Dairy News 23 January 2024 by Rural News Group

Dairy prices showing resilience. PAGE 4 MAIZE CONFERENCE Retaining profits Page 8

BIGGER, BETTER Mixer wagons Page 20

ORGANIC CO-OP GOES BUST

JANUARY 23, 2024 ISSUE 534 // www.dairynews.co.nz

Organic Dairy Hub directors file for liquidation. PAGE 3

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DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

NEWS // 3

Organic dairy co-op files for liquidation SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz

Swapping fashion for farming. PG.09

Fonterra butter powers Oz school brekkies. PG.12

New grapple bucket. PG.21

NEWS ��3-9 NZ DAIRY EVENT �� 10-11 AGRIBUSINESS �� 12 OPINION ��14-16 MANAGEMENT �� 17-18 ANIMAL HEALTH ��19 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS �� 20-22

A CO-OPERATIVE touted as New Zealand’s only 100% farmer-owned organic milk producer has gone bust. Organic Dairy Hub, formed in March 2015, made liquid and UHT milk, cheese and milk powder using third party processors. The products were sold locally and exported. According to the Companies Office, ODH directors, made up of farmers and independents, called in the liquidators, KPMG’s Leon Bowker and Luke Norman, on December 1 last year.

ODH’s first product under the ‘Ours Truly’ brand was A3 fresh, full cream milk, initially delivered via door-to-door subscription. In their first report, the liquidators say the company is being wound up after ceasing trading. “After paying any remaining creditors, remaining funds will be distributed to shareholders. This is a solvent liquidation and will remain solvent for the period of the liquidation.” ODH was formed by 37 organic dairy farmers, with a third based in Waikato. In a resource consent application to Waikato Regional Council in 2019, ODH stated that “by joining together as one, with one common passion, ODH would be a platform of highly skilled organic farmers”. But on December 1 last year, ODH directors

Organic Dairy Hub’s product range included A3 milk powders.

Michael Allen Brown, Cameron Farrand, Sharleen Gardner, John Wafer, Frank Goodin and Ian Cumming voted to liquidate the company. A “statement of affairs” filed by the directors shows that on November 24 last year, ODH had $50,000 in the bank. It had assets of $145,200, including cash at bank, $31,000 worth of stock, $54,000 in receivables and plant and equipment valued at $10,000. Its only liability was $439 owed unsecured creditors, leaving the company with net assets worth $144,800. The directors expect liquidator’s costs to reach $20,000 plus another $35,000 for legal and consultancy. ODH’s first product under the ‘Ours Truly’ brand was A3 fresh, full cream milk, initially delivered via door-to-door subscription. It also launched Ours Truly brand organic A3

whole milk and skim milk powder. The products had A2 Beta-casein and were certified under US Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Programme (NOP) standards. ODH collected milk daily from its farmer base, stretching from Northland to Wairarapa. About 20% of milk was turned into milk powders and nutritional products, processed at Waikato Innovation Park in Ruakura and generally exported to Australia and Asia, with some New Zealand customers as well. Dairy News understands that ODH farmer suppliers are now supplying Fonterra, which hopes to process over 100m litres of organic milk this season. Fonterra paid its organic farmer suppliers a record $10.50/kgMS last season. @dairy_news facebook.com/dairynews

DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

4 // NEWS

China’s absence failing to keep global prices down THE ABSENCE of

Chinese processors at dairy auctions is failing to keep global prices down. ASB analyst Nathaniel Keall says he’s surprised at the resilience in dairy auction prices. His comments came as the first dairy auctions of the calendar year have got off to a healthy start, with the overall GDT index lifting 2.2% last week after a 1.3% rise a fortnight ago. Most dairy commodities have gained ground, with whole milk powder prices up a little over 4% over the last two auctions. ASB has lifted its forecast milk price for the season by 50c to

$7.85/kgMS. Keall notes that dairy prices are at their highest levels in nearly twelve months heading towards the end of the season. Prices for all WMP contracts are now US$100-250 per metric tonne above their longrun average, having spent most of the season at, or below, that benchmark, he says. “We’ve been surprised by the resilience in dairy auction prices,” says Keall. “Dairy prices have outperformed where we’d expected them to be, based on (reasonably decent) global dairy product and the (comparatively

soft) global economic backdrop, particularly among major dairy importers like China.

Most dairy commodities have gained ground, with whole milk powder prices up a little over 4% over the last two auctions. “We’ve long highlighted the relative absence of Chinese processors at this season’s GDTs and

expected that a more sustained uptick in demand from China would be necessary to push dairy prices higher. “But dairy prices have continued to press higher, despite China only buying low volumes of product on offer – including its lowest proportion of WMP in around six months at this week’s auction.” With so much of the season’s product already sold – around 65% based on previous shipment profiles – ASB’s 2023/24 farmgate milk price estimate has been “mechanically” pushed higher. With Fonterra also

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ASB economist Nathaniel Keall

largely hedged for the season, there’s also more certainty around what its effective exchange rate will be, Keall points out. He believes dairy prices would need to undergo a meaningful correction in the next few auctions to produce a milk price at or below the midpoint of Fonterra’s forecast range around $7.50/kgMS “As a consequence,

we’ve revised up our Fonterra farmgate milk price forecast for the season, adding 50c to around the $7.85/kgMS mark. “That’s a lower price than farmers have gotten used to over the past couple of seasons, particularly after taking into account elevated farmgate expenses, but it’s better than the $7/kgMS we were

forecasting at the beginning of the season.” Keall notes that their forecast is a shade above current NZX milk price futures pricing. He notes that there’s still a bit of uncertainty associated with the forecast, but farmers may want to consider their risk appetite and contemplate whether hedging some product would be prudent.

MOU A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE THE SIGNING of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Lincoln

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University and Ballance Agri-Nutrients is being hailed as a significant milestone. The pact underscores a joint commitment to advancing new and better farming and growing practices in New Zealand’s agricultural sector. Lincoln University’s Provost, Professor Chad Hewitt says the agreement establishes a framework for ongoing collaboration, with a focus on identifying and prioritising opportunities for joint projects. “These opportunities include improving planning and co-ordination, conducting research and demonstrations on Lincoln University’s farms and enhancing environmental stewardship. “The collaboration also seeks to foster innovation, commercialisation, and promotion of the agricultural sector to the public and policy makers.” One key aspect of this partnership is that it creates a foundation for ongoing and future collaboration with the university says Dr Stuart Kay, innovation leader at Ballance. “We believe this collaboration will have a positive impact on our industry and will strengthen our connections with universities while showcasing our commitment to innovation and sustainability. “We are keen to continue our journey of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration.” Both Lincoln University and Ballance share a common vision of a prosperous, sustainable, and innovative future for New Zealand’s primary industries. By joining forces, they aim to drive positive change for Kiwi farmers and growers, ensuring they remain profitable and sustainable while meeting the increasing expectations of consumers, both in New Zealand and around the world. Climate change has brought a pressing need for rapid and effective solutions, especially in areas like greenhouse gas emissions, carbon farming, and carbon sequestration. Lincoln and Ballance say they are committed to tackling these challenges head-on, as well as promoting on-farm diversification and adapting to climate-impacted land use changes.

DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

NEWS // 5

Global dairy prices on the rise SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz

FOLLOWING TWO

consecutive Global Dairy Trade (GDT) price rises this year, overall prices now sit at their highest since June 2023. Prices have lifted by around 25% since last year’s low in August. Overall prices are now up 3% on a year ago, 4% below their 5-year average levels and 5% above the 10-year average. Westpac chief economist Kelly Eckhold believes that expectations of reduced production data in New Zealand and offshore may still be supporting prices. Last week’s GDT auction saw the price index rise 2.3%, while key whole milk powder (WMP) prices lifted 1.7%. Eckhold notes that the result was again broad based and followed on from a similarly strong initial auction for 2024 in the first week of January. All products posted price rises. Butter and anhydrous

milk fat prices led the way, surging 5.8% and 4.3% respectively. “We didn’t have a formal forecast for the WMP price result this time but the general trend in dairy prices is in line with the upward adjustment we made to the season milk price just ahead of Christmas,” he says.

“The futures market had pointed to a small WMP price rise at this auction, and so this auction modestly surpassed those expectations.” “The futures market had pointed to a small WMP price rise at this auction, and so this auction modestly surpassed those expectations.” On the demand side, last week’s auction saw demand from

Open Country Dairy is telling its farmer suppliers that prices should increase further in the coming months. Photo credit: Open Country Dairy Facebook page. Callum Leslie.

China, Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian buyers. But Eckhold remains remain cautious

on prospects for the Chinese economy and associated Chinese dairy demand.

He noted that deflation in consumer and producer prices continued in China

according to data from late 2023. “We are retaining our milk price forecast for

this season at $7.50/kg, in line with the mid-point of Fonterra’s guidance,” he says.

BETTER DAYS COMING – OPEN COUNTRY OPEN COUNTRY Dairy suppliers

have received a final payout of $7.37/ kgMS for milk sent to the factories in October and November last year. Open Country chief executive Mark de Lautour says the final payout was “was at the higher end of our range for the period and reflected that market price improved slightly earlier than we had forecast”.

In his monthly message to farmer suppliers, de Lautour says he expects prices to improve in the coming months. “We expect further upside in the coming two periods remaining in this milk season, however this is conditional on continued demand – especially following Chinese New Year – and finished product price

improvement.” OCD pays its farmers the full milk price in four periods every 12 months. The Talley’s-owned business is forecasting a milk price of between $7.50 to $7.80/kgMS for the January period, which covers milk supplied between December last year and January this year. Farmers will be paid in full in March.

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For the May period (milk supplied between February and May this year) OCD suppliers can expect a milk price of between $8 and $8.40/kgMS. For September period (June to September supply) Open Country is forecasting between $8.30 and $8.70/kgMS. Meanwhile, Open Country’s sales team are busy preparing for the Gulfood trade show in mid-February.

Held in Dubai, Open Country has a significant presence at this show with the Middle East being a key geographic market for the company. “While centered around this part of the world, buyers globally attend, so it represents a good opportunity to meet a number of both current and potential customers,” says de Lautour.

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DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

6 // NEWS

Unique hybrid emissions reduction solution FONTERRA HAS

launched a unique hybrid emissions reduction solution at its Palmerston North manufacturing site. The co-op’s first high temperature heat pump and solar thermal plant combination is up and running at Fonterra Brands manufacturing site, where much of the fresh white milk for the North Island is produced. The heat pump converts excess heat from chillers and compressors into a heat source. This reduces the natural gas required by the site and is expected to remove 495 tonnes CO2e annually – the equivalent of taking 140 cars off the road. This marks the fourth site within a year to upgrade energy infrastructure to help Fonterra reach its scope 1 and 2 target of 50% emissions reduction by 2030 (from a 2018 baseline). Fonterra Palmerston North site manager Graham Thomson says the co-op is really

excited about this unique combination of a commercial heat pump and solar thermal plant helping reduce gas consumption and emissions output. The project received co-funding from the Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority’s Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry (GIDI) fund and will help inform future decarbonisation projects at Fonterra. Fonterra is undertaking a major decarbonisation effort. It expects to reduce emissions further through a combination of energy efficiency initiatives and switching fuels at six manufacturing sites that still use coal and ultimately stop using coal by 2037. “We’re in the process of converting the coal boilers at the Hautapu site to wood pellets,” the co-op says. Once complete, this year, the Hautapu site will reduce carbon

Fonterra’s Palmerston North plant has a unique combination of a commercial heat pump and solar thermal plant to help reduce gas consumption and emissions output.

emissions by a forecast 15,785 tonnes per annum – the equivalent of taking about 6500 cars off New Zealand’s roads. The Stirling plant

wood biomass boiler has been commissioned, moving the site to fully renewable thermal energy for its process heat. Changing to this

boiler will reduce the annual carbon emissions by 18,500 tonnes – the equivalent of taking approximately 7700 cars off New Zealand’s roads.

The new Waitoa wood biomass boiler is now operational and will reduce the site’s annual carbon emissions by approximately 48,000

tonnes, the equivalent of taking approximately 20,000 cars off New Zealand roads. @dairy_news facebook.com/dairynews

FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR BIOMASS BOILER FONTERRA’S WAITOA manufacturing site is now using around 50% less coal as its new wood biomass boiler swings into action. Waitoa is the third Fonterra manufacturing site to reduce coal use this year, as part of the co-op’s plan to reduce its Scope 1&2 emissions by 50% by 2030 (from a 2018 baseline). The new wood biomass boiler will reduce the site’s annual emissions by at least 48,000 tonnes of CO2e, the equivalent of taking 20,000 cars off New Zealand’s roads, and is another significant step in the co-op’s transition to a low carbon future. Fonterra acting chief operating officer Anna Palairet says the co-op

is committed to moving to more sustainable fuel options as part of its ambition to be net zero by 2050. “Being a leader in sustainability is a strategic priority for the co-operative and we know we have a part to play in helping New Zealand meet its climate targets. “Fonterra has invested around $90 million in this new boiler, which will make a 3% reduction in our emissions. It is just one of the many decarbonisation projects underway across the co-op. “Earlier this year we moved off coal to wood biomass at our Stirling site and announced projects at Hautapu where we are converting the coal boilers to use wood pellets, and at the FBNZ

SAVING EMISSIONS IN 2020, FONTERRA’S Te Awamutu manufacturing site converted its coal boiler to wood pellets, reducing the co-op’s national coal consumption by 9%, saving more than 84,000 tonnes of carbon emissions per year – the same as taking 32,000 cars off the road. The Brightwater site near Nelson switched to co-firing biomass, helping reduce CO2e emissions by 25%, or the equivalent of taking 530 cars off the road. The co-operative is developing plans to transition its manufacturing sites that use natural gas to other more sustainable energy sources such as biomass, biogas, and electricity from renewable sources

Waitoa is the third Fonterra manufacturing site to reduce coal use this year.

Palmerston North site where we have installed a heat pump and solar thermal system. “These projects follow earlier wood biomass projects at our Te Awamutu and Brightwater sites. “When you add together the emissions reductions from all projects complete or underway across our

manufacturing operations, they reduce our CO2e emissions by a forecast 16% from our FY18 baseline - 279,000 tonnes per annum - the equivalent of 116,200 cars off NZ roads.” The installation of the new boiler at Waitoa will also give a boost to the local wood biomass industry, with Wood Energy NZ supplying wood chip

to power the biomass boiler. Waitoa is also the home to the co-op’s first electric milk tanker, MilkE, which to date has collected over 5.5 million litres of milk and completed 1004 farm collections. Fonterra is trialling the electric milk tanker as part of its plan to reduce transport emissions.

DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

NEWS // 7

Weaker Chinese demand, lower milk production pose challenges PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz

WHILE DAIRY remains the biggest export earner for the NZ primary sector, it facing some challenges in the coming two years. The December report, Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries (SOPI), produced by the Ministry for Primary Industries, shows that in the season ended June 30, 2024, earnings will be down by 7% to a fraction over $24 billion, and a year on will still be below the record $26 billion in the 2022/23 season. This is due mainly to the drop in the earnings from whole milk powder. The SOPI report says this is due to a combination of factors – mainly the static state of world markets and in particular China, but also due to an expected decline in milk production in NZ.

Director General of MPI, Ray Smith, says all primary sectors have had to navigate a confluence of global events.

Other sectors, such as meat, wool and forestry, are also being hit by the international downturn. The report highlights living cost pressures in many overseas markets where consumers are seen as taking a very cautious approach to spending on food and looking for lower price options. Except for casein and protein products, China is the biggest importer of NZ dairy products. Overall, it takes

35% of these and the next single biggest markets at just 5% are Australia, Indonesia and the US. In respect to China, MPI says the general slowdown in their economy and good levels of domestic production and processing are the reasons for the subdued demand. In the September quarter, for example, Chinese whole milk powder imports decreased by 41% in both volume and value compared

with the same month a year ago. Other factors such as the Ukraine war and now the escalating Middle East crisis are not helping the situation. The Director General of MPI, Ray Smith, says all primary sectors have had to navigate a confluence of global events, ranging from conflicts to rising inflation and cost of living. He says farmers are being struck a double whammy with farm input costs increasing while at the same there is declining demand for product. He says a lot will depend on when China comes back into the market following Covid and other internal economic pressures. “I was in China recently and met with a lot of people and there is a sense that if you look out 12 to 24 months you will start to see that confidence come back into that market,” he says. Smith says the situation in China has to some degree spilled over into other parts of South East Asia, but

adds that overall the whole global economy has flattened out. So far on the home front the season for dairy farmers appears to be going pretty well but time will tell. However, according to MPI, milk production in the season to the end of May 2024 is likely to decline by 1.5%, driven by lower cow numbers and a likely drier summer in the key dairying regions due to El Nino. The report also makes an interesting observation on this by saying, “there has been a drop in milk production on a liquid milk basis, but an increase in milk solids over the first four months of the 2023/24 season. This could affect product mix soon towards the dairy fat complex”. In a world where turmoil and uncertainty reign, even the best thought out predictions can change at a moment’s notice. Just remember, it was almost a year ago when Cyclone Gabrielle struck.

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DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

8 // NEWS

Conference to discuss maize profitability, productivity ADAPTING TO future consumer and

environmental requirements while retaining profitability will be one of the key talking points at the Foundation for Arable Research’s 2024 maize conference. The “Maize Profit and Productivity” conference is on February 12 and 13 at the Claudelands Event Centre in Hamilton. Its programme will explore and discuss how to build profitable and resilient maize systems and will feature international speakers. It will also include an afternoon at FAR’s Northern Crop Research Site at Tamahere, near Hamilton where trial work will be discussed. FAR senior maize researcher David Densley says the conference will start with a global view of sustainability and carbon emissions targets being set by food companies like Nestle, what this means for New Zealand, and then zero in on ways maize growers can and are adapting to these changes. Three grower panels will discuss

what they are doing on-farm, including developing soils that are more resilient to climate variability, reducing nitrogen fertiliser without compromising profitability, the role of biologicals within the production system and the application of precision agriculture. “So, these farmers are saying that it may sound daunting, but this is the journey we are on and we are continually refining our production system to make this work for us. The message is don’t be overwhelmed. “It’s a balance of how do I get more profitability, how do I get more resilience in my system and how do I meet environmental requirements,” Densley says. International speakers include Dr Connor Sible, a US expert on biological options. Connor Sible is a post-doctorate research associate at the University of Illinois and works with internationally-renowned maize researcher Professor Fred Below, who attended last year’s FAR maize

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FAR senior maize researcher David Densley.

conference. Sible’s research focus is plant growth regulators, biologicals and bio-stimulants in maize and soybean

cropping systems. His primary focus is working to categorise these products based on their active components and the mode of action designed to

create an agricultural advantage, and determine in which situations these products perform best and bring their greatest value to growers. Connor Sible will be in New Zealand for a week as a guest of FAR. The other overseas speaker, Scott Shearer, professor and chair of Food Agricultural and Biological Engineering at Ohio State University, will present via video link. He will discuss the current and future role of precision agriculture in US maize systems. Scott Shearer says that farmers are turning to technology to reach their goals. “We’ve evolved from precision agriculture to digital agriculture,” he says. He will be followed by FAR’s technology manager Chris Smith on precision agriculture in New Zealand maize systems. For more information and to register, www.far.org.nz/events @dairy_news facebook.com/dairynews

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DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

NEWS // 9

Swapping fashion for farming ASK AMBER Carpenter

about dairy farming and you’ll hear the passion in her voice as she answers. The South Auckland dairy farmer and Dairy Environment Leaders chair says the sector is incredible, thanks to the opportunities it offers and the people in it. “Farmers always have time to help others, they share ideas and give advice, and you know people are there for you should you need them. It’s great to be part of such a positive and engaging sector.” It’s quite the endorsement for the sector, and there’s plenty more where that came from – Amber was introduced to the sector 17 years ago and says it was love at first sight. “The opportunities are amazing and the people are incredible. They all look after each other and the land and animals. Farmers generally put themselves last.” Farming, Amber says, also offers a great lifestyle and the chance to be at home with the kids (she and husband Fraser have two children – Oliver, six and Noah, three). She came into farming from a career in corporate fashion – Amber worked for Karen Walker and as a buyer for Farmers Trading Company, among other roles. In 2007 she met Fraser at a 21st and added part-time farmer to her full-time commitments. Fast-forward to 2018. Amber was working as a

national merchandising manager for Cotton On NZ and had just given birth to Oliver when she committed to farming full-time. She and Fraser had been equal partners in the sharemilking business they started in 2015 – they’re now in their ninth season – and Amber was helping on-farm on weekends or doing the books at night when she got home from town or overseas. “We realised we needed to make a choice – urban life following my career, or rural life following Fraser’s. It’s obvious which path we took,” she laughs. But exchanging high heels for gumboots wasn’t easy for Amber – it was one of the hardest transitions she’s faced. “I knew it was the right decision, but it wasn’t an easy process. I didn’t expect to mourn the loss of my old career. It was a big part of who I was, so I suppose I felt like I’d lost part of myself. I was constantly worried I wouldn’t be welcomed or be told I didn’t belong.” The sector welcomed her, though, and she doesn’t regret the move for a minute. “I’m so grateful we followed our hearts to stay farming and bring our kids up in a rural community.” She’s certainly made an impact across the sector. Amber was appointed chair of DairyNZ’s Dairy Environment Leaders

Dairy farmers Amber and Fraser Carpenter with sons Oliver and Noah.

BRIGHT FUTURE AMBER AND Fraser are dedicated to caring for the land – their goal is to leave the land better than they found it for future generations. They have a plan every season to lower their environmental footprint, such as reducing nitrogen and fertiliser inputs and imported feed. “As sharemilkers we work with what is in our control,” Amber says. “Understanding our numbers is key, and working with farm owners who value environmental sustainability is important to us. We appreciate working with previous and current farm owners on farm environment plans and being

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involved in the conversations when it comes to planting and fencing off wetlands. “I want to be a part of DEL to help us on this journey, to have the opportunity to connect with like-minded people to share ideas, hear different viewpoints, collaborate and make a positive impact, whether it is on our own farm or in the community,” she says. “All the small changes each day and each season help us make a bigger overall impact. “Although we have many challenges ahead of us, there are also so many opportunities. I think the future of the dairy sector is exciting and bright.”

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(DEL) network in June 2023, charged with leading other environmentally minded farmers into a sustainable future. The role appealed, she says, because she’s passionate about making a difference and driving change for a better future. “I’m aware I am filling very large shoes from the amazing work previous chairs, including Martin Bennett, Tracy Brown and Melissa Slattery, have achieved. Continuing to build on their work is important.” The DEL group

involves 400 dairy farmer members nationwide who collaborate with other dairy farmers, communities, and decision-makers to “drive positive on-farm environmental progress”. DELs also share with the wider community the great work dairy farmers have been doing nationwide, such as planting, fencing off waterways and creating wetlands to reduce nutrient losses and provide a habitat for native plants and animals.

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DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

10 // NZ DAIRY EVENT

International judges, better schedule for premier show DIANNA MALCOLM

THE NEW Zealand Dairy

Event (NZDE), underway this week in Fielding, is pushing hard to become the country’s premier show destination for dairy cattle. Three of the five judges are international appointments. The show’s organisers have also made sweeping changes to the schedule to make it more user friendly for the animals and the public. Exhibitors have responded with strong entry numbers despite the more challenging milk price this season. There are 86 junior exhibitors, 82 Jersey entries, 62 for the Combined breeds, 96 Ayrshires, 127 Holsteins, 44 youth handlers, and eight youth challenge teams. The judges include well-known Dutch Holstein breeder Nico Bons will judge the Holsteins. Nico has judged more than 150 shows in the Netherlands, and his international resume includes Belgium, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Spain, France, Russia, Czech Republic, Japan, Ireland, and the UK. Nico and his wife, Lianne, milk 65 cows and

have 60 head of young stock at Ottoland, a village in South Holland which is about 15km northwest of Gorinchem. The herd has been 100% homebred for more than six decades with an average 305-day average production of 10,800kg milk, 4.4% milkfat and 3.5% protein. BonsHolsteins includes 36 EX cows with an average herd score (including two-year-olds) of VG89.5 points.

Exhibitors have responded with strong entry numbers despite the more challenging milk price this season. Three homebred cows have scored EX94 points and Bons-Holsteins has won a number of Dutch and international titles. Nico’s driving passion remains to own and show the Grand Champion of the Open European Holstein show. US judge Brian Behnke will judge the Ayrshire show. Brian has attended every World Dairy Expo (the biggest dairy show in the world) in Madison for 56 years – judging there three

US judge Brian Behnke.

times (Milking Shorthorn in 2018, Guernseys in 2016, and Red & White Holsteins in 2005). He has also judged the Western Spring National and Wisconsin State Fair, the Canadian Scotia 4-H Classic, the US National Guernsey Show in Louisville, Australia’s International Dairy Week, in addition to shows in South Korea, Japan, the Netherlands, the Dominican Republic and Columbia. Brian and his wife, Tami, live in Brooklyn, Wisconsin. They are active on Tami’s family farm, Glenn-Ann Holsteins LLC – the 2016 National Herd of Excellence award winner from Holstein USA. Brian also works off-farm at ABS Global managing St. Jacobs’ product line. Australian Simon Tognola will officiate

the Jerseys. Simon has travelled the world working/clipping (fitting) cows, including living in Canada briefly. In the nine Victorian Winter Fairs Simon has been involved in at Bendigo, he has helped prepare four Junior, five Intermediate, and three Champion Holstein Cows – along with a swag of Reserve Champions, and Honourable Mentions. He is well-known for his cattle photography business – having pictured multiple AllAustralians, in addition to an all-Canadian finalist. He successfully blended videography into his cattle marketing portfolio. In 2023 he took a step back from fitting to work with ST Genetics as an area sales manager, servicing Northern Victoria.

Dutch Holstein breeder Nico Bons will judge the Holsteins.

NZ JUDGES THE COMBINED Breeds judge is Taranaki’s Jamie Taylor. Together with wife Donna and their family, the couple are in their 12th season 50/50 sharemilking 320 cows at Auroa. Jamie is a senior judge for both Holstein and Jerseys, and he has travelled throughout New Zealand officiating at shows. The president of the Taranaki Holstein branch says he is looking forward to rubbing shoulders with the other judges. Fresh from representing New Zealand at the European young breeders school in Belgium, Kate Cummings, will judge the Youth Show. Kate was the highest placed New Zealander at the event, which included approximately 160 young people from 16 countries. She finished sixth in the

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handler’s class, and third in the heifer conformation class. The Southlander is the daughter of Helen and Jock Cummings, who own and operate Maylan Holsteins. Kate owns Maylea Holsteins, which she runs within her parent’s herd. Graduating with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Lincoln University (with a focus on ruminant health and nutrition) fuelled Kate’s passion for the industry. She now uses that knowledge in her role as the west retail lead (with a team of 12 staff under her) at juggernaut Southland veterinarian clinic, Vetsouth. Vetsouth, which also edges into Otago, employs more than 100 staff across the entire business.

DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

NZ DAIRY EVENT // 11

Cow comfort made easy DIANNA MALCOLM

COW COMFORT and staying relevant is at the heart of some major changes to the New Zealand Dairy Event’s (NZDE) show schedule in Feilding from January 22-24. Historically, New Zealand has stood alone by offering a multitude of interbreed age classes that were open to everyone – regardless of where they placed in their respective breed classes. It extended the schedule, took significant time, and often resulted in different winners (because the breed judges all get a vote in the interbreed classes). It also meant some animals got limited time to rest before they were trucked home – which also put additional pressure on their owners for the drive ahead of them. The world standard in interbreed judging is that just one representative of each breed (the breed champion in the Junior, Intermediate, and Senior sections) moves forward to compete respectively for Supreme Junior (of all breeds), Supreme Intermediate, Supreme Senior Champion, and ultimately a Supreme Exhibit of the show (chosen by the judge collective from the three age Supreme Champions). The 2024 NZDE interbreed will adopt

this practice for the first time. NZDE committee member Isaac Kelsen says there were concerns after January.

“We wanted to harmonise with other events – such as IDW [International Dairy Week in Australia) and WDE [World Dairy Expo in Wisconsin], for example – because we do want to be recognised as a global event.” “It was an important conversation for our committee to have – a lot of cows walked a long way in January, and the programme was long. We want everyone to get home safely, and we felt that the old schedule was starting to put that in jeopardy. “Things have changed in this space too, so that

was a consideration. Gone are the days where you enter cows to participate. This is a serious competition, it’s expensive to commit to it, you go to win, and you want to look after your cows while you’re doing it.” He said it was also important to appreciate that international judges invited to the NZDE take their impressions home of New Zealand – making it important for the NZDE to come into line with other shows around the world. “We wanted to harmonise with other events – such as IDW [International Dairy Week in Australia) and WDE [World Dairy Expo in Wisconsin], for example – because we do want to be recognised as a global event,” Isaac said. He said the committee was also concerned that the extended programme meant no-one was getting the chance to come together. “The last night of the show last year I never got to socialise, which is part of showing. If you’re

The January 2023 event was hectic across all breeds. However, January 2024 is set to be more animal and spectator friendly. Photo: Laurens Rutten

that wrung out at the end that you can’t have a catch-up with all your friends and competitors, we’re doing something wrong.” Another change is that just one ring will be running at a time. In January 2023 there were two rings, and the breed judges alternated judging a class before they had to wait while another breed class came in and was judged. Isaac said The first Ayrshire Intermediate Champion and only the second Intermediate Champion to win Supreme Champion of the 2023 New Zealand Dairy Event, Raetea Rubicom Debbie, owned and handled by Joanna Fowlie, Matamata is back this year.

SALE A BONUS FEATURE

Photo: Laurens Rutten

THE ADDITIONAL time means that this year’s cattle sale will be a feature. It will include close to 35 lots that include international pedigrees, index, and show type. “We did that purely because we want to hold the sale while everyone is fresh, and they can socialise around it, and the

committee now has more time to put more focus into it,” Kelsen said. “If a potential buyer doesn’t have an animal to show they can go and buy something and show it the next day. Because all the sale animals will be entered for the show.”

the “stop-start” nature didn’t give the judges’ continuity so they could establish a judging pattern, and it wasn’t easy for spectators either.

“It also makes more sense for the people on the sidelines or for those who can’t attend if they want to watch the Jersey show, they can sit down and watch the whole

Jersey exhibition without chopping and changing to other breeds that they may not be interested in. It will give a better flow for each of the breeds,” Kelsen said.

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12 // AGRIBUSINESS

Fonterra butter powers school brekkies in Oz IN SOME of Tasmania’s

most remote schools, students are getting a healthy breakfast and a chance to start the day on a full stomach, increasing their focus and appetite to learn. With regular donations of Fonterra’s Duck River Butter, 19 schools across northern Tasmania are serving up nutritious dairy at their daily breakfast club, an initiative aimed to reduce the impact of disadvantage when breakfast is missed. Fonterra site manager Douglas Overdijk oversees the production of Duck River Butter at the dairy manufa cturer’s Spreyton site. He said the idea to donate to schools came directly from the site’s employees who wanted to give back to farmers and local communities. “Our team contacted schools from Smithton in the northwest, to Ringarooma in the northeast, with an offer to donate butter for their breakfast programs,” says Overdijk. “We now donate around 150 kilograms of butter in total each term,” he adds. Research shows children who go without breakfast find it difficult to concentrate, impacting their learning. Many schools provide breakfast for children to

help them focus on their schoolwork but rely on donations to keep them running. “Fonterra is committed to keeping our communities strong, and the next generation are key to this. We want to ensure breakfast clubs can run each day, and children continue to learn and develop,” says Overdijk.

“We’re helping children start their day with the right focus, setting them up for success down the track, whatever they choose to do. It’s a great initiative and we’re proud to be part of it.” “It’s great to see our butter giving back to Tassie kids so they’re not hungry for the next meal, they’re hungry to learn,” he added. Bridport Primary School Breakfast Club Coordinator Natalie Brown says the donations from Fonterra have been greatly appreciated by students and staff at the school. It has allowed the club

Fonterra area managers Alison Hall (second right) and Sam Flight (far right) dropping off donations of Duck River Butter to Bridport Primary School for their breakfast club.

to purchase other items, helping them save on costs. “Fonterra’s generous donation allows the Breakfast Club to purchase additional items such as fruit, ham

and rolls. Thanks to the donated butter, it alleviates an expense that would otherwise need to be budgeted for,” says Brown. “Students love having buttery toast, and we

probably use at least four to five tubs a term. Toast is always a favourite, with some students preferring and enjoying toast with only butter” Fonterra’s generous donation allows the

Breakfast Club to purchase additional items such as fruit, ham and rolls. Thanks to the donated butter, it alleviates an expense that would otherwise need to be budgeted for.

Fonterra’s Farm Source team are regularly on the road visiting farmers right across the state. With their support, they’ve ensured each carton of donated butter makes it to some of Tasmania’s most remote schools. “We’re on the road every day, visiting farms and supporting our suppliers. We drive through these communities on a weekly, even daily basis. We know them well,” said Fonterra Farm Source regional manager Darren Smart. Children living on farms and in remote areas often travel long distances to get to school, meaning they’re up early to allow enough time to travel. “Dairy farmers are milking cows at five in the morning, and kids will often be up too. Even with breakfast, they’re hungry again when they get to school because there’s been a big block of time since they last ate,” says Smart. “We’re helping children start their day with the right focus, setting them up for success down the track, whatever they choose to do. It’s a great initiative and we’re proud to be part of it.” @dairy_news facebook.com/dairynews

‘Naked Mozz’ slashes co-op’s cardboard usage EACH YEAR, over 12,000 tonnes

of Perfect Italiano Mozzarella embark on a journey from Fonterra Australia’s Stanhope manufacturing site in northern Victoria to be expertly shredded at its secondary processing site in Tullamarine in Melbourne. From there, it tops millions of pizzas across Australia and travels to countries including Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. Traditionally, transporting this massive amount of cheese in hefty 10kg blocks for processing meant considerable packaging – including 600,000 cardboard cartons – so Fonterra set itself a challenge to cut out the cardboard on the route

Fonterra introduced ‘Naked Mozz’— a move that will spare a staggering 330 tonnes of cardboard each year, translating to annual savings of more than $825,000.

to Tullamarine. In November, Fonterra introduced ‘Naked Mozz’— a move that will spare a staggering 330 tonnes of cardboard each year, translating to annual savings of more than $825,000. Jenny Phillips, Fonterra Australia’s sustainable packaging manager, says that this innovative initiative is just one of 26 sustainable packaging projects in progress. “Our aim is to ensure that by 2025, 100% of Fonterra Australia’s dairy product packaging will be reusable, recyclable, or compostable. Additionally, we’re targeting zero waste to landfill by the same year, and reducing waste in our supply chain is

pivotal to achieving this goal. “While the mozzarella is still securely wrapped in plastic which is crucial for food safety and waste reduction, eliminating cardboard will significantly bolster our sustainability efforts. “The benefits extend beyond reduced cardboard use. This initiative eliminates the need for frequent cardboard waste collections from the Tullamarine site and minimises manual handling to enhance the health and safety of our on-site team. “This latest packaging project underscores that our much-loved dairy products can be delivered sustainably without compromising on the quality our customers expect,” says Phillips.

DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

14 // OPINION RUMINATING

EDITORIAL

Things are looking up

“How strictly are they going to apply their new laws against gang patches?”

MILKING IT... Spread too thin? WITH CURRENT dairy returns so tight, Fonterra farmers may start to question the wisdom of some of the co-op’s more charitable ventures. The co-op has been supplying free milk to NZ schools for a while now. Its Aussie arm is now also making regular donations of Fonterra’s Duck River Butter to 19 schools across northern Tasmania, an initiative aimed to “reduce the impact of disadvantage when breakfast is missed”. A worthy aim, no doubt about it, which is why questioning such initiatives can seem mean, and is usually avoided. But it is worth asking: When on-farm returns just aren’t there, can the co-op really afford to keep doing this? As they say, charity starts at home.

Great grazing

Good scheme

Fake virtue

WE HOPE the Green Party and its supporters are taking notice. A recent DairyNZ’s nationwide survey highlights dairy farmers continue to focus on wintering well and caring for their animals and land, no matter the conditions. Last year, 74% of farmers implemented at least five good management practices to support their cows and manage winter conditions. Importantly, 96% of farmers also said they had strategies to provide comfortable lying conditions. Farmers, especial in Southland, have been harassed by so-called ‘environment warriors’ for their winter grazing practices. The DairyNZ survey shows the opposite of what the worriers claim– farmers use a range of tactics to care for cows over winter.

TAKE A bow, Farm Debt Mediation Scheme. A couple who have been through farm debt mediation say the process was a huge help and relieved a lot of pressure. Facing foreclosure last year, dairy farmers Steve and Carol (names changed to protect their identity) agreed to take part in the scheme. Their debt loading wasn’t actually that high – about 51% debt to equity ratio – but they weren’t making profits for about three years. So, in the end they went to bank mediation. “We were absolutely petrified but our mediator Tony Wilding was so good – he completely took the fear away,” they say. Run by the Ministry for Primary Industries, the Farm Debt Mediation Scheme gives struggling farmers the chance to work through debt problems with their bank, using independent mediators. By law, banks must offer mediation before taking any debt enforcement action against farmers or farm businesses. Also, farmers can ask for mediation at any time.

THE FAKE milk brigade is trying every trick in the book to reduce dairy milk consumption. Boring Oat Milk, which produces the alternative ‘milk’, is actively campaigning against dairy with its latest campaign ‘Quit the Tit’. The questionable campaign encourages New Zealanders to wean themselves off cow’s milk and onto Boring Oat Milk. The specially designed ‘Quit Kit’ places their product into the hands of new customers, giving them a taste of ‘life off the tit’. The method is simple: combine the cow’s milk with the oat milk and gradually reduce the ratio until you’ve ‘quit the tit’. Milking It reckons this is just another case of a cynical commercial strategy for corporate profit, masquerading as a virtuous crusade.

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THE FIRST two Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auctions have delivered good news for dairy farmers. Whole milk powder prices are on the up since November. However, a weaker than expected Chinese economy and lower milk production are potential roadblocks for a decent farm gate milk price. Fonterra’s revised forecast Farmgate Milk Price midpoint for the 2023/24 season is $7.50/kgMS, with a new forecast range of $7-$8/kgMS. There’s also some relief for dairy farmers with reducing feed and fertiliser costs. Overall, feed costs are projected to fall around 5% for the current season, driven by falling product prices. According to DairyNZ, total farm working expenses have also seen an overall decrease, driven by feed and fertiliser prices this year, however, other costs continue to experience inflationary pressures. DairyNZ’s recently updated forecast data on the Econ Tracker, shows the national breakeven forecast currently sits at $7.79/ kgMS. DairyNZ is forecasting an average payout received of $8.06/kgMS, based on the estimated milk receipts for the 2023-24 season and dairy company dividends. This positive difference between the forecast breakeven and average payout will likely bring relief to some, particularly owner-operated farms. While Fonterra’s mid-point is still below the national breakeven forecast, the recent rises in global dairy prices augur well for farmers. But not everyone is optimistic about this season. Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) says dairy export revenue is forecast to decrease 7% to $24.1 billion in the year to 30 June 2024. This decrease comes off the back of record high export revenue of $26 billion in 2022/23. With mixed messages from industry leaders, the onus will be on farmers to run a lean operation on farm. With input costs on the decline and global dairy prices holding up, most farming businesses should end up in black.

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DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

OPINION // 15

Growing trade with India Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay made a whirlwind trip to India last month, his first overseas visit in the new role. He spoke to Indian business leaders in New Delhi. Here’s part of what he said: THE NEW Zealand Government was sworn into office a few short weeks ago and it’s no coincidence that I have chosen to visit Delhi as my first international engagement. You should read it as intended; a signal of the strategic priority that the New Zealand Government attaches to the relationship with India. New Zealand and India established diplomatic ties over 70 years ago, a time when the global economy was recovering from the ravages of two world wars – wars in which both our nations sacrificed so much. Legend has it that in WWI New Zealand rations were so terrible in Gallipoli that our men frequently relied on the kindness of their Indian comrades sharing their chapatis – the origins of New Zealand-India trade perhaps? I am here today – on my first international visit – to listen and discuss the path forward. It is essential that we are aligned in our strategy to develop a strong relationship that results in future growth and prosperity for both our countries.

New Zealand is open for business. We may not be big, but our products and services are world class. New Zealand’s new Government meets an increasingly challenging external environment: an international system under threat; global food security under pressure; conflicts and tensions creating disunity and an erosion of the rules we rely on; and increasingly dramatic climate events. These global challenges are worrying and in our region they are acute. In this environment, responsible nations that understand each other must draw closer together to safeguard our security and prosperity. Strengthening global connections through trade and economic cooperation is my focus. I believe nations are at their best when they are leveraging their economic and commercial strengths to shared benefit. I believe in the stabilising effect of trade and economic integration. From New Zealand you should expect to see an increased tempo of engagement across all areas of our relationship and at all levels of government. I will be listening closely and taking back what I’ve heard from this visit to my cabinet colleagues and to New Zealand businesses, which share the Government’s priority for a comprehensive, broad-based relationship with India. In 2021 two Indian brothers who moved to New Zealand a little over ten years ago won the prestigious New Zealand Share Farmer of the Year title. An extraordinary achievement for first generation New Zealanders. These brothers are now exploring ways to share the knowledge they have learned in New Zealand back in their home state of Uttarakhand by running large scale farms. New Zealand is open for business. We may not be big, but our products and services are world class. We have expertise, experience, technology and a practical edge that has real impact when paired with India’s dynamic and educated population and its expanding economy. I believe that in joining forces our respective creativity and innovation can really deliver value.

Trade Minister Todd McClay visited India last month, his first official engagement overseas since taking office.

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16 // OPINION

New water policy direction IrrigationNZ submitted a briefing last month to the new Government this week on how water capture, storage, and efficient use can grow economic prosperity, support New Zealand’s exports, and ensure long term regional resilience. Here’s part of what Vanessa Winning, chief executive of IrrigationNZ, said: WE CONGRATULATE

the new Government Ministers and the spirit of working together we are seeing. We look forward to working with relevant Ministers to ensure irrigation and water

storage is foundational to New Zealand’s primary sector and supports its sustainable growth. The policy direction in the coalition agreements regarding water storage and irrigation is

water for productive use. It is refreshing to hear Hon Todd McClay… talk about the importance of agriculture and water too. It is also good to see that the regions will be championed by

encouraging. The strength of the Ministers involved in agriculture and trade is also very promising, with many having direct involvement in farming and growing, as well as in

To manage water well, the right infrastructure is needed.

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Regional Infrastructure Fund will be beneficial as the country looks to prioritise and fast track water storage projects of national significance for climate adaptability and regional resilience. As part of our briefing submitted to the new Government, we have

We continue to champion for a Minister responsible for water, and this could be within the remit of the Minister for Resources, also the Regional Development Minister, who has championed irrigation projects in the past. To manage water well, we need the right infrastructure to capture water in wet seasons and store and share it appropriately when it is needed in dry seasons. The establishment of a new National Infrastructure Agency and

highlighted the need for a water strategy and have set out four regional water storage projects to be considered for urgent fast track consenting approval along with further water storage projects that would supplement minimum flows and support water bodies when they need it. We look forward to working with the Government to lift New Zealand’s productivity and economic growth to increase opportunities and prosperity for all New Zealanders.

DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

MANAGEMENT // 17

DairyNZ ecologist passionate about healthy waterways THOUGHTS OF healthy

waterways get Dr Belinda Margetts out of bed in the morning. The passionate ecologist loves knowing she can contribute to improving the health of New Zealand’s waterways – and the flora and fauna they support. That love, she says, is a pre-requisite for her work. Belinda, who started as a senior ecologist at DairyNZ in August, has 20 years’ experience in her field. Her role supports DairyNZ’s approach to improving waterways – considering the health of streams and rivers, the fish and macroinvertebrates (insects/animals that can be seen by the naked eye) that live in them and how that links to farmers’ continued work to improve and sustain these environments. “My role is to help DairyNZ build on its longstanding work around

water quality, helping the team and farmers better understand ecosystem health, and what can be done to improve waterways and their condition – so we know where we sit compared to

“It’s important to consider nitrogen and phosphorous, and to understand how to reduce those inputs.” where we need to be. “We’re also looking at how best to measure waterway health and, from that, what our priorities should be to continue improving on the great work the sector and farmers have done to date.” Dairy farmers have made significant progress over the past 20 years

LOVE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AT HIGH school, Belinda Margetts discovered she was good at biology, which, combined with her love of the environment, led her to ecology. “I followed what I loved – nature and the outdoors.” She has an Honours degree in zoology from Canterbury and a PhD in ecology from Lincoln that focused on how possums move in their home ranges and how control operations to reduce populations change those movements. So, she knows ‘a bit’ about possums. It’s a little bit funny, she says, that her work experience is predominately in the water space – since her degrees are land-based. “Though there are many things you can learn from both, so the two areas complement each other.” Before starting at DairyNZ, Belinda worked for 10 years as a principal waterways ecologist at Christchurch City Council, a role that saw her running monitoring programmes and advising on what could and couldn’t be done around waterways, and how to improve waterway health. “It’s important to bring people along on the journey, engaging them, helping them connect the dots, and understanding cultural and community values as well as Western science,” she says. “I believe scientists need to be able to communicate their work and relate to end users in simple ways. That’s a big way to keep people engaged.” DairyNZ is focused on advocating for better policy and environmental outcomes for the dairy sector and supporting farmers through changing regulations. Its research, expertise and data, and its connection to the wider scientific community, support this work. Belinda is now a key part of that. She’ll help provide robust scientific data and understanding to ensure the rules work towards fair and practical outcomes for dairy farmers. It’s a big role, she says, that will bring challenges she’s looking forward to. It also means she can keep thinking about healthy freshwater.

to support healthy waterways. For example, the Sustainable Dairying: Water Accord has seen 99.8% of waterways more than 1m wide fenced to exclude dairy cattle, and bridges and culverts installed at 100% of stock crossing points. Keeping cows out of waterways is a big part of protecting waterways. Many dairy farmers are also restoring or constructing wetlands, which can treat contaminants before they enter waterways, significantly reducing nutrient and sediment losses on farms. “It’s important to consider nitrogen and phosphorous, and to understand how to reduce those inputs,” Belinda says. Nationwide, 77% of dairy farms have farm environment plans – which identify environmental risks on individual farms and address them through good farming practices – and 55% have greenhouse gas farm plans. All farmers are required to

DairyNZ ecologist Dr Belinda Margetts wants to contribute towards the health of our waterways.

have a farm environment plan by 2025 and are progressing towards this goal. Much of this work has happened well ahead of regulations. However, there is still work to be done and this will continue as regional councils progress with setting limits to meet National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS-FM)

requirements. The sector remains committed to improving waterway health and can deliver on that, thanks to the expertise of water quality scientists such as Belinda. Continued work includes DairyNZ-led water quality research, often in collaboration with other science organisations, to identify solutions for farmers at a farm and catchment level.

“This will ensure we prioritise actions in areas where they can make the most difference,” Belinda says. She brings an in-depth understanding of farming to her role. She grew up on a sheep and crop farm in North Canterbury that has been in her family for almost 110 years. This background, she says, serves her well in her DairyNZ role.

“The understanding of how connected farmers are to the land helps – I’m aware of the challenges farmers face that are out of their control, such as droughts and floods, and the stress that can bring. I think that’s why my career has funnelled into pragmatic roles. I want to improve waterway health while considering farmers’ challenges.”

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DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

18 // MANAGEMENT

‘Green’ farming pays off NIGEL MALTHUS

CONVERTING THE family dairy farm to a regenerative model 15 years ago is paying dividends for Springston farmers Clyde and Rachael McIntosh. Despite farming in one of the most environmentally-sensitive districts, close to Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere, Clyde McIntosh says the farm has been given an A consent which means it needs environmental re-assessment only every three years. The farm uses fish and seaweed fertilisers and lime, but no synthetic fertiliser or chemical ‘cides. “Lake Ellesmere is only a mile away from the bottom of our farm, but we’re running a regenerative system so we’ve been using no chemicals or inorganic fertiliser for 15 years now.” McIntosh says the transition wasn’t hard at all and the regenerative model now gives him a cost structure that protects him from some of the current rising costs for farmers. However, with no local buyer for organic milk their product is just going into the Fonterra pool, without attracting the premium for organic

milk available elsewhere. The milking platform is 150ha effective, winter milking 300 cows with a split calving in autumn and spring, and the herd peaks at 450. The McIntoshes aim to produce between 520 kgMS and 540 kgMS/ cow/year. They also have a 75ha supplement/runoff block next to the milking platform which is used to grow grass silage, baleage and hay as well as grazing dry stock whether autumn calvers or spring calvers. As a fifth-generation Canterbury farmer, McIntosh breeds HolsteinFriesians under the name Riverbrae Stud, founded by the family in 1938. The family also has a long association with the Christchurch A&P Show, now the New Zealand Agricultural Show. McIntosh said that in 1898 when horses provided the literal horsepower on farms and Clydesdales were “very big,” a McIntosh horse by the name of Roseberry was judged the Champion Clydesdale Stallion at the Christchurch show. McIntosh’s father was a past show president and he himself is now on both the general and cattle committees

The McIntosh sisters Peggy, 8, left, Maggie, 12, and Olive, 10, with three of the family’s Holstein Friesian heifers which they paraded for the judges on the first day of the 2023 NZ Agricultural Show.

as chairman of the dairy section. The family tradition continued this year with their three daughters all showing animals. McIntosh said the girls, Maggie, 12, Olive, 10, and Peggy, 8, were heavily involved in choosing and preparing the animals for the show – picking those with good conformation, then grooming with a straight clipping of the hair along the topline, aided with

a little hairspray. On the first day of the show they came away with one fourthplace ribbon - while Olive cheerfully admitted to a sore arm from having to hold her animal back from running around the judging ring. “She thinks it’s a race.” The girls also did well on the Friday with the youth show which allows young competitors to compete

in calf classes, young handlers and junior judging. Maggie got Reserve champion calf for her age group and Olive won the Championship for the young handlers class for her age group. McIntosh said that the days of huge numbers of entries are gone because of the time and effort required to support the show, but it is still a valuable showcase for breeders to display and sell pedigree stock.

www.ruralnewsgroup.co.nz

WILL CALL OR VISIT WEBSITE ABOUT PRODUCTS & SERVICES THEY’VE READ ABOUT IN RURAL PUBLICATION

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HORTNEWS

DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

ANIMAL HEALTH // 19

Ensure your cows have the best mating this season HIT THE ground running

this mating with these foundations for success. There are many ways to tailor your mating programme to ensure your cows have the best mating this season. However, the following three foundations are key to giving you the best chance of hitting your mating goals.

The 3-week submission rate of your early-calved mature cows is a useful indicator of heat detection performance. Monitor your herd’s body condition score Cows calving in body condition score 5.0 for mature cows, and 5.5 for first- and second-calvers, have substantially better reproductive performance than cows in lower body condition score. Switching to once-a-day milking in middle to late lactation

can reduce condition score loss if done early enough. Cows, especially first-calvers, milked once a day from calving, may achieve higher submission rates and in-calf rates with fewer non-cycling treatments, than if milked twice a day. Maximise heat detection performance Pre-mating cycling rate is like the herd’s submission rate in the three to four weeks before mating even starts. If you get 85% of cows cycling pre-mating, you should achieve a 90% 3-week submission rate to artificial insemination, along with a good conception rate. The 3-week submission rate of your early-calved mature cows is a useful indicator of heat detection performance. Top farms achieve a 95% 3-week submission rate for the early-calved mature cows. If less than 90%, this is a strong indicator that heat detection rates are low, and reviewing your mating strategies should be a high priority.

There are many ways to tailor your mating programme to ensure your cows have the best mating this season.

For more advice, head over to dairynz. co.nz/heatdetection, or reach out to your local DairyNZ regional team or breeding company. Motivate the team Use the three weeks before the planned

start of mating as an opportunity to upskill your team members, and get them to start identifying and recording cows in heat. You could even use a WhatsApp or Facebook group chat for everyone to list identified cows in

heat. Encourage staff to take their time when in the paddock or sitting behind the cows to observe and record cows in heat. Get your team involved by setting a target for a 3-week submission rate or

6-week in-calf rate, and report on the progress throughout mating to keep the team involved. Communicate the mating targets you would like to hit this season and celebrate the wins. You can also check out DairyNZ’s The

InCalf book for eight key management areas for improving herd reproduction at dairynz. co.nz/incalf. • Article kindly supplied by DairyNZ – previously published in Inside Dairy. @dairy_news facebook.com/dairynews

REPRO – ALL THAT IT SEEMS? SOLUTIONS and development specialist Odette Chauncy summarises the industry evidence behind different types of semen, so you can know what to expect before you give it a shot. Are you exploring different semen types this year? Curious to know what conception rates or gestation lengths to expect? At DairyNZ, we share the same curiosity and have been investigating the research behind different semen types. If you are considering using liquid fresh sexed semen, New Zealand research indicates you can expect around a 5% decrease in conception rate when compared to your conventional semen results. However, some research has shown a 10% difference in conception rate; speak to your breeding company if you are experiencing differences greater than this. The conception rate is lower when using frozen

DAIRYNZ

Consider your options when trying new semen technologies.

semen – fresh is best when using sexed semen. Also, you can expect around 10% of calves sired by sexed semen to be males. Heifer replacement calf cohorts can form more quickly due to

condensed calving spread, potentially allowing calves to leave the calf shed earlier. Some other benefits include that you can select your highBreeding Worth cows for your heifer replacements, and you can increase

the total remaining cows available to be mated to different semen types and breeds, such as beef. If you’re thinking about using beef-bred semen, we recommend selecting proven sires that produce, on average, calves with lower birth weights, shorter gestation lengths than other sires from the same breed, and faster growth rates. This is because lighter birth weights and improved calving ease have been associated with shorter gestation lengths in cattle, and heavier weaning weights of progeny sired by proven bulls. It is important to keep in mind that other factors also contribute to calving ease. Gestation length has a moderately high heritability and variation between sires, breeds and calf gender. Beef breeds typically have a longer gestation length than dairy breeds of 281-282 days, while short gestation length can reduce gestation length

by 8-10 days. When using a shortgestation-length beef-bred semen, it can be a similar gestation length to conventional dairy-bred semen. New Zealand research has proven within-breed sire variation for birthweights and gestation length traits, so selecting the correct sire is important. Proven beef sires can have a shorter gestation length; for example, progeny sired by Angus bulls with the top 10% gestation length estimated Breeding Value were born with an average gestation length of 279 days. Consider your options when trying new semen technologies. We suggest starting at a small scale to gain experience before you fully commit. Reach out to your breeding company to learn more about what results you can expect from different semen types. • Article kindly supplied by DairyNZ – previously published in Inside Dairy.

DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

20 // MACHINERY & PRODUCTS

Mixer wagons getting bigger MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz

FOUNDED AT Breganze, Italy in 1973, Faresin Industries is a wellknown manufacturer of telehandlers and mixer wagons, in the case of the latter, including four series with capacities from 11 to 36 cubic metres. The recent addition of a flagship self-propelled machine to the Leader PF Ecotronic range sees that capacity jump to 40 cu. metres, with the arrival of the company’s first three vertical auger unit. Measuring 12m long by 2.8m wide and 3.75m high, the model 3.40 tips

the scales at 22 tonnes unladen, carried on a three-axle layout, with the front and rear axles being driven to deliver permanent four-wheel drive.

As part of the ration formulation process, the Ecotronic control system oversees all key components of the machine. In practice, this means that once a ration

As material is loaded, it passes through an automatic shredder, located rearwards of the milling head, which allows ingredients to be “pre-prepared” to a preferred length before they enter the tub. Power is provided by a rear mounted FPT N^& engine delivering 212kW (290hp), while up front a 2200mm milling cutter head can reach to a height of 6.5m.

has been formulated and entered the system, the operator can set parameters for all key areas such as the milling head and the mixing tub. The control system

The recent addition of a flagship self-propelled machine to the Leader PF Ecotronic range sees that capacity jump to 40 cubic metres.

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As part of the ration formulation process, the Ecotronic control system oversees all key components of the machine.

ensures these settings are maintained to achieve a consistent homogenous mix. Additionally, as material is loaded, it passes through an automatic shredder, located rearwards of the milling head, which allows ingredients to be “pre-prepared” to a preferred length before they enter the tub. This removes the need to

engage the hydraulicallyactivated counter knives, thereby saving overall power demand. In addition, the PolispecNIR unit monitors the mix in real-time, alerting the operator when the optimum result is achieved, while also passing data to machine and management programmes for proof of product and ongoing

monitoring. A front-mounted cabin offers excellent operator comfort, with an extensive machine overview by ergonomically placed controls and multiple display screens. Faresin mixer wagons are distributed in New Zealand by Power Farming Ashburton. @dairy_news facebook.com/dairynews

DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

MACHINERY & PRODUCTS // 21

New grapple bucket for livestock farmers MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz

HASTINGS MANUFACTURING

KARL, new robot for crop production.

KARL – YOUR FIELD ROBOT MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz

THE KARL Concept: An Autonomous Solution for

Crop Production. French manufacturer Kuhn has released details of a developmental concept offering new technical possibilities and working flexibility for farmers seeking to deal with widespread issues of recruiting, training and retaining staff. An autonomous tracked vehicle with 175hp, KARL is designed to meet the demands of most farm sizes by offering flexibility in their fleets. KARL carries out work without human intervention but is controlled and monitored by an operator.

KARL has the technology to transmit information for proper work performance and adjusts its parameters according to differences in soil and vegetation. Once a paddock has been selected and its boundaries have been identified, the operator creates a work mission, places KARL in the plot, adjusts the work parameters, and starts the mission to run automatically. Adding a second or even a third KARL vehicle can be carried out during the mission to increase work output, administered from the system’s mobile application. KARL has the technology to transmit information for proper work performance and adjusts its parameters according to differences in soil and vegetation. Currently, the KARL Concept is being tested with power harrows for autonomous tillage, although further testing with differing types of implements is in the pipeline. Testing is striving to deliver a successful cultivation operation within an optimal working window, for example, to achieve the right tillage depth, adequate seed application rate, or even regular and fine shredding of any residues. During operation KARL is able to detect any malfunctions and deploy corrective actions independently. With soil preservation being a major driver in the development, KARL has limited size and weight. Tracks of different sizes can be installed to limit ground pressure and minimise compaction. Less compaction is said to result in reduced runoff, especially in high rainfall events, improved soil life and improved root development potential.

company Hustler Equipment has announced the introduction of the GrappleMax Grapple Bucket, designed to meet the diverse needs of livestock farmers. With a width of 2.44m the bucket offers 1.2 cubic metres capacity, while with the grapple open to its 2.13m maximum opening, this increases to 2.47 cubic metres. Designed to handle round or square bales of hay, silage or straw, its versatility is extended by its ability to also “grab and lift” other irregular shaped objects. The company points out that it is particularly useful for loading feed or mixer wagons, where its ability to hold bales securely means strings can be cut safely at ground, rather than at a raised position over the machine. Equipped with five, fully fabricated grapple arms for increased

GEOSMART

GrappleMax Grapple Bucket is designed to handle round or square bales of hay, silage or straw.

strength, rather than the more common RHS stock section typically used, the triangular geometry offers improved clearance around bales. Cleverly positioned hoses at the bottom of and inside the arms prevents the risk of snagging, while robust metal shields serve to protect the hydraulic cylinder spears.

Constructed using high grade materials such as RockGuard 400 and 500 Series steels, the AR 500 grade wear plates should ensure an extended service life, while optional bolt-on teeth can be specified for dealing with tough materials. Attention to detail sees a tapered bucket

design to promote easier emptying and reducing clogging in the bucket’s corners, while a robust bonnet grille incorporates a larger mesh for improved visibility. Tipping the scales at 580kg, the GrappleMax is offered with a five-year warranty for peace of mind operation. Hustler CEO Brent

Currie says, “While the GrappleMax might show some similarities with other grab designs, our development team has prioritised safety and the use of high-grade steels to deliver a remarkable strength to weight ratio, ensuring that there is minimal downtime during operation.” www.hustlerequipment.com

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DAIRY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2024

22 // MACHINERY & PRODUCTS

Transag Centre bags more machinery dealerships MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz

PALMERSTON NORTH

headquartered Transag Centre is the latest CNH Industrial dealership to be confirmed as a dual dealer for Case IH and New Holland machinery brands. Following a decision by CNH Industrial to establish a new retail footprint for New Holland in New Zealand, CNH Industrial’s Case IH dealerships stepped up to support the brand during the transition, from where multiple Case IH dealers have been confirmed as official New Holland dealers. Transag’s dealer principal Euan Avery says they are looking forward to what’s ahead. “It’s an opportunity to expand our business with both brands, so we have plans in place for 2024 to accommodate this change to ensure we’re offering the best support we can to our Case IH and New Holland customers,” Avery says.

“It also gives us an opportunity to look at moving into different areas and taking our business in new directions.” Currently Transag has branches in Palmerston North, Hawera and New Plymouth. The Hawera and Palmerston North dealerships will be extended, the New Plymouth operation closed and a new dealership established at Masterton in the Wairarapa region. “We currently cover the Wairarapa region from Palmerston North, but with the addition of the New Holland brand, we have taken the opportunity to set up a new dealership located in Masterton,” says Avery. “We look forward to servicing our existing customers and growing new and current relationships.” TransAg was established in 1986 in Palmerston North, with Euan’s father Merv Avery one of three people behind the original venture. Today, the

Transag’s dealer principal Euan Avery says they are looking forward to what’s ahead.

business has 32 staff who are excited about the changes and what’s to come in the new year. Once the expansion is complete, Euan said they would obviously need to recruit additional staff to ensure the high standard of service and support Transag is known for is maintained. “Taking on the New

Holland brand, we obviously need to cater for more customers, and with that comes more room for parts and service operations. Service sells, that’s what we stand by, and parts supply is critical, so we need more people on the ground to ensure those standards are ongoing,” Avery says.

“This is about investing in the future of our business, and ensuring the needs of our customers are met at every step, and they have the equipment they need to keep their businesses running as profitably and efficiently as possible.” @dairy_news facebook.com/dairynews

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