THE action was non-stop from the a ernoon of Friday April 11 to late Sunday April 13 for horses and riders at the annual Merton Campdra . Held at the local recreation reserve - with plenty of keen competition from across the state and the border - conditions over the three days were hot and dusty, keeping the water cart busy damping down the sand. Pictured is seasoned competitor and Broadford boy, Shane Allen riding Little Miss Tawri ic, who had to settle for third place at Merton on the Saturday in what was a competitive contest.
Scrap the tax
STATE parliament has resumed a er the autumn break, and with it the ongoing debate over the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund bill.
Primary producers will be amongst those hit hardest under proposed emergency service levy hikes that stand to triple if legislation passes through the Victorian parliament.
With the debate scheduled for May 13 the bill will be the rst order of the day with opponents hoping for a reprieve from the July 1 implementation of the debilitating levy.
Comparison gures from the existing to the proposed variable rates have primary producers facing cost rises from 28.7 cents per
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
$1000 capital improved value (CIV) to 83 cents.
It’s a cost that Whit eld cattle farmer and wine grape grower Brett Hennessy believes could force older farmers to call it quits.
Under the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, volunteer service men and women will be exempt from paying the tax, however, it ies in the face of older residents who are physically unable to become active volunteers for services such as the CFA and SES.
“We all assumed there would be a rise in the variable levy rate, but
a massive hike like this will leave many farmers shaking their heads and seriously questioning their future,” Mr Hennessy said.
“When you’re on the wrong side of 60 do you really feel like jumping on a re truck and hanging onto a hose.
“To be honest an exemption for re services is probably something that’s long overdue but the state government’s levy increases are unsustainable.”
Farmers with multiple properties that operate as a single enterprise may be eligible to pay a single xed charge under the single farming enterprise exemption.
However, as it currently stands, the single farm enterprise exemption can only be claimed in
respect of one principal place of residence.
Both the fixed and variable components would be levied on any other principal place of residence that is contiguous to farmland forming part of the single farm enterprise.
Emergency service volunteers will also only be exempt from paying the levy on their primary place of residence.
Under the ESVF, the state government will continue the use of councils as the debt collectors for the property tax, something councils across Victoria are up in arms about not having the resources to deal with the extra work it will trigger.
“The cynic in me says well this
is just an easy money grab and no one’s going to question the thoroughfare it’s taking by using councils to collect from ratepayers,” Mr Hennessy said.
He said the high rates that rural landholders already pay in rates nowhere near match the services they received from council in return, and now this levy will be an extra cost from the state.
“You are getting diminished services from the Rural City of Wangaratta itself, and trying to get a road graded, or sheeting on a road done is di cult,” he said.
“People out at Carboor had access lanes to their property that were just quagmires last year and we had the same issue in Whit eld.
■ Continued page 2
Scrap the tax: Debate resumes
■ From front page
“You need to drive a tractor up to the laneway to get to another property because you can’t get four-wheel drives through in wintertime.”
Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy labeled it as a slap in the face to regional Victorians.
“People in country communities are already doing it tough, and now Labor is piling on even more nancial pressure,” Mr McCurdy said.
“We need to ensure that every cent raised goes directly to supporting our SES, CFA, and other crucial emergency services - not wasted on bureaucracy.”
However the Coalition claim only $250 million of the $2.1 billion expected to be raised by the ESVF will contribute to CFA or SES funding.
“It will hit regional families, farmers and small businesses the hardest, while delivering little – if anything – back to our local CFA brigades and SES units” he said.
McCurdy alongside his National party colleagues have launched a ‘Scrap The Tax’ campaign - the goal to stop the Victorian government’s Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) in its tracks.
MPs are urging community members against the tax to send a message to the government and protest its proposed introduction on 1 July this year.
“This tax is nothing short of a cash grab,” Mr McCurdy said.
Commercial and industrial property owners are also facing he y increases to the levy.
Increases for commercial are proposed to rise from 66.4 cent/$1000 CIV to 133 cents/$1000 CIV and industrial would rise
from 81.1 cents/$1000 CIV to 133 cents/$1000 CIV.
The ESVF will fund up to 87.5 per cent of FRV’s budget, and up to 95 per cent of CFA’s budget.
The Fires Services Property Amendment Bill passed the Legislative Assembly on 20 March and also had its second reading in the Legislative Council.
However the legislation is yet to pass the Upper House and the VFF is calling on concerned Victorians to contact their local members and crossbench representatives to voice their opposition and demand a vote against the bill.
“This tax has no support, not from the re services, not from local councils, and not from the people who’ll be forced to pay it,” said VFF President Brett Hosking.
in parliamentary discussions, Mr
hear loud and clear from the people
With the bill back on the agenda in parliamentary discussions, Mr Hosking believes the Upper House has the chance to stop it in its tracks, but local members need to hear loud and clear from the people they represent.
services they provide as volunteers.
Rather than introducing a new layer of tax, the VFF is urging the Victorian Government to focus on xing the current Fire Services Property Levy system by introducing CPI caps, protecting households from levy shock due to in ated land values, and ensuring regional communities aren’t overcharged for the services they provide as volunteers.
“This is a moment for the Victorian community to stand up and say ‘enough is enough’.
“Don’t burn regional Victoria with more taxes.
“We encourage everyone to contact their MPs and make their voice heard,” Mr Hosking said.
• All tanks are 2.26m (7’6”) in height
• All tanks walls are 130mm (5.2”) thick
• All foundations (tank floors) are 250mm (9.8”) thick
When you’re on the wrong side of 60 do you really feel like jumping on a fire truck and hanging onto a hose.
- BRETT HENNESSY, WHITFIELD FARMER
TAXING PRODUCERS: Tyler Bussell (le ), Sue Davies and Brett Hennessy are not happy with proposed he y increases to the fires services levy. PHOTO: Anita McPherson
Prosecco key in EU trade deal
By STEVE KELLY
AUSTRALIA will look to use leverage from US tari s to broker a deal with the European Union on free trade, a move welcomed by a local MP and a local winemaker.
Indi incumbent Independent MP Helen Haines and King Valley business owner Michael Dal Zotto have fought hard to bring security to Australian investment via the Free Trade Agreement and have called on Trade Minister Don Farrell to bargain in the interests of Australian farmers.
The EU faces a 20 per cent tari on exports to the US, while Australia has been lumped with a 10pc tari .
Trade talks between Australia and the EU stalled in 2023 a er the EU stood rm on allowing access to Australian agricultural exporters.
Geographical markers the Italians link to products such as the wine variety Prosecco and
cheese varieties feta and parmesan are also a topic or the talks.
Dr Haines said renewed trade negotiations will be welcome in many corners due to the uncertainty created for markets across the globe by the tari s imposed by the United States, it is vital that any deal does not sell out the interests of Australia’s farmers, winemakers, grape growers and other agricultural industries.
“Some 60pc of Australia’s Prosecco is grown in Indi (electorate), an industry which was under threat in the proposal put forward by the European Union in the last round of negotiations,” Dr Haines said.
“I fought tooth and nail together with our local winemakers for them to retain the ability to use the name prosecco and the government was right to walk away from the deal at that time.
“What was on the table in 2023 did not represent a good
deal or fair trade for Australian winemakers.”
Dr Haines encouraged Mr Farrell to negotiate in the bests interest of Prosecco growers and winemakers.
“It is better to have no deal than to sign up to a bad deal for Australia,” she said.
“A deal that sells out prosecco is a bad deal for Australia.”
Michael Dal Zotto from Dal Zotto Wines - which pioneered Processo in the King Valleysaid as an industry they have worked hard and invested enormously into being able to grow the Prosecco market in Australia and likewise with ensuring they can continue to call it Prosecco.
uct into the United States and they’re going to look for other markets as well to sell products in.
“The agreement with the European Union did fall over beef imports into the EU,” Mr Farrell said.
“We have had great support from Helen and Minister Farrell in maintaining the current position of being able to use prosecco and would like this to continue,” Mr Dal Zotto said.
A er the tari s were announced, Mr Farrell said Australia will continue to sell prod-
“The world has changed for Europe and they have been set a much higher tari into the United States.
“If they’re sensible they will make us a better o er on the issues that made the agreement fall over last time and we will get a free trade agreement with the EU, the largest economy in the world.”
Greater Shepparton to again showcase region at Asia Fruit Logistica 2025
GREATER Shepparton City Council has rea rmed its commitment to supporting the region’s horticultural industry on the international stage, approving attendance at Asia Fruit Logistica 2025 in Hong Kong.
The decision was made at the April council meeting following a successful presence at the 2024 event.
The Asia Fruit Logistica trade expo is the premier trade event for fresh produce across the Asia-Paci c, providing a unique opportunity to showcase Greater Shepparton’s high-quality produce, connect with global markets, and promote the region as the ‘Fruit Capital of Australia’.
In 2024, council partnered with Fruit Growers Victoria (FGV) to host a trade stand at the event, with representatives including the Mayor, Chief Executive Officer, Council officer, and 21 local growers and industry leaders forming a
strong regional delegation.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the decision to return to Asia Fruit Logistica in 2025 reinforces council’s commitment to supporting one of the region’s most important economic sectors.
“The value of our agricultural output exceeds $729 million annually, and fruit production alone represents nearly half of that,” he said.
“Greater Shepparton’s presence at Asia Fruit Logistica sends a clear message that we continue to be open for business and ready to grow.
“It provides our local growers with credibility and connection in a highly competitive international market and supports the ongoing development of trade partnerships across Asia.
“Council is proud to stand with our growers and work side-by-side to strengthen the horticulture industry, attract investment, and raise the pro le of our region globally.”
Asia Fruit Logistica 2024 delivered tangible outcomes for Greater Shepparton, including increased export trade opportunities, new international connections, and stronger partnerships with government trade bodies.
Council was recognised by Global Victoria and the Victorian Government Trade and Investment Department for its proactive international engagement, and its delegation met with Deputy Commissioner –Greater China, Lucy Du, to explore further collaboration.
As a direct result, Greater Shepparton was selected as a key destination in a Global Victoria trade mission held in February 2025, which saw importers from across 10 di erent Asian countries tour local farms and attend business matching events in Shepparton.
This further established the region as a leader in premium fresh produce and opened up new market pathways for growers.
“With new export protocols emerging, particularly in Vietnam for produce like plums, the 2025 expo is set to be another valuable opportunity for Greater Shepparton growers,” Cr Sali said.
“Council and Fruit Growers Victoria will again co-host a stand, allowing growers to meet directly with buyers in a professional and credible setting.”
The council delegation for the 2025 event will include the Mayor, Chief Executive O cer (or an executive representative), and a council o cer, supported by Fruit Growers Victoria, local growers and horticultural businesses.
The Asia Fruit Logistica 2025 delegation aligns with Council’s International Engagement Policy and economic development goals, further supporting the region’s ambition to be a leading exporter of premium fresh produce.
WITH the current federal election likely to be decided in city and suburban electorates, regional and rural Australia, and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) including farmers who employ around 70 per cent Australians, have not been centre of mind for the major parties, the Greens, or growing numbers of Independents.
At a time of national headwinds of debt and low productivity, plus international tari s imposed by the Trump administration, our SME owners, families, and sta play a crucial role in the economy, accounting for more than 98 per cent of all businesses and contributing one-third of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
And yet SMEs don’t receive the commensurate recognition or understanding by most political parties who prefer to deal with big business and big unions.
While the major parties claim they will support SMEs - Labor to retain the instant write-o allowance for new plant and equipment, and the Coalition proposing assistance for SME start-ups – this major sector is poorly understood, particularly by the Labor Party and its ministers, as it su ers record insolvencies and cost of doing business challenges, steep power and insurance increases, sta ng shortages, red and green tape business and planning imposts, and the superannuation levy increasing to 12 per cent of wages.
As SMEs, farmers are also facing extremes of climate, including record oods in Queensland and severe drought in parts of the south eastern Australia, severely impacting rural and regional communities and businesses.
Labor’s ban on the live sheep trade, proposed biosecurity changes and water buybacks have impacted farmers viability; these cases in point example the lack of awareness and timely responses for producers of food and bre at home, and essential export income.
Farmers as volunteer re ghters are also ghting state Labor government’s slug on re and emergency levies, along with wind and solar installs taking farming land, transmission line impositions, and the poor state of country roads.
But nationally the potential for the Greens, with policies including inheritance taxes to be in coalition with Labor, represents an even greater threat for all SMEs.
SMEs, including farmers across the nation will no doubt be looking for politicians who genuinely comprehend their needs and respond in government with understanding and vision.
NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY
McCurdy demands fruit fly funding in 2025 Victorian Budget
NATIONALS MP for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, has renewed his call for urgent funding in the May 2025 Victorian Budget to ensure the survival of the Goulburn Murray Valley Fruit Fly Program.
Mr McCurdy said fruit growers across the region are deeply concerned about the future of the program, which has played a critical role in suppressing Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) numbers since its inception in 2017-18.
“Since funding began, this program has slashed QFF numbers by 95 per cent,” he said.
“But ongoing cuts have seen
monitoring traps fall from over 400 to just 200.
“Without renewed funding beyond June, this successful program faces shutdown - putting an entire industry at risk.”
Mr McCurdy, who recently pressed the Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence on the matter, said growers are fed up with uncertainty and the lack of long-term support from the Allan Labor Government.
“Our growers are already doing it tough,” he said.
“They don’t need more uncertainty.
“The government needs to stop gambling with regional jobs and livelihoods.
“With modelling showing a potential 600 per cent surge in QFF numbers without continued suppression, it’s clear: this is not the time to pull funding.”
Mr McCurdy stressed that funding must be secured in the May 2025 Victorian Budget to give growers the con dence and tools they need to continue protecting their crops and livelihoods.
“I stand with our growers and I’ll keep pushing for the funding they deserve,” he said
securing jobs, and backing the
“This is about protecting crops, securing jobs, and backing the people who feed our state.
“Labor can’t manage regional industries, and our Victorian farmers are paying the price.”
EPA investigates after Corowa bees killed by pesticides
THE NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is investigating potential pesticide misuse in Corowa a er samples taken from local hives and deceased bees tested positive to pesticides.
On 12 March 2025, local beekeepers alerted the EPA to an unusually high number of dead bees across at least three di erent hive locations.
The EPA promptly collected samples, which have now
tested positive for pronil - a chemical commonly used in agriculture and pest control.
EPA Executive Director of Operations, Jason Gordon, said the EPA is trying to determine the source of the chemical and is appealing for any information from the community.
“It is heartbreaking that we have multiple hives in the area impacted by pesticides, and we are exploring all avenues for potential causes
of these deaths,” Mr Gordon said.
“Bees have a large ight diameter from their hives which makes them di cult to track and we have been working with beekeepers to try to determine potential ight paths.
“We are now seeking assistance from the public to try and locate the source.
“The chemical detected is used in spraying crops but is also commonly used in
household insecticides to contain pests like eas and ticks.
“Bees play a crucial role in local pollination, which helps keep ecosystems healthy and food production going and we want to do everything we can to protect them.”
Mr Gordon said this pesticide misuse, whether it be intentional or accidental can be a serious o ence, and individuals could face nes and potentially stronger con-
sequences.
“Accidental pesticide misuse can occur, such as keeping and using out of date chemicals, so it’s important to always read labels carefully and follow directions to ensure chemicals like pronil are used safely and correctly.
“Safely storing pesticides in a secure location, along with properly cleaning and disposing of containers, are also essential steps in re-
sponsible pesticide use.”
The EPA recommends the use of the BeeConnected app to assist pesticide users in preventing impacts to foraging bees in their area. See link: beeaware.org.au/ pollination/beeconnected/. Members of the community with any information about the alleged pesticide misuse should contact the Environment Line on 131 555 or via email at info@epa.nsw. gov.au.
MARSHALL MULTISPREAD
GUARANTEE: Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy wants the government to commit funding to the fruit flu program.
PHOTO: Udara Jayawickrama/ Shutterstock.com
Two new Master Breeders and first Emerging Breeder announced
FARMERS from Gippsland and north-east Victoria have been added to the Jersey Australia Master Breeder honour board, while the breed’s rst Emerging Breeder has been announced.
Darryn Hourigan’s Darrynvale Jerseys from Milawa in North East Victoria and Trevor Saunders and Anthea Day’s Araluen Park Jerseys from Shady Creek in Gippsland were announced as Jersey Australia’s new Master Breeders at a dinner on April 13 in Melbourne.
Jersey Australia also revealed Rodney and Stephanie Goode from Boronia Ridge Jerseys at Poowong North in Gippsland as the inaugural Emerging Breeders.
The Master Breeder awards were introduced in 2023 to recognise breeding excellence over the past 20 years and the commitment of farmers to the breed.
The award requires breeders to have been a member of Jersey Australia for at least 20 years and to reg-
ister 25 animals a year on average across those 20 years along while producing elite brood, type and production cows and elite bulls.
The Emerging Breeder award introduced this year is based on 10 years’ continuous membership, registering at least 100 animals a year under the breeder pre x, breeding two or more cows scoring 90 or more in classi cation, breeding at least two cows that produce more than 3000 kg/Ms, and the breeder must have started genomic testing.
Jersey Australia board member and chair of promotions, Jane Sykes, said the Emerging Breeder award aimed at encouraging and recognising younger farmers advancing the breed.
“The greatness of a Master Breeder does not happen overnight; it takes time and patience,” she said.
Mrs Goode said she developed a love of Jerseys from her parents and brought them into Rodney’s herd.
“We will keep on trying and hopefully continue to get better and better,” she said
Darrynvale Jerseys was established in 1970 and is owned and operated by Darryn Hourigan, his partner
Rochelle and Darryn’s son Bailey and daughter Ellie are also involved in running the farm.
It has registered 2888 cows and has had 351 classi ed as Excellent.
Darrynvale is a platinum produc-
Appetite for Success, a must-attend Pioneer® Seeds Australia
DAIRY farmers and those in the associated industries supporting dairy are invited to attend Appetite for Success, a series of events focused on increasing dairy productivity, sustainability and pro tability.
The events, taking place in Victoria at Shepparton on 15 May, Sale on 19 May, Inverloch on 20 May, and Warrnambool on 22 May, will see farmers, dairy consultants, agronomists, nutritionists, resellers and contractors come together to hear from keynote speaker Pioneer Global Nutritional Sciences Manager, Dr. Bill Mahanna Ph.D., Dipl. ACAN.
Supported by the Pioneer Seeds Australia Dairy Specialist team and other well-respected, Australiabased experts, Dr Mahanna will share his wealth of knowledge in dairy nutrition and management, gained from working hands-on with dairy farmers around the world.
“Bill is renowned, and especially regarded for, his ability to provide insights into actionable opportunities and his personal and thorough approach to the whole dairy farming system,” said Leighton Hart, Dairy Specialist for Pioneer Seeds. In conjunction with his hands-on
work with dairy farming systems, Bill has 38 years of experience at Pioneer and is an adjunct professor in the Animal Science Department at Iowa State University.
Bill has worked with dairy producers throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Ukraine, China, and Japan.
Amongst many other accolades, Bill is a member of the American Dairy Science Association and is a charter diplomate of the ARPAS American College of Animal Nutrition. The American Dairy Science Association (ADSA) awarded Bill the Nutrition Professionals award for
tion herd and regularly achieves more than 7,000 litres average, with some cows producing up to 11,000 litres.
In the early 1980s, Darryn’s father Keith invested in Big Hollow and Merriland genetics in New Zealand, including the world-renowned Daisy family which has had an enormous influence in the herd.
Darryn continues to breed award winning cows with deep pedigrees.
Trevor Saunders and Anthea Day, both fourth generation farmers, purchased their farm at Shady Creek in 2004 and combined the best from their separate herds to move forward as Araluen Park.
They also incorporated the Stony Run stud pre x into their herd.
Araluen has registered 2757 cows and produced 366 Excellent cows.
It has multi-Australian generationally-bred cow families from America, Canada, New Zealand and Australia.
dairy industry event
signi cant contributions to the eld of applied dairy nutrition in 2014.
Bill will be joined by local dairy experts, including Scott McDonald, Program Manager & Dairy Development Specialist from Agriculture Victoria, in Shepparton, and Dr Ian Lean, Founder & Managing Director of Scibus and Adjunct Professor from the University of Sydney, in Sale, Inverloch and Warrnambool.
Scott is one of Australia’s leading technical experts in e uent system design and farm infrastructure planning, whilst Ian is an authority in the medicine, nutrition and management of dairy cattle in Australia.
To register to attend this informative event, which includes lunch followed by an informal discussion, and to view the full event schedule and other information including RSVP details, visit www.pioneerseeds.com.au/events/appetite-forsuccess.
The team at Pioneer Seeds invites members of the media to attend the Appetite for Success event in Shepparton VIC on Thursday 15 May from 10am-2pm at The Woolshed at Emerald Bank.
To RSVP, please contact Claudia Meyer at claudia.meyer@gentechseeds.com or phone 04 3680 0931.
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GREAT HONOUR: Darryn Hourigan’s being presented his award by JA Master Breeder Rohan Sprunt (le ) and JA president Geo Akers.
TERANG farmers Bryan and Jo Dickson have scored a rare double feat with both their Holstein and Jersey studs topping the latest Australian Breeding Values (ABV) lists.
The April 2025 ABV release from DataGene shows Emu Banks Holsteins continued their run at the top with an average BPI of 376.
For the rst time, Spring Banks Jerseys took top spot on the breed’s ranking with an average BPI of 279.
This is the rst time since the formation of DataGene that one farmer has topped both major breed indexes.
It ful lls a long-held ambition for Mr Dickson.
“It’s pretty cool; it’s something I have wanted to do for a long time,” he said.
Daryl Hoey had a similar achievement about 12 years ago, topping the Holstein, Jersey and Aussie Red ABVs under the former Australian Dairy Herd Improvement Scheme, the predecessor to DataGene.
“Daryl is the only person that I know of who has done it before,” Bryan said.
SPRING BANK JERSEYS: The Dicksons became involved with jerseys a
The Emu Banks herd consists of about 50 Jerseys and 30-40 Brown Swiss but the bulk is Holstein, with about 900 cows. Jerseys were reintroduced to the herd about ve years ago because of strong interest in the breed shown by Bryan and Jo’s daughter Anna. Emu Banks rst topped the
Holstein list in 2015 and returned to the top around 2020 and has maintained its edge since then.
Spring Banks has been a regular in second spot on the Jersey list but previous leader
Con and Michelle Glennen’s White Star Jerseys, from Noorat, just 10 kilometres from the Dicksons, slipped to second spot.
“I’ve got it once – how long I can keep it I’m not sure be-
cause Con has a great herd, but it’s an honour to top both rankings,” Bryan said.
When reintroducing Jerseys, the Dicksons concentrated on quality.
“We only bought and kept
the best Jerseys we could nd and culled the tail,” Bryan said. They have the same philosophy with Holsteins.
“Weeding is just as important as breeding.
“We breed for type and production and we always feed them well to achieve good production, but we also weed out the lesser cows.”
In Holsteins, Bryan and Jo bred the second and third ranked BPI heifers.
Emu Banks Rizboy Ti any 15111, with a BPI pf 573, was second and was recently sold for $17,000 to Agri-Gene and will contribute to their bull breeding program.
In third position is Emu Banks Rizboy Louanna 14977 with a BPI of 568.
Three of the top ve genomic heifers are owned by the Dicksons.
Emu Banks was the highest herd for the Sustainability Index at 652 and number one for the Health Weighted Index (HWI) at 361.
Bryan says he relies on facts and gures when breeding and adds that genomics and sexed semen have helped to create a top ABV herd.
The family has been farming west of Terang since 1989 and own 485ha and lease a further 200ha.
Rain turns around “grim” outlook
Cattle producer, agent welcomes steady rain at locations across the Wangaratta
By STEVE KELLY
WANGARATTA had its wettest day for late March in 36 years with 48.6mm recorded in the 24 hours to 9am on Friday March 21, vital rain to signal a potential autumn break in the district for farmers.
Other 24-hour rainfall totals at locations across the district included Whit eld 26.2mm, Edi Upper 35.4mm, Greta West 35.6mm, Milawa 44.5mm, and Carboor Upper 58.6mm.
While a follow up rain is needed for an autumn break, crop growers will begin to prepare their paddocks for sowing programs.
For Chris Gibson, who runs 1600 head of cattle at his feedlot in Taminick, the rain allowed him to sow April and May.
Mr Gibson had 55mm at his property and it came at the right time of year for his cropping program.
“It was nice and steady rain and ideal timing for crop preparations and hopefully pasture growth as well,” he said.
In early April Mr Gibson sowed canola and then wheat later in April and early May.
“The moisture will soak in pretty quickly and we’ll need follow up rain to make it ideal.”
Despite rain in December, Mr Gibson said the dry summer has reduced the subsoil moisture.
The rain is expected to inject con dence back into the cattle market with mixed prices at March’s monthly store sale.
Corcoran and Parker livestock agent Reiley Murtagh said
there were 802 cattle yarded.
He said there were four pens of cows and calves which topped out at $2050.
“There were about 400 steers in a mixed yarding, with feeder cattle making up to $3.40/kg but were very plain quality,” he said.
“Younger black steers from 270kg-350kg made between $3.80-$4.30/kg.
“We had a good run of spring drop calves, only young and light in stature that made up to $5/kg.
“There were only a few lighter heifers to quote and they sold for $2.80-$3.30/kg.
“Heifers back to the paddock (breeders) were 370380kg made $3.50/kg.
“Little, light heifers were $2.80-$3.40/kg.”
He said the rain instilled some con dence into the market.
district
Support needed for small-scale livestock farmers
MEMBER for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, is calling for immediate action to support small-scale livestock farmers in regional Victoria who are struggling to access abattoir services.
Following the announcement that a major commercial abattoir in the region will no longer accept small service kills, numerous farmers in the Euroa electorate have
voiced concerns about their ability to process their livestock. With no alternative local options available, these farmers now face the challenge of nding distant facilities that are o en costly and logistically di cult to access.
In response, Ms Cleeland met with the Minister for Agriculture to discuss the issue and advocate for greater support for local farmers.
“These farmers are now being forced to travel further to get their animals processed, putting signicant pressure on the economic viability of their businesses at a time when they can least a ord it,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Small-scale farmers are essential to both our food supply and local economies.
“However, without reliable access
to processing services, their businesses will struggle to survive.”
Ms Cleeland has urged the minister to take decisive action to protect these farmers, including reviewing and amending current regulations to make it easier for mobile and microabattoirs to operate in regional areas.
Ms Cleeland said this change would provide much-needed relief for farmers who rely on local, ac-
cessible processing facilities.
“I’ve asked the minister to prioritise the protection of these farmers by ensuring regulations are updated to support smaller-scale abattoirs,” Ms Cleeland said.
“By making it easier for mobile and micro-abattoirs to operate, we can help improve access and ensure the continued success of small-scale livestock farming in our region.”
HOPEFUL: Graham Batten from Moyhu with his cattle prior to the sale.
Working alone is a contributing factor in the majority of farm workplace deaths.
No matter if it is a perfect day, or a storm is coming and you only have a short window to get the job done. Whatever it is, take a minute to think through what you’re doing. For strategies to stay safe while working alone, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/working-alone-farms
It’s never you, until it is.
Free forum on integrating forestry into farming systems
LANDHOLDERS will be able to learn more about economic, productivity and environmental sustainability bene ts of integrating forestry into farming systems at a special forum to be held in Wangaratta in June.
The Murray Region Forestry Hub (MRFH), in partnership with the North East Catchment Management Authority, the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, and Rural City of Wangaratta Council is to run the free event on 27 June, from 9.30am to 3.30pm, at the Wangaratta Performing Arts and Convention Centre.
MRFH spokesperson Carlie Porteous said the forum is aimed to ensure landholders get access to well researched information to make informed decisions about their own properties.
This forum presents an opportunity for landowners to explore practical strategies for integrating trees into their farming practices, boosting both productivity and environmental sustainability.
“More trees on land can have bene ts for the landholder and broader community through ow on economic stimulus,” she said.
“We are very excited to provide the opportunity for the questions to be answered and to ensure landholders are connecting with the right people to aid the decision making process.”
Ms Porteous said the forum, Boost Your Farm’s Future: Unlock the Power of Trees for Productiv-
ity and Biodiversity, will provide farmers and landowners with factual information regarding the opportunities for trees on privately owned land, based on federally funded research outcomes from Hubs, Forest & Wood Products Australia (FWPA), Australian Forest & Wood Innovations (AFWI), and other key industry bodies.
Forum topics include:
Setting the scene, why trees belong on land.
Growing Together: Navigating the investment and challenges of farm forestry in partnership with landowners.
Forestry/Biodiversity Plantings: Exploring the future of forestry and biodiversity plantings from an economic, social, and environmental perspective.
Case Study 1: Drawing perspective from a family farm experience.
Case Study 2: Presenting a case study on the role of forestry and biodiversity plantings in farming systems and emissions balance.
Economic Aspects: Discussing the economics of establishing a forestry development. Socio and regional contribution and market opportunity.
Turning Trees into Income: A simple guide to earning carbon credits on your land.
Risk Management: Managing risk in carbon projects; identifying key risks and pitfalls in plantation forestry carbon project structures.
Responsible forestry, biodiversity and the role of certi cation.
A networking session with drinks and canapes will follow the forum, from 3.30pm to 5pm.
For more details, including free booking, go to https://www. trybooking.com/events/landing/1377917
Dairy’s Finest sale averages $4850
DEMAND remains strong for Australian Jersey cows with all 23 lots being sold in Dairy’s Finest showcase sale this week.
The sale at Moama on April 14 as part of the Jersey World Conference tour averaged $4,850.
Top lot of the night sale was Attaview Aldrin Inch 4 selling for $7,500 for Reece and Toni Attenborough of Poowong to Lloyd Akers from Loxleigh Jerseys at Tallygaroopna.
Dairy Livestock Services auctioneer Brian Leslie said the catalogue represented the best of Australian Jersey herds.
“Overall, we had a good result, reflecting the dry times in southern Australia,” Mr Leslie said.
“They all sold and we had a lot of interest, especially online where we had 382 logged on to the Stocklive platform watching the sale.”
Cows were sold to buyers from South Australia, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria and Queensland.
“The breeders put their best cattle forward and they should be very proud of their offerings.
“The buyers should be happy with what they picked up and the cattle will do a great job for them.
“It was an excellent catalogue and I think we’ll hear a lot more about the cattle sold in the sales.”
Mr Leslie said the top lot was a good buy.
“The Inch family is one of the emerging families in the breed and she attracted strong competition,” he added.
There was also strong demand for semen packages with sexed semen straws selling for up to $350 per straw.
Jersey Australia general manager Glen Barrett thanked vendors for providing quality lots to support the sale.
“Jerseys are a growing breed in Australia and I’m sure the buyers will appreciate the efficiency and profitability of the modern Jersey cow,” Mr Barrett said.
FREE FORUM: Integrating forestry into farming systems will be the focus of a free forum to be held in Wangaratta in June.
US tariff on beef trade limited concern for local producers
By EMMA OLIVER
TEN per cent tari s on Australian products heading to the United States are disappointing for local producers but will not hurt as much as rst feared, with other countries facing similar penalties.
Dueran Pastoral Company farm manager Matthew Vasey believes the baseline tari with no ban on Australian produce, will have nominal impact.
“All competitors have similar tari s, so US volume changes should be minimal,” he said.
What is of concern is USimposed tari s impacting Australian trade partners like China, along with a mounting geopolitical uncertainty.
The United States is Australia’s largest red meat export market worth over $6 billion dollars in 2024, and accounting for almost one third of our total global meat exports.
However, China, Japan and South Korea are our next major markets, worth $3.9 billion, $2.6 billion and $2.5 billion respectively.
With the United States government threatening tari s of well over 100 per cent on China, and - until a recent back ip by the US president - of 24 per cent on Japan and
25 per cent on South Korea, Mr Vasey perceives tari s could impact these economies which may result in a ow-on e ect.
There has been speculation that countries may in fact shi away from US beef in retaliation, with Australia already bene tting from an increased demand from the Chinese market.
However there is no commitment this will be ongoing and with the beef trade sitting within such a highly politicised global environment, market exibility and diplomatic awareness are paramount.
At a local level for livestock producers in the North East and the state, any immediate e ect of the tari on pricing will be negated by the ooding in Queensland and a good autumn break in New South Wales, Mr Vasey said.
gus weaner steers also drawing consistently high prices, there is demonstrated producer con dence in the direction of the market.
“Lamb also looks strong with prices of $8.50 plus expected for winter,” he said.
Insights at ANZ, said the 10 per cent tari – which also applies to other major beef suppliers like Brazil, New Zealand and Argentina – is unlikely to immediately damage Australia’s competitive position in the US market.
“Slaughter cows made $3.64 per kilo live weight in North East Victoria rst week of April,” Mr Vasey said.
Considered good to very good - especially given recent market trends - Mr Vasey said there is positive pricing for red meat on the domestic market for both grass and grain-fed cattle.
And with lightweight An-
“This is considered high percentile pricing for winter, regardless of the end market – whether it be in the US or elsewhere.
“As such we have condence that the impact of the 10 per cent US tari should be minimal.”
Michael Whitehead, Executive Director of Food, Beverage and Agribusiness
“Given the tari applies equally to our main export rivals, Australia retains a strong foothold due to our consistent quality, clean production standards and importer preference,” Mr Whitehead said.
It is consumers in the United States who will feel the pinch more than local producers, with the US domestic
market still recovering a er years of reduced production and mass de-stocking due to drought.
Drought along with other pressures has caused the US herd to steadily shrink since 2019 and while consumer demand for beef is at a recordhigh in the country, Australian beef has been lling this gap.
“US beef producers can’t meet American domestic demand and Australia is the preferred supplier to ll the shortfall of high-quality grassfed steaks,” said Cattle Australia Chief Executive, Dr Chris Parker.
“Our lean beef exports are also crucial – it is blended with local fatty trim to create the hamburgers that every American knows and loves.
“Imposing tari s on Australian beef disregards the mutually bene cial role of each country’s supply chain, and the e ects will be most acutely felt by American consumers and industry.
“While we value the US market and our relationship with its beef industry, Australian producers should take comfort from our market diversi cation and the overall global demand outlook which remains very strong for Australian beef.”
TEN PER CENT: Tari s on Australian products heading to the United States are disappointing for local producers but will not hurt as much as first feared, with other countries facing similar penalties.
The silence of the lambs
By MIKE SMITH
THE black dog at a crossroads has long been a portent of death.
Folklore paints a frightful image of the beast with slavering jaws, night-black fur and bright hell re eyes.
And it is said, where the black dog goes death follows.
At the corner of Mt Buller Road and Buttercup Road on a warm April a ernoon in High Country, half the world away from the dark and dreary pit and mill villages that conceived such nightmarish things, dogs and death go claw in claw.
The sight of the black dogs lingering there in Merrijig was accompanied by an appalling odour.
The roadside there hums with the foul stench of death and the frenzied droning of a plague of ies that borders upon the biblical.
Five dead canines, strung up from a fence.
Behind them, the paddocks are lled with sheep.
‘Man’s best friend’ is doing his very best to turn Manseld Shire’s sheep farmers into cat lovers.
Caught in an ongoing battle with wild dogs, the farmers say they are being made to ght with their hands tied behind their backs.
Their losses have been so dire, that some are turning their back on the ovine industry altogether.
Mans eld Shire, according to one farmer, is the perfect place to rear sheep but our community is in danger of losing touch with one of the core industries upon which it was built.
“They come at night,” said Paul Diamond.
“They used to move as singles but now they come in twos, threes and even fours.
“They’re coming further and further out of the bush.”
Paul Diamond of Pinnaroo Pastoral has always run merinos for breeding.
In the scenic hills of the hinterlands behind Goughs Bay, his farm was lled with the bleating of thousands of sheep - ewes and lambs at pasture on some of the best grazing land the High Country has to o er.
But recent changes to the agricultural and political landscapes have ended all of that.
The ewes and the lambs are gone, their bleating silenced.
According to Mr Diamond, sheep farming simply isn’t an option anymore. The dogs that were previously classi ed as unprotected have now been classi ed as protected, and they are running wild.
“Public land has become a sanctuary for the dogs,” he said.
“Not too long ago a hunter was rewarded with a $120 dollar bounty when they presented a wild dog’s pelt to the wild dog bounty program.” Today, that same hunter can be ned $46,000 and face two years’ jail time for shooting a wild dog.
Recent research undertaken by the University of Sydney determined that the majority of dogs running wild were in fact pure breed dingoes.
The 2023 study which examined tissue, blood or buccal samples from 307 wild and 84 captive dingoes from locations across Australia is not without its detractors.
■ Continued page 15
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MAN’S BEST FRIEND: Paul Diamond (pictured) lost 400 sheep to wild dogs in the space of 12 months.
■ From page 14
Paul Diamond, a sheep and cattleman with a background in Animal and Veterinary Biosciences, questions whether the genetic markers the researchers used to identify pure-bred dingos have been in ltrated by feral domestic dogs, rendering the study’s ndings awed.
He points to the fact that these wild dogs can grow to thirty kilograms and that dingoes can’t.
Regardless.
Whether these wild dogs are pure-bred dingoes, now feral once domesticated dogs, or hybrids, the decision has been made, what was unprotected is now protected and it is illegal to shoot them on public land.
And that, according to Mr Diamond, has created a safe haven in which they can breed and feed with impunity.
“The aerial culling of deer hasn’t helped,” he said.
“If a pregnant bitch comes across a culled sambar, she will stick around because she can rear a litter of pups from that one big feed.
“They shoot them from their helicopter and just
SHEEP FARMING NO LONGER VIABLE:
leave them behind to rot.
“That’s a lot of food le lying around.”
If the boom and bust aspect of the natural world has taught us anything, where there is a constant supply of food, there is a constant supply of consumers.
When food is plentiful, consumers ourish and their numbers go up.
What happens when the steady supply of food dries up?
What happens when the bushland that the wild dogs call home is devoid of wallabies, possums, bandicoots and other wildlife?
This situtation is something Merrijig sheep and cattleman, Brendan Mahoney already believes to be the case.
He believes they have already begun widening their hunting grounds because if they don’t, they will become hungry and they will weaken and they will die.
“There’s just no food le in the bush,” Mr Mahoney said The dogs are getting hungrier and more desperate so they’re coming further out into the open.
“They used to keep to the tree line.
“Last week one was spotted crossing Pollards Road, out in the open, no bush for several kilometres.
“They’re coming onto our farms looking for a feed and they’re nding it.
“I’ve lost 35 sheep in the last three or four weeks.
“That’s seven or eight thousand dollars - gone.
“They are costing us our livelihoods.”
Mr Mahoney is not alone in his thinking.
A er losing 300 ewes and 100 lamb between December 2023 and December 2024, Paul Diamond gave up on sheep altogether, deciding instead to focus on cattle.
It would be easy to put it down to money but when Mr Diamond and Mr Mahoney speak, it’s quite clear that they have had a gutful of death.
They walk out of their houses and into their paddocks in the morning to be met by a scene more tting of a 1980s horror lm than a temperate Tuesday morning in the High Country.
“They go a er one sheep but it gets away so they go after another and another and another and then they get the
FARMERS ARE GETTING OUT OF SHEEP, IN WHAT ONE FARMER CALLS THE BEST SHEEP FARMING LAND YOU COULD HOPE TO FIND.
Not too long ago a hunter was rewarded with a $120 dollar bounty when they presented a wild dog’s pelt to the wild dog bounty program. Today, that same hunter can be fined $46,000 and face two years’ jail time for shooting a wild dog.
sheep that gives them their feed,” Mr Mahoney said.
“That last sheep is eaten alive.
“The rst four die slowly over the next few days a er bacteria in the dogs’ saliva causes an untreatable infection.”
That, Mr Diamond says, is a shortcoming in the views of activists and academics who have pressured politicians into protecting these dogs.
“Activists think farmers are horrible people for wanting these wild dogs controlled,” he said.
“But they haven’t seen the a ermath of a wild dog attack.
“They haven’t seen the ewes and the lambs with their throats torn out or their insides chewed outside from the so spots at their rear and pubic areas.”
Mr Diamond and Mr Mahoney both agree that an apex predator at the top of the food chain is bene cial for the ecosystem but neither man believes the current number of wild dogs, or dingoes, is sustainable.
“To allow these numbers to keep growing is gross negligence and if we don’t take
control, nature will,” Mr Mahoney said.
“The dogs will get hungry, they will weaken and a virus will run through them, killing them.
“We will have lost a whole lot more sheep by the time we get to that point.
“And who knows what damage they will have done beyond sheep.
“These dogs are hurting our environment, not just farmers or ocks, they’re doing damage to our environment.
“There is around 4 million acres of wilderness, forest and bush, in the Great Dividing Range and it’s overrun by dogs.”
And what, Mr Mahoney asks, is being done to protect the farmers who feed the nation, to protect their livestock and to protect native wildlife?
“Why aren’t we baiting in the bush?” he asked.
“Why are we waiting until they are out in the open and it’s too late?
“The Labor government has watered down the control measures over the last six years.
“Measures that have been
in place for 100 years.
“The dogs have free reign in the bush and they are just living to eat and to breed and to eat until there is nothing le .”
“They just did $31m worth of baiting of wild dogs and foxes in the Barry Mountains to protect the potoroos,” he said.
“Who’s baiting to protect the koala population on the Great Dividing Range?”
Mr Diamond suggested that while the local government trapper is sympathetic towards the plight of sheep and cattlemen in High Country and beyond, their hands are tied by changes to regulations.
“He used to set 80 traps when he went out trapping,” Mr Diamond said.
“Now he can only set 20 and it’s just not enough.
“It’s disheartening that the government has made sheep farming impossible in the best sheep farming country you could hope to nd.”
While Mr Diamond’s shi towards cattle diminishes the threat of wild dogs, it doesn’t eradicate it.
“Calves could be a concern,” he said.
“I’ve lost alpacas to wild dogs.
“People will lose domestic dogs to wild dogs.
“I think it’s only a matter of time before a child is attacked near a campground.
“Dingoes are anti-social by nature and they keep their distance, they are more inclined to stick within the bush.
“But these hybrids aren’t as shy, it’s the domestic dog in them.
“They will come out into the open and they will come onto farms and onto campgrounds and that will bring them face to face with livestock and humans.”
While Brendon Mahoney’s fears for a future in which the wild dog situation is le unchecked are just as stark, they di er in how they manifest.
“The dogs are getting hungrier and the farmers are getting more desperate.
“This wild dog problem is 100 per cent a political problem.
“Agricultural minister a er agricultural minister have come from backgrounds with no experience in farming so they do nothing to make life easier for the farmers.”
What can be done?
Something needs to be done.
Flavour shines through for 2025 vintage
EXCITEMENT is bubbling around the 2025 wine vintage in the King Valley growing region.
O the back of a long Indian summer the North East has experienced with generally well timed rain events, the ideal conditions have any discerning wine connoisseur warming up their palate in anticipation for the nished product to be bottled later this year.
Wines of the King Valley president Dean Cleave-Smith said it has been a very good season and some people are saying perhaps the “best ever”, with a caveat that the proof of this will be in the tasting.
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
away and we haven’t been under any pressure up until recently from planned burns.
“Growers have been able to leave the fruit on the vine and let it be picked until it’s absolutely ripe.”
He said vignerons are seeing really good varietal expression, nice big avours and now it’s over to the winemakers to weave their magic.
operator Sophie Darling said her sister Grace and Dad John were excited to have nished the harvest towards the end of March a er an early start due to warm weather at the end of January.
“Yields have been a little above average and this is variety dependent,” Ms Darling said.
“The quality is absolutely stunning especially with our higher end varieties which is always welcome.
“We mostly focus on French varieties, and we have a couple of the Italian varieties as well.
“We’ve just been really fortunate that we’ve had a long, relatively moderate ripening season which worked out really well for everyone,” he said.
“The long Indian summer or classic Italian style summer analogy sums it up as this has been one of them and in the past they have delivered results for us,” Mr Cleave-Smith said.
“One hail event knocked a couple of vineyards around but they weren’t total losses by any means.
“It has just been one of those cracking seasons for both reds and whites where we usually get vintages where it works for one or the other.
“The rain has stayed
“You get the mid-bodied reds that the King is so wellknown for with nebbiolo, sangiovese or French variety pinot noir - they come along so well in these sort of years.”
“Gamay and sangiovese are some of our lighter reds and we’ve got the chardonnay and aligoté and we have four vineyards that grow that grow this variety at the moment.
“We also have some nebbiolo and cabernet sauvignon.
And it sets up well for the region as there is a huge volume of production for sangiovese and pinot noir in the King Valley now.
Whit eld’s Darling Estate
“There has been really beautiful flavour development across the board, from walking through the vineyard for early berry sampling and getting everything into the winery, it’s been really positive.”
FLAVOURSOME: Sophie Darling said the quality of fruit has been absolutely stunning at their vineyards in Whitfield.
PHOTO: Anita McPherson
Rodeo royalty graces local
BREAKAWAY: Josie Breasley (le ), Jo Falk, Harper Russell, Paris Aldenton, Jess Andrews, instructor Sharon McGuire, Lil Dean, Erin Lee’Porcher, Leni Defazio and Molly Hearn the roping clinic at the High Country Arena.
INSET: CHAMPION: Breakaway roping trainer Sharon McGuire sharing her knowledge during the clinic.
PHOTOS: Lynn Elder
By LYNN ELDER
TWO times APRA
(Australian Professional Rodeo Association) breakaway roping champion Sharon McGuire and the 2025 Australian rodeo queen Paris Aldenton graced the Mans eld High Country Arena during a roping clinic held over the rst weekend in April.
champion, Helena Simpkin, managed to lure Sharon to Mans eld to run a roping clinic suitable for beginners.
“I have done barrel racing and saw breakaway roping as another opportunity to learn something new,” said Jess.
from one of the best ropers around.
The sessions were conducted without livestock and included groundwork with a sled dummy pulled behind a quad bike.
“It is about learning basic skills and building con dence,” said Jess.
Sharon, the daughter of the legendary Queenslandborn rough rider Jim McGuire has rodeo in her veins and is passing on her roping skills through schools run through Yass River Roping based in NSW.
The two-day school was organised by Jess Andrews who with the help of fellow local horsewoman and four time Australian barrel racing
Sharon, a friend of Helena’s, was willing to run the school if there was enough interest to make it worthwhile.
There were nine participants, both local and from as far away as the Mornington Peninsula and Kyneton, who with their horses travelled to Mans eld staying at the High Country Arena, next to the zoo, for the weekend.
Rodeo queen Paris Aldenton, from Mount Eliza, was also keen to learn
“I just want to say a huge thank you to Sharon for travelling to Mans eld and running a beginners clinic over the last two days.
“It was an absolute blast, and everyone had an amazing time learning so much from someone like Sharon with her expertise and knowledge of the sport.
“Everyone improved so much over the weekend and look forward to her coming back in the future for more clinics,” said Jess.
Flourishing fruits of the season
By PHOEBE MORGAN
MYRTLEFORD and district grape growers and wineries made the most of favourable conditions to harvest this year’s fruit for vintage.
Weather patterns over recent months have been bene cial to vineyards in the local area, with vignerons happy there have been few humid days compared to previous years and overall, not too hot or too cold.
“This season has been really, re-
ally good and our fruit yield is up this year due to the weather,” said Myrtleford’s Michelini Wines sales and marketing manager, Kane Michelini.
“It’s been nice and dry for growing season, but there are still some cool nights for the vines.
“Across the board, the quality of our whites and reds should be up there with some of the best years’ vintages, particularly our Sangiovese and Nebbiolo reds.”
Michelini have wrapped up their harvest now with all the white grapes harvested by mid-March, and the reds by early April.
The vineyard was lucky with the weather holding out allowing them to get fruit o the vine before controlled burns were carried out in the area.
Further along the Great Alpine Road, the harvest of Gapsted Estate’s 2025 Vintage also delivered the dividends.
Members of the sales team exchanged spreadsheets for cellar tools, got up bright and early and rolled up their sleeves to lend a hand picking the vineyard’s legendary ‘Saperavi’ grapes.
“We are feeling buoyant,” Gapsted Estate chief winemaker, Andrew Santarossi said.
“From grape arrivals to daily ferment checks, the energy is high and the wine is well on its way.”
GETS THE JOB DONE: STEAM CLEANERS OFFER A WIDE RANGE OF ON�FARM CLEANING.
Aussie’s hot wash bargains
AS A tribute to the work that Victorian dairy farmers do to produce some of the best milk and top-quality processed products, Australian Pump Industries offers a great range of high-pressure hot wash and steam cleaners.
“We’ve got the biggest range of the business, with steam cleaners to suit all applications,” said Aussie’s product manager, Sam Loria.
“That range includes electric drive steam cleaners and Honda petrol engine drive units that go mobile.”
From now until June 30, Aussie is offering the opportunity for dairy farmers and co-ops to buy directly from the Aussie factory and get serious wholesale prices.
AUSSIE’S SIZZLER IS HOT
The product range in single phase starts with the Aussie Sizzler hot wash.
This is a mighty machine designed specifically for Australian conditions.
You’ll find it in hire companies around the country with its stainless steel welded frame for protection in tough environments.
With a heavy-duty high efficiency triplex pump with brass head and independent brass unloader, the pump features solid ceramic pistons and has an adjustable temperature from ambient to 80 degrees celsius.
The motor power comes from a four-pole slow speed air-cooled motor, with thermal cut out, and a cable fitted with a 10-amp plug (240 V, 50 Hz).
The low maintenance stainless steel boiler has a low fuel consumption – only 2.3 kg per hour at full temperature.
The stainless steel cover lifts off easily for maintenance and service while the steel chassis with four large wheels, makes it easy to move around and provides a robust platform.
The diesel fuel tank is 18 litres capacity, and the protection equipment supplied is excellent.
The Multi-Function Safety Control Kit consists of:
1. Delayed total stop – stops the machine 30 seconds after the gun trigger closes which saves fuel.
2. Micro-leak detection – stops the machine in case of leaks in the hydraulic circuit.
3. Nozzle clog control – stops the machine if the nozzle at the end of the lance is blocked.
4. Flooding prevention system –protects fuel system.
5. Intelligent auto switch-off –switches off the machine after 20 minutes of non-use.
6. Dry running protection –stops the machine when no water is supplied.
7. Ignition boiler delay – ensures low fume emissions when the boiler starts.
“The machines are made in Northern Italy to our design,” said Loria.
“We knew that there was a real requirement in Australia for a top quality product loaded with features for dairy applications.”
STAINLESS COILS
Super Indys are available in both 240 V and 415 V.
They feature similar protection equipment as “The Sizzler” but have heavy duty slow speed triplex pumps and offer a stainless steel coil with a three-year coil warranty.
“That’s a big thing in applications involving corrosive liquids.
“It can be handy and certainly extends coil life,” said Loria.
The machine also offers detergent injection as system built in, and the motor and heavy duty triplex pump have the feature of flexible coupling that provides both pump and motor with a smoother, cooler drive.
All the usual Aussie protection gear is incorporated including low water cut out, low fuel sensor, timetable stop, micro leak detection, and even a 15 amp plug, fitted to all single phase units.
The machines offer pressures up to 3,000 psi for the three-phase version and 1,500 psi for the single phase.
STAINLESS STEEL OPTIONS
The company also produces a great range of high pressure stainless steel hose reels.
The reels can come with either 30 or 40 metres of high pressure hose.
“We know that dairy farmers hate the idea of having to move the machine numerous times during the bales clean up.
“Depending on the size of the bales, the stainless steel hose reel is very handy,” said Loria.
The stainless steel reels can be mounted on the wall adjacent to the machine or in any other convenient location for the user.
“The is a brand new initiative for Australian Pump.
“We saw a sense of uncertainty with people being confused by the election promises.
“Aussie dairy farmers buy direct.
“It’s our gift for the great work they do.”
For more information, please visit aussiepumps.com.au.
QUALITY PRODUCT: Honda petrol powered Heatwave units also available.
PURPOSE BUILT: Aussie’s Super Indy is available in single and three phase power.
MOBILE: The Aussie Sizzler single phase is a great introductory hot wash machine.
AUSSIE SUPER INDY
Major dewatering works to improve irrigation network
GOULBURN-MURRAY
Water (GMW) is looking to enhance the performance of its delivery network with its most comprehensive dewatering campaign in more than a decade.
Each year, in the three months between irrigation seasons, GMW dewaters parts of its channel network to undertake crucial maintenance works on assets that are usually beneath the waterline.
GMW Water Delivery Services general manager Warren Blyth said dewatering channels also enabled GMW to inspect its network and combat aquatic weeds.
“Dewatering channels during the winter is one of the most e ective means
we have of treating aquatic weeds,” he said.
“Exposing weeds to frost helps us kill o large amounts without having to manually treat them with herbicide, making it a very e cient and cost-e ective method.
“Dewatering also allows us to inspect more of our channel network, which helps us prioritise future maintenance works.”
The 2024/25 irrigation season ends on 15 May, with 10 May being the last day customers are able to place orders.
The 2025/26 irrigation season then begins on 15 August 2025.
Mr Blyth said irrigators needed to prepare now for the period between seasons when they would not have access to water.
“Customers will not be able to order water during the irrigation o -season, so it is important they have plans in place for if they need water during this time, such as lling their tanks and dams in advance,” he said.
“I strongly encourage anyone with questions about securing water for the irrigation off-season to get in touch with us to discussion their options as soon as possible.”
For more information, people can phone GMW on 1800 013 357.
More information about how people can prepare for the end of the irrigation season can be found on the GMW website: www.g-mwater.com.au/end-of-season
Animal welfare under the spotlight
By ANDY WILSON
OWNERS or persons in charge of livestock have a responsibility for ensuring the health and welfare needs of their livestock and animals are met.
AgVic program manager of livestock and welfare compliance Veronica Campbell said this includes providing animals with proper and sufcient food, ensuring sick or injured animals are provided with appropriate attention
The buck stops with owner, person in charge
or treatment, and that basic husbandry practices such as shearing are carried out.
AgVic o cers who are authorised under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 have a number of tools available under the act, including legal notices issued to owners or persons in charge of livestock, to direct them to cease committing an o ence or to ensure an of-
fence is not committed.
AgVic has recently conducted three seizures of livestock in a three-month period.
“In serious cases where the animals are at risk of distress and disablement and the owner or person in charge has failed to comply with directives, Agriculture Victoria can undertake a seizure of the a ected animals,
removing them permanently from the owner or person in charge,” Ms Campbell said.
“In December 2024, yve sheep were seized from a Broom eld property due to repeated failure to shear the animals for a number of years.
“In January 2025, y-two cattle were seized from a property in Murrayville due to a failure to provide proper and su cient feed to the cattle, re-
sulting in a large number dying across the property.
“In February 2025, 441 cattle were seized from a Balmattum property due to an ongoing failure to provide proper and su cient feed to the cattle.
Ms Campbell said the matters relating to the recently seized livestock were notnalised due to their serious nature.
“While we know the majority of farmers are doing the right thing, livestock produc-
ers who don’t take appropriate action to prevent and address animal welfare issues can face regulatory action, including prosecution for offences under the Act.” Anyone wishing to make a speci c complaint regarding livestock welfare can contact AgVic on 136 186 or aw.complaint@agriculture. vic.gov.au
For information on dry seasonal and drought support, visit agriculture.vic.gov. au/dryseasons
HUGE WINTER CLEARANCE
Euroa’s flag waved well at Expo
By ANDY WILSON
THE three-day Seymour Alternative Farming Expo attracted its usual 20,000 visitors last Friday to Sunday, who enjoyed perusing the more than 400 exhibitors that ranged from chickens and other livestock through to tractors, mohair jumpers, and camel rides.
The popular event is now in its 34th year.
Friday drew a lot of small families and couples enjoying very slow walks as the numbers built up in the a ernoon.
Waving the ag for Euroa was Linda and Colin Green who have run Green eece wool products for thirty years since they rst set up a stall at the Violet Town markets.
They have been selling at the Seymour Expo for a decade and said they had started the business to put their kids through university.
“We had ve kids,” Linda said.
“We couldn’t a ord a television.”
Colin listed o their alumni in order.
“We now have a midwife, a superannuation executive, a boiler maker, a radiologist and a nurse ‘eventually’,” he said.
“She’s busy having her own ve kids,” Linda said.
The Greens said that sales would be more challenging this year due to the dry con-
THIRTY YEARS ON: Euroa’s Linda and Colin Green had a mission in mind when they started Greenfleece wool products - paying for their five children’s university tuition. “Actually one of them is going to be a nurse eventually but is busy having babies,” Linda said.
ditions and ‘everyone doing it tough’.
“There’s no rain and there will probably be a recession,” Linda said.
“In fact we just sold all our cattle because we couldn’t afford to feed them.”
Also exhibiting was Strathbogie Tractors’ Ashley ‘Tractor’ Thompson who is Euroa born and bred and has been running his tractor maintenance business for een years. He is now in his third year
as a seller of three brands and this was his second year at the Expo where he wasted no time getting to the point.
“I love tractors,” Tractor said.
“I love vintage tractor pulling and I love Euroa - I went to school there too.
“My name really is ‘Tractor’ Thompson, that’s what people call me.”
Tractor sells attachments and accessories for (real) tractors made by Wangaratta’s Burder engineers and
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Woods Tractor Attachments. He had on display a Slovenian AGT tractor which has a unique reversible console to send its 50 horsepower in both directions as needed.
“It is really an ‘Agromehanika’ but its easier to say ‘AGT’.”
Crowds at the Expo were also treated to a snake display, aerial motorbike stunts, whip cracking, sheep dog trials, and cooking demonstrations.
Member for Euroa Anna-
belle Cleeland said she enjoyed the ‘privilege’ to spend the weekend at the Expo alongside her Nationals party colleagues, friends, family, and the wider community.
“More than two-and-a-half thousand people stopped by my marquee for a yarn, to share feedback, and raise local issues,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Listening to (the electorate) is the most important part of my job as your voice in Parliament.”
Ms Cleeland said Expo was
a cornerstone of the local economy which brought people from across the country to experience the best the region has to o er.
“It’s a celebration of the strength and innovation in our agricultural industry, showcasing everything.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our regional economy, and events like this play a vital role in recognising the incredible work our farmers do every day.”
■ Continued page 21
WHAT’S THAT OVER THERE? Taj Jennings wanted to keep moving on with his father Daniel, mother Bridie, and brothers River and Tanner.
Highland Cows are known for their very long horns, but not those from Mayfield Poll Highlands stud where horns have been bred out. It makes them even cuddlier.
Protecting paddock trees during stubble
burns
GREATER Shepparton City Council is reminding farmers and landholders of the importance of protecting paddock trees during stubble burns, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and best practice land management.
Paddock trees play a crucial role in the agricultural landscape, providing livestock with shelter from extreme temperatures, improving productivity, and supporting biodiversity.
These trees also serve as vital habitat for native birds, bats, and pollinators, which contribute to pest control and crop production.
Council’s Manager Environment, Sharon Terry, urged landholders to take necessary precautions when planning and conducting stubble burns.
“It is illegal to remove, lop or destroy native vegetation, including paddock trees and standing dead trees without a planning permit” she said.
“These iconic trees are vital to a healthy environment, and their protection during stubble burns is essential.”
To minimise the risk to paddock trees, landholders should:
• Establish a firebreak of at least three metres from the drip line of each tree.
• Adhere to all Council, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) and CFA regulations.
• Avoid conducting burns on Total Fire Ban days.
• Check the weather forecast for the burn day and subsequent days.
• Notify neighbours before conducting a burn.
• Register all planned burns with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) at firepermits.vic.gov.au.
Landholders are responsible for any fire on their property and are liable for any damage caused by escaping embers.
It is strongly recommended that they remain on-site until the fire is fully extinguished and ensure an adequate water supply is available.
For more information on managing stubble burns and protecting paddock trees, visit Agriculture Victoria or Sustainable Farms.
For further information, please call Council on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov. au
APPETITE FOR SUCCESS
Pioneer® Seeds is pleased to bring you our Appetite for Success events this May.
Whether you’re a dairy farmer thinking about introducing maize silage, you’re already using it – or even if you’re yet to be convinced – this is a must-attend event.
Hear from internationally-renowned Dr Bill Mahanna on everything from achieving higher per cow production to actionable advice on increasing maize silage yield and quality. And gain valuable insights from other Australian-based experts on improving dairy farm productivity, sustainability and profitability.
Farmers, dairy consultants, agronomists, animal nutritionists, resellers and contractors are all welcome.
Dr Bill Mahanna Global Nutritional Sciences Manager, Pioneer. Adjunct Professor, Iowa University USA.
We look forward to seeing you at one of these locations
The Woolshed at Emerald Bank
7719 Goulburn Valley Highway, Shepparton VIC.
Thursday 15 May, 10am-2pm
Laurels Function Centre
Sale Turf Club, 1227 Ma ra-Sale Rd, Sale VIC.
Monday 19 May, 10am-2pm
RACV Inverloch Resort
70 Cape Paterson-Inverloch Rd, Inverloch VIC.
Tuesday 20 May, 10am-2pm
City Memorial Bowls Club
50-58 Cramer St, Warrnambool VIC.
Thursday 22 May, 10am-2pm
RSVP by 30 April 2025
Seats are limited. Please RSVP by clicking here or emailing us at: gentechseeds@gentechseeds.com
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
SLOVENIAN BUILT: “My name is Tractor,” said (Ashley) Tractor Thompson who enjoyed showing his specialty in tractor maintenance and sales of a Slovenian masterpiece.
POLLS APART:
THE Goulburn Valley Designated Area Migration Agreement (GV DAMA) has added an additional 82 occupations to its o ering with the Department of Home A airs (DHA) approving the introduction of further pertinent occupations to the current GV DAMA.
The GV DAMA operates as a partnership between Greater Shepparton City Council (Council), Moira Shire Council and Campaspe Shire Council, and supports local businesses to ll positions within their organisations with skilled migrants, due to being unable to recruit Australians in various hard to ll
Over 26 occupations in the agricultural industry and meat processing have made the list, with businesses seeking everything from irrigation technicians to shearers, nut pickers and slaughterers.
Since the inception of the GV DAMA in 2021, the program has proven to be very e ective at enabling businesses to secure skilled migrants to ll some of these roles.
The Greater Shepparton City Council who act as the Designated Area Representative (DAR), submitted a deed
of variation to the DHA requesting additional positions to be included within the GV DAMA, post consultation with local businesses who outlined their priority occupations.
As the DAR, council oversee the administration of the GV DAMA, which is accessible to businesses operating within the Greater Shepparton, Moira and Campaspe local government areas.
The GV DAMA o ers businesses access to a range of occupations not covered by mainstream visa programs, providing employers with greater exibility to secure job-ready workers and address skill shortages e ectively.
The GV DAMA also o ers a variety of concessions including salary, English language, age and provisions for permanent residency.
“This will be positive news for the local business community who will be eager to see the introduction of additional hard to ll roles being applied to the list of occupations under the GV DAMA,” Shepparton mayor Cr Shane Sali said.
“With the GV DAMA offering a pathway to permanent residency, overseas workers can make lasting
contributions to the region, enhancing the community’s diversity while facilitating the transfer of essential skills to Australian workers.”
Cr Sali said the Goulburn Valley is a vital agricultural hub nestled between the Great Dividing Range to the south and the Murray River to the north, which also thrives in manufacturing, retail and tourism industries.
“The GV DAMA is a specialised program that enables endorsed employers to recruit migrant workers.
“These workers do not replace local employees; rather, they address labour shortages that have been hindering businesses in our region,” he said.
“In recent years, numerous employers have expressed challenges in attracting and retaining skilled workers across various industries, which is concerning as business and industry o en require sta to survive and thrive.
“We have many examples of businesses who have expressed their gratitudefor the GV DAMA as it has prevented them from ceasing operations within our region.”
For more information regarding the GV DAMA, visit https://www.gvdama.com.au
•
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Now that we have had a little bit of rain (hopefully there’ll be some more!) and the weather is starting to get cooler, the likelihood of grass tetany and/or lactation tetany increases.
So, what causes grass tetany? Grass tetany is caused by a low amount of Magnesium in the blood. Grass tetany occurs when there is a low dietary intake of magnesium coupled with a high requirement for the mineral. Pastures that are growing rapidly in cold weather are commonly low in magnesium. Reasons for high requirements of magnesium include loss of magnesium in the milk during lactation and impaired absorption of magnesium when pastures contain a concurrent high level of potassium and nitrogen. So the most common time that we see grass tetany is just after the autumn break, when the weather is reasonably cool and grass is growing rapidly. The condition is seen in autumn calving cows, in peak lactation.
There are three different stages of grass tetany, each with similar, but different clinical signs;
• Acute: sudden decrease in appetite, highly sensitive to stimulation which causes bellowing, galloping and convulsions. Mostly this is seen as sudden death because cows die before they can be treated.
• Sub-acute: gradual onset of 3-4 days with slight inappetence and exaggerated limb movements. There is a decrease in appetite and milk yield, muscle tremors and an unsteady gait. These cattle are also sensitive to stimulation. Some cattle will spontaneously recover, others may progress. Treatment is usually effective but there is a high tendency to relapse.
• Chronic: cows have low magnesium levels in the blood, but do not show clinical signs. Treatment of grass tetany is with the administration of calcium and magnesium salts. Recovery rates are always higher when treatment is administered early in the course of the disease. It is also important to note, if low magnesium has occurred in a herd, then the rest of the herd is at risk and should be treated to
prevent further outbreaks.
Prevention of grass tetany is easy and important, although not always completely effective. Firstly, high risk animals should be moved onto low risk pastures and the high risk pastures can be grazed by low risk animals such as steers and yearling heifers.
• Blocks of magnesium salts, usually magnesium oxide are good during the high risk period. Magnesium can also be administered orally on a daily basis, but this is often too time consuming for most producers.
• Increasing the magnesium content of pastures can be rapidly achieved by spraying pastures with magnesium oxide. This has to be done at regular intervals, usually every 2-3 days.
• Magnesium bullets introduced into the gut are another effective way of preventing grass tetany. The bullets release a daily amount of magnesium. In very
