THE SOUTHERN
Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria Published since 1986
PENINSULA FARM ORGANICS THRIVE
JANUARY, 2017
CLUNES SHOW AND SHEEP RESULTS
PAGES 2-3
486 Whitehorse Road, Surrey Hills, 3127
PAGE 5
FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION
PAGES 20-23
It’s Australia’s genetic showcase for beef cattle
BOUNTIFUL CROP: Despite strange behaviour from Mother Nature and its effect on the fruit, Lanidale Cherry Orchard’s Rachael Harrison said the farm has been busy with many visitors utilising the U-Pick system. See full story and more photos page 6 and 7.
THE outstanding beef cattle seedstock available in south-east Australia will be on display again with 200 plus studs opening their properties for the 26th Stock and Land Beef Week from January 27, to February 4. Beef Week is the biggest event of its type in Australia. It has been said, and it could possibly be true, that Beef Week is the biggest event of its type in the world, as local and interstate visitors tour the studs in search of their next stud sires or herd improving bulls for commercial herds. Increasingly, Beef Week is attracting many international cattle industry people keen to discover what the Australian seedstock industry has to offer, especially in the British and European breeds. Australian seedstock producers have been astute in sourcing the world’s best genetics and now the world is coming to Australia to find superior genetics. Beef Week exhibitors display thousands of cattle for visitors.
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As many as 5000 bulls from 30 breeds will sell during Beef Week or at on-property autumn sales in the following weeks in transactions that will put something like $30 million into the pockets of Beef Week exhibitors. Beef Week serves as a high value low cost marketing opportunity for seedstock producers from those selling a handful of bulls to the big operations which can sell hundreds. Beef Week committee chairman Daryl Pearson urged those seedstock producers considering becoming Beef Week participants to get around to as many Beef Week properties and as many breeds as possible and find out what the successful studs are doing to attract visitors. “While the Beef Week formula is tried and proven, the introduction of the RASV Heifer Challenge has proved to be highly successful,” Mr Pearson said.
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Page 2, Southern Farmer
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WHITTLESEA PRODUCE ABN 58 084 899 738
31 Forest Street, Whittlesea FAMILY OWNED: The Shields family, (from left) Kasey, Flynn, Wayne, Tash, Oskar and Ted take a well-earned break.
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Baxter organic farm is showing its class By ALLISON COX
THE SOUTHERN
Covering Central South Victoria and West Gippsland 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta Victoria, 3677
Phone (03) 5723 0125 Email: sfarmer@nemedia.com.au Website: www.nemedia.com.au Calvin Purss Phone (03) 5723 0125 Fax (03) 5721 9447 cpurss@nemedia.com.au
Editorial:
Jodie Fleming Phone (03) 5723 0129 Fax (03) 5721 9447 jfleming@nemedia.com.au
Livestock Coordinator:
David Rizzoli Phone (03) 9888 4822 Fax (03) 9888 4840
Pre-Press Coordinator
Noelene Allan Phone (03) 5723 0110 Fax (03) 5722 9778 nallan@nemedia.com.au
ON THE SPOT
at a farmers’ market. Their current produce is a response to consumer feedback. “We listened to our customers and we listed to consumer demand,” she said. “We started growing the old fashioned carrots, old fashioned radish varieties, beetroot varieties. “We got a very good response and feedback from the consumers at the farmers’ markets.” Continued page 3
CONCRETE PRODUCTS Farming, Industrial
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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 Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.
YOUR
“We grow radish, carrot, beetroot, silverbeat, rainbow chard, spinach, cauliflower, cabbage, different kale varieties, leeks, turnips, celery and fennel,” she said. The wide variety of vegetables is a function of the way that they have been sold..for the last few years farmers’ markets in Melbourne have been an important way of getting the produce to the consumers. Tash said that it is best to have a variety of different products
and Domestic
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JANUARY is a busy time on the Mornington Peninsula with many Melburnians spending some time on the coast. This time of year can be very busy for Peninsula Fresh Organics in Baxter. This organic vegetable farm is run by Tash and Wayne Shields who started the business seven years ago. Tash was working in IT when
she met her husband Wayne, a fifth generation market gardener. She left IT and went to work on the farm with him. “We started on three acres back then. We’ve now grown to a total of 140 acres that we are farming on over the two properties,” Tash said. Peninsula Fresh Organics has a 40 acre farm in Baxter and a further 100 acres up on the Murray River. Tash said the Baxter property produces a wide variety of vegetables.
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NEWS
January 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 3
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94a Bourke St, Bulla (5 minutes from Tullamarine Airport) FUN ON THE FARM: Wayne, Flynn, Oskar, Ted, Kasey and Tash (front) Shields have some enjoyable moments on the farm. From page 2
But the way that Peninsula Fresh Organics sells its produce is changing. Seventy per cent of sales used to be through farmers’ markets and the farm shop, with wholesale sales accounting for only 30 per cent. However, over the last two years, there has been an increase in wholesale sales. These days about 10 per cent of produce is sold at farmers’ markets and another 10 per cent sold at the farm shop. Wholesale production accounts for 80 per cent of the business. “We do farmers markets and a farm shop on the farm that is open to the public three days a week,” Tash said. “We now do wholesale as well. We even export a little bit of kale to Singapore every now and then.” The quality of the product and a higher farm profile has driven the increase in wholesale sales according to Tash. Wholesalers have become more familiar with the products and quality from Peninsula Fresh Organics and want its products. “They are just blown away by how well we are growing certain lines.” Kale remains an extremely popular vegetable.
“When we started off we normally planted about 6000 kale in a year and now it’s gone to 20,000 in a month,” said Tash. “It is still very popular and one of our biggest sellers.” The presence at farmers’markets has helped wholesale sales. Tash believes that it has helped raise the profile of the business and allowed the business to demonstrate the quality and presentation of what it produces. “At the moment, on average we are doing about five farmers’ markets a weekend. Some of them are more than once a month.” The presence at these markets is split between Tash, Wayne and Wayne’s mother. “We all go separate ways, I go to one, my husband goes to one and his mum usually goes to another one,” said Tash. “So we go in three different vehicles.” The biggest selling products are carrots. Potatoes and carrots are the most popular vegetables. “Dutch carrots, heirloom carrots, the multicoloured old fashioned carrots...everyone is asking for carrots,” said Tash. Peninsula Fresh Organics have been certified organic for about six years and, as a certified organic farm, there
are standards to meet. “We are certified organic so we are not allowed to use any pesticides, herbicides or any chemicals on our crops,” Tash said. “We get audited every 12 months and there are also blind audits which means they (auditors) go into the wholesale market and randomly choose produce to take away and test.” The future might mean a greater proportion of produce will be sold wholesale and fewer farmers’ markets. This would mean that Tash and Wayne enjoy more family time. Farmers’ markets take them away from their four children on the weekends. “It’s very difficult to have sport and things like that on the weekend,” explains Tash. As for the future, Tash says they would like to see the business continue to grow so that they might get a chance to take a break from the farm. “There’s always something going on, something breaking down, a tractor or a truck. Somebody doesn’t turn up to work – there are always those pressures.” Even with the pressures, Tash enjoys the lifestyle. “I do enjoy it. I wouldn’t change it,” she said.
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NEWS
Page 4, Southern Farmer
Compiled by DAVID
RIZZOLI
1 2 3 4 5
When was the Peppin Merino flock introduced? (a) 1858 (b) 1868 (c) 1878. Which is the oldest, still existing, stud Corriedale sheep flock in Australia? In 1919 where, in Australia, were the first soldier settlers installed on their farms? What are Lincoln Red, Senepol and Romagnola?
What did R.A.Squire invent in 1916? (a) Pasture Harrows (b) A deep ripping plough (c) the Spring Tyne Drill Vultivator.
6 7 8 9
In cattle, what is a Chopper? What is the breeding of Zenith sheep? For what are Annis and George Bills remembered?
Working for the Canadian firm, Massey Harris, what did Gleeson, East, Charlton and Chapman invent in 1905?
10 11
What was developed in 1957 to treat Coast Disease in sheep?
Q Fever is a serious disease among people working with animals, particularly in abattoirs. From which animals is it transmitted to humans?
12
What is Strawberry Crinkle?
January 2017
What’s on for southern Victorian farmers in 2017 THE Post Office Gallery at the Bendigo Art Gallery is currently hosting a photograph and oral history display about the role of animals in and around Bendigo until February 12, 2017. ‘Menagerie: animals in Bendigo History’ includes stories about the ancestral beings like eagles and ‘Waa, the Crow’, to the introduction of cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, monkeys and rabbits. It also includes monkeys at the Bendigo Botanic Gardens to goat racing, pests, horse-drawn transport and animal exhibits at the Bendigo Show. For more information contact Clare Needham at cneedham@ bendigo.vic.gov.au. STAND bookings are now open for the 2017 Gippsland Irrigation Expo. About 600 people are expected to attend the biennial expo, to be held at Sale Showground on March 15. Next year’s event will see a large number of exhibitors showcasing the very latest techniques and technology for all aspects of irrigated farming. Chair of the organising committee, Macalister dairy farmer Iain Stewart, said the 2017 event will be bigger, with more undercover display space. Exhibition sites are priced
at $300 (undercover) or $125 (outdoors) plus GST. Exhibitors can book stands at http://bit.ly/2gvo0sr. For more information, email susanw@ptarmigan.com.au or phone 0402 267 802. GIPPSDAIRY has funding from the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) to run two Gippsland Grows Green Grass groups in Gippsland. This project aims to increase confidence, knowledge and skills among participating dairy farmers in managing on-farm change related to increased pasture production and fertiliser decisions via mentoring, farmer discussions and expert advice. The program runs over 12 months and involves a combination of 1:1 visits and learning group sessions on farm (seven in total). Each group will be facilitated by an experienced agricultural consultant. GippsDairy is particularly looking for farmers in the Nyora and Meeniyan regions. If you would like more information contact GippsDairy regional extension officer Karen Romano, on 0417 524 916 or karen@gippsdairy.com.au. AUSVEG, PMA AustraliaNew Zealand Ltd and Australian Organic have joined forces to
deliver a horticulture conference and trade show to take place at the Adelaide Convention Centre on Monday, May 15 to Wednesday, May 17, 2017. The event will bring together the full supply chain and a wide range of fruit, vegetable and floral producers, together with world-class presenters who will inform and inspire fresh produce industry members, while the trade show will showcase the most exciting developments in horticulture.For more information contact Nathan McIntyre on 0425 859 191. If you are interested in dairy herd improvement you won’t want to miss Herd 17, the dairy industry’s biennial conference to be held at Bendigo, 22-23 March 2017. The conference has a reputation for presenting exciting speakers at the cutting edge of herd improvement, and Herd 17 is no exception with several world leaders on the program. Marj Faust will speak about Skills, attitude and change, drawing upon her experience with one of the world’s largest and globally competitive bull companies. In charge of the development of new reproductive technologies at Genus ABS Global, Marj sees a quantum change ahead but warns these changes must
be underpinned by the right combination of attitude and skill. She will give delegates a unique insight into the emerging technologies and the challenges of introducing them. Andrew Fear will share the highs and lows of herd recording during New Zealand’s milk price volatility, a journey that is being replicated in Australia. As general manager of operations and services with LIC, NZ, Andrew will share the company’s experiences and what they are doing to combat volatility. Michelle Axford, from the Herd 17 organising committee said the program was designed to help delegates look forward to new horizons while providing a practical take on the latest developments. It will also provide updates on significant developments in herd improvement on the home front, including the recently formed organisations, DataGene and DairyBio. Delegates will get sneak previews into new breeding values under development and the latest results from key projects such as Improving Herds. To register visit https://www. ivvy.com/event/HERD17 or contact Laura Calder, Holstein Australia ph 03 9835 7627 E herd17@holstein.com.au.
ANSWERS 1.(a) 1858; 2. The Fairburn Corriedale Stud of Darryl Macdonald and Family at Shepherds Flat, Victoria (1903): 3.The Murrumbidgee Irrigation Scheme; 4. Breeds of Beef Cattle; 5. (c) The Spring Tyne Drill Cultivator; 6. An aged cow (usually) in low condition; 7. Lincoln x Merino x Merino x Merino; 8. Their Trust installed around 700 concrete horse troughs in public places around Australia and 50 overseas. 9.The Header Harvester (improved in 1914 by H.S.Taylor); 10. The Cobalt Bullet; 11. Ruminants – Cattle, sheep & goats); 12. A virus disease of Strawberries.
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NEWS
January 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 5
Strong sheep entries at Clunes Show By DAVID RIZZOLI THERE were no empty pens in either the large sheep pavilion or the annexe housing the prime lambs at the 2016 Clunes and District Agricultural Society’s annual show. Regarded by many as one of the best one day agricultural shows in Victoria, the Clunes Show attracts sheep entries second only to the Royal Melbourne Show when the Prime Lamb entries are taken into account. Twenty-six individual breeders representing twenty different sheep breeds OTHER SHEEP RESULTS: MERINO: Champion Superfine Ram, Glen Bros., Wattlebank, Guildford,; Reserve Champion Superfine Ram, Glen Bros; Champion Superfine Ewe, Glen Bros; Reserve Champion Superfine Ewe, Glen Bros. Champion Fine Wool Ram, Alan Harris, Koole Vale, Costerfield; Reserve Champion Fine Wool Ram, Glen Bros; Champion Fine Wool Ewe, Glen Bros., Reserve Champion Fine Wool Ewe, Glen Bros. Champion Medium Wool Ram, Alan Harris; Reserve Champion Medium Wool Ewe, Norm Weir, Kerrlyn, Dunluce; Champion Medium Wool Ewe, Alan Harris; Reserve Champion Medium Wool Ewe, Alan Harris. Champion Strong Wool Ram, Alan Harris. Overall Champion Merino Ram, Alan Harris; Overall Reserve Champion Merino Ram, Glen Bros.; Overall Champion Merino Ewe, Alan Harris; Reserve Overall Champion Merino Ewe, Glem Bros. CORRIEDALE: Champion Corriedale Ram, S and A.Baker, Loddon Park, Baringhup; Reserve Champion Corriedale Ram, Ronelle Welton; Champion Corriedale Ewe, S and.A.Baker; Reserve Champion Corriedale Ewe, S and A.Baker. TEXEL: Champion Texel Ram, Ashlety Smith, Cypress Park, Cardigan Village; Reserve Champion Texel Ram, Ashley Smith; Champion Texel Ewe, Ashley Smith. SUFFOLK: Champion Suffolk Ram, John and Jodie Sutherland; Reserve Champion Suffolk Ram, John and Jodie Sutherland; Champion Ewe, John
made up the 2016 entries at the show, together with a large entry of fleeces and Pens of Three Prime Lambs. Graeme Clarke, who organises the sheep entries together with his brother Peter, was delighted that for the first time in living memory there were entries from the ancient breed, the Shropshire,at the Clunes Show, two ewes from the Clarendon Downs Stud of Marilyn Mangione. At the last count there were only nine registered Shropshire studs in Australia. And it is not just the sheep that
and Jodie Sutherland; Reserve Champion Suffolk Ewe, John and Jodie Sutherland. WHITE SUFFOLK: Champion Ram, John, Janet & Finlay MacDonald; Fairburn, Shepherds Flat; Reserve Champion White Suffolk Ram, S and A.Baker, Booloola, Baringhup; Champion White Suffolk Ewe, S and A.Baker; Reserve Champion White Suffolk Ewe, S and A.Baker. POLL DORSET: Champion Poll Dorset Ram, R and L Mitchell; Reserve Champion Poll Dorset Ram, Ashley Smith, Cypress Park, Cardigan Village; Champion Poll Dorset Ewe, Ashley Smith; Reserve Champion Poll Dorset Ewe, Daryl, Janet & Finlay MacDonald, Fairburn, Shepherds Flat. DORSET HORN: Champion Ram, Daryl, Janet and Finlay MacDonald, Fairburn, Shepherds Flat; Reserve Champion Dorset Horn Ram, R.J, M.I and H.I.Grieve, Millbrook Park, Millbrook; Champion Ewe, R.J, M.I and H.I.Grieve; Reserve Champion Dorset Horn Ewe, R.J, M.I and H.I.Grieve. ENGLISH LEICESTER: Champion English Leicester Ram, Graeme Clarke, Ethelgrae, Reserve Champion English Leicester Ram, Graeme Clarke; Champion English Leicester Ewe, Graeme Clarke; Reserve Champion English Leicester Ewe, Graeme Clarke. HAMPSHIRE DOWN: Champion Hampshire Down Ram, Kane and Bridget Hildred / Leahy; Reserve Champion Hampshire Down Ram, Kane and Bridget Hildred / Leahy; Champion Hampshire Down Ewe, Kane and Bridget Hildred / Leahy; Reserve Champion Hampshire
Down Ewe, Kane and Bridget Hildred / Leahy. LINCOLN: Champion Lincoln Ram, F and G.Richardson, Grassmere, Newlyn; Reserve Champion Lincoln Ram, F and G.Richardson; Champion Lincoln Ewe, F and G.Richardson; Reserve Champion Lincoln Ewe, F and G.Richardson. RYELAND: Champion Ryeland Ram, R.J and L.J.Mitchell, Ronobri, Lockington; Reserve Champion Ryeland Ram, Jason Loader; Champion Ewe, Jason Loader; Reserve Champion Ryeland Ewe, Jason Loader. SOUTHDOWN: Champion Spouthdown Ram, Ireland Family, Romale, Bunding; Reserve Champion Southdown Ram, Graeme Denhert, Fernleigh, Ballan; Champion Southdown Ewe Ireland Family; Reserve Champion Southdown Ewe, Graeme Denhert. DORSET DOWN: Champion Dorset Down Ram, Colin and Margaret Chapman, Woodhall, New Gisborne; Reserve Champion Dorset Down Ram, Colin & Margaret Chapman; Champion Dorset Down Ewe, Colin & Margaret Chapman; Reserve Champion Dorset Down Ewe, Colin and Margaret Chapman. SHROPSHIRE: Champion Shropshire Ewe, Mrs Mailyn Mangione, Clarendon Downs, Doveton; Reserve Champion Shropshire Ewe, Mrs Marilyn Mangione. WILTSHIRE HORN: Champion Wiltshire Horn Ram, Darren Boyd; Reserve Champion Wiltshire Horn Ram, Darren Boyd; Champion Wiltshire Horn Ewe, Darren Boyd; Reserve Champion Wiltshire Ewe, Darren Boyd. DORPER: Champion
Dorper Ram, Shaelene Knight; Reserve Champion Dorper Ram, Shaelene Hnight; Champion Dorper Ewe, Shaelene Knight, Reserve Champion Dorper Ewe, Shaelene Knight. BLACK AND COLOURED: Champion Black or Coloured Ram, Jan and Rob Brown, Jarob Farm, Ampitheatre; Reserve Champion Black or Coloured Ram, Eve Ogilvie; Champion Black or Coloured Ewe, Eve Ogilvie; Reserve Champion Black or Coloured Ewe, Jan and Rob Brown; Champion Black or Coloured Ram Lamb, Jan and Rob Brown; Champion Black or Coloured Ewe Lamb, Eve Ogalvie. INTERBREED CHAMPIONSHIPS: CHAMPION RAM - Ireland Family, Romale, Bunding (Southdown). CHAMPION EWE - S and A.Baker, Booloola, Baringhup (White Suffolk). CHAMPION RAM LAMB – S and A.Baker, Loddon Park, Barringhup (Corriedale). CHAMPION EWE LAMB – John and Jody Sutherland (Suffolk). CHAMPION OF THE SHOW – Ireland Family (Southdown). HERITAGE BREEDS: Champion Heritage Ram – Ireland Family (Southdown); Champion Heritage Ewe – Ireland Family (Southdown). PRIME LAMBS (Pen of Three): Highest Commercial Value, J and B.Drife, Coghills Creek. Suitable for Trade – 38 – 45 kilograms Live Weight, J and B.Drife. Suitable for Supermarket Trade, Up to 38 kilograms, McLennon Family, Clunes Judge’s Choice, McLennon Family. Highest Aggregate, McLennan
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Family. PRESIDENT’S TROPHY – PRIME LAMBS: P and J.Wrigley. FLEECES: Champion Black or Coloured (20 fleeces) – Jan and Rob Brown, Jarob Farm, Ampitheatre. Champion Heritage Fleece (Longwool) – F and G.Richardson, Grassmere, Newlyn (Lincoln; Champion Heritage Fleece (Shortwool) – Colin & Margaret Chapman, Wodhall, New Gisborne, (Dorset Down); Champion Heritage Fleece (Lambs Wool) – R and J.Nelson, Blue Hills, Barringhup (Shropshire); Champion Heritage Fleece of the Show, F and G.Richardson (Lincoln). CLASS CHAMPIONSHIPS (FLEECES): Most Attractive Merino Fleece, M and R.Dohnt; Most Attractive Comeback Fleece – Fraser Bros., Clunes; Most Valuable Fleece in Show – Fraser Bros.; Most Successful Exhibitor of Merino Fleece - T and J.Barry, Clunes; Miost Successful Exhibitor of Comeback Fleece – Fraser Bros. Most Successful Exhibitor of Crossbred Fleeces – Fraser Bros.; Two Most Valuable Fleeces in Show – Fraser Bros.; Champion Lambs Wool – Fraser Bros.; Most Successful Exhibitor -(Over All Classes) – T and J.Barry. BEST MERINO FLEECE – T and J.Barry. Best Crossbred Fleece – Fraser Bros. BEEF CATTLE: There was a small, but quality number of beef cattle paraded before the judge, Mr Ross Canning of Mortlake and the Associate Judge, Jacob Canning. BEEF BREEDS CHAMPIONSHIPS: Red Angus Bull,
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NEWS
Page 6, Southern Farmer
January 2017
Cherries and apricots make NOT QUITE READY: Cherries need more sun to fully ripen this year.
By ALLISON COX EARLY summer is the time for cherries and a small, family run business in the Yarra Valley sells its crop directly to customers, straight from the farm gate. Set on 32 acres of rolling hills, Lanidale Cherry Orchard has around 2500 productive cherry trees and 250 apricot trees. It’s not big but Rachael Harrison, who runs the property, is proud of the orchard and its produce. The farm is very busy in December, particularly on weekends as it offers the popular u-pick system, where visitors can get among the trees and pick their own fruit. Rachael said weekday cus-
OUT THE GATE: Boxes of cherries from Lanidale Cherry Orchard.
tomers can include locals and families on their way home from school. “During the week it is steady, we have quite a few customers coming in,” she said. “On weekends it gets pretty hectic. We can have three to four hundred people coming through the property on a Saturday or Sunday.” Rachael said opening the orchard to the public was not an easy decision at first. “I always found it a little difficult to cross that line because I love my trees,” she said. “I was concerned about having lots of people in the orchard and how the trees would be left. But 95 per cent of people are fantastic. It’s ended up being quite good, quite multicultural.” Seeing the same customers year after year is often the case and Rachael likes to see
them enjoy their day out in the orchard. “A lot of people that come out are from inner suburbia or the city and their back yards are a lot smaller than ours. They come out to relax,” she said. “We have a few grassy areas and some of the families have their picnics and make a day of it.” Rachael carefully manages the orchard so that the fruit is ready to be picked when customers visit. Most of the year the orchard is run by the family, but in November each year pickers and packers are hired to help with the workload. The farm opens from mid November to mid January, usually from 8am to 6pm, seven days a week. As always, the weather plays a role in how much fruit is available and when it will be ready and this year has been a challenge. “We open generally around the first week of November,” Rachael said. “This year it’s been a little bit later (because) it’s been a really cold spring, quite out of the ordinary from any other year that I have done. “It also rained. That makes fruit set pretty difficult. We also haven’t had consistent sun so the cherries have not coloured up. “Last week (mid December)
we got more rain than forecast and that split a few cherries and slowed everything down.” Bats and birds are also a problem and consequently the farm has invested in full exclusion nets for the trees. Part of the orchard was covered about seven years ago and more nets were put up in the 2016 winter. It’s expensive, but Rachael would rather net the trees than pull them up. “Fruit bats are one of the biggest problems,” said Rachael. “They (don’t) only just take the crop, they do a lot of damage to the trees. They are certainly our biggest concern and they’re becoming a bigger concern as the years go on. “I have two sides of my orchard fully covered and the nets stay up. “I decided to cover it and then work hard and make the most of that. It is such a relief to have them up. “I have no doubt that it has already made a big difference. And it gives you some hail protection as well.” The orchard has always included cherries, ever since Rachael’s parents bought it in 2000. It used to sell to markets, then farm gate sales started around 2003. Now all the produce is sold at the farm gate, mostly through repeat business. Continued page 7
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NEWS
January 2017
great lifestyle From page 6
Rachael has always worked on the farm and in 2012 she began to lease the orchard from her parents and run it herself. “I have four kids. I wanted to find a job where I could be at home rather than take the nine-to-five option,” she said. The cherry trees in the orchard can be up to 15 years old. The
apricot trees were first planted about 10 years ago. Originally introduced for a bit of variety, the apricots represent diversification by a small orchard in competition with high volume producers. “I’ve got the (apricot) tree varieties that come from about the first week of December to the last week of December,” Rachael said.
“We tree ripen and pick them three times a day to make sure they do not drop to the ground. A lot of man hours go in to get them just right. “I’ve now got people who come just for apricots. I’ve got them here while I still have the cherries.” Rachael sees many benefits on the farm.
Southern Farmer, Page 7 THE SOUTHERN
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NEWS
Page 8, Southern Farmer
January 2017
THE SOUTHERN
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characteristics in calves, while getting heifers in calf early and rebreeding year after year. The project is funded by the MLA Donor Company and Beef and Lamb Genetics New Zealand and it brings together leading Australian and New Zealand researchers, seedstock breeders and commercial producers who will investigate methods to collect data for a range of traits affecting cow fertility, and assess the genetic relationships between fertility and a wide range of other profit traits. Te Mania Angus co-principal Tom Gubbins is a strong supporter of the project’s potential benefi ts for beef producers and Te Mania has already been involved in the program’s scoping works, which involved monthly scanning of 460 heifers from 10 months of age onwards to
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NEWS
January 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 9
Dam safety should be a priority
FINE DISPLAY: A selection of Angus females for sale at the Mobbs Family’s High Spa Angus Stud at Daylesford during Beef Week 2016. Around 5000 bulls are expected to sell at this year’s event.
Australia’s genetic showcase for beef cattle From page 1
“Those who have been fortunate to make the final 10 and those who take out the championships and reserves have commented on how the exposure has increased demand for their cattle. “The RASV and its staff manage this important section of Beef Week, including ferrying the judge throughout Victoria and the Riverina to assess entries, and this is appreciated.” The Beef Week committee comprises a group of enthusiastic and
experienced industry people who volunteer their time to benefit the beef industry and the overarching body is Stud Beef Victoria which represents the state’s beef seedstock industry. “Last year long standing committee member and former committee chairman Norm Fry retired from the Beef Week committee. Norm provided his wisdom and advice for almost 20 years and for that we sincerely thank him,” said Mr Pearson. Beef Week director Geoff Phil-
lips who has been involved with the event for over two decades predicted increased buying activity during Beef Week and at the autumn onproperty sales which follow. “Following a good season and exceptional beef cattle prices, stud and commercial producers are investing in the best genetics they can find,” he said. “In 2016 most bull auctions had clearances in the 90pc to 100pc range and $10,000 plus averages were not uncommon. The average for the 22,000 bulls of all breeds
sold at auction in 2016 was around the $7200 mark, a staggering 25 per cent higher than the $5800 average for 2015. “While the requirements of bull buyers are varied, Breedplan figures, raw data, polledness, temperament and reputation of the vendor come through as major issues.” Lists and maps can be found on www.beefweek.com.au or the Beef Week book can be obtained from participating properties on their Beef Week day.
FARMERS are being urged to inspect and take action on their dams following the collapse of several western and central Victorian dams recently, Agriculture Victoria farm water specialist Clem Sturmfels said the collapses were a timely reminder that ongoing and regular dam maintenance was important. “It’s never too late in the season to check your dam or do maintenance work – it should be done continually, all year round,” he said. “Considering we are now in thunderstorm season, now is a very good time to check your dam before heavy rain.” According to Mr Sturmfels farm dams were failing at a significantly higher rate than previous years due to the heavy rain and poor construction, unstable soils and a lack of routine maintenance. Dam issues can range from small tunnels, bank sinking, spillway erosion, through to total failure when the bank collapses and all water is lost. “Small tunnels near the full-supply level can sometimes be temporarily plugged with sand bags placed on the upstream side of the bank, but in more extreme situations the solution is to drop the water level as quickly as possible,” Mr Sturmfels said. “In most cases rebuilding part or all of the dam bank is the only long-term solution. However before doing any dam repair works it is important you consider the safety of yourself, contractors and employees. “Landholders also need to consider the impact that dam works might have on their downstream neighbours.” Landowners should contact their local council planning officer and water authority before starting any work, in case a planning permit is required. For more information about farm dam maintenance, visit www.agriculture.vic.gov. au/farmdam.
BEEF WEEK
January 2017
Focus on bulls at High Spa’s Beef Week event HIGH Spa will feature an outstanding selection of January to March/April 2016 born “M” yearling bulls on Sunday, January 29, Day Three of Beef Week. High Spa ensure their displays and information are easily accessed and pleasant for visitors no matter what the weather and you are invited to visit their property in Daylesford at any time between 9 am and 6 pm. Ease of cattle inspection is a priority at High Spa and refreshments are available throughout the day. A small selection of working age bulls, highly thought of High Spa paddock sires for 2016, will be available alongside the recently selected group of yearlings you can select at the open day to join herds in April/May/June of 2017. High Spa is very excited about their bull groups that will be on display and available for sale in January. The 200 day weights of the yearlings were very impressive and a testament to their pedigrees both on the sire and the dam side. High Spa has some super dam lines with females that continue to throw male progeny that are never ‘cut’. Among the featured sires of the yearlings are VAR Reserve, Sydgen Trust, Lawson’s Invincible C402 and High Spa Johnson J94 (of Coonamble Elevator). It is interesting to note, but no surprise to High Spa, that
THE GRASS IS GREENER: High Spa’s Brian Mobbs moving a bull to sweeter pastures.
Reserve, Trust, Invincible and Elevator were listed in the Angus Australia sire summary 2016 in the list of 50 sires that have had the most progeny in Australia in the last two years, a popularity that has come about as a result of proven excellence in their breeding. From High Spa’s viewpoint, the description of Sydgen Trust being a ‘sound and docile’ bull are traits that are true and have been stamped on his High Spa progeny. Brian and Theresa of High Spa were fortunate enough to be able to see Trust for
Sale Contact: Ken Manton 0437 585 605 www.charolais.com.au
in the list of the top 100 Angus sires for docility EBV. One of the yearling bulls’ sires High Spa is very keen on is their own home grown sire High Spa Johnson J94. J94 was considered so highly of he was collected before sale to use as an AI sire over High Spa cows he will compliment. He has done an outstanding job this year producing progeny with excellent growth, style and carcase. J94’s sire Coonamble Elevator is a trait leader for 200, 400 and 600 day growth and carcase weight and is in the
AUSTRALIA'S LARGEST
OVER 200 STUDS REPRESENTING 30 BREEDS
DAY 1 Friday January 27 2017
themselves at the Origen semen collection centre in Billings USA a couple of years ago and were more than impressed with how well preserved he was for his age and how beautifully quiet and proud he stood. His progeny have certainly shone at High Spa. VAR Reserve has gelled particularly well with High Spa dams demonstrating his versatility; producing thick, fast growing bulls that already display heaps of potential. Also rubbing off on the young bulls is Reserve’s temperament; he is currently
DAY 2 Saturday January 28 2017
DAY 3 Sunday January 29 2017
DAY 4 Monday January 30 2017
DAY 5 Tuesday January 31 2017
DAY 6 Wednesday February 1 2017
By DAVID RIZZOLI BEEF Week 2017 takes place from Friday, January 27, to Saturday, February 4, and covers all of Victoria, the Southern Riverina and the South East of South Australia. The Southern Farmer distribution area covers West Gippsland, Central and South Central Victoria and the nearer eastern part of the Western District. This year Day 2, January 28, will cover West Gippsland from around Packenham in the west to Leongatha in the east with Cape Paterson in the south and Neerim in the north. Day 3, January 29, will cover central and south central Victoria with Ballarat in the west to Thornton in the east and Craigieburn in the south with Heathcote in the north. Day 7, February 2 will cover only about three studs from the nearer Western District from Winchelsea to east of Colac. By far the greatest concentration of studs is in central Victoria from Ballarat to Barfold, near Bendigo to Lancefield down to Craigieburn. Using the 2016 Field Days as a guide there will be around 40 studs covering about fifteen breeds with Angus the most popular followed by Hereford/Poll Hereford and Limousin. Also included in 2016 were Red Angus, Belgian Blue, Blonde d’Aquitaine, Simmental, Salers, Maine Anjou, South Devon, Australian Lowline, Shorthorn, Speckle Park, British White and Charolais. A number of the studs will have their entry in the 2017 RAS Heifer Challenge, while many others will have the bulls in their Annual Autumn On-Property sale on display. Rich choice indeed.
BEEF FIELD DAYS
DAY 7 Thursday February 2 2017
15th SOUTHERN CHAROLAIS BREEDERS GROUP SALE
YEA SALEYARDS Agents: Landmark Ray Attwell 0428 836 136
top one per cent of the breed for those traits in Australia. Full pedigree and EBV information will be provided for all bulls on the day to assist you in your selection and details on sale bulls are currently listed on the High Spa website with links to access further information. High Spa extends to all a Happy New Year and welcomes you to their property on January 29. Any inquiries are welcome direct by phone (03) 5348 2357 or via email highspa@highspa.com.au or take a look at the website www.highspa.com.au.
Region’s beef producers spoilt for choice
12 noon, WEDNESDAY 1st MARCH 2017 Dz Ƥ dz
DAY 8 Friday February 3 2017
DAY 9 Saturday February 4 2017
www.beefweek.com.au
OVER 5000 BULLS ON DISPLAY
VR4081933
Page 10, Southern Farmer
BEEF WEEK
January 2017
Mount Ararat to offer elite Simmentals THE Mount Ararat Simmental Stud of John Leek at Nar Nar Goon will offer a selection of six elite Woonalee and other stud blood females, and females with calves at foot and in-calf on Day 2, Saturday, January 28, of the 2017 Beef Week Field Days. In addition on show and for sale will be eight bulls by the Stud’s top sire, Woonalee
Jetstream and ranging in age from 14 months to 28 months. Mount Ararat Simmentals was founded in 2009 with the purchase of in-calf heifers from a number of major studs in South Australia. Mount Ararat Simmental currently runs a herd of 40 breeders, including third and fourth generation females, which stud
principal John Leek says are continually improving both genetically and in conformation. Mr Leek said that the stud will continue to improve by using Embryo Transfer and breeding from his elite females to the best bulls in the world. Mount Ararat would love to see everyone at their Beef Week Open Day.
Southern Farmer, Page 11
Mt Ararat Simmentals 126 Mt Ararat North Road, Nar Nar Goon, VIC 3812
Come see us for Beef Week 2017 Day 2 Saturday, January 28th Australia’s best breeding can be viewed and purchased
Bulls, cows and calves, embryo and semen available.
THE Butterfield family of Prime Angus look forward to presenting their strongest line up of AI HBR 12 – 13 month old bulls, all free of the known genetic defects at their on-property Helmsman auction on Tuesday March 7. While the prolonged wet impacted on calf growth rates over winter, the exceptional spring and early summer conditions means sale day weights should be on par with previous years with bulls averaging around 600kg. Representative lines of sale bulls and females will be on display in their new undercover facility for Day 7 of Beef week, Thursday February 2, making for a comfortable viewing
environment regardless of the weather. Sires on display will include sons of leading Australian and US AI bulls including Millah Murrah Equator D78, Cherylton Stewie, Te Mania Emperor, and SAV Thunderbird. Cattle featured will also include progeny and relatives of their two emerging AI sires, Juggernaut J15 and Katapault K1. These sires represent a change in emphasis for the stud to produce more heavily muscled calves with exceptionally high early growth genetics. However, they have continued with their strong calving ease objective. That means that as always they will be selling
cow bulls which are safe to start on heifers. K1, the impressive sire of several of the sale bulls is currently standing at Bellaspur Angus at Balmattum and will also be on display on Day 7 of Beef Week. This is a great opportunity for visitors to inspect the bull and see the calibre of the calves he produces on the same day. It is unusual to find a high growth, heavily muscled bull like K1 in the top 1per cent for calving ease, probably explained by the fact that he also currently has the shortest gestation length EBV of any AI bull available in Australia. The Butterfield family looks forward to welcoming visitors on February 2.
Open for Beefweek Thursday, February 2, 2017 Peter Annick and Lily welcome new and repeat customers.
Bull calves graze regrowth paddocks pre weaning
Selected sale bulls, weaned heifers, newly calved 2 year old heifers and mature cows will be on display.
Peter & Annick Butterfield
Mob: 0428 306 729
BULLS
0409 537 445
ELITE FEMALES
Torr Down South Devons. Torr Down Marvel 3 Homozygous Poll.
Taken May 2016 @ age 10 years
OPEN BEEF WEEK DAY 3 SUNDAY 29th JANUARY 2017 29 Cranneys Lane Trentham Vic 3458 POLL BULLS AND FEMALES FOR SALE ENQUIRIES: John & Sue Harvey P/H 03 5424 1001 Email jsharvey@torrdown.com.au www.torrdownsouthdevons.com.au
Prime Angus The Yearling Advantage 11th Annual on Property
YEARLING BULL SALE 11.30am, Tuesday March 7th 1174 BENALLA/WARRENBAYNE ROAD, WARRENBAYNE
Ph (03) 5763 2341
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ALL FREE X 4 GENETIC DEFECTS Bulls to top 1% Angus Breeding Index Huge growth with Calving ease Sires include Millah Murrah Equator D78, Cherylton Stewie, SAV Thunderbird, Juggernaut J15 and Katapault K1
Web: www.primeangusstud.com.au
1st sons of Katapault K1 sell
Email: annick@skymesh.com.au
k/12d13491/0117
Yearling bulls with phenotype and figures at Prime Angus
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PICK OF THE HERD: Prime Angus will be selling a mix of bulls and females on Beef Week day 7.
Inspections Welcome O Gates open at 8.00am O Light lunch & refreshments provided from 12.00pm O 2 Amazing guest speakers all with a lifetime in the industry O Enjoy our magnificent cattle all within a short walk of each other & all under a marque Contact John Leek - john@leeksplumbing.com.au or phone
BEEF WEEK
Page 12, Southern Farmer
January 2017
SUNDAY, JANUARY 29TH DAY 3 BEEF WEEK 2017
Phone Brian or Wayne (03) 5348 2357
Details on www.highspa.com.au
Junior Champion Interbred Heifer and Most Successful Exhibitor at 2016 Royal Melbourne Show.
JOIN US FOR BEEF WEEK, DAY 3 Sunday, January 29, 2017. Waterford Genetics available at:
Southern Charolais Breeders Sale Yea Saleyards: 1st March 2017 We would like to thank Palgrove, Milford and Curragindi Charolais Studs for their recent purchases.
Deborah & Sapphire Halliday Sapphire: 0447 117 676 | Deborah: 0428 605 060 | E: waterforddowns@bigpond.com
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SALE PERFORMANCE RECORDED WORKING AGE AND YEARLING BULLS FROM TOP SIRES GOOD STOCK: Damien and Barry Pitt, Sumatanga Park, Coonawarra, SA, with Hamish Branson, Banquet after the 2016 Banquet bull sale where they purchased the pictured bull for $14,000.
More than a bull at Banquet RENOWNED for producing powerful and rapid growth Angus cattle with extreme docility, and marketed under the ‘Big, Bold Banquet Bulls’ banner, Stephen and Noeleen Branson, Mortlake, Vic place a huge focus on their ‘shopfront service’. The success that Banquet has enjoyed is the direct result of client satisfaction, with long term repeat clients dominating the buyer registrations at any of their sales. That satisfaction is built around the performance levels their clients receive as a result of using Banquet Angus bulls; producing young cattle that grow quickly to market weights, while also
being sustainable through to heavy weight young cattle if desired. This attribute also makes them highly desirable to backgrounders and processors. Regular young cattle sale topping results by Banquet clients is verification of this. However, whatever the performance levels, prospective clients will not continue to attend a stud’s sale if they do not receive good service and are not treated with respect. This is where the Bransons almost go overboard. Their bulls come with every basic health and performance guarantee you could expect when buying, backed up with after-sales service and advice second to none. On top of the service and ad-
vice, they also give purchasing assistance through their ‘sight unseen’ purchasing program, plus premiums for Banquet blood progeny. 150 commercial heifers PTIC to Banquet bulls will be offered just prior to their February 23 bull sale at 4pm. These are heifers from Banquet clients. Your next chance to get the Banquet advantage will be at this February sale when they will be offering approximately 100 top Banquet bulls. Inspection can be made at the Victorian Beef Week field day on January 30, or on their ‘Bull Walk’ inspection day one week prior to the sale on February 16. Inspections on sale day will be from 11am.
Fourteenth Southern Charolais Breeders Group Sale THIRTY-four Bulls (including 23 Poll Sires), fourteen females and two semen lots will be offered for sale at the 14th Annual Southern Charolais Breeders Group Sale to be held at the Yea Sale yards on Wednesday, March 2, next year, with inspection from 9am. Vendors represented will be Airlie Charolais, McLaughlan Group, Glenquarry, NSW, (15
bulls, 10 females); Apriash Charolais, Apriash Charolais Stud, Barjag, Vic. (1 bull); Chenu Charolais, R.Keely & C.Pickering, Bridgewater, Vic. (5 bulls, 2 females). Clarinda Charolais, Ken Manton, Hansonville, Vic. (4 bulls); Waterford Charolais, D and S.Halliday, Mount Macedon, Vic. (10 bulls, 2 females); Sedalia Charolais, D.E.Giddings, Horsham, Vic. (2 semen packages). Chairman of the Southern
Charolais Breeders Group Sale, Ken Manton, said all buyers will have a great opportunity to purchase what they are looking for with the wide range of genetics on offer, new and old, as well as proven bloodlines Selling agents are Landmark, Ray Atwell (0428 836 136) and catalogues are available on www.charolais. com.au or google Southern Charolais Breeders Group Sale.
Accredited MN1 Johne’s Free | Tested Pesti Free | All Structural Assessments 6 or better
18 M T H O L D B U L L S
1PM WEDNESDAY MARCH 8, 2017
Inspections & Sale S l enquiries welcome
C t t Si Contact Simon Falkiner F lki 0407 319 967 or visit murdeduke.com.au
John J h Thornton Th t 0408 526 367
A d Andrew Sl Sloan 0408 297 368
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January 2017
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Gina Ryan and Family, Glenburn, Vic 3717. Ph/Fax: (03) 5797 8334
OUSIN C UR LIM ATT O r p o p a r e r r W a t y L w VIE r Irre(Monday, January 30, 2017)on Da E
u o at
or any other time by appointment.
GROWING NICELY: One of the many heifers coming out of Pelican Rise Limousin Stud.
This is achieved by keeping a high level of muscle in the animals to suit the F1 market and using American and Canadian genetics to add softness, growth and polling to the herd. The herd purity ranges from 90 per cent to 100 per cent French Pure and this gives us options to mate up and down to
produce animals in the 95 per cent purity range which they believe captures a good balance of muscle and still assists in the offspring being able to lay down the desired level of fat. Under the Limousin Assurance Program they guarantee their cattle for docility, fertility and structure.
during Beef Week
L I M O U S I N
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PELICAN Rise Limousin Stud will have a good selection of cattle on display during Beef Week at their Irrewara property. This season Pelican Rise Limousin had a ratio of three heifers to each one bull calf born which is great for anyone looking to build their herd. Many of these heifers are polled and showing great shape early in their development. They will have a group of these on display during Beef Week day 8, on February 2, along with their mothers. There is some very good genetics among these and while many are polled there will most likely be a few Homo Polled, however, results of tests won’t be available until later in February. Pelican Rise continues to breed bulls designed for the F1 vealer production market as well as producing both bulls and females for stud duties.
GLENVIEW -DEL
s iru iV d st ste Pe Te
Polled heifers at Pelican Rise
Southern Farmer, Page 13
S T U D
This year we have our Bulls and many recently weaned “sweetheart� Heifers for you to check out. For an appointment call Chris on 0418 520 574 or visit on our Beef Week day.
Super South Devon sell prime sire to Red Wagyu breeders brought about by the Torr Down Stud winning the mature section of the Paddock To Plate competitions at Avoca, Victoria and securing Grand Champion in Sydney the following year. Following this, steers sired by Torr Down bulls won the Supreme Carcase Awards at The Royal Adelaide Show 2011 and The Royal Melbourne Shows 2012 and 2013, the first occasion that this recognition had ever been bestowed on South Devons. Meanwhile Torr Down Marvel 3 was being acclaimed with ‘rave reviews’ in the UK and New Zealand. In June 2016, Torr Down Merlin 20, a 17-month-old son of Marvel 3 and Torr Down Natalie 123, having been purchased by G and H Lindsay, Athlone South Devons in Dalby,
Queensland returned the best scans of thirty nine bulls, covering all breeds at the Toowoomba Farm Fest. He weighed 770 kgs, fat measurement of 4/5, EMA 110.85 sq cms and IMF 3.3 per cent totalling 3431.1 points, some 334.4 points more than the second highest bull, up to the age of 20 months, putting him into the super elite category. Torr Down Natalie 123, an 18-month-old daughter of Marvel 3, also owned by the Lindsays, was placed fourth out of 26 heifers up to the age of 24 months, also putting her into the super elite category. The Torr Down website www.torrdownsouthdevons. com.au which is regularly updated, also extols the virtues and numerous stories, with regard to Torr Down Genetics Worldwide.
Beef Week 2017
Sunday 29th January (Day 3)
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TORR Down Marvel 3, a ten year old Homozygous Poll sire, bred and owned by John and Sue Harvey of Trentham, Victoria, has been sold to two prominent Red Wagyu Akaushi breeders. The new owners are Melaleuca Red Wagyu, Canning Vale, Western Australia and Mazda Wagyu International Pty Ltd Mossiface, East Gippsland. The two studs wish to promote polled cattle in the Red Wagyu Akaushi breed and Torr Down Marvel 3 has this ability along with the attributes of faster growth, excellent carcass specifications especially eye muscle, together with his outstanding docility, plus the South Devon’s renowned maternal traits. The interest in Torr Down South Devons commenced several years ago, probably
SSBAN0231216
YOU GET MORE THAN A BULL FROM BANQUET
‘ Premiums for Banquet Blood progeny ‘ Free delivery ‘ Unequalled service and advice ‘ Vet checked and semen morphology tested ‘ Fully vaccinated - Including three day sickness & tick fever on request ‘ Three year guarantee ‘ No carriers of known recessive genetic conditions ‘ "Sight Unseen" purchasing program (See catalogue for conditions)
AUTUMN BULL SALE ‘ 100 BULLS ‘ & 150 BANQUET BLOOD COMMERCIAL FEMALES
Millah Murrah Jupiter J194 - First sons to be offered
THURSDAY 23RD FEBRUARY
‘ 4.00PM
Enquiries to Stephen & Noeleen Branson, PO Box 166 Mortlake, Vic 3272 Stephen Ph: 0419 884 839 Noeleen Ph: 0437 029 992 Email: banquetangus@westvic.com.au
www.banquetangus.com.au
BEEF WEEK
Page 14, Southern Farmer
January 2017
GREENER PASTURES: The selection policies and genetic selections in the Woonallee breeding program have a total commercial focus, enabling the Baker family to turn off young weaner cattle like these 10 month old heifers on a consistent basis, even in a tight spring and summer like 2015/16.
Ladies back at Woonallee
For the very best in Simmental .......... ......... whatever the requirement World best Simmental genetics for commercial productivity
Woonallee Lady Killer (P)
Woonallee Los Angeles (P) - Lot 1
Dates for your diary!
◆ Victorian Beef Week Field Day - Monday 30th January - Mortlake, Vic ◆ SA Beef Field Day - Tuesday 7th February - On-property, Furner, SA
THIS year sees the return of the special ‘Elite Ladies Sale’ into the Woonallee sale program of Simmental based genetics that excel on grass fed performance. The Baker family’s Woonallee Simmentals will be offering 40 registered females in a twilight 4pm sale on Wednesday, February 8, 2017. Both traditional and black females will be included, catering for the seedstock industry enquiry since their last such sale in 2014. There will be a mix of ages, but predominantly young cattle representing all their latest successful bloodlines and some will be PTIC to their top Woonallee sires, while young unjoined heifers will also feature.
This will be a great supporting event for the feature sale, Woonallee’s 10th annual Elite Production Bull Sale the following day, and 110 bulls will be on offer from 2pm on Thursday, February 9, when 40 traditional, 55 black and 15 SimAngus will go through the ring, catering for all beef programs and budgets. Woonallee ‘Ladykiller’(P) has literally swept everything before him in the last six months to dominate the showring and while he is being retained, there is unprecedented depth of quality on offer right to the very end of the offering. Leading the offering is the very impressive traditional bull, Woonallee Los Angeles (P), while the black offering is
BALEZE BAZADAISE
led by Woonallee Lamborghini (P), a bull as smooth, impressive and powerful as his car namesake. The bulls and females look an absolute treat and in the great 2016 season they have been able to fully express their renowned genetic potential. Regular updates and full sale catalogues will be available on the Woonallee website: www. woonalleesimmentals.com. The stud’s SA Beef field day for inspections will be on Tuesday, February 7, making for three action packed days in a row at Woonallee. Victorian producers will also be able to inspect a cross section of their sale cattle at Mortlake on January 30, as part of Vic Beef Week.
STUD EST.1992
10th Annual Elite Production Sales ◆ Wednesday 8th February - Elite Ladies Female Sale - 4pm 40 registered females (Traditional & Black) ◆ Thursday 9th February - Elite Production Bull Sale - 1pm 110 bulls (40 Traditional, 55 Black & 15 SimAngus)
rs, e f i e H , s l l u B Embryos, Semen for sale
SSWON0141216
Faye Tuchtan Woonallee Lamborghini (P) - Lot 21
to arrange an inspection at a time that suits.
Woonallee Luxembourg (P) - Lot 22
Check out our website: www.woonalleesimmentals.com Contact: Tom & Lizzy Baker PMB 52, Millicent, SA Mob: 0428 475 066
“For the Commercial Edge”
Phone (03) 5678 8366. Mobile 0411 732 987 Fax (03) 5678 8247 PO Box 54, Grantville 3984
Email: fmt@dcsi.net.au
www.balezebazadaise.com.au
t/05d08613/0616
Please call
BEEF WEEK
January 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 15
Last Sons of ALLENDALE ROBIN HOOD
D.194
H.Boulder L.22
are for sale during Beef Week
H.Robin Hood L.47
AVAILABLE FOR SALE BEEF WEEK - SUNDAY, JANUARY 29, 2017 Robin Hood D.194 has outstanding Breedplan EBV’s, with a son selling for $10,000 at Dubbo. His sire is by Allendale National W.168 (sire of the year $85,000) out of Allendale Musketeer’s (sire of the year $58,000 ) full sister. His last excellent rising two-year old, grass-fed, sons are available for sale on the day, along with sons of Yalgoo Boulder Z.250 (Dubbo Jnr Champ $30,000) and the first son of Days Brigadier G.101 (Dubbo Res Snr Champ $40,000). Weaner heifers by Brigadier will also be for sale. All visitors welcome
Heatherington’s best breeding stock on show HEATHERINGTON Park Poll Herefords will be introducing new stud sire Days Brigadier G.101, by the great Allendale Waterhouse D.1, during Beef Week 2017. Brigadier G.101 was the Reserve Senior Champion at the Dubbo National in 2013, behind the $95,000 Grand Champion. He sold for $40,000 and a son was a class winner at Wodonga 2016, selling for $44,000. Heatherington Park’s first son, Heatherington Brigadier L.40, out of Bowen Vincent V.1 daughter, is available for sale on day three of Beef Week, January 29, 2017. Heatherington Brigadier L.40 weighed 437kgs when weaned at nine months,
scanned +98 for EMA and +3.8 for IMF at 17 months and weighed 846kgs at 19 months. Also for sale are the stud’s other rising two-year old bulls by Allendale Robin Hood D.194 and AI sire Yalgoo Boulder Z.250. Weaner bulls, and retained heifers by Brigadier G.101 will also be on display during Beef Week along with other weaner Brigadier heifers that will be available for sale. Established in 1991 in North East Victoria, Heatherington Park was combined with a commercial operation and foundation females were purchased from Studbrook, Margfred Park, Polaris and Wolbull. The stud moved to its cur-
rent location in Kingston, in 2002, to concentrate on stud operations, running 55 autumn calving stud breeders. Taking part in the Victorian Beef Week open day gives Heatherington the opportunity to display a selection of its livestock along with sale bulls. Breeding females, yearling bulls and heifers and recently weaned calves will also be on display, giving clients the opportunity to purchase their new sire on the day and gain an insight into Heatherington’s breeding program. Details of the Heatherington Park Poll Herefords’ breeding program and photos of the sale bulls can be found at www. heatheringtonpark.com.au.
H.Robin Hood L.48 PHILIP R. GAY, Ph/Fax 03 5345 6167; Mobile 0412 565 292 3832 Creswick-Newstead Road, www.heatheringtonpark.com.au Kingston 3364 (8.5 kms from Creswick)
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OPPORTUNITY: Heatherington Brigadier L.40 will be up for sale during the stud’s open day on January 29.
TARRAWARRA LOWLINES
Yarra Valley, Victoria Visitors Always Welcome Jacqui & Richard Feagan
0409 384 077 www.tarrawarralowlines.com ‘Mathoura’ 47 School Lane, Tarrawarra
Quiet Achievers ù
MON 230FEB JAN TUES BEEF WEEK WEEK FIELD FIELDDAY, DAY,MORTLAKE MORTLAKE BEEF Preview Autumn sale bulls Preview Autumn sale bulls
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WED 2 MAR TEAM TE MANIA ONLINE FEMALE SALE AUTUMN BULL SALE, MORTLAKE 3pm, 500+ Commercial Females 150+ Bulls
www.temania.com.au
t/37d06065/0117
TE MANIA ANGUS – YOUR PARTNER IN PROFITABILITY
Enquiries welcome Hamish McFarlane 03 5264 1606 Tom Gubbins 0429 952 197
NEWS
Page 16, Southern Farmer
January 2017
THE SOUTHERN
Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria
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Published by: North East Media Suite 103, 486 Whitehorse Road, Surrey Hill 3127 Ph: (03) 9888 4822 Fax: (03) 9888 4840 ABN 65 006 238 277
CHESTNUT growers are being encouraged to sign up for the mandatory Property Identification Code (PIC). Growers with 20 or more chestnut trees must register their property with Agriculture Victoria, which will enable the organisation to alert chestnut growers of all bio-security events in their region. A PIC is a unique eight-character code allocated to a property owner that enables Agriculture Victoria to quickly alert them in the event of a plant pest infestation or disease outbreak, which may affect their business. With chestnut blight still under an eradication program and grower restrictions’ relation to chestnut blight subject to change, registering for a PIC is essential. Chestnut growers can register for the PIC via www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/agriculture/ horticulture/property-identification-codes.
PREPARATION: Dr Graham Lean is encouraging all sheep producers to worm their stock.
Worms thriving in wet conditions SOUTHERN sheep producers will risk poor animal health and pasture contamination unless they act early on worms this summer. Agrivet Business Consulting Hamiliton-based veterinarian Dr Graham Lean said prolonged cool weather and high subsoil moisture in southern Victoria has created the ideal conditions for worm production. “Worms are a major risk this summer, because of continual work pick up and heavy worm burden that have accumulated due to the prolonged wet and cool conditions,” he said. “So it’s a very dangerous time for sheep to be grazing from a worm point-of-view.
“Roughly 40 per cent of worms dropped on pasture right now will turn into infected larvae being picked up by sheep next year in southern Victoria. That’s a high survival rate, so it is critical that it is stopped now.” Dr Lean said producers should drench livestock as soon as possible given the current conditions are extremely similar to the 2010/2011 season, so they are protected if the summer continues to be wet. “It’s a big risk this season, so I think it’s good to warn people. There is a potential to open yourself up for barber’s pole worm and small brown stomach worm and that certainly happened in 2011,” he said.
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Decades of septic system misery, banished in days. Queensland couple Mike and Rose Maynard talk about their decadeslong battle with septic tank odours and fouling, and the environmentally friendly solution that restored their pride in their home within two weeks.
“Our septic system was put in when we built in 1988,� says Mike Maynard from his rural property in sunny Queensland. “Over the years we have had continuing problems with the system not working properly. The area around the trench would get so wet and boggy that we could not even walk near it, let alone use the mower.� But that wasn’t the worst bit of their dysfunctional septic system. “The smell would become almost overpowering at times,� says Mike, “especially when it rained or when we had visitors to stay, which was quite embarrassing.�
The stink that stuck The problem wouldn’t go away, which is common with septic tanks and wastewater treatment systems. “As time went on, the smell was becoming a constant thing,â€? explains Rose. Septic systems are much like a digestive system for your house. Just as you need healthy bacteria in your body, your septic system needs a healthy balance of good bacteria to process the waste from your home. Otherwise, problems occur and recur. “We were at a loss as to what to do to ďŹ x it, apart from getting the septic pumped out again, digging up and replacing the trench, or even replacing the whole system – all expensive options,â€? says Rose. “But then we read in a magazine about Ecocare Activator.â€?
Cleaners don’t cut it Often confused with traditional septic system cleaning products, Ecocare Activator is much more than a cleaner.
Sound advice about odours “My husband rang and spoke at length to George at Insight Environmental about our problem and, based on that conversation and George’s assurances, we decided to try Ecocare Activator,� says Rose. “We thought, ‘Really, what do we have to lose,’ as it is only a fraction of the cost of the other options we had.� What happened next surprised Mike and Rose, but not George.
Fast forward for the Maynards “We were astounded by the results and how quickly it happened,� says Rose with a smile. “Within a couple of weeks the smell was gone and you could see the area around the trench drying – something that had not happened for twenty years or more.� That was in the winter of 2013. Today, Mike and Rose still have a healthy, odour-free septic system. “We now have a dry paddock,� Mike explains. “We can mow and walk all around the area. “We could not be happier with the results and will continue to use this fabulous product.�
It’s an easy-to-use, environmentally friendly, septicsafe solution that activates and conditions your septic system. It gets the ‘digestive system’ healthy again, which, in turn, clears the blockages that cause bad odours and keeps the entire septic system clean.
:,7;0*: :69;,+ :4,33: +,:;96@,+ Whether you need a fast solution for a septic odour or blockage issue, or you just want a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective method of THPU[HPUPUN your system, we’re here to help at Insight Environmental. Talk to one of our experienced consultants on 1800 633 866. 6ur solutions will save you money, as well as provide peace of mind.
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NEWS
Page 18, Southern Farmer
Heat stress and drinking water
THE SOUTHERN
Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria
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CONSIDERABLE research funds have been directed at heat stress in dairy cows in the Northern Hemisphere in recent years. Potential for extreme negative impacts on cows is heightened by housing, however, this is not to say our cows, exposed to direct sunlight are much better off. Dairy Australia has a section on heat stress and methods of dissipating heat stress under grazing scenarios. My focus is more on just what happens to a dairy cow under heat stress conditions. Heat stress begins for humans at 26c and 40 per cent humidity; for cows, it’s 22c and 40 per cent humidity. Reduced feed intake and milk production are notable effects of heat stress, but heat stress can negatively impede reproduction, lameness and immune function. For many years researchers believed reduced intake lowered milk production, however, it is now known changes in the cow’s metabolism also contribute to reduced milk production. Most recent research has highlighted changes in the rumen wall making it more porous and enabling bacteria to be absorbed into the blood stream, which then causes a systemic inflammation due to immune response. Immune response draws on glucose reducing its availability for milk production. An unfortunate situation for our cows is, usually, the highest risk of heat stress also coincides with the highest fibre diet. Fermentation of fibre in the rumen produces extensive heat. Increasing grain feeding during risk periods will reduce dependence on high fibre diets yet sustain, or better, increase energy intake and the cow requires more energy during heat stress apart from milk production, because she uses more energy trying to dissipate excess heat from fibre digestion – panting, standing. Urinary loss of minerals is high due to dramatically increased water intake for cooling and attention needs to be paid to macro minerals particularly in grain over summer. Likewise, ensure adequate magnesium, niacin and fat soluble vitamins A, D and E.
By JOHN LYNE Dairytech dairy production specialist Yeast has research proven benefits in reduction of heat stress effects. Rumensin will increase glucose availability and stabilise rumen pH. Rumination decreases with heat stress increasing risk of low pH. Reproduction can be reduced simply by body temperature, and lameness induced from long periods of standing trying to access air movement for heat dissipation and inflammation from immune response to blood bacteria will also hinder conception. Perhaps one of the highest risk times for cows is afternoon milking. Every dairy person has walked through the yard and knows the humidity is extreme when cows are crowded in the yard, so yard sprinklers are a must. Heat stress effects linger for months beyond summer heat, both production-wise and physiologically in the cow’s body. Minimisation of heat stress has significant economic benefits. WATER Clean fresh water would seem an obvious, however, research on farm water supplies tells another story. Before we go down the path of water quality, my experience on farm is supply rate is a major issue. Frequently I see a large number of cows standing around an empty water trough with just a trickle of water flowing into the trough. The cost to milk production, let alone the above impacts on cows’ health, would be staggering. As herds have increased in size, yet the existing water system has not, creates a major bottleneck. Most of the farms I work with have well supplied water troughs immediately after the dairy exit. Research has shown that cows can consume 60 per cent of their water intake at this trough, taking a major load off the paddock trough system. The first impediment beyond
supply issues in water intake is palatability, exactly the same thing that reduces feed intake. Cows smell everything before they consume it, grass, silage, hay and of course water and high bacteria counts in water will reduce intake simply on taste. This is easy to check as most milk processors will happily test your water for bacteria. Iron levels in water have been verified as reducing intake somewhere between four and eight ppm. Palatability is implicated here. However, it is also known that iron oxidising bacteria can proliferate in water pipes and troughs when there is sufficient iron in the water palatability. These bacteria form slime in pipes and troughs. If levels are low enough, a water softener set up to do so can remove some iron as with calcium and magnesium. The economics of this would need to be assessed. Regular cleaning of troughs is likely the better way, and very necessary as bacteria and a multitude of other organisms and plant-life grow wonderfully in warm water under a summer sun. Chlorination via an injection system will also clean water, however, a reaction/settling tank is necessary for dissipation of residual compounds. Sulphates in high concentration will reduce water intake. They are also linked to reduced milk fat, diarrhoea, fluid loss and dehydration. Manganese can cause unpleasant taste reducing intake and milk production. Both manganese and iron are known to accumulate in water pipes reducing flow rates. Water borne minerals may also interfere with transition ration DCAD. Through association with Dr Charlie Elrod who has spent thirty years in water research and its impacts on cow health and production in USA dairy industry and universities, we have access to a water analysis program which takes not just a water test into account, but also dietary minerals, both supplemented and feed sources. We have recently sent water samples from all clients’ farms to the USA and will begin assessment shortly of the combined effects of water and dietary minerals.
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NEWS
January 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 19
Trio udderly thrilled to be on Dairy Australia board for 2017 DAIRY Australia welcomed some old and new faces after members voted at the company’s annual general meeting to elect candidates to the board of the organisation. Professor Paul Wood, Jeff Odgers and Jan West were elected on November 25, and each will fill a specific role on the board. Mrs West was first appointed on the Dairy Australia Board in 2014, and has been re-elected as a director to fill the finance and accounting skills vacancy. Professor Wood, Adjunct Professor at Monash University and chair of the Agriculture and Foodtech, Committed for AusBiotech has been elected for the first time and will fill the research and development skills vacancy. First appointed to the Dairy Australia board in 2013, Mr Odgers, will stay on as a Director and will fill the milk producer vacancy. Dairy Australia chair Geoff Akers said the organisation invited applications for the vacancies earlier this year, and an industry selection committee conducted the formal process, which led to the nomination of the three candidates. “It is my pleasure to welcome Paul as a new director to the board, and I congratulate Jeff and Jan on their reappointments,” he said.
ALL ABOUT DAIRY: (from left) Professor Paul Wood, Jan West and Jeff Odgers now sit on Dairy Australia’s Board.
Information is key to understanding gas HELD for the first time in the Southern Hemisphere, leading scientists from 44 countries converged in Melbourne to discuss nitrogen, one of the most useful and problematic elements on our planet. Over 400 scientists attended the International Nitrogen Initiative Conference 2016 (INI) in early December and INI secretary Agriculture Victoria’s Dr Cameron Gourley said steps needed to be taken to deal with the effects of nitrogen on climate and water quality. “Nitrogen fertiliser helps provide food for up to 50 per cent of the world’s 7.3 billion people,” he said. “To ensure food security for the growing global population, we must improve our understanding of nitrogen and the way we use it. “Advancing the science of nitrogen use also helps us to reduce negative impacts on the climate and the health of our waterways and oceans. “The INI 2016 is the ideal forum for scientists, the agriculture industry and policy-makers to come together to share the quality of work being done around the world to ensure we can keep producing food sustainably and profitably.” Key themes including nitrogen at global and regional scales, biological nitrogen fixation, improving fertiliser efficiency, livestock and nitrogen and crop-nitrogen interactions were explored. The INI was co-hosted with the university of Melbourne and Professor Deli Chen said hosting the conference was a real win for the state government and the University. “We are really keen to bolster the international reputation of our scientists in this space and to foster the collaboration that is so critical to scientific development nowadays,” he said.
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visit www.clarkfarmequipment.com.au
FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION
Page 20, Southern Farmer
Maintenance key to preparing for the fire season A LONG wet winter and even wetter spring has seen rapid garden and grass growth in November and December and ensuring your growing plant life is maintained is a must do this summer. Coming into the harsh Australian summer, we know from experience that the beautiful new, lush growth quickly becomes dry and poses increased fire risk. Honda Power Equipment sales manager Graeme Baynes said Honda’s extensive range of advanced fourstroke power equipment including lawnmowers, brushcutters, generators, pumps, leaf blowers and hedgecutters can assist any home or property owner with fire season preparations. “We have already seen so much new growth in different areas of Victoria this year, more so than in recent seasons; and the signs are there, that once dry, conditions can develop towards another severe fire season,” he said. “Honda’s lawnmower and brushcutter ranges are
designed for Australian conditions and will make the task of fire preparation a lot more manageable. “Our dedicated fourstroke products eliminate the hassle of mixing fuel and oil, and have an enviable reputation for reliability, longevity and easy-starting, even in the most demanding of conditions.” Mr Baynes said a generator is also a wise investment, as power is often interrupted during emergencies. “The Honda EU20i generator is incredibly popular; with whisper quiet operation, fantastic fuel economy, oil alert, and inverter technology,” he said. “There has never been a better time to invest in a Honda generator, especially as a source of backup power for fire related blackouts.” All Honda products come with a standard, generous domestic and commercial warranty, and there are over 400 authorised Honda dealers across the country. Visit http://powerequipment.honda.com.au/ to find the latest deals to help you get fire ready.
January 2017
Fire trailing unit amongst the best THE Goldacres Eco fire trailing unit is available in 800L or 1000L tank sizes with either farm or road pack specifications. The trailer is a full RHS frame with a non-slip chequerplate platform built for optimum strength and durability. 14” Sunraysia wheels, off road tyres, a heavy duty axle ( 1.45T ), leaf
spring suspension with a 50mm standard ball hitch and safety chain are fitted to provide a long trouble free life. A transparent tank is fitted which features a sump for complete tank drain with a tank level sight tube and is made from UV resistant Polypropylene. Pumping duties are
taken care of by the proven 1 ½ Aussie quick prime firefighting pump with reliable Honda engine and the unit is cleverly plumbed with a three way suction ball valve to allow refills from an external water source. A steel frame 36m hose reel with lever handle nozzle and unroll lock is mounted at the
front of the unit. The trailers are available as either farm pack ( no brakes ) or road pack which includes overrun hydraulic brakes, a requirement if the unit is to be registered. Prices start from $6620 inc gst for the 800L farm pack version please go to www.goldacres.com.au for more details.
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FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION
January 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 21
New Firefighter activated by SMS To activate the Davey Remote Start Firefighter via SMS you need to have an activated SIM card subscription. You can protect your home by activating the Firefighter via an SMS to turn on sprinklers during a bushfire or provide your stock with drinking water, even if you aren’t home. You can also install a heat sensor system on your house and the pump will automatically turn on. The new Davey Remote Start Firefighter pump is powered by Honda’s electronically managed iGX270 petrol engine, which has
BUSHFIRE season has arrived and most of us want to know we are doing all we can to protect our homes, and it just got a little easier thanks to a new remote start firefighter. The new Davey Remote Start Firefighter adds security in a bushfire situation and eliminates travel time to a remotely located pump. There are a number of options for starting and stopping the pump; manually, remotely via SMS or automatically. The SIM which is located in the unit’s control centre is factory fitted and ready to use utilising the Telstra 3G network across Australia.
dual present speeds (3600rmp and 2800rpm) which are adjustable via a toggle switch on the side of the control centre. All SMS or time shutdown events the control centre will automatically set the run speed to the low setting for 15 seconds before allowing the engine to stop. The Firefighter will also send you a pump status report via SMS once it has started or stopped and multiple users can be registered to operate and receive SMS feedback. There are optional accessories to compliment the Davey Remote Start Firefighter including a mo-
bility kit which converts it from a stationary pump unit into a mobile unit that is easily manoeuvred with wheels and handles. Another accessory is heat sensors and Davey recommends they are added to buildings which have been fitted with external sprinklers as heat sensors are calibrated to trigger at 93 degrees Celsius which will ensure the pump will start in an emergency independent of the phone network, as during severe fire conditions, SMS reception may be compromised. For more information about the Davey Remote Start Firefighter visit www.davey.com.au.
ADDED PROTECTION: The Davey Remote Start Firefighter has a number of features which will add another line of defence for your home during an emergency.
Lighten fuel loads this summer aesthetically appealing and help keep erosion under control. Methods of constructing fire breaks vary, but often the ‘reduced fuel zone’ fire breaks are constructed with the use of a tractor-slasher combination or a grader/bulldozer. However, the Razorback ride-on Brush Cutter is a compact, handy, and much more cost effective alternative. This four-wheel-drive machine can traverse in very steep environments and easily cuts through thick brush and vegetation, up to 36mm in diameter. This makes it perfect for cutting new fire breaks in rugged terrain and inaccessible areas, as well as maintaining existing fire breaks and clearing fire trails. PLAN AHEAD: Reducing fuel loads in the form of a fire break For more information visit http:// www.dandenongmowerpower.com.au. can often slow a fire down.
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WILDFIRES are a constant threat in Australia and often fire-fighting resources alone are not enough to protect properties. The easiest way to fight a fire is to stop it in the first place. This often involves the removal of fuel for fires to burn, especially near properties, commonly referred to as a ‘fire break’. The most common type of fire break is a ‘reduced fuel zone’ fire break which has vegetation present, but it is required to be no higher than 50mm. These fire breaks provide access for people and vehicles by clearing the underbrush and saplings. They do not stop a fire, but slow it down and allow more time to combat it and reduce the intensity of the blaze, protecting any property in the path of the fire. They also make an area look more
Clean up in time for the FIRE season
Slip it easily on the back of a ute or into a trailer and be fire ready within minutes. With a handy 450 litre capacity, this simple skid base unit features a quality Honda 1½” Aussie Fire Chief combo and comes ready to use with 20m of ¾” fire fighting hose 450L and a machined aluminum twist grip nozzle.
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The Eco delivers peace of mind for your summer fire preparations. Clever design offers security without breaking the bank. Features: 1½” Aussie Quick Prime fire pump, 3 way suction ball valve, 36m 3/4“ hose reel, 1.45 Tonne Axle with 7 leaf springs, 14” sunraysia rims, durable rhs chassis with Steel mud guards, Hydraulic over run brakes. Fully road registrable. Choice of 800L or 1000L tank sizes.
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FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION
Page 22, Southern Farmer
January 2017
THAT’S A PLAN: Making sure your stock is in a low risk area during a bush or grass fire is essential.
Plan for livestock in emergencies Do you have a fire plan? If so does it include your livestock and pets? As Victorians get ready for another fire season, farmers must also make sure there are plans in place for their livestock in the event of a bush or grass fire. Some vital tips for planning for horses and livestock in the event of an emergency include making sure you have prepared a low risk area on your property as not all animals may be evacuated * Ensure your animal identification is up to date. Microchip and register horses on a licensed registry and ensure your National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) and Property Identification Code (PIC) details, and insurance records are up
to date and put copies in your emergency kit. * Ensure your animals’ vaccinations are up to date. * Determine how you will maintain fencing and the provision of food, water and shelter for animals after the emergency has passed. * If you have agisted animals on the property, or your animals are agisted elsewhere, ensure that emergency plans are in place for all animals. Preparing a low risk area on your property will improve your livestock’s chance of survival. * Cultivated paddocks with no vegetation, bared-out paddocks (minimal vegetation), green paddocks or a large, well fenced sand mènage.
* Livestock should be centrally located and easily accessible. If placed strategically, they can act as a bushfire barrier as well as a low risk area that animals can be moved to early on high fire danger days. * Shouldn’t be next to areas of scrub or bushland, or if unavoidable, at least large enough in size to allow animals to move away from these areas. Farms with large numbers of animals may need to manage several low risk areas on the property. It is important to remember low risk areas must be available at all times during the fire season and at short notice. * Should have sufficient drinking water to enable stock to remain in the area during periods of
SUMMER SAFETY IN YOUR COMMUNITY
high to extreme temperatures for several days; and be protected by firebreaks and free of leaf, twig and bark build-up. Some vital things to remember for animals remaining on the property include – * Ensure your hazard reduction is complete on and around the property and your low risk area is ready to go. * Move your animals to your designated low risk area. Sheep often refuse to move once conditions are very hot, so move them early in the day. * Fill water troughs and put out sufficient feed, remembering that you may not be able to return to your property for several days. * Prepare and leave instructions on your animals’ care and where
equipment can be found, including first aid supplies, in case someone else needs to care for them. * It isn’t recommended to shut horses in stables or small yards unless the area is well protected from bushfire. Horses are likely to receive minimal burns if given plenty of room to move. * Don’t leave synthetic (nylon or plastic) equipment, including rugs on animals. These can melt and cause serious burns. Radiant heat can also cause metal buckles to become hot and cause burns to animals. Leather halters and cotton lead ropes, while not as strong as nylon, are safer than synthetic. For more information please visit http://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ agriculture/emergencies/horsesand-livestock-in-emergencies.
How fire ready is your farm? Check all of these important questions early
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To prepare for summer and its associated risks, AusNet Services invests more than $220 million annually into a range of initiatives designed to reduce risks from bushfires and severe weather events. This year we’ve implemented a range of innovative Governmentmandated enhanced electrical protection programs to help prevent bushfires. Some of the yearly maintenance and vegetation works we undertake are:
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1. Do you have well maintained slashed or ploughed fire breaks? 2. Are your farm buildings protected by firebreaks? 3. Do you have a grazing plan to reduce fire risk? 4. Are your chemicals stored safely according to instructions on the product? 5. Are your fuel tanks bonded and isolated from buildings? 6. Are welding and grinding operations done in isolation from flammable liquids and fuels? 7. Do residential buildings on your farm have smoke alarms? 8. Do your have properly maintained firefighting equipment in the workshop, on tractors and other machinery? 9. Can firefighting vehicles safely access all parts of your property? 10. Do you ensure hay is not stacked when it is green? 11. Are machinery exhaust systems fitted with spark arresters? 12. Do you have a list of emergency numbers beside all phones? 13. Is your property’s CFA map reference beside the phone? 14. Do you have battery-powered radios handy to aid communications? 15. Are your buildings clean of flammable debris and protected from the entry of burning embers? 16. Do your buildings provide adequate personal protection against bushfire? 17. Is fire prevention part of your whole farm business plan? 18. Are you up-to-date with the latest Local and State Government fire restrictions and requirements? 19. Do you carefully plan all burning off to minimise the risks? 20. Are gas cylinders vented away from buildings? 21. Are fire fighting hoses long enough, kept in safe locations where they will not melt, and with heavy duty wide spray nozzles? 22. Do you talk about and have a fire prevention plan with neighbors? 23. Do you have adequate water supplies for firefighting should mains water pressures drop? 24. Have you installed sprinkler systems in your garden and on your roofing? 25. Have you gathered metal buckets, mops, spray backpack units, ladders, rakes, shovels in a strategic location for ready access? 26. Do you have battery powered torches, radios, medical kits and drinking water available? 27. Do you know the radio station to check for the fire’s progress rather than calling emergency services?
Do your part It’s your responsibility to ensure that your overhead service line is clear of vegetation on your property. Contact a registered electrician or certified tree clearer if required.
28. Does each person have suitable clothing, including sturdy leather footwear, fire resistant long pants and long sleeves (wool offers the best protection from sparks and cinders) a broad brimmed hat, goggles for eye protection, over the nose and mouth, wet towels to drape over the neck, handkerchiefs to toe and bottles of water? 29. Can you access roof and other building cavities to check frequently for embers or other spot fires? 30. Is there a plan for all people on your property to either fight the fire or move to safe locations well before a fire front approaches?
For more information visit our website: ausnetservices.com.au > electricity > safety preparedness
For more information
Contact us General enquiries: 1300 360 795 Faults & emergencies (24 hours): 13 17 99 @AusNetServices
5950 1000 mornpen.vic.gov.au/are-you-fire-ready customerservice@mornpen.vic.gov.au
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January 2017
FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION
Don’t delay, make plans today for fire emergency AS the fire season approaches, all Victorians are being asked to prepare for a hot, dry summer. Decision-making is critical in emergencies and the Summer Fire Campaign is urging everyone to be better prepared for extreme weather conditions across summer, including grass and bushďŹ res, smoke health, water safety and extreme heat. Emergency Management Victoria commissioner Craig Lapsley said preparation and planning was imperative to good decision making and the key to saving lives in an emergency. “The potential consequences of ďŹ re mean the decisions you need to make – how you plan, prepare and respond – must be in black and white,â€? he said. “Making the right decisions early is the focus of the Summer Fire Campaign because it’s integral to the safety of you and your family. “People need to prepare their properties now, plan and make the critical decisions early on, so they know what they need to do if there is an emergency. There should be no grey area when it comes to ďŹ re.â€? The summer outlook has
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been revised and is predicted to be an above average ďŹ re season across most of the state and Mr Lapsley said now is the time to get prepared. “GrassďŹ re is going to be one of our biggest risks and challenges this season, particularly in urban interface areas,â€? he said. “There has been prolific grass growth right across the state and when it dries out it will become available fuel ready to burn. “My message to the community is you need to do ďŹ re prevention works and you need to do that now and continue to follow it up. “Good planning and preparation leads to better decisionmaking which is essential to your personal safety and that of your family.â€? Emergency information is accessible from the VicEmergency app, the emergency. vic.gov.au website, tuning in to ABC radio or other emergency broadcasters including commercial and community radio stations, Sky television, by phoning the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226, and by following VicEmergency on Facebook and Twitter.
HELP AT HAND: The CFA website carries handy information to help landholders be fire-ready.
s k a e r b e r i F n i Mainta K C A B R O Z a h A it R w G� L IE V IN E B IS G IN E E “S
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Southern Farmer, Page 23
Warnings coming through new partnership THE CFA has joined forces with Telstra to inform Victorians on how to better prepare themselves and their families this summer fire season. The new partnership, which includes social media campaigns and joint events, will focus on providing the community with practical tips for bushfire preparedness. Victorians can attend CFA community events or participating Telstra stores to find out how technology can help keep them informed and connected during an incident. CFA chief officer Steve Warrington said fires can start and spread quickly, so it’s essential the community is well prepared and well informed. “Last summer there were over 2000 warnings issued in Victoria,� he said. “It’s up to you to stay informed by using more than one source of information, understanding warnings, what they mean, what you should do and building this into your fire plan. “CFA works hard to foster local relationships and engage communities and this
partnership allows CFA to leverage off Telstra’s public information channels which will improve access to community safety messages. “In preparation for what is shaping up to be a challenging summer season, it is essential the community has easy access to relevant safety information which will help themselves and their families stay informed and ultimately safe.� Telstra Victoria and Tasmania director Andy Hitchen said it was important to remain vigilant and well prepared. “Communication is the key to staying safe during high risk days. Make sure you plan ahead, stay informed and be connected with loved ones during an emergency,� he said. “Even if you don’t live in a fire prone area, you may work or travel through a high-risk area, so it’s important that everyone knows what to do in an emergency.� CFA community events and participating Telstra stores can be found at www.cfa.vic. gov.au/about/whatson or check CFA and Telstra social media pages.
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