Suitors line up for Aussie processor. PAGE 3
TOP IRISH HOSPITALITY B&B on farm PAGE 26-27
COMPACT CROSSOVER Mitsubishi ups the ante PAGE 46
SEPTEMBER 26, 2017 ISSUE 387 // www.dairynews.co.nz
RAW MILK SALES FLOURISH Neil and Glenda Gray, Hauraki Plains, join a growing group of farmers offering raw milk at the gate. PAGE 4
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
NEWS // 3
Suitors line up for Aussie processor SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
DAIRY companies including Fonterra are lining up to snare Australia’s largest dairy processor. Murray Goulburn, which suffered a net loss of A$370 million in 201617, effectively put itself up for sale last month. Australian dairy analyst Steve Spencer, of Freshagenda, told Dairy News there is a strong likelihood MG will be sold. “We’d expect this could take six to nine months if it involves a takeover of the full MG structure,” he says. Media report Chinese processor Yili is the latest bidder for MG’s assets, but like other foreign buyers Yili would be scrutinised by the Foreign Investment Review Board. Any deal would likely need the backing of 90% of Murray Goulburn’s 2200 farmer suppliers under its co-op structure. So the govern-
GLOBAL Synlait’s record results. PG.07
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NEWS ������������������������������������������������������ 3-21 OPINION ���������������������������������������������22-23 AGRIBUSINESS ���������������������������� 24-25 MANAGEMENT ������������������������������ 26-29 ANIMAL HEALTH ��������������������������30-32 EFFLUENT & WATER MANAGEMENT ������������������������������ 33-42 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS ������������������������������������� 43-46
Murray Goulburn may not be Australian-owned for too long.
ment would be less likely to overturn a deal even if the review board had concerns, commentators say. Other bidders are said to include listed company Bega Cheese, Chinese group Fuyuan Farming, Fonterra and Canadian heavyweight Saputo, which already owns Warrnambool Cheese and Butter. Italian dairy titan Parmalat, Japan’s Lion, Singapore-owned Goodman Fielder and listed com-
pany A2 Milk are also said to be among those courting MG. Even Danish co-op Arla has shown interest in MG via its joint venture with Chinese company Mengniu. Spencer says he isn’t surprised by the intense interest in MG. “It is the largest player in the sector with strategic assets and milk supply.” Last year MG had sales of about A$2.8 billion.
FONTERRA APPOINTS CFO FONTERRA HAS appointed Marc Rivers as its new chief financial officer (CFO). Now the CFO at Roche Pharmaceuticals in Switzerland, Rivers will join the co-op on March 1, 2018. At Roche he has overseen $51
billion in sales from 14 manufacturing sites worldwide. His division distributes to 140 countries. Fonterra says he is an experienced global finance executive with strong strategic leadership capability, known for leading and developing people and for building
diverse and inclusive teams. “Marc will be a great addition to the Fonterra management team,” says CEO Theo Spierings. “His track record of global financial leadership and his personal alignment to our values will be a real asset.”
A Fonterra spokesman says the co-op plans to keep growing its business in Australia. “Our business is in good shape and has sustainable performance, and we will look at all opportunities that make sense to continue to build a strong and sustainable business in Australia,” he told Dairy News. “We are not going to comment on any merger and acquisition activity in the market.” MG’s sale will be the biggest deal in the Australian dairy industry since 2013 when bidders went all out for Warrnambool Cheese and Butter. A prolonged bidding war ensued between MG, Bega Cheese and Saputo, which was the successful suitor. Even Fonterra weighed in to protect its interests, buying a strategic stake in Bega Cheese. Investment bank Deutsche and MG are believed to be talking to would-be suitors.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
4 // NEWS
Fresh milk offered at farm gate SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
APPETITE GROWING APPETITE FOR raw milk is growing nationwide,
Neil and Glenda Gray with daughter Libby.
NATURAL FROM GRASS TO GLASS RAW MILK goes direct from the source to the consumer, says Glenda Gray. It is natural ‘from grass to glass’, and comes with naturally occurring bacteria, enzymes and proteins. Raw milk is presented in its original state – not pasteurised or homogenised. Pasteurisation occurs when milk
ties but are also young healthy cows. The Buttercup Dairies cows are pasture fed; no supplements of meal or palm kernel are fed and no antibiotics are used in this herd.” Sellers of raw milk must be registered with the Ministry of Primary Industries and follow
, THERE OW
’S
N
NEIL AND Glenda Gray are proudly continuing a 112-year family dairy business at Turua on the Hauraki Plains. Milking 520 cows, they prioritise their environment, sustainability and animal welfare. But the negative public perception of farming got them thinking. “We have a great product so we thought we’d allow the public to buy our milk at an affordable price,” says Glenda. Last December they started research into selling raw milk sales at the farm gate; Buttercup Dairies was set up and raw milk will be sold from the farm this week. Village Milk, of Takaka, has helped the Grays set up the business. An old cow shed has been renovated and 20 ‘shop cows’ have been selected to produce A2 milk for sale. Each cow will produce 20L of milk daily; Buttercup Dairies hopes to sell 300L of raw milk every day. An Italian milk dispenser has been installed, and buyers can buy $4
glass bottles to collect milk from the dispenser. “Glass is best as this can be easily cleaned,” Glenda says. She says the shop cows have been specifically selected to produce A2 milk. “We have done this by DNA testing all our cows.” All cows produce either A1 or A2 milk; milk protein is made up of 80% casein proteins and 20% whey proteins. There are four different kinds of caseins, one of which is b-casein (beta casein). Beta casein comes in two different structure types -- A1 and A2. The difference between A1 beta casein and A2 beta casein is the amino acid at position 67 of the beta casein molecule. The difference in structure between the beta casein variants can lead to a difference in their breakdown during digestion. Many people say they are better able to tolerate A2 milk. Buttercup Dairies will run a separate herd on a separate part of the commercial farm. “The cows have been specifically selected not only for their A2 proper-
1.
is heated to a minimum of 72oC for at least 15 seconds, then is rapidly cooled to 4oC. Homogenisation mixes the cream evenly throughout the milk so a layer of cream doesn’t form at the top of the bottle. Buttercup Dairies raw milk is fresh daily and has a recommended shelf life of four days.
strict guidelines. The old cowshed has been renovated to meet the latest MPI food safety standards. Like other registered raw milk sellers, Buttercup Dairies does rigorous testing to ensure high milk quality. “We send samples of
milk away weekly to two separate testing facilities, aiming to keep harmful bacteria to a minimum while keeping the good bacteria and enzymes. “MPI requires us to tell consumers of the risks in drinking raw milk if they have a compromised immune system.”
says Village Milk, of Takaka. Managing director Richard Houston says there is a global trend towards less processed and natural food. New Zealand has 22 registered raw milk traders (MPI statistics) operating under a regulated control scheme. Rules on raw milk for sale to consumers were introduced by MPI last November. Houston says the scheme clearly prescribes the procedures, testing, labelling and handling needed to achieve a safe raw milk product for human consumption. Village Milk installed its first raw milk dispenser at Takaka, Golden Bay; it milks 22 cows daily and sells 75,000L of milk annually. The company started a franchise business and between February 2015 and January 2016 its six franchises sold 278,000L. Its Takaka business sold 17,000L in January last year, supplying holiday makers. The firm has now disbanded its franchise system and acts as a consultant and equipment supplier to raw milk start-ups. Houston says safety and quality control are key aspects of raw milk trading. “The rigorous raw milk testing regime implemented by MPI [is to] ensure we provide safe and quality raw milk.” Being the first registered raw milk seller in NZ was “quite a learning curve” for Houston, he says. Setting up such a business costs $100,000 -$200,000 depending on changes needed to the milking shed and water supply.
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
NEWS // 5
Westland Milk to cut board size
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WESTLAND MILK Products (WMP) chairman Pete Morrison says the proposed changes to the governance structure of the cooperative will impose more accountability on the board. A of directors and shareholders is recommending cutting director numbers from 11 to eight; independent directors will remain the same at three, but shareholder directors will be reduced from eight to five. A special meeting of all shareholders in early October is expected to endorse the proposal. Morrison says the changes will better equip WMP to deal with the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. “We didn’t start with a prerequisite to reduce the board in size but as we talked through the situation the committee looked for the best ways of achieving the best behaviours for the company and how we could get the best results with five farmer directors and three independents. “We want a dynamic, thriving company on the Coast and to do that we believe a smaller board is the answer.” WMP now has only six directors due to two resignations, and sitting director Noel Robb has indicated he won’t stand for reelection. There is recommendation to set special eligibility criteria for all
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BRIGHT SEASON ON FARMS WMP CHAIRMAN Pete Morrison says West Coast dairy farmers are heading into a good season. The Coast had a great autumn and the winter was relatively kind. “While it has been wet over the last month we wouldn’t say it was too bad.
directors including independents and a scheme to foster potential directors. A major change is in the process for electing shareholder directors: this allows would-be directors to nominate themselves, then all
“We all have ways of dealing with the wet -- stand-offs, winter crops and trying not to pug the paddocks. We’re not overstocked on the Coast and are used to rain.” Morrison says while production is now down, he is confident Christmas will see the situation improved.
candidates to go on a ‘roadshow’ as part of the election process. This somewhat resembles the Fonterra process, but Morrison says they didn’t automatically seize the Fonterra model. “It was definitely not mod-
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elled on Fonterra. We didn’t look at their process and what they go through. As it turns out it is similar and probably it is the best way of doing things,” he says. Morrison says WMP is poised for a good season and will not incurr a loss ($17m) as it did last year. He says the company has already saved about $68 million and has increased sales. He says chief executive Toni Brendish has done a great job for the company and he believes the new leadership team will bring positive results. “It’s getting the efficiencies right, getting the behaviours right, making people accountable from top to bottom and at the same time increasing sale prices.”
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
6 // NEWS
Butter back as a healthy option PAM TIPA pamelat@ruralnews.co.nz
The butter boom is rolling in.
THE BUTTER boom is rolling on, says ASB senior rural economist Nathan Penny.
At last week’s GlobalDairyTrade event butter achieved its eighth record auction high this year – up 1.2% to US$6026/ tonne. “We expect it might even go higher again, so
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that’s an amazing story,” Penny told Dairy News. A global shortage developing for the last two years has been fuelled partly by studies debunking the myth that animal fats are bad for human health. “That was followed by an article in The New York Times saying satu-
says. Whole milk powder (WMP) prices have lifted a modest 2.7% over this period, while overall prices have fallen a similarly modest 1%. Overall dairy auction prices were largely unchanged last week (up 0.9%). WMP was also effectively flat (up 0.6%) in line with expecta-
“Butter picked up in North America first, then places like McDonalds agreed and put butter back on McMuffins.” rated fats are not bad for you, they are not linked to heart diseases, this is false,” he says. “Once that article was published... the foodies in the US started to get on board with butter. It fitted with the wholefoods story quite well. “Butter picked up in North America first, then places like McDonalds agreed and put butter back on McMuffins, for example. It started there and spread globally. “There is a shortage in Europe, China’s imports of butter are surging and on the supermarkets shelves here also the range of butters has increased compared to five years ago. “So it is really a worldwide phenomenon but as it is quite recent, supply has not been able to keep pace. It will take a little while for supply to pick up hence we think it can go higher over the next six months or so.” Looking over a threemonth period, overall auction prices continue their holding pattern, Penny
tions. But key New Zealand dairying regions are very wet and production is stalling, he says. “It is probably not too late for fine weather to turn things around and get a decent peak in the spring but if we get more wet weather in the next few weeks we will have a hole in production. “If that eventuates we can see prices lifting over the next couple of months. That would mean we would revise our current milk price forecast of $6.75/kgMS to over $7/ kgMS if we don’t get any better weather.” June and July, with winter milk factored out, were not particularly strong, he says. Not only in Waikato but even in some places in Canterbury, farmers are saying they are running behind last season. “We will get some official numbers down the track but those anecdotes are pretty widespread,” he says. “So I guess we’re looking to the heavens for the next few weeks to see where things head.”
KEY RESULTS ■■
AMF index up 5.3% average price US$6764/t
■■
Butter index up 1.2%, average US$6026/t
■■
BMP not offered
■■
Cheddar index down 1.9%, average US$4032/t
■■
LAC index down 3.8%, average US$759/ MT
■■
RenCas index down 2.4%, average US$6036/t
■■
SMP index down 1.2%, average US$1920/t
■■
WMP index up 0.6%, average US$3122/t
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
NEWS // 7 iCORE
AUTOMATIC DRAFTING TEATSPRAY
CLUSTER REMO
HERD MANAGEMENT
CLUSTER REMOVER Synlait chief executive John Penno.
DRAFTING
Synlait eyes more branded products NIGEL MALTHUS
CANTERBURY MILK proces-
sor Synlait is looking to expand into own-branded consumer products after posting a record net profit. Its net profit of $38.2 million for the year ending July 2017 shows a healthy gain on the $34.4m it posted for the financial year 2016. Revenue was up 39% from $546.9m to $759m and net debt was down from $214m to $83m Over the next 12 months will come a move into new categories, chief executive John Penno told a media conference announcing the result. These will include ownbranded consumer products. Until now Synlait has produced industrial packaged or consumer packaged products under partner brands such as A2 Milk and the Chinese New Hope Nutritionals. Penno said Synlait’s own-branded products are unlikely to include infant formula because the company values its existing partnerships.
Penno said Synlait had bought out the New Zealand Dairy Company, which is already building a new blending and consumer packaging line in Mangere, Auckland. The $52m plant is expected to be commissioned in October and will enable Synlait to meet growth in demand for infant formula products. The plant will have over-capping technology that will improve product appearance and enable the scoop to be presented under a raised plastic enclosure rather than in the product itself. “We are also investing to retrofit this technology into our Dunsandel facility in the coming year,” he said. Three new sachet packaging lines will also be installed at Dunsandel. Already under construction at the plant is a second “wet-mix kitchen”. The wet-mix process adds supplementary ingredients such as vitamins to wet milk and mixes them before it goes to the driers, so giving better consistency in the finished product. The new $37m, 45,000 tonne/year machine will allow both the factory’s infant formula spray dryers to oper-
ate simultaneously, effectively doubling the plant’s capacity. “We own and control every step in our value chain, from differentiating the milk supply behind the farmgate to managing market access for our customers. “We guarantee an unrelenting focus on quality, integrity and value in this system, offering a powerful point of difference for our customers and their consumers,” said Penno. “Our attention is on accelerating our infant formula business and preparing to launch into new high returning dairy categories. We are also working to reinvigorate our ingredients business and add value by systematically moving our milk products into consumer packaged formats.” Synlait confirmed a total average milk price for the 2016-17 season of $6.30/kgMS, consisting of a $6.1/ kgMS average base price and a seasonal and average value-added premium payment of 14c/kgMS. Synlait’s forecast milk price of $6.50/kgMS for the 2017-18 dairy season remains unchanged.
GIVE US A BREAK TARANAKI DAIRY farmers are
hoping for a break from rain to get their season back on track. DairyNZ’s Simon Sankey says the region has had up to 200% of its normal August rainfall, once even getting a 21-day deluge. The season has been pretty ugly, older farmers saying that while the region is known for being wet it hasn’t been this bad for a long time. Sankey says the rain forced many farmers to feed supplements earlier than expected; some ran out of conserved feed. “Anyone who carried on milking late into last season is chal-
lenged by weather that has worked against their rebuilding of pasture cover. Many are now hoping the next week or two will bring some fine warm weather to boost pasture growth rates which in most areas are now slightly below average.” And farmers are trying to protect pastures from pugging during calving to maximise grass utilisation. Sankey says despite the wet, calving seems to have gone well and cow metabolics have presented surprisingly few problems. While production is down, farmers are quietly optimistic given
prospects of a better payout this season. But the weather gods will get their way. “Farmers are expecting the spring flush in the next two to three weeks, and a break in the weather would enable them to lift covers; to do that many will probably use nitrogen.” There is good news in the region’s high rate of compliance with the new rules on trucking bobby calves. Farms have systems in place to comply, and it has not caused difficulty. – Peter Burke @dairy_news facebook.com/dairynews
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
8 // DAIRYNZ ELECTION CANDIDATE PROFILES
Time to elect new board talent DAIRYNZ LEVY-PAYING farmers have another election on their hands. This week farmers will receive their voting packs for director elections. Two positions on DairyNZ’s board have attracted six dairy farmer candidates. Electionz.com returning officer Anthony Morton says levypaying farmers will have a month to vote. “The elected candidates will represent all dairy farmers on the DairyNZ board, provide new leadership and have a real influence on where and how the levy is invested,” says Morton. “So we encourage dairy farmers to look at who is running and take the time to vote when the pack arrives in the mail.” DairyNZ’s board consists of five farmer-elected directors and three board-elected directors. The farmer-elected director positions are rotated, with Alister Body and Jim van der Poel required to retire this year. After 12 years, Body is retiring and Van der Poel is seeking re-election. This year farmers will also vote for several resolutions, including one which could change directors’ terms to three years from four years and introduce annual director elections. Results from the election and resolution votes will be announced at the DairyNZ annual meeting in Rotorua on October 25. Here are the six candidates: MARK SLEE
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SLEE (49) is the owner operator of an irrigated property with Devon and two sons. They started milking 400 cows in 1990, and today the business, Melrose Dairy Ltd, is made up of three dairy units (900 cows each) and a support block. In 2014 the Slees were the national supreme winners of the Ballance Farm Environmental Awards. “This gave us a unique opportunity to look at the NZ way of farming from a global perspective and has highlighted how important it is to protect this for future generations,” he says. Slee is a strong supporter of DairyNZ, valuing the independent industry advice, education and advocacy it provides. According to Slee, the three priority challenges facing the dairy industry are environmental best practice, public perception and biosecurity. “DairyNZ has a responsibility to its levy payers to continually focus on better environmental outcomes and to maintain or enhance our profitability. “A tremendous amount of time, money and resources have gone into identifying what environmental best practice looks like, and implementing strategies to achieve this. But there is still a lot of work to do. “Public perception is linked to customer perception and as food producers we need to be closely aligned with our
consumers. DairyNZ’s pledge for swimmable rivers is a positive step in the right direction. “Biosecurity is an everincreasing risk. DairyNZ needs to keep working with MPI on having adequate resources and safeguards.” Slee was a director of the Mayfield Hinds irrigation scheme from 1997 to 2010 and and Irrigation NZ director from 2003 to 2015. He is a member of Lincoln University Dairy Farm’s management committee.
JIM VAN DER POEL
VAN DER Poel has farm-
ing businesses in Waikato, Canterbury, Southland and the US. He says NZ dairy is a world leading Industry. “Our underlying competitive position depends on our pasture-based dairy production systems, temperate climate and the continued ability of hardworking farming families to own their farming businesses and industry organisations. “Our future prosperity relies on our ability to adapt our farming systems to be sustainable and connected to our fellow NZers.” He believes DairyNZ plays an important role in providing tools, research and solutions for farmers to maintain and improve their competitive position. DairyNZ also plays an important role in helping the next generation to upskill to take the industry forward.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
DAIRYNZ ELECTION CANDIDATE PROFILES // 9 He wants DairyNZ to work with regional and central government to develop environmentally sustainable standards that enhance farming and give customers confidence in the quality, safety and nutrition of the industry’s milk. “DairyNZ is one of few organisations that represent all dairy farmers and has a critical role in using levy funds for the best result,” he says. Van der Poel’s priorities are to maintain our competitive position and sustainable farming and build closer relationships with urban NZ so that they appreciate the good work being done by farmers in sustainable farming. He also wants DairyNZ to lead in coordinating levy, industry and government funds to minimise duplication and maximise results. Van der Poel, a Nuffield scholar, is a former Fonterra director and has served on the Fonterra
shareholders fund.
IAN BROWN
BROWN HAS been in the dairy industry at least 30 years. In partnership with his wife Karyn they have progressed from wages to sharemilking to their current position, farming their own property and sharemilking a neighbouring property in Tokoroa. “During this time I have taken an active interest in dairy industry issues. I have a sound knowledge of the dairy industry behind and beyond the farm gate.” Brown served on Fonterra shareholders council
from 2005 to 2016, three years as chairman (2012 - 2015). He chaired a committee reviewing Fonterra’s capital structure and co-chaired a Fonterra governance and representation review. He has served as member of the Ospri stakeholder council and the LIC director remuneration committee. Brown won the National Sharemilker of the Year title in 1997. “My experience in challenging and ambiguous governance situations has led me to develop good governor characteristics, including listening skills, communication, consideration of all views and decision making.” Brown says NZ’s strong, vibrant dairy industry is built on solid foundations. “Continuing change in our global operating environment and increasing societal expectations of our farming practices will continue to challenge and present opportunities to
our industry. “Dairy NZ plays a vital role for our collective benefit, providing vision, leadership, sound scientific research, innovation, practical tools and solutions so that farmers remain profitable, competitive and relevant. “I bring a passion for the continuing success of our industry. I have the experience, skills and drive to contribute toward this goal.”
GRANT COOMBES
COOMBES STARTED
farming as a sharemilker of 130 cows, growing to a large-scale farming com-
pany milking 2000 cows with dairy support and drystock on 750ha. He and wife Kyly they have raised four children on their Taupiri farm. He says NZ farmers are world leaders at adapting to change and meeting challenges, and this will continue. “As we face future challenges, new science and technology and supporting the people who work in our industry will be vital to its growth and success. “We need to communicate the science and research behind farming, which is important in telling the story of dairy in NZ. “We also need to continue to attract good people to our industry and do our best to retain those already working in the sector. We need to look after our people and do our best for them. Dairy farming is about people.” As a DairyNZ director he pledges to deliver the
best return on investment for levy payers. “I would bring practical leadership skills, common-sense and authenticity to the board, and look forward to engaging with and listening to DairyNZ’s levy payers if elected.” Coombes is a graduate of Fonterra’s governance development programme and a director of farming companies. He enjoys coaching others and working to solve challenging problems. “And I am passionate about good governance. “I ask for your support to focus on achieving a profitable future for farmers and a good return on your investment in DairyNZ.”
COLIN WESLEY GLASS GLASS WAS born and
raised on a dairy and mixed cropping farm at Methven and has been in agriculture all his life. A chartered accountant, he holds a commerce
degree in farm management and a post-graduate diploma in accountancy and finance. Starting as chief financial officer for Tasman Agriculture Ltd, in 2001 he was appointed chief executive of Dairy Holdings Limited (DHL), a position he still holds. DHL has extensive operations in the South Island. With wife Paula and two young girls, Glass owns a 650-cow dairy farm and two irrigated properties that rear and finish bull beef at Methven, Mid Canterbury. For 20 years he has TO PAGE 10
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
10 // DAIRYNZ ELECTION CANDIDATE PROFILES FROM PAGE 9
been closely involved in large scale dairy operations in the South Island and Australia, and has served on farming and community organisations. “The dairy industry has been good to me and now is the time for me to give back. I have the DHL board’s support and will be reviewing my role to allocate sufficient time. “I appreciate NZ’s unique international competitive advantage. We have enjoyed a dynamic, progressive and growing industry that has been the envy of the dairy world. “This competitive advantage, and our local licence to operate, is being challenged. Our future dairy industry must draw on what we do well and what makes our businesses profitable. But we also have a wider respon-
sibility for the prosperity and environmental stewardship of our local communities. “Now is the time for our industry to show stronger leadership for the future and for career progression in our farming communities.”
COLE GROVES
GROVES BELIEVES
this election is for a farmer director to help guide the strategic vision and leadership of
DairyNZ. “I can provide that for the levy payers,” he says. Groves with his wife and two children lease a 450cow dairy farm in Mid Canterbury via the equity partnership they are involved in. He says DairyNZ plays a vital role in the NZ dairy industry, having responsibility for spending the levy of 13,000 levy payers to make sure the industry is sustainable into the future. “I am extremely passionate about our industry and want to be a part of the next generation of leaders. I bring significant governance experience and development, strategic thinking and a true understanding of what happens onfarm.” He wants to see continued and increased
SMART N OUSTING UREA – BALLANCE development of talented people. “Our industry is desperate for the next generation to be involved but we are struggling to attract and retain the talent we require for our industry to keep moving forward.” He also wants clearer goals for natural prosperity and environmental stewardship. “The increased pressure from the public is leading to a ‘social licence’ to operate which
we need to be aware of and proactive to, rather than reactive.” Groves graduated B.AgSc from Lincoln University and took part in Fonterra’s governance development programme 2015-16. He was a director of New Zealand Young Farmer from 2011 to 2016, serving as chairman for three years. He chairs the national mastitis advisory committee and the dry cow therapy working group.
SPECIAL REPORTS
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FEATURE:
10 October
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FARMERS’ USE of Ballance Agri-Nutrients’
nitrogen product Sustain since its launch in 2002 now exceeds 1 million tonnes, the company says. Science strategy manager Warwick Catto says farmers increasingly prefer the product over urea. Its granules contain Agrotain, “the world’s leading urease inhibitor”, that reduces nitrogen losses from ammonia volatilisation by 50% on average compared to urea. Sustain has been Fertmark certified for 10 years. The company’s Phasedn and Sustain together
“For every 500,000 tonnes of urea sold in New Zealand, around 10-20% of the available nitrogen will be lost through volatilisation.” account for half its nitrogen fertiliser sales. It says in some regions the proportion of farmers converting to these products from urea is about 70%. “For every 500,000 tonnes of urea sold in New Zealand, around 10-20% of the available nitrogen will be lost through volatilisation,” Catto says. “That’s the equivalent of 23,000 tonnes of nitrogen not doing its job in the soil.” Ballance says it estimates that Sustain sales have replaced about 50,000 tonnes of urea, reducing the emission of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N20), said to account for at least 14% of NZ’s greenhouse gas emissions. “Given that emissions from agriculture make up about 46% of our total emissions, these reductions alone are valuable environmentally and financially, saving an estimated $1 million in NZ’s greenhouse gas liabilities,” Catto says. The products “can easily overcome the common operational challenges of using urea and achieve better outcomes for a similar spend”. “For example, farmers using urea try to avoid nitrogen loss through volatilisation by applying the fertiliser when wet weather is forecast. We know from Landcare Research and our own trials that a good 5-10mm of rain is needed within eight hours of application to reduce ammonia loss. “Even if losses can be reduced by timing the applications with rain, farmers have no ability to control where any volatilised nitrogen is re-deposited. It could end up in rivers, lakes or forests.”
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2017 DAIRYNZ ELECTIONS We’re electing two farmer directors now. Which farmers get your vote? Voting is open to levy payers. Vote packs are in the post. See the candidates and voting info at dairynz.co.nz/agm.
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
12 // NEWS
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their products against the rest of the world in the 30th World Cheese Awards. Dedicated to cheese, the awards will return to London on November 17 to form part of Taste of London Festive Edition at Tobacco Dock. The organisers, the Guild of Fine Food, say this will be the largest cheese-only contest the UK has seen, with 3000 cheeses from six continents expected. About 250 experts including international buyers, retailers, writers and cheesemakers will judge every entry in one day. Each table will then select its Super Gold cheese for the final round of judging, before the World Champion Cheese is named later in the afternoon. John Farrand, managing director of the Guild of Fine Food, says the event gathers momentum every year. “Beyond the serious business of identifying the winning wedges, we’ve got a few surprises up our sleeve to celebrate the 30th anniversary.” Producers can enter online at www.gff.co.uk/wca.
IN BRIEF GDT expands GLOBAL DAIRY Trade (GDT) reports a 40% increase in buyers and a doubling of sellers over the last three months. GDT Marketplace now has 233 registered buyers and 10 registered sellers from the US, Western Europe, Oceania and Asia. Eric Hansen, GDT director, says sellers are responding positively to the intuitive nature of the GDT Marketplace platform. “Sellers like GDT Marketplace because the platform makes it easy to communicate product range and availability to a global pool of credible buyers, and discover new demand.”
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
NEWS // 13
Rural generosity surprises milkers NIGEL MALTHUS
BEFORE SHAREMILKERS Christopher and Siobhan O’Malley, of Lauriston, mid-Canterbury, started dairy farming they knew nothing of the generosity of New Zealand’s rural communities. With only two to three weeks left in a successful calving season, they are proud to point out several calves already literally earmarked for donation to various charities, including the annual IHC Calf and Rural fundraising auction and their local primary school. Now settled into their sixth farm in eight years, Siobhan says they have donated from every one. This year’s five donation calves, worth about $500 each at weaning, represent a gift to their community of $2500 plus the cost and effort of rearing them, she says. She didn’t know before they went dairying how “every farmer” donated a calf to IHC every year, and how livestock donations to local schools was “really common – part of the way rural communities self-fund”. IHC Calf and Rural Scheme coordi-
nator Lynda Young-Kennedy said she expects to have 3145 calves for sale this year from total pledges of 4145, including live calves, “virtual calves” and pledges of direct donations matching the auction prices. Eighteen auctions will be run nationwide, between Paeroa on October 20 and Balclutha in late January. Last year the effort raised $1.4 million from about 4200 pledges. “They’re generous, aren’t they?” said Young-Kennedy. “More often than not they do that sort of donation, one for us and one for the rugby club or the school.” The IHC scheme started in 1984. “We have some farmers who’ve been with us from when it began; that’s a long time donating. “Then their families step up and take over as well.” She paid tribute to PGG Wrightson which runs the auctions, the canvassers who visit the farms to record the pledges, at least 100 transporters who carry calves free or at reduced rates, community groups and other volunteers. Meanwhile, Siobhan O’Malley said the busiest time of calving is over but
Calves donated by dairy farmers raised $1.4 million last year.
the last third “seem to take forever,” and she expected calving to continue into the start of October. “This is the time of year you make your money, so you work your hardest and it’s important you get it right; it’s part of the dairy farming deal.” By using Hereford straws over the heard they have managed to minimise
the bobby calves “quite well”. “We’re selling our Friesian bull calves and Hereford bull calves near $100 and the bobby calves at $25-30 so that’ll probably be good for the pocket and less wastage, good for the industry.” The O’Malleys were earlier named the national Share Farmers of the Year
2017 after only their second season milking their own herd. On the day Dairy News visited, the farm was being buffeted by a classic Canterbury nor’wester, but Siobahn welcomed it after a wet winter. “It’s intense but man, it’s soggy, so we need these raging nor’westers to dry out the pastures.”
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
14 // NEWS
School farm back in the black MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
OWL FARM at St Peter’s School, Cambridge is a venture by Lincoln University and seven com-
Owl farm manager Tom Buckley and demonstration manager Louise Cook.
HEADER
mercial partners to demonstrate good practice on a working farm, while encouraging farmers and young people to succeed in the dairy industry. A recent open day, hosted by the farm’s new
HEADER
Ferist et quati aut pedici te vollab imod quamet atur soleniet quiatibu. PAGE 15
Ferist et quati aut pedici te vollab imod quamet atur soleniet quiatibu. PAGE 23
RURALNEWS
HEADER Ferist et quati aut pedici te vollab imod quamet atur soleniet quiatibu.
PAGE 24
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demonstration manager Louise Cook, showed a report card that summed up the Waikato winter as wet, wet wet. Located on the banks of the Waikato River, the 148ha farm had 1436mm rain over the 201617 season compared to 953mm in the previous year. Rainfall in July and particularly August also showed a marked increase over last year. Farm manager Tom Buckley gave the visitors an overview of the stocking regime: 421 milking cows versus last year’s 430 because of a decision to drop maize silage from the mix after paddock feeding resulted in poor utilisation. Lameness persisted, though infections appeared less severe than in previous years, and mastitis followed a similar path despite a robust drycow and teat-seal policy at drying-off. Calving was a little behind this season, compared to 2015-16 season; production was well above expectations, the herd producing at least 2kgMS/day on a grassbased diet supplemented by PKE until August 20. Grass cover measured in early June was below the target of 2500kgDM/ ha, but by the end of the month it had caught up and went on to exceed that target during July and August. Wet weather as far back as April delayed the autumn application of nitrogen, which in turn postponed the first spring application to early July when 80kg/ha was applied; this will continue at 25kg/ha N as the grazing rounds progress. Looking at all-impor-
tant numbers from the previous season, stocking rate was 2.9 cows/ ha, milk solids per cow was 421kg, and per ha 1221kg. At a $6.15 payout, the total production of 174,829kgMS yielded $1,127,891 from milk sales. Operating expenses were $4.75/kgMS, leaving an operating profit of $1.63 and an operating margin of 25.6%. The financial position will allow the business to reduce debt; it plans to pay $150,000 of principal in six equal payments starting in December. The farm also plans to improve milk cooling, always a problem there, with water arriving at the primary cooler at 17 - 19 degrees C, and tending to rise to 23 degrees C during high summer. This can result in milking exiting the primary cooler at 18 degrees C at the start of milking, and up to 21 degrees C at the finish. The farm water supply takes a convoluted route from the bore to the nearby Velodrome and on to St Peter’s School before it arrives at the farm; it can typically gain 7 degrees C on its journey. The need to improve the situation was clear, especially because the primary cooling circuit’s need to work overtime made energy consumption a key consideration. After studying many available cooling systems the farm chose a variablerate glycol based system that avoided an upgrade of the farm’s electrical transformer. The unit cost more than some but is calculated to roughly halve running costs and could save $4000 annually.
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LIC IS selling its Riverlea Road herd testing and diagnostics depot in Hamilton, effective October 2. A lease-back will allow the co-op to remain at the site. General manager biological systems Geoff Corbett says the deal will not affect service delivery. “It is business as usual for herd testing and diagnostics,” he says.
...................................................................... Phone: ...................................................... Email: ............................................................................................................................... Terms and Conditions: Information on how to enter the competition forms part of these terms and conditions. Entry in to the Win a New Ride quiz is deemed acceptance of these terms and conditions. Entry is open to all New Zealand residents except for employees of Rural News Group and their immediate family. Each entrant may enter more than once. To be valid, each entry must contain the correct answers as determined by the Rural News Group. The competition opens on Monday 4th September, 2017 and closes Friday 24 November, 2017 at 11pm. The prize winner will be drawn on Monday 27 November, 2017 and will be contacted by phone and email by Wednesday 29th November, 2017. The winner will be announced to all entrants via email by Friday 1st December, 2017.The promoter’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered in to. By accepting the prize, the prize winner consents to the promoter using his/her details, photographs and recording of the prize acceptance for promotional and media publicity purposes. There is one prize, of a 2017 Yamaha AG125 motorbike. The winner may be required to pick up their prize from their nearest Yamaha dealer. The prize is valued at more than $4,000. The prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash. All insurance and any on-road costs are at the winner’s expense. All entries become the property of the promoter. The promoter is Rural News Group, First Floor, Bayleys Building, 29 Northcroft St, Takapuna, Auckland 0622
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
16 // NEWS
Smaller farms help pave way for farm ownership LOUISE HANLON
A YOUNG couple, Will and Kirsten Rolton, in South Waikato, are on a path to farm ownership, supported by smaller herd farmers. He started in the UK dairy industry but got demoralised by the lack of a future. So he emigrated
to New Zealand in 2010 after a friend told him he could progress there in dairying. “Within two months in NZ, people were saying ‘stick around and we will make sure you get a shot at a percent return or something’, so that was exciting.” Steady progress has seen him first work-
ing on a 3500-cow farm in Maniototo (where he met Kirsten), to contract milking for a Morrinsville sharemilker for three seasons, then finally buying a herd and getting a sharemilking contract. “Those first two seasons in NZ I got a lot of freedom,” says Rolton. “I learnt the trade: pasture, breeding and how it is
done here, rather than in buildings.” Roltons are now in their second season sharemilking 280 Kiwicross cows on Kees and Hannie Rombouts’ 85.5ha (eff) farm near Te Awamutu and they love the challenge. “Contract milking was good but I wanted to go sharemilking,” says
Protect your farm from disease You can keep out Mycoplasma bovis and other diseases by employing simple on-farm biosecurity measures.
Fence off buffer zones at your property’s boundaries
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Find out more: www.mpi.govt.nz
and click on the Mycoplasma bovis “cow” link. September 2017
Will and Kirsten Rolton with son George.
Rolton. “When you own your cows you have more in the game. “Kees had gone from wages to ownership so we thought we would tuck under his wing for a few years and see what we could pick up from someone who has done it.” Rombout sees similarities between the Roltons’ career path and theirs. “We started like Will, coming into the country and not having parents with a farm or help to get started.” Hannie Rombout says people need to think outside the box to acquire a farm. “You have to look at wider options, like other investments or ways of making the next step between sharemilking and farm ownership: maybe other land investments or finding a financial partner to help you step into buying a farm.” Rombout says they are happy to support young people’s progress in the industry; they have two smaller herd farms run by sharemilkers. “We appreciate having got into farming; if I had been in Holland I would never have been able to get started,” he says. “I have had my chance, and as long as there is a good relationship and it works for both parties we are happy.”
The Rombouts and Roltons believe in the value of smaller herd farms. “Often smaller farms are a family unit,” says Hannie. “A couple with children applied here for a job, saying they wanted a sharemilking job where the kids could come on the farm. It is easier for the kids to get involved as they get older on a smaller farm.” Says Will, “There is nothing wrong with a wages job, but on wages you are only invested up to a point, and you are given your owner’s parameters to manage by. Whereas when you are contract or sharemilking you get more autonomy. “You may not nail it for a couple of seasons, but you review and get sharper. A $2000 cow dying is your loss, rather than a $50 bonus. You get better in your skill levels.” Rombout says if the smaller herd channel to owning a herd or a farm closes, the industry will lose skills. “On the bigger farms you must have key decision makers; one man can only go so far. You can miss a woody tongue cow and it is a week before someone has found her; it is not because she is showing anything, she has had a week to get thin.
“When you are sub300 you can see every cow every day; a lot of that higher level attention comes through and your average picks up. “We still have time to pick up a few feet and trim them, even at the busy time of the year. When you are finishing your morning routine at 1pm those small things don’t happen. “During the downturn we have survived when a lot of big operators would have gone out of business,” says Kirsten. The Rombouts and the Roltons regularly attend SMASH events and appreciate the quality information they get there. They have learned and made worthwhile changes as a result. “I went to a SMASH event at Karapiro where three big chunks of information were presented that we were interested in,” says Will. “There’s your information in three hours, all done.” He says that prompted a fresh look at his heifer rearing, a change of grazier and a start in once-aday milking. “On OAD our condition score and our lifestyle in summer have improved. You don’t lose production and you can feed the cows better.” • Louise Hanlon is a committee member of SMASH.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
NEWS // 17
Methane-chewing bacteria offer good prospects entists and a Monash, Victoria, biologist have shown that methaneoxidising bacteria (good for tackling greenhouse gas) are more flexible and resilient than previously thought. Long term this could help the dairy industry in, say, the production of protein feeds. And because it shows the methane-oxidising bacteria working elsewhere, there are implications for cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Soil bacteria that oxidise methane (methanotrophs) capture methane before it enters the atmosphere, and scientists now know they can consume hydrogen gas to enhance their growth and survival. This new research is published in the International Society for Microbial Ecology Journal. Industrial companies are using methanotrophs to convert methane gas emissions into useful products, for example liquid fuels and protein feeds. “The findings of this research explain why methanotrophs are abundant in soil ecosystems,” says Dr Chris Greening from the Centre for Geometric Biology at Monash University. “Methane is a challenging energy source to assimilate. By being able to use hydrogen as well,
methanotrophs can grow better in a range of conditions.” Methanotrophs can survive in environments when methane or oxygen are no longer available. “It was their very existence in such environments that led us to investigate the possibilities that these organisms might also use other energy-yielding strategies,” Greening says. The research was co-led by Dr Carlo Carere and Dr Matthew Stott from GNS Science, New Zealand. Carere, a geothermal microbiologist team leader of the Geomicrobiology Research Group at GNS, told Dairy News this work shows that methaneconsuming bacteria are better able to survive in environments when using both methane and hydrogen gases – as opposed to methane alone. “We showed this effect was particularly significant in soils where oxygen was limiting and suggested this increased metabolic flexibility may allow these bacteria to colonise a greater diversity of (soil) environments than previously believed. “This may have implications for the conversion of methane emissions into valuable fuel of feed chemicals. “For the pastoral industry, it is possible the
IN BRIEF LIC to test bulls LIC PLANS to test its artificial breeding bulls for Mycoplasma bovis to reassure farmers during the mating season. The co-op says it will supply 75% of the industry’s bull semen this spring mating period. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) says there is little risk of passing M.bovis via semen, but there are no known studies that show this, LIC says. Dr Richard Spelman, LIC general manager biological systems, says farmers are rightly concerned about the disease and any risk of transmission via bull semen, but they can have confidence in LIC. “Given there is no evidence to suggest the disease is widespread in New Zealand, we can be confident it is not present in our bulls or semen supply, but we are taking extra precautions. “From a young age, all our bulls are permanently kept in strict quarantine and are under close veterinary supervision.
modelling of methane gas emissions should be modified to include the usage of both methane and hydrogen gas.” Greening and collaborators found and studied a methanotroph from a NZ
volcanic field. The strain could grow on methane or hydrogen separately, but performed best when both gases were available. “This study is significant because it shows that key consumers of meth-
ane emissions are also able to grow on inorganic compounds such as hydrogen,” Greening says. “This new knowledge helps us to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.”
Chris Greening, Monash University.
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
18 // NEWS
Plantain can slash nitrogen leaching from urine patches A PLANTAIN shown able to slash
nitrogen leaching from urine patches is an “important and exciting finding,” says DairyNZ spokesman Bruce Thorrold. The plantain started life as a common weed. Seed company Agricom has bred the specific plantain genotype and says given New Zealand’s herd of 6.5 million dairy cattle, the forage could make a big dent in nitrogen leaching. Agricom, Lincoln and Massey university and Plant & Food Research staff have learned how this genotype of plantain, called Ecotain, can function in pasture systems to reduce nitrogen leaching. From this common flat weed (Plantago lanceloata) Agricom bred and commercialised a forage cultivar – Ecotain. It is part of the firm’s nitrogen man-
agement system NSentinel4 that works to cut nitrogen leaching from urine patches. DairyNZ chose plantain for its Pastoral21 and FRNL forage work aimed at cutting nitrate leaching losses by 20-30%. This work has been in addition to Agricom’s research. Thorrold says plantain cultivars with the right composition show clear potential to reduce nitrogen leaching, but it’s unlikely that all plantains are equally effective in nitrogen management. “There is still a lot to be learnt before we can be confident in predicting the farm scale impact of different plantains across NZ. Experience has taught us to test innovations in whole systems, for several years and in different soil types and climates. Agricom science lead Dr Glenn
Judson says though plantain has been used by farmers for many years, research now shows that using this specific genotype effectively can markedly cut nitrogen leaching from urine patches. “In one research programme, where Ecotain was used in the likely optimal way as much as 89% of nitrogen leaching was cut from the urine patch.” Ecotain can be used in pasture as a special purpose crop with clover, or in a grass/clover/Ecotain mixed pasture system. It can also be oversown into existing pasture. Judson says sheep and beef farmers commonly use plantain whereas dairy farmers are more familiar with chicory due to its high feed value and resilience to dry. “We know that the urine patch is
Plaintain may be able to take the heat out of the industry when it comes to nitrogen leaching.
the greatest source of leached nitrogen. You have a cow, for example, grazing across a large area of pasture, about 140 square metres per day. When they urinate, they’re depositing a high concentration of nitrogen into a very small area compared to the size they were grazing, and that small area is the urine patch. “The plants and soil surrounding the urine patch can’t absorb all that nitrogen, so it’s easily leached away
below the root zone and also into the water table.” Ecotain reduces nitrogen leaching from the urine patch in four ways: it increases the volume of cows’ urine which dilutes the concentration of nitrogen, it reduces the total amount of nitrogen in animals’ urine, it delays the process of turning ammonium into nitrate in the urine patch, and it restricts the accumulation of nitrate in Ecotain-growing soil.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
NEWS // 19
Hunt for industry’s ‘unsung heroes’ NOMINATIONS HAVE
opened for an award aimed at finding dairy farming’s ‘unsung heroes’ – the industry’s women. The Dairy Community Leadership Award is made annually by Dairy Women’s Network (DWN) to a dairying woman who makes a difference in her community by leading and supporting, says DNZ chief executive Zelda de Villiers. Such a woman helps keep groups and initiatives going while she helps run a farm and raise a family. “These are the unsung heroes of NZ who, often unseen, organise events, coordinate initiatives and offer help and advice to people who need them,” de Villiers says. These efforts the award is aimed at recognising and celebrating. It will be presented to a DWN member at the annual conference in March 2018. “The winner will embody our values, be
active in the network, be engaged in community activities and be showing leadership.” Katrina Thomas won the award in 2017. She was DWN Invercargill regional convenor and helped set up a regional hub for Otago and Southland. She supports the region’s other leaders, attends network events and coordinates local efforts. Thomas, a volunteer with Southland Hospice and the local primary school, says the award validates her giving to her community. “It was wonderful to be acknowledged in front of my peers, family and friends. “It’s great being able to work with all the new people I meet and help them settle in and see for themselves how great our community is.” The 2018 award will mark 20 years since the network was set up, “in the early days connecting women with each other
and sharing knowledge and advice,” says de Villiers. “Now, we’ve adapted to the needs of dairy women… to give them opportunities. Our members see value in educa-
tion and experience in the sector, for example, the Dairy Community Leadership Award.” Sponsored by ASB and Tompkins Wake, the award includes a scholarship to a leadership pro-
2017 winner Katrina Thomas.
gramme in NZ. Winners are chosen by de Villiers, ASB and Tompkins Wake reps and a DWN regional convenor. Nominations close 9 February 2018. www.dwn.co.nz
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FREE RESOURCE CONSENTS! BAY OF Plenty Regional Council is offering free resource consents to landowners to move to the next stage of a plan change associated with reducing nitrogen leaching into Lake Rotorua. The offer is available to landowners of properties over 40ha in the Rotorua catchment since July and closes on September 30, waiving estimated fees of about $1000. The recently adopted plan change 10 to the Regional Water and Land Plan introduced rules aimed to reduce on land the lost nitrogen that then enters the lake. Bay of Plenty Regional Council chair Doug Leeder says to date 32 landowners have registered for a free consent. “A fair majority of the farmers in our catchment have been well aware of the rules for some time. Some of them were instrumental in the development phase and just want to get on with it. Our environment won’t wait, so we want to help them do so.” Most farms over 40ha will need resource consent. A requirement of the consent is to produce a nutrient management plan (NMP) that outlines how they will meet their nitrogen discharge allocation by 2032. “We will pay for farmers to work with approved independent land use advisors to develop an NMP. We’re offering to help with the paperwork required by the rules so they can get on with the real work -managing their farms.”
Treating your cattle with an eprinomectin pour-on post calving is proven to reduce the worm burden they carry in early lactation, and as a result increase their milk production1. Eprinomectin is also effective against lice, preventing production losses associated with heavy burdens.2 NIL milk withhold. NIL meat withhold in treated animals. NIL meat withhold for bobby calves born to treated cows. NIL effect on efficacy from rainfall before or after treatment.
ASK YOUR VET HOW AN investment in Neoprinil® pour on CAN protect production – AND PROFiTS – IN your stock. nz.virbac.com ACVM No. A11278. 1. Effect of a peri-parturient eprinomectin treatment of dairy cows on milk production. WB McPherson, RP Gogolewski, B Slacek, AS Familton, SJ Gross, AE Maciel & WG Ryan. 2. Youngman, R. (2001). Now is the Winter of Our Discontent: Well, at Least Where Cattle and Lice are Concerned (Livestock Update-February), Virginia Cooperative Extension.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
20 // NEWS
Industry leaders reaffirm pledge THE DAIRY industry has
endorsed an international agreement on global sustainable dairy development. DairyNZ, the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ)
Industry leaders from left, Kimberly Crewther (DCANZ), Jeremy Hill (IDF), Martyn Dunne (MPI), and Tim Mackle (DairyNZ)
and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) have endorsed the Dairy Declaration of Rotterdam. It commits towards feeding the world with safe and sustainable products, and enhancing sustain-
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ability. The signatories are the International Dairy Federation (IDF) and the UN Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), who signed the declaration during the World Dairy Summit in 2016. “We are pleased to endorse the declaration today as a signal of strong support for the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and for the important role of the dairy sector in the global community’s efforts toward sustainable development,” says Kimberly Crewther, executive director of DCANZ. “We look forward to working with all IDF and FAO members to deliver the outcomes in the declaration and its sustainable development goals.” The declaration highlights areas in which dairying can move to achieve its sustainable development goals from an economic, social, environmental and health perspective, all priorities for NZ. This includes working together on ways to build capacity to develop sustainable food systems and resilient agricultural practices. “NZ is engaged in collective global efforts to promote the efficient use of natural resources and combat climate change, such as the Global Research Alliance on
Agricultural Greenhouse Gases and the Global Dairy Agenda for Action,” says MPI director-general Martyn Dunne. DairyNZ chief executive Tim Mackle welcomes the support expressed in the declaration to meeting the needs of farming families. “The declaration also recognises the major economic contribution dairy makes to realising the sustainable development aspirations of farmers and communities worldwide.” NZ seeks to eliminate distortions from global agricultural markets, such as subsidies and trade barriers that can hamper food security, prevent farmers from receiving the full value of their products and raise food costs for consumers. “Dairy remains one of the most protected and distorted sectors of global trade,” says Crewther. “We also welcome the declaration’s focus on the social and health dimensions of dairy and its role in a balanced, nutritious and healthy diet. “As a leader in the production of safe and sustainable dairy nutrition we support the global development of sciencebased standards, policies and practices for food safety and improved health outcomes.”
Dairy declaration
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
WORLD // 21
Oz supply chain at crossroads KEY dairy region is facing a “supply chain revolution,” says Rabobank senior dairy analyst Michael Harvey. In an industry report titled ‘The Australian dairy supply chain: the great reset’, Harvey says unprecedented change is underway in southern Australia in the way milk is procured, priced and processed. Changes caused by major events have caused tension right along the dairy supply chain, he says. The report says three events have driven this change: a drop in national milk production to a 20-year low, internal challenges facing Australia’s largest dairy cooperative and a ‘reset’ in farmgate milk prices to better align them with global markets. “To have so many changes in such a short time is unprecedented and there is no doubt Australia’s dairy supply chain will emerge from all this looking vastly different -- almost unrecognisable,” says Harvey.
AUSTRALIA’S
WHO WILL SET THE PRICE? AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST processor, Murray Goulburn, has faced the biggest contraction in milk supply, challenging its role as the leader in price discovery and benchmarking in southern Australia. “While Murray Goulburn is on a journey to turn around its business – and a successful turn-around could see the return of ‘cooperative principles’ as the benchmark for setting milk prices – this is years away
and a new method of price discovery will need to emerge,” says Michael Harvey. This is an issue for the entire dairy industry because if Murray Goulburn isn’t setting the price, who is? “It is important the industry establishes and knows who is setting the benchmark milk price, as dairy farmers will now be operating in a more commercially oriented and flexible market for their milk,” he says.
production, and the anticipated slow rebuild, will have processors competing fiercely for supply, so changing the way milk is procured in Australia’s southern dairy region. “Milk supply is down in all dairy regions to its lowest level in two decades; northern Victoria has experienced the biggest drop, accounting for 50% of the decline,” Harvey says. Rabobank is forecasting a small
While this change is leading to short-term uncertainty and perhaps to business disruption for dairy farmers, Harvey says, it will present opportunities for some dairy farm businesses, especially freedom to choose to supply new markets and more lucrative supply contracts. However, the report cautions, farmers need to weigh the opportunities and risks before they act. The report says the fall in milk
“Milk supply is down in all dairy regions to its lowest level in two decades.”
bounce -- about 2.5% -- in Australian milk supply in the 2017-18 season. And in the medium term, milk supply is expected to grow by a modest 1.8% per annum. “Based on this forecast, and assuming no major market or atypical climate disruptions, national milk production is not expected to exceed the 10 billion litre mark again until 2020-21,” he says. Processors will keep scrambling for milk and aggressively recruit suppliers and cut excess capacity. “We are also seeing a breakdown in farmers’ loyalty to processors: farmers are more willing to move processors, causing repercussions in the supply chain.”
Michael Harvey
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CIDR CERTAINTY ®
CIDRs prove valuable tool over tough spring Farmers trying to get their cows in calf earlier, keep calving patterns tight for next season and aiming to maximise their days in milk will be looking at their options now, even though this season’s calving has barely finished. Two quite different farming operations opted for CIDR® Cattle Inserts (Controlled Internal Drug Release) last spring as a tool for improving their herd’s reproductive performance, and to provide a platform for making the next step up again this season in their six week in calf rate. For Richard Tiddy, Trinity Lands’ in-house vet, the job facing him last spring was a daunting one. He was tasked with helping lift the reproductive performance of 15,000 cows over 21 herds, on farms of varied geography, with a variety of management structures. This all came while farm budgets remained tight. “We had identified that reproductive performance was a major area of opportunity for the business to lift its performance overall,” he says.
16075Sep
Nationally the six week in calf target is 78% and General Manager for Dairy, Andrew Archer, reported Trinity’s was sitting at 67%, close to the national average.
After a group effort to improve all herds’ body condition scores, they treated all non-cyclers with a CIDR programme before the planned start of mating (PSM), with later calvers receiving a CIDR programme 7 days into PSM. Between 30-50% of cows in every herd were treated overall. “We felt if we were going to commit to getting cows cycling earlier there was no half way to it, it had to be 100% commitment.” The immediate outcome was to lift the three-week average submission rate from 83% to 91%. Most satisfying for Richard was the increase in the average 6 week in calf rate. “That lifted from an average across the group of 67%, to 70%. Other properties actually dropped 2-3%, so we increased ours against a headwind from a tough spring.” Meantime, further south at Waimate, farmer Mark Hodder had his feed supply getting ahead of what he had budgeted on. “By the time they started grazing through calving the grass was starting to lose its feed value. The cows were full, but the energy level of what they were eating was not where it needed to be,” Mark says. As the planned start of mating neared he grew increasingly concerned the herd would not hit the targets for three-week submission he would need for a tight calving pattern.
In consultation with his vet Andrew Muir of the Veterinary Centre Oamaru he decided CIDRs were the tool to use at that stage of the season. “We opted to treat the early calving (45 day plus) non-cyclers first at the planned start of mating, and then 10 days later we administered them to those cows that had not cycled and were 40 days post calving.” Mark was encouraged by the outcome from the CIDR programme, achieving a 50% conception rate in the first mating. “That was almost as good as what we managed with the naturally mated cows.” Overall the herd improved its six-week in-calf rate to 70%, up 2 percentage points on the year before. “We are happy with that, and our target is to get to 75% this season.” Just as they helped bring more cows cycling earlier, a change in his AB programme also shortened his calving spread. “We only did 5 weeks AB, then 4 weeks with the bull and finished off with one week of short gestation genetics.
“The CIDRs got them cycling earlier, and the short gestation genetics also helps buy those later cows an extra 10 days before they have to start cycling again, which is a good length.”
Zoetis New Zealand Limited. Tel: 0800 963 847; www.zoetis.co.nz. CIDR is a registered trade mark of InterAg. ACVM No. A4559.
16075 CIDR Dairy News Advertorial 200x265 Sep17.indd 1
8/09/17 10:10
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
22 // OPINION RUMINATING
EDITORIAL
Brexit may boost Irish dairy
MILKING IT... Irish showed it first
Dust-ups go on over gas
‘We didn’t want to die’
Milk-free tipple for millenials
A NEW dairy crossbreed last week got its first outing, at the Irish National Ploughing Championships. It incorporates the world’s two leading cattle breeds Holstein Friesian and Fleckvieh. Fleckvieh is the number-one dairy and dual-purpose breed in central Europe and the number-two dairy breed worldwide. Fleckvieh cattle are native to Austria, Switzerland and southern Germany, and are popular in Italy, Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary and other central European countries. Over the last 10 years the breed’s popularity has grown in the Netherlands and Fleckvieh is now the number-one dairy-cross there.
ELECTION DUST is settling but the debate on greenhouse gas emissions goes on. A Lincoln University professor of animal breeding and genetics, John Hickford, says a polluterpays system -- good in theory but hard to manage -- gets complex and unfair when emissions pricing is calculated domestically and most of New Zealand’s produce is exported. We sell most of our agricultural products overseas and that’s where the issue of fairness becomes complex because it may not be fair to them as they trade internationally, says Hickford. “They may be trying to put goods into a country where they don’t tax greenhouse gas production, or they may subsidise agriculture production, and we’ve got to go out there as a very small player in world agriculture and try to compete with highly subsidised producers elsewhere.”
NIKE SAYS it’s greatest advance in leather since leather is a terrific idea. But People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is not buying it, insisting that half of Nike’s Flyleather is made from the skins of sensitive cows who didn’t want to die. It urges Nike to embrace the vegan half of Flyleather and switch entirely to highperformance, sustainable vegan leather. Up to 30% of the cowhide made into leather is usually discarded. Nike makes new use of these discards, turning them into leather fibers. Flyleather slashes a shoe’s carbon footprint, reducing it by up to 50% versus a traditional leather sneaker. PETA says animals are not ours to wear.
WHETHER YOU prefer pumpkin spice, hazelnut, chocolate or biscotti, for many of us cracking open the Baileys (liquer) of an evening is a sign that autumn, winter or Christmas has arrived. Baileys has long been a seasonal delight the vegans amongst us have not been able to enjoy, but that’s about to change in the UK. Now there’s Baileys Almande, made with almond milk, almond essence, cane sugar, purified water and vanilla. Unlike the dairy-free version launched last year (made with honey and beeswax) the new Baileys is entirely vegan. Vegan numbers in the UK have grown 350% over the last ten years and 42% are aged 15 to 34. So the new milk-free Baileys should excite millennials.
EVERY DAY, every newspaper in Ireland right now carries a story about Brexit. It’s no secret that the Irish loathe the British for voting for Brexit and for the arrogant way they are attempting to negotiate their exit. One Irish European politician said succinctly that Britain is “trying to have its cake and eat ours as well”. The Irish are equally astounded that Britain won’t re-litigate the Brexit issue with its people. After all, in Ireland it’s commonly accepted that if the result of a referendum doesn’t suit the government, they hold another and perhaps another until they get the answer they want. The Brexit issue is complicated for Ireland because of the ‘soft’ border with the north. At present Ireland is geographically one economic unit which suits everyone, yet farms and even houses sit on different sides of the border. Food products move freely, for example, milk produced on one side of the border is processed on the other and vice versa. The ever-popular Bailey’s Irish Cream liquer crosses the border five times in course of its production. Brexit seems to have hastened the modernisation of the Irish dairy industry: poor prices for beef cattle are prompting farmers to convert to dairy. But some of the nation’s 17,000 smaller dairy farmers are simply quitting, some because of their age, others for financial reasons and the prospect that Brexit will bring subsidies to an end. This is freeing up land either for sale or in most cases lease, and bigger farms are being created. It may sound odd to Kiwis, but estimates are that by next year the average Irish dairy herd size will be 100 cows, whereas 40 years ago the average herd was 15 cows! But ‘average’ can be misleading: more and more dairy farms in Ireland have herds similar in size to NZ’s -- and modern dairy parlours using new technology. The Irish dairy industry was already in reset mode, and Brexit, with all its drawbacks, may be the making of that industry. That aside, the angst and anguish of Brexit has reopened old UK-Irish political wounds. Another Irish politician has described the Brexit negotiations as having similar importance to Ireland as the 1921 treaty talks between the two countries that eventually led to full Irish independence.
Mate the best of yours with the best of ours. LIC’s Premier Sires Forward Pack combine LIC’s best daughter-proven bulls, early-proof Spring Bulls and a careful selection of BW and type-trait genomic bulls. So if you’re looking to fast-track genetic gain in your herd, put the best of your cows with the best of our bulls. To find out more about Premier Sires Forward Pack, talk to your LIC rep or visit lic.co.nz/premiersires
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
OPINION // 23
Better trade prospects as curbs diminish National’s foreign spokesman Gerry Brownlee last month addressed the Canterbury Employers Chambers of Commerce about the headwinds facing global trade, including geo-political issues. Here are excerpts from his speech. THERE IS much to gain from advances in free trade, including jobs and higher incomes for New Zealanders, and it’s important that we take advantage of these global trends while we can. The latest data suggests that improving global conditions are directly benefiting NZ traders. NZ goods exports to China, our leading goods market, gained momentum in the last quarter, increasing 14% to the year ended June 2017. Goods exports to Australia, US, Japan and Korea were all up in the last quarter and prices are generally increasing in the Global Dairy Trade auction with seven of the last ten resulting in the index rising. Many positives can be highlighted but of course there are still risks to global stability. These include potential for countries to increase trade protection, and financial sector variabilities including mounting financial stability risks in China, political tensions and some security issues. In recent weeks I’ve attended meetings in Indonesia and the Philippines that have focused on counter-terrorism, cross-border conflict, cyber security and other issues important to the Asia Pacific region, notably the South China Sea and Korean peninsula. It’s clear that all coun-
tries in that region except North Korea have no interest in any kind of conflict that would halt or redirect their economic growth. China, Russia, US and Japan and all the Asean countries are calling for dialogue and dampening of tensions. For each of them and for us, the trade agenda remains important. While a lot of the international rhetoric may be about protectionism and the view that some major players are turning inwards, we now have a more interconnected world marketplace than ever before and the introduction of new measures appears to be slowing. The latest World Trade Organisation monitoring report shows members introduced fewer trade restricting measures in 2016 than in 2015, when new measures averaged about 20 a month. Since I assumed the foreign affairs portfolio about three months ago,
we’ve launched free trade negotiations with the Pacific Alliance, of which Mexico, Chile, Colombia and Peru are members. These four nations are home to 221 million consumers and have a combined GDP of US$3.8 trillion. The PACER Plus agreement has been signed to provide social and economic benefits to many Pacific nations. The $55 million development package will also help cut red tape for NZ businesses and will establish a common set of trading rules. Thailand and NZ have agreed to market access improvements for our exporters, we’ve started high-level talks with Washington under the Trump administration and we’ve solidified our position high up the queue for a post-Brexit FTA with the UK. Earlier this year we signed the Trans-Pacific Partnership 11, and officials will be assessing the
Gerry Brownlee with British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson.
NZ exports to China are booming.
options to bring TPP11 into force. TPP11 will ensure our exporters remain competitive in important markets and will support jobs in all regions of NZ. In three years NZ will be able to show its innovative products and services on the world stage at Dubai 2020, a world expo likely to attract 25 million visitors from Europe, Middle East, North Africa and Asia. In short, the outlook for NZ exporters is bright and, as we all know, a strong export economy produces positive knockon effects for every NZer.
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
24 // AGRIBUSINESS
Auckland school to showcase farming SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz
AUCKLAND SECONDARY schoolers
will soon get a close look at farming without travelling far. A new centre to display the best of the primary sector is being built at Mount Albert Grammar School in west-central Auckland. The $14 million project was announced in 2015 by the landowner ASB Bank. Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy last week was on hand for the turning of the first soil. Mount Albert Grammar School’s ASB Farm, set up in 1932, will become the AgriFood Experience Centre,
showing primary sector careers and making possible new connections in Auckland. “The primary industries play an incredibly important role in our economy,” said Guy. “This centre will play a big part in telling this story to younger, urban audiences.” The primary sector faces a challenge to attract 50,000 more employees over the next 10 years; Guy sees the new centre as a “game changer” to reach that target. “This centre will help showcase the most innovative developments in primary industries to Auckland students, and will help close the divide
between urban students and their awareness of the careers open to them in the primary sector.” It will also give students an awareness of the work done in agrifood via a hands-on learning approach. Mt Albert Grammar principal Patrick Drumm says the new centre will provide a great opportunity for the best and brightest MAGS students. “Gumboots will still have a place in the agricultural and horticultural careers of today, but of increasing importance are skills in science, technology and business, and an understanding of people and the need to sustain our environment,” he
says. “The ASB MAGS Farm has proved an asset for thousands of MAGS students the 95 years of our existence as a school.” Drumm says MAGS students are at the centre of the story: the new facility will lift teaching capacity in agricultural and horticultural subjects and agribusiness from its current 160 to 500.
National’s primary industries spokesman Nathan Guy turns the first soil at Mt Albert Grammar School, watched by agribusiness student Fatima Imraan (17) and principal Patrick Drumm.
REGAINING A LOST WORLD THE ASB MAGS Farm was set up when the Auckland Institute of Horticulture, deciding city children were losing knowledge of farming practices, asked Mount Albert Grammar to teach agriculture and horticulture. The Auckland Savings Bank
got involved on a charitable basis, and a specific law change allowed the bank to buy land from the neighbouring KerrTaylor sisters’ farm and lease it to the school at a peppercorn rental. It is now an 8.1ha working farm with a variety of livestock
and classrooms, educating 160 students annually from years 10-13 in agriculture and horticulture subjects. A new agreement signed in 2013 allows the MAGS board of trustees a 99-year lease on the land from ASB Bank for $1 per year.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
AGRIBUSINESS // 25
Win propels youngster on confidence track reassured him he was on the right winning the 2010 Dairy Trainee of track. The win provided valuable career the Year award is propelling a young sharemilker along a valuable career opportunities, but it is still up to the individual to use it as a springboard track, he says. for career progression, Blake Korteweg, a he says. young herd manager “I used it espefrom Otago, in 2010 cially to help network entered the New Zealand and mix with some top Dairy Industry Awards people in the industry and won the Southlandwho want to help and Otago Dairy Trainee of have lots of knowledge the Year competition. to give. Later that year at “The win gave me a the national awards gala boost of confidence to dinner in Rotorua he Blake Korteweg take the next step.” was named 2010 Dairy The next step for Korteweg was Trainee of the Year. It was the first time Korteweg had to 20% share milking on the same farm, building equity along the way, entered the awards. “I entered to benchmark where I then moving to 30% share milking was compared to others at my level for two seasons. His quest required and to get my name out there for him to relocate to Southland to 50/50 sharemilk on a 500-cow farm where potential jobs,” he said. The win gave Korteweg the con- he now lives. Korteweg believes the awards fidence to pursue career goals and
THE CONFIDENCE boost from
accelerated his learning and growth. “If I hadn’t won I think maybe I would still be where I am now, but it’s certainly made the progression easier,” he said. “The awards gave me a boost of enthusiasm for the industry and the opportunities to put me amongst the people I needed around me to help guide and push me to progress.” The New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards encompass the Share Farmer of the Year, Dairy Manager of the Year and Dairy Trainee of the Year competitions. The national sponsors are Westpac, DairyNZ, DeLaval, Ecolab, Federated Farmers, Fonterra Farm Source, Honda Motorcycles, LIC, Meridian Energy, Ravensdown and industry partner Primary ITO. Entries for the 2018 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards open in October. • For more information, entry criteria and regional dates visit www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz
CLUSTER RINSE
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Chinese social media stars Ran Chu (Yuni) and Fei Chu (Joyce) on a Hamilton farm.
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FRESH MILK BY AIR THE LAUNCH of a fresh milk NZ-
China air-freight venture by Theland Farm Fresh Milk on September 8 in Hamilton drew 100 people and was live-streamed to countless Chinese shoppers. The launch marked collaboration by Alibaba Group’s businessto-consumer Tmall platform and Milk New Zealand. Chinese consumers will see the milk on Alibaba’s 15-million ‘Super Members’ channel – a loyalty and rewards scheme for high-spending buyers on the Taobao and Tmall platforms. At the launch in Hamilton were
Chinese social media stars – some with millions of followers – including twins Yuni and Joyce who promote travel and food; they are sometimes known as the ‘Chinese Kardashians’. Theland Farm Group, which owns 29 dairy farms in NZ, is a subsidiary of Milk New Zealand. The farms milk 26,000 cows on 12,000 ha, producing 10m kgMS each year. Milk is processed by Green Valley Dairy in South Auckland, bottled in 1L bottles and airfreighted to China; it has a shelf life of 15 days.
Chinese consumers prioritise food safety, says Milk NZ managing director Terry Lee. “Traceability is very important: Chinese consumers want to know where and how the products are produced. The launch of our fresh milk product showcased our farm and its animal welfare, environmental and production standards.” By September 8 about 35,000 bottles had been air-freighted to China. Milk New Zealand expects 20,000 bottles per month will go to China during 2017, and 80,000 bottles per month by the end of the 2018.
• No interruption of milking routine • Low operating costs and extremely low water consumption • Only product with approval to use a sanitizing solution Protect your milk quality and start your automation future with GEA contact us today on 0800 GEA FARM.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
26 // MANAGEMENT
It’s a family affair for the M The abolition of EU milk quotas and sagging export beef prices are prompting Irish farmers – especially the young – to convert to dairying. Farm sizes, systems and technology are on the rise. Reporter Peter Burke visited Ireland recently and met the Mulligan family – Mary, Padraig and son Padraig Og (junior), running one of Ireland’s largest herds – 740 cows. THE MULLIGAN farm is located near the township of Templeboy, half a kilometre from the beautiful rugged north-west of Ireland coast. It’s also close to the attractive city of Sligo, linked to the
famous Irish poet W. B. Yeats. Mulligans’ farm is fertile and the country gently rolling, making it ideal for dairying. It’s typical beautiful Irish countryside with a slice of rugged-
ness making it even more attractive. Dry stone walls divide all farms. Today the farm covers just over 350ha, about half of it owned by the Mulligans and the remainder leased. Rainfall of about
1000mm is normal, the region being exposed to Atlantic gales. Padraig senior has worked on the farm since he was 14 when it was a 5.6ha mixed farm with three cows, 14 ewes, two
THE NEW PARLOUR BY THE early 1980s the Mulligan farm was already big by Irish standards with 80 cows, and when son Padraig Og came to the farm in 1996 the expansion was
in full swing and this has continued. He and his wife Anita and sons Kyle (9), Callum (6) and daughter Feaen (5) live next door to Mary and Padraig.
With Padraig Og on the farm, a company was formed four years ago with him and his parents as directors. He and his father look after the physical aspects of
Padraig Og Mulligan and sons Kyle and Callum at the site of the proposed $1.3m rotary milking parlour.
farm work, while Mary looks after the finances and other paperwork. In 1996 the family built a 20-bail Dairymaster herringbone parlour and planned some years ago to replace this with a new rotary shed, but the effects of the rise and fall of the ‘Celtic tiger’ economy scotched this. But with the farm producing at least 400,000kgMS/year from 740 cows, the Mulligans decided two years ago to bite the bullet, making plans install a 70-bail Dairymaster rotary costing $1.3 million. Padraig Og says they considered installing a smaller rotary, but other large Irish dairy farmers advised them to go big. Now most of the earthworks for the new parlour are done and they aim to commission the shed late this year. “The parlour is large
Padraig Mulligan has worked on the farm since 14.
but will be basic: the usual automatic cup removers, teat spray, automatic drafting and a back-end scraper. We chose Dairymaster because they were Irish and if we wanted a part we could get it quickly; after sales service is important. “Two people will be able to milk 500 cows an hour. With the present parlour the morning milking can take up to five hours and the evening four hours so we will save on the cost of labour,” he says. The Mulligans now employ four full-time and several part-time staff. Workers don’t stay long because of the time they must spend just milking cows. Padraig Og also believes they will save animal health costs;
they plan to upgrade the races to reduce the foot problems now an issue for them. Padraig senior also sees efficiencies in the new parlour. He believes their ability to accurately measure the production of each cow may help them reduce stock numbers by up to 100 without any loss of production. This is linked with reducing the stocking rate and getting better pasture utilisation. Mary Mulligan says the cost of the parlour will make finances tight, but the project is doable. “I am all behind it because I think the new milking parlour will make a huge difference to Padraig Og’s life. He can’t go on working the hours he has for the last
two years because he has to spend time with his wife and children and this will reduce the milking time by half,” she says. All three family members are confident their decision to grow the business will pay off in the long term. Mary notes that the day of the small herd dairy farmer is coming to an end because they are uneconomic and need to be supported by a person with an off-farm job. Son Padraig agrees and says as these farmers move on more land may come up for lease. But Mary says they are unlikely to buy more land because of the financial pressure. They are banking on dairying becoming an even bigger part of the Irish economy.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
MANAGEMENT // 27
e Mulligans sows and a horse to do ploughing, carting of hay, etc. It was essentially a self sufficiency operation. In 1972 Padraig took over the farm, then 16ha and running 55 cows. A year later he and Mary got married and went on their honeymoon, only to return to disaster. “When we came back the whole herd had gone down with brucellosis so I had to start again and that was pretty hard. My wife went back to work in the bank so a few pounds were coming in every week; we also started doing B&B to help the finances. “We have moved on from those bad days, rebuilt the herd and bought about 20 small The farm’s philosophy is to feed cows grass.
farms and some machinery and for a while we did contracting.” The game-changer was when Padraig Og decided to come home and help run the farm with his father. They have since developed an ‘Irish cross’ cow – part Jersey, part Holstein. This has produced a smaller cow with good milk production but higher milk solids – similar to the NZ Kiwi-cross. “The Jersey bull has been good to us as we now have a smaller cow that is mostly troublefree and other farmers have seen our animals and want to buy them. “We sold 75 heifers to the UK last year and we feel we could sell more as we are over-stocked and
putting too much pressure on the animals we have. This year we plan to sell 100 in-calf heifers because prices look good. We get rid of their bull calves as quickly as possible and most of these go to Holland for the veal market and some to France,” he says. Padraig Mulligan says he knows NZ farmers feed out a lot of supplements, but the philosophy of the family is to use grass to the fullest, cut back the use of meal and use bailage and hay only when required. The stocking rate on the farm is now 6.4/ha, double the national average. Padraig has exciting plans to help do this, he says.
LIFE OF MARY YOUR REPORTER stumbled accidentally onto the Mulligans’ farm. Looking for a farmstay around Sligo I booked online, not knowing quite what to expect. It turned out an inspired choice. The B&B is called Ave Maria and has seven rooms reasonably priced. Mary Mulligan has run it since 1974. Her full Irish breakfast would shame most hotels I know: juice, fresh berries, toast, coffee -- the works. For visitors who love farming an optional farm tour shows the cows being milked. Guests come from all over the world; many Germans this year -- and one Kiwi. “The B&B is a bonus,” Mary says. “It doesn’t bring in huge money because we provide good service and don’t buy cheap stuff for guests. But it pays for a holiday and few extras. And I enjoy meeting people and love cooking, though I don’t like cleaning and making beds.” Mary gets some help from her daughters who live nearby. But while the B&B is a focus for Mary, she is firstly the company financial controller, paying the bills and sorting
leases and other paperwork like many women in NZ. She admits she loves being in control. The family drawings from the farm are naturally modest and the focus is on succession, she says. The farm will go to Padraig but her five daughters are
Mary Mulligan
well provided for financially in other ways, including getting a free site on which to build houses. The Mulligans of Templeboy are seen as leading lights and innovators in the Irish dairy industry. They have signed up to Origen Green and regularly host agricultural students on their farm. They are also involved in the Irish Farmers Association and other community groups. But in particular they are a sign that the dairy industry in Ireland is on the move upwards, a warning to NZ that complacency here could mean gains there.
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
28 // MANAGEMENT
Ask before hiring a farm environment consultant MARK FITZPATRICK
THE DEGREE to which
farmers are mitigating environmental impacts has become a hot election topic. As many regulations start to take effect, farmers are grappling with the complexity of the work they need to get done, the new limits they need to farm to and if or how their property values are being affected as a result. With all that complexity, visibility and risk comes the opportunity for consultants to offer to help farmers with their challenges. Professional advisors,
e.g. accountants or agriconsultants, are familiar, but farm environmental consultants are a fairly new breed. So how do you know the environmental advice you’re getting is what you need and you’re not just being told what you want to hear? Here are six questions to get started. First, are they a certified nutrient management advisor (CNMA)? Having this qualification shows you they have met the nationally recognised standards as providers of certified nutrient management advice. Advisers are required to have completed appropriate university qualifi-
Sivit
stem with orate this sy . rp co in n ca We ossible ad where p your feed p ndly d pond frie Irrigation an ss with d I can discu Phone me an be achieved. n you what ca
cations, or suitable work experience in agriculture. They also need to have successfully completed the intermediate and advanced courses in Sustainable Nutrient Management in New Zealand Agriculture via Massey University, and show that their skills and knowledge meet required standards via a competency assessment. The list of all CNMAs is available at this website: http://www.nmacertification.org.nz/Site/ Nutrient_Management/Certified_Advisers/default.aspx Second, will they tell you what you want to hear or what you need to hear? Farm environmental
Making effluent control easy
JOHN GUY
027-929 3333 www.sivit.co.nz
Farmers are grappling with new limits they need to farm to and how their property values are being affected as a result. Inset: Mark Fitzpatrick.
work is important. A poor piece of technical work linked to a resource consent can result in legally binding conditions -- with a council -- that put your farm’s value at risk. So, make sure they’re giving this work the effort it deserves. Keep an eye out for someone who may be taking shortcuts that could end up costing you a lot of money in the long run. It’s worse than a false economy; it’s a false sense of security. Third, will they stick with you and defend their work in event of prosecution? Farm environmental management is here to stay. Ongoing support is likely to be needed, whether farming advice or compliance assessments for reporting to councils. You need to know the person working with you to meet regulatory
requirements and obtain consents will also be there to help you in years to come. Worst case scenario is you need their support in the Environment Court. If a consultant wouldn’t defend their work in a legal setting, then you aren’t getting what you’re paying for. It’s the ultimate test of their confidence in their data, analysis and recommendations. Fourth, do they understand your farm? If they are not visiting your farm and discussing your goals, then alarm bells should ring. Having access to fertiliser history, soil test results and spreading maps are all going to speed up the process. Knowledge of the region and the challenges faced by neighbouring farms will also be helpful. Fifth, how thorough is
their process? Complex modelling and scenario planning of farm systems through Overseer is no walk in the park; it can take time to do the work well. To ensure nothing is missed, all work should be reviewed by another senior ranking advisor. The reviewer should have the experience and knowledge to really understand the work and give it the critical eye it deserves. Sixth, do they understand the rules? The regulatory framework can be complex and contain a lot of specific details. Knowing the ins and outs of the latest plan change ruling and applying these to your case is part of what you’re paying for. The way rules are implemented changes all the time so if your advisor isn’t up-todate with the variations,
they may be missing a vital piece of the puzzle. Ask them how they stay in touch with what’s changing and how much contact they have with regional council officials. The best way to tackle environmental management is to think of it as business risk management. It’s important because failing to put the right measures in place now could have long-term consequences for your farm. It always pays to do it right and as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for. If you’re compromising on quality advice, you may be compromising your farm’s sustainability. • Mark Fitzpatrick is business manager, Ravensdown Environmental. @dairy_news facebook.com/dairynews
s
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
MANAGEMENT // 29
To grow or not to grow WITH A very wet winter
resulting in cows being stood off paddocks and fed more supplements the demand for maize this season is pretty high. High demand and short supply have caused prices for bought in maize to start rising. As a result I am often asked “Is it better to grow maize on farm, or to buy it in?” With a milk price sitting at $6.75/kgMS things are looking good for this season. But in the last few years we have learnt two things: one, milk price is prone to fluctuation and, two, farmers need to control expenses, a big part of which can be their supplementary feed bill. Growing maize silage on farm is an excellent way to provide lots of high-quality dry matter at a keen price. It is common for farmers to be able to grow maize silage crops on paddocks that need renewing, yielding 18-24 tDM/ha for about 16-21c/kgDM in the stack. Growing costs can be reduced even more by growing maize in an effluent paddock where mostly there is no need for extra fertiliser. This drops the cost of maize to 12-18c/ kgDM -- attractive compared to buying in maize silage for, say, 28-34c/ kgDM. However, my analysis above doesn’t tell the whole story; there are a few things you also need to think about. Firstly, does the area where you want to grow your maize truly need
renovating? Because if the paddock is already producing a lot of dry matter, the difference in the total amount of dry matter grown by putting in a crop of maize needs to be considered. Take the example of a poorly performing paddock growing 9tDM for the year, but that would grow 27tDM if planted in maize plus new grass. The benefit of the maize system is 18tDM (27-9). If it costs $3800/ha to grow, then this extra feed has cost 21c/kgDM. However, if the paddock doesn’t need renewing and is now growing 14tDM/ha, the net amount of feed grown on the paddock is only 13 tDM/ha and the cost of that feed rises to 29c/kgDM. At this price it is better to buy it in as you are paying for someone else to take the risk. Secondly, what is the chance of your achieving the yield you have planned for? For example, on very wet land or very dry land the yields can vary greatly depending on the season. This has a big impact on the profitability of your farm
Growing maize silage on farm can provide quality dry matter at a keen price.
system: either you may not get the amount of feed you need or the actual price of your home grown feed could be very high if your yield is low. In other words, the risk of growing on farm outweighs the benefits of getting cheaper feed. If this is the case, it is better to buy your maize in. Thirdly, are there areas of the farm needing to be cropped to solve a prob-
lem? For example, your effluent or night paddocks may have high K levels causing milk fever problems in early lactation. A crop of maize will solve this easily. In this case it is likely you won’t need any fertiliser to grow your maize. This can bring the average cost per hectare from down from about $3800/ha to $2800/ ha. Using the exam-
ple in my first point, the cost of feed of the extra feed grown on the effluent paddock is 22c/kgDM ($2800/ha ÷ 13tDM/ha). At this price you would be likely to grow onfarm. Lastly, many farmers simply can’t grow enough feed themselves and so need to buy in some maize to top up their home grown maize. Let’s say you need 200tDM but can only grow 100tDM
on your effluent paddocks. The local grower is offering maize silage at 32c/kgDM landed. If we assume the feed you grew has cost you 22c/ kgDM (as per the previous example), then the average cost of the whole 200tDM will be 27c/ kgDM. This is a saving of about $10,000. In summary, as I have tried to show, it is important to run the numbers
on your farm, taking into account all the factors you need to consider in making that decision. If you are unsure of how to generate those numbers you can either ask our Pioneer team to help (call 0800 746633) or ask your consultant to help you run the numbers. • Ian Williams is a Pioneer forage specialist. Contact him at iwilliams@genetic. co.nz
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
30 // ANIMAL HEALTH
Less replacements, less emissions NIGEL MALTHUS
LOWER REPLACEMENT rates and higher
body weight/lower stocking rates are the two most
effective of five available ways of cutting dairy greenhouse gas emission, a scientist has told a workshop for rural professionals. Other possibilities, in
descending order of effectiveness, are using alternative forages, applying nitrogen fertiliser with a urease inhibitor, and using a stand-off pad at times when N losses are highest.
AgResearch senior scientist Dr Cecile de Klein said reduced replacement rates also rank best for cost-effectiveness. “It’s actually a benefit because it’s reducing your
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costs. You gain a reduction in greenhouse gases and you gain a financial benefit.” The stand-off pad ranks last because it addresses nitrate but not the other main agricultural greenhouse gas -methane. It is also last in cost-effectiveness because of its capital cost. The Lincoln event, one of a string of greenhouse gas workshops run by DairyNZ and AgResearch, drew about 60 participants. DairyNZ senior policy advisor Kara Lok said NZ is unusual in having 48% of all its greenhouse gas emissions coming from farming -- about half from dairy. 85% of the sector emissions were generated onfarm and the rest in processing and transport. “To really address dairy’s emissions most of the action will have to occur onfarm.” Lok said NZ is already a world leader in producing emissions-efficient milk, likely because
of year-round grazing on pasture, high pasture production per hectare, low cow replacement rates and relatively low use of supplementary feed. However, Lok said, there is political consensus that the farming sector must do something, though it is not clear what that should be now the general elections are over. “It’s important that the climate change policy framework and the freshwater management policy are integrated and we look at what we can do with freshwater, and what that means for climate change and vice versa.” AgResearch science impact leader Dr Robyn Dynes told the meeting of four research threads for methane emissions reduction: low methane feeds, genetics, methane inhibitors and the “ultimate” -a vaccine to suppress the methanogen bacteria in the rumen, perhaps reducing emissions by 30%. Dynes said about 300
potential antigens are now identified. “There’s a lot of methanogens but a small number producing most of the methane so we’ve got to get antibodies that respond to the significant methanogens and that’s not without its challenges.” Dynes cited Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Dr Jan Wright’s greenhouse gas emissions report from last October. “She said ‘there’s one thing I ask of you, that you don’t give up on the vaccine. Hard as it is, it is the single-biggest breakthrough that could happen for management of methane in ruminants globally’.” Nick Tait, DairyNZ environment extension specialist, cautions against seeing methods for greenhouse gas reduction in isolation. Farmers also need to look at nitrate leaching and consultants need to discuss this now with farmer clients. The workshops are part of DairyNZ’s and Fonterra’s Dairy Action for Climate Change announced in June. They also want to identify 12 “climate change dairy farmer champions” to raise awareness and mobilise change and get 60 rural professionals to enrol in Massey University’s greenhouse gas course. Tait called on attendees to volunteer for those two efforts. @dairy_news facebook.com/dairynews
s
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
ANIMAL HEALTH // 31
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mary Industries (MPI) has done at least 15000 tests for Mycoplasma bovis. Response incident controller Dr Eve Pleydell says most tests have come back negative; positive results have been found only on the six properties known to be infected. The tests are done at MPI’s animal health laboratory at Wallaceville. Farm testing may be done up to three times at three-four week intervals before there is a definite result for each farm but the results so far are encouraging, says Pleydell. “All the current infected properties have direct links to each other through animals moving from one farm to another and disease passing between animals that are in close, repeated and prolonged contact. “There have been no cases of infection by any other means. Despite intensive testing, no neighbouring properties have as yet been identified as infected. “As part of our tracing and testing programme we are continuing to contact individual farms where there may be a higher chance of the disease being present because they have received cattle from an infected property in recent months. “We are also testing animals on farms that are
MPI says it is tightening the net on Mycoplasma bovis.
neighbours to an infected property, to make sure we get a complete picture of any local spread of this disease. So far, no positive results have been returned from any neighbouring farms, which is good news.” MPI has a wide range of checks and testing underway to get a detailed picture of where the disease is. Infected properties, neighbours and trace properties are checked, and the ministry does regional and national testing. MPI is taking a multilayer approach to testing to find out how wide spread Mycoplasma bovis is. “This approach has three layers that we call response surveillance, district surveillance and national surveillance. “Response surveillance is focussed on the infected properties, stock movement traces from and to those properties and the neighbouring properties.” District wide, a
UNWANTED ARRIVAL MYCOPLASMA BOVIS is a bacterium that causes illness in cattle, including udder infection (mastitis), abortion, pneumonia and arthritis. It does not infect humans and presents no food safety risk. There is no concern about consuming milk and milk products from affected cattle. The disease was confirmed in July 2017 on two farms in a 16 farm dairy enterprise in South Canterbury. In August 2017 a third infected farm was confirmed in the Oamaru area. All three affected properties and the remaining 14 corporate farms in the group are under legal controls (restricted place notice) restricting the movement of stock and equipment off those farms to contain the disease. Mycoplasma bovis is common internationally and is present in most countries with animal production industries. It is not listed with the OIE (world animal health organisation). It does not present a trade risk for NZ animal products. This is the first time it has been found in NZ. The bacterium is an unwanted organism under the Biosecurity Act 1993.
Waimate/Waitaki survey is run by MPI and several industry groups to screen the milk from animals in those districts. Bulk and discarded milk is being collected from about 260 farms in the area and tested. No positive results
have been found on uninfected farms in the area. Nationwide testing is also multi-layered. Firstly, any farmer who has contacted their vet about possible Mycoplasma bovis disease in their herds are tested.
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SUPPORTING FARMERS MPI SAYS it is disappointed to hear that farms in South Canterbury and North Otago are facing contract cancellations. Customers looking at sourcing stock are now shunning farmers in the regions and turning to other parts of New Zealand. Eve Pleydell says this is disappointing and is not justified based on what MPI knows of the current pattern of disease. “What the South Canterbury and North Otago farming communities need right now is support. As much as possible, business needs to continue as usual. We realise this is a worrying situation for farmers
in NZ but business decisions need to be evidence-based and grounded in fact. “We have no evidence of any means of disease spread other than from close animal contact on a farm at this stage. This includes no evidence that the disease has jumped fences and infected animals on neighbouring farms. Our scientists and vets also tell us this is unlikely to occur because the disease is usually spread by repeated and prolonged contact between animals. “As our picture grows and as more test results come back, the greater our confidence that the disease is being well con-
tained on the known infected properties. “We are confident our control measures are sufficient to contain it there as we continue to gather the evidence necessary to assess whether this disease can be eradicated.” Along with the animal industry bodies, MPI says it will continue the biosecurity response, finding any further infected properties, controlling the disease and if possible eradicating it from the country. “We encourage all farmers and rural contractors to help protect their farms and businesses by following standard farm hygiene best practice.”
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
32 // ANIMAL HEALTH / PASTURE
Beetling for healthy soils COULD USING exotic dung beetles help address soil health and water quality issues in New Zealand? It’s an option with possibilities. Dung beetles provide
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many ecosystem services: decreasing the amount of pasture smothered by faeces (pasture fouling), increasing pasture growth, nutrient cycling, improving soil structure and killing pests and diseases. Hence, NZ authorities have allowed the importing of dung beetles, now being mass reared here. I believe that if we can further establish dung beetles in NZ, possibly in the long term millions of these critters will be chewing and burying dung from pastoral animals, with many benefits. While dung decomposes naturally, intensive farming means large quantities are dropped, and the nutrients and pathogens move into waterways. Pasture production can also be reduced because of fouling. However, dung beetles search out the faeces of animals which they use for food and reproduction. Most adult dung beetles make tunnels in soil beneath faeces then lay their eggs there. Other species make balls of the faeces which they roll away and bury deep in the soil before adding an egg. As the eggs hatch the grubs feed on the dung so they break it down and eventually turn it into a sawdust-like material that adds to the fertility of the soil structure; and the surface dung goes. The first intentional introduction of a pastoral dung beetle was in 1956 when the Mexican dung beetle took hold at Whangarei; beetles were introduced into South Kaipara in 1994. But because dung dropping goes on yearround, one species of dung beetle alone is incapable of achieving suitable control. Widespread use of dung beetles can help improve soil health, reduce runoff, and increase aeration and water penetration into the soil through beetle tunnels; beetles can reduce urine and liquid dung
runoff, and reduce microbial contamination, leachate pollution and eutrophication of waterways. Beetles also help reduce nitrous oxide emissions as 80% of the nitrogen content of dung ‘flashes off’ (is lost by volatilisation) when dung remains on the pasture surface, versus only 10% when beetles bury dung. Greater pasture productivity is another benefit, as stock will not graze around dung pats, reducing pasture productivity. Burial of nutritious material by dung beetles enhances grass growth, reducing reliance on fertiliser. Nuisance flies breed in dung but are beaten to resources by fast-burying dung beetles. Dung beetles could also reduce infection of animals by parasitic worms because dung burial removes the infective stages of the worms; stock drenching could diminish. Some concerns have been raised that tunnels in the soil created by dung beetles could lead to more leaching of nutrients and E.coli. NZ research shows this is not so because while beetles create tunnels they pack these with their brood balls, sealing them off. Dung beetles spread only slowly after introduction and research is under way to find better ways to increase their distribution in pasture. Plenty of information on dung beetles in NZ appears on https://dungbeetle.org.nz/ and describes research done overseas and more recently here. • Bala Tikisetty is a sustainable agriculture advisor at Waikato Regional Council, phone 0800 800 401.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
EFFLUENT & WATER MANAGEMENT // 33
Do it once, do it right DOING IT once and
doing it right is a great guiding philosophy for upgrading farm effluent systems. Waikato Regional Council’s ‘Effluent Expo’ at the Claudelands Event Centre in Hamilton on Tuesday 17 October will help farmers to do just that. The council knows farmers can be worried, when upgrading to comply with effluent rules, that despite their best efforts and hefty spending they might be forced to do it all over again as circumstances and rules change. “Spending money on improving an effluent system to ensure compliance can be a daunting task, practically and financially, for a farmer,” says sustainable agriculture advisor Mark Gasquoine.
“A farmer concern the council hears is that rules could change and require further investment.” He acknowledges that change is always theoretically possible. But he notes that the current rules are well-established and science-based; rules are outlined in the Proposed Plan Change 1 in the Waikato and Waipa rivers catchments. “The principles underlying effluent management rules align with current science, which shows that applying effluent to pasture when soil moisture is at suitable levels has a relatively low environmental risk.” And he says there are basics farmers need to bear in mind. “The basic reason for a good effluent system is reducing the impact of the application of effluent
Farmers mingling with exhibitors at the 2015 Effluent Expo.
to land by applying effluent at the right time, and also to ensure that applications don’t overload the environment with nutrients, particularly nitrogen.” Farmers can install low-risk systems. Also, the dairy industry’s Farm Dairy Effluent Design Standard and Code of Practice
addresses questions farmers generally have on future-proofing their effluent systems. It outlines the expectations for all aspects of effluent system design, e.g. pipe and pump matches, appropriate application principles on soil types, etc. “Any effluent system
designed to code standards is going to meet regional council requirements now and is likely to meet near-future requirements,” says Gasquoine. Council resource officer Ryan Morrison says any system will be suitable only for a set time, e.g. pond-liners are warranted for 25 years maxi-
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mum. “Any effluent system well managed and maintained is likely to last 25 years and, like all farm equipment and infrastructure, will in time need upgrades.” Increasing herd size will have a big impact on a system designed for a smaller herd, he adds. The council is finding a good number of farmers are upgrading their effluent systems, Morrison says. “Farmers generally are making an effort to do it once, do it right on upgrades, and to get the right sort of advice to help them.” Farming services team leader Stuart Stone agrees farmers are trying although compliance data for the last financial year shows gains are still required.
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“The farming services team appreciates individual farmers lifting their game on compliance, whether it’s having the right infrastructure or sufficiently trained staff to ensure infrastructure is working as it should. But our figures show the dairy sector in Waikato still has some way to go overall. “The data, in particular, reinforces the need for farmers to have adequate effluent storage to comply 365 days a year.” Gasquoine says that, as technology improves, the tools available to manage effluent will improve, but they are unlikely to change in the foreseeable future. • More information on the expo is available at www. waikatoregion.govt.nz/community/your-community/ for-farmers/2017-effluentexpo/
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
34 // EFFLUENT & WATER MANAGEMENT
Nutrient control with irrigation A NEW nutrient management tool offers farmers a high degree of control and reporting when applying nutrients, its maker says. Lindsay Corporation’s Precision VRI (variable rate irrigation) system enables the creation of irrigation plans for effluent, ‘fertigation’ and/or ‘chemigation’ to specific areas under irrigation. The system automatically switches to a specified plan when the nutrients are being injected into the irrigation water line. This enables farmers to assign resources to maximise yields, ensuring efficient use of water and nutrients, yet preventing leaching and run-off, the maker says. The system individually pulses sprinklers on and off, and controls the irrigator speed to modify the application depth along the length of the irrigator. Control of the irrigator speed and individual valves allows the amount of water and nutrients applied to each area to be carefully regulated. Precision VRI can also be used to avoid irrigating over buildings, tracks, roads and non-productive areas. Buffered avoidance zones can be placed around environmentally sensitive areas
Key benefits
and waterways. Proof-of-placement reports analyse the nutrients applied, “helping farmers to justify responsible nutrient application,” the company says. Growers can produce reports from a 24-hour period right up to an entire irrigation season.
Save water Independent research has indicated that in any one year variable rate irrigation can save between 9 and 26% of irrigation water. These savings are possible through the use of the intelligent Precision VRI system enabling application rates over wet areas to be reduced and water completely turned off over tracks, drains, buildings and unproductive areas. Easy to use The Precision VRI propriety software has been developed specifically for farmers, is easy to use and completely customisable. Change application rate over different crops or soil types Rather than farming to the limitations of an existing irrigation system, crops that require varying amounts of water can be grown under your current system, giving you the ability to maximise yields even in the most variable of soils. Reduce over-watering on laterals
The technology is compatible with centre pivots, laterals, pivoting laterals and reverse pivoting laterals. It can be installed on new gear or retro-fitted. www.growsmartvri.com @dairy_news
and part circles by running different forward and reverse plans Precision VRI solves common over-watering issues inherent with many machine set-ups such as laterals, geo-laterals and part circles. For instance irrigation plans can be set up to ramp down application rates when approaching the reversing point for a part circle or lateral and then ramp up again when heading away from the barricade. The intelligent system can also detect when a geo-lateral changes from lateral to pivot mode, altering the sprinkler rates accordingly to even out the application. Decrease power consumption As the system only delivers water when and where it’s programmed to there is no wasted pumping costs. Less track maintenance In areas where there are tracks, Precision VRI can be programmed to shut off, which means less erosion and decreased water use.
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Environment, animal welfare and profit...have it all! performance ✓ Environmental Utilising on/off grazing can lead to reduced soil pugging and compaction, decreased N leaching and a reduction in overgrazing
Animal welfare
animals with a shelter choice limits the impact of heat, cold and ✓ Providing rain & improves calving survival rates.
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✓ See the new and improved design. More loafing space, increased effluent storage and a stronger roof. Ask the farmer why they picked HerdHomes® shelters and see for yourself how it is working out.
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Farmers are growing more grass and utilising supplementary feeds far more efficiently when fully using a HerdHomes Shelter—this is leading to higher productivity and profit.
Autumn / Winter HerdHomes® shelters users throughout New Zealand continue to talk to us about the benefits they get throughout the autumn and winter. It allows for users to manage pasture residuals and round lengths with ease. Drying off is based on calving date as all stock are wintered at home where putting on a condition score is simple
NZ Patent Numbers: 521150, 544190, 550635, 545042. Further patents pending. International Patent Numbers: 2003267874, 03748807.9. Further patents pending
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
EFFLUENT & WATER MANAGEMENT // 35
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Planning a new storage facility new dairy effluent pond? A well designed and built pond will save you time and money, give peace of mind, increase flexibility in timing the irrigation of paddocks and help use nutrients and water effectively. DairyNZ recommends: a sealed pond to avoid leakage to groundwater, a well-designed structure with enough storage capacity, and a pond that meets regional and district council regulations. A booklet on the DairyNZ website -- ‘A farmer’s guide to building a new effluent storage pond’ -- gives helpful advice. Planning is a critical stage; poor information now will compromise the whole project and your effluent pond may never meet your needs. DairyNZ says to ensure your designer and
contractor have the right information to design your effluent pond you will need to tell them your intentions and design preferences. While the design of the effluent pond is best carried out by a specialist, and the final design may differ from your original thoughts, it’s a good idea to have some idea of your preferences before talking to the designer. Get a suitably qualified person to design your pond so that it will be appropriate for your farm and farming system. It will also ensure the pond complies with regional council rules and is designed with an understanding of the current research and best technology options available at the time. Choosing the right contractor is also important. DairyNZ recommends picking a contractor experienced in
POND SIZE To determine the pond size required for deferred irrigation storage, consider the following: the best way to determine pond size is by using the DNZ dairy effluent storage calculator (DESC). ■■ Local rainfall variability: coverage of raingauge sites in the calculator is patchy in some regions ■■
■■
There is some variation in the amount of storage required by different regional councils. We recommend sizing be based on DESC calculations rather than a council minimum storage requirement where the latter gives a lesser volume. The DESC determines pond volume and does not allow for freeboard or sludge accumulation volume.
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
36 // EFFLUENT & WATER MANAGEMENT
Water scheme well on track NIGEL MALTHUS
Grazing cows seen through short sections of glass-reinforced plastic pipes.
CENTRAL PLAINS Water Ltd says both its expansion projects are progressing well with only minor weather delays. Stage 1 of the main scheme takes water from an intake on the Rakaia River and services 23,000ha via a 17km open canal terminating near Hororata. Stage 2, under construction since April, will take water from the end of the existing stage 1 canal to service another 20,000ha in the northeast half of the CPW area. It will be underground, using 2.5m and 2m diameter glass-reinforced plastic pipes for the main trunks. CPWL chief executive Derek Crombie referred to the very wet winter, especially heavy rain a month ago that affected everything. The Hororata River crossing site, where the pipe will be buried about 5m below the river bed, had been flooded twice but that will not affect the completion date, about April next year. Meanwhile, the physically separate Sheffield scheme is due to come on stream by early October. That will take water from the Waimakariri River and service about 4100ha in the northwest corner of the CPWL coverage area, from a 2 million cu.m storage pond now being lined. Crombie said in mid-September that the contractor, Fulton Hogan, needed only about 15 days good weather to finish off the HDPE plas-
tic lining of the dam; that meant not too windy, when the plastic sheet would be too unwieldy, or too cold, which would make it brittle. Only “a little bit of infill pipe” is needed to complete the rest of the infrastructure. The completed dam will take 14 days to fill, but water draw-off can begin at a depth of only 2 - 3m. The Sheffield scheme will service 33 shareholder farms and Crombie said most already have their farm infrastructure ready to go. Meanwhile, Crombie said two separate protest occupations by Greenpeace activists had negligible affects on the progress of either scheme. On August 2, activists chained themselves inside one of the pipes on the stage 2 construction site but that only briefly stopped work at that one site. On any day there would be work going on at about eight sections, he said. On September 7 activists occupied the floor of the Sheffield scheme dam site before being removed by police after about eight hours. Crombie said the protests had minor effects “but [according to] their website they stopped the world”. “We’re frustrated that the information they’re giving out is selective and misleading; saying things like we’re polluting the rivers is simply not correct because we don’t have any discharge into the Waimakariri, the Selwyn or the Rakaia. “At the same time we’ve said to them we have no problem with
peaceful demonstration; that’s a democratic right. We have a problem with them over illegal occupation or illegal trespass.” Responding to the Greenpeace charge that irrigation would expand intensive dairying, Crombie said there is no doubt that irrigation can support dairy farming. “But the other side of it -- and this is where they’re not saying anything -- is that Environment Canterbury have put very stringent operating conditions on dairying and other types of farming. If you convert to a dairy farm now you have to comply with those conditions.” Crombie pointed out that the three broad types of soils in the CPWL area include very good soils for high-end cropping around Darfield, Kirwee and Sheffield; middle-grade soils that do not hold water quite as well and are used for sheep and beef units; and stoney soils on the south sector near the Rakaia where dairy has prospered. That area was fully developed for dairy before the CPW scheme, but using groundwater for irrigation. Crombie said the scheme allows them to turn off groundwater and replace it with surface water, to the benefit of the aquifers and lowland streams. “We’ve seen in the central area about a 15% increase in dairy once irrigation goes in and the remainder will stay sheep and beef and arable.” All irrigators must have a farm environment plan before CPWL can provide water.
Getting reading for the second stage of the scheme.
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
38 // EFFLUENT & WATER MANAGEMENT
Going beyond failsafe GPS technology KENNETH IRONS
TWO KEY aspects of
an effluent monitoring system are reliability and ease of use. Firstly, fail-safe
Water-resistant touch screens.
technology that switches off an effluent pump if a hose bursts or a travelling irrigator stops is commonplace. Such gear is well proven, reliable if maintained and serviced at least annually, and
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much cheaper than a compliance breach. Second, the ability to automatically record where effluent has been applied to avoid over-application is also common, with accurate GPS records able to show where effluent has been applied. New-generation effluent management systems offer much more than just fail-safe and GPS. New touch screen technology makes operating, changing settings and seeing onscreen information as easy and intuitive as using a smartphone. Precision Farming uses 20cm colour, waterresistant, touch screens in its effluent control systems, in an electrical cabinet installed at the pump or in the dairy shed. Whether a farmer prefers solar power or rechargeable battery power, either way the aim is less power use at the irrigator end. Our new smart programming means the on-board control unit ‘sleeps’ for 59 seconds per minute, ‘wakes up’ for an instant to send a burst of data, then goes back to sleep. The remote unit in the paddock can also be woken remotely by the farmer to check the system, or by Precision Farming to update software and run diagnostics. Miniature componentry allows our company’s new irrigator control unit to be the size of a half kilo block of cheese. And this new system is among the highest in features and the lowest in cost on the NZ market. Effluent system specialist Hi Tech Enviro, manufacturer of the Cobra Raingun travelling irrigator, uses the Precision Farming onboard effluent controller, building it into the Cobra at manufacture. The electronics are installed as the Cobra is built, so the cables and cabinets are an integral part of the Cobra. The electronics are out of the
way of weather, effluent and cows’ tongues. The new digital pressure transducer gives direct reading from the screen at the irrigator and generates data as part of the precision reporting. Our company’s pasture and farm data management system has effluent NPK and GPS data seamlessly integrated with fertiliser management, soil moisture and temperature data, feed budgeting, pasture recording and feed wedge, and spray management. Also, Precision’s NPK data both from applied fertiliser and applied effluent will be able to be uploaded to Ballance AgriNutrient’s new fertiliser management system My Ballance. Effluent NPK data can also be exported along with fertiliser NPK records directly into Precision’s Overseer ready report. Where irrigators are used to apply large volumes, for example whey distribution, Precision Farming provides an option for traffic light-coloured paddocks – showing red, orange or green -- for paddocks that have been irrigated fully, partially or not at all in the last number of specified days. Any farmer considering a farm data system must think about the contrast between recording systems that require, on the one hand, smartphone or keyboard data entry and, on the other hand, electronically initiated records. Smartphone/keyboard systems are mere storage systems -- labour intensive and subject to being incomplete and inaccurate; and they are often based on ‘as-intended’ records of an instruction before the work is done. Contrast these with electronically initiated records that are complete, accurate and based on ‘as-applied’ work once completed. • Kenneth Irons is head of sales and markerting at Precision Farming.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
EFFLUENT & WATER MANAGEMENT // 39
New app a boost for environment A NEW farm tool helps
identify ways to get better farm environment results. DairyNZ’s free EnviroWalk app makes for easier assessment of fertiliser use, effluent, waterways, races, cropping, water use and irrigation; and it creates an action plan on a smartphone. About 1500 farmers have downloaded the app since July. DairyNZ spokesman Adam Duker, who led the development of the app, says they wanted to make farmers’ environmental tasks as easy
as possible. “The app allows them to get all the information they need at their
fingertips.” The app has a series of yes/no questions enabling the user to identify farm areas where things could be done differently for better
environmental results. Depending on the answers to the questions, the app suggests solutions or actions that form the basis of an action plan for downloading, printing and updating at any time. “And once the app is downloaded it can be used with no internet connection and accessed anywhere onfarm,” Duker says. Farmers helped DNZ develop the app. For example, Otago dairy farmer John Den Baars piloted the app, finding it took the guesswork out of assessing environmental impact. “The app is all things environmental for your farm in one place. It is user-
friendly and a great tool for training the younger generation. “The young staff I work with would rather do it on their phone than on a bit of paper and it’s faster than working out a
plan the hard way.” Other DNZ apps are the Dairy Effluent Storage Calculator and BCS Tracker app, now downloaded 11,700 times. The Dairy Effluent Storage Calculator shows
how much effluent storage a farm needs. The EnviroWalk app can be downloaded on any device via the DNZ website, Apple App Store or Android Google Play Store.
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
40 // EFFLUENT & WATER MANAGEMENT LATEST STORIES EVERY DAY www.ruralnewsgroup.co.nz
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The average dairy farmer takes about 30 minutes to hose the yard after milking and uses between 10,000 and 20,000 litres of water. Water conservation and reducing effluent waste are major environmental issues impacting on all farming operations. It pays to look at options to keep these to a minimum.
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the value of effluent as a means of replacing bagged fertilisers, so the increased payout is likely to prompt spending on plant and machinery to make the most of this resource. Traditional spreading via tanker or umbilical systems using splashplates is known to result in large droplet sizes, which in turn lead to odours but more importantly the loss of nitrogen by volatilisation. The Nevada RainWave, originally developed by a German farmer in response to the banning of conven-
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tional splash-plates, is said to result in a larger droplet size and the ability to spread wide, despite running low pressures and high flow rates. The oscillating spreader head, not unlike the design of a traditional garden sprinkler, moves left to right as effluent hits the plate, creating large droplets that fall gently to the ground in a “rain-like” manner. The action is said to reduce wind-drift and evaporation, so is particularly useful near watercourses or homes. Spreading width can be adjusted from 6 - 18m with a range of spreader
heads and the ability to deal with outputs of up to 200m3 per hour. The benefits of a wide spread allow application depths to be cut to as low as 1mm for rapid absorption and reduced ponding, while also allowing operators to reduce speeds to less than 7km/h. These are available for use with most makes of tankers or umbilical systems with solids contents up to 20%. The use of stainless steel minimises maintenance and extends service life. – Mark Daniel
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
EFFLUENT & WATER MANAGEMENT // 41
Right quantity at the right time EFFLUENT MANAGEMENT should
combine a well-designed effluent system and processes for people to ensure that the effluent the system collects is applied to pasture in the right quantity at the right time. Onfarm benefits of good effluent management include fertiliser savings, improved soil condition, prevention of animal health issues and compliance with council rules or resource consent. The key to good effluent irrigation decisionmaking is to understand the soil water deficit: this is essential for preventing ponding and run-off and to avoid applying effluent to saturated soils. Soil water deficit is the amount of water (or effluent) which can be applied to soil before it reaches field capacity (this refers to the amount of water held in soil after excess water has drained away). If effluent is added at field capacity it will likely result in ponding, runoff or leaching The DairyNZ farm dairy effluent spreading calculator (DESC) allows farmers to easily calculate nutrient loadings and application rates for effluent based on several customisable inputs. Spreading effluent
solids requires specialist machinery suited to the type of effluent being spread. Keeping on top of maintenance tasks for irrigation application equipment is essential for good performance; many farmers regularly check their application depths and rates. Vehicle spreading provides the flexibility to apply effluent in areas where the effluent irrigation system cannot reach. It can also give a nutrient boost prior to sowing a crop or can be applied to silage and hay paddocks. Effluent solids are commonly characterised by their physical consistency. There is some variation in how solids can be handled, based on the size of the solid particles and the solids percentage. Effluent high in sand or long feed-fibre content is easier to load with a tractor. Slurry tankers can generally pump and spread effluent less than 15% solids. Muck spreaders are best at handling effluent above 20% solids. Effluent containing 15-20% solids is generally the most difficult to handle with loading equipment, and requires a sealed muck spreader.
A well-designed pond enables good irrigation.
THE PROSUMP: EFFLUENT STORAGE THAT LASTS FOR GENERATIONS
BULLETPROOF CONCRETE: WON’T RUST, WON’T RIP, WON’T LEAK COME AND VISIT US AT THE EFFLUENT EXPO! Come and have a chat with us to learn what you need to do to help ensure your farm is worry-free for future generations.
Tuesday 17th October, 9am - 3.30pm Claudelands Events Centre, Hamilton
POND SAFETY FENCING: all ponds should have a netting fence to prevent stock and children from falling in. Locked gates are essential and electric fences are useful. ESCAPE LADDERS: install at least one permanent ladder or alternative escape means in case a person falls into the pond. A personal flotation device is also a must-have. ANCHOR POINTS: pontoons should have anchor points to improve their stability. SIGNS: use warning signs to keep people out of the area; also talk directly with farm staff, contractors and visitors about pond risks.
CALL US ON 0800 PRESCO 7 7 3 7 2 6
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DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
42 // EFFLUENT & WATER MANAGEMENT
Gongs for keeping waterways clean Contracting award winners (from left): Stephanie Kirk, Cityedge Alliance; Sarah Bland, Jason Haggerty, Wayne Viall from Fulton Hogan/HEB JV; Iain Fletcher, Downer; Josh Wilkinson, Fulton Hogan; Bevan MacLachlan, Seay Earthmovers; Rob McCraig, Schick; and councillor Stu Kneebone.
EVEN BETTER than best, says Waikato Regional Council of several earthworks contractors working to mitigate discharges of sediment into waterways. The council is handing
out awards for such work. “We’re seeing firms going above and beyond best practice in protecting the environment and controlling discharges into waterways,” says catchment committee chair Stu
Kneebone. “Our awards recognise the industry’s efforts in improving compliance with regional rules and innovating. “Besides firms working on big projects we’ve also recognised rural contractors working on earthworks on farm-related projects.” Entries and nominations in this year’s awards reflected the wide range of projects in the region, the council says. They ranged from small jobs to big roading projects such
as the Hamilton, Huntly and Longswamp sections of the Waikato expressway. “The entries illustrated the industry’s high level of environmental awareness,” said Kneebone. The nominees were judged on project complexity and their achievement of best-practice erosion and sediment control and good environmental results. All this was despite very wet weather in March and April.
THE WINNERS SMALL SITES (JOINT WINNERS) Mangahoanga stream culvert, Seay Earthmovers: for works in a difficult and environmentally sensitive area and installing erosion and sediment controls to a high standard. Longswamp stream diversion, Downer New Zealand Limited: for a stream diversion in a difficult and restrictive area while still protecting the watercourse and the surrounding environment.
WE MAKE NUTRIENT APPLICATION THIS SIMPLE Individual, specific irrigation plans can be created for effluent, fertigation or chemigation. The innovative technology will automatically switch to the appropriate plan when the ingredient is injected into the irrigation water line. Proof-ofplacement application reports will ensure you meet regulatory requirements and help with future decision-making. This amount of control makes improving the sustainability of your operation effortless, so you can spend less time in the field, giving you more time for what matters.
ZIMMATIC, FIELDNET AND GROWSMART ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF THE LINDSAY CORPORATION. © 2017 LINDSAY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
ENVIRONMENTAL Mangaonua Stream Bank Training Works and City Edge Alliance working on the Hamilton section of the Waikato expressway: for Manganoua Stream realignment work in winter without environmental problems. INNOVATION Fulton Hogan, Ports of Auckland site, Horotiu: for innovative control of water discharge without using pulleys to lift decants.
Check out our websites www.ruralnews.co.nz www.dairynews.co.nz
Growsmart® Precision VRI with FieldNET® now enables you to use your irrigation system to apply nutrients exactly where they are required, all while continuing to control the irrigation of your crops and pastures.
CALL YOUR LOCAL ZIMMATIC® DEALER TO MAKE IRRIGATION CHILD’S PLAY!
MEDIUM SITES Schick Civil Construction Limited, Te Rapa Gateway: for an innovative approach to water management and for consistently achieving good results in a challenging environment.
0800 438 627 growsmartvri.com
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
MACHINERY & PRODUCTS // 43 McHale’s new rake.
DEUTZ AG HITS THE TOP FIRST MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
IN THE race up the emissions hill,
Developed after two seasons of testing IT’S OBVIOUSLY the season for 2018 model reveals, with grassland specialist McHale showing new products for the new year at the National Ploughing Championships in Ireland. The twin rotor, centre delivery rake, dubbed R62-72, has been developed after two seasons of testing around the world, and encompasses McHale’s build-it-tough design and manufacture philosophy. Up front a heavy-duty pivoting headstock is carried on the tractor’s lower links, and is connected by tierods to a rear axle steering system for tight headland turns, and shod with 380-55R17 tyres which are said to offer stability, reduced field com-
paction and transport speeds of up to 40km/h. PTO drive is delivered down the spine of the machine to a central gearbox mounted above the frame, which then splits the drive to each of the rotor heads. Each rotor is centrally suspended, and configured to impart equal ground pressure across the full working width, while also allowing excellent ground following over undulating contours. Attention to detail sees raking height indicators, showing the setting for the quad-wheeled undercarriage to ensure ‘clean’ swaths, alongside the ability to adjust the tine cam position to advance or delay the
Deutz AG has appeared hit the top first, to be the first engine manufacturer to be awarded an EU stage V certificate. Having sold Stage V-ready engines since 2015, the TTCD 6.1 diesel engine has been certified, and will be followed by the TCD 3.6, 4.1, 6.1 and 7.8 variants, and the TTCD 7.8 unit in November. Euro Stage V exhaust emission regulations will come into force in 2019, and in the case of Deutz do not require any more space than the current Stage IV option.
Deutz also says it will unveil a new family of larger engines in the 9 – 18L category for use in heavy duty offroad applications. The 4-cylinder TCD 9.0 will develop 300kW/1700Nm; the TCD 12.0 and 13.5, 6-cylinder units will produce 400kW/2500Nm; and 450kW/2800Nm respectively, while the largest TCD 18.0, another 6-cylinder, will make 620kW/3600Nm. At the opposite end of the scale, an agricultural spec, 3-cylinder TCD 2.2 will be used in tractors; it has a unique integral oil sump. Alongside this unit a new 4-cylinder TCD 2.9 producing 80kW will debut in November.
point where the tines drop the material into the windrow. Each rotor assembly is lubricated from a centrally positioned greasing block. Working width is quoted at 6.2 7.2m, with hydraulic adjustment from the operator seat, and transport position seeing the rotors lifted vertically before being locked, then lowered to a position not exceeding 4m, so eliminating the need to remove tine arms to reduce overall height. The machine will be available for the 2018 European grassland season, by which time it will be complemented by a larger model for greater areas.
apply gypsum now
The benefits of gypsum in soil treatment are well known, but its value goes well beyond this: • Helps mitigate the flow of nitrates and phosphorus in New Zealand waterways • Can be used to address the issue of sodium from applied effluent • Reduces surface run-off and drainage loss, reduces preferential flow of water run-off in soil • Can be applied by a number of different means to target risk zones • Assists with addressing high soil potassium levels Rates vary per farm and soil type. Applications can last for up to three years and can be used as a base layer in stand-off (loafing) pads.
For further information please contact your local fertiliser supplier, phone 0800 100 442, or visit our website at www.gypsum.co.nz
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
44 // MACHINERY & PRODUCTS
Cool down or lose out MORRINSVILLE FARMER Cameron
Berry saw the writing on the wall two years ago. The Ministry of Primary Industries was waving a red flag. Milk co-op Tatua told suppliers of impending MPI milk cooling regulations and the need to bring milk cooling systems up to scratch; farmers were also told to expect random tests of cooling water temperature. The message from the
What the rules say THE MPI New Zealand Code of Practice for the Design and Operation of Farm Dairies contains new milk cooling standards. The rules apply immediately to converted farms and to all farms from June 1, 2018. The rules state that raw milk must: a) be cooled to 10°C or below within four hours of the start of milking; and b) be cooled to 6°C or below within the sooner of: i) six hours from the start of milking, or ii) two hours from the completion of milking; and c) be held at or below 6°C without freezing until collection or the next milking; and d) must not exceed 10°C during subsequent milkings.
Farmer Cameron Berry (left) and Paul Donderwinkel, Centigrade with the Packo ice bank.
milk processor was clear: if the milk in the vat is too hot, tankers won’t collect it. Berry checked his milk cooling system and found the water temperature too high – 18oC. “I found my milk was cooling the water, not the water cooling the milk,” he told Dairy News. Milking 455 cows and producing 220,000kgMS,
The plate cooler cools the milk down to 4˚C.
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DAIRY FEED SYSTEMS
FARMERS SEEK ADVICE DAIRY REFRIGERATION specialist Paul Donderwinkel, of Centigrade, says more farmers are seeking advice on milk cooling as new regulations loom. “Farmers are asking us for advice; we present them options that will suit individual farmers,” he says. Donderwinkel, who deals with about 10 farmer enquries a week, says his company offers quality gear. The Packo ice bank is a good European product used on farms there for many years.
Berry could not afford to lose milk. “Tatua warned us there would be no milk pickup if milk temperature was not constant; sometimes the tankers came at 7.30am in summer to pick-up milk so we needed a system that was efficient.” He contacted farm refrigeration expert Centigrade; the company inspected his milk shed and offered various solutions. Berry, who used to run three chiller units to cool his milk, opted for a single Packo ice bank from Dairy Cooling Systems and got an immediate improvement. Milk left the shed at 35oC, passed through a plate cooler and entered the vat at 4oC. He says the Packo ice bank was not the cheapest, nor was it the most expensive option but was “worth doing right” despite the slump in dairy
prices two years ago. “It was a choice between warm milk down the drain or cheaper milk in the truck; we just couldn’t afford to lose milk,” he says. Berry also liked the idea of the Packo ice bank being able to make ice between milkings and have it ready to cool the next delivery from the cows. “Once the ice is made, the refrigeration unit turns off and waits for the stored cooling energy to be depleted before starting up again and topping up the ice.” Berry says along with enabling him to comply with the new milk cooling rules to be imposed by MPI on June 1, 2018, the Packo ice bank enables him to increase his herd size any time. “And if the rules are changed again, I don’t have to do it all over again,” he says.
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
MACHINERY & PRODUCTS // 45
Q-panion weighs things up
with the Tow and Fert One machine for every job, across all seasons
ER
• Gib nesium • Magolve Urea • Diss hate of Ammonsiiacas • Sulprsow with bras • Ove Urea e v l o s s i •D rina o P r o f • Spray esium • Magner • Copp
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ide • Mag Ox ds • ee Spray W pper • Co Iodine / sphate • Pho Di-calcic f Ammonia • o Sulphate ith • w w o s r e Ov plantain • / y r o c i h c Urea DissolveOxide • Zinc Gib •
GLOBAL PLAYER John Deere has introduced a
new range of belt balers for the 2018 harvest season. The ‘0’ series, built in North America, is designated 460 or 560 with M or R specifications, the 460 offering dimensions of 117cm width and variable diameter from 89 to 183 cms, while the 560 sees 157 cm width and diameters of 81 to 183cms. The M version is a base unit suitable for hay, silage and with an option of pre-cutter, while the R version is premium spec with functions such as ISOBUS compatibility. A new MegaWide HC2 feed system which is said to increase daily outputs by promoting a smoother faster feed, comprises a 2.2m wide pick up for either the four- or five-foot diameter machines. In addition, the HC2 system has a twin-rotor feed system for a uniform feed, a drop-floor to clear blockages and a third drive belt to prevent belt slip when operating in wet, heavy conditions.
SPR IN
SU M M E
BELT BALERS UNVEILED
Q-panion shows the weight of the load being carried.
G
have long coveted an integral weighing system for their machines, but until recently the accuracy of bolt-on units has made their fitment limited, especially if feeding rations to cattle, where small, individual quantities are required. Loader manufacturer Quicke has addressed the need with its Q-panion system, designed for tractors from 70 to 300hp, which will show the weight of the load being carried, and the angle of the implement attached. Until recently most bolt-on weigh systems have used static weighing, which requires the operator to lift the loader to a predetermined height to register the load and take a reading, which can lead
calibrations of up to 10 different implements to be stored for recall, as well as prompting users to do periodic maintenance such as greasing.
WIN T
FRONTLOADER MANUFACTURERS
tor/loader combinations, where it is not always possible to see the implement in the lowered position. The system allows the
AU T U
markd@ruralnews.co.nz
to inaccuracies of 5-15%. The Quicke system uses dynamic weighing, taking readings at all loader positions, increasing accuracy to +/-2% and making the unit a lot more productive. Launched at SIMA 17 in Paris earlier this year for the Q-Series loaders, the system has weigh cells in the hydraulic system to send information to an in-cab display. Said to be useful in TMR feeding to enhance accuracy, the unit can also get back to basics by ensuring one tonne bags of fertiliser actually contain one tonne. The loaders also have angle sensors on the loader boom and the implement carriage, allowing individual implements to be calibrated at the level position, with angles displayed in the cab. This should prove useful in high power trac-
R
MARK DANIEL
COMINNG SOO Multi 1200 FROM $14,840
Multi 1000 FROM $17,660
Multi 2800 FROM $39,680
Multi 4000 FROM $79,800
DAIRY NEWS SEPTEMBER 26, 2017
46 // MACHINERY & PRODUCTS
Crossover model ups the ante MARK DANIEL markd@ruralnews.co.nz
THE MITSUBISHI 2018 crossover
model presents with a sleek new front bumper and chrome trim, front and rear LED daytime-running lamps, a glossy black centre panel, honeycomb grille and silver tailgate garnish to complete the package. Inside, for a premium look, highgrade cloth upholstery and a leathereffect sports trim give sparkle to a new floor console. Exterior silver detailing is picked up on the door-mounted window switch panel, and a new centre panel houses two USB ports and the vehicle’s active stability control function. ASX standard spec for 2018 offers
the addition of smartphone link display audio (SDA) which integrates up-tothe-minute, on-the-go communication by pairing i-Phone or Android devices via a USB cable to make and receive calls, manage text messages through voice control, navigate and pipe favourite tunes. All models have new gearshift positioning and the addition of a low gear (L) for ascending steep hills and heavy engine braking at low speeds. The 2WD XLS also has downshift (Ds) for engine braking or when extra acceleration is necessary. Premium VRX models benefit from new safety systems: forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning and auto high beam. Forward collision mitigation laser radar and camera technology deter-
mines whether a frontal collision with a vehicle or pedestrian is imminent. If so, it warns the driver with audible and visual signals and automatically applies moderate to emergency braking to reduce the severity or prevent such an incident. Lane departure warning alerts the driver of any drifting off course, while auto high beam detects whether there are no vehicles ahead or approaching and automatically turns on full beam to improve visibility. The 2018 ASX is
available from $29,990 +ORC*, backed by Mitsubishi Diamond Advantage, a ten-year/160,000km powertrain warranty, five-
Mitsubishi’s 2018 ASX
BEEFIER TELEHANDLER RAISES THE BAR
JCB TM420
DURING THE evolution of telescopic handlers, pivot steer or articulated machines always had a loyal band of followers who preferred the versatility of placement offered by machines of this format. Unfortunately, limitations in lift capacity and height saw the layout loosing favour to more conventional rigid frame/
side engine machines, but the latest offering from JCB might create a new level of interest. The new TM 420, to be formally launched at Agritechnica in November, builds on the wellknown TM 320 and 320S model, but delivers 33% more lift capacity at 4.1 tonnes, and an increase in lift height of 200mm to 5.4m. The company says
FORTIMA VA R I A B L E R O U N D B A L E R
Features the EasyFlow Camless Pickup for quiet running and reduced wear and tear saving service and maintenance costs. MultiCut System – new rotor gives increased throughput and superior quality of cut making bales that are easy to feed out. Variable Chamber – for high density bales in silage, hay and straw.
www.tulloch.co.nz
year/130,000km new vehicle warranty and five-year/130,000km roadside assist.
0800 88 55 624
DEALERS NATIONWIDE
the machine will interest dairy farmers loading high-sided diet feeders or filling bulk storage bins. At the heart of the machine, a larger chassis takes a lead from the smaller machine with oversized main pivot pins and bushes, and similar modifications in the loader arm and tool carrier. As part of the beefing up, the main pivot uses graphite impregnated bronze pivot bushes for longer service life. This combines with heavy-duty axles, permanent 4WD and the fitment of 26-inch wheel and tyre equipment. A towing capacity of 15 tonnes is also available via a higher capacity rear hitch. Power comes from JCB’s own EcoMax 4-cylinder engine, delivering 108kW and meeting stage IV emission regulations with the addition of SCR, but not requiring a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The engine mates to a 6-speed powershift transmission that can be operated in manual or auto modes, and offers a torque converter lock-up function which sees direct drive available from speed 2 upwards. This function is said to give the machine unrivalled climbing ability on clamps, and 40km/h on the road. Increased lift capacity is achieved with larger dimensioned lift cylin-
ders, fed by a 160L/min variable displacement, piston type hydraulic pump, in the same layout seen on larger Loadall machines. A regenerative hydraulic circuit, allowing oil to move from one side of the lift cylinder to the other via a novel valve, is said to reduce cycle times: the main boom lowers 33% faster. Hydraulic functions are also refined with the inclusion of the maker’s Smooth Ride boom suspension system which can be configured to be full-time, switched off, or used in auto-mode, and are further complemented by cylinder-end damping on boom extension and retract, as well as lift and dump functions. Improved cabin design sees new instrumentation and daily set-up functions, and operators can specify several LED lighting options. Maintenance is taken care of by auto lubrication of the main pivot bushes, which then extends routine greasing to 500-hour intervals, which lines up with engine servicing, 4WD prop shaft lubrication and chassis pivots. Users also have the option of a hydraulically driven cooling fan, with manual or auto-reversing at 15- or 30-minute intervals to ensure the cooling package is kept clear of dust or debris.
the power to keep
you growing DEMO models
available now
MERLO TURBOFARMER RANGE 115-140HP,
3,500KG-4,200KG LIFT CAPABILITY, 7M BOOM HEIGHT
+ PAYMENTS IN 12 & 24 MONTHS
OR PAY $581 MONTHLY**
37,921
$
*
+ PAYMENTS IN 12 & 24 MONTHS
OR PAY $1589 MONTHLY
* *
deutztractors.co.nz
deutznz
1,226
$ PER MONTH
merlo.co.nz
***
DRIVEAWAY FOR
+GST
14,072
$
*
140HP, 6 CYLINDER • Front Axle Susp (50kph) • 120L Hydraulic Pump • 4 Speed Powershift • 24x24 Trans • Only $107,990+GST
+GST
80HP, LOADER COMBO • Front & Rear Diff Locks • True 4 wheel Braking • 12x3 Trans • Only $39,990+GST
DRIVEAWAY FOR
+GST
DEUTZ-FAHR AGROLUX 4.80
FROM
DEUTZ-FAHR M600
• Large, fully pressurised and ventillated cabin with optional full cab suspension • Fully hydrostatic transmission using Eco Power Drive (EPD) that reduces fuel consumption by up to 18% • Dynamic Load Control (CDC) increases safety
merlonz
60” MOWER DECK
3,490+GST
4,661
$
+GST
ER
KIOTI CK3010 M 30HP LOADER & SLASHER COMBO • 4WD, Power Steering • 6x2 Trans • Heavy Duty Build • Only $21,990+GST
MACHINERY
7,870
$
+ PAYMENTS IN 12 & 24 MONTHS
OR PAY $245 MONTHLY**
32MM X 10MM S-TINE & POINT
MARK 4 RANGE • 2.5-3.5m sowing width • Seed & Fertiliser option available • New E-Drive option available • Price shown based on model AT-SM4020C
*
DRIVEAWAY FOR
24,762
$
*
+ PAYMENTS IN 12 & 24 MONTHS
OR PAY $770 MONTHLY**
kiotitractors.co.nz
kiotinz
THEN 1/3 2018
WHANGAREI Power Farming Northland ............ 09 438 9163 DARGAVILLE Power Farming Northland ............... 09 439 3333 PUKEKOHE Power Farming Auckland ................... 09 239 1200 MORRINSVILLE Power Farming Morrinsville ........ 07 889 5059 TE AWAMUTU Power Farming Te Awamutu ........ 07 870 2411 TAURANGA Capital Tractors & Machinery ............. 07 543 0021
26” SCALLOPED DISC BLADE Suitable for most Kverneland Disc Harrows.
aitchisonseeding.co.nz WHAKATANE Jacks Machinery ............................. 07 308 7299 ROTORUA Truck & Tractor Services ........................ 07 349 6528 GISBORNE Power Farming Gisborne ..................... 06 868 8908 HASTINGS Power Farming Hawke’s Bay ............... 06 879 9998 HAWERA Power Farming Taranaki ........................ 06 278 0240 FEILDING Power Farming Manawatu .................... 06 323 8182
1795
$
3995
$
SHOP INSTORE OR ONLINE MASTERTON Power Farming Wairarapa ............... 06 370 8240 NELSON Brian Miller Truck & Tractor ..................... 03 544 5723 BLENHEIM Marlborough Tractor Services .............. 03 572 8787 GREYMOUTH Power Farming West Coast .............. 03 768 4370 CHRISTCHURCH Power Farming Canterbury .........03 349 5975 ASHBURTON Power Farming Ashburton .............. 03 307 7153
10995
$
+GST
11,750
THEN 1/3 2019†
5 litre
+GST
FROM 3 EQUAL $ PAYMENTS
DEUTZ-FAHR UNIVERSAL TRACTOR TRANS OIL
QUALITY ALTERNATIVE OPTION FROM INCL GST
1/3RD SPRING DEAL
PF504DN
DRIVEAWAY FOR
CABIN 100HP LOADER COMBO • 4WD, Power Steering • Perkins Diesel Engine • 32x32 Transmission • Only $69,990+GST
PARTS AND SERVICE
SEEDMATIC
PAY 1/3 ON DELIVERY
KIOTI PX1052
+GST
• • • • • •
HST 26HP 4WD, Power Steering DRIVEAWAY FOR Industrial or Turf Tyres * Ergonomic Operator Station Large 1131cc Diesel Engine + PAYMENTS IN 12 & 24 MONTHS Tight Turning Circle OR PAY $148 MONTHLY** Only $12,990+GST
E SLA
+GST
4,990+GST
$
KIOTI CS2610
FRE
+GST
4 IN 1 LOADER
SLASHER SH
FREE
$
partsdirect.farm TIMARU Power Farming Timaru ............................ 03 687 4127 DUNEDIN Power Farming Otago .......................... 03 489 3489 GORE Power Farming Gore .................................. 03 208 9395 INVERCARGILL Power Farming Invercargill .......... 03 215 9039
Terms and conditions apply. Prices valid until 26/10/17. * DRIVEAWAY price is 1/3rd deposit plus total GST or/and use trade-in, then pay 1/3rd in 12 months then 1/3rd in 24 months at 2.99%. Terms and conditions apply. ** Monthly payments for Deutz-Fahr and SAME based on 35% plus total GST deposit or/and use trade-in, then 48 monthly payments at 3.99%. Monthly payments for Kioti based on 40% plus total GST deposit or/and use trade-in, then 60 monthly payments at 3.99%. *** Offer applies to TF35.7BS. Requires 25% of total price + total GST paid as deposit, then 48 monthly payments of $1226 each. Final payment of residual owed (40%) paid at end of term. † Normal lending criteria and conditions apply. Contact your local dealer for further details.
ON E NAM E C O V ER S I T ALL
E
P E D F OR
L
N
EW
AN
D
DEV
LO
ZEA
THE NEW HD5
TOUGH. CAPABLE. CLEVER. THE NEW MID SIZE ENGINE DEFENDER HD5 STARTING AT:
$15,261
*
EXLC GST
CLASS LEADING FEATURES:
ERGONOMIC FOLDABLE 3 SEATER BENCH
CARGO TRAY 96.5 X 138.4 X 30.5 CM
TOW RATING 680 KG
EXCLUSIVE TO CAN-AM:
200
HOURS SERVICE INTERVAL
WWW.CANAMOFFROAD.COM
0800 020 074
*Price on offer for HD5 Base. Offer only available for participating authorised Can-Am dealerships, for vehicles sold between September 1st 2017 and November 30th 2017, $1500 Rebate on MY17 Defender HD5 DPS and HD5 Base. ^3 year warranty covers MY16/17 Can-Am Defender models only. Always ride responsibly and safely. Always wear protective gear & approved helmet. BRP reserves the right to change the promotion at any time.
FUEL CAPACITY 40 LITRES
GROUND CLEARANCE 26.7 CM