THE SOUTHERN
Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria Published since 1986
AUGUST, 2017
HAY AND SILAGE
www.nemedia.com.au
WINTER WARMTH
PAGES 11-14
PAGE 17
LIVESTOCK
PAGES 18-19
The spreading of a truffle culture Gembrook farmer Colin Carter has pioneered truffle and hazelnut production in Australia
LITTLE TREES, BIG MONEY: Colin and Jan Carter in their greenhouse with some hazelnut inoculated trees, and the truffles it can produce.
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ALTHOUGH Colin Carter grew up in Doncaster, his uncle and aunty had a farm in Digger’s Rest where he would spend all of his time during school holidays. “It was a mixed farm,” said Mr Carter. “You would milk the cows, separate the cream and feed the pigs and chooks. “It was one of those classic 1968 farms that don’t exist anymore.” When Mr Carter finished high school in the 70s, he went off and studied horticulture at Burnley College, one of the oldest universities in Australia, and now part of Melbourne Uni. “I always had farming interests,” he said. “And in those days it was the premium horticulture school in Australia.” Upon graduating, he found a career in nurseries. After meeting his wife Jan, the pair went on to own and run their own nursery in Gembrook, where they sold wholesale to
BY JARRAH LOH
jloh@ nemedia.com.au
Safeway for many years. Then they traded the nursery for a flower business, supplying Woolworths. “The stores were open 24 hours a day and we had to run seven days a week, so after 10 years I got tired of it all and sold that business, too,” said Mr Carter. He had always had a passion for teaching, and eventually found a job in the nursery at Swinburne Uni. “I started doing casual relief teaching, and they were really good at training their staff,” he said. Mr Carter was there for 12 years and became the manager of the horticulture and environment department, but when TAFE cuts came calling, he took a package and a chance. Continued page 3
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NEWS
Page 2, Southern Farmer
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– Matt Barwick, National Coordinator of the National Carp Control Plan (NCCP) on the release of carp virus cyprinid herpesvirus-3, a $15 million Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) planning process. We’re excited at the response we’ve had to the scheme and hope people keep calling to take advantage of this fantastic rebate offer.” – VFF Vice President Brett Hosking on the administered $6 million State Government funded Quad Bike Safety Rebate Scheme, so far approving more than 2200 applications totalling nearly $2 million.
These trends are likely to remain in place for the remainder of 2017 and have a significant impact on price and production expectations. – MLA’s Manager of Market Information Ben Thomas after the first time in three years, Australian cattle prices are now lower than year-ago levels, and production is higher. The long-term aim of this project is to develop an innovative range of electricpowered commercial vehicles for a wide range of purposes.” – Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio, after the first fleet of electric trucks hit the road after funding received from the State Government through the $20 million New Energy Jobs Fund.
I’m very pleased that all the major processors and farmer organisations have signed the code.” – Ombudsman Kate Carnellthe on new dairy industry Code of Practice for Contractual Arrangements between farmers and processors. Hunting remains an important part of our nation’s social, cultural and traditional heritage. This project protects and digitises the history of Victorian hunting for future generations to enjoy, learn from and share.” – Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford on the $40,000 grant to support Australia’s hunting history. Graeme has been part of the VFF for more than two decades and has helped shape the organisation during that time.” – VFF President David Jochinke after he announced that CEO Graeme Ford will be stepping down from his role after more than two decades service.
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THE Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) recently published its Agricultural Census data from the 2015-16 financial year. The data collected in the census relates to a broad range of agricultural businesses, from beef cattle production to broadacre farming and vineyards. The stats revealed that there are currently 85,681 agricultural businesses in operation in Australia. The gross value of Australian agriculture increased by $3.1 billion to $56 billion in 2015-16, with all states except Northern Territory showing an increase in total sector value. Nationally, the gross value of livestock slaughterings and other disposals increased by $1.9 billion to $20.6 billion in 2015-16. The gross value of crop production also increased (up five per cent) from $26.0 billion in 201415 to $27.3 billion in 2015-16. The gross value of cattle and calves in Australia has increased by 13pc to $13.1 million in 2015-16, largely driven by higher slaughter returns. These increases are offset by a 3pc decrease to $15.4 billion for total broadacre crops, reflecting poor cropping conditions prevailing during 2015-16 in southern Australia in particular. Total size of beef, dairy and sheep herds were down across the board in comparison to 2014-15, driven by dry conditions early in the season that saw many people shed stock, especially in the southern states. The average size of beef, dairy and sheep herds for the year were 805, 412 and 2857 respectively. The top three crop types in terms of gross product were wheat ($6.2 billion), fruit, nuts and grapes ($5.6 billion) and vegetables ($3.6 billion). Average farm size reached 4,331ha, which is up 0.3pc since 2014-15. Australian farming businesses used an average of 107 megalitres of water.
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.
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NEWS
August 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 3
Shooting body lobbying state for a return of “bunny guns” THE state’s peak political body for Victoria’s shooting organisations is calling on the State Government to allow shooters to use 22 self-loading rifles after a 20 year ban. The Combined Firearms Council of Victoria has written to Premier Daniel Andrews urging him to reconsider the state’s position in light of shooters’ concerns. Council president,
Bill Paterson, said the move would be entirely reasonable, arguing 22 rifles are in reality, “bunny guns”, and bore no resemblance to military style rifles of the type which led to the ban in 1996. “For a start the 22 rifle has significantly less firepower than what you find with larger calibres, and it has a very practical use,” he said. “The 22s are used for rabbit vermin pest control
and allowing the self-loading rifles back, even if limited to 10 shots, would be a great help in controlling vermin numbers without posing any public danger.” Mr Paterson said the ban on self-loading rifles occurred after the shootings in Port Arthur in 1996, in a state which had very few controls over firearms when other states already had effective licensing and limitations.
NUT IT OUT: Colin Carter and his son Nathan inspecting their hazelnut propagation beds.
The spreading of a truffle culture From page 1
Australia is the fourth largest producer of truffles in the world – impressive considering the industry only started 20 years ago, and France and Spain have them growing naturally in their forests. Early growers were told that Aussie soil was too acidic and it would never work. “Australians are a funny bunch,” said Mr Carter. “If you tell someone they can’t do something, they will make it happen. “Now Europeans are actually coming over here now to see how we have made it so successful in such a small time.” Although most of our truffles are grown for the export market, our domestic market is growing at an amazing rate, mostly due to the popularity of cooking shows, which often feature truffles. There’s great complexity in growing truffles, but as an exteacher, Mr Carter identified quickly that people need to know how the whole system works. So, along with another exteacher, he started up a grower seminar, and they now run 12 a year. “It’s all about education, not selling trees,” said Mr Carter. “The tree sales take care of themselves once the interest is there.” Since the retirement of original Australian truffle pioneer Tim Terry, the Carters and their propagation nursery have become the main truffle tree supplier in the nation.
Business has grown exponentially over the last few years and now their son, Nathan, also works with them full time – and Mr Carter hopes he will take over the business when his own retirement calls. It all goes hand in hand with the sister business of growing hazelnuts. “Hazelnuts are a perfect dual crop,” said Mr Carter. “The hazelnuts produce the truffles, and then they produce their own premium nut.” In the past, Australian farmers had tried to produce commercial hazelnuts straight from the seed, but it turned out to be a bit more complicated than that. So, Mr Carter found someone that could import production hazelnut seedlings from overseas and made himself a hazelnut nursery. The US now has a hazelnut disease, so with Australia’s border closed to new hazelnut trees, the market is locked down. Australia currently imports about 2000 tonnes of hazelnuts a year, worth around $10 million dollars. However, there are currently less than 75 hectares of trees planted commercially. “There is a great opportunity for import replacement by planting, cultivation and distribution of fresh hazelnuts,” said Mr Carter. “Especially as most imported nuts are several months, or even as much as two years old, at time of importation.”
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While he’d been working at Swinburne, they had supported Mr Carter’s research into truffles in Europe. “I was already teaching about local fungus and I needed a project for my students, so growing truffles really leant itself to the research,” said Mr Carter. He also won a fellowship with the International Specialised Skills Institute (ISSI). “That allowed me to go to Europe and really study their truffles, because our knowledge in Australia was pretty poor. “And the people that did know something about them didn’t want to divulge too much – it was all a bit secretive.” So, Mr Carter, with his son Nathan in tow, visited Italy, France and Spain. The trip proved so valuable, that the pair has been back three times since. “Spain leads the world in truffle research and production,” said Mr Carter. “And Australia now has a good association with Spain growers, built off that fellowship.” Mr Carter has since adopted the Spanish certification scheme for his own trees. “Prior to that, it was just a chance on the buyer that the tree grower would know what he was doing. “Now with certification, people can be assured that the trees are properly inoculated for truffles.”
NEWS
Page 4, Southern Farmer
August 2017
The best scallop season in 15 years THE Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery season started last month with potentially the best season in more than 15 years on its way. Bass Strait scallops are caught commercially in the Bass Strait between Tasmania and Victoria. After an ex-shell-ent season in 2016, 2017 is set to be another pearler with an initial total catch limit set at 3000 tonnes for the second consecutive season. Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) CEO, Dr James Findlay said that while the
puns may be ‘roeful’, this is great news for seafood lovers. “Thanks to the support of industry to close areas to allow scallops to spawn and conduct scallop stock surveys, we’ve seen this fishery go from strength to strength,” Dr Findlay said. “This is great news for lovers of tender, succulent, juicy Bass Strait scallops. “Each year surveys are done to ensure that the stock can be harvested at sustainable levels. “These surveys support the science-based decision making that the indepen-
dent AFMA Commission uses when setting catch limits each season. “The latest available science, combined with strict management and monitoring, helps to ensure that both current and future generations can enjoy these mouth-watering, taste-bud pleasing joys.” Bass Strait scallops are caught commercially in the Bass Strait between Tasmania and Victoria. OPEN SEASON: Southern aquaculture farmers are hoping for the best scallop season in 15 years.
Alarming rate gap between Ararat farmers and businesses
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FARMERS account for less than 13 per cent of the total Ararat economic output but would contribute more than half of the $14 million the council expects to earn in rates under its plan to scrap the differential rating strategy, a State Government inquiry has heard. The Victorian Farmers Federation fronted the Commission of Inquiry into the Rural City of Ararat, presenting statistics drawn from the Council’s own budget detailing the steep rates divide between commercial and farm businesses. According to the latest REMPLAN data, agriculture represents 12.9 per cent ($175.6 million) of the town’s $1.36 billion economic output while the remaining 87.1 per cent ($1.2 billion) is made up of commercial and industrial enterprises. But under the council’s uniform rating strategy,
which would force farmers to stomach a 46 per cent rate hike, commercial and industrial businesses would contribute a mere 10.4 per cent ($756,000) to the council’s projected revenue, while primary producers are expected to cough up 55.1 per cent ($7.8 million). VFF president David Jochinke said the statistics showed an alarming inequity in the council’s draft rating strategy. “Ararat Council has not given a rational explanation to abolish differential rates; they have not provided any analysis on how the plan will impact ratepayers; they have not seriously explored alternative options; and they have not considered community evidence about the negative impact of the plan,” Mr Jochinke said. The plan has been met with palpable anger by the region’s farming community.
Incentives to help seasonal work A NEW Federal Government trial offers a range of incentives for the unemployed to undertake seasonal horticultural work, helping gain experience and improve skills. The Seasonal Work Incentives Trial offers financial incentives to support unemployed people to take up work opportunities for up to six weeks. Participants will be able to earn up to $5000 each year from qualifying seasonal horticultural work without it being assessed under the social security income test. They may also be eligible for a seasonal work living away and travel allowance of up to $300 each year, if they undertake qualifying seasonal horticultural work more than 120 kilometres from their home. The trial incentives are available to eligible Newstart and Youth Allowance (other) recipients who have been receiving those payments continuously for at least three months and are participating in Jobactive, transition to work or disability employment services. For further details visit employment.gov.au.
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NEWS
August 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 5
Young farmer steps up after tragedy EVERY time Sarah Chant steps on to her farm near Colac, she brings a piece of her father Steven with her. Steven passed away a year ago leaving Sarah, now 26, with big boots to fill. However, he did his best to make sure she was ready to take the reins. Ms Chant started the process of running the farm a year
before her father died and a diary he kept continues to show the way. “Dad had cancer for a long time so I’d been gradually stepping up,” Ms Chant said. “We knew it was terminal so he started keeping a diary for me and jotted down little notes of things I’d need to run the farm. “It wasn’t easy but it was
easier knowing that it was going to happen. “It wasn’t like I woke up one morning and was in charge of a 250-cow dairy farm.” Losing her father at age 55 might have made Sarah stronger in many ways, but it still hurt. “It was infuriating,” she said. “He was fit and strong, barely drank and quit smoking
when I was a little girl because he realised how bad it was for his health. “He had a healthy, active lifestyle and still got cancer.” Ms Chant grew up on the farm at Warrion, 20 minutes north of Colac and had just returned from Canada when she learned of her father’s illness. “I probably would have travelled for a couple more years but I was always going to come home on the farm,” she said. “I’d wanted to do it since I was a little girl. “I have older brothers but they didn’t want the farm so it went to the youngest daughter. “We broke tradition there.” Ms Chant runs the farm business supported by longtime employee Joel Kirkman and her mum Roslyn does the books. “When I was first in charge I was a bit nervous,” Ms Chant said. “Joel knows the run of the
drop and a tough season it would have been a lot worse.” The farm at Warrion, 20 minutes north of Colac, was purchased by Steven’s parents when he was 18. It’s on the northern edge of Western Victoria’s dairying region but irrigation and “amazing soil” make it good dairy country. “Growing up on a dairy farm, you’re born into loving it,” she said. “It’s a job you can never perfect. “You’re always learning new things. “I love working with the cattle and rearing calves; I’m a sucker for going back to the calf shed after hours if anyone is sick. “I love being outside on the farm. “Having lost Dad, it’s a bit of a connection to him.” Sarah was recently a finalist in the Best Employee category of the Great South West Dairy Awards.
place, so when I started making the calls I’d ask if it was the right thing and he’s say, ‘whatever you think Sarah’. “I’m getting more comfortable with it now.” From a dairy perspective, Steven’s death couldn’t have been at a worse time. “We got news of the milk price drop the day Dad died,” Ms Chant said. “I know it was terrible for farmers but it didn’t upset me that much; we had bigger things to deal with.” The Murray Goulburn supplier has weathered the storm. “We’ve coped quite well,” Ms Chant said. “There was a bit of cost cutting and we’re not spending where we don’t have to, but having such a fantastic season has saved a lot of local farmers who buy in feed. “We cut more hay and silage than ever before with the good spring. “If we had the milk price
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NEWS
Page 6, Southern Farmer
August 2017
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QUEENSLAND fruit fly is now widespread in Victoria and is threatening Yarra Valley fruit production. The Fruit Fly – Be Prepared master class is a forum for growers and businesses in the Yarra Valley to hear first-hand from industry experts, scientists and growers. Learn what damage Queensland fruit fly can cause and what your business and your community can do to prepare. Come to the live lecture and Q&A session in Lilydale hosted by the Biosecurity Centre of Excellence and be part of the action on Tuesday, August 8 from 9:30am at the Box Hill Institute, Lilydale Lakeside Campus.
South Gippsland Dairy Expo 2017 THE Strzelecki Lions Club is proud to be hosting the South Gippsland Dairy Expo in Korumburra from September 27, with free entry to all who attend. The South Gippsland Dairy Expo will be celebrating 18 years of providing the local dairying community with an event that showcases the latest in innovation, products and services available to the dairy industry. The Dairy Expo started in the year 2000 with the committee having a core objective to deliver a “one stop shop” to local farmers, so that if they were busy, they could visit, do their business and leave having spent a valuable couple of hours. Today, the event still has the same focus.
SHINE BRIGHT: A wind farm project located between 10 and 25 kilometres off the Gippsland coastline will be called Star of the South.
Australia’s first offshore wind farm in Gippsland THE government has welcomed plans for the establishment of Australia’s first offshore wind farm in Gippsland. The proposal includes up to 250 wind turbines within a 574-square kilometre area, which would deliver around 8000GWh of electricity per year. This is approximately 18
per cent of Victoria’s power usage or enough to power 1.2 million homes. Victorian-based Offshore Energy has been working with the Victorian and Commonwealth governments to progress the proposal to a formal feasibility assessment of the project called ‘Star of the South’. If successful, the project
would generate investment of around $8 billion, create 12,000 jobs during the construction phase and 300 ongoing operational and maintenance jobs. The project would be located between 10 and 25 kilometres off the Gippsland coastline. “A new renewable power generator of this size would
drive down electricity prices, and we’ll support Offshore Energy wherever we can to progress this study,” said the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio “Offshore wind would add to Victoria’s system capacity and security as Australia transitions to a more diverse energy mix.”
LAST month, Unilever, one of the world’s largest companies, announced its certification of the sustainability credentials of Australia’s milk production for another 12 months. Australian Dairy Industry Council’s Interim Chair, Terry Richardson, said endorsement from a company like Unilever is a great achievement and reflects the focus that Australian dairy farmers have for sustainable farming practices. “The Australian dairy industry is committed to the implementation of actions to support ongoing targets and measures as part of the Australia Dairy Industry Sustainability Framework,” said Mr Richardson “We want to ensure that the Australian dairy industry is recognised as sustainable in the eyes of customers around the world so that our farmers and processors can be assured that the industry has a long-lasting future.” In 2013 the Australian dairy industry was the first in the world to be recognised by Unilever.
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The team at Men’s Health Institute Australia are experts in their field, including Doctors, Pharmacists, Researchers and Men’s Health Professionals. They provide this specialised care in a supportive environment of complete privacy and confidentiality. Now, for a limited number of readers they are offering FREE assessment to help you begin the journey to a younger and more masculine you. But this is limited to the first 98 callers only. From 8am today, the FREE ASSESSMENT Hotline will be open. Simply call 1300 350 781.
THE NATURAL WAY TO RESTORE HEALTHY TESTOSTERONE LEVELS
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After 35, a man’s testosterone levels plummet causing low sex drive, weakness and mood swings according to scientists.
Testosterone levels restored. Muscles tighten. Belly flab vanishes. Patient has more energy, more stamina and is more attractive to opposite sex.
Hope For Men Over 35 Struggling With ‘Age-Related’ Erectile Dysfunction Introducing the treatment to help men with Erectile Dysfunction to regain their confidence and sex life IT’S NOT UNCOMMON to see older Hollywood men with six packs, big muscles and a beautiful actress hanging on their arm. But have you ever wondered how these men in their 50s… 60s and 70s can still sexually satisfy beautiful women half their age. Researchers at Men’s Health Institute Australia say the key is a tailor-made treatment that helps men with Erectile Dysfunction and low sex drive.
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“Although Hollywood men will never publicly admit it, this ground-breaking treatment is often the reason they can satisfy women half their age”, says Matthew Cameron from Men’s Health Institute Australia. “It is unlike anything else available because it is specifically personalised for each patient and their specific set of circumstances, there is no magic one solution fits all”
“Patients tell me it has reignited their love lives, saved their marriages. Others say they no longer feel anxious about sex.” Up until recently this treatment wasn’t readily available to men in this country. But now, Men’s Health Institute Australia are offering it to ordinary Aussies - not just rich celebrities. To claim a free assessment, call 11300 350 781 as soon as possible. If lines are busy, call again immediately as spots will fill up fast.
NEWS
Page 8, Southern Farmer
August 2017
Utility on a budget MAHINDRA Ag & Auto Australia, part of the US$19 billion Mahindra Group, recently announced the new Mahindra 6060 Utility Tractor range, now available at their new dealer Small Horse Tractors in Dandenong, and across its 45 agricultural dealers nationwide. You can now step-up to the utility-sized 6060 2WD/4WD tractors and start to enjoy the advantage that a bigger footprint provides. Full planetary reduction and big heavy construction make this 60-horsepower tractor great for those medium size properties that have value and productivity on their mind. There’s no replacement for displacement and with 3533cc
four-cylinder water cooled direct injection diesel engine, you have power and torque, with fuel efficiency on hand. This is the end and I will see what can be added after that and go from there and then on we will go until the end. The Mahindra 6060 2WD and 4WD tractors include: 4 Cylinder 3533 cc displacement with 51 P.T.O Horsepower. Single lever PTO engagement with 540 and 540 economy settings. Flat platform with comfortable suspension seat. 15x15 Synchro shuttle transmission (6060 4WD) 15 x 3 mechanical side shift (6060 2WD).
2200kg lift on linkage at the ball ends. Cat I/II linkage with check chains. Two auxiliary remotes. As with all Mahindra ML series loaders, the ML6002/6004 loader features a rugged mainframe, with durable boom structure mounted rigidly across the chassis. You can get the 6060 2WD tractor from just RLP in GST $24,990 plus freight and dealer pre-delivery. For more information, please visit www.mahindraag. com.au or call Paul and the team at Small Horse Tractors, 18 Lonsdale St, Dandenong – 9791 6414.
SEEING RED: The new 6060 utility range from Mahindra offers utility at an affordable price.
How a tractor has made life easier
POWERED UP: Christopher Ardron and his Agrison 100 horsepower CDF tractor.
AFTER a long search for the right tractor, Victorian horse breeder and trainer Christopher Ardron is now running an Agrison 100hp CDF tractor for tasks like hoeing, slashing and moving bales. Mr Ardron, who is also a dressage judge and horse classifier, has owned his 57ha (140-acre) farm in the town of Darraweit Guim in Victoria, about an hour north of Melbourne, since 2002. Although that’s over 15 years of ownership, it wasn’t until recently that he decided that he needed a tractor to help him out
18 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong Phone: (03) 9791 6414 www.smallhorse.com.au #Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd is the No.1 Tractor company in the world by volume.
with everything he does on his property. “I wanted something that was overpowered for the work that I needed to do, so I was never worried about not having enough power to get the job done,” said Mr Ardron. With many different makes and models to choose from, he had his work cut out trying to find the tractor that was right for him. “I’ve looked at a lot of tractors.” Mr Ardron admits, adding that, while his farm is not a fullyfledged professional enterprise,
any tractor needs to do a fair bit of work. “We do round bales, rotary hoeing, slashing, raking, grass prepping, rolled bales and also pasture improvement,” he said. When Mr Ardron did end up buying a tractor, he chose an Agrison 100 horsepower CDF. “What was also appealing to me was that they have a diesel mechanic on-hand who can come out to the farm and do servicing on the tractor whenever it needs it.” According to Mr Ardron, the 100hp CDF tractor has not only competently performed all the
tasks on his farm, it has does so with comfort and relative ease. “The tractor is very comfortable, very pleasing and easy to use and I can’t imagine life on the farm without it now,” he said. Mr Ardron is keen to point out that Agrison was able to fabricate certain parts of his tractor specifically for his farm’s needs. “I’ve got very heavy bales, and Agrison even went out of their way, at no cost to me, to make more industrial sized prongs to go on the hay forks,” he said. “They’ve been fantastic.”
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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HAY AND SILAGE
August 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 11
Greater efficiency gives new Case balers the edge
CASE IH has unveiled its new series of Large Square Balers to the Australian market, designed for the toughest crop types in the most challenging of conditions. The Case IH LB434 XL series retain the features and adaptability of the current LB434 units, while introducing a range of new attributes to get the job done more efficiently, and is available to producers in two models: the LB434S XL (Standard) and LB434R XL (Rotor Cut). The new balers feature an 80cm longer bale chamber, wider panel widths to reduce material accumulation behind twine boxes, upgraded platform and hand railings, and new active bale eject system, while retaining 48 plunger strokes per minute, wide pick-ups and six double-tie knotters. “It all adds up to a unit perfectly designed for large-scale hay and forage operations with a lot of ground to cover and a short time to do it,” said Tim Slater, Case IH product manager for Hay and Harvest. In lengthening the bale chamber, bale density has increased by up to 10 per cent over previous models, with a more stable bale density in various operating conditions, and better bale shape. The longer bale chamber also
BRAND SPANKIN’: The new Case IH series retain the features and adaptability of the current units, while introducing a range of new attributes to get the job done more efficiently.
means bales exit the bale chute closer to the ground for a gentler drop, minimising the risk of twine breakages. “Greater density means more crop per bale, decreasing bale count as well as reduced handling, wrapping and transportation costs — helping producers economically reach new markets,” said Mr Slater.
and these new LB434 XL Large Square Balers reflect that,” Mr Slater said. “Folding handrails have been redesigned to allow for more comfortable and safer access to the whole service area, and the new railings project further to the front of the machine to offer safer access to this area.”
Structurally, the LB434 XL Series has been strengthened to accommodate the additional weight to the rear from the extended bale chamber, and the plunger has been upgraded to handle the higher anticipated loads from the increased density. “Continual safety upgrades also remain a priority for Case IH
Importance of feeding roughage in winter By DR JEFF CAVE District Veterinary Officer, Agriculture Victoria EVEN if there is new growth of pasture and you are using various supplementary feeds, you could ask – why feed roughage. Roughage is the bulky feeds that are mostly considered to be high in fibre and low in energy. Roughage is needed to be fed to your livestock this winter for a number of reasons. Even though some roughage may be left uneaten, for digestive function livestock require a minimum amount of fibre and long roughage to maintain their digestive systems, this is sometimes known as the ‘scratch factor’ and stimulates rumination (cud chewing). When moving livestock onto green pasture, their rumen needs time to adjust to a new feed type. Newly growing pasture may not have adequate fibre levels - it may be better to supplement stock to allow the pasture to establish and develop. Hungry cattle need to be prevented from gorging themselves on pastures that may have potential to cause nitrate poisoning or bloat. If feeding grain or pellets with too little roughage, acidosis or grain poisoning can occur. As we move further into winter, hay may be needed to reduce grass tetany risks and allows a way of administering Causmag. Another good reason to feed livestock roughage in cold weather is that roughage in the diet helps keep livestock warm because the fermentation and breakdown of cellulose creates heat energy. If livestock do not have enough roughage, the weight will melt off as they will extract body fat to create energy for warmth; therefore it is effective to feed your livestock late in the afternoon to provide ‘heat’ through the night. For further advice contact your local veterinarian or Agriculture Victoria veterinary or animal health officer.
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54-56 Forster Street, Invermay. TAS 7248
*All prices include GST. Freight and assembly charges may be applicable. Daken reserves the right to correct any printed error. Pricing subject to change without notice.
visit www.clarkfarmequipment.com.au
HAY AND SILAGE
Page 12, Southern Farmer
August 2017
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WRAP IT UP: This faba bean and oat crop wrapped in Silostop Bale Wrap has high nutritive quality and shows a well preserved silage right to the very outside of the bale.
SILOSTOP’S unique Bale Wrap is designed to stop the entry of oxygen into any baled silage crops. The film’s ability to be 100 times more effective at limiting oxygen entry into silage – when compared to conventional PE plastic film – makes it a must for producers worried about the quality of the forage being fed to their stock. “The unique patented oxygen barrier properties of Silostop Bale Wrap prevents air from entering silage through the film,” said David Lewis, technical service manager, Lallemand Animal Nutrition. Aerobic spoilage of silage has been shown to reduce feed intake in dairy cows – leading to reduced milk production. At a time when challenging margins mean farmers are looking to make the most of home-grown resources, getting the conservation process right is vital with sealing and storage. “Farmers need to be able to
make the most of every kilogram of feed produced for milk production,” Mr Lewis said. “Spoiled silage in the diet of livestock poses a hazard to animal health and can reduce animal performance. “Yeasts and moulds reduce the nutritional value of the silage and can produce mycotoxins that can reduce feed intake and increase digestive upsets.” Research has shown that because of the oxygen barrier properties of Silostop Bale Wrap Film, there is less mould on the bale surface and outer layers compared to bales wrapped with conventional PE bale wrap, especially after more than 6 months of storage. “Quality silage is the key to dairy cow performance as this is one of the larger inputs,” Mr Lewis said. “Spoilage of the outside 57mm is 25 per cent of the bale affected. ”Having this amount of waste or spoilage is like getting rid of one in every four bales.
“Don’t underestimate the cost of waste silage.” Dry matter analysis following storage using Silostop Bale Wrap Film has shown a reduction in DM losses of over 40 per cent per bale compared to conventional films. Combined with better palatability and animal intake, lower risk of rumen upset cause by mould and yeast and lower labour costs, this translates to a significant saving for producers. Silostop Bale Wrap is multi layered for superior strength and can be run at 70 per cent stretch on round bales wrapped individually and inline wrapped. The oxygen barrier technology has been proven in independent trials to be 100 times more effective than leading conventional brands of wrap. This product also complements the patented Silostop Orange Oxygen Barrier Film used to cover silage pits and stacks, along with the woven UV protection covers and gravel bag sealing weights.
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HELP: For more information, visit vic.gov.au/youngfarmers.
$10,000 available to young local farmers THERE is help for the next generation of farming leaders to take the next big step in their food and fibre career, with the announcement of the 2017 Young Farmer Scholarships. With world-renowned clean and green Victorian produce, emerging export markets and evolving technologies to name just a few of the positives, there’s never been a better time to embark on a career in agriculture.
Scholarships are available to help young farmers equip themselves for the farming challenges of the future. Up to $10,000 is available to farmers and farm workers aged 35 years or under to help them with development and career progression. The funding consists of up to $5000 for study, backed by a further $5000 to invest on-farm or in professional development activities to help
put new skills into practice. Examples of eligible courses include a Diploma in Agriculture, human resources training, business management courses, a Diploma of Agribusiness Management and a range of on-farm technical training. Applications for the Young Farmers Scholarship Program close on August 30, 2017. For more information, visit vic.gov.au/youngfarmers.
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HAY AND SILAGE
Page 14, Southern Farmer
Hay business always ahead of the competition
THE SOUTHERN
Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria
weareonline! __www.nemedia.com.au
ALL TYPES HAY Call for B Double Delivered Prices CONTACT: Vic 0407 711 902 Matt 0427 711 992
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August 2017
FROM food for tables to food for stables, the Dieckmann family has grown it all. Since the 1890s, the Dieckmann family has farmed their land at Kalbar in the Scenic Rim region of South East Queensland. Originally running dairy cattle before turning for many years to vegetable crops, the 200 acre farm has been producing lucerne hay – and using iconic red Case IH equipment - for as many years as current owner Trevor Dieckmann can remember. “It’s always been hay since I was a kid in the early 60s; I remember driving the big red tractor and baling hay at night,” Mr Dieckmann said. “Although this used to be a big area for vegetable growing; at one time the region produced one third of Queensland’s potato crop and had dedicated ‘potato trains’ that were so full they had to back out of the station first to build up speed to get out of Kalbar.” Like many of the farms in the region, the Dieckmann farm turned to lucerne hay as the crop of choice, which they sell through their business, Kalbar Lucerne, for several reasons. The first is the development of a thriving equine industry in the area, the second is the soil, which
is perfect for lucerne, and the third the climate - the Scenic Rim region is one of the few areas in the world where farming can be maintained 12 months of the year.
The Dieckmanns are faithfully assisted in their busy, year-round baling schedule by their Case IH tractors which include a treasured old International 434.
S THE LONG HAUL:Hay farmer Trevor Dieckmann’s family has been in the business since the 1890s.
Perfect Combination! Gendore & New Holland. Gendore have been working with farmers for over 60 years, ensuring they get the best result, every season. The combination of Gendore’s experience and New Holland’s complete range of tractors and farm implements, ensures you’ll have the right equipment for your farming needs. Gendore also provide a complete range of hay and silage machiney, cultivators, seeders, plus much more. And Gendore’s 24 hour service and back-up will ensure you keep going all year. Come and see us at Farm World on stand 301.
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NEWS
August 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 15
Port of Geelong gets green light on grain By LIZ WELLS THE Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has granted Bulk Wheat Code exemptions
which will enable Riordan Grain Services at the Port of Geelong to continue to export grain in the shadow of bulk and container-shipping heavyweights.
THE EFFECTIVE & PROVEN ANIMAL & BIRD REPELLENT YOU CAN RELY ON
REGISTERED FOR USE AGAINST ALL ANIMALS & BIRDS THE BIG BOY: Silvan added a new 600l Econopak linkage sprayer to its market-leading range.
Bigger sprayer added to market
SILVAN Australia launched its Econopak range of Linkage Sprayers in 2012 and since then it has become one of Australia’s most popular linkage sprayers. Silvan has now added a 600 litre model to the existing 300 and 400 litre tank capacities for farmers covering larger areas. All Econopak’s come complete with a six metre manual folding boom and hose reel. The Econopak unit includes a rear mounted Eco hose reel fitted with a 30 metre length of 10mm diameter hose and Spotjet spray gun with an adjustable spray pattern.
The Econopak is therefore ideal for broad area boom spraying plus spot spraying requirements and has been especially designed to suit small acreage owners, council and land management agencies. And they continue to come at an extremely competitive price starting at $4000 as a fully assembled and tested package from the factory, ready for use with minimal commissioning. The 300, 400 or 600 litre Polytuff impact resistant polyethylene tank has moulded litre calibrations to show the tank level and is fitted with a nonspill screw down lid.
48
th
Silvan spokesman Gavin Wheatcroft says that market research indicated that there was a market need for a larger economy linkage sprayer to complement the existing 300 and 400 litre capacities. “Our determination remains to provide a spray unit that leaves our factory in a fully assembled condition with a minimum requirement for dealer or customer set up. “The benefit of the new 600 litre Econopak is that farmers can cover more ground between tank refills reducing downtime and allowing them to get the job done faster.”
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Protects herbs, vegetables, trees and shrubs from possums, kangaroos, wallabies, rabbits, hares, bandicoots, deer, foxes and other wildlife. Protects vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals, seedlings and buildings from cockatoos, crows, ducks, pigeons, rosellas, starlings, swallows, other birds, fruit bats and microbats in building cavities. Protects homes, gardens and patios from dogs and cats or rats and mice. Protects one plant or a whole area — perimeter &/or band sprays Repels — without harming animals or humans. Not considered a poison — no withholding period. Easy to use - spray on. Effective when dry. Safe, Proven and Effective. Available in 100g, 1kg & 4kg Sizes. is unique. Reject products said to be "just as good", nothing is at all "like it". For more specific information send 2x$1 stamps, please mention your problem, post to: D-TER, Dept. SF, PO Box 3, Oyster Bay, NSW 2225. Enquiries: Phone (02) 9589 0703. Fax (02) 9589 0147. ®
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THE SOUTHERN
w w w. w a n d i n s i l v a n f i e l d d a y s . c o m . a u t/37D05779-v4/31-17
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NEWS
Page 16, Southern Farmer
Home grown feeds and the profit matrix
THE SOUTHERN
Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria
weareonline! __www.nemedia.com.au
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Mailed to you in 2017
The Southern Farmer dominates Central South Victoria and West Gippsland. 12 issues per year $45.00 (GST included) Name, Mr, Mrs, Miss, Ms.............................................................. Address........................................................................................... ................................ Postcode .................Phone ............................ Payment by Cheque I enclose my cheque for $ .......................................payable to: NORTH EAST MEDIA Payment by CREDIT CARD Please charge my Mastercard Visa Cardholders Name ...................................................................... Card No ......................................................................................... Signed ............................................ Expiry Date ........................... P/05d08821-V2/3716
AS a general statement, few would dispute home grown feeds are cheapest. However, we need to look at this more closely. Should we talk just feeds per se, or energy? It is energy we convert to milk. We should be discussing the cost of energy in any given feed when deciding what is cheapest. Effectively, feed dollars converted to milk dollars for this is the real determinant of proďŹ t. That’s the simple equation, but from there on it can become quite complicated by debates over the cost of grass, by rates of digestibility and by rumen health/function or feed conversion efďŹ ciency. We will leave these complications out of this discussion as my goal is to drive forage production on farm to at least validate the mantra of home grown feeds being the cheapest. Home grown forage may or may not be the cheapest forage, but grain generally stands alone on energy cost. Home grown forage cost depends heavily on the value of the land it is grown on, the yield per annum per hectare, its digestibility and energy density. For our regular monthly clients we can determine grass grazed in tonnes of dry matter (TDM) and collate monthly averages for the full year.
LIQUID GOLD: In dairy farming it is essentially energy we convert to milk.
We can add to this quite accurately TDM silage, measure summer crops and cost each out. Due to wide variations between farms on the above criteria, we choose to take a mean value for grazed pasture at $250/TDM. This gives us a basis for silage cost, and good comparative data within farms from year to year. I believe the district average for SW Victoria is in the vicinity 4 to 4.5 TDM/ha pasture harvested (machine or grazed). Yet we are aware of farms where we have measurement from monthly consumption, harvesting 10 TDM/ha and higher. Obviously, there is a massive difference in pasture cost irrespective of additional input cost to achieve this high TDM/ha. There usually is a serendipitous increase in digestibility with higher yielding farms, and this only magniďŹ es the feed to milk dollar conversion potential/proďŹ t. Over many years of preparing feed budgets for clients, compounded by observations, we have come
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to realise some of the limitations to home grown forage production. Things like compaction – pasture plants pulled up by grazing cows due to shallow rooting. Declining plant densities, and falling yields which are now known to be associated with lack of rotational crops. Differing plant species remove and deposit different things in soil, but all contribute to improved yields. There are synergies to yield through plant rotations. To resolve these impediments to yield we developed a Seven Year Paddock Plan for each of our clients. The goal is to address the above limitations, improve soil health/ organic matter and yield capacity. The basic idea is two years in crops, up to three crops per year, then back to pasture for ďŹ ve years. We believe, based on overseas data, that we can increase home grown forage harvested and hence lower the cost of feed, or rather, the cost of energy harvested/ha, through crop rotations.
This principle has been known and practiced, especially by cereal grows, for many years. Both land (due to land value), and cows (due to maintenance energy cost), have ďŹ xed costs that can only be diluted to the beneďŹ t of proďŹ t, by increased yield – either TDM/ ha or litres/cow. Rotational cropping has added potential to increase soil organic matter, an issue we think has deteriorated our dairy land’s productivity over the last 50 years. Crop root systems deposit organic matter in soils. Likewise, stubble from crops, although nitrogen must be available to breakdown residue or new seedlings will suffer retarded growth until plant residue has been broken down. A clover crop through winter can provide excellent high calcium silage for dry and springing cows, but also increase soil N for the following summer crop. Overseas research has demonstrated reduced weed and pest problems through rotational crop programs. Garden enthusiasts know well that various plants protect and encourage growth in other plants. We need to return our farms to more natural biology, and I’m conďŹ dent we can do so and increase our proďŹ tability. Calcium is essential for mineral movement in soils, making them available to plants, and for the same reason in cows’ digestive systems. The last 12 months has shocked us all, both farmers and the service industry. Innovation and prosperity almost always rises from the rubble of adversity; and rarely from afuence.
A 65 year old farmer from Cooma in northern Victoria has been convicted of cruelty charges in Shepparton Magistrates Court for failing to feed his cattle. The farmer plead guilty to 17 charges of aggravated cruelty, under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986. Agriculture Victoria District Veterinary Officer Dr Hannah Delahunty said inspectors
found a herd of 90 dairy cattle in an emaciated body condition, with a number of cattle dead or too weak to stand in June 2016. The farmer has been sentenced to three months imprisonment, imposed with a conditional disqualification order for five years, fined $2500 and ordered to pay service costs.
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WINTER WARMTH AND HEATING
Southern Farmer, Page 17
'LIIHUHQW ¿ UHSODFHV LQ WKH PRGHUQ ZRUOG
THE NEW FIRE: There are many options when it comes to a fireplace these days, such as this modern gas option by Woodpecker.
THERE is nothing quite as nostalgic and romantic as a fireplace addition to your home. When you are ready to add a fireplace to your home, there are a couple of decisions you’ll need to consider to make sure you make the right choice for your home and for your needs. The first decision you must make is, what is the main purpose and use of your fireplace? Are you intending for it to be a primary heating source for a common room, such as a living area or outdoor entertaining space? Or are you intending for the fireplace to be a beautiful addition for your home’s aesthetic? Or is your fireplace designed for cooking, such as a grill or pizza oven? Understanding exactly what you require is the first step to finding the right fireplace. Different types of fireplaces
utilise different types of fuel or power. Wood heaters give you a feeling of core heat with the ability to heat from two to 35 building squares. Some wood heaters are purely radiant models, and so will radiate the heat out at a steady rate and others have a fan to push the heat out faster. A good quality wood heater used efficiently and well maintained, can last around 20-30 years. The best wood heater for you depends on your situation, requirements and preferences. Gas fireplaces are a ‘mess-free’ option that not only heat but also obtain the visual ambience of a wood-burning fire. The effect and heat is almost instant, with the ability to heat from 2-14 building squares. If you have a heater with a high heating output and low mega joule
consumption, the unit will be efficient to run. It’s important to understand that gas fireplaces are used as a secondary heat source with another form as a back up, but many are designed to at least heat individual rooms. Electric Fireplaces mimic a fireplace burning coals, wood or pebbles and are primarily used for decorative purposes, not heating. The benefit of these fireplaces is that they require no flueing and can be floor standing or wall mounted. Pellet fireplaces can reduce heating bills and because they use renewable fuels, they have a low impact on the environment. Derived from the milling of plantation timber, pellets are the cleanest-burning biomass fuel available. Featuring simple technology, these freestanding stoves are easy to operate and maintain and provide clean and efficient heat.
Pivot leads charge in reducing emissions THE 1 Million Ton Campaign is a basic concept: if everyone took the initiative to make one change, one simple approach to their lifestyle – reduce your personal carbon foot print by only 10 per cent - this is all is going to take to make a difference. Pivot Stoves said if we wait for the politicians - wait for the major manufacturing and resource blue chip companies to do something it will be too
late to make a difference. So how does Pivot Stove have anything to do with this? Back in 2006 they made a decision to advertise the tested emission results of all wood heaters. In 2010, they included the tested efficiency results for all the heaters. And in 2016, they have included the burn times. These results have been simplified into star ratings, and
are listed on every page of their web site - and on every heater in the showrooms. Each heater lists the emissions and efficiency official test results - this is managed by the Australian Home Heating Association (AHHA). The Australian Home Heating Association has instituted a robust certification procedure to ensure that wood heater models offered for
sale comply with the current Australian/New Zealand Standards AS/NZS 4012/4013. In 2015, New Australian Industry Initiative requires heaters to have a maximum of 2.5grms of Co2 per 1Kg of wood consumed - at Pivot they are promoting heaters in their Low Carbon Program – any heater that is 1grm or less, so they are promoting heaters that are half the Australian initiative.
FIRE IT UP: Pivot is leading change, incorporating the 1 Million Ton Campaign.
LIVESTOCK
Page 18, Southern Farmer
August 2017
400 delegates show up for for Best Wool Best Lamb conference RECORD crowds reflected the value of the recent Best Wool Best Lamb conference, held in Bendigo late last month. One of the keynote speakers was wool analyst Chris Wilcox, from Poimena Analysis, who took growers through the current wool market prices and the reasons for what was being paid. Mr Wilcox said strong demand for superfine wool had largely been hidden by increased production over the past decade. “I believe there is strong
demand for superfine wool yet that has not been reflected in prices until just recently,” he said. He warned that certain importers in China were chasing wool from sheep that had not been mulesed. “When you talk to the mills in China, they want nonmulesed wool,” Mr Wilcox said. “They don’t know anything about pain relief (used at mulesing).” Mr Wilcox said about nine per cent of the Australian clip
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now came from non-mulesed sheep, but this was not enough to supply the demand from China. “Chinese mills are turning to Argentina, New Zealand and South Africa to source their needs of non-mulesed wool,” he said. Some 400 delegates attended the annual Best Wool Best Lamb event, where 15 speakers and delegates were able to inform producers about the future of the sheep industry, and how best to maximise profits and production.
FLEECED: After almost 20 years of declining shorn wool production, the 2015/16 financial year appears to have marked the turning point.
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WOOL prices have risen to highs not seen in Australia in decades due to growing export demand and limited supply, according to Rural Bank’s 2017 Australian Wool Annual Review. Stronger demand from processors and reduced supply saw the Eastern Market Indicator (EMI) rise by 10 per cent to 1507 cents/kg in the first half of 2017, while the 17 micron price guide rose 45 per cent over the past 12 months. Wool prices are expected to remain strong in 2017/18, particularly for fine to medium wool categories, supported by growing export demand and limited, albeit now growing, supply from Australia.
The new report, launched by specialist insights team Ag Answers, provides producers and industry with a concise analysis of the Australian and global wool sector. The report also revealed reduced wool exports from major producers such as New Zealand, which will see Australian wool growers well positioned to enjoy the rare conditions of increasing production levels and higher prices. After almost 20 years of declining shorn wool production, the 2015/16 financial year appears to have marked the turning point, with shorn wool production expected to reach 341,000 tonnes of greasy wool in 2016/17, an increase of five per cent
when compared to the previous year. Andrew Smith, general manager Agribusiness for Rural Bank, said increased wool production was largely driven by the expanding national flock, set to rise by four per cent to 76.6 million head by June 2018. “All states, except for Tasmania, experienced higher production levels, with favourable seasonal conditions boosting fleece weights for producers in the northern regions and Western Australia. “Wool growers are very keen to hold sheep – particularly wethers, with some producers experiencing gains in wool production per head due to shearing on a more frequent basis.”
CEO retires from the Australian Wagyu Association LAST month, chief executive officer of the Australian Wagyu Association Graham Truscott retired said goodbye to the Wagyu industry after steering
the breed through a period of extraordinary growth. A special farewell function in Armidale was supported by beef industry leaders.
The AWA recognised his achievements at the 2017 conference and the AWA board bid him farewell at its June meeting in Melbourne.
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LIVESTOCK
August 2017
DNA testing to drive new era
Southern Farmer, Page 19
THE traditional ewe competition is set to enter the innovation era with the inclusion of DNA Flock IN THE BLOOD: Sheep CRC’s Industry Engagement and Training Coordinator Lu Hogan with a DNA testing device. Profile tests as part of next year’s Doug Bicket Memorial Ewe trial in Parkes. The Cooperative Research Centre for Sheep Industry Innovation (Sheep CRC) will provide DNA profiling for all flocks entering the 2018 competition, currently valued at $800 plus GST per flock, as a means of supporting improved genetic selection decisions by competitors. The Parkes Maiden Ewe Competition organising Ƈ 80 Angus Bulls Ƈ 35 Simmental & Sim Angus bulls committee president Garry O’Brien and sponsor Graeme Ostini, of Ostini Wool, said the initiative was a great way of introducing sheep breeders to new technologies which could drive the businesses forward. “There’s technology out there we need to learn about and put into practice if we’re to improve our flocks and take this industry forward,” Mr Ostini said. “Events like ours are a great opportunity to challenge producers to consider new ideas and try new things as part of a competitive sheep assessment. “After we shear our wool and it goes out into the Want to know more, or for updates Ƈ Send for a catalogue Ƈ Call to discuss how we can assist your cattle program Ƈ world, figures measuring quality are paramount in Check our website: driving sales – we need to be using figures to our Mark & Anna Gubbins: 0428 593 913 or 03 5350 5531Ƈ Max Gubbins: 0439 593 913 advantage at farm level as well as in order to improve 1219 Woorndoo-Chatsworth Rd, Chatsworth, Vic, 3379 Ƈ Email: info@coolana.com www.coolana.com our productivity.”
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WATER
Page 20, Southern Farmer
Aussie’s field day clearance AUSSIE Pump’s Victorian distributors will be showing a wide range of top quality products available at pre-season clearance prices. The huge clearance sales, billed as an Aussie Pumps ‘$1 Million Stock Clearance’, is an opportunity for farmers to buy up big at pre-season prices. “We decided to kick off the new financial year with a phenomenal stock reduction program that will clear the way for new products and bring farmers huge benefits,” said Divisional Manager Brad Farrugia. The range of products being cleared include the world’s best firefighting pump, the Aussie Fire Chief, award winning pressure cleaners, steam cleaners, agricultural spray pumps and Aussie’s great range of ‘Poly Smart’ chemical transfer pumps. “The reputation we’ve built for product integrity, value for money and real performance is rewarded by farmer’s confidence in our product,” said Farrugia. “They can’t believe we’re brave enough to give a five year warranty on pumps like the Poly Smart chemical pump and Aussie Fire Chief,’ he said. Farmers can buy Aussie Honda powered products with confidence knowing that they are getting the best pumps and cleaning equipment with the world’s best petrol drive engines. The wide range of other equipment on display at discounted prices includes Aussie’s breakthrough Fire Chief with Hatz air cooled diesel engine.
FIRESALE: Aussie Pumps are running a $1 million stock clearance.
Billed as the Mercedes Benz of light diesels, the Hatz engine features great refinements and the pump is available at a bargain price of only $2,939. “Our pumps are all carefully engine match-tested with the approval of the engine manufacturers to make sure that farmers get
the absolute best longevity and performance as well as the best quality/price ratio in the business,” said Farrugia. Steam cleaners, built tough for Australian conditions and Aussie pressure cleaners are designed to last decades, not hours. “We’re finding that farmers
have had enough of lightweight, third-world product and are feel they deserve the world’s best,” said Farrugia. Further information on Aussie’s Clearance sale is available from Australian Pump Industries or authorised distributors throughout Australia.
August 2017
Keeping your septic clean IS your septic tank always smelly, or maybe your trenches have become blocked? Are you building your new home in an unsewered area? President of Fuji Clean Australia, Kaichi Watanabe, says his company has the answer. FujiClean develop and manufacture onsite wastewater treatment systems. “Our most popular model, the CE-1500EX is a residential onsite sewerage treatment unit designed for Australian homes with no access to council sewage infrastructure,” said Mr Watanabe. “The CE-1500EX can handle all wastewater from the kitchen, laundry, bathroom and toilet.” He said they achieve high quality treatment by using natural biological processes to digest the waste and clarify the water. This process is known as contact media filtration. The CE-1500EX is a single tank compact unit with low energy consumption. “The system boasts cost savings at each stage,” said Mr Watanabe. “The packaged, lightweight system reduces transport and add-on costs. “A simplified installation process reduces labour costs. “And a reliable treatment process reduces risk of system failure.” The unit also comes with an industry standard warranty of 15 years for the structural tank and two years for electrical components. If you are in the process of building a new home or your system needs upgrading, you can visit their website for more information: www.fujiclean. com.au.
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Email: info@aussiepumps.com.au %TKK OQNCTBS RODBHj B@SHNMR @U@HK@AKD NM VDARHSD VVV @TRRHDOTLOR BNL @T
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FENCING
Page 22, Southern Farmer
August 2017
New fencing a silver lining post bushfire WITH bushfires impacting rural areas in Australia year on year, it is a stark reminder to farmers who’ve been affected in the past, of the need to rebuild immediately. For the Bowran family, of Tallangatta, Victoria, a silver lining from the bushfire that swept through their property in 2014 was the installation of new and durable fencing. The fire burnt 400 hectares of their land and destroyed about 10 kilometres of fencing, including old fencing that Andy’s grandfather had erected in the 1930s and which had been recently repaired. “A lot of the fencing was
work with, and in recent years the wild dogs have caused us a great deal of trouble with the sheep,” he said. Mr Bowran has seen a lot of changes during his more than 60 years on the property, including seeing fencing products come and go. “The old netting fences were good in their day, but now that the fire’s been through and we’ve put the new fencing in, it’s opened my eyes to the benefits of new fencing technology,” he said. “These new fences are easier to repair than the old fences when something does happen,” Mr Bowran said.
timber, which we lost, but we also lost some fences with netting and old steel posts – we couldn’t save any of it unfortunately,” Mr Bowran said. The Bowrans run Hereford and Angus cattle including 700 cows and 120 heifers, as well as 700 sheep. While Mr Bowran enjoys working with sheep and has done so all his life, including as a wool classer and shearer, the family are planning to eventually move out of sheep and increase their cattle numbers. “Sheep are part of my life and I like them, but the older you get the harder they get to
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NEW exclusion fencing technologies have come to the rescue of Barcaldine sheep producer David Counsell as wild dogs and biosecurity risks challenge his family’s sheep operation. Mr Counsell and wife Genevieve, operate ‘Dunblane’ a 15,000 ha Mitchell Grass property west of Barcaldine in Central West Queensland. Their operation encompasses 15,000 Merino sheep along with 500 head of agistment cattle when seasons allow. Wild dogs and livestock diseases have been a serious threat to the Counsell’s business but strategic exclusion fencing has given them confidence to overcome this costly impediment to production. Mr Counsell said without exclusion fencing, his property would be left unviable
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been a factor in keeping out unwanted animals,” Mr Counsell said. “The second breakthrough is the footer or apron attached to the bottom of the fence. “This is attached via a hinge, and its sturdiness stops animals from either side burrowing underneath the fence.” In an industry like agriculture with high input expenses, cost is sometimes sighted as a barrier to producers installing exclusion fences. However, Mr Counsell said it is an investment that reaps financial returns. “An average price for us is $6000-$8000 per kilometre and while that is not necessarily the cheapest fence out there, we wouldn’t have been able to stay in the sheep industry without this level of quality.”
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due to an influx of wild dogs. “Wild dogs are a massive problem for us and unless they are fenced out, I would have to leave the sheep industry, run cattle and become a part time producer. We don’t have the scale to be a viable full time beef property,” Mr Counsell said. “The sheep side of my business would not exist in five years’ time if it weren’t for these fences. “The fences also prevent separate sheep flocks from mixing up and spreading lice as well as other diseases.” Mr Counsell said implementation of several simple yet effective technologies have addressed the problem areas of a fence for controlling feral animals. “Typically, animals target the bottom section of a fence, and Waratah’s strengthening of these problems areas has
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NEWS
August 2017
Southern Farmer, Page 23
All aboard for the wool fashions train ONE of the highlights of this year’s Sheepvention is the Fashion Parades. Sheepvention is renowned for producing top quality wool fashion parades along with promoting wool to future designers. In 2008, budding young fashion design student Nadia Foti entered the Sheepvention Australasian Young Designer Wool Awards. Nadia’s design went on to win the evening wear section, and then BACK IN THE HOOD : World renowned fashion designer Nadia Foti kicked off her career at Sheepvention fashion parades, and now she is back this year as a judge.
the overall Handbury Scholarship. The prize of a summer scholarship to the Instituto Marangoni in Milan, valued at over $10,000, is still offered today. The award Nadia credits with “changing her life” set her on the path to win Top Student at Box Hill Tafe in 2009 and The Textile Institute Student of the Year that same year. In 2010, Nadia took up the Handbury Scholarship in Milan and came back to Australia inspired by what she had learnt. Her passion for race wear was clearly established , when she was a finalist from 2011 to 2013 in the Melbourne Cup Fashions on the
Field Design Awards and eventually her garment was the winner of the Fashions on The Field at the Melbourne Cup in 2014. Nadia is an award winning designer known for her elegant and tastefully dramatic pieces. After working in Melbourne, Milan and London she has returned to Melbourne and launched her clothing label Nadia Foti “With Nadia’s passion for sustainable fashion, experience and support for the Australasian Young Designer Wool Awards Sheepvention was absolutely delighted when Nadia agreed to be one of this year’s judges,” said Peta Anderson, Sheepvention’s event manager.
Farm ownership transition to the next generation SUPPORTING young people wanting to get into agriculture is about more than talking up career options, as the massive ownership transition that has to happen is going to cost billions to fund. According to National Australia Bank (NAB) Agribusiness, successfully moving from our current ageing population of farmers to the next generation is one of the big challenges
facing the industry. The recently released Agricultural Census figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show the average farmer is 56-years-old, up from 54-years-old less than a decade ago. General manager of NAB Agribusiness, Khan Horne, says these days, traditional finance is not necessarily an option for those getting into
the industry for the first time. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re going to pass on the farm to the kids or to strangers, you need an income in retirement, and the person taking over the farm needs money to keep making improvements,” Mr Horne said. “Even children taking over from their parents often need to borrow against their inheritance. Mum and dad might gift
their children a million dollars’ worth of farm, but the parents may need money to live on for the next ten years because they don’t have superannuation or alternate income streams. “Given the high cost of land, we’re seeing a lot more interest in leasing both land and livestock, share farming, the older generation acting as caretakers, and other opportunities to ease into and out of ownership.”
Mr Horne says the next generation also usually comes in with fresh ideas. “As you get older, you tend to become more conservative without even realising. Then someone comes along with the energy of youth and wants to make changes and try new things, which often needs capital to implement. “The key is to start the succession planning process early.
“To provide financial security for everyone, different family members’ needs will have to be put on the table and everyone will need to be honest about what they want the future to look like. “It can also be good to get the next generation involved, such as helping with the books, or giving them a defined role that includes responsibility and decision-making.”
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