Southern Farmer

THE SOUTHERN

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

NOVEMBER, 2016

486 Whitehorse Road, Surrey Hills, 3127

HAY AND SILAGE

ROYAL SUCCESS PAGE 6

ON COURSE TO PRODUCE MORE LAMBS

PAGES 10-16

PAGE 17

Chickening out Victorian plant will close

By NATASHA LOBBAN

FERRARI LIFESTYLE: Leo Schoonderbeek of Konnigs Shepparton with the new Ferrari Skyjump V95 Dualsteer tractor was among the exhibitors at last month’s Wandin Silvan Field Days. See page 3 for full story.

PHOTO: Calvin Purss

VICTORIANS are being encouraged to buy chicken grown and processed in the state to support local farmers, businesses and jobs.

The call to action, from Victorian Farmers Federation Chicken Meat president Allan Bullen, is in response to national processor Baiada announcing it would shut its Laverton processing plant from March 31, 2017.

The move has impacted 16 broiler farms who are now desperately seeking alternative means to generate income.

At Rockbank, just a 15-minute drive from the processing plant, Sham Sharma from Nevas Farms fears he will have to sell up to meet mortgage demands.

Mr Sharma spent more than $100,000 replacing shed floors, installing a new water tank and improving access roads in the past 18 months.

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He said he received a perplexing letter in July saying that he no longer had a contract with Baiada – a decision which was reversed when the VFF stepped in and he received another letter saying it was an “oversight”.

However, the good news was short lived as Mr Sharma was informed in October the processing plant would close, one of the get out clauses available in the contract.

The 60-year-old is now running the sheds without a manager, who took up another opportunity to secure employment.

Unless he can find another manager his last batch will be sold in December.

“I would have liked my son and grandson to have been able to take it on one day but that’s not going to happen now,” Mr Sharma said.

“I’ve already been making phone calls to look at all opportunities,” he said.

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NEWS

Page 2, Southern Farmer

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Covering Central South Victoria and West Gippsland Level 1, Suite 103, 486 Whitehorse Road, Surry Hill, North VIC 3127

Phone (03) 9888 4822 Fax (03) 9888 4840 Email: sfarmer@nemedia.com.au Website: www.nemedia.com.au

Calvin Purss Phone (03) 5723 0125 Fax (03) 5721 9447 cpurss@nemedia.com.au

Editorial:

Jodie Fleming Phone (03) 5723 0129 Fax (03) 5721 9447 jfleming@nemedia.com.au

Livestock Coordinator:

David Rizzoli Phone (03) 9888 4822 Fax (03) 9888 4840

Pre-Press Coordinator

Noelene Allan Phone (03) 5723 0110 Fax (03) 5722 9778 nallan@nemedia.com.au

ON THE SPOT

Jodie FLEMING Editorial

PIGEON RACING: The Ballarat Agricultural Show Society held its first activity on July 10, 1856. It was a ploughing match with 20 ploughmen taking part. Over 150 years later the Society is still celebrating its contribution to the community and agricultural activities, including pigeon racing as one of its events.

*THE Australian Farm Institute is holding its annual Agriculture Roundtable Conference on Thursday, November 10 and Friday, November 11 at the Pullman Brisbane King George Square in Brisbane, Queensland.

The event commences with dinner on the evening of November 10 and continues with breakfast and a full day’s discussion on November 11.

The annual event brings together the most senior leaders of Australian agriculture and agribusiness to discuss issues of strategic importance to the future of the sector.

For more information email smithk@farminstitute.org.au.

The conference registration includes all sessions, a welcome barbecue, a conference dinner at Melbourne Aquarium and an off-site field trip on the Tuesday.

The cost is $990 ($850 early bird) or $660 for students.

For more information visit www. ini2016.com.

*THE 7th International Nitrogen Initiative Conference (INI) 2016 will be held on Sunday, December 4 to Thursday, December 8 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Richmond.

The theme is ‘Solutions to improve nitrogen use efficiency for the world’ with research in Australia and New Zealand supported by universities, government and industry engaged with the global science community.

*COTTON Australia is calling for interested students and school-leavers to submit and expression of interest to its Cotton Gap Program.

The program gives students first-hand working experience in the cotton industry, giving growers an opportunity to introduce new people to the industry and access keen young people to meet labour requirements.

COUNTRY SHOWS AND REGIONAL FIELD DAYS NOVEMBER 2016 5-6: Whittlesea Agricultural Show 11-13: Ballarat Agricultural Show 12-13: Dandenong Show 18-19: Kyneton Show 19-20: Lilydale Agricultural & Horticultural Show

DECEMBER 2016 3: Kilmore Agricultural Show 3: Penshurst Show For more information on country shows visit www.vicagshows.com.au or www.countryshows.com.au.

For more information and to submit an expression of interest visit www.cottonaustralia.com.au/ work-in-cotton/cotton-gap. *THE Post Office Gallery at the Bendigo Art Gallery is currently hosting a photograph and oral history display about the role of animals in and around Bendigo until February 12, 2017.

‘Menagerie: animals in Bendigo History’ includes stories about the ancestral beings like eagle and ‘Waa, the Crow’ to the introduction of cattle, sheep, pigs, horses, monkeys and rabbits.

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The event will bring together the full supply chain and a wide range of fruit, vegetable and floral producers, together with world-class presenters who will inform and inspire fresh produce industry members, while the trade show will showcase the most exciting developments in horticulture.

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*CATTLE Council of Australia is holding is 2016 annual general meeting on Wednesday, November 9 at the Intercontinental Hotel, North Terrace, Adelaide starting at 8am.

Two direct board positions will be elected – one each from both the north and south.

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Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677.

Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner.

Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

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NEWS

November 2016

Southern Farmer, Page 3

Youth shine at Wandin Silvan Field Days

ON SHOW: Among the exhibitors at last month’s Wandin Silvan Field Days were: LEFT: Warren Storey in the New Holland T5.105 tractor; ABOVE: Alan Bresneham and Michael Arnott from Monbulk Rural; and RIGHT: Deanne Marland from The Red Shed in Dandenong.

PHOTOS: Calvin Purss

VFF call to buy local after Baidda FRQ¿UPV 9LFWRULDQ SODQW FORVXUH From page 1

He said he had been looking at lease arrangements, but is concerned that this option won’t even cover the mortgage repayments on the facility.

He would like to see other farmers support Victorian chicken growers by boycotting Baiada chickens, which are branded as Steggles.

Mr Bullen, from Lang Lang, said in Victoria two national companies – Baiada and Inghams – operate as do two Victorian companies in Turi and Hazeldene’s.

He’d like to see retailers and consumers support Victorian-based businesses to keep the industry alive and well in the state.

“At the moment I don’t think any growers can take their contract for granted,” he said.

Mr Bullen said a national

price war, where this year prices hit a 10-year low, was behind the pressure.

“The industry is still solid and growing. But at this minute Victoria is not in the peak demographic we’d like it to be,” he said.

And South Australia is adding extra pressure, supplying its own state’s needs and topping up Victoria too.

“Our main focus at the moment is to find alternative uses for the sheds,” Mr Bullen said.

“They are specially designed to grow broiler chickens.”

A meeting had been scheduled with affected growers to assess options such as ducks, eggs, flowers, fish and horticultural options.

The State Government has stepped in with up to $80,000 of assistance for farmers to convert sheds to other uses – on a 2-1

funding arrangement.

Baiada Poultry managing director Simon Camilleri said the company would be working through the process of closure with our employees, growers, and other business partners to minimise impacts wherever it can.

“All employee and contractual obligations will be met and we will work closely with the National Union of Workers to find staff new roles with other employers,” Mr Camilleri said.

“Unfortunately, market conditions require us to consolidate our national processing operations meaning we could no longer viably operate the Laverton processing facility in the medium to long term.

“Our Laverton site will continue to be integral to our business as our key distribution hub for the state of Victoria.”

YOUNG farmers were the focus at this year’s Wandin Silvan Field Days.

Wandin Silvan Field Days president William Anker was pleased to report that students from Mount Lilydale Mercy College’s young farmers club showcased their farming skills during the two day event.

“We seemed to focus a lot of youth this year, which was fantastic,” Mr Anker said.

The youth hosted a pet show for the first time and with the assistance of Rural Fencing Trade at Coldstream held fencing demonstrations over the two-day event.

The Bendigo Bank also got on board to support young people, offering a total of $750 in cash prizes for its historic farm photo competitions aimed at school-aged photographers.

There was also a snake

show, wildlife show, pony rides and miniature Galloway cattle which kept young families entertained.

Mr Anker said exhibitor numbers were stable and visitor numbers were up 10 to 15 per cent.

The winners of this year’s awards: s "EST PRESENTED STAND

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NEWS

Page 4, Southern Farmer

Daylesford Show to be bigger, better

November 2016

Another successful Wurrook ram sale

By DAVID RIZZOLI

A BEAUTIFUL new building for all indoor displays and a lovely dining room will be unveiled at the annual Daylesford Show on Saturday, November 26.

Celebrating its 144th annual show, the Daylesford & District Agricultural Society Inc. will be featuring the days of old and new according to show secretary Sandra Melen.

“We also have a huge horse program, sheep, goats, poultry, rabbits, dogs, lots of food, entertainment and rides,” she said.

“Everything will be there to make a great family day out in a beautiful setting.

“The society would like to extend a huge thank you to all those that help make our show the wonderful day that it is.”

The first Daylesford Show was held in 1865 in the Jamieson Hotel Yard and was called ‘The Grain Show’.

Later on it became known as the ‘Agricultural Show’, and for some considerable time was held in the old showgrounds at the corner of Malmsbury Road and Knox Street, and later at the grounds known as Middleton Park.

The showgrounds are now established at Victoria Park, and the annual show is “one of the state’s best exhibitions”.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children five to 15 years of age, $5 for pensioners, $25 for families (two adults and three children) and children under five are free.

THE Walton family’s 2016 annual on-property Wurrook Merino ram sale was successful yet again last month.

There were 84 Spring 2014 drop March shorn rams offered and 84 sold for a gross of $163,300, averaging $1944.05/ head.

An extensive roll–up of buyers came from New South Wales, Tasmania and all pastoral regions of Victoria, with a large number of loyal return buyers.

Southern Farmer region wool producers were well represented beginning with Lot No.1 which was bought for $3000

by Glen Brothers, Wattlebank Merino Stud at Guildford.

Top price of $4500 was paid

by Inverlaul Nominees of Natte Yallock, north west of Ballarat, for Lot No. 63, a Polled ram sired by a ram from the Wurrook Polled Monarch Syndicate of rams.

Second top of $4000 was paid by NSW producers, M & F.Pilley, Uwamalla, Hill End. Equal third top of $3750 was also paid by the Pilley family and Tiree Pastoral Co. through Elders Wangaratta.

Numerous volume buyers were active at the auction, among them Eamon Timms of Melton who bought seven rams for $12,750, Rumler and GREAT START: Lot No.1 at the 2016 Wurrook on-property Ram Sale sold for $3000 with (from Trainor Partnership, Lismore, left) Wurrook studmaster Paul Walton and purchasers Ian and Steven Glen, Wattlebank, also seven for $16,150 and Guildford.

Satterness Pty Ltd also seven

for $9250 through Landmark, Bannockburn.

KG and GM Kelly of Strathfieldsaye purchased six for $11,550, T and B Bedggood, of Napoleons, south of Ballarat took home five for $9000 KR and RJ Wells, Mount Egerton four for $5750 and Chris Thomas through Elders Avoca, four for $4450.

Three rams each were bought

by DC and TS Brody, Balmoral; Grant Partnership through Elders, Ballarat; ER and IM Knight through Elders, Shepparton, and MJ Cheeseman, Carngham, west of Ballarat.

It should be noted that GST of 10 per cent is added to the purchase price by the buyer.

Wurrook Estate co-principal and stud master, Paul Walton thanked the large roll-up of buyers for their attendance at the sale and wished them well with their purchases.

The stud at Rokewood, on the edge of Victoria’s Western Plains, traces its history back to before the Victorian 1800’s gold rush days and is one of the oldest and largest Merino studs in Australia.

The Annual Wurrook Onproperty Surplus Sheep Sale comprising 600 2010 Spring Drop June Shorn Ewes, 700 2014 Spring Drop June Shorn Ewes, 600 2014 Spring Drop, June Shorn Wethers and 600 2015 Spring drop July Shorn Wethers will be held on Friday, January 13.

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NEWS

November 2016

Southern Farmer, Page 5

Herb “trail blazer” wins 2016 Rabobank Emerging Leader Award CO-FOUNDER of Clydebased Australian Fresh Leaf Herbs, Jan Vydra has won the 2016 Rabobank Emerging Leader Award.

The trans-Tasman award recognises exceptional up-andcoming leadership in Australia and New Zealand’s food and agribusiness industries.

Established in 2008, Australian Fresh Leaf Herbs is one of Australia’s leading herb growers and distributors, with two sites in Clyde and Devon Meadows.

Executive director Mr Vydra and horticulture director William Pham have developed the business from humble beginnings that now produces more than 180,000 bunches, pots and punnets a week across more than 50 varieties of garnishing produce from herbs, micro greens, edible flowers to specialty produce.

The company’s produce is available through major retailers, independent supermarkets, green grocers and wholesale distributors around Australia.

Mr Vydra said that his company’s vision has always been to produce consistent, fresh produce for consumers in a sustainable way.

“In 2008 we saw MasterChef

and My Kitchen Rules burst onto our TV screens, and that has really changed our cooking culture and sparked demand for fresh produce,” he said.

“And seeing that gap widen between the demand and supply of fresh leaf greens, we saw an opportunity to develop and implement a sustainable and efficient production process using closed hydroponic systems.”

With the recent development of a 4000 square metre stateof-the-art greenhouse, funded by the Coles Nurture Fund, Mr Vydra said the business had seen further significant water savings through the combination of Dutch-designed rolling benches and proprietary cloud technology developed by the business.

Through his studies as a 2016 Nuffield Scholar, Mr Vydra is currently investigating innovative ways to boost the yields and sustainability of fresh herbs and salad leaf production, particularly through genetic improvements.

“At Australian Fresh Leaf Herbs we have a young team that are really energetic and keen to innovate, and this is pivotal in helping us continue to drive our business forward.

“And this is really a tribute to his focus on sustainability, innovation and technology.

Mr Knoblanche added that Mr Vydra “doesn’t do things the way they have always been done”; instead he challenges the status quo, taking an integrated approach to the supply chain and adopting cloud technology in his new state-of-the-art greenhouse.

He added that the award winner’s leadership extends beyond his business to the wider industry with his involvement on key industry organisations including the Horticultural Advisory Committee for Consumer and Market Development at Horticulture Australia and the Coles Produce Agronomy Group.

“Jan is also a great advocate for young people in the industry.

“Named as the Young Farmer of the Year in 2011, he has used that award to showcase the opportunities for young people in agriculture, particularly those who might not have had a previous association with farming, but are interested in technology and the increasingly important role it plays in the industry,” Mr Knoblanche said.

HORTICULTURE KING: Jan Vydra’s Australian Fresh Leaf Herbs business is trialling the export of fresh leaf herbs into Asian markets.

“We now have plans afoot to build a new purpose-built facility near Melbourne, and are also looking at establishing another two or more sites in other parts of the country,” he said.

Aiming to be an international player, the business is also trialling the export of fresh leaf herbs into Asian markets, with the aim to export in the

17 key economic regions of South-East Asia.

As part of his Rabobank Emerging Leader Award, Mr Vydra will also undertake an international educational farm visit to a country relevant to his agricultural sector, as well as business mentoring sessions with the 2016 Rabobank Leadership Award winner, Sir Graeme Harrison.

Presenting the peer-nominated and judged award, Rabobank Australia and New Zealand Group managing director Peter Knoblanche said Mr Vydra was a “trail-blazer” in the good and agri industry.

“During Jan’s relatively short tenure in the industry, the change he has brought not only to his business, but the industry, has been formidable,” he said.

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2016 ROYAL MELBOURNE SHOW

Page 6, Southern Farmer

November 2016

Woonallee Simmentals wins Supreme Beef Exhibit

By DAVID RIZZOLI A FOUR-year old female from the Woonallee Simmentals stud of T.R and E.A Baker in Millicent, South Australia reigned as Supreme Beef Exhibit at the 2016 Royal Melbourne Show Beef Cattle Competition.

Woonallee Charo had earlier stood Senior Champion and Grand Champion Simmental Female.

The Charolais breed was the Feature Breed of the competition with the Supreme Exhibit awarded to Rangan Showgirl - a 27 month old female exhibited

by Graeme Cook from Rangan Charolais in Victoria.

Some 811 entries came from 156 exhibitors and 20 different breeds of beef cattle came from five states including New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and all regional areas of Victoria.

Other Interbreed Championships Supreme Junior Interbreed Champion Beef Bred Heifer Waterford Lady Gina - D and S. Halliday, Waterford Charolais, Mount Macedon, Victoria.

Reserve Supreme Junior Interbreed Champion Beef Bred Heifer - Spencer Family Diva - Spencer Family, Australian Shorthorns, Yuroke, Victoria.

Supreme Senior Interbreed Champion Beef Bred Female Woonallee Charo - T.R and E.A Baker, Woonallee Simmentals, Millicent, South Australia.

Reserve Senior Interbreed Champion Beef Bred Female Mandayan Jill - Patrick Halloran, Bush Park Limousins, Kyneton, Victoria.

Supreme Junior Interbreed Champion Beef Bred Bull Flemington Legend (Limousin) - Mount View Orchards, Batlow, Adelong, NSW. Reserve Supreme Junior Interbreed Champion Beef Bred Bull - Woonallee Lady Killer T.R and E.A Baker, Woonallee Simmentals, Millicent, South Australia.

Supreme Senior Interbreed Champion Beef Bred Bull - Elite Kustom Made - Elite Cattle Co., Elite Charolais, Meandarra, Queensland.

Reserve Supreme Interbreed Champion Beef Bred Bull Watermill Knight - Lilli Stewart, Watermill Angus, Birregurra, Victoria.

Bos Indicus Interbreed Supreme Junior Interbreed Heifer – Burramurra 159 – Riverina Wool Classing Australia, Burramurra Santa Gertrudis, Moama, NSW. Supreme Senior Interbreed Champion Female - Burramurra 98 - Riverina Wool Classing Australia, Burramurra Santa Gertrudis, Moama, NSW. Supreme Junior Interbreed Champion Bull - Nangaringa Len. (Santa Gertrudis) - R.M and D. Fogden, Nangaringa Santa Gertrudis, Loxton, South Australia.

Small Breeds Interbreed Supreme Junior Interbreed Champion Heifer - NBSP Miss Black (Australian Lowline) Lucas Kalliday, Bayles, Victoria.

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SUPREME LIMOUSIN: From left, Emma Dickinson (standing), Elisha Basse (kneeling), Fran O’Dea, executive officer Limousin Australia and Bush Park Limousins principal, Patrick Halloran.

Interbreed Champion Heifer O’Hara Katie Scarlett - Wayne and Tracey Hall, O’Hara Australian Lowline Stud, Windsor, NSW. Supreme Senior Interbreed Champion Female - Ballarat Grammar Kate - Ballarat Grammar, Ballarat Grammar Australian Lowline Stud, Wendouree, Victoria.

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Reserve Supreme Junior Interbreed Champion Bull Cann Valley Lucifer - Cann Valley Australian Lowline Stud, Cann River, Victoria.

Supreme Senior Interbreed Champion Bull - O’Hara Sir Charles - Wayne and Tracey

Hall, O’Hara Australian Lowline Stud, Windsor, NSW. Reserve Supreme Senior Interbreed Champion Bull Ballarat Grammar JD - Ballarat Grammar, Ballarat Grammar Australian Lowline Stud, Wendouree, Victoria.

Other Championships (The Southern Farmer region exhibitors only or not awarded) CHAROLAIS – FEATURE BREED - 26 Exhibitors: Champion Heifer Calf, Chenu Charolais, Bridgewater.

Champion Heifer Calf, Junior Champion Heifer, Champion Bull Calf, Junior Champion Bull, Reserve Senior Champion Bull, D and S Halliday, Waterford, Mount Macedon.

ANGUS – 15 Exhibitors: Senior Champion Bull, Grand Champion Bull, Lilli Stewart, Waterlilli, Birregurra.

AUSTRALIAN LOWLINE – 9 Exhibitors: Junior Champion Heifer, Lucas Kalliday, Bayles.

Champion Senior Female,

Grand Champion Female, Reserve Senior Champion Bull, Supreme Exhibit, Ballarat Grammar School, Ballarat Grammar Lowlines, Wendouree.

Reserve Senior Champion Female, Junior Champion Bull, G and J.Knight, Wannamara, Major Plains.

AUSTRALIAN SHORTHORN – 3 Exhibitors: Junior Champion Heifer, Senior Champion Female, Grand Champion Female, Junior Champion Bull, Grand Champion Bull, D.W and M.F Spencer, Spencer Family, Yuroke.

BEEF SHORTHORN – 8 Exhibitors: Junior Champion Heifer, Grand Champion Female, Junior Champion Bull, Grand Champion Bull, Supreme Exhibit, David Ashley and grandchildren, Morningtime, Camberwell. Senior Champion Female, L and C. Shannon, Glenmount, Romsey.

BELTED GALLOWAY – 4 Exhibitors: Junior Champion Heifer, Grand Champion Female, Reserve Junior Champion Bull, Hazelwood Family, Pine Gully Park, Yallourn North. Reserve Junior Champion Heifer, Reserve Senior Champion Bull, Allison Hilli, Jallaway Belted Galloway Beef, Willow Grove.

HEREFORD – 11 Exhibitors: Junior Champion Bull, Grand Champion Bull, Jan Coghill, Kewarra Poll Hereford Stud, Moorooduc. Reserve Junior Champion Bull, Chloe, Brayden and Bronte Bowles, Grangeview Park, Axe Creek. Senior Champion Bull, Elma Cole, Seagrove, Balnarring.

LIMOUSIN – 17 Exhibitors: Senior Champion Female, Grand

Champion Female, Supreme Exhibit, Patrick Halloran, Bush Park, Kyneton.

MURRAY GREY – 17 Exhibitors: Junior Champion Heifer, Grand Champion Female, Supreme Exhibit, Siekman and Kent Partnership, Kentsie, Labertouche. Reserve Junior Champion Heifer, Crystal Bell, Prairie Falls, Flinders.

RED ANGUS – 12 Exhibitors: Senior Champion Female, Grand Champion Female, Supreme Exhibit, Andrew and Nyssa Kelly, Rosewood, Lara.

Reserve Senior Champion Female, Junior Champion Bull, Grand Champion Bull, Gary and Shirley Turnham, Barregowa Cattle Co., Gisborne. Senior Champion Bull, Jeff & Sue Boland, Claremont, Clunes.

RED POLL – 4 Exhibitors: Junior Champion Heifer, Reserve Junior Champion Heifer, Junior Champion Bull, Grand Champion Bull, Gay Ward, Redward, Arthurs Creek.

Reserve Senior Champion Female, Senior Champion Bull, Ross Draper, Red Cactus, Arthurs Creek.

SHORTHORN – 10 Exhibitors: Reserve Junior Champion Heifer, D and M. Spencer, Spencer Family, Yuroke. Reserve Junior Champion Bull, Tippetts Glengyron, Glengyron, Newlyn.

SIMMENTAL – 23 Exhibitors: Reserve Junior Champion Bull, Webb Black Simmentals, Glenburn.

SOUTH DEVON – 1 Exhibitor: Junior Champion Heifer, Junior Champion Bull, Grand Champion Bull, Supreme Exhibit, C and L. Daley, The Bend, Mirboo North.

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NEWS

Page 8, Southern Farmer

November 2016

Secondary weareonline! school outshines beef carcase 144th SHOW competitors at November 26, 2016 Geelong Show THE SOUTHERN

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria

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Entries close November 19, 2016

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By DAVID RIZZOLI BAIRNSDALE’S Nagle College outshone 41 other entries in the Beef Section of the 2016 Royal Geelong Show to take Grand Champion in both Hoof and Hook categories, with a Limousin x Angus animal.

The winning entry had an outstanding dressing percentage of 76.8 per cent.

While the beef carcase could not have come from much further east in Victoria, in the Lamb Carcase Competition the Grand Champion Lamb Carcase and Champion Pen Of Three Lamb Carcases, both on the Hoof and on the Hook, could not have come from much further west in Victoria.

This was won by the Jorgensen family from Antwerp in the West Wimmera.

M.C Herd Pty Ltd managing director Frank Herd, at whose abattoir the competition is held annually, declared this year’s competition “the best ever”, with no carcases being downgraded for dark cutting.

RESULTS BEEF CARCASE COMPETITION LIGHT YEARLING 280– 350KG LIVE WEIGHT, 160– 200KG HSCW There were 42 entries from 24 exhibitors.

ON HOOF – 1st - Karen and Jack Briscoe, Charlemont, Limousin x Angus x Friesian; 2nd - Don Nash, Lara, Murray

Grey x Limousin; 3rd - Karen and Jack Briscoe, Limousin x Angus x Friesian.

ON HOOK – 1st - Rob Crouch, Stonehaven, Limousin x Angus x Friesian, Dress 62.6 per cent, 87.2 points; 2nd - Don Nash, MG x L, Dress 60.4 per cent, 84.6 points; 3rd - Karen and Jack Briscoe, L x An x Fr, Dress 60.2 per cent, 82.8 points.

MEDIUM YEARLING 351–440KG LIVE WEIGHT, 201–250KG HSCW ON HOOF – 1st and Grand Champion - Nagle College, Bairnsdale, Limousin x Angus; 2nd and Reserve Grand Champion - Don Nash, Murray Grey x Limousin; 3rd - Celine Mason, Grovedale, Murray Grey x Limousin.

ON HOOK – Nagle College, L x An, Dress 76.8 per cent, 92 points; 2nd - Don Nash, MG x L, Dress 62.6 per cent, 88 points; 3rd - Lester Sieffert, Belbrae, South Devon x Angus x South Devon, Dress 63.6 per cent, 84.6 points.

HEAVY YEARLING 441– 550KG LIVE WEIGHT, 251– 300KG HSCW. ON HOOF – 1st and Reserve Grand Champion - Trevor Nash, Lara, Murray Grey x Limousin; 2nd - V.A and B.P Davie, Marcus Hill, Angus; 3rd Dion Brook Moralla, Shorthorn.

ON HOOK – 1st - G and D Freshwater, Lindenow, Limousin x Hereford x Angus, Dress 62.8 per cent, 86.8 points; 2nd - V.A and B.P Davie, An, Dress 59 per cent, 83.3 points. 3rd - V.A and B.P Davie, An, Dress 66.7 per cent, 81.6 points.

LAMB CARCASE

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COMPETITION There were 26 entries from nine exhibitors in three classes.

This competition was dominated by two exhibitors, the Jorgensen family from Antwerp and Karen and Jack Briscoe from Charlemont, south of Geelong.

HOOF – CLASS 1 1st - B.A ,T.A and H.A Jorgensen, Antwerp, Texel; 2nd - Nicole Briscoe, Charlemont; 3rd - Karen and Jack Briscoe, Charlemont.

HOOK – CLASS 1 (Maximum 100 points) 1st - Nicole Briscoe, 85 points; 2nd - B.A, T.A and H.A Jorgensen, 84 points; 3rd Karen and Jack Briscoe , 83.5 points.

HOOF – CLASS 2 1st and Reserve Grand Champion - B.A, T.A and H.A Jorgensen, Texel; 2nd - Karen and Jack Briscoe; 3rd - B.A, T.A and H.A Jorgensen.

HOOK – CLASS 2 (Max 100 points) 1st and Grand Champion B.A, T.A & H.A Jorgensen, 94.5 points; 2nd - G & H.Perkins (Sparrowvale), Connewarre, 85.5 points; 3rd - B.A,T.A & H.A Jorgensen, 83 points.

HOOF – CLASS 3 1st and Grand Champion B.A, T.A and H.A Jorgensen; 2nd - B.A, T.A and H.A Jorgensen; 3rd - Karen and Jack Briscoe.

HOOK – CLASS 3 (Max 100 points) 1st and Reserve Grand Champion - B.A, T.A & H.A Jorgensen, 94 points; 2nd - B.A ,T.A and H.A Jorgensen; 3rd - Karen and Jack Briscoe, 93 points.

Decades of septic system misery, banished in days.

Queensland couple Mike and Rose Maynard talk about their decadeslong battle with septic tank odours and fouling, and the environmentally friendly solution that restored their pride in their home within two weeks.

“Our septic system was put in when we built in 1988,� says Mike Maynard from his rural property in sunny Queensland. “Over the years we have had continuing problems with the system not working properly. The area around the trench would get so wet and boggy that we could not even walk near it, let alone use the mower.�

But that wasn’t the worst bit of their dysfunctional septic system. “The smell would become almost overpowering at times,� says Mike, “especially when it rained or when we had visitors to stay, which was quite embarrassing.�

The stink that stuck The problem wouldn’t go away, which is common with septic tanks and wastewater treatment systems. “As time went on, the smell was becoming a constant thing,� explains Rose.

Septic systems are much like a digestive system for your house. Just as you need healthy bacteria in your body, your septic system needs a healthy balance of good bacteria to process the waste from your home.

Otherwise, problems occur and recur. “We were at a loss as to what to do to ďŹ x it, apart from getting the septic pumped out again, digging up and replacing the trench, or even replacing the whole system – all expensive options,â€? says Rose. “But then we read in a magazine about Ecocare Activator.â€?

Cleaners don’t cut it Often confused with traditional septic system cleaning products, Ecocare Activator is much more than a cleaner.

Sound advice about odours “My husband rang and spoke at length to George at Insight Environmental about our problem and, based on that conversation and George’s assurances, we decided to try Ecocare Activator,� says Rose. “We thought, ‘Really, what do we have to lose,’ as it is only a fraction of the cost of the other options we had.�

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

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

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

It’s an easy-to-use, environmentally friendly, septicsafe solution that activates and conditions your septic system. It gets the ‘digestive system’ healthy again, which, in turn, clears the blockages that cause bad odours and keeps the entire septic system clean.

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HAY AND SILAGE

Page 10, Southern Farmer

November 2016

Agricultural apps developed to streamline data FARMERS and agronomists can throw the notepad and pen from the top pocket this harvest and eliminate the frustration of double entering data thanks to a range of apps that allow realtime, in-paddock recording and data sharing.

The apps have been developed by agricultural technology provider Agworld to enable farmers and harvest employees to capture key data during this busy time on their iPads and iPhones and make it instantly accessible to their agronomists and other farm staff.

Agworld general manager Simon Foley said farmers can use the platforms to quickly and easily create current records of harvest area, crop yields, paddock or production constraints noted or suspected, costs of harvest operations and any other notes that are relevant to particular paddocks or paddock zones.

“They can also access, on-the-go, a range of handy tools via their mobile devices, including a library of product labels, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and technical documents,” he added.

“All of this data helps to produce a better picture of the farming business’ performance and is instantly reportable for gross margin analysis.

“The information collected at harvest is easy to view throughout the season and,

PADDOCK DATA: Agworld general manager Simon Foley said the apps have been developed to enable farmers to capture key data on their iPads and iPhones.

combined with a range of agronomic and production information generated by the farmer and agronomist during the year, builds a comprehensive set of farm records for a particular year and to monitor trends across years,” Mr Foley said.

Harvest functionality is among the many features of Agworld’s apps that can provide valuable insight to whole farm management – with the aim of boosting business

productivity and reducing production and financial risks.

“The iPad and iPhone apps easily extend the functionality of the Agworld website to provide production information and insights to better assist with in-paddock decision making,” Mr Foley said.

Agworld’s Collaborative Farming Solutions can be used in both online and offline situations to manage any internet connectivity issues.

Mr Foley said despite parts of rural and regional Australia continuing to face internet access issues, the move by farmers and agronomists to mobile technology continues to grow.

“Our technology has both online and offline capabilities to overcome the issue of black spots.

“Its design ensures farmers can still record data offline in the paddock before syncing at home, when there is typically

better internet connectivity and capacity.”

Since Agworld launched in Australia in December 2009, the company has connected more than 17,000 farmers and agronomists across Australia and New Zealand.

“Our aim is to provide software solutions that enable farmers and agronomists to work more efficiently and effectively as one unit that is connected, in real-time, wherever

they both are,” he said.

Agworld apps are designed to be intuitive and user- friendly, but the company has locallybased support staff spread across Australia, providing complimentary support and training to users.

Agworld is available via web browser or through its iPad and iPhone apps from the Apple App Store.

For more information visit www.agworld.com.au.

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HAY AND SILAGE

Page 12, Southern Farmer

Avoid hay stack ¿ UHV WKLV VXPPHU ACCORDING to the Country Fire Authority (CFA), spontaneous ignition is the leading cause of haystack fire in Victoria.

Just one damp bale is enough to ignite a haystack.

Green or damp hay encourages elements like bacteria and fungi to grow and decompose.

A series of complex biological and chemical reactions can then cause a build-up that allows hay to heat. This can produce flammable gasses which may ignite.

Haystack fires are also caused by sparks from machinery and equipment, and embers from burn offs or bushfires To prevent haystack fires ensure hay is fully cured before bailing, know the history of the hay you purchase and keep haystacks to a limited size.

The CFA advises farmers to store hay in separate stacks, in a number of places away from key assets and away from possible sources of ignition like roadsides, powerlines workshops and vegetation.

Never store vehicles, machinery and equipment in your hayshed - there is increased risk of losing both hay and machinery It’s also a good idea to store hay in areas that are not likely to flood and in sheds that are in good repair to minimise moisture.

If hay gets too hot spread out the stack to allow it to cool.

Safety is paramount, so don’t walk on top of hay that is heating as it may collapse or ignite. It’s also a good idea to have your local fire brigade attend when pulling apart a hot haystack.

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November 2016

Harvesting silage in wet weather a big challenge

By FRANK MICKAN, Agriculture Victoria Pasture and Fodder Conservation Specialist.

IT’S been a great year for grass growth, but a shocker for making satisfactorily wilted silage.

Earlier in the season, some farmers and contractors were able to harvest some silage, but the break in the wet weather was shorter than we would have liked to ensure the forage was harvested in the desirable dry matter ranges.

It is highly likely that much of this silage will have been ensiled wetter than desirable, especially if baled.

It seems that rain will be an ongoing concern for the next week or so, possibly making it difficult to successfully harvest high-quality silage without rain damage this year.

Despite poorer quality silage being made, the little silver lining in the cloud is that, provided paddocks are not chopped up during harvest and pasture is only about half way up the gumboot at cutting, the paddocks will recover well and quickly and soil moisture will allow a longer season in many areas.

Longer pastures will be much slower to recover and be much less dense.

What can be done to minimise the deleterious effects of wet weather on silage quality?

The aim is to harvest chopped stack silage in at about 30 to 35 per cent dry matter (DM) content versus 40 to 50 per cent DM for round baled silage.

Precision chopped silage could be ensiled up to about 40 per cent DM due to shorter chop length enabling better compaction.

If the DM contents are below these targets, the silage will undergo a less desirable fermentation resulting in increased DM losses, be of lower quality and be less palatable to cattle.

This year some very early bales have been much wetter than desired,

HARD HARVEST: Pasture and fodder specialist, Frank Mickan said it is highly likely that this year’s silage will be wetter than in an ideal season.

but by using the latest balers, they are producing very tight bales, with silage additives having been used.

The lack of air, plus additive inclusion has ensured success in most occasions in the last few years.

Don’t count on this if loose bales are produced.

Be aware that even traditional 1.2 metre x 1.2 metre bales will be very heavy (650kg and above).

Delaying cutting too long will also result in silage of low nutritive value, even if undamaged by rain.

These crops will be heavier and unless we get good breaks of quite warm weather to achieve the desired wilting for either stacks or bales, the silage will probably undergo a poorer fermentation if made too wet and/or soil is included in the forage.

Cutting earlier with some rain damage will still result in silage of better quality than that cut later, assuming most paddock damage is avoidable.

Digestibility is dropping about three to five percentage units per

seven to 10 days by mid-October and protein content dropping about one to three units, depending on the maturity date of the ryegrass species in the pasture.

The longer a mown crop is on the ground, and/or the more rain that falls on it, the greater the dry matter and quality (energy and protein) losses from plant respiration, microbial and bacterial caused losses, leaching losses and some possible leaf shatter.

Rain can also splash undesirable bacteria onto the forage, basically inoculating the material with undesirable bacteria.

Applying a bacterial silage inoculant is often said to speed up the fermentation of any remaining sugar and result in a good fermentation.

This may apply where the crop has not been exposed to many days of wet weather or wilting has occurred over less than three to four days.

There should be enough plant sugars for the bacteria to convert

to a sweet-smelling lactic acid to preserve the forage.

However, there are other products on the market which can handle material exposed to constant drizzle or heavy rain or where wilting has been extended for many days.

These are buffered acid salts, and another contains an enzyme base + sulphur compound which scavenges the oxygen.

You can ask about others suited for over-wet material or extended wilting.

These are the products worth considering this difficult season.

Three final words on silage additives.

1. They will return you at least three to five dollars for every dollar spent.

2. You will not always see the difference between treated and untreated silage although, this year, you may smell the difference.

3. I would recommend using the relevant silage additive in all scenarios.

THE SOUTHERN

Hay Silage Pellets Grain

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria

weareonline! __www.nemedia.com.au ABN: 48 716 259 496

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HAY AND SILAGE

November 2016

Southern Farmer, Page 13

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Compiled by DAVID In 1889, AW Howard discovered which plant growing at Mount Barker in South Australia? (a) annual rye grass (b) strawberry clover (c) subterranean clover.

2 3

Which breed of wheat was released in Victoria in 1956?

Columbia and Targhee sheep breeds are the American equivalent of which Australian sheep breeds?

6

In 1884, a machine that could strip, thresh, clean and bag cereal grain was invented by whom?

7

HYPAR pigs, a process by which disease-free piglets were delivered was developed by the Victorian Department of Agriculture at the S.S Cameron Laboratory at Werribee. What is HYPAR an anagram for?

8

What are Figure of Eight, Donald, Double Loop and Pin and Loop?

4

The Australian Illawarra Shorthorn, a breed of dairy cattle, was developed in which region of Australia?

5

The first stage of which irrigation scheme was started in 1963?

Capretto and Chevon are meats produced from which animals?

9

10

What was first released

by CSIRO in 1951 to control rabbits?

11

Developed in the United States, Santa Gertrudis beef cattle were derived from a cross of which two cattle breeds?

12

Developed in Shepparton in the 1880s and used mainly for carting water for domestic purposes and livestock in World War I, which ubiquitous object gives its name to unreliable information or rumour?

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ANSWERS: 1. (c) Subterranean clover. 2. Olympic. 3. Corriedale (Lincoln x American Rambouliet) and Polwarth (Lincoln x American Rambouliet x American Rambouliet). 4.

Fencing knots. 5. Goats. 6. Hugh Victor McKay. 7. Hysterectomy Produced Artificially Reared.

8. The Illawarra region taking in Woollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama, NSW. 9. The Ord River Scheme. 10. Myxomatosis. 11. Brahman (3/8) and Shorthorn (5/8). 12. The Furphy Water Cart.

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HAY AND SILAGE

Page 14, Southern Farmer

November 2016

Safety must be a key priority during harvest season GRAIN growers are being encouraged to implement strategies to ensure harvest 2016 is a safe one.

The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) is backing calls by the Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety for the prioritisation of the welfare of all those involved in harvesting this year’s crops.

GRDC manager grower services Alan Umbers said harvest is a testing time of the year for the nation’s growers therefore being well prepared is critical.

“It is important that growers remain firmly focused on planning for a safe and successful harvest, especially after having to contend with numerous challenges during the 2016 growing season, from frosts in the west through to flooding and waterlogging in the southern and northern cropping regions,” he said.

Director of the Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety Tony Lower said now is the time to make sure that growers and their most important resource – the people who work with and for them – are safe and up to the tasks ahead.

“Growers experience intense pressure and fatigue during harvest, and there is usually a higher number of inexperienced seasonal workers employed – all factors

of electrical hazards and where they exist on the property.

Consider having no go areas, if practical. Look up and live; Fire is always a risk at harvest. Check that the water trailer is full, regularly clean down headers to keep trash and straw away from pulleys, belts and bearings, and fit a fire extinguisher on headers, tractors and fuel trailers.

Dr Lower said the mix of people, machinery, extended working hours and fatigue, makes for a potent cocktail increasing the risk of injury and downtime during harvest.

“It is in everyone’s interest to manage fatigue and while there is no one size fits all solution, there are things that you can do.

“Talking with all workers and family members about fatigue and how you will manage fatigue during the harvest as part of the induction is vital.”

“One error made in tiredness can have tragic consequences for individuals or others working on the harvest.

“Let’s make this harvest a productive and an injury-free one,” Dr Lower said.

A self assessment fatigue checklist poster has been developed and can be downloaded from the Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety website Resources for Farmers (Fatigue Management) at www.sydney.edu.au/medicine/ aghealth.

SAFE HARVEST: Grain growers are being encouraged to implement strategies to ensure harvest 2016 is a safe one.

that expose the industry to a heightened risk of danger,” he explained.

Dr Lower said risks can be reduced by growers employing key strategies, such as: Making sure all guards on machinery and equipment

(harvesters, tractors, chaser bins, silos, field bins and auger), are in place; Ensuring all people working during harvest – whether employees, contractors or family members – are inducted into the way safety will be managed dur-

ing the harvest, including fatigue.

Expectations for safety should be made very clear to everyone; Having a standard policy where all harvester/machinery engines are stopped and keys removed from the ignition during maintenance. Before

working under raised hydraulics, header fronts and combs, ensure hydraulic and ram locks have been fitted and that the comb is chocked and supported. Replace all guards after servicing/repairs; Making everyone aware

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HAY AND SILAGE

November 2016

HELPFUL GUIDES: These resources offer straightforward guidance to assist farmers in making profitable daily and seasonal decisions.

Southern Farmer, Page 15

Farmers told to make hay when the sun shines but it won’t shine much THE Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is forecasting a strong chance of above average October to December rainfall in southeast and northwest Australia.

It’s not the best news for farmers wanting to make hay and silage this spring.

The BOM also reports that cooler days and nights are likely for much of the country for the October to December period, which could slow down the curing process.

“Climate influences

include a negative Indian Ocean Dipole, warmer than average ocean temperatures surrounding northern Australia, and an ENSOneutral tropical Pacific, though showing some La Niña-like characteristics,” the BOM said.

Farmers and hay and silage contractors are advised to keep a close eye on weather forecasts to stay up-to-date with the latest conditions.

Heavy rain on cut and curing hay and silage can

effect the feed quality that will be achieved or result in spoilage.

If curing times are not accounted for properly issues such as spontaneous combustion can also occur later down the track.

For those unsure of how to manage the difficult hay and silage making silage, they should seek advice from their agronomist or farm advisor.

There are also many information sheets on the Victorian DPI’s website.

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We know that pasture silage is an important source of supplementary feed and that the better the silage quality the better the cow performance.

- CATH LESCUN, DAIRY AUSTRALIA FEEDBASE AND ANIMAL NUTRITION PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

“Spring grazing management decisions also have a crucial impact on the amount and quality of pasture grown later in the season.”

The spring grazing guide covers ryegrass identification, identifying growth stage based on leaf appearance, pre and post grazing measures and tools to assist in using this information and getting a good balance between pasture and animal performance.

The silage guide complements the spring grazing management guide.

“We know that pasture

silage is an important source of supplementary feed and that the better the silage quality the better the cow performance,” Ms Lescun said.

Dairy Australia is the national services body for the Australian dairy industry.

The company acts as the collective investment arm of the industry, investing in essential research, development, extension and industry services.

To download electronic versions of the resources visit www.tftt.dairyaustralia.com. au or contact your regional development program for spiral-bound versions.

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DAIRY Australia has released two new resources to help farmers in the decisionmaking process when it comes to spring grazing management and silage.

The resources ‘Ryegrass spring grazing management paddock guide’ and ‘Quality pasture silage’, Five easy steps’ offer simple and straightforward guidance to assist farmers in making profitable daily and seasonal decisions.

Dairy Australia feedbase and animal nutrition program development manager, Cath Lescun said at this time of year optimising the amount of pasture grown, eaten and conserved is key.

“With the milk price challenges farm businesses are facing at the moment, understanding the principles of grazing management are very important and impacts on annual dry matter production and pasture quality,” she said.

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HAY & SILAGE

Page 16, Southern Farmer

November 2016

Automation and comfort the main focus

FUEL EFFICIENT: The latest Deutz Fahr 9 Series tractor has a ZF Terramatic transmission helping the user save on fuel.

fuel saving and heavy duty drive line.

The TTV transmission combines the efficiency of mechanical components with the intelligence of a hydrostat.

The result is a transmission that relies on 80 per cent mechanical drive while working at eight kilometres per hour (km/h) to 15 km/h in field applications and on 90 percent mechanical drive during transport applications.

When coupled with a Deutz

engine this gives operators fuel savings at the same time as they enjoy seamlessly smooth power at their fingertips.

A range of transmission options are available providing a maximum road speed of 60 km/h.

“The entire integrated frame of 9 Series TTV tractors has been redeveloped to deliver maximum loading capacity and maximum manoeuvrability in the toughest applications.

“The new Dana suspended

front axle guarantees superior comfort and manoeuvrability.

“The frame allows the axle to swing freely within a range of +/- 45mm.

“This maximises the spring effect and smooth ride for operator and implement,” Mr Robinson said.

All 9 Series tractors are equipped with the Deutz Fahr power brake system, which maximises stopping power with less pedal pressure.

Front mounted external dry

1 CHOOSE THE RIGHT SUPPLIER.

disc brakes are available as an option.

The electric parking brake (EPB) is also standard.

This system is automatically disabled when the direction of travel is selected and reactivated shortly after the driver has left the tractor.

Deutz Fahr has designed and built its 9 Series TTV tractors to carry the largest mounted implements and provide maximum oil flow.

The load sensing ‘power

beyond’ hydraulic system is also equipped as standard.

A separate pump supplies the steering so that the working hydraulic system is not compromised.

“The operating environment inside the cabin has been expressly built to maximise operator comfort.

“The MaxiVision Cab II offers unparalleled visibility with the addition of a new panoramic windscreen,” he said.

Deutz Fahr 9 Series tractors use an intuitive operating system that monitors all implements, GPS, cameras, transmission and engine functions through one central terminal.

The 9 Series is also tractor implement management (TIM) ready.

This system takes commands from the implement to maximise precision and minimise operator fatigue or error.

“You can easily download data for invoicing purposes from this operating system to provide proof of placement and other performance details.”

“Deutz Fahr tractors have always been maintenancefriendly with long service intervals, short downtimes and the simple access to all maintenance points without the need to use tools.

“There is no other tractor that is ready for work as quickly as the 9 Series,” Mr Robinson said.

3 SELECT THE RIGHT PRODUCT.

Gendore have been working with farmers for over 60 years, ensuring they get the best result, every season.

Gendore provide a complete range of hay and silage machiney, from mowers, conditioners, rakes and tedders to round and square balers, wrappers, silage pick-up and feed out wagons plus much more.

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DEUTZ Fahr’s high horsepower tractor line-up has just expanded with the company having just developed its 9 Series TTV focusing on automation and operator comfort.

Distributors of Deutz Fahr PFG Australia general manager Ag Division, Doug Robinson said the new 9 Series offers three perfectly balanced and highly efficient top-end options in the high horsepower sector.

“These tractors get their power from a TTCD 7.8 litre Deutz Fahr six-cylinder engine,” he said.

“The decisive factor in the production of this engine is its immense output in power with minimum fuel consumption.

“The TTCD engine operates a twin stage turbo charger using Deutz common rail technology and exhaust gas recirculation to provide Tier III emissions compliance for the Australasian market.

“This means 9 Series machines do not require additional emissions control via SCR and Ad-Blue or diesel particulate filters,” Mr Robinson said.

He added that the electronically controlled, continuously variable TTV transmission provides exactly the right speed for all work applications in field and on road.

The basis of this highly efficient operating system is a ZF Terramatic transmission which is well regarded for its

NEWS

November 2016

Southern Farmer, Page 17 THE SOUTHERN

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria

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AWI delivers course to help farmers increase lifetime ewe performance CONCRETE PRODUCTS Farming, Industrial THE wool industry’s main R&D body recently delivered a pilot course in Victoria aimed at increasing the lifetime performance of Merino ewes to gage participant response in the state.

The University of Melbourne’s Dookie Campus played host to one of the six pilot courses co-ordinated

by SCAA Shearer Woolhandler Training Inc. (SCAA) and delivered

by Australian Wool Innovation (AWI), titled ‘Merinos to Market’.

SCAA provides specialised wool and shearing training to the wool harvesting sector with training provided in the workplace to suit individuals or specific student cohorts.

AWI has contracted SCAA to co-ordinate the Merinos to Market pilot phase and to review, analyse and make recommendations on future training options based on producer feedback.

The workshop is designed for wool producers to improve the lifetime performance of Merino ewes through the identification and implementation of a range of practical day-to-day actions for commercial enterprises.

AWI general manager research,

BY JODIE FLEMING

jfleming@ nemedia.com.au

Paul Swan, who delivered the workshop, said the aim is to help farmers identify those ewes in their flock that are the passengers and sort them from the performers.

“Everyone has sheep in their flock that fall into both categories,” he said.

“One of the take home messages is for their own future and for the ability of the industry’s future to be able to grow in its value, profitability and its wealth is that we need to sort out those passengers from the performers.

“We need to take advantage of the meat demand and wool demand story and this is the great opportunity for us as an industry,” Dr Swan said.

The not-for-profit company that is responsible for delivering research, development and marketing for the Australian wool industry has had successful outcomes from other courses it has run over the years including

its Lifetime Ewe Management course.

According to Dr Swan, farmers who have attended the Lifetime Ewe Management course have managed to produce about 10 per cent more lambs per year.

“With our strategic planning we have identified that we need to build on that foundation…build on that success and particularly help those farmers that want to make the next step and who want to take a step up in their productivity or performance,” he explained.

“We’ve done a lot of hard work looking at what’s the most efficient way for this industry to get more profitable given the constraints on the land we have got, the number of ewes we have got and the fact that protein demand is likely to remain very high.

“So it is about making sure every ewe has a lamb and if you can make sure you can do that, those Merino enterprises that are already profitable will become even more profitable.”

The AWI is set to launch the workshop nationally in 2017 after all the pilot programs have been

delivered and feedback from attendees has been analysed.

“These pilot programs are about seeking feedback, road testing the material and fine tuning how we deliver it,” Dr Swan said.

“We have had great feedback from the first one…it was really positive.

“A lot of people went home just as I had hoped.

“They could see an opportunity in their paddocks because they realised that about 20 per cent of their ewes in their flock aren’t performing.

“And they loved the idea that there were some practical things they could do when they got home without great expense.”

He added that the main element to the workshop’s success, and ultimately the farmers’ success, is to inform people, educate them and give them practical tools.

“One of the keys is to give them tools that they can apply onto their own farm, in their own time, without having to rely on someone else to provide the solutions at great cost to them.

“It’s about empowering them,” Dr Swan added.

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NEWS

Page 18, Southern Farmer

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This data is displayed on a website map to show the variation in rainfall across the country.

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rainwatchers to grow a similar community program in Australia.

The program is being designed to give rainwatchers an easy way to capture their data through a smartphone app that links to a website. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are seeking a corporate sponsor to help us build the program so we can make it available to all the rainwatchers out there,â&#x20AC;? Mr Henderson said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the meantime we are trying to connect up with any rainwatchers interested in participating,â&#x20AC;? Mr Henderson said.

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for every one kilogram (kg) Average Daily Gain preweaning, heifers produced 1500 litres more milk in ďŹ rst lactation (Soberon & Van Amburgh, 2013).

Higher milk production and survival rates in the herd persisted beyond ďŹ rst lactation as opposed to control calves in this research.

The long lasting effects are believed to be related to far more than IgG from colostrum, but are highly correlated to other growth factors and hormones present in colostrum.

There are about 180 identiďŹ ed substances apart from IgG in colostrum.

Calves fed high milk diets reached joining age (55 per cent of mature weight and not related to age) three months earlier than control calves and the cost of rearing was 10 per cent lower due to this, despite higher feeding cost.

Analysis of ďŹ rst lactation data with more than 10,500 heifers in New York State conďŹ rmed the heifers reaching joining weight to calve at 21 months achieved the 1500 litres additional milk.

This analysis also revealed

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AS dairy scienceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focus has shifted from lactation nutrition to transition nutrition, both with major implications to lactation performance and fertility, more recent research has discovered very signiďŹ cant gains in lifetime productivity from birth through the growing heifer phase.

I stress, the term lifetime productivity does not just refer to milk production and fertility; but more importantly, efďŹ ciency of both.

By this I mean feed conversion efďŹ ciency; how well cows convert feed dollars to milk dollars, pregnancies per insemination, and there is a difference between cows irrespective of genetic potential (research conducted in Canada highlighted between four and eight times the effect on milk production than could be expected from genetic selection).

As mentioned in a previous article, milk from fresh cows in the ďŹ rst seven days of lactation has very high fat and protein content.

Storing of this milk and excess colostrum for feeding calves followed by whole milk at increased levels will accelerate mammary tissue development by up to six times that of calves on lower volume and lower energy/ protein milk.

Research demonstrated

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November 2016

NEWS

November 2016

Southern Farmer, Page 19 THE SOUTHERN

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CALF NUTRITION: The nutrient requirements of growing heifers changes substantially over their two years of development.

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This nutritional stress will also induce immune deficiency and bacterial disease has a prime opportunity to manifest into clinical disease.

Feed cost is the greatest expense in heifer rearing.

Efficiency of feed conversion to weight gain/ growth becomes a critical issue.

The nutrient requirements of growing heifers changes very substantially over their two years of development.

As above, adlib grain postweaning is essential to meet this dramatic energy need.

What we feed is critical to achieve the feed conversion efficiency necessary for weight gain per kg of feed.

This is the essence of cost effective heifer growth – achieving 55 per cent of mature weight as soon as

500 Duncans Road, Werribee Sth, Vic. 3030

forage provided the lowest cost per kg weight gain.

However, as the heifers’ rumen develops to sustain growth from pasture, grain may be lowered.

We find to feed two kgs of a good dairy grain mix containing trace and macro minerals.

Rumensin and canola meal provides a very good balance to pasture and sustains growth rates to meet our 21 month first calving.

I appreciate the current economics of dairy farming would cause many to shudder at the above; however, we need to emerge from the current financial difficulties with as few legacies as possible.

To raise a crop of poorly fed heifers will affect farm profit for many years to come, as underperforming cows and probable early culls.

possible so she can be joined.

Do not worry about age – weight only.

To trim three or four months off time to first calving will far outweigh the cost of supplying adequate energy in the form of grain post-weaning while we await rumen development.

Calves will consume six kgs of a quality grain mix through this phase if offered adlib; necessary to replace nutrients from milk.

Adlib access to silage simultaneously will provide a very adequate diet for optimising genetic potential for growth.

Only digestion of grain accelerates development of rumen papillae essential for absorption of nutrients from forage digestion.

From trial work feeding a range of grain to forage ratios, it was found 60:40 grain to

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THE SOUTHERN

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November 2016

Southern Farmer, Page 21

Clyde farm hosts horticulture robotic trial THE first Victorian trials of a robot that can automatically spray and remove weeds recently took place on commercial vegetable farm Schreurs & Sons in Clyde.

As well as weeding, the Robot for Intelligent Perception and Precision Application (RIPPATM), also provides important crop intelligence information like monitoring crop growth and estimating yield, accurate paddockwide soil moisture levels, and detecting and removing foreign objects.

University of Sydney’s director of research and innovation at the Australian Centre for Field Robotics Salah Sukkarieh, said the automation allows real improvements in farm productivity and efficiency.

“This can include reducing input costs, such as chemicals, through only applying it to the plants that need it, or being able to continuously operate after workers would have usually gone home for the day,” Professor Sukkarieh said.

“While RIPPA was only developed relatively recently, it uses some well-established technology from its predecessor system, the Ladybird.

“These engineering prototypes allowed us to research and prove what

worked in crop intelligence and crop manipulation.

“We’re now testing and refining this technology in a commercial farm setting,” he said.

Schreurs & Sons, Adam Schreurs said the real benefit for his family’s vegetable farm is the crop intelligence the robot can provide.

“Being able to know what the crop is doing at every stage of development would allow us to make better decisions,” he explained.

“For me, being able to weed at precisely the right time and reduce labour costs would have a huge advantage.”

The trials have taken place just after the opening of the Horticulture Innovation Centre for Robotics and Intelligent Systems at the University of Sydney.

This centre is set to become the hub in horticulture robotics in Australia and develop world leading technologies.

The robot and sensing systems will continue to be tested in different crops and conditions in Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales and Tasmania.

“The aim is to have an affordable robot available on farm in the near future,” Professor Sukkarieh said.

HORTICULTURE ROBOT: Growers attended field trials at Clyde to learn about the robot and sensing systems in vegetable production.

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FIRE AWARENESS

Page 22, Southern Farmer

November 2016

Some planning and preparation tips Â&#x2021; 7DNLQJ VWHSV WR JHW SUHSDUHG EHIRUH WKH ILUH VHDVRQ PHDQV \RX NQRZ ZKDW WR GR ZKHQ \RX¡UH DW ULVN RI ILUH ,W¡V LPSRUWDQW WR SUHSDUH \RXU SURSHUW\ IRU ILUH EXW \RX DOVR QHHG WR SODQ DQG SUHSDUH IRU \RXU VDIHW\ 3DFN LPSRUWDQW GRFXPHQWV SKRWRV PHGLFDWLRQV PRQH\ DQG FORWKHV VR \RX FDQ OHDYH HDVLO\ EHIRUH D ILUH VWDUWV Â&#x2021; 7DON WR \RXU IDPLO\ DQG IULHQGV DERXW KRZ \RX¡OO NQRZ ZKHQ WR OHDYH DQG ZKHUH WR JR WR VWD\ VDIH Â&#x2021; /HDYLQJ HDUO\ LV WKH VDIHVW RSWLRQ WR SURWHFW \RXUVHOI DQG \RXU IDPLO\ /HDYLQJ HDUO\ PHDQV OHDYLQJ WKH DUHD EHIRUH D ILUH VWDUWV ² QRW ZKHQ \RX FDQ VHH IODPHV RU VPHOO VPRNH Â&#x2021; 'R \RX KDYH IDPLO\ IULHQGV RU QHLJKERXUV ZKR PLJKW QHHG KHOS SUHSDULQJ WR OHDYH HDUO\" 7DON WR WKHP DERXW ZKHQ WKH\¡UH JRLQJ WR OHDYH ZKHUH WKH\¡UH JRLQJ WR JR DQG KRZ \RX FDQ KHOS Â&#x2021; )LUH 'DQJHU 5DWLQJV DUH D JRRG ZD\ WR GHFLGH ZKHQ WR OHDYH 7KH\ DUH QRW D ZHDWKHU IRUHFDVW ² WKH\ WHOO \RX KRZ GDQJHURXV D ILUH ZRXOG EH LI RQH VWDUWHG $V WKH UDWLQJV LQFUHDVH VR GRHV WKH ULVN RI D IDVW PRYLQJ DQG XQFRQWUROODEOH ILUH

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How fire ready is your farm?

BAYLER FIRE: Carrying a fire extinguisher could be critical to stopping a baler fire or keeping it under control until the CFA arrives.

Check all of these important questions early

Watch out for hidden fire dangers during harvest

YES /NO 1. Do you have well maintained slashed or ploughed fire breaks?

2. Are your farm buildings protected by firebreaks?

3. Do you have a grazing plan to reduce fire risk?

4. Are your chemicals stored safely according to instructions on the product?

5. Are your fuel tanks bonded and isolated from buildings?

6. Are welding and grinding operations done in isolation from flammable liquids and fuels?

7. Do residential buildings on your farm have smoke alarms?

8. Do your have properly maintained firefighting equipment in the workshop, on tractors and other machinery?

9. Can firefighting vehicles safely access all parts of your property?

10. Do you ensure hay is not stacked when it is green?

11. Are machinery exhaust systems fitted with spark arresters?

12. Do you have a list of emergency numbers beside all phones?

13. Is your propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CFA map reference beside the phone?

14. Do you have battery-powered radios handy to aid communications?

15. Are your buildings clean of flammable debris and protected from the entry of burning embers?

16. Do your buildings provide adequate personal protection against bushfire?

DURING every hay harvest, the Victorian Country Fire Authority (CFA) attends several hay baler ďŹ res, many which could have been avoided.

According to Agriculture Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Frank Mickan, each year we hear about hay stack ďŹ res in sheds and paddocks destroying equipment, however we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hear as much about hay bayler ďŹ res.

Mr Mickan said that balers are often burnt out, but sometimes the tractor is also partly or completely destroyed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;No doubt, there are other unreported costs such as paddock fires caused by the baler ďŹ re spreading into nearby windrows and surrounding dry paddocks, especially if there is wind, plus there is always the dangerous prospect of personal injury,â&#x20AC;? he explained. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most baler ďŹ res are caused by over-heating of damaged/ worn bearings and often not noticed until the hay bale and baler are well alight, unless the operator just happened to turn around when ďŹ re ďŹ rst started.â&#x20AC;?

Mr Mickan said that what should be known by farmers and contractors is that it is

17. Is fire prevention part of your whole farm business plan?

18. Are you up-to-date with the latest Local and State Government fire restrictions and requirements?

19. Do you carefully plan all burning off to minimise the risks?

20. Are gas cylinders vented away from buildings?

21. Are fire fighting hoses long enough, kept in safe locations where they will not melt, and with heavy duty wide spray nozzles?

22. Do you talk about and have a fire prevention plan with neighbors?

23. Do you have adequate water supplies for firefighting should mains water pressures drop?

24. Have you installed sprinkler systems in your garden and on your roofing?

25. Have you gathered metal buckets, mops, spray backpack units, ladders, rakes, shovels in a strategic location for ready access?

26. Do you have battery powered torches, radios, medical kits and drinking water available?

27. Do you know the radio station to check for the fireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s progress rather than calling emergency services?

28. Does each person have suitable clothing, including sturdy leather footwear, fire resistant long pants and long sleeves (wool offers the best protection from sparks and cinders) a broad brimmed hat, goggles for eye protection, over the nose and mouth, wet towels to drape over the neck, handkerchiefs to toe and bottles of water?

29. Can you access roof and other building cavities to check frequently for embers or other spot fires?

30. Is there a plan for all people on your property to either fight the fire or move to safe locations well before a fire front approaches?

For more information 5950 1000 mornpen.vic.gov.au/are-you-fire-ready customerservice@mornpen.vic.gov.au

Be Prepared Slip it easily on the back of a ute or into a trailer and be fire ready within minutes. With a handy 450 litre capacity, this simple skid base unit features a quality Honda 1½â&#x20AC;? Aussie Fire Chief combo and comes ready to use with 20m of žâ&#x20AC;? fire fighting hose 450L and a machined aluminum twist grip nozzle.

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fective in these scenarios,â&#x20AC;? Mr Mickan said.

He added that electrical shorts can also start ďŹ res and even through the electrics are usually automatically shut down on many of the latest model tractors; ďŹ res can sometimes short circuit this safety process. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Water wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t extinguish these ďŹ res. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Separate the tractor from the baler as quickly as possible because baler ďŹ res can get out of control quickly. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This rapidly generates extreme heat, so approaching the drawbar is almost impossible (without severe risk of burns) and metal components heat quickly making uncoupling of hydraulic hose very difďŹ cult and extremely dangerous. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If there is no extinguisher available, this is a must, to avoid destroying the tractor as well,â&#x20AC;?

Mr Mickan explained.

He recommended that farmers should clean the tractor each day to minimise build-up of ďŹ&#x201A;ammable material. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The less built-up the better, particularly near hot parts like the engine manifold, exhaust and turbocharger,â&#x20AC;? he added.

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compulsory by law in Victoria for all tractors to have a water extinguisher with a minimum nine litre capacity attached to the tractor during the ďŹ re restriction period. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This simple tool is a no brainer when operating equipment with hot bearings in hot, dry, windy conditions in dry ďŹ&#x201A;ammable grass. â&#x20AC;&#x153;An extinguisher could be critical to nipping a baler ďŹ re in the bud or at least delaying it spreading too much before the CFA arrives,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Another recommendation includes carrying a minimum two kg dry powder extinguisher for several reasons including for use in electrical and hydraulic oil ďŹ res. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Embers often are blown into nooks and crannies around and under the tractor cabin and other hard-to-get-at places. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Spraying water into these spots sometimes does not reach all crevices or deep enough where dust and loose dry material has built up. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The water can sometimes evaporate before extinguishing the ďŹ re in some locations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A powder extinguisher will spread further and is more ef-

Offer ends 28th February 2017. *Prices are RRP inc gst, excluding freight. *Always check with your state roads authority for specific registration requirements.

NEWS

November 2016

Southern Farmer, Page 23

Community gears up for Lilydale Show area and the Lilydale Show.

The Melba Park stage will be hosting free entertainment including music, magic and Zumba classes. On Sunday a charity auction will be held by a local real estate company at noon followed by the show’s Talent Quest.

The Melba Park area is predominantly for families and the community where there will be an animal nursery and a reptile display.

Pony rides, sheep dog trials and lots of fun activities for the kids, including roving entertainers, will also be on offer.

Twilight entertainment will take place from 4pm on Saturday, with whip-cracking, a hot air balloon and country rock band ‘RUCKUS’ playing from 6pm, and it all finishes off with a fantastic fireworks display at 9pm.

The Lilydale Show takes place at the Lilydale Showgrounds on Saturday, November 19 and Sunday, November 20, with gates opening at 9am on both days.

For more information visit www. lilydaleshow.org.au.

WITH a strong focus on agriculture and horticulture, the Lilydale Show is about to enter into its 63rd year as the committee gears up for the November event.

For the first time there will be a honey event run, with classes demonstrating how to frame it up or place it a jar.

Alongside the honey will be the usual strong competitions in cookery, craft, needlework, art, photography, wool and horticulture.

Over the two days the Victorian Scottish Dancing and Highland Dancing competitions will take place, together with the sheep, goats and poultry classes, with the led and ridden horse events.

The main oval holds dog obedience classes on Saturday and dog flyball on Sunday, and after several years being absent, the Dog High Jump will return in 2016.

Woodchop competitions will run on both days, with the show’s Youth Club offering education displays, alongside FUN FAIR: Alongside its traditional agricultural events, the Lilydale Show has a fun-filled carnival with a fantastic Meccano display and historirides, games, sideshows and showbags. cal displays about both the Lilydale

Big program of horse events for 101st Yea Show A LARGE and diverse program of equine events will be a feature at the 101st Yea Show set to take place at the Yea Recreation Reserve on Saturday, November 26.

Head of the horse event section Les Judd said the show’s horse schedule has been extended to cater for more breed and ridden events.

“Some of the many features will be the Off the Track section sponsored by Racing Victoria with its HERO (Horse Education & Re-homing Opportunity) program that is designed to provide new opportunities for racehorses once their racing careers are completed,” he said.

“With good sponsorship

prize money on offer, this feature will enable horses to qualify for the annul VAS Horse Championships.

“There will also be three ridden rings on the day for Hacks, Galloways and Ponies, and Show Hunter classes,” Mr Judd added.

A three-year old challenge class has been added in the

Open Led Ring, with breed categories including Australian Miniature Ponies, Shetlands (including Junior Handler and Coloured classes) and Stock Horses.

The Yarra Valley Regional Promotion Group of the Welsh Pony Society will sponsor a ring that includes two challenge events with

garlands for the winners.

The Victorian Pinto Society will also sponsor a ring, with good classes available for Australian Ponies, Riding Ponies, Palomino, Buckskin and Fjord horses.

Prizes of $100 and a garland for each of the Supreme Open Ridden Exhibit, Supreme Open Led Exhibit and the Supreme

Ridden Show Hunter are up for grabs.

The 101st Yea Show will open with a twilight picnic and music program on Friday, November 25 starting at 6pm, with gates opening the following morning at 9am for a full day of events and features.

For more information visit www.yeashow.org.au.

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