Southern Farmer

THE SOUTHERN

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria Published since 1986

FUNDS FOR KOALA CHERRIES STUDY

AUGUST, 2018

www.farmernews.com.au

HAY AND SILAGE PAGE 4

MACHINERY AND IMPLEMENTS

PAGES 16-18

PAGES 20-21

Anvil Angus to say goodbye to stud

AUSTRALIAN SHEEP AND WOOL SHOW: Late last month, thousands flocked to Bendigo for the annual Sheep and Wool Show. Each year, the event gets bigger and better – attracting not only more visitors, but more exhibitors, competitors and industry representatives. Pictured are the Hayward family, with Leah, Jay, Saskia and mum Angela.

For more photos, check out page 23 of this month’s Southern Farmer.

Trust only Bondioli & Pavesi and Bima for

g ting the farmin Proudly suppor nce 1950 community si

STEPHEN Handbury is putting his family first.

Stud principal at Anvil Angus, he has made the toughest decision of his adult life – the stud will disperse, so the family can relocate to Melbourne.

It is a not a decision Stephen, nor his wife Melissa, have made easily; they have poured their heart and soul into running one of the state’s best breeding operations.

But family is more important.

“We need to move back to Melbourne with our son, who has autism,” Stephen explained simply.

“When we put this (the stud) together, dispersal was the last thing on our minds – we envisaged we would have children that would one day take over the operation.

“Our two boys both have autism – Logan, to the point where he couldn’t work on the farm, and Thomas has no interest in it.

“Our daughter will probably end up being a physicist or a chemist, so the reality is there isn’t another generation coming along to take over Anvil.”

For well over a decade, Stephen carved a reputation for Anvil as being a stud that considered more than just numbers when it came to breeding.

Back in September last year, he spoke to the North East Farmer about trips abroad to assess each bull purchased internationally.

“Anyone with a calculator can breed a bull with great numbers – we want to breed a cow that will last 10 years, have at least eight calves without issue, and produce a quality line,” he said at the time.

In a market saturated with estimated birth values, weight

“The complete agricultural driveline solution”

When we put this (the stud) together, dispersal was the last thing on our minds – we envisaged we would have children that would one day take over the operation.”

- STEPHEN HANDBURY, ANVIL ANGUS percentages and marble scores, Mr Handbury said the Anvil point of difference was to develop strong maternal characteristics.

“A lot of bulls that look good on paper don’t look good in the flesh,” he said.

“Numbers are easy to produce, and easy to market – but the weight of a calf doesn’t matter much if there is poor udder attachment.”

Now, that same breeding ethos will be offered to the marketplace when Anvil holds its final spring bull sale.

In November, the stud will hold a dispersal sale – and from there, operate as a commercial enterprise.

“It takes a huge amount of time to run a stud – compared to a commercial operation – and something has to give,” Stephen said.

“It’s about choosing the right time to step away – and now is the right time.”

More information about the commercial sale will be posted on the Anvil Angus website as the date draws nearer – go to www.anvilangus. com.au to stay up to date.

FACTORY 3, 16-20 DINGLEY AVE., DANDENONG 3175

PH. (03) 9794 5889 FAX (03) 9794 0272

Email: richard@bypy.com.au Web: www.bypy.com.au For emergency A/H service call (03) 9794 5889

t/37d06015-0117

Call the professionals today for on the spot service, genuine parts and advice PTY LTD

NEWS

Page 2, Southern Farmer

August 2018

Over-herd:

Home-grown farm mutual launched

NEWS IN BRIEF

AUSTRALIA’S first farmer-grown mutual fund has been launched, after Farmers Mutual Ltd (FML) appointed its inaugural advisory committee last month.

The committee will act as farmer liaison with the board to shape existing protection products, share risk mitigation information and help develop new products.

FML is now accepting memberships and offering fire and hail crop protection.

It will follow up with protection for general farming assets in the coming months.

Based in Sydney, FML is a nationally focused not-for-profit fund formed between Australian farmers, industry groups and experts in the agricultural insurance industry.

It is led by agri-insurance specialist Alex Cohn as its chief executive officer.

FARMERS in Gippsland could easily store many tonnes of CO2 per hectare per year in their soil,” former president of International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements, Andrew Leu, speaking in Traralgon last month about farmers’ ability to make a dent in global carbon emissions.

ON SALE NOW: The Gippsland Jersey Calendar contains real stories of local farmers dealing with heartache, as well as a full list of health professionals. Each month, the Southern Farmer will feature a story from within its pages.

For more information on where to buy the calendar, go to www.gippslandjersey.com.au. If you need to speak to someone, contact Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

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: farmernews.com.au Advertising:

THIS story is re-printed with permission from the Gippsland Jersey Calendar.

Juliette Mellon Phone (03) 5733 1109 jmellon@nemedia.com.au

Editorial:

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

Senior Journalist

Rhyll McCormack Phone 5733 1107 rmccormack@nemedia.com.au

Livestock David Rizzoli Coordinator: Phone (03) 5341 7870 Pre-Press Coordinator

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

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

YOUR

ON THE

SPOT

TEAM

t/05d08451-v2/5016

Juliette MELLON ADVERTISING MANAGER

Jarrah Loh EDITORIAL

Noelene ALLAN PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Rhyll McCormack SENIOR JOURNALIST

Superheros wear gumboots, not capes IMOGEN the super-farmer.

Well, that’s how we like to think of her.

Currently heavily pregnant with her first child at 27 years of age, working full time on a dairy farm, and having overcome great mental health challenges, Imogen refers to the dairy industry as her personal life saver.

Although not from farming roots, Imogen discovered a true love for the life that dairy farming brings after becoming burnt out in her previous retail management position.

She finds the change from dealing with customers to working with the animals, in the outdoors and in a physically challenging role, more fulfilling.

She’s discovered a resourcefulness and resilience she didn’t know she had.

Dairy farming, coupled with the determination to get medical support to overcome her diagnosed depression and anxiety, has seen her enjoying the sunrises again.

“Every day is different – the sun will come up, keep trying,” Imogen said.

“When I’ve had hard times, I look forward to the next sunrise.

“Don’t be afraid to talk about your problems.”

Milking for Mental Health

THE manager told me they’d poisoned them over 2.5 years, and they’d piled up about 400,” an anonymous farmer said of an incident near Tubbut, on the New South Wales border, where at least 137 wedge tailed eagles have been poisoned.

AGRICULTURE’S overheated land and water markets are coming off the boil, as commodity prices plateau, banks move to raise interest rates and capital gains subside,” wrote Peter Hunt from the Weekly Times last month, warning that the agricultural boom was over.

THEY have got no reserves and do not want to go into debt again. It’s a bit sad for an industry that was once good,” Yarragon dairy farmer, Frank Templeton, on the exodus of Gippsland dairy farmers from the industry.

SUPERHEROS WEAR GUMBOOTS: Imogen is a first generation dairy farmer, and credits her dairy herd as being one of the reasons she gets up every morning.

PHOTO: Petite Visuals

Imogen says that while some days you might venture down to her dairy shed and find her crying while she milks, the need to be responsible for the animals that depend on her drives her onwards.

Not all superheros wear capes, some wear gumboots.

Despite the stigma that is still attached to mental illness always find time to stop and seek help.

2018 holds many challenges and changes for Imogen and her partner, but with her cape on and her gumboots close by, she knows the days ahead will be bright.

THE last two years we’ve been getting less than the Kiwis, and this season they’re (Fonterra) forecasting $NZ7/kg of milk solids ($A6.48), while we’re being told the maximum close will be about $5.85 to $6.20 max,” Farmer Power spokesman, Alex Robertson, on news that New Zealand dairy farmers would be paid higher prices by Fonterra for the third year running.

WHITTLESEA Leaf, Twig PRODUCE & Stick Rake ABN 58 084 899 738

For Ride on Mowers

31 Forest Street, Whittlesea STOCKFEED - FARM & FENCING SUPPLIES

PHONE www.whittleseaproduce.com.au

t/37d06023/0117

(03) 9716 2459

Rake up those leaves

1800 819 493

sales@stumpmansales.com

www.stumpmansales.com

NEWS

August 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 3

Prediction - cattle prices may reach new heights Ű

Southern Victorian producers still waiting on rain

ON THE RISE: An industry expert predicts cattle prices will hit their lowest in the current cycle this October, before rebounding to new heights over the next four years.

With that supply now tipped to peter out, Mr Sergeant said the next few weeks would be telling.

“Around this region we are wiltering out of our fat cattle because we are going through a tough winter - animals are just holding their own, they aren’t putting any weight on, and (so) it’s getting too cold for our fat cattle to be good enough,” he said.

With spring just weeks away, Mr Sergeant said it was likely the market would hold out longer than usual – until October – before falling slightly short term.

“A price decline is common going into spring because of the volume increase,” he said.

“The general rule of thumb is to get rid of your fat cattle before Melbourne Show weekend.

“In late September early October we often see a price decline because the Riverina and New England cattle come out of New South Wales.”

Grant Daniell is livestock agent with Charles Stewart in Ballarat, and said steers at the local saleyards (in late July) were making $3.23kg, weaner steers were hovering around $2.90kg and killable heifers were going for $2.80kg.

“We had a good line of cows and calves go through at $2000 (per unit), and prices tapered back from there,” he said.

“There is some excellent quality at the moment.”

Mr Daniell said overall prices were firm to up, with heifers the exception.

“We are seeing really good opportunities being missed out on because of the feed,” he said.

“There are a lot of good heifers going for kill because there isn’t feed, and no one wants growing steers because it just costs too much to grow them out.”

Predicting the market to remain firm, Mr Daniell said spring should see an increase in positive attitudes – and hopefully prices.

“Our season around here is green dry – we don’t need a wet winter, we need a wet spring; so we are just waiting for rain,” he said.

z Record lamb sales THE Ballarat saleyards set what is thought to be a new state record when lambs sold for more than $270/head last month. At the Wagga Wagga saleyards prices tipped more than $280. z New jobs created HW Greenham and Sons Gippsland has begun processing its new range of premium grass-fed beef following the completion of a major capital works program.

More than 100 new jobs have been created, and the company hopes to double processing to 350 cattle a day by the end of the year. z Dairy still on market COOMBOONA Dairies, near Shepparton, is still on the market after the business went into voluntary liquidation earlier this year.

Owned by retailer Harvey Norman and businessman Alex Arena, the property has failed to secure a buyer so far. z Better quality produce CARDINIA Shire’s ag sector will soon be transporting better quality produce to market, after it was announced $90,000 will be spent sealing up the last remaining section of Island Road in Koo Wee Rup. Koo Wee Rup and the adjoining Dalmore area produces most of Victoria’s asparagus. More than 7500 tonnes of produce is grown, picked and transported to market each season, with over 60 per cent exported to Asia. z Only Aussie grown COLES has announced they will only sell Australian

grown lemons in their stores from now on. z Farmer fees frozen THE Wellington Shire has frozen fees for farmers selling cattle at the Gippsland Regional Livestock Exchange. The fees will remain unchanged for the new financial year. z Proposal to remove dates IT has been proposed that best-before dates should be removed from packaging in a bid to reduce food wastage.

The Produce Marketing Association has called for a national debate on the topic. z Lots of scalps handed in MORE than 600,000 fox scalps and 21,600 wild dog pelts have been handed in since the bounty was first introduced seven years ago. z Pest carrying flowers A RECENTLY released Federal Government audit has found that half of the flowers imported into Australia have been found to be carrying pests that could potentially pose a risk to local agricultural industries. z Matt is new president MANSFIELD based Matt Mahoney has been announced as the new Grassland Society of Southern Australia president.

Dr Mahoney has been a member of the society since he left university and says it has a big role in helping farmers be productive and profitable. His goal, while president, is for the society to reinvent itself to grow its membership base.

%8//$ 352'8&( )$50 6833/,(6 6$''/(5< 672&.)(('6 672&.<$5'6 5281' <$5'6 6$''/(5< 635$<,1* (48,30(17 9(7 6833/,(6 )(('(5 '5,1.(56 )$50 0$&+,1(5< (/(&75,& )(1&,1* *,9( 86 $ 75< '(/,9(5< 6(59,&( $9$,/$%/( +8*( 5$1*( 2) 678%%(1 6$''/(6 $&&(6625,(6 ,1 672&. ),77,1*6 75,$/6 0267 :(/&20(

94a Bourke St, Bulla - 5 minutes from Tullamarine Airport

PHONE 03 9307 1441

WWW.BULLAPRODUCE.COM.AU sales@bullaproduce.com.au

t/37d06049-v3/1017

“SHOULD the drought get worse and continue into next year, then it is foreseeable that when good rains come and prices rebound the highs of 725c/kg CW of October 2016 could be surpassed in the 2020-2022 period.”

So said beef industry analyst, Simon Quilty, late last month.

Mr Quilty believes the cattle market will hit its lowest point this October – give or take a month – and then will begin to make ground, or at the very least, stabilise.

“It would not be unfair to think that Australian cattle prices would trade lower next year if the drought worsens - I do not believe this will occur, but instead is likely after October to trade sideways or even higher due to the old adage ‘you can only kill them once’,” Mr Quilty said.

Mr Quilty is “confident” that within the next four years, cattle records will tumble as prices skyrocket due to strong global beef prices.

Despite the positive market prediction, producers are struggling for feed day-to-day as they nurse stock through the dry winter.

“There is a lot of pressure coming from north of the border,” Elders Livestock agent, Ryan Sergeant, said.

“NSW is having a significant impact on the southern markets - the negative pressure is putting a lot of extra pressure on down here.”

Mr Sergeant works from Mansfield through to Alexandra and Glenburn and down into the Yarra Valley.

He said local cattle were selling well – and to good prices – due to a limited number of fat animals on the market.

“Markets are generally dearer, but that’s because the demand has increased for quality cattle; the supply just isn’t there,” Mr Sergeant said.

NEWS IN BRIEF

NEWS

Page 4, Southern Farmer

August 2018

Cherry research into full product utilisation

By SAM ROUGET

CHERRIES: Cousins (from left) Michael and Simon Rouget own and operate Koala Cherries, a third generation cherry growing, packing and marketing business in Yarck.

PHOTO: Michelle Beatty

Started back in 1944, the family ďŹ rst established an orchard at Wandin, before the family re-located to Yarck in the 1980s seeking a drier, more consistent climate.

So far, Koala Cherries has developed a line of liqueur, ice-cream, chutney, sauce

and jam â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but with an estimated 300 - 500 tonnes wasted annually, would like to further explore full-utilisation of the cherry product. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re pleased to be looking for other options â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d feel even better if we can go forward with some alternatives

that reduce our waste,â&#x20AC;? Simon said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m delighted to see such a diverse mix of businesses awarded vouchers in the ďŹ rst round of the program,â&#x20AC;? Will Dalton, from Agriculture Victoria, said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The vouchers were valued

between $5000 and $50,000 and in many ways the list of successful applicants read like a tasting plate of food innovation; everything from native ingredients to milk, to cherries and lamb. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exciting to see local businesses take up the op-

CALL MARK $&( 0$&+,1(5< +286( 37< /7' PH: 0410 059 136 PH: (03) 9761 7882

,1 672&. )25 ,00(',$7( '(/,9(5< $8675$/,$ :,'(

$62,900.00

+GST

AL400 13T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER NEW ACE AL400 13T Articulated Wheel Loader 7KH 0267 32:(5)8/ :KHHO /RDGHU LQ LWV FODVV b Ě˝ GENUINE Cummins 6BTA5.9-C180 - 180HP 750nm Ě˝ 4000kg Capacity Ě˝ 13000kg Operating Weight Ě˝ Joystick Pilot Control Ě˝ Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch Ě˝ A/C & Heated ROPS Safety Cab Ě˝ Premium Stereo System Ě˝ Reverse Camera Ě˝ 2.0m3 GP Bucket Ě˝ FREE fork attachment Ě˝ FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre Ě˝ Extended loadframe - 3200mm dump height Ě˝ Auto Level & Auto Float system Ě˝ Fitted with Remote 3rd valve

$51,900.00

New ACE AL350 11T Articulated Wheel Loader

Ě˝ Extended Load-Frame Ě˝ GENUINE Cummins 6BT3.9-C130 Ě˝ 3500kg Lift Capacity Ě˝ 3400mm Dump Height Ě˝ 4000mm Pin Height Ě˝ 11000kg Operating Weight Ě˝ Joystick Pilot Control Ě˝ SDLG Pumps & Valves Ě˝ Joystick Activated Transmission Shuttle Ě˝ )XOO +\GUDXOLF 4XLFN +LWFK b Ě˝ $ & +HDWHG 5236 )236 7236 &DE b Ě˝ $0 )0 6WHUHR ZLWK 86% b Ě˝ Reverse Camera with LEDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Ě˝ P *3 %XFNHWb Ě˝ FREE Quick-Hitch Ě˝ FREE LQ EXFNHWb Ě˝ FREE IRUN DWWDFKPHQWb Ě˝ FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre.

Fitted with Remote Hydraulic 3rd valve - FULL FLOW

E-Stops and Full Mine Spec inc Suppression & Emission Systems available on request.

3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE. 2 YEARS CUMMINS ENGINE WARRANTY PROVIDED

BY CUMMINS AUSTRALIA

FINANCE AVAILABLE **TO APPROVED PURCHASES

MARK@ACEMH.COM.AU WWW.ACEMH.COM.AU 11 ROYAN PLACE BAYSWATER NORTH VIC 3153 ABN:13147978097

$33,900.00

+GST

$23,900.00

+GST

+GST

AL270 6.9T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER

AL200 5.2T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER

NEW ACE AL270 6.9T Articulated Wheel Loader

NEW ACE AL200 5.2T Articulated Wheel Loader

Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝

GENUINE Cummins 4BT3.9-C100 2700kg Capacity 6900kg Operating Weight Joystick Pilot Control SDLG Pumps & Valves Joystick Activated Transmission Shuttle Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch A/C & Heated ROPS,FOPS, TOPS Cab AM/FM Stereo with USB Reverse Camera with LEDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1.4m3 GP Bucket FREE 4 in 1 bucket FREE fork attachment FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre Fitted with Remote Hydraulic 3rd valve - FULL FLOW

Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝ Ě˝

Joystick Activated Transmission Shuttle 2000kg Capacity 5200kg Operating Weight Joystick Pilot Control 86HP Turbo Diesel )XOO +\GUDXOLF 4XLFN +LWFKb $ & +HDWHG 5236 6DIHW\ &DE b AM/FM Stereo System with USB 5HYHUVH &DPHUDb 1.0m3 GP Bucket FREE 4 in 1 bucket FREE fork attachment FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre )LWWHG ZLWK 5HPRWH +\GUDXOLF UG YDOYH b

Digital Scales also available.

3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE.

3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE. 2 YEARS CUMMINS ENGINE WARRANTY PROVIDED

BY CUMMINS AUSTRALIA

BETTER QUALITY, BETTER VALUE, BETTER SUPPORT

j/37d06697/23-18

KOALA Cherries are looking at ways to capitalise on product wastage after the State Government provided $10,000 to invest in an early stage feasibility study.

Currently, cherry wastage is used as cattle feed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but investigations will begin into whether it can be turned into a product that will add value to the business.

Simon Rouget, owner and production manager at Koala Cherries, said the funding injection would allow the company to outsource the research. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The voucher we received will be spent on engaging Beanstalk AgTech to investigate options for waste fruit,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Waste fruit is too damaged to sell as fresh fruit but it is still good enough to be put to other uses. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re time poor, so when we saw the opportunity to have someone else do research for us, we jumped at it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disappointing to have to throw out fruit when we could be selling it as another product.â&#x20AC;?

Koala Cherries is based in Yarck, two hours north east of Melbourne.

Today, Simon Rouget â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in conjunction with his cousin Michael - operates the third generation cherry growing, packing and marketing business.

portunity to innovate and get the support they need to take new products to market and in doing so, create more jobs across regional Victoria.â&#x20AC;?

Grants under round two, of up to $50,000, are currently available through the Victorian Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Boost Your Business voucher program under the Food Innovation stream, with the ďŹ rst round attracting signiďŹ cant interest.

Mr Dalton said the Food Innovation Vouchers program prioritised businesses in the food supply chain and made up to $10,000 available for early stage feasibility and testing, and up to $50,000 for process innovation, product development, and research and development. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The vouchers provide funding for businesses to develop new products, improve business processes and systems, identify new export markets, undertake research and development, and gain certiďŹ cation,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In round two, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also offering a new Food Innovation Voucher aimed at helping businesses prepare for and attract investment.â&#x20AC;?

Boost Your Business vouchers are also available in Advanced Manufacturing, Asia Gateway and Social Enterprise Capability, Defence, Aerospace and Security, and Victoria-Israel Innovation.

For more information visit business.vic.gov.au/foodinnovation or call 132 215.

NEWS

August 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 5

Record sheep prices to remain until summer IT has been the best year on record for sheep producers, and the stellar season shows no sign of slowing with a recent report predicting prices to remain stable until summer.

A tightening supply in June has caused the Eastern States Trade Lamb Indicator to reach a record high of 712c/kg, with lambs in Ballarat selling for an astounding $267 last month.

According to Rural Bank’s Australian Lamb and Sheep Meat Annual Review 2018, prices will remain high for at least another few months.

“The Australian sheep industry has had an extraordinary run over the last few years, and with continued and robust global demand supporting prices, we expect to see increased opportunity for our sheep meat producers,” Simon Dundon, general manager of sales and distribution for Rural Bank, said.

“Drier conditions in the first six months of 2018 pushed slaughter rates higher and placed downward pressure on prices, but with demand remaining strong, prices have only decreased slightly under the weight of this extra supply.

“The outlook for our sheep industry remains positive, although producers will be hoping for better seasonal conditions in the second half of 2018 to allow for flock expansion, and the opportunity to capitalise on the ongoing increased demand from export markets.”

The price of lamb and mutton exported in January to April 2018

HIGH AND HIGHER: Lamb prices hit record levels last month, and the market shows no signs of slowing over the next few weeks – so says Simon Dundon (inset), general manager of sales and distribution for Rural Bank.

drier than average conditions have forced some producers to purchase more feed or consider turning-off stock, rather than increasing flocks to benefit from these historically high prices.

Live sheep exports - which remain in the media spotlight - are a considerable part of the industry, contributing $249 million and accounting for 31 per cent of Western Australia’s sheep and lamb offtake in 2017.

increased by five and 3.5 per cent respectively, due to increased slaughter rates and higher export volumes.

This follows strong export volume growth in 2017 which saw the industry’s value rise by $622 million to reach $3.7 billion.

Strong demand from the US, China and the Middle East continues to support higher prices.

While the outlook for 2018 remains positive for sheep producers,

The Australian Lamb and Sheep Meat Annual Review – developed

by Rural Bank’s Ag Answers division – provides producers and industry with a concise analysis on lamb, mutton and wool production, seasonal conditions, prices and demand in Australia and the international market.

The full Australian Lamb and Sheep Meat Annual Review can be read at www.ruralbank.com.au/sheep.

Genomic test price reduction SHEEP breeders will be able to enjoy cheaper genomic testing of their flock after it was announced the price of the Sheep Genomic Test will be reduced from $35 per animal, to $27 (plus GST) when collected using a tissue sampling unit.

The lower price is made possible through a combination of new developments that build efficiencies, spear-headed by a new online ordering system at www.sheepdna.com. au to make purchasing and processing of orders quicker and easier for producers, and supported by new DNA testing technologies, an Australianbased laboratory and increasing test numbers.

It is available for the four major breeds – Merino, Poll Dorset, White Suffolk and Border Leicester.

Typically, breeders are recommended to test about 20 per cent of their breeding flock to maximise the benefits on offer from the test.

Data from Sheep Genetics shows that for a number of Merino flocks that started using genomic information when it was first introduced in 2011, the rate of genetic gain based on the Merino Plus index has increased by between 35 per cent and 49 per cent, and for Terminal flocks the increase has been between 11 per cent for the Carcase Plus index to over 45 per cent when including eating quality traits.

LINKAGE SPRAYERS

BEST IN IT’S CLASS EVERYTIME 20 PAGE

NEW

DON’T LET WEEDS OVERRUN YOUR PASTURE - CONTROL THEM NOW!

CATALOGUE OUT NOW

Silvan is a leader in the design of three point linkage sprayers and the largest Australasian manufacturer of best-in-class linkage sprayers and related machinery.

With over fifty years experience, we can advise a sprayer to match your tractor and application, whether for one hectare or one thousand.

PasturePaks From

5,489

$

Insects and fungi can restrict a plant’s growth, whilst weeds compete for water and nutrients reducing pasture production. The Silvan series of three point linkage sprayers are ideal for the management of harmful pests that impact farm productivity.

Silvan’s range of sprayers can be equipped to suit herbicide, insecticide and fungicide applications in a range of crops including orchards, vineyards, vegetables, sugar cane and pasture production. With an extensive range of fully galvanised booms, hose reels and control options, you can customise to your application.

EconoPaks From

4,180

$ Pictured: 600L PasturePak with 8m boom

Call 1300 SILVAN (745 826) or visit silvan.com.au for more information or to find your nearest dealer

Pictured: 400L EconoPak with 6m boom

The Spraying Specialists

NEWS

Page 6, Southern Farmer

CONCRETE PRODUCTS Farming, Industrial

$35 million pledged for new research projects

and Domestic

In Business 30 years

Concrete Tanks & Troughs.

Cattle ramps, grids, troughs.

Industrial interceptors, silt traps, stormwater pits.

Domestic septics, treatment plants, pump wells, distribution pits.

Formerly Munckhof Concrete Products

info@statewideconcreteproducts.com.au www.statewideconcreteproducts.com.au

STATEWIDE CONCRETE PRODUCTS

22 Kanowna St, Hastings 3915.

Ph.(03) 5979 3349. Fax (03) 5979 1504 j/05d08831/19-16

49

August 2018

th

SOME $35 million will be spent over the next five years looking at ways for farmers to get the most out of their livelihood.

From expanding feed base options to increasing feed efficiency in livestock, the 11 new research projects were announced last month under the Livestock Productivity Partnership (LPP).

The LPP is a collaborative research and development (R&D) partnership involving MLA Donor Company (MDC), NSW Department of Primary Industries, University of New England and the CSIRO. The 11 R&D projects include: z dual-purpose crops for lamb production in northern NSW; z improving the use of forage brassicas in mixed farming systems; z novel dual purpose perennial cereals for grazing;

z increasing livestock production by integrating tropical pastures into farming systems; z extending the boundaries of legume adaptation through better soil management in high rainfall zones; z phosphorus management and requirements of tropical legume pasture swards; z perennial pasture and forage combinations to extend summer feed in southern NSW; z optimising nutritional supplement use in Australia’s northern beef industry; z improving profit from pasture through increased feed efficiency; z revise Australian feeding standards to better achieve product specifications and improve ruminant efficiency; and z developing a framework for tactical decision making to address feed deficits.

ANNUAL

Wandin Silvan FIELD DAYS

Friday 12th & Saturday 13th October, 2018 at Wandin East Recreation Reserve.

Featuring Demonstrations, Information and Displays of Horticultural Products & Services and the latest in Farm Machinery.

Enquiries and New Exhibitors Welcome. Phone: 0429 428 537

Enquiries and New Exhibitors Welcome.

Phone: 0429 428 537

info@wandinsilvanfielddays.com.au

info@wandinsilvanfielddays.com.au

49t h y ea r s it in w o N

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 37D06813/3218

A LIFETIME OF LOVE: Mary Walsh spent four decades farming potatoes in Trentham, and looks back on the life of a farmer’s wife. She is pictured with husband Tom (dec).

Potatoes and love in volcanic soil Mary Walsh looks back on 40 years as a Trentham farmer Ű

IN a lilting Irish accent, Mary Walsh talks about her life as a farmer’s wife.

There is no feminist barrow to push, no demands that she worked as hard as her husband Tom – although having raised nine children, there is no doubt she has.

Instead, when Mary talks about the family farm in Trentham, she recalls the hours she spent playing with her brood, the time spent bottle-feeding lambs and the countless afternoons bent over the vegetable patch.

And potatoes – there has always been potatoes.

“What kind of an Irish woman would I be if we didn’t grow potatoes?” Mary told the Southern Farmer recently.

“My mother and father would have been so disappointed if we didn’t plant a few.”

Mary grew up on a potato farm in Ireland, moving to Kyneton to work as a nurse at the local hospital in 1958.

Lured by the promise of wide open spaces and sun, Mary found herself entranced by a young Tom Walsh.

“He was looking for a wife,”

she jokes, “he was a bachelor and a farmer, and he needed a woman at home.”

Although she is 85, Mary is still as sharp as a tack.

Living on the same farm for the last 40 years, she has grown roots in the rich Australian soil.

Despite her parents’ disapproval that she married “an Australian farming boy” Mary has become as much an Aussie as anyone else.

Over the years, she helped Tom grow, diversify and expand their holding – until the property hit 700 productive acres.

Running sheep, cattle and rotational crops, the family have always taken pride in ethically farming their produce.

The potatoes, though, were Mary’s favourite.

Sitting on volcanic soil at 700 metres, the season can run up to six months in Trentham – more than almost anywhere else in the state.

In the 1960s, the farm produced around four tonnes per planted acre – by the 1970s, this had increased to 12 tonnes.

Today, the Trentham com-

PX1052 CAB & 4IN1 LOADER 4 YEAR WA R R A NT Y ^

munity has such a love of potatoes that there is an annual “spudfest” held in May. “We love our potatoes around here,” Mary said.

Tom passed away earlier this year, and every day Mary misses the man who convinced her to stay in Australia.

“He was a real farmer, the kind you don’t get anymore – he could look out the kitchen window and tell you how heavy the lambs in the paddock were.”

Like many rural women, Mary deflects praise from herself.

She would rather talk about the farm, about Tom, or about her children and their success.

But there is no doubt she is the backbone of the family.

After many years on the land, Mary is still farming – slower perhaps than she used to, but out among the lambs each and every day.

“Our son runs the farm now – and I have 21 grandchildren – so I have plenty to keep me busy,” Mary said.

“But this is my home; I made Australia, and Trentham, my home – I’ll stay here for as long as I can.”

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL DEALER AGPOWER 465 Maroondah Highway, LILYDALE 03 9739 5006

0.99% P.A.

OVER 3 YEARS PX1052 CAB TRACTORS**

105hp Perkins diesel engine

+ FREE KZ2242 MOWER WORTH 4,595 INC GST

$

PX1052 CAB & 4IN1 LOADER

76,995*

$

INC GST

*Pricing ex Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth warehouses. Pre-delivery and freight charges may apply. **0.99%p.a. applicable to new Kioti PX & RX tractor models only based on minimum 30% deposit and monthly repayments over 3 years with GST component repaid within 4 months. Alternative special finance package rates, terms and structures are also available up to 5 years. Fees and lending conditions apply to approved ABN holders.

PFG Credit is not provided or intended for personal, domestic or household purposes. PFG Credit is a division of De Lage Landen Pty Limited ABN 20 101 692 040. Offers expire 30 October 2018.

Pricing available while stocks last. ^24 months 1500 hours = Full Warranty. 48 months 2000 hours = Powertrain Warranty

Power Fwd/Rev shuttle 32x32 Transmission

GISBORNE POWER PRODUCTS 42 Barry Road, NEW GISBORNE 03 5428 8844 KV EQUIPMENT 221 Midland Highway, EPSOM  BENDIGO 03 5445 6999

4WD with Diff Lock Power steering

L & G SHEPPARD 88 Piper St, KYNETON 03 5422 1821

Radial tyres Hydraulic push button Hi/Lo

THE TRACTOR COMPANY 49 Bald Hill Road, PAKENHAM 0497 009 163

NEWS

August 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 7

Rural commodities wrap released THE National Australia Bank (NAB) Rural Commodities Index rose 1.4 per cent in June, driven largely by impressive wool, lamb and cotton prices.

The latest NAB Rural Commodities Wrap shows that wool and sheep meat remain the star performers, although the Eastern Market Indicator dropped below 2000c/kg late last month.

Meanwhile, trade lamb prices jumped eight per cent in June.

NAB agribusiness economist, Phin Ziebell, said that while wool prices dropped last week, wool growers remain generally confident helped by trade lambs continuing to bolster prices.

“Although prices have eased somewhat, largely reflecting Chinese currency depreciation, the industry remains strong.

“While there could be some risk to prices if buyers decide to substitute to other fibres for cost reasons or the US-China trade dispute widens, we have yet to see any major jitters,” Mr Ziebell said.

“Lamb was the second strongest performer in the NAB Rural Commodities Index in June, up eight per cent to 721c/kg on the back of the usual winter shortage and strong fundamentals.”

Cotton prices have continued trending higher, with the Cotlook A index averaging $652/bale in June.

ECONOMIST: Phin Ziebell, NAB agribusiness economist, said overall farmer confidence was riding high after the release of the Rural Commodities Index.

Production is expected to be lower in 2018-19, with the latest ABARES forecast pointing to a 21 per cent fall due to lower water storage levels and reduced plantings.

Despite recent rain across parts of New South Wales, southern Queensland and the Western Australian wheat belt bringing welcome relief for winter crops, the predicted persistence of tough seasonal conditions will likely

see a continuation of lower cattle prices and reduced plantings in northern New South Wales and Queensland.

“Local seasonal conditions continue to have an impact on grain prices, which remain at a significant premium compared to international benchmarks,” Mr Ziebell said.

“We expect these premiums to remain for some time, unless the season markedly improves.

“While dry conditions continue to impact cattle prices, which remain weak on the back of high female slaughter numbers, the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) has tipped back above 500c/kg after bottoming out at 465c/kg at the end of May, showing a resilience in the market that surpassed our expectations.

“Overall, persistent dry conditions continue to be the main force behind grain and cattle prices, with domestic grain premiums likely to remain and cattle prices likely to stay suppressed.”

The Bureau of Meteorology’s latest three month outlook forecasts only Tasmania and Western Australia to receive average rainfall, with much of New South Wales, northern Victoria, and parts of coastal Queensland rated at a less than 30 per cent chance of exceeding average rainfall.

Opening milk prices in the

upper $5/kgms range are the best they have been in some time, however, seasonal conditions remain challenging and are likely to be compounded by high domestic grain and water prices.

The AUD has been volatile, and lower overall, however, it is predicted to be back in the mid-70s range towards the end of 2018.

To read the full report, go to https://bit.ly/2KHvwTH.

The wholesale pork price indicator fell 2.6 per cent in June in what was the fourth consecutive month of decline, due largely to high domestic supply and ongoing import competition.

St Leger Machinery Specialists in Second Hand Farm Machinery PRESTON RD, RIPPLEBROOK (via Drouin) Ph 5627 6317 Fax 5627 6385

TRACTORS

DAVID BROWN 25D, rops, 3pl.

DAVID BROWN 880,rops canopy, one owner.

DEUTZ 5206, rops canopy, 1800 genuine hrs, one owner.

DEUTZ 140hp, 2wd, a/c cab,3pl, remotes.

FORD 2600, rops canopy, low hours, like new.

FORD 4000, front fork, rops, pwr steer, remotes.

FORD TW15, FWA, a/c cab, 3pl, 143hp.

ISEKI 5000, 2wd, rops, pwr steer.

JOHN DEERE, 4wd, a/c cab, articulated, equal wheeler, 275hp.

LEYAND 253, pwr steer, rops.

MASSEY FERGUSON 35X, full reco, rops, like new.

MASSEY FERGUSON 135, full reco, rops, like new.

MASSEY FERGUSON 148, pwr steer, rops canopy, restored like new. Ideal tractor Trek.

MASSEY FERGUSON 240, rops, pwr steer, good tyres.

MASSEY FERGUSON 250, rops, pwr steer.....in soon.

MASSEY FERGUSON 265, rops, tidy unit, 62hp.

MASSEY FERGUSON 275, FEL, rops canopy, pwr steer....in soon.

MASSEY FERGUSON 6170, FWA, a/c cab, good tyres, 110hp.

IMPLEMENTS

Lely 3mtr power harrows with crumble roller Berends 8ft heavy duty grader blade 5 tyne scarifier, Lincoln Tractor pack welder, rotary drainer, post rammer, hyd bale spike, hyd bale feeder, Howard Flexigrab soft hands, Napier disc plow, Massey 3pl discs, single tyne ripper, 3pl log splitter, 4-7ft grader blades, 4-8ft slashers, 3pl super spreader.

TYRES

Taking orders for new 13.6x32 , 12.4x28, and 14.9x28.

CULTIVATION

Celli 5ft rotary hoe 18 plate Shearer wheeld offset discs 24 plate Connor Shea trailing discs 24 plate Grizzly wheeled offset discs 10 row Connor Shea 3pl disc seeder 14 row Connor Shea 3pl tyne seeder 17 row Agro Plow Agro Drill.

VINTAGE

Silver King 3 wheeled tractor.

Fordson P6 Perkins, 3pl.

WANTED

55 to 70 HP Massey Ferguson 4wd tractor with cab.

37d06029-v20/3218

Trade-ins accepted. Delivery and finance easily arranged.

Tractor with bucket TG6490 47 HP 4x4 Power Shuttle 4 IN 1 bucket

$36,990 $34,900 $36,490 INC GST INC GST INC GST

ce over 0% Finan ith 3 years w it * s o p e d 20% ondition

Tractor with Mower deck GC1705 22.5 HP 4x4 Hydro 60” deck

$15,490 $16,490 $15,990 INC GST INC GST

dC *Terms an t to credit ec apply, subj approval

Ride-on Mower Tractor

TG6370 36HP HP TG6400 40HP SF370 37 4x4 Power Shuttle 4X44x4 Hydro trans Hydro FEL 72”optional deck

$25,750 $22,490 $22,900 INC GST INC GST INC GST

Tractor with bucket GC1715 24.5 HP 4x4 Hydro 4 IN 1 bucket

$19,750 $20,990 $20,490 INC GST INC GST

Offerends ends31st 31stof August or2017 whileorstocks last Offer August while stocks last!

SALES, SPARES & SERVICE 249-251 Monbulk Road, Silvan Victoria 3795 Phone: (03) 9737 9255 Email: sales@darmacag.com.au Website: www.darmacag.com.au

NEWS

Page 8, Southern Farmer

August 2018

Welcome rains means work for Ag Vic researchers

LAST TO MILK, LAST TO FEED: Ag Vic researchers are conducting a variety of studies, one of which looks at the impacts of being the last cow to be milked, and therefore the last to return to pasture, and what that means for feed intake and productivity.

Solar Powered

Automatic

Gate Openers

“Have G at We’ll op e? en”

t/37d06017/0117

www.solartronics.com.au THE EFFECTIVE & PROVEN ANIMAL & BIRD REPELLENT YOU CAN RELY ON

REGISTERED FOR USE AGAINST ALL ANIMALS & BIRDS 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. ®

AT long last, in June, Agriculture Victoria researchers finally had enough pasture on the Ellinbank research farm to complete what was supposed to be an autumn experiment.

An experiment using 40 cows was conducted as part of the Smart Feeding theme within the new Dairy Feedbase program.

The experiment was led

by Dr Marlie Wright and had two main aims: the first was to measure the effect of time away from pasture on grazing behaviour and dry matter intake.

The second was to measure the change in the availability and quality of pasture as grazing progressed, to understand the differences in the feed available to the first and last cows back to the paddock.

The 40 cows were allocated into five treatment groups of eight cows each.

Groups were then released back to their paddock sequentially.

One group was walked straight to the paddock while others were sent back at 45 minute intervals over three hours, thus mimicking what occurs on farms with large herds or small dairies.

Cows were released in the same order after every milking, again mimicking what happens on a commercial farm.

BY DR MARTIN AULDIST

Senior Research Scientist, Agriculture Victoria, Ellinbank

Some cows, therefore, were away from the paddock for six hours per day plus walking and milking time.

The experiment lasted 15 days.

To measure grazing behaviour, cows were fitted with jaw movement recorders and activity monitors that allowed Marlie to record the time cows spent grazing each day, the total number of bites the cows took each day, and the rate at which cows grazed (bites per minute).

In addition, the n-alkane technique was used to measure the total daily dry matter intake of cows.

This involved orally dosing the cows with a small amount of synthetic wax twice per day for 12 days and then measuring the concentrations of synthetic and natural waxes in the faeces for the final six days.

A complex mathematical equation then allows calculation of daily dry matter intake.

At the same time, detailed measurements were made of pasture mass and quality prior to grazing, and then immediately prior to each group of

cows entering the paddock.

This was mostly done using a rising plate meter to estimate pasture mass and by taking pasture samples across the paddock for analysis of nutritive characteristics.

Measurements of pasture mass were also made by flying over the paddocks with an unmanned aerial vehicle.

Overall, this information will allow Marlie to assess the variation in intake and therefore milk yield that occurs when there are delays in cows getting back to the paddock.

Preliminary results showed that the last cows back to the paddock spent almost twice as long grazing, presumably because they had to work harder to find the same amount of grass.

This correlates with the observation that the last cows walked further around the paddock than the first cows, and spent less time lying down.

Meanwhile, in the paddock, around 30 per cent of pasture dry matter had disappeared by the time the last cows got there.

I’ll provide a more complete summary of the results when they come to hand but almost certainly there will be the potential for a more equitable allocation of farm feed resources across the herd.

Watch this space.

NEWS

August 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 9

BEWARE OVERHEAD POWERLINES LOOK UP AND LIVE

LOOK UP AND LIVE In 2018 Victoria lost another truck driver after large machinery came into contact with powerlines. Always stay outside the 3 metre ‘no go zone’ around and above powerlines.

For more information: www.esv.vic.gov.au

NEWS

Page 10, Southern Farmer

Aussie Pump trailer makes a good â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;fire truckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Winter Warmth Castleton combines the superior heating qualities of soapstone with elegant and durable cast iron elements.

Each stove is a complement of cast iron and soapstone, with a large stone top, side and front panels. Hearthstone soapstone woodstoves retains twice as much heat as steel, keeping the stove within the comfort zone, extending the heat duration of every wood load.

Experience the Hearthstone difference with a Castleton wood burning stove in your home.

www.castworks.com.au

Rural Trades Covering Central, South Victoria, and West Gippsland

Leaf, Twig & Stick Rake

LEADING Victorian poly tank manufacturer, Trans Tank International, recently built a big run of 1000 litre all purpose â&#x20AC;&#x153;ďŹ re trucksâ&#x20AC;? for one of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading hire companies.

The machines, built on heavy duty galvanised trailers single axle, are equipped to be able to handle a diverse range of construction site tasks. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are good for everything - from ďŹ re prevention along rail lines, or, in national parks, to dust suppression on construction sites,â&#x20AC;? chief engineer at Aussie Pumps, John Hales, said.

The heart of the system is the Aussie high pressure Fire Chief pump, ďŹ tted with a Yanmar 4.8hp air cooled electric start engine.

The pump produces super high pressure with the capacity to deliver up to 400 litres of water a minute at 60m head (85 PSI).

Mr Hales said that the pumpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capacity and high pressure made it ideal for dust suppression on construction sites with both drib-

TRAILER: Trans Tank International recently built a line of mobile fire truck trailers, utilising an Aussie Pump Fire Chief.

ble bar and spray head.

The TTI trailer mounts are ďŹ tted with hose reels with 36 metres of high pressure hose with ďŹ reďŹ ghting nozzle. â&#x20AC;&#x153;TTI and the hire industry generally like the idea of being able to buy a genuine Aussie Pump product with ďŹ ve year warranty for the pump end,â&#x20AC;? Mr Hales said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We chose the Yanmar diesel for this application because of the availability

of Yanmar service kits, with spares and service not only in Australia but right throughout the South PaciďŹ c.â&#x20AC;?

Further information on the trailer mounts is available from TTI or, for more information on Aussie high pressure and low pressure diesel drive pumps contact Australian Pump Industries on www.aussiepumps.com.au or contact your regional Aussie Pump distributor.

FARMER TO FARMER

For Ride on Mowers

Rake up those leaves

1800 819 493

sales@stumpmansales.com

www.stumpmansales.com Refer to main advert on page 2

POLY WATER TANKS REPAIRS Including Â&#x2021; 3RO\ ZDWHU WDQNV DQG WURXJKV Â&#x2021; &DOI IHHGHUV DQG ERRPVSUD\ WDQNV Â&#x2021; 7UDFWRU IXHO WDQNV Â&#x2021; :DWHU DQG GLHVHO WUDQVSRUW WDQNV Â&#x2021; PRQWKV ZDUUDQW\ RQ UHSDLUV

WE ARE A MOBILE SERVICE

ZZZ SODVWLFIXVLRQ FRP DX

August 2018

with Deb and Mark Reynolds

Q: Give our readers a quick snapshot of your farm?

Billy Creek Limousin stud is located on the Hazelwood flats in the Latrobe Valley.

Mark is a retired forester so there are tree lots for firewood, windbreaks and feature trees on the farm. The farm backs onto Billy Creek.

Q: How long have you been a farmer, and what have/do you farm?

We started the Limousin stud in 1995.

Q: Tell us about your family.

Mark grew up helping out on his parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wheat farm near Swan Hill. Debâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents had a farm at nearby Gormandale. The love of farming was â&#x20AC;&#x153;in our bloodâ&#x20AC;?.

Q: Best advice you ever received?

HAPPY: Run by Deb and Mark Reynolds, the stud was started in 1995.

Spend time doing what you love.

Q: Describe your perfect day.

Sunny, active, friends, family and good food.

Q: Best investment you ever made?

Buying farm land to develop. Spending time and money improving the herd through genetics and attending to pasture needs.

Q: Worst investment you ever made?

A second hand lemon of a tractor.

Q: Best memory?

Horseriding through the bush and swimming on the home farm at the creek waterhole.

Q: How can we get in contact with you â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your website?

Billy Creek Limousin on Facebook.

100% AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURED. Since 1964, Dumac Pumps have produced quality engineered vertical-column pumps, durable for dairy, pig, wine, abattoir, mining and food processor industries.

80% of materials sourced in Australia.

4140 Steel Impeller

(03) 9761 5115

info@dumacpumps.com.au www.dumacpumps.com.au Dumac Distributors P/L Australian Owned Family Business.

Agents for Teco Motors and Ebara Pumps

NEWS

August 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 11

Field Day Specials

AUGUST 2018

AussiePumps

BIG PUMPS BEAT THE DROUGHT

– HATZ OFF TO AUSSIE...GREAT DIESEL ENGINE, BEST AUSSIE PUMPS –

NEW

.EW Hatz POWERED !USSIES 4IER " SERIES DIESEL ENGINES WITH ADVANCED DESIGN SUPER ECONOMICAL ROBUST RELIABLE

HATZ FIRE CHIEF M MAX HEAD LPM MAX mOW 4.2HP Recoil start 10 3% " ONLY $2,939

3” HIGH FLOW GUSHERS

Honda '8 STROKE ENGINE &LOWS TO LPM (EADS TO M .ITRILE SEALS ALSO SUIT DIESEL FUEL TRANSFER

Honda (0 WITH ELECTRIC START &LOWS TO LPM (EADS TO M NOW $3,990 SAVE $568

SAVE

SAVE UP TO

$100

$982

High head option…

(EADS TO M mOWS TO LPM NOW $4,245 SAVE $660

ONLY

$494

HATZ 3” GUSHER HATZ 4” GUSHER

-ASSIVE LPM MAX mOW M MAX HEAD 9HP electric start 10 " % ONLY $5,500 3!6%

QP402/1B40E

$1988

BIG 3” & 4” Aussie Yanmars with FREE gal frames

NOW

$4378

NOW

$6100 QP402/L70

4”...QP402/L70 7HP Yanmar RECOIL START &LOWS TO LPM was $4,988 NOW $4,378 SAVE $610

SAVE

– AUSSIE FERT PUMPS...OUT THEY GO –

Extra High head option…

Honda (0 ELECTRIC START (EADS TO M &LOWS TO LPM NOW $4,245 SAVE $660

NEW KUBOTA DIESEL MR T TWIN IMPELLER

NEW 4” TWIN IMPELLER IRRIGATION PUMP

3UITS HIGH PRESSURE WATER TRANSFER IRRIGATION

lRE PROTECTION /IL COOLED ENGINE FOR SMOOTHER RUNNING

HUGE M MAX HEAD

LPM MAX mOW $

0OWERFUL Kohler +$ DIESEL ENGINE WITH SLED MOUNTED , FUEL TANK -AX HEAD M mOWS TO LPM WAY OUT X v X v INTRO PRICE $13,992 .ORMALLY

NEW 4898

SAVE $481

QPT205SLT/OC95E

– 40 BAR SPRAYERS ... MORE POWER FOR LESS $$$ – Aussie Kappa 43 ONLY Honda GX200 $1980 LPM mOW FREE 3COOP FRAME WAY OUTLET FREE Turbo 400 spray gun NOW $1,980 SAVE $900

NOW

$968

Viton seals (most chems) OSP űRZ KHDGV WR P ONLY $1,337 SAVE $135 3” options available

AUSSIE 3,000 PSI COUGAR HONDA 6HP

3,000 PSI AUSSIE POCKET ROCKET FREE 15” PATIO CLEANER (worth $289)

+GSx MORE THAN OTHERS "RASS PISTON PUMP WITH @0OWER"OOST @%ASY 3TART UNLOADER FREE TURBO worth $132

Clean up fast with this great package 'ENUINE (ONDA '8 (0 "ERTOLINI TRIPLEX PUMP 'AL FRAME mAT FREE TYRES 1UALITY ACCESSORIES

ONLY

BUILT IN USA

ABCOUGARMK3

AUSSIE BLACK BOX BLASTER 3,400 PSI EWP with FREE turbo LIMITED STOCK 4RIPLEX PUMP SAVE RPM MOTOR AUSSIE BUILT $240 +GS OF CLEANING DYNAMITE )NCLUDES M HOSE GUN 6ARIO LANCE

$1998

ABSC30/GX200

3,000 PSI AUSSIE MONSOON BULLETPROOF ELECTRIC BLASTERS FREE TURBO WORTH 4HREE PHASE POLE MOTOR "ERTOLINI TRIPLEX PUMP 'AL FRAME mAT FREE TYRES 1UALITY ACCESSORIES

ONLY

ONLY $898

$3619 FKB8.15

AussiePumps (02) 8865 3500

Aussie Delta 75 ONLY Honda '8 $3828 LPM mOW FREE 3COOP FRAME WAY OUTLET FREE Turbo 400 spray gun NOW $3,828 SAVE $383

FREE Turbo 400 Spray Gun Valued at $167

– CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA … GO AUSSIE, AUSSIE, AUSSIE! –

NOW $998

QPT405SLT/KD425-2

SPRAYER CLEARANCE

Honda 6.5HP EPDM seals (ag chems) OSP űRZ KHDGV WR P NOW $968 SAVE $232

SAVE $200

QP602/GX390E

– DIESEL TWIN IMPELLER PUMPS...HIGH HEAD PERFORMANCE –

2” AUSSIE SMART PUMP

RSE2BRV/GX200

SAVE

40%

-ASSIVE LPM

Honda 13HP electric start

YEAR PUMP WARRANTY -/$%, 25. /54 NOW ,)-)4%$ 34/#+

$5880 "% 15)#+ş NOW $5,880 SAVE A MASSIVE $4,865!

QP402/GX240 Yanmar diesel options available

QP402SX/GX390E

– YANMAR DIESEL’S DELIVER... HUGE SAVINGS –

QP310/GX390E

6” DROUGHT BUSTER...

SAVE TIME, SAVE FUEL

NOW

Honda (0 RECOIL START &LOWS TO LPM NOW $1,988 SAVE $198

3”...QP310/L100E (0 Yanmar ELECTRIC START &LOWS TO LPM WAS $7,070 NOW $6,100 SAVE $970

QP310SL/GX390E

QP1/GX25

4” HIGH FLOW...MOVE WATER FAST

6.4HP electric start 10 3, " % ONLY $3,997

LPM MAX mOW M MAX HEAD 6.4HP electric start 10 " % ONLY $3,997

– AUSSIE HONDA DROUGHT BUSTERS...PRICES SLASHED – Aussie 1” Ultralite

ABMONSC200

TSURUMI AUTO PUMP CLEARANCE

4,000 PSI AUSSIE SCUD… THE PRO’S CHOICE Honda 13HP ENGINE WITH YEAR WARRANTY "ERTOLINI TRIPLEX PUMP WITH YEAR WARRANTY (EAVY DUTY GEARBOX FOR PERFORMANCE LONGEVITY

TSURUMI SEPTIC TANK PUMPS

2ELIABLE ROBUST AUTOMATIC EFmUENT PUMPS EPOXY COATED

v PORT mOWS TO LPM HEADS TO M ALSO SUIT STORMWATER YEAR WARRANTY

WORLD’S BEST BLASTER!

$369

$66

ABBSC400/GX390

STEAM POWER...SLASH CLEANING TIMES Melt away grease & grime PHASE POLE MOTOR (EAVY DUTY TRIPLEX PUMP 3TEEL CHASSIS STAINLESS STEEL COVER 3,000 PSI AUSSIE SUPER INDY NOW ONLY $5,888 SAVE $428 4,000 PSI AUSSIE ADMIRAL NOW ONLY $7,554 SAVE $385

ONLY

SAVE

$3540 UTZ2.4S

2” AUTOMATIC DEWATERING PUMPS

YEAR WARRANTY K7 SINGLE PHASE mOWS TO LPM MAX HEAD M mOAT CONTROL "UILT IN AGITATOR HANDLES SAND SAVE

ONLY

FREE GRIT BLAST KIT FS/INDDS2016TV3

AVAILABLE ONLY FROM THE FOLLOWING AUSSIE PUMPS GOLD DISTRIBUTORS PRICES EX SYDNEY WAREHOUSE, GST INCLUDED - SUBJECT TO PRIOR SALE

$398

$95

HSZ2.4SP

Email: info@aussiepumps.com.au %TKK OQNCTBS RODBHjB@SHNMR @U@HK@AKD NM VDARHSD VVV @TRRHDOTLOR BNL @T

N.B 5 year warranty covers faulty manufacturing or workmanship on QP & poly pump components only.

BACCHUS MARSH .... Bacchus Marsh Farm Supplies ...... (03) 5366 0600 BALLARAT ................. Deutscher Outdoor Power.............. (03) 5339 4437 BAYSWATER .............. Baybury Power Equipment ............. (03) 9729 1250 CASTLEMAINE .......... Statewide Irrigation ........................ (03) 5472 1135 DAYLESFORD ............ Statewide Irrigation ........................ (03) 5348 2949 GEELONG .................. Mowers Galore ............................... (03) 5272 1066 GROVEDALE .............. Mowers Galore................................ (03) 5244 0620

HASTINGS ................. Hastings Mowers ............................ (03) 5979 1382 KEILOR ..................... Keilor Mowers ................................. (03) 9336 7727 PAKENHAM ............... Pakenham Plumbing & Pumps ...... (03) 5941 1810 SEYMOUR .................. Stihl Shop ........................................ (03) 5799 1215 WALLAN .................... Days Motorcycles & Power Equipment .............................................................................................. (03) 5783 3500 YARRA GLEN ............. Yarra Glen Mower & Tractor ........... (03) 9730 1988 12D12272-v7/2318

ANIMAL HEALTH

Page 12, Southern Farmer

August 2018

Twins take toll on horses IN the past, twin births have been known to account for up to 30 per cent of abortion rates in horses.

Although the incidence of twin births is low at just 1â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2 per cent, when it does occur it can cause serious health and welfare consequences - and result in economic loss to owners.

US-based equine reproductive specialist, Dr Karen Wolfsdorf, discussed techniques that horse owners can implement to avoid twin losses during the Australian Veterinary Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (AVA) Bain Fallon Memorial Lectures last month.

According to Dr Wolfsdorf, while the incidence of twin births in the equine population is low, surviving foals are usually weaker, more susceptible to infection and slower to develop. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fortunately, with the use of ultrasound and an increased understanding of the mechanisms involved in twinning, better approaches to avoid twins being born have been developed,â&#x20AC;? Dr Wolfsdorf said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Early detection is key. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Twin pregnancies can be detected between 13 and 15 days of gestation when the embryonic vesicles are still mobile and can be managed by the equine reproductive veterinarian.â&#x20AC;?

After 16 to 17 days, the success rate of reducing the twins to one viable singleton varies.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most mares that are carrying twins will naturally abort between seven and nine months. â&#x20AC;&#x153;However, this places maresâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; health and welfare at risk through dystocia, cervical tears, retained placentas and other complications. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The present breeding season will be lost, as well as the mare may have decreased fertility the next breeding season.â&#x20AC;?

While some mares successfully carry twin pregnancies to term, the high risk of complications during pregnancy or delivery warrant intervention.

President of the AVAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s equine group, Dr Ben Poole, said it was critical that horse owners consult their veterinarian to formulate their mareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breeding and preventative healthcare program.

A well-managed breeding program helps to avoid twin pregnancies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are a range of breeding techniques that horse owners can implement to avoid twin pregnancies,â&#x20AC;? Dr Poole said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Veterinarians can also help to manage early pregnancies so that no mare delivers, or aborts twin foals, and adverse health and welfare risks are avoided.â&#x20AC;?

The Bain Fallon Memorial Lectures is run by AVAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s equine group and was held at the Hyatt Regency in Sydney.

MOTHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MILK: A motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milk is best for any newborn animal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but failing that, a range of replacer products are available from Pakenham Produce and Saddlery.

The importance of colostrum for newborns COLOSTRUM is crucial for all newborn animals.

Newborns receive no passive transfer of immunity via the placenta before birth, so any antibodies they need must be ingested.

Colostrum contains antibodies to protect newborns against disease.

Newborns that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t re-

NJ Phillips - with over 80 years experience, now more than ever....

20ml Metal Drencher/Injector

ceive adequate colostrum have a weakened immune system and increased risk of disease and mortality.

Generally produced by a mother just prior to giving birth, ideally, it should be received by the newborn within the ďŹ rst 24 hours, or 48 hours in emergency situations.

Colostrum produced by a mother is always best for the animal - but if unforeseen circumstances prevail it may be necessary to supplement.

Bovine colostrum can be stored frozen, lasting up to a year - but must be thawed in a certain way to ensure efďŹ cacy.

Commercially packaged colostrum, like Impact or Kwik Start â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both available from Pakenham Produce and Saddlery â&#x20AC;&#x201C; are the next best

thing to a motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milk.

Impact is a dried bovine colostrum supplement available for newborn mammals and marsupials.

In most species, colostrum is only produced for a few days following birth.

After this time intestinal closure prevents absorption of immunoglobulins into the bloodstream creating immunity.

This occurs within about 24 hours in cows, horses, cat and dogs, but may be longer for other species.

The presence of milk in the gut can hasten intestinal closure, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recommended to allow at least 12 hours before feeding milk replacer to maximise colostrum absorption.

Kwik Start is also a dried bovine colostrum to supple-

ment or replace milk in the vital ďŹ rst 24 hours for newborn calves, goats and horses - and contains high levels of immune-boosting immunoglobulins and antibacterials designed speciďŹ cally for newborns.

Kwik Start also promotes growth and intestinal protection - this is the best health insurance you can offer the next generation on your property.

If you need any practical advice or products to help care for your orphaned newborn, visit the team at Pakenham Produce and Saddlery in store â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they have the range, knowledge and advice to assist with any baby animal.

Pakenham Produce and Saddlery - helping you care for your animals since 1973.

ÂŹ Suits a wide variety of pour-on, drencher and injector nozzles (sold separately)

m +LJK Í&#x2021;RZ EORFNDJH UHVLVWDQW YDOYHV ÂŹ Easy to use dose adjustment system

Ordering code: PASD1232

5ml Metal Automatic Injector ÂŹ Highly accurate and versatile ÂŹ High quality metal construction m 3RVLWLYH GRVH ORFNLQJ PHFKDQLVP

.XUW (Q]LQJHUÂą /RFDO (TXLQH 9HW 1DWDOLH +DFNOÂą (TXLQH 1XWULWLRQLVW 6WHSKHQ 6WHZDUWÂą :HHG &RQWURO ([SHUW

Ordering code: PAS1198 For more information on our product range visit your /RFDO 5XUDO VWRUH RU FRQWDFW XV DW DQ\ RI WKH EHORZ Free-call: 1800 247 175 E: njames@njphillips.com.au

WĹŻÄ&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Ć?Ä&#x17E; Ä&#x201A;ĹŻĹŻ ϹϾϰϭ Ď­Ď´Ď°Ď° Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E; Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161;Ć? ĨŽĆ&#x152; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; Ĺ?ĹśĆ?Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E; Ä&#x17E;Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;ĹśĆ&#x161; KĆ&#x152; ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ĺ?ĹŻ Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;ĹľĹ?ĹśÎ&#x203A;Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x201A;ĹŹÄ&#x17E;ĹśĹ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹľĆ&#x2030;Ć&#x152;Ĺ˝Ä&#x161;ĆľÄ?Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2DC;Ä?ŽžÍ&#x2DC;Ä&#x201A;Ćľ

WĹŻÄ&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Ć?Ä&#x17E; Z^sW WÄ&#x201A;ĹŹÄ&#x17E;ĹśĹ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ĺľ WĆ&#x152;Ĺ˝Ä&#x161;ĆľÄ?Ä&#x17E; Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ Ć?Ä&#x17E;Ä?ĆľĆ&#x152;Ä&#x17E; Ä&#x201A; &Z Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ĺ? ŽĨ 'ŽŽÄ&#x161;Ĺ?Ä&#x17E;Ć?

WÄ&#x201A;ĹŹÄ&#x17E;ĹśĹ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ĺľ WĆ&#x152;Ĺ˝Ä&#x161;ĆľÄ?Ä&#x17E; Î&#x2DC; ^Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;Ä&#x161;ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ç&#x2021; WĹ&#x161;Í&#x2014; ĎŹĎŻ ϹϾϰϭ Ď­Ď´Ď°Ď° ĎŽ Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x152; Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E; Íž Ć&#x152;Ĺś Ä&#x201A;ĹŻÄ&#x161; ,Ĺ?ĹŻĹŻ ZÄ&#x161;ÍżÍ&#x2022; WÄ&#x201A;ĹŹÄ&#x17E;ĹśĹ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹľÍ&#x2022; s/ ĎŻĎ´Ď­ĎŹ

NEWS

August 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 13

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.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our septic system was put in when we built in 1988,â&#x20AC;? says Mike Maynard from his rural property in sunny Queensland. â&#x20AC;&#x153;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.â&#x20AC;?

But that wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the worst bit of their dysfunctional septic system. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The smell would become almost overpowering at times,â&#x20AC;? says Mike, â&#x20AC;&#x153;especially when it rained or when we had visitors to stay, which was quite embarrassing.â&#x20AC;?

The stink that stuck The problem wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go away, which is common with septic tanks and wastewater treatment systems. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As time went on, the smell was becoming a constant thing,â&#x20AC;? 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. â&#x20AC;&#x153;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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all expensive options,â&#x20AC;? says Rose. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But then we read in a magazine about Ecocare Activator.â&#x20AC;?

Cleaners donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cut it Often confused with traditional septic system cleaning products, Ecocare Activator is much more than a cleaner.

Sound advice about odours â&#x20AC;&#x153;My husband rang and spoke at length to George at Insight Environmental about our problem and, based on that conversation and Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assurances, we decided to try Ecocare Activator,â&#x20AC;? says Rose. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We thought, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Really, what do we have to lose,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; as it is only a fraction of the cost of the other options we had.â&#x20AC;?

What happened next surprised Mike and Rose, but not George.

Fast forward for the Maynards â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were astounded by the results and how quickly it happened,â&#x20AC;? says Rose with a smile. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Within a couple of weeks the smell was gone and you could see the area around the trench drying â&#x20AC;&#x201C; something that had not happened for twenty years or more.â&#x20AC;?

That was in the winter of 2013. Today, Mike and Rose still have a healthy, odour-free septic system. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We now have a dry paddock,â&#x20AC;? Mike explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can mow and walk all around the area. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We could not be happier with the results and will continue to use this fabulous product.â&#x20AC;?

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an easy-to-use, environmentally friendly, septicsafe solution that activates and conditions your septic system. It gets the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;digestive systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

Call us FREE on

www.insightenvironmental.com.au enquiries@insightenvironmental.com.au

/LHS[O` OHWW` HUK VKV\Y MYLL PU LHZ` Z[LWZ ,JVJHYL (J[P]H[VY PZ [OL VUL WYVK\J[ `V\ JHU YLS` VU [V J\[ `V\Y JSLHUPUN [PTL KV^U [V [OL IHYL TPUPT\T HUK RLLW `V\Y OV\ZL ZLW[PJ Z`Z[LT HUK (LYH[LK >HZ[L^H[LY ;YLH[TLU[ :`Z[LT (>;: JSLHU HUK OLHS[O` ¸0 OH]L YLJVTTLUKLK ,JVJHYL (J[P]H[VY YLN\SHYS` HUK OH]L ZLLU L]LU [OL TVZ[ ULNSLJ[LK Z`Z[LT [\YULK HYV\UK¯ ^P[OPU HZ SP[[SL HZ VUL TVU[O š ZHPK :LUPVY :LY]PJL ;LJOUPJPHU 4PJOHLS .VKKHYK MYVT >HZ[L^H[LY *VUZ\S[HU[Z 7[` 3[K <ZL [V JSLHU HSS OHYK Z\YMHJLZ HUK RPSS VKV\YZ VU JVU[HJ[ [OLU ZPTWS` YPUZL `V\Y Z\YMHJLZ HUK WV\Y HU` YLTHPUPUN TP_[\YL Z[YHPNO[ KV^U [OL KYHPU (Z P[ TV]LZ PU[V `V\Y ZLW[PJ Z`Z[LT P[ JVU[PU\LZ ^VYRPUN JSLHYPUN ISVJRHNLZ HUK JVUKP[PVUPUN `V\Y Z`Z[LT @V\ KV [OL MPYZ[ WHY[ SLH]L ,JVJHYL (J[P]H[VY [V KV [OL YLZ[

*SLHUZ ,HZ` [V \ZL LU]PYVUTLU[HSS` MYPLUKS` HUK UV OHYZO JOLTPJHSZ Âś ZHML HUK LMMLJ[P]L JSLHUPUN MVY L]LY` YVVT PU [OL OV\ZL *SLHYZ ;OL WLYMLJ[ ZVS\[PVU [V NYLHZL [YHW WYVISLTZ ,JVJHYL (J[P]H[VY IYLHRZ KV^U NYLHZL HUK MH[ JSLHYPUN ISVJRHNLZ HZ P[ NVLZ *VUKP[PVUZ 9LZ[PUN PU `V\Y ZLW[PJ Z`Z[LT ,JVJHYL (J[P]H[VY RLLWZ ^VYRPUN JVUKP[PVUPUN `V\Y Z`Z[LT HUK WYV]PKPUN LZZLU[PHS THPU[LUHUJL

NEWS

Page 14, Southern Farmer

August 2018

Goat over the hook prices update OVER the hook (OTH) goat indicators have continued to rise, reaching 536¢/kg carcase weight (cwt) last month, up 20¢ from early in July - the highest the indicator has been since the price correction in October 2017.

Eastern states’ goat slaughter has tracked below year-ago levels for much of the year, with processing for 2018 so far totalling almost 770,000 head (week ending July 6), easing 18 per cent on 2017 levels and 11 per cent below the five-year average.

While eastern states’ goat slaughter has risen slightly

from the dip seen in May, it’s still tracking below year-ago levels – totalling nearly 21,000 head in early July, 22 per cent lower year-on-year.

South Australia saw the largest decrease for the first week of July, of almost 8000 head year-on-year, or 79 per cent, while the two largest states for goat processing, Victoria and Queensland, saw increases of three per cent and 148 per cent respectively.

Australian goat meat exports for June were eight per cent lower year-on-year, on the back of lower supply, totalling 1362 tonnes shipped weight (swt).

BIG, BOLD, BANQUET: Banquet bulls are renowned for their explosive growth, paddock performance and extreme docility, producing bulls with power - like these 17 month old youngsters that were sold in last year’s autumn sale.

YOU GET MORE THAN A BULL FROM BANQUET + + + + + + +

Premiums for Banquet Blood progeny Free Delivery Unequalled service and advice 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 our catalogue for full conditions

SPRING BULL SALE - 40 BULLS MONDAY SEPTEMBER 5TH - 11:00AM

At Saleyards, Mortlake Victoria, Inspection from 9:00am Enquiries to Stephen & Noeleen Branson Stephen 0419 884 839 Noeleen 0437 029 992 PO BOX 166 Mortlake, VIC 3272 banquetangus@westvic.com.au

www.banquetangus.com.au

You get more than a bull at Banquet MARKETED under the ‘Big, Bold Banquet Bulls’ banner, Stephen and Noeleen Branson’s Banquet Angus bulls are renowned for their powerful structure, rapid growth and extreme docility.

Based at Mortlake, Victoria, the Branson family also place a huge focus on shopfront service in support of their high-quality Banquet sale bulls.

The success that Banquet has enjoyed is the direct result of client satisfaction, with long term repeat clients dominating the buyer registrations at all of their sales.

That satisfaction is built around the performance levels clients receive when using Banquet Angus bulls, producing young cattle that grow quicker to market weights while also maintaining efficiency and being sustainable through to heavy weight young cattle if desired.

This attribute also makes them highly desirable to backgrounders and processors, with regular sale top-

2018 ALPINE ANGUS SPRING BULL SALE Wednesday 12th September 2018 at 1pm 55 HBR & APR ANGUS BULLS At the Alpine Sale Complex, Rosewhite

ping results at young cattle sales by Banquet clients verifying this.

The Banquet type is bigger, wider through the loin and hindquarter, and stronger boned than most Angus, having the skeletal frame and balance to carry the extra muscling that comes with their exceptional growth off grass.

The standout features of the Banquet cattle are their power with softness, plus the extreme docility of the herd.

The versatility these attributes give allows commercial beef cattle producers flexibility in marketing, and subsequently the option to target a range of markets depending on prices and feed availability.

“These types are more efficient feed convertors and we find they are more profitable more often,” Banquet principal, Stephen Branson, said.

“It is very pleasing when clients continually verify this.”

However, whatever the performance levels, clients

would not continue to attend Banquet’s sales if they did not receive such good service and be treated with respect; this is where the Bransons almost go overboard.

Their bulls come with every basic health and performance guarantee you could wish for when buying, backed up with after-sales service and advice second to none.

“Our clients are extremely important to us, and in return for our service, they are very faithful,” Mr Branson said.

“They do realise they get much more than just a bull when they purchase at Banquet.”

On top of the service and advice, the Bransons also give buying assistance through their sight unseen purchasing program, plus premiums for Banquet blood progeny.

On Wednesday, September 5 at 11am, the Branson family will host their next Banquet Spring Bull Sale at the Mortlake WVLX yards, where some 45 bulls will be offered.

For more information, visit the stud website.

3 YEAR GUARANTEE* FREE DELIVERY* *conditions apply refer to catalogue

Chris Oswin: 0427 562 254 Suzy Martin: 0418 577 627 Jim Delany: 0408 535 658

LIVESTOCK

August 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 15

MALADORN DORPERS

FOR SALE Dorper & White Dorper Rams & Ewes

(Commercial & Stud)

HAGANS LANE, HEATHCOTE and ANDERSONS ROAD, SWAN BAY Phone: 0401 896 895

LAST OF THE BEST: 75 top quality, paddock raised and high performance Angus bulls - with back ends like these - will be offered at the Gubbins of Coolanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wetlands sale complex on September 6. What they have behind can put you in front.

Last cattle sale at Gubbins of Coolana

ast L e Th rah! o o H

Beef exports riding high

East Trentham, Vic

140 Poll Dorset Rams 40 Poll Dorset Ewes 50 Meat Maternal Rams

Showcasing:

- Elite genetics for growth and carcase (Sale rams C+ av 204%, up to 230%) - Emphasis on early maturing sires to produce 18-24kg lambs - Increase lamb survival with Gestation Length breeding values - Leading worm resistance - Faecal egg count (fec) ASBVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s up to -60 - DNA testing for IMF (marbling), Tenderness and Lean Meat Yield Bruc acc â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Footrot free â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MN3v

All enquiries welcome - catalogues available Ted Beattie 0409 189 116, Simon Beattie 0429 330 562 derrynock@outlook.com - www.derrynock.com.au

WHITE SUFFOLK & CHAROLLAIS

RAM SALE

Acc R, E & D Hooper

WEDNESDAY, 26TH SEPTEMBER, 1PM On property, Benalla-Yarrawonga Rd Goorambat East BBQ & inspection at 12noon

50 White Suffolk Rams 30 Charollais White Suffolk X Rams Brucellosis acc.

OJD Vaccinated

www.vortexws.com.au

BENALLA

Enquiries Phone Mobile 0437 684 786 / 0428 641 296

Your last chance to secure some of their industry leading Angus bulls Ć&#x2021; )LQDO 6SULQJ %XOO 6DOH Ć&#x2021; Ć&#x2021; 2XWVWDQGLQJ $QJXV %XOOV Ć&#x2021;

7KXUVGD\ WK 6HSW SP :DQW WR NQRZ PRUH RU JHW XSGDWHV" &KHFN WKH ZHEVLWH RU

www.coolana.com

SSCOL0050718

AUSTRALIAN beef exports continued to track well above 2017 levels, passing 100,000 tonnes shipped weight (swt) for the second month in a row as ongoing dry conditions continued to influence cattle supply.

In June, 101,200 tonnes swt were exported â&#x20AC;&#x201C; making it the third largest June on record and larger than any month prior to 2013.

June exports were down on May, but were up 6700 tonnes swt.

The year-to-June total for beef exports is now at 536,700 tonnes swt, an increase of 13 per cent on 2017 levels.

This continues to be Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third largest start to the year, behind both 2014 and 2015, as all key export destinations are experiencing some level of growth on last year.

Kilkenny Pastoral, Hawkesdale, thoroughly endorse Coolana genetics saying, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Coolana cattle display all the necessary traits for a commercial herd; doingability, soft skinned, deep bodied, but not too extreme, fertility, structural soundness and good temperamentâ&#x20AC;?.

Susie Clarke, from Linlithgow Plains at Charsworth, endorsed their quality when asked why they keep purchasing from Coolana. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Because they perform - the result is cows in calf, and calves that people want to buy, plus the people at Coolana are delightful and stimulating to do business with,â&#x20AC;? Ms Clarke said.

For those who havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t utilised these outstanding performance genetics yet, it is better to start now than to leave it until it is too late.

The last of the Gubbins familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s XSimm Black Simmental bulls will not be auctioned, but are available privately at any time, along with some further Angus selections.

Mark and Anna Gubbins and their son Max welcome your enquiry on the sale bulls from both breeds.

You can check their website (www.coolana.com) for regular updates, and the sale catalogue when it is ready.

Thursday, October 11, 2018, 1pm

Ć&#x2021; Send for a catalogue Ć&#x2021; Call to discuss how Coolana can assist your cattle program Mark & Anna Gubbins: 0428 593 913 or 03 5350 5531 Max Gubbins: 0439 593 913 Email: info@coolana.com 1219 Woorndoo-Chatsworth Rd, Chatsworth, Vic, 3379

t/30d02843/3218

cial management conditions, working from a base of 2000 cows.

There has never been room for passengers in the Coolana breeding herd, with only the highest and consistent performers being retained; assessed for structure, mobility, fertility or performance.

The 75 Coolana Angus bulls coming up for sale have the high quality and performance levels that this breeding philosophy produces, having already passed significant reliability and performance tests well before they get to sale age.

They also have an exceptional high fertility background.

Their soundness ensures buyers consistently get extended years of productive service from Coolana bulls; longevity having been a key component of their female herd.

Thus, those who â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;put themselves in the gameâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by attending and successfully bidding will be the beneficiaries of such a sound breeding policy.

It has been comforting for many beef producing clients to know that they have been able to â&#x20AC;&#x153;count on Coolanaâ&#x20AC;?, and will be able to do so one more time.

David and Robyn Roach,

ANNUAL SALE

37d06797/3218

AFTER staging the largest ever seedstock Angus dispersal sale in this country in March last year, it is easy to presume Coolana Angus and Black Simmental studs are now a closed shop.

However, there is a relatively large lag time in cattle breeding, and while the Coolana Angus and XSimm Black Simmental breeding females were dispersed to herds across the country, the 2016 spring drop bulls are still on the Coolana home property at Chatsworth and are being prepared for the final Coolana Angus bull sale this spring.

Client productivity and after sales service have always been key motivators for the Gubbins family and the great staff at their Chatsworth and Meningie properties.

They still have a real passion for breeding beef cattle, but in a succession planning move they will move from breeding quality stud stock to instead quality commercial.

Thus, from a seedstock viewpoint, Thursday, September 6 will see the last call of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sale-Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at the Coolana Wetlands selling complex; officially the Gubbins familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s last stud sale.

The seedstock herd was always run under commer-

COMMERCIAL FOCUS - COMMERCIAL RESULTS

HAY AND SILAGE

Page 16, Southern Farmer

August 2018

Large capacity feeders used to finish cattle A NUMBER of large capacity feeders have proven an excellent option to finish cattle on the Failli properties at Parwan in the Bacchus Marsh area of southern Victoria.

The Failli brothers run Westside Meats - and have the Parwan Prime brand specialising in high quality meat for the Australian market.

“We integrate the farms with the abattoirs,” Joe Failli said.

“We buy livestock; we background them on the farms and put them back through the meat plant.

“Angus cattle that come through the farm get graded and branded as Parwan Prime.”

Joe said last year they purchased a Dunstan feeder at auction to trial how a large capacity unit would work at the enterprise.

“We put that on trial first; it survived, so we thought if it survived here, it’ll survive anywhere - so we bought another two,” he said.

The original Dunstan feeder had an 18 cubic metre capacity, with the two newer bins slightly larger at 22 cubic metres.

All three bins are strategically placed at different parts of a large paddock and filled with high protein pellets directly from a truck.

“We’re filling them up every eight to 10 days,” Joe said.

“We keep an eye on the volume that is in there and when we’ve got a couple of days of feed left, they come in.

“The semi-trailer will come in with about 28 tonnes of feed - we average around 14 tonnes per bin.

“The little one will hold around about nine tonnes on a full run - the semi will drive in, blow it in and drive straight out.”

Joe said the paddocks were chosen because they were close to the yards and were able to keep moving the bins around to save the ground bogging up.

“We drag them 100 or 200 metres up the paddock and start again,” he said.

“It gives that area a chance to dry up.”

The feeders comfortably accommodate 10 cattle each side, and the three bins spread across two paddocks feed 400 head of cattle.

Cattle for Parwan Prime are purchased from throughout Australia and may be supplementary fed for up to 70 days before hitting a target weight.

“We intend on increasing the number of cattle on the place and that’s why we need the bins,” Joe said.

PARWAN PRIME: The Failli brothers run Westside Meats, and have recently moved to using large capacity feeders as a way to deliver feed effectively and quickly to finish their cattle. Pictured is Joe Failli.

Hay Silage Pellets Grain

Fast Feed & Fodder Testing 0RLVWXUH 'U\ 0DWWHU '0

&UXGH 3URWHLQ &3

1HXWUDO 'HWHUJHQW )LEUH 1')

'LJHVWLELOLW\ RI 'U\ 0DWWHU ''0

'LJHVWLELOLW\ RI 2UJDQLF 'U\ 0DWWHU '20'

0HWDEROLVDEOH (QHUJ\ 0(

Contact us

Under license from AVS

1300 655 474 www.feedtest.com.au

260 Princes Hwy Werribee Victoria 3030

KEEPING YOUR PROPERTY CLEAN IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK.

John Deere helps growers connect data to individual bales EARLIER this year, John Deere introduced its Bale Mobile app to help hay and forage producers get detailed information, improve efficiency, identify bale characteristics and track yields to make decision making easier.

Right now, producers are busy preparing for baling season – meaning it is the perfect time to utilise the new app.

When used in conjunction with a John Deere 1 Series Large Square Baler (L331 or L341 model), equipped with optional moisture and weight sensors, the new app processes moisture and weight data into useable information for baling, loading and overall farm management.

“Tractor operators can see their information in near real time while Bale Mobile documents the baling process,” Nick McKelvey, John Deere senior marketing rep for hay tools, said.

“Individual bale moisture and weight are tagged to each specific bale (geo-referenced within the app) for improved traceability.

“Operators can also digitally

TRY IT NOW: Baling season is just around the corner, and farmers are being reminded to try the John Deere Bale Mobile app. tag specific bales with additional notes in the app that are useful for sorting and enables them to make better informed on-the-go decisions.”

After an operator is finished baling the paddock, a summary provides crop tonnage, number of bales and average moisture readings.

Whether a producer is loading trucks or moving bales, Bale Mobile provides agronomic data for them to plan accordingly.

SIMPLY USE DRUMMUSTER’S INTERACTIVE MAP TO FIND YOUR NEAREST COLLECTION SITE AND RUN IN YOUR EMPTY AGVET CONTAINERS FOR RECYCLING.

“With this information in hand, it makes it easier for bales to be sorted by moisture, weight and whether or not there was a preservative applied,” Mr McKelvey said.

“If certain bales were wet or weedy, producers can quickly separate them from the hay stack.”

For more information on the new John Deere Bale Mobile app contact your local John Deere dealer or visit www.JohnDeere.com.au.

DRUMMUSTER HAS OVER 800 COLLECTION POINTS IN AUSTRALIA.

REMEMBER

EVERY CONTAINER COUNTS. VISIT THE WEBSITE TO FIND YOUR NEAREST CONTAINER COLLECTION POINT

drummuster.org.au

1800 008 707

HAY AND SILAGE

August 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 17

$89.9K

DMAX 115 TRACTOR PACKAGE*

*Tractor package includes DMAX 115 Tractor with loader arms and 4 in 1 bucket.

EASY RAKES

SINGLE ROTARY RAKE

Raking widths 6.3 & 8.3m

Raking widths 6.3 & 8.3m

From $19,800

DISC MOWERS

4,6 & 8 DISC

Call 1300 628 722

From $7,499

INLINE RAKES

7,9 & 13 Wheels

From $11,000

Australia-wide branch & dealer network

From $7,700

www.clarkfarmequipment.com Visit us online

*Offer ends August 31st 2018 or while stock lasts. Freight and assembly charges may be applicable. Clark Farm Equipment reserves the right to correct any printed error.

HAY AND SILAGE

Page 18, Southern Farmer

August 2018

Leaders in affordable tractors CALL FOR LOWEST MONTHLY PAYMENTS ON ALL MODELS NOTE: Photos may show tractors with optional equipment. *CONDITIONS APPLY.

9,6,7 285 '(021675$7,21 6,7( E ABL L I A AV TLE T U H ER S W O P

LS ODE M ED ECT L E ON S

CLASSIC: The iconic Massey Ferguson tractor will celebrate 60 years of operation in 2018.

60 years of tractors for Massey Ferguson C

AUSTRA A ON ALL MODELS 20HP to 220HP

4

LOW CO FINAN ST OPTIONCE S

OM $7,999 inc G

)8// <5 $*5,%266 :$55$17< 21 3$576 /$%285 All prices include GST. j/37d06799/32-18

31 Homewood Road, Cranbourne Sth www.tractors4sale.com.au Call 03 8790 0706 agriboss@bigpond.com Graham 0412 539 263

ALTHOUGH not every farmer owns a Massey Ferguson, it is safe to say all are familiar with the brand and its iconic triple triangle brand.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the company, which was born when farm machinery manufacturers Massey Harris of Canada, and Britain’s Ferguson Company, became partners in Massey Ferguson.

Henry George “Harry” Ferguson was an Irish-born British engineer and inventor, noted for his role in the development of the modern ag-

ricultural tractor and its three point linkage system, and the original brains and namesake of Massey Ferguson.

Co-incidentally, he was also the first person in Ireland to build and fly his own aeroplane, and for developing the first four-wheel drive Formula One car, the Ferguson P99.

Today, Massey Ferguson equipment can be found on properties throughout Australia – from backyard gardeners to large scale broadacre operations.

Brian Shepherd runs L and G Shepherd and Sons

in Kyneton, and said Massey Ferguson tractors were well deserving of their reputation for quality.

“They are very well built – they have a reputation for reliability and are an all-around good tractor,” he said.

“The parts are readily available, and as a tractor they are relatively inexpensive to repair and to run.”

Mr Shepherd said the Massey Ferguson 35, along with the 100 series range, had been the company’s most popular models – their re-sale value making them a good option for buyers.

Perfect Combination!

Gendore & New Holland.

Gendore have been been working workingwith withfarmers farmersfor Gendore have for 60 years, ensuring getbest the result, best overover 70 years, ensuring they they get the result, every season. every season.

The combination of Gendore’s experience and The combination of Gendore’s New Holland’s complete rangeexperience of tractorsand and New Holland’s complete range of have tractors farm implements, ensures you’ll theand right farm implements, means you’llneeds. have the right equipment for your farming equipment forprovide your farming needs.range of hay Gendore also a complete and silagealso machiney, seeders, Gendore provide cultivators, a complete range of hay plus much more. and silage machinery, cultivators, seeders, plus And 24 hour service and back-up will muchGendore’s more. ensure you keep going all year.

And Gendore’s 24athour service and up301. will Come and see us Farm World onback stand

keep you going all year long.

NOW servicing all of Gippsland!

1800 GENDORE

(03) 5662 4044

TOORADIN 79-83 South Gippsland Highway

(03) 5998 3216

WARRAGUL| - TOORADIN 180 Queen Street | WARRAGUL Keeping Gippsland growing! LEONGATHA (03) 5622 3875

IMADGINATION_17178_SF

LEONGATHA 82-84 Yarragon Road

SOILS AND FERTILISERS

August 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 19

How to get the most DELLAVEDOVA FERTILISERice,SERVICES from fertiliser usage Bes t prices and adv large or small TO get a good, positive result from fertiliser usage your soil needs to have active soil biology, as it is the biology within the soil that helps the chemical fertiliser to work not the other way around.

Soil tests usually measure the main macro-nutrient levels in the soil and a handful of other soil properties.

This often creates the impression that it is the levels of these measured parameters which are the biggest contributors to soil fertility.

This is only partly correct.

Virtually all nutrient transfers between the soil and plant roots are mediated by soil biological processes.

As a result, if a farmer seeks better growth and production, it is not simply a matter of applying more fertiliser to add more nutrients to the soil.

Equally vital, and perhaps of more importance, is that the soil food web (biology) is maintained in a healthy, vigorous state.

If sensible and sustainable farm management practices have been adopted on the farm, then most of the time it is likely that the soil food web will be in a healthy condition.

It is important to either maintain this situation or if necessary, correct it.

Both ends are achieved and soil biological activity is enhanced by the addition of food sources favoured by the soil biology.

I come across a number of farmers/growers who tell me that the effect of their fertiliser regime appears to have less and less effect on their crop/ pasture.

T/05D08773-V2/1516

A column provided by ALTERNATIVE GROWING SOLUTIONS

FERTILISER SUPPLY AND SPREADING SPECIALISTS SOIL AND PLANT TISSUE TESTING

“Prescription blends. GPS Variable Application Rates available for all fertilisers using accredited spreading equipment”

* Super * Lime * Gypsum* Bulk * Bagged * Spread Maryborough 5461 2888

Ballarat 5338 1522

Shane 0427 349 088, Barry 0438 349 077

Dean 0418 525 587

NPK LEAFSPRAY PASTURE AND CROPPING AVAILABLE IN 1000Ltr, 200Ltr & 20Ltr DRUMS

UP AND GROWING: A Korumburra dairy farmer used a blend of CMP and NFG to grow barley in June, using 920kg of blended fertiliser over 5.5 hectares applied ’down the tube’ at planting time. The barley was up and growing within 18 days.

I wonder how active the biology is in their soil.

On the other hand, I supply farmers/growers who have good biologically active soils who report that when they need to apply a chemical fertiliser they use about 25 -40 per cent of the recommended rate and achieve 100 per cent result from use.

One such Korumburra dairy farmer used a blend of CMP (calcium, magnesium and phosphate) and NFG (bi-

ologically active granule plus trace minerals) to grow barley in June 2018.

This farmer used 920kg of blended fertiliser over 5.5 hectares applied ’down the tube’ at planting time.

The barley was up and growing within 18 days - and four weeks later the results are as seen in the photo.

To find out you can get the same results, give Alternative Growing Solutions a call on 0419 960 485.

Soilcharge achieves crop improvement by restoring fertility and balance to your soil Biological stimulating products Granular products CMP – Fused Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphate contains phosphate 8%, calcium 23%, magnesium12%, Silicon 11% plus trace elements. Typical spread 200- 250kg /hectare Carbon Phos – finely ground natural rock phosphate pelletised contain phosphate 9%, Calcium 20%,Carbon 8.5%, Silicon 9%, humate 4% plus trace elements. Typical spread 100-150 kg/hectare. Ideal for high magnesium or tight soil applications.

NFG – Specialised volcanic rock infused with a biological stimulant. Typical spread 50 -75Kg/ hectare. Excellent in moist soils.

Liquid products NFL – Biological stimulant liquid provides plants/grass with a high sugar and protein content, ability to biologically change soil pH contains organic carbon 22.3%, nitrogen 17% plus trace elements. Typical application 1-2 litres /hectare Bio-Boost – biological stimulant to enhance biology within your soil, contains humic acid, fulvic acid, kelp, seaweed, molasses and carbon which are all brewed, similar to beer making. Typical application is 20 litres/hectare.

ZIINNCC,, D E Z D D D E A D H D T I A WITH SEAW W WEEEEDD , A N E O S , R N O O B BORRACEE EELLEEM ENNTTSS M E T C AANNDD TRA

CONTACT - BAYLEY GOODE b 0420 946 156 E bayley@goodeorganics.com.au S goodeorganics.com.au ;> @goodeorganics

AU ST MARALIA DE N

@40kgs/Ha = $35/Ha Cost Soil Conditioning Worm Casting Pellets.

Ideal through Air Seeders & Combines With Microbes for Plant & Soil %52$' $&5( &(5($/6 HWF 9,7,&8/785( +257,&8/785(

40 kgs/Ha of Worm Hit Fertilizer produced 17.36 tonne/Ha of Oaten Hay.

0$;,0,6( 1875,(17 $9$,/$%,/,7< ,03529(6 :$7(5 5(7(17,21 ,1&5($6(6 <,(/'6 $1' 48$/,7< ',6($6( 68335(66,21 &217$,16 +80,& $&,'

ALTERNATIVE GROWING SOLUTIONS PH: 0419 960 485

Achieve crop improvement by restoring fertility and balance to your soil

fe & - Putting li !” it H m r o W “ soil ck in your a b s e b o r mic

5mm Worm Hit Fertilizer Pellets.

www.wormhit.com.au

WE DELIVER TO YOUR FARM

www.alternativegrow.com.au

0499 080 619 - 1300 336 009 37D06819/3218

MACHINERY AND IMPLEMENTS

Page 20, Southern Farmer

August 2018

John Shearer Disc maximises germination Ű

Precision sowing equipment ensures top performance

THE benefits of a John Shearer double disc are worth every farmer’s considerations.

Not only does the disc result in a more uniform seeding depth, it also means a reduction of draft forces, trash

handling ability, reduce soil disturbance at faster sowing speeds and, in some cases, disc openers are more suitable than tynes when sowing into rocky conditions.

Sowing with a double disc opener leaves smother soil

profile and will assist in reducing water runoff.

On the John Shearer, an easy to use spring pin to lock the press arm into place is used to control the depth, and provides 6mm increments over 50mm travel.

The spring loaded opener has a mechanical screw assembly to easily adjust the mainspring to decrease or increase pressure for both opening coulters and the press wheel.

Downward force can be increased to help cut through stubble residue and in drier conditions penetrate the soil for good seed placement.

The spring breakout pressure can be adjusted up to 182kg (400lb) and the unit has 254mm (10”) of vertical ground following capability.

For the hydraulic version,

pressure is adjusted on the go from the tractor seat to suit soil types and conditions.

A pressure gauge fitted into the system allows the operator to monitor the downpressure.

A John Shearer opener is well built to perform in many different soil types and conditions.

Its compact design means that the press wheel is much closer to the sowing boot than most others on the market, with remarkable benefits in terms of uniform seeding depth.

The opener is a true parallelogram based around two carriers.

The mounting carrier which attaches the unit to either a square or diamond mounting frame and the main carrier on which the ground engaging coulters (or optional tyne) and press wheel are attached.

The hydraulic version of the double disc opener features a spring return mechanism for transport.

For more information, contact John Shearer on (08) 8268 9555.

GENUINE JAPANESE YANMAH EF MODEL 45 Dual Remote Hydraulics was $ 28,000 Front Wheel Assist NOW ONLY Genuine 164 hrs $ With Waratah Slasher Level lift FEL price is $23,000 incGST (inc. GST) W/GP Bucket (John Deere tractors Bale Forks have Yanmah components) Quick detach loader

22,000

MANY BENEFITS: A John Shearer double disc maximises germination.

Phone Stuart: 0428 243 363

j/30D02497/3218

WODONGA

MACHINERY AND IMPLEMENTS

August 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 21

Case IH small horsepower tractors THE pros and cons of buying farm machinery versus ďŹ nancing is an ongoing dilemma for many farmers - so much so that Mooroopna local Tim Gaffy has built a successful business on the quandary.

Gaffyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tractor Hire offers dry hire of both tractors and farm machinery and, according to Tim, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s becoming a real growth area. â&#x20AC;&#x153;DeďŹ nitely thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a move to hire for certain farmers,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They may need a particular machine or tractor for only one month a year so it makes more ďŹ nancial sense to hire, particularly when the hire fee is tax deductible.â&#x20AC;?

Tim claims demand for multi-discs, rippers and spreaders is growing the fastest, but his small-tomedium horsepower Case IH tractors - purchased from Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connors Shepparton dealership - are also building a strong following among dairy, hay and vegetable farmers, councils and government agencies, such as Melbourne Water and the Department of Primary Industries (DPI). â&#x20AC;&#x153;We offer a range of different sized tractors from the larger Case IH 260 Magnum to the smaller horse-powered Case IH 210 Puma, 155 Puma and 140 Maxxum,â&#x20AC;?

Tim said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We also offer loaders,

TRACTOR FOR HIRE: Tim Gaffy hires Case IH tractors to farmers across the state.

buckets and forks for the two smaller tractors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Customers are using the tractors for general farm

work, slashing, sowing and harvest. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One customer, a fertiliser company, hired the

155 Puma for three months; and dairy farmers ďŹ nd the two tractors with the loaders useful, especially if their tractor breaks down and they need a solution fast.â&#x20AC;?

From a useability perspective, Tim says most of his customers comment on the comfort of the cabs, with government agencies speciďŹ cally choosing Timâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Case IH range for operator comfort and the resulting implications on workplace safety.

When it comes to his own business, ease of use, buying price and service are what give Case IH the tick of approval from Tim. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Pumas and Maxxum are so easy to use and maintain,â&#x20AC;? he said.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re easy to check the oil and operate â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important when you only have ďŹ ve or 10 minutes to show a customer how to drive the tractor.â&#x20AC;?

Gaffyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tractor Hire turns tractors over every five years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In my business, the way you buy and sell has a big difference on the bottom line.â&#x20AC;?

Tim initially started the business with his father back in 2004, after the family decided to ďŹ nd an alternative to dairy farming.

He bought his ďŹ rst Case IH tractor from Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connors in 2015, and since then has gone from strength to strength.

Consider a ride on mower before spring hits

SPRING IN: Spring is almost here, which means itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to start thinking about mowing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and no one knows more in the business than the team at Ride on Mower Sales in Healesville and Lilydale.

RIDE on Mower Sales is a family owned business located in Healesville and Lilydale.

Owned and operated by Peter and Sue Sommer, the pair has been operating the business for a number of years - and during that time have built up the reputation of the business and the respect of their customers.

Not only do they have a wide range of Cub Cadet and Rover ride on mowers, they also sell log splitters, ATVs,

UTVs and various other garden equipment.

Peter and his brother Ashley have also decided to branch out into the motorcycle world as well.

By selling the CafĂŠ race style motorbike â&#x20AC;&#x201C; along with their range of dirt bikes - they have established a new addition to the business called Villen Motorcycles, with the shop ďŹ&#x201A;oor space shared at the ride on mower premises in Healesville.

Peter, Sue and Ashley are inviting everyone to come and see them at either their Healesville of Lilydale shops.

Ride on Mower Sales and Villen Motorcycles is located at 214 Maroondah Highway, Healesville, or contact the team at 5962 1050.

The Lilydale shop is situated at 9 Maroondah Court Lilydale, phone them on 9739 4711.

Next time youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in the area, call in and see what the team can do for you.

RIDE ON MOWER SALES THE ONLY CARGO ATVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S & UTV'S YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;LL EVER NEED ELSTAR Ag BOSS 250 TWO VERSATILE CARGO ATV'S FEATURING Ć&#x201D; 250cc MOTOR Ć&#x201D; SEMI AUTO Ć&#x201D; ELECTRIC START Ć&#x201D; TILT TRAY (1130 x 1060mm) Ć&#x201D; HEAD AND TAIL LIGHTS Ć&#x201D; WARNING HORN Ć&#x201D; FRONT BUMPER

$5,250

UTVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HI SUN 550 VECTOR

FEATURES INCLUDE Â&#x2021; FF 2+9 /,48,' &22/(' (1*,1( Â&#x2021; 21 '(0$1' :' : Â&#x2021; $//2< :+((/6 522) :,1'6&5((1 Â&#x2021; 72: %$5 :,1&+ 3/86 /276 025(

$13,900

ODES-650ST COMRADE 2

$5,450 MODEL INCLUDES DIFF LOCK AND MAG WHEELS

214 MAROONDAH HWY HEALESVILLE PH. 03 5962 1050

FEATURES INCLUDE Â&#x2021; FF /,48,' &22/(' (1*,1( Â&#x2021; 67((/ :+((/6 Â&#x2021; NJ :,1&+ Â&#x2021; )5217 %803(5 Â&#x2021; 522) '2256 :,1'6&5((1 $1' 025(

$14,400

www.mowersalesonline.com.au

9 MAROONDAH CRT LILYDALE PH. 03 9739 4711

STOCK CONTROL AND FENCING

Page 22, Southern Farmer

hŶƚƌĞĂƚĞĚ ƚŝŵďĞƌ ĞŶĐĂƐĞĚ ŝŶ ƌĞĐLJĐůĞĚ ƉŽůLJŵĞƌ

sŝŶĞLJĂƌĚ dƌĞůůŝƐ

'ĂƚĞƐ

&ĞŶĐĞƐ

^ŚŽǁ :ƵŵƉŝŶŐ WŽůĞƐ

dŝƌĞĚ ŽĨ ƌŽƚƚĞŶ ƉŽƐƚƐ Ͳ dŝƌĞĚ ŽĨ ĐƌĂĐŬĞĚ ƐƉůŝƚ ƚŝŵďĞƌ dŝƌĞĚ ŽĨ ĨŝdžŝŶŐ ďƌŽŬĞŶ ĨĞŶĐĞƐ Ͳ dŚĞ ^ŽůƵƚŝŽŶ ŝƐ ŚĞƌĞ ͊​͊ EK ZŽƚ Ͳ EK ZƵƐƚ Ͳ EK ƚĞƌŵŝƚĞƐ Ͳ >Žǁ ŵĂŝŶƚĞŶĂŶĐĞ EK ƉĂŝŶƚŝŶŐ Ͳ EK ƐƉůŝŶƚĞƌƐ Ͳ EK ĐƌĂĐŬƐ Ͳ ŚĞŵŝĐĂů ĨƌĞĞ

ϭϯϬϬ ϲϮϮ ϵϬϲ ǁǁǁ͘ǁŽŽĚƐŚŝĞůĚ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵ

Westonfence ‘keeps stock where they should be’ JOCK Richmond describes himself as “quite fastidious” when it comes to stock staying where they should be.

The fourth-generation farmer has been running Rose Grange Pastoral Company, at Little River near Victoria’s You Yangs, for 20 years.

The large-scale mixed farming operation turns off Angus cattle at 320 kilograms carcass weight, includes a prime-lamb enterprise and crops canola, wheat and barley.

Being one of Victoria’s driest regions south of the Great Dividing Range — the Otway Ranges create a rain shadow that sees just a 450-millimetre average annual rainfall — competition for grass is strong – meaning feral animal pressure can be high.

With a massive influx of kangaroos, the Richmonds were looking for a better fencing solution to traditional hardwood droppers.

The idea, suggested by a respected fencing contractor, was to use Westonfence.

Gallagher Westonfence is a permanent electric fencing solution, ideal for subdivision, boundary fences and feral and wild animal exclusion fencing.

The system is centred on the use of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) Insulated Suspension Posts (ISPs) and high tensile fastening clips.

Looking for wild dog or kangaroo exclusion fencing?

Problem solved.

Stop kangaroos and wild dogs in their tracks with a Gallagher Westonfence system. The unique system is a cost effective, robust solution for internal sub-division and exclusion fencing for the management of stock and pests.

• • •

Quick and easy to install Lower labour costs Unique design combined with a Gallagher Energizer gives a highly effective, long lasting and low maintenance fence

Speak to your Gallagher Territory Manager about designing the best system for your property.

1800 GALLAGHER www.gallagher.com

August 2018

KEEP ‘EM IN: Gallagher Westonfence keeps livestock in, and vermin out.

It is fast, easy to construct and a cost effective alternative to traditional fencing with electric offsets.

Jock and his family now use Westonfence for both internal subdivision and stock control, as well as an external kangaroo exclusion fence, which they customised to suit their needs – and estimate that the fencing has been responsible for a large increase in production.

“I’ve never been a fan of offsets in electric fencing,” Jock said.

“So not having an offset carried great appeal to me in trying the Westonfence.

“There were anywhere up to 200 roos at a time on this particular property, and now if there’s one or two, that’s it it’s been a massive success.”

It’s the same story for in-

ternal subdivision – Westonfence keeps stock where it should be, while keeping pests out.

“Because it’s electric, we’re not getting the pressure — or the wear and tear in general — on the fencing,” Jock said.

“We like our livestock being in the paddock they’re meant to be in; we don’t like them getting out of their mobs.

“For us, it’s pretty important that when we put them in a paddock, they stay in it; we don’t need to find animals and redraft them back into mobs.”

Gallagher Westonfence is able to be powered from both a solar system, or on mains electricity.

For more information, go to www.gallagher.com, or speak to your Gallagher territory manager.

August 2018

AUSTRALIAN SHEEP AND WOOL SHOW - WRAP UP

ON SHOW: Malcolm and Trudy Boyer, from Monmont Perendale Stud, were one of many to exhibit during the annual Australian Sheep and Wool Show.

NOT JUST SHEEP: It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just about sheep at the annual Australian show, there was also plenty of machinery and the latest in farming technology.

Southern Farmer, Page 23

SHEAR WELL: The Australian Sheep Show is not just about the different breeds of sheep, it is also about how to maximise the time spent on-farm by using innovative products like those from Shearwell. Pictured are (left) Oliver Burgun and Glenn Forge.

Australian Sheep and Wool Show success

THE YANKO: Ian Cameron from The Yanko Merino near Jerilderie.

LATE last month, thousands of sheep enthusiasts ďŹ&#x201A;ocked to Bendigo for the annual Australian Sheep and Wool Show.

Celebrating 141 years, the event is the largest of its type in the world and is renowned for hosting the

best of the best stud breeders in Australia.

Although sheep are the focus of the three-day event, there was also plenty of industry news, innovative farming ideas and ways to make day-to-day production easier.

LOTS TO SEE: From sheep competitions to how to cook the best roast lamb, there was something for everyone at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show.

EXHIBITORS: Ross Shilliday (left) and Amir Yacoub from Hillcrest Christian College were among the school students to exhibit during the Sheep and Wool Show.

FENCE THEM IN: Gallagher Fencing expert, Justin Brown, was on-hand to provide fencing expertise for those wanting to keep their sheep in.

GRAMMAR SCHOOL: Students from Tintern Grammar, with (from left) Annie Liu, Saskia Jackson-Smith and Ruby Gilson.

HELP: Plenty of industry representatives were also at the show, including Melissa Neal from Sheep Producers Australia.

STUD MAN: David Ridgeway, representing his stud, Ridgeway Advance.

TOOLS FOR THE FARM: John Berends Implements were one of many tractor and machinery suppliers to be on display.

NEWS

Page 24, Southern Farmer

August 2018

STAY LOADED SAVE $11,000 WITH A BONUS LOADER*

MF 5610 CAB 105 HP With over six decades of muscle behind it, the MF 5610 is designed to provide excellent manoeuvrability for hard work in the yard, in the ďŹ eld or on the road.

Plus, the beneďŹ ts of the MF 5610 just got bigger with a BONUS LOADER worth $11,000.

1 % (, '&. ) &%+)&# # - ) &) ,## +) %*$ ** &% &%+)&# &% + * ,++# 1 ,##/ %+ ) + #& ) */*+ $ )&$ +&)/ 1 ) " +& % ,+) # % * ,++# * %* + - +/ !,*+$ %+ &) ,*+&$ * &' ) + &% 1 , # 0 %+ % '&. ) ,#

% % *

ALL ROUNDER

OFFER AVAILABLE AT THE FOLLOWING MASSEY FERGUSON DEALERS Dandenong Kyneton Nagambie Silvan

Small Horse Tractors L & G Shepherd and Sons John Sanderson Machinery Darmac Ag Sales & Service

18 Lonsdale Street 88 Piper Street 36-38 Industrial Crescent 249-251 Monbulk Road

(03) (03) (03) (03)

9791 5422 5794 9737

6414 1821 2272 9255

) % * '+ $ ) . # *+& "* # *+ & ) % #, * *+ % ) , " + &%+ + /&,) #& # ** / ) ,*&% # )* ' &) ,## + )$* % &% + &%*

MASSEYFERGUSON.COM.AU MASSEY FERGUSONŽ, MFŽ, the triple-triangle logoŽ is a worldwide brand of AGCO. Š 2018.

A world of experience. Working with you for 60 years.