North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

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

Education PAGES 12-14

JUNE, 2017

37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677

Sheep and cattle forecast

Machinery buyers guide

PAGES 16-17

PAGES 18-24

Milk’s been good to us $OWKRXJK KLV GDLU\ SUR¿ WV have dwindled over the last year, life is still looking good for Trevor Hourigan

STAYING STRONG: Trevor Hourigan and wife Julie say it’s a great life and they wouldn’t do anything else.

PHOTO: Jarrah Loh

THE Oxley Flats farmer has been milking in the Wangaratta region his entire life.

“Over the whole journey, milk’s been good to us,” Mr Hourigan told North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer.

“We are going through a rough patch at the moment, but it will come good.”

The Hourigan family started their foray into milk when his father made the now legendary decision to swap his horse for three cows.

Today, Trevor Hourigan and his brothers milk more than 800 cows.

“We’re all in beef and dairy,” said Mr Hourigan.

“We’re all within four kilometres of each other and all help each other out.”

Mr Hourigan also has his own kids on the farm, with his oldest son now in full time operations.

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His daughter Amie is a competitive horse rider, making it to the school titles in Sydney last year.

She is also following the family tradition, up early before school to milk the cows and attend her horses.

Aside from his Friesians, Mr Hourigan has also run a Limousin stud for the last 25 years.

“I used to work on Home Station for Tony and Jill Whistler, which is just up the road,” he said.

“They had a big Limousin stud – that’s where I got mine.”

He currently runs 50 females, selling 15 bulls a year on-property to regular clients.

Continued page 3

NEWS

Page 2, North East Farmer

June 2017

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NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

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

37 Rowan St., Wangaratta, 3677 Phone (03) 5723 0100 Fax (03) 5721 9447

While we were prepared for a no-frills budget offering limited spending initiatives, we are pleased the government has delivered on some priorities.� – Interim Australian Dairy Farmers CEO, John McQueen after the 201718 Federal Budget both delivered some important priorities to the dairy industry and other raised concerns.

Our communities want peace of mind and an end to this ugly industrial dispute, but most of all they want their CFA to be left alone.� – Victorian Farmers Federation president David Jochinke to Treasurer Tim Pallas over splitting the rural fire service into two separate entities of only volunteers in one organisation and paid firefighters in a new Fire Rescue Brigade.

Our farmers manage about 53 per cent of our landmass and with global demand for food and fibre set to double by 2050 it’s important

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The price bump is good news for beef producers but it’s not clear if it will continue as the gap between US and Australian cattle prices remains well above historic norms and we don’t see much upside in US cattle prices in the near future.� – NAB agribusiness economist Phin Ziebell on finding beef prices were up 6.4 per cent, reversing the downward trend since late last year.

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We’re putting the rubber to the road when it comes to building regional centres of excellence that will boost jobs, demand for skills and create even more vibrant and diverse communities and economies for some of our regional towns and centres.� – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Barnaby Joyce after announcing the Coalition

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This year’s budget includes the $50 million Export and Regional Wine Support Package to promote Australian wine tourism at home and abroad.� – Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Anne Ruston.

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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 edia Ptyy Ltd and an cannot be used without the company’s y’s permission.

YOUR

There has been incredible growth across the eastern states in 2016 - the growth rate is remarkably consistent across the board.� – Rural Bank general manager agribusiness, Andrew Smith after finding Australian farmland values went through the roof in 2016, with the median price in most states recording an average annual growth rate of three per cent over the decade, and more than six per cent for the past 20 years.

Our research shows that changes in climate over the last 20 years have had a significant negative effect on the productivity of Australian cropping farms.� – ABARES executive director, Peter Gooday on a new report from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES).

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Jarrah Loh Phone (03) 5723 0129 Fax (03) 5722 9778 jloh@nemedia.com.au

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have seen landowners who are approached by these groups become complicit in their activity.� – ATO Deputy Commissioner Michael Cranston after executing three warrants on illegal tobacco plantations in the last month, uncovering and destroying illegal crops with a total estimated excise value of $10.36m.

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that we keep Landcare front and centre to assist them to manage our natural resources.� – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Barnaby Joyce after the announcement the Coalition Government will be investing more than $1 billion in the National Landcare Program (NLP).

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NEWS

June 2017

North East Farmer, Page 3

Landcare awards now open STATE and territory Landcare awards are just around the corner, so now is the time for the Landcare community to submit nominations in the nine different categories.

The Landcare awards celebrate the achievements of the core volunteers around the country who dedicate their valuable time and energy into caring for the land and water that sustain us.

The categories encompass a number of areas, including sustainable

farming, Indigenous land management, young Landcare leaders, Coastcare, innovation, and more.

All winners at the state and territory level will go on to be finalists at the 2018 National Landcare Awards.

Tessa Jakszewicz, chief executive officer of Landcare Australia, encourages everyone to get involved and nominate deserving Landcarers they know for an award.

“Recognising our Landcare champions is vital

for sustaining Landcare and its future,” she said.

“The opportunity to showcase the accomplishments of individuals and groups enables us to share knowledge, and serves as inspiration for the next generation of Landcarers.”

Anyone interested in finding out more or submitting a nomination can visit landcareaustralia. org.au/landcare-awards.

The Victorian Landcare award entries close on Friday, June 23.

SPECIAL DEALS ON TRACTORS 3 GREEN GRASS AND BLUE SKIES: Trevor Hourigan surveys the dairy cows on his property in Oxley Flats.

PHOTO: Jarrah Loh

Milk’s been good to us Though he does concede that MG didn’t handle it that well.

“It is a shame all these people are losing their jobs, but as a farmer you often go through seasons like that.

“Some people get angry about it, but I stay positive and try and do my best.”

He sees a bigger problem in farming being the lack of support from the greater community.

“The community’s views on farming are not good.

“Some people have no concept of how their food gets from paddock to plate.

“The gap is gotten wider and wider.”

He said it is common for farmers in the area to get “petty” complaints about dust off tracks, spraying or noisy cows.

“I don’t think people really understand how much the farming community puts into the local economy,” he said.

“We rarely get to keep much money for ourselves.”

And though the attitude disappoints him, Mr Hourigan isn’t likely to go anywhere soon.

Or ever.

“You couldn’t get him away from here,” said his wife Julie Hourigan.

“It’s a great life and he wouldn’t do anything else.”

State government backs young dairy farmers VICTORIA’S next generation of dairy farmers have been celebrated with the state government continuing its support for the industry at the United Dairyfarmers of Victoria (UDV) Young Farmers Breakfast last month.

Minister for Agriculture, Jaala Pulford officially opened the UDV Annual Conference with an address to Victoria’s young dairy leaders.

The state government is backing dairy farmers and rural communities following its comprehensive $18 million dairy support package with industry.

The dairy support package continues in 2017, with mental health support extended, a Rural Skills Connect program, financial

counselling services and targeted dairy technical support and back-to-work schemes.

Ms Pulford also visited the Rochester and Kiewa plants to meet with workers and their union, suppliers and local councils.

The Young Farmers Ministerial Advisory Council recently met in March with a firm focus on practical actions and opportunities to support young farmers, building farm business management capacity and financial literacy skills for the next generation of farmers.

Practical support includes Young Farmer Scholarships, which will open for applications in mid-2017 and be awarded to 10-15 young farmers. Since 2015,

25 young farmers have been awarded scholarships of up to $10,000.

“Our young farmers are the future of agriculture, and we are getting on with giving them the support they need to increase productivity, efficiency and be the leaders of tomorrow,” said Ms Pulford.

“Victorian dairy farmers continue to shine above and beyond the rest of Australia and we know it’s thanks to the ingenuity and innovation of our young leaders in the industry and as a government, we stand right with you.

“We’ll continue to work with industry partners and dairy farmers directly to ensure timely, targeted and well-coordinated support is delivered when it’s needed.”

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From page 1

He also feeds a lot of their Friesian bulls into steers to sell at market, which helps supplements the dairy income.

“With the way milk is going, it is very handy to have the cattle,” said Mr Hourigan.

The whole family has been with Murray Goulburn since their father first sold to them over 60 years ago.

But unlike many in the industry, Mr Hourigan doesn’t feel betrayed, nor does he put the sole blame on the shoulders of MG. “They didn’t cause a glut; they didn’t cause the world market to drop.”

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NEWS

Page 4, North East Farmer

June 2017

Man’s best friend may be phylloxera’s worst enemy A PILOT project has Agriculture Victoria scientists working with sniffer dogs and the tiny insect phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifoliae), the world’s worst grapevine pest.

Agriculture Victoria principal research scientist Kevin Powell, with specialist dog trainer Craig Murray and his 20 month old Labradors, Glory and Mamba, has begun a pilot project to explore the possibility of dogs being used as a novel early detection approach to detect phylloxera.

“Victoria’s grape growing industry supplies three distinct domestic and export markets – wine, dried and table, the wine industry with the dominating

share, contributing over $1.5 billion per annum to the state’s economy,” Dr Powell said.

“Grape phylloxera is the number one threat to our fruit and wine producing grapevines in Australia.

“Phylloxera is a tiny yellow insect that mostly feeds on the roots of grapevines and eventually kills the vine.

“The only protection is planting vines on resistant rootstocks, and the latest figures show that no more than 15 per cent of Australia’s vines are on rootstocks.

If phylloxera is detected, a quarantine zone is established to restrict the spread of the pest.

“Therefore, if we can iden-

tify infestations earlier, this will restrict the spread and lower the impact on the industry and growers can start to replant onto resistant rootstocks.”

Dr Powell said the current processes for detecting phylloxera are labour and time intensive.

“The process requires repetitive digging along vine rows, to depth, to inspect sections of roots using magnifiers to see if phylloxera can be discovered.

“We are at the very start of the project, and have employed a dog training specialist and his two dogs, to establish whether either phylloxera, and/or infested vines give off an odour or scent that dogs can detect.”

SNIIF ‘EM OUT: Agriculture Victoria has begun a pilot project to explore the possibility of dogs being used as an early detection approach to detect phylloxera.

Agriculture’s ‘can-do’ attitude key to shaping the industry’s future AUSTRALIAN agriculture’s young leaders are ready to tackle the industry’s biggest challenges and are stepping up to help shape an industry that is set for staggering growth.

The Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) has met with more than 150 of these young agriculture industry leaders over the past six months at a series of events held in every state and territory.

The Regional Innovation Conversations series, which followed on from the 2016 GrowAg summit, brought

these young people together to discuss issues affecting the agriculture industry, the trends shaping its future and how to optimise for growth.

RIRDC managing director John Harvey said the Regional Innovation Conversations have demonstrated that there is enormous talent and enthusiasm in the next generation of agriculture leaders.

“While their main focus is on building their own businesses and delivering valuable services and information to the agriculture sector, these 150 young leaders are helping

to define the future of a rapidly changing and growing industry,” Mr Harvey said.

“I was energised by their enthusiasm, impressed at their determination to succeed and admired their practical ‘just get it done’ attitude.

“They are dynamic, entrepreneurial and commercially savvy.”

Over the course of its conversation series RIRDC identified a number of key themes that resonated again and again with the audience of young agriculture leaders: Technology is driving

rapid industry change and has tremendous potential to increase productivity and efficiency, but there is a risk of Australia being left behind if the capital is not available to invest in technology.

Lack of internet connectivity remains a barrier to technology adoption in regional areas, but people are finding their own solutions often bypassing traditional service providers and carriers.

Entrepreneurship and investment in innovation are the new normal, particularly in the agtech and support services sector.

Skills diversity and more people working in agriculture are critical to future success and industry growth.

Agriculture’s image is shifting, it’s no longer just about the traditional farmer, and this trend needs to continue to showcase industry diversity, attract people with the required skills and capitalise on international business opportunities.

Social media is the main source of information gathering and connecting for young leaders in agriculture, but there is also a critical need for them

to build real networks and create their own supportive culture of innovation, practice change and risk taking.

“It became clear to us over the course of the events that these young people are succeeding and shaping the future of the industry,” Mr Harvey said.

“The question we are now faced with is how do we support this cohort of young leaders and help them to keep pace with the skills, research, information and technology they will need to keep Australian agriculture thriving?”

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NEWS

June 2017

North East Farmer, Page 5

Senior techy takes his last reading By SARAH HETHERINGTON Agriculture Victoria AGRICULTURE Victoria senior technical officer Phil Cook has taken his last bore reading after more than 30 years of helping measure, map and monitor Victoria’s landscape.

Having grown up on a family dairy farm and working at the Gilbert Chandler Dairy Institute of Dairy Technology, Phil came to the department with a ready-made love of the land and science.

A career highlight for Phil, and one of his first tasks with the then Soil Conservation Authority, was to map the Grampians; “a tough job, but somebody had to do it”.

The project produced a broad scale land form and soil survey for the first time of the Grampians (upper Wimmera), and lead on to Phil assisting with similar mapping projects in the Gippsland, and mid-Goulburn regions.

“I really loved learning about geology,

geomorphology, soils and vegetation of the landforms and landscapes.

“It changed my everyday view of our world,” Mr Cook said.

Two years into the role, the Soil Conservation Authority was merged with the Forests Commission, and Department of Crown Land and Survey, and Phil was recruited as a bore monitor for soil scientist Larry White and hydrogeologist Phil Dyson (now with the North Central Catchment Management Authority).

He remained in the role for the next 30 years.

Phil remembers the first computers coming into the department, and has seen massive changes in the technology for land use, data management and graphing.

When he started, the key equipment included stereoscopes and hand drawn maps to produce 3D images.

Despite enticements to follow a managerial path, Mr Cook’s passion has always been for field work and being hands-on, further evidenced by 20 years as a seasonal firefighter.

“I have learnt so much from the educated ones in soils, geology, surveying and hydrogeology – plus, the farmers,” he said.

“This keeps going on and will stay with me forever.”

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June 2017

Compiled by DAVID

North East Farmer, Page 7

Home grown feed improves profits

RIZZOLI

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

The inaugural staging of which sheep industry event will be held from June 5 to June 9 2017 in Victoria and the Riverina.

What is it?

In 1905 Australia exported 20,808 of which animal, mainly to India, China and Japan?

What is an ‘Obligate’ parasite?

8 9 10

In which year did bulk handling of wheat from the farm begin in New South Wales, and was adopted later by the other states? (a) 1920 (b) 1930. (c) 1940.

In which decade was aerial agriculture developed using converted Tiger Moth aeroplanes? (a) 1930s (b) 1940s (c) 1950’s.

In 1976 the Neochetina eichhorniae weevil was introduced into Australia from the USA to control which plant pest?

11 12

HIGH livestock prices coupled with widespread rain have created favourable conditions across much of the country to plant winter pastures to improve profitability.

Kelly Burke is the product development manager for PGG Wrightson Seeds and said producing home grown winter feed is a cheaper alternative to buying-in feed.

“We have done a lot of work around manipulating the sowing rates of seeds to show return on investment from sowing rates in annual and Italian ryegrasses,” Mr Burke said.

“And home grown pasture is certainly the cheaper option.

“If farmers can, they should be looking at growing their own hay or silage.”

Mr Burke said a good way to value winter feed is by looking at the cost equivalent of buying in supplementary feed.

“Recent trials conducted by PGG Wrightson Seeds at our research farm near Ballarat show that a farmer can increase their profit with incremental increases in sowing rates from 20kg to 44kg per hectare,” Mr Burke said.

“The trial compared the cost of home grown pasture to purchased barley and showed that cumulative additional profit of sowing 44kg of annual ryegrass over a

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In 1789 Governor Phillip established the first farm in New South Wales – 1.36 hectares which grew to 6.5 hectares by the year’s end. Where was it and what is it now?

Which breed of sheep did Henry Corbett establish at Port Fairy in 1882?

Where was the, now defunct, Victorian Department of Agriculture’s Tobacco Research Station located?

Enzootic ataxia disease in lambs is caused by a deficiency of which mineral in the diet?

In 1896 which fruit was produced by C.H.Packham at Molong NSW? What was the Babcock Tester used for?

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Page 8, North East Farmer

Saleyards roof to bring in cost savings

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PLANS to fully cover the roof of the Wangaratta Saleyards with 2500 solar panels are expected to bring cost savings to cattle producers who use the facility.

With what would be enough energy to power 200 homes, Countrywide Energy (CWE) is working with the Rural City of Wangaratta to install a solar farmlet on the roof top, a first for a saleyards facility in Victoria.

CWE will lease the roof top from council and either offset the energy generated against the council’s power bills or sell the energy to the grid, or a combination of both.

The energy that comes from the solar will be cheaper than council can buy the energy from a retailer.

It will be a lease agreement for 25 years, with an option for an extra 25 years, similar to a 20 megawatt solar farm in North Wangaratta which is expected to have a build start by early 2018.

CWE director Geoff Drucker said it’s a perfect rooftop for the installation that will generate 0.75 megawatts of energy.

“It will provide energy for the livestock exchange and for the council too under a long term arrangement so they know what the energy costs are going to be,” he said.

“Since our first discussions about a solar farm in Wangaratta, there has been keen council interest in looking at other opportunities for renewable energy to shore up the energy supply in the areas at the time when energy security is an issue, as are future energy costs.”

CWE is also keen to talk to businesses with large flat or north-facing rooftops about a

GOT IT COVERED: Wangaratta council deputy mayor Harvey Benton with Countrywide Energy director Geoff Drucker are behind a solar project that will cut energy use costs for council’s saleyards facility.

PHOTO: Steve Kelly

rental arrangement and possibly an energy offtake under very favourable terms that can be locked in for extended periods.

Council deputy mayor Harvey Benton said the cost savings will be significant and they will enter into a memorandum of understanding with CWE to investigate this further.

“It will affect (yarding) fees but this is all down the track.

“This ties in with the council plan and some are very keen

to see council become carbon neutral and this is one of the things that could drive that.”

Feasibility work will now be carried out to establish what can go on the roof, the cost of it, what the energy cost will be to council and how everyone benefits long-term.

Meanwhile, more land was acquired for CWE to build a solar farm double its initial size at North Wangaratta and a development plan for the larger structure is awaiting approval.

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Page 10, North East Farmer

June 2017

Chinese company buys local North East winery

By JARRAH LOH A LARGE number of people turned up for the auction of Auldstone Cellars in Glenrowan, only to be turned away at the gate with the news that the winery had already been sold earlier that hour.

The entire property and all items that were going to be in the clearing sale the following day were purchased by a private Chinese company after inspecting the land on Tuesday.

The 90 acre vineyard is mostly planted to Shiraz and Cabernet, with some Chardonnay Riesling, Merlot and its award-winning Muscat.

After more than 30 years manning the cellars at Auldstone, Michael and Nancy Reid were in shock at the sudden sale of their entire business.

“I’m thrilled, but it’s a bit overwhelming at the moment,” Mrs Reid told the Wangaratta Chronicle.

Ruralco property agent Malcolm Gunn said it was a very good result, but due to the private nature of the sale, could not disclose the price paid.

Last week they were hoping for $750,000 to $850,000 at auction.

“The important part is that the cellar door is going to remain open,” said Mr Gunn.

“They want to keep it going with

Sor t and

FAREWELL: Michael Reid from Auldstone Cellars has mixed emotions saying goodbye to his farm home of 30 years.

PHOTO: Jarrah Loh

local staff, and develop an export market.”

The Reid’s will continue to operate at the cellar door until settlement takes place in 90 days, after which they may be asked to take on a management role for the new owners.

“We are pleased with the price and delighted that the brand will keep going,” said Mrs Reid.

“It is excellent news that the Chinese value the region and its wines.”

The couple will now look to retire to their residential property

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“We are torn,” said Mrs Reid.

“It is the end of an era and we have made some lovely friendships, but it’s wonderful that we have an opportunity to step into a new stage of life.”

Regular insurance adviser critical AS happens all too often after a business experiences a significant loss or setback, not having sufficient financial protection for assets can leave you with a big bill, or worse, put you out of business.

One of the best ways to help avoid underinsurance is to have an experienced insurance advisor provide a comprehensive review of your assets to ensure you are adequately covered.

“Change to business operations can come in many forms and it is important to regularly review sums insured and cover in place”, said agent John Houghton from Elders Insurance Wangaratta.

“It may be renovation to commercial properties which increases their value, and more importantly, the cost of rebuilding them in case of loss or damage”, said Mr Houghton.

It could also be the addition of new machinery or equipment which needs to be protected from the financial risk of breakdown, damage or theft.

“Insurance isn’t a luxury, but a critical part of any decision to invest in new business assets”, said Mr Houghton.

By talking through new purchase and developments with an advisor, business owners can ensure that they view each decision from a risk management perspective.

And though economic times may still be trying for many businesses, a major loss can cause a significant impact on your livelihood without the right cover in place.

Contact John Houghton of Elders Insurance Wangaratta on 0407 303 691 for a free quote on your insurance requirements.

Alternatively, call into the office at 24 Rowan Street Wangaratta and ask for John.

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Page 12, North East Farmer

EDUCATION

Instilling service and leadership values LEADERSHIP by serving others is an integral part of all students’ education at Cathedral.

“Cathedral College Wangaratta has always instilled in its students a strong sense of service and leadership,” said Principal Adrian Farrer.

“Facing the challenges of the 21st century requires a concerted effort to provide opportunities for students’ personal growth.”

He added that house captains, school captains and other important positions across the junior, middle and senior Schools, enable students to undertake responsibilities with commitment, respect and enthusiasm in a formal capacity; character qualities which help ensure they contribute to, and thrive in, the world.

These roles help build confidence and compassion with students aspiring to benefit those around them through fundraising, sporting carnivals, music, House and whole school events.

“To lead is to serve, and Cathedral provides myriad opportunities for this to occur,” Mr Farrer said.

Specific Leadership Days have been held this year to sup-

TEAMWORK: House captains (back, from left) Charlotte Forbes, Lily Martin, Grace McKinnon and Kate Rial; and (front, from left) year one students Dakota Denyer and Clodagh Way.

port and develop the personal values and virtues of students for sustainable participation in a global world.

“Whatever the job future may hold for our young people, and the knowledge and skills we can impart in their time at Cathedral, character qualities will invariably be as applicable to a wide range of professions,” Mr Farrer said.

“At the recent House Cross Country, house captains helped

encourage and support the younger students as they attempted their first run around the oval – picking up those who were hurt, directing those who were lost, and cheering those who were completing their first ever race for their school.

“The college also recognises the importance of ‘quiet leadership’ – those students within our community who lead each and every day, regardless of a formal leadership role,” Mr

Farrer added.

“There are countless practical occasions each day for students to engage with the human-centric abilities, such as empathy, communication, connection as well as harnessing their enthusiasm and energy to be globally good, one of the key expectations of the young people in our care.

“Leadership by serving others is an integral part of all students’ education at Cathedral.”

June 2017

Boarding at Wesley College Wesley College, learning in residence WESLEY’S new, stateof-the-art boarding facility offers a contemporary model of Learning in Residence for Senior School students (years 10–12), who come from rural and regional Australia, metropolitan Melbourne and international locations.

Full integration into the Senior School Life at the boarding school comprises a schedule of educational programs complemented by cocurricular activities, all fully integrated with the Senior School at our Glen Waverley campus.

“The new facilities and curriculum are not only for the residents themselves, but for all Senior School students.

“Every part of the program is integrated within the Senior School, so there is a seamless transition of support for all students – there are no divisions between day and residential students, and every member of staff is a point of contact for every student,” said Damon Emtage, Learning in Residence director.

The Learning in Residence program recognises that learning is a continuous process that doesn’t stop with the end of the school day at 3.30pm.

There is a strong focus on the development of each individual student, with academic, employment,

CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA A school of The Anglican Schools Commission (Inc.)

extension and health and well-being programs to support students’ personal growth.

Students in residence have access to the vast array of cocurricular activities available at Wesley, including sport, music and drama, which cater for all interests and needs.

Modern and contemporary facilities The Learning in Residence centre is a collection of eight modern architect-designed houses arranged around a landscaped central garden courtyard.

Each house has eight twin-share student bedrooms with en suite bathrooms and mentor living quarters.

The communal dining room, which comfortably seats up to 240 people, is open to day and boarding students.

Enrolments are now open for full-time and weekly boarding options, both of which are wellsuited to rural and regional families.

Learning in Residence Scholarships are available for students from rural and regional Australia in years 10 and 11.

To find out more about 2018 Learning in Residence Scholarships, visit www. wesleycollege.net/ scholarships, or to book a tour of the facilities, call (03) 81026508 or email admissions@wesleycollege. net.

E/21D12245-v2/2017

discover

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DISCOVER BOARDING AT WESLEY At Wesley, we recognise that young people are intellectual, emotional, physical, social, cultural and spiritual human beings.

That’s why our new Learning in Residence boarding program is carefully designed to enhance development across each of these dimensions.

State-of-the-art boarding facilities are available for Senior School students (Years 10-12) at our Glen Waverley campus.

Enrolments are open for full-time and weekly boarding options.

Register for our Learning in Residence Tour When: Saturday 17 June, 9.30am Where: Glen Waverley Campus, 620 High Street Road Email: admissions@wesleycollege.net Call: 03 8102 6508 Book online at www.wesleycollege.net/tours

2018 Learning in Residence Scholarships To apply for Learning in Residence Scholarships go to www.wesleycollege.net/scholarships

EDUCATION

Page 14, North East Farmer

June 2017

$JULFXOWXUDO ¿ QDQFH OLWHUDF\ WRRO ODXQFK A NEW financial literacy tool specifically designed for Australian agriculture has the potential to transform how Australian beef producers operate their businesses, Cattle Council chief executive officer, Duncan Bremner, said today.

Farmecco was launched online via a webinar on Beef Central (www. beefcentral.com.au) at midday Wednesday, May 10.

Developed by Longreach-based Agrihive and supported

by MLA, Farmecco is designed to assist livestock producers to quickly understand their detailed financial position in real time to help them expand, improve performance and even forward budget for school fees.

“Farmecco has the potential to help beef producers gain a greater understanding of their financial future, empowering them to make more informed decisions on how to improve profitability,” Mr Bremner said.

The launch will be hosted by Agrihive founder, James Walker, and well known agrimedia personality, Peter Lewis, with MLA

managing director Richard Norton and prominent Australian beef identity, Richard Rains, amongst the speakers.

Mr Rains believes that the tool goes a long way to improving communication channels between producers and their banks.

“The better you know and can communicate the financial status of your business, the better you can work with your bank to explore opportunities for growth or new strategic directions,” said Mr Rains.

The on-line tool has been in ‘testing’ mode for the past 18 months and has now been trialled by more than seventy five producers from across the nation.

NT and Queensland cattle producer, Dan Lynch, was part of the initial trial and found the interface clear, simple and easy to navigate.

“The information produced by Farmecco can help businesses to build their strategic plans as the information allows you to know your margins, but also provides a benchmark in line with other similar businesses in the region,” Mr Lynch said.

LEVEL PLAYING FIELD: The state government claims they will double the internet bandwidth of smaller rural and regional schools this year.

Digital boost for rural students OVER the next year, 347 small rural and regionally based Victorian government schools will receive a better digital education.

The Victorian Budget 2017/18 included a $16.4 million state-wide investment to improve bandwidth and digital connectivity for students in rural and regional Victoria.

It will double the internet bandwidth of these smaller rural and regional schools and level the playing field so that students and

teachers outside of our cities aren’t left behind.

Rural and regional schools will have faster and more reliable access to online teaching and learning resources to support learning programs and an extended choice of subjects to choose from.

This year’s budget also includes $67.9 million for better IT support for schools and students acrossVictoria.

This funding will see information technology across all govern-

ment schools upgraded to provide reliable access to digital services in the classroom that are essential to teaching and learning.

It also compliments the rollout of ten new Tech Schools by renewing Wi-Fi in schools and implementing a new state-wide virtual conferencing system for more than half a million students in Victorian government schools.

The Minister for Education James Merlino said, “We are doubling the

bandwidth provision to 347 small rural and regional schools across Victoria to make sure all students can access a first-rate digital education regardless of where they live.

“By investing in digital connectivity for rural and regional schools we can ensure our teachers can offer the same standard of digital education as metropolitan schools.

“No student should miss out on learning the skills they will need for the jobs of the future.”

CREW schools celebrate Catholic Education Week Delivering a seamless P-12 education Academic excellence

Nurturing the individual

Faith and spirituality

Pathways for success

Catholic Regional Education Wangaratta

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NEWS

June 2017

North East Farmer, Page 15

Q fever a million dollar problem

A DOG’S LIFE: Bill Scott mustering some ewes early in the morning with (from left) Stockmans’ Meggie, Gidgee and Annie.

Local dogs outperform in France

By JARRAH LOH GRETA West sheep farmer Bill Scott has gained such a knack for breeding Kelpies that buyers from France are practically begging him for pups.

Mr Scott has been farming sheep and dairy cattle his entire life, but his dogs are where his true passion lies.

He grew up on a dairy farm in South Gippsland, but moved to Glenrowan years later, where he established the notable sheep farm Nioka, which spanned several thousand acres.

Now aged 69, Mr Scott has downsized somewhat, but his Kelpie stud

Stockmans is still going from strength to strength.

So much so, that despite his best intention, a loyal international demand has grown for his bloodlines.

“I actually don’t like to export them,” said Mr Scott.

“In fact, I refuse to in most cases.”

He doesn’t usually like to send his dogs where he can’t make sure they are performing properly.

“I exported one to America about 30 years ago and since then, they have gone to Belgium, Denmark and France.”

Mr Scott has been breeding Kelpies for 38 years and started trialling them

when he was just 17 years old.

“I started with Border Collies, but the Kelpies suit Australian conditions better than other breeds,” he said.

While some believe Kelpies have an undesirable independent streak, it is precisely what Mr Scott likes about them.

“I prefer a dog that will disobey me to do the right thing, than to do the wrong thing because I tell them,” he said.

“Because a dog can read the stock better than I can.”

He attributes the independence of the Kelpie to its historical dingo DNA – this also makes for a unique

animal to be competing in European sheep trials.

The first of Mr Scott’s Kelpies made the trip to France four years ago, and proved to be a standout.

“Stockmans Hisa is winning trials against Border Collies, who win all of the trials there,” he said.

Despite his reluctance, he is now sending a second dog to the same family, who are willing to pay the $5000 for the Kelpie, and almost the same again for her transportation.

“There aren’t many Kelpies in France,” said Mr Scott.

“And they are hoping Stockmans Minnie will perform as well as Hisa.”

THE livestock industry millions of dollars across the supply chain due to a lack of understanding around Q fever, a new campaign being run by Victoria’s peak farmer group will show.

The Victorian Farmers Federation Livestock Group is set to launch an awareness campaign hitting home the seriousness of Q Fever as a drain on the livestock supply chain.

The $100,000 campaign includes industry workshops, preparedness toolkits and targeted advertising to promote the dangers of Q fever and the importance of vaccination.

“Q fever is carried by cattle, sheep, goats, feral animals and rodents, and can be transmitted to humans,” VFF livestock president Leonard Vallance said.

“It affects farmers, farm employees, shearers, animal carriers, abattoir workers, meat inspectors and vets – so, if you work with livestock right across the supply chain, you are at risk of getting Q fever.”

Mr Vallance said Q fever was a massive issue with around 600 cases reported across Australia each year, which cost industry millions of dollars annually in lost productivity, medical costs and other expenses.

“Q fever costs the meat industry alone at least $1 million every year, and when you add that up across all the livestock industries, it’s pretty significant and really underscores the importance of getting your employees vaccinated,” he said.

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NEWS

Page 16, North East Farmer

June 2017

Sheep forecast for 2017 – prices will remain strong AUSTRALIA’S sheep and lamb markets are predicted to strengthen further with near record prices, as production and slaughter forecasts dip lower for 2017.

According to Meat and Livestock Australia’s (MLA) quarterly sheep industry update, the market is expected to remain strong thanks to decreasing national numbers.

MLA’s manager of market information services, Ben Thomas, said the market was being influenced by a combination of factors - including strong producer intention to flock rebuild, strength of the overall wool market and low grain prices.

“Lamb slaughter is expected to contract further this year, revised down a further 500,000 head from original predictions to 21.5 million head for 2017 and down 1.5 million head, or seven per cent, on the 2016 record,” Mr Thomas said.

“In terms of availability throughout the year, on the ground reports suggest a reasonably strong supply through to the end of April, before numbers will become tight until the new spring flush.

“Lamb production is expected to fall six per cent year-on-year in 2017 to 481,600 tonnes carcase weight (cwt), before rebounding back above the 500,000 tonnes mark in 2019.

“Similar to lamb slaughter, mut-

ton processing is also expected to contract further year-on-year, with a 1.2 million head, or 17 per cent, year-on-year drop to 5.8 million head for 2017.”

Mr Thomas said with 2.7 million less sheep and lambs set to be processed year-on year, the short supply will keep prices buoyant for the remainder of 2017.

“The current combination of factors in the market will lead prices to average alongside, or even exceed, the previous records,” Mr Thomas said.

“Despite the buoyant market, there is a concern around the sustainability of the current price levels further up the supply chain, with some recent temporary closures of processing facilities.

“The risk for producers is once the number of sheep and lambs available for processing do recover, and if processing capacity remains reduced, there is the potential for a greater correction in prices than otherwise would have been the case.”

Mr Thomas said producers could be cautiously optimistic about prices beyond 2017.

MLA provides a range of market information services including daily red meat market news updates, detailed market analysis, regional saleyard reports, live export information and price indicators.

STRONG PRICES: Meat and Livestock Association manager of market information services, Ben Thomas, has forecast that with 2.7 million less sheep and lambs set to be processed year-on-year, the short supply will keep prices buoyant for the remainder of 2017.

PHOTO: abc.net.au

SHEEP FORECAST KEY POINTS: Extremely strong producer intent to maintain breeding ewes, strong wool prices and low grain prices to be major influences on Australian sheep industry in 2017; 2.7 million fewer sheep and lambs to be processed in 2017 compared to last year; 2017 lamb slaughter forecasts

revised down by 500,000 head to 21.5 million head; Mutton slaughter set to be second lowest on record – a 1.2 million head (17 per cent) year-on-year drop to 5.8 million; and Sheep and lamb prices set to average alongside, or even exceed, previous records on the back of tighter than usual supply.

Fine figures for Aussie wool THE expectation for sustained, strong retail sales growth will support continued demand for Australian wool exports and strengthening prices for producers.

Senior ABARES economist, Dr Caroline Gunning-Trant, said the price of wool in Australian dollars had been increasing since 2014.

“In the two years since early January 2015, prices have risen by about 35 per cent,” Dr GunningTrant said.

“The Australian Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) wool price is forecast to rise by 8 per cent in 2016–17 to around 1360 c/kg.

“Prices are expected to peak next year before easing in real terms as wool production increases.

“And by the end of 2021–22, prices are expected to still be relatively high at around 10 per cent above the 10 year average in real terms.

“The upward trend in prices reflects the constrained supply of apparel wool—given lower flock numbers—and firm demand, particularly for fine wool.

“Wool demand is continuing to grow in the European Union and the USA—the major international markets for imported clothing,” Dr Gunning-Trant said.

“And in China, wool consumption is forecast to grow more strongly because of relatively high rates of economic growth and increasing domestic consumption of luxury woollen textiles.”

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NEWS

June 2017

North East Farmer, Page 17

Cattle report points to strong prices MLA has released the 2017 cattle market quarterly forecast, with a predicted carry over on year-on-year prices.

The big thing to come out is that the current cattle prices are expected to remain strong for 2017, but as the national herd rebuilds they are expected to dip heading into 2018.

The report also states that low female cattle slaughter and high carcase weights have set the scene for 2017, with these two components filtering through to influence the 2017 April Cattle Industry Projections.

MLA’s manager of market information services Ben Thomas said female cattle slaughter over the November 2016 to January 2017 period was the lowest proportion of the adult cattle kill ever.

“Given the low female slaughter figures, it confirms that the wheels are in motion for the national herd rebuild, with many producers likely to take advantage of the currently low fodder and grain prices to carry stock through,” Mr Thomas said.

“The average carcase weight for Australian cattle was the highest ever during the summer months – the result of a higher proportion of cattle on feed for longer, heavier grassfed cattle coming through the system, as well as the significant drop in

female slaughter.

“The short-term impact is beef and veal production is now estimated to be 2.1 million tonnes cwt for 2017, down just one per cent year-on-year, rather than being down three per cent as originally forecast in January.”

Mr Thomas said after trending downwards from November 2016 to early March 2017, cattle prices received an injection of life from the widespread March rainfall, causing a significant rise across all categories.

While the January estimate of 7.1 million slaughtered head remains, much heavier carcases will go a long way to alleviating the constrained supply pressure, with the result being only a one per cent yearon-year decline in beef and veal production.

Mr Thomas predicts that, because of the autumn break in some larger cattle producing regions, expectations are for more stock to be withheld, while the dry conditions in southern Australia will result in slightly higher than expected turn-off than previously anticipated.

The average carcase weight for Australian cattle was the highest ever during the summer months – the result of a higher proportion of cattle on feed for longer regimes, heavier grass-

FORECAST RELEASED: The cattle industry quarterly report has been released by MLA Australia, pointing to strong prices, a strengthening national herd and heavier slaughter cattle.

PHOTO: C Goodwin

fed cattle coming through the system, and a significant drop in female slaughter.

In fact, the most recent Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data has average adult cattle carcase weights averaging over 290kg for the October to January period.

“There have been brief stages in the past, namely 2011, when the average weight edged above 290kg, but never for four consecutive months,” Mr Thomas said.

“Considering female cattle slaughter is expected to remain relatively low for the duration of 2017, and despite the potentially poor feed conditions for southern Australia during autumn and winter, the average adult carcase weight has been revised slightly higher, to 291kg for 2017.

“As the female component is expected to rise from 2018 onwards, average weights are likely to dip back to 288kg in 2018.”

After trending downwards from November 2016 to early March 2017, cattle prices received an injection of life from the widespread March rainfall, causing a significant rise across all categories.

National saleyard prices responded with heavy steers averaging 549¢/kg cwt for the first quarter, up 24¢ or five per cent higher than last year.

Similarly, medium cows averaged 16¢ (three per cent) higher, at 468¢/kg cwt, while

trade steers were 622¢/kg cwt, up 52¢ (nine per cent) yearon-year.

“This start to the year sets up positive expectations for the remainder of 2017, especially considering the first quarter of 2016 was in fact the previous record high for the period – which has now been exceeded,” Mr Thomas said.

However, while the market outlook for the next six months remains positive for producers with cattle to sell, largely underpinned by the ongoing very tight cattle supply situation, it’s a scenario that will not last forever.

Constrained female cattle slaughter is likely to reflect herd recovery, with the infant stages of that being realised in the second half of 2017.

“Once numbers do start flowing through the system, it is highly likely that Australian cattle prices – from heavy steers through to young cattle – will feel the weight of the additional supplies, coupled with the generally softer global beef market conditions observed for most of 2016 and so far in 2017,” Mr Thomas said.

“Nevertheless, 2017 cattle prices will probably end up averaging very similar to the record levels of 2016, before trending downwards in 2018 and 2019.”

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Page 18, North East Farmer

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR - MACHINERY BUYERS GUIDE June 2017 FREECALL 1800 655 033 www.commanderagquip.com.au sales@commanderagquip.com.au

‘I am very happy with my new Commander 51x10 auger. Practical, robust and easy to use. Does everything it should. Prompt service and delivery appreciated.’ Adrian South.

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Farmers can benefit from the tax break THE Federal Government’s 100 per cent tax depreciation rules for small businesses means many farmers and rural businesses can write off equipment costs against their tax bill with immediate effect.

The rules apply to assets up to the value of $20,000, with no limit on the number of assets claimed.

Aussie Pumps, one of Australia’s biggest manufacturers of pumps and high pressure cleaners, is being swamped with enquires from businesses looking to upgrade small engine equipment ahead of the June 30 deadline.

“The 100 per cent tax depreciation rule means businesses can benefit by upgrading their pumps or blasters now to maximise their tax deductions for this year,” said Aussie Pump’s Craig Bridgement.

“We’ve referred a lot of enquiries to our dealers in Victoria who are armed with the stock to assist.”

With sowing season in full swing, demand for fertiliser pumps like the Aussie Poly Smart range is peaking.

Developed to handle aggressive liquid fertilisers and other ag chemicals, the 2” and 3” self-priming centrifugal engine drive pumps come with either EPDM or Viton seals.

“Applying Nitrogen at the right time is crucial for

TAX BREAK: Farmers looking to take advantage of the 100 per cent depreciation allowance can find an Aussie Pumps distributor like Phil Mangano and David Tofful from Think Water, Swan Hill.

maximising yields,” said Mr Bridgement.

“Farmers looking to maximise spraying times are choosing the high flow 3” version for better efficiency.

“We even make a hydraulic drive version that can be plugged into the sprayer’s hydraulic system for fast fill ‘on the go’.”

The company is also hearing from busy farmers and contractors who want effective, quality blasters to wash down their equipment fast.

The Aussie Pump’s Scud 400 industrial engine drive pressure

cleaner has proven itself within the farming community and is a choice of cleaning professionals.

“Pressure cleaners that only last a few months just waste time and are more bother than they’re worth,” said Mr Bridgement.

“We listened to what farmers actually want.

To take advantage of the 100 per cent depreciation allowance, contact Australian Pump Industries, or check out the Aussie Pumps website for local stockists: www.aussiepumps. com.au.

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June 2017

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR - MACHINERY BUYERS GUIDE North East Farmer, Page 19

Tractors more fatal than quads WHILE quad bikes are largely considered to be the leading cause of on-farm injuries and deaths it was the tractor, which often slips under the farm safety radar, that accounted for more fatalities in 2016.

Figures from the University of Sydney Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety

show there were nine tractor related on-farm deaths last year.

Mobile-plant machinery also caused nine, while quad bike incidents resulted in six deaths.

In 2015, the Primary Industries Health and Safety Partnership (PIHSP) released a report mapping the Work Health and Safety (WHS) risks

for people working in primary industries.

The report found that while there have been improvements over the past 20 years with annual deaths in agriculture falling from around 150 per year to 60 per year, the industry is still one of most dangerous in Australia.

HOME GROWN: The Pioneer 700 will only be available in Australia and New Zealand.

Made for Aussie farmers FOR the first time Honda has developed a unique specification side-by-side destined only for the Australasian market.

The 2017 Pioneer 700 has been carefully designed for the needs of our Aussie farmers.

The Pioneer 700-2 can be picked up for an MLP of $18,499 and the Pioneer 7004 is available for an MLP of $19,999.

Senior Honda SXS/ATV engineers conducted extensive research; in conjunction with several farming communities in Australia, to further understand what was needed in the

extreme and unique conditions down under.

After several months of development and analysis of farmer feedback, the 2017 ‘Aussie’ Pioneer 700 is now here.

With electric power steering and fully automatic transmission, which now comes with a manual mode that can be activated via a dash-mounted toggle switch, the auto transmission is all-gear so no belts that slip, break or burn out.

Paddle shifters can be used to change gears while in manual mode or to override shift points on the fly while in automatic mode.

The industry’s first QuickFlip seating design is also available in the Pioneer 7004, which allows the two rear seats to fold into the bed so that owners can select between two, three or four-seat configurations.

Driver seatbelt interlock is a new safety feature to make sure drivers wear their seatbelt while operating the machine.

Speed is also limited when the seatbelt is not engaged.

A model truly developed for Down Under, this Pioneer 700 will only be available in Australia and New Zealand.

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Page 20, North East Farmer

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR - MACHINERY BUYERS GUIDE June 2017

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UP, UP AND AWAY: John Davison from Airview believes drones will soon replace a lot of the jobs a motorbike is needed for on a farm.

Drones to replace motorbikes AIRLINE pilot John Davison and airline engineer David Storen teamed up two years ago and founded Airview Drones.

They started off doing mostly real estate photography, but have since identified a major opportunity in farming drones.

They offer drones for basic trough and gate inspections, through to checking sheep and cattle without the need to go into paddocks, open gates and drive around – which can be especially handy in winter.

“You can fly a drone and check out the lambing or calving without disturbing the herd,” said Mr Davison.

“And we can scan paddocks with special cameras and tell you how they’re doing.”

They can detect soil erosion and perform quantity estimat-

ing, if you need to cut out land for a house or dam.

They also can use thermal cameras for pest eradication.

“It takes a lot for pressure off the land,” said Mr Davison.

He believes drones will soon take the place of motorbikes on farms.

“And we price them at the same level,” he said.

“You can pick up a bike for around two grand and you can get one of our drones for the same amount.”

They also offer solutions for people that need the drones for specific services, and then modify the drones specifically for them.

“I come out and demonstrate the drone to the farmer before they outlay any money,” said Mr Davison.

“I show them how to fly it,

upgrade the software and look after it all.”

He said age is no barrier once he demonstrates how to use the technology.

“I have a 74-year-old farmer that struggles with his health, so we set it up so he just has to press play and his drone automatically flies its path, and he sits there with a cup of tea.

“It takes a photo of each of his troughs and gates and feeding points, and he can also watch the live video on his iPad while it’s flying on its path.

“Then it lands exactly where it took off from.”

They are also starting to see a lot of people who are losing a fortune in cattle theft going to drones for security purposes.

The company is a registered retailer for DJI Drones and they service all of Victoria.

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from $3,890 plus gst and freight BIODYNAMIC: One of Australia’s experts on biodynamic farming will be in Barjarg this July to run a six day foundation course on the principles of farming naturally.

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ONE of Australia’s most authoritative figures on the principles of biodynamics will be in Barjarg this July to run a six day foundation course.

Managing director at the Biodynamic Education Centre, Cheyne Unwin, will be running the course after being asked to visit the area by a local Steiner School family.

“I’m really looking forward to coming to Mansfield,” Mr Unwin said.

“The course is a great way for anyone to get started who

has an interest in biodynamics – from large scale farmers to home gardeners.”

Biodynamic agriculture is a form of alternative agriculture very similar to organic farming, but it includes various esoteric concepts drawn from the ideas of Rudolf Steiner.

Biodynamic farmers strive to create a diversified, balanced farm ecosystem that generates health and fertility as much as possible from within the farm itself.

Preparations are commonly made from fermented manure, minerals and herbs and are used to help restore and harmonise the vital life forces of the farm.

The Biodynamic Education Centre’s six day foundation course includes a complete look at all the basic principles of becoming a more natural farmer.

For more information, go the Biodynamic Education website, or contact the Steiner School on 5779 5559.

June 2017

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR - MACHINERY BUYERS GUIDE North East Farmer, Page 21 QUALITY LOG SPLITTERS TAS

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“Each end has a cap and the recycled polymer is extruded over both the cap and the timber post completely sealing it, ensuring the posts don’t absorb moisture that could cause rotting.�

He said the caps provide strength to the end of the post, meaning they can still be hydraulically forced into the ground – without fear of damage.

Sold in a variety of lengths, from 1.5 metres up to 4.8 metres, and four different proďŹ les, the posts are advertised as being 40 to 50 per cent stronger than the bare timber alternative.

It is the plastic extrusion that provides that strength.

“Any pressure that comes on is distributed up and down the ďŹ bres inside. “Whereas if you have a standard treated CCA post, with say a knot in it, when pressure is exerted down the post and reaches the knot, it will snap or crack. “The polymer outer layer allows the pressure to move up and down the ďŹ bres, without causing damage.â€?

Davidson said no specialised equipment is required when installing the posts or wires, and despite having to puncture the plastic outer covering for clips

and fasteners, there isn’t an issue with moisture getting into the inner timber. “The plastic just closes around any break caused by nailing through it, that’s the nature of the beast. “You can hammer it, nail or screw it. “It’s what people know, in terms of a timber post, it’s just more sustainable.�

The patented system is being used by the wine industry, the oyster industry, the equine industry and the company is exporting posts to New Zealand, Japan, USA and Europe.

Dairy industry workers and the back to work scheme The Victorian Government has allocated up to $5 million exclusively for employers of dairy industry workers under the extended Back to Work Scheme.

SJ1336878

GRAPE growers in Australia began training their vines along rope, attached to bush timber posts.

Generations later they moved onto treated CCA timber and some now use steel.

More recently an Australian company has patented a new look, utilising untreated timber covered with recycled polymer.

Not only does the company promise a stronger more exible post, they have also been issued Aus-Organic certiďŹ cation.

Woodshield sales manager Ashley Davidson said the post’s inner core is timber, while the outer layer is recycled polymer, up to 6mm thick.

The polymer provides a protective layer for the timber, completely encasing it, and removing the need for the timber to be treated chemically.

The polymer protection also provides the timber with more exibility, longevity and strength.

Davidson says the idea came from a group of passionate wine drinkers, who just happened to be involved in the plastics industry.

They wanted to solve the ongoing problem of broken treat trellis posts and the sustainable polymer coated timber post was born. “We can go right from taking a dripper tube/irrigation off a vineyard, recycle it and put it back out on a post. “Then in 50-plus years, the tested life span of the polymer, you can strip it, chop it up and recycle the plastic again. “The wood can be mulched, chipped or turned into ďŹ rewood, because it is non-treated, no chemicals to worry about.â€?

LOG SPLITTERS

BEST design. BEST quality. BEST selection.

Both retrenched dairy industry workers and members of a dairy farm household are eligible employees.

Payments of $5000 are available to employers who

hire an eligible employee in an ongoing full-time, Victorian job.

Employers hiring an ongoing part-time employee can claim $3750.

Claims will remain open until

the capped $5 million fund is fully subscribed or until June 30, 2018 (whichever occurs first).

For further information contact Jo Turner on (03) 5722 7155 or joanne.turner@ecodev.vic.gov.au.

Call to arrange an

on-farm trial this ! harvest

" #$

% & ''(' )*'+,'(- .'//

Page 22, North East Farmer

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR - MACHINERY BUYERS GUIDE June 2017

Animal Training Systems Working Dog Specialists since 1996

Micro iDT Plus Training Collar 800m, add up to 3 dogs $470 now $440

H20 Plus Training Collar 1600m, add up to 3 dogs $690 now $650

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8 levels, 6v replaceable battery $155

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Quad bike innovations give farmers better safety choices NEW innovations designed to help reduce Australia’s quad bike injury and death toll are an important step towards giving farmers a choice in how they protect themselves, according to the Primary Industries Health and Safety Partnership.

A number of new designs were showcased at the 2017 National Quad Bike Safety Forum.

One example is a fully certified ATV and ROV helmet – the ‘Shark X-16’ – that was created as part of an ATV manufacturer’s initiative that included surveying farmers from around Australia to understand why they avoided helmets when using quad bikes.

Yamaha Motor Australia’s Lance Turnley said the surveys highlighted common themes.

“The most common answers we got were it was too hot, too heavy, the buckle was too cumbersome and they couldn’t hear properly when they were mustering,” Mr Turnley said.

“So we’ve created a helmet made of fibreglass that weighs less than 1200 grams, with six holes in the top to allow good ventilation, and an easy release buckle.”

Chairman of the Primary Industries Health and Safety Partnership, Patrick Murphy, said innovative research and developments in the quad bike space are welcome additions to the safety landscape.

“The recent Australian Farm

FOR FARMERS: The new Shark X-16 helmet that was created as part of an ATV manufacturer’s initiative.

Deaths and Injuries Media Monitors Snapshot produced by the Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety found there had been six on-farm and one off-farm quad bike related deaths reported nationally just between January and March of this year,” Mr Murphy said.

“The Primary Industries Health and Safety Partnership welcomes innovative advances in this space and is keen to work with industry to support behaviour change and better understanding around safety options.”

The goal of the Partnership is to improve the health and safety of workers and their families in farming industries across Australia.

It is funded by the Cotton, Grains and Rural Industries Research and Development Corporations, as well as the Australian Meat Processor Corporation and Meat & Livestock Australia.

The ‘Point Two Air Vest’ – a rider safety device that inflates when a rider is thrown from their bike – is also being marketed as a safety option for quad bike riders.

Spokesman Kelvin Fredericks said the safety vest has a lanyard secured to the bike that is then clipped to the rider, and in the event of a fall, the jacket triggers to inflate in just 0.08 of a second.

“Three litres of CO2 fills the jacket immediately at the point of triggering and it grabs the rider, providing protection around their neck, upper body and thorax,” Mr Fredericks said.

“The jackets are currently used by Quad Bike Border Patrol officers in America, as well as mounted police operations around Australia.

“We think there’s huge potential for them to be used by quad bike riders in Australia also.”

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END OF FINANCIAL YEAR - MACHINERY BUYERS GUIDE North East Farmer, Page 23 Machinery and THE Case IH Farmall has technology been around since 1923 and while age may start to wear aim at a lot of us down, this reliable four-wheeled workhorse is as conference sprightly as ever - and for those

June 2017

On the Case for end of financial year

in the market there’s never been a better time to buy.

Case IH has embarked on its annual Farmall end-of-ďŹ nancialyear campaign, complete with very competitive ďŹ nance rates and special pricing on tractor and loading combinations.

Tarcutta farmer Luke Heffer took advantage of the offer last year and just over 12 months on he still can’t say enough about his family’s Farmall 105C. “I ďŹ nd it a fantastic tractor – nice, nimble, comfortable to sit in, everything’s there at your ďŹ ngertips,â€? Mr Heffer said. “It’s really a pleasure to drive.â€?

Luke Heffer farms with his mum, Helen, an operation that runs about 1100 head of cattle at any given time, with Luke also operating a sowing and hay-making contracting business.

This month he’s been busy sowing 1100ha of cereal crops and pasture varieties.

He said they couldn’t do without their eet of Case IH equipment, including the versatile Farmall, which assists with everything on the farm from feeding cattle and a little earth-moving when required, to stacking and carting hay. “Anything you throw at it,

FAMILY DRIVE: Tarcutta farmer Luke Heffer and mum Helen, with their Farmall 105C.

nothing’s a drama, it just does it,� Mr Heffer said.

An example of its versatility, he said, was the ease with which it pulled a 3.6m wide mower when the family’s Case IH Maxxum 115 was having a service. “It pulled it no worries at all,� he said.

Case IH product manager

Peter Elias said the end-ofďŹ nancial-year period was the biggest selling season for the Farmall range, which includes the Farmall B, C, JX and U Series, each offering manoeuvrability, compact dimensions, ease of operation and a high power-to-weight ratio.

The Heffers are waiting for a Puma 165 CVT to be delivered in

September, but while the Puma will provide a few more options for Luke and Helen, the Farmall will retain its workhorse role, the tractor already clocking up an impressive 720 hours in just over a year. “We buy them to work, not look at them – and that’s what we do, we make them work,�

Mr Heffer said.

“But you can spend up to 16 hours in the seat without any trouble and it comes down to comfort at the end of the day,� he said. “My mum drives the Farmall most of the time in the hay season – and she’s rapt with it, loves it, and when there’s just me and mum on the farm that’s important.

THE 18th Australian Agronomy Conference will be held in Ballarat in September.

The theme for the 2017 conference is “Doing more with less�.

Innovation in machinery and precision technologies may allow the agronomist of today to successfully help agricultural producers thrive.

These innovations are timely as the world deals with increasingly variable climates, environmental degradation, and a more developed global community that requires more diverse products from agriculture.

The conference will be held at the Mercure Ballarat Hotel and Convention Centre, Victoria from 24-28 September 2017.

The Australian Agronomy Conference is the meeting place for Agronomists; it supports research and the community of Agronomists by connecting Agronomy communities across Australia to each other.

The Elsworth twin bale feeder comes in two sizes, 4’ and 5’ models. ‡ 7KH  PRGHO ZLOO IHHG DQ\  ZLGH EDOH  KLJK WR  KLJK ‡ 7KH WZLQ EDOH IHHGHU FDQ IHHG RXW VLODJH WKURXJK WR WLJKW RDWHQ UROOV ‡ 7KH WZLQ EDOH IHHGHU KDV D KHDY\ GXW\ FRQVWUXFWLRQ IURP $XVWUDOLDQ VWHHO ‡ 7KH FKDVVLV LV PDGH IURP PP [ PP [ PP 5+6 ‡ $ ³DW ³RRU HQDEOHV WLJKW VLODJH RDWHQ UROOV WR HDVLO\ XQUROO DQG VWDUW IHHGLQJ RXW ‡ 7KH GHHS ª FKDPEHU SUHYHQWV UROOV IURP FRPLQJ RXW RI WKH IHHGHU ZKHQ IHHGLQJ RQ KLOO\ WHUUDLQ ‡ )HHGHU VKDIWV DUH VKDIW ZLWK KHDY\ GXW\ PP VSURFNHWV ‡ )HHG EDUV DUH PDGH IURP PP [ PP [ PP DQJOH LURQ ZLWK KHDY\ GXW\ PP SLQV WR WHDU RXW WKH KD\ ‡ 7KH K\GUDXOLF PRWRU LV D KLJK TXDOLW\ PRWRU ‡ 7ZR EDOHV FDQ EH FDUULHG RQH LQ WKH FKDPEHU DQG RQH RQ WKH KLQJLQJ VSHDUV ‡ 7KH D[OHV DUH WKUHH WRQQH FDSDFLW\ ZLWK VOLPOLQH ODQGFUXLVHU KXEV ‡ )HHGHU FKDLQ LV ª ORQJ OLQN OE FRQYH\RU FKDLQ PDGH LQ $XVWUDOLD EDUV DUH EROWHG RQ QRW ZHOGHG WR FKDLQ ‡ 7KH 6WDQGDUG WZLQ EDOH IHHGHU FRPHV ZLWK GXDO KRVHV EXW DQ LVRODWRU YDOYH LV DYDLODEOH DW QR H[WUD FKDUJH IRU WUDFWRUV ZLWK VLQJOH UHPRWHV ‡ $YDLODEOH SRZHUSDFNV KS +RQGD

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0428 243 363

Page 24, North East Farmer

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR - MACHINERY BUYERS GUIDE June 2017

John Deere adds new flagship

GEOSCIENCE Australia and the Cooperative Research Centre for Spatial Information (CRCSI) are looking for Australian businesses in the agriculture industry interested in improving the capability of their positioning technology.

Geoscience Australia and the CRCSI are planning to spend around $400,000 on the user testing of a Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) for the agriculture industry in Australia.

Businesses selected for the user testing will work closely with international positioning experts to trial technology that has not been widely tested in Australia before.

Improved positioning technology has the potential to enhance a range of applications for the agriculture industry, including precision machinery monitoring and yield mapping.

The user testing is part of a twoyear project to trial SBAS in the Australasian region.

The Australian Government has committed $12 million in funding to the project and the New Zealand Government an additional $2 million.

The SBAS technology trial will potentially result in a number of safety, productivity, efficiency and environmental benefits for a range of different industries in Australia.

The project will be conducting user testing across nine different industries – agriculture, aviation, construction, maritime, rail, resources, road, spatial and utilities.

POWER UP: The new top of the range John Deere 6250R tractor.

draft work, 22.5 km/h for heavy transport and 47.2 km/h for light transport duties.

Once running at maximum road speed, RPM automatically drops and 50 km/h is maintained at 1630 RPM and 40 km/h at 1300 RPM, which results in lower fuel consumption on the road.

The tractors also feature an all-new joystick, available as an optional extra, which introduces a new dimension in ergonomics and versatility

to John Deere tractors.

Top speed can be reached with just one push, and 11 programmable buttons are available for the hitch, PTO, SCVs, AutoTrac controls etc.

Both the joystick and pedals can be operated at the same time, and there is no need for an external ISOBUS joystick as the driver can also operate the tractor and ISOBUS functions simultaneously.

Equipped with a pressure and flow compensated hydraulic system, the new 6R Series tractors deliver a

powerful maximum flow of 160 Lpm at 1500 RPM. This also saves fuel, even in the most demanding hydraulic applications.

Up to six SCVs with individual pressure-relief levers have been grouped together for easier access, and new lift capacities are 10.4 tonnes on the rear hitch and five tonnes at the front.

The intelligent hydropneumatic cab suspension (HCS Plus) system offers more driving comfort and isolation from

noise and vibration.

Better traction and up to 10 per cent more power applied to the ground are provided by the new self-levelling suspension system on the front axle.

This automatically adjusts sensitivity and suspension rate, and synchronises with hitch sensing to compensate for power hop under heavy draft conditions.

Key service points on the new 6R Series tractors are easy to access for maintenance.

Jio® Star®/GalStar Extreme®

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JOHN Deere is launching two new top of the range sixcylinder tractor models rated at 171 kW (230 hp) and 186 kW (250 hp) (97/68 EC), designed to meet the needs of contractors and arable farmers.

The 6230R and 6250R will complete the line-up of John Deere 6R Series tractors.

The 6230R and 6250R hope to set the new standards for transport, operator comfort and acceleration on the road.

With a very light vehicle weight of 9.3 tonnes, the 6250R delivers more power than any other tractor in this weight class.

The high maximum permissible weight of 15 tonnes also allows a 5.7 tonne payload, which means the tractor is able to transport heavier loads.

Both these new tractors are powered by a 6.8 L PowerTech PSS engine with dual turbochargers and advanced DPF and SCR technology, which responds very quickly to changing loads while consuming less fuel and meeting demanding Final Tier 4 (FT4) emission standards.

The upgraded transmission delivers maximum efficiency, with 100 per cent mechanical power available at 3.5 km/h for heavy draft operations, 11 km/h for light

Positioning technology for farmers

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Make your claim online by Friday 14 July 2017 at www.waratahfencing.com.au/cashback. TS3123

HONEYSUCKLECREEKSTUD >> New Angus Stud producing top quality straws >> Angus Australia registered >> Export quality approved >> Proud to be using Banquet and Anvil Angus Our choice of Bull’s boast ease of calving, outstanding 200, 400, 600 day growth. Top 1% scrotal, top 5-10% eye muscle and rib fat. Licenced straws and figures are available from Total Livestock Genetics or direct.

Call Richard at Honeysuckle Creek Angus 0439 650 563 for info.

v/12d13587/2317

We throw in * the loader!

H Thatow’s for

Deal a !

MF 2600 SERIES | 38 – 74 HP PROVEN POWER AND EFFICIENCY Now’s the time to get even more value with Massey Ferguson … because right now, we’re throwing in the loader on MF 2600 Series!* Reliable 3 & 4 cylinder Simpson engines with excellent fuel economy to save you money High flow hydraulics making this tractor the ideal front end loader platform Independent 540 rpm with PTO ensuring ease of use and a lifetime of low maintenance operation 4WD axles with power steering (2WD option on selected models) Innovative styling and roomy operator’s area

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MF DEALER FOR A REAL DEAL 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, 39 McKenzie Road ...........................................(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 WODONGA CJ & LH Wiesner P/L 16 Osburn St .................................................(02) 6024 6444

*Offer ends 30th June 2017, while stocks last. Loader offer refers to MF 5200 Standard Series loader or MF 916X loader depending on tractor model. Contact your local Massey Ferguson dealer for full terms and conditions.

MASSEY FERGUSON®, MF®, the triple-triangle logo® is a worldwide brand of AGCO. © 2017

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WATCH YOUR PRODUCTIVITY GO SKY HIGH. *Terms & Conditions - Special 0% p.a. finance, 36 months, 20% minimum deposit, monthly repayments, minimum finance amount $4,000. Offer expires 30.6.17. Offer is only available for ABN holders who are using the equipment predominantly for business purposes. Credit provided by Kubota Tractor Australia Pty Ltd ABN 72005300621, Australian Credit Licence Number 442007. Terms, conditions, fees charges and credit criteria apply. Customer Instant Rebate is subtracted from dealer’s selling price as a discount at time of sale and not redeemable for cash.

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VISIT OUR DISPLAY AT 18 MURRELL STREET WANGARATTA

NEWS

June 2017

North East Farmer, Page 27

New stud is as sweet as honey IT might have seemed like a bizarre move when 37-yearold Richard Wadeson sold up the most popular nightclub in Shepparton to start up his own Angus stud, but according to him, it was always on the cards. “I have always wanted to get into cattle full time,� said Mr Wadeson. “We always ran a few for the commercial market in the back paddock, but I have wanted to get into the Angus stud game for a long time and this gave me the capital to get started.�

And he has done just that.

His 250 acres in Kialla, near Shepparton, is now the home

to his brand new stud, Honey Suckle Creek Angus.

He is the owner of three prized bulls from the famed Banquet Angus, and although he is now very pleased with his lot, it wasn’t all smooth sailing at ďŹ rst. “I purchased a bull privately from Banquet, but unfortunately when he was getting ready to go he tried to jump the rails, and hurt himself,â€? said Mr Wadeson. “I was devastated; I’d already pre-sold 5000 straws from him.â€?

Thankfully Banquet looked after him. “That was a real blow, but

they didn’t even charge me and really looked after me. “They waved the cost and told me his top prodigy is coming up, so I went to the auction and got him and two others.�

Mr Wadeson went a bit over budget, but he wasn’t going home empty handed this time.

He sourced his cows from Anvil Angus, who have been similarly helpful, and now he is on the way to making a name for himself in the stud market. “I like to start at the top,� said Mr Wadeson. “So, I sought out the best I could.�

Which includes his agent

NEED TYRES? Celebrating 1 year in Wangaratta

Andrew Dalten, from Peter Wilson Livestock, who put in a tireless effort in helping him set up the stud.

Mr Wadeson has now installed stockyards and is improving the soil and crops.

He is also applying for a full organic certiďŹ cation for the commercial cattle herd and even looking to get quarantine approval for the property down the track as well. “We’ve still got a way to go, but we are getting there,â€? he said. “I grew up on an orchard and market garden and I just like the lifestyle.â€?

GOT THE BULL BY THE HORNS: With top Banquet bulls now in his paddock, Richard Wadeson is ready to dive head first into the Angus market.

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NEWS

Page 28, North East Farmer

Growing chicken meat sector joins NFF THE National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) was pleased to welcome the Australian Chicken Growers Council (ACGC) as a member of agriculture’s peak representative body last month.

The ACGC represents contract chicken meat and

turkey growers at a national level.

NFF president Fiona Simson said the issues chicken growers faced were common to many farmers and it made sense for their interests to be well represented in NFF’s policy and

advocacy efforts.

“Having ACGC join the NFF, means we can get a more informed understanding of the challenges and opportunities before chicken growers and, as a result, be better able to advocate in their interests.”

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June 2017

Winery numbers fall, grape and wine sales rise THE latest annual Australian and New Zealand Wine Industry Directory (WID) reveals positive signs of industry recovery despite wineries continuing to exit the industry.

The 35th edition, published

by Winetitles Media, shows a further decline in the number of Australian wineries to 2394 in 2016 from 2468 in 2015.

The WID data also shows wine exports increased in 2016, rising by 11.4 per cent to almost $2.11 billion, again led in volume of wine produced

by Accolade Wines.

Treasury Wine Estates remains top of the list for the value of wine exports.

Total revenues of the top 20 wine producers increased by nine per cent, or $345 million, to an estimated $4066 million in the year to June.

Growth in revenues was concentrated among the top five – Treasury Wine Estates, Pernod Ricard, Winemakers, Accolade Wines, Casella Wines and Australian Vintage, although 95 per cent of the top 20 reported an increase in sales.

The top five ranked companies of branded wine by volume remain unchanged from 2016.

Further details on Australia’s Top 20 ranked wine producer’s was published in The Top 20 Australian Wine Companies report in the April

RED GOLD: There have been above-average price gains for the popular varieties of grapes.

2017 issue of Australian and New Zealand Grapegrower and Winemaker, also published by Winetitles Media.

Other industry sources reveal growth in grape prices and wine sales.

The Winemakers’ Federation of Australia (WFA) calculated an average grape price per tonne purchased was $529, up 14 per cent from $463 in 2015.

This figure is the highest since 2009 and above the average price for the past five years of $477 per tonne.

Elizabeth Bouzoudis, managing editor said that there are definite signs of an industry recovery.

“With prices, production and exports increasing two years in a row, the industry is showing positive trends,” she said.

“While there was consolida-

tion of winery numbers and grape producers, free trade agreements with China, Japan and South Korea are contributing factors in increase export sales.

“With the price growth per tonne for grapes recording above-average gains for the popular varieties, this may lead to a further shift of plantings away from the less popular varieties that under-performed the average.”

The 602 page 2017 Directory includes a comprehensive listing of wine producers, grape growers, suppliers, distributors, retailers, universities, research and education facilities, writers, wine publications, wine blogs, organisations, events and wine shows and industry personnel – updated annually.

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June 2017

North East Farmer, Page 29

Spotlight on rare cattle breed DEBBIE Holmes was first introduced to British White cattle through her parents.

Moving to a riverside property out of Swanpool almost 20 years ago, Mrs Holmes’ parents were initially attracted to British Whites because of their small population.

Long interested in rare breeds, they invested in a BW bull, and began their breeding program by putting it over a herd of Herefords.

Ten years later, Mrs Holmes and her husband Ian took over the running of Ravenswood British White stud.

Now, the couple have almost a decade of experience themselves with the breed – and are used to dealing with both the good, and bad, of the genetically limited pool.

Importing semen, travelling interstate for breeding stock and trying different outcrop combinations are just some of the challenges presented to BW breeders. “They are a lovely cow,� Mrs Holmes said. “But they have always been classed as a rare breed in Australia because of the population numbers. “Even at market, they can be the same size as an Angus but, because they aren’t black or as popular, they don’t fetch that same premium.�

British White cattle are one of the oldest breeds in Britain, dating back to the late 1600s, though they did not land in Australia until the 1950s.

Originally a working man’s animal, BWs are traditionally a meat breed but are also known for their generous milk quantities

and docile attitude – more like a dairy breed in nature than that of a beef animal.

Similar in size to an Angus, British White cattle have black skin, white fur and are black pointed – nose, tongues, eyes, hooves and other body points all a lustrous dark sheen against their milky coats.

Although she admits to being biased, Mrs Holmes is nonetheless surprised that the breed does not enjoy a more wide spread following given their ideal Australian attributes. “They are ideal for Australian conditions – the black points mean they don’t tend to get as sunburnt as other breeds do,� she said. “They have a fantastic nature, are good mothers and are not fussy grazers – they will eat anything. “There are a lot of hobby farmers who want them because they look good as you drive down a driveway,� she said. “They are very pretty.�

The Ravenswood British White herd is run seamlessly, with grazing based on a loose rotational system.

Cows are bred to be medium in size, with a long back – flat across the shoulders – no white eye sclera and black points.

They are calved down at around two years - always in the autumn - and then turned off at around 12 months.

Typically slightly slower to mature, Mrs Holmes has had success outcropping her first time calvers with a Wagyu bull – the hybrid vigour resulting in calves that are slightly quicker to finish.

Mrs Holmes has worked

tirelessly for the breed’s continued improvement, is a vibrant member of the British White Cattle Society and has been on international trips to look at breed examples from the United Kingdom.

One of the traits she has spent countless hours – and dollars - on is improving an issue that occasionally crops up in BW herds. “The British Whites have an unusual trait where some animals don’t have a full set of chromosomes,� Mrs Holmes said. “This can cause a calf to be born with symptoms similar to Down syndrome. “It can happen in any breed, but was occurring at a higher incidence rate in British Whites.�

Both Mrs Holmes and Ian are vets – and with her scientific background, she set about doing her part to help eradicate the chromosomal problem. “We managed to find an enthusiastic geneticist, who tested all our cows,� she said. “He tested the bloods, grew the relevant cells and would come back to us with a report. “He must have tested around 1500 British White cows.�

Through her work, and with the support of the Australian British White Society, Mrs Holmes has helped to all but breed out the problem in Australia.

In the future, Mrs Holmes wants to see the breed continue to grow and to gain the same respect as that enjoyed by other cleverly marketed breeds. “We want to be taken seriously as meat cattle,� she said. “British Whites do the job as well as any other breed; they just do it with colour.�

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NEWS

Page 30, North East Farmer

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Top 10 panel offer tips for 2017 crop MEMBERS of the Grains Research and Development Corporation’s Southern Regional Panel – comprising growers, researchers and advisers – have provided some personal insights to southern region grain growers for a successful 2017 growing season.

Chair Keith Pengilley, Conara (Tasmania): Whilst it has been somewhat of a variable start across the southern region in 2017, signiďŹ cant rainfall events in some parts has seen many growers sow crops early and this presents a crop grazing opportunity for those with livestock.

It is a strategy well worth considering given current buoyant prices for lamb, mutton and beef.

Deputy chair Mike McLaughlin, Adelaide (SA): As crops start to establish, it is important to continue to think about crop.

Straight visual observation of the crop as

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it grows is often the best way to get an early warning that something is wrong Nutrient deďŹ ciency symptoms on leaves can suggest what the problem might be and can be followed up by soil or plant tissue tests to conďŹ rm the deďŹ ciency and suggest corrective action.

John Bennett, Lawloit (Victoria): In light of the drier seasonal outlook and especially in areas where the season has commenced off the back of a moderate rainfall break, growers should adopt a cautious approach to nitrogen (N) application in cereals.

Rather than applying a large amount of N upfront, it would be prudent to monitor how the season unfolds.

N can be applied quite late into wheat and a good result can still be achieved.

Rohan Mott, Ninda (Victoria): Monitoring mouse numbers throughout the season will be important.

We have been, and are continuing to bait during our sowing program.

Despite this, we are still seeing damage from mice in early sown vetch and lupins, particularly around mouse holes.

Don’t succumb to a false sense of security – even if mice aren’t active through the winter months, continue to monitor your crops and if necessary prepare for the possibility of aerial baiting being necessary in the spring to prevent yield loss.

Kate Wilson, Hopetoun (Victoria): A combination of factors have created the ‘perfect storm’, in terms of crop diseases and insect pests this year.

Large stubble loads, a carryover of some diseases, the green bridge of weeds and volunteers, good opening rains in some parts and current mild conditions have heightened the risk to crops in 2017.

Understanding what crops are likely to be vulnerable to diseases and pests and having management strategies in place in advance is essential.

Peter Kuhlmann, Mudamuckla (SA): Snail numbers have built up since last year and baiting should have occurred soon after the opening rains, which is when they move down from their resting places to feed.

Well-timed baiting is essential to ensure an effective kill while snails are feeding and before they commence breeding and laying eggs.

Jon Midwood, Inverleigh (Victoria): In the high rainfall zones of Victoria and Tasmania, April was wetter than average and slug activity has increased significantly in recent weeks.

This has serious implications, as canola crops are just starting to emerge.

Mark Stanley, Port Lincoln (SA): With the increased area of canola going in this year, close monitoring of emerging crops for seedling pests, including slaters, millipedes, snails and slugs is recommended.

If temperatures remain high, be on the lookout for green peach aphid (GPA) as canola seedlings establish.

Bill Long, Auburn (SA): Sowing crops at the optimum seeding depth is extremely important, so it is well worth following up on this year’s sowing programs by checking the depth of seed as crops emerge.

A simple way of determining if seed has gone in at the right depth is to take a photo of the seed depth marker on the seeder bar and compare that in-paddock with where the seed is placed in the soil.

Rob Sonogan, Swan Hill (Victoria): Don’t forget about root diseases, such as cereal cyst nematode, take-all and rhizoctonia root rot, which are still quite prevalent in the southern cropping region and can cause signiďŹ cant yield loss.

From early tillering onwards, look for plants that are showing symptoms of disease, dig them up (don’t pull them up) and have a close inspection of the roots.

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June 2017

North East Farmer, Page 31

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shed or does so irregularly. Other changes in appearance can include abnormal depositions of fat around the body particularly above the eye or around the abdomen (which can give the animal a ‘pot bellied’ appearance.) Despite this, overall condition of the horse may decrease and a poorly developed topline and weightloss is common.

Horses or ponies with crushing’s may experience repeat episodes of laminitis or founder and are often more predisposed to developing infections (for example of the respiratory tract or sinuses.)

Their demeanour may be sluggish or lethargic and there may be a decrease in performance abilities.

Despite all these changes appetite remains intact and often increases along with an

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If you are considering getting your horse tested for cushings’s now is a good time to do so as many clinics (including Warby Street Veterinary Hospital and Wangaratta Equine Hospital) will be offering special prices during the months of May and June.

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Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) in horses occurs due to dysfunction of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland which are located at the base of the brain. Due to this dysfunction an imbalance of three hormones (ACTH, dopamine and cortisol) occur and cause multiple changes throughout the body responsible for the clinical presentation of PPID. The prevalence of PPID in horses over the age of 18 is very high.

What are the Clinical Signs of PPID? The clinical signs associated with cushing’s are many and varied and no two cases will present in exactly the same way. Perhaps the most obvious changes are the physical manifestations of the disease. Horses with cushing’s often develop a long hairy or abnormally curly hair coat which may not

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