Wairarapa farmers have been generous in donating to Meat the Need, a charity set up to make it simple for farmers to donate meat to the most vulnerable in their communities.
However, Meat The Need and companion dairy charity Feed Out would love to hear from more Wairarapa farmers, says Meat the Need/Feed Out Operations Manager Sarah Gagliardi.
“We’d warmly welcome any Wairarapa farmers who are keen to get on board and help support hungry kiwis.
“Food insecurity numbers are high - currently estimated to be 14%.
“More Wairarapa farmers getting on board would mean we can feed more families throughout the region.”
Meat the Need started in early 2020 during the ÿ rst covid lockdown and quickly went to a national scale that year, providing Wairarapa food banks with produce donated by farmers.
feeding their communities,” says Sarah.
“At Meat the Need we are on a mission to ensure no one in New Zealand goes hungry, and our farmers throughout New Zealand are helping with that.
“There are 26 million animals processed each year in New Zealand. We require just 5000 animal donations to prevent New Zealanders from going hungry - that’s just 0.019% of our overall meat production.
“Our ethos is, if many farmers contribute just a little of what they produce, then collectively we can make a massive di° erence to New Zealanders.”
Meat the Need accepts beef, sheep and deer, while Feed Out accepts milk.
If farmers are a Silver Fern Farms supplier, all they need to do is get in touch with their livestock rep, says Sarah.
“When you’re looking to send animals in, you can let your rep know how many animals you want to spare for Meat the Need and they’ll sort out the rest.”
distributed out to food banks.”
“Otherwise, you can let Meat the Need know you want to donate livestock by heading to the website meattheneed.org”
For farmers wanting to donate milk, it’s a super easy process, says Sarah.
“Farmers who are Fonterra or Miraka suppliers can jump online to feedout.org, ÿ ll out a quick form, and that’s it.
“We take care of the rest and make sure your amount of donated milk is given to families in need.”
There is also a Business Supporters programme.
Businesses can choose to be a Platinum, Gold or Silver supporter of Meat the Need, says Sarah.
“We currently have a variety of farming businesses stepping up and supporting the work of Meat the Need.
“They are playing such an important role in helping us to see all New Zealanders have access to nutritious protein, and helping us to make sure no one in New Zealand goes hungry.”
Grab your friends and get planning for a three-day festival like no other for women of rural Aotearoa.
The Shepherdess Muster, from 17-19 February 2023, is a threeday immersive festival that gives rural women the chance to come together to relax, enjoy workshops and speakers, and take a load o° the everyday juggle of work, home and farm life.
Held in the small town of Motu, 80 kilometres out of GisborneTair˛whiti, The Shepherdess Muster is an all-inclusive festival with ticket prices including gourmet catered food for the duration, workshops run by New Zealand makers, live music, entertainment, speakers on entrepreneurship, and if you’re willing, a workout each morning.
been nothing quite like The Shepherdess Muster ever before in New Zealand.
The Shepherdess Muster is based on the popular Country Ladies Day in outback Queensland Australia which was founded by Kristy.
“The event is to escape the pressures of day-to-day life –housework, kids, cooking. And to just come and focus on yourself for a weekend - not you as a farmer, mother or wife, but your own interests and ideas.”
Festival-goers can set up their tents, caravans or horse ˝ oats next door to the main festival area for free, or can pay extra to stay in tented accommodation which will already be set up.
obligations except to have a bloody great time.”
Lesley Coppell from Pahiatua is also on the committee spearheading the new weekendlong event and says the event is a great chance for a road trip with a group of great mates.
“We’ve had some really generous donations come in from farmers across Wairarapa and it’s incredible to see those donations being put back into
“With the support of Silver Fern Farms, we take your donation, have it processed and packaged, and
There will also be market stalls to browse, beauty therapists on hand for appointments, access to women’s health, areas to relax and a bar to have a chat in between each day’s activities.
Event founder, and publisher of Shepherdess magazine Kristy McGregor, says there has
The event is run by a dedicated committee of women based in Tair˛whiti and surrounds, helmed by Kristy who lives on a farm in Horowhenua and knows all too well the challenges of juggling work, farm life and children.
“Life on farm can be tough and isolating and The Muster is a chance for women living in provincial Aotearoa to get together for three days with no
“The Shepherdess Muster is shaping up to be a fantastic long weekend away to focus on yourself and away from the hustle of daily life. This is an all-inclusive weekend so you don’t have to think of a single thing once you walk out the door. We’ve got an incredible line-up of inspirational and entrepreneurial speakers who will be there the whole weekend
with bucket loads of advice, we have workshops focusing on creativity, wellness and business, there will be amazing food, you can start your day with yoga and end it dancing the night away – and most importantly, there will be 250-odd women who are friends that you just haven’t met yet!” says Lesley.
“As women, we do so much for our families and our communities and not often do we get the chance to really take time for ourselves to grow our own interests and ambitions.
I think it’s absolutely vital that we model to our daughters and those following in our footsteps and looking up to us, the importance of looking after and
nurturing ourselves.”
Tickets go on sale early November with entertainment, speaker and workshop announcements coming soon. The event concept has been developed by Shepherdess, an independentlyrun magazine that aims to unearth the stories of local rural women across Aotearoa.
Shepherdess’ ethos is about connecting rural women in isolated parts of New Zealand through sharing their stories.
Follow The Shepherdess Muster on social media and visit www.shepherdessmuster. co.nz to keep up to date with ticket on-sale dates and announcements.
“WE REQUIRE JUST 5000 ANIMAL DONATIONS TO PREVENT NEW ZEALANDERS FROM GOING HUNGRY”
MAKING DONATIONS TO MEAT THE NEED AND FEED OUT IS EASYTHE SHEPHERDESS MUSTER IS BASED ON THE POPULAR COUNTRY LADIES DAY IN OUTBACK AUSTRALIA
This week is Mental Health Awareness WeekMonday 26th September to Friday 2nd October. The theme this year is about encouraging New Zealanders to engage with the people and places that bring them joy.
Farmstrong ambassador Sam Whitelock says staying in touch with mates and neighbours is a big part of keeping well and staying Farmstrong. The past couple of years have tested the resilience of many rural communities. Covid disruption and extreme weather have only added to the normal pressures of farming.
Staying connected is a big part of riding out these challenges, but in recent times many regular gatherings on the rural calendar such as regional ÿ eld days and Golden Shears, have been cancelled. That’s why the theme of mental health awareness week this year is reconnection.
being there for others, makes us all feel stronger and more supported. It’s a stress-buster.
I know myself whenever there’s been a challenging time, it’s nice to talk about it. Sharing the load really helps manage pressure. Find out what works for you and “lock” it in.
Whether you’re a farmer or a rugby player, pressure is pressure. I know from my own experience that catching up with others and talking these challenges through helps enormously. So, as we head towards summer, make a point of catching up with neighbours or reconnecting with someone who might have fallen o° your radar.
If you’re super busy, ˛ ick them a text or give them a call. If you’ve got more time, schedule a proper natter over co° ee or a beer. It will do you both a power of good.
Here’s what other farmers have to say about the power of connection:
bottom up and chasing your tail all the time or you’ll burn out.
Your wellbeing has to come ÿ rst. People need to recognise when they are under the pump and talk about it.
“If people aren’t turning up at ÿ eld days and farm discussion groups get in touch with them.”
PAUL WALKER, dairy farmer
MARK GASCOIGNE, dairy farmer
“When you’re mixing with people it energises you and makes a real di° erence to your own wellness. A big part of keeping well on farm is connecting with your mates and checking in on people. People often just need to o˝ oad about something that’s happened to them.”
The science of well-being tells us that people with strong social connections are happier, healthier and live longer. Simply put, spending time with your mates, talking things out and
RICHARD TOSSWILL, sheep & beef farmer “Staying connected to your community is important in farming. It helps you keep things in perspective.
“You can’t just be head down,
“As farmers we need to use everything at our disposal to look after each other. One of the easiest resources we have is a set of ears! A few years ago, I spoke to a lot of farmers at Fieldays as part of the Farmstrong team and you could just see when people walked away that their backpack didn’t feel quite so heavy. There’s no doubt that having a friendly ear to turn to is much better than having none. Connections count.”
MAEGAN LEGG, sharemilker “People are social creatures, we’re meant to be in herds, just like our cows. So if you’re moving to a community where you don’t know anyone at all, my advice would be - join what’s on o° er, ÿ nd local networks and discussion groups. Check out your local ÿ sh and chip shop, RSA or sports club.”
Find Out What Works for You and ‘Lock It In’
Farmstrong is an initiative to help farmers, growers and their families to cope with the ups-and-downs of farming by sharing things they can do to look after themselves and the people in their business. You can ÿ nd out more about it at farmstrong.co.nz
SAM
DAIRY FARMER GEOFF SPARK IN OXFORD, CANTERBURY.
In 1983 Massey University research suggested 1.8m tonnes of lime were required on New Zealand soils each year. Just 1.3m tonnes are applied annually.
Lime tonnage has not increased since 1981, while applications of other nutrients have increased markedly. From 1983 to 2007 the total nitrogen and phosphorus fertilisers applied went from 913,724 tonnes to 1,885,774 tonnes, doubling in 24 years.
In 2017, urea tonnage went to 820,000, doubling in a few years. That is 345,000kg of nitrogen from urea alone.
This much nitrogen requires about 700,000 tonnes of lime to counter the increase in acidity, as nitrogen strips calcium from the soil. That makes the total annual shortfall 700,000 tonnes of calcium or the equivalent of 2m tonnes of lime.
Sources of calcium other than lime include Dolomite and various phosphate products.
Dolomite is a favoured product that contains necessary magnesium that will be depressed if calcium is applied without it. Acidic phosphates are not conducive to good microbial life, particularly fungi. One of fungi’s functions is to hold calcium in the soil.
Without fungi, 98-100% of added calcium can be lost.
Unfortunately, NZ authorities do not acknowledge the di˜ erence between calcium in the soil and the availability or not of calcium to plants.
If calcium was considered deÿ cient, the chances are agricultural lime may be applied in a bid to correct the levels. If the pH was satisfactory, then lime may not be applied at all. The reality is quite di˜ erent. You may not need to apply large amounts of lime, but you do need to apply calcium, not necessarily as lime.
The results may not be instant. They may take several years, but if the biology in the soil has been nurtured, the results can be in excess of any application you will have made. Some soil test calcium
ÿ gures have multiplied by nine times the starting ÿ gure with modest inputs of calcium over a ÿ ve-year period. The key is the biology.
With salt fertilisers having a negative e˜ ect on soil microbes, most NZ farms will not capture the full beneÿ t of lime applied in the traditional way; more so if boron is not added, but more on that later.
Dr William Albrecht (USA) demonstrated the e˜ ect of calcium versus pH, when he drilled soybeans with equal amounts of calcium as calcium hydroxide (alkaline), calcium nitrate (neutral) or calcium chloride (acidic). The crop yields were the same independent of pH, ie, the results were superior to soybeans grown without calcium. Do not confuse the terms calcium, lime and
pH. The primary objective of food production is to produce proÿ table nutrient dense food for human consumption. Even with satisfactory pH, calcium needs to be supplied for microbe and plant health.
In the short term, improving calcium levels in the soil to 68% of the base saturation (on a PAL soil test) will result in better crop and animal health, quality and production. Medium term, the application of less fertiliser and nitrogen, can result. Think of calcium as an important fertiliser and not as something we periodically add to regulate soil pH which is a measurement of hydrogen.
Author Brett Peterson
David Law: Director
Kiwi Fertiliser
Thanks to technology two rural Wairarapa women have been running successful businesses from their family farms.
Rebecca Tosswill and Rebecca Greaves believe it is something many other rural women can do too.
Passion, vision, determination, and good satellite wiÿ needed
Rebecca Tosswill is the founder and creative director of Farmers Daughter Design Studio.
Her home and place of work is Te Awa Awa sheep and beef farm at Gladstone, southeast of Masterton, which she farms with husband Richard, as well as the couple raising their three young children.
with several agencies in Wellington in design communication and marketing before marrying Richard and coming back to the region 15 years ago.
She started Farmers Daughter Design Studio in 2009 and since then has worked alongside a range of rural
businesses from accounting, stock feed and breeders associations to agri-tourism, rural healthcare and on-farm accommodation.
“The people I work with closely now are women on farms who perhaps have a skillset and are wanting to create their own thing or give back to their communities.
“It could be diversiÿ cation within the farming operation, creating a team culture in the workplace, or developing products directly targeted at the ag sector.”
Rebecca employs a team of four remote contractors, and in 2020, she won the Creative Arts section at the NZI Rural Women New Zealand Business Awards.
ago, design communications was seen as more of a city role and profession.
“But having access to reliable satellite broadband has been a game-changer.
“It has allowed me to connect remotely with clients and service suppliers throughout New Zealand.
“We are fortunate to have had satellite connectivity through local service provider WIZwireless.
“Plus, if there is ever an issuewhich there rarely is - there is someone you can speak with, and they jump on board to help sort it out.
“Having this certainty has given me options and conÿ dence to build a business from our hill country farm.”
As much as covid 19 has posed many challenges there is a silver lining, as it has opened doors and eyes to the possibilities of developing remote and online businesses, Rebecca says.
resources online to help get you started at little or no cost.
“Perhaps share your idea or vision with a trusted friend or family member to get you started.
“Or create your own vision board and stick it on your fridge! It’s amazing what can happen through simple actions.”
Rebecca’s advice for women thinking of running their own business from their farm is:
Connect with people who will o° er helpful advice and can speak from experience. With respect for their time, most people are more than happy to have a conversation or two.
Each year, plan and invest in personal development. It will elevate your skill sets, widen your network, and broaden your thinking.
Horses and farming are the most favourite things in life to write about for journalist Rebecca Greaves.
Rebecca and husband Richard live on their hill country sheep and beef farm near Pongaroa with young daughter Phoebe.
She describes herself as “a writer, mum, avid amateur equestrian sport competitor, chief gate opener, sheep chaser and admin lady on the farm.”
“Flexibility is the biggest positive. enjoy being able to run my own schedule and work when feel most productive.
“For me, this is early morning to mid-morning. With no distractions am able to smash out work a lot quicker than did in a busy o˙ ce environment my e˙ ciency deÿ nitely increased.
“If it’s a nice day know I can ÿ nish my work and then head out on farm to help with whatever is happening, or ride my horse, which is a great incentive to work hard and get it done.
discussion group, which was a great way to connect with other like-minded women.”
Luckily, Rebecca doesn’t have any connectivity issues.
“I do rely heavily on the internet and conduct most of my interviews over the phone, so a good phone line is essential.
“Power cuts are not uncommon out here, so investing in a generator was a must!”
Rebecca’s advice to any rural women thinking of starting an on-farm business is to give it a go.
Born in Masterton to a farming family, Rebecca studied at Whangaui School of Design. After graduating, she worked
Working on farm has allowed Rebecca to build her business around her growing family, farm and community.
“When started Farmers Daughter Design Studio 13 years
“If you have the passion, vision and determination, you can make things happen, no matter what part of New Zealand we reside. Sometimes the biggest challenge is with ourselves to make that leap.
“If you have a business idea, there are loads of helpful
Visualise or write your goals down. They can be small or large; make them meaningful and obtainable to you.
When starting a business, consider the problem you are solving for others.
Former editor of The New Zealand Farmers Weekly, as well as doing a stint in the press gallery in Parliament, Rebecca continues to be a regular contributor to Country-Wide magazine, and in 2015 authored the books ‘Hawke’s Bay Hunt 1990-2015’ and ‘Tangihau’.
She has also just started a new role as co-host of the Rural Exchange REX weekend radio show.
Rebecca started her business, Rebecca Greaves Creative, as an editorial and marketing specialist, focusing on equestrian and agriculture in 2012 after she met Richard and moved on to the farm.
“I work with a small, select group of businesses love, and whose values align with mine, on their marketing projects.
“From writing press releases or advertorial, to providing copy for new websites or prooÿ ng text, can do it.”
Rebecca recalls that when she ÿ rst went out on her own, she was nervous about whether she would actually get any work.
“But I had great networks and found was able to keep working as a freelance writer for my previous employer, as well as attracting new clients.”
Running a business on a farm has its advantages, she says.
“Since having my daughter, have had to rethink things a bit, and I now do some work in the evenings once she has gone to sleep.
“I ÿ nd my clients are very understanding of the work/life/ mum balance and as long as communicate well, get things done and meet deadlines, it doesn’t matter when do the work.
“Sometimes do miss having people to bounce ideas o° and discuss industry issues, but I have lots of great people (ex-colleagues, other farmers, women have connected with who also work remotely from a farm) who are only a phone call away.
“Initially, I joined a rural women’s
“What have you got to lose? would say being organised, having good time management and the ability to prioritise are key if you are going to be selfemployed.
“I love a good list and am quite disciplined, so I don’t have any trouble getting work done. I’m not one for procrastination.
“I also always try to get dressed as if am going to the o˙ ce, even though usually no one sees me apart from the dog!
“I ÿ nd dressing in ‘o˙ ce’ clothes gets me into the work mindset and makes me feel professional.
“I have a light, warm and inviting workspace that I have taken time to put together, so it’s a place enjoy being.”
REBECCA GREAVES RUNS HER EDITORIAL CONTENT CREATION BUSINESS FROM A HILL COUNTRY SHEEP AND BEEF FARM IN PONGAROA. PHOTO: CORNEGE PHOTOGRAPHY.With uncertainty around prices – both income and expenses - dairy farmers are being advised to take a prudent approach to their ÿ nancials this season.
It’s di˝ cult to forecast how prices and income will change this season, says Paul Bird, DairyNZ Lead Adviser Business.
“With uncertainty around future prices, it’s prudent for farmers to budget based on prices remaining high – and even rising further – this season. We’ve seen farm income rise due to a high milk price. However, expenses have kept pace with proÿ t, resulting in most additional farm income being spent on farm costs.”
DairyNZ budget case studies of eight farms across New Zealand showed that over three seasons (2020/21 to 2022/23 forecast)
milk income increased $1.19 per kg of milksolids. However, farm working expenses rose $1.06 per kg of milksolids.
With the current high prices it’s likely there will be continued pressure on proÿ t margins, says Paul.
“Some price increases only a˛ ected the last half of the 2021/2022 season, and will have more impact over the coming season.
“THE STRONG MILK PRICE IS POSITIVE, HOWEVER FARMERS NEED TO MANAGE COSTS CAREFULLY TO ENSURE THEIR BUSINESS IS WELL˜ POSITIONED FOR THE FUTURE.”
“The strong milk price is positive, however farmers need to manage costs carefully to ensure their business is well-positioned for the future.”
budgeting and debt management, as these o˛ er the best opportunities to manage costs and improve income.
“Many farms benchmark themselves against similar farms. This helps identify ways to control costs or improve income. Farmers can do this using DairyBase, or their adviser’s system. DairyNZ’s regional team or farm consultants can help with advice on making changes.
“Good pasture management is the best way to improve proÿ t and we know highly proÿ table farms have excellent pasture management, even if they use supplements. DairyNZ’s pasture potential tool can help identify improvements.” (see dairynz. co.nz/pasture-potential).
While drastic reductions in fertiliser use may reduce production, DairyNZ research with Canterbury partner farms found fertiliser use can be lowered without doing so, Paul says.
PAUL BIRD, DAIRYNZ LEAD ADVISOR BUSINESS
“Farmers who use zero-based budgeting can usually identify savings. This starts with a blank budget and involves reviewing every item added.
“Closely monitoring budgets helps farmers stay on top of costs. It’s easier to make changes now than late in the season when you’re overspent.”
Most farms are continuing with routine repairs and maintenance – as delaying these can be more costly long-term, says Paul.
“They are also continuing to invest in core services to keep farms running well – like sta˝ ng and veterinary care.
DairyNZ would love more farms in Wairarapa to join its Baseline Project
Farms which are owner operated, or are operated by a contract milker and owner, and can provide full farm ÿ nancial information are eligible.
individual DairyBase physical and ÿ nancial management benchmarked reports, with their farm data benchmarked against their peers.
Benchmarking your farm can help you become more proÿ table. In the present high in° ation environment, it’s a particularly useful tool to ÿ nd opportunities to improve proÿ ts and reduce costs by assessing how you compare with similar farms.
Once you’ve identiÿ ed some areas you want to work on, DairyNZ sta˛ or your farm consultant can help you plan how to implement changes.
to advocate on farmers’ behalf.
DairyBase services are free to those who are part of the project. The only cost is your time which will be about two to three hours.
Individual farmers’ details are kept conÿ dential and aren’t provided to councils.
The Baseline project builds on DairyBase information to provide more detailed data for farmers.
Your farm may be in a speciÿ c location or region, or have a certain type of topography, soil, or rainfall to ensure all types of farms across New Zealand are represented in this data set.
sector and giving DairyNZ the opportunity to lobby on your behalf in policy and advocacy, ie Emissions Trading Scheme, Essential Fresh Water, He Waka Eke Noa, Zero Carbon Bill.
How is farm data used?
Your farm data will continue to help DairyNZ to:
“Some of the most signiÿ cant price increases have been for feed, crops, grazing, fertiliser and fuel. Positively, we have seen PKE and fuel prices fall recently after increasing signiÿ cantly earlier this year.”
There are ways farmers can be best prepared for whatever the future holds, Paul says.
“With costs increasing, farmers can be better positioned should milk prices fall by using benchmarking, and through good pasture management,
“But changes need to be staged. When costs or milk prices change, it’s worthwhile reassessing if using feed is economic.” (see dairynz.co.nz/ nitrogen-use)
Reviewing and managing budgets are key to staying proÿ table, Paul advises.
“With uncertainty about future costs, many farmers are delaying major capital expenditure. Being sensible with personal drawings is also prudent.
“We’ve seen farmers paying o˛ signiÿ cant debt in recent years.
This helps reduce risk, so farmers have more options should milk prices fall.”
Baseline Project is an extension of DairyBase, and provides invaluable the dairy industry. participating in the Baseline Project receive
Joining Baseline can also help farmers track their progress towards their goals over time, and compare their performance against other farms.
Information from the Baseline Project is also used for dairy industry statistics. This includes providing input into other DairyNZ projects and research.
DairyNZ can also use the data to respond to policy pressures, including water quality policies, greenhouse gas legislation and
For example, in DairyBase the amount of feed and fertiliser being used by a farmer is normally collected. The Baseline project goes one step further and collects additional information such as feed timing details, how it’s fed, when fertiliser is applied, at what rates and which parts of the farm it is applied to.
What is the Baseline Project?
Baseline is a DairyNZ project where physical, ÿ nancial, and environmental data is collected from selected farms for research and development, and industry good and advocacy.
What’s in it for you?
Annual Overseer subscription Paid for by the Baseline Project upon the successful completion of your physical and ÿ nancial data collection.
Free farm analysis - DairyBase physical and ÿ nancial management benchmarked reports
Annual completed Overseer ÿ le you can share with your dairy company or farm advisers; no need to provide your data multiple times
respond to policy issues including water quality policies set by regional councils under the National Policy for Freshwater Management (NPSFM), greenhouse gas legislation, and to advocate on farmers’ behalf.
contribute to dairy industry statistics
continue to build on the industry good information we already have and help keep New Zealand dairy farmers at the forefront of the world dairy industry
Industry good - Feel good knowing your data is helping other farmers and the wider
For more details contact Phillip Connors, DairyNZ Farm Business Specialist Lower North Island, at phillip.connors@dairynz.co.nz
PHILLIP CONNORS, DAIRYNZ DAIRYBASE RELATIONSHIP MANAGER, IS YOUR FIRST PORT OF CALL FOR THE BASELINE PROJECT
The Falkirk System was developed to ensure genetic integrity for commercial producers and astute breeders alike.
Reasoned science and objective client data continues to confirm genetic gain of significant differential. Interfaced with financial analyses, real time farm business profit margins are generated by clients. This private enterprise solution is customised to individual client’s goals and expectations. The motivation to optimise genetic ability of animals, then to advance to high quality branded product is a key driver. The knowledge of a combination of main trait abilities is understood and implanted into an EPI-GENETIC selection process which is unique and practiced internationally.
The Falkirk Index System is the exact description of the physiology of a particular animal as defined by measured data, bone-fat-meat ratio relative to mass (liveweight). That accounts for 50% of the assessment to define the optimal animal. Then the Falkirk hand/eye methodology is applied to observe the skeletal/ structural correctness that indicates and subscribes to functionality and longevity.
Falkirk holds intricate knowledge of the skill set required to distinguish which actual traits are inclusive in an identified bundle of ‘Main Traits’ in balance, that defines the Falkirk efficient animal and which traits are actual outcomes as a result of this combination. Inclusive which traits are secondary traits or non traits? That is the Question?
Feed conversion efficiency is the prime economic driver to determine the optimal animal. Which by default develops towards prepotency with lower gas emissions, that is directly attributed to an efficient metabolic function. In fact this type of animal consumes 24% less feed than the inefficient animal that is proven to be of low productivity and high gas emissions.
This combination indicates high productivity and immune system that influences quality product outcomes. The specific combination of main trait interface is understood to observe animals in three dimension to judge the form that provides optimal function. This process is defined as the Falkirk EpiGenetic Animal Selection System. The genetic difference between groups of peers can be calculated to a high degree of accuracy, to support a specific
commercial animal selection process. This system is applicable across breed and specie and is based on seamless logic.
The Falkirk System, by comparison, is the only complete business and genetic solution that exists to provide viable economic and genetic outcomes for clients.
The validation of the Falkirk System is underwritten by the 60 year sheep and beef career of the Principal Director Ian Walsh inclusive of 94 international trips to practice and understand the implications of geopolitics, genetic development and selection and the marketing of branded high quality product that ensures a positive profit line for producers.
The validation of the ‘Falkirk Certified’ segment of the genetics retained is well illustrated in the conclusion to a series of lamb cutting trials conducted over time.
The combined information from these cutting and analysis trials ratified the Falkirk animal assessment system as being correct to the point that structural correctness and trait balanced physiology provides;
• Lack of traditional tail end lambs
• Evidence that Falkirk certified lambs are superior by specification
• Pre-slaughter cleanliness and health status
• Higher yielding carcasses
• Bone-fat-meat ratio that is predictable
• Superior meat quality
• Predictable portion size
• Superior by-products and runners
• Form and capacity in the shoulder/chest region to accommodate superior organs that influence better metabolic function and higher meat yield
• Superior pelts inclusive of wool on pelts
• Validation that the GR grading system is flawed as a reliable payment method
• Clarity that facts rather than perception determine what is optimal and profitable.
This confirmation of valuable data, which has been repeated in Australia and South Africa, is solid leverage to advance the Falkirk Solution to a high quality certified marketing regime.
The intent of Falkirk is spelt in the mission statement, which is under-laid with the unshakeable determination to create a strong client base, with independent
It is considered by Falkirk that each farm business is a pragmatic science trial. The cutting edge client base is fully privately funded to secure ownership of intellectual property. Immediately contractible and proofed; the Falkirk industry leadership confirms the mandate for sheep and beef farmers, in their natural environment.
• Subscribing in excess of 1 million sheep and beef animals.
• Spanning 27 years of formal existence, providing robust measured data.
• Signifying commercial reality.
• Scientific confirmation of the definition of the optimal animal.
• Systems pioneered for profit.
• Simplistic epigenetic knowledge that influences animal selection.
• Specialised animal selection method define quality genetics.
• Surety of genetic main trait interface that contributes to: Survivability, longevity, environmental fitness, high productivity, brandable quality product, and financial security.
resolve to be financially, psychologically and socially viable. Once this is achieved within own parameters, then we can interface to participate in successful marketing, and other initiatives that will continue to enhance our asset value and profit margins. Equally as important, we can withdraw to remain strong and independent to await the next opportunity, which incidentally is contrary to being interdependent.
Clients have been the recipients of reliable and robust information, genetics and advice. They are now well armed to proceed above the systemic failure of the archaic agri-business policies, which have negatively impacted all rural entities.
Falkirk’s commitment to enhance a quality control audit on clients’ livestock is vital to clearly illustrate to prospective buyers of livestock and the market place product that the specification that is ‘Falkirk Certified’, is the market leader that attracts maximum value. The internal discipline to drive the brand will not be compromised. The capabilities to deliver the hard decisions
are inherent in the Falkirk statute of operation. Accurate forensic intelligence gives real significance to Falkirk’s operation. In this age of misinformation, it is strategically important as we advance into the international market place.
You will have more control over your product and that is an important aspect of being successful in business.
It is the opinion of Falkirk, that the completion of the scientific unravelling of the animal genome is much cause for jubilation and awareness that DNA technology, can now be advanced to the point that it will become more accurate over time. In effect, not yet a fully proven science. Professionally it opens the future for solid knowledge gains for more accurate genetic surety regarding animal selection and replication. This is contrary to the claim by vested interested groups, who are selling the principle at this time as the immediate saviour for animal breeder’s woes. Instead it is highly probable that they are seeking justification for the current financial and intellectual claims for survival.
Single trait focus by nature denigrates the knowledge and ability to select the balanced
animal. The rudimentary skill required for the EpiGenetic selection process is the acquired wisdom to understand which set of traits, or combination of traits are necessary to interface to define adaptability factors.
The identified sequence enables animals to hold an environmental fitness, which coincides with economic fitness that generates sustainability, and profitability.
This sequence of factors blueprinted in the wild, staves off the extinction of specie?
It will not be until the ramifications of the understanding of Epi-Genetics are clarified to commercial use will the reliability and replication of traits through DNA manipulation be
– considered a useful breeding improvement tool. It is not at this moment to be bastardised as a livestock selling mechanism. Certainly it is not a ‘Silver Bullet’ as implied by genetic voyagers.
New Zealand Inc. does not afford the luxury to wait on more hollow promises.
Ian Walsh
– Principal Director of Falkirk
The Falkirk Index System is generating the largest private genetic client base in the Tri-Nations.
Despite ongoing lockdowns and slower Chinese economic growth, China’s demand for beef is expected to remain strong throughout the remainder of the year. However, the outlook for sheepmeat is far less upbeat, according to a new podcast by agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank.
Speaking on the recently released podcast “Is the Chinese meat market still ÿ ring?” Hong Kong-based RaboResearch senior analyst Chenjun Pan said China’s ongoing zerocovid approach is having a substantial impact on how Chinese consumers purchase and consume food.
“While we no longer have whole cities under lockdown like we did in the ÿ rst half of the year, we are still seeing districts being placed into lockdown when cases are found,” she said.
“As a result, people don’t want to take risks or to travel as far from home as they might have in the past, and this has had a big impact on how and where people consume food with banquets and business events much less frequent and many food service outlets closing. With spend via food service channels much lower, retail channel food spend has increased and we’ve also seen strong growth in food delivery sales as well as sales of ‘ready to
eat’, ‘ready to cook’ and ‘ready to heat’ convenience meals.”
Pan said these changes were having a much bigger impact on demand for sheepmeat than they were for beef.
“Lamb is predominantly sold via the food service channel in China, particularly at high end restaurants where it is used in hot pots. And with the sales via the food service channel having fallen substantially over the last six months, Chinese lamb demand has dropped markedly and China’s overall sheepmeat imports for the ÿ rst half of 2022 were well back on the previous year,” she said.
“On the other hand, Chinese demand for beef has been much more robust. Prior to the pandemic, beef sales were also heavily reliant on the food service channel. However, over the last two years beef sellers have been able to successfully shift a portion of sales from the food service channel to the retail channel.
Accordingly, beef demand has held up well and, in the ÿ rst half of 2022 Chinese imports of beef actually increased by two per cent in comparison with the same period last year.”
New Zealand-based RaboResearch agricultural analyst Genevieve Steven said New Zealand’s red meat exports
to China had grown strongly over recent years and the sector was now heavily reliant on the Chinese market.
“Demand from China has driven prices for New Zealand beef and sheepmeat to record highs over recent years and, as a result, we’ve increased the amount of product we are sending to China,” she said.
“In 2021, around 40 per cent of our total beef export revenue came via sales to the Chinese market, while this market also accounted for around 60 per cent of our sheepmeat export revenue. And this does mean we are now very exposed to China which is a risk.”
Ms Steven said the recent lockdowns in China and the resultant changes in consumer behaviour, had hit New Zealand export sheepmeat sales hard.
“Reduced Chinese demand for sheepmeat has had an adverse impact on our sheepmeat exports into this market, and over the ÿ rst half of 2022 they have fallen by 33 per cent on the same period in 2021,” she said.
“However, despite the decrease in sheepmeat export volumes, sheepmeat export earnings have remained elevated, with the average price per kg Free On Board (FOB) for the ÿ rst half of 2022, around $1.05/kg FOB
higher than the same period in 2021.This is largely attributable to a favourable exchange rate and high global protein prices.”
With the market dynamics in China unlikely to change any time soon, Steven said, there is further downside risk for New Zealand’s sheepmeat exports into China over the coming months.
“We expect our Chinese sheepmeat exports will continue to be considerably lower during the second half of 2022 than they were in the corresponding period last year and that the slowing Chinese economy and ongoing risk of lockdowns are likely to take the shine o° the farmgate lamb price into the 2023 season. Recessionary risks in New Zealand’s other key sheepmeat markets in 2023 –the EU, UK and US – will also put further downward pressure on sheepmeat demand and pricing,” she said.
Steven said the outlook for New Zealand beef exports into China was much brighter.
“On top of healthy Chinese beef demand, New Zealand beef producers are also fortunate that global supply of beef is tight at present. And this should help ensure Chinese demand for New Zealand beef continues to be strong and prices remain at elevated levels.”
The $8.1m Hill Country Futures programme which has included two Wairarapa farms in its research wraps up this December, with some reporting running into next year.
The focus of the programme has been on future prooÿ ng the proÿ tability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities.
It di° ers from most pastoral-based research in that it considers the wholefarm system and, critically, the wider communities these systems exist within.
Co-funded by Beef + Lamb New Zealand, the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment, PGG Wrightson Seeds and Seed Force, the programme incorporates traditional science research, farmer knowledge, social research and citizen science.
The programme has a strong
emphasis on forages and providing decision-making tools to help farmers select the best forage option for di° erent land management units.
It employed hill country study sites from Taranaki and East Coast in the north to Central Otago in the south.
As part of the East Coast Innovation Farm programme, the focus was on changing stock management practices to encourage sub clover seeding and germination. This resulted in a signiÿ cant increase in clover content.
The ongoing e° ects of this change in management on changes in clover content are being monitored under the Hill Country Futures programme.
“We are very pleased with the outputs and outcomes from this important project for hill country farming in New Zealand, says Dr Suzanne Keeling, Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Sector Science Strategy Manager.
“There has been a lot of interest in the tools, resources and various initiatives in the programme.”
under irrigated conditions.
For the ÿ rst time, yield has been predicted from weather data (5 x 5 km grid) and soils data.
The second model - Thermal Time-Based (TGM) model - is based on mean air temperatures and can be used by farmers for predicting lucerne yield on their farms.
The TGM model will help farmers predict lucerne yields on northand south-facing slopes on their farms and show the yield advantage from planting lucerne on a warm north-facing slope compared with a cooler southfacing slope.
AgYields www.agyields.co.nz, a new national forage database, has also been launched to help farmers and rural professionals make informed decisions around pasture planning.
requirements, nitrogen use, soil and pasture testing strategies, aluminium toxicity and sulphur requirements.
focus on legumes.
this impacts resilience and wider farm success.
to beneÿ t hill country environments and enhance biodiversity as well as be used a supplementary fodder for sheep and cattle.
Keeling says they are also holding a series of w˝nanga as part of research into the M˝tauranga M˝ori of a selection of native shrubs being assessed in the wider study..
One of the challenges with native plants is the length of time they take to establish in order to provide enough material to analyse.
DR SUZANNE KEELING, BEEF + LAMB NEW ZEALAND’S SECTOR SCIENCE STRATEGY MANAGER
These included Tokaroa Farm, a 608ha sheep and beef property at Carterton and Te Awa Awa, a 646ha sheep & beef property at Gladstone.
Lincoln University is working closely with Plant and Food Research and Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research. They have produced two models to inform legume yield.
APSIM (Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator) is a model that can be used by rural professionals.
It has produced a yield map of lucerne production potential across New Zealand based on long-term weather datasets
It is a central repository for all pasture and crop yield data and growth rate information collected in New Zealand.
It allows farmers to see which pastures and crops have been grown in their districts and how much they grew so they can select more resilient pasture and crop systems.
Keeling says the project’s Soil and Fertiliser series, produced by the team at Lincoln University, cover topics such as fertiliser and lime strategies, trace element
“We released these as a package to encourage rural professionals and farmers to consider a number of factors in their fertiliser decisions and to create e˛ ciencies in soil testing and nutrient applications.
“Much of the information in the package is linked to fundamental science, so while it’s not new, it acts as a refresher for farmers and rural professionals, but also draws on the results of forage trials that have been carried out on 15 sites across the country.”
These forage trials have evaluated several di° erent forage combinations with a
The overall aim is to help farmers match their property’s di° erent land management units with the appropriate legume.
Meanwhile, the well-being of hill country farmers is at the heart of a new tool developed by the programme.
FarmSalus, produced by Nature Positive and B+LNZ, has been designed for rural professionals and catchment groups to help measure and monitor farm success and support conversations with farmers about future prooÿ ng their business and lifting their overall resilience.
The assessment tool provides a resource for rural professionals to open discussions on farmer health and well-being and how
“Given the myriad of pressures farmers are facing, it’s critical the sector builds resilience to expected and unexpected events so we can future-proof hill country farming in New Zealand,” says Keeling.
“The social research team designed it to start meaningful discussion, rather than be a detailed tick-box list.
“The intention is that the facilitator will take farmers on a journey to think about their farm system in its entirety and their role in building resilience on their farm.”
FarmSalus has already been incorporated into Agri-Women Development Trust programmes and there has been interest from
other organisations.
A series of farmer stories are also due to be released before the end of the year.
“This type of social research was new to B+LNZ and up until this programme, there was no other interview-based dataset of this type in NZ,” says Suzi.
“It has allowed us to carry out in-depth analysis and give us a solid foundation and understanding of how farmers operate, their sources of pain, angst, hope and opportunities for the future.
“It was really important to both B+LNZ and the researchers that the elements of FarmSalus resonated with farmers.”
At Massey University, work is under way to look at the potential of native shrubs
This means this study will be a more proof of concept, although laboratory trials will look at the anthelmintic properties of native plants as well as their impact on methane production, potentially providing some useful insights for future work.
The programme team is also working hard to ensure all aspects of the project are wrapped up and made accessible to farmers, rural professionals and other stakeholders.
This is likely to include panel discussions, reports and webinars and various other communication channels while discussions are under way about what parts of the programme will become incorporated into B+LNZ and continue to be supported as part of the business, says Keeling.
“GIVEN THE MYRIAD OF PRESSURES FARMERS ARE FACING, IT’S CRITICAL THE SECTOR BUILDS RESILIENCE TO EXPECTED AND UNEXPECTED EVENTS SO WE CAN FUTURE˜PROOF HILL COUNTRY FARMING IN NEW ZEALAND.”
Sheep farmers are being encouraged to play their part in protecting the industry from exotic diseases by signing up to the new online portal MyOSPRI.
MyOSPRI is OSPRI’s new online customer portal that will, in time, enable farmers to access OSPRI’s integrated animal disease and traceability system.
It has replaced the eASD system and in the future will bring together NAIT and disease management information into one system, so farmers can view disease information and manage livestock movements easily online, and in one place.
Over 1000 sheep farmers have already ditched paper-based Animal Status Declarations (ASDs) and are now using MyOSPRI to send both farmto-farm and farm-to-meat processor electronic Animal Status Declarations (eASDs).
mobs and where farms and other places animals have been or are located.
Good animal movement records will allow for fast tracking and tracing of a disease, improving the likelihood of eliminating it quickly.
Kevin Forward, Head of Traceability at OSPRI says that the MyOSPRI system will vastly improve the sector’s ability to launch an e˜ ective response in the event of a disease outbreak.
“In the unlikely event of an outbreak such as Foot-andMouth Disease (FMD), it’s extremely important to keep tracking and tracing of animals accurately recorded and up to date.
“This is particularly critical for movements of mobs of sheep, which unlike cattle and deer are not covered by the National Animal Identiÿ cation Tracing programme. The best way to do that is through MyOSPRI.
GOOD ANIMAL MOVEMENT RECORDS WILL ALLOW FOR FAST TRACKING AND TRACING OF A DISEASE, IMPROVING THE LIKELIHOOD OF ELIMINATING IT QUICKLY
a response team to use in the event of a disease outbreak.
“Movements recorded using paper-based ASDs are not kept in a centralised database and would slow our ability to trace a rapidly-moving disease such as FMD.”
Paper ASDs will still need to be used for saleyards, he says.
very low, everyone needs to play their part in helping prevent FMD entering the country and spreading.
“I encourage sheep farmers to sign up to MyOSPRI and use electronic ASDs so the industry can move quickly in the unlikely event of a disease outbreak.
The eASDs provide accurate, reliable and readily accessible data about movements of sheep
“Not only will sheep farmers beneÿ t from using MyOSPRI, but we’ll have a better picture of all locations where cattle, deer and sheep move between for
Andrew Morrison, Chairman of Beef + Lamb New Zealand, says that while the risk of Foot and Mouth Disease arriving in New Zealand is still considered to be
“I have personally found using the electronic system is much easier and faster. It also gives me conÿ dence that I am doing everything can to protect my farm, my neighbour and the industry.”
A large turnout of farmers and agribusiness professionals is expected for this year’s Keinzley Agvet Wairarapa Sheep and Beef Farm Business of the Year Award ÿ eld day on November 17 at Wairere in the Bideford Valley.
Wairere is a 1209ha hill country farm and renowned as this country’s largest ram breeding operation.
The property and ram breeding business is owned by the Daniell family, and managed by Derek Daniell and Business Manager Simon Buckley, along with their farm team.
Head judge of the competition, Rob Thorneycroft says Wairere is a proÿ table, e˛ cient, innovative and sustainable farming system.
The Wairarapa competition is open to all sheep and beef farming businesses, including stud operations, and the committee received a good number of entries for this year’s award.
The ÿ eld day will provide visitors with an insight into the management of a successful hill country commercial farming operation, and the stud business.
Wairere has a large team to manage its livestock operations and a strong commitment to developing young talented farm sta˜ The ÿ eld day will include a tour of the property with stops at key points to discuss various aspects of the farm business and stud operation, before a ÿ nal session back at the Wairere woolshed and refreshments at
the end of the day.
Farmers are encouraged to bring their quads or side-by-side vehicles for the farm tour. Helmets are compulsory. Lunch will also be provided as part of a community fundraiser for $10 paid at arrival on the property.
The event is scheduled to start at 9.30am and ÿ nish around 4.30pm. Wairere is about 40 minutes from Masterton.
Source: Country-Wide magazine
ABOVE: SIMON BUCKLEY, WAIRERE’S BUSINESS MANAGER, IN THE YARDS ASSESSING STOCK ABOVE TOP: WAIRERE IS 1209HA IN THE BIDEFORD VALLEY, WAIRARAPA
After being cancelled for two years in a row, the Wairarapa A & P Show is taking place again later this month.
The annual show is being held from Friday 28 to Sunday 30 October.
Beef and Dairy entries close next Monday 3 October while entries for the sheep schedule close on Saturday 15 October.
The show will also include calf and lamb competitions, and dog trials.
Shearing will again add excitement to the show.
As always, the shearing and wool handling is being organised by Wairarapa shearing contractor Alan Grant.
Alan never knows who will turn
up until they arrive on the day, but the competition always attracts some of New Zealand’s top shearing sports people.
For Senior and Junior wool handlers it is an important event as any points earned for a placing will contribute to the North Island Wool Handling Circuit which culminates in the week of the Golden Shears.
While the prize money is a bit of an incentive, Alan says most competitors are driven more by the recognition gained from winning against their peers.
Shearing sports journalist Doug Laing agrees. “It is amazing the amount of time and money and travel they put in for little or no ÿ nancial reward. It shows the level of their dedication to the sport.”
The competition has the excitement of a Golden Shears ÿ nal but also the intimacy of an old-fashioned rural shearing competition of yesteryear.
It is held in a natural amphitheatre, so everyone gets a view of the action, with pumping action from the shearers, and pumping music in between events.
The competitors get enthusiastic and loud support of their families and shearing gang workmates who come from around Wairarapa, Hawke’s Bay and Manawatu.
Saturday will see a full day of shearing and wool handling competitions starting from 9am while Sunday will be a more informal a° air with shearing demonstrations from 11am.
DAIRY ENTRIES CLOSE NEXT MONDAY
SOME OF NEW ZEALAND’S TOP SHEARERS MAY BE COMPETING AT THE SHOW