Your Farm Spring 2020 Edition

FARM YOUR

SPRING 2020 EDITION

Designed by The Monaro Post

BOUDJAH

66 RAMS

MWW

MJJ GREEN - 6452 6651 www.boudjahmerinos.com.au

BOUDJAH MAIN RANGE

MAIN RANGE

MONARO WHITE WOOL

12 NOON

12 NOON

COOMA SHOWGROUND

20 RAMS

GW, MT & SG TOZER - 6456 4405

41 st ANNUAL RAM SALE

MONARO WHITE WOOL SALE TUESDAY 20 th OCTOBER 2020 ON PROPERTY SALE

SNOWY PLAINS 20 MERINO RAMS

MONARO WHITE WOOL

SNOW VALE 25 POLL MERINO RAMS MA & KL HEDGER - 0429 859 142 2

YOUR FARM

MWW

SNOWY PLAIN SNOW VALE

3 PM

3 PM

“TRAPPERS RUN” BERRIDALE

FARM YOUR

SPRING 2020 EDITION

Cover & contents photograph

by Breanna Arnold

EDITORIAL Gail Eastaway Elle Thompson Richard Wilkins Sam Tonks Trista Parker Russ Haylock ADVERTISING Tracy Frazer Leanne Christie Jim Walker-Broose DESIGN & PRODUCTION James Hanna Breanna Arnold Jen Stockl ACCOUNTS Louise Platts

INSIDE

@themonaropost @themonaropost @themonaropost

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Sustainable farming

9

Latest drought mapping

17

The BlazeAid Family

26

Quad bike safety training

31

Wool market improves

33

Monaro cattle market

35

Horse transport permits

38

Be bushfire ready

39

Escape to the country

SPRING 2020 ISSUE | NEXT ISSUE AUTUMN 2021

PUBLISHER Monaro Media Group Pty Ltd ACN 121 288 060 59 Vale St, Cooma NSW 2630 PO Box 1227, Cooma NSW 2630 CONTACT US Phone: (02) 6452 0313 Website: www.monaropost.com.au Editorial: editor@monaropost.com.au Advertsing: sales@monaropost.com.au Accounts: accounts@monaropost.com.au The publisher accepts no responsibility for any advertisement, notice or letter published. Any advertisement, notice or letter is published at the risk of the contributor who accepts liability for any intended publication. All such contributors, by forwarding advertisements, notices or letters, agree to indemnify the publisher and warrant that the material is accurate and neither deceptive, misleading, in breach of copyright, defamatory or in breach of any laws and regulations.

Please be aware that all material published in Your Farm is subject to copyright.

Find us online SPRING EDITION 2020

3

Stay Cyber Safe The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is receiving increased reports of several myGov related SMS and email scams.

• To set up your security code, sign in to your myGov account and turn it on in ‘Account settings’.

These scams look like they’ve come from a myGov or ATO email address and they ask you to click on a link to verify your details.

• Where possible, hover over web links without clicking on them to check where the link will take you – if it looks like it will take you away from the platform’s official website, don’t click on it.

To make them seem more legitimate, cybercriminals use technology that causes these messages to appear in the same conversation thread as genuine messages from myGov or ATO addresses.

If clicked on, the hyperlink takes you to a fake website that asks you to provide your details and other personal information for ‘verification purposes’. As always, our advice is DO NOT click any links and DO NOT provide the information requested.

Handy hints to stay cyber safe: • Know that the ATO will never send an email or SMS asking you to access online services via a URL. • Sign into your myGov account at my.gov.au to check the status of your online tax affairs at any time.

• For added security on your myGov account, turn on two-factor authentication (2FA).

• Always ask yourself why you have received an email. If the email is about an organisation, service or process that you don’t recognise and haven’t done business with, be suspicious.

• Look for anything inconsistent in the formatting or presentation of the email. Too many mistakes or things that look ‘off’ raise the likelihood of the email being dangerous.

• If in doubt don’t click!

If you have clicked on a link or provided your personal information, contact Services Australia on 1800 941 126.

To stay up to date on the latest online threats and how to respond, visit cyber.gov.au.

NSW Bushfire community and resilience fund grants Support for the vast bushfire recovery continues with Phase 2 of the Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Fund (BCRRF), which provides more than $25 million to promote community well-being, social and future disaster resilience.

Councils eligible for Stream 1 funding will be contacted soon to receive their $100,000 or $250,000 payments.

Acting Deputy Premier and Minister responsible for Disaster Recovery, Paul Toole, said the NSW Government is continuing to deliver targeted support to help communities recover from the Black Summer Bushfires.

Applications for Stream 2 are now open and allow for more immediate funding to flow to local councils, community groups and not-for-profit organisations faster, whilst still supporting communities with medium and longer-term projects.

“We know that community-led recoveries provide the best chance for people to get back on their feet and for towns to come out the other end of a tragedy with even greater resilience and hope for the future,” Mr Toole said.

Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud welcomed this support for locally led recovery.

“I am truly touched by the resilience I’ve seen from people who have faced unimaginable hardship right across NSW and it is a testament to every individual who makes up our regional communities.

“The Australian Government continues its commitment to bushfire impacted communities on their journey to recovery.

Australia’s bushfire impacted communities have displayed the most amazing resilience to firstly withstand the onslaught of the Black Summer bushfires and secondly to work so hard to rebuild their lives from it,” Minister Littleproud said.

“The importance of community-led recovery cannot be underestimated. It’s through the work and ideas of local communities that recovery is achieved and resilience is strengthened.

“Under long standing joint Commonwealth/ state funding arrangements this funding allows communities to invest in projects that will directly benefit recovery efforts and help communities across NSW build back better.

“Each community faces a different set of circumstances and recovery needs. I look

4

YOUR FARM

forward to seeing a range and diversity of projects come to fruition by the people who have experienced these fires” Minister Littleproud said.

“I’m pleased to say Stream 1 will provide $100,000 or $250,000 grants to local councils to support locally-led social recovery activities.

“Stream 2 will provide grants for social recovery and preparedness projects, which could include education programs about how to best prepare for future hazards and community activities to bring people together.

“My message to our bushfire affected towns is that we are with you for the long haul.”

This brings the total BCRRF to over $35 million jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW under Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and is in addition to measures supported through the National Bushfire Recovery Fund.

The BCRRF is administered by Resilience NSW.

So much aid

• Rural, commercial, business Queensland-based charity Rural Aid has provided extensive assistance to the Snowy Monaro region throughout 2020 through donation of fodder and water.

Through their Buy-a-Bale program, which was supported

by Australians of all walks of life, nearly 2000kg of free fodder has been dropped to hundreds of farmers around all areas of the region. “Rural Aid is one of Australia’s largest rural charities. Well known for the highly successful ‘Buy a Bale’ campaign, the charity also provides financial assistance, water and counselling to farmers in times of drought, flood or fire.

Other initiatives support its vision that farming and rural communities are safeguarded to ensure their sustainability both during and after these natural disasters,� says Rural Aid CEO John Warlters. “This year has been a challenging one for farmers in the Cooma region; drought, bushfires, and then subsequent financial and psychological challenges these events cause. “Throughout the year, Rural Aid has provided almost $1 million worth of support, assisting 222 farmers in the Cooma region from Berridale to Bombala, Jindabyne to Jincumbilly. “That support included delivery of 1877kg of fodder across 38 hay drops to nearly 200 farmers

and 26 water deliveries providing almost 500,000 litres of water.�

Bombala farmers Nigel and Nancy Spoljaric received hay in June, with Nancy saying “this donation helps us out financially and gives us a supplementation to go with our barley feed and we are so grateful to the Rural Aid, farmers and truck drivers.�

More recently, five truckloads of hay arrived on the Monaro and was spread across Cooma, Bombala, Bibbenluke and Delegate, with Cooma farmer Mark Blyton saying “it’s hugely appreciated, the fact that Australians are willing to donate and help farmers out really lifts your spirits.�

• Livestock and clearing sales • Property management

P: (02) 6456 6783 E: nick@nickkirshner.com.au W: nickkirshner.com.au

“Dedicated financial support of almost $150K was provided to 106 farmers as well as 126 gift cards handed out,� adds John. “And not to forget the apiarist who also received assistance as part of our specialist drought support for honey producers; Hive Aid.�

Rural Aid continue to encourage farmers to register with the charity to ensure they have access to physical, financial and psychological support in the future.

This can be done by visiting www. buyabale.com.au/can-we-helpyou/ and filling out the form as they continue to commit to country Australia through their networks of support.

COTTAGE PARK

MERINO STUD

26TH ANNUAL ON-PROPERTY RAM SALE Thursday, 22nd October, 2020 Inspection 12pm - Sale 3pm

110 RAMS

Merino bloodline performance from 2007-2018 Ranked # 1 for profit $/hd & #2 profit $/DSE

ON-PROPERTY OPEN DAY

Sunday, 18th October, 2020 9.30am - 4pm

ALL ENQUIRIES CONTACT

Mark and Jodie Pendergast

P/F: 02 6453 5559 | E: cottagepark@hotmail.com

SPRING EDITION 2020

5

Over

10,000 people follow us on social media!

Do you? @themonaropost

RAM SALE

Wednesday 21st October, 2020 ON PROPERTY

Inspection Welcome anytime!

11 am Sale by Helmsman System

YEAR 40 1OLD RAMS

MARCH SHORN Big Merino & Poll Merino Rams

Supreme Champion Bombala Show 2016

Enquiries - Leon Clarke “Spring Creek” Berridale NSW 2628 (02) 6456 3211

Australian Story Charlie Massy of Bobundara featured on popular ABC television program Australian Story last month.

The episode was entitled Breaking New Ground and explored Mr Massy’s passion and advocacy for the regenerative farming movement.

Mr Massy has a PhD and has written a best-selling book on regenerative farming, Call of the Reed Warbler.

Focusing on retaining top soil by increasing and maintaining native vegetative ground cover, particularly during drought, Mr Massy says soil quality improves, water is retained and birds and insects provide chemicalfree pest control.

Since adopting regenerative methods, Mr Massy says not only has his land improved, so has his mental health, particularly during periods of drought.

It was severe drought that prompted Mr Massy to change his ways and look at regenerative methods. Realising that the more traditional farming practices were actually harming his land, Mr Massy and his family decided to sell off some of the property and focus on regenerating a smaller portion. About 20 years later, free of debt and enjoying watching his land recover, Mr Massy began spreading the word through his book.

His eagerness to talk about regenerative

farming is one of the reasons he agreed to take part in Australian Story. After about four or five months of filming, the program came together and the response has been positive.

“I was wary about taking part in the program initially,” says Mr Massy.

“Portraying my family in such a public way was one trepidation but admitting to mistakes I had made was another. However, after talking with various people about it, I decided that if some farmers can take something from it and especially those who are trapped in drought mode, can take some ideas and try things differently, it would be a good thing.

“Apparently there has been a positive response to the program.

“With our planetary crisis of climate change becoming greater, and especially in this tough COVID year, I think a positive story like this is something people are drawn to.”

While Mr Massy is passionate about regenerative agriculture and believes there are many benefits, he understands it is not for everyone.

“Using regenerative methods is an individual choice that depends on many things, and I understand that.

As a ProWater Nationwide partner we can provide a complete water solution, from products and advice through to design and planning, installation, service and maintenance.

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YOUR FARM

“For me it has been an exciting way of farming that is also profitable and healing for the land.

“Mother Nature is pretty amazing and she’s been doing things a certain way for a long time.

“If we can simplify things and let her do what she’s good at, I think we can’t go too wrong.”

Breaking New Ground is available on ABC iView here: iview.abc.net.au/show/australianstory.

Adina’s 20th annual ram sale

Stud History Adina Merino Stud was registered in 1986 and breeding quality Merinos is both the business and the passion of local family Ray and Margaret, James and Jules Barron.

Over the years the aim has been to firstly lower and then maintain micron without sacrificing fleece weight or fertility. Adina sheep have become renowned for their heavy cutting and superior wool qualities.

Rams are run on the tough Monaro and possess hardy constitutions with finemedium wool on large frames.

Adina Poll Merino Stud was registered in 2011, the use of leading poll sires from around Australia has seen the polls continue to improve.

Ray and James continue to see the benefits of selective mating, using sires from not only within the Stud but also sourcing sires from leading Studs to introduce new and desirable genetics to

assist in achieving long term goals.

2020 – what is there to say about 2020?

Drought, bushfires, Covid 19 and like all areas of the economy, the agricultural sector has been deeply aected by the global corona virus pandemic. With most “away from farmâ€? Stud activities being casualties of Covid 19, there is very little to report with the exception of success at the Great Southern Supreme Merino (GSSM) in January and a successful sale at the Dubbo National Merino Sale in August.

In a year that has seen a declining wool market, Adina are thankful to be the breeders of heavy cutting, bale filling Merinos - James is well known for saying “We still get paid by the kilo�! Wool volume remains King for this Monaro Stud and growers need to remain focussed on genetic gains for the future.

2020 Sale Details Adina Merino Stud will oer 40 Merino/ Poll Merino Rams for sale by auction on

Adina’s top price rams in 2019. Pictured, Rick Power of Landmark, Hugh Platts of Landmark Bombala, Stephen Platts of Dungaree Pastoral Co, Lionel Platts of Dungaree Pastoral Co, James Barron of Adina and Sam Green of Elders Cooma.

Monday October 19, 2020. Rams will be penned for inspection from 10am with the sale commencing at 12 noon.

Morning tea and lunch will be provided.

Despite enduring tough seasonal conditions, particularly bushfires and drought James and Ray are more than happy with the line up of rams Adina will oer at the annual ram sale. The rams are well grown, even, structurally correct, well covered with stylish wool and plenty of it!

The Barrons believe that these rams will certainly enhance the breeding aims of

Adina Merino and Poll Merino Stud Principal: Ray and Margaret, James and Jules Barron – Adina Partnership Phone: Ray and Margaret 02 6454 3149 James and Jules 02 6454 3015 / 0411 267 818

the purchasers.

The change of venue in 2016 has proven to be a great decision, the annual ram sale is now truly an on property sale, held where Adina rams are born and bred at “Overdale� 2120 Peak View Rd, Peak View via Cooma. The Barron family invite and welcome you to contact them for inspections prior to the day and they hope you will join them for their 20th annual Merino ram sale which will be conducted with Covid safety precautions in place.

Email: jimmyb1@bordernet.com.au Flock No: 4156 (Adina Merino Stud Established 1986), 1437 (Adina Poll Merino Stud Established 2011)

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20th Annual Ram Sale

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DESIGNED BY THE MONARO POST

SPRING EDITION 2020

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Conrayn Merino Stud On-property sale

Conrayn Merino Stud will have 40 one-year-old and five two-year-old rams on offer at their onproperty ram sale on Wednesday October 21.

They are offering an excellent selection of superfine and fine wool rams.

The rams are well grown with very white, well marked wools, and great conformation.

The sale at ‘Wheat Hill’, 379 Rockwell Road, Berridale, will begin at 4.30pm.

There will be afternoon tea provided on the day and Peter, Jayne, Cade and Jamie are looking forward to seeing everyone at the sale.

Ram body weights will be displayed on sale day.

Good start to wool recovery Dennis Voznesenski - Associate Analyst Animal Protein The wool industry breathed a sigh of relief in late September as wool prices stopped falling and started to rise.

FLOCK NO: 4560

MERINO & POLL STUD

The EMI finished at AUc 1014/kg on 30 September, nine percent higher MOM, and 18 percent higher compared to its month low. All microns rose over the past two weeks, with finer microns seeing the strongest recovery. Improving Chinese and US apparel sales are expected to support wool buying sentiment and prices in the coming month, while prospects of stringent EU lockdowns and consequently lower EU apparel sales will likely limit further upside.

Fine, Superfine and Ultrafine • Offering 45 Rams • MN2 Vaccinated

Apparel sales continued their upward trend in August. Retail sales in China finished up 12 percent MOM, even exceeding August 2019 levels by 2.4 percent. In the US, apparel sales finished up seven percent MOM, but still remained notably lower than August 2019(-24 percent).

Woollen suit imports have also started showing signs of recovery. The latest July figures showed woollen suit imports rising strongly in Japan, up 18 percent MOM, and up one percent MOM in the US. While July was a good improvement, imports in both of these major markets still remain below July 2019, down 43 percent YOY and 78 percent YOY, respectively.

FREE DELIVERY All invited to inspect the rams on offer.

Light luncheon will be available on the day.

National wool tested data for September shows the weight of wool tested up 2.1 percent YOY (24.7mkg). Compared to September 2019, wool tested increased the most in the 20.6 to 21.5 Micron range (+0.89mkg) and declined the most in the 16.6 to 17.5 micron range (-0.41mkg).

Wednesday 21 October 2020 at 4:30pm ON PROPERTY st

“WHEAT HILL” Rockwell Road, Berridale

Contact - Peter & Jayne Lette • Ph: 02 6456 3034 or Mob: 0409 916 117

Australian July wool export volumes rose 4.2 percent MOM(19.8mkg), driven by stronger demand out of India and Europe (particularly Czech Republic and Italy). At the same time, export exposure to China declined to 88 percent in July but still remained above Jul-2019 (76 percent).

Exports of courser 28+ micron wool rose notably (57 percent MOM and 49 percent YOY). Globally (excl. Australia) exports also rose in July. South Africa, another major exporter, saw export volumes rise 19 percent MOM, driven similarly by stronger buying out of Europe, particularly from the Czech Republic and Bulgaria.

are now

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WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Business as usual, with the combined strength of two great wool brokers.

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YOUR FARM

Cooma

David Abraham

0417 431 966

david.abraham@nutrien.com.au

Cooma

Myles Buchanan

0418 410 983

myles.buchanan@nutrien.com.au

Bombala/Delegate

Matt Green

0429 991 241

matthew.green@nutrien.com.au

Goulburn

Craig Lawson

0419 413 062

craig.lawson@nutrien.com.au

Latest DPI

G Cottrell & Sons

Drought Mapping and Regional Outlook

INTERSTATE TRANSPORT MACHINERY & GENERAL TRANSPORT

CALL WHEELS 0409 516 526 ADELAIDE - SYDNEY - MELBOURNEE - BRISBANE - CANBERRA The most recent Department of Primary Industries drought mapping, released earlier this month, gives insights in a range of indicators of the current conditions across the South East of NSW, including the Snowy Monaro.

The report reads that “The South East Local Land Services (LLS) region has experienced a rapid change in conditions due to favourable July and August rainfall. The rain improved the status of the Combined Drought Indicator (CDI) and continued to strengthen the transition towards recovery in the northern districts of the LLS region where there is now excellent spring potential. “Further south, the rain has brought relief to most areas that have been exposed to longer durations of Intense Drought. Despite this, a

change to on-ground conditions is expected to take time and warmer spring temperatures will be needed to initiate rapid pasture growth in many districts. Most areas in the south are still likely to need follow-up rainfall during spring to maintain the sustained transition towards recovery in the lead up to summer.�

The map is calculated using the DPI’s Combined Drought Indicator, that measures data based on soil water, plant growth and rainfall over the last 12 months compared to historical averages. When one of these falls below the fifth percentile, an area is considered in drought, while intense drought is where all three fall below this level.

This map shows the Snowy Monaro region has begun to recover but has not recovered to the extent of more northerly and western areas of the South East area.

The figure denoting Cooma’s drought indicator has seen an increase in rainfall and soil water index. “The recent spike in the rainfall index at these locations has caused improvements to onground conditions. Further rainfall and warmer conditions will aid plant growth and aid recovery,� says the outlook.

The next outlook will be released in early October and will review the conditions and statistics for the month of September 2020. * Diagrams courtesy of DPI.

KEG 10 Olsson’s Keg 10 is a breakthrough in supplementing rumen biology. With pressure on the grower to reduce the use of antibiotics in ruminants Monensin and similar, Olsson’s technical team have developed a product that is designed to encourage rumen biological growth, feeding the bacterial

ora that breaks down feed that is converted into meat.

Keg 10 supports digestive efďŹ ciency.

Buy maximising rumen efďŹ ciency through several actions, Keg 10 allows the animal to achieve maximum natural feed conversion.

Improving microbial ora with the addition of prebiotics

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and probiotics, enzymes, yeast and complex carbohydrates allows the animal’s rumen to develop and function at maximum efďŹ ciency.

Keg 10 is ideal for weaners, assisting the animal to develop a fully functioning rumen. Finisher’s will respond well to Keg 10 as do growers.

A fully brewed complex pasture supplement delivering naturally cultured & fermented life to the rumen.

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61 Comissioner Street, Cooma 02 6452 5566 info@crtcountrystores.com.au

FOR ANIMAL TREATMENT ONLY. THIS PRODUCT DOES NOT CONTAIN RESTRICTED ANIMAL MATERIAL.

SPRING EDITION 2020

9

Improving biodiversity

With all of the challenges that 2020 has presented, it can be easy to overlook biodiversity on the farm.

But we as humans are dependent on healthy functioning, biodiverse ecosystems to provide us with air to breathe, water to drink and plants and nutrients to feed us. Let’s appreciate what we have and look at how we can help to improve it.

Five ways to improve biodiversity on your farm Maintain what’s already there The most eective way of improving biodiversity on your farm is by maintaining and managing what you already have.

Try to avoid “cleaning up� and removing dead, fallen timber as this is important habitat and part of nutrient cycling.

Control exotic weeds and pest animals and control stock by strategically grazing.

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By identifying areas on your farm of high conservation value or an area that a threatened species such as a koala has been identified, you can plan to protect and enhance the area as part of your overall farm plan.

Restore the river Rivers, creeks, gullies, billabongs, ponds, wetlands, gilgais can all be considered as riparian areas. They hold enormous value to farming operations and as an important community asset. Many hold cultural values and are also a significant carbon store.

The improvement of riparian assets into healthy functioning ecosystems can have significant positive impacts on the farm and also for the catchment and wider community.

Spruce up the farm dam Good quality water has a huge impact on stock performance. According to Professor David Lindenmayer from Australian National University, 23 percent of livestock weight loss can be attributed to poor water quality. That’s like having a 300kg steer that should have been 400kg due to poor water quality.

A healthy farm dam consisting of vegetation to filter water and habitat features such as shallow areas, rocks and logs can improve your farm productivity due to improved water quality.

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And it will also provide important habitat for wildlife such as turtles, water birds, fish, frogs and yabbies. And we all know, there is nothing better than going yabbying in the dam when you are a kid!

Take care of paddock trees These often majestic old trees have been declining in recent decades and once gone, there is little regeneration to replace them.

A single tree can support hundreds of species of fungi, insects, plants, and animals. Many have hollows which are perfect for nesting birds such as parrots, owls and bats.

Individually, they are extremely important but collectively, they are key stepping stones across our fragmented landscape.

The koala is one such species that heavily relies on paddock trees to move across their territory and keep safe from threats that are on the ground.

Plant some native vegetation Native vegetation can provide a wide range of social, environmental and financial benefits to farms.

A shelterbelt will provide windbreaks and shade for stock but they also oer a multitude of benefits to farm productivity and wildlife through ecosystem services including pollination and pest control.

A well-designed shelterbelt can enhance existing remnant vegetation and isolated paddock trees by linking them across the landscape.

For example, up to 62 species of native birds in the Gunnedah area will utilise paddock trees for roosting, perching, foraging and to make their way to the next patch of vegetation. By increasing the size of remnant vegetation and linking patches, this could increase to up over 100 dierent species of birds using these areas.

Put simply, every bit counts! Whether you own a large farm, live on a hobby block or in town, you can contribute to biodiversity by planting one tree, 100 trees or just protecting what you have.

If you are concerned that native vegetation is being cleared illegally, please call the Environment Line on 131 555.

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YOUR FARM

Rapid spray choices Lewis RLA Livestock and Property Pty Ltd.

Matt Sunol (far left) and Robert Aynsley (far right) from Rapid Spray with South East Rural Supplies owner David Bottom and General Manager James Waugh Singleton-based company Rapid Spray have three new spray units available for purchase at South East Rural Supplies in Cooma, with these units considered by many as the most compact and versatile field sprayers on the market.

The units come in 600, 360 and 250 litre sizes, and are ideal for small-to-medium farm enterprises.

“The uniqueness of these machines is in their compactness, they are a professional, contractor quality machine,” says Matt Sunol from Rapid Spray.

All models have 15-year tank warranty, with a three-year warranty on all running gear.

The reel remotes have a radius of five kilometres, which Matt says is a useful point of difference in this area when spraying in gullies and hilly country.

“Another good local point of difference is the flush tank. By using anti-freeze in this tank, you can ensure the machine won’t freeze up during winter.

South East Rural has been the only local distributor of Rapid Spray products for over 10 years, and general manager James Waugh is pleased to have the products in store once again.

“We are targeting small to medium sized farmers with this product, it’s all about making it easier, not harder for them and it’s certainly doing the job, we’ve had really good feedback from buyers around the Monaro,” says James.

“The main feedback we’ve had has been the ease of use from all ages of farmers, the tangle proof Buddy reels have been a revolution in the spot spraying business.

Contact Justin Lewis 0400 309 448 E: justin170471@gmail.com

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“With spring ahead, it’s the time to be targeting weeds like serrated tussock and love grass across the area.”

To view the new range of Rapid Spray products, drop in and see James and his team at South East Rural Supplies at 6 Commissioner Street in Cooma.

“You can also modify all three machines so that they can hook up to a boom and add a second reel if required on the 360 and 250 models. The Buddy reels equipped require no maintenance which is another point of difference for this product”

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ON PROPERTY MERINO RAM SALE 29th October 2020 & ǶƊȁ wƧJɐǏ˛ƧDzƵ ‫׈ׇ׀ ׈ׄ​ׄ ׉ׂׄ׀‬ 0ǶƮƵȲȺ !ȌȌǿƊ ‫׀ׂׅ ׃ׇ׉ ׈ׂׄ׀‬

www.greendalemerinos.com.au

"Willarney" 850 Maffra Road Cooma NSW 2630

Livestock Marketing Specialists AuctionsPlus Accredited Rural Property Sales Clearing Sales Will Dixon: M 0427 025 809 E will@monarolivestock.com.au 5/133 Sharp Street, Cooma NSW 2630 P: 02 6452 7747 E: info@monarolivestock.com.au SPRING EDITION 2020

11

Josslyn Poll Herefords Bringing new genetics

Recently the team from Josslyn Poll Herefords visited Yalgoo Poll Herefords in Walcha NSW. Josslyn Poll Herefords purchased one of their first foundation females from Yalgoo nine years ago. The success from this one female producing exceptional heifers and champion bull calves made Yalgoo Poll Herefords appear on the top of their list to re-visit.

After careful review of the sale catalogue and COVID restrictions on the ease, the decision was made to make the 12 hour long trip to Walcha NSW to select the new stud additions in person. With wide spread rain, gumboots were the first items packed. Creeks were flowing,

rivers flooding and water was lapping the road at Boorowa. This was the start of the adventure and as night fell some unfamiliar roads closer to their destination revealed causeways slightly underwater.

With the team staying in Tamworth the night before the sale, a quick late night drive across town to the big golden guitar was a must. The next morning they set o for Yalgoo near Walcha. As in keeping with tradition every time attending on property sales the weather was consistently the same, windy and snow showers. Together this time with lots of mud, the gumboots were a saviour.

The team closely inspected the stud bulls

Sharp Fullgrabe

&CO PTY LTD

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”‹˜ƒ–‡ Č‚ ‘‘Â?• Č‚ ƒ‹”Â?•†ƒŽ‡ ƒŽ‡›ƒ”†• Thursday Weekly 9am

Store Cattle Sales Friday Fortnightly 10am

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For all your livestock inspections, AuctionsPlus assessments or marketing Contact Graeme Fullgrabe 0408 516 432 Brent Coster 0455 966 336 ˆĎ?‹…‡ 03 5152 6411

Monday Fortnightly 11am

and females on site and a select few made the cut.

At the final wrap up of the sale, Josslyn Poll Herefords secured a new sire and two heifers, bringing a fantastic line of genetics to the stud. The bull purchased Yalgoo Legend P180 is sired by Yalgoo Thunderbird L067. Legend boasts a stunning soft coat, moderate birth weight, high milk and retail beef yield fat in the top 25 percent of the breed. Two heifers were also purchased on the day one sired by Injemira Anzac K220 and the second sired by New Zealand bull Koanui Techno 3062. The team is very happy with their new purchases and are

Sharp Fullgrabe livestock

POLL HEREFORDS DELEGATE JA & RM TESCHKE

REGISTERED BULLS FOR PRIVATE SALE

The Liberal Nationals Government is investing in organisations, farmer groups and individuals with innovative ideas to build drought resilience through improved Natural Resource Management (NRM) with grants of up to $200,000 Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud has announced applications are now open for the $10 million grants component of the Natural Resource Management Drought Resilience Program. “Grants of between $20,000 and $200,000 are available for delivery of a range of onground activities that build drought resilience,�

Minister Littleproud said. “Through the adoption of new technology and innovative practices, this program will deliver a range of on-ground outcomes achieving benefits that meet farmers’ priorities and contribute to landscape-scale drought resilience in agriculture dependent communities. “For example, innovative projects that

Are Ewe Ready To Start Shearing?

Ring now to avoid missing us when we are in your area next.

LOT 1 P152

John Teschke 0433 881 574

12

YOUR FARM

Josslyn Poll Herefords sell registered and scanned rising two year old bulls in spring each year. They currently have bulls available for sale and can be contacted on 0433881574.

encouraging innovation

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CONTACT

looking forward to the future of the stud.

Josslyn Poll Herefords are constantly improving the Poll Hereford breed by bringing in better genetics through sires and females to produce easy calvers with high growth rate and exceptional EBVs that sell particularly well in the market.

Drought resilience grants

6c Service Street Po Box 830 Bairnsdale Vic 3875

Fat Cattle Sales

Josslyn Yalgoo Legend Crop.

!"# $%%!&%'& (!")*+, * $

regenerate and maintain groundcover can deliver drought resilience by improving the soil’s water infiltration and storage capacity, reducing run-o and associated water and wind erosion. “The Natural Resource Management Drought Resilience Program forms part of the first round of investments the Australian Government is making through the $5 billion Future Drought Fund to help farmers better prepare for dry times. “These projects will continue to deliver lasting benefits, even during the good years, by helping to lift the productivity and profitability of the agriculture sector and enhance the health and sustainability of our farming landscapes.â€?

Interested organisations, farmer groups and individuals can now apply via the Community Grants Hub link Applications close 30 October 2020. Further details on each program available at www. agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/drought/ future-drought-fund

HM MOOVVIIN NGG EEAARRTTH • DAM DE-SILTING AND CONSTRUCTION • TRENCHING • TANK PADS • FENCE LINE CLEARING • SITE CUTS AND LEVELLING • TREE CLEARING Subsidise your water infrastructure improvements through the one off Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate, claim 25% of your de-silting or infrastructure upgrade costs.

See www.raa.nsw.gov.au/grants for rebate terms.

Brock robinson Ph: 0401 887 000 E: brockandsammy@bigpond.com

Grant to grow Like so many other industries, lavender farming in the region has faced the challenges of drought, Covid and even bushfires over the past year.

plantings around the nearby Bombala Visitors Information Centre, and generally make the area more visually appealing to locals and visitors alike.

Based around the Bombala district, Monaro Country Lavender is determined to forge ahead, and has even managed to plan towards expansion.

And expansion will not finish with the plantings on the Railway Land.

“Last summer was the first time in 25 years that MCL did not have a harvest due to the drought and the fires,” MCL’s Karen Cash said.

“So to reinvigorate the group and to support efforts to build economic and tourism development for the Bombala region it was decided that we should apply to Boco Rock Wind Farm for a community grant to revamp and expand the lavender plantings on the Railway Land.”

The group was very pleased to be successful in its application and is soon set to start work on the sensory garden, establishing a lavender specimen garden for South East NSW showcasing lavenders suitable for the region.

MCL will also complete its

“We are continuing with sourcing new markets, developing new products and expanding membership of the co-op,” Mrs Cash said.

“The Covid situation has hit sales hard as tourism numbers have fallen substantially, however we are hopeful that coach tours will return by the end of the year and tourism numbers will increase.

“Lucky for us we have been able to retain wholesale sales, have an additional retail outlet at the Old Delegate Post Office which compliments the VIC outlet, and plans are well advanced for the release of a new product later this year. Very exciting!”

If you are interested in growing lavender in the region and joining Monaro Country Lavender, please Jan on 0478 609 584 or Karen on 64585 289.

Round Plain Merino Stud Round Plain Merino Stud was founded in March 1990 with the purchase of 56 ewes from Merryville Stud.

In 2003 we purchased two stud rams from Wurrook Merino Stud in Victoria, both of which are Merryville blood.

We have also purchased eight other Wurrook rams since.

In January this year we purchased the top priced ram at Canberra GSSM sale for $12,000 in association with Conrayn Stud and Snowy Plain Stud.

In 2017 we purchased top priced Snowy Plain ram paying $6,500 for him, and in 2019 we again purchased the top-priced Snowy Plain ram, paying $6,000 for him.

We have always achieved some of the

top prices for our flock sheep at Cooma commercial sales.

The aim at Round Plain is to breed a true fine wool sheep with bright, long-stapled stylish wool and with good fleece weights.

In the past few years Round Plain has sold rams to Southern Tablelands, South Coast as well as local buyers.

We currently have 250 stud ewes, 350 flock ewes and run approximately 1,000 sheep in total, with 30 rams offered annually.

This year we will be offering 30 rams for private selection on Sunday 18 October 2020.

Sires in use Wurrook Horse, Wurrook Giant 2nd, Wurrook Paul, Round Plain Giant, Snowy Plain Mango.

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Monaro Country Lavender has received a community grant from Boco Rock Wind Farm to revamp their plantings on the Bombala Railway Land and establish a lavender specimen garden for South East NSW.

RAM SALE & FIELD DAY ON PROPERTY

NOW STOCKING

Select Range of Pumps and Tanks for Irrigation Farm and Rural

SUNDAY 18TH OCTOBER 2020

PRIVATE SELECTION 10AM - 4PM

SUPPLIED BY:

13 x 2 YEAR OLD RAMS 17 x 1 YEAR OLD RAMS ALL RAMS GUDAIR VACCINATED

CONTACT

Gordon & Jenny Crowe “Cross Roads” Berridale 2628 Ph: (02) 6456 8884 SPRING EDITION 2020

13

ANNUAL RAM SALE 12th October 2020 - 1pm

150 RAMS

120 POLL 30 HORN Michael and Jane Corkhill - “Dryburgh”, Reids Flat NSW Ph/Fax 02 6345 2201 | Mobile 0428 272 889 | Classer: Craig Wilson

w w w. g ra s s y c r e e k m e r i n o s . n e t . a u

Mitre 10 Jindabyne Your local town and country rural products supplier

Mitre 10 Jindabyne is the go-to store for your hardware, home, garden and farming needs.

As their by-line says it is Much More than a Hardware Store.

Monaro Native Tree Nursery • Cold Climate Locally Grown Plants • Alpine Plants • Retail Nursery • Landcare and Revegetation Tubestock • Tree Guards • Fertilizer Tablets • Screening & Garden Plants Michael & Annie Platts 168 Gunningrah Road, Bombala Phone: (02) 6458 4096 www.monaronativetreenursery.com.au

The store is open seven days a week and offers friendly customer service from enthusiastic staff with a good knowledge of all things farming and rural.

The town and country section of the store supplies many products including seeds, chemicals, fertilisers, animal care products as well, fencing, grain, animal feed and much more.

As the leading retailer for rural supplies in Jindabyne the staff have a good understanding of the area and can offer the right products for the job.

If something is not in stock simply ask if it can be ordered in.

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$55 ALL LOCAL SCHOOL UNIFORMS AVAILABLE HERE! 98 SHARP ST, COOMA 6452 6608 cooma@hippocketworkwear.com.au

14

YOUR FARM

Special orders are quick and efficient from their Rural Co. Warehouse.

Mitre 10 stocks only the best brands to ensure healthy agricultural productivity for our region, having the proper stock supplies is important

for the environment and the community.

Selling big brand feeds such as Bonnie, Pedigree and Dog Pro dog food, Barastoc, Equilibrium Mineral Mix and Dara Pastoral Co Chaff horse feed, they have something to feed all your farm animals available in the one location.

An aisle dedicated to animal care lays towards the back of the store stocking collars, leads, bowls, chicken feeders, supplements, wormers, horseshoes and much more, whether it is for household pets or farm animals.

Now the warmer months are here, come into the store on Snowy River Avenue and check out the animal care section to keep your beloved animal friends’ in tip top shape and good health.

The substantial supply of gardening equipment instore is sure to provide the local farmers with their crop and garden needs including seeds, weed sprays, pesticides, soils, and fertilizers to grow healthy, flourishing plants.

To keep up to date with upcoming promotions visit their Facebook page on www.facebook. com/JindabyneMitre10

Rural Assistance Authority funding The NSW Rural Assistance Authority is continuing to provide financial relief and with the help of Rural Financial Counselling Services in Cooma our local producers are still able to access these funding programs.

Two particular funds that have been accessed by farmers recently and are still available are the Drought Assistance Fund and Emergency Drought Transport Subsidy.

The Drought Assistance Fund is an interest free loan of up to $100,000 that is available for “any activities that promote resilience and profitability” on farm.

Examples of costs the funding can be spent on include installation of fodder and water infrastructure, transport of fodder, stock or water and genetic banking of breeding herds.

To apply for this funding, you must provide your most recent LLS rates notice, proof of income and a monthly cash flow budget for the next 12 months.

Round three of the Emergency Drought Transport Subsidy has also been announced, with farmers requiring LLS rates and tax invoices for each movement to apply.

Additionally, for those using private vehicles, vehicle registration, log book entries and travelling stock statements are required to claim up to $25,000.

The funding allows for half of transport costs to be covered as part of the Rural Assistance Authority’s current programs.

This funding is open until December 31 or until funding is exhausted and can be used to transport water, fodder, stock, chemical, seeds and fertiliser.

• dozer • excavator

Louise Fletcher is the Rural Financial Counsellor in Cooma, and she says that the response to the available funds from local producers has been positive.

• Tipper truck • water cart • roller

“It’s been really impressive to see how many people have got on board.

“It’s important for farmers to remember support is there for them.”

If you haven’t already, then now is the time to sign up for aerial spraying of serrated tussock, a weed that is spreading throughout the Monaro region.

Serrated tussock is listed as a ‘Weed of National Significance in Australia’ reducing the productivity of pasture and creating a fire hazard. The unchecked invasion of weeds onto grazing land can impact heavily on farms.

The Monaro grasslands are a unique environment with communities of rare and threatened plant and animal species identified.

Weeds are a major threat to these environmental assets, particularly introduced perennial grass weeds such as African lovegrass and serrated tussock that easily outcompete and quickly dominate native pastures.

This spring, the Snowy Monaro Regional Council is assisting landholders by coordinating the aerial spraying of priority weeds. This process is highly effective and the use of a selective herbicide allows for targeted weed control. The estimated cost for aerial, grassy

no job too big or small

with variety of buckets and mulching head

0488 490 309

• • • • •

dam building tree removal house and shed sites mulching roads

biz083@outlook.com

Louise recently spoke at the Monaro Farming Systems Winter Field Day in Nimmitabel, and has also presented to Shane Stone, who is the head of the National Drought and North Queensland Flood Response and Recovery Agency earlier this year.

“We are always looking to educate people on what RFCS does, we can help with anything to do with finances and your business.”

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(67

For more information on Rural Assistance Authority Funding visit https://www.raa.nsw. gov.au or call local Counsellor Louise Fletcher on 0429 028 307.

Serrated tussock aerial spray sign up

This spring, the Snowy Monaro Regional Council is assisting landholders by coordinating the aerial spraying of priority weeds like serrated tussock.

For Hire

Registration No. 4891

Brucellosis Accredited ~ Guidar Vaccinated Poll Merino Rams Also Available

ALL ENQUIRIES WELCOME David Bruce 0400 583 211

Warren Bruce 0427 465 265

weed control is under $100 per hectare. The minimum load is 10 hectares.

Please contact the SMRC Biosecurity Extension Officer to register your interest in this aerial spray program by emailing angela. sharp@snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au or (02) 6451 1173.

There are also other treatment options to use in combination as part of an integrated weed management plan * Pay attention to the health and growth of your desirable pasture species and maintain ground cover wherever possible. * Use conservative stocking rates and do not overgraze. * Spray actively growing stress-free plants with glyphosate. * Use flupropanate for residual control. * Chip or hoe isolated or scattered serrated tussock plants. * Ensure chipped plants are completely removed from the soil. * If seed heads are present make sure you bag and dispose of them to prevent seed spread. * There is never a wrong time to control serrated tussock, but it is simpler to treat while the plants are easy to identify. * Plan and implement your ongoing control and maintenance program now and seek advice if in doubt.

Importantly, landholders are encouraged to discuss any spraying plans with neighbours where possible.

SPRING EDITION 2020

15

CEF: Growth in the face of adversity Despite the challenges of 2020, the annual Country Education Foundation of Australia (CEF) Student Impact Report showcases remarkable growth in many areas thanks to the amazing eorts of their volunteers and the generosity of donors.

Rural students often pay a much higher price for tertiary education than those living in the city, and sometimes that financial burden is prohibitive. CEF provides grants each year to Snowy Monaro students who need financial assistance with their tertiary studies. The current grant application is now open to students aged 16 to 25, who have lived and/or attended school in the region for the majority of their high school years.

Secretary of the CEF Snowy Monaro, Mike Mesley, says while university is the most common tertiary education sought by their applicants, CEF supports a diverse range of education and career pursuits. These include apprenticeships, traineeships, cadetships, degrees, diplomas and certificate level studies or entry careers.

With upwards of $25,000 to give away this year, Mike

encourages all local students who need assistance to apply.

COOMA LIVESTOCK

SELLING CENTRE

“One of the most important things about our criteria is that we select students who need the most help,� says Mike. “Students should not be discouraged from applying because they may not have been successful in scholarship programs previously. This is not about who writes the best essay, or what your previous performance has been, it is about who needs it.

SHEEP SALES: Fortnightly every 2nd Tuesday in season CATTLE SALES: 3rd Friday of every month. All sales start at 10am AUTUMN CALF & BREEDER SALES: Contact Council or Agents for dates FACILITIES AVAILABLE: Catering on-site & Truck wash For enquiries contact the Selling Agents • Boller & Co (02) 6452 4155 • Elders (02) 6455 5500 • Landmark (02) 6452 6565 • Monaro Livestock & Property PL (02) 6452 7747 Snowy Monaro Regional Council 1300 345 345

Bombala Garden Jewels

“Another important part of applying is that we always discuss other options with the applicants, to ensure they are accessing other avenues of assistance, such as Centrelink. Even if they are not successful in our grant, hopefully they can become aware of other options to help them with their studies.�

Applications close on October 31, visit cef.org.au/foundations/snowymonaro to apply.

Across the 44 local CEFs in five states and territories, the support provided to young adults continues to increase. This year more than 650 youth from the rural and regional communities in the CEF footprint received financial grants to access post school education and training.

A massive $1,755,640 has been awarded to students for educational items such as textbooks, laptops, uniforms and associated travel. The

total figure comprises $1,302,462 in local foundation grants and scholarships and $453,178 in education partner funding.

In 27 years of existence, the national education charity has made contributions to improving pathways, outcomes and opportunities for young rural and regional Australians through the distribution of $12,693,534 and 6000-plus individual grants and scholarships.

CEF provides a lot more than grants. They support and mentor grant recipients throughout their studies.

For most of the students, it is about knowing their community is behind them.

CEF CEO, Juliet Petersen explains, “From every dollar raised at a community fundraiser to the crucial relationships with philanthropists and universities, we are confident that all the funds raised are going where they are needed most. With every dollar invested in the work of CEF, a social return of $4.99 is generated.�

Drought, bushfires and COVID-19 have all had an enormous impact on local foundations’ abilities to fundraise in the last few years, so to support their communities, CEF has engaged generous donors to match local funds, thereby doubling the impact of community fundraising.

From 1 October to 30 November 2020, CEF’s national target is to match $200,000. In other words, for each dollar donated to a local CEF foundation, CEF Australia will match this to a capped amount.

The CEF community-based model relies on the activity and dedication of volunteers in rural and regional towns to create educational opportunities and provide financial assistance for their youth.

Full details of the matched giving campaign can be found at www.cef.org.au/matched-giving-2020c

LIVESTOCK & PROPERTY

ness ]

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Leaders in Marketing | Livestock Rural Property | Auctioneers YOUR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE

Aaron Mackay

16

YOUR FARM

Accounting Taxation Superannuation Financial Planning Primary Production Bookkeeping Services Management Consulting Tax planning

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Tel. 6452 6775

MOBILE: 0427 693 696 www.deltaag.com.au

37 Bombala St, Cooma www.markkenmirandco.com.au

BOUDJAH MERINOS

Gudair Vaccinated and Brucellosis accredited

Michael Green 02 6452 6651 boudjah@bigpond.net.au

BlazeAid family All throughout what has been a particularly challenging year, a special group of volunteers have been working hard and non-stop to provide support to bushfire-affected farmers across the region after their disastrous impact last summer.

The Bombala BlazeAid camp has been providing support repairing fences across the southern Monaro and have put in a combined 4,794 volunteer days of support since the bushfire crisis. So far this year, they have cleared more than 110kkm of burnt fencing, established more than 87km of new fencing, installed 7,993 pickets and 507 strainer posts.

The experience has been rewarding not only for the farmers, but also for the volunteers who have come from around the world to help out. There are currently 12 different nations represented in the camp, averaging an age of 34, many have forged memories that will last a lifetime.

“Each morning, I get to wake up to incredible backpackers who are encouraging of one another and appreciative of the home that BlazeAid Bombala has provided for us,” BlazeAid volunteer Aditi said.

“We’ve found a community with one another as well as with the local farmers who have welcomed us into their homes. We’ve made countless memories learning new skills, sharing laughs with farmers, and experiencing the contentment that comes with life in a small town.”

Elouise, another volunteer said that BlazeAid

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had saved her from an exploitative working environment and in turn provided her with a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“I was anxious as to what BlazeAid would entail, continuing with voluntary work and going into the unknown once again, new people, new routines and a completely different environment. From the moment I arrived I was welcomed with open arms, something that continued throughout my time in Bombala,” Elouise said.

“The most rewarding part of BlazeAid - and there are many - was not only the work you helped the farmers with but also the moral and emotional support you gave them, showing them that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and that they will be able to get their lives back to where they were pre-bushfires.

“The local community and other volunteers also had a big part to play for my joy during my stay at BlazeAid Bombala. Such a diverse range of people. It is an unmissable opportunity to form bonds, create friendships and to share joy and laughter. Everyone had so much spirit and passion, we supported one another and started to form our own family and community in camp.

“If you are looking for an opportunity to make amazing unforgettable memories, friends and interesting connections along with rewarding work then look no further as BlazeAid provides this and more. I will be forever grateful for the time that I spent with them and for the help and support I received during my stay. Truly inspirational and eye-opening.”

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SPRING EDITION 2020

17

Equine microbiome study reviews research

Christa Lesté-Lasserre, MA

One of our Top Performing sires: “Sparta Tantangara” H15, Son of Hingaia 469 (NZ) • High performance herd • Completely free of north American blood • Known for their quiet temperament, doing ability & Fast Finishing • Bulls now available for Autumn & Spring joinings, Graded and priced to suit all budgets.

• Sourcing genetics from New Zealand and our own breeding program.

• Raised under commercial Conditions with no supplementary feeding

Stephen Platts: 026458 6632 M:0447 583 951 Lionel Platts: 026458 4623 M:0429 077 379 Keith Murdoch: 02649 51661

Email: sparta.angusstud@gmail.com

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Like us on Facebook: @SpartaAngus “Jincumbilly” Snowy River Way Ando NSW 2631 18

YOUR FARM

British researchers reviewed more than 150 equine microbiome studies. From colic to laminitis to pregnancy, here’s what they found.

“And even if it’s not manifest colic, it can be subclinical (showing no signs), which is also not good for the horse.”

Throughout the 100 feet of intestines packed as winding passageways inside your horse’s abdomen, life runs abundant, in abundant forms. Entire communities of bacteria, fungi, and protozoa share this microcosm, known as the gut microbiome, where they interact with your horse—and with each other. Worthy of their own science fiction movie, these millions of independent, living organisms have an entire world of their own within the equine gut’s lining, with “good guys,” “bad guys,” and the everconstant risk of some group taking up too much power and destroying their universe. It’s a fascinating but highly complex story—and it’s told by science.

Meanwhile, Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae bacteria are usually among the good guys because they help break down plant material, processing the nutrients and converting them into energy. Lachnospiraceae also produces butyric acid, which aids immune function and gut wall integrity, Garber said.

As researchers move toward a better understanding of the equine gut microbiome, one scientist has sought to unite the more than 150 studies exploring this somewhat obscure part of the horse’s body. The objective of such a globally encompassing review was to “assimilate our current knowledge on equine microbiome studies,” and in particular to focus on the various effects of factors that could influence gastrointestinal microbiota in horses, said veterinarian and nutritionist Anna Garber, PhD, of the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Glasgow, in the U.K. Understanding Good and Bad Gut Bacteria Understanding the gut microbiome and how different factors positively or negatively affect it would be easier if we understood what truly constitutes “good” and “bad” bacteria. But it’s not that cut and dry, said Garber. Much depends on delicate balances as well as on context, making the evaluation of factors particularly challenging.

“It’s difficult to divide what is good and what is bad,” Garber said.

“It’s not always clear what can be considered negative changes in the gut microbiome of the horse.”

A few generalities do, however, exist, she said.

For example, bacteria that produce high levels of lactic acid—such as Streptococcus and Lactobacillus—are considered bad because they’re associated with increased lactic acid production in the gut, which “often leads to colic,” said Garber.

Despite these generalities, much affects what we consider “good” or “bad,” said Garber.

“It’s really difficult to make global conclusions,” she said.

The Top Gut Microbiome-Affecting Factors Garber’s review led her to identify several primary factors that can affect the equine microbiome’s composition—for better or worse.

• Diet: Pasture grass, hay, and concentrated feeds each promote different environments in the gut, which are more or less favourable for certain kinds of microorganisms. Starches from concentrated feeds can ferment in the hindgut, making it more acidic. Acidic environments are challenging for certain kinds of good bacteria that help break down plant cells and can lead to digestive issues. Supplements (probiotics and prebiotics) seem to cause changes in the microbiome, but researchers don’t always agree on what’s happening or whether the supplements are effective. Fasting can cause a drop in certain kinds of good bacteria, as well.

• Exercise: Intense exercise, regular exercise, light exercise, or no exercise—all these situations can influence digestibility and digestion rates, which can alter the microbiome.

• Obesity and metabolic issues: Researchers note clear differences in the microbiome makeup between obese and non-obese horses. In particular, obese horses and easy keepers seem to have greater diversity of organisms. “Obese horses would usually have a more diverse microbiome, because their gastrointestinal tract might be better adapted to extract energy from the feed,” Garber said.

But it’s hard to say whether the microbiome changes are due to metabolic changes or the obesity itself. Plus, there’s the “chicken-andegg” conundrum: Do the horses have obesity/ metabolic issues because of the microbiome, or is it the other way around?

Continued on page 37.

Hans Oversnow provides the community with UTV needs

Hans Oversnow are the South East region’s go-to dealers for sales and service of quality and value for money ATVs, side by sides, snowmobiles, groomers and other specialty vehicles and equipment.

Located in the industrial area of Leesville in Jindabyne, Hans Oversnow deal with the big brands of all things machinery and have recently introduced Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTVs) to their expanding machinery services.

The market is trending towards UTVs as being the leader in o-road innovation and is quickly showing to be the number one working vehicle trusted by Aussie farmers.

UTVs are well known for their safety requirements including roll cages, seat belts, bull bars and much more and also provides a more comfortable and smoother ride for the longevity of your body as the constant getting on and o an ATV/quad bike can be hard on the hips.

Hans Oversnow supply UTV models with an extra safety protocol involving seatbelts with restrictions that won’t allow the vehicle to

travel more than 20 km/h without the patron wearing the seatbelt.

of second hand units to suit various budgets and requirements available in store now.

Hans Oversnow Sales Manager, Nicholas Powell says that amongst the many safety requirements UTVs have a range of other sought-after requirements including a 500kg capacity limit in the back tray, can tow up to a tonne, have plenty of ground clearance, high and low range, automatic transmission and in general are great for whipping around the farm.

The Australian Government are pushing the farming community to purchase UTVs as their chosen all-terrain vehicles and are oering an up to $2,000 rebate for primary producers in NSW.

“Our UTV range is much safer all-terrain vehicles with extensive features where you can fit more in the back tray, can tow a lot more and has plenty of space to put your animals in the back. Overall it is a safer and more convenient unit,� said Nicholas.

UTVs have a long service interval of up to 200 hours of drive time making them very reliable and low cost.

All UTVs also have the option for extra accessories such as gun racks, bull bars, spot lights and more.

The rebate is an added incentive making the UTV range more aordable to farmers.

If you’re looking into buying a UTV visit the NSW Farmers Association http://www. nswfarmers.org.au where you will need to complete the rebate process to see your eligibility.

Hans Oversnow supply and service UTVs throughout the region and are excited for their 2021 range expected to be available in October. While UTVs are in high demand you better get in quick.

For more information on UTVs visit http:// hansoversnow.com.au, email ralph@ hansoversnow.com.au or contact 02 6457 2611.

Hans Oversnow also has an extensive range

AgSkilled 2.0 drives innovation in NSW agriculture The NSW Government has committed $15 million to upskill primary producers across plant-based sectors of the agricultural industry.

Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Geo Lee said AgSkilled 2.0 expanded on the success of the original program in driving the productivity, profitability and competitiveness of NSW agriculture through training and upskilling. “AgSkilled 2.0 will continue to 30 June 2023 and has expanded the opportunity for training to a much greater range of plant-growing primary producers,â€? Mr Lee said. “This expanded AgSkilled program will oer training across the key agricultural industry sectors of production horticulture, viticulture and rice growing in addition to the cotton and grains production covered in the original program.â€?

The original program delivered training to 5,227 people, over 849 courses across 189 locations to support cotton and grains farmers in regional NSW. Mr Lee said the key to the program’s ongoing success was the engagement with industry to ensure training in agriculture is designed to be relevant, current and responsive to industry needs.

NOW OPEN

“This training increases the productivity and safety of existing workers in the sector and can oer career pathways for people to work in the agriculture sector,â€? Mr Lee said.

Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall said the expansion of the AgSkilled program would provide a boost for workers who wanted to upskill or are new to the agricultural workforce. “These expanded opportunities are targeted directly at emerging needs and skill gaps that have been identified by industry, which means the State’s agricultural businesses can get a leg up when hiring skilled labour,� Mr Marshall said. “Never before has it been so critical that we develop locally-based workers for the agricultural sector, so this will give them crucial training on the header, cultivating soil and plant health in the paddock, using new technology and more.

AN AGRIBUSINESS DEDICATED TO YOU. BRANCH MANAGER Sam Green: 0428 973 520 REAL ESTATE Sam Green: 0428973520 Tim Schofield: 0428526733

WOOL Sam Green: 0428973520

ACCOUNTS Leanne Bujalski

LIVESTOCK Sam Green: 0428973520 Tim Schofield: 0428526733

FINANCE John Scarlett: 0419692007

MERCHANDISE Pauline Bolton

INSURANCE Dianne Gregory Emily Anderson: 02 64555577

AGRONOMY Jennifer O’Ryan: 0413489802

ELDERS RURAL SERVICES LTD E 71 MASSIE ST, COOMA PH: 6455 5500 FAX: 6455 5555 E: coomabranch@elders.com.au

“Our farming businesses are the best in the world, and with programs like AgSkilled 2.0 they will have the workforce to match.�

The training is complemented by a range of other Training Services NSW initiatives to support regional NSW. For more information, visit Training Services NSW for more.

HANS OVERSNOW ARE THE SOUTH EAST REGION'S GO-TO DEALERS FOR SALES AND SERVICE OF QUALITY AND VALUE-FOR-MONEY ATVS, SIDE-BY-SIDES, SNOWMOBILES, GROOMERS AND OTHER SPECIALTY VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT.

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19

Sustainable Lands Project

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SNOWY MONARO REGION & SOUTH COAST

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Snowy Monaro Regional Council in partnership with Upper Snowy Landcare is excited to announce the successful funding of the twoyear Sustainable Lands project.

This project is supported by the Department of Agriculture Water and the Environment through funding from Australian Governments National Landcare Program.

The project aims to guide land managers toward a better understanding and application of sustainable land management principals.

A series of six free workshops and field days per year, over two years will lead participants towards sustainable land custodianship.

Industry experts on Soil Science, Traditional Land Management, Native Plants and Biosecurity, together with local Monaro champions of Regenerative Agriculture will meet to share knowledge and experience as

well as support and inspire others in the region to adopt sustainable methods. By connecting farmers and landowners with industry champions, this project hopes to support the formation of a strong, resilient, local community of practice.

Meeting local champions on their farms will demonstrate firsthand the benefits of adopting sustainable land management behaviours and give others the courage to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;have a go.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; A Community Based Social Marketing component built in to the project will identify and address some of the common barriers to adopting sustainable land management methods.

If you would like to participate in these events, please register your interest now by emailing angela.sharp@snowymonaro.nsw.gov.au

Finding workers

For all your livestock transport Telephone: (02) 6458 8085 Mobile: 0418 516 076 E: talbotransport@bigpond.com

Help Harvest NSW is a new website created by the NSW Government to connect seasonal workers with producers.

Seasonal work can be physically demanding.

Employers may look for commitment, physical strength and stamina.

The agriculture industry is facing a significant labour shortage as a result of COVID-19.

Harvesting can involve heavy lifting, frequent bending, climbing ladders and working at height or operating heavy machinery. Packing produce may be less physical but is generally more repetitive.

If you are looking for employment opportunities, now is a great time to consider agriculture and farm work. Learning how food is produced and harvested is an exciting regional experience.

The agriculture industry has a range of jobs on oďŹ&#x20AC;er including fruit picking, grain harvesting and working on a cattle station.

The new website provides links to platforms aimed at connecting workers with farmers, such as Workabout Australia and Harvest Trail.

It also lists agricultural recruitment agencies for jobs in NSW, such as AgCareers, AgriCrew and Agri Labour Australia.

, # 2 3 4 *% 4+ 5 %* 4+ , 6 5 $ + 2 . + 78

There are opportunities out there for both skilled and unskilled workers, just make sure to check the advertisement.

The website also provides tips for seasonal workers about accommodation, what to bring to a job and how to be sun safe and avoid heat stroke.

Visit www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/help-harvestnsw today to find workers for your property.

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20

YOUR FARM

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PH: 6452 3511

6 COMMISSIONER STREET, COOMA

Sticking in there through droughts Greenland Merino Stud invites any interested breeders to an open day on Sunday 11 October at ‘Mountain View’ to view all the sale rams.

We will have them penned at 11am and will be available for inspection until 4pm.

Greenland Merino Stud is holding their annual unhoused on-property ram sale, interfaced with Auctions Plus on Monday October 19 at 3pm.

Inspection of this years’ Greenland Stud team of Merino and Poll Merino sale rams on sale day will be from 12noon at ‘Mountain View’, 2951 Snowy River Way, 50km south of Cooma and 50km north of Bombala. You will be able to view photos and videos of all rams offered at our on-property sale. You will also be able to bid on Auctions Plus if you are a registered user or alternately you can use your chosen agent to bid for you.

This year’s offering will comprise of both horned and polled Merino oneyear-old rams. This year’s draft is in excellent working condition and are unhoused, paddock rams.

Greenland Merino Stud has been registered since 1985 and breed Merino sheep that are suited to most environments throughout Australia. This is evidenced by the fact that stud rams are sold to most states of Australia.

Greenland is a family run business which gives us the personal edge whether it be on the day or throughout the year. If you need a cuppa and cake or advice on a selection at our on property sale or just a good yarn for the afternoon the team will be there to talk to you on the day.

We provide a free sheep classing service for any clients needing this service and are willing to give any advice. This is a golden opportunity to purchase top stud rams which are commercially run for commercial conditions. Merino sheep are a most incredible meat and wool factory which is why we have an everlasting passion for them.

Greenland has been performance and pedigree recording their ewe base since 1985 within the flock, and now through Australian Sheep Breeding Values our performance and full pedigreed rams are available for those wishing to select new sires with ASBVs. With careful

selection, and individual classing of each ewe at joining we have been able to produce animals that we feel reflect our breeding objectives and values of a Merino sheep.

That is a structurally sound, well balanced animal with attributes for wool production and keeping the frame score for the mutton market, quality wool to handle different climatic conditions that our sheep may go into, staple length and most importantly they must have a good constitution, be highly fertile with very stylish fine and fine-medium wool.

and other refreshments on the day. Greenland Merino Stud catalogue is available now on www. greenlandmerinos.com.au, with photos, ASBVs and comments on each ram. Like us on Facebook, or if you would like to be placed on our mailing list please phone us.

Anyone wishing to inspect the rams prior to the sale day, just phone for an appointment to John 64536244, 0437898982 or Greg 0487857821.

Greenland Merino Stud benchmark their sheep in Merino Select, wether trials, sire evaluations as well as showing at most local shows and most major Merino sheep shows having great success with all three. This year due to Covid-19 the only shows that still went ahead with sheep judging were Great Southern Southern Merino, Dalgety and Delegate.

GSSM: Greenland won Supreme Junior Merino Exhibit, Champion Junior Ram, Champion Junior Ewe, Champion Medium/strong wool Sale Ram, Champion March shorn Finewool Ram, Champion August shorn Medium/strong wool Poll Ewe, Champion March shorn Ram, First in the Fabstock March shorn Pairs, Reserve Champion March shorn Finewool Ewe, Reserve Champion March shorn Superfine wool Ewe. Delegate Show: Greenland won Supreme Champion Merino Exhibit, Champion Merino, Champion Merino Ewe, Champion Strong wool Merino Ram, Champion Medium Wool Merino Ewe, Champion Fine/Medium Wool Merino Ram, Champion Fine Wool Merino Ram, Champion Finewool Merino Ewe, Champion Superfine wool Merino Ewe, Champion Poll Merino Ram, Reserve Champion Merino Ewe, Reserve Champion Merino Ram. Dalgety Show: Junior Champion Merino Ewe, Junior Champion Merino Ram, Champion Strong wool Ram, Champion Strong wool Ewe, Champion Fine wool Ram, Champion Fine wool Ewe, Reserve Junior Champion Merino Ewe, Reserve Junior Champion Merino Ram. Come and join us for our open day and ram sale for a barbecue

Servicing Se cing Bega, Eden Monaro & Cooma Districts Rural Financial Counselling Service offer free financial Services covering: R • Assessment of your current financial position • Assistance with business planning and reaching your goals • Helping to prepare for succession planning • Identification of options and opportunities • Cash flow budgeting • Information on, and assistance with government go nment programs withWagga negotiations| with financial institutions and creditors • Assistance wPrue Wagga Hulm 0428 617 887

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Bega | Peter Muirhead 0447 467 964 Fiona Taylor 0429 057 597 1800 319 9 458Yass to find| your nearest Counsellor For professional, friendly ndly and confidential help contact us on

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21

ELDERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HERE TO HELP

PICK UP OR DELIVERY

Regional Delivery Program Part of its $200 million investment in bushfire recovery for wildlife, the Australian Government is directing $110 million over the next two years to support actions across the following seven regions: â&#x20AC;˘ rainforests of south-east Queensland â&#x20AC;˘ rainforests of the NSW north coast and tablelands â&#x20AC;˘ the Greater Blue Mountains and World Heritage Area â&#x20AC;˘ forests of the NSW south coast â&#x20AC;˘ Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s alpine environments across ACT, NSW and Victoria â&#x20AC;˘ forests and coastal ecosystems of East Gippsland â&#x20AC;˘ Kangaroo Island.

These regions have been identified as those most vulnerable following the 2019â&#x20AC;&#x201C;20 Black Summer bushfires.

Regional investments will be informed by a regional consultation process to ensure they complement state, NGO and privately funded activities already underway. Actions within and across regions will support the recovery of native plants, animals, ecosystems and heritage values and may include: â&#x20AC;˘ reducing threats by controlling feral animals and weeds, â&#x20AC;˘ bringing back the bush through revegetation and regeneration, â&#x20AC;˘ protecting unburnt areas as refuges, â&#x20AC;˘ controlling erosion to support freshwater animal habitats, and â&#x20AC;˘ landscape management to support the regionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; biodiversity

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YOUR FARM

The Australian Government investment in the seven regions will be bolstered by partnerships with states and territories, regional NRM organisations, Indigenous communities, scientists, zoos, Landcare groups, non government organisations, farmers and local communities.

Bolster your flock numbers The team at Hazeldean is preparing for the upcoming annual ram sale on Thursday, October 29 when they will offer 220 highperformance Merino and poll Merino rams with excellent structure and visually pleasing phenotypes.

This year’s sale team are very well grown, sound bodied rams ready to impart their high performing genetics to your flock.

“It’s fantastic to see the industry in a rebuild phase at the moment, most people on the eastern sea board are working to bolster flock numbers to match their grass situations,” says stud co-owner Bea Litchfield.

The Hazeldean Merino Stud was established in 1865. These many years of generational experience have resulted in top performing genetics. Fine micron wool is produced from fast growing Merinos of moderate body size, making their sires a solid investment for any sheep or wool enterprise.

Hazeldean Merinos run a 9000-head commercial flock, which produce an average wool fibre diameter of 18.5 micron and cut per head of 7.5kg.

Frequently participating in sire evaluation programs, Hazeldean results speak for themselves.

“With the benchmarking trials taking place on one farm, in the same conditions for all sheep, we can be confident in the results indicating the high performance of our rams,” says Bea. Recently, progeny from Hazeldean Maverick (000113) achieved the highest greasy fleece weight of 3.4kg per head; highest clean fleece weight of 2.1kg per head; and the lowest fibre diameter of 15.3

micron at the MerinoLink Limited ‘Standard Sire Evaluation Within Flock Analysis’ at Ravenswood, Yass.

The use of evaluations like this over many years has allowed Hazeldean to fine tune their breeding.

“Sire evaluations and other similar programs allow us to produce high performing rams for our commercial clients. The genetics do the talking and we are confident in our sires.

“The extensive analysis we do means we can make fast genetic gains in the direction we want to go.

“We have always focussed on a strong balance between performance data and functionality. We aim to provide the opportunity for our clients to use our rams to advance their own flocks for wool cut, fine fibre diameter, plain bodies, good growth, fertility and excellent constitution.”

This year’s Hazeldean ram team will complement a variety of enterprises and mixes of enterprises by creating a productive, profitable ewe base to maximise fibre production. The performance of these rams is unrivalled with 90 percent of the catalogue in the top five percent of the industry for Merino Production + Index.

Standout sires in the catalogue include: Hazeldean Maverick 16000113, Hazeldean 4030, Yalgoo 160070, and young upcoming Hazeldean sires Hazeldean 16002777 and 16000183.

Hazeldean invite all local interested sheep breeders to come along and have a look on sale day.

More information at www.hazeldean.com.au or call Bea Litchfield 0427 933 103.

Hazeldean Merinos Way out in front

Monaro Ram Sale 230 Merino & Poll Rams Thursday October 29th 1pm Hazeldean, Cooma

SPECIALISTS IN Engineering & Welding Heavy Machinery & Transport Equipment • Fully equipped workshop and mobile units.

• Finest quality welding of steel, alloy, stainless • MIG, TIG, STICK, OXY ACETYLENE • Profile and plasma cutting of steel, alloy, stainless.

• Mechanical repairs • Line boring, mobile and workshop (Repair worn pinholes on your machine or tractor on site).

• Certified ROPS/FOPS canopy's and Forestry guarding • Stick rakes / tree pushers • Machining • Sheetmetal • Trailers, box, tipping, plant, custom, firefighting

PLUS SALES OF

- All steel, alloy, stainless in sheet, plate & tubula incl. cut to length & off cuts.

- High tensile bolts & fasteners.

- General engineering supplies.

- Welding consumables.

- Trailer, tray and toolbox components.

Steel farming supplies Strainers, stays, star pickets, hinge / latch kits, sheep / cattle yard panels plus much more.

Pre-Fab sheds & carports.

Supply only or fully erected with concrete slabs included. (Meets all council requirements)

FOR HIRE

• Average MP+ index in the top 10% of industry • Average FD top 15% of industry • YCFW in the top 20% of industry

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The performance of the Hazeldean Merino is unrivalled compare our sale teams to others on SGA/MerinoSelect

Car trailer Crane truck Scissor Lift/Boomlift (No license required) Core gas industrial and household gases Balloon gas for all your party needs

PHONE: (02) 6458 4700 EMAIL: mchweld@bigpond.net.au MOBILE: 0419 490 928 WEB: www.mchwelding.com.au FAX: (02) 6458 4800 ABN: 77 099 351 989 ADDRESS: 8377 Monaro Highway, NSW 2632 (Po Box 7 Bombala)

0427 933 103 Ed Bradley: 0412 298 546

0417 676 561

www.hazeldean.com.au

SPRING EDITION 2020

23

CFMOTO here to stay in the Monaro

Local distributer of CFMOTO, Monaro Motorcycles and Power Equipment in Cooma are looking forward to working with Mojo Motorcycles as the Australian Government announces new requirements on Quad Bikes for the future.

Monaro Motorcycles and Power Equipment owner Kai Harris says Mojo Motorcycles is a trusted Australian brand here to support the Aussie farmers in the area that heavily rely on ATV’s as well as ensuring their safety.

Mojo Motorcycles Pty Ltd., the Australian distributor for CFMOTO, has released an updated quad bike range that complies with stage two of the Australian Government mandatory Consumer Goods (Quad Bike) Safety Standard.

The Australian Government announced the introduction of the Consumer Goods (Quad Bike) Safety Standard in October 2019. This standard is being introduced over two stages.

The mandatory legislation applies to all new ‘generaluse’ quad bike models sold in Australia. Below is an overview of the new requirements. Full details are outlined by Product Safety Australia and by the Consumer Goods (Quad Bike) Safety Standard legislation.

Stage 1 requires all quad bikes to meet either US or EU quad bike standards. All models are required to undergo static stability testing for both lateral and longitudinal tilt angles and lastly, all quad bikes are required to have a new notification label affixed and details outlined in the

24

YOUR FARM

owner’s manual alerting the operator to the risk of a rollover.

Stage 2 includes all of stage 1 requirements plus all quad bikes must be fitted with an Operator Protection Device (OPD) or have one integrated into the vehicles design. All quad bikes must meet minimum lateral stability and longitudinal stability tilt angles to be stage 2 compliant.

By October 11, 2020, the entire CFMOTO quad bike range will be updated to meet the requirements of stage 2 by October 2020 – one year ahead of the mandatory timeline.

“We want to reassure Aussie farmers that CFMOTO quad bikes are here to stay,” said Mojo Motorcycles Director, Michael Poynton. “By introducing a new quad bike range that complies with stage 2 of the Consumer Goods Quad Bike Safety Standard requirements by October 2020, one year ahead of the mandatory timeline, shows our commitment to remain in the Australian market. Following our own assessment of the Consumer Goods (quad bikes) Safety Standard in 2019, we made the decision to remain in the Australian market with CFMOTO quad bikes”.

The decision to release an updated model range one year in advance of the mandatory regulation is to help execute a smoother transition for CFMOTO customers and Dealers.

“Mojo Motorcycles and its brand CFMOTO are here to stay with its ATV range being compliant to the new

Australian Government mandatory Consumer Goods (Quad Bike) Safety Standard. CRMOTO ATVs are an important brand to have here in the Monaro. It has allowed us to support the community, as we need to have an ATV outlet in the area. Come this time next year and we will be the only ones in the area that will be able to supply them,” said Mr Harris.

To ensure all CFMOTO quad bikes are stage 2 compliant

by October 2020, Mojo Motorcycles will be working closely with their Dealer network to supply the required items to meet the standard, including Quadbar OPDs. This will mean that all CFMOTO quad bikes sold in Australia from October 2020 will be fitted with a Quadbar OPD. CFMOTO is distributed in Australia by Mojo Motorcycles Pty Ltd., a 100% Australian owned company.

Established in 2003, Mojo Motorcycles have grown to be one of the largest privately- owned motorcycle distributors in Australia, with annual retail sales volumes now exceeding 5000 units across their brands.

Introduced in Australia by Mojo Motorcycles in 2005, CFMOTO quad bikes and utility vehicles (UTVs) have recorded tremendous sales growth and is now a brand trusted by more than 25,000 Aussie farmers.

For further information talk to your CFMOTO Dealer, Monaro Motorcycles & Power Equipment, ph. 6452 4040 or head to the CFMOTO Australia website www.cfmoto.com.au

WE’RE HERE TO STAY AVAILABLE NOW

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800CC V-TWIN– 62HP ENGINE CVTECH TRANSMISSION ENGINE BRAKING POWER STEERING (EPS) L-H-N-R-PARK WITH HANDBRAKE 2WD/4WD & DIFF LOCK INDEPENDENT SUSPENSION ALL 4 WHEEL HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKES 14 INCH ALLOY WHEELS GAS ASSISTED TIP TRAY 550KG TOW CAPACITY 260KG CARRY CAPACITY TOW PACKAGE, HORN, INDICATORS & MIRRORS 2 YEAR WARRANTY

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Quad-bike safety Recently three free quad-bike riding and safety courses were held around the Monaro as part of Tocal College and NSW SafeWork’s commitment to providing more knowledge on quad-bike riding and safety measures.

“Many new and experienced riders are not aware of risks and have never thought about the positioning of their body on the bike.”

Fourteen applicants completed the courses, which were held in Bungarby, Bibbenluke and Cooma and run by Tocal instructor Andrew Lucas.

For the last four years Tocal and SafeWork have been running these courses across the state, and across the last four years quad-bike accidents resulting in death have decreased by 90 percent.

“We focus in a big way on active riding, which is the position of your body weight to ensure you are safe,” says Andrew on the focuses of the courses.

The course involves instructing both on and off the bike, with practical and written tests on riding, loading and securing of the vehicle.

“We get a lot of good feedback from these courses,” says Andrew.

“They are good for a range of riders, it allows them to look at quad-bike riding differently and more safely.”

Matthew Jamieson hosted the course on his property near Cooma, and said he is looking forward to putting his training into practice following the course.

“There are a lot of things that you don’t take into consideration when riding that we’ve learned about, as well as things to brush up on after this training,” said Matthew.

These courses, as well as the subsidy on rollover protection or side-by-side protection, were complimented by applicants as the commitment to safety in farm vehicles continues.

Tocal run a range of safety courses and are planning to return to the Monaro for further quad-bike and also side-by-side training courses in the future.

To enquire about these programs, contact Tocal or SafeWork for more information.

Instructor Andrew Lucas with locals Adrian Mowatt, Sue Stephens, Mathew Jameison and Bill Stephens

all a farmer needs • • • •

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monday to friday 9:30am - 5pm | Saturday 9:30am - 12pm | 147 Maybe Street, Bombala | 02 6458 4045

26

YOUR FARM

LIKE US ON

Your local gun store Firearms are an everyday part of life on the farm. Used for controlling feral animals, putting down sick or injured stock and more, they are an essential tool for any farmer, and no one knows this better than Scott and Leonie Keogh of Monaro Arms in Williamsdale.

Having recently celebrated their first year of operations, Monaro Arms is a family-owned and operated gun store that caters for all farming, hunting and competitive shooting needs.

While the store is relatively new, Scott and Leonie bring more than 45-years of firearms and game hunting experience to

the table, not to mention the experience gained from being lifelong farmers themselves.

“I worked as a farmer and taxidermist for 25 years, but decided to move away from taxidermy so I didn’t have to work with the chemicals anymore. For me, hunting and farming are more than a profession, they’re a way of life,” Scott said.

“Where most industries are being overrun by the internet these days, the firearms industry still requires that face-to-face connection. You can’t buy firearms or ammunition online and I was getting tired of having to go to Sydney for all

my needs. We saw there was a demand within the region and with our experience, opening the shop felt like a natural progression.”

continually expanding range of hunting and shooting gear, from firearms and ammunition, to optics, gun safes hunting accessories and more.

Monaro Arms even build their own custom suppressors for 22 up to 308 calibre. They are made from high-quality aluminium stainless and substantially reduce the noise of a gun-shot. Shooters can legally purchase suppressors subject to licence approval.

They stock high-quality products from renowned brands such as Tikka, Sako, Beretta and Perazzi, and are happy to order in products that are not in stock.

As one of the few gun shops in the region, Monaro Arms has proved hugely popular amongst shooters across the ACT and the Monaro. They supply a

So whether you’re looking to replace that weathered old rifle or just after some sound expert advice, drop into Monaro Arms at 8239 Monaro Highway, Williamsdale or contact them on (02) 6235 0005 or at monaroarms@gmail. com.

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Wool climbing back up PHOTO COURTESY OF CHARLIE MASLIN An industry that has struggled through the COVID-19 pandemic has been the wool industry, one that is integral to the agricultural identity of the Monaro.

“It’s been a market that has been eroding ever since February/March, with the lack of consumer confidence and trade because of the COVID emergency,” Ben Litchfield, manager of Monaro Wool Services in Cooma, said.

However, Ben says that the market has recovered slightly in the past few weeks, and he hopes that the “slow and steady climb” can continue to get the market back to the position it was in earlier this year.

Local growers have been taking mixed approaches with their wool in recent times, but as the Northern Region Market Indicator has grown slightly over the past few weeks there has been some respite for wool stakeholders.

“Many producers will be looking at the market to see if it can find some momentum. Hopefully they gain some confidence from these small rises,” Ben said.

Ben explained that while prices have come back in the last six to eight months, wool has competed well with other fibres and has been used to produce higher volume, lower priced garments when blended with other materials.

While this is not the ideal usage of the fibre, it does show the adaptability and range of uses for wool.

In an industry that is historically sensitive to global trading trends, Australian Wool Innovation has continued their promotion as well as research and development of their product throughout COVID-19.

“Throughout the global Coronavirus pandemic, AWI is continuing to work for woolgrowers to ensure the sustainability of our industry and the profitability for your enterprises,” said AWI CEO Stuart McCollough in the most recent Beyond the Bale magazine.

“The situation changes daily and we are all continually working to adapt to the new normal. 2020 will be a tough year for everyone, markets and woolgrowers.

Despite the Coronavirus pandemic being a major shock to key macroeconomies, I am quite confident that the wool industry and woolgrowers are more than robust enough to get through the crisis.”

“As the world gets back to more of a normal in trading prices we hope to see the wool price rally with it,” says Ben looking forward to the coming months.

Overall, wool stakeholders are looking to the future and hoping that the market can continue to rise slowly as it has in recent times.

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SPRING EDITION 2020

31

Nigel Gillan – LLS Vet

Pain relief at marking

Marking of spring lambs is under way for some and not too far off for others.

Tail docking, castration, and mulesing are all procedures which have demonstrable health or management benefits in the long term.

Mulesing, for example, is used to lower the incidence of blowfly strike in the breech area – an extremely painful, unpleasant, and debilitating disease for

affected sheep. It has to be said, though, that these procedures are all invariably associated with pain. Good technique and equipment can certainly help make marking more welfare-friendly, but will never remove pain entirely.

Analgesic (pain relief) medications registered for use in sheep are available.

The first on the scene was a topical gel, ‘Tri-Solfen’. Tri-Solfen can be applied to

mulesing, surgical castration, and surgical tail-docking wounds, and contains a mix of a local anaesthetic, a disinfectant, and adrenalin (to help reduce blood loss).

More recently, two pain relief products containing the anti-inflammatory drug meloxicam have become available . The difference between the two is in the way they are administered – one (‘Metacam 20’) is given as an injection, the other (‘Buccalgesic’) as an oral gel (administered in the space between the molar teeth and the inside of the cheek).

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The newest product on the block is ‘Numnuts’ - a local anaesthetic specifically for ring castration or tail-docking.

This is a great addition because topical products like Tri-Solfen can only be used on open wounds - not with rings.

Best practice would be to administer both a systemic anti-inflammatory (meloxicam) prior to the procedure, and a local anaesthetic during/ following the procedure.

However, giving either of these on its own would still provide some pain relief.

Many sheep producers need no convincing on the question of pain relief and are glad to have options they can use. But what about the unconvinced (or half convinced)? What reasons are there for using pain relief at marking or mulesing?

It is often suggested that there might be production benefits (i.e. increased weight gains) in sheep given pain relief.

However, this is pretty hard to prove, and any short-term gains are likely to be insignificant in the long-run.

Another line of argument is that pain responses can negatively impact mothering-up behaviour following marking, so that untreated lambs are more likely to be mismothered (and will therefore be more susceptible to losses due to subsequent disease or predation).

This could represent a genuine opportunity for a production benefit producers have told me they’ve seen much better mothering-up behaviour when using pain relief.

Whatever the current situation, it is inevitable that market pressure will continue to encourage the use of pain relief in livestock more generally.

The value placed on pain relief will be judged by consumers and by market perceptions, and the messages we’re receiving are all pointing in one direction – a growing concern for animal welfare.

Regardless of production benefits or marketing advantages, improved animal welfare is always a good outcome.

The animal welfare benefits speak for themselves – producers who have seen the way pain relief can reduce visible stress behaviours are often quickly convinced of its value.

Animal welfare in its own right should be the concern of all livestock producers.

Contact your local District Vet for more information.

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SUTHERN EXCAVATIONS 32

YOUR FARM

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Monaro cattle market The recent spring bull sales held around the Monaro have shown the current confidence in the cattle market, with averages, clearances and top prices up across the board this year.

Local Angus studs, such as Rosskin and Hazeldean, averaged in excess of $10,000 in their spring sales, with top prices of $15,000 and $22,000 respectively.

Kunuma Angus, whose top price was a record $15,000, and Gunyah Herefords, who cleared 13 of their 14 bulls at a higher average, have also improved.

Monaro Livestock and Property stock and station agent Will Dixon says that local bull sales have gone “better than anyone could have expected” considering local conditions.

“The bull sales have gone extremely well and there’s good confidence in the cattle market at the moment,” says Will.

“It’s been such a good season outside the Monaro across NSW and Victoria that the grass market and shortage of numbers is driving the market forward.

“There’s plenty of herd rebuilding going on across the state following the last few years.

“Locally, spring is yet to come to allow cattle to come home, but because of the good season elsewhere there should be plenty of hay coming in at a better price. Agistment has been a lifesaver with cattle still on fantastic feed so most people are hesitant to bring them back yet.”

Other trends noted by Will include the confidence in heifer bulls with the rebuilding that cattle producers are in the process of completing, with breeders also buying up on heifers and prices exceeding steer prices at some sales.

Looking forward to the rest of spring and then summer he hopes that further rainfall can provide solid spring feed for agistment stock to come home to, and that the calves currently on the ground across the Monaro and away are able to develop strongly into sales next year.

Overall the buyers from inside and outside the Monaro have seen well-supported spring sales around the Monaro as the hopes for follow-up rain in the coming weeks following the falls at the end of winter to allow for more pasture growth in preparation for summer.

SPRING EDITION 2020

33

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11TH ANNUAL ON PROPERTY RAM SALE

AvonsidE Merino Stud EST. 1990

Ram Sale at “Muniong” Cooma Thursday 22nd October 2020

Avonside Merino Stud will be holding their 11th annual on property ram sale on Thursday 22 October at 11am.

This sale will be held at “Muniong” with inspections from 9.30am. Forty one-year-old rams will be offered at auction followed by private treaty rams.

This sale will also be interfaced with AuctionsPlus, so keep an eye out for photos and videos of every ram in the weeks leading up to the sale. Selling agents are Elders and Monaro Livestock and Property. We will be holding an open day for the first time on Sunday 18 October between 10am and 3pm.

Despite another dry season, this years’ sale team has come up particularly well, with great growth for age and white bright productive fleeces. The continued loyalty of our expanding client base has given us great confidence to continue investing in new genetics for the stud, both through Artificial Insemination (AI) and the purchase of new sires. A feature of this years’ sale will be progeny by Yarrawonga DON (sold

The Bureau of Meteorology has declared that La Niña has developed in the Pacific Ocean, upgrading from a La Niña ALERT status to an active event.

La Niña is the cool phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation. It is associated with cooler than average sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean.

Open Day Sunday 18th October 10am-3pm Contact Simon: 0414 897 390 or Kris: 0409 289 199 muniong@activ8.net.au www.avonsidemerinos.com.au

34

YOUR FARM

It has been fantastic to get so much positive feedback from our clients throughout the year.

With the COVID induced softening of the wool market, offset by strong returns for surplus sheep and buoyant mutton and lamb prices, there has never been a better time to maximise the genetic gains within your flock. As always, we are only ever a phone call away for anyone wanting assistance classing sheep or ram selection advice. We have never been more focused on the continual improvement of our genetics and the profitability of our clients.

We feel that our 2020 sale team is the best that we have offered and invite clients and interested sheep breeders to our open day and sale. As always, anyone wanting to inspect our rams prior to the sale would be most welcome.

Gumboot weather This means recent changes in ocean temperatures and weather patterns over the Pacific are now likely to remain until at least the end of the year.

Offering 40 Auction Rams at 11am with inspection from 9:30am

in 2018 for $60,000) and Roseville Park 2792, who were AI-ed to selected top performing stud ewes. We were also fortunate to secure the $10,500 top price ram at the recent Tara Park ram sale. We hope to have him on display at our open day and ram sale.

La Niña events often form in autumn or winter, then decay in late summer. The greatest impact normally occurs during the spring and early summer period. La Niña events normally last for around a year, however they can be shorter, or much longer. Recent observations and model forecasts show the central tropical Pacific Ocean is now 0.8°C cooler than normal, and that has resulted in changes to Trade Winds and pressure patterns. Climate models suggest these patterns will continue

until at least the end of the year.

La Niña typically results in above-average spring rainfall for Australia, particularly across eastern, central and northern regions. It can also mean cooler days, more tropical cyclones, and an earlier onset of the first rains of the wet season across the north.The last La Niña event occurred from 2010-2012 and resulted in one of Australia’s wettest two-year periods on record.

Widespread flooding occurred in many parts of Australia associated with the record rainfalls.

Tropical cyclone activity in the 2010-2011 season was near normal. However, five of the tropical cyclones during 2010-11 were in the severe category, which is above average, including Tropical Cyclone Yasi.

Regional summary South-east: •Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia and NSW typically have wetter than average conditions in La Niña years. Above-average rainfall is predicted for the whole south-east region.

Travelling Stock Statements for horse movements now available online Recording the movements of your horse has just become easier for recreational horse owners, with Travelling Stock Statements (TSS) for Horse Movements now available online and free to download from the Local Land Services website.

Travelling Stock Statements for Horse Movements are necessary for tracing horse movements for biosecurity purposes and are also useful in helping the NSW Police identify stock theft.

Scott Ison, Business Partner for Animal Biosecurity and Welfare with Local Land Services, said the NSW Government has listened to horse owners, who were seeking an easily accessible form, to help them meet their biosecurity responsibilities.

“Travelling Stock Statements for recording horse movements are not a new requirement, and it is essential horse owners understand how and when they need to use a TSS,” he said.

Previously purchased TSS forms or TSS Booklets are still eligible to use for recording the movements of horses or other livestock.

August 2020 resulting in more monitoring of people trucking horses and other livestock around NSW,” said Mr Ison.

It is also important to note if you are making a return trip on the same day you only need to complete one form.

“Be prepared, you are likely to be pulled over and asked by the NSW Police for a TSS for the horse you may be moving.

There are a number of exemptions including horses being transported for work such as mustering, horse riding events such as pony club or shows, or the transportation of race horses or harness racing horses.

“If you do not have a TSS with you or your horse does not meet any of the exemptions, you may be fined.”

People are encouraged to carry proof of the exemption as they may need to present it to Police on request.

People are advised to use a TSS if they are in doubt.

For more information on when you need a TSS for Horse Movement please visit: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/animalsand-livestock/stock-movements/documentation/tssquestions-answers

Presently there is an increased focus on ensuring horse owners are complying with TSS requirements.

To download a copy of the form please visit: www.lls. nsw.gov.au/horseTSS

“NSW Police launched Operation Stock Check in

“We’re making it easier for horse owners to access these important forms by making a new dedicated Travelling Stock Statement for Horse Movement available online, and free to download.

“This new form does not have a serial number, so horse owners can print it, share it electronically or even photocopy the form to ensure they always have a copy on hand at times like going for a trail ride, taking their horse to a riding lesson or even to see the farrier.”

This dedicated TSS for Horse Movement (without a serial number), cannot be used for transporting any other type of livestock as it does not meet National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) requirements.

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SPRING EDITION 2020

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Young Farmer Business Program Coordinator, Tim Flynn, said they were excited to receive over 40 applications from across NSW. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We had applications from Wilcannia all the way to the coast and the standard of applications set the bar extremely high,â&#x20AC;? Mr Flynn said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We know that starting, running or growing a farming or fishing business isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t easy, but a business coach will help these passionate young producers get the skills they need to run more productive and profitable businesses.â&#x20AC;?

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The 10-month program provides one-one-one business coaching with Richard Groom, a business coach with over 20 years experience working with primary producers to help young primary producers to expand their business aspirations and to reach their goals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great that we have a mix of enterprises participating in the program,â&#x20AC;? Mr Flynn said.

Participants in this round of the individual coaching program include: â&#x20AC;˘ Billy Browning, manages his familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s irrigated and broad-acre cropping farm near Narromine in Central West NSW. â&#x20AC;˘ Jason Finlay is an oyster farmer from

Moruya, who, together with his two brothersin-law, supplies oysters to top-end restaurants, as well as wholesale and local markets. â&#x20AC;˘ Doug and Georgie Kelly run a mixed farming enterprise at Gulargambone, which is currently comprised of winter cropping and Angus cattle. Doug and Georgie are in the process of transitioning into management/ownership of Dougâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family business through succession planning. â&#x20AC;˘ James and Kimberley McClure operate a mixed farming enterprise of Merino and Demara sheep, rangeland goats and cattle near Wilcannia. â&#x20AC;˘ Tom and Joscelin McMillan, free-range pastured egg farmers from Bemboka, who operate their business on leased land. â&#x20AC;˘ Henry and Rosie Moxham from Coonamble operate a dryland cropping, cattle and Merino sheep farm near Coonamble as well as a contracting business.

The participating businesses will be sharing their learnings throughout the coaching journey with the Young Farmer Business Programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s broader community via monthly video blogs on social media. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our entire community will benefit from these young primary producersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; passion and drive to enhance their businesses for strong future growth,â&#x20AC;? Mr Flynn said.

For more information, visit www.youngfarmer. nsw.gov.au.

Equine microbiome research Continued from page 18.

• Time and place: Microbiomes change in horses according to geographic location and season. It seems that “microbial communities of the equine gut are highly dynamic and responsive to environmental changes,” Garber said.

• Medications: Antibiotics attack both good and bad gut bacteria, she said. The good kind includes those that can hydrolyse cellulose in the plants horses eat. It can take days or weeks for horses’ microbiomes to normalize after some kinds of antibiotic treatment, she said. Non-steroidal antiinflammatories also tend to affect the number of good bacteria, even though they’re frequently prescribed to control colic pain.

Deworming products can reduce populations of useful bacteria, as well, she said. They can also affect the production of mucin, gut proteins that promote a good nutritional environment for bacteria.

Other drugs that can reduce bacteria numbers and diversity include anaesthetics.

• Breed, age, sex, gestational status: Researchers note a variety of differences in the gut microbiome related to horsespecific factors, Garber said. Gut makeup differs according to a horse’s breed and sex and whether a mare is pregnant, not pregnant, or nursing. All horses are born without a microbiome and then develop one over the first few months of life.

• Gastrointestinal health: Diarrhea and colitis are associated with significant changes in some bacteria ratios more than others,

LIVESTOCK STUD STOCK CALENDAR

OCTOBER 2020 MONARO MERINO RAM SALES

leading to infection, said Garber.

Meanwhile, colicking horses experience microbiome shifts that might be detectable in their feces before they show signs of pain.

• Laminitis: Study results suggest a strong link between laminitis and microbiome changes, specifically alterations in the presence of lactic-acid producing Streptococci and Lactobacilli, which might be involved in the development of the disease itself.

• Equine grass sickness: This disease appears to be associated with specific microbiome changes, such as decreased Firmicutes phylum and increased Bacteroidetes and Veillonella.

• Stress: Researchers have detected various changes in the microbiome of horses before and after being transported, but the results aren’t consistent across studies. Scientists seem equally divided about how weaning affects the microbiome, with some studies showing major changes and others showing very few.

MONDAY 19th

• ADINA on property Ram sale “Overdale,” Peak View 12 noon • Greenland on property ram sale “Mountain View”, Cooma 3:00pm

TUESDAY 20th

• Monaro White Wool Sale “Boudjah” Cooma Show Ground 12 noon • Snowy Plain/Snow Vale Poll on property “Trappers Run” Berridale 3:00pm

WEDNESDAY 21st

• Manawa on property sale “Manawa” Berridale 11:00am • Bindaree on property sale “ Binadree” Rocky Plain 3:00pm • Conrayn on property sale “ Wheat Hill” Berridale 4:30pm

THURSDAY 22nd

• Cottage Park on property sale “Cottage Park,” Cooma 3:00pm

THURSDAY 29th

• Hazeldean on property sale “Hazeldean” Cooma 1:00pm

COOMA - 6452

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Gradual change OK Although science still hasn’t been able to home in on what the ideal equine gut microbiome looks like, one message seems clear: Slow change is better change.

“As a vet and a nutritionist, I really have to say that, okay, different factors affect the microbiome, and yes, that’s normal,” Garber said. That means introducing new foods and management conditions progressively, rather than abruptly, said Garber. “Progressive change is less stressful for the animal and less stressful for his microbiome, as well.”

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Bushfire season ready As the weather starts getting hotter and dryer, the bushfire danger period is underway and the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) is reminding residents of fire prone areas to prepare themselves and their properties for the eventuality of a bushfire.

at www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/spatialviewer is also useful for assessing how fire prone your area is. Simply search your address and select “Hazard” and then “Bushfire Prone Land” from the dropdown box on the left side of the screen.

The RFS Plan and Prepare page is a great tool to cover all aspects of fire preparation and can be found at www. rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare

Prepare your home A well prepared home is more likely to survive a bushfire, even if your plan is to leave early. It will also offer more protection if a fire threatens suddenly and you cannot leave.

Know your risk A bush or grass fire can happen at any time of the year but the risk is higher during the warmer months, when bush, grass or scrub is drier. You don’t have to live right near the bush to be at risk. Even if your home is a few streets back, you may be at risk.

The RFS Plan and Prepare tool has a wealth of information on how a fire acts and moves through different landscapes such as thick bushland, grassland or coastal areas. It also explains how various factors such as slope, vegetation and weather can affect fire threat.

The NSW Government planning portal spatial viewer

Challenge us to find you a specialised loan solution.

To find out more, contact your local Rural Bank representative, visit ruralbank.com.au or drop into your nearest Bendigo Bank branch.

Here are some basic maintenance tips to prepare your property: Clean your gutters of leaves and twigs Install metal gutter guards Repair damaged or missing tiles on the roof Install fine metal mesh screens on windows and doors • Fit seals around doors and windows to eliminate gaps • Enclose the areas under the house • Repair or cover gaps in external walls • Attach a fire sprinkler system to gutters • Keep lawns short and gardens well maintained • Cut back trees and shrubs overhanging buildings • Clean up fallen leaves, twigs and debris around the property • Have hoses long enough to reach around your house • If you have a pool, tank or dam, put a Static Water Supply (SWS) sign on your property entrance, so firefighters know where they can get water • Check and maintain adequate levels of home and contents insurance.

Ensure it is up to date.

People who are at higher risk, such as children, elderly, disabled or with medical problems, should always leave early.

Leaving early is always your safest option.

To help your family prepare for a bush fire, you need to make a bush fire survival plan. This will help you make important decisions like when to leave, what to take, and what to do with animals.

• • • •

Prepare yourself and your family Just as important as preparing your home, is considering yours and your family’s physical, mental and emotional preparedness.

Challenge me John Scarlett Senior Agribusiness Relationship Manager 0419 692 007

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If you have any doubts about your ability to cope, you should plan to leave early, well before a fire reaches your area and well before you are under threat.

A bushfire can be a terrifying situation.

Strong gusty winds, intense heat and flames will make you tired quickly. Thick heavy smoke will sting your eyes and choke your lungs. It will be difficult to see and breathe.

The roaring sound of the fire approaching could be frightening.

Embers will rain down, causing spots fires all around you. Power and water may be cut off. You may be isolated, and it will be dark, noisy and extremely demanding both mentally and physically.

Bushfire Survival Plan Making a bushfire survival plan is easier than you think and by taking 20-minutes with your family to discuss a plan could save their lives as well as your home.

There are four simple steps to making a bushfire survival plan: Step 1 - Discuss what to if a bushfire threatens your home - Many households find that having a discussion over dinner works best as everybody is together and focussed.

Step 2 - Prepare your home and get it ready for bushfire season - There are simple things you can do around your home to prepare it for a bush fire, like keeping the grass low and having a cleared area around your home.

Step 3 - Know the bushfire alert levels - If there is a fire in your area you will find its alert level on the NSW RFS website and in the ‘Fires Near Me’ app. You need to keep track of the alert level so you know what you should do.

Step 4 - Keep all the bushfire information numbers, websites and the smartphone app - In a bushfire, it’s important that you stay up to date on conditions in your area.

The RFS Plan and prepare tool has extensive information on the above points, as well as other bushfire relevant information such as building in a bushfire area, travelling through a bushfire area, fire danger ratings, alert levels and much more. To find out more, visit www.rfs.nsw.gov. au/plan-and-prepare or contact the Monaro Team Rural Fire Service Headquarters in Cooma on (02) 6455 0455 and make sure that you and your family are adequately prepared this fire season.

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ACROSS THE MONARO COMPETITIVE RATES / EXPERIENCED TEAM / QUALITY RESULTS

Escape to the country David and Kim King also thank LLS for helping them gain farming confidence when they bought 33 hectares at Berry in the state’s south east.

As more and more city people consider moving to regional areas prompted by COVID 19 circumstances, many are considering buying a rural property and escaping to the country.

David says that when they moved from Sydney five years ago it was their first venture into farming and they had lots of problems at first and it has been a steep learning curve.

For many of us, the idea of ‘getting away from it all’ and becoming a part of a rural community is a lifelong dream.

Acreage can be rewarding but people need to have the skills and knowledge to look after their land and animals properly, so the great Aussie dream does not turn into a nightmare.

“LLS has been an enormous help, connecting us with training and advice to establish our beef, poultry and apiary enterprise,” Mr King said.

“Without LLS there’s no way we would be in the position we are now – we would have spent more money and made more mistakes. Their help has been invaluable.”

Local Land Services has responded to this need by releasing a toolkit of new and updated resources to help people successfully make the shift to country life.

The new resources include the 2020 update of the Rural Living Handbook which is a starter guide to getting the most out of a rural property.

It covers a range of topics as diverse as emergencies, rural crime, owning livestock, farm safety, developing a property and what each landholder’s General Biosecurity Duty is.

The handbook includes a ‘Before you buy’ checklist that lists the sort of questions a prospective rural property owner should ask prior to purchase, to avoid potential problems.

“The landholders we help are pretty diverse, from large-scale primary producers to people who have a lifestyle

block or hobby farm,” said Peter Evans, Senior Land Services Officer at LLS. “We tailor our help to what they need with the end goal of making sure our farms and environments are productive and healthy.

“We understand it is not always easy to know what to do or the right people or organisations to go to for help, if you have never lived in a rural area before.”

Susie Crowe is one landholder who has been helped by LLS and the Rural Living Handbook.

She says she referred to the handbook

a lot in the early days after she and her husband Greg bought a 134-hectare property at Wallerawang, west of Lithgow four years ago.

The Rural Living Handbook is available to read or download online at www.lls. nsw.gov.au/rural-living-handbook and in printed form from selected LLS regional offices.

They wanted the farm to pay for itself, but it was overrun with blackberries and they knew very little about how to achieve that goal.

A range of digital resources for new rural landholders or those on acreage can be found by searching the LLS website www.lls.nsw.gov.au

“We were consciously incompetent; we knew we didn’t know anything,” said Mrs Crowe.

There is the online information hub called ‘Every Bit Counts’ specifically aimed at ‘blockies’ and small area farmers and the Big Shift for Small Farms podcast which is designed to equip and connect small farmers with topics like ‘Startup farming’ and ‘Urban farming’.

“When you’re starting out, you need to surround yourself with people you can trust, and LLS provided such a diverse range of expertise.”

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