North East and Murray Goulburn Farmer

NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria Published since 1984

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

MARCH, 2015

Duck Season

PAGE 16

Livestock

PAGES 18-20

$1 at newsagents

Farmer to Farmer

PAGE 20

RESPECTFUL AND RESPONSIBLE: Saturday, March 21 is the opening of the 2015 duck season, which will run for the full 12 weeks with a reduced bag limit. The

Sporting Shooters’ Association of Australia (Victoria) is focusing on securing the future of hunting by encouraging all hunters to respect the hunt and act responsibly. See page 16 for the Duck Season feature.

‘Boycott’ hits prices hard Processors’ refusal of pre-sale cattle weighing wiped up to 30 cents per kilo off farmers’ profits BY JODIE FLEMING

jfleming@ nemedia.com.au

Both farming lobby groups have condemned the processors’ ‘boycott’ which wiped 20 cents to 30 cents per kilogram off the

price of most cattle leading to one-third of export-weight cattle being passed in at the opening of the Northern Victorian Livestock Exchange (NVLE) at Barnawartha North. The ‘boycott’ is driven by the processors’ refusal to accept pre-sale weighing of cattle at the yards, with the VFF brand-

ing their behavior as “an act of outright bullying”. VFF livestock president Ian Feldtmann said the meeting held at Wodonga last week was called to give concerned producers the opportunity to come and raise their issues and to discuss the fallout from the meat processors’ ‘boycott’.

“We need to look for a way forward and where we can go with this, if that means further lobbying or other options then that is what we will do,” he said. “We are really trying to collate views from those producers that have real concerns about the selling process. “My understanding of what

ON PROPERTY SALE TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2015 Jim Bruce 0419 600 355 Stephen Street 0428 579 338 Trevor Parker 0428 578 074 Kevin Sanderson 0418 574 237

ANGUS www.witherswoodangus.com.au

happened with the boycott is that it is a private selling complex and the buyers had withdrawn from the buying of that sale because they had indicated prior to the sale that they would only purchase on a post-weight selling system and that the private operators had told producers that while this system was for further debate, the first sale would be a pre-sale weighing system, and as a result the buyers withdrew from this. Continued page 4

70 Bulls on Sale Manager: Ian Peake 0419 111 936

John and Joan Woodruff 0412 002 509 Hoysted Road, Taminick via Glenrowan

V/12d12844-V3/06-15

PEAK farming groups are calling for a Senate inquiry into increasing market consolidation taking place in the Australian red-meat processing sector. Both the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) and NSW Farmers have also called on the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to investigate the recent meat processors’ absence at the Barnarwatha saleyards, which is putting a dampener on the buoyant cattle prices.

NEWS

Page 2, North East Farmer

www.nemedia.com.au ;OL ,U]PYVUTLU[HSS` MYPLUKS` ^H` [V WYVJLZZ ZL^HNL ^HZ[L ^H[LY HUK VYNHUPJ ^HZ[L

O E S N VIC CT A ER S NTR O C

%TTVSZIH 8 7% :MG 27; %' 8 2 50(

-VYNL[ ZTLSS` ZLW[PJZ VY JOLTPJHS [YLH[TLU[Z ,_WLYPLUJL [OL ILULMP[Z VM H UH[\YHS Z`Z[LT \ZPUN L_JP[PUN [LJOUVSVN`

‹ (WWYV_ WLY HUU\T LULYN` JVZ[Z ;`WPJHS )9 K^LSSPUN Q12d11987/32-13

PUKLWLUKLU[S` HZZLZZLK OPSS` ZP[LZ UPS LULYN`

‹ 5V JHYIVU KPV_PKL VY NYLLU OV\ZL NHZLZ WYVK\JLK ‹ 3V^ THPU[LUHUJL ‹ ,_JLSSLU[ U\[YPLU[ MVY [OL NHYKLU ‹ (]LYHNL SLZZ NHYIHNL [V SHUKMPSS ‹ *HU IL MP[[LK PU[V L_PZ[PUN ZLW[PJ [HURZ VY [YLH[TLU[ WSHU[Z

A&A WORM FARM WASTE SYSTEMS PTY LTD

National Head OfďŹ ce: Unit 5/2135 Frankston-Flinders Road, Hastings Email: enquiries@wormfarm.com.au Web: www.wormfarm.com.au

NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

Covering North East Victoria, Southern New South Wales and Goulburn Murray Valleys

Not everyone happy with infrastructure spending WHILE Victoria’s peak farmer body has welcomed the Andrews government for its $30 million commitment to the Murray Basin Rail Project and for other key regional infrastructure upgrades, (MLA Euroa) Steph Ryan said the Labor Government does not care about country communities by refusing to continue the Country Roads and Bridges Program. The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has welcomed the funding for both the ďŹ rst stage of the Murray Basin Rail Project and the announced upgrade to country freight and level crossings. VFF Grains Group president Brett Hosking said the lobby group had spent years lobbying successive state and federal governments to invest in standardising Victoria’s inefďŹ cient network, which consists of broad and standard gauge (width) rail lines. “These gauge differences have led to gross inefďŹ ciencies as rail operators are forced to run two sets of trains, resulting in double handling, under-investment and commodities being forced onto roads.

“While this is a positive ďŹ rst step, failure to complete the whole Murray Basin project risks isolating more than one million tonnes of grain on the Manangatang and Sea Lake lines and potentially forcing it onto road. “What grain growers really want re-conďŹ rmed is that the Andrews government is committing to standardising the whole network, not simply the Mildura line, in committing to the Murray Basin Rail Project,â€? Mr Hosking said. VFF president Peter Tuohey said that one of the group’s top infrastructure priorities in its prebudget submission was bridge strengthening works to enable higher mass limits on B-doubles. “While we welcome the bridge upgrades, it’s critical they help support the goal of increasing mass limits on our major road freight network from the current limit of 68 tonnes for B-doubles to 74 tonnes. “Enabling heavier B-doubles would deliver substantial productivity gains to the dairy industry using existing vehicle eets.

ADVERTISEMENT

37 Rowan St., Wangaratta, 3677 Phone (03) 5723 0100 Fax (03) 5721 9447 Email: nefarmer@nemedia.com.au Website: www.nemedia.com.au

Advertising:

MEMBER FOR INDI

Bill Michalowski Phone (03) 5723 0134 Fax (03) 5722 9778 bmichalowski@nemedia.com.au

Editorial:

DELIVERING ON TRAINS – CATHY MCGOWAN Action on the Wodonga-Melbourne train service

Jodie Fleming Phone (03) 5723 0129 Fax (03) 5722 9778 jfleming@nemedia.com.au

Pre-Press Coordinator

t Commitment to completion of Ballast Rehabilitation Program and the removal of speed restrictions mid 2016

t Commitment to a Public Transport Victoria draft Regional Network

Noelene Allan Phone (03) 5723 0110 Fax (03) 5722 9778 nallan@nemedia.com.au

Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner. ial content of this issue is the Copyright: All advertising and editorial copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd d and cannot be used us without the company’s permission.

YOUR

ON THE SPOT

TEAM

March 2015

Development Plan in six months. Plan includes timelines, rolling stock, scheduling, timetable, freight, long-term planning, funding t Partnership with all levels of Government; on February 5, met with Premier Daniel Andrews, V/Line senior management, Public Transport Victoria, Public Transport Users Association t Regular meetings with Minister for Infrastructure, Warren Truss t Train trip to Melbourne with Member for Murray, the Hon Dr Sharman Stone and Border Rail Action Group. Survey results presented to V/Line on February 5 t Taking issues to Parliament. Regular updates on www.cathymcgowan.com.au/trains Community action - contact V/Line with feedback and to report issues: Vline contact details: 1800 800 007 www.vline.com.au/home/website/contactus.html, @VLine V/Line

“Higher mass limits would improve freight efďŹ ciency and ultimately result in better farm gate returns. “Investing in transport and infrastructure projects holds the key to unlocking rural Victoria’s economic potential,â€? Mr Tuohey said. But according to Steph Ryan, residents of the Euroa electorate will be dodging more pot holes and paying higher rates thanks to the government’s decision to cut the Country Roads and Bridges Program, leaving country councils $40 million short each year. Ms Ryan said the Andrews Labor Government had refused to continue the popular $160 million program which the previous Coalition Government had committed to before the election last year. “Labor’s decision to cut vital funding for the maintenance of country roads is a slap in the fact to communities in rural and regional Victoria. “Ratepayers across Benalla, Campaspe, Mitchell and Strathbogie will have to pick up the ad-

ditional $1 million a year as a result of Labor’s cuts,� Ms Ryan said. The program had been funded in the budget until June 30, 2015 and the previous government had committed funding the project for a further four years. Ms Ryan said the decision meant increased pressure on councils to come up with the money for important local road works. “Our Country Roads and Bridges Program meant country Victorians and their families had better, safer roads to travel, while local councils had more money to spend on other important community programs and infrastructure. “Last year the Coalition Government’s total investment on roads maintenance was over $500 million compared to Daniel Andrews plan to invest $1 million over eight years into regional roads totalling just $125 million a year. “Daniel Andrews and Labor do not care about country communities and they have made that clear by refusing to continue the Country Roads and Bridges Program,� Ms Ryan said.

Farm insurance and you

A NEW Year presents one of the best times on the calendar to get a handle on how your business has performed, and where it should be in the following 12 months. With that in mind, Elders Insurance Wangaratta agent John Houghton said there are a number of things to look out for the year ahead. Set the bar high Regardless of sector, the New Year offers the best time to set targets for businesses. Financial or otherwise, having deadlines when aiming to hit milestones can really drive productivity throughout the year. “In deciding on a target, look first at what the company achieved across the last 12 months. “Then, choose an optimistic percentage increase in profits you hope to hit and let it motivate you over the year to come,� Mr Houghton said. Get your finances in check A new calendar year can offer a clean slate in terms of finances, so being prepared for that can start you along the path to a successful 2015.

Ensure you have expenses documented in your budget, including marketing, training and development, and any upgrades to your building or essential equipment. Also, ensure you have some additional funds to cover unforeseen costs. Update your business insurance Many businesses often overlook updating their insurance, meaning they face the potential of not being adequately covered in the event of a claim. “If your company has grown in 2014 - and expects to this year too - keeping your insurer informed of any changes in circumstances is crucial. “If you’re struggling to get the best out of your current arrangement and have doubts about whether its right for you, Elders Insurance can offer a comprehensive range of business insurance cover tailored specifically to suit the needs of your business,� he said. For more information contact John Houghton at Elders Insurance Wangaratta on (03) 5722 1400.

t/12d12804/45-14

STAY INFORMED

Bill MICHALOWSKI

Advertising Manager

Jodie FLEMING Editorial

Noelene ALLAN

Pre-Press Coordinator

DEADLINES: Please contact the NE Farmer office

www.cathymcgowan.com.au is a great place to find out what’s happening. Information includes: t Parliamentary speeches t How I vote t Media releases t Volunteering and events t Video explaining the job Visit @Indigocathy CathyMcGowanForIndi t ‘Like’ the daily posts t Share with your Facebook community t Comment about any issues Weekly news via email each Friday from the ‘Indi Weekly Scoop’, contact simon.crase@aph.gov.au

Federal Member for Indi

PERMANENT WATER AVAILABLE High Security Water available Zone 6 & 7 - Goulburn Zone 6 & 7 - Murray System 9A & 9B Oven & Kiewa Temporary Water Available All Zones Ph 03 5722 3117 Fax 03 5722 1388

ABN: 14 060 919 502

Authorised by Cathy McGowan AO MP, Member for Indi, 117 Murphy St, Wangaratta, Vic, 3677

03 5721 7077

www.cathymcgowan.com.au

j/12d12502-v2/41-14

0419 355 473

brucediffey@westnet.com.au Member of the Australian Water Brokers Association #302

We will assist you to transition into nursing home care by: Providing exceptional care close to home in beautiful rural surroundings. Residents can access single or shared rooms, all with dedicated ensuites. Maintaining strong community connections when it matters most Keeping you active longer through activities, music and lifestyle

Ensuring your safety with state of the art facilities Caring for you with registered nurses 24 hours a day Practising a culture of care by giving you a place to call home Linking you to services at Northeast Health Wangaratta including Physiotherapy, Dietetics and Occupational Therapy Innovating the provision of Dementia specific care with our dedicated and compassionate staff

Allowing you and your loved ones to take time out knowing you are in safe hands We invite you to tour our facilities, contact us to make a time suitable for you (03) 5721 0310

ILLOURA RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE FACILITY 32-50 College St Wangaratta Ph: (03) 5721 0310 j/25d04733-v3/33-14

NEWS

March 2015

North East Farmer, Page 3

New focus and structure for Fruit Growers Victoria By JODIE FLEMING

FRUITFUL FUTURE: Fruit Growers Victoria industry development manager, Tony Filippi.

Australia’s stone fruit and 90 per cent of Australia’s pears. Mr Filippi has a strong background working in the fruit industry, mainly in pest and disease control and having grown up in Mildura and previously owning a dried vine fruit property. He said that one of the issues the FGV will be focused on is to improve growers’ businesses and to improve grower viability. “We will be focusing on current issues that growers have and giving them support to maintain farm

Nannas hits home here because compliance costs in Australia kills you, and then to send it anywhere is expensive. “In Australia where we have high labor costs, our pitch to overseas markets is that we are clean and green and we jump all sort of hoops to get there, and then we turn around and the country is importing cheap stuff. “The FGV want to let people know what we are all about and we want to improve growers’ businesses,â€? he said. FGV chair Gary Godwill said that with the constant change in export markets, ongoing challenges to production and a range of new apple and pear varieties coming into the market over the next few years, fruit growers need strong, tailored support. “Agricultural peak bodies can’t afford to stand still,â€? Mr Godwill said. “Changes in personnel can be hard, but they also provide a valuable opportunity to implement new efďŹ ciencies so that our hundreds of members can see better value and

;MXL E ,E[O &MVH 7GEVIV 36 MX [SR´X GSWX ]SY E VIH GIRX

outcomes that make a difference in their own orchards. “We have taken a strategic decision to focus more of the organisation’s resources on building support and information for fruit growers through our ďŹ eld of staff, while working more closely with our national colleagues to knock on the door of politicians. “This doesn’t mean for a moment that we will be looking to cut down on the impact we have through advocacy, media communication and lobbying – but it does recognise that as a grower valued organisation, we need to focus our resources on actions that deliver results to members,â€? he said.

8LMW WGEVIV [MPP WEZI ]SY QSRI] FIGEYWI MX SRP] GSWXW ERH MX MW KYEVERXIIH XS [SVO =SY [MPP WEZI ]SYV KVETIW -XW IEW] XS MRWXEPP SR ZMRI]EVHW ¹8LI GSGOEXSSW [IVI PMOI WRS[ EW - HVSZI HS[R XLI VSEH FYX XLI LE[OW WEZIH Q] 'LIWXRYXW ERH ;EPRYXW² 2MGO +PIFEXWEW 1SVHMEPPSG :MG 8LMW JYPP WM^I VITPMGE SJ E LSZIVMRK LE[O MW QEHI SJ XSYKL [IEXLIV TVSSJ TPEWXMG WS MX PEWXW ¹- TYVGLEWIH SRI JVSQ ]SY WIZIVEP ]IEVW EKS [MXL KVIEX WYGGIWW SR Q] LEPJ EGVI SJ JVYMX² 6E] 'SXXSR )EKPILE[O :MG =SY GER TVSXIGX ]SYV WXSRI TSQI JVYMXW RYX FIVV] SV FVSEH EGVI GVSTW SR GEPQ SV [MRH] HE]W FIGEYWI ]SY WYWTIRH ]SYV LE[O SZIV SV RIEV ]SYV GVST 2S TS[IV [MRH SV TSMWSR RIIHIH [LMGL TVSXIGXW XLI IRZMVSRQIRX =SYV ,E[O &MVH 7GEVIV PSSOW VIEP WS MX WGEVIW EPP FMVHW MRGPYHMRK 7XEVPMRKW -RHMER 1]RELW 'VS[W 'SGOEXSSW

¹=SYV RI[ ,E[O &MVH 7GEVIV VITPEGIW XLI SPH JEWLMSRIH 7GEVI 'VS[² +EPELW 'SVIPPEW 4EVVSXW .E]W &PEGO FMVHW EPP 2EXMZI &MVHW 7MPZIV )]IW 0SVMOIIXW 3XLIV YWIW 7XSTW 4MKISRW 7[EPPS[W 7IEKYPPW VSSWXMRK SR FSEXW WLIHW ZIVERHELW ERH VSSJW 7GEVIW HYGOW SJJ HEQW W[MQQMRK TSSPW 3VHIV RS[ ]SY [MPP VIGIMZI E *VII 4EKI &SSOPIX SR &MVH 7GEVMRK 8IGLRMUYIW 4097 0MOI 9W SR *EGIFSSO ERH KIX E JVII ,E[O 7OMR 6ITPEGIQIRX [MXL ]SYV SVHIV [[[ JEGIFSSO GSQ LE[OFMVHWGEVIV [[[ LE[OFMVHWGEVIV GSQ MRJS$LE[OFMVHWGEVIV GSQ

8S 8MWEVE %YWX 4X] 0XH ¯ 43 &S\ 1SVTIXL 27; *E\ =IW TPIEWI VYWL QI ,E[O &MVH 7GEVIVW EX IEGL TPYW TSWXEKI ERH TEGOEKMRK IEGL 3VHIVW SJ SV QSVI 4 4 *VII 4PIEWI MRGPYHI Q] *VII &SSOPIX 1] GVIHMX GEVH HIXEMPW EVI SV - IRGPSWI Q] GLIUYI SV QSRI] SVHIV JSV 2EQI %HHVIWW 4SWXGSHI NEFMAR15 ¹2S 5YMFFPI 1SRI] &EGO +YEVERXII²

K/12D11960-V10/09-15

THE structure of Fruit Growers Victoria (FGV) is going through a positive change as the peak body for the pome fruits industry moves from a one-person show to a committee of management. While the committee’s roles are not purely deďŹ ned by title, their jobs are organic in nature and will develop over time. “With the FGV’s constitution we have 14 key objectives that we want to now focus on,â€? FGV industry development manager Tony Filippi said. “We really need to focus on issues that are on the ground a little more and our aim is to work more closely with the national body and government departments.â€? With a strong history stretching back more than 70 years, FGV represents deciduous fruit growers in the North East, central and southern regions of Victoria, responsible for production of more than $1 billion worth of fruit production, including 40 per cent of Australia’s apples, 30 per cent of

viability. “Like with any business, unless you keep your asset current you are going to go backwards. “Most farmers out there do that reasonably well, but you need to keep up with things like knowing what makes your business vulnerable and doing what you can to combat it. “And you need to understand the markets you are selling into,â€? Mr Filippi said. He added that one of the “big objectivesâ€? for the North East is the issue of fruit y which is now endemic in the region. “There has been quite a bit of inaction in regards to fruit y. “Weather conditions have been perfect for the pest and people are only starting to realise how devastating it can be, so all that on the ground stuff is starting to now happen. “And one of the other issues we want to help with is having free access to markets without the burden of the extra costs to export and the extra costs to meet certain standards. “Something like the recent berry saga with

“Solve Your Bird Problems�

NALINGA STEEL AND ROOFING SUPPLIES PTY LTD Nalinga Steel is one of the LARGEST STEEL DISTRIBUTORS in Rural Victoria and southern NSW.

FENCING SPECIALS

Poly Rainwater Tanks

Posts

LOWEST PRICES Rural and DomesticTanks Support Locals Locally Made

100nb x 2.4m 50nb Stays 165cm Hvy Posts

RIVERINA POLY, COROWA

7 - 90 - 30 6 - 70 - 30

200m 200m

$198 $159.50

Concrete Posts available at reduced rates. Deliveries - all areas.

Located at Nalinga (between Shepparton and Benalla) on the Midland Highway, we stock a large range of First and Downgrade Steels, cut to order.

DELIVERIES FOR ONLY

$

77

INC. GST

200km RADIUS

NALINGA STEEL AND ROOFING SUPPLIES PTY LTD

t/12d12538-v7/2-15

Phone (03) 5828 9220. Fax: (03) 5828 9215.

‡%(1$//$‡(852$‡0$16),(/' 82 Roe Street, Benalla. Email: ofďŹ ce@bbfertilizers.com Fax: 5762 4366

www.bbfertilizers.com.au

T/12D12198/49-13

More than just fertilizer Cost effective hay and grain carting locally or to Port. Modern eet of trucks, public weighbridge Professional Services Assured

T/12D12288-V7/10-15

Benalla Bulk Fertilizers

Hingejoint

$115.50

3090 Midland Highway, Nalinga, Victoria, Australia 3631.

(02) 6033 4494 or Phil 0429 128 081 phil@riverinapoly.com.au www.riverinapoly.com.au

2.5 med or high tensile

$37ea $49.50ea $17.60 $4.29 $6.49

c12d12468-v10/0515

22,550 ltr (5000 gallon) TANK Only $2295 incl. GST & delivery Pump Deal from $2495 inc. GST.

Wire

Blk Pipe Galv Galv Blk H.D. Galv

NEWS

Page 4, North East Farmer

Solid half year results for Murray Goulburn

Ph: 9449 5777. Fax: 9449 5788 Mob: 0407 545 927

v/05D07867/06-15

www.eezeesheltersandstables.com.au

DESPITE a significant decline in global dairy commodity prices since July 2014, Murray Goulburn Co-operative Co. Limited (MG) has announced solid

GRAZIERS WANTED HEIFERLINK is market leader, performance driven, professional, total management and care. HEIFERLINK is seeking graziers to agist dairy heifers to start in 2015. HEIFERLINK pays the grazier so you deal with one entity. Graziers receive high rates and regular income based solely on weight gain, so there are excellent rewards for good management.

From page 1

Its time you rewarded yourself for your hard work Join the Heiferlink program – call now to enquire

Leon Schreiber on 0429 826 547

t/37d04507/2-15

&

COME & SEE US FOR YOUR LOG SPLITTER KITS

CALL OUT SERVICE

16 SYDNEY ROAD BENALLA 3672 PH (03) 5762 8366 , FAX (03) 5762 8377, MOB. 0418 348 417 Email: info@rapidhosesystemsbenalla.com.au

impact the half-year results. Sales revenue for the company was down one per cent at $1.3 billion compared to the previous corresponding period, with MG reporting that the fullyear forecast is “broadly in line with last year”. The company reported a half-year net profit after tax of $12.9 million compared to the $61 million in the previous corresponding period, however, according to MG the two periods are not directly comparable due to the higher input milk price paid at the beginning of the financial year “providing a significant cash flow benefit to

our dairy farmers”. There was a 6.8 per cent increase on MG’s intake of milk, with the company’s net debt sitting at $740 million compared to the $552 million for the previous year. According to Mr Helou the increase in debt was due to a number of factors including growth in milk intake and normal seasonal inventory increases. “A component of the increase is related to our ongoing investment program including manufacturing upgrades and the construction of our new consumer cheese plant in Cobram,” he said.

“But we need to move further on from that debate and focus more on the issues of market competition and pricing etc.” NSW Farmers’ president Fiona Simson said the ‘boycott’ was not the actions of “good corporate citizens”. “It’s alarming that processors attempted to resolve a dispute by abstaining from the bidding process,” she said. “Industry recognises that the issue of pre-sale verses post-sale weighing is contentious and we all want the outcome that is best for the industry. “But you don’t resolve these things through strong-arm tactics.” Londrigan cattle producer Bob Andrews is concerned that producers could collectively lose millions under a post-sale weight system and he is leading a movement against the weighing of livestock post-sale at Barnawartha’s saleyards. He said that if cattle lose weight (estimated at two per cent) during the yarding of any given sale, that would cost producers as much as $4.5 million per year based on current prices and volume at Barnawartha and up to $50 million if all 11 Victorian yards changed to post-weighing procedures. While Mr Andrews now sells most of his cattle paddock to plate, in the past he has sold chopper cows to the NVLE due to the high number of processors. He said if NVLE has gone post-sale weighing, it won’t be long before other

MLA FORECASTS FOR 2015 Slaughter

7.8 million head................down 15 per cent on 2014

Production

2.19 million tones cwt ......down 14 per cent on 2014

Beef exports

1.05 million tonnes swt ....down 19 per cent on 2014

Livestock exports

850,000 head ...................down 30 per cent on 2014

Domestic utilisation

640,000 tonnes cwt ........down 1.1 per cent on 2014 Source: Meat and Livestock Australia.

yards go the same way. Agents selling around North East Victoria’s cattle yards have been experiencing strong bidding and prices across all classes and grades of cattle, following on from a strong 2014. In total, more than $30.5 million was turned over at the Wangaratta saleyards last year with the strong demand for Australian beef in the United States boosting prices. Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) is predicting that theAustralian cattle industry is likely to experience “significant adjustments in the coming years in terms of improved prices and a battle in the export and the domestic markets for the reduced supplies”. High slaughter rates in 2013 and 2014 are likely to affect supplies this year, with significant reductions during 2015. Production levels are expected to be in line with the 10-year average, with the reduction in supplies creating a number of consequences including how available supplies will be balanced between new and existing customers.

This is expected to continue into 2016 with further supply shortages expected. Export prices are expected to remain strong after the record highs of 2014 as a result of low US beef production and strong global demand assisted by a lower Australian dollar. According to MLA, while Australian supplies are likely to decline in the coming two years, there is the potential for farm gate prices to lift. A reduction in export volumes is anticipated, mainly as a result of a decrease in Australian supplies – a trend that is likely to continue in 2016. The domestic market will remain under pressure as a result of the ongoing strength from international customers. Mr Feldtmann believes it is going to be a great year to be part of the beef industry. “Market indicators are giving confidence and sending the correct signals to producers. “There is a lot of potential for the beef industry to meet those markets,” he said.

t/12d112448-v2/36-14

& hy 24HR Call Out Service

“In the six months to December 31, 2014, MG mitigated the impact of global price movements with cost reductions and product mix optimisation. “These efforts have had a positive impact on the half-year results and support our ability to deliver a farmgate milk price of $6 per kilogram milk solids. “Providing consistently stronger farmgate prices and reducing business volatility for our dairy farmers is a key focus for MG,” Mr Helou said. Mr Helou added that the moderating Australian dollar occurred too late in the December half to materially

‘Boycott’ hits cattle prices hard

HEIFERLINK has stood the test of time (est. 1989).

Hydraulic Hose Specialists (Largest range in North East Victoria) Hydraulic Cylinder Repairs Speedflow performance car hose and fittings All hydraulic repairs and modifications Suppliers of all major brand hydraulic components Stockists of Legris pneumatic fittings and air line 24hr 7 days a week on site service Machining engineering facilities Guaranteed to beat any competitors pricing on hose and fittings Stockists of Valvoline hydraulic fluids We can assist in system design and installation

half-year results and confirmed a $6 per kilogram milk solids farmgate price for 12 months. MG managing director Gary Helou said that delivering the $6 per kilogram price, while maintaining profitability at the shareholder level was of vital importance to dairy farmers. “The price is evidence of the success of our strategy to invest in order to increase our diversification across domestic and export markets and product flexibility across retail, food service and ingredients, enabling us to maximise milk price in a variety of market conditions.

MERINO RAMS

FOR PRIVATE TREATY

Leon Martin

0428 577 138

www.charmacmerinos.com

AW1526816 v/12d12947/10-15

Eezee Shelters & Stables

Carports, Floats, Boats, Caravans, Trucks, Stock, anything.

March 2015

NEWS

March 2015

North East Farmer, Page 5

Stubble work under way as paddocks are prepared for sowing THIS summer has been very unusual so far. We have only had a handful of days above 35 degrees, but we have endured a fair amount of high humidity. We had a thunderstorm on February 24 that knocked our weighbridge out of action by damaging the weighing instrument. We cannot see evidence of a direct lightning hit, but the people from TriState weighing have advised that the lightning only needs to hit the ground nearby for it to cause issues, so I guess that is what happened.

MURRAY GILBY, with wife

Denise and son Colin, farm a 700 hectare cropping property at Kotupna, 30 kilometres east of Echuca. The farming enterprise includes cropping canola, barley and wheat, along with an agricultural contracting business, supplying customers with all their cropping needs.

We do have an earth stake earthing the weigh plate for this reason. We have ďŹ nished harvesting the safower with good results from the better crops and some very ordinary yields where there is a resistant grass problem. There is a respectable tonnage to be delivered

when negotiations between our agent and the buyer are ďŹ nalised. The question is if they will buy it as it is, or if we need to get it cleaned prior to sale. Our stubble work is progressing along steadily. We have chained nearly all our cereals and all the

safower stubble is done bar the 80 hectares which had a lot of hog weed and loosestrife in the low areas that held a lot of water following the heavy rains we had during sowing last season. This ground has all been worked up with the offset disc and will be boarded once the weeds dry out, to get it back level again. Truck work has been very slow this month with just one or two loads per week being done, but I guess that leaves time for other pursuits. Football and netball kick off at the end of

March and our local team, Picola United, recruited a good number of new faces prior to Christmas. Training began in midDecember and has been tough, but with good attendances each week, we are looking forward to this season. From what I have seen at training it will be unlike the past few years – every player will have to work hard to earn their spot in the senior side. The netball girls have also recruited well and are looking forward to another successful year both on and off the court.

Ring NOW for your BROAD ACRE needs! Ring Gavin Snowdon for more information m:

0427 218 563 phone: 5721 8563 www.gltweeds.com.au info@gltweeds.com.au j/12d12160-v11/10-15

1ST AND 2ND GRADE CONCRETE PIPES

New wine vintage for Baileys of Glenrowan sure it was ideally matched climate wise to Glenrowan. “We didn’t just pick a variety because it was in fashion, we picked a variety that was well suited to the growing conditions. “It’s going to be very adapting to the warming conditions that we’re facing,� Mr Dahlenburg said. He added that there has been very good depth of flavor and excellent colors in the grapes, which he described as a good

indication they have got the hallmarks of a good vintage. “It has been a good growing season in terms of maintaining vine health and if you have this and vine balance it usually equates to good fruit,� he said. Baileys produced its first release of its organically produced wine in 2012. The winery uses naturally occurring products in the vineyards, including no synthetic chemicals to make it an organic product.

Those who work at Baileys like to refer to the organic practice as going back to the establishment’s heritage, the way it was managed 140 years ago. “They wouldn’t have had a lot of the tools that we have today, so we’ve just gone back to the historic ways of farming the place and we’ve been seeing good results so far. “It’s a nice and sustainable way to grow grapes,� Mr Dahlenburg said.

We stock a large range of 2nd grade concrete pipes. No rubbish. We supply our customers with the quality of pipe required to do the job. Rubber ring quality - no worries. Why pay 1st grade prices when cheaper, good quality second grade pipes will do the job just as well? THINKING PIPES? THINK PIPEWORKS! We also sell: ‡ VW JUDGH SLSHV ‡ :DWHU WURXJKV ‡ +HDGZHOOV ‡ )HHG WURXJKV ‡ &KDQQHO VWRSV ‡ %D\ RXWOHWV ‡ &RQFUHWH IHQFLQJ ‡ %R[ FXOYHUWV DQG PRUH t/12d11928/32-13

A NEW variety of wine will be harvested this year for the first time at Baileys of Glenrowan and it is expected to hit the retail shelves in about 18 months. Nero d’Avola is a Sicilian red grape variety that has been planted at the vineyard as it is suited to the warm growing conditions of Glenrowan, which Baileys winemaker of 20 years Paul Dahlenburg said is much akin to Sicily’s climate. “I think it’s exciting because we did a lot of work to make

507 Diggora Rd, Rochester. Ph (03) 5484 1799 )D[ ‡ &ROLQ ‡ -LP ZZZ SLSH QHW DX ‡ SLSHZRUNVURFKHVWHU#ELJSRQG FRP

WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND AT CALVING TIME?

THINK CALF SCOURS THINK ROTAVEC

Calving time is one of the busiest times of the year. Calf scours can impact your business in so many ways today and tomorrow. U Extra stress, labour and cost in treatment and control U Fewer replacement heifers and adverse fertility outcomes U Lowered growth and production performance U Fewer eligible animals for live export Vaccinate your herd prior to calving with ROTAVEC CORONA, the BROADEST SPECTRUM# calf scours vaccine containing Rotavirus, Coronavirus, E.coli and Clostridium perfringens (Types C and D).

TOLL FREE 1800 226 511 www.coopersanimalhealth.com.au K/05D07825/06-15

# Broadest spectrum refers to total number of antigen types in Rotavec Corona. ÂŽ Registered trademark. AU/GUA/0115/0004

NEWS

Page 6, North East Farmer JAM PACKED WITH JAPANESE ENGINEERING

WE'VE SQUASHED OUR PRICES. kubota.com.au

GREAT FINANCE DEA LS M SERIES TRACTORS

1

ONLY

* .99% P.A .

20% Deposit, 36 Monthly Repayments, Nil Balloon. Terms, Fees and Conditions Apply. "End of Year Clearout" Offer expires 17/12/2014

M7040DH with M200P Loader

$$44,000 $44,000

incl. incl. GST GST

Includes:Includes Hi-Back Feed out Frame,Canopy, Strobe & Conditional Registration

M100GX Tractor

$90,000

incl. GST

Includes:100HP tractor with intelli-shift transmission Burder8070XP Deluxe Loader, 2.1m bucket, 3rd function, HiBack Frame

t/12d12581/10-15

M110GX Tractor

$95,000

M135XDCS Tractor incl. GST

Includes:110HP tractor with intelli-shift transmission Burder8070XP Deluxe Loader, 2.1m bucket, 3rd function, HiBack Frame

$115,000

incl. GST

Includes:135HP tractor with intelli-shift transmission Burder8070XP Deluxe Loader, 2.1m bucket, 3rd function, HiBack Frame

March 2015

The anti-dumping policy puts NOW that the Australian government appears to have established an antidumping policy for canned fruit and vegetables, it will now be focusing on research and development to ensure companies are able to run efficiently and be sustainable instead of handing out cheques in a bid to save Australian manufacturers that find themselves in crisis like the recent situation with SPC Ardmona. In a visit to North East Victoria, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Liberal Senator for Tasmania Richard Colbeck said that alongside a solid anti-dumping policy the manufacturing industry particularly SPC Ardmona - needs to look very closely at its innovation and how it presents its product to both local and overseas markets. “If I have a criticism of the industry in Australia it would be around innovation,” Senator Colbeck said. “We have become quite comfortable in a certain mode and haven’t, over a considerable period of time, undertaken some of the innovation that is required.

Innovation, R&D and solid anti-dumping policy BY JODIE FLEMING

jfleming@ nemedia.com.au

“In our government policy setting we need to look at how we interact with industry around that space because the feedback that I have had is that we need to focus on innovation and a broader innovation policy and how industry might interact with that.” He said that the Australian government will be focusing on assisting businesses with research and development to ensure companies have the most efficient and cost-effective logistics and infrastructure. “What we would prefer to do is to take as much cost out of their cost of doing business because that is a saving every day of the year. “Something like reducing the carbon tax is not just a one-off cost. “It comes off the cost of doing business which can then be invested into their business. “It’s not just about the cheque, it’s about the

ANTI-DUMPING NIGHTMARE: ‘Dumped’ products were a key factor in driving the last big Australian fruit and tomato manufacturer, SPC Ardmona into the ground.

broader policy settings that contribute to their overall cost of doing business, which then makes their fundamental cost of doing business more sustainable,” Senator Colbeck said. One of the issues being thrown at Senator Colbeck

by the agricultural industry, food processing sector and exporters is that as an agricultural trading nation any transaction needs to be a “two-way street” and balanced. “We are having discussions with other countries at the moment about im-

port protocols into their country and they are saying that the protocols are fine, but what about the import protocols into your country. “We export, and yes, a lot of it is bulk grain and beef, but increasingly it’s processed foods into higher quality and value markets. “We need to be prepared to balance that, so I am very cautious about getting into a situation where we are asking them to remove their tariffs, we are asking them to give us reduced restrictions into their market, and if we are, at the same time putting walls up, that is not going to work.” According to Senator Colbeck the varied industries within Australia all want different procurement policies. “The ship building industry wants to remove the procurement policies, but SPC is saying to us, put a wall up here. “Horticulture, which is a high-value product that trades into high-value markets, is saying to us very loudly that it wants a free flow of trade and they don’t want barriers in place.” Continued page 7

REDEFINING PRODUCTIVITY AN INVESTMENT IN CONFIDENCE

Since pioneering the telescopic handler concept in 1977, JCB continues to set the standard in quality and innovation.

Call Michaels Moama, Cobb Highway, Moama (03) 5480 0731 or Brad Michael 0428 300 883

t/12d12955/10-15

Supremely versatile, the JCB telehandler is reliable and productive, well deserving of its world leading position.

NEWS

March 2015

North East Farmer, Page 7 NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

Australia on fair playing field www.nemedia.com.au Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria

are the key to saving SPC Ardmona „ From page 6

African Competition Tribunal on the grounds of collusion and anticompetitive behavior with a competitor, Langeberg & Ashton Foods. As a result of this development, Dr Stone is calling on the ADC to reinvestigate the case of the South African peaches imports, just as they are now reinvestigating the case of the dumped tin tomatoes. “We must have a fair playing ďŹ eld in the Australian market to give Australian companies a ďŹ ghting chance,â€? Dr Stone said. “Rhodes Food and Langeberg & Ashton Foods are the same two South African companies found by the Australian Anti-Dumping Commission to be not dumping preserved fruit on the Australian market. “In 2009 a South African Competition Commission started to investigate and eventually concluded that Rhodes Food had been ďŹ xing prices, dividing markets and collusively tendering in foreign markets, particularly in Australia where they were price fixing apricots, peaches, pears and fruit cocktail. “However, late in 2013

QUALITY LOG SPLITTERS TAS

John Houghton’s

ELDERS INSURANCE Wangaratta

We want to save you money Ask one of our team for a comparison quote - for all your insurance needs

FARMS BUSINESS PERSONAL siness

Let us quote for your bu Speak to our team John Houghton Stephen Fulton Carmel or Cos

0407 303 691 0435 803 979 (03) 5722 1400

- By Locals - For Locals

LOG SPLITTERS

Elders Insurance Wangaratta

BEST design. BEST quality. BEST selection.

(03) 5722 1400

24 Rowan Street WANGARATTA 3676

Cropmark Seeds

/0 4 (" 0&)"/ 5 1&(0 0+1$% 5 "(( "*$&*""."! +$ (&#0". 00 %)"*0 2 &( (" 5 3 4 +. 3 4 '*&#" . 0+. ,( )+1*0"! *! ,+.0 (" )+!"(/ * " ."$&/0"."! #+. +* .+ ! 1/"

SPLIT YOUR FIREWOOD the FAST and EASY way

REGIONAL PASTURE NEWS with Adam Sheedy

PASTURE RENEWAL MAKES SENSE

TALK TO HOBART SPLIT-FIRE +. )+." &*#+ 2&/&0 333 /,(&0 6 ." +)

Farm and Water Expo Tallangatta Showgrounds April 23rd New innovations Plant & Equipment Over 100 Exhibitors 5 Lucky Gate Prizes are 5 Dairy packs valued at $50 courtesy of Murray Goulburn

Pastures are the cheapest form of feed on our farms, so it makes sense to have them producing to their maximum. High performing pastures will help maximise your farm’s productivity and profitability, while poorly performing pastures will result in less profitable farming. To maximise total farm production, all pastures should be producing to their optimum. A pasture renewal programme is essential for this, be it full renovation or over-sowing to increase their productivity and extend their productive life. The recommendation however is not to skimp on the cost of seed. Seed is only a relatively small part of the overall cost of re-grassing relative to the overall cost of cultivation and sprays. Research has shown time after time that buying cheap seed doesn’t pay, as the varieties tend to be lower yielding. The extra yield of high performing varieties such as Matrix enhanced perennial ryegrass or Sonik Italian ryegrass more than pays for the small per hectare cost of seed difference in the first year alone. An alternative to full renovation is over-sowing, and this can be worthwhile where pastures have been partially damaged, or are opening up. Oversowing with high performing varieties such as Matrix and Sonik can extend the life of those pastures and restore their productivity.

Phone: 0428 132 096 Site registration forms and competition entry details available by emailing

tallangattafarmandwaterexpo@gmail.com or phone 0409 448 950 or 0427 712 561 Sponsors: Towong Shire Council, Rotary Club Tallangatta, Tas Villas Group, The Border Mail, Barlens Events Hire, Paull & Scollard, Cleanaway, Tasco Inland your Caltex distributor.

www.cropmark.com.au

t/12d12588-v4/10-15

K/12D12406-V3/10-15

Women’s Shed / Party Plan Exhibitors on site Something for Everyone A fun Day for All

!

You have nothing to lose

t/12d10315-v10/27-12

and better regulations were introduced, with Australia now revisiting the “bad decision that the anti-dumping commission made on letting the two big importers goâ€?. Mr Colbeck, who was part of the group that took the new anti-dumping legislation through to the Senate, believes that Australia was looked upon as a “very free place to get through the systemâ€? and that has now changed signiďŹ cantly. “We didn’t use the tools that we had available to us to work effectively as we could in that forum. “There is no question about that and we are now in a better situation,â€? he said. In 2013, the Australian Anti-Dumping Commission (ADC) found that the South African tinned peaches ooding the Australian market were not being ‘dumped’ at a rate to attract anti-dumping duties, which was a severe blow to SPC Ardmona who brought the case to the ADC. However, recent developments concerning South African fruit company Rhodes Foods has it accepting a $126,000 ďŹ ne instead of facing the South

these dumped products as well as the dumped canned tomatoes,â€? she said. Dr Stone welcomed the decision by ADC commissioner Dale Seymour in initiating the new antidumping case against Italian companies La Doria S.p.A and Feger di Gerado Ferrailoi S.p.A. In April last year antidumping duties were applied to 103 companies out of the 105 exporting Italian canned tomatoes to Australia. This represented 55 per cent of the Italian canned tomatoes volume coming into Australia. “The dumped products were a key factor in driving the last big Australian fruit and tomato manufacturer into the ground. “The imported Italian tomatoes were undercutting prices by more than 30 per cent leading to signiďŹ cant reductions in sales,â€? Dr Stone said.

t/12d12492-v4/45-14

He added that having a procurement policy will not protect companies like SPC Ardmona that have not done much in the way of innovation over many years. “We probably need to give Australian companies a 10 per cent advantage on price. “To protect an SPC in the long term – well it is about them being efďŹ cient and cost effective in the broader scheme of the market and that means us (government) getting out of the way as much as possible and then providing them with other market opportunities into premium markets.â€? According to Federal Member for Murray Sharman Stone the “key thingâ€? that was killing SPC Ardmona was the dumped imports, something she has worked very hard to eradicate. “When Tony Abbott said he wasn’t going to help them (SPC Ardmona) out with the $23 million to innovate we had a shocking anti-dumping regime in this country, which was totally, non-nationally focused. “It was all about how can we keep ourselves out of the world trade organisation in terms of having to pay for challenges to decisions, and they acknowledge that now. “Tony Abbott said to me on the phone, ‘Look, I’m not going to help you, but you have told me that anti-dumping is a problem so I’ll ďŹ x it’, and he has,â€? she said. Dr Stone added that it is only recently that new

the ADC dismissed the case brought by SPCA, which argued produce was being dumped. “The New Zealand Anti-Dumping Authority also had an inquiry, considering the same product and prices at the same time. “Not surprisingly New Zealand found that there was dumping and extended its anti-dumping duties to continue to cover the South African imports. “Over the past three years Rhodes Food massively increased its Australian market shares of processed pears by 102 per cent, peaches increased by 50 per cent and apricots increased by four per cent in Australia. “This increase of exports to Australia almost crippled Australia’s last fruit processing company SPCA. “SPCA simply could not compete with the price of

March 2015

Page 8, North East Farmer

e are Maryvale Lim alers looking for de

so contact us today

TYPICAL ANALYSIS

Maryvale Lime is renowned for being one of the highest quality Ag Limes in Victoria.

Calcium Carbonate Equivalent Calcium Magnesium Carbonate Equivalent

Originating from the Australian Paper Manufacturing in Maryvale, its production process allows for repeatable and predictable high quality ďŹ ne ground limestone for years to come.

CaCo3

102.75%

Ca

41.1%

MgCo3

0.89%

Neutralising Value NV Calculated

103.8%

Effective Neutralising Value - ENV

98.82%

Moisture

12%

Nitrogen

ppm

448

Phosphorus

ppm

4840

Potassium

Due to its high level of calcium and superior neutralising value, this quality lime is a perfect soil conditioner that will help reduce your soil acidity and will provide your soil with the calcium that it requires.

Sulphur

By applying Maryvale Lime, availability of essential plant nutrients is increased and improvements in plant health and growth are continually achieved.

>, (9, /,9,

0.0619% ppm

Sodium

0.104 0.834%

Manganese

ppm

65

Zinc

ppm

8.69

Copper

ppm

2.22

Cobalt

ppm

0.3

Boron

ppm

4.37

Molybdenum

ppm

Magnesium

0.138 0.253%

Cadmium

ppm

Nill

Lead

ppm

Nill

Mercury

ppm

Nill

4HY`]HSL 9K (7 >LPNOIYPKNL 4HY`]HSL

;V Ă„UK V\[ TVYL HIV\[ 4HY`]HSL 3PTL JVU[HJ[ \Z [VKH` B/12d11803/19-13

“THE VALUE WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO RESIST� T1880 Mower

$4,290

incl. GST

Includes: 18HP mower with 42" Infinity Deck, easy steering and low noise levels for operator comfort

RTV900XTG

$21,230

incl. GST

Includes: 22HP diesel ROPS general purpose utility vehicle with full hydrostatic power steering and dynamic braking. Runout model, limited stock.

KJ-T130DX Generator

U35-4 Excavator

$15,771

$56,000

incl. GST

Includes: 12.5kVA 3 Phase Diesel Generator is designed to minimise space requirements and features automatic shut down

incl. GST

Includes: Kubota's 3.5 tonne minimum tail swing excavator. With factory air conditioning and the largest, most comfortable cabin in it's class.

See how easy it is to fall in love with a new Kubota.

kubota.com.au

198-200 Numurkah Rd, Shepparton, VIC, 3630 Phone 03 5821 3299 Fax 03 5831 1728 paul@bertolifarmmachinery.com.au

E/12D12228-V14/10-15

Contact: BERTOLI'S FARM MACHINERY

North East Farmer, Page 9

March 2015

A N E W A P P R OAC H M S E R I ES T R AC T O R

POWER PACKAGE 132HP AND 4020 FEL

118,690

$

INC GST

TRACTOR & LOADER

UPGRADE 50KM FRONT SUSPENSION 4 REMOTES +120L/MIN HYDRAULIC PUMP

ONLY $2,200 INC GST

AGROTRON RANGE PROVEN TECHNOLOGY A REAL WORKHORSE A tractor at the centre of an agricultural operation must not only powerful and reliable, it also must be able to manage wide-ranging and frequently changing jobs such as combined operations involving both front and rear mounted implements. The powerful drivetrain and efficient, easily controllable hydraulic system on the Agrotron ensure that it is super-economical to use.

Easy clear layout with mulit-functional armrest control.

THE FEATURES DEUTZ Tier 3 common rail 6 cylinder engines, turbo intercooler, 132hp Hydraulic system with variable displacement Load Sensing pump 24F + 24R ZF German transmission c/w speed matching Comfort clutch Mechanical cab and front axle suspension systems Spacious cab with air conditioning and excellent view German Built

t SHEPPARTON t CHRISTIAN BARNETT: 0409 475 462

Deutz-Fahr Tier 3 fuel efficient diesel engine.

1800 872 2867 DEUTZTRACTORS.COM.AU v/12d12949/10-15

NEWS

Page 10, North East Farmer

March 2015

Country Fire Authority now issuing permits for agricultural burns FARMERS across the North East can now apply for a permit to conduct agricultural burns and start planning for next season’s crop. Recenct rains across cropping areas and the higher moisture content in crop residue will allow farmers an early

opportunity to remove excess vegetation and start planning for next crop round. CFA District 23 operations manager Stewart Kreltszheim said from this month farmers can apply for burn permits from their local councils. He said people would need

to adhere to a strict set of conditions as part of the permit, including a late light-up time, having two private firefighting units in attendance, and restrictions on vegetation types that could be burnt. “These provisions are intended to reduce the risk of

Farm Sheds Commercial Industrial Sheds

,ɑ Lɢ Fʋɚ ȩɏ ʍʦɵɸɢ ʍɨ ʋʜ\ʝȸɏ Lɢ Fʋɚ ȩɏ ʍʦɵɸɢ ʍɨ 0Dɋ-Dɋ

ȾʑȷʑQWɡ $ʜɨ ʣɔɇɏ ʋʜɨ ȾHʡʦʖ ɓ ɭʙȲʑQɢ Dɭ ɠ H Iʝ &XVWʝə ʍʦɵɸɢ

7ȱɏ ʢLɳKɢ ɭKʝLȪɏ Iʝɠ \ʝɤ

S/12D11710/NEF1013

M: 0419 322 015 P: 02 6040 8452 F: 02 6040 8334 E: mark@macjacsheds.com.au www.macjacsheds.com.au

461 Wagga Road, PO Box 5039 Lavington NSW 2641

CFA and Victoria Police will continue to have a zero tolerance approach to anyone lighting a fire without a permit or outside permit conditions. Lighting a fire in the open in the fire danger period without a permit is an offence and can attract a penalty of more than

any agricultural burn escaping, and moderate fire behavior,” Mr Kreltszheim said. “CFA will closely monitor the weather to ensure there is a balance between the need for farmers to manage their land, and the risk of introducing fire into the environment.”

A WHOLE NEW ERA OF VALUE

WITH 0% FINANCE

*

$17,000 and/or 12 months imprisonment. CFA officers may undertake inspections to check permit compliance. For details on burning off permits for agricultural purposes contact your council’s municipal fire prevention officer.

High temporary water prices here to stay FARMERS are likely to see no easing of the price for temporary water in Victoria. NSW Murray and Murrumbidgee prices have dropped to $105 per megalitre, however, Victoria is still trading close to $120 per megalitre. The Federal Government is faced with many more regulations for trading assets (temporary water). The Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (CEWH) has to comply with many issues, and I think that the CEWH water will not go out of CEWH’s hands to be traded. Water in the NSW southern basin will probably go through a tender process administered by CEWH. Private irrigation company or private water in Victoria is freely traded and does not have the restrictions of commonwealth asset trading, with tenders and auctions more closely aligned to CEWH thinking than trading with brokers. The situation is getting to a stage where many farmers are looking to buy forward delivery water for delivery in August and September. This is a sign of a maturing market being balanced by forward orders. So the current price of $120 per megalitre is being supported by the carryover rules and forward orders. The likely outcome is that the traditional fall of price in April will not be experienced again as sellers have new options of where to place their water. Factors that have changed temporary

By BRUCE DIFFEY

Waterwheel Traders water trading between NSW and Victoria include: s #%7( NOT ORDERING WATER FOR THE environmental flow in July through to September; s NEW INTRA VALLEY LIMITS RESTRICTING trade between NSW to Victoria prior to spill announcements; s CARRYOVER POLICY AND PARTIAL LOSSES to spill account influenced by the CEWH not ordering and creating air space to have low-risk spill declaration; s DIMINISHED LIKELIHOOD OF LOW SECU rity allocations in Victoria because of above policies. As an observer, all irrigators need to review how the environmental water is used. When is it likely to be called out of storage and why is there CEWH water in spill accounts that was cancelled when better utilisation would have solved a lot of the spill losses? Why is there a temporary market with limited supply, when the water in Victoria was held pending low risk of spill announcements? The system is flawed unless there is good will to take the CEWH allocation out in spring.

THE EFFECTIVE & PROVEN ANIMAL & BIRD REPELLENT YOU CAN RELY ON

REGISTERED FOR USE AGAINST ALL ANIMALS & BIRDS

MF8600SERIES | 320 – 370 HP AGCO POWER 8.4 litre tier II engine Rowcrop or Broadacre Specification Dyna-VT Continuously Variable Transmission with Dynamic Tractor Management – STANDARD

Front suspension and 50 kph – STANDARD Large fuel tanks for longer working days 4 point active hydraulic cab suspension Longer, more robust fender extensions

®

12 tonne rear and optional 5 tonne front linkage capacity Autosteer ready – STANDARD

Protects herbs, vegetables, trees and shrubs from possums, kangaroos, wallabies, rabbits, hares, bandicoots, deer, foxes and other wildlife. Protects vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals, seedlings and buildings from cockatoos, crows, ducks, pigeons, rosellas, starlings, swallows,

www.masseyferguson.com.au

MASSEY FERGUSON®, MF®, the triple-triangle logo® is a worldwide brand of AGCO. © 2015

®

is unique. Reject products said to be "just as good", nothing is at all "like it". For further information send 2x70¢ stamps to: D-TER, Dept NEF, PO Box 3, Oyster Bay, NSW 2225. Enquiries: Phone (02) 9589 0703. Fax (02) 9589 0147.

j/05d07841/06-15

* Offer ends 31 March 2015, while stocks last. Finance available to approved AGCO Finance customers who hold a current ABN. 30% deposit and 36 monthly repayments in arrears. GST paid in fourth month.

t/12d12249-v15/10-15

COBRAM Cobram Farm Equipment, Lot 3 Murray Valley Highway .. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...(03) 5872 1722 CORRYONG Roger C. Brown P/L, Hanson Street ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...(02) 6076 1788 ECHUCA Agpower Echuca P/L, 140 Ogilvie Avenue . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...(03) 5482 2264 KYABRAM Albion (Kyabram) Motors P/L, 33-39 Albion Street .. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...(03) 5852 1977 NAGAMBIE John Sanderson Machinery P/L, 36-38 Industrial Crescent ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...(03) 5794 2272 SHEPPARTON Bertoli Farm Machinery, 198-200 Numurkah Road. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...(03) 5821 3299 WALLA WALLA CJ & LH Wiesner P/L, 77-79 Commercial St . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...(02) 6029 2151

other birds, fruit bats and micro bats in building cavities. Protects homes, gardens and patios from dogs and cats or rats and mice. Protect one plant or a whole area Repels — without harming animals or humans. Not considered a poison — no withholding period. Easy to use - spray on. Effective when dry. Safe, Proven and Effective. Available in 100g, 1kg & 4kg Sizes.

North East Farmer, Page 11

March 2015

CX8105

/// ')++$, .,-+ &$ )' .

Up to 31ft working width 3,695 and 4,045 litres t GU BOE GU XPSLJOH XJEUIT t w PS w SPX TQBDJOH t UBOL PQUJPO t /BSSPX SPBE USBOTQPSU PG N

t "SUJDVMBUFE EFTJHO SFEVDFT XFJHIU BOE JODSFBTFT MBOE GPMMPXJOH BCJMJUZ t 7BSJBCMF SBUF NFUFSJOH t $MPTF DPVQMFE

New T5 Electro Command

Shifting to the next level.

National Distributor for Morris: www.mcintoshdistribution.com.au

New Roll-Belt. Change your baling style

Enjoy maximum exibility of a sixteen-speed semipowershift transmission from the luxury of the new visionviewtm cab.

ˆ ,EWWPI JVII XVERWQMWWMSR IJ½GMIRG] ERH TSHYGXMZMX] WIPIGX YT XS IMKLX 'PYXGLPIWW gear speeds via up and downshift buttons, and a 40 kph transport speed at a mere 1970 RPM, slashing fuel bills. ˆ Comfort RideTM cab maintaining a silky smooth ride no matter how harsh the terrain. ˆ Modular front linkage and PTO options making the T5 Electro Command as adaptable as you are. ˆ Select a PLM option to suit you and maintain centimeter perfect running with the FM-750 monitor. ˆ The deluxe VisionViewTM cab’s ergonomic control layout, comfort and visibility and the all-round versatility you’ve come to expect of a T5.

If you want to boost your output by up to 20% with up to 5% denser bales, the Roll-Belt baler is the natural choice. ˆ Two models Roll-Belt 150 and 180 with the numbers representing bale diameter. ˆ All-new pick-up design featuring a brand new feeding logic guaranteeing clean ½IPHW MR WYTIV JEWX XMQI ˆ Standard dual density systems ensures uniformly dense bales and provides up to 5% denser bales. ˆ Order before February 28th to save thousands.

ECHUCA RURAL

COBRAM RURAL

37- 41 Cornelia Creek Rd, Echuca VIC, 3564 Phone: (03) 5482 2788 www.echucarural.com.au

92 Karook St, Cobram VIC, 3644 Phone: (03) 5871 3333 www.ruralgroup.com.au

c12d12179-v13/1015

Your distributors of

NEWS

Page 12, North East Farmer

March 2015

More accurate weather forecasting MAKING jokes about the weather forecaster always getting the weather wrong could be a thing of the past according to new research by a NufďŹ eld scholar. In his paper ‘Weather Forecasting & Business Management Systems’ South Australian Nuffield scholar Robin Schaefer said ďŹ ve and seven day forecasts in Australia have increased in accuracy by 45 per cent over the past 30 years, while the three-day forecast has increased by 27 per cent to become 97 per cent accurate. Mr Schaefer, who undertook his NufďŹ eld scholarship study with support from the Grains Research and Development Corporation, said forecasting technology and methods have come a long way with the advent of more sophisticated technology like satellite forecasting, however, he said it is still important that we are wary of the impact of oversubscribing to forecast data. “Given the uncertain nature of weather forecasts, the riskiest thing anyone could do is to take a weather forecast literally. “In the media we see stories of farmers who followed a forecast of a drought literally, made a dramatic business decision, such as deciding not to sow any crop at all or totally de-stocking, which proved to be the correct decision and

resulted in a dramatic escape from its effects. “For every one of these stories, there are many more where a dramatic decision proved to be incorrect resulting in huge losses. “As weather forecasts continue to become more accurate farmers will begin to increase their reliance on them. “However, this could increase the risk to the business, especially when the forecast will inevitably be wrong,â€? Mr Schaefer said. He concluded that weather forecasting has a lot more progress to make, both in longer term seasonal forecasting and more localised predictions via micro meteorology, to help farmers make the most of decisions informed by weather. “The weather is an essential part of planning daily operations and in the longer term can mean the difference between a proďŹ table and unproďŹ table year. “As a farmer I am also a weather forecaster, I refer to as much information as possible, from as many sources as I have available, then use this information to inuence my decision making. “Research needs to be targeted at seasonal forecasting. “Investigations for this report have conďŹ rmed there is plenty of scope to continue to

M

ACCURATE OPINION: Farmer and Australian Nuffield scholar Robin Schaefer said forecasting technology and methods have come a long way with the advent of more sophisticated technology.

improve seasonal forecasting. “To achieve this, researchers need to think outside the square, to be bold and innovative. “On the opposite end of the scale, season forecasting is the emerging science of micro meteorology. “Currently any micro meteorology data that is collected is not normally available to farmers,� he said.

O

R

E

S

U

C

Mr Schaefer added that as technology improves, with the advent of on-farm instrumentation and communications systems and satellite-derived instantly retrievable information, it will become possible to map microclimate variations. Meanwhile, the CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology released climate change projections for Australia that provide

C

E

S

S

W

I

updated national and regional information on how the climate may change to the end of the 21st century. Researchers from both organisations have conďŹ rmed that most of the changes observed over recent decades will continue into the future. “There is very high confidence that hot days will become more frequent and hot-

T

H

P

Ă–

T

T

ter, CSIRO principal research scientist Kevin Hennessy said. “We also have very high conďŹ dence that sea levels will rise, oceans will become more acidic and snow depths will decline. “We expect that extreme rainfall events across the nation are likely to become more intense, even where annualaverage rainfall is projected to decline.â€? In southern mainland Australia, winter and spring rainfall is projected to decrease, but increases are projected for Tasmania in winter. By 2090, winter rainfall is expected to decrease in eastern Australia. Southern and eastern Australia is projected to experience harsher ďŹ re weather. “This research has been strongly aligned with the needs of Australia’s natural resources sector,â€? Mr Hennessy said. “Other researchers are using this information to assess potential impacts and management options.â€? The Bureau of Meteorology has observed that since the 1970s, northern Australia has become wetter, southern Australia has become drier, the number of extreme ďŹ re weather days has increased in many places, and heavy rainfall has accounted for an increasing proportion of annual-total rainfall.

I

N

G

E

R

Effective Soil Preparation. TERRADISC 3001

LION VITASEM ADD

PÖTTINGER TERRADISC 6001 T „ Robust twin-arm design to prevent lateral movement of the discs

Australia

„ Working widths of 3 to 6 m „ Low maintenance, long-lasting, large diameter discs „ Large clearance between arms and discs for excellent material ow TERRASEM C8 FERTILIZER

t/12d12613-v3/2-15

www.poettinger.com.au

3K John de Haan 0488 585 003 21 Telford Drive, Shepparton Australia ZZZ VKHSSDUWRQDJ FRP DX

March 2015

North East Farmer, Page 13

t/12d12921-v2/10-15

NEWS

Page 14, North East Farmer

March 2015

Growers chase nut levy control THE 800-tonne per year chestnut industry in North East Victoria and southern New South Wales has an opportunity to double and possibly triple in size in the next decade. But growers meeting

BY JAMIE KRONBORG jkronborg@ nemedia.com.au

in Beechworth last month expressed concern and

frustration that growth opportunities could be thwarted unless the industry’s control of horticultural research, development and marketing can be secured beyond another year.

PJN

“Simply Better Sheds” Industrial & Commercial Buildings

Farm Sheds & Rural Buildings

Superior Structural Frames

Exceptional Quality Assurance

Standard or Custom Design

Deal Direct with Manufacturer

Installation Fully Arranged

Obligation Free Quotes

PJN Steel Fabrication Licence No 164513C

u12d10170-v11/10-12

Ph: (02) 6029 2411 Email: phil@pjnsheds.com.au

Web: www.pjnsheds.com.au

Chestnut Australia president Adam Gatford, a Tumbarumba grower, said that confusion caused largely by the federal government’s introduction of a new, corporatised horticultural industry management structure in Australia left the relatively small chestnut sector under threat. The association is concerned that growers’ levies that help to fund research, development and marketing could be lost in Horticultural Innovation Australia (HIAL), the new peak organisation. “Massive change will happen for us in the next 12 months and we have to figure out the best way and how to get our funding and our levy secured and how we can control our spending,” Mr Gatford said. “We basically have control assured for the next year but after that there are some really big question marks and this is going to affect us all significantly. “The way we market is

MAKING PLANS: Eurobin chestnut grower Jane Casey (left) with industry officer Trevor Ranford, Melbourne wholesaler Joe Petroro, Stanley growers Joy and Andrew Hall and Dave McIntyre, Chestnuts Australia communications officer Tanya Edwards, president Adam Gatford and Cathy McGowan (MHR, Indi) at the chestnut industry conference in Beechworth last month. PHOTO: Jamie Kronborg

also going to be affected, I believe. “I don’t think it’s just a straight up research and development thing. “Marketing is also going to be affected in this (new) structure.” Chestnut growers in the North East and southern NSW produce about 80 per cent of Australia’s fresh chestnuts. In 2013-14 the industry contributed more than $88,000 to research, development and marketing, to which the federal government added $64,300 in ‘matched’ funding. Another $61,200 was provided by growers in voluntary contributions to support a chestnut study tour in Europe.

The industry is deeply concerned that its control of these funds could be largely watered down under the HIA. The association has since approached Cathy McGowan (MHR, Indi) to help the chestnut industry maintain this funding control. Ms McGowan told the conference that if chestnut production could be doubled or tripled in North East Victoria “that would just be fantastic”. She said she could help the industry to meet with senior politicians, but growers had to determine the strategy. “We’ve got to influence (Agriculture Minister) Barnaby Joyce, we’ve got to influence the new

organisation, HIAL, and we’ve got to have a bit of a vision about how we actually want it to play out,” Ms McGowan said. “I’m up for this. “I’m up for being a partner in growing the chestnut industry and, through it, horticulture in Indi. “I need an industry that makes the bullets and works out the strategy and I can be party to how we deliver those bullets. “I can go to parliament and I can talk to key people. “I can deliver a policy for the industry in the seat of Indi that we can take to the next election so we can have a debate about it, but we’ve got to do that work in the interim.”

Grow much more with Upper Murray Seeds. t/12d12714-v3/49-14

John Berends Implements (03) 9791 2494 Fax (03) 9794 5568

sales@johnberends.com.au

Exceptionally fast out of the ground. Prolific winter growth with late maturity. Produces good quality hay and silage. A variety you can trust and rely on year after year.

A true Italian ryegrass designed for high yield and extended season into summer. Easy to establish, good grazing recovery and suitable for over sowing.

www.johnberendsimplements.com.au Call Ashley Batten for more info 0427 406 464

www.uppermurrayseeds.com.au

1014A Nowra Street, Albury Tel (02) 6040 6464

K/12D12935/06-15

ALBURY ......................... Hutcheon & Pearce, 222 Travelstop Way ............................................... (02) 6040 1166 BENALLA....................... Coopers Benalla, 283 Bridge Street ....................................................... (03) 5762 3633 COBRAM ....................... Cobram Farm Equipment, Murray Valley Highway ................................ (03) 5872 1722 CORRYONG .................. Roger.C.Brown Pty Ltd, Hanson Street................................................... (02) 6076 1788 MANSFIELD .................. Godings Mansfield, High Street .............................................................. (03) 5779 1555 MYRTLEFORD .............. Buffalo Farm Equipment, Myrtle Street ................................................... (03) 5752 1422 NAGAMBIE .................... John Sanderson Machinery, Industrial Crescent .................................... (03) 5794 2272 SHEPPARTON............... Bertoli Farm Machinery, Numurkah Road ............................................... (03) 5821 3299

North East Farmer, Page 15

March 2015

A SUPERBLY ENGINEERED DEAL

) (

FROM THE CLEVER GERMANS.

6EE

FRET

*

N S L L RO

FORTIMA AND COMPRIMA SLAT BALERS

Pre-season offer applies across the entire Krone range. Ends 30 April 2015. Hurry in now.

Krone is German technology at its very best, with exclusive features designed to improve your productivity. Just ask any farmer or contractor who owns one! Our range includes the all new 8-knotter large square, round baler with optional round baler automation, triple combination roller conditioner mowers and the new range of Swadro Rakes.

*20% deposit, nothing to pay for 6 months, repayments quarterly, half yearly or yearly up to 5 years. Terms, fees and conditions apply. Applies to current ABN holders using equipment financed predominantly for business purpose. Offer ends 30 April 2015.

To find your local Krone dealer go to kroneaustralia.com.au

1.N9A% NCE

*

FI

Y TO PA G N I S H NOT 6 MONTH FOR TIONS P O T EN S PAYMTO 5 YEAR UP

t/05d07781/10-15

For more information on this offer and the Krone range, go to kroneaustralia.com.au

) ( OSIT P E D 20% P.A.

DUCK SEASON 2015

Page 16, North East Farmer

March 2015

Business as usual for Wangaratta’s Adventure Camping IF you need to stock up before the opening of duck season, Adventure Camping, Fishing & Firearms in Wangaratta has everything you need and more to ensure you are ready to step out into the swamps fully loaded. With a full range of camo clothing, waders, decoys, duck callers, shotgun shells in steel, gun bags, gun cases, cleaning kits and an extensive range of shotguns that are suitable for the duck season the knowledgeable team can assist you with anything that you may require for a successful season. Adventure Camping, Fishing & Firearms manager Joe Gigliotti said that with the recent rains, the bigger waters are the place to hunt.

“People have been telling me that the bigger waters will be the place for better prospects. “If it’s as good as last year, it would be a bonus.” He added that as part of the store’s extensive range of firearms, they have just added the latest Italian Bettinsoli shotguns. “We also do a full range of servicing firearms including sighting in for people and we also have access to a gunsmith service. “And we have a range of kayaks, as a lot of people like to use the kayaks these days for duck shooting as you can get out and among them,” Mr Gigliotti said. Established in 1997, Adventure Camping, Fishing &

Firerarms’, situated at 14 Rowan Street in Wangaratta, dedicated sales team specialise in selling quality camping, fishing and hunting gear. The business has always maintained pace with the latest products and with local staff that can assist with their experience and knowledge to ensure customers get what they need. Now with the business launching the new website, the store aims to reach more customers and ensure the latest gear is out there for all to view. Opening hours are 9am5.30pm, Monday-Friday and Saturday 9am-2pm. For more information visit www. adventurecampingandfishing. com.au.

EXTENSIVE RANGE: Firearms manager Joe Gigliotti said the business offers a full range of servicing for all firearms.

Be respectful and responsible this season

Help secure the future of hunting We’re lucky in Victoria to have such great hunting. Maybe you went hunting as a kid or you now go hunting with your kids. Maybe you’re new to hunting or you’re an old hand happy to share some know-how. Whoever you are, one of the key traits of being a good hunter is respect. The hunting community has formed a partnership to promote a set of standards to ensure respectful and responsible hunting. This will help to raise the awareness and maintain the highest standards of behaviour of all involved in hunting.

By DAVID CROFT, Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (Victoria).

Through the below standards we can enjoy our hunting even more, improve the perception of hunting and be proud of hunting.

Respect for animals Respect the environment Respect other hunters Respect non-hunters Respect the hunt Respect the laws For more information on the standards visit www.depi.vic.gov.au/hunting

Secure your hunting future, show respect and hunt responsibly. Proudly supported by: Australian

Deer Association

RAYTRADE PTY LTD j/12d12411-v2/10-15

Duck Season 2015 On Wednesday, January 14, 2015, the Victorian Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford announced that Victorian hunters can look forward to a full, 12 week season with a reduced bag limit after the opening. This decision was necessary due to below average rainfall in the north of the state and the reduction of habitat for ducks. The key points of Ms Pulford’s statement are that we have a 10 bird bag limit for the opening Saturday, two of which can be Blue Wing Shovelers, with a five per day bag limit for the remainder of the season, one of which can be a Blue Wing Shoveler. The season will commence on Saturday, March 21, 2015 and closes a half hour after sunset on Monday, June 8, 2015. I would remind hunters to observe the opening times of the season as each year a number of people are prosecuted for shooting too early and the penalties are severe if you are caught. Opening times depend on your hunting location within the state - eastern zone is 7.10am, central zone is 7.20am and western zone is 7.30am. I would also recommend any hunter who is planning to shoot on opening day to refer to the Game Management Authority website at www. gma.vic.gov. au/hunting/duck for further details and maps of the hunting zones to ensure that you are shooting legally. This information is also available in the current 2015 Hunting Guide which you should have received if you have a game licence.

DUCK OPENING

Quail Season 2015 As an added bonus we also have a declared quail season for 2015. The season will begin 30 minutes before sunrise on Saturday, April 4, 2015 and finish 30 minutes after sunset on Tuesday, June 30, 2015. We have a normal bag limit of 20 birds per day, per hunter. The dry conditions have impacted on the availability of quail and I have not seen large numbers in the areas that I visited prior to Christmas. With the rain that has fallen we would hope that their habitat improves and the native grasses and seeds that they thrive on will improve our prospects for the coming season. I would also remind hunters that prior to heading out make sure you have your firearms licence and game licence with you, as it is an offence to be on public or private land game hunting without these two essential items. Media and Publications The past year has seen an increase in the media and material coming from DEPI and the Game Management Authority (GMA). Of particular interest to duck hunters is the production of a Duck Wise DVD that contains relevant information and encourages hunters to be part of the “Respect” campaign for hunting. Colin Wood retires Late last year Colin Wood decided that he would retire from the nine to five grind and spend more time at his small farm in Monbulk growing nuts. He also hopes to get more opportunities to hunt, which he enjoys along with photography. We all wish him well and thank him for his contribution to hunting in Victoria.

SEASON OPENS SAT, MARCH 21

WANGARATTA’S AUTHORISED - FRANCHI - BETTINSOLI - MIROKU - BERETTA DEALER

ON-LINE PERMITS TO PURCHASE - 24 HOUR APPROVALS* LFD - 588.909.20F

STEEL SHOT FROM

Huge range & competitive pricing. Large range of known brands steel shot. Massive range of shotguns in stock. Cartridge belts & bags, duck callers, camo clothing, & waders.

$120 250*

PER

BUY SIX DECOYS

@ $10 EACH AND GET A DUCK CALLER

FREE!

*WHILE STOCKS LAST *SUBJECT TO REGISTRY APPROVAL

ADVENTURE CAMPING & COMPLEAT ANGLER AND FIREARMS 14 Rowan Street, Wangaratta (03) 5722 4622 www.adventurecampingandfishing.com.au

v/21d09114/10-14

MANY MORE BRANDS TO CHOOSE FROM ALONG WITH AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF CAMPING AND FISHING GEAR

North East Farmer, Page 17

March 2015

WE SERVICE ALL AREAS

AND INDUSTRIES

We are industry experience operators. All goods are fully insured whilst in transit.

or oor to do d r e iv l e d We to depot t o p e d d n a

K/12D12891-V3/10-15

We have multiple weekly services from VIC/ NSW/ACT to all metropolitan and regional areas from the following suppliers and manufacturers: ‡ $*&2 $XVWUDOLD ‡ 3)* $XVWUDOLD ‡ : DOOHQLXV :LOKHOPVHQ /RJLVWLFV $XVWUDOLD :: /RJLVWLFV

‡ &DWHUSLOOHU $XVWUDOLD ‡ -&% &RQVWUXFWLRQ (TXLSPHQW ‡ &$6( ,+ ‡ 6LOYDQ $XVWUDOLD ‡ -RKQ %HUHQGV ,PSOHPHQWV ‡ -RKQ 'HHUH ‡ 'XQFDQ $J ‡ .8+1 $XVWUDOLD ‡ 'HDOHU 7UDQVIHUV 'LVWLEXWLRQ ‡ 0DQ\ 0RUH Buying your equipment ONLINE or at AUCTION, then talk to us about your transport needs. We also have weekly services from the following: ‡ 3LFNOHV $XFWLRQV 0HOERXUQH 6\GQH\ &DQEHUUD

‡ 0DQKHLP $XFWLRQV 9DULRXV /RFDWLRQV

‡ 5LFKLH %URV $XFWLRQV *HHORQJ

‡ *UD\V2QOLQH 9DULRXV /RFDWLRQV

‡ ($ $XFWLRQV 7XOODPDULQH

Special transport rates available if you mention this add from the North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer.

Email: info@dmhtransport.com.au

www.dmhtransport.com.au Phone 1300 665 622

Mob: 0427 087 760

RABBAIT

ÂŽ

Pindone Oat Bait

FOR SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE RABBIT CONTROL

Available at your Local rural merchant

Animal Control Technologies Australia Pty Ltd Phone: 03 9308 9688 Fax: 03 9308 9622 Email: enquiries@animalcontrol.com.au More info at www.animalcontrol.com.au

Excellence in Pest Animal Management

t/05d07457-v3/49-14

Trust the proven performe r

LIVESTOCK

Page 18, North East Farmer

March 2015

Good start to the year for Jarobee with our clients aiming to produce cattle that will achieve the optimum results in the markets we target for,” Mrs Robinson told North East Farmer last week. “All of our cattle are run under the same conditions. “We are continuously sourcing genetics from the extensive pool available,

registered Angus bulls for auction at their annual on-property sale on March 19 with Mrs Robinson’s optimism fuelled by positive predictions that the beef industry has a bright future offering more profitable returns to producers. “Being commercial producers, as well as stud breeders, aligns us

CONNAMARA ANGUS CONNAMARA ANGUS WIN RASV BEEF WEEK HEIFER CHALLENGE 2015

Judge Jack Woodbourn from Forbes NSW who visited each of the properties with entries in the challenge on their Beef Week days, described the Champions as anything but modest and said they were outstanding examples of registered stud heifers set to make an impact not only in the Connamara herd but in the Australian seedstock industry. The RASV Beef Week Heifer Challenge is in its fourth year and Connamara has been a finalist in three of those years “The Connamara PTIC 20 month old heifers topped the Euroa Black Friday sale for the 11th year in a row!”

Enquiries: Mick + Olga (03) 5790 4244 or Marcus 0412 528 101

t/12d12877-v3/10-15

Call for Bull and Heifer sale details

coupled with concentrated efforts on AI programs aiming for a bigger percentage of the genetics we are striving to produce, offering carcass quality without compromising fertility, calving ease, temperament and type. “We have our stud cattle independently scanned and assessed, which helps to reinforce our benchmarks,” she said. The year has opened strongly for the family, with steer weaners representing Jarobee bloodlines at Wodonga’s Blue Ribbon sale in January selling for a winning bid of $930 per head with an average weight of 402 kilograms. Strong demand among re-stockers, including northern graziers and feedlots rebuilding herds after good new year rains, continued into the later Wangaratta paired blue ribbon sales, with the first 61 pens of all-Angus in the second yarding achieving an average price of $915. “We have been lucky with our season as it is unusual for us to have green grass at this time of the year.

ANNUAL SALE: Jarobee partner Jan Robinson on the family’s Beechworth property, where the stud will offer 40 Angus bulls for sale on March 19. PHOTO: Jamie Kronborg

“Even the clover has shot, so we hope we don’t run out of moisture now,” Mrs Robinson said. An hour-long cattle nutrition workshop presented by Rivalea Australia territory manager Mark Lister will be included at

AUTUMN JA ROBEE BULL SALE MN3V VS1307

THURSDAY 19TH MARCH 2015 1PM

+%5 %8//6 On property at Robinsons Rd, Beechworth Inspection welcome any time by appointment Contact: Alan or Jan Robinson Ph/Fax: (02) 6032 4124 M: 0429 324 124 jarobee@bigpond.com

duction and reproduction. A complimentary lunch starting at 12 noon will follow Mr Lister’s presentation, with the bull sale starting at 1pm. For more information contact Jan and Alan Robinson on (02) 6032 4124.

JAROBEE ANGUS INFORMATION WORKSHOP

On Cattle Nutrition Affecting Production and Reproduction WORKSHOP 11am LUNCH 12 Noon SALE 1pm GENETICS

FOR COMMERCIAL IMPACT AW1134590

Stephen Street 0428 579 338 Brett Shea 0428 691 489 Jim Bruce 0419 600 489

ranganpark@gmail.com

AUCTIONEER Michael Glasser 0403 526 702

0447 600 825

t/12d12162-v2/2-15

ON PROPERTY SALE - 12TH MARCH 2015

the stud’s sale day, offering an informative and practical presentation on nutrition covering dry matter intake, summer supplementation, bull preparation for joining and outlining the drivers affecting nutrition for pro-

K/12D12412-V2/10-15

THE sale of 1100 allAngus steers for a little more than $1 million in less than an hour at Wangaratta’s blue ribbon weaner cattle yarding early in February must give heart to Beechworth stud breeders Jan and Alan Robinson. From their stud, Jarobee will offer 40 herd book-

LIVESTOCK

March 2015

North East Farmer, Page 19

First Galaxy sons on offer at Irelands Angus IN its first sale for the year, Irelands Angus will offer 55 outstanding, easy doing bulls at their autumn on-property sale. Irelands Angus principal Corey Ireland said this year’s season has contributed to the March offer being the most consistent line up of bulls the stud has had to date. “They are soft, easy doing bulls that are ready to work in your herd. “We are now in our 31st year of breeding stud Angus cattle and we are excited with this year’s line up as we believe they are an excellent representation of how our genetics are continuing to produce consistent and affordable cattle,” Mr Ireland said. He added that the sale will display a fantastic cross section of the stud’s herd, with the first-ever Galaxy calves up for sale. “I am very happy with the way they have grown into strong, thick topped, soft skinned bulls.” The stud’s on-property auction will take place on Friday, March 20, 2015, starting at 12 noon, with the sale of 400 commercial females to take place on the stud’s Kyeamba property (45 kilometres south east of Wagga Wagga). Inspections begin at 10.30am. In 2013, Ireland’s Galaxy G43 sold for $117,500, breaking the Australian auction record. Galaxy G43 will headline a big

FIRST SONS: LOT 2 Irelands Angus Jouster J393 is one of the first sons of Irelands Galaxy G43 up for sale at the stud’s upcoming autumn sale.

line up of the stud’s sires during the 2015 sale, including young sires such as Gapsted G25 and Geeman G57 and super sire Irelands Fletcher F1, which are “breeding the house down”. Other sires will include Raff Expedition E264, Granite Ridge Thomas F223, and Raff Synergy E96 . “We are very proud of our bulls, we select on the basis of conformation, structure, growth and fertility,” Mr Ireland said.

55 BULLS

“They are soft skinned and have generations of sound genetics and by using our own sires it is great confirmation that our program is headed in the right direction.” Mr Ireland believes the strength of genetics will determine the consistency of the progeny, “no matter the market”. His main goal is to add profitability to his clients’ programs and measures his own success by the success of his clients, therefore Irelands Angus females must run

under the same conditions as the stud’s clients. All bulls are backed by generations of performance genetics, semen tested, vaccinated for Vibrio, tested free for Pesti and are ready to work. Mr Ireland maintains his main focus is, and will always be, value for money. For more information, videos, lot images, catalogue or to book a private inspection, visit www. irelandsangus.com.au.

Modest Connamara Angus takes out championship at Beef Week THE ‘modest’ operation of the Connamara Angus stud managed to take out the championship winning pen of 10 heifers during this year’s RASV Beef Week Heifer Challenge. As a regular Beef Week participant, Connamara Angus stud principal Michael Hill joined 400 females last year which proved to be a successful exercise, with half of the heifers in the championship winning pen sired by Connamara Admiral F41 (by Ardrossan Admiral A2 and from a Campbell Farms 036 daughter). Mr Hill uses his Beef Week day to sell his annual production of two-year olds and yearling Breedplan recorded bulls. With $4500 cash prize money up for grabs, Connamara has been a finalist in three of the four years the Beef Week Heifer Challenge has been in existence. Beef Week judge, Jack Woodburn from Forbes, NSW, visited each property with entries in the challenge and described the winning Connamara pen as “anything but modest” and that they were an outstanding example of registered stud heifers set to make an impact, not only in the Connamara herd, but in the Australian seedstock industry. Mr Woodburn said he was privileged to assess such outstanding cattle and was forced to name 12 finalists, two more than the traditional 10 of previous years.

+ 400 COMMERCIAL FEMALES

LOT 2

LOT 3

LOT 6

LOT 12

LOT 36

FRIDAY 20 MARCH 2015 12PM IRELANDS ANGUS AUTUMN ON PROPERTY SALE

WWW.IRELANDSANGUS.COM.AU

Corey Ireland 0409 182 884 Willie Milne 0428 793 521

K/12D12584-V2/10-15

LOT 1

LIVESTOCK

Page 20, North East Farmer

Livestock workers told to look out for anthrax THE Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) is urging farmers and those working with livestock to be vigilant after a dairy cow recently died from anthrax near Tatura. The anthrax bacterium has been in Australia for 150 years and is known to occur in the soil in parts of Victoria, and does cause occasional livestock deaths. DEDJTR’s chief veterinary officer Charles Milne said that the isolated case was confirmed to be from a farm which has a history of anthrax. “It is not unusual for incidents of anthrax especially on previously infected farms, to be detected in this region. “The property has been placed under temporary quarantine and stock on the farm has been vaccinated. “Stock on adjoining farms are also being vaccinated. “Further sporadic cases are possible across Victoria, which is why we are calling on those working with livestock to be vigilant. “Farmers in the region should check their paddocks for sudden, unexplained deaths among their animals and report any cases to the 24-hour emergency animal diseases hotline on 1800 675 888 or to their local vet,” Dr Milne said. Incidents of anthrax generally occur during the warmer months when it is drier and the livestock forage closer to the soil when eating grass. The last isolated outbreak occurred in 2009. Anthrax and the vaccination against the disease pose no threat to meat or milk. The DEDJTR maintains that Victoria has a strong and robust food safety system in place to protect consumers and help maintain trade, such as the observance of withholding periods and the pasteurisation of all milk. For more information on anthrax visit www. vic.gov.au/horticulture.

March 2015

Dairy farmer most happy surrounded by his family Give our readers a quick snapshot of your farm at Dhurringile. My name is Evert Worm and I am a dairy farmer in Dhurringile. We have about 250 milking cows plus some younger ones on about 400 acres of irrigated land. How long have you been a farmer? I have been a farmer all my life starting in Holland before immigrating to Australia. I have been on my own farm for about 23 years. Tell us about your family. My wife Sue was also from a dairy farming family and we have six children – four sons and two daughters – Anthony, Maria, Felice, Evert, Marcus and Marguerita. We also have six grandchildren. Best advice or farming tip you have received? Always wear a hat in the dairy, that way you never have s**t on your face. P.S. Don’t look up! Describe your perfect day.

FARMER TO FARMER Evert Worm

After having the cows all milked, being able to sit down, put my feet up and enjoy the company of my children and grandchildren. What is the best thing about being a farmer? Getting up in the morning and getting a lung full of fresh air and it doesn’t matter if I’m a bit late or early to the dairy. Doing a day’s work at my own pace and being my own boss. What is the worst thing about being a farmer? Having a bank manager. If you could be someone else, who would that be and why? To be a rich person, so I can have a big yacht and sail the seven seas.

WODONGA BEEF BREEDS

37th Annual Bull Sale

Friday, April 24 2015, 11am

Wodonga’s Premier Multibreed

Bull Sale

To be held at the New Northern Victorian Livestock Exchange - 1934 Murray Valley Hwy Barnawartha North, Victoria. Under Cover with Soft Floor Yards.

Featuring...

Piedmontese Hereford Charolais

Corcoran Parker (02) 6055 3888 Trevor Parker 0428 578 074

Red Angus Simmental Blonde d’Aquitaine

Limousin Murray Grey

Atkins Contact: John Atkins (02) 6026 4207, 0428 690 267

u12d12943/1015

For catalogues and further details, contact selling agents:

Angus Brangus Poll Hereford

ALPINE ANGUS 12TH ANNUAL BULL Thursday 26 Mar 2015 1pm 60 BULLS

20

15

PER FO RM

Jim Bruce: 0419 600 355 Brett Shea: 0428 691 489 Dan Ivone: 0427 480 548 Stephen Paull: 0409 578 283

Alpine Sale Complex Mount Beauty Rd Rosewhite 3737

j/12d12203-v6/06-15

WER PO CE AN

POWER CE N A RM

2SHQ 'D\ 6th Mar 2015 After Myrtleford Calf Sales

North East Farmer, Page 21

March 2015

Delicia®

SLUGGOFF

®

Lentils

GENERAL SNAIL CONTROL APPLICATION RATE(kg/ha)

Popular pack size price/kg

PRICE PER HA

Metaldehyde active kg/ha

Delicia® SLUGGOFF® Lentils

30*

3**

$11.00

$33***

0.09****

Comparison ‘rain fast’ pellet

50

5-8

$11.00

$55.00$88.00

0.25-0.5

*

Twice the strength of cheap non-rainfast pellets.

**

Lower application creating significant savings in time and application costs

***

40% cheaper/ha than the nearest comparable product.

****

64% less chemical used - so less metaldehyde applied to the environment

Correct as at July 2014 based on internal market research of product price points t/05d07459-v3/49-14

Protecting Australia’s Crops from slugs and snails

PRODUCT

Metaldehyde CONCENTRATION (g/kg)

Treats more than 5 times the area of cheaper brands! # Rain fast & longer lasting for all conditions # Controls all species of slugs and snails # Effective on adults & juveniles # 20kg bags with pourer spout and carry handle # 500kg bulk bags for cost-effective aerial application Animal Control Technologies (AUST) Pty. Ltd. 46-50 Freight Drive, Somerton, Victoria 3062 P: 03 9308 9688 F: 03 9308 9622 E: enquiries@animalcontrol.com.au W: www.animalcontrol.com.au

Excellence in Pest Animal Management

FOXOFF Econobait ®

Trust the proven performe r

PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT! · Foxes destroy livestock · Foxes destroy native wildlife · Foxes destroy your profits · IT’S TIME TO FIGHT BACK

Restricted Chemical Product Only To Be Supplied To Or Used By An Authorised Person. This Product Must Be Used In Accordance With The Label Instructions And Any Relevant Documentation Issued With State/Territory Authorization

Animal Control Technologies Australia Pty Ltd Phone: 03 9308 9688 Fax: 03 9308 9622 Email: enquiries@animalcontrol.com.au Further information at: www.animalcontrol.com.au

Excellence in Pest Animal Management

t/05d07460-v3/49-14

NEWS

Page 22, North East Farmer

March 2015

What’s on in North East Victoria region *THE Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) will be holding a networking event to discuss the implications of the China Free Trade Agreement.

A trade and investment specialist from DEDJTR and Steve Reynolds from Elders will be the guest speakers at DEDJTR in Rutherglen on Thursday, March 5 starting at 5.30pm to 7pm. For more information

contact Paul Blackwood on (02) 6030 4500. *THE National Invertebrate Pest Initiative, together with the Grains Research and Development Corporation,

CSIRO, Southern Farming Systems and BCG are holding a workshop focusing on current and predicted pest prevention and control issues, as well as delivering the latest knowledge and

advice being generated from research and development efforts. The workshop is on Tuesday, March 10 at the DEDJTR offices in Horsham and will begin at 10am to 4pm.

HOW ARE YOU SPREADING YOUR MULCH AND MANURE?

ROTATIVE SPREADERS FULLY GALVANISED & BUILT TOUGH PRECISE ROW SPREADING from 0.5 to 5M VINEYARD & ORCHARDS FROM 2 to 10 CUBIC METRE CAPACITY

‘Distributed from one grower to another’

Made in Italy

Malcolm Smith 0419 216 458 | Tanja Smith 0400 265 768 Comboyne NSW Australia | www.spreadcoaustralia.com.au

12d12937-v2/10-15

SPREADCOAUSTRALIA

Mite be a problem? Don’t risk it. Make sure you choose RLEM resistant sub clover from Seed Force this season. As the main legume component in southern Australian pastures, sub clover delivers nitrogen to drive grass growth and produce high quality feed. However, Red Legged Earth Mite (RLEM) damage at establishment stage can cost you up to 50% of your winter feed. So why risk losing feed when you need it most? Make sure you choose RLEM resistant varieties from Seed Force. By including sub clover in your pasture mix that’s RLEM resistant to cotyledon damage, your sub clover establishes strongly to provide the feed you need, and offer a long term solution to worrying about RLEM infestation and spraying at a busy time.

mid-late maturity for 500-700mm rainfall.

SF Rosabook

*THE Australian Water Association’s Innovation Forum will be held in Sydney at Royal Randwick on Wednesday, March 18 and Thursday, March 19, 2015. Supported by the Australian Dairy Industry Council, the two-day exhibition and conference program will feature leading experts, including dairy speakers Lion Ground manager environment, Meredith Banks and Dairy Innovation Australia sustainability leader, David Barr, on innovative solutions for water smart cities, agricultural and food manufacturing, disruptive technology, financing the innovation value chain and global water innovation case studies. For more information visit www.awa.asn.au/ innovationforum15. *THE Grains Research and Development Corporation is offering an opportunity for growers, agronomists, consultants, grain buyers, researchers, industry group representatives and others to undertake its Resilient Grain Leaders Program. This skills and capacitybuilding initiative, delivered for the first time in 2014, is designed to assist in the development of highly skilled and confident grains industry leaders. The program begins in April with an online webinar and will involve three regional workshops in July in Dubbo (NSW), Perth (WA) and Mildura (Vic), followed by a joint workshop in Adelaide in March 2016. To be eligible to participate applicants must be working and engaged in the grains industry, be mid-career and be willing to commit to all program activities. Applications close at

Mite not. SF Narrikup

There is no cost to attend the workshop, however, prior registration is encouraged. To register go to www.eventbrite.com. au/e/nipi-forum-pestmanagement-in-retainedstubble-systemstickets-14432328483).

9am (AEDT) on Friday, March 20, 2015. *APPLICATIONS are now open for Rabobank’s 2015 Farm Managers Program. Designed to strengthen the operational and strategic skills of emerging farmers, the program is modelled on the highly respected Rabobank Executive Development Program – a long-standing business development course for leading Australian and New Zealand farmers. The program covers topics including global trends in agriculture, business planning, financial management, leadership and succession planning. Only 36 applicants will be offered places, with the announcement of those who have been successful to be held at the Grange Cleveland Winery, Lancefield in June. Applications close on Monday, April 27. For more information visit www.rabobank.com. au/bmp. *THE Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources are inviting prime lamb producers to participate in a research project designed to explore influences within the Victorian lamb industry that support or hinder adoption of genetic improvement by lamb producers. The study aims to understand Victorian producers’ perceptions and experiences of genetic measures (specifically Australian sheep breeding values) for improving their farms productivity and profitability. Participants will be asked to join a focus group discussion that will take about two to three hours. The information you provide will remain anonymous and your participation is voluntary. The results from the focus group discussion will be analysed as part of a PhD thesis. For more information contact Erica Schelfhorst on (03) 5430 4560.

ASK

for Seed Force RLEM resistant sub clover in your pasture mix.

late maturity for >600mm rainfall.

STRONG WOOL: Sheep, fleece, spun wool and woollen products will all be on display at this year’s Strong Wool Sheep and Wool Fair in Benalla.

104 - 106 Drummond Rd Shepparton VIC 3630 T: 03 5832 3800 F: 03 5821 8999 www.seedforce.com

K/12D12951/10-15

RRA/SDF16488A

COUNTRY SHOWS AND FIELD DAYS MARCH: y 3: Corryong & Upper Murray A&P Society Show; y 6-7: Tallangatta Agricultural Show; y 26-April 8: Sydney Royal Easter Show MAY: y 3: Strong Wool Sheep and Wool Fair, Benalla; y 22-23: Mildura Field Days

March 2015

North East Farmer, Page 23

NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria

Phone 5723 0100

Classifieds LIVESTOCK

FOR SALE

Wangaratta Monthly Store Cattle Sale Friday, March 20, 2015

WHEELER STREET

FLY OR LICE PROBLEM? The magic eye sheepjetter since 1989

4XDOLW\ FRQVWUXFWLRQ DQG RSWLRQV ‡ *HW WKH FRQWUDFWRUV FKRLFH

TIMBER & STEEL

(held third Friday of each month)

For further information contact your local representative

Wangaratta Associated Stock Agents TRADES AND SERVICES

Featuring ... Ĺ– +PETGFKDNG EJGOKECN GEQPQO[ Ĺ– #OC\KPI GCUG RGT JQWT Ĺ– 7PKSWG UGNH CFLWUVKPI UKFGU Ĺ– 'PXKTQPOGPVCNN[ CPF WUGT HTKGPFN[

Ĺ– Ĺ– Ĺ– Ĺ–

#WVQOCVKECNN[ CEVKXCVGF 2TQXGP GHHGEVKXG QP NKEG CU YGNN CU ƀ[ %QORCVKDNG YKVJ CNN FKR EJGOKECNU #EEWTCVG GHHGEVKXG CRRNKECVKQP

FBC0343594

Steel, Iron & Timber cut to size New and s/hand doors and windows, steel purlins, pool fencing and vanities. ‡ 5XEEHU PDWWLQJ .........................................$65 ‡ 7UHDWHG 3LQH +DUGZRRG ........ Various sizes ‡ 1HZ ,URQ ...................................... PHWUH ‡ 5DLOZD\ 6OHHSHUV .............................$37 each ‡ 8VHG 'RRUV ......................................$15 each ‡ ,QVXODWLRQ EDJV.................................$25 each ‡ &KHDS PHDVK VKHHWV ‡ 3O\ 6KHHWV PP PP PP PP PP ‡ 7HUUDFRWWD 3DYHUV [ [ ......$3.00 each ‡ 5RRI 7LOHV ......................................$4.00 each $OVR IDUP JDWHV DYLDULHV NHQQHOV DYDLODEOH

1800 146 892

dipping@electrodip.co.nz - www.electrodip.com

SHEPPARTON (03) 5821 3122.

AGRICULTURAL REPAIRS

STUD

MOBILE REPAIRS

DIRECTORY

New Holland Baler parts * Tractors * Diesel * Baler * Hay machinery mechanic. Service & repairs all makes of tractors, agricultural, industrial, earthmoving machinery Over 30 years experience, factory trained. Specialising in Ford New Holland

PAUL WILLIAMS - CHESHIRE & WILLIAMS REPAIRS P/L

ProfitaBULL Angus Genetics - Free of all 4 genetic defects (is your current bull supplier?) - Fully registered with Angus Australia with EBV’s, ensuring Russian eligibility - Tested negative for pestivirus - Vaccinated, drenched bulls ready for work from $2000. Bulls availaBULL for inspection by appointment

Ph (03) 5721 4419 mobile 0428 574 195 1 WENHAMS LANE, WANGARATTA

MOBILE MOTORCYCLE MECHANIC

765 Happy Valley Road, Rosewhite www.pinnacleangus.com.au

Same day repairs & servicing

0411 890 925

Regular maintenance schedules

All makes and models of motorcycles & ATVs

S/12d11921/3013

Hassle free

We come to you!

Chris 0422 840 008 cjaonfarmservice@gmail.com

FOR SALE s

Famous brands, stainless steel for bores, dams complete DIY kits from $1450.

NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

OFF GRID SOLAR SYSTEMS

- Complete installs - DIY kits - from $4980

BEAT PRICE RISE, A$ DROPS www.commodoreaustralia.com.au

__www.nenews.com.au

CALL TODAY for the name of your local supplier on

1800 226 905

n05D07847/06-15

0408 619 779 // (03) 5795 1567

weareonline!

ADVERTISEMENT

Synovial Wound TUESDAY "KING VALLEY RUN" THURSDAY "BEECHWORTH, MYRTLEFORD RUN" PRE-BOOKED VETERINARY WORK

*FOR REDUCED TRAVEL PRICES*

REDUCE YOUR VETERINARY TRAVEL COSTS

32 WARBY STREET, WANGARATTA

PHONE 5721 7177

t/12d12235-v15/10-15

Dr. Graeme S. Blanch B.Ag.Sc., B.V.Sc. (Hons) M.A.C.V.Sc. Dr. Andrew Bett B.Ag. Sc. (Hons) B.V.Sc. Dr. Richard Evans B.V.Sc. M.R.C.V.S. Dr. Rena Geroe B.V.Sc. Dr. Tim Craig B.V.Sc. (Hons) Dr. Sarah Cavill, B.V.Sc. (Hons)

Sometimes the smallest most innocuous looking wounds in horses can prove the most damaging and life threatening, specifically when they involve penetration of a joint and subsequent infection. A wound over a synovial structure (eg joint or tendon sheath) should always be investigated earlier rather than later, as prompt instigation of treatment can make the world of difference. Treatment within the first 6hrs is ideal (while ‘contamination’ has occurred but not yet ‘infection’), 24-48hrs certainly better than several days or longer where irreversible damage has taken place. Septic arthritis is a challenging and often expensive disease to treat. An injury that penetrates a synovial structure has the potential to introduce bacteria into that joint or tendon sheath. Bacteria can be found on the skin itself or on the object eg stick or wire causing the injury. Synovial (joint) fluid is an excellent culture medium for bacteria, and infection can rapidly set in. Joint fluid can be analysed under a microscope and cultured to determine whether a joint is infected. Warning signs that a joint may be involved include a lameness that suddenly becomes worse (sometimes even non weight bearing) 1-3 days after an injury, and obvious swelling of the joint and/or pain on flexion. The position of a wound may arouse suspicion that it involves a joint, but the only way to tell for certain is to either visualise joint fluid leaking from the wound when the joint is flexed, examine a sample of joint fluid, or infuse saline (in an aseptic manner) into the joint and see whether it flows out the wound. Inflammation and bacteria in a joint quite rapidly causes damage to articular cartilage, pain and joint effusion. Part of the inflammatory process called fibrin can form quite large ‘chunks’ and hide pockets of bacteria from the effect of antibiotics.

Treatment involves lavage (‘flushing out’) the joint with large amounts of sterile saline and infusing antibiotics. Sometimes this can be done standing under sedation, but may require a general anaesthetic. Generally antibiotics given into the muscle or orally do not achieve high enough concentrations in the joint to treat the infection. They need to be given as an intravenous regional perfusion locally or occasionally antibiotic impregnated beads need to be placed in the joint itself where they release the antibiotic slowly. Arthroscopy may be required to fully evaluate and treat a septic joint. Flushing a joint with a fresh wound and starting appropriate antibiotics has the best outcome for the future athletic performance of the horse, rather than trying to treat an already infected joint. It is also much cheaper to treat early and well rather than once infection has set in. Early assessment by a Veterinarian is essential. Disinfectant can be applied to the wound and it bandaged to keep contaminants out before the Veterinarian arrives, please avoid exploring wounds near joints with fingers in case there is communication - we don’t want dirty fingers in joints! Dr Sarah Cavill BVSC (Hons)

March 2015

Page 24, North East Farmer

ONE ONLY AT $59,900

Abati Titanium 30FT air Drill $130,000*

Titanium BDS - 3MT 16 row John Shearer direct drill no till single disc seed 24 row h/d tynes $63,000* $59,900

Picture for illustration purposes

Picture for illustration purposes

10 ton trailling fertiliser $39,000*

Agrex 6 ton Hi clearance fertiliser spreader $33,000*

2 ton linkage fertiliser spreader $10,900*

John Shearer 3MT 19 row trailing DEMO $41,500*

Connor Shea S2 14 row drill $6,500*

Connor Shea 19 row trailing seeder with coulters. $23,500*

12 SDA S/S orchard/vineyard double conveyor

Agrex SDA 800 compact fertiliser spreader

Silvan XL spreader 500 litre poly hopper

$10,600*

$7,900*

$980*

Fire break rakes

Boomerang feeder, handles round & square bales.

3MT Full/HD Grizzly grader blade.

2000LT air blast Silvan electrics.

Speed Disc, 3MT. DEMO.

EL-GRA 50 Cell Driver.

$13,400*

$11,946*

$22,500*

$16,900*

$15,950*

9 wheel $8,900* 13 wheel $12,900*

TYM 1003, 100hp. Loader.

YTO 125hp loader.

TYM 27hp. FEL, 4 in 1.

LANDINI Rex Cab. 85hp.

S/H JD1640. 62hp. FEL

S/H New Holland. 95hp.

$59,000*

$58,000*

$20,000*

$58,000*

$16,800*

$26,000*

4 rear trailing wheels end tow Dual drive. Large capacity machine

400kg

Best value 3.0MT machine, rear roller, hammers. $9000*

Becchio linkage mulcher 4.5MT

$23,000*

Silvan Sitrex

Becchio FW 3000. 3MT cut.

$9,000*

HAMMERS

Becchio 2.25MT handles timber to 125mm.

$9,950*

Celli linkage mulcher 1.8m H/D

$4,800*

Nobili BKE 2.1MT Linkage CELLI folding 5.0MT workMulcher Reversable Gearbox ing. transport width 2.3MT

$10,900*

$29,000*

* Freight charges may apply

t/12d12209-v14/10-15