Southern Farmer

THE SOUTHERN

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

DECEMBER, 2015

FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION

486 Whitehorse Road, Surrey Hills, 3127

MACHINERY BUYING GUIDE

WATER MANAGEMENT

PAGES 14-15

PAGES 17-18

PAGE 16

Climate challenges Victorian farmers Dairy farmer puts new ideas to the test to survive extreme weather conditions

CHERRY BLOSSOMS: Koala Cherries’ owners Simon and Michael Rouget are heavily into their harvest to ensure that all families have plenty of cherries available for Christmas. Simon Rouget said the warm conditions throughout spring have continued through to the beginning of the cherry harvest season, resulting in an early start to the season.

See page 5 for full story.

THE debate about climate change might continue but new research has shown the extent to which it can be linked to extreme weather events.

It’s timely considering the recent bout of extreme weather across Victoria.

Australian farmers who are on the front line of climate change are already experiencing extreme weather effects on their properties and are increasingly concerned about the likelihood of these events continuing.

According to an American Meteorological Society Bulletin study called ‘Explaining Extreme Events of 2014 from a Climate Perspective’, the natural and human causes of extreme events from around the world climate change can be linked to extreme weather events.

In this year’s report, 32 groups of scientists investi-

gated 28 individual extreme events in 2014.

They break out the various factors that led to the extreme events, including the degree to which natural variability and human-induced climate change played a role.

A number of this year’s studies indicate that humancaused climate change greatly increased the likelihood and intensity for extreme heat waves in 2014 over various regions.

For other types of extreme events, such as droughts and heavy rains, a climate change influence was found in some instances and not in others.

Continued page 4

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NEWS

Page 2, Southern Farmer

For more information on country shows visit www.vicagshows.com.au or www.countryshows.com.au THE SOUTHERN

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

Advertising:

Rod Berryman Phone (03) 9888 4822 Fax (03) 9888 4840 rberryman@nemedia.com.au 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

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Editorial:

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

Rod BERRYMAN

Advertising Manager

Jodie FLEMING Editorial

TEAM

Noelene ALLAN

Pre-Press Coordinator

What’s on in our southern region * NOMINATIONS for the Victorian Young Achiever Awards are now open.

The awards aim to recognise Victoria’s outstanding young achievers up to 29 years of age who are making a real difference.

Nominations are being sought throughout Victoria until Friday, December 11, 2015 in the following categories: The Coffee Club Arts and Fashion Award AustralianSuper Career Kick Start Award Victoria University Research Impact Award First National Real Estate Leadership Award The Victorian Government Group Achievement in the Community Award Bartercard Online Achievement Award The Victorian Government Small Business Award Saward Dawson Community Service and Social Impact Award Bart ‘N’ Print Health and Wellbeing Award The University of Melbourne Science and Technology Award CFA Young Volunteer Excellence Award.

Category winners will each receive a $1000 Bartercard account plus $1000 cash and a trophy.

One of the 11 category winners will be chosen as the Victorian Young Achiever of the Year and will win an additional $2000 Jetstar flight voucher and state trophy.

Nominations can be made at www. awardsaustralia.com. * TICKETS are now on sale for the Toyota Country Music Festival in Tamworth to be held

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ANIMAL DISPLAY: Alpacas will be on display at the 25th annual Seymour Alternative Farming Expo and the Berwick Show, both to be held in February next year.

COUNTRY SHOWS AND REGIONAL FIELD DAYS JANUARY 9: Wonthaggi Show 16: Lang Lang Show 17-21: International Dairy Week, Tatura 24: Neerim District Country Show 26: Catani Show 27-February 4: Beef Week 2016

FEBRUARY 9: Yarra Glen Show 10-12: Sungold Field Days 13-14: Korumburra Show 19-21: Seymour Alternative Farming Expo 26-27: Rochester Show 26-28: Royal Canberra Show 27-28: Berwick Show

For more information on country shows visit www.vicagshows.com.au or www.countryshows.com.au. from Friday, January 15, 2016 to Sunday, January 24, 2016.

The line-up of artists includes Kasey Chambers, Adam Brand, Adam Harvey, Jasmine Rae, Simply Bushed, Shannon Noll, Kevin Bloody Wilson, Troy Kemp, Ashleigh Dallas, The Wolfe Brothers, Sara Storer, James Blundell and Brothers 3.

For more information visit www.tcmf.com.au. * NOMINATIONS are now open for the vegetable industry’s national industry specific 2016 leadership program Growing Leaders.

The program, funded

by Horticulture Innovation Australia (HIA), using the National Vegetable Levy and funds from the Australian Government

focuses on giving participants the tools and understanding they need to have a positive impact on their own future, the future of their business and the future of the Australian vegetable industry as a whole.

For more information contact Rural Training Initiatives via jill@ ruraltraininginitiatives. com.au to request an application form before Friday, January 22, 2016 to apply.

Please note that places are limited. * THE Grains Research and Development Corporation is holding its premier grains research forum for 2016 – Victorian Grains Research Update - on Tuesday, February 23 and Wednesday, February 24

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Published by: North East Media Suite 103, 486 Whitehorse Road, Surrey Hill 3127 Ph: (03) 9888 4822 Fax: (03) 9888 4840 ABN 65 006 238 277

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* THE 2016 Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria’s (RASV) McLennan-McColl Flock of the Year competition is heading to North East Victoria in March.

The competition is open to commercial merino producers in the North East, with participants competing for the prestigious award which celebrates and assists with improving the quality of Victoria’s merino ewe flocks and includes a

* Applications are now open for the 2016 Growing Leaders National Vegetable Industry Leadership Program.

Growing Leaders is a highly regarded program designed to develop personal, business and industry skills.

The program was designed in consultation with vegetable industry people with their specific needs in mind.

The program encourages all sectors of the industry including growing, harvesting, processing, extension, exporters, importers, marketing and employees to register interest.

The program ensures that participants develop effective ways of handling conflict, improve communication, manage efficient meetings, build high performance teams, manage change and media awareness.

The program is costfree to The Vegetable Growers’ Association of Victoria levy payers and includes dinners with guest speakers, tours, industry functions and three residential sessions in May, August and November 2016.

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at the Ulumbarra Theatre in Bendigo.

In what is an important source of agronomic and industry information and resources, the update will be attended by hundreds of advisers, growers and other industry personnel from across Victoria.

For more information visit www.grdc.com.au/ updatedates.

$1500 cash prize and plaque, with on-farm judging to be held on Wednesday, March 16 and Thursday, March 17 next year.

The Flock of the Year also offers entrants the opportunity to view other production systems and learn best practice management with competing properties open for official judging, as well as viewing by fellow producers.

Registrations are now open and close on Friday, December 11, 2015 with RASV members eligible for a discount on the $100 entry fee.

For more information visit www.rasv.com.au/ flockoftheyear.

NEWS

December, 2015

Southern Farmer, Page 3

Grain costs corporation, but other prospects good

journalist yes we want Contact Jodie Fleming your news__ on (03) 5723 0129

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GrainCorp net profit drops $50 million on the back of smaller harvest volumes last financial year form strongly and we have made good progress in the various expansion projects across GrainCorp Oils.”

Mr Palmquist said the company is committed to maintaining a strong balance sheet to fund its improvement program, with GrainCorp continuing to diversify its business base to provide further reliability and insulation from seasonal variability.

He added that the year ahead is likely to “remain a challenge”, with a low carry-in of 1.6 million tonnes and another smaller crop likely to limit export opportunities from eastern Australia.

“We do, however, expect a return to more typical grain marketing patterns in Australia due to lower year-on-year levels of export bookings relative to expected production,” he said.

“Our position in malt remains strong, with strong forward sales of capacity, strong growth in North American craft and continued incremental benefits from embedding our strategic projects.

“We also expect continued improvements in the performance of GrainCorp

Oils thanks to the stabilisation of refining volumes and partial contributions from Liquid Terminals

projects and our consolidated oilseeds crushing and refining footprint,” Mr Palmquist said.

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Australia – a clear demonstration of the importance of our commitment to diversification,” Mr Palmquist said.

The company also reported a further improvement in safety performance, with the 2015 financial year ended September 30 experiencing a 46 per cent reduction in lost time injury frequency rate which builds on the 34 per cent reduction in the previous financial year.

GrainCorp’s malt business continued to perform strongly due to continued high capacity utilisation and further improvements in underlying performance being delivered through efficiency projects.

“We remain well positioned in the ongoing growth of the craft beer sector, particularly in North America, and the signs of emerging growth in other markets,” Mr Palmquist said.

“GrainCorp oil has performed well with higher crush volumes and we are encouraged by the stabilisation of refining volumes for GrainCorp Foods.

“The Liquid Terminals business continues to per-

v/05D07867/06-15

GRAIN growers have toughed it out through another year of smallerthan-average crops as indicated in GrainCorp’s recently released 2015 financial year results, with the company’s net profit after tax down $50 million on the previous financial year.

GrainCorp managing director and chief executive officer Mark Palmquist said the grains section of the business faced a “tougher year off the back of last harvest’s smaller crop” resulting in lower throughput volumes for storage and logistics and “severely restricted opportunities” for GrainCorp marketing.

“In this light, I’m pleased with the cost control and risk management demonstrated by these businesses,” he said.

“Solid performances from our processing operations have reduced the impact of the challenging conditions faced by our grains businesses.

“Our processing businesses contributed approximately 85 per cent of our earnings in a year constrained by a much smaller crop in eastern

CROP CHALLENGE: Solid performances from GrainCorp’s processing operations have reduced the impact of the challenging conditions faced by its grains businesses.

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NEWS

Page 4, Southern Farmer

December, 2015

Australian farmers must respond to climate change „ From page 1

For other types of extreme events, such as droughts, heavy rains, and winter storms, a climate change inuence was found in some instances and not in others.

Lead editor for the report at the National Centres for Environmental Information Understanding Stephanie Herring said our inuence on speciďŹ c extreme weather events is groundbreaking science that will help us adapt to climate change. “As the ďŹ eld of climate attribution science grows, resource managers, the insurance industry, and many others can

use the information more effectively for improved decision making and to help communities better prepare for future extreme events,� she said.

It was revealed in the report that four independent studies on Australia all pointed toward human inuence causing a substantial increase in the likelihood and severity of heat waves across the country in 2014. “It is likely that human inuences on climate increased the odds of the extreme high pressure anomalies south of Australia in August 2014 that were associated with frosts, lowland snowfalls and reduced rainfall.â€?

journalist yes we want Contact Jodie Fleming your news__ on (03) 5723 0129

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REPORT FINDINGS INCLUDED: The greater frequency or severity of extreme weather events, from droughts to floods and heat waves, are some the most visible present day impacts of climate change.

Individual events like temperature extremes can be linked to additional atmospheric greenhouse gases caused by human activities.

Australian heat waves during 2014 were included among events which were much more likely to have occurred due to human influence on the climate.

Human activities, such as greenhouse gas emissions and land use, influenced specific extreme weather and climate events in 2014 including stifling heat waves in Australia.

Third generation Gippsland dairy farmer Marian Macdonald believes that climate change is real and said she is â&#x20AC;&#x153;optimisticâ&#x20AC;? that there are things we can do to reduce the severity of climate change. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If there is something we can do to reduce the severity then we have to do it,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not a defeatist and if it turns out that climate change doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t eventuate but we have done all these things in preparation for it, besides the financial cost,

WORKING WITH NATURE: Marian Macdonald with her eldest son Alex has put many different measures in place to combat climate change on her Yarram dairy farm. at least we will have a cleaner environment to live in and it gets us to live in a more renewable way. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see a bad side benefit to adapting to the different conditions,â&#x20AC;?

Ms Macdonald said.

With husband, Wayne Johnson, Ms Macdonald runs about 500 head of dairy cows, with about 260 of those currently milking on their Yarram farm and supplies milk to Fonterra.

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She took over the farm in 2008 after spending a decade in the city studying marketing and psychology.

Having grown up on what was originally her grandfatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s farm, she always wanted to move back onto the farm however there wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t any room.

After the passing of her father she had a choice of coming back onto the property or selling it, choosing the former after â&#x20AC;&#x153;fighting really hard to keep the farmâ&#x20AC;?.

In 2011, Dairy Australia ran a climate change program in Gippsland where farmers raised their concerns about how to adapt to climate change which Ms Macdonald was part of.

She said that all farmers in the area felt that climate change was definitely an issue and she has since made many changes on her farm to combat the problems many farmers face with a changing climate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We used to just have rye grass-based pastures, but now we have a mosaic

of different species because sometimes you get super wet years and other times it is super dry so we have had to plant many different other pastures to ensure we always have something,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have also planted about 1000 trees to provide shelter and shade for the cows as well as installing extra-large troughs for those hot days to ensure the cows have plenty to drink. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have put up shade sails and sprinklers in the yard for the cows and we have had a really good look at how we can increase the water capacity of the soil, so we have planted plants that have deeper tap roots so they can access lower moisture and we have added extra lime to make the plants more resilient,â&#x20AC;?

Ms Macdonald said.

She added that they have also installed a small irrigation system utilising a small dam her father built in 1984 that he used for flood irrigation.

It is now used for spreading effluent and

as a small water source to guarantee there is a summer crop. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We really are doing everything we can. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are careful to keep abreast with soil moisture levels and pasture growth rates and we pay a lot of attention to bureau forecasts, so if we see a dry spell coming we adapt to it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sometimes it means we have to move the calendar forward by planting earlier if we can see it is going to be dry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about insurance, which a lot of people are now realising. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People around here are now planting vetch and barley and starting to grow their own crops as an insurance policy to failed crops. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Some people are even buying outside the district in different weather zones and some have created dinosaur pits of silage just sitting there just in case they are needed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So yes, climate change is real and we need to be doing everything we can to survive it,â&#x20AC;? Ms Macdonald said.

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NEWS

December, 2015

Southern Farmer, Page 5

It’s all about the taste at Koala Cherries THERE will still be plenty of cherries gracing our tables on Christmas Day despite the early start to the season.

Owners of family-owned Koala Cherries, Simon and Michael Rouget, said the damaging storms that have caused havoc on some orchards thankfully missed their properties they have over their three different growing regions in Victoria in Yarck near Alexandra, Cobram and Strathbogie.

While the orchard at Cobram was hit with 170 millimetres of rain at the start of the season, the fruit on the trees did not get much damage due to the growth stage of the fruit and a heavy crop, with the rain helping with tree health after such a warm, dry spring.

“It is a medium to heavy crop on all the properties with good quality fruit, so the season looks pretty good despite the early start,” Simon Rouget said.

“We didn’t get too much in the way of storms at Yarck or Strathbogie, although some nearby properties had some severe hail, which seemed to go around us so we luckily escaped that.

“We didn’t have any real frost to worry about this spring.

“The trees flowered very quickly, with warm conditions through the flowering period, resulting in very strong pollination and fruit set.

“The warm sunny weather

deliver them fresh.

Koala Cherries supply their fruit to the wholesale markets in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane and they also directly supply supermarkets and have strong export experience around the world, with a focus on South East Asia.

Sustainable farming practices underpin the quality and superior taste of the fruit.

Soils are kept biologically active and nutritionally balanced to maximise tree and fruit health.

The trees are extensively pruned each year using precise tree training and growing techniques to maximise fruit size and quality.

Fruit is carefully handpicked as mature as possible for best size and flavour, then quickly cooled to maintain freshness.

“Every decision made in the orchard influences the taste of the fruit,” Mr Rouget said.

“The cherry varieties we grow are selected on size, firmness and most importantly, flavour.

“We monitor natural sugar levels, temperature and fruit quality so that our customers will receive consistently beautiful fruit.”

Koala Cherries also produces its CherriShed range that includes chutney, sauce and jam which are all locally made using cherries from its orchard and all natural ingredients.

CHRISTMAS CHERRIES: Koala Cherries owners use sustainable farming practices that they believe underpins the quality and superior taste of the fruit.

has continued through to the beginning of harvest, which has resulted in an early start to the cherry season.

“We received some rain

about two weeks ago which freshened up the orchard nicely, and while weather conditions have made the season quite early, there will still be

but it looks pretty good so far,” he said.

The third generation orchardists’ aim is to produce premium quality cherries and

plenty of cherries around for Christmas.

“I mean we never assume things will be good all season as cherries are a fragile fruit,

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NEWS

Page 6, Southern Farmer

Interbreed Champion to be awarded at International Dairy Week THE Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria’s (RASV) highly coveted Interbreed Champion will be presented as part of International Dairy Week (IDW) for the first time.

The prestigious awards of Junior Interbreed Champion, Intermediate Interbreed Champion and Australia’s Grand Champion will be awarded by an esteemed panel of six judges, including local and international experts from Australia, Canada and the US on the final day of competition to be held on Sunday, January 17 to Thursday, January 21, 2016 in Tatura.

The Champions and Reserve Champions of the Illawarra, Ayrshire, Guernsey, Brown Swiss, Jersey and Holstein breeds will be eligible for the sought-after prizes that carry with them significant cash prizes, recognised as the highest offer in the country.

Australia’s Grand Champion will be awarded a cash prize of $2000, with Reserve winning $1000, while Junior and Intermediate Champions will be awarded $1000 each, with each reserve taking home $500.

Chief executive officer of the RASV, Mark O’Sullivan

said the awarding of the Interbreed Champion as part of the IDW schedule would provide greater opportunity for participants of the event, the largest expo in the Australian Dairy Industry.

“Our partnership with IDW is underpinned by our commitment to promote and celebrate excellence in agriculture, provide value for industry participants and support regional and community events,” he said.

The decision to award the Interbreed Champion during IDW is part of RASV’s revised dairy program, which has seen a youth-focused heifer competition take place at the Royal Melbourne Show in September and increased support for the IDW event.

IDW director Brian Leslie said he was extremely proud to be able to host the RASV Interbreed as part of the event.

“These competitions have and will continue to reward excellence in showing.

“We look forward to seeing some outstanding cattle compete for these prestigious titles,” Mr Leslie said.

Entries for the 2016 IDW Cattle Show are now open.

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

December, 2015

New horticulture initiatives set to safeguard industry VICTORIA’S Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford has released a state-wide plan for the management of fruit fly while at the same time launching a new grants program to generate innovative ideas to grow more fruit, vegetables and nuts.

The new initiatives are set to safeguard and grow Victoria’s $2.4 billion horticulture industry and include a five-year Fruit Fly Action Plan which will see industry, community and government working together to coordinate the management of fruit fly across the state.

This plan will improve productivity and optimise market access opportunities to domestic and international markets for Victorian horticulture.

Fruit flies are a serious pest inflicting an estimated $300 million towards control and lost market costs.

The State Government is providing $1.3 million toward the delivery of the Fruit Fly

Action Plan which includes the appointment of a state-wide coordinator.

An advisory committee to oversee the delivery of the plan will also be established, while regional governance groups in key horticulture areas will develop and implement regional action plans in alignment with the state-wide plan.

As part of the plan, research into improved fruit fly management and surveillance tools will also be conducted such as the department’s mobile surveillance recording system ‘Trap base’, which is a vital tool allowing the state freedom from exotic fruit fly species such as Mediterranean fruit fly.

“Our skilled and dedicated horticulture workforce has a bright future – that’s why we’re investing in the protection and development of this sector, so our growers stay ahead of the game,” Ms Pulford said.

“Fruit fly is everyone’s responsibility and with fruit fly

costing Australia around $300 million a year, it’s crucial that we work together to manage and reduce the impact of this costly pest.”

Ms Pulford also launched the $1 million Horticulture Innovation Fund, providing grants of up to $50,000 to help growers adopt new technologies and processes to boost production.

The grants are also geared to support projects that will boost horticultural exports into new markets and broaden the diversity of products sold overseas.

“Through our new Horticulture Innovation Fund we’re providing targeted support to this important sector so we can help boost exports and drive long-term economic growth,” Ms Pulford said.

Information about the Fruit Fly Action Plan and Horticulture Innovation Fund grants can be found at www.agriculture.vic.gov.au.

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NEWS

December, 2015

Southern Farmer, Page 7

Celebrating Aussie food and fibre at Parliament House

PERFECT PORK: Australian Pork Limited was cooking up a storm for those interested in getting some pork on their fork.

growing food and ďŹ bre, the people who make it happen and how decisions in Canberra can inďŹ&#x201A;uence their capacity to produce,â&#x20AC;?

Mr Talbot said.

Many members of the NFF helped bring the Australian Parliament Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Market to Canberra, in particular the Co-convenors of the Parliamentary Friends of Primary Producers, Members of Parliament Joel Fitzgibbon and Nola Marino and GrainGrowers Ltd.

The farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market was also put together with the help of the Australian Dairy Farmers, Australian Forest Products Association, Australian Pork Limited, Australian Wool Innovation, Batlow Cider Co, Beechworth Honey, Bindaree Beef, The Brewers Association of Australia & New Zealand, Cattle Council of Australia, The Cheeky Grog Co, Cotton Australia, Dried Fruits Australia, Hillbilly Blue Mountains Apple & Pear

Cider, Meat & Livestock Australia, NSW Farmers Association, Ricegrowers Association of Australia, SunRice, Sanger Australia, Summerfruit Australia, Target Australia, Victorian Farmers Federation, Victorian Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Market Association and WoolProducers Australia.

Meanwhile, Queensland farmer Brent Finlay has been re-elected unopposed as the president of the NFF for a third term.

Mr Finlay said he was

SALES & SERVICE

humbled to continue at the helm at such an important time for Australian agriculture. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is an exciting time for Australian farmers,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re forecasting this year to reach a record $5.7 million in farm gate earnings and we have every expectation that agriculture may be Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next $100 billion industry. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the past year weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made signiďŹ cant progress in brokering new trade deals to access key Asian markets, hungry for safe, clean and sustainable Aussie produce. â&#x20AC;&#x153;From market access through to long-term drought policy, tax reform, trade, land and water management, there are some major issues in the public domain which have a major bearing on the livelihood of farmers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The NFF will continue to play a pivotal role on these issues and more in the year ahead. At the same time the NFF as an organisation continues to go through a process of renewal,â&#x20AC;? Mr Finlay said.

Mixed farmer and grazier Fiona Simson was also returned to the role of vice president at the recent annual general meeting.

zier, Peter Tuohey; beef producer, Grant Maudsley; mixed farmer and grazier, David Jochinke; and beef producer, Mark Horan.

A l l five d i r e c t o r s from the previous board have been reappointed to their positions: ricegrower, Les Gordon; mixed farmer and gra-

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SF DEC. 2015

THOSE visiting Parliament House recently may have thought they stumbled across a farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market instead of the hallowed halls of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s government as a vast array of seasonal produce, seedlings and ďŹ bre garments were showcased in its courtyards.

Members of the National Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Federation (NFF) joined the Parliamentary Friends of Primary Producers to celebrate the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highquality food and fibre, with NFF chief executive ofďŹ cer Simon Talbot having spoken to key politicians and stakeholders about agricultureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vital contribution to modern Australia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;From paddock to plate, ďŹ eld to fashion, Australian farmers work around the clock to feed and clothe families, both in Australia and overseas,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The opportunities for Australian agriculture have rarely been brighter, with growing demand for Australian produce around the world and new technology offering to transform the way we work. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Today is all about creating an environment for our key decision makers and members of the media to discover more about

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NEWS

Page 8, Southern Farmer

December, 2015

Strong beef entries at Royal Geelong Show

By DAVID RIZZOLI A STRONG roll up of 143 entries in the Beef Cattle classes covering all the traditional breeds was a feature of the 2015 Royal Geelong Show.

A number of Southern Farmer region studs were successful among them including Rebecca Keely from Chenu Holdings at Bridgewater who took Grand Champion Cow or Heifer and Grand Champion Exhibit at the show with her Charolais female.

Reserve Grand Champion Cow or Heifer went to the Falls family from Prarie in Central Victoria

lian Lowline bred by Ben Fraser.

The Brenair 200 for a Pair of Heifers Under 20 Months was taken by Western Gold Limousins with Western Gold Kansas and Mandayen Kuddles.

Winners list Angus Junior Champion Bull, David Bird, Bluelake King K16; Reserve Junior Champion Bull, Harley and Norm Cobb, Country Primetime; Junior Champion Heifer, David Bird, Bluelake Vicky K2; Reserve Junior Champion Heifer, David Bird, Bluelake Kite K15.

Senior Champion Cow

with their Shorthorn heifer Prarie Falls Felicity.

The twilight Beef Calf Classic was held the evening before the show opened.

This prestigious event is open to all breeds and covers calves in four age groups from under nine months to 20 months.

Grand Champion Junior Bull was won by Liberty Park Knockout bred by Laura Smith (Shorthorn).

Reserve Grand Champion Junior Bull went to Belmore Chancellor, I.A.S.Withers (Shorthorn).

Grand Champion Junior Heifer was Black Diamond Red Keepsake, an Austra-

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or Heifer, Peter Arundell, Indambah Thelma; Reserve Champion Cow or Heifer, Hayden King, Jane J10. Grand Champion Angus Exhibit, David Bird, Bluelake Vicky K2.

Australian Lowline Champion Bull, Ballarat Grammar, Ballarat Grammar JD; Champion Cow or Heifer, Ballarat Grammar, Ballarat Grammar Gwendolyn; Grand Champion Australian Lowline Exhibit, Ballarat Grammar JD. Bos Indicus Champion Bos Indicus Bull P.Conroy, The Gambler Iron Bark (Santa Gertrudis); Champion Bos Indicus Cow or Heifer, VPC Cattle Services, Savannah Yella H22; Grand Champion Bos Indicus Exhibit, VPC Cattle Services, Savannah H22.

Dexter Grand Champion Dexter Bull, Donnybrook Dexters, Donnybrook Kalahari, Junior Champion Heifer, Donnybrook Dexters, Donnybrook Kaylene; Reserve Junior Champion Dexter Heifer, Illowra Dexter Stud, Illowra Karina.

Senior Champion Dexter Cow or Heifer, Donnybrook Dexters, Donnybrook Gypsy and Calf; Reserve Senior Champion Cow or Heifer,

Teleah Catholic College, Bendigo.

Grand Champion Dexter Female, Donnybrook Dexters Donnybrook Gypsy & Calf; Supreme Champion Dexter Exhibit, Donnybrook Gypsy & Calf.

Beef Shorthorn Junior Champion Beef Shorthorn Bull, W. Harwood, Hillview Shorthorns, Hillview Digger; Junior Champion Beef Shorthorn Heifer, Hillview Princess Mary; Grand Champion Beef Shorthorn Exhibit, Hillview Princess Mary.

Limousin Junior Champion Limousin Heifer, Patrick Halloran, Bush Park Uppermost Kim; Reserve Champion Limousin Heifer, Colin and Helen Masters, Tanbryn Park Red Daphne. Senior Champion Limousin Cow or Heifer, Patrick Halloran, Mandayan Jill; Reserve Champion Limousin Cow or Heifer, Laura Smith, Mooravale Kate.

Grand Champion Limousin Exhibit, Patrick Halloran, Mandayen Jill.

Simmental Junior Champion Simmental Bull, Dandavjon Simmental Stud, Dandavjon Dessendon; Reserve Junior Champion Sim-

mental Bull, Dandavjon Dynamic; Senior Champion Simmental Bull, Dpc Cattle Services Pty Ltd Savannah Bon Jovi.

Junior Champion Simmental Heifer, Mavstar Simmentals, Mavstar Kystal .

Senior Champion Simmental Cow or Heifer, Dpc Cattle Services Pty Ltd, Savannah Clover J06; Grand Champion Simmental Exhibit, Mavstar Simmentals, Mavstar Kystal.

Shorthorn Junior Champion Shorthorn , Tippets Glengyron, Glengyron Killer Watt; Reserve Junior Champion Bull, I.A.S.Withers, Belmore Chancellor K155; Senior Champion Shorthorn Bull, I.A.S.Withers, Belmore Salvo J220; Reserve Senior Champion Bull, Alberni Family, Fulham Park Just Red. Junior Champion Shorthorn Heifer, Tippets Glengyron, Glengyron Rose K68; Senior Champion Shorthorn Cow or Heifer, Parker Pty Ltd, Lockclyde Hercules Joanne; Grand Champion Cow or Heifer, Parker Pty Ltd, Lockclyde Hercules Joanne.

Grand Champion Shorthorn Exhibit, Tippets Glengyron, Glengyron Rose k68.

VAS Ltd Young Parad-

ers Competition – 1st: Jazmine Anderson, 2nd: Sam Bird, 3rd: Jordon Postlewaite. Handler Under 12, 1st: Jacob Canning; 2nd: Isabella Postlewaite, 3rd: Sebastian Volker.

VAS Ltd Beef Junior Judging – 1st: Ruby Canning; 2nd: Lilly Stewart, 3rd: Tracey Millett. Beef Calf – Exhibitor five to 10 years, 1st: Tracey Millett; Beef Calf – exhibitor 11 to 15 years, 1st: Kaitlyn Joyce, 2nd: Cally O’Shannassy, 3rd: Lilly McGregor.

Beef Carcase Competition On the Hoof- Light Yearling, - 1st: S.Beel, 2nd: Karen and Jack Briscoe, 3rd: Don Nash.

Medium Yearling – 1st: Karen and Jack Briscoe, 2nd: Don Nash, 3rd: R.Crouch.

Heavy Yearling - 1st: Tippetts Glengyron, 2nd: R.A and J.K. Brook, 3rd: Toby Nash.

On the Hook – Light Yearling – 1st: S.Beel, 2nd: Karen and Jack Briscoe, 3rd: Don Nash.

Medium Yearling - 1st Karen and Jack Briscoe, 2nd: Don Nash, 3rd: R.Crouch.

Heavy Yearling - 1st Tippetts Glengyron, 2nd: R.A and J.K. Brook, 3rd: Toby Nash.

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NEWS

December, 2015

Southern Farmer, Page 9

Hard facts about hay loss during storage that is a ~36 per cent dry matter loss.

Physical losses aside, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to remember the losses that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You might think it looks ďŹ ne, but total digestible nutrients losses are severe in weathered hay.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Looks aside, if you put the bale in the paddock only to ďŹ nd 70 per cent of it gets eaten, chances are it has suffered nutrient loss,â&#x20AC;? said Samantha Anderson, Resource Consulting Services (RCS).

Unfortunately not all farms have hay sheds primed for ďŹ lling and for those that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t there are several things you can do

to prevent hay spoilage in outdoor storage.

Much of the hay spoilage that occurs during storage is from moisture wicked from the soil due to bale/ground contact.

First and foremost, you need to make sure you are building your stack in an area with good drainage.

Building a pad or using a properly ďŹ tted ground sheet will be hugely beneďŹ cial to your cause â&#x20AC;&#x201C; crushed rock is often the best option.

It will it provide a safe level base and allows for excellent drainage under the stack.

The next step is getting a cover â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a tarp is going

to be your best and most economical option.

You should bank on getting two to three seasons out of your tarp, however, the lifetime of your tarp will largely be determined by how well itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tied down.

Cherie Brand, director of ABC Tarps helps break down the cost. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It really does work out to be a very economical option. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For example, if you use our 12m x 21m hay cover on a small bale stack it can work out to be only eight cents per bale.â&#x20AC;?

Look for tarps that have been speciďŹ cally designed to cover hay as they will often have reinforcements

and webbing loops/straps to make it easier to tie down.

Ensuring the tarp remains tight throughout the duration of use is paramount.

Tarps will expand and contract with the weather so it is advisable to check tie-downs periodically as

they may need tightening every so often.

Many parts of the state have experienced a dry winter and are staring down the barrel of a long El Nino summer - hay will be a valuable commodity, if not a lifeline.

Would you risk losing 40 per cent of it?

If you are looking for a hay tarp this year the team at ABC Tarps have a long-standing presence in the fodder industry and are able to help you come up with a quality and cost effective solution.

Call them anytime on 1300 656 211 or visit www.abctarps.com.au.

EKt ^dK </E'Í&#x160; tZ E'> Z Ͳ ZÍ&#x2DC;D t/>>/ D^ Ͳ d,KD ^ KK< Ͳ Z/ d Î&#x17D;dÇ Ĺ?Ć?Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161; ŽŽĆ&#x161;Ć? :ĆľĆ?Ć&#x161; Ć&#x152;Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161;Í&#x160; 'Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161; 'Ĺ?Ĺ&#x152; /Ä&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Í&#x160;

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WOULD you grow, cut, rake, bale and stack your hay â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and then take a match to 40 per cent of it?

Hay season is well and truly upon us, and while itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost inevitable to get caught up in the mayhem of dodging rain, dancing around humidity and mechanical mishaps when baling â&#x20AC;&#x201C; if you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ďŹ gured out how youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to protect your bales then you risk tipping up to 40 per cent of your hard work down the drain.

Frank Mickan, Pasture and Fodder Conservation Specialist at the Department of Environment and Primary Industries lays out the alarming losses that come from storing hay uncovered. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hay losses during storage can exceed 40 per cent in severe conditions and commonly 25 per cent for round bales stored outside on the ground over one season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Losses are often greater with round bales than commonly thought despite their perceived â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rain sheddingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; shape,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to lull ourselves into a visual appraisal of weathering loss and think, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only the outer 100mm - well on a 1.5m x 1.2m round bale

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

PROTECTING HAY: Look for tarps that have been specifically designed to cover hay as they will often have reinforcements and webbing loops/straps to make it easier to tie down.

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Page 12, Southern Farmer

December, 2015

A challenging summer ahead Bought-in Feeds - Cost per MJME of Energy Cost/Tonne DM Cost/kg DM ME/kg DM ME/Lt

Wastage Feedout Cost

5.6

N/A

Wheat

$385

38.5c

13

Lucerne

$400

40c

10.5

5.6

40%

3c/kg DM

Oaten Hay

$300

30c

8

5.6

40%

3c/kg DM

Vetch Hay

$380

38c

9

5.6

50%

3c/kg DM

0.80lts

Feed costs - estimates for January 16 Wastage - based on feedout in paddock

N/A

Litres Milk Inc @42c/lt Profit/Loss 2.3lts

97.5c

59c/kg DM

0.75lts

31.5c

8.5/kg DM

0.57lts

24.0c

6c/kg DM

33.7c

4.3/kg DM

Other cereal hays (wheat & barley) could have lower digestibilities

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THE long range forecast for both southern Victoria and northern Victoria’s dairying areas gives little encouragement following a very short spring.

Predicted ‘above normal’ rainfall in January and February for southern Victoria offers little salve as pasture will be well and truly finished after a dry November and December, and summer fodder crops will be scarce if not irrigated.

Northern Victoria faces water costs that will restrict irrigation and fodder production.

A bleak outlook is followed by a predicted ‘ordinary’ autumn rainfall and probable reduced silage harvest.

Add to this a less-thanbuoyant milk price and many farm businesses will struggle over the next 12 months.

Of course, this is not the first time the dairy industry has faced potential devastating circumstances.

This subject was foremost in my mind back in October as we watched this scenario building.

We began re-evaluating feed budgets by the end of October, or as soon as silage reserves were known.

There are some laws of dairy production that, like laws of nature, exist, and rule, even if we deny them.

Rule 1: Cows convert energy to milk, not fibre per se.

Rule 2: Cows require 60 to 70 MJME of energy for maintenance depending on live-weight (this produces no income).

Rule 3: Grain is always the cheapest bought-in energy, and in many instances, the cheapest form of energy full stop.

An argument I am not going to enter into here.

Hay is usually the most expensive.

For efficiency, or most profitable milk production, we must optimise milk production as a

By JOHN LYNE Dairytech dairy production specialist percentage of energy consumed (for example, ideally, 30 per cent energy to maintenance and 70 per cent to milk production).

The impact of this greatly affects feed cost per litre; a good guide to profitability or income over feed cost.

From reviewing about 300 monthly rations each year, I can assure you the variables here are significant and produce significant variations in profit.

Certainly stage of lactation comes into this equation, however, we have a number of well-fed herds that have less than a 25 per cent variation from peak milk to dry-off production level.

To achieve this we must sustain an energy density of 12 MJME/kg DM across any ration.

This is a major objective of our Feed Budgets, and eliminates high percentage ‘conserved forage’ diets.

Generally speaking, fibre, especially conserved forage fibre does not produce much milk, but rather is a necessary evil for healthy and efficient rumen function.

For this reason, we only want sufficient fibre to fulfil that purpose.

Beyond this energy is what we want, or even more specific, starch.

As we look to feeding this summer, we need to bare these principles in mind to remain profitable.

Also, profit and milk income are not the same thing.

Energy cost to milk income is the criterion that drives profit.

We are better to make one dollar profit than one dollar loss.

It is most probable that all bought-in feeds, including grain, are going

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We need to know what energy we are buying and at what cost once fibre needs for rumen function are met.

As a general rule, we cannot pass the 50/50 grain/forage threshold without sacrificing rumen and cow health.

This table (above left) looks solely at energy conversion.

Obviously there are a number of other factors that will impact actual milk production.

Lucerne’s quality protein will drive appetite and increase intake resulting in more litres.

Although vetch may have a similar crude protein to lucerne, experience tells us the outcomes are not the same.

Protein quality has variable effects on milk and solids yields.

If considering vetch I advise my clients to have it tested for mould spore count before purchase.

Some moulds are harmless, but others can cause abortions and very high BMCCs which can take months to lower – penalty milk payment.

Cereal grain crops cut for hay can have very low digestibility dependent on crop stage at cutting.

Test data commonly rates wheaten and barley hays as significantly lower digestibility.

This raises the cost of their energy significantly, let alone probable higher wastage.

For southern Victoria, energy from turnip crops’ dependant on yield, but generally are the cheapest energy we can produce.

As above, without watering this summer, that source of energy is going to be limited.

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NEWS

December, 2015

Southern Farmer, Page 13

Te Mania to run structural assessment field day TE Mania Angus stud principals Tom Gubbins and Hamish McFarlane are inviting cattle producers to ‘an afternoon in the yards’ with Jim Green from BeefXcel at their Mortlake property.

Mr Green will be assessing the autumn sale bulls and he will be explaining the Beef Class Structural Assessment System at the field day to be held on Monday, De-

cember 7 starting at 3pm.

The Te Mania Angus herd has been independently assessed for structure since the early 1990s.

Mr Gubbins said that this depth of recording enables him to make very accurate predictions about how certain combinations of genetics will perform structurally.

He said that performance recording provides

him with cattle that tick all the boxes for profitability and it guides the stud towards good fertility and structure in cow herds, fast growth for the breeders and backgrounders and carcase merit for the processors.

“Good cattle structure has a direct impact on producer profitability,” he said.

“Objectively measuring structure, in conjunction

with the use of performance recording (EBVs) gives us a greater picture of how that animal will perform.

“It gives us insight into the key profit drivers that affect the bottom line for commercial cattle breeders,” Mr Gubbins said.

The Beef Class Structural Assessment System measures claw set, front and rear foot angle, rear legs and for females, teats

and udders and will be explained by Mr Green at the field day.

“Leg and feet structure in particular are highly heritable, therefore identifying structural issues within your animals al-

lows you to improve your herd through assessment and selection,” Mr Gubbins said.

“Te Mania Angus collects information based on unbiased, factual data, and relates it back to the

animal and its genetics.

“This gives us information about which pedigrees have desirable selection,” he said.

For more information contact Tom Gubbins 0429 952 197.

“Have G We’ll o ate? pen”

j/05d07629-v4/15-15

STRUCTURAL ASSESSMENT: Te Mania Angus stud principal Tom Gubbins is opening up his property to run a field day focusing on the Beef Class Structural Assessment System.

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FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION

Page 14, Southern Farmer

December, 2015

Prepare your property for upcoming summer storms WITH hot weather already here, electricity distributor AusNet Services is urging property owners to clear vegetation from private powerlines to reduce the likelihood of summer storms causing power outages.

AusNet Services’ regional customer and community manager, Leesa Penaluna, said that despite the company’s large vegetation management program, keeping powerlines clear is a responsibility shared between electricity

businesses and community members.

She said that residents need to keep vegetation on their property clear of their service cable or private electric lines.

“We spend more than $40 million on our annual vegetation management program inspecting and then clearing about 135,000 trees from 50,000 kilometres of powerlines throughout our network to ensure a safe and reliable supply of electricity to custom-

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ers,” Mrs Penaluna said.

“Importantly, property owners also have a responsibility to keep vegetation clear from their service cable or private electric lines supplying their property.

“Summer storms bring strong winds and heavy rains, so now is a good time to clear vegetation and reduce the potential for property damage and power outages.

“Under no circumstances should property owners attempt to climb a power pole or prune vegetation near a powerline.

“Please contact a suitably trained and experienced contractor to carry out the clearing work,” she said.

To help manage summer storms and possible power outages AusNet Services suggests you: Have emergency contact details easily available.

Have a fully charged torch with fresh batteries and a battery-operated radio.

Ensure mobile

phones are fully charged.

If your garage door is electric, ensure you know how to open it manually.

Have a backup pump if you rely on mains electricity for your water supply.

Time permitting, turn your fridge and freezer to a cooler setting to maintain food freshness.

During or after a storm, property owners are encouraged to report threatening trees or damaged powerlines to AusNet Services’ 24-hour faults hotline 131 799.

“When property owners provide accurate and timely information, we are able to pinpoint threatening tree locations and damaged powerlines and send crews directly to those locations,” Mrs Penaluna said.

AusNet Services advises people to keep well away of fallen powerlines at all times and report it immediately to the 24-hour faults hotline.

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

WE’RE PREPARING FOR SUMMER AusNet Services delivers electricity to your community.

Here are some of our $220 million safety and reliability-related works our crews are on track to complete this year:

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Customers with private electric lines must ensure they are maintained and clear of vegetation.

Contact a registered electrician or certified tree clearer if required.

FIRE DANGER: About seven per cent of harvesters per year will start a fire.

Dry year could increase risk of fire during harvest GRAIN growers in the southern cropping region are reminded to implement strategies and take precautions to reduce the risk of fires caused by machinery this harvest.

A spate of harvester fires in recent years, combined with a dry, early finish to the 2015 cropping season, has heightened concerns about the potential fire risk this year.

The Grains Research and Development Corporation’s (GRDC) Southern Regional Panel is urging growers and harvester operators to follow current industry best practice guidelines.

Southern Regional Panel chair Keith Pengilley said the panel is concerned about the higher-than-average number of fires that have occurred during harvest in South Australia and to a lesser extent Victoria over the past few years.

“A number of these fires have started in pulse crops, particularly lentils, so extra precautions should be taken when preparing to harvest these crops,” he said.

“However, machinery failure is in many cases responsible for fires starting, so it is critical that growers undertake harvester operation checks and regular maintenance leading up to and throughout harvest in an effort to reduce the risk of fire,” Mr Pengilley said.

Kondinin Group research has revealed that on average, about seven per cent of harvesters per year will start a fire.

In these cases, one in 10 will cause significant damage to the machine or surrounding crop.

According to Ben White from Kondinin Group reports indicate, based on operator experience, that harvester fires may be reduced with improved harvester hygiene, maintenance and exhaust system shielding treatments, particularly in volatile crops.

“The best method of fire prevention for harvesters has been harvester

hygiene, regular maintenance and vigilance,” he said.

“And many pre-harvest preventative checks tie into what growers already do on a regular harvester maintenance basis, such as checking belts and bearings for damage.

“Growers should also be checking for any electrical issues before harvest, such as making sure wiring isn’t rubbing on anything or if there are any exposed electrics which need to be insulated.

“Oil seals should be inspected and a dripping line or weeping seal needs to be repaired prior to harvest, otherwise that could become a fire hazard,” Mr White said.

He added that some growers use materials such as exhaust insulation blankets, alumina-silica materials on exhausts and turbo chargers to reduce fire risk, which is a good way of reducing fire ignition sources, but growers needed to be careful with the impact such insulators could have on engine and turbo operation temperatures and any warranty implications.

Mr White emphasised the importance of harvester hygiene during harvest by conducting regular clean-outs and said growers should be exercising particular caution when harvesting leafy pulse crops, as these were renowned for dust build-up.

He also stressed the importance of having properly functioning fire extinguishers on harvesters and noted that there are some machine-mounted fire suppression options on the market.

Growers are encouraged to abide by state-based grain harvesting codes of practice and declared harvest bans, and observe the Grassland Fire Danger Index (GFDI) protocol on high fire risk days.

To assist growers with their fire prevention strategies, the GRDC has published a Reducing Harvester Fire Risk Back Pocket Guide.

FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION

December, 2015

Southern Farmer, Page 15

Investing in a pump kit could save you in the long run

spot ďŹ res or even burning vegetation, particularly in advance of, or after a ďŹ re front has passed.

And it is a relatively inexpensive investment.

The next step up in bushďŹ re protection is to install a permanent, custom designed, reticulated sprinkler system which

will provide a deluge spray of water that is able to cover and protect all vulnerable points of a building, including walls, windows, decks, roof, sky lights, under ďŹ&#x201A;oor areas, gas bottles and even the rain water tanks (as they are likely to be constructed of plastic and are at risk

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For more information and an obligation free quote, Contact - Bill Hayes 9735 4147 or 0418 566 166 Email: blazecontrol@netspace.net.au blazecontrol@gmail.com

How Fire Ready is your farm?

Check all of these important questions EARLY not late.

YES /NO

YES /NO

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 1. â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 2.

Do you have well maintained slashed or ploughed fire breaks?

Are your farm buildings protected by firebreaks?

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 3.

Do you have a grazing plan to reduce fire risk?

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 21. Are fire fighting hoses long enough, kept in safe locations where they will not melt, and with heavy duty wide spray nozzles?

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 4.

Are your chemicals stored safely according to instructions

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 22. Do you talk about and have a fire prevention plan with neighbors?

on the product?

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 23. Do you have adequate water supplies for firefighting should mains water pressures drop? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 24. Have you installed sprinkler systems in your garden and on your roofing?

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 5.

Are your fuel tanks bonded and isolated from buildings?

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 6.

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

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 7.

Do residential buildings on your farm have smoke alarms?

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 8.

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

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 9.

Can firefighting vehicles safely access all parts of your property?

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 10. Do you ensure hay is not stacked when it is green?

for fires, hazardous material incidents, storms, floods, earthquakes, tsunamis and traffic hazards.

Visitors can also access planning, preparedness and recovery information related to emergencies. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The VicEmergency website is just one of the channels available and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important that community members have more than one way to access emergency information so they have a fall back if power fails or there is not internet access,â&#x20AC;? Mr Lapsley said.

Victorians can also get information by tuning in to ABC local radio, other emergency broadcasters including commercial and community radio stations or SKY TV, by downloading the FireReady App, phoning the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667 or following VicEmergency on Twitter and Facebook.

Bla ze Control

and their contents, including valuable possessions and family mementos. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And most of our clients are recognising that protecting their property is their own responsibility and that a ďŹ re brigade or volunteers under signiďŹ cant stress will be unable to come to their aid in a bushďŹ re crisis,â&#x20AC;? he added.

For more information contact Bill Hayes on (03)9735 4147 or 0418 566 166.

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 11. Are machinery exhaust systems fitted with spark arresters? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 12. Do you have a list of emergency numbers beside all phones? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 13. Is your propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CFA map reference beside the phone? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 14. Do you have battery-powered radios handy to aid communications? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 15. Are your buildings clean of flammable debris and protected from the entry of burning embers? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 16. Do your buildings provide adequate personal protection against bushfire? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 17. Is fire prevention part of your whole farm business plan? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 18. Are you up-to-date with the latest Local and State Government fire restrictions and requirements? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 19. Do you carefully plan all burning off to minimise the risks?

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 20. Are gas cylinders vented away from buildings?

â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 25. Have you gathered metal buckets, mops, spray backpack units, ladders, rakes, shovels in a strategic location for ready access? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 26. Do you have battery powered torches, radios, medical kits and drinking water available? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 27. Do you know the radio station to check for the fireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s progress rather than calling emergency services? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 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, handkerchiefs to toe over the nose and mouth, wet towels to drape over the neck, and bottles of water? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 29. Can you access roof and other building cavities to check frequently for embers or other spot fires? â?&#x2018; â?&#x2018; 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?

Further information is available from: Mornington Peninsula Shire Phone: 1300 850 600 Mail: Private Bag 1000, Rosebud, 3939 Email: customerservice@mornpen.vic.gov.au Web: www.mornpen.vic.gov.au

v/05d08425/45-15

THE Victorian community can visit one centralised location for emergency warnings and information and it is updated and ready to go for the upcoming summer months.

The VicEmergency website can be accessed at emergency.vic.gov.au, with the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and State Emergency Service (SES) warning pages now directly sent to the VicEmergency website, providing better access to information before, during and after an emergency.

Emergency management commissioner Craig Lapsley said the focus of the website is to make it easier for the community, so they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to access multiple websites in times of emergency. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Victorians largely live in a digital world and the VicEmergency website is an important tool for providing localised and relevant information to help people make good decisions about their own safety,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not only is this updated VicEmergency fully mobile responsive, it has undergone extensive community testing to make sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to use, and has been tested by Vision Australia to meet online accessibility standards.â&#x20AC;?

The VicEmergency website brings together emergency information and warnings from agencies including CFA, MFB, SES and DELWP, providing emergency incidents in real time, on a Google Maps display.

It provides information and warnings

of damage or loss of their contents).

Lilydale-based Blaze Control Sprinkler BushďŹ re Systems has installed building protection systems throughout Australia including many homes, schools, halls and community centres.

Blaze Control draws

tion sprinkler systems,â&#x20AC;?

Mr Hayes said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our systems have already achieved a substantial number of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;savesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in areas where many surrounding homes or buildings have been lost in a ďŹ re storm situation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am ďŹ nding that with many people wishing to retire to holiday homes by the beach or the typical place in the country, there is growing interest in protecting these properties

248669-SS44-5

WATER WARRIOR: Installing a permanent, custom designed, reticulated sprinkler system will provide a deluge spray of water that is able to cover and protect all vulnerable points of a building.

on more than 40 years of bushďŹ re experience from the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s founder Bill Hayes who is both a licensed plumber and a CFA volunteer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Blaze Control system begins with a Davey FireďŹ ghter engine powered pump typically drawing on a rain water tank storage system,â&#x20AC;? Mr Hayes said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The pump can be a manual rope start, an electric start, or a remotely operated pump which can be activated electronically once a ďŹ re emergency is determined.â&#x20AC;?

The building sprinkler system is constructed from copper pipe with brass ďŹ ttings that offer durability, low maintenance costs and a long service life, with the design ďŹ&#x201A;exibility to cover all types of roof lines, building shapes or adjoining structures.

The sprinkler system is also designed to the available water resources, with the desired operating pressures and correctly sized pipe work to meet the appropriate hydraulic performance for protection of the structures. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Blaze Control has now designed and installed a signiďŹ cant number of external building protec-

t/05d08485/50-15

A GROWING number of residents beyond metropolitan areas are recognising that in bushďŹ re situations assistance from a rural ďŹ re brigade or even from neighbours or volunteers is unlikely to be forthcoming.

Protecting a property under a ďŹ re storm situation, such as the situation on Black Saturday, is increasingly a matter of looking after the protection of your own assets including homes, out buildings, livestock and other valuable possessions.

Most ďŹ reďŹ ghting authorities like Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Country Fire Authority recommend the preparation of a personal ďŹ re plan including the appropriate materials, especially if there is a decision to stay with the property under bushďŹ re conditions.

Many property owners will have a water source they are able to tap in the form of the contents of a swimming pool, rain water tanks, water courses, dams or similar reserves.

In this instance, a Blaze Control Pump Kit utilising a Davey FireďŹ ghterÂŽ engine powered pump with an inlet and outlet hose kit will allow you to extinguish embers,

Click on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Services for Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; then â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Fire and Emergency Managementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

WATER

Page 16, Southern Farmer

December, 2015

Manage summer water for livestock THE Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR) is urging farmers to assess water levels in dams now to ensure they have enough for livestock during what is already proving to be a hot, dry summer.

In Victoria there has been no significant run off for the past two years and according to DEDJTR land management extension officer Heather Field, water levels in many dams are

DAM DROUGHT: Water levels in dams are much lower than normal due to the lack of spring rain.

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much lower than normal for this time of year, with some already dry.

“Farm water storages need to be designed to cope with several years of little or no run off and landholders should now be assessing their water needs for this summer and autumn,” she said.

“Calculating the total water available and the total water required by stock over this dry period will help you plan how many stock and

of what class you can carry through.

“Landholders need to make decisions early by assessing water levels in their dams and putting plans in place to ensure that stock can be maintained in a fit and healthy condition,” Ms Field said.

She added that there are a number of factors that influence how much water animals consume, including age and condition, seasonal conditions, type of terrain, dry versus green pasture, saltiness of water and access to shade.

“For example lactating ewes on dry feed in summer require up to 14 litres per day, mature sheep on dry pasture up to 9.8 litres per day and beef cattle up to 98 litres per day,” she said.

“Once you know how much water you require, you then need to work out whether existing water resources will meet this demand.

“To calculate dam storage you need to know both the surface area and the maximum depth of the dam.

For a square or rectangular dam the surface area is calculated by multiplying the length by the width.

The volume can then be determined by multiplying the surface area by the depth of the dam and a factor of

0.4 can be used to account for the batter slope on the sides of the dam.

Ms Field added that if water availability is at a critical level, look for ways to reduce water losses and become more efficient.

“Reticulating water around your property not only puts you more in control but can increase your storage capacity to make use of rainfall events and minimise evaporation.

“The use of troughs will expand your grazing options, improve water quality and maintain dam structure by excluding stock from waterways.”

Ms Field said landholders can also minimise evaporation by pumping water from small shallow dams to larger deeper dams or into tanks.

“A three metre deep dam can lose half its total volume to evaporation each year.

“Water quality can be maintained by fencing out dams and reticulating water to troughs in adjoining paddocks.

“Better quality water means your livestock will be healthier and require less water,” Ms Field said.

Other ideas include fencing off dams to prevent stock access which can cause pugging, vegetation removal and water con-

tamination, fixing leaking pipes and troughs and making the most of your roof area by capturing water in tanks.

She also suggested landholders can reduce current water use by providing shade for stock, de-stocking and using stock containment areas.

“Water quality should be monitored, particularly if levels stay low and/or there is potential for pollutants such as manure and soil to enter water sources.

“Remember dry conditions can lead to water quality issues such as high levels of salt.

“Evaporation increases the salt concentration while a flush of water dilutes salts but may increase sediment and manure or nutrient run off,” she said.

Ms Field added that monitoring should be done regularly and more frequently in summer or in periods of prolonged moisture stress.

Water samples can be tested for salt content at your local DEDJTR office or with do it yourself salinity meters.

To access farm water information and use the online farm water calculator visit www.agriculture. vic.gov.au and type ‘farm water solutions’ into the search bar.

STOP your LEAKING Concrete Tank

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This will effect the steel reinforcement inside the wall and floors, weakening structural strength.

How to stop leaks in concrete tanks The earlier you can repair concrete water tank leaks the stronger your tank will be for future years.

The Pressure Injection Flexible Sealant used on concrete tank leaks is the same application used on Melbourne’s Burnley Tunnel.

The injection sealant treats the crack from the outside surface with the water inside the tank, sealing the crack all the way through the wall’s thickness, from the outside surface in.

This prevents water from making contact with the steel reinforcement of the tank. The base of the concrete tank and how this is kept dry by utilising correct drainage and water run off strategies will eliminate water from sitting around the base of the tank and will keep the tank base free.

Concrete water tanks provide a lovely fresh, crisp tasting water which you do not find in modern day water storage solutions.

Repair your leaks now and save for the future.

For more information p h o n e D a r re n S m i t h from the Tank Shop on 0427 427 183 or visit www.thetankshop.com.au

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CONCRETE water tanks can be found on thousands of rural properties across Victoria.

Poured on site, concrete tanks are usually large in volume, some of which have been around for more than 80 years.

Many of the tanks Tank Shop is called in to repair have been neglected for many years without owners considering the consequences.

Water storage solutions 1 The overflow pipe on the tank must be piped six metres away so overflowing water does not sit around the base of the tank.

2 A tank with water sitting around the base in winter conditions is a recipe for disaster down the track.

The base of the tank will subside to the wet side over many years and cracks will appear when the base moves. Keep the base of your tank dry at all times with the relevant drainage, such as spoon drains.

3 Don’t plant trees/shrubs/ plants around the tank, as roots will penetrate concrete over time looking for water especially in dry months. We have seen many tanks where the floors have cracked due to the tree’s roots pushing from underneath.

4 Consider how long water tank cracks have been leaking. Some tanks can sit in a paddock and leak for more than 20 years.

MACHINERY BUYING GUIDE

December, 2015

Southern Farmer, Page 17

Honesty is best policy at Small Horse Tractors LANG LANG dairy farmer Malcom Wildes is a self-confessed fan of Fendt tractors and is even a bigger fan of the company who recently sold him his latest Fendt 310 SCR tractor.

Dandenong-based Small Horse Tractors is a family owned business run by Paul Pintaudi and Mr Wildes couldn’t be happier with the service he receives from someone he has known for the past 45 years.

The base of Small Horse Tractors’ business is after sales service and parts, with the company having a full mechanic workshop where it services the full range of equipment it sells.

Having grown up on a dairy farm himself, Mr Pintaudi is more than familiar with what equipment farmers and contractors require on the land and is also aware of how important it is to have the right tractor for the job.

Loyal customer, Mr Wildes who runs Homedale Pasture with his brother Russell and nephew BJ run about 600 head of dairy cattle on about 1000 acres, recently purchased a Fendt 310 SCR tractor with factory fitted front end loader from Small Horse Tractors.

The brothers have been dairy farmers their whole lives and are the third generation to run the dairy which sells its product to Murray Goulburn.

Mr Wildes said that he owns five

Fendt tractors, with his recent purchase being used for the smaller jobs on the farm such as spraying, topping pastures and spreading fertiliser.

“We have bought a few tractors over the years and different brands, but for us the Fendt is a stand-alone tractor,” he said.

“Paul at Small Horse Tractors runs a good family business and he really knows his stuff as he has been mixed up in the industry for years.

“They give us good service and good back up and they are as honest as the day is long,” Mr Wildes said.

Mr Pintaudi said he wants to disperse the myth that Fendt tractors are too expensive.

“When taking into consideration the finance rate, running and servicing costs, resale value, coupled with the demands on second-hand Fendt tractors, we feel that they stack up as excellent value for money,” he said.

“From an operator’s point of view, the ease of operation and the driver’s comfort is second to none,” Mr Pintaudi said.

Small Horse Tractors are agents for Fendt, Massey Ferguson, Iseki, Landini, Hustler and Silvan.

The company offers sales and service for a variety of farm, turf and earth moving equipment.

For more information phone Small Horse Tractors on 9791 6414.

FENDT FANATIC: Malcom Wildes loves his Fendt tractors and the service he receives from Small Horse Tractors.

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Correction THE article titled “Advice from ABC Tarps is basic: cover it, or lose it” that appeared in the October edition included incorrect figures when referring to dry matter loss.

The paragraph should have read, “It’s easy to lull ourselves into

a visual appraisal of weathering loss and think, it’s only the outer 100mm - well on a 1.5m x 1.2m round bale that is a ~36 per cent dry matter loss.”

Quotes attributed to director of ABC Tarps, Cherie Brand should only have read, “It really

does work out to be a very economical option.

For example, if you use our 12m x 21m hay cover on a small bale stack it can work out to be only eight cents per bale.”

North East Media apologises for any confusion this may have caused.

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IMPLEMENTS…3 furrow disc plow, Front end loader for Massey 35-148, 16 plate 3pl discs, soft hands for fel, Connor Shea 14 row tyned 3pl seeder, 2.5 mtr Rau rotary harrows, 6ft Berends grader with rippers, 7ft smudger, 2 furrow reversible disc plow, 3.5 mtr Lely Power Harrows, 3.0 mtr Lely Power harrows, 5ft 6ft slashers, 3pl bale forks, grader blades, Howard Paraplow, Krone 2.5 mtr rotary harrows, wick wiper, Hardi 1200 ltr trailing spray unit with 10 mtr boom & hand reel, quick detach front end loader , assorted tractor weights & frames.

WANTED; Good quality late model tractors.

Trade-ins accepted. Delivery and finance easily arranged.

END OF YEAR RUN-OUT SALE ON NOW,VISIT YOUR NEW HOLLAND DEALER TODAY TO SECURE A GREAT DEAL For generations New Holland has been part of the Australian landscape and in true Aussie spirit we are offering True Blue Deals across our entire range of T-Series Tractors. Included as standard is our attractive low rate finance, a 3-year peace of mind warranty plus an upgrade to the IntelliSteerTM guidance package with the RTK option bundle.

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FORD 6700, dual power, a/c cab, 3pl, 77hp, 2wd.

FORD TW30, reco engine & clutch, fwa, a/c cab, 3pl .

FIAT 580, 2wd, a/c cab, 3pl, pwr steer, 58hp.

FIAT F-100, fwa, a/c cab, good tyres, tidy unit.

INTER 414, loader, rops canopy, new clutch, 3pl, good tyres.

ISEKI 6000, fwa,4 post rops, 3pl, pwr steering.

JOHN DEERE 1130, pwr steer, rops, good tyres, 50hp.

LEYLAND 253, pwr steer, rops, 50hp.

MASSEY FERGUSON 135, rops , tidy.

MASSEY FERGUSON 148, rops , like new.

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P.A. Finance

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VALID UNTIL 31 st DECEMBER 2015

*Terms and conditions apply. Finance rate subject to term and deposit requirements. Finance provided by CNH Industrial Capital Australia Pty Ltd AFS License No. 286664. Offer is available to business customers only and subject to credit approval. 3 year warranty comprises the manufacturers base warranty and Service Plus Protection Plan. Contact your local dealership for full details

MACHINERY BUYING GUIDE

Page 18, Southern Farmer

December, 2015

$10,000 donation for no permit removal

HAPPY CLIENT: Regional slashing contractor Tom said he has been very pleased with Agrison’s service.

Agrison offers choice, value and affordability SPECIALISING in agricultural machinery, implements and diesel generators, Campbellfieldbased Agrison aims to provide affordable and quality tractors to the hobby farmer and agricultural sector.

Competitive pricing is one of the company’s motives as it supplies Australians with valueadded tractors built in conjunction with its major import partner, China, which accounts for 15 per cent of total imports.

Agrison general manager Isobel Yokus said the concept of Chinese tractors has taken some

time for consumers to appreciate, acknowledge and accept.

“In its early days, consumers were sceptical of Chinese manufactured products, including tractors,” she said.

“Today, Australia’s major import partner is China, thereby allowing consumers choice – the choice to own inexpensive and value-added tractors.”

Agrison has now become one of the largest importers of Chinese tractors into the Australian marketplace, with the family-owned business celebrating its success through the offering of value-

added products for an affordable and attainable price.

With word of mouth being the best advertising money can buy, many of Agrison’s customers are more than willing to sing the company’s praises.

Tom who owns a slashing business in Geelong said he decided to “go with Agrison after talking to a few people that had them”.

The regional slashing contractor said he has been very pleased with the company and the service he receives.

“I am very pleased I chose

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court that it engaged a contractor to prepare a fire break and address a problem with weeds on its property in February this year.

The contractor cleared more than was expected or allowed, and when the mistake was discovered, was directed to stop work.

The company conceded that clearer instructions should have been provided to the contractor.

“The case is also a timely reminder that planning scheme exemptions for fire breaks and weed managment are very limited and residents need to ensure that they understand exactly what they can’t do,” Mr Jackson added.

In sentencing, the court said that the company had accepted responsibility for the mistake and had co-operated with the council to make sure the land would revegetate.

The court ordered the company to maintain good behaviour for one year and to donate $10,000 to a councilmanaged scheme that enhances and manages native vegetation within the shire.

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Agrison and with a five year parts warranty and back-up service second to none, what more could you ask for,” he said.

Another customer, Bob from Narre Warren purchased a 60 horsepower tractor 18 months ago from Agrison and said he has been very pleased with its performance.

“I was so pleased with the tractor that I subsequently purchased a 35 horsepower tractor from Agrison as well, and I am very pleased with both machines,” he said.

For more information contact Agrison on 1300 651 830.

OWNERS of a property in Bunyip North have been forced to donate $10,000 to local vegetation management projects after being found guilty of removing native vegetation without a permit.

Hanson Construction Materials pleaded guilty in the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court to one charge of failing to comply with the Cardinia Shire Planning Scheme after a contractor it hired removed more than two hectares of native tea tree scrub from the property in Bunyip North as a fire break.

Council’s manager of development and compliance services Brett Jackson said the case emphasised how careful people and businesses need to be.

“Residents need to remember that environmental controls don’t just apply to trees, but also to protect shrubs, herbs and grasses that are indigenous to Victoria.

“They all contribute to the natural environment and are equally protected by the planning scheme,” Mr Jackson said.

Hanson Construction Materials told the

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Electronic linkage with draft control offers precise operation of linkage regardless of application

Mechanical fully synchronised shuttle for easy operation or power shuttle with adjustable response of shuttle for smooth operation

2 auxiliary spool valves with a high hydraulic flow of 65 litres per minute

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MF DEALER FOR A REAL DEAL MASSEYFERGUSON.COM.AU

Small Horse Tractors

18 Lonsdale Street

Geelong

South West Tractor & Turf

Industrial Place

0450 627 739

Kyneton

L & G Sheppard & Sons

88 Piper Street

(03) 5422 1821

Nagambie

John Sanderson Machinery

36-38 Industrial Crescent

(03) 5794 2272

Silvan

Darmac Ag Sales & Service

249-251 Monbulk Road

(03) 9737 9255

Warragul

REN Machinery

Normanby Street

(03) 5623 1255

*Offer ends 31 December 2015, while stocks last. Bonus loader offer applies to the purchase of an MF4700 Series tractor with an MF936X Standard loader only.Consult your local Massey Ferguson dealer for full terms and conditions.

MASSEY FERGUSON®, MF®, the triple-triangle logo® is a worldwide brand of AGCO. © 2015

(03) 9791 6414

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Dandenong