Dairy News Australia - June 2018 - With West Vic Region

JUNE, 2018 ISSUE 92

WEST VIC REGION

CHANGING THE RATIO Allansford farmers downshift their reliance on milk income SEE PAGE 8

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR SPECIAL

HURRY!

ENDS SOON!

FARMALL 95C

CAB TRACTOR COMPLETE WITH STANDARD LOADER

• • • • •

99 Horsepower Twin hydraulic pumps Integrated loader joystick 24 x 24 hi-lo power shuttle with power clutch REDCover 2.0 – 2 years/2,000 hour coverage*

$83,900 INC. GST

*Terms and conditions apply

CONTACT YOUR NEAREST AGRIMAC BRANCH TODAY

0

.99%

*

FINANCE

WARRNAMBOOL & HAMILTON (03) 5562 5555 BALLARAT (03) 5339 3038 ST ARNAUD (03) 5495 1288

www.agri-mac.com.au

DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA JUNE 2018

2 // WEST VIC REGION

Chair’s message

Rain is a welcome visitor ISN’T IT wonderful to have had good rain after

such a long, dry, difficult summer season?

We really are in winter now — but it’s good to finally see some grass in the diets of most of our cows.

Recovery from the St Patrick’s Day fires has been long and exhaustive, but it is heart-warming to have watched our amazing dairy community rally and roll up their sleeves to lend a hand

to a fellow farmer.

We have plenty of support on offer at WestVic Dairy for anyone still struggling on the ground, so please contact us.

We have recently reviewed our Strategic Plan for the next two-year period. Our 2018–19 extension activities have been planned with feedback and advice from farmers and other stakeholders.

The focus will be even more on farm business

management and ‘people’, while not forgetting the important areas of feedbase, nutrition and animal fertility.

Our awards night will be on July 11 at Deakin University in Warrnambool. Come along to celebrate the successes in our farming community and enjoy a night out of fun.

Can anyone else relate to feeling like they are juggling balls up in the air all day and hoping they

land where you need them to?

Every day seems busier than the last, but one thing I really look forward to in winter is coming in at the end of the day to the warmth of the fire going and putting my comfy slippers on.

Keep warm everyone and hope to see you around the district very soon.

• Simone Renyard WestVic Dairy chair

WORKING WITH YOU FOR

60 YEARS

F I N A N C E*

STAY LOADED

SAVE $11,000 WITH A BONUS LOADER* MF 5610 CAB | 105 HP With over six decades of muscle behind it, the MF 5610 is designed to provide excellent manoeuvrability for hard work in the yard, in the field or on the road. Plus, the benefits of the MF 5610 just got bigger with a BONUS LOADER worth $11,000 and a competitive 1.99% finance rate.

• Unique power control lever for full transmission control on the shuttle • Fully integrated loader system from factory

ALL ROUNDER

• Brake to neutral and shuttle sensitivity adjustment for customised operation • Fuel efficient and powerful AGCO POWER engines

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MASSEY FERGUSON DEALER TODAY Ballarat Colac

Central Machinery Services Rhys Evans Ply Ltd

5 Wiltshire Lane 311-315 Murray Street

03 5332 0566 03 5231 5855

Hamilton Warrnambool

A.J.W. Fraser Ply Ltd Western District Agricentre

185 Ballarat Road Caramut Road

03 5572 1166 03 5562 1744

*Offer ends June 30 2018, while stocks last. Loader includes standard bucket. 1.99% finance with 30% deposit over 60 months. GST paid in month 4. Contact your local Massey Ferguson dealership for full terms and conditions.

MASSEYFERGUSON.COM.AU MASSEY FERGUSON®, MF®, the triple-triangle logo® is a worldwide brand of AGCO. © 2018.

A world of experience. Working with you for 60 years.

DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA JUNE 2018

WEST VIC REGION // 3

Fire class action targets Powercor A SECOND class action has been launched

against electrical distribution company Powercor arising out of the St Patrick’s Day fires, which caused millions of dollars damage and the loss of thousands of livestock in south-west Victoria.

Warrnambool-based firm Maddens Lawyers, who are also undertaking a class action in relation to the Garvoc fire, lodged a second class

action with the Supreme Court of Victoria in April in relation to the Terang fires.

Maddens Lawyers class action principal Brendan Pendergast is confident that liability against the electrical distribution company will be established in both the Garvoc and Terang cases.

“Powercor has acknowledged in the media that the Garvoc and Terang fires were caused

by electrical assets,” Mr Pendergast said.

He said it was lucky no lives were lost in the Terang and Garvoc fires, yet the devastation of losing houses, livestock and farm production and the general destruction caused by these fires was extremely distressing to the community.

Mr Pendergast said Maddens Lawyers also expected to start similar proceedings in relation

to the Gazette and Camperdown fires.

He encouraged any landowners impacted by the fires to register their details with Maddens Lawyers to stay up to date with the progress and what their options are.

For more information or to register your details, phone Maddens Lawyers on 1800 815 228 or email terangfire@maddenslawyers.com.au or garvocfire@maddenslawyers.com.au

Assessing feed needs after fires ONE-ON-ONE FEED planning advice is avail-

able to assist landholders affected by the March fires assess their fodder requirements through a feed budget.

Agriculture Victoria and WestVic Dairy have joined forces to deliver this new service to ensure people can access information tailored specifically to their farm about feed planning after fire, including assessing fodder requirements through a feed budget.

Michele Jolliffe from Agriculture Victoria said many farmers affected by the March fires should

consider doing a feed budget. ”Now is a great opportunity to take some time to assess how much feed you may require for your livestock over the next few weeks and months. Having someone come out and run through the numbers can help you decide what strategies you might need to put in place,” Ms Jolliffe said.

Helen Chenoweth from WestVic Dairy said: “Burnt areas will take time to recover and fodder prices are already rising rapidly so the sooner needs are identified and feed sourced, the best

chance to better manage those costs.”

To speak to someone about your situation and to organise a free visit, contact: (for graziers) Michele Jolliffe from Agriculture Victoria on 0428 581 883; (for dairy farmers) Helen Chenoweth from WestVic Dairy on 5557 1000.

Farmers who need fodder for their livestock can phone the VFF on 1300 882 833.

The Rural Financial Counselling Service is also available to offer free and independent financial support to primary producers and nonagriculture related small businesses. The service

can be contacted on 1300 735 578.

Agriculture Victoria also has information about managing fire recovery issues including animal health, water supplies, soils, and pastures. The department’s animal health team is also available to assist with livestock assessments and ongoing concerns, including unexpected livestock deaths.

Detailed information about recovering from fire is available at: www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/firerecovery

the Champion in Liquid the Champion Liquid Nutrition the in Champion in Liquid Nutr

the Champion in Liquid Nutrition the Champion in Liquid Nutrition the Champion in Liquid Nutr the Champion in Liquid Nutrition

Farmers wrestling with post-fire recovery are being encouraged to plan feed requirements carefully.

it a

pays to have wrangler

• Affordable - Fast - Safe • Walk Thru Headbail • Braked Rear Hoof Winch • Positionable Back Leg Support Bar • Braked Belly Winch with 2 Girths • Winched double-locking front supports • Removable Left Sides • Solid construction

the Champion in Liquid Nutr

Great for Pivot Irrigators

1300 ANIPRO | www.performancefeeds.com.au 1300 ANIPRO | www.performancefeeds.com.au 1300 ANIPRO | www.performancefeeds.com.au Ph 0475 757ANIPRO 720 1300 ANIPRO 1300 | www.performancefeeds.com.au 1300 | www.performancefeeds.com.au ANIPRO | www.performancefeeds.com.au www.thewrangler.net 1300 ANIPRO | www.performancefeeds.com.au

DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA JUNE 2018

4 // WEST VIC REGION

More land means more options RICK BAYNE

A NEW farm is giving a family dairy operation

at Gazette a new lease of life.

Ryan Lenehan and his partner Jayne Jewell have joined with Jayne’s parents Darren and Kay Jewell to buy the farm.

The 50 ha property was previously used for sheep but had become run down before the mortgagee sale earlier this year.

There aren’t too many dairy farms in the area, south of Hamilton, but they are confident they have a good spot and will benefit from the new land.

“I grew up on a dairy between Kirkstall and Koroit, which is some of the best country for dairy,” Mr Lenehan said.

“The land’s not really any different to what we have here and there’s a strip that runs through this side of Mount Napier that draws the rain.”

The Jewells bought the main 80 ha farm in 2001. Initially they ran calves before expanding and building a dairy in 2008, a 22-a-side swingover put together in a converted hay shed by Mr Jewell and his builder brother Stephen.

At one stage they sold 900 calves in a year.

“We were milking 70 cows to do that and that’s when I got the brainwave to put in the dairy,” Mr Jewell said.

They purchased an additional 80 ha out-paddock in 2011.

“When we first bought the out-paddock up the road it was the worst paddock in the district,” Mr Jewell said.

“We ploughed 130 acres (52ha) straight off and sowed rape and millet and in January we got it fine-chopped and put it down here in a pit and that fed the cows for five months at night.”

They also lease a 70 ha block as part of their drive to be self-sufficient home-grown feeders.

Mr Lenehan joined the farm about four years ago. He and Ms Jewell were keen to invest in land and the neighbouring property was ideal, even if it needs some TLC. Ms Jewell has a background in agricultural finance and is now working on a nearby sheep farm.

“Our whole lives are going to be in agriculture. That’s where we want to be,” Mr Lenehan said.

The expansion has logistical benefits.

Ryan Lenehan in the calf shed.

“We comfortably milk 170 to 180 because we cut a lot of silage from the leased farm and bring it back. Hopefully with more land our stocking rate will be a bit better,” Mr Jewell said.

“We wanted the extra land because we’re more than a cow to an acre and we’re not in a traditional dairy area. We’ll try to only milk 250 but our rotations will be better so there’s not so much pressure on everything.”

“Hopefully we won’t have to purchase brought-in feed. The aim is to be 100 per cent self-sufficient, even over the dry summers.”

The family has a strong emphasis on good pasture and feed management. As the cows come out of a paddock in the winter, fertiliser goes on every day to keep things going.

They continue to raise and sell at least 400 calves a year, a nice way of supplementing income in tough years.

“We rear a lot of calves,” Mrs Jewell said.

“That’s the thing that has kept us here.”

The first year as a fully operational dairy was probably the worst when the price crashed in 2008.

“We got 100 fresh heifers that spring. The price crashed in December and we got through

A late break to the season has put pressure on pastures.

the first hiccup with the calves,” Mr Jewell said.

He said coming to the farm with a “clean slate” was a big help. “The best thing we’ve got

is that we’re not restricted by tradition and we’re very conscious of growing a lot of grass.”

Initially reluctant to use the services of a

Your one-stop shop for all things Dairy Services in Western Victoria

Cows being fed during a late autumn break.

360 Dairy Solutions can reduce downtime in your dairy and customise your dairy to suit your needs.

With a team of six hands-on staff, call the 360 Dairy Services team to get help when you want help • Dairy upgrades • Shed tests • Sheet metal fabrication • Preventative maintenance programs • Pumps • After-hours breakdown service • Feed systems • Steel fabrication • Hydraulic hose repairs 360 Dairy solutions is your local dealer for: • GEA Farm Technologies • Northern Feed Systems • Grundfos Pumps

1300 444 360 www.360dairysolutions.com.au

1074a Raglan Parade, Warrnambool

147 Peterborough Road, Terang

Open Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 3.30pm

Open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4.30pm

“A wholly owned business of the Terang & District Co-operative Limited, established in 1908”

DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA JUNE 2018

WEST VIC REGION // 5

Cows being fed during a late autumn break.

consultant, Mr Jewell now credits nutritionist John Lyons for a lot of their success.

“He (John) reckons we grow as much or more grass than they do in Timboon and management is the key,” Mr Lenehan added.

On Mr Lyons’ advice they have adopted many farming practices. Previously they would sow all rape paddocks in one day.

“John said there’s more energy in turnips and we’d get more milk in the vat, and he said we should stagger sowing so that as the cows finish one paddock they can move on to the next,” Mr Jewell said.

They have also improved silage making, going as far as winning a feed test competition at Hamilton Beef Week.

“Others get suggestions but say ‘we’ve always done that, we’re not changing’. We’re always

open to ideas,” Mr Jewell said.

“There are opportunities to get by in dairy as long as you’re savvy with how you go about it.”

The herd is Friesians and crossbreds.

Mr Lenehan is responsible for the AI breeding.

They use an autumn-spring split-calving system with more now being born in spring. Getting them in calf is a challenge and one of the priorities for improvement.

The cows are producing a bit over 8000 litres.

“We’re trying to lift it. The average was a bit higher when numbers were lower. Hopefully we’ll get up a bit with the new land,” Mr Lenehan said.

The new farm and leased block gives the family more options.

“You can really kick a few goals if you’ve got enough home-grown feed.”

Specialised feeding solutions for your dairy Australian

M

Government’s $20,000 instant asset write-off valid to the 30th June 2018*

ad e

• Feeding system solutions • Roller mills • Auger systems • Pencil augers • Pre-cleaners • Attrition disc mills • Additive dispensers

Visit our website to find your local dealer Dealer enquiries welcome www.feedtech.com.au 16–18 Edgar St Tatura, VIC 3616 (03) 58241 466 *Terms and conditions apply. To approved applicants only.

Ryan Lenehan.

DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA JUNE 2018

6 // WEST VIC REGION

RURAL RUMENATIONS

RURAL RUMENATIONS

with Katie MacAulay

with Katie MacAuley

Columnist Katie MacAulay has been married to a dairy farmer long enough to appreciate the smell of good silage. She loves chooks, enjoys stacking hay bales with the tractor and wonders why the lawn grows twice as quickly as the grass in the paddocks.

Pesky experts need a good spray I’VE DISCOVERED a new species of farming pest. Self-proclaimed experts.

Self-proclaimed experts have invaded agriculture in droves. Lately, it seems that no matter where I go, the moment I mention that I live on a farm, the unsolicited advice begins.

Strangers on trains, work colleagues and distant (city-based) relatives. Everyone knows how farmers could farm more effectively and best of all, “it’s so easy”.

Now, while I’m no expert at farming (that’s Hubby’s role), it makes me cross. The cattle, weather, insects and even markets have minds of their own. There are a lot of variables to consider.

Farming is more than watching grass grow — in fact, a lot of the time, farming involves watching grass NOT grow.

My first example occurred during a discussion group where our herd’s performance was being analysed. One individual, who I had not met previously, was convinced he knew how to improve our production instantly.

“You need to invest more money in the right infrastructure,” he proclaimed confidently. “In fact, with the new milking infrastructure I’m proposing, you’ll make so much money that you won’t know yourself.”

Wow, I thought. What an endorsement.

Maybe we should consider this. When I brought it up with Hubby afterwards, Hubby gently explained that this fellow was a seed salesman with no farming experience. His expertise was persuasion.

Yep. I could see that.

Next I was cornered by a workmate who

0 0.0 .0 0 0

ENGINEERED TO SUCCEED The UNIQUE Aitchison T-Boot has been designed to create a humidity and ENGINEERED TOscientifically SUCCEED moisture trapping ‘germination cocoon.’ This gives seeds the best possible start.

Whi le st

% p.a. % s. p.a oc k la st

diti ons app

ly*

Con k la st s Whi le st ocapply* Con diti ons

The UNIQUE Aitchison T-Boot has been scientifically designed to create a humidity and moisture trapping ‘germination cocoon.’ This gives seeds the best possible start.

had never seen our farm. Without preamble, he recommended we remove all introduced grass from our pasture and replant only grasses native to our area. I failed to convince him that this area had previously been bush — the only grass was small amounts of sword-grass that even the native animals avoided.

Another popular argument I regularly hear regarding poor pasture management is the perceived superiority of the grass on the side of the road to that of nearby paddocks. I am met with scepticism when I try to explain about a) road camber and water run-off, b) the fact that, unlike the paddocks, the side of the road has not been grazed and c) that not every small green plant on the side of the road is desirable.

The most disturbing aspect of these ‘pests’ is that their numbers increase exponentially.

At this rate, it won’t be long before every nonfarmer I meet will be offering us farming advice.

I pointed out my dilemma to Hubby.

“We need an integrated pest management system,” he decided.

“First we trap them — by offering them the chance to demonstrate how to do it better themselves. If that doesn’t work, then we bait them — by offering reams of unsolicited advice in their field of expertise.”

I grinned. It could be fun telling city people how to drive in traffic or office workers how to maintain an empty in-box (both areas in which I am completely unqualified).

“Finally,” he said, “if we still can’t get rid of the self-proclaimed experts, we’ll give them a spray. Verbally of course.”

Maximum efficiency, Maximum profit!

4000 SERIES SEEDMATIC 4000 SERIES SEEDMATIC

• Large 350mm front disc coulters •• Large front disc coulters 125mm350mm row spacing •• 125mm row spacing Unique Aitchison slim line castings and inverted T-boot •• Rodent Unique Aitchison line castings inverted T-boot Stop’ slideslim mechanism fittedand to seedbox •• Rodent Stop’ slide mechanism fitted to seedbox Seed or seed/fertiliser configurations available •• Seed or seed/fertiliser configurations Available in 3-point linkage or trailing available Pictured with seed/fert and drawbar configuration.

Pictured with seed/fert and drawbar configuration.

• Available in 3-point linkage or trailing

26,850 + GST 26,850 + GST

29,535 INCL GST 29,535 INCL GST

FROM $

$

FROM $

$

3000 SERIES GRASSFARMER 3000 SERIES GRASSFARMER • 150mm row spacing •• 150mm row spacing Unique Aitchison slim line castings and inverted T-boot Unique Aitchison line castings inverted T-boot •• Rodent Stop’ slideslim mechanism fittedand to seedbox •• Rodent mechanism OptionalStop’ disc slide coulters availablefitted to seedbox • Optional disc coulters available FROM $

$

Pictured with optional coulter bar.

FROM $

$

Pictured with optional coulter bar.

17,490 + GST 17,490 + GST

19,239 INCL GST 19,239 INCL GST

These self cleaning Hay Feeders are built for Australian Dairy Farmers and Beef Producers

1,650 INC GST

*Minimum of 30% equity (cash or trade) is required to secure this rate, equal monthly payments over 12 months. Pricing excludes pre-delivery costs and freight.

Finance package is available to ABN Holders only on Chattel Mortgage Agreements. Subject to credit approval by PFG Credit. Lending fees and Government charges may apply.

PFG Credit a division of Deequal Lage monthly Landen Pty Limitedover ABN1220months.

101 692Pricing 040. excludes pre-delivery costs and freight. *Minimum of 30% equity (cash or trade) is required to is secure this rate, payments Finance package is available to ABN Holders only on Chattel Mortgage Agreements. Subject to credit approval by PFG Credit. Lending fees and Government charges may apply.

PFG Credit is a division of De Lage Landen Pty Limited ABN 20 101 692 040.

$

H AY

FEEDERS

Pat Horan Phone: 0408 056 811 www.maxifeeder.com.au

DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA JUNE 2018

WEST VIC REGION // 7

Clearing a path for young farmers YOUNG PEOPLE looking for pathways in the dairy industry have heard about farm employment from an employee’s perspective.

WestVic Dairy regional manager Lindsay Ferguson said the workshop at the Simpson Football Netball Club in April was a great opportunity to hear about opportunities within the industry.

“There are many young people wanting to enter the industry, but don’t know where to start,” Mr Ferguson said.

“This evening was a good opportunity to hear from other people who are in the industry and hear about what support services are available.”

Over a relaxed dinner, the Great South West Dairy Awards 2017 Employee of the Year Jorge Massa and farm consultant John Mulvany dis-

NEW DATE SET FOR AWARDS NIGHT The Great South West Dairy Awards gala night will once again celebrate the south-west Victorian dairy industry on July 11 at the City Memorial Bowls Club in Warrnambool.

Originally planned for May, the awards were postponed following the devastating

cussed pathways into the industry, how to progress and the industry support available.

Mr Massa’s passion for, and dedication to, dairy farming impressed the Great South West Dairy Awards judges.

He grew up on a dairy farm in Columbia and, after completing his degree in veterinary science, moved to Australia with his family. Always looking for opportunities to return to dairy farming, he has been working on a dairy farm in Cooriemungle for the past three years, following employment in factory work and public service.

Mr Mulvany is a Gippsland-based farm consultant with extensive experience in feedbase and farm employment. He works with local farmers, as well as with Regional Development Programs

fires in March.

WestVic Dairy regional manager Lindsay Ferguson said the fires affected many people in the region and holding the gala night when so many farmers were still struggling with recovery was inappropriate.

“The WestVic Dairy Board and the team felt that it was not the right time to hold the event, so soon after the fires,” Mr Ferguson said.

“We wanted to make sure everyone has the chance to be part of the awards, so the

such as WestVic Dairy, to improve farm profitability, The day was part of a series of workshops showcasing the winners of the 2017 Great South West Dairy Awards. The dairy awards are a staple event in the regional calendar and aim to celebrate the industry and the people that drive it.

The April workshop was organised by the WestVic Dairy Young Dairy Network, which endeavours to enable and develop the next generation of dairy leaders and ensure the viability of the region by providing young farmers with support and opportunities.

This event was sponsored by the Gardiner Dairy Foundation and the 2017 Employee of the Year Award was sponsored by Murray Goulburn.

decision was made to change it to a later date.”

On the night, the winners of this year’s categories will be announced during a threecourse meal.

“The night is always a great chance to get off the farm and have a social night out,” Mr Ferguson said.

“It is important to recognise those who are passionate and dedicated about the dairy industry.”

The awards were started 12 years ago

Farm consultant John Mulvany speaks to the WestVic Dairy workshop while Great South West Dairy Awards 2017 Employee of the Year Jorge Massa listens.

to promote the image of the region’s dairy industry and to celebrate those who use best practice in their farming.

They have grown over the years, while retaining their focus on employment and business management.

Nominations are open until the end of June for the Honour Board and the Farm Photo of the Year.

For more information about the awards and the gala night, go to the WestVic Dairy website or phone 5557 1000.

Your local NAB Agribusiness Bankers supporting communities.

With more local Agribusiness Managers on the ground, living in our farming communities, there’s always someone to help you navigate the daily business challenges and realise the opportunites.

Call your local NAB Agribusiness Banker, to see how we can help you.

PÖTTINGER’S – World-Class Seeder Range Designed in Austria. Made in Germany. Performs in Australia.

New stock for this year has just arrived:   

AEROSEM pneumatic seed drill and precision planters TERRASEM mulch seeders TEGOSEM air seeders

Dave Davies – North Vic 0429 001 885 Nick Davison – South East Vic 0475 836 165 Liz Duncan – South West Vic 0427 175 797

PHONE: 5231 5136

408 Princes Hwy, Colac West, VIC 324 www.gregallanfarmmachinery.com.au

DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA JUNE 2018

8 // WEST VIC REGION

Sexed semen is a game changer ALLANSFORD DAIRY farmers Sam and

Christine McCluggage have reduced their reliance on milk income through the use of sexed semen to produce surplus heifer calves.

The McCluggages milk 700 Holstein cows on their 319 ha home farm, Ballyvernstown. They also have two run-off blocks comprising a total of 310 ha, which are used to grow-out young stock.

They breed all their own replacement heifers for biosecurity reasons, which also ensures they have full histories of their entire herd, and have a seasonal calving pattern.

Last season their herd averaged 8100 litres/ cow and 590 kg of milk solids.

“Most herds depend on milk for 88 to 90 per cent of gross income and about 10 per cent coming from livestock, which is largely from cull cows and some bobby calf sales,” Mr McCluggage said.

“Those herds are open to the rise and fall of milk prices as they are dependent on the milk factory for the majority of their farm income.

“With our use of sexed semen and our future use of genomic testing, we now have surplus heifers to sell, plus our bull calves that we rear, so we now generate extra income from surplus livestock sales.

“Our aim was to have income from livestock at about 25 per cent of our gross income which

pushes our reliance on milk income down to 75 per cent and that is without reducing the amount of milk that we produce. We are at that point now.”

The McCluggages have used 100 per cent AI on the cows for the past five years.

“I don’t like having bulls with the milking herd for OH&S reasons and as the herd has grown we had to run more bulls,” Mr McCluggage said.

They calve the cows in a concentrated period using 800 doses of conventional semen and 600 doses of sexed semen, rearing 450 heifer calves a year plus 200 bull calves.

Later-born, smaller, natural-bred calves are sold any time after weaning.

“We only need about 220 as herd replacements — this still gives us just over 30 per cent replacement rate,” Mr McCluggage said.

They mate maiden heifers to sexed semen using Fixed Time AI programs and also use sexed semen over selected milking cows.

Seasonal calving allows them to make the most of their high rainfall and pasture growth without any irrigation or summer crops.

This year they started calving on March 2 and after six weeks had 510 calved for a total of 375 heifer calves, which was 74 per cent of all calves born.

Mr McCluggage spoke at the ImProving

Sam McCluggage milks 700 Holstein cows on his 319ha farm.

1300 REID FEED|1300 7343 3333 REAL INGREDIENTS, NO FILLERS. BOTH IN THE MIX AND ADVICE.

Sander Nijskens

Key Account Manager m | 0447 550 546 e | snijskens@reidstock.com.au

Daniel Allen

SW Regional Sales Manager m | 0408 523 149 e | dallen@reidstock.com.au

Chloe Warden-Flood

Ruminant Nutritionist m | 0409 396 218 e | cwardenflood@reidstock.com.au

Rachael Tromp

Ruminant Nutritionist m | 0429 292 769 e | rtromp@reidstock.com.au

DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA JUNE 2018

WEST VIC REGION // 9

Herds National Muster field day, attended by 300 farmers and industry representatives at the Jelbart family’s farm in Gippsland, last month.

They are one of 34 focus farms in the ImProving Herds project, which demonstrates the financial impact of using higher genetic merit bulls, and from genotyping heifers.

“We have found the heifers do better in smaller groups and are easier to monitor.”

Mr McCluggage said their ImProving Herds results clearly showed that high genetic cows — based on Balanced Performance Index — were more profitable than the cows with the lower BPI figures in their herd.

The top 25 per cent of their herd, based on BPI, were producing an extra 377 litres/cow/year of milk, 31 kg/cow/year of protein and 46 kg/cow/ year of fat more than the 25 per cent of cows with the lowest BPI figures.

The top 25 per cent of cows have a gross margin (income over feed costs) of $356 more a year and also last three months longer in the herd, which is equivalent to a third of a lactation more.

“Our higher BPI cows have proven they are more profitable. We need to be breeding and keeping heifers with higher BPI figures,” he said.

Genomic testing sorts the stock they keep for themselves from those they sell — and they can do that at a young age.

“High BPI cows make more income over their feed costs so we need to be keeping high BPI heifers to ensure future income is maximised.”

Their cow breeding program uses 600 doses of sexed semen and 800 doses of conventional semen with a synchronisation program using prostaglandin.

“We put our heifers through a Fixed Time AI program on the run-off blocks, but we don’t do them all at the same time; instead we run them through in small mobs,” Mr McCluggage said.

“Most of the fresh sexed semen is used in our heifer AI program. We get the best conception rate with fresh sexed semen, but the number of bulls available for sexed semen can limit bull choices and the selection pressure for traits such as BPI.” They weigh and monitor their heifers regularly once they get to around 200 kg and grow them out on the run off blocks in groups of 60 to 75.

“We have found the heifers do better in smaller groups and are easier to monitor,” he said.

“We keep the heifers in these mobs for synchronising and joining because one mob is a comfortable day’s work between milkings and we want to make sure we minimise stress.

“With a FTAI program, the heifers will go through the yards four to five times so I want them to be relaxed.

“By handling the heifers in batches, we end up joining 250 to 300 heifers in the different mobs over four separate days. We then use Jersey bulls as mop-up bulls for the heifers.”

Sexed semen is expensive, so if Mr McCluggage is using it in the main herd he: ■ only uses sexed semen for the first two rounds of joining, that is, the cow has to have calved in the first month of calving; ■ only uses sexed semen on younger cows, that is, second and third calvers;

Sam McCluggage spoke at the ImProving Herds National Muster in Gippsland last month.

Sexed semen and genomic testing mean there are surplus heifers to sell.

■

■

only uses it on cows that have no history of calving issues before or after calving; and only uses it in cows that will be in the herd for the next 12 months.

“We metricheck all cows soon after calving to make sure they have cleaned up. We don’t want to waste sexed semen on a cow if she has a reduced chance of conception.

“We don’t have the option of carrying a cow over because we are a seasonal herd.”

Their herd size can vary from 630 to 730 cows depending on the season.

“We drop herd numbers back in a dry season, which then gives us an opportunity to put a lot more selection pressure on the herd,” Mr McCluggage said.

“Having a large number of heifer calves also means we can ramp up cow numbers very quickly if we need to.

“Ideally, we want 220 to 230 heifers going into the herd each year to keep the age of the herd down and genetic progress heading in the right direction.”

Southwest Dairy Services The Leaders in New Installations • Qualified Dairy Technicians • Maintenance and service for all brands of feed systems and milking machines • Welder - General Welding • 24 Hour Breakdown Service

0455 737 337

Your Local Dealer

Mr McCluggage uses sexed semen and all AI on his closed herd.

www.swdairyservices.com.au

DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA JUNE 2018

10 // WEST VIC REGION

Answering the call when opportunity knocks JAMES BREEN didn’t want to be left won-

dering what might have been when the opportunity came to return to the family dairy farm two years ago.

James returned to work on the family farm at Beeac with his parents Pat and Helen following a career as a stock agent with Charles Stewart and Co. James and his twin brother, Richard, who also works on the farm, are fourth-generation dairy farmers. The farm has been in the family since 1896 and Pat and Helen’s decision to take on a 192 ha lease block, in addition to the 440 ha family farm, provided the impetus for James to return.

“There was always going to be extra work as a result,” James said.

“The original idea was to buy cattle and stock it. I think if I hadn’t come back, I could have wondered what would have been.”

They milk 220 autumn-calving cows, predominantly Illawarra with some crossbred.

James, who has an Illawarra stud, said the breed was a hardy animal, which suited their low rainfall country.

“We get paid for fat and protein and the Illawarras,” he said.

They have a milking area of 160 ha and 360 ha for dry stock and fodder production.

“We grow a lot of lucerne as it suits the area.

It handles the heat and doesn’t need much rain.”

The average rainfall is 480 mm and, with the cold winters, the autumn break is crucial. Their farm is one of the last dairies towards Ballarat before it becomes cropping and sheep country, so fodder growing is an important part of their operation.

“If we miss rain here we’re done. That’s why stored fodder is so important.”

They have 61 ha planted to lucerne. They have the right pH for lucerne and it grows well.

It is grazed and then fenced-off in August. They usually get three cuts from it and bulk it up with oats or red wheat. The first cut last year produced two months’ worth of feed.

Oats or annual rye-grass is then sown into the lucerne paddocks.

They planted their first turnip crop last year — planting 12 ha in 4 ha lots.

“We had a farm adviser who suggested

James Breen has undertaken an AI course and will handle all duties on the farm.

Tickets on sale now for the Great South West Dairy Awards Join us to celebrate the regional dairy industry and hear the winners of this year’s Awards announced. Seize the chance to get together with like-minded people and enjoy a night out.

This event is proudly supported by:

Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory, Fonterra, GreenCon, South West TAFE, The Vet Group, Westvic Staffing Solutions, DataGene, Rural Finance and RIST

WHEN: Wednesday 11th July 2018 TIME: 6pm start WHERE: City Memorial Bowls Club, 50 - 58 Cramer Street, Warrnambool COST: $60 (includes three course meal and pre-dinner drink)

For tickets, please call the WestVic Dairy office on 5557 1000 or email amanda@westvicdairy.com.au

DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA JUNE 2018

WEST VIC REGION // 11

turnips to get extra milk in December through to February. Cost wasn’t overly high and although there was extra input the cows were happy and produced extra milk. The crop also helps rejuvenate the soil,” James said.

They wanted to try sowing millet and red clover after the turnips but it was too dry this year, so annuals and some clover were sown instead.

“We’re keen to try the millet but it will depend on the season.”

With an extra hand on deck, James is keen to see the farm running “at full steam”. The focus is on improving pasture by locking up paddocks and doing more strip grazing.

“We put in a lot of annuals because of their quick response on earlier country.”

Clover is planted with annuals for nitrogen.

They also plant Shaftal clover and sub-clover, as well as Tetila and Winter Hawk. The home block is on volcanic country but the soil mix changes quickly over the farm.

They are also trialling new planting techniques to improve seed to soil contact. They run a multi-disc over the paddock, then harrow, then the roller again. They then use the drill followed by the roller again.

Cows receive 2 tonne/grain a year and they were purchasing between 400 and 500 tonne a year before they leased the adjoining block.

Milkers receive three bales of lucerne, three of silage and three of clover and rye every day.

They will receive more of that this year as it will be a short growing season with the best rain falling mid-May.

The herd is mainly Illawarra.

They are also raising all bull calves to maintain grazing pressure and to diversify their income. The majority of their income is still earned through the milk cheque.

“They keep it chewed down and we’ll grow the bull out to 12 or 18 months depending on the season,” James said.

Prices have dropped of late and the former stock agent said 10 to 12-month-old bull calves were currently fetching about $500 at market.

A good season means they receive additional

James Breen examines an emerging mix.

income from hay sales. They also sold $50 ,000 worth of hay last year but have had to keep it all this year for their herd because of the late start to the season.

The size of the milking herd has been reduced from 240 down to 220. Production has risen and the empty rate has fallen to 5–6 per cent.

They calved 30 cows in spring as a trial with a few that didn’t get in calf.

“We didn’t make as much as autumn cows.

We didn’t have the grass to keep it up to them, and there was no fresh pick. We’ll stay where we are as it fits into the good milk bracket, too.”

James is building his Illawarra stud and currently has 120 registered cows. He purchased a cow four years ago that won the 5YO class and Best Udder at International Dairy Week in January.

He has completed an AI course and is doing some outside work with HICO to improve his skills. He will perform all AI on the farm.

New website now live!

View the current Dairy News publications here

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter

Log on to keep up to date with industry and breaking news from around the country every day. www.dairynewsaustralia.com.au

Dairy Research Foundation 2018 Annual Symposium 17 – 18 July 2018 at Sydney University, Camden NSW

Revitalising Dairy Production With focus on young stock and innovations to revitalise the dairy industry!

Day 1 (17 July): Industry Events and Symposium Day at Sydney University, Camden Campus, NSW

Day 2 (18 July): Farm Day and Emerging Scientists Program at the 2,000-cow dairy, and automatic calf facility at Leppington Pastoral Company, owned and run by the Perich family at Bringelly, NSW

Get in quick! Early bird prices available for a limited time only!

We have an outstanding list of invited speakers including: • Calves: the ‘hidden gem’ of dairy farming? - Int’l expert Dr Bob James (Down Home Heifer Solutions, USA)

• The do’s and don’ts when innovating in dairy— Glen Herud (Happy Cow Milk, NZ)

• Heifers with Data Professional heifer grower Cameron Renshaw (Heiferlink, VIC)

• Data-driven innovative irrigation - Soil and irrigation expert Dr James Hills (UTA, TAS)

• People’s expectations of the dairy industry – RSPCA Manager Hope Bertram (AUS)

• Milk harvesting and milk quality – Top animal scientist Prof. Russ Hovey (UCD, USA)

• Success with a robotic dairy and solar power—Robotic Farmer Wayne Clarke (Dobies Bight, NSW)

• What technologies work on farm? - Sydney Uni leading scientist Dr Sabrina Lomax (USYD, NSW)

And 11 outstanding Emerging Scientists showcasing the latest in research on drones on pasture, mastitis, optimal diets, automation, animal behaviour and even how to ‘chat’ with cows..!

Crystal Espinoza (University of Sydney) Pablo Alvarez Hess (University of Melbourne) Alexandra Green (University of Sydney) Meaghan Douglas (University of Sydney/Ag VIC) Momena Khatun (University of Sydney) Jully Gogoi Tiwari (Curtin University)

Fernando Masia (Universidad de Cordoba, Argentina) Patricia Colusso (University of Sydney) John Gardenier (University of Sydney) Patricia Eats (University of Queensland) Alem Gebremedhin Gebre (University of Melbourne)

REDUCED ADMISSION FEE FOR DAIRY FARMERS AND STUDENTS Tickets on Sale Now! Register Today for Early Bird Discount at www.drfsymposium.com.au

For further information: Phone: (02) 8089 1388 Email : tara@ejmevents.com.au Online: www.drfsymposium.com.au