Guardian Farming April 2013 by Ashburton Guardian

April 2013

An Ashburton Guardian Supplement

GUARDIAN FARMING

A vintage celebration p 2-4

Photo Tetsuro Mitomo 290313TM-073

The last 50 years of agriculture in Canterbury has seen some vast growth, development and technological improvement.

ATS would love to celebrate the last 50 years with you, and extend an invitation to share your stories with us over our 50th Anniversary Morning Tea celebration.

17 April 2013 Heron Lounge, Hotel Ashburton 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;11.30am To RSVP, email book@ats.co.nz or contact us on 03 307 5100 by Wednesday 10 April

50 CELEBRATING

YEARS

Wheat and wheels rally programme Main ring events Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th April

10.15am 10.35am 10.55am 11.15am 11.45am 12noon 12.30pm 12.45pm 1pm 1.20pm 1.40pm 2pm 2.20pm

2.40pm 3pm

Pivot steer tractors parade Grand parade – followed by a lolly scramble.

Other activities

Harvesting parade – combines, rakes, balers, etc Military parade Ford/Fords on tractors and Ford cars and trucks – to celebrate 110 years of Ford Tractor starting demonstration Fire brigade display Logging truck display Bag loading display Big and small tractor and cultivator display Crawler tractor parade Traction engine parade - including scale engines Traction engine slow race Classic trucks parade Vintage and classic cars parade

8.30am Saturday, a tractor trek around the Wakanui district. 10.30am and 1.30pm Spud digging – public can pick a bag of spuds at a small cost. 11am and 2pm On both days the chaff cutter and mill will be operating. Vintage harvesting happening in the harvest paddock, on both days (weather permitting). Pulling sledge available for tractor owners to have a go on. Heavy haulage trailer available for traction engines.

Any feedback is welcome, any comments about our magazine, letters or story suggestions. Please direct any correspondence to: Linda Clarke, on 307-7971 email: linda.c@theguardian.co.nz or write to PO Box 77, Ashburton. Advertising: Phone 307-7974 Email: desme.d@theguardian.co.nz Publication date: April 9, 2013 Next issue: May 8, 2013

GUARDIAN FARMING Photo Tetsuro Mitomo 290313-TM070

An advertising feature for the Ashburton Guardian. Any opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of Guardian Farming or the Ashburton Guardian.

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Linda Clarke, Ashburton Guardian rural reporter

Still mad about farm machinery John Hall’s first day at school in 1954 was delayed by a special arrival. The tractor-mad four-year-old refused to go to school because he wanted to see his father’s new Caterpillar D2 in action on the family farm at Otaio. The Cat is still running, thanks to John’s passion for vintage farm machinery and will be one of several old track tractors at the Wheat and Wheels Rally on April 13-14.

diesel-powered tractor, imported from America through Gough Gough and Hamer in Timaru, cost around 1900 pounds and was to become a reliable workhorse on the Hall family’s rolling farmland. It has a rear-mounted diesel tank and the serial number 13904; it was one of about 18,000 Caterpillar D2s ever made. Its 48 hp might not be huge, but it was surprisingly tough and pulled some big loads.

It is shaping as a big affair, with over The Cat has stayed in the Hall family 500 old tractors and farm implements, and 23 huge pivot tractors featuring the since its arrival in the country nearly 60 most modern technology available. years ago. John retrieved it five years ago, after it had had spent 20 years People will be able to see the two side by side, and marvel about the advances in near retirement. He has repaired and restored it painstakingly, and still in farm machinery. sometimes uses it on his property – the John is one of the organisers of the weather has to be sunny though, and rally, which will celebrate the Mid time not pressing. Canterbury Vintage Machinery Club’s John says the Cat is a delight to drive 30th anniversary. He has a collection and the operator uses levers to steer. It of old tractors and ploughs, some is noisy though and dusty as there is no restored, some in the process, at his protection for the driver. lifestyle block on Wakanui Road.

Photo linda clarke 250313-lc015

John Hall’s vintage Caterpillar D2 diesel powered tractor has been painstakingly restored.

His passion for farm machinery began as a small boy and he remembers his father pulling back the railway cover on the bright yellow Cat. The

He remembers first driving it as a 12-year-old, working with his father in the fields and says it has clocked up about 7000 hours since then.

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Linda Clarke, Ashburton Guardian rural reporter

Photo Linda Clarke 250313LC-020

John Stewart with his prized John Deere 6030.

US import a firm favourite ever built to have a choice of engines, John Stewart has plenty of tractors to choose from on his Dorie farm if one breaks either the non-turbo 531 cubic inch at 141hp or the turbo-charged intercooled down. 531 cubic inch engine at 175 hp. Only 45 His favourite though is a John Deere 6030, tractors were built with the non-turbo the only one of its kind in New Zealand. engine making them very rare, and 3983 That particular model was never sold here tractors with the turbo intercooled engine, and John imported it from Minnesota, USA, making 4028 in total from 1972-1977. in 2006. It has become a collectable item The tractor weighs 8.5 ton and even in the states, and a prized part of John’s vintage farm machinery collection. It is not today, 38 years after its introduction, the often called to duty these days, but is more 6030 in an impressive tractor. Despite the relatively few produced, the 6030 is a than capable should the need arise. tractor known for its sheer size, ruggedness The tractor will be one of 500 vintage and ability to just keep going (except to farm machines on show at the weekend’s stop and fill the fuel tank). Wheat and Wheels Rally and John is John said the 6030 was a tractor that expecting plenty of interest in his. Deere felt so proud of that it kept the last The John Deere 6030 was built in the one for its own collection. “That speaks last year of production in 1977 and is in its volumes.” original condition with only 6100 hours on The 6030 is a big toy on the farming the clock. The 6030 was rated at 200hp at property John operates with his brother the engine and 175hp at the PTO, with a Paul. They run a cropping operation and 531 cubic inch or 8.7 litre engine that was 1800-cow dairy farm on 950ha. turbocharged and intercooled. The 6030 is the only John Deere tractor

There are 31 tractors on the farm, a

third in daily use. The rest include John’s personal collection of old farm machines.

the rally so people can compare how farm machines have changed, for the better.

His interest in vintage farm machinery was sparked by his grandfather, who used to have steam traction engines. He remembers playing on the machines as a young boy.

All the farm machines on display will feature in a rally catalogue, itself a collectable item.

The oldest in his collection is a 1916 International Harvester Mogal tractor. It is one of only five in New Zealand and it is the oldest tractor in Mid Canterbury. Like other collectors, he spends plenty of time, energy and money restoring them. John has also been in charge of organising some very modern machines to be at this weekend’s rally (Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th April), to be held at Peter Butterick’s farm at Wakanui.

John said the catalogue would also include a tribute to Gilmour Blee, who passed away recently. Mr Blee was a local historian with a vast knowledge of vintage machinery in the district. The rally will celebrate the vintage machinery club’s 30th anniversary and John has been a member since the early days. The club began in 1983 with the aim to foster interest in rare or unusual tractors and machinery of yesteryear. It has around 90 members who regularly join in public activities like A&P shows, Wheels Week and Christmas parades.

He said 23 pivot tractors were set to make an appearance. The oldest was a 1920 pivot steer and the most modern a 2012 Club members also take part in vintage demonstrator model with all the latest bells ploughing competitions, with plenty of and whistles. fun and a little glory for those taking home The old and new will be put together at trophies or prizes in various categories.

Contributed by Mary Ralston, Forest and Bird

Rata and Project Crimson The Southern Rata was once a prominent tree species along the foothills and in the forests of the Main Divide of Canterbury. Its blazing red flowers lit up the forest in February and although it is now reduced in numbers, it can still be seen in late summer in the Awa Awa Rata Reserve near Mt Hutt, and in places above Woolshed Creek near Mt Somers. Southern Rata are found on the sub-Antarctic Islands, on Stewart Island, through the western parts of the South Island and in a few isolated areas on the North Island, and from the coast to alpine passes. There other species of rata and their cousin is the pohutukawa. Rata and the pohutukawa are now much reduced compared to their original distribution due to timber cutting and forest clearing for agriculture, and nowadays are under constant threat from possums. Project Crimson is a conservation organisation that was established in 1990 to stem the loss of rata and pohutukawa. It grew out of concern that more than 90 per cent of coastal pohutukawa had been lost and was later extended to include rata. Staff from the Department of Conservation and New Zealand Forest Products (now Carter Holt Harvey) came up with the idea of creating a community-based project to help

pohutukawa. The Project Crimson Trust began by propagating trees for planting. Some of the original stock was raised in prison nurseries which provided horticultural training for inmates and provided a source of trees for planting out by community groups, schools and councils. The trust has a strong focus on schools throughout New Zealand and has encouraged children to take pride in their environment and their native flora. The Ashburton branch of Forest and Bird applied to Project Crimson for funding to propagate Southern Rata. The rata were propagated from those growing on the Rhyolite Ridge on Mt Somers, above Woolshed Creek, where they are more like shrubs because their growth is limited by the harsh conditions. Around 700 have been propagated and grown on by Growtek at the Agribusiness facility on Hepburn’s Road. They will be distributed for planting in spring. Forest and Bird is keen for the rata to be planted along the foothills of Canterbury where they were once common. It is best to plant them in spring or early summer, after the harshest frosts are over. Although they are native to the area, they can be hard to grow, and must be protected from possums and frost.

ern Rata h t u o S r u o y g il Plantin with moist so

place open sunny • Choose an nting s before pla • Spray weed and as deep 30 cm wide st a le at le o • Dig a h as possible le ost if availab it in it • Add comp rpet with a sl ca f o re a u sq h or a • Place mulc lant p e th d n arou ld in place carpet to ho e th n o s e n some • Put sto ossums. Place or p is ta ra to rd threat ee gua • The biggest ch as wire netting, a tr und the su ro , a n t io e ct ck ss bu prote or bottomle ossums! rd a u ig b m Co to p re like lollies at tree. Rata a and after th rst summer, fi e th h g u • Water thro ions it in dry cond st 5m apart • Plant at lea wn but not ost once gro r. fr d n a st h it oth in winte • Rata will w r with frost cl ve co so ll, a when sm

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Rata growing on Rhyolite Ridge, Mt Somers.

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Contributed by Irrigation NZ

Great irrigation challenge Photo supplied

Around 700 people have attended workshops run by Irrigation NZ to become better irrigators.

IrrigationNZ will host the inaugural Great Irrigation Challenge on May 23 and 24. The callenge is made up of a series of halfday workshops featuring a range of topics useful for irrigators, irrigation scheme managers and directors, and industry participants. The idea is for the days to be very interactive and for people to go away more knowledgeable than when they come in. The workshops focus on areas where either the irrigation industry is underresourced, requires expert advice or where there is a need for further training and upskilling. Over the two days, there will be 16 half-day workshops covering everything from irrigation essentials knowledge and preparing an asset management register to pump selection, managing staff and media and communication strategies.

Participants will be able to pick and choose which workshops they attend depending on their interest, availability and particular needs. We’re encouraging all irrigators and industry participants to attend to ensure you make the most of the range of topics on offer. You can stick with the irrigation essentials of soil, water and plant interactions or sign up for staff management, technical equipment selection, irrigation design, data management and telemetry, and much more. Each workshop will be taken by an experienced and knowledgeable presenter so detailed and in-depth discussions can be had. Using industry specialists as presenters will ensure that participants get tangible, practical outcomes from this event.

informative workshops under the tagline Making Irrigation Pay. These workshops were very much aimed at delivering messages around good management practice to improve performance and the bottom line for irrigators. They have been very successful with more than 700 irrigators attending each year throughout New Zealand. In order to cater for a wider audience, a decision was made to move to a more targeted and condensed format this year. IrrigationNZ recognises that it’s not only farmers in the industry who require access to experts and refresher training, but also the management, consultancy, supply and service components of our industry.

is at the hub of activity for a large area of irrigated land with significant expansion in the pipeline from both existing schemes and new irrigation. With constant changes through regulations, public expectations and rapidly changing technology, it is important that the irrigation industry has the opportunity to continuously improve and adopt innovative practices.

Ashburton has had a long and very fruitful connection with irrigation and has Over the past few years, IrrigationNZ has been chosen as the inaugural venue for engaged with irrigators through a series of the Great Irrigation Challenge. The town

For more information, please feel free to call any staff member from IrrigationNZ or look at the website for a full programme. (www.irrigationnz.co.nz)

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An Ashburton Guardian Advertising Feature

Council warns irrigators off roads

The Ashburton District Council’s roading department is about to get tough on farmers whose irrigators are spraying beyond the paddock and on to roads. While the majority of farmers irrigating near roads are doing so responsibly, some are not taking the care required. Ashburton District Council roading and street services manager, Brian Fauth, says when water from irrigators fall on to our rural roads, it becomes a safety hazard for motorists. “Motorists are caught off guard when their vehicles are bombarded by jets of water while travelling on the road and this becomes dangerous to them and others nearby,” he said. Water from irrigators can also damage the quality of rural roads, particularly unsealed roads. “With declining government subsidy for maintaining our roads and increasing heavy traffic volumes on our roading network, council’s roading team is struggling to keep up with unsealed road maintenance, made worse by water damage from irrigators. Misdirected irrigators also have the potential to destroy your neighbour’s property and structures such as post boxes.

“We have received complaints about neighbours’ mail boxes being drenched and all their mail destroyed,” he said. Mr Fauth hopes that farmers will cooperate and avoid spraying water over roads, adjacent property or structures. “While we are aware that sometimes a sudden change in wind direction or speed can cause water to be sprinkled on to rural roads, we hope that farmers can stop the situation as soon as they are aware of it,” he said. “Another way to avoid spraying water on rural roads is to check the tracking of units on a regular basis and ensuring that they are geared for optimum performance and suited to the conditions,” he said. Mr Fauth says overall Ashburton District farmers are very responsible but a very small number of farmers are bringing down the quality of our roads. “While we generally don’t have issue with most farmers there are some repeat offenders who are being inconsiderate to the safety of others and to our rural roads,” says Mr Fauth. “If this situation continues, we will investigate and prosecute cases of intentional damage to rural roads,” he said.

Keep Our Rural Roads Safe Is this you?? If your irrigators are spraying water on our rural roads, you are endangering motorists by: • • • •

Making road surfaces slippery Reducing driver visibility Startling passing motorists Causing potholes on unsealed roads

Cutting corners can have fatal consequences

Be considerate - Don’t be a road hazard to others

An Ashburton Guardian Advertising Feature

Waihi School A boy’s education for life For over one hundred years boys have enjoyed a remarkable education here in the heart of beautiful South Canterbury. The boys of today are no different, living, growing and learning in our very special school. The sign over the gate claims that Waihi is “A Boy’s Education for Life”, and it is indeed the big picture that we look at when designing an experience that will help the Waihi Boy to grow and develop. The formative years of your son’s education are extremely important. The experiences, values and challenges presented to him at this stage are fundamental in helping to shape and determine his views, attitudes, dispositions and ultimate success for his future years. In a world where traditional values are being constantly challenged and eroded, we believe that an education rooted in a solid Christian values system is as relevant now as it ever has been. The week starts with Chapel setting the tone for our week ahead, placing emphasis on good manners, courtesy, considerate behaviour, graciousness and respect. Waihi has high expectations of the boys in terms of academic achievement. Small class sizes, together with high quality, committed staff, many of whom are residential, ensure that we know our boys extremely well and they receive close attention and care. Whilst achievement in the classroom is crucial, the education the boys receive is broad, balanced and we seek to find exactly what presses the buttons of every boy, allowing them to discover their talents and fulfil their potential. We introduce boys to a wide range of opportunities. In particular, there is a strong emphasis on sports, music, drama, and technology.

The rule is that every boy tries everything be it swimming, learning French, singing or giving a speech! We understand how boys, think and learn. They are presented with opportunities and challenges that seek to inspire and motivate them. We believe in allowing boys to be boys and our unique rural environment gives them many opportunities to play and learn together. Boarding is at the heart of Waihi life. Our day boys benefit from many aspects of the routines and experiences of a boarding school and all live and work together harmoniously. My family and I live in the very heart of the School, and we are fully involved in all aspects of its life, as are the many other residential staff. We believe that boarding helps boys develop self-management skills, independence, increase in confidence and above all learn the value and importance of being members of a community. A visit to Waihi will reveal the school’s happy, purposeful atmosphere. My wife, Kendra, and I would be delighted to welcome you and your sons and introduce you to our students. You can explore our wonderful school setting, listen to the boys tell you for themselves about their lives here and discover just how Waihi is really making a difference for yet another generation of young boys.

OPEN DAY Sunday 19th May – 1.30pm Waihi is a small, family oriented, Independent School with spacious rural grounds and up to date facilities situated north of Winchester on State Highway 1 in South Canterbury. Christian values, small class sizes, extensive pastoral care by peers and staff ensure every Waihi boy responds to the challenge of personal development.

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Photo supplied

An Ashburton Guardian Advertising Feature

St Margaret’s College boarders are living their dream

Photos supplied

The St Margaret's College boarding community is now truly "Living the Dream 2013" while further developing their Boarders Programme.

Boarding at Medbury School

Director of Boarding Sue Newton says "we are offering a greater range of skills based activities that are age appropriate to support and develop independence."

At Medbury School they certainly know what it takes to keep the boys involved and happy, and how to unlock their full potential. Headmaster Peter Kay takes an individual interest in every boy and his progress – an approach shared by all members of staff. The School provides an environment where boys can thrive, guided by sensible boundaries, clearly defined expectations, and exceptional peer support.

Throughout the year each year group will be offered a skills based and a personal development activity as well as co-educational socialization opportunities. Links with other Boarding hostels such as Year 9 and 10 dinner swaps with Christ's College and Year 7 and 8 Iceskating with Waihi school are planned. Skills based activities include cycle safety and Barista training is offered for Year 12 girls. Activities for personal development focus on positive relationship skills and leadership skills.

Boarding at Medbury School provides an entry into an exciting and welcoming ‘extended family’. Located in the heart of Fendalton in Christchurch, Medbury offers your son a host of diverse and stimulating activities and excellent facilities to ensure that he will never have a dull moment.

"Weekends are great fun" says Year 8 Boarding student, Mia Thomson. Some of the activities in the weekend programme includes movies, rugby games, shopping trips and creative crafts. St Margaret's College is a Year 1 - 13 Independent school for girls and the only girls school in the South Island to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma to its senior students. The school is holding an open day on Monday 13 May, 10.30am - 1.30pm. All visitors are welcome. For more information please view www.stmargarets.school.nz

PhotoS supplied

Headmaster Peter Kay believes that boarding at Medbury is not just about achieving academically, but holistically. This also encompasses building strong friendships and he takes quiet pride in the way the 35 boys are like ‘brothers’. Mr Kay says that this attitude extends to staff. “We treat them the way we would our own children”. The Boarding House provides a welcoming ‘home away from home’ and our dedicated team, which includes the Headmaster, the

Boarding Housemaster, two Matrons, a Gap tutor and Medbury teachers, on rotation, ensures that every boy receives the attention and support he needs to flourish. In addition, a ‘big brother’ system provides boys new to the Boarding House with friendly guidance and advice. Teachers, again maximizing the boys’ educational advantage, supervise homework. Communication between parents and boys is actively encouraged, with boys able to email daily, phone home during the week, or Skype regularly. Many boarders return home for the weekend after Saturday sport, though those who ‘stay in’ are well catered for with a diverse and engaging weekend programme. In addition to developing good work ethics and providing a broad and balanced education in a stimulating and caring environment, Medbury is also leading the way with 1:1 laptop classes. All boys in Years 5-7 have their own laptops; in 2014 this will extend to Year 8. Peter Kay believes their challenge is to provide an education that cherishes tradition, but prepares the boys for the 21st Century. For more information please contact Tanya Moore (Headmaster’s PA) on 03 351 6169, email office@medbury.school.nz or visit www.medbury.school.nz

We love it!

Boarding at St Margaret's College rocks! We have great facilities and amazing programmes designed to suit each age group in our Year 7 - 13 boarding family. We know you will love it too.

OPEN DAY

Monday 13 May, 10.30am - 1.30pm The Principal's address will be at 11.45am. For boarding enquiries please contact Tina Cartwright on 03 353 2563 or email tina.c@stmargarets.school.nz

JUNIOR, MIDDLE & SENIOR SCHOOL 12 Winchester St | Merivale | Christchurch 8014 | www.stmargarets.school.nz

UNLOCKING YOUR SON’S POTENTIAL You are invited to attend the

MEDBURY SCHOOL OPEN DAY Monday 13 May 9.00am - 12.15pm The Headmaster will speak at 10.00am and 11.30am Academic, Boarding and Music Scholarships available for 2014 For more information contact Tanya Moore (Headmaster’s PA) on 03 351 6169 109 Clyde Road, Christchurch | office@medbury.school.nz | www.medbury.school.nz

Contributed by John Leadley

And they call it progress Several years ago I wrote an article for this publication entitled “Were the Good Old Days Really That Bad?”

by someone anonymous. I ask you?

and disruptive behaviour in the youth of today.

I believe the letter of retired judge Lynton Laing summed up the matter accurately and I’m not suggesting for one minute that the succinctly when he wrote: “If an opinion is to scale of this problem is significantly greater Sad to say with the passage of another seven years I’ve seen little to change some of have any credibility it’s worthy of the author’s in Ashburton than other like communities, name.” my “geriatric” opinions. merely that it exists and seems to be growing in frequency. Easter weekend brought the My reaction to anonymous letters is just While I’m quite prepared to admit highest number of hospital admissions the same as to nameless phone callers – ie technological advances in many spheres of nationwide ever due to drug and alcohol employment have brought huge benefits to totally unworthy of response. abuse. society in general, not all so-called progress When it comes to cellphones and smart have proved positive. My role in the Ashburton community allows phones again I acknowledge huge benefits me the privilege of meeting a huge number for business and personal safety, but again Recent publicity around the bizarre of well-adjusted and obviously well-parented there is a down side if used unwisely. Novapay situation and the ongoing leakages young people. Those who serve on the from government departments of EQC, Most learning institutions have fortunately youth council, the pupil representatives that Health and Conservation paint a picture moved to ban cellphones during class and speak for their school at council’s annual of gross inefficiency or, worse still, criminal I note a number of restaurants in Australia Kids Forum, the youth who undertake the mismanagement. New technology! have done the same. youth leadership programme, the many I was pleased to read that local police church youth groups and the hundreds of The manner in which cellphones have personnel are not encouraged to use children who regularly participate in the virtually become hand extensions to a Facebook as a crime-solving tool (despite many sports activities where I go to watch number of people never ceases to amaze the Guardian poll majority favouring). I’m left me – I only wish that adults, when attending our grandchildren, to name a few. wondering the number of responses? meetings, church, funerals and the like could Reassuringly these are the huge majority. leave their toys at home, or at least switch The simple fact is that in my role in The worrying factor is the small minority them to silent. community safety, I’ve been made aware that fall outside the “loved and cared for” by numerous respected teachers, police If we are to build a generation of good category and eventually become a burden personnel and social workers of the dangers communicators ie those who can listen – on society because of their behaviour. of this form of communication. This in think – respond, in that order, I don’t believe I’ve always believed it’s not only everyone’s respect of bullying, extreme peer pressure, text messages and Facebook with its add-on right to have children, but it is also a privilege social exclusion and in some cases even tweets, Twitters etc is the answer. We risk and it’s one that comes with responsibilities. suicide. The risks are too high. losing the art of face-to-face dialogue. Too often in this high-tech and fast-paced world we live in, children are the victims. One of the greatest gifts that children can receive The increasing demands on police, welfare from their parents is time. Time to talk, time and health officials caused by alcohol and/ to listen, time to share experiences and time The response was that text messaging is the or drug-fuelled behaviour, particularly by to learn. I admire immensely young parents modern way with progressive newspapers young offenders, is a multi-million dollar who make a regular commitment to spend and that he would personally be “vetting” all national disgrace. quality time with their families, at home, text messages for defamatory comment. at picnics, visiting friends, gaining new My experience, like many others, tells me experiences or merely “chilling out” – this is Several days later our democratically there is a huge lack of discipline in some elected mayor was referred to as a “wet sack” families which manifests itself in lawbreaking what role modelling is all about. When our local newspaper reversed its decision and again allowed Letters to the Editor under nom-de-plume I spoke to the editor of my dismay.

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R.I.P. Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were lost long ago, lost in bureaucratic red tape.

Less impressive is the notion that availability of computer games and television programmes (often involving violence) is good parenting. I’m also firmly of the view that parents, teachers and the public have been systematically “de-powered” by an ever-increasing raft of government regulations.

He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as knowing when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets the worm, life isn’t always fair and maybe it was my fault.

The low percentage of male teachers particularly at pre-school and primary level, is a concern especially when there is no consistent male role model in the home situation (for whatever reason). But in saying that I know some really terrific young people who have been raised by solo parents. It’s always dangerous to generalise.

Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don’t spend more than you earn) and reliable parenting strategies (adults, not children, are in charge).

The anti-smacking legislation is a classic example of a “knee-jerk” reaction to a problem that exists in probably less than 1 per cent of the population. No-one would condone the level of assault carried out in a small number of very high-profile cases that have grabbed media headlines in the past few years – the difference is the use of common sense. I very much doubt that an Act of Parliament will make one iota of difference to a parent or guardian in a rage fuelled by drugs or alcohol, who is administering “discipline” to a child.

His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition. Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job they themselves failed to do, in disciplining their unruly children.

However, in support of a ministry proposal for formal parenting education is the fact that too many parents (guardians) lack the skills to distinguish between needs and wants when managing the family budget. Basic healthy food items are neither expensive or difficult to obtain – or grow – in this food-producing nation. In some cases substituting the bottle of beer, Lotto ticket or dog roll for fresh fruit, cereal and bread would be a great decision!

Common Sense took a beating when you couldn’t defend yourself from a burglar in your own home but the burglar could have you fined for assault. Common Sense finally gave up the will to live after a woman failed to realise that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.

My point is that so often parenting is all about getting the priorities right. There is no magic formula to success. It all goes back to basic common-sense personal values that are the result of good parenting.

Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust, his wife, Discretion, his daughter Responsibility and his son, Reason. He is survived by three step-brothers, I know My Rights, Someone Else is to Blame, and I’m a Victim.

For those interested I again offer the following piece forwarded by a friend.

Not many attended his funeral because so few realised he was gone. Were the good old days really that bad? I rest my case.

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Staying on track on your ATV Going about your daily on-farm tasks will almost certainly involve your quad bike; but because you ride it so often, you may forget to take a safe approach each time you grab the keys. It pays to know the “dos and don’ts” when it comes to riding quad bikes-following industry recommendations will help you to stay on track.

two million dollars in claims for damage to farm bikes whilst in use. Making the trek back to your home, removing the damaged bike and borrowing a bike from a neighbour can cost you precious time ... and money.

Accidents on quad bikes are often caused by seemingly insignificant errors that each of us can make every day. The Department of Labour lists the following as the most common causes of All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) accidents:

It’s not just the financial cost or the inconvenience of being without your most vital farm vehicle that will affect your farming operation. The risk of death is very real. FarmSafe reports that 20 per cent of the agricultural deaths during 2007-08 were due to ATV accidentsmostly due to rolling on steep terrain.

Hitting more than your pocket

• Riding too fast for the weather and terrain conditions. • Turning too sharply. • Placing loads unevenly; overloading and carrying loads on slopes. • Speed. • Losing concentration, complacency and over-confidence. • Misjudging the limitations of the ATV. • Lack of rider skill and experience. • Lack of maintenance and the use of incorrect tyres. All of these common errors can and do lead to accidents. We know, because over the past four years we’ve paid out over

How you can avoid the same loss Over 700 of FMG’s clients have suffered a loss to their farm bike over the past four years. While we can’t prevent these accidents from happening, FMG can conduct a free risk assessment of your property which will help you to identify the areas of your business that are more susceptible to loss. As part of the assessment, we can make recommendations on how you can reduce the risk, such as you and/or your workers attending one of FarmSafe’s

workshops on riding ATVs and using farm equipment. We also aim to provide you with the latest tips published by the Department of Labour and FarmSafe, which can help you avoid the hassle and cost of an ATV accident. • Maintain access ways and tracks. • Mow (or avoid riding across) long grass, which can hide drop-offs, sheep tracks and other sudden changes in terrain. • Ride to the conditions - reduce your speed to an appropriate level. • Ride within the limits of your own abilities. • Ensure your ATVs are regularly maintained and serviced. • Understand the effects of adding implements, trailers and mounted loads to your ATV. • Take an ATV driver training course. • Avoid steep terrain where possible understand what the limitations are for different terrain. • Always wear appropriate footwear, clothing and eyewear as well as a helmet. • Remember ATVs are not designed to carry passengers.

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Contributed by Graeme Jones, PGG Wrightson Arable Business Manager

An Ashburton Guardian Advertising Feature

Early decisions help with yield Waiting until contracts are released could be reducing your profitability by more than 20 per cent. Yield is the key. Based on a 10-tonne irrigated feed wheat yield: • 10% yield increase delivers 20% more profit • 20% yield increase delivers 40% more profit FAR trial results on drilling date supports a yield benefit of approx 1 tonne comparing late March drilling to late April during the past few seasons.

drilling late • On lighter or non-irrigated soils the benefit of early sowings is that the grain filling often coincides with cooler temperatures and better soil moisture • The improved root development from early sowings are also a big benefit especially during the grain fill Choose a cultivar that is optimum for the drilling date. If drilling early choose a slow developer, for later drilling target a slightly earlier maturing cultivar.

The benefits of early sowing is applicable on both heavy, lighter and non- irrigated soils.

My advice would be to plan cultivar choice early and organise seed. Do not wait until the last minute and then risk delays with seed availability or not being able to secure your preferred cultivar. In the event of seed being delayed my advice would be to switch to the next best cultivar and get drilling.

• On heavy soils, the risk is soils getting wet late autumn, often resulting in long delays in drilling and sometimes delaying sowing until the spring. Poor emergence and drown out can also be a problem when

Place orders early based on trial and on farm performance of the cultivars. Your PGG Wrightson Arable Rep will be able to provide the relevant information to assist in your decision making.

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Winning farm under the spotlight Methven farmers Craige and Roz Mackenzie will have their awardwinning intensive arable operation in the spotlight on Friday when they invite their farming peers to see precision agriculture in action. Long-time devotees of precision agriculture, the Mackenzies last month won the supreme award at the Canterbury Ballance Farm Environment Awards. They also won the nutrient management award and the water efficiency award. The couple’s Greenvale Pastures farming operation uses technology to maximise production in a sustainable manner. The Precision Agriculture Association of New Zealand is cashing in on the award by running a day-long workshop and field day at Methven on Friday including a visit to the Mackenzies to see the technology in action. Association chairman Peter

Barrowclough said precision agriculture and precision agriculture in the technologies could assist the efficiency, environment. productivity, profitability and Associate Minister for Primary sustainability of land-based production Industries Jo Goodhew will wind up the systems. day with some closing remarks. “These are going to be crucial for Farm award judges described the New Zealand to achieve our growth Mackenzies as top producers who objectives, maintain our international competitiveness and retain our offer “high levels of innovation and global reputation for innovation and leadership in the arable industry”. environmentally-sound production They said the progressive couple systems.” had taken technology to the next The workshop and field day was a step on their irrigated farm “using chance to learn more, he said. every available tool to improve their production and cost efficiency”. The workshop will be at Methven Resort and include words from Electromagnetic soil mapping, for Environment Canterbury deputy example, is used to give a clear picture chair David Caygill before sessions of water holding and productive about technology platforms, grid capacity within specific zones. soil sampling, variable rate fertiliser application, soil mapping, variable rate Judges also commended the use irrigation and soil moisture probes. of technologies like variable rate irrigation to ensure crops were never The farm visit occupies the overwatered. afternoon and will cover crop sensors, Story continues next page

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15 Greenvale grows mainly specialist crops, with this season’s rotation including radish, chicory, wheat, ryegrass, fescue, barley and faba beans. Judges said the intensive farm operates simple and effective crop rotations, describing Greenvale as a neat and tidy property that is “a high performing unit in every aspect”. Along with the 200ha Greenvale pastures, the Mackenzies also hold a 50 per cent equity share in a neighbouring 330ha dairy unit. And with their daughter Jemma they co-own a company that utilises precision agriculture technology to provide agronomic support and solutions to farmers. Judges also praised the way the Mackenzies regard their staff on Greenvale as “the most important aspect of their operation”. They also noted the couple’s very effective utilisation of soil test and plant requirement information to plan and monitor nutrient use efficiency. Fertiliser is spread using a variable rate spreader equipped with technology that allows targeted nutrient application to meet specific crop requirements. Judges also noted the couple’s strategic use of irrigation to ensure maximum seed germination while enhancing the activity of applied chemicals and increasing nitrogen use efficiency.

photo supplied

Craige and Roz Mackenzie.

Contributed by Sheryl Stivens, Eco efficiency Co-ordinator Mastagard Ashburton

What can you do with all Don’t you love watching the resource in your own backyard. leaves on the trees turn fabulous What is composting? shades of gold, scarlet, crimson, orange and purple as the Composting is a method of coolness of autumn descends speeding up the decomposition around us? of organic materials. MicroHowever, when the spectacular organisms (ie bacteria and fungi) in the compost heap use display is over the leaves fall carbon and nitrogen to make and can be very messy and protein. During this process heat slippery around our paths and is produced and this speeds entranceways. up the decomposition. To work Some people put the leaves properly and smell sweet, in rubbish bags to be carted to compost heaps need organic the landfill but this “solution” materials (such as leaves, animal to the problem is not good for manures and grass clippings), the environment. Far better to compost the mineral-rich leaves micro-organisms, moisture and and return the valuable nutrients air/oxygen. they contain to feed your soil over the winter months. You will be rewarded with a richer garden bed and save money on buying peastraw mulch or compost products if you use this

Easy composting

Ingredients: autumn leaves, lawn clippings, fertiliser or manure, food scraps, tea bags and coffee grounds from your

kitchen, water, weeds and waste veggie tops, tomato stalks etc. Method: Rake up fallen leaves. Putting them through a shredder or running over them with the lawn mower is a good idea as it increases the surface area available to the microorganisms, but it is not essential. Choose a convenient site. I like to make my compost in the midst of the vegetable growing area so the resulting rich worm filled humus can be spread out in the spring right where I need it to form a rich bed for planting potatoes, broccoli or corn straight into. Instead of making a heap you can simply layer all the materials over a raised bed garden and cover it with carpet over the winter. It will be weed free and rich for planting in the late spring. How easy is that? Story continues next page

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those autumn leaves ? Start with a layer of leaves about 100 to 150mm thick. Cover that with a thinner layer of grass clippings (50 to 100mm), and then sprinkle on some horse manure. If you have any kitchen scraps or garden waste, add those too. Continue adding layers as you would if you were making lasagna until all your organic materials are used up. Lightly water after you add every layer.

sawdust and straw are high in carbon. For best results, carbon and nitrogen should be added in roughly the same ratio as the microorganisms use it up, which is approximately 30:1. That is why we balance the leaves (high carbon) with layers of manure, grass clippings and kitchen scraps (high nitrogen). Don’t worry too much about trying to balance the carbon and nitrogen exactly. The best approach in a home gardening situation is to add a variety of ingredients - the more variety the more richness there is in the end product.

If you are worried about the leaves blowing around, sprinkle some soil on top of the final layer or ideally cover with a blanket of carpet Too many leaves? or even black plastic and some weights such as fence posts– to secure the layers till they start Try leaf composting you have too many to break down. leaves to layer into compost, you can simply The compost should be ready by late spring. pile up the leaves within a wire mesh bin. A blanket of carpet or plastic sheeting over the You can speed up the composting process pile will help with the break down. Weight the by containing the compost in a black plastic compost bin and turning it every 2 to 4 weeks sheet down at the edges with rocks or bricks. The pile will compost in 4 - 6 months, with so it matures in 8 to10 weeks if this suits you the material being dark and crumbly. Having better. your own leaf compost will reduce the amount Organic materials such as food scraps, of pea straw you need to mulch your garden animal manures and lawn clippings are high and actually a layer of leaves under your layer of straw is also an easy way to tidy up your in nitrogen, while materials such as leaves,

garden and pathways before winter.

Making a DIY leaf composting bin Here’s how to make a bin 60cm square by 90cm high - if you change the dimensions, make sure you can still reach easily into the bin to remove the leaf mould. You will need: 1 roll galvanised chicken netting: 3m x 0.9m (10ft x 3ft) 4 tree stakes: 1.2m x 40mm (4ft x 1.5in) 20 galvanised staples Hammer the tree stakes into the ground, 60cm apart, to make a square frame. Keep as upright as possible and leave 90cm of stake above ground. Unroll chicken wire and attach to first stake with five galvanised staples. Pull tightly to the next stake, attach with staples again and repeat on all sides. Snip off any excess wire with pliers and bend in any sharp edges. For composting advice or carpet etc for your compost covers, contact the Community Recycling Helpline 0800627824 or email bholley@mastagard.co.nz or sherylstivens@ gmail.com

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quality, professionalism, knowledge

An Ashburton Guardian Advertising Feature

Contributed by Beef and Lamb NZ

Preparing for a great future in agriculture

food production in New Zealand.

Beef and Lamb New Zealand have teamed up with Young Farmers and DairyNZ to create a one-stop career hub for young people considering a career in agriculture – Get Ahead.

This year we will visit 140 schools throughout New Zealand. This will help to strengthen our relationships with teaching staff and careers advisors and give them the opportunity to gain a better understanding of what the agriculture industry and the Get Ahead programme can offer their students.

The Get Ahead careers programme promotes the diverse range of rewarding jobs across the farming sector, dispelling the idea that working on a farm is the only agricultural career option. As well as on-farm jobs, it promotes roles that help farmers to grow a profitable business – such as rural bankers, farm consultants, scientists and vets. All secondary schools in New Zealand can take part every two years.

In2 The Field mentor programme There’s nothing quite as motivating as your peers. The In2 the Field programme connects students and successful young role models in business, science and onfarm roles.  Students pick up advice and inspiration during one-on-one time with a young industry mentor in their field of interest. Find out more on the www. getahead.co.nz

The Get Ahead website is packed with videos, quizzes, photo galleries and personal stories of young people who have carved out amazing agricultural careers. There are also resources for teachers and parents. Get inspired at www.getahead.co.nz

Experience days Get Ahead experience days are a fun and practical way to find out about different kinds of agricultural careers. Ten experience days are held throughout the country in May and June, with speakers and activities showcasing how every job in the agricultural industry contributes to

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Castle Ridge

Castle Ridge Station in the Mid Canterbury high country hosted a convoy of 45 four-wheel-drive vehicles recently, as part of a mission to raise funds for the renovation of Hakatere stone cottage. The station is farmed by Kerry and Paul Harmer, who spoke about farming in the Ashburton Gorge high country alongside the Hakatere Conservation Park and in a sensitive lakes zone. Visitors hunkered down among giant red tussocks to eat their lunch and enjoyed views over glaciated valleys and lakes. The station runs deer, angus beef and Merino sheep.

photos supplied

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Crusaders’ horseman, Rings rider and now A&P president… While newly-elected Canterbury Agricultural & Pastoral Association president Mark Fleming has had a long family involvement with the association, his more celebrated pursuits include an 18-year stint as a Crusaders’ horseman and performing close riding and fighting scenes in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. “My involvement with polo over the years has led to some pretty interesting past-times but my true passion lies with showing and the family farm, which was founded by my grandfather and father in 1957,” Mark said. “They purchased the studs’ founding cattle from Sir Heaton Rhodes’ property at Otahuna. We still have some of the original cattle lines in the stud today.” The family farm is Willowlea Stud in Irwell, predominately a Red Poll and Angus Stud but it is also involved with dairy through growing silage and providing grazing. Mark has attended the Canterbury A&P Show since his youth, showing cattle with his family, both locally and throughout New Zealand including Royal Shows in Waikato, Invercargill and feilding. Mark joined the Canterbury A&P Association General Committee in 1998; he was Chairman of the Cattle Committee for five years. Mark is also Chairman of Beef Breeds for the Royal Agricultural Society of NZ (RAS) and a RAS Central Districts Councillor. A qualified beef breeds judge, Mark has judged throughout New Zealand and has

also judged cattle at the Royal Adelaide Show in Australia. As well as being one of the youngest presidents to hold the position, Mark’s vision for the future of the Canterbury A&P Show lies in retaining the link between city and country and introducing new events to grow the show while encouraging younger audiences to participate in A&P shows through volunteering and showing. “We’ve got a great committee, board and management, the structure is in place to really grow our show in the future. There are a lot of people who are passionate about the Canterbury A&P Association and show. The show’s developed into the largest agricultural event in the country. If you take where we are now and continue to diversify and embrace new technologies to develop the event, then the association can’t help but roll forward,” he said. Mark was welcomed as the incoming president at the association’s Annual General Meeting held in March. Also announced were Richard Parkes as senior vice president and Nicky Hutchinson as junior vice president. In 2015 Nicky will become the first female president in the association’s 150-plus year history.

Photo supplied

Mark Fleming

The 2013 Canterbury A&P Show will be held November 13-15.

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