wide range of options
from commercial applications to private customers.
No job is too big or too small, and the Norwood team will work with you to ensure that your requirements are met and delivered on time.
Speaking to the quality of hardwood products, you can find Norwood Products customers all over Australia.
Visit norwoodproducts.com.au or phone 1300 551 248.
Customers can choose from a variety of hardwood options.
Offering one to four rail post-andrail fencing options, Norwood Products also provides gates to complement the fencing project.
Grow knowledge to harvest success
Melbourne Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology prepares students for professional careers in Australia’s evolving agriculture industry.
As technology and innovation reshape the sector, this degree equips graduates with the advanced knowledge and practical capability required in modern agricultural workplaces.
The course combines science fundamentals with modern agricultural technology, ensuring students develop strong technical expertise alongside applied industry skills.
Learning is industry-informed and focused on real-world outcomes, so graduates are confident stepping into professional roles.
Students can specialise through majors in horticulture, agronomy, sports turf management or viticulture and winemaking.
The horticulture major, the newest addition to the program, responds to strong industry demand for qualified horticulture professionals and prepares graduates for consulting research and management roles.
As a leading provider of higher education in horticulture in Victoria, Melbourne Polytechnic offers students the opportunity to build specialist knowledge in this field.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology are prepared for careers as agronomists, viticulturalists, consultants and other specialist roles across the agriculture industry.
The degree also supports career progression into management, advisory and researchfocused positions.
With classes run by industry experts, students learn from professionals who understand today’s agriculture sector and graduate with relevant, job-ready skills.
For students exploring other study options, Melbourne Polytechnic also offers certificate and diploma-level qualifications that develop practical skills and support a wide range of career opportunities across the agriculture industry.
A range of scholarships are available to support eligible students and make education more accessible.
For students ready to be part of the next generation shaping Australian agriculture, the Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology provides the knowledge, skills and industry connection to get there.
To find out more about the Melbourne Polytechnic Agriculture courses, go to melbournepolytechnic.edu.au and select Agriculture and Conservation.
Melbourne Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology prepares students for professional careers in Australia’s evolving agriculture industry.
Bachelor of Agriculture and Technology at Melbourne Polytechnic combines science fundamentals with modern agricultural technology.
Emerging trends in sustainable farming
This year at the Small Farms Learning Hub Farmers2Founders head of product and program manager Pete Walsh will discuss emerging trends in sustainable farming.
“I’ll be looking to talk about a lot of the trends that we’re seeing come through in biologicals, in terms of circular agriculture,” Pete said.
“Circular agriculture, rejuvenating soil health, replacing chemical use and really looking to mitigate some of the issues of climate change using technology.”
Farmers2Founders is the Australian and New Zealand arm of a global suite of companies offering growth services to agri-food tech companies.
“We offer growth services to agri-food tech companies, all the way across that maturity spectrum, from I’ve got an idea, all the way up to I’ve fully saturated the Australian market,” Pete said.
The company focuses on helping start-ups achieve on-farm success through adoption.
“Getting startup’s messages to farmers is what is going to drive us towards
that agricultural and food production system that is really going to be able to be resilient against everything in the future; economics, climate, international trade,” Pete said.
Farmers2Founders operates a tech farm pillar that connects producers with start-ups through a problem-led matchmaking service.
“Our tech farm, pillar of the business, is a problem-led matchmaking service effectively for producers to tech companies themselves, so we typically engage with the producer and start to chat about what their problems look like with our suite of ag tech consultants,” he said.
The organisation has successfully deployed technology through its Tech Farm program, a project supported by the Future Drought Fund, which successfully deployed $3 million of technology onto about 75 farms. Pete identified a common challenge among ag tech start-ups.
“Our innovation and program development is really focused on supporting start-ups to build themselves through various intervention-based approaches,” he said.
“More often than not, the biggest thing that we find with ag tech startups coming through our programs is that they really don’t know the root problem that they’re trying to solve.”
To find out when Farmers2Founders head of product and program manager Pete Walsh will be speaking, check the Small Farms Learning Hub schedule.
ALEXANDRA CONCRETE 6 Peterkin Place, Alexandra, VIC 3714 (03) 5772 1815
LAKE COOPER QUARRY 3481 HeathcoteRochester Road, Colbinabbin, VIC 3559 (03) 5484 8211
KYNETON CONCRETE & LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES 4 Furphy Court, Kyneton, VIC 3444 (03) 5422 2286
SEYMOUR CONCRETE & LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES 110-112 Wimble Street, Seymour, VIC 3661 (03) 5799 2355
SEYMOUR QUARRY Quarry Rd off Emily Street, Seymour, VIC 3661 (03) 5792 1055
YEA CONCRETE 6 Grevillea Street, Yea, VIC 3717 (03) 5772 1115
Founders2Farmers head of product and program manager Pete Walsh will discuss emerging trends in sustainable farming at the Small Farms Learning Hub.
The bee’s knees of beekeeping
Australian Bee Supplies is the ‘bee’ all to end all when it comes to the bee business.
As well as offering a wide range of beekeeping supplies, including Flow hives, traditional Langstroth, Long-Lang, Kenyan and Warre hives, frames, tools, protective clothing and honey extractors, it also delivers educational resources and training to help beekeepers improve their skills and knowledge.
ABS understands managing your hives throughout the year can be a challenging task, which is why it offers spring, winter and disease management services to help clients keep hives healthy and productive.
Owner Andrew Stanish said ABS was committed to providing high-quality, durable and affordable beekeeping products to clients.
ABS is dedicated to supporting the health and sustainability of honeybees and promoting environmentally responsible beekeeping practices.
A holistic business approach means whether you are a seasoned beekeeper or just getting started, ABS “is an excellent resource for all your beekeeping needs”.
“Our business stands out in the beekeeping industry for several reasons,” Andrew said.
“From our physical store, which allows customers to interact with our beekeeping products before making a purchase, to our knowledgeable staff, all experienced beekeepers, who are on hand to answer questions and provide guidance all year around.
“At the same time, we also offer in-house and on-site education, training and mentoring to help beekeepers improve their skills and knowledge, ranging from basic beekeeping techniques to advanced topics such as queen rearing and hive management.
“I personally run around 300 beehives as well as work with reputable queen breeders known for their quality, health and high-level genetic diseasefighting traits.
“This is exceptionally important with varroa mite now in Victoria.”
ABS provide a range of services, including delivery, installation and mentoring, to support its ‘beeks’ throughout their beekeeping journey.
If you’re looking to get started, want support managing your hives throughout the year, or need assistance identifying and managing
ABS offers beekeeping supplies, training and disease management services to keep your hives healthy year-round.
diseases and pests, Australian Bee Supplies is your one-stop, expert shop.
At ABS, our beekeeping courses provide hands-on experience and expert guidance, equipping you with essential skills to manage healthy hives.
Learn sustainable beekeeping practices, swarm control, varroa mite management and honey harvesting techniques.
Perfect for beginners and experienced keepers, ABS courses ensure confidence and success in beekeeping.
We’ll see you soon at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.
For further details, visit: australianbeesupplies.com.au
We’ll see you soon at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.
Join us at Kings Park, Seymour as we cover the many different ways in which we can help keep you connected, whether it’s at home, on the go or in business.
Join us at Kings Park, Seymour as we cover the many different ways in which we can help keep you connected, whether it’s at home, on the go or in business.
See you at Kings Park, Seymour Site B100 17-19 April 2026
Australian Bee Supplies will have on show at this year’s expo the full range of equipment for budding apiarists and established professionals. Photo: McPherson Media Group
Meet your nbn Local team
The nbn Local team from north-east Victoria will be on the ground at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo, providing an Information Zone where residents and businesses can have their nbn questions answered and learn more about recent network upgrades across the region.
Homes and businesses in Seymour, Wallan and Broadford are now eligible to upgrade to fibre-to-the-premises, enabling access to faster, more reliable internet services.
Meanwhile, many areas across Mitchell Shire can now benefit from enhanced speeds through nbn’s upgraded fixed wireless network.
Upgrading to full fibre via nbn FTTP can deliver smoother, higher-resolution video calls, enhanced streaming, faster downloads and the capacity to connect more devices simultaneously which is ideal for busy households and growing businesses.
With recently announced speed boosts on higher-tier plans and multi-gigabit speeds now available, there has never been a better time for eligible premises to consider upgrading to full fibre.
nbn has also completed a major enhancement to its fixed wireless network.
Supported by a $750 million investment — including $480 million from the Australian Government and $270 million from NBN Co — the upgrade has delivered faster speeds and greater network capacity to more than 800,000 homes and businesses nationwide.
As a result, fixed wireless home fast is now available to around 90 per cent of the expanded fixed wireless footprint, with expected peak wholesale speeds of 200 to 250/8–20 Mbps.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to check their address at nbn.com.au/ CheckRegional to see what services are available to them.
nbn Local VIC TAS head Emily Peel said the network enhancements were helping homes and businesses stay connected in more meaningful ways.
“Households are consuming more data than ever to do the things they love, like streaming 4K on multiple devices, online education, next-level gaming, conference calls, and uploading and downloading large files for work,” she said.
“Regional communities in north-east Victoria continue to grow, and improved connectivity means residents and businesses can stay connected more easily than ever.”
The nbn Local team looks forward to meeting the community at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo and supporting locals to make the most of the upgraded network.
The nbn Local team from north-east Victoria will be on the ground at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo
Custom animal enclosures
VHC Fabrication director Andrew Aldridge launched his custom animal enclosure business with his wife, Elodie, two years ago.
Based in Cobram, the company specialises in building made-to-order animal enclosures that customers can customise.
“We mainly build animal enclosures on order to allow people to customise them to suit their needs,” Andrew said.
The company’s most popular products include dog kennels, horse stables and chicken pens, all constructed with galvanised steel frames that are fully welded for durability.
The dog kennel range caters to various breeds, from toy dogs to working and hunting dogs, with designs that meet dangerous dog requirements. Prices start at $1200 for a small standard and $2200 for a large standard.
The kennels feature 4 mm-thick galvanised mesh to prevent dogs from chewing through it easily.
VHC Fabrication also offers a hunting range featuring animal hoists made with galvanised steel, with aluminium versions coming soon.
The hoists come standard with electric winches and Stedi lights in black and orange colours, though customisation is available upon request.
Beyond animal enclosures, the company manufactures ute trays and dog boxes, utilising licensed mechanics and auto-electricians for proper wiring installation.
“We also do repair jobs and custom works for anyone contacting us,” Andrew said.
The company participates in several shows annually, with Seymour being a particular favourite.
“We attended for the first time last year and loved every second of it,” Andrew said.
“This year we will bring even more of our custom work than last year.
Horse stables, dog kennels, chook pens, ute tray and dog boxes, hoists; everything will be for sale with special prices for the occasion.”
The company offers delivery and installation services for all animal enclosures when required.
VHC Fabrication’s dog kennel range caters to various breeds and features 4mm-thick galvanised mesh to prevent chewing.
VHC Fabrication specialises in building made-to-order animal enclosures, such as dog kennels, horse stables and chicken pens.
Stress-free shed building from design to completion
All Sheds offers a complete design, planning, permit, delivery and construction process, taking the stress out of building your ideal shed.
All Sheds sales manager Nick Airs says the company builds a comprehensive range of structures to meet diverse customer needs.
“We build garages, barns, carports, patios and pergolas, and farm, hay and machinery sheds,” he said.
The company specialises in custom builds tailored to individual requirements.
“We build sheds from 2 m small, up to lengths of 100m-plus,” Nick said.
“‘The most common size we build is 14 x 8x3 m.”
All Sheds offers a comprehensive service from initial design through to completion.
“We have a start-to-finish process, we take the stress out of the process for you,” Nick said.
“All Sheds offers a complete design, planning, permit, delivery and construction process.”
A recent project near Violet Town demonstrates the company’s capability, where it delivered a multipurpose agricultural shed for a rural property owner.
The project, inquired about in August 2025 and completed by December 2025, required careful site positioning due to granite boulders and solar panel considerations.
All Sheds offers a wide range of structures including garages, barns, carports, patios and sheds tailored to individual needs.
From the site positioning through to futureproofing considerations, no detail was overlooked. The result was a shed designed not just to fit the site, but to work seamlessly with how the rural property owner intended to use it long term. The structures feature robust construction materials, including strong RHS frames, C and Z purlins and Bluescope (Colorbond) steel.
The company extends beyond basic shed construction and can even arrange electrical and plumbing for you; you just need to ask.
Sveaverken precision farming products – GPS Auto steering & guidance equipment - where Quality, Affordability & Simplicity come as one
Lemken – Industry leading tillage equipment
Woods – High Quality American built slashers – ‘A Slasher Is Not Just A Slasher’
Zocon Pasture harrows – heavy duty 6m, hydraulic folding Darryl Drill – Australian built disc seeder ideal for pasture work
All Sheds provides a complete service from design, planning and permit to delivery and construction, ensuring a stress-free process for customers.
It also handles concrete flooring as part of its comprehensive service offering.
All Sheds services multiple regional Victorian locations, including Shepparton, Echuca, Nathalia, Wangaratta, Nagambie, Euroa, Benalla, Bendigo, Yarrawonga and Seymour.
At the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo, the company will showcase its quality.
“We will have a mini shed on display that showcases our strong frames and quality materials,” Nick said. Show specials will be available for expo visitors.
GuardnGrow: Your Australian eco-friendly gardening partner! See us at Seymour Alternative Farming Expo, site B47, to explore our natural products.
Introducing a range of different sized coir fibre pots for seamless transplanting – no more root shock! From windowsill herbs to ornamental shrubs, our Coir Fibre Pots come in various sizes.
We also have hanging basket liners, so, measure the diameter of your baskets for the correct size and measure the top of your pot plants to get a cover to fit.
Biodegradable: our range of coir fibre matting derived from coconut husks. These 100% natural wonders are not only biodegradable but also contribute to soil enrichment, ensuring your garden flourishes while minimizing your environmental footprint.
Experience Green Solutions Galore: Coir fibre handles weed suppression, erosion control, and boosts plant health. With GuardnGrow, you enhance your garden and support a greener world – it’s a lifestyle. Sustainable gardening made easy!
Strong, sustainable pre - stressed concrete posts built to last
Mawsons BetterDrive™ pre-stressed concrete posts are engineered for strength, durability and long-term performance, making them an ideal choice for modern farming operations.
Manufactured in Wangaratta using 50 MPa concrete and high-tensile pre-stressed steel, every post is built to withstand the demanding conditions of agricultural environments.
This robust construction provides exceptional resistance to rust, rot, burning, termites and fungi, ensuring a low-maintenance solution designed to endure for decades.
BetterDrive™ products are also practical and farmer-friendly.
Posts come pre-drilled and can be driven into the ground with a standard post driver, streamlining installation for fencing contractors and landowners alike.
The full range includes posts, stays and strainers as well as concrete retaining wall panels, all created using the same high-quality materials and moulds that have served the region for more than a decade.
Following Mawsons’ acquisition and enhancement of the long-established pre-stressed post business in Wangaratta, BetterDrive™ continues to deliver consistent, reliable products at competitive
prices; backed by over 70 years of concrete manufacturing expertise.
Whether you’re building new fences, upgrading infrastructure, or constructing retaining walls, Mawsons BetterDrive™ provides trusted, long-lasting solutions for local farms.
Explore the full range at betterdrive.com.au
Mawsons BetterDrive™ pre-stressed concrete posts are engineered for strength, durability and longterm performance, making them an ideal choice for modern farming operations.
Annabelle CLEEL AND MP Member for Euroa
Mawsons BetterDrive™ pre-stressed concrete posts.
Rural Group, a trusted AEH dealer in Victoria for over 40 years, operates in Cobram, Shepparton and Echuca.
Rural Group’s parts department has access to New Holland’s national parts locator system and will showcase low to medium-horsepower New Holland tractors and Toro lawn mowers at the expo.
Farm machinery solutions delivered
Rural Group has established itself as a trusted Agricultural Equipment Holdings dealer across three key Victorian locations, serving the Goulburn and Murray Valley regions for over four decades.
The locally owned business operates dealerships in Cobram, Shepparton and Echuca, joining the AEH Group in 2022.
The dealership represents exclusive brands including New Holland Agriculture & Construction, K-Line Ag, Croplands, Miller, Morris, Pottinger Tillage Equipment, Toro Mowers and Polaris.
Rural Group’s extensive equipment range includes tractors, combines and front loaders from New Holland/ MacDon, sprayers, including Miller
Nitro and Croplands models, plus specialised machinery such as air seeders, tillage equipment and feed mixers.
Rural Group sales manager Tom Hunt outlined the company’s comprehensive approach to agricultural machinery solutions and equipment service.
“Depending on the time of the year and current workload, our service team can be at your property as soon as possible,” Tom said regarding service call-out times.
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“We can service all your farm machinery, including any equipment that was not purchased through us, both on site and in the workshop,” he said, highlighting their inclusive service approach.
The company operates fully equipped onsite workshops and deploys service field vehicles fitted with advanced diagnostic technology.
Their parts department benefits from group-wide visibility and access to New Holland’s national parts locator system, supported by 31 parts specialists across 12 AEH Group branches.
The company will showcase low to medium-horsepower New Holland tractors and Toro lawn mowers at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo.
Rural Group regularly hosts demonstration days throughout the year, offering customers opportunities to observe machinery in operational settings at existing customer sites.
For the full range of sales, service and spare parts at Rural Group, Cobram, Shepparton and Echuca, visit ruralgroup.com.au
spraying, broadcasting and mapping for farms and vineyards across Victoria.
Rebuilding biology to deal with soil stress
Across Australia this autumn, the seasonal picture couldn’t be more mixed.
In the south and west, many growers are facing dry conditions and tightening fertiliser budgets.
Further north and through central regions, flooding has brought nutrient loss, soil structure damage and the challenge of rebuilding paddocks.
According to Biolink 4 Plants & Animals co-owner Kevin Beecroft, the response in both situations starts below ground.
“Whether it’s drought or flood, the common factor is soil stress,” Kevin said.
“When conditions are extreme, soil biology is usually disrupted.
“Rebuilding that biology is one of the smartest investments growers can make.”
Kevin believes autumn fertilising should focus less on chasing top growth and more on improving fertiliser efficiency and root development.
“Growers don’t want to spend more than they have to,” he said.
“What we concentrate on is helping farmers get more out of the fertiliser they’re already using.
“If soil microbes are active, nutrients are less likely to be lost and more likely to be available when plants need them.”
In dry regions, biologically active soils can improve nutrient retention and strengthen root systems, helping crops and pastures respond quickly when rain arrives.
In flood-affected areas, restoring microbial balance supports nutrient cycling and helps rebuild soil structure.
Autumn is also an ideal time to deal with residues and organic waste.
“Instead of burning stubble or letting residues sit idle, we encourage growers to turn that material into an asset,” Kevin said.
“Building soil carbon improves moisture-holding capacity and longterm productivity.”
As seasons become more unpredictable and input costs remain high, Kevin believes resilience is the real goal.
“What you do in autumn sets up your whole growing year,” he said.
“If you strengthen the soil now, you’re giving yourself the best chance of handling whatever conditions come next.”
Biolink 4 Plants & Animals co-owners Graham Clay and Kevin Beecroft.
Explore solar solution options
Solahart Eastern Ranges is a family-owned and operated business delivering trusted, end-to-end solar solutions, backed by experts based in Bayswater.
Since 2018, the Victorian solar provider has proudly supported the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo, helping farmers and residents make smarter, more sustainable energy choices for their homes and businesses.
At the expo, the friendly Solahart team can guide you through a comprehensive range of renewable energy solutions.
From battery systems by leading brands including Tesla, Enphase, SolarEdge and GoodWe, to EV chargers and the highperformance Solahart Silhouette solar panels, the exhibit will highlight the very latest in solar technology.
Solahart’s range of solar hot water systems and energyefficient Australian-made heat pump water heaters will also be at the stand — showcasing practical solutions designed to reduce power bills and improve energy independence.
Founded in 1953, Solahart is Australia’s original name in solar, having installed more than one million solar water heaters worldwide and over one million solar power panels across Australia.
Today, the brand continues to pioneer innovative technologies, with products designed and manufactured to withstand even the harshest Australian conditions.
Whether the goal is to cut energy costs, reduce reliance on the grid, or better understand available rebates and incentives, Solahart Eastern Ranges is ready to help. From comparing products to tailoring the right solution, they’ll show visitors how to start future-proofing their homes and businesses with solar.
Visit the Solahart Eastern Ranges stand and chat with solar experts to learn how renewable energy could work for you.
Norwood Products Specialise in Australian Hardwoods from Queensland. All our timber is sourced from Australian sustainable forests and built to last in Australia’s tough conditions.
• No need to open the gate again
Norwood Products makes one to four rail post and rail fencing along with gates to complete the project.
• No power required at the gate
• Robust stainless steel actuator
• Swing or sliding kits
• Delivery to via Australia Post • Available from local rural stores • D.I.Y friendly or Installation
Norwood products also offers a large range of timber bollards and logs and steppers for playgrounds and other landscaping needs. Using Iron Bark, Spotted Gum, Forest Reds and Queensland White Cypress, we offer a large range of options from Commercial applications to private customers. No job is too big or too small and our team will work with you to ensure that your requirements are met and delivered on time. With customers all over Australia, speaks to the quality of our products. Visit our website www.norwoodproducts.com.au or call us on 1300 551 248
Solahart also showcases their solar hot water systems and Australian-made heat pump water heaters, aimed at reducing power bills and enhancing energy independence.
Solahart Eastern Ranges assists farmers and residents in making sustainable energy choices.
Pools transforming backyards
Conquest Pools, a family-owned business located in the heart of the Goulburn Valley, has been manufacturing high-quality fibreglass swimming pools since 2003.
The company offers full installation packages, DIY options, and operates a retail shop with equipment and free water testing in Shepparton, with 23 dealers spread throughout Victoria, Adelaide and ACT.
Conquest Pool’s latest designs include the Shoalhaven pool and Rectangle spa, both offering customisable colours and features.
“The Shoalhaven pool was designed as a smart and stylish solution for narrow backyards,” Conquest Pools head office manager Dimity Mellington said.
“It offers a generous full-length bench seat, shallow and deep end entry, uninterrupted end-to-end swimming, plus inbuilt safety features.
“The Rectangle spa was designed to integrate with the Shoalhaven pool for a seamless finish.
The Rectangle spa offers a generous seating area, spa jets, air infusion system and can be manufactured with or without a spillway.
Conquest Pools offers an infloor cleaning system for minimal maintenance requirements.
“Our infloor cleaning system is the golden ticket to next to no manual pool cleaning, as in the name, when your pool is running, it is cleaning itself,” Dimity said.
The Eden is one of Dimity’s favourite pool styles.
“I was part of the creation of the Eden range from the very beginning,” she said.
“This style offers so many great features and caters for a wide range of consumer needs.”
For Dimity, the most exciting part of being in the pool industry is learning from and being guided by her father, Peter Winch, the creator and brains behind Conquest Pools.
The company provides a 25-year structural warranty and maintains a display yard featuring five in-ground pools.
To see the Conquest Pool range and find a dealer near you go to conquestpools.com.au
Contact Conquest Pools on (03) 5821 1270, info@conquestpools.com.au, or visit 66–68 Drummond Rd, Shepparton.
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Conquest Pools, a family-owned business in Goulburn Valley, has been producing fibreglass swimming pools since 2003.
They offer installation packages, DIY options, and operate a retail shop in Shepparton with free water testing.
Ridgeline of New Zealand, established over 30 years ago, has launched a new range suitable for all outdoor enthusiasts.
The brand’s clothing is designed for farmers, adventurers, weekend walkers, and hunters, offering waterproof, warm, and windproof options.
The latest range features a wider variety of colours, updated styles, and improved fits, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Ridgeline expands clothing range
Born in the foothills of New Zealand over 30 years ago, Ridgeline of NZ has just launched their most exciting range yet.
This winter, they aren’t just for the hunters; they’re for everyone outdoors.
From the farmers and the adventurers to the weekend walkers, Ridgeline is designed from the ground-up for people who live and work outdoors — all day, every day.
You’ll still find all the brand staples; waterproof, warm, and windproof clothing, in a range of colourways inspired by the outdoors, but this year the range is bigger than ever. Featuring more choice in on-trend colours, updated styles, and new improved fits, you won’t be disappointed by a visit to their stand at T26.
With their commitment to affordable function, you can rest assured that you will buy once and buy well without breaking the bank.
Head to see the team at this year’s show and pick up a deal on the latest gear before it sells out — this range definitely will!
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Champion bull steals show
Jalaway Belted Galloway Beef owner Ali Hill has been perfecting her cattle breeding operation for over two decades.
The West Gippsland operation at Willow Grove prioritises longevity, beef characteristics and temperament in their breeding program.
“We have been breeding stud belted Galloway, belties, for over 25 years, and in that time we have really put together our herd to focus on a few key things,” Ali said.
“We really like having very functional cattle that can live a long time, like the dam of the heifer that we had at the Canberra Show, she was 18 when she had her, so we like longevity in our cattle.
“And of course temperament, anything that doesn’t have temperament doesn’t last very long around here.”
The farm’s recent show success demonstrates the quality of their breeding program.
“The heifer at Canberra (show), she was second,” Ali said.
“She was champion at Melbourne (show), but she was second to a really nice heifer at Canberra, so we were pretty happy with that.”
Their bull also achieved remarkable success at the Canberra Show.
“We are actually going to bring the bull that we took to Canberra (Show) to the Seymour Expo,” Ali said.
“He won the interbreed champion bull in the small and rare breeds, which was a pretty incredible moment.”
“He has got a beautiful muscle pattern and he is very correct.
“He’s just got a beautiful temperament for a bull to handle.”
The 10-month-old bull, officially named Jalaway What a lad, but called Whata at home, weighed 426 kg at the show.
Operating on 45 hectares with about 30 breeding females, the farm attracts a diverse range of customers.
“It is a real mixture of who we sell to,” Ali said.
“The females nearly always go to stud breeders that are either planning to breed on, or sometimes people will buy them to show as well.
“The number one reason is the meat quality, because most people find the meat absolutely amazing.
“They find that when they eat belty beef, they actually don’t want to go back to eating ordinary beef.”
BIG PACKAGE ON COMPACTS
With 45 hectares and around 30 breeding females, Jalaway Belted Galloway Beef attracts a diverse customer base.
Discover quality concrete water tanks
Hi Water Concrete Tanks has established itself as a fixture at the Seymour Farming Expo, attending for about 20 years.
The family business, which boasts 40 years of industry experience, services Victoria, NSW and Queensland. Mitch Miller said the family business prided itself on only using the highest quality materials and offering a “30-year guarantee that is great peace of mind for our customers.”
“All our concrete tanks are waterproofed and poured on site and are suited for industrial, rural and residential applications,” Mitch said.
“This includes hobby farm water storage, cellars, water treatment, milk chilling, and firefighting.”
The company offers waterproofed concrete tanks for above-ground or below-ground installation, with concrete tops or silo roofs.
Sizes range from 22,500 litres to 120,000 litres, with engineers specification.
“We like to talk to new people and find that they appreciate us explaining the construction of our waterproofed concrete tanks,” Mitch said.
“Plus showing photos of our construction step by step.”
Hi Water concrete water tanks can be installed both above and below ground.
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Based in Wodonga, the business was started by Steve Miller in 1993. Steve’s son Mitch has attended the Seymour expo for years, while
Steve’s nephew James Dale manages the construction of waterproofed concrete tanks and repairs old concrete tanks.
The company also repairs
leaking concrete tanks with a 10-year guarantee and sells Maxi Jet Pumps and installs Tank Vac systems.
Annual Risk of Infestation by Qfly in the GMV.
Good orchard hygiene is essential in breaking the fruit fly lifecycle. The Goulburn Murray Fruit Fly Area Wide Management Program works with growers and the broader community to ensure effective post-harvest hygiene is achieved. Now is the season for fruit flies to build up before the cold hits and if they survive the winter, they will start a new season of fruit damage next spring. This is where orchard (or post-harvest) hygiene becomes important, says program coordinator Ross Abberfield. “You will break the fruit fly cycle by successfully cleaning up your orchard, home garden and nearby untended land of potential fruit fly host material: No fruit = No fruit fly.”
KEY STEPS
• Removing or reporting volunteer or neglected fruiting plants
Control of alternative hosts
Destruction of crop residues after harvest
• Destruction of unwanted and waste fruit
Reporting suspect pests to appropriate authorities.
Don’t leave ripe fruit on the tree or let it fall to the ground (this gives fruit flies a chance to breed)
Pick fruit early (as fruit ripens it becomes more attractive to fruit flies)
• Prune trees so you have easy access to fruit– If the tree is loaded with fruit (more than you can manage to use) strip some of the fruit off early on – this way you will have better fruit produced and be able to use it all
• Dispose of spoilt fruit – by placing in a heavy-duty black plastic bag, seal and put in the hot sun for a few days to ‘cook’ the larvae or bury the spoilt fruit in a deep hole (more than 50cm deep and covered and tamped down immediately)
Tarps, black plastic or shade cloth could also be placed on the ground under the fruit tree to catch fallen fruit and prevent maggots from pupating (thus breaking the lifecycle). Other benefits come with good orchard hygiene – to most growers the common practice is to remove any damaged fruit from the orchard or to mulch it each day with a mulcher or flail mower so that it breaks down or disintegrates quickly. This practice is important as it reduces places that Qfly females can sting and minimises the possibility of new generations of Qfly developing in the field. It is also a widely used practice in most stonefruit operations to reduce the occurrence of Carpophilus beetle and the incidence of brown rot.
Jul, Aug, Sept
Qfly population emerges from overwintering and commences breeding.
Fruit infestation occurs late in winter to early summer by flies from the previous autumn that have overwintered.
Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Qfly population expansion – medium levels of damage.
Hosts for subsequent Qfly populations assist in the rapid expansion of Qfly damage. The weather at this time of year is optimal for fruit fly survival.
Mar, Apr, May,
Population consolidation – high levels of Qfly damage and breeding population for following season.
Qfly adults move to refuges to survive the winter then re-emerge in early spring
June
Population reduced – eggs, larvae and pupae die out.
Adult Qfly overwintering occurs in localised warm urban and rural climates – evergreen trees/plants.
The Goulburn Murray Fruit Fly Area Wide Management Program is supported by the Victorian Government.
For more information on fruit fly control, collect an information pack from your Council’s Customer Service Centre.
