North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

Published since 1986

MARCH, 2019

United we stand, divided we fall

PORK ON THE FORK:

Farming at Ardmona

www.farmernews.com.au

Jackie Merchant, together with husband Matt, run Howes Creek Farm in Mansfield. The pair have spent 10 years developing their preservative free pork products, which are all grown and butchered on site. Read their story on pages four and five of this month’s Farmer.

PAGE 8

Strathmerton dairy farmer urges industry to demand more Ű

Bull and on farm sales PAGES 22, 23

By RHYLL MCCORMACK THE Goulburn Valley is losing dairy farmers at an unprecedented rate, thanks to skyrocketing water, feed and grain prices.

Water hit $500/ML last month, meaning many farmers were faced with choosing between two evils; overpriced feed or overpriced water.

John Smith, from Leitchville, has just closed one of his dairy farms, forcing him

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PAGES 24, 25

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NEWS

Page 2, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

March 2019

Strathmerton dairy farmer urges industry to seek more Ĺ°

Covering Central, South Victoria, and West Gippsland

Ĺś

NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

Est. 1984

Covering North East Victoria, Southern New South Wales and Goulburn Murray Valleys 37 Rowan Street,Wangaratta Victoria, 3677

Phone (03) 5723 0100 Email: nefarmer@nemedia.com.au Website: farmernews.com.au Advertising: Michael Kidman Manager Phone (03) 5731 3306 Mobile 0409 841 954 mkidman@nemedia.com.au Senior Journalist

Rhyll McCormack Phone 5733 1107 Mobile 0407 520 309 rmccormack@nemedia.com.au

Editorial:

Jarrah Loh Phone (03) 5733 1108 jloh@nemedia.com.au

Pre-Press Coordinator

Noelene Allan Phone (03) 5723 0110 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. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

YOUR

ON THE

SPOT

TEAM

30d02337/1018

Rhyll McCormack SENIOR JOURNALIST

Michael Kidman ADVERTISING MANAGER

Noelene ALLAN PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Jarrah Loh EDITORIAL

From page 1

An already struggling industry is at breaking point – and the only thing left to do, according to Strathmerton dairy farmer Greg Brooks, is to stand united.

Greg, who himself has reduced his milking herd by around 20 per cent, said that farmers needed to stand together and demand a fair price. “There’s only one thing we can control (in milk) – not the weather or anything else – but we can control the price of it,� he said. “They set a price, and we accept it - we should set the price, and negotiate that.�

Mr Brooks, who last month signed on for the Fairley Leadership Program, said it was a matter of demanding more from processors – particularly with farmgate prices due to change at the end of WKH o QDQFLDO \HDU “The fact that milk can still be sold for a similar price it was 10 years ago – well, you name any other staple that has stayed the same price for a decade; its distorted. “We have a commodity – farmers should put a price on WKHLU PLON FRPH WKH o UVW RI -XO\ and say we are going to supply the milk at the cost of production plus a margin – we are looking to sell it for at least what it costs.�

Estimating between three and four billion litres of milk were produced in the Goulburn Valley, Mr Brooks said that a united front from farmers was needed.

However, he conceded it was too late for many, with some in the GV past the point of no return. “We bought some water a few years ago for $25 a mega litre – it’s $500 now,� he said. “The water price, your grain, your fodder – grains $400, good quality hay is $500, cereals are $300 – the imports are astronomical – and anyone that doesn’t have water now is look-

STAND TOGETHER: Greg Brooks, a dairy farmer from Strathmerton, says the future of the industry lies in standing united and demanding a better deal for all.

LQJ WR o QG LW DW 0/ “(This season) you need at least one of those coming in - you either have to buy feed, or buy water to grow it.�

Murray Dairy reported recently that the average annual loss of dairy farmers sits at around 11-12 per cent.

Dairy Australia’s February Situation and Outlook report shows production costs continue to pressure dairy farmers, while milk production continues to lag behind 2017/18 levels, with the forecast for 2018/19 milk SURGXFWLRQ DGMXVWHG WR UHp HFW DQ XS to nine per cent annual decrease.

The resource manager for Northern Victorian water systems reOHDVHG WKH o UVW RXWORRN IRU seasonal determinations late last month.

Northern Victorian resource manager, Mark Bailey, said seasonal determinations against highreliability water shares (HRWS) at the start of the 2019/20 water year ZRXOG GHSHQG KHDYLO\ RQ p RZV UH ceived into the major storages during autumn and early winter. “There are lower reserves in the storages compared to the reserves at this time in the last two water years. “Unless we see an increase in the storage volumes, opening seasonal determinations are likely to be low,�

Dr Bailey said. k$ UHSHDW RI WKH p RZV LQWR WKH

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major storages observed in 2018/19 would result in the Goulburn system reaching about 65 per cent HRWS in February 2020 and the Murray system would be about 60 per cent. “Early season announcements in the Broken and Bullarook systems ZLOO EH LQp XHQFHG E\ WKH YROXPH carried over and catchment conditions; both systems are likely to start at zero per cent HRWS. “Carryover will be deliverable under all scenarios in the Murray, Goulburn, Campaspe and Loddon systems. “At this stage of the year there is FXUUHQWO\ LQVXIo FLHQW ZDWHU WR RSHU ate the Broken and Bullarook systems as usual for the entire 2019/20 season, but carryover will be deliverable early in the season and will be extended as resource improvements occur. “Based on assumed use to the end of 2018/19, allocation carried over into 2019/20 and climateDGMXVWHG p RZ UHFRUGV WKH ULVN RI spill in the Goulburn system during 2019/20 is currently estimated to be less than 10 per cent. “The risk in the Murray system is about 35 per cent; the Campaspe system currently has a 40 per cent risk. “Customers may wish to factor this into their plans for the remaining months of 2018/19.�

Peak time coming for pasture fertilisers INCITECT Pivot Fertilisers is urging graziers to arrange their pasture fertiliser requirements now to avoid potential delays after a slow start to the traditional fertiliser despatch period.

Lee Menhenett, agronomist with Incitec Pivot Fertilisers, said pasture fertilisers were already being spread in some regions, while graziers in drier areas like North East Victoria were choosing to wait until the autumn rains arrived.

He said this could mean very busy times ahead for fertiliser transport and spreading companies, who won’t easily be able to meet the peaks in demand. “Every year, autumn is a busy and competitive time, because there’s only so many trucks and spreaders to go around and we’re expecting it will be even more so this year,� he said.

Mr Menhenett said for best results in pastures, the right fertiliser should be applied at the right rate before the autumn break. “If you are planning to spread phosphorus this autumn, there may be advantages to making a move now and avoiding the potential delays later,� he said.

He reassured farmers that there were no agronomic disadvantages to applying phosphorus fertilisers to pastures early.

His only caution was in situations where soils were bare or in hilly country at risk of erosion.

In these situations, Mr Menhehett advised graziers to wait until the ground cover was greater than 70 per cent. “Having phosphorus on the ground early ensures it is available to the germinating sub clover straight after the opening rains for optimum autumn clover growth which has flow on effects for winter pasture production levels,� he said.

Alec Phipps, logistics and compliance manager with Mahonys Transport, is also expecting a compressed fertiliser season this year.

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NEWS

March 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 3

Aussie Farms map is still active in region Benalla abattoir broken into Å°

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NEWS IN BRIEF ‡ 3ULFH XS E\ VHYHQ FHQWV FONTERRA have increased their farm gate milk price by seven cents per kilo of milk solids.

The new average payments, which are $6.05/ kgMS, will apply from July last year and was paid last month.

However, recent news has reported that Fonterra have been offering secret milk prices to big suppliers – those with at least 83,000 litres a month – to keep them from moving to Parmalat or Australian Consolidated Milk, both of who are paying higher rates than Fonterra. ‡ $OPRQGV RU QR DOPRQGV ALMONDS may soon find themselves in the Goulburn Valley with the country’s largest corporate grower, goFarm, recently purchasing at least one farm at Katunga, allegedly for water access rights. goFarm has denied the purchase. ‡ &DWWOH VWDWLRQ VROG COBUNGRA Station has been sold for $35 million.

Rural Funds Management Limited has purchased the 6486ha freehold, plus 24,500ha lease, cattle property - located near Omeo.

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NEWS IN BRIEF ‡ 6KHSSDUWRQ GDLU\ VHOOV COOMBOONA Dairy, out of Shepparton, has been bought by Australian Fresh Milk Holdings, the largest dairy producer in the country.

Processor Freedom Foods contributed $4.6 million in equity in return for a 10 per cent share in the dairy.

‡ &DWWOHPHQ·V KXW IRU VDOH A REPLICA mountain cattlemen’s hut is on the market, with the Horsehair Plain Hut at Cobungra listed for $420,000.

Previously owned by Omeo pastoralist Charlie Rundle, the hut comes complete with 82 hectares of grazing land.

‡ +HLIHU VHOOV IRU UHFRUG WOONALLEE Simmentals, long time advertisers with the Farmer, have smashed records after selling an Australian Black Simmental for $30,000.

The heifer, named Woonallee Heaven Sent P4, was 11 months old and bred from an imported Canadian embryo.

The heifer was bought by a Queensland breeder.

‡ &KHUU\ IDUP EXOOGR]HG THE Big Cherry farm in Wyuna has been forced to shut its doors and bulldoze its trees as a result of rising water costs.

Some 3500 cherry trees have been bulldozed.

The business was in operation for nearly 20 years, but owner, Joseph Campanelli, could no longer afford the $500 a megalitre price for water.

Â&#x2021; 3ROODUG WDNHV <HD MRE FORMER Mansfield football star and resident, Matt Pollard, has taken on a job with Landmark in Yea as their newest stock and station agent.

Matt joins father, Chris, who is also with Yea Landmark.

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There will be no changes to staff and production, but the move is thought to be indicative of offers coming in at a lower value than expected.

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NEWS

Page 4, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

Happy as a pig in muck

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Howes Creek lifestyle for sale Ű

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WALKING into Matt and Jackie Merchant’s kitchen is a bit like walking into an episode of The Cook and The Chef.

Matt, seated next to an enormous wall oven, holding a cup of espresso, talks animatedly about his family’s connection to the kitchen – where they have spent 30 years UHo QLQJ UHFLSHV KDQGHG GRZQ Jackie does not sit; instead, she talks while pulling down bowls and ladels, pushing aside vases of home-grown herbs to clear space as she PHDVXUHV p RXU Jackie and Matt run Howes Creek Farm, a 16 acre pig property complete with commercial kitchen, retail store and café.

Starting out 10 years ago, WKH\ o UVW EHJDQ EXWFKHULQJ IRU home use.

From there, it grew to include family and friends; then farmers markets and, two years ago, culminated in opening a café on the farm itself.

From the outset, the point of difference was quality.

There is no scrimping on ingredients, no buying in bulk to spread costs.

Instead, they are both passionate about food – pork products that linger on the palate.

The organic health industry in Australia is worth an estimated $919 million, and

there is a growing clean eating movement.

But rather than looking to the future, Jackie and Matt have found their success in looking back.

“We need to consider what we are putting in our bodies, what we are consuming,” Matt said.

“When you see meat, it’s more than likely been pumped full of nitrates.

“Nitrates; you shouldn’t even handle the stuff without gloves on, but we are putting it in our food.”

So, using a recipe crafted a century ago, Matt creates pork products like those from years gone by.

Ham that is cured in salt and herbs and left to smoke for 10 hours.

Bacon that is more brown than pink – no nitrates will do that – but that tastes like it has been smoked over peppercorns and honey.

Matt is a third generation butcher, and is responsible for the health and happiness of the 35 Berkshire pigs on the farm.

Feeding a mix of barley, oats and protein, pigs are butchered at around 11 months, weighing 100kg.

“One hundred is ideal, as it gives that perfect layer of fat to get a good rind,” Matt said.

“Any more and the product gets a bit too heavy, which can

Farm has wes Creek PORK: Ho smoked and cured E E R F E V is TI PRESERVA putation for pork that carved a re ioned way. the old fash

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NEWS

March 2019

HAND CARVED, WITH LOVE: Jackie Merchant has spent 10 years at Howes Creek Farm, infusing her love of pork into every recipe.

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NEWS

Page 6, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

March 2019

Light through the grant gloom for farmers

BY STEVE KELLY RED tape around accessing drought assistance grants is stopping farmers from accessing much needed support, according to Wangaratta councillor Harvey Benton.

Cr Benton, who is also a cattle producer and livestock agent, said farmers can access grants but many are turned off because the drought declaration criteria has changed and the work needed to put into securing the money is too onerous.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an issue he wants council to get behind and advocate for on behalf of farmers in the municipality doing it tough. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Many farmers are running their business off a day by day basis, they are conservative and hedging their bets on how theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll approach the potentially troubled times ahead,â&#x20AC;? Cr Benton said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rainfalls in April are historically low and if thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no rain between now and then grain growers will make the decision whether to dry sow or not. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The rain in December filled

the dams but it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t create feed on the ground and if this continues it will be bedlam by the end of the year.â&#x20AC;?

There are a number of grants and funding options available to farmers through various government and non-government departments.

These include On-farm Drought Infrastructure support grants, Technical and Decision Making support for Farm Businesses, and AgriSafe, Health and Lifestyle Checks.

Farmers who have been successful in gaining funding have been able to increase water catchment areas, build additional hay sheds and add further stock containment areas.

Information on these grants and other support is available in the Wangaratta Government Centre foyer, as well as by calling council.

Council is also seeking funding and looking to partner with a number of existing community events to offer farming families a day or night out.

If there are any community groups or organisations that

would like to partner, please call the economic development unit at council on (03) 5722 0888.

With current dry conditions, the Rural City of Wangaratta is reminding residents of water available through drought bores.

Council has drought bores located at Moyhu, Boorhaman, Bowmans Murmungee, Greta West, Frosts Crossing and Boralma.

These drought bores are for domestic and stock use only and not suitable for human consumption.

It is free to access the bores but they are monitored by council and any abuse of the bores could result in access being denied to the sites.

In addition to the drought bores there are also two standpipes in Wangaratta where treated potable water can be accessed at a minimal cost.

These are located at Apex Park and at the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange in Sandford Road.

For more information on accessing the drought bores, please contact council on 5722 0888.

FILL IT UP: David Jackson from North Wangaratta is one of many rural based residents who are relying on drinking water from standpipes located at Apex Park and the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange.

PHOTO: Mel Guy

Echuca drought upgrade A SMALL community out of Echuca has been granted $20,000 to reduce volunteer fatigue by improving food preparation areas.

The Murrabit Recreation Reserve Committee of Management will improve the food area at the Murrabit Market site, to help fuel volunteers in an emergency situation.

The grant has been issued as part of the Tackling Tough

Times Together, with more than $1 million to be spent on community projects under the program.

The grants, which are distributed by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR), are funded through the collaboration of more than 15 donors from government, philanthropy, business and individuals.

The successful community

organisations, ranging from hall associations and local show societies to progress committees and environmental groups, will receive grants for projects that local OHDGHUV KDG LGHQWLo HG DV EH ing important to help people come together and survive the drought. )555 FKLHI H[HFXWLYH RIo FHU Natalie Egleton, says the expanded program received more

WKDQ LQTXLULHV FRQo UPLQJ the need for support across the whole country, but especially in smaller communities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nearly two-thirds of the applications came from communities of fewer than 5000 people, with 33 of them from places of fewer than 500 people, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great to be able to support community groups in small towns where the opportunity for fundraising locally is

limited,â&#x20AC;? Ms Egleton said. k7KLV LV DOVR WKH o UVW WLPH that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve offered three tiers of grants: small, medium sized, and larger grants that can be delivered over multiple years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We received strong requests across all three tiers, but most were for the smaller grants, which reinforces our experience of small grants making a big difference to rural communities.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most requests were to support projects that reduce social isolation, build resilience and enhance community health and well-being, with the second most popular purpose being to enhance volunteer and organisational capacity.â&#x20AC;?

A number of the projects referenced the importance of supporting economic activity in their region.

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North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 7 A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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Page 8, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

NEWS

March 2019

Family: of vines and fruit 5HpHFWLQJ RQ D \HDU IDPLO\ KLVWRU\ DQG WKH FKDQJHV PRGHUQL VDWLRQ LV EULQJLQJ

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The Turnbull family have spent five generations farming at Ardmona

IT was a tip from a mate that led Edward Turnbull to a tiny corner of northern Victoria in 1892.

After leaving his home in England, the 41-year-old travelled to Adelaide, but received a letter from a friend claiming prospects were better across the border.

In a place called Ardmona, the land and water were said to be cheap, the transport good and the LQIUDVWUXFWXUH IRU JUDYLW\ pRZ LUULgation was already in place.

Without hesitation, Edward purchased 28 acres on Ardmona Road.

This parcel of land, an orchard of vines and fruit, was passed from one generation to the next - and now this WDOH VSDQV oYH JHQHUDWLRQV A stone’s throw from the origiCHANGES THROUGH THE YEARS: Ross and Daphne Turnbull are part of the famous Turnbull Orchards nal homestead, a direct line of family, who have farmed in Ardmona for 125 years.

Turnbull fruit growers has lived “The fact is water is a shared bile phones to work irrigation sysa third of the infrastructure. and worked ever since. resource and it needs to be man“Low volume emitters came next; tems and to access data.

Ross Turnbull, 77, remem“There is no doubt my ances- aged well. bers what irrigation looked like mini jets and dripper systems.”

“If Dad knew that the irrigaThe Turnbull orchard is on the tors used a lot more water than we in the 1950s and said, back then, tion upgrades mean some farmit hadn’t changed since his great Central Goulburn backbone, and do,” Ross said.

“The old system would break ers can switch the water on lying was modernised during stage one grandfather bought the property. and the undulating orchard was in bed holding a mobile phone, he “We used to cultivate the land of the Connections Project. would be quick to tell you it was During this year’s winter works, hard to water evenly. so that it was soft, and we used to “Some trees received too much much harder back in his day - but form channels and banks in the the Kelvin property at Tatura East, which is on the Central Goulburn water while others didn’t get I reckon he would be impressed.” orchard,” Ross said.

The $2 billion project is the “We didn’t use pumps; we would Number Four Channel, was reme- enough.”

For Ross, a modern system largest irrigation modernisation survey the slopes by eye and the diated and upgraded.

At this site two kilometres of means having better control over project in Australia. water would run down to the end.

Funded by the Victorian and Aus“Later we stopped cultivating channel was remediated and GCL irrigation which evens out the tralian governments, the project is and we started using sprinklers lined, generating water savings of health of the trees.

“We are heading into an era generating water savings by creating about 505 megalitres. staggered throughout the orchard.

7KH oIWK JHQHUDWLRQ RI 7XUQ- where we are becoming increas- a world leading delivery system that k7KHQ , oJXUHG RXW WKDW LI ZH used hoses we could move them bulls now manage the property, LQJO\ HIoFLHQW LQ HYHU\ ZD\ ZKHQ boosts irrigator productivity, helps around and we needed fewer with Chris Turnbull, 42, and Alex it comes to agriculture; we simply communities thrive and fosters healthy waterways and wetlands. sprinklers, in fact we only needed Turnbull, 39, relying on their mo- have to,” he said.

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NEWS

Page 10, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

March 2019

Sheep industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s big guns to fire at CRC conference THE program for the Sheep CRC final conference, being held in Dubbo on March 19-20, has been packed with the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most influential researchers and innovative producers.

The program has been designed to highlight Sheep CRC achievements since commencing operations in 2001, and will feature speakers including: Murdoch Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dave Pethick and JBSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mark Inglis discussing meat science and consumer trends; wool processing expert Dave Tester and Gostwyck Merinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Philip Attard on fabric innovations; University of New England geneticist Julius van der Werf and Neogenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jason Lilly discussing the genomics revolution; and leading producers Andrew Michael, Mark Mortimer, Rob Warburton and Stuart Warner on implementing new technologies on the farm.

With so much material to cover, the program format is high-energy, 10-minute talks designed to keep speakers focused and the audience engaged. k7KH 6KHHS &5& o QDO FRQIHUHQFH will provide a comprehensive overview of sheep industry innovation over the last two decades and will be highly relevant to everyone in the sheep industry,â&#x20AC;? CRC chief executive James Rowe said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not only will it cover the major VFLHQWLo F EUHDNWKURXJKV WKH &5& has delivered, it will also feature topical discussions about life after the CRC and how industry is plan-

FINAL GOODBYE: The final Sheep CRC conference will be held next month at Dubbo. Keynote speakers will include leading stud Merino breeder, Andrew Michael.

jects will come to an end in mid 2019.

7KH FRQIHUHQFH ZLOO EH WKH o QDO public event held by the CRC, and will run in conjunction with the Sheep Genetics Leading Breeder Forum, which will immediately follow the event on March 20-21.

7KH &5& V o QDO FRQIHUHQFH ZLOO also feature a number of trade displays from CRC participant organi-

ning to maintain cooperation between the range of producer and industry organisations involved in the Sheep CRC.â&#x20AC;?

The Cooperative Research Centre for Sheep Industry Innovation (Sheep CRC) was established in 2001 and after two extensions to its research agenda by the Commonwealth in DQG LWV o QDO VXLWH RI SUR

sations to showcase how research has resulted in practical products.

Conference registration fees have been capped at $100 (plus GST) to ensure the event is accessible to as many participants as possible, with the cost including catering.

Program information and registration is available at www.sheepcrc.org.au.

Free poultry and pig workshops AGRICULTURE Victoria is hosting a number of free small scale pig and poultry workshops across the North East.

Following on from successful events held in Benalla and Wangaratta, further workshops will now be held at Colac on March 5 and Tatura on March 13.

The workshop will provide producers with an overview of the supporting grants program that is offering up to $3000 for eligible expenses related to on-farm works, consultancy and advice, or training that supports the preparation of a land use planning permit application.

Producers must attend a workshop to be eligible for a grant.

The workshop will: z inform and educate small-scale pig and poultry producers about their planning requirements; z provide guidance on the development of property, locality and nutrient management plans for small-scale pig and poultry farms to support a planning permit application; and z help participants to identify site improvements needed to support their planning permit application.

Workshops will be held from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

If you are unable to make the Benalla event, there are also workshops being run at Wangaratta on February 28 and Tatura on March 13.

There is no cost to attend but places are limited.

Register via Eventbrite - https:// agvic-pig-poultry.eventbrite.com.au/.

Contact Mick Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Keefe at michael. okeefe@ecodev.vic.gov.au or 0408 284 475 for more information.

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NEWS

March 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 11

MerinoLink appoints Jason Letchford

NEW FACE: Jason Letchford has been appointed as the new MerinoLink CEO, and aims to drive the group to a sustainable future.

LEADING research organisation, MerinoLink, has appointed Jason Letchford as chief executive officer (CEO).

Mr Letchford replaces sheep industry consultant Sally Martin, who has taken on the role of project manager and technical advisor, support-

ing the current and future MerinoLink projects and trials.

MerinoLink Limited is a not-forprofit company and was instigated by a progressive group of ram and commercial breeders, and service providers in 2012.

Mr Letchford spent his formative

years growing up in shearing sheds as the son of a shearing contractor and wool classer.

In 2004, he took on the part-time committee position of secretarytreasurer of the shearing industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s peak body, the Shearing Contractors Association of Australia, a position he

Export demand to support sheepmeat prices as dry bites AUSTRALIAN lamb slaughter is forecast to reach its lowest level since 2012 as poor conditions that impacted 2018 are expected to continue to affect sheepmeat supply this year, according to Meat and Livestock Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (MLA) 2019 Sheep Industry Projections.

Lamb slaughter is forecast to decline seven per cent in 2019 to 21.2 million head, while sheep slaughter is predicted to be down 16 per cent, to eight million head, underpinned by substantial drops in marking rates and the culling of large numbers of ewes and ewe lambs.

The national flock is estimated to have declined by over four million head, or 6.1 per cent, to mid-2018 and is forecast to experience a further decline of 3.7 per cent by mid-2019 to 65.3 million head, as many producers are forced to continue destocking as they wait for a turnaround in the weather.

The significantly reduced breeding flock and widespread rainfall deficiencies, suggest fewer joinings than usual and a continuation of below-average lambing rates experienced in 2018.

MLAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market intelligence manager, Scott Tolmie, said many producers will be hoping for some consistent rainfall this year to help alleviate some of the

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SHEEP INDUSTRY PROJECTIONS AT A GLANCE: z lamb slaughter to fall due to reduced flock and poor lambing rates; z national flock forecast to decline 3.7 per cent to 65.3 million head; z strong demand from international markets, particularly China, to support prices.

pressures associated with high feed costs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Unfortunately, the current Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) three-month outlook does not point to an immediate reprieve from the current hot and dry conditions,â&#x20AC;? Mr Tolmie said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Considering the substantial moisture deficiencies apparent in many regions, particularly New South Wales, any improvement in conditions would require consistent aboveaverage rainfall over the coming months.â&#x20AC;?

Mr Tolmie said both sheep and lamb carcase weights were impacted by the tough conditions and high cost of feed in 2018, and this is expected to continue in 2019 with feedstocks depleted and feed demand to remain high until conditions improve. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The average lamb carcase weight is expected to remain around 22.4kg/ head in 2019 while the national average sheep carcase weight is expected to stabilise in 2019, at 23.6kg/ head,â&#x20AC;? Mr Tolmie said.

Mr Tolmie said looking

beyond the current rainfall deficiencies, a variety of indicators point towards 2019 continuing to be a positive year for sheepmeat prices. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fortunately, robust international demand and a low Australian dollar will continue to support Australian exports and, in turn, domestic saleyard prices,â&#x20AC;?

Mr Tolmie said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Records were broken in 2018 as markets around the world competed strongly for Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high quality sheepmeat. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The expectation for supply, and consequently exports, to decline in both Australia and New Zealand will likely see global competition for sheepmeat intensify in 2019. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The conditions that drove strong prices for wellfinished stock last year look likely to remain in place in 2019, particularly while conditions remain dry.â&#x20AC;?

To read MLAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2019 Sheep Industry Projections, visit the MLA website: https:// www.mla.com.au/pricesmarkets/Trends-analysis/ sheep-projections/.

continues to hold.

Mr Letchford has a busy year ahead with the annual autumn field day on March 15 at Temora, Peter Westblade Scholarship presentation on April 4, and annual conference and field day at Armidale on June 19 and 20.

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Page 12, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

NEWS

March 2019

Long term cattle, sheep prices look positive NAB releases January report and outlook Ű

LOWER cattle and cotton prices, and a slight easing in the price of wheat, have seen the National Australia Bank (NAB) Rural Commodities Index fall by 1.1 per cent in January, after a 0.5 per cent increase in December.

NAB agribusiness economist, Phin Ziebell, said the hottest January nationally on record and ongoing lack of rain across most of the country had led to a tough start to 2019 for many commodities.

“Lower cattle prices and very high grain prices saw Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and New South Wales all underperform this month on a state by state basis,” Mr Ziebell said.

“Victoria and Tasmania were the only states to record an increase, rising by 1.4 per cent and 1.9 per cent respectively, driven largely

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by dairy’s stronger performance.

“Cotton prices have trended downwards and the latest ABARES forecasts for December points to a 42 per cent decline in lint production to 581kt, owing to a sharp reduction in irrigation water availability.

“The national outlook remains hot and mostly dry, which combined with a severe feed shortage and well below average winter harvest in eastern Australia, is causing grain prices to remain very elevated and placing downward pressure on livestock prices.”

In terms of livestock, a hot January and disappointing wet season saw the Eastern

Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) fall around nine per cent from December levels.

“Intense rainfall in northern Queensland last month has brought devastation for many graziers,” Mr Ziebell said.

“Despite this, demand for o QLVKHG FDWWOH UHPDLQV UHOD tively strong and global markets are looking healthy.

“Depending on autumn rainfall, there is likely to be elevated re-stocker demand and upside for the EYCI, which we see sitting around 450c/kg in the coming months.

“Both lamb and wool have come back from their 2018 rally, but the long-term trends remain positive.”

NEWS

March 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 13

Kyneton woman to breed genetically diverse bees CLAIRE Moore has had a tough couple of years.

Buying a farm in 2012 in Kyneton, Claire and her partner Paul were on track to becoming commercial bee farmers.

Then, tragedy struck; travelling at 90 kilometres an hour, 3DXO KDG DQ HSLOHSWLF o W LQ KLV car driving through the main street of town. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He almost died,â&#x20AC;? Claire said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He had a gardening and landscaping business, so we had to close that business - I looked after him for the next two years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was the hardest two years of my life.â&#x20AC;? :LWK D o YH ZHHN ROG EDE\ and a toddler as well, the bees took a back seat. ,QVWHDG &ODLUH KDG WR o QG another way to make a living from their 10 acres. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bees and babies donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mix,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So I started raising chickens â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the kids could help me with that â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and we now have 1500 chickens and sell eggs at the farmers markets.â&#x20AC;?

It has been a slow road back, with long hours spent balancing the home, the farm, the birds and the bees.

But now things have turned around.

Last month, Claire was announced as one of three 9LFWRULDQ o QDOLVWV LQ WKH

AgriFutures Rural Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Awards.

The winner, which is announced later this month, will receive a $10,000 education bursary.

If successful, Claire wants to use the money to complete D EHH DUWLo FLDO LQVHPLQDWLRQ course. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new technology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I want to breed better queen bee stock, stock that could be exported across the world,â&#x20AC;?

Claire said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bees globally are declining â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no one really knows why, there is a multitude of reasons, but no one can pinpoint exactly; varroa, disease, climate change.â&#x20AC;?

Bees have always been Claireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion.

Working as a stock brokerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assistant in Melbourne for almost a decade, Claire and Paul set up their suburban backyard as an oasis.

With fruit trees and vegetables, the family quickly outgrew their space. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We bought a beehive for the backyard â&#x20AC;&#x201C; because it was lovely and sustainable and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what we wanted â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that was 2007 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and then I ran out of room.â&#x20AC;?

Knowing they needed more space, prices in their home towns â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Great Ocean Road for Claire, and Maffra for Paul â&#x20AC;&#x201C; made them out of the question.

1500 hens NS: Claire runs HONEY AND HE ed egg operation, combined for her pasteuris ess. sin with her bee bu

HONEY TO THE BEE: Kyneton farmer Claire Moore has been announced as one of three Victorian finalists in the 2019 AgriFutures Rural Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Awards.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We chose Kyneton because of property prices,â&#x20AC;? Claire said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kyneton isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t great for bees, but in the surrounding areas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Castlemaine, Trentham, there are good trees.â&#x20AC;? %X\LQJ LQ WKH\ o UVW set up the farm through a hive share system. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wanted to get more bee hives, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really expensive itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard work, heavy work, and the cost of setting up an apiary is huge,â&#x20AC;? she said.

For $200, friends â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;purchasedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; a hive, which Claire ran and organised.

In return, buyers got honey and a hands on farm experience â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and after a year, Claire got the hive. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We sold about 20 hives that way, and it was going well.â&#x20AC;?

Moving permanently to Kyneton in 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Claire and Paul built an award winning sustainable home with bees in mind, complete with hon-

ey stores and a passive cool room â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but it was not long after that Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health problems brought everything to a halt.

With the tough times now behind them, the family are focused on the future.

And, if this month Claire is not announced as a Victorian o QDOLVW VKH ZLOO GR ZKDWHYHU it takes to still complete the course. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m working really hard at

the moment, selling a lot of eggs, so that I can hopefully pay my way if I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it,â&#x20AC;? she said.

The 2019 AgriFutures Rural Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Awards is designed to inspire and support Australian women to use and GHYHORS WKHLU VNLOOV WR EHQHo W their industries and communities.

7KH RWKHU WZR 9LFWRULDQ o nalists are: z Carly Jordan, from south west Victoria, who wants to continue developing a migrant resettlement model that assists regional towns to boost their populations and economies; and z Odette Suitor, from Sunbury, who wants to continue developing a grains storage FRQFHSW WR LPSURYH WKH HIo ciency of grain harvest by taking the concept to industry.

The national winner will be announced at an award ceremony in Canberra held in September.

NEWS

Page 14, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

March 2019

Goulburn Valley water video series A SERIES of â&#x20AC;&#x153;how-toâ&#x20AC;? videos are now available to help local farmers best manage their most important agricultural asset â&#x20AC;&#x201C; water.

The videos, covering the fundamentals of modern water management, are delivered in plain English and are directly relevant to the Goulburn Murray Irrigation District.

Produced as a joint initiative of Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) and Murray Dairy, the online resource is free for farmers to view from their computer, tablet or phone. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s farmers recognise that a good working knowledge of water management is increasingly important to get WKH PRVW HIIHFWLYH DQG HIo cient use of their entitlement from day to day and season to season,â&#x20AC;? Diane James, chairman of GMW, said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, the complexities of water shares, allocation and carryover, for example, or the different rules that govern water trade, can be a bit overwhelming.â&#x20AC;?

Dairy farmer Rick Cross - past chairman of Murray Dairy - narrates and features in the video series.

All imagery in the series was shot in the Goulburn Valley. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Running a dairy farm at Toolamba for the past 20 years, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve experienced the ups and downs of farming,â&#x20AC;?

Mr Cross said.

Dairy farmers able to access free visual information Ĺ°

The GMW-Murray Dairy video series covers: 1) Introduction â&#x20AC;&#x201C; water as a commodity, water shares and how seasonal determinations work.

2) Allocation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; water shares vs allocation, high and low reliability shares, accounts or ABAs. 3) Managing water â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the requirements and advantages of carrying over water entitlement from one season to the next.

4) Trading 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; trading in water shares, trading in allocation, trading within irrigation zones.

5) Trading 2 - trading in different irrigation zones and interstate, trading rules and limits.

6) Carryover calculator â&#x20AC;&#x201C; using this helpful online tool.

THERE TO HELP: Toolamba dairy farmer, Rick Cross, narrates a new video series aimed at helping Goulburn Valley dairy farmers navigate water trading.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the biggest shifts in the industry has been the way we use and manage water. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important that farmers understand how to navigate the water market and understand their options for managing their entitlements.â&#x20AC;?

Murray Dairy chairman, Karen Moroney, said the vidHRV ZHUH SURGXFHG WR o OO D gap in information that was readily accessible and easy to understand. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is lots of government and industry material available on aspects of water management like trade and

FDUU\RYHU EXW LW V GLIo FXOW WR o QG DFFHVVLEOH XS WR date information, all in one place,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The videos provide practical explanations on different aspects of water management. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Farmers can work through the series of videos

WR o QG WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ WKDW V relevant to them.â&#x20AC;?

Ms James said the combined expertise of GMW and Murray Dairy will be used to produce future videos as needed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our goal is to provide our respective customers and members with readily un-

derstandable water management information in a readily accessible digital format,â&#x20AC;? she said.

The video series can be accessed on the website pages of GMW and Murray Dairy.

For convenience, each video can be viewed with or without subtitles.

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The Rural Group are offering this special interest rate on all New Holland tractors sold from the 22nd October & delivered by the 31st December 2018.

SHEPPARTON RURAL

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*Terms and conditions apply. 48 months terms, 30% deposit GST back in month four. Finance provided by CNH Industrial Capital Australia Pty Ltd AFS License 286664. Offers available to all business customers only, subject to credit approval. Applicable to new tractors only.

NEWS

March 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 15

On-farm infrastructure grants still available ON-farm infrastructure support grants are available in Alpine, Benalla, Buloke, Campaspe, Gannawarra, Greater Bendigo, Greater Shepparton, Indigo, Loddon, Moira, Strathbogie, Swan Hill, Towong, Wangaratta and Wodonga local government areas where dry seasonal conditions have impacted heavily.

An infrastructure grant of up to $5000 is available to assist eligible farm

businesses implement on-farm infrastructure improvements such as water and fence infrastructures or stock containment areas.

Farm businesses provide at least dollar for dollar matching funding co-contribution.

Guidelines for the infrastructure support grants are available at: https://www.ruralfinance. com.au/uploads//grant_ files/On-Farm-DroughtInfrastructure-SupportGrant-Guidelines.pdf.

We are online!

nemedia.com.au

PLANS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Sharna Hagendoorn is studying a Bachelor of Science at the Melbourne University, with plans to move into Veterinary Medicine, helped by a scholarship by the Gardiner Dairy Foundation.

Local farmer wins dairy scholarship A YOUNG farmer from Cohuna is among the latest round of Gardiner Dairy Foundation tertiary scholarship winners.

The scholarships are awarded to students who have been accepted into a FRXUVH WKDW ZLOO EHQHoW WKH Victorian dairy industry or dairy communities.

Sharna Hagendoorn is studying a Bachelor of Science at Melbourne University, and plans to transfer into a doctorate of Veterinary Medicine after completing her 3-year undergraduate degree. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Gardiner Foundation scholarship will help with my costs, particularly with accommodation in Melbourne, which is very expensive,â&#x20AC;? she said. k,W ZLOO GHoQLWHO\ HDVH WKH oQDQFLDO SUHVVXUH RQ PH and I am very thankful to the

Gardiner Foundation for this scholarship.â&#x20AC;?

Sharna plans to major in animal health and disease and to go on to work with large animals â&#x20AC;&#x201C; cows and horses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in a small rural town.

The Gardiner Dairy Foundation encourages students to return to the dairy industry on graduating, or to use their new learned skills to contribute positively to their rural community.

This year, the number of scholarships granted increased from four to seven.

Gardiner Dairy FoundaWLRQ FKLHI H[HFXWLYH RIoFHU Dr Clive Noble, said a diverse range of skills are needed to ensure the Victorian dairy industry and its communities are resilient. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dairy communities need high level skills in all areas of

dairying as well as in essential areas such as health, education DQG oQDQFH y 'U 1REOH VDLG â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, there is a huge cost for students associated with relocating to undertake the higher education and training required to develop these skills. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Tertiary Scholarships support the development of young professionals who may not have had the opportunity to pursue higher education and who intend to bring their skills back to a dairy region in the future.â&#x20AC;?

Applications for 2020 Tertiary Scholarships will open in August 2019.

For more information go to: http://www.gardinerfoundation.com.au/currentprojects-industry/ or email richard.meredith@gardinerfoundation.com.au.

Vanguard Engines

8â&#x20AC;?, 10â&#x20AC;? or 13â&#x20AC;? conventional augers

Hydraulic mover & life kits, or PTO drive

Reversible gearbox

ʡˢ˨Ë&#x2022;Ë&#x;Ë&#x2DC; ˌ˧Ë&#x201D;˼˧ Đ&#x201A;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x161;Ë&#x203A;˧Ë&#x153;ËĄË&#x161; Ë&#x2122;ˢ˼ Ë&#x153;ËĄË&#x2013;ËĽË&#x2DC;Ë&#x201D;ËŚË&#x2DC;Ë&#x2014; Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x201D;ËŁË&#x201D;Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x153;˧ˏ

Ë&#x201A;ˣ˧Ë&#x153;ˢ˥Ë&#x201D;Ë&#x; Ë&#x;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x161;Ë&#x203A;˧ Ë&#x17E;Ë&#x153;˧ ˢ˼ Ë&#x2DC;Ë&#x;Ë&#x2DC;Ë&#x2013;˧˼Ë&#x153;Ë&#x2013; Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x;˨˧Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x203A;

PTO augers range in sizes from 10â&#x20AC;? up to 16â&#x20AC;?, with lengths from 60ft up to 104ft. Ë&#x201A;ˣ˧Ë&#x153;ˢ˥Ë&#x201D;Ë&#x; Ë&#x203A;ËŹË&#x2014;ËĽË&#x201D;˨Ë&#x;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x2013; Ë&#x203A;ˢˣˣË&#x2DC;ËĽ Ę&#x2122; ËŞË&#x153;ËĄË&#x2013;Ë&#x203A;Ę&#x; ʤʣʣʣ ËĽËŁË ËĽË&#x2DC;˧˼ˢ Р˧ Ë&#x17E;Ë&#x153;˧ Features include: ĎĽ

Ë&#x2026;Ë&#x2DC;ËŠË&#x2DC;ËĽËŚË&#x153;ËĄË&#x161; Đ&#x201A;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x161;Ë&#x203A;˧ Ë&#x2014;ËĽË&#x153;ËŠË&#x2DC;

ĎĽ

Straight seem barrel for maximum strength

Sizes from 4â&#x20AC;? and 6â&#x20AC;? diameter, and 11ft to 21ft in length.

Features include: ĎĽ

Electric 240V motor

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ĎĽ

Ę¸Ë Ë&#x2DC;ËĽË&#x161;Ë&#x2DC;ËĄË&#x2013;ËŹ Ë&#x17E;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x;Ë&#x;Ę ËŚËŞË&#x153;˧Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x203A;

ĎĽ

Straight seem barrel for maximum strength

ĎĽ

Ë&#x201A;ˣ˧Ë&#x153;ˢ˥Ë&#x201D;Ë&#x; Ë&#x;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x161;Ë&#x203A;˧ Ë&#x17E;Ë&#x153;˧

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NEWS

Page 16, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

March 2019

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AL, NUTS AND BOLTS, VACCINE, DAIRY PRODUCTS, ANI MAL HEALTH PR

IN this exclusive new column for the North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Dr Anna Manning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; who owns and operates Delatite Veterinary Services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; talks DERXW WKH EHQHo WV RI HDUOLHU weaning, and how it can be used for weight gains.

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T let your cattleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s condition slip away from you.

Most of the pasture has been grazed and the paddocks are looking pretty bare - now is the time to wean; even if your cows are in a higher body condition score.

The quantity of forage required to feed a cow to make milk to then feed a calf is high.

7KH HQHUJHWLF HIo FLHQF\ for the conversion of forage energy consumed by the cow into calf live weight gain drops from 90 per cent as a one month old calf, to 38 per cent when the calf is over three months of age.

This is due to anatomical changes in the calfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stomach; as the calf grows and VWDUWV JUD]LQJ LW ORVHV D UHp H[ where the milk bypasses the rumen and goes directly into the abomasum.

Separating the cow and calf will allow accurate feeding of the calf.

Early weaned calves beneo W IURP D KLJK GLHWDU\ SURWHLQ concentration and we should aim for 18 per cent crude protein with the bulk of the protein as a true protein. ([DPSOHV RI IHHGLQJ RS tions include high quality legume hay with grain, or high quality silage with 20 per cent cereal grain plus 10 per cent protein meal.

Pellets are a great option as they come with a prepared feed test.

Once the cow and calf unit

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are separated, the energy requirements for the cow drops dramatically as lactation stops.

Therefore, earlier weaning FDQ DOORZ \RX WR PD[LPLVH your calvesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; growing potential while maintaining condition in the cow herd.

At the subsequent calving period this reallocation of energy can lead on to a higher birth weight calf, better lactation, higher conception rates and running more cows in your herd.

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NEWS

March 2019

High dairy costs drive production down, markets balanced DAIRY Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s February Situation and Outlook report shows production costs continue to pressure dairy farmers, while well-balanced global markets show promise for higher farmgate returns.

Milk production continues to lag behind 2017/18 levels, tracking 4.8 per cent lower for the current season to December, and the impact of tough seasonal conditions is placing further pressure on many farmers.

Dairy Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forecast for 2018/19 milk production KDV EHHQ DGMXVWHG WR UHp HFW a seven per cent to nine per cent decrease relative to 2017/18, equating to a total of between 8.45 and 8.65 billion litres for the full season.

While some farmers in the southern regions experienced a better than expected later spring and early summer this season, many farmers in New South Wales, Queensland, East Gippsland and Northern Victoria have IDFHG VLJQLo FDQW VHDVRQDO GLIo FXOWLHV Currently on-farm, high prices for grain, hay and irrigation water persist - with consequences being felt by the broader industry.

However, global dairy

markets reveal healthy import demand with key markets continuing to grow including China, Japan and Southeast Asia.

Dairy Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior industry analyst, John Droppert, said the ongoing growth in markets like China and Japan provides some comfort for the Australian dairy industry in an environment that is proving challenging for many farmers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to lose sight of the positive in an environment of rising costs of production, a challenging domestic market and tough seasonal conditions,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Many farmers have had WR PDNH GLIo FXOW GHFLVLRQV and the numbers often arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pretty, but there are positives to be found in the broader market. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As well as overseas, there are opportunities closer to home, and premium offerings are selling well in the Australian domestic market generating increased unit value,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In addition, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen Woolworths announce plans to increase private label fresh milk prices by 10 cents per litre, passing that amount di-

rectly to farmers who supply the product. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too early to quantify the full implications of this decision, but for farmers it has been a welcome one.â&#x20AC;?

Healthy growth is evident in higher value sub-categoULHV LQFOXGLQJ p DYRXUHG PLON premium dairy desserts and probiotic yoghurts.

Both cheese and dairy spread sales have also experienced growth, the latter despite increased retail prices.

With farm input costs likely to remain high in the coming months, Mr Droppert highlights the value of information and resources such as the Situation and Outlook, to inform farm business decision-making. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As farmers prepare for autumn and winter, Dairy Australia will be dedicated to providing the latest international and domestic market trends, statistics and facts to Australian farmers, in addition to on-ground support through the regional development programs,â&#x20AC;? Mr Droppert said.

Released three times a year, the full February Situation and Outlook report is available at www.dairyaustralia.com.au.

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 17

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NEWS

Page 18, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

March 2019

Autumn experiments begin at Ag Vic WITH autumn just around the corner, Agriculture Victoria researchers are preparing for the seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second wave of experiments.

2QH RI WKH o UVW FDEV RII WKH UDQN ZLOO EH D KHDW WROHUDQFH H[SHULPHQW FRQGXFWHG E\ 'U Leah Marett, who leads the Cool Cows research project ZLWKLQ 'DLU\)HHGEDVH In this experiment, different protein supplements will EH WHVWHG IRU WKHLU HIIHFWV RQ ERG\ WHPSHUDWXUH DQG PLON production during an imposed short-term heat event. k:H ZLOO WHVW EDUOH\ JUDLQ

BY DR MARTIN AULDIST

Senior Research Scientist, Agriculture Victoria, Ellinbank

canola meal, whole cottonseed and lupins,â&#x20AC;? said Leah. k,W LV SRVVLEOH VRPH VXS plements have a lower heat of fermentation in the rumen, which in turn could lead to ORZHU FRUH ERG\ WHPSHUDWXUHV â&#x20AC;&#x153;The oil in the cottonseed PD\ E\SDVV IHUPHQWDWLRQ for example. k$OWHUQDWLYHO\ VRPH RI

WKHVH VXSSOHPHQWV PD\ DO low cows to increase intake WKURXJK HIIHFWV RQ WKH EXIIHU LQJ FDSDFLW\ RU RWKHU PHFKD nisms, thus allowing milk SURGXFWLRQ WR EH PDLQWDLQHG even during a heat event.â&#x20AC;?

The experiment will run IURP HDUO\ 0DUFK XQWLO HDUO\ April, and will use 32 cows offered a protein supplement as

part of a mixed ration.

7KH 6PDUW )HHGLQJ SUR MHFW WHDP ZLOO DOVR EH EXV\ during autumn.

One of the major goals of WKLV SURJUDP LV WR EH DEOH WR measure pasture intake of grazing cows in near real time. $FFRUGLQJO\ H[SHULPHQWV ZLOO EH FRQGXFWHG WKDW DLP to predict pasture intake us-

LQJ PRUH HDVLO\ PHDVXUDEOH parameters.

This will include pasture characteristics such as preJUD]LQJ PDVV GHQVLW\ DQG DO lowance, species, vegetative stage and crude protein content, along with cow measurements such as time spent JUD]LQJ DQG QXPEHU RI ELWHV (measured using on-cow sensors), stage of lactation, PLON \LHOG OLYHZHLJKW KHLJKW and muzzle width.

These factors will then EH UHODWHG WR DFWXDO PHDV urements of pasture intake made using the alkane tech-

nique, an experimental technique for estimating intake YLD DQDO\VLV RI IDHFHV Parallel experiments will PHDVXUH WKH YDULDWLRQ EHWZHHQ cows and within a cow in terms of the mass of grass harvested SHU ELWH DQG WKH PDVV RI JUDVV VZDOORZHG LQ HDFK EROXV Gaining an understanding of these parameters and the factors that affect their variDWLRQ PD\ DOVR EH LPSRUWDQW in developing a method for measuring pasture intake. , OO KDYH PRUH RQ ERWK these research projects next month.

New GV pear variety planted ROCKY Varapodio has plantHG D QHZ YDULHW\ RI SHDU ZLWK WKH o UVW SODQQHG KDUYHVW The third generation *RXOEXUQ 9DOOH\ JURZHU VDLG modern varieties of pear were needed, or the fruit risked EHFRPLQJ RXW RI IDYRXU ZLWK consumers.

'XULQJ WKH SDVW WZR \HDUV 5RFN\ KDV SODQWHG KHFWDUHV RI D SHDU YDULHW\ QRW JURZQ LQ $XVWUDOLD EXW H[WHQVLYHO\ JURZQ in New Zealand, known as the +RQH\ %HOOH SHDU :LWK LWV HVWDEOLVKHG PDUNHW in Asia and unique characWHULVWLFV EULQJLQJ LW WR WKH *RXOEXUQ 9DOOH\ ZDV D kQR EUDLQHUy â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are a couple of new

ones on the horizon, which is great as the old traditional YDULHWLHV QHHG WR EH OHIW LQ WKH IUXLW ERZO WR ULSHQ IRU D IHZ GD\V EHIRUH WKH\ UH DW WKH RSWL PXP WR HDW y 5RFN\ VDLG k7KLV RQH KDV D ELW PRUH RI a texture - like an apple - and LV VZHHW DQG MXLF\ VR \RX FDQ pick it up and eat it straight DZD\ LW V D VQDFNLQJ SHDU â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are still people who love eating traditional pears, EXW WKLV JLYHV WKH FRQVXPHUV WKDW PD\ QRW XVXDOO\ VQDFN RQ a pear another option, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s DERXW WU\LQJ WR JURZ WKH ZKROH SHDU FDWHJRU\ y 5RFN\ VDLG HIo FLHQW ZDWHU use on-farm was an integral part of setting up a new

RUFKDUG EORFN DQG WKH +RQH\ %HOOH SODQWLQJ ZDV ZDWHUHG ZLWK D IXOO\ DXWRPDWHG PLQL MHW VSULQNOHU V\VWHP He said through the on-farm HIo FLHQF\ SURJUDP VRLO PRLVWXUH SUREHV ZHUH SODFHG DURXQG WKH SURSHUW\ ZLWK UDGLR FRQWURO WRZHUV EDFN WR WKH RUFKDUG RIo FH DOORZLQJ KLP WR PDNH EHWWHU LUULJDWLRQ GHFLVLRQV and use less water. k7KH *RXOEXUQ 9DOOH\ DQG SDUWLFXODUO\ $UGPRQD KDYH EHHQ SURDFWLYH LQ ZDWHU HI o FLHQF\ DQG KDYH PRYHG DZD\ from those older traditional, not HIo FLHQW V\VWHPV y KH VDLG 7KH DELOLW\ WR EH LQQRYD tive on the orchard is what JHWV 5RFN\ kRXW RI EHG LQ WKH

morningâ&#x20AC;? and he said upJUDGHV WR WKH GHOLYHU\ QHWZRUN PDGH E\ WKH &RQQHFWLRQV Project, gave irrigators the FRQo GHQFH WR WKLQN RXWVLGH the square. k:DWHU LV WKH VLQJOH ELJJHVW LPSRUWDQW WKLQJ EHFDXVH ZLWKRXW LW ZH FDQ W GR DQ\ WKLQJ y 5RFN\ VDLG 7KH o UVW +RQH\ %HOOH SHDU LV due to hit the streets of ShepSDUWRQ QH[W \HDU NEW PEAR: Rocky Varapodio has 200 hectares of apples, stone fruits and pear planted at his Goulburn Valley Orchard â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including 15 hectares of the Belle Pear, the first planting of the species for Australia.

FITZGERALD EARTHMOVING AND IRRIGATION Formally Bosch Irrigation - Albury

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NEWS

March 2019

QUEENSLAND FRUIT FLY GROWER’S UPDATE

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 19

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Fruit fly trapping

During the first two weeks of January 2019 between 310 and 352 traps were inspected with the number of fl ies trapped ranging from 159 (from 310 traps) to 201 from 352 traps). These numbers are down on the previous month. Proactive control measures undertaken by growers and the community combined with climate events are responsible for this trend. Traps are examined by trained Field Officers weekly and provide an indication of Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) population pressure in areas in which traps are located.

Current fruit fly hot spots If your commercial orchard is close to the following urban areas, which are at present registering high QFF populations, you should be ready to commence control programs if you have not already done so: z Cobram z Merrigum z Mooroopna z Shepparton East z Shepparton z Tatura If QFF populations follow the same patterns as 2017 and 2018, fruit fl y will start to become a problem in rural areas throughout February.

It is highly recommended that you ensure your traps are fresh (following label instructions) and placed in suitable locations to intercept QFF in your orchard.

In urban areas trapping rates, measuring the number of fl ies trapped per week, per trap site (rather than the total number of fl ies trapped over the region) for January 2019 were slightly lower than those for January 2018. The December 2018 peak (3.1 fl ies per trap per site recorded on 28 December 2018) in urban parts of the Goulburn Murray Valley was considerably less than that recorded the previous year (3.9

fl ies per trap per site on 14 December 2017). If your property is within 500 m of urban or periurban host plants, feral hosts along roads and channels or in abandoned orchards you should keep a close watch on: 1. Fruit fl y traps (male and female targeting) deployed all year round. Traps should be checked at least once a week; 2. Ripe or ripening fruit (in your orchard, front and rear yard, along the road or channel bank) that show signs of infestation (e.g. sting marks, abnormal fruit softening). Please check your fruit (for sting marks and/or eggs and larvae inside them) at least once a week; 3. If you have had QFF problems previously it is advised you have access to suitable quantities of fruit fly bait so if, or when, fruit fl ies are found in fruit or in high numbers in traps you can commence a baiting program immediately; 4. Ensure your orders for fruit fl y baits and, if necessary, fruit fl y cover sprays, have been sent to your supplier.

For more information on QFF control, collect an information pack from your Council’s Customer Service Centre.

Funded by the Victorian Government’s Managing Fruit Fly Regional Grants Program

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Page 20, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

NEWS

March 2019

Goat producers to guide levy investment GOAT producers from throughout the North East will have direct involvement in levy investment decisions with the establishment of a new Goat Industry Research, Development and Adoption Committee (GIRDAC).

Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) has established the committee to provide recommendations on research and development (R&D), and extension and adoption (E&A) initiatives, and investments for the Australian goatmeat and livestock industry.

MLA goat industry project manager, Julie Petty, said the committee comprises commercial goat producers with value chain and subject matter expertise. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The committee will review RD&A funding proposals, progress of existing projects and results of those concluding, delivering independence, quality, objectivity and transparency to project review and selection by MLA,â&#x20AC;? Ms Petty said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They will provide advice and endorsement relating to project management, setting research priorities, terms of reference development and review, appointment of service providers and review of current project progress.â&#x20AC;?

Ms Petty said GIRDAC would operate independently to the Goat Industry Council of Australia (GICA) as an MLA appointed and funded committee. â&#x20AC;&#x153;GIRDAC will have the authority to provide advice to MLA regarding RD&E levy investment and authorise RD&E initiatives on behalf of industry,â&#x20AC;? Ms Petty said.

ALL DONE FOR ANOTHER YEAR: The Seymour Alternative Farming Expo is done and dusted for another year, with organisers already planning a bigger and better event for 2020.

Seymour expo huge success

IT has been another successful year for the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo, with the event concluding late last month.

A combination of perfect weather, a fantastic line-up of exhibitors and some engaging demonstrations meant that more than 22,000 visited the three day event. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every year we have new exhibitors and innovative products as well as many returning favourites,â&#x20AC;? Seymour Alternative Farming Expo events manager, Susie Filleti, said.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mild weather made it more pleasant for the 500 exhibitors, their animals and the visitors.

Talks in the Learning Hub and farm lectures proved popular with visitors, as did the demonstrations in the Butcherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Shop and Country Kitchen. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Many of our regular visitors p RFNHG WR VHH %RE WKH %XWFKHU 'H warâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s last appearance at the event after many, many years,â&#x20AC;? Ms Filleti said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bob presented one demonstration each day, showcasing how to

turn cheaper cuts of meat into tasty and satisfying meals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Another favourite was James Mele, from The Meatroom, who shared some of the secrets to making sausages and salami.â&#x20AC;?

In the Country Kitchen, Secret Garden chef Adrian Hensley introduced visitors to cooking with hemp p RXU ZKLFK FDQ VRPHWLPHV EH D suitable alternative for people with gluten intolerance.

There were plenty of options to keep expo-goers entertained including

WKH ZRUNLQJ GRJV )OLSSLQJ 'LVF 'RJ] drone racing and whip-cracking championships, while others enjoyed learning about the latest farming innovations including the use of hemp products, such as Hempcrete in building. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lots of people made the most of DQ RSSRUWXQLW\ WR OHDUQ KRZ WR p \ D drone and participate in drone racing,â&#x20AC;? Ms Filleti said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every visitor saw something to interest and entertain them and we look forward to doing it all again next year, even better.â&#x20AC;?

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NEWS

March 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 21

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BULL AND ON FARM SALES

Page 22, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

March 2019

MLA predicts national herd to contract AUSTRALIA’S national beef cattle herd is expected to fall to its lowest level since the mid-1990s as ongoing dry conditions persist across many key cattle production areas, according to Meat and Livestock Australia’s (MLA) 2019 Cattle Industry Projections.

With market action now fully resumed and reports issued weekly, MLA have warned of a tough year ahead for cattle producers across the country.

Cattle slaughter is forecast to drop three per cent, to 7.6

million head, based on the continued reduction in the size of the breeding herd and potential pool of available o QLVKHG FDWWOH In line with the forecast decrease in slaughter, total beef production is projected to decline four per cent, to 2.2 million tonnes carcase weight (cwt) in 2019.

MLA’s market intelligence manager, Scott Tolmie, said drought conditions that have swept across New South Wales and south-west Queensland have undone much of the herd rebuild

achieved since the 2013 2015 drought. k$ VLJQLo FDQW WXUQDURXQG in conditions is needed before rebuilding can recommence,” Mr Tolmie said.

“The prospect of another below average northern wet season, and a largely negative three-month rainfall outlook, will likely mean many producers that retained stock in 2018 will continue or commence destocking in the months ahead.

“Compared to last year, many producers have entered 2019 with depleted feed

stockpiles and require a turnaround in seasonal conditions to avoid mounting feed costs.

“Carcase weights are expected to drop to an average 289kg/head this year as the female kill remains elevated and the ability and cost to o QLVK FDWWOH UHPDLQV FKDO lenging.

“The number of cattle on feed is expected to ease from the record levels reached in 2018 to around one million head, on average, in 2019.”

Looking at prices, Mr Tolmie said any further destocking would see downward

pressure on cattle prices, particularly for store condition cattle.

“Finished cattle will likely remain supported to some degree, given the tight supply of quality slaughter cattle and strong demand fundamentals in many markets,” Mr Tolmie said.

“If there is a major improvement in seasonal conditions across eastern Australia, supplies will tighten VKDUSO\ DQG o HUFH UH VWRFNHU competition may re-emerge, as was the case in 2016.

“Seasonal conditions will

most likely have the strongest impact on domestic cattle prices, however, exchange rates, production in the United States and South America, market access developments and demand from China will all play an important part.

Total Australian beef exports are forecast to follow production and decline six per cent year-on-year, to 1.06 million tonnes swt in 2019.

To read MLA’s 2019 Cattle Industry Projections go to www.mla.com.au/pricesmarkets/Trends-analysis/ cattle-projections/

Cross into profit with a Charolais

ON THE MARKET: One stud participating in the upcoming Southern Charolais Breeders Group Sale is Chenu Charolais, who last year offered this soft, thick well conformed stud sire.

THIS year marks the 17th running of the annual Southern Charolais Breeders Group sale.

To be held at the Yea Saleyards on March 18, the action will kick off at midday.

This year, five new breeders have been added to the sale, with some of the best genetics, both new and old, to be offered.

“The weight gain offered by a Charolais can’t be matched, they have an amazing temperament and calving ease as well; they really are the perfect cross,” Ken Manton, from Clarinda Charolais, said.

“Last year, the top priced bull was around $7000 – it’s

also a great opportunity for breeders to come together and cross promote.”

More than 100 people are expected to attend the sale, with 30 bulls, 16 females and seven genetic packages to go under the hammer.

“The bulls are industry focused for vealer production, so buyers can value add to the silver calf advantage,” Colin Pickering, chairman of the Southern Charolais Breeders Group Sale, said.

“The Charolais breed has again asserted itself firmly as the ultimate cross breeding choice; calves have consistently weaned early and

heavy, hitting weights and returning profit on investment for a good bull.”

The bulls on offer have all been inspected, semen tested and excluded to be persistently infected for pesti virus, so buyers can purchase knowing bulls are ready to work and disease free.

Most have EBVs available to assist in your selection.

This year has also seen the addition of Auctions Plus available for online bidding for those who cannot make it to the sale on the day.

Bulls will be yarded for inspection by 10am.

For more information on the upcoming sale, head to Charolais.com.au.

17 SOUTHERN th

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BULL AND ON FARM SALES

March 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 23

A CHAP FROM CHATEAU: Chateau Limousins are based out of Wangaratta, and have been in the business for more than 35 years, trying to use the best genetics available in Australia and overseas through artificial insemination and embryo transplanting. The stud has about 90 breeders, mostly French pure with a few black Limousins. In 2010 poll French pure genetics were introduced over the traditional horn cows with great success - Chateau Limousins breed animals with capacity and volume with a strong emphasis on docility, structure and fertility, and have sold genetics to most Australian states, Indonesia, New Zealand and China.

THE BEST: Riga Angus, based out of Mansfield, takes pride in breeding the best quality yearling bulls â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and will again offer an outstanding line-up of 45 bulls at their on property sale on April 11. Pictured is one of the equal top priced bulls from last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sale, who went to Tasmania at a price of $7250.

C HATEAU LIMOUSIN STUD

Riga Angus â&#x20AC;&#x201C; breeding the best nors but also young females,â&#x20AC;? stud owner and principal, Vera Finger, said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This enables the genetic descriptions of the animal currently available to be closer to genetic trueness. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Quite the bonus in a yearling bull.â&#x20AC;?

Yearling bulls are typically purchased for use over heifers, but increasingly producers are becoming more open WR DOVR XVLQJ WKHP RYHU o UVW and second calvers as well as mature females where applicable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Feedback is positive,â&#x20AC;? Ms Finger said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A standout this year was a quote from a client at the sale, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;there were two pens of calves side by side weighing the same and our Riga bred calves made $100/hd more than the pen next doorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.â&#x20AC;?

There are some outstanding genetic packages on offer this year, from bulls such as Clunie Range Legend, Esslemont Lotto, Millah Murrah Loch Up, Wattletop Franklin, Boonnaroo Gravity and pure Landfall genetics.

For more information or to arrange a time to inspect the bulls at Riga, go to the website at www.rigaangus.com. au.

654 Boralma-Rutherglen Road, Boralma 3682 Ç&#x20AC;Ĺ?Ä&#x201A; tÄ&#x201A;ĹśĹ?Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;ĆŠÄ&#x201A; sĹ?Ä?Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ä&#x201A;Í&#x2DC; DŽŜÄ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ç&#x2021; Ď­Ď´Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161; DÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä?Ĺ&#x161; ĎŽĎŹĎ­Ďľ Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161; Ď­Í&#x2014;ĎŹĎŹĆ&#x2030;Ĺľ Lot 8 :Ĺ˝Ĺ&#x161;Ĺś Î&#x2DC; Ä&#x17E;Ç&#x20AC; DÄ?/ĹśĆ&#x161;Ç&#x2021;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2014; ͞ϏϯͿ Ϲϳώϭ Ď´ĎŽĎ´ĎŹÍ&#x2022; ĹśÄ&#x161;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ç Î&#x2DC; :Ä&#x17E;ŜŜÄ&#x201A; DÄ?/ĹśĆ&#x161;Ç&#x2021;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2014; ĎŹĎ°ĎŽĎ´ ϭϾϭ ĎŽĎ´ĎŽ Ç Ç Ç Í&#x2DC;Ä?Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;ƾůĹ?žŽƾĆ?Ĺ?ĹśĆ?Í&#x2DC;Ä?Žž Ä?Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;ƾůĹ?žŽƾĆ?Ĺ?ĹśĆ?Î&#x203A;ĹŻĹ?Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2DC;Ä?ŽžÍ&#x2DC;Ä&#x201A;Ćľ Ç Ç Ç Í&#x2DC;ĨÄ&#x201A;Ä?Ä&#x17E;Ä?ŽŽŏÍ&#x2DC;Ä?Žž͏ Ä?Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;ƾůĹ?žŽƾĆ?Ĺ?ĹśĆ?

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QUALITY ASSURED RIGA BULLS

BULL PREVIEW WEDNESDAY 20TH MARCH At Riga Angus, the focus is to produce top quality yearling bulls, to allow for the introduction of superior genetic material into herds a year earlier than normal resulting in more rapid genetic improvement for breeders Ian & Vera Finger P: (03) 5775 2140 F: (03) 57752340 M: 0429 939 105 E: info@rigaangus.com.au

YEARLING BULL SALE APRIL 2019

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EXOOV RYHU WKH IHHG GHo FLW LQ summer and autumn - quite the challenge this year with weaning occurring in early October to ensure the dams had an opportunity to return to acceptable condition scores for their next autumn calves.

Meeting their critical growth and development over this period is essential to ensure bulls are ready for work on client properties from mid-autumn; bulls have been weighed monthly and fed rations adjusted accordingly.

Bulls undergo significant screening, including i50K Genomic testing, are Parent Verified, Genetic Disorder tested, undergo a comprehensive vaccination program, and are structure and temperament assessed - as well as being vet checked, which includes a bull breeding soundness examination.

This year Angus Australia has recognised these efforts in a new Angus Australia assurance program. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are pleased to have PDQ\ EXOOV SDUHQW YHULo HG DV ZHOO DV SDUHQW YHULo FDWLRQ p RZLQJ EDFN WKURXJK WKH pedigree with not only do-

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RIGA Angus Stud is a family owned business, and over the last 40 plus years have operated on the belief that kSURo WDELOLW\ OLHV LQ WKH SHU IRUPDQFH DQG HIo FLHQF\ RI the cow herdâ&#x20AC;?.

At Riga Angus, the focus is to produce top quality yearling bulls to allow for the introduction of superior genetic material into herds a year earlier than normal - resulting in more rapid genetic improvement for breeders.

The combination of the investment in genomic testing and extensive raw data collection to produce Single Step EBVs for Rigaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s herd provides for a very powerful selection tool for our commercial producers.

2019 will see the studâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fourth on property sale, held on April 11.

A bull preview evening will be held on March 20, from 4-7pm.

While late in the stud sale calendar, the date best suits the preparation of the yearling bulls, who are born in a tight calving over March and early April the year before.

The preparation is intricate - from the point of weaning in spring to meeting the nutrition requirements of the

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TALLANGATTA EXPO

Page 24, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

March 2019

Free entry to Tallangatta Farming Expo THE Tallangatta Farming Expo is back again – and this year is promising to be bigger and better than ever.

Having been at the foreIURQW RI o HOG GD\V IRU PRUH than 25 years, the day has something for everyone – from genetics to soil improvers.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Tallangatta, the event is now in its 26th year and is looking to provide an even better show than last year.

Held on April 11, the expo will showcase all things farming - but will have an emphasis on sustainable farming including small holding farming as well as sustainable living.

Exhibits this year will include traditional farming stalls such as machinery,

fertiliser, fodder, animal genetics and fertility, water and fencing.

This year’s farming expo will also have a more interactive feel with exhibitors given opportunities to run Tiny Talks, on topics important to them and their clients.

Viking Genetics, who provide top quality semen to the dairy industry in Australia, using the latest genetic research from Scandinavia and Europe to deliver superior results for Australian dairy farmers, will be there – as will Whitlands Engineering – plus many, many more.

Full details and contacts are available at www.tallangattaexpo.com.au or by email at tallangattaexpo@ gmail.com.

ON AGAIN: April 11 will see the Tallangatta Showgrounds come alive with the annual Tallangatta Farming Expo kicking off from 9am.

All the best in farming at Tallangatta IT doesn’t matter if you are a farmer looking for new ideas, or a kid looking for some shoes – the 2019 Tallangatta Farming Expo has you covered.

Machinery on a large scale to toys to save up for, every interest is catered for.

Clothing stalls often make an

appearance, as do those who sell general farming implements – even garden fittings.

Looking for information on the best way to achieve more from your paddocks – there will be experts in the field at Tallangatta.

So make sure you mark the

FROM BIG TO SMALL: There is something for all interests, age and enthusiasm levels at this year’s Tallangatta expo.

26th Annual Tallangatta Farming Expo

E E R F Y R T ENVisitors for

day in your diary and head along to the Tallangatta Farming Expo on April 11.

Tallangatta Showgrounds April 11th

EXHIBITORS SHOWCASING GENERAL FARMING, SUSTAINABLE FARMING & SUSTAINABLE LIVING PLUS MUCH MORE!

New innovations Plant & Equipment Over 100 Exhibitors 5 Lucky Gate Prizes to the value of $50 each.

Raffle with $1000 worth of lubricants courtesy of North East Oils

Something for Everyone A FUN DAY FOR ALL

Site registration forms and competition entry details available by emailing tallangattafarmandwaterexpo@gmail.com or phone 0417 294 234

www.tallangattaexpo.com.au Sponsors: RSA, North East Oils, WAW, Towong Shire, Rotary Club of Tallangatta

30d02333-v2/1019

TINY TALKS S UNDER THE TREE

TALLANGATTA EXPO

March 2019

Whitlands Engineering celebrates 26 years MANY small businesses in rural areas are struggling, as drought bites and tractor machinery sales dip.

However, tucked up into the hills behind Wangaratta, Whitlands Engineering is the exception to the rule.

Now in their 26th year of operation, the company has experienced growth every year for the last decade.

Whitlands Engineering designs and manufactures Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading brands of log VSOLWWHUV DQG o UHZRRG SUR cessors â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Superaxe and Rex. Beginning with the famed Superaxe in 1993, David Burder - now head designer and FKLHI H[HFXWLYH RIo FHU RI WKH company - had the design ready to go, but no experience running a business.

He persevered, and the remarkable and enduring success of the product is testament to the original design.

Through exposure at local o HOG GD\V ZRUG RI PRXWK DQG D truly innovative product, Whit-

lands Engineering expanded, even through the drought and WKH JOREDO o QDQFLDO FULVLV These days, the business has two manufacturing sites, 25 staff and exports to NZ and the USA in their sights.

David is wholly committed to employing local people and manufacturing in North East Victoria.

Despite the temptation for cheaper production overseas, this decision has now become the cornerstone of the company philosophy and is fundamental to its success, longevity and reputation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Local manufacturing keeps money in the local economy, supports 25 employees and their families and most importantly keeps integrity in the manufacturing process,â&#x20AC;? David said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The imported machines may be cheaper, but they certainly donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t last very long. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To say we are Australian Made means more than anything.â&#x20AC;?

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 25

EVENT DETAILS: WHAT:

26th annual Tallangatta Farming Expo When: Thursday, April 11 Where: Tallangatta Showgrounds Entry: Free Parking: Free

The other ingredient in the success of Whitlands Engineering is through the innovative design and benchmark manufacturing standards.

Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re truly made to last.

Beyond that, ergonomic design is key, making the backbreaking task of splitting wood simple and comfortable â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the operator always has a straight back and lifting is eliminated with hydraulic log lifters fitted as standard.

The Superaxe has certainly proven itself over 25 years as Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading log splitter, setting new standards in performance, design and safety innovation.

Whitlands Engineering will be at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tallangatta Farming Expo next month, so call in and speak to David and WKH WHDP DW WKH o HOG GD\V Alternatively, free call the team on 1800 702 701, or visit the website for more details at www.superaxe.com.au for more information.

FIREWOOD EXPERT: David Burder, head designer and CEO at Whitlands Engineering, designed the first Superaxe in 1993. David and his team will be at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tallangatta Farming Expo.

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PASTURE IMPROVEMENT

Page 26, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

An environmentally friendly phosphate AUSTRALIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S national science agency, CSIRO, has developed a smelting process to produce soluble phosphate for fertiliser from low value ores, eliminating waste and making production more economically and environmentally sustainable.

Phosphate is a key ingredient in fertilisers and essential for plant health and growth.

The AUD$73 billion global phosphate market continues to grow as demand for fertiliser increases to meet food production needs.

CSIRO team leader, Keith Barnard, said the CSIRO-developed PyroPhos process offers a simpler, safer and more efficient alternative to conventional phosphate production processes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The PyroPhos smelting process uses high temperature to extract phosphate from ores, producing prized phosphate feedstock and a glassy gravel that can be used in road base construction and Portland cement,â&#x20AC;? Dr Barnard said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A major benefit of the process is that it can be used on lower grade ores giving phosphate miners and processors the opportunity to increase their productivity in an environmentally sustainable way.â&#x20AC;?

The PyroPhos process is exclusively licensed to PyroPhos, a subsidiary of Process Capital.

Director of PyroPhos, Mark Muzzin, believes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a unique technology offering in the soluble phosphate fertiliser market. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our networks and investor base give us the ability to connect PyroPhos technology to the global phosphate industry,â&#x20AC;? Mr Muzzin said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have had an excellent response from the industry and believe it has the ability to make a major impact.â&#x20AC;?

PyroPhos technology has emerged out of decades of research from CSIROâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s awardwinning Sirosmelt innovation and pryometalurgical expertise.

March 2019

Save money while improving your soil with liquid calcium An ARTICLE PROVIDED BY GOODE ORGANICS MOST farmers are aware they need more calcium in their soils, however, the cost of liming can be prohibitive - and the calcium from lime is not always immediately available.

Think of how long those little lime piles sit there when the spreader hits a bump in the paddock.

Liquid calcium (not powdered liquid lime) is a fast, instantly available form of calcium that farmers can spray directly on bare ground or as a foliar spray.

Research has shown that applying soluble calcium with urea can improve pasture or cropping production.

Calcium increases ammonium, potassium and phosphorus absorption, stimulates photosynthesis, and increases the size of sellable plant parts.

It also makes the use of QLWURJHQ PRUH HIo FLHQW ZKLFK improves the economics of production and reduces nitrogen contamination of the environment.

Calcium is the biggest number in any soil test.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good indication

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of how important it is for soil structure, crop and pasture production.

Goode Organics is a proud supplier of Healthy Earths N:Cal Liquid Calcium to a number of farmers throughout Victoria and Tasmania.

N:Cal does not block up jets, is much more available than lime, cheaper and easier to apply with a much lower freight cost.

Importantly, it works on the crop itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s applied to and returns the investment that season.

A 1000ltr shuttle of N:Cal is equal to 45 tonnes of lime.

N:Cal is completely water soluble and plant available, and can be absorbed through the leaves as a foliar fertiliser - plus it conditions soil while adding instantly available calcium as a soil amendment. *RRGH 2UJDQLFV o UVW VWHS with every customer is the analysis or capture of a soil test as there is no better way to present our productsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; capability.

Please contact Bayley at Goode Organics (see ad below) to arrange a soil analysis or to receive a fact sheet on N:Cal, which is only one of the 16 agricultural products available.

N:CAL, MORE THAN JUST FERTILISER: A 1000ltr shuttle of N:Cal is equal to 45 tonnes of lime.

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Covering Central, South Victoria, and West Gippsland

March 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 27

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Water deprivation or salt poisoning Salt toxicity occurs most commonly when livestock are deprived of a fresh water supply for more than 24 hours.

Without access to water, animals become dehydrated. This increases the concentration of sodium (salt) in the blood.

Clinical signs at this stage are lethargy, inappetance, and sometimes diarrhoea. The high concentrations of salt activate thirst receptors, causing livestock to desperately seek out water. If they are then allowed unlimited access to water at this time, they will drink a massive amount. This corrects

the dehydration as fluid is absorbed into the bloodstream and moves into the tissues.

However, the brain is unlike other parts of the body: water is able to move in rapidly (attracted by the high concentration of salt), but sodium canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave at the same speed.

This causes fluid (oedema) to accumulate in the head, increasing the pressure on the brain.

Clinical signs resulting from the increased intracranial pressure may include: trembling, blindness, circling, holding the head

abnormally, seizures, rapid loss of condition and weakness. Treatment once they reach this point is very difficult and most animals will die.

To prevent the neurological signs, once animals have been discovered to be deprived of water, their water intake should initially be restricted to small amounts of fresh water frequently until rehydration has occurred.

Administration of intravenous hypertonic fluids by a veterinarian may also be helpful.

If in doubt, call your vet.

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Page 28, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

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