Seasons magazine Spring 2021 by Elders Limited

Spring 2021

FARMING

NEWS

FOR

AUSTRALIAN

FARMER S

OPPORTUNITY FOR ONE PASS, EXTENDED PROTECTION AGAINST GRAPE DISEASES A REWARDING CAREER SERVING FAMILY COMMUNITIES PRICES COTTON ONTO FUTURE SUPPLY AND DEMAND EQUATION

Spring flush

TO SET THE TONE FOR SHEEP MARKETS

ELDERS MOST TRUSTED AGRIBUSINESS BRAND 1 FOR SECOND YEAR RUNNING Elders were recently voted the number one most trusted agribusiness brand among rural Australians in the Roy Morgan Agribusiness Brand Trust Survey.

Being the most trusted agribusiness is an important indicator for us that we are doing the right things on the ground with our clients, and at a corporate level that we are instilling a strong and healthy culture throughout the company. “Trust is the foundation of our business and it isn’t built overnight.” A key element of developing this trust is through the creation and sharing of insights, advice and opportunities from our people and supplier partners to improve your on-farm productivity. We hope you enjoy this edition of Seasons magazine and stories from our trusted team.

Mark Allison Based on unprompted trust and distrust scores, Elders was the number 1 most trusted Agribusiness brand among regional Australians in the Roy Morgan Agribusiness Brand Trust Survey, July 2021. Base: Total Respondents. Weighted results. n=1,102, Note: Brands only with 20+ mentions were included.

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Contents Newer almond fungicides show strength amid product restrictions

Preventing Leptospirosis: Protecting your cattle & your family

Opportunity for one pass, extended protection against grape diseases

Spring shearing – it is time to talk Lousicide rotation

New benchmark for grass, broadleaf weed control is coming

Target sheep repro: A groundbreaking sheep reproduction program

Vantacor insecticide enhances an already outstanding product

A rewarding career serving farming communities

Delaying tick control can be costly

Success Neo now registered on onion thrips

Research provides hope in face of rising crown rot

Combination vs rotation: The big question in lice management

Ag industry standouts recognised by Syngenta growth awards

Increase your liveweight production per hectare with pallaton raphno®

Spring flush to set the tone for sheep markets

S&W: spring sowing forage brassicas

58 61

Upgrade your properties biosecurity with Waratah fencing solutions

Award-winning Gallagher water tool perfect for small farms

Valor brings flexibility to weed control

The power of data on a new level, individual animal data - everyday

Begin the 2021 cropping season in the clear, with a clean boom sprayer

Stock watering solutions made easy with philmac

Wetout®

Thinking with your gut? The role of microbes in ruminants

It’s easy to go dry in your orchard and plantation

Multi Trans 7000, simply a smarter bin..

Dipel® – technology ahead of its time

Cyclone – gate fittings that last!

Mollusc mitigation – What risks do snails and slugs pose?

Billions of willing workers in horticulture

A green future for Nitrate fertilisers

Polymaster has bulk diesel storage covered

Tackling environmental stress for your best pollination and yield

Plasson quick coupling valve

Prices cotton onto future supply and demand equation

Ecotain® boosts lambing percentages

Zoetis and Beyond Blue shine the spotlight on women’s mental health as they continue to support Australians living in rural communities

Crop Protection

NEWER ALMOND FUNGICIDES SHOW STRENGTH AMID PRODUCT RESTRICTIONS Product restrictions have placed pressure on disease control in almond crops, however newer fungicides are emerging with added benefits for growers.

WIDER restrictions on the use of some traditional fungicides for almond growers in recent times is shining a light on newer fungicides that also provide benefits around handling and compatibility with other products, as well as for management of beneficial insect species. Two products increasingly finding a home in growers’ fungicide programs for the major diseases of almond crops are Custodia® and Solaris® fungicides, from ADAMA Australia.

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Newer ADAMA Australia fungicides are suited to different spray timings, with Solaris® applied around flowering and after flowering, while Custodia® is generally applied later in programs, also to help combat hull rot.

Horticulture Agronomist Steve Lehmann, who has spent most of his life in South Australia’s Riverland region based at Loxton, including the last 14 years with Elders at the centre, said propiconazole and mancozeb, the latter which had been part of the staple fungicide diet against diseases from October to December annually, were some of the latest products to come under further restrictions. Andrew Wardle, SA Commercial Manager with ADAMA Australia, said the fact Custodia and Solaris were both easyto-use liquid fungicides also meant growers were pleased to avoid the dust and smell issues associated with mancozeb. Andrew said the wider product restrictions and particularly excellent disease control results had sparked a dramatic rise in sales of Custodia fungicide in the almond industry, while similar results with Solaris and its significantly improved affordability also had generated a sales spike for that product. He said blossom blight previously was one of the major diseases to target in almonds, however newer fungicides had provided improved control and hull rot had since become “enemy number one’’ for growers. Shot-hole and rust diseases also needed to be kept in-check. Steve, who for many years also has worked closely with Matt Ward, based at Barmera with Elders, and today covers an area from Waikerie to north of Renmark, said growers had to combat all diseases during most seasons.

Custodia was generally applied later in programs, also to help combat hull rot. He said trial results and encouraging grower experiences had underpinned Custodia’s increased use against almond diseases. “Its uptake has been increasing, it’s a pretty compatible product for mixing in other foliar sprays and with both actives in the one drum, it’s a way better product to put out. Both actives by themselves are good, but mixed together, you get a better chance to control these diseases.’’ Steve said he generally recommended application of Solaris from bloom to petal fall, with its unique Group 9 chemistry also providing an important management tool for resistance. “We don’t want to use all the good chemistry upfront.’’ He said a typical fungicide program in almonds throughout the region could include winter oil and copper before pink bud and copper applied again at pink bud, and then, when foliage commences, an application of Solaris to target shothole and brown rot/blossom blight, followed by Luna* Sensation and then Custodia, targeting similar diseases, and then a hull rot spray at hull split. Andrew said the integrated pest management (IPM) profile of both Custodia and Solaris fungicides, particularly their soft activity on bee populations, was a major plus.

Custodia, an easy-to-use suspension concentrate formulation, combines the strength of both azoxystrobin (Group 11) and tebuconazole (Group 3) for improved, broad spectrum disease control and resistance manage

“Almonds require pollination from bees to produce and corporate growers have arranged contracts with beekeepers to have hives nearby, so they don’t want to knock them around,’’ he said.

It offers excellent protectant and eradicant activity, providing a broader window of application to control brown rot/blossom blight, rust and shot-hole, as well as suppress hull rot in a single application.

“There have been populations that have been completely wiped out by products that get used in other crops.’’

Highly compatible with other common fungicides and insecticides, Custodia’s systemic and translaminar activity rapidly penetrates leaf tissue to reach the site of infection and/or protect new growth after application. Solaris, an easy-to-handle emulsifiable concentrate formulation, contains cyprodinil (Group 9), the only mode of action of its kind for use in almonds that assists with resistance management. Cyprodinil is a systemic compound that is taken up into the cuticle and waxy layers of leaves and fruit and is locally redistributed. Solaris is highly active against brown rot/blossom blight, rust and shot-hole. Andrew said the fungicides were suited to different spray timings within almond disease management programs, with Solaris applied around flowering and after flowering, while

Steve said growers had to be aware of the effects of different fungicides on bee populations if they were planning early sprays while trees were still flowering. “I even like to see lady beetles in almonds. We often see green peach aphid and if the lady beetles are in high enough numbers, they can help to control them.’’ For further information on the Custodia and Solaris fungicides, growers can contact their local ADAMA Australia representative, sales agent or visit ADAMA.com. *Luna is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group

Image (TOP LEFT) - Steve Lehmann, Horticulture Agronomist with Elders at Loxton in South Australia’s Riverland region, says hull rot at the end of seasons certainly presents some of the bigger disease challenges in the almond industry.

Custodia

Broad spectrum protection from the ‘big four’ in almonds.

• Controls brown rot/blossom blight, rust and shot-hole and suppresses hull rot in one pass

Now registered for the suppression of hull rot!

• Two modes of action for improved disease control and resistance management • Excellent protectant and systemic activity • Highly compatible for tank mixing • Suitable for IPM programs

Scan here for more information

FUNGICIDE ®Registered trademark of an ADAMA Agricultural Solutions Company.

Working together Farmers face a unique set of challenges, needing to adapt to rapidly changing weather conditions, crop and livestock development, emerging technologies, commodity price fluctuations and varying global economic conditions. This means It has never been a more important time for our customers to have trust in the partners in their business.

Elders and Rural Bank have enjoyed a long and successful partnership for over 20 years which means that farmers are able to conduct transactions in on one of Australia’s largest networks, have access to specialist farm finance products and receive specialist advice from Rural Bank Relationship Managers. Rural Bank offers a range of short term, long term and seasonal lending facilities as well as equipment and livestock finance. We also offer traditional day to day banking services and a full range of savings and investments products. To find out more contact your local Elders branch.

www.ruralbank.com.au This information has been prepared without taking into account your personal circumstances, objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making any investment decision you should consider your situation and consult your taxation adviser to ensure that you meet the legislative requirements and read the relevant terms and conditions available at www.ruralbank.com.au. Products are issued by Rural Bank – A Division of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited, ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 237879 and distributed by Elders Rural Services Australia Limited ABN 72 004 045 121 AFSL 237757. Elders Rural Services Australia may receive a commission based on the average account balance. (1636228–1636227) (07/21)

Prevent powdery mildew and botrytis in one pass.

NEW

Produce healthier and more saleable bunches with Luna® Experience fungicide. • Provides powdery mildew and latent botrytis control* • Built-in resistance management with Fungicide Groups 7 & 3 in one formulation, no need to tank mix • Soft on most beneficial species*

Speak to your advisor or visit crop.bayer.com.au to find out more. *When used as directed. Bayer CropScience Pty Ltd ABN 87 000 226 022. Level 1, 8 Redfern Road Hawthorn East VIC 3123, Australia. Technical Enquiries: 1800 804 479 enquiries.australia@bayer.com Luna is a Registered Trademark of the Bayer group. BHO0248

Crop Protection

OPPORTUNIT Y FOR ONE PASS, EXTENDED PROTECTION AGAINST GRAPE DISEASES A powerful, dual mode of action fungicide offering one-pass control of powdery mildew and botrytis bunch rot, and particularly extended protection against these diseases, is set to be welcomed by grape growers in the new season. Luna Experience, from Bayer, contains fluopyram (Group 7) and tebuconazole (Group 3) active ingredients, a unique combination that presents an excellent rotational tool and, importantly, can be applied more than once in grower’s fungicide programs to further improve disease control. Fluopyram belongs to a novel Succinate Dehydrogenase Inhibitor (SDHI) chemical class discovered by Bayer, while tebuconazole is a demethylation inhibitor (DMI). Bayer Market Development Agronomist Ian McMaster said a trial investigating the control of powdery mildew by Luna Experience in grapevines at Margaret River in Western Australia last year showed excellent results and more trials were being planned to further assist growers. “Luna Experience is taken up better by the stems than leaves, so it provides good movement into buds and new growth,’’ Ian said. “It’s a very good, long lasting compound and it controls both powdery mildew and botrytis, compared with some other newer fungicides that only target powdery mildew.’’ Territory Business Manager Ian Cook said Luna Experience was systemic, providing the upward movement into leaves and new growth. It also is translaminar, ensuring the underside of leaves also is protected. “It protects the plant parts by adhering to the leaf surface and slowly penetrating into the leaf over time. It is quite persistent and so offers great length of control,’’ Ian Cook said. He said Luna Experience was a cost-effective alternative for growers and was compatible with a wide range of products. In export wine grapes, Luna Experience can be applied from the E-L 11 to E-L 17 growth stage, while for table and domestic wine grapes, it can be applied through to the E-L 29 (4 mm berry size) stage.

“With its good systemic activity and extended protection, you are providing yourself some cover.’’ “In wine grapes, fungicide applications generally start from four-leaf, so growers could apply Luna Experience early and through to E-L 17, or, if they can only apply it once in their programs, they could apply Prosper fungicide first for good, efficient co ntrol an d th en ch ange to a di fferent chemical group such as Luna Experience and also take advantage of its latent botrytis protection.’’ For table grapes, to take full advantage of its dual disease activity, he said it would be ideal to apply it just prior to flowering or at 10 per cent cap fall, followed by using fungicides like Teldor or Scala, and then to apply Luna Experience again at E-L 29 to continue the program and provide great, extended protection. “This effectively k eeps o ther b otryticides u p y our s leeve for later, provides protection through to pre-bunch closure and will save on the need for another powdery mildew product in the mix.’’ Ian Cook said the application of Luna Experience in export wine grapes at E-L 17 would be effective, and important, to take advantage of its extended protection. He said the fungicide’s dual formulation and flexible application window in table and domestic wine grapes would help achieve excellent control of powdery mildew and botrytis in those crops. “In table grapes over flowering, when botrytis can be a potential issue, Luna Experience will continue to have a good fit, with the bonus of controlling powdery mildew as well in the one pass.’’ “Growers will be able to tick two boxes. Depending upon the conditions, they can target both powdery mildew and botrytis from four-leaf right through to 4 mm berry size.’’

Ian McMaster said for export wine grape growers, Luna Experience would provide good powdery mildew control as well as a “safeguard’’ against botrytis bunch rot.

Crop Protection

NEW BENCHMARK FOR GRASS, BROADLEAF WEED CONTROL IS COMING Consistent results from extensive crop trials over a number of years is sending strong signals to wheat and barley growers that a new industry benchmark for grass and broadleaf weed control is coming in 2022. Renowned for its product development and trials rigour prior to releasing new products, Bayer is anticipating its new Mateno® Complete grass and broadleaf weed preemergent and early post-emergent herbicide to be available for next season. It introduces a new herbicide mode of action for Australian wheat and barley growers, aclonifen (Group 32), an SPS (solanesyl di-phosphate synthase) inhibitor, in a complementary co-formulation with pyroxasulfone (Group 15 – formerly K) and diflufenican (Group 12 – formerly F) herbicides. Aclonifen is mainly taken up through the leaves of young seedling grass and broadleaf weeds following early postemergent application (EPE). For broadleaf weeds yet to emerge at this application timing, uptake is by the hypocotyl of the weeds as they emerge through the moist soil surface. This mode of uptake complements that of the other active ingredients, resulting in multiple weed uptake pathways that delivers reliable control across a range of early weed growth stages. In wheat, Mateno Complete can be used EPE to provide weed control across the complete soil surface, including in the furrow, on the furrow shoulder and in the inter-row, or incorporated by sowing (IBS) in both wheat and barley to give more reliable control of grass weeds. It offers flexible application rates in wheat, with the higher rate, used IBS, offering a higher level of control of annual ryegrass, barley grass, annual phalaris, silver grass and toad rush and suppression of wild oats, great brome and capeweed. Used EPE, it offers control of small silver grass, toad rush, wild radish, capeweed and prickly lettuce and suppression of annual ryegrass, barley grass and doublegee/spiny emex. The flexible rates also help deliver value across different cropping scenarios and environments.

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Gus MacLennan, Market Development Agronomist with Bayer in New South Wales, said a herbicide controlling both grass and broadleaf weeds with its particular residual activity, as well as providing the benefits of a new mode of action, had not been seen for many years in the industry. “The flexibility Mateno Complete offers in weed spectrum and use patterns is really unique and it’s also expected to be registered for use with disc seeders in wheat. Disc seeding systems are rapidly increasing and there is a lack of registered herbicide options for growers to use with these seeders,’’ Gus said. The majority of the company’s trial program in recent years has focused on Mateno Complete, culminating in more than 100 large area evaluation trials on farms across the country this season to thoroughly investigate a range of aspects from crop safety through to weed control efficacy. Gus said the conclusion was that when applied EPE, following an effective pre-emergent herbicide, Mateno Complete “sits head and shoulders’’ above many alternate herbicides – “by a fair margin’’. “With EPE applications, we have seen residual control of grass and broadleaf weeds push further into the season, in some cases resulting in season-long grass weed control.’’

THE

COMPLETE PACKAGE ARRIVING SOON CONTROLS A BROAD SPECTRUM OF GRASS WEEDS IN WHEAT AND BARLEY AND BROADLEAF WEEDS IN WHEAT USE IBS (INCORPORATED BY SOWING) IN WHEAT AND BARLEY AND EPE (EARLY POST-EMERGENCE) IN WHEAT RESIDUAL WEED CONTROL

NEW

MODE OF ACTION *

FOR MORE INFORMATION Visit matenocomplete.com.au or speak to your local reseller or agronomist *Contains a new mode of action herbicide for Australia. An application for the registration of Mateno® Complete has been made. At the time of publication Mateno Complete is not a registered product. Mateno® is a Registered Trademark of the Bayer Group. © 2021 Bayer Group. Bayer CropScience Pty Ltd ABN 87 000 226 022. Level 1, 8 Redfern Road, Hawthorn East, Vic 3123. Technical enquiries: 1800 804 479 enquiries.australia@bayer.com

Crop Protection

VANTACOR INSECTICIDE ENHANCES AN ALREADY OUTSTANDING PRODUCT Newly released insect control formulation from FMC for Chickpea crops and pulses. Vantacor insecticide replaces the current industry leading insecticide Altacor. The major benefits for pulse and cotton growers of Altacor insecticide have been enhanced by its successor in the marketplace, FMC’s new Vantacor® insecticide. For many years, Altacor has been the benchmark insecticide for the control of caterpillar species in cotton and summer and winter pulse crops, renowned for its ability to control different sized pests with good residual activity between applications. FMC’s new Vantacor insecticide, replacing Altacor in the marketplace, contains the same active ingredient, Rynaxypyr which has been improved from a 350WG to a 600 SC and is available in a 2.5-litre pack, as opposed to the 5-kilogram Altacor® option. FMC Insecticide Product Manager, Leandro Posteraro said the new formulation is a natural evolution from Altacor. Vantacor is a robust insecticide with a sustainable edge, delivering a much lower use rate and less packaging. “It’s easy to measure, mixes really well and suspends easily,” he said. “We have retained all the really positive features of Altacor and added some excellent benefits.” The Vantacor label also sees a reduction in the withholding period for many of the pulse crops from 28 days to 14 days, meaning it can be successfully used to protect crops later in the season. Vantacor controls Cotton bollworm and Native budworm in winter pulse crops including Chickpea, Faba/Broad bean, Field pea, Lentil, Lupin and Vetch, and in summer pulse crops controls, Mung bean, Soybean, Azuki/Adzuki bean, Cow pea, Navy bean and Pigeon pea. Vantacor also controls Bean podborer, Cotton bollworm, Native budworm, Soybean looper, Bean looper and Irrorated tabby. “Vantacor controls all of the major Lepidoptera species in pulse crops and cotton so is an excellent choice for growers when pest damage is noted in the field,” Leandro said. “The broad spectrum of Lepidoptera pests includes some really difficult to control options such as Bean podborer which can make its way into the plant and away from the direct spray application.”

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“With its excellent translaminar action, Vantacor can move from one side of the leaf to the other and effectively control pests.” Leandro said Vantacor should be applied early in the pest infestation cycle to keep pest populations below damaging levels. “While Vantacor does have good activity on larger sized grubs, it makes sense to control the pest early to minimise damage and maximise yields. Growers receive close to immediate crop protection as the grubs stop feeding as the insecticide is ingested.” Vantacor does have ovi-larvicidal activity, so the neonate ingests residues on the outer surface of the egg membrane and is quickly paralysed. Leandro said with Vantacor registered for two applications per season, an excellent strategy is to use these back-to-back if caterpillars return in the weeks following the first spray. “Regularly scout crops and monitor for larvae. Apply Vantacor as the larvae reach threshold numbers, keeping in mind the pulse industry insecticide resistance management strategy. In most cases a single spray will be enough to control the insects, but it is good to know a second application is available if needed. If a third spray is required rotate to an alternative mode of action.” Leandro said the excellent residual activity was enhanced by Vantacor’s ability to leave key beneficial insects in the field. “Beneficial insects can play a role in controlling caterpillar species so may save a chemical application later in the crop.” “Vantacor also has excellent health and safety credentials with low toxicity to beneficial anthopods, mammals, fish and birds.” “With its good margin of safety, its is an excellent choice for applicators and workers entering the fields after the spray has dried.” “Caterpillar pests can cause significant damage in a small amount of time if left unchecked,” Leandro said. “Vantacor insecticide will rapidly control those pests and has excellent residual activity to help maximise yield and quality.”

WHEN YOU KNOW, YOU KNOW FMC’S NEW VANTACOR ® IS THE EVOLUTION OF ALTACOR ® FOR CHICKPEA CROPS AND PULSES

Vantacor® is a highly concentrated insect control formulation of Rynaxypyr active for Chickpea crops and pulses. It is fast acting, long lasting and highly effective at delivering targeted control while being convenient, sustainable, and safe. Speak to your local agronomist for more information.

Now registered for Onion Thrip Success

INSECTICIDE

Neo

Unique and Powerful Success® Neo Insecticide with Jemvelva™ active is now registered for control of onion and western flower thrip in bulb crops. Its unique and powerful mode of action is IPM compatible with a large margin of safety for users, consumers and the environment. Visit us at corteva.com.au ®,TM

Crop Protection

SUCCESS NEO NOW REGISTERED ON ONION THRIPS Success Neo provides onion growers with a powerful new control option for thrips with a new mode of action that will kill thrips that are resistant to other chemistries. While highly efficacious on thrips it is soft on operators and other pests making it an ideal option for use in an IPM program. Darren Rathjen, who with his family runs Delta Produce in South Australia is a 5th generation farmer growing 320 acres of onions at properties in Wall Flat and in the South East of South Australia. He is also on the Onions Australia Executive Committee as deputy chair so he has spent a long time around onions.

range of horticulture crops and now bulb vegetable growers have Success Neo available to them to control both western flower thrips and onion thrips’. The trial data is compelling. Success Neo provides excellent control of both nymph and adult onion thrips when used according to the label.

Darren says the battle against onion thrips is a constant one. “An infestation during the bulb enlargement phase can have a serious impact on yield, with unhealthy plant tops reducing the bulb growth period. They can also breed in bulbs that have been harvested, causing skins to pop off reducing marketability. Onion thrips are also a vector of yellow spot virus which can cause issues too.

Vigilant monitoring and early control before thrip numbers build is the key to thrip management. Preventing physical damage and viral infection early will help maximise yield. Control of thrips is best achieved by applying three back-to-back applications of Success Neo at 7-day intervals. This label claim also complies with the required insecticide resistance management strategy. Thorough coverage is essential to control thrips. The addition of a wetting agent will also improve control.

Controlling onion thrips is made more difficult due to the lack of chemical control options available. “We have lost a number of products over the years due to health and safety concerns, residue issues or them just failing to control the pest” Darren told us “and those that are left we have been using for a long, long time which obviously raises the issue of resistance. This being the case, any new product in the shed is good news.” Success Neo, from Corteva Agriscience, has recently been registered for control of onion thrips in bulb crops. Success Neo is a group 5 pesticide which means a brandnew mode of action on onion thrips. It contains the active ingredient spinetoram, which is derived from a naturally occurring organism giving it a large margin of safety for users, consumers and the environment as well as short withholding periods. It is a highly selective product which has a powerful efficacy on thrips while leaving beneficial insects such as bugs, beetles and lacewings unharmed and able to aid in the control of thrips. Chris Brown, Corteva Agriscience Customer Technology Specialist, said ‘Success Neo is the standard insecticide option for western flower thrip control across a wide

Success Neo is compatible with most commonly used fungicides so can be applied in one pass in most cases. Bulb vegetable growers also have flexibility with the short 3-day harvest withholding period. With older chemistry either no longer available or ineffective at controlling thrips, it is important that bulb vegetable growers have new insecticides to use against these damaging pests. Success Neo provides a strong option but must be used in rotation with alternative mode-of-action insecticides to remain effective for as long as possible. In summary said Chris, Success Neo provides onion growers with a powerful new control option for thrips with a new mode of action that will kill thrips that are resistant to other chemistries. While highly efficacious on thrips it is soft on operators and other pests making it an ideal option for use in an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program.

Crop Protection

RESEARCH PROVIDES HOPE IN FACE OF RISING CROWN ROT The understanding of crown rot and the challenge it presents cereal growers, is continuing to evolve, through research into disease prevalence and how to control infections. The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries continues to encourage growers to use cultural practices to manage crown rot inoculum while Syngenta is developing a seed treatment to support the control of this yield-robbing disease. Random crop disease surveys conducted across New South Wales in 2019 and 2020 by NSW Department of Primary Industries, with co-investment from GRDC, show Fusarium crown rot is the dominant cereal disease in that state. Nationally it costs the industry more than $400 million each year. Steven Simpfendorfer is a senior cereal pathologist with NSW Department of Primary Industries, based at Tamworth and a Fusarium specialist. He said that agronomists and growers are now finding the disease is worse in non-traditional Fusarium crown rot areas, such as central and southern NSW, than originally thought. In wheat crops near Forbes last year, across nine paddocks six were showing medium to high levels of Fusarium crown rot, with up to 82 per cent plant infection recorded. Based on the level of basal browning, Dr Simpfendorfer estimates the yield loss in 2020 across those six infected paddocks at between 17-20 per cent. In Western Australia, where there has been a rapid uptake of no-till cropping systems, yield losses to Fusarium crown rot are estimated to cost the industry about $115 million annually. Back in 1998 the estimated cost to industry in WA was just $7 million. WA consultant David Cameron said when he started his agronomy career in the 1990s, Fusarium crown rot was an issue in the lower rainfall regions, however over the past decade he had noticed distribution spreading into medium rainfall zones. “Crown rot has increased on the back of the increased intensity of cereal cropping. Livestock have left the system and the pasture area has declined. Also, the dry seasons have limited the area of broadleaf break crops being grown,” Mr Cameron said. “Low levels of infection are costing (some growers) 5-10 per cent of their yield in those low rainfall areas when there is a cut off finish. “But every now and then a more severe infection will cause up to 30 per cent loss.” However, for many growers, it’s difficult to quantify the cost of the disease and distinguish whether yield losses are due to Fusarium crown rot or other seasonal impacts. According to Mr Cameron, that grey area means taking hard line approaches to rotations can be met with resistance from some growers. “There is some rotation with fallow and broadleaf crops where 16

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the seasons allow it, but in general many growers are trying to use short season varieties like Emu Rock and now Vixen,” he said. “Modern machinery allows us to inter-row seed, but those are minor contributors and a lot is left to the season. “We do lack effective options. People are trying to do what they can, but they are managing the problem rather than getting on top of it.” Following massive cereal plantings across the east coast last year, to restore stubble cover off the back of drought, Dr Simpfendorfer said many growers had little choice but to follow up with another cereal crop in the rotation in 2021. This is likely to cause Fusarium inoculum levels to rise. However, Dr Simpfendorfer said simply removing residue isn’t the answer. “Conservation cropping has large system benefits but means that the stubble-borne pathogen which causes Fusarium crown rot is going to be in paddocks,” he said. “What we push hard is not to despair – burning stubble and aggressive management strategies such as cultivation can potentially have worse impacts overall.” Syngenta, a global leader in research and development, has observed the challenge this has presented in Australia. While the expression of this disease is mostly observed during plant maturity, Syngenta turned its attention to the early establishment phase when infection ordinarily happens. Syngenta Technical Services Lead for Seedcare™ , Sean Roberts, has been part of a project team that has developed TYMIRIUM® technology for use as a seed treatment to achieve early and lasting protection against Fusarium. “VICTRATO®, powered by TYMIRIUM® technology, controls crown rot and provides management of root lesion nematodes in wheat and barley,” Mr Roberts said. “Compared to existing seed treatments, VICTRATO outstrips them, with fewer whiteheads and reduced basel browning. Being a novel mode of action VICTRATO is delivering consistently superior yield, from the roots up, across our trials to date.” Dr Simpfendorfer has observed crown rot trials where cereals have been treated with TYMIRIUM technology. “Once the Syngenta product (VICTRATO) comes online, it will be another tool in the box for the management of Fusarium crown rot,” he said. “It will give growers more flexibility so you don’t get those blowouts in Fusarium crown rot that we have seen in the past. “It’s going to be a very handy additional option for growers but the key will be using it in realistic situations and incorporating it into an overall integrated approach to Fusarium crown rot management.”

Comprehensive Control The ultimate protection against seedling blackleg, rhizoctonia and pythium in canola.

Control of seedling blackleg

Superior yield advantage

Ultimate crop safety

Control of rhizoctonia

Control of pythium

SALTRO® DUO is a powerful combination of two leading seed treatments, speciﬁcally designed for Australian canola growers. Containing the new, unique SDHI fungicide SALTRO and the recognised high performer MAXIM® XL, this ultimate combination provides the complete control of seedling blackleg, rhizoctonia and pythium in canola. For further information talk to your local Syngenta representative or visit syngenta.com.au/saltroduo

Syngenta Australia Pty Ltd, Level 1, 2-4 Lyonpark Road, Macquarie Park NSW 2113. ABN 33 002 933 717. ® Registered trademark of a Syngenta Group Company. TM Trademark of a Syngenta Group Company. © 2021 Syngenta. AD 21-067.

AG INDUSTRY STANDOUTS RECOGNISED BY SYNGENTA GROWTH AWARDS Eight of the agri industry’s standout growers, advisers and influencers have been named winners in the latest Syngenta Growth Awards, which were announced during a livestream event last week. The Growth Awards recognise growers, farm advisers and industry innovators from different regions across Australia and New Zealand, showcasing their contribution in one of the following categories: Productivity, Sustainability, Community & People, and Innovator. The program was launched in 2014. Paul Luxton, Country Head and Managing Director Syngenta ANZ, says the national winners represent the very best of a very strong cohort. “The standard of nominees, regional winners and national award recipients is as high as it has ever been since the Growth Awards program was launched in 2014,” he said. “While we’re disappointed we could not celebrate in person with our planned red-carpet gala event due to Covid restrictions, I am proud to see our winners recognised and I am sure they are looking forward to our state-by-state celebrations.” The national winners were selected by an independent judging panel from a pool of more than 40 nominees based across Australia and New Zealand. “We are fortunate in both Australia and New Zealand to have a wealth of growers, advisers and industry champions who are forever looking for ways to improve, to find new opportunity, to share insights and ideas and to work for the good of the whole industry,” Mr Luxton said.

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“None of us can do this on our own. We need to collaborate like never before, build trust and continue to deliver amazing results.” He noted that the Growth Awards program aligns with Syngenta’s global Good Growth Plan by focusing on sustainable productivity, people & community and accelerating innovation, to bring plant potential to life. “The creativity, innovation, passion and resilience of people involved in agriculture is inspiring and I look forward to seeing our Growth Awards national winners continue to achieve great things.” Meet the winners To find out more about the winners, head to https://www. syngenta.com.au/growth-awards-2020 where you can read about their backgrounds and where they see opportunity for Australian agriculture. Productivity This category recognises growers and advisers who use best practice in achieving consistent productivity gains. Adam Schreurs Grower, Schreurs & Sons, Clyde, Victoria Insights from Adam: “In the past five years, we have relocated our whole vegetable growing business from one location to another 100km away. All the locals said we were

crazy, and it would never work and now they are all asking why it didn’t happen before.” Chris Toohey Adviser, Elders, Albury, NSW Insights from Chris: “As Australian farmers, I don’t think we understand our customer base well enough. We are incredibly good at selling commodities rather than valuing what we produce. There is a huge opportunity to put better value into our products but there has to be the desire to do it.” Sustainability This category recognises growers and advisers who are committed to addressing industry issues to create a sustainable and profitable future. Simon Doolin Grower, Doolin Agriculture, North Star, NSW An insight from Simon: “We learn more from talking to each other than simply attendIng seminars and are fortunate to be in an industry that shares its knowledge freely in striving towards the same goals – to be efficient, to be economical and to have growth.” Linda Peacock Adviser, Kiwifruit Vine Health Inc, Tauranga New Zealand Insight from Linda: “The value of helping people understand their plants, vines and orchards and become more aware of what’s normal for their property, will increase the chance we will detect any new incursion or disease early, and then by having good biosecurity and hygiene practices in place on a daily basis, we could limit the spread and have a good chance at eradication.” Community and people This category recognises growers and advisers who make a leading contribution to their community, workers and fellow growers. Brett South Grower, Esperance WA Insight from Brett: “If we could establish a network which shows the good side of agriculture, then it could encourage people to come into the industry, and with a social framework in place, that might help. Not only would they try agriculture but if they are supported, they would stay.”

Alex Thomas Adviser and founder of ‘plant a seed for safety’, Torrens Park, SA Insight from Alex: “I have always had a strong desire to give something back to the industry and the community that gave so much to me. I saw a need to change the perception that work health and safety was ‘all about paperwork’, because it simply doesn’t inspire people to make safer, healthier choices.” Innovator This new category, introduced for this round of the Awards, recognises trailblazing growers, advisers and industry influencers who contribute to innovation in agriculture or apply game-changing technologies. Sarah Nolet CEO, AgThentic & Farmers2Founders, General Partner, Tenacious Ventures, Sydney, NSW Insight from Sarah: “There is an opportunity to promote Australian agricultural innovation and agtech on a global stage. For the past five years, we’ve been focussing on what was happening overseas and how we could catch up. All the while, there were great things happening in Australia – so now is our opportunity to show we are punching well above our weight. It’s a chance to say, look what our innovative farmers, researchers, and entrepreneurs are doing to create and commercialise innovations that can help the agriculture industry here and overseas.” Judges’ choice A special discretionary award bestowed by the judging panel on the nominee who has made a significant contribution to the agriculture industry in the areas of sustainability, productivity, innovation, and community and people. Grace Brennan Buy from the Bush, Dubbo, NSW Insight from Grace: “The launch of the Buy from the Bush campaign which allowed rural businesses to promote their products under the one banner is a career highlight. But stemming from this, my proudest moment was to be invited by the NSW Premier to give the Australia Day address in Sydney in 2020 and tell the story of drought and rural Australia. I hope that a broader audience was listening.” 19

SPRING FLUSH TO SET THE TONE FOR SHEEP MARKETS With spring fast approaching it is time to look at the trends in the sheep industry in 2020-21 and how they could shape the next 12 months.

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Recently, AuctionsPlus released a breakdown of what was a record year for sheep and lamb sales on the platform, selling 4.43 million head in 2020-21, up 10 per cent (pc). The breakdown shows what impact flock rebuilding activities have had on throughput and price, while providing an indication of what the market could expect in 2021-22. Evidence of restocking Seasonal conditions played a key role in determining the level of influence domestic market factors had on throughput and price in 2020-21. Favourable seasonal conditions led to an elevated level of feed, prompting graziers to retain breeding stock, and put a focus on rebuilding flocks. This was evident by tight supply in the proven breeder categories. The number of merino ewes offered online marginally increased, up 5pc to 361,059 head. While the number of first cross ewes was unchanged at 92,435 head. To rebuild flocks, demand shifted towards ewe lamb categories with first cross ewe lambs recording an 86pc increase in throughput, just shy of 350,000 head. While Merino ewe lambs recorded an increase of 8pc, reaching 207,786 head.

Balancing supply and demand Whilst the head count is irrelevant, the trend of both older ewe and younger ewe categories suggests that flocks have grown and that there will be an increase in supply of lambs in 2021-22. However, the increase in supply will not automatically translate to a decline in price of the same magnitude. In 2020-21, the price of first cross and Merino ewe lambs increased by 2-14pc according to AuctionsPlus. Most of the price increase was due to demand from restockers as opposed to export market factors. The key difference between 2020-21 and 2021-22 is the split between restocker and consumer demand. As COVID-19 controls progress in Australia and in key export markets, food service channels are expected to provide a higher level of demand compared to 2020-21. In export markets, both the U.S and China are showing signs of firm demand for lamb, whilst the Middle East remains subdued due to a lack of air travel. From a restocker point of view, demand may not eclipse the level of 2020-21, however feed availability remains high which could give restockers confidence to take advantage of any extra supply. The outcome for price will depend on the speed of export market growth and the remaining carrying capacity on-farm. If both factors combine, the expected dip in spring lamb prices could be short lived and result in an average spring price that is above the long-term average for most categories of sheep and lamb.

Graph showing breeding stock sales on AuctionsPlus. Adult ewes increased by 4%, ewe lambs increased by 132% from 2019-2020. Ewes include first cross and merino stock categories. Source: AuctionsPlus

Fencing

UPGRADE YOUR PROPERTIES BIOSECURIT Y WITH WARATAH FENCING SOLUTIONS A well-built fence could be all that you need to solve your biosecurity, animal health and grazing pressure concerns.

If you’re finding your conventional timber & plain wire fencing is not up to scratch, you’re not alone. Before contacting Waratah, Victorian livestock farmer Duncan Campbell was facing serious biosecurity risks with a high risk of incursion from neighbouring livestock & feral animals. Not to mention the sensitive riverbank areas and remnant vegetation being damaged by livestock.

“You can’t replace your stock overnight, so the cost of your neighbours’ sheep bringing in any disease vs the cost of good quality fencing is incomparable”. Mr Campbell said. Mr Campbell knew the risk he was putting his livestock at by using inferior fencing, so he decided to upgrade his farming operation by working with his local Waratah representative on a strong and reliable fencing solution.

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Duncan’s fence combined Stocklock’s Longlife Blue wire technology with the strength & ductility of Jio Star & MaxY posts as well as the heavy duty Jio pinlock insulators, for a high-quality fencing system. All products selected were ideal for the hilly terrain and high animal pressure Duncan was facing. “In the past when we didn’t have good fencing, the stock would get boxed and we didn’t put cattle out in other paddocks… now it is as stockproof as it could be”. Duncan now has a higher stock carrying capacity, peace of mind for stock security and is helping protect remnant vegetation along the river. Advice from Duncan, “The financial cost of treating biosecurity breaches can far outweigh the cost of a welldesigned fencing system. Talk to a Waratah representative, they do fencing everyday & have some great solutions that are effective and will save you money.”

UPGRADE YOUR BIOSECURITY WITH WARATAH FENCING SOLUTIONS CUSTOMER SOLUTIONS

“You can’t replace your stock overnight, so the cost of your neighbours sheep bringing in any disease vs the cost of good quality fencing is incomparable” - Duncan Campbell, VIC

WANT TO KNOW MORE? READ DUNCAN’S FULL STORY SCAN HERE

www.waratahfencing.com.au

13 10 80

RESIDUAL AND BURNDOWN CONTROL WITH FLEXIBILITY

VALOR COTTON CONSCIOUS

• 6-8 weeks residual weed control in fallow. • Reduced need for repeated knockdown sprays. • Short re-cropping intervals for a wide range of winter and summer crops. • Enhanced knockdown control when used with non-selective herbicides. • Strength against difficult to control weeds including feathertop Rhodes grass and fleabane. • Keep fallow clean leading up to planting all times of year.

Scan here to see more information about Valor 500WG Herbicide

www.sumitomo-chem.com.au Valor is the registered trademark of Sumitomo Chemical Company, Japan.

Crop Protection

VALOR BRINGS FLEXIBILIT Y TO WEED CONTROL Valor® 500 WG Herbicide used prior to planting both winter and summer crops offers outstanding flexibility and boosts efforts in combating resistant weeds. With the steady increase in herbicide resistance in mixed cropping areas and the need for more flexible weed control strategies, growers and their advisors have a highly flexible and effective tool at their disposal with Valor. Developed in Australia for our conditions by Sumitomo AgroSolutions, Valor herbicide: • c ontrols our key problem weeds including weeds resistant to other herbicides. • has short and flexible re-cropping intervals • may be used prior to both summer and winter crops Valor has become well known for its effective pre-emergence control of a broad range of problem weeds in the fallow period prior to planting summer crops. When used at these rates, Valor offers excellent longer-term control of problem weeds including Barnyard Grass, Feathertop Rhodes Grass, Fleabane and Milk Thistle, even against glyphosate resistant strains. Valor is also known for its ability to boost the knockdown weed control of non-selective herbicides including glyphosate and paraquat when used at lower ‘spike’ rates, and for providing excellent extended control of weeds at higher rates per hectare along irrigation channel banks and drainage ditches. Conserving soil moisture is critical at any time of the year. Using Valor to remove weed pressure in the period prior to sowing crops, while also offering safe, residual weed control well past the establishment phase of the emerging crop is a valuable option for growers. This value is especially evident when you consider the lack of any restrictive plantback periods and its strong fit within herbicide resistance management strategies. B&W Rural Moree Senior Agronomist Chris Maunder uses Valor Herbicide strategically at key times of the year to manage problem weeds as they germinate.

‘We can apply 210g/ha of Valor in late July or early August and prevent the emergence of fleabane and milk thistle well into our next crop - be that sorghum or maize or cotton and pigeon pea’, says Chris. ‘These rates give us excellent control in the peak germination periods for key weeds while we are busy with other operations like applying fungicides to our cereals or winter pulses.’ It also means key summer weeds are much more easily managed, particularly in minimum or zero tillage farming systems. ‘Feathertop Rhodes Grass is a massive issue for us in Northern NSW. Having Valor applied prior to summer crops or summer fallow and giving pre-emergence control as FTRG germinates from the first spring rain and beyond, is a very important tool for us,’ said Chris. FTRG is not overly susceptible to glyphosate, particularly after early tillering. This makes it tough to control in a minimum tillage environment and/or Roundup Ready Cotton systems which are of course heavily reliant on glyphosate. The fact that the purchasing of Valor is subsidised by the Roundup Ready Plus Program to encourage the use of herbicides with different modes of action is a testimony to how big a problem we face, how important it is to use every tool available to combat the problem and how effective a tool Valor can be. No delay is required between the application of Valor and planting for Soybeans, Faba Beans and Peanuts while other crops such as Cotton, Sorghum, Maize, Navy Beans, Field Peas and Chickpeas, only require a short plant-back period and just 15 mm of rain prior to planting. This is in stark contrast to some other residual weed control options which can literally tie-up farming country for years, and severely limit crop options until significant rainfall and lengthy time requirements have been met. For more information including a full list of re-cropping intervals required for summer and winter crop options visit www.sumitomo-chem.com.au/valor-500-wg-herbicide.

Crop Protection

BEGIN THE 2021 CROPPING SEASON IN THE CLEAR, WITH A CLEAN BOOM SPRAYER Great time and financial loss can be contributed to boom sprayer contamination and so farmers should begin their spraying program with All Clear DS. AgNova is conducting a major education program to protect crops from damage due to contamination of boom sprayers and export markets from MRL breaches. We have developed high quality boom sprayer tank stickers to supply to farmers. The sticker has a QR code to take the farmer to the All Clear DS webpage where they can access resources including the label, SDS and the list of chemicals removed by All Clear DS. But most importantly, there is a 10-minute instructional video on the complete procedure of boom sprayer cleaning and decontamination.

reason to completely decontaminate the spray rig is to protect Australia’s agricultural markets from chemical residues breaching MRLs. Just one detection of chemical residues in food could devastate a whole market ¬¬–¬ that makes it imperative to get cleanout right. From a spray contractor’s point of view, this has a label specifically for cleaning a boom sprayer, giving them extra confidence and protection. All Clear DS is a very effective formulation for spray boom decontamination.” In tests, All Clear DS was the most consistent tank cleaner for the widest range crop protection products. Keep it simple - you only need to recommend one tank and boom cleaner for a range of products, and that’s All Clear DS. Craig Day of Spray Safe & Save, Australia’s leading advocate of best practice spray application for over 25 years.

Mr Craig Day says: “In preparation for spraying, farmers need to understand all the aspects of the operation. These include droplet size, temperature, humidity, Delta T, spray release height to name a few. But the whole operation must begin with boom sprayer inspection, maintenance and most importantly, full decontamination. The farmer must become proficient with this process and understand all the capture points such as the nozzle bodies, filters, the granni pot (venturi mixers) and the tank itself. Another

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Suction filter cleaned with All Clear DS.

Suction filter washed with water.

You’ll stick with Because little else does! When it comes to removing damaging residues from your boom sprayer, All Clear DS outperforms other tank cleaners on the widest range of products. Feature

Benefit

Single dilution rate

Convenient and simple to use

Not a Dangerous Good

Safety in handling and mixing

Non-corrosive

No equipment damage

Low foam

Easy to empty spray tank

Long shelf life

Carry over season to season

SURFACTANTS DETERGENTS SEQUESTRANTS To solubilise To lock up To physically and break molecules remove residues down residues and improve and stop rinse out re-sticking

Innovation. Quality. Solutions.

® Registered trademark of AgNova Technologies Pty Ltd. 210121

WETOUT

A new generation 100% Non-ionic surfactant

The benefits of using WETOUT

• SUPERIOR SPREADING – Better coverage

• BETTER DEPOSITION – More product on the target

• LESS DRIFT

– Less loss and better compliance

• INCREASED EFFICACY – Less weeds

• INCREASED VERSATILITY – Less products needed

• LOW USER RATES

– Less handling and storage, very cost effective

• ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY – Biodegradable

SPREADING Wetout® reaches levels of spreading that were previously only possible by using very expensive organosilicones. Wetout® retains a long drying and humectancy period, important for uptake of glyphosate products.

SST Australia Pty Ltd Ph +61 3 9720 6306 www.sstaustralia.com

SST New Zealand Ph +64 9259 3777 www.sstnewzealand.co.nz

Left: BS1000 at 100mL/100L;

Hairy surface, Middle: Wetout® at 100mL/100L; 0.1mL droplets: Right: No surfactant, water only.

Crop Protection

WETOUT® • REDUCED APPLICATION RATE • REDUCED DRIFT • IMPROVED HERBICIDE PERFORMANCE • SUPERIOR SPREADING Wetout® - A new generation 100% Non-ionic surfactant For decades BS1000 has been the leading non-ionic surfactant standard across Australia and New Zealand. After extensive research, SST has developed a new standard – a new generation non-ionic surfactant ‘Wetout®’. Wetout® is a unique proprietary formulation of vegetable based surfactants that improves efficacy in every aspect while reducing unwanted negatives such as drift. The Benefits of Using WETOUT® SUPERIOR SPREADING – Better coverage BETTER DEPOSITION – More product on the target LESS DRIFT – Less loss and better compliance INCREASED EFFICACY – Less weeds INCREASED VERSATILITY – Less products needed LOW USER RATES – Less handling and storage, very cost effective • ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY – Biodegradable

• • • • • •

SPREADING: Wetout® reaches levels of spreading that were previously only possible by using very expensive organosilicones. When it comes to spreading, Wetout® can truly be considered so advanced that it is not even in the same league as conventional non-ionic surfactants. Despite spreading thin, Wetout® retains a long drying and humectancy period, which is important for uptake of glyphosate products. BETTER DEPOSITION: To achieve best deposition, a surfactant needs to travel to the surface of the droplet fast – the time it takes from leaving the nozzle tip to hitting the target. Wetout® is fast and therefore achieves excellent adhesion to the surface when it hits the target. As a result, bounce and splashing-off is greatly reduced. More product stays on the target! LESS DRIFT: Drift is an ever-increasing important topic in modern spray application. It does not only have environmental impacts, but also means loss of product (= loss of efficacy and money).

While the old benchmark non-ionic surfactants such as BS1000 increase drift dramatically, the unique blend of Wetout® does NOT. It reduces drift at around the same level as a well-known lecithin or oil containing drift reduction adjuvants. Independent trials show Wetout® improves the spray pattern of an EXTREMELY COARSE spray using Turbodrop XL-D 02 at 100L/ha, 3.2 bar. The addition of Wetout® almost tripled the number of droplets to 78 droplets/cm2 compared to 28 droplets/cm2 when water was used. INCREASED EFFICACY AND VERSATILITY: The proprietary formulation of surfactants in Wetout® are more versatile than a single surfactant formulation in the old standard non-ionic wetters. Wetout® achieves the same or better efficacy at lower rates. It even outperforms specialized wetter such as Wetter TX* on Annual Ryegrass. This means also increased versatility. Wetout® is the only all-season non-ionic surfactant that is needed. It is ideal for summer spraying because it increases uptake of glyphosate, spreading of paraquat, and helps to overcome some of the disadvantages of the new EXTREMELY COARSE spray quality regulations for 24-D products. LOWER USE RATES: The old standard wetters are used at 200ml/100L. Wetout® is so superior it can be used at half the rate at 100ml/100L and achieve similar or better results. This means half the volume handled, transported and stored. ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: Wetout® is a uniquely targeted surfactant package, based on a green, sustainable raw material backbone. Unlike many adjuvants on the market across ANZ, Wetout® is also free from nonyl phenol ethoxylates#. All the ingredients in Wetout® are biodegradable, meaning they break down into simple, harmless compounds over time, meaning our greener approach today will ensure a greener tomorrow. #NPE’s are banned across Europe and North America because they are endocrine disruptors.

Crop Protection

IT’S EASY TO GO DRY IN YOUR ORCHARD AND PLANTATION Sometimes when faced with the decision between two products that will get the job done you need to choose the one that makes life easy. When it comes to weed control in orchards and plantations, that easy choice is FascinateTM DRY Herbicide.

Sometimes when faced with the decision between two products that will get the job done you need to choose the one that makes life easy. When it comes to weed control in orchards and plantations, that easy choice is FascinateTM DRY Herbicide from UPL, a global leader in glufosinate production. Fascinate DRY Herbicide (500 g/kg glufosinate ammonium) is a new high-load, non-selective knockdown herbicide that provides broad spectrum weed control of grasses, broadleaf weeds and vines in plantations. As a soluble dry granule and the highest strength glufosinate in the market, it offers growers a number of benefits compared to standard glufosinate formulations says Clay Sutton, UPL Australia Technical Manager. “Our new soluble granule formulation is easy to use. It has a built-in surfactant and is low foaming, making it easy to mix and handle.” Secondly, he said, it is conveniently packaged in five kilogram packs, with two packs per ten kilogram box, and a handy cardboard pourer included for measuring.

“Instead of using 25 litres of liquid product you can use just 10 kilograms of dry product,” said Mr Sutton. “We’re getting great feedback from growers about how much easier it is not having to store and recycle drums.”

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He added that the granules also mixed easily in water. “Dilution stability tests show that even in hard water, Fascinate DRY Herbicide demonstrates good solubility without separating or depositing sediment, making it easy to use in the paddock.” Dilution stability tests using hard water 20 ppm and 500 ppm with Fascinate DRY Herbicide resulted in 0.0 % separation and 0.0% sedimentation after 24 hours. As well as mixing readily in water, it is also an excellent tank mix partner to widen weed control, and has good compatibility with other herbicides. Mr Sutton added that it is highly suitable for use in orchards and plantations because of its eco-safety and tree safety characteristics, with very limited translocation in plants and minimal uptake through the lignified parts of woody plants. “Australian trial results show new Fascinate DRY Herbicide to be equivalent to the leading glufosinate herbicide brand in controlling grass and broadleaf weeds in orchard environments.” “When used appropriately, it controls even the toughest C4 grasses,” he added. UPL is a leading global supplier of glufosinate, producing glufosinate technical from the start to the final formulated and packaged product. “As a global leader in glufosinate technology UPL have invested heavily in modern manufacturing facilities in the USA and India and are poised to increase glufosinate capacity,” said Mr Sutton. “Having ownership from the very start allows us to provide a quality product with a reliable and consistent supply to the Australian market.”

NEW easy-to-use herbicide for control of hard to kill weeds in tree crops, vineyards & plantations

Why go DRY? 1

Use only 8 kg versus a 20 litre* drum

No drums to wash, store & recycle

Built in surfactant + low foam so its easy to use

Works on even the hardest to kill tropical grasses

...it’s EASY

www.upl-ltd.com/au * Compared to 200g ai/L glufosinate formulations TM

Fascinate is a registered trademark of UPL Australia Pty Ltd

Technology ahead of its time

Resistance management rotation option

No re-entry lnterval

No WHP, no residues

Safe to all beneficial insects

Stops feeding immediately

Celebrating 5 decades of leading-edge caterpillar control Scan here to find out more about DiPel’s 50th Anniversary and why it's still one of the most effective insecticides available today

www.sumitomo-chem.com.au ALLOWED INPUT 10332AI

DiPel is a registered trademark of Valent BioSciences LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.

Crop Protection

DIPEL ® – TECHNOLOGY AHEAD OF ITS TIME Very few crop protection products have stood the test of time, but even after 50 years, DiPel Biological Insecticide stands alone as the leading biological product that growers depend upon to control lepidopteran pests. First registered in 1971, DiPel® has a proud heritage of innovation and field performance, leading the way in sustainable crop protection.

• D iPel poses no harm to humans, wildlife, or the environment, and is non-toxic to pollinators and other beneficial insects.

Frank Galluccio - Regional Manager for Sumitomo AgroSolutions - based in Swan Hill, has been servicing DiPel customers for 30 years and says, “it is a product that was ahead of its time.”

• D iPel is fast-acting, causing caterpillar pests to stop feeding immediately ensuring no further damage to the crop.

He remembers one particular grower, from Euston NSW who had discovered that DiPel was very effective in controlling Light Brown Apple Moth in his grapes, but still did not necessarily want to be seen buying it. Frank fondly remembers that grower would visit his retailer in Robinvale and wait until no other customers were in the store, then walk up to the counter and very quietly say, “May I have some DiPel please”. Times have of course changed, and because DiPel is both very economical and highly compatible, growers now mix it with their general cover sprays for powdery mildew, downy mildew and botrytis giving them protection against disease and LBAM. Frank says the most noticeable thing from the early years of the surreptitious purchase of a 500g pack over the counter, is that DiPel is now sold in much larger quantities and displayed proudly in the back of many utes. DiPel has a number of features specific to biological insecticides that make both ecological and economic sense.

• D iPel has no residues and no withholding periods and is an Australian Organic Registered Farm Input meaning that crops can be used in both organic farming and conventional cropping. • D iPel has no minimum re-entry period after application, so workers are not delayed from returning to the crop to continue harvesting or performing other duties. DiPel is still brought to you by the people that first developed and launched it 50 years ago and now have more experience with Bt insecticides than anyone else. This experience has led to continuous innovation in fermentation, formulation and application technology allowing DiPel to maintain its effectiveness and even surpass many of its younger alternatives. Growers now seek out softer, more selective crop protection options that are compatible with Integrated Pest Management and certified organic programs. Throughout all of these past five decades, DiPel has provided fast, effective, and natural pest control while at the same time being gentle on the crop and kind to beneficial insects, farm workers and the environment. Happy birthday DiPel. Here’s to another 50 years!

Crop Protection

MOLLUSC MITIGATION – WHAT RISKS DO SNAILS AND SLUGS POSE? “If you have to clean snails out at harvest, you have not done your job properly at the start of the season.” Control of snails and slugs requires timely application of baits, based on understanding when and where the greatest threats exist. Snails and slugs are adapted to the variable Australian climate “lottery”, with numbers fluctuating between seasons. Recent GRDC research highlighted the interaction between climatic conditions and snail and slug numbers, with available moisture being the main factor. Good growing seasons equal larger snail and slug populations, hence greater risk to crops. Wet conditions continuing into 2021 across most of eastern and southern Australia have been ideal for snail and slug breeding. Following two dry seasons, small numbers of snails were observed in the autumn of 2020 across most vineyards, so bait was not applied. By spring, large numbers of snails were observed, with baiting required to protect new growth. Applications of an attractive product, Metarex Inov, resulted in excellent control. Italian snails from vineyards in the South East of South Australia on average were 5-7 mm larger than previous years, indicating 2020 was an excellent year for numbers to build up. Larger adults produce more eggs. Autumn applications of Metarex Inov, before eggs are laid, will provide the best reduction of snails. A recent trial on garden snails in citrus orchards indicated a doubling of

Slugs / tile refuge

efficacy when Metarex Inov was applied in March compared to winter. Similar results have been observed across broadacre crops. This season, in early March, a 100% kill was achieved on Italian round snails using Metarex Inov under ideal conditions: dewy mornings followed by dry, warm days with snails being active after mating. Last year also favoured the build-up of slug populations, with breeding continuing all year in some areas due to good soil moisture (>30% v/v). Monitoring from South West Victoria (Fig. 1) supports observations that there are massive populations of grey field slugs awaiting canola to emerge. Application of Metarex Inov at sowing, after rolling, will protect seed and seedlings. Follow-up monitoring is required to ensure bait remains, hence continuing to protect seedlings. Follow-up applications of Metarex Inov may be required this year, with the confidence that juvenile slugs will be controlled as was observed last spring in poppies. This is not the year to short-change the insurance policy for slug protection. Proactive baiting using an attractive, palatable, persistent product that delivers a lethal dose, integrated with cultural practices and conservation of natural enemies, will protect crops and eliminate contamination of produce.

SW Vic slug population dynamics 2019 - 2020 Grey Field

Black Keeled

6 4 2

01 -Ja n19 01 -M ar -1 9 01 -M ay -1 9 01 -Ju l-1 9 01 -S ep -1 9 01 -N ov -1 9 01 -Ja n20 01 -M ar -2 0 01 -M ay -2 0 01 -Ju l-2 0 01 -S ep -2 0 01 -N ov -2 0 01 -Ja n21 01 -M ar -2 1

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SLUGS & SNAILS LOVE IT TO DEATH

METAREX INOV All Weather Slug & Snail Bait developed from science & nature providing superior control based on unique technology for enhanced delivery

Maximum Attractiveness Enhanced Palatability Faster Efficient Kill Persistent Control

Innovation. Quality. Solutions. Inov and Colzactive are registered ® Metarex trademarks of De Sangosse SA. 201029

Improving productivity needn’t cost the earth. Quality nitrate fertilisers from Yara can optimise the yield and quality of crops without costing the earth. We’ve already reduced the carbon footprint of our nitrate fertiliser production by 40% by making our production plants and processes among the most energy-efficient in the world. Our ongoing development of ‘green’ ammonia technology and climate-smart agricultural practices means we’re on track to reduce emissions by another 30% within a decade and carbon neutral by 2050. Contact Yara and find out how our integrated crop nutrition programs can deliver better agronomic, business and environmental outcomes for your farming business.

1800 684 266

au.sales@yara.com

@yara_australia

yara.com.au

Fer tiliser

A GREEN FUTURE FOR NITRATE FERTILISERS Yara is banking on ‘green’ ammonia in its bid to slash its carbon footprint by 30% within a decade and became carbon neutral by 2050. Yara has adopted an industry-leading position on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices. Yara can help farmers reduce their carbon footprint by utilising environmentally friendly production methods for nitrate based fertilisers. Yara Crop Nutrition Commercial Director – Australia and New Zealand, Michael Waites, says nitrate fertilisers are the most efficient and reliable way of delivering nitrogen to a wide range of agricultural crops. “Compared to urea or ammonium, nitrate is more quickly absorbed by the plants roots, facilitating faster plant uptake. “Plants capture large amounts of carbon dioxide during growth,” Michael says. “Applying the correct fertiliser at the right amount and time helps to optimise biomass production and carbon dioxide uptake per hectare. “While this carbon dioxide fixation is only short-term because most of this biomass is consumed as food or feed, increasing the efficiency of agricultural production can free up more land for bioenergy production without impacting food security. “Replacing fossil fuels with bioenergy have the potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 80 percent. “Increasing the productivity of existing agricultural land helps to reduce pressure for further land-use change, which contributes about 12 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.” Yara is one of the world’s leading producers of nitrate fertilisers, including the widely-used YaraMila range of compound NPK fertilisers. A recent innovation is the YaraRega range of water-soluble NPK fertilisers that are suitable for delivery via simple irrigation systems or broadcasting before irrigation or rainfall. Michael says Yara is committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050. “We’ve already reduced the carbon footprint of our nitrate fertiliser production by 40 percent by making our

production plants and processes among the most energyefficient in the world, “Our ammonia plants are energy-efficient and continuously improving, leading to lower natural gas consumption and less carbon dioxide emissions. Our nitric acid plants are among the best for greenhouse gas emissions thanks to the development and adoption of catalyst technology,” he says. “This technology significantly reduces emissions of nitrous oxide – a potent greenhouse gas – associated with the production of nitric acid. “Yara has shared this technology, which is considered best practice by the EU, with the rest of the industry, which has helped to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of nitrate and urea production in Europe compared to other countries.1,2 “Yara’s ongoing development of ‘green’ ammonia technology and climate-smart agricultural practices means we’re on track to reduce emissions by another 30 percent within a decade.” ‘Green’ ammonia technology uses renewable hydrogen sources instead of fossil fuels to produce ammonia. Yara is constructing one of the world’s first industrial-scale renewable hydrogen plants in the Pilbara region of Western Australia in partnership with ENGIE, a global low-carbon energy and services group. Other local initiatives include partnership with the Farm Waste Recovery and drumMUSTER packaging recycling programs, and implementing fully-recyclable polyethylene bottles for its YaraVita micronutrient foliar fertilisers. Yara is committed to the development and adoption of integrated crop nutrition solutions, innovative decisionmaking tools and climate-smart agricultural practices that maximise the efficiency of fertiliser application. References: 1. Brentrup, F., et al. (2018). Updated carbon footprint values for mineral fertilizer from different world regions. 11th International Conference on Life Cycle Assessment of Food 2018 (LCA Food) 17-19 October 2018, Bangkok, Thailand. 2. Hoxha, A. & Christensen, B. (2018). The carbon footprint of fertiliser production: Regional reference values. Proceedings 805. International Fertiliser Society Conference 8 May 2018, Prague, Czech Republic.

Fertiliser

TACKLING ENVIRONMENTAL STRESS FOR YOUR BEST POLLINATION AND YIELD Stoller’s SETT Enhanced contains high levels of calcium and boron. SETT Enhanced optimises pollination and fruit retention for horticulture crops by strengthening flowers. The calcium and boron assist with pollen tube formation, fruit quality and can lead to higher yields, especially during cold night conditions. Tackling Environmental Stress for Your Best Pollination and Yield Once a seed is planted, environmental factors can start to reduce its full potential by up to 70%. These environmental stresses can include nutritional deficiencies, water stress, high or low temperatures, pests, weeds, and diseases. Crops can be impacted at various stages of growth with some crops experiencing the greatest loss early due to seedling death. Some will be affected later with flower bud failure, and others will be closer to harvest with grain abortion, fruit drop, or fruit damage. This reduction in yield impacts the grower’s bottom line and causes financial losses. Pollination is a vital part of the crop cycle. To pollinate, plants start their productive stage by creating reproductive buds, then flowers. For flowers to be pollinated, they need to stay strong long enough for this process to occur. If the crop is too weak then flower buds can abort. If the weak bud does produce a flower, these flowers can fall prematurely, and either never pollinate or only create small fruit which can fall quickly due to poor setting. These issues all lead to reduced yields. A strong, healthy flower will stay viable for longer, increasing chances of pollination. Strengthening flowers can decrease chances of bud abortion and weak flowers, and increase chances of pollination, therefore increasing quality and overall yield. So how do you get healthy flowers? Flower strength mostly depends on the health of the crop. It can be affected by a variety of factors, including the environmental stresses mentioned earlier. One of the best ways to improve flowering and give your crop the best chance at pollination is to increase the nutritional status of your crop. Adequate levels of calcium, boron, and zinc can improve overall nutrition and are essential for flower strength. These elements support the crops to mitigate adverse environmental factors. These nutrients can help with pollination, fruit set, retention, and uniformity however an agronomist can help to determine your specific tree crops’ needs. Stoller has a range of pollination and stress solutions for many crop types, including horticulture and broadacre. Stoller’s SETT Enhanced contains high levels of calcium

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and boron. SETT Enhanced optimises pollination and fruit retention for horticulture crops by strengthening flowers. The calcium and boron assist with pollen tube formation, fruit quality and can lead to higher yields, especially during cold night conditions. Summary of Sett-Enhanced Trial Results on Wine Grapes: - Applications two weeks prior to the beginning of flowering saw 17% higher yield at harvest. - Increase in number of bunches per vine. - Enhanced flowering and berry set. Once the flower has been pollinated, it is vital for fruit and nuts to then reach optimum fruit sizing. Bio-HOLD is formulated to aid in management of abiotic stress throughout flowering and early fruit sizing. Abiotic stress over this period can result in weak flowering and poor fruit set. Applied as a foliar spray over flowering and fruit sizing, Bio-HOLD can help to promote strong flowering and pollination in the face of adverse conditions. Bio-HOLD will provide plant nutrition to promote strong flowering, sizing and production. Summary of Bio-HOLD Trial Results on Almonds: - Early applications at 5% flower and then 80 -100% flower is effective at increasing nut numbers. - Later application at 80 -100% flower and shuckfall can increase nut weight. - Nutrients in Bio-HOLD support the crop during poor weather conditions (rainfall and low temperatures). For broadacre crops, Stoller’s Action 10 can help to improve plant health by boosting crops during stressful periods. Action 10, used as part of a good nutritional program, provides an extra boost for building roots, thereby helping the plant overcome stress. Action 10 contains highly available calcium which builds strong cells and promotes healthy growth. Summary of Action 10 Trial Results on Legumes: - Applications at first flower until 20% flowering saw an estimated yield increase of 8% per hectare. - Reduced seed defects by 17%. - Return of investment of $6 to every $1 spent. For more information on Stoller’s nutrient solutions to improve pollination and yield, please contact us at info@ stoller.com.au or FREECALL 1800 337 845.

stoller.com.au

Stoller is a global company celebrating 50 years throughout the world and 25 years in Australia. Our products are based on an in depth knowledge of Plant Physiology and nutrient interaction for a variety of broadacre, horticulture, tree and vine crops. Our Australian team undertake trials and demonstrations throughout the country to deeply understand the way our products impact plant potential in a variety of conditions. Stoller employ skilled representatives that work nationwide with growers, agronomists and distributors. Our products are made in Australia and manufactured throughout the country.

Product Focus n Aids root growth n Improves pollination n Builds strong cells and promotes healthy growth

n Creates plants that are less susceptible to pests, disease and physical failure

Refer to our website for Action 10 & Stoller Solutions.

Stoller will help your crops reach their full potential. Ask us how today. Contact Stoller on FREECALL 1800 337 845 or info@stoller.com.au

Crop Protection

PRICES COTTON ONTO FUTURE SUPPLY AND DEMAND EQUATION At a glance

• World cotton production is forecast to increase by 5.7 per cent (pc) in 2021-22. • A ustralian cotton production tipped to increase by 57pc to 4.4 million bales, the largest crop since 2017-18. • C otton prices have trended higher in recent months driven by the likelihood of a smaller crop in the United States (US) and Brazil, suggesting ending stocks will reach a three year low in 2021-22.

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The conditions in Australia

The upside downside

Spring is almost here, and the outlook is already positive for cotton producers. Elders agronomist Millie Bach, based in Dalby shared her thoughts ahead of sowing in Australia’s key growing regions.

On paper, increases in world production, higher carryover stocks and a reduction in imports in 2021-22 would suggest downward pressure on prices. However, cotton markets have taken an appropriate longer-term view. Fast forward to 2022-23 and the forecast of lower ending stocks and strengthening demand would suggest cotton will be sought after and have the potential to attract a higher price.

“Planting will kick off around mid-October, dependent on temperature and rainfall in Queensland and New South Wales. A large crop is anticipated in both regions, driven primarily by a higher level of water availability and promising prices of greater than $600/bale. Catchments have been replenished by average to above average rainfall in 2021 for key growing regions around Dalby and Western areas through to St George and Surat. “As we move into the growing season, farmers will be monitoring soil temperatures making sure it’s warm enough to safely plant and there’s adequate topsoil moisture in dryland blocks, hopefully resulting in an even germination across paddocks. “Mice have been a big issue over the last 12 months and grasshoppers were also a problem last year in young crops, damaging young seedlings. Fingers crossed we can get an early planting this year across the board of irrigated and dryland production areas with limited pest pressure to give us the best chance of achieving above average yields.”

However, the potential elephant in the room is oil prices. Softening oil prices make synthetic materials cheaper to produce, reducing the competitiveness of cotton. Although oil prices rallied from June to mid-way through July, they have since declined and so have futures prices. For the reasons outlined above, oil prices in the past month haven’t impacted cotton but competition from synthetic materials does present a downside risk to cotton prices should the trend continue. From an Australian perspective the forecast of greater production in a market where prices are trending higher bodes well for the season ahead.

The carryover impacts The increase in world supply has the potential to put pressure on prices, however since July prices have trended higher on the back of increased consumption rates in processing countries and the forecast of a smaller crop in the United States (US) and Brazil, leading to an increased likelihood of ending stocks reaching a three year low in 2021-22. Overall, world ending stocks for cotton are forecast to reach a three-year low of 87.2 million bales, a decrease of 5 per cent. Domestic consumption rates in key processing countries such as China and India are forecast to increase in 202122, however, imports to China are forecast to ease. The world’s largest processor, China, is tipped to consume one million more bales in 2021-22, however, most of the increase in consumption will come from existing inventory. China’s ending stocks increased by 5.3 pc in 2020-21, partly a function of higher carry-over from a decrease in consumption in 2019-20 and an increase in imports in 2020-21.

World cotton prices have trended 12.7pc higher since the beginning of the financial year. Source: NYME.

ZOETIS AND BEYOND BLUE SHINE THE SPOTLIGHT ON WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH AS THEY CONTINUE TO SUPPORT AUSTRALIANS LIVING IN RURAL COMMUNITIES With one third of Australian women living in rural and regional areas, women play a crucial role in the growth and future of regional economies and communities. Unfortunately, women experience some mental health conditions at higher rates than men. Women are often juggling the demands of trying to be a perfect worker, parent, partner and friend, which can be nothing short of exhausting. And when women feel they have fallen short of these standards, they can be quick to self-criticise. Now in its sixth year, leading Animal Health company Zoetis will continue to support the mental health challenges faced by people living in rural Australia through its crucial partnership with Beyond Blue, committing to raise up to $100,000 for the Beyond Blue Support Service in 2021. Zoetis, who works closely with rural Australia through interactions with the country’s farming community, agricultural stores, veterinarians and their families, has helped raise $500,000 in the past five years by donating $5 from each sale of the company’s livestock, pig and poultry vaccines and drenches. The money raised goes directly to the Beyond Blue Support Service to continue helping people living in remote areas who experience higher rates of mental health conditions and suicide. To date, thanks to Zoetis’s donation, over 8,000 people have been able to get the support they need through the service. “Zoetis is proud to once again be supporting Beyond Blue and the important work they do,” says Lance Williams, Zoetis Senior Vice President and Cluster Lead, Australia and New Zealand. “We knew that supporting mental health in rural Australia was critical when we first embarked on this support campaign, but we didn’t know then just how important the partnership would be. Together we have made strong progress in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of rural families and individuals, and we are passionate about helping again this year.” In addition to everyday demands, major life transitions such as pregnancy, motherhood and menopause can create physical and emotional stresses for women. Negative life experiences such as infertility and perinatal loss, poverty, discrimination, violence, unemployment and isolation also impact on women’s mental health and wellbeing. In addition, 42

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unequal economic and social conditions can contribute to women’s higher risk of depression. Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman said the Beyond Blue Support Service continued to experience increased demand since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. “This year has brought its challenges and people have got in touch with us for many reasons. They might be feeling worried, lonely, concerned about their health or the health of friends and loved ones, finances or job security,” Ms Harman said. “Whatever the reason, Beyond Blue wants people to know that no problem is too big or small to reach out. Sometimes, just talking to someone can make a difference. “Through this partnership, Beyond Blue can support many people in rural areas and we are very grateful for the ongoing support from Zoetis.” The Beyond Blue Support Service offers free and immediate counselling, advice and referrals via phone, webchat or email. In addition to the support service, Beyond Blue has resources and information online at www.beyondblue.org.au, including Online Forums which offer peer support in a safe, moderated setting. People can support the Zoetis initiative from July 15 to October 31, 2021. For every animal health product sold by Zoetis, they will donate $5, up to $100,000, to Beyond Blue. For more information on how you can help Zoetis to raise vital funds to support mental health in our rural communities through its partnership with Beyond Blue please visit www. zoetis.com.au For more information about depression and anxiety, visit www.beyondblue.org.au. To talk to a mental health professional for free, contact the 24/7 Beyond Blue Support Service on 1300 22 46 36. Free web chat is also available from 3pm until midnight at beyondblue.org.au/getsupport and you can join the forums for free and download the BeyondNow app from the website. The free Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service is available 24/7 at coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au Its dedicated phone line, staffed by mental health professionals trained on the pandemic response, is available on 1800 512 348.

HELP US RAISE

$100,000 TO SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH IN RURAL AUSTRALIA Zoetis has donated $500,000 to Beyond Blue over the last 5 years. Help us raise another $100,000. For every Zoetis cattle, sheep, pig, poultry or goat vaccine or parasiticide sold by Zoetis between 15 July and 31 October 2021, Zoetis will donate $5, up to $100,000 to Beyond Blue.

"$100,000 will assist 2,083 people in Australia"*

Georgie Harman - CEO Beyond Blue *Assistance through the Beyond Blue Support Service

Information in your hands

ZOETIS.COM.AU/LS

COMBINATION POWER POUR-ON CONVENIENCE For the treatment and control of roundworms, including macrocyclic lactone or levamisole resistant strains, and external parasites in cattle.

The combined power of abamectin and levamisole in a pour-on formulation provide control over parasites resistant to mectins or BZs, as well as slowing the onset of parasite resistance on the property. Sureshot Duo Combination is a convenient low dose 1ml/20kg pour-on formulation that not only controls internal parasites, will also control ecto parasites such as lice, buffalo fly and cattle tick.

AVAILABLE SIZES 1L, 2.5L, 5L For more information, visit hunterriverco.com.au

TALK TO YOUR LOCAL ELDERS TEAM ABOUT SURESHOT DUO COMBINATION!

Animal Health

PREVENTING LEPTOSPIROSIS: PROTECTING YOUR CATTLE & YOUR FAMILY With an increased vigilance around zoonotic diseases (diseases which transfer directly from animals to humans), it’s worth reviewing the key reasons cattle producers are utilising Ultravac® 7in1 to protect the workforce on their farm. In the human version of the disease, leptospirosis (also known as “lepto”) causes flu-like symptoms with a high proportion of people requiring hospitalisation. My father, David Petersen, caught the disease while calving a cow on a dairy farm near Finley NSW. He spent several days in hospital, with a severe fever and headache. With the aid of a good doctor, who recognised the signs early and initiated antibiotics, he recovered quickly. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of leptospirosis is not always achieved quickly, and treatment can be delayed. This can be a reason that people report chronic flu like symptoms for some time after infection. The disease is contracted both in humans and cattle through direct contact with infected urine, placental material or contaminated water. The bacteria enters the body through mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth or damaged skin. Human infections can occur: • While assisting during calving without proper protection • F rom urine splashing from infected cows during milking or calving • Indirectly via contaminated water, food or soil • By handling an aborted foetus or afterbirth • Through contact with floodwaters Leptospirosis affects beef and dairy cattle. The bacteria can live in the environment for months in moist conditions before infecting an animal. It can also survive for a long time in stagnant water and can spread over large areas in floodwaters. Once infected, cattle can subsequently shed Lepto in their urine. In the case of L. hardjo, cattle can shed lepto for periods greater than 12 months after their initial infection. The consequences of infection in cattle are infertility, abortion and weak calves. Lepto can cause a form

of mastitis where cows show a sudden drop in milk production and high cell count, with any milk produced potentially going a yellow colour. This can happen in an individual cow or group of cows, often in the absence of other clinical signs. Cattle are a host to two common species of Leptospira, Leptospira borgpetesenii serovar Hardjo type Hardjobovis, referred to as Lepto hardjo for short, and Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona, which is generally shortened to Lepto pomona. Most readers would commonly skip straight over the scientific name and not realise that different vaccines contain different species of Lepto hardjo, which cause different responses to the vaccine in cows. Ultravac® 7in1 contains the above two strains of Lepto hardjo and pomona which have been sourced locally and is manufactured in Australia. The Australian Lepto hardjo strain used in Ultravac® 7in1 elicits a strong cell mediated immune response which is necessary to prevent infection of the kidneys of cows and subsequent urinary shedding. When used prior to natural exposure, Ultravac®7in1 prevents urinary shedding of Leptospira, breaking the cycle of infection in cow herds and stopping the spread of new infections. Ultravac®7in1 can be given to calves from as early as 4 weeks of age and the vaccine works in the presence of maternal antibodies. Other vaccines only work to minimise shedding and can only be given to older calves after maternal antibodies have worn off, providing an opportunity for infection to occur. Given only a tiny number of bacteria are required to cause infection and disease in both cattle and humans, Ultravac®7in1’s unique mode of action is the only way to stop new infections occurring and clear the disease out of the herd. By preventing urinary shedding of Lepto, you will also be providing a safe workplace for staff.

Animal Health

SPRING SHEARING – IT IS TIME TO TALK LOUSICIDE ROTATION ELANCO is encouraging animal health advisors to have the conversation about the need to adopt effective rotation programs to maintain the efficacy of all available sheep lousicides. The currently available pour-on lousicide products belong to four chemical classes with different modes of action: neonicotinoids (e.g. imidacloprid, thiacloprid), spinosyns (e.g. spinosad), macrocyclic lactones (MLs) (e.g. abamectin) and organophosphates (e.g. temephos, diazinon). Elanco Australasia Senior Brand Manager, Dr Kathryn Humphries, says resistance can develop to any chemical if it is used continuously. “Australian sheep and wool producers have relied upon neonicotinoids and spinosad for the last decade as their ‘go-to’ pour-on lousicides,” Dr Humphries says. “While there is no known resistance of lice to either of these modes of action, it’s important that we keep it that way. “Now is the time to establish a rotation regime with products of different classes to protect these molecules from the development of potential resistance. “The lousicide rotation wheel provided is an easy visual representation to help guide conversations on product selection,” advises Dr Humphries. “The first question to ask is what product did you use to treat lice last time? As the aim is not to apply lice treatments with the same mode of action consecutively, this will help with the decision on the most appropriate product class to select.” Another question is to ask in spring is about the choice of chemicals to be used for blowfly strike prevention. It is important not to apply products with the same mode of action to control lice and blowflies in the same season as there is a risk lice will receive sublethal doses of chemical when it is applied for fly control. “An important consideration if selecting products containing abamectin is that these products treats both

eldersrural.com.au

lice and worms. Even though the product is applied as a pour on backline to kill lice, it is also absorbed into the bloodstream and kills susceptible roundworms. Precautions need to be taken to minimise the development of drench resistance.” As with all products, correct application is important to ensure optimal outcomes. “Remind producers to always read and follow the label directions. Encourage your producers to visit Liceboss.com.au for industry recommendations on effective lice management.” suggests Dr Humphries. “Product stewardship is everyone’s responsibility and spring is the perfect time to be initiating these conversations.” For more information or to talk to one of the Elanco technical or sales teams for advice on lice solutions for the upcoming 2021 spring shearing season, please contact Elanco on 1800 226 324 or ANZCustomerAdviceLine@elancoah.com ®Registered trademarks. Elanco, Extinosad™ and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. ©2021 Elanco or its affiliates. PM-AU-21-0551

DEAD FAST SO YOU CAN BE DEAD SURE

Extinosad™ Pour-On provides rapid knockdown control of lice1 with minimal impact on management or marketing options: • Apply up to 7 days off-shears, to suckling lambs (unshorn) or to sheep with long wool (>6 months)2 • No wool WHP and 21 day ESI (off-shears and unshorn lambs)2 • Unique mode of action3 with no known resistance • User-friendly, water-based formulation • Ideal rotation partner 4 Call 1800 226 324 or visit elanco.com.au and find out why it’s time to rotate to Extinosad Pour-On.

Always read and follow the label directions. Good agricultural practice is essential for optimal lice control. *Visit extinosad.com.au or contact your rural store for terms and conditions. References: 1. Levot, G. (2008). Aust. J of Ent. 47:251-255. 2. Refer to registered label. 3. Cisneros, J. et al. (2002). Toxic effects of spinosad on predatory insects. Biological Control. 23:156-163. 4. James, P. (2013). Preventing resistance in sheep lice, www.liceboss.com.au (AWI, Sheep CRC). Extinosad™ Pour-On contains 20 g/L spinosad. Extinosad™, Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. ©2020 Elanco or its affiliates. PM-AU-20-0447. EAH20551.

Animal Health

TARGET SHEEP REPRO: A GROUNDBREAKING SHEEP REPRODUCTION PROGRAM With favourable seasonal conditions, sheep producers across Australia are busy rebuilding their flocks. The MLA predicts that by June 2021, the national flock size will increase to 67.3 million.1 With such a focus, the importance of ewe fertility and fecundity and lamb survival is more crucial than ever. For the first time, Virbac is proud to introduce the Target Sheep Repro Program, a unique animal health program that has been demonstrated to improve ewe fertility and fecundity and lamb survival through a dual mode of action.

Dr Graham Lean, Principal Consultant at Agrivet Business has investigated the financial impact Multimin and Ovastim can have on a sheep enterprise. “It was no surprise that the use of Ovastim was likely to be massively profitable. Using Ovastim in a typical prime lamb flock may result in a profit of about $18/ewe in today’s market. Meanwhile, using a Multimin program can result in a staggering $43/ewe extra profit!”

The Target Sheep Repro Program consists of two products unique to animal health:

“Make hay while the sun shines,” says Dr George Cox, sheep veterinarian at Virbac. “Producers that manage multiple bearing ewes well can achieve optimal reproductive performance with their current ewes by using the two products.”

1. Ovastim - a reproductive vaccine that results in ewes releasing more eggs. Ovastim has been shown to increase lambing rates by an average of 23%.2 2. Multimin for Sheep - a trace mineral injection that supports embryo survival and lamb health. Multimin treatment has been shown to result in an average of 9% more lambs marked that were 2.3 kg heavier at weaning.3 When paired together, as part of a comprehensive animal health program, both products work together to help producers see: • More lambs per ewe joined • More multiples and fewer singles

“These two products are a fantastic combination because they complement each other really well. While Ovastim increases the number of eggs per ovulation cycle increasing the chance of twins, Multimin improves the antioxidant status and the immune system helping to protect those embryos, ensuring they make it to term and result in the birth of healthy lambs” stated Dr Paula Gonzalez-Rivas, nutritionist and veterinarian at Virbac. For more information about the Target Sheep Repro Program, please head to https://au.virbac.com/ targetrepro

• Healthier lambs and improved welfare • Healthier lambs at sale The Target Sheep Repro Program will be suitable for progressive sheep producers who scan their ewes and look for products that can dramatically increase the number of lambs per ewe.

A REWARDING CAREER SERVING FARMING COMMUNITIES

A commitment to serving farmer clients and harnessing opportunities in good times and bad are the hallmarks of Karel Walker’s 16-year career with Elders. From her first job in merchandise sales at Lake Grace to managing Elders branches at Albany and Mount Barker in southern Western Australia today, Karel has always been impressed by Elders’ commitment to servicing farmers and graziers and the rural communities where they operate. “Through the ups and downs, Elders has always recognised that we provide a vital supply chain link to farmers who rely on us to get the job done,” she said. “The people we service are our highest priority.” Karel has never forgotten how tough it was when she took on her first merchandise sales job at Elders in Lake Grace back in 2005. “Back then, local farmers grew cereals and ran sheep, but seasonal conditions were tough, grain and wool prices were low, and livestock weren’t bringing in the prices they are today,” she said. “However, I was a young mother from a farming background with experience in banking, so I saw Elders as a good career opportunity and quickly learned how important the company was to the local community. “Eighteen months later, I took on the very challenging role of branch manager, adding the livestock agency, insurance, real estate, banking in those days to the merchandise functions and a much bigger area to look after. “I was also responsible for eight staff at Lake Grace and two more employees at a satellite branch at Newdegate. “And despite all the change at Elders in those days, the training was excellent and I had a lot of opportunities to develop my career.” In 2012, Karel took up a new challenge as merchandise manager at Mount Barker, at the request of Matt Ericsson, Elders area manager for WA’s south-west. The business there is a joint venture between Elders and the Mount Barker Cooperative, one of Australia’s oldest cooperatives at more than a century old. It is a dedicated merchandise operation supplying agricultural chemicals, animal health products, cropping and pasture seeds, fertilisers, as well as shearing gear and plants, field bins and silos. “Mount Barker is a diverse region supporting cattle, sheep and cropping; and as farmers have expanded their operations, so too has our team and our services,” Karel said. The Elders team there now includes an agronomist and a salesperson on the road, to provide advice and arrange

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supplies for farmer clients. Once again, Karel’s role grew in June 2020 to take on the management of both the Mount Barker and Albany branches, including 12 staff. It’s meant spending time in both locations and looking at ways to do things better for farmers. “A lot of our growth comes from employing people who are very good at what they do and are willing to go the extra mile to assist our clients,” Karel said. “The COVID-19 era has seen our people go above and beyond to ensure our farmers have the merchandise needed to keep their operations running, anywhere from Cranbrook to the north to Albany, 100 kilometres south. “We are also servicing farmers in more remote areas like Bremer Bay, 180 kilometres north-east of Albany, through an agency at Boxwood Hill. “By stocking this depot and offering on-farm deliveries, farmers are saving valuable time because they don’t need to drive 140 kilometres coming into town when they are busy seeding or spraying.” Beyond its service to farmer clients, Elders is continuing to support local communities. It is a major sponsor of the Boxwood Hill Football Club and Elders people regularly take part in information days for students at the WA College of Agriculture, Denmark. The company is also a major sponsor of Stirlings to Coast Farmers, a farmer-led research and extension group helping South Coast farmers to adapt research findings to local conditions and run more productive and more profitable farm businesses. “Whether it’s helping out with trials and agronomy support or guiding the career choices of the next generation, we are actively involved in our community,” Karel said. Karel has no doubt that Elders has been the right choice for her career. “No matter how tough it is, our clients are always our first priority,” she said. “People like me who are the face of Elders in the country are highly valued by our leadership team and there are plenty of opportunities for training and development and meeting new people. “Elders is an innovative company that is growing and there’s no better company to work for in agriculture.”

FUND UP TO 100% OF THE PURCHASE PRICE OF TRADING STOCK.

StockCo allows you to fully fund your livestock purchases for restocking, trading stock, back grounding and feedlotting.

PRODUCT FEATURES • 100% funding for livestock trading • Deferred funding costs – pay when stock is sold • Take advantage of seasonal conditions • Flexible funding terms - up to 12 months • Fast and simple application process For more information contact your local Elders branch or stock agent or call Elders Agrifinance on 1300 618 367

Viper® is the only pour-on lousicide for sheep that contains thiacloprid, next-generation chemistry that is up to six times more potent against sheep lice than imidacloprid.1,2,3 Viper provides 100% rapid knockdown 2 of sheep lice and protects against re-infestation for four weeks when applied within 24 hours of shearing. Call 1800 678 368 or visit growsolutions.com.au and find out why it’s time to upgrade to Viper. Always read and follow the label directions. Good agricultural practice is essential for optimal lice control. References: 1. BAH Laboratory Study 6106008 2006. 2. BAH Laboratory Study 6108010 2008. 3. BAH Laboratory Study 6105020 2005. Viper contains 10 g/L thiacloprid. ®Registered trademark. Elanco and the diagonal bar are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. ©2021 Elanco or its affiliates. PM-AU-21-0442. EAH21367

Animal Health

DELAYING TICK CONTROL CAN BE COSTLY The cattle tick (Rhipicephalus (formerly Boophilus) microplus) is regarded as the most economically important parasite to the Australian cattle industry1. Heavy cattle tick infestations can cause significant welfare concerns and production losses arising from blood loss, tick worry, hide damage, weight loss and reduced milk production. Cattle ticks are also the vectors of pathogens causing tick fever, illness and even death. Research has shown that just one tick can reduce weight gain by approximately 1 g/ head/ day or milk production by 8.9mL / head/ day2. With an average tick burden of 50 ticks, this equates to 9.12 kg/ head in lost weight gain or 81 litres of lost milk production over a 6 month period. The high cost of this blood sucking parasite means that tick control should be well-considered by northern Australian producers, where cattle ticks are present. “It pays to ensure you are implementing the most effective tick control program at the start of the season” says Elanco’s technical services representative Craig Stevenson. “An early season control program can help to reduce the build-up of tick populations on pastures and cattle before the annual peak. This in turn reduces their total population within the season.” Craig recommends commencing your control program when ticks are first identified at the start of the season. Products registered for the control of cattle tick may be administered either as cattle dips and sprays, pour-ons or injectable products. Acatak™ Duostar is the ideal strategic tick control to prevent the spring rise in cattle ticks. “Acatak Duostar is a dual-active tickicide that combines the fast-acting knockdown of ivermectin, with the proven long-term protection of fluazuron. Fluazuron is an insect growth regulator (IGR) that breaks the life cycle of cattle ticks. Immature ticks that ingest fluazuron are unable to moult to the next stage and die, whereas adult ticks that ingest fluazuron lay eggs that don’t hatch. This leads to lower pasture contamination as the number of female adults completing their lifecycle and laying eggs will diminish”, explains Craig. In addition to tick control, Acatak Duostar provides the convenience of controlling roundworms, buffalo flies, lice and mites in a single pour-on dose. Acatak Duostar

should be applied in two bands either side of the spine from the shoulder to the rump about 7cm apart. “Acatak Duostar is best applied using a 30mL Acatak Duostar manual applicator or a Genesis Power Doser™ fitted with a fan spray nozzle (55 psi operating pressure) and dosed to the heaviest animal in the mob.” “Once applied, the product is not only absorbed through the hide but also absorbed orally when animals groom. Calves that suckle from treated cows will receive fluazuron through the milk, providing the calf with excellent tick control as well” says Craig. It is recommended not to re-treat for at least six weeks after the previous treatment and apply no more than three treatments per tick season. Resistance to chemical treatments is well recognised for cattle tick. Acatak Duostar has two active ingredients to control ticks, each with a different mode of action. For the time that both actives are above the minimum effective concentration for tick control, ivermectin reduces the chemical resistance selection pressure on fluazuron and vice versa. Where repeat treatment is required within the same season, Acatak Duostar provides some level of rotation between the chemicals that the parasite population is exposed to. For this reason, combination products such as Acatak Duostar should be used in preference to the single actives where possible to help mitigate the risk of resistance developing. “If you are unsure of your tick resistance status or suspect poor efficacy following chemical treatment, it is important to contact either your local Biosecurity Officer or the chemical manufacturer directly and they can assist with organising for cattle ticks to be tested for their resistance status.” For further information, contact Elanco Animal Health on 1800 226 324.

Animal Health

COMBINATION VS ROTATION: THE BIG QUESTION IN LICE MANAGEMENT Fennec lice treatment combines the power of two actives for outstanding efficacy, and five weeks’ protection from reinfestation. While combination drenches for worm control are widely accepted by sheep producers, there has not been a dual action product for lice control – until now. Fennec, Australia’s first combination lice treatment, also offers 5-weeks protection from reinfestation*. Fennec’s dual active ingredients – imidacloprid and abamectin, have given producers a new weapon in the war against lice, which costs the industry $120 million a year. Dr Yan Laurenson, senior research fellow with the School of Environmental and Rural Science at the University of New England, said using a double active was “the responsible thing to do”. Dr Laurenson, whose research areas include parasite drug resistance, said the chances of lice developing resistance to two actives given at the same time was “very, very small”. “This is a step beyond using a traditional rotation, which may inadvertently allow resistance to build,” Dr Laurenson said. “With lice, the goal is complete eradication. Any lice that may be resistant to the first active will be killed by the second active.” Boehringer Ingelheim’s cattle and sheep technical manager, Dr Gareth Kelly, said the efficacy of Fennec’s dual action would resonate with sheep producers looking for a simple and easy to use treatment to eradicate lice and prevent wool cut losses. “The combination offers sheep producers a solution to safeguard their flock from lice and most importantly preserve the efficacy of current actives for much longer,” Dr Kelly said.

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“History has shown that sheep lice are highly capable of developing resistance to single active lousicides. The use of a dual action product can decrease the chance of resistance building up.” “Imidacloprid and abamectin both cause paralysis of the lice but studies have shown that the actives act in different ways, so, Fennec offers a two-pronged attack against lice. “In addition, the actives do not have a common resistance pathway. This is important, as it is less likely that lice will develop resistance to either actives when used together than to one of them alone, which in turn can slow the onset of resistance on a farm.” Dr Kelly said effective lice control was not just an economic consideration for the producer, but also a big issue for the industry. If left unchecked, sheep lice infestations can cause reductions in wool cut of up to 1 kilogram per head. They downgrade wool quality by reducing yield and increasing the amount of wool placed in inferior lines because of un-scourable colour and cotting. Fennec is quick acting and long lasting. Sheep are protected from reinfestation for five weeks after application, when applied within 24 hours of shearing. “While the science behind Fennec is more complex, it is just as simple and easy to use as traditional pour-ons, but its dual active ingredients pack a much bigger punch,” Dr Kelly said. To find out more about Fennec Pour-On, head to www.fennecpouron.com.au or visit your local Elders branch.

OUTFOX LICE FOR * LONGER IN SHEEP WITH FENNEC POUR-ON ®

The power of 2 actives offering: 4 Outstanding efficacy 4 Class leading 5-weeks protection from re-infestation 4 The best way to fight lice resistance

PURCHASE 16 DRUMS OF FENNEC POUR-ON FOR SHEEP AND RECEIVE A GENESIS POWER DOSER™ VALUED AT $680^ Visit www.ahredeem.com.au to redeem your Power Doser™ Ask in store for more information. Promotional period 1 January to 30 December 2021, while stocks last. T&C’s apply.

*Compared to other knockdown lice control products when applied within 24 hours after shearing. See product label for full claim details and directions for use. ^Claim Power Doser™ by redemption through www.ahredeem.com.au, T&C’s apply. Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Australia Pty. Ltd. Level 1, 78 Waterloo Road, North Ryde NSW 2113 Australia. ABN 53 071 187 285. GENESIS POWER DOSER is a trade mark of Genesis Industries Pty Ltd. ®FENNEC is a registered trademark of the Boehringer Ingelheim Group. AU-OVI-0006-2021.

Sow Pallaton this spring and increase your liveweight production per hectare. THE SUCCESS OF SCIENCE Pallaton combines five important traits to perform within increasingly challenging environments.

HIGH FORAGE YIELDS

PLANT PERSISTENCE

FROM MULTIPLE GRAZINGS (3 TO 5)

UNDER MULTIPLE GRAZINGS

WATER USE EFFICIENCY

APHID TOLERANCE

Pallaton is available under agency agreement only. For more information on Pallaton, contact your local PGG Wrightson Seeds Sales Agronomist on 1800 619 910 or visit us at pggwrightsonseeds.com.au

GRAZING FLEXIBILITY

Seed

INCREASE YOUR LIVEWEIGHT PRODUCTION PER HECTARE WITH PALLATON RAPHNO ® Pallaton provides feed when farmers need it most by bridging the summer/autumn feed gap for beef, sheep, and dairy. Pallaton is a raphanobrassica, a hybrid between Brassica oleracea (kale) and Raphanus sativus (radish). It is high yielding, offering flexible grazing as early as 56 days after sowing, but can also be deferred up to 100 days after sowing. It is persistent under multiple grazings and has shown high palatability to stock. With excellent water use efficiency and aphid tolerance, Pallaton is perfect for many farming operations. Local Tasmanian farmer Will Bignell exclaims, “We did a test plot in 2019 and were so impressed with Pallaton, and how the sheep performed on it, that we sowed half our lamb forage down to it. Impressive water use efficiency!” While the initial seed cost may be seen as relatively high, if managed effectively, Pallaton provides farmers with a very high return on investment due to multiple grazing opportunities, high dry matter yields, and high weight gains in beef and sheep. Alick Beggs and his sons run a merino sheep in Reedy Creek SA and have reported “After the first grazing, we had about $600 a hectare clear profit. And we still have another 3 or 4 grazing’s to go. The lambs love it and are achieving weight gains of up to 300 grams a day.”

In comparison to other forage brassicas, Pallaton needs to be grazed more regularly. When grazing with lambs, we like to see farmers start to graze at 56DAS, getting through the crop within 30 days. As a result of Pallaton’s growth under foot, you need to rethink how you calculate yield and stocking rates. If you measure the yield at 3tDM/ha at day 56, expect the yield to be a lot higher (45tDM/ha) by the time you finish the first grazing. Stocking higher than the initial yield at day 56 is essential as it’s a crucial step in helping to utilise the dry matter on offer.” Sowing Pallaton Raphno is an opportunity for farmers to increase their return on investment and dry matter production. Achieve 3 to 5 grazings and increase liveweight production per hectare, providing attention is giving during establishment, and appropriate grazing management is applied. For more information on Pallaton and if it is suitable for you, contact your local PGG Wrightson Seeds Sales Agronomist on 1800 619 910 or visit us at pggwrightsonseeds.com.au

So, is Pallaton right for you? PGG Wrightson Seeds Product Development Manager Isaac Berry says “Pallaton is a highly adaptable plant but requires attention to detail, most importantly fertiliser and grazing management. Pallaton isn’t just a forage rape where you expect 1-2 grazings; this plant has incredible regrowth characteristics, produces more dry matter when grazed regularly and responds quickly to rainfall due to its taproot. On average farmers will see between 3-5 grazings from Pallaton.

Seed

S&W: SPRING SOWING FORAGE BRASSICAS A growing number of producers are taking advantage of forage brassicas to fill seasonal feed gaps and provide a high-quality, economical feed option for their livestock. This article presents some of the benefits of incorporating forage brassicas into a pasture system and how it can add real value to your farming business. Forage brassicas bring many benefits to grazing systems. Firstly, with a sowing rate of 3-5 kg/ha, they are a cheap way to accumulate a large amount of feed. With growth rates similar or quicker than most forage cereals , they can rapidly accumulate biomass. However, the real strength of brassicas is their superior feed quality and their ability to retain this quality throughout the season. Quality parameters are often in the range of 11-12.5 megajoules of metabolisable energy (ME) and 15-22% crude protein with a low fibre content1. This makes them a suitable feed source for lactating dairy cows, finishing lambs, growing steers, or improving the condition of breeding stock. A further strength of brassicas is their wide adaptation to different environments and soil types, from sands to heavy clays. They do, however, require good levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and boron and rely on accurate seeding depth (5-10mm) for optimal establishment. Combining this broad adaption with a flexible sowing window from late winter right through to autumn makes forage brassicas an excellent option for most systems. There are different types of forage brassicas on the market, including bulbed and leafy turnips, forage rape and hybrids, kale and radish. Each has a unique fit depending on your requirements. If super quick feed is what you are looking for, S&W’s Bouncer Forage Brassica is a leafy turnip ready to graze in as little as 5-6 weeks. Bouncer provides multiple grazing opportunities without the maturity requirement. It is well suited to dairy systems or more intensive beef and sheep enterprises with high soil fertility and rainfall. Bouncer can lose palatability if grazing is deferred for longer than 8-9 weeks, so if you require bulk feed later in the season, S&W Subzero Forage Brassica is the option for you. Subzero is a quick maturity forage rape and kale hybrid. It has the flexibility to be ready to graze early, 8-10 weeks post-sowing, with good regrowth potential, while also maintaining quality for a bulkier graze later in the season. Subzero is a tough variety handling both periods of moisture stress and cold, frosty conditions exceptionally well. This makes it suitable for large,

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extensive grazing systems or more intensively managed beef, sheep, and dairy enterprises. If S&W forage brassicas have a fit in your system, contact your local agronomist or S&W Territory Manager to help you plan your crop this spring. Calculating crop requirements and making it pay! Scenario: I have 100 young steers that I want to feed from December to February on a crop of Subzero Forage Brassica and Rebound Millet. What area do I need to sow, and will I make a return? Assumptions: A 250kg steer, gaining 1 kg/day has a DSE rating of 9. Maximum daily feed intake = 0.8 x DSE (or use 1.2 X liveweight ÷ NDF%) The crop provides the energy, protein, and fibre requirements for this class of stock and has grown 8 t/ha of Dry Matter (DM). Allow 30% wastage in a set stocked grazing system. Calculations: Step 1: How much crop? Intake = 0.8 x 9 = 7.2 kg DM/head/day 7.2 kg + 30% wastage = 9.4 kg DM/head/day 9.4 kg x 100 head = 940 kg DM/day 940 kg x 100 days = 94 tonne to fully feed all steers 94 t ÷ 8t/ha supplied = 11.75 ha required Step 2: What’s the cost? Knockdown herbicide/insecticide $16 Lime & fertiliser $350 Cultivation/contractor $300 Seed $84 Total cost = $750/ha Step 3: What have I made? Stocking rate = 100 steers ÷ 11.75 ha = 8.5 steers/ha Gaining 1 kg/head/day for 100 days = 850 kg/ha 850 kg x $4.00/kg = $3,400.00/ha Total potential income = $3,400/ha Please note the above numbers are a guide only and should be based on your individual costs, target crop yields and weight gains.

S&W Forage Brassicas

   

Quick to establish Excellent regrowth after grazing Cold tolerance Spring or autumn sowing option

“It took off with astonishing speed and provided feed quickly” Mark Droney Pittsworth, Qld

Bouncer Hybrid Forage Brassica

Subzero Hybrid Forage Brassica

Brassica napus

Seeding Rate kg/ha Dryland 3 High Rainfall/Irrigation 5

Seed Treatment

XLR8™

Description Early maturing hybrid forage brassica

Description Long season forage brassica with cold tolerance

Market Segment/Target Short term annual grazing forage

Market Segment/Target Beef, sheep and dairy grazing

Features Leafy turnip Very quick to graze, 8 weeks from emergence Quick to recover from grazing Hybrid turnip x Chinese cabbage

Features Leafy rape Withstands frosts as a mature plant Spring or autumn sowing option Quick to establish

Benefits Quick feed gap fill Sown all year round No ripening of forage required before grazing

Benefits Eight to nine weeks to first grazing Retains quality even once ripe Excellent regrowth after grazing

For further information speak with your local Elders agronomist or branch to help you plan your crop swseedco.com.au

SW0234

None/ XLR8™ optional

Know your flow Water Flow Indicator Find leaks easier by installing in water lines to visually check for abnormal water flow. Features Save time Find water leaks faster by installing at important junctions in your system Easy to view Dual colour impellor visually shows speed and direction of flow Compatible with standard pipe fittings Available in 1 ¼” (32mm) and 2” (50mm) sizes

1800 425 524 am.gallagher.com

“The Water Flow Indicator is an easy guide and it certainly helps find leaks faster. It’s instant peace of mind.” David Key

Dairy Farm Manager, Marton, New Zealand

Water Management

AWARD-WINNING GALLAGHER WATER TOOL PERFECT FOR SMALL FARMS Water is a precious resource, so losing any through leaks wastes not only the water itself, but time spent in trying to find the leak. The new Gallagher Water Flow Indicator offers the perfect solution to finding water leaks faster. Gallagher marketing manager Ben Winter said, the Gallagher Water Flow Indicator, which was developed by former farmer Murray Jones in conjunction with Gallagher, is well suited to small-acreage farms. “If farmers think there’s a water leak on their property, they can often spend quite a bit of time looking for it. It’s really like the proverbial ‘needle in a haystack’ – where do you begin? It’s necessary to find the leak, but the time spent is completely frustrating. “This water-monitoring tool offers an easy way for farmers to see what is going on inside their pipes. That was actually one of the main comments that came up in our on-farm research: farmers said how handy it would be to be able to see inside their irrigation pipes. Is water flowing through when it should be? And conversely, is water flowing through when valves or taps are not turned on?” Mr Winter said by installing the Gallagher Water Flow Indicator at important junctions in water lines, the tool enabled farmers to find leaks easily because they can visually check for abnormal water flow. Easy visual guide The device comprises a clear piece of piping with an orange impellor in the middle, which spins as water flows through the system, thus plainly showing any irregular water flow, water direction and speed. “If there’s no water flowing through the line, the impellor won’t spin, so you know your lines are full and you don’t have a leak. It’s a pretty easy visual guide.

“If you identify there is a leak, then it’s a matter of isolating that block or the affected water lines while you fix the leak.” The Gallagher Water Flow Indicator is compatible with standard pipe fittings and fits most water lines. It’s available in 32 millimetre (one-and-a-quarter inch) and 50 millimetre (2 inch) sizes. The high quality, UV-resistant, engineering-grade plastic is easy to install and clean. “Gallagher has easy-to-follow videos on the website, which show step by step how to install the watermonitoring tool. “For Gallagher as a company, the innovation award celebrates the very essence of who we are and what we do: we are customer inspired and work closely with farmers to develop clever, yet simple solutions to their problems. In this case, it’s a highly frustrating problem, albeit common. “Conserving water makes both economic and environmental sense, and in some regions, this tool may also help with compliance.” Mr Winter said, “Like all Gallagher solutions, the Gallagher Water Flow Indicator is designed to improve farm productivity and thus profitability, and like many of our tools, it gives a quick visual assessment and instant peace of mind. “We’ve found it’s been particularly popular for use on small-acreage farms.”

Weighing and E I D

THE POWER OF DATA ON A NEW LEVEL, INDIVIDUAL ANIMAL DATA - EVERYDAY Tru-Test Remote Walk Over Weighing products collect individual animal data to give producers power on a whole new level. What’s the big deal about individual data? It’s a fair question. Data on every individual animal means powerful insight across the whole herd. Producers reap the short-term gains of real-time live weights from hasslefree automatic weighing as well as setting themselves up for long-term profit. Some remote weigh solutions provide farmers with a mob average. Mob averages can provide a great quick snapshot of the group, but that’s where the detail ends. A mob average of 50kgs could be an evenly weighted mob or it could be a mixed mob of heavy units and lightweights. Farmers are therefore back to the eyeo-meter to determine who the poor performers are. Individual animal data provides so much more. Data collected by the Tru-Test Remote Walk over Weighing solutions lets farmers really see what is going on inside the mob and herd. At any moment Remote Walk over Weighing can show: • the true gap between top and bottom performers • how long the tail of stragglers stretches back • a sudden weight drop in one or two animals across the mob • t he heads up when cattle aren’t growing along the expected growth plane • t he earliest point when feed input to growth begins to plateau. Powerful data means powerful decisions. Individual animal data reveals a level of detail which drives powerful targeted decision making for culling, breeding, and market readiness.

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With continuous individual data, producers can track the impact of their decisions to see if an intervention has worked – or not. Knowing makes all the difference. The choice is then - build on success or try something new. Effective interventions mean lower input and labour costs, increased productivity, and increased profit. Not knowing could mean throwing good money after bad. Powerful planning Extensive and intensive producers can harness the power of Tru-Test Remote Walk over Weighing. With a granular focus, farmers can work towards developing the most efficient herd, increase their business sustainability and invest in feed, nutrition, and health treatments only when it’s most effective. With the current state of high global beef prices, there is no better time invest in a Tru-Test Remote Walk over Weigh system, drive up your kilo/animal ratio, focus on your poor performers and maximise returns. To find out more or book in a demonstration talk to your Elders representative.

BetterBeef

Automated

WEIGHT

MONITORING with Re emote Wa alk over Weighing • Monitor weights on every animal • Maximise returns from every animal • Mobile options for intensive grazing systems • Drafting options available • Systems start at $112,600+GST

Interested? Let’s talk. Call 1800 641 324

www.tru-test.com Livestock monitoring. Made easy.

only the original lasts for generations “We’ve got over 80 troughs and 25 tanks, but I don’t think I’ve ever had to replace a Philmac fitting yet. It’ll probably be working when the kids take over!” Dale Keune and family, Sunny Park Station, Clermont, Queensland.

Water Management

STOCK WATERING SOLUTIONS MADE EASY WITH PHILMAC Water is precious and so is your livestock, selecting the correct float valve is a crucial link to delivering quality water to maintain the health of your livestock. Philmac’s float valve range has the reliability you expect from Philmac, a company that has been designing and manufacturing valves for Australian conditions for over 90 years. Water is the single most important input in any livestock enterprise, and it is critical to regularly check over your stock watering systems. Trough valves that are not opening, or not shutting off, that are corroded, showing signs of stock damage, or simply are just not delivering a sufficient volume of water to meet your livestock demands will need to be replaced. Ideally, float valves should be matched to meet the water demand of the stock. Rather than considering the maximum flow of the valve, selection should be based on the pressure the float valve operates at the trough. Quite often this may only be around 100 kPa (15 psi). Dealing with a variety of water pressure on the one property is a common problem. Farmers are faced with having a range of different float valves on hand to enable them to deal with the high and low water pressures they encounter. The Philmac MegaPHIL High Flow Float Valve solves this problem as it comes with a high pressure adaptor. This float valve delivers very high flow at both high and low pressure, meaning you only need to carry the one float valve with you no matter what the pressure at the trough you’ll have it covered. To assist with float valve selection, Philmac publish the flow at different pressures. This is normally measured as the number of litres a valve discharges in a minute (L/min). As the inlet size of the valve increases we can generally expect a higher flow rate. But some valves, such as the MegaPHIL High Flow Float Valves, have been designed for high flow rates. For example, a MegaPHIL with a 2” inlet operating at 100 kPa has over double the flow compared to a UltraPHIL Brass float valve with the same inlet size. It is also important to choose a float valve that will shut off and not leak. Float valves at the bottom of hills or on

mains water supply will probably need to shut off against higher pressure. Shut off pressure is measured in kiloPascals (kPa) and is the maximum inlet pressure at which the valve will remain closed. Above this pressure, the water at the inlet will overcome the force being applied by the lever and float, and begin to open. Many farmers are now installing additional troughs to ensure stock do not have to walk as far for water, but also to optimise feed utilisation within a paddock. Your trough valve maintenance program should start with checking that the lever arm moves freely up and down. If there’s any “stickiness” it could be due to debris, a bent pivot pin or, in the case of a sleeve valve, a dry O-ring. If the valve weeps, it is likely the seal is worn or clogged with debris. Once the valve is disassembled, it’s easy to check for wear in the seal, and that the valve is clean. Fitting a new seal to a Philmac MegaPHIL float valve is as easy. Simply prise it from the flapper, in most cases, you can turn the seal over and reuse it. When replacing a Philmac VersaPhil float valve seal, it is recommended that the O-ring on the plunger be re-greased with rubber grease. Philmac float valves have proven designs and are made from high quality materials that provide strength, reliability and high performance, as you expect from Philmac, a company that has been designing and manufacturing valves for Australian conditions for over 90 years. Don’t put your trust in unreliable or low flow trough valves to supply the most important resource to your livestock. Now is the time to update your float valves around the property to ensure reliable, trouble free, fast fill of your troughs leading into the warmer months.

Animal Nutrition

THINKING WITH YOUR GUT? THE ROLE OF MICROBES IN RUMINANTS

The gut plays a critical role in health and wellbeing and accommodates a vastly complex community of micro-organisms. Inoculation of micro-organisms occurs after birth, with diversity and complexity increasing until it has reached a relatively steady state. Diversity is crucial to the gut’s function and provides resistance to colonisation of pathogenic organisms. Most mammals have little ability to digest fibre. Ruminants (e.g. Sheep, Cattle) are the exception to this rule due to their relationship with various micro-organisms in their digestive tract. The foregut of ruminants houses an ecosystem of microorganisms that breakdown plant cell wall. It allows the animal to obtain nutrients from both the plant material and the microbes themselves. Rumen microbes (Bacteria, Fungi, Protozoa) are a valuable protein source and can supply 60-70% of the animal’s protein requirement. This relationship allows ruminants to produce products useful to humans (milk, meat, wool) from human-inedible feed (forage). Form determines function The digestive tract is the largest body organ with the highest metabolic turnover (gut cells get replaced 3-5 days). It is also the only organ that functions in non-sterile conditions. Transport of nutrients from the gut into the body occurs across a single layer of cells called the epithelium. In the small intestine, the epithelium cells form finger-like projections called villi, increasing the surface area available for absorption. The epithelial cells responsible for absorption are called enterocytes, and they move as if on a conveyor belt up the villi. Once they reach the top, they get replaced. Enterocytes are closely packed to form a barrier. If this barrier is compromised, the gut becomes permeable and susceptible to pathogens, described un-ironically as “leaky gut” syndrome. Symptoms include bloody or slimy diarrhea. The development and protection of this single layer is critical for not only the growth of the animal but also its health (fig1). This is where importance of microbial diversity comes into play. Role of Microbiota In the small and large intestine the population of microbes is called the gut microbiota. Microbiota and its diversity, or lack thereof, can impact the ability of the gut to absorb valuable nutrients required for growth and production. Animals are born without an effective gut microbiota but immediately pick up microbes, usually from their mothers after birth, to start inoculation and colonisation of the microbiota in the young animals’ gut. Colonisation prepares the immune system and its reaction to antigens. It also provides nutrients such as vitamins, amino acids, and short-chain fatty acids used for energy. A diversity of microbes help keep the populations and 66

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conditions within the gut stable. Without any one group dominating or having exclusivity to nutrients or attachment sites on the gut wall through competitive exclusion. Factors that reduce microbiota diversity, increase the risk of disease and gut damage. Factors affecting gut health Many challenges cause damage to the gut and/or the microbial population living within it. • Feed – Sudden changes in feed or feed quality (mycotoxins, mice contamination) will affect microbial populations. For example, feeding higher grain levels will increase the number of starch digesting microbes, reducing rumen pH, increasing the risk for acidosis and limiting fibre digestion. • Stress – Any physiological stress caused by extreme weather events (heat stress, floods), management or feeding practices (weaning, de-horning or feedlot induction) will affect the integrity of the gut epithelium and result in a poor immune system. • Antibiotics – Antibiotics reduce the diversity of the microbial population (fig.1) and creates the opportunity for pathogenic (Salmonella, E.coli, Clostridium bacteria) or resistant bacteria to become the dominant population causing disease and infection. • Biosecurity – Poor biosecurity increases the risk of animals being contaminated with disease-causing micro-organisms. Pay attention to stock handling equipment, transport, feed and water troughs, young stock and/or sick pens, irrigation. Managing microbes: Management practices can reduce feed challenges, stress, and/or biosecurity related factors on animal gut health. The main goals of any gut health strategy should be: • Promote the development of a healthy and functional digestive tract • Enhance microbial diversity • Reduce Pathogen load or challenges Alltech Lienert’s Blueprint range is formulated with these goals in mind. With over 42 years of experience in promoting gut health, and optimising rumen efficiency with groundbreaking technologies. Alltech Lienert understands that when it comes to ruminants you have to feed the bugs that feed the animal. Speak to your local Alltech Lienert Sales Representative for information on management practices.

Livestock need more than protein, fat and fibre What’s missing?

BLUEPRINT® CALF UP MUESLI 9 Highly palatable 9 Aids in gastrointestinal and rumen development 9 Optimises nutrient utilisation, growth and feed efficiency 9 Increases dry matter intake of calves post weaning 9 Supports the immune system

Tel: (08) 8524 8150 | 1800 649 231 www.alltechlienert.com.au

Poly Silos BUILT SMART. BUILT TO LAST.

POLY LIQUID SILOS PART NO: PSL-35

Stakka Bin

SCAN FOR VIDEO

NEW!

Polycarbonate sight glasses UV stabilised polyethylene silo | Gal steel frame Cooler Storage Temperatures | No rust | Gal steel frame Stainless steel outlet | Remote opening lid | Fully weather sealed 45 & 60 degree high flow cone | 1.75m³ - 60m³ capacity available Suitable for feed, liquid or fertiliser storage Suitable for water clarification operations Australian made from Australian products

Easy Operation | Corrosion resistant bin Will hold all liquid, all dry goods or 50/50 Knife gate for dry goods | Can be used on ground 14m³ capacity per unit, 7m³ capacity per single pod 6060mm long x 2430mm wide x 2400mm high 1450mm auger height from deck | Suitable for up to 1.5 S.G products 3” liquid outlet with valve and camlock | 6” auger on dry goods option Supplied with container corners to lock on to any flat deck or skel trailer Fork lift pockets | High flow polyethylene bin | Total drain | Food grade Low centre of gravity | Full walkway with fold up handrails Can be ordered as a single bin unit

BUILT SMART, BUILT TO LAST. GET IN TOUCH! SCAN FOR

1800 502 267

enmach.com.au

Storage

MULTI TRANS 7000, SIMPLY A SMARTER BIN.. Need to store, carry, deliver or dish out feed, seed or fertiliser ? Enmach has recently released a product that will revolutionise the way you operate in your daily tasks. Our new Multi Trans 7000 is a class leading bin that is opening options in transporting liquids and dry goods in many different industries. The Multi Trans 7000 is a truck mountable tank system that consists of 1 or 2 7000 m3 poly tanks that incorporate a total drain 30 degree plus base, integrated walkway and folding handrails for safety and is fully encased in a galvanised steel frame the same size as a 20’ shipping container and is complete with container lock downs in each corner. This enables the serious operator to multi – task a flat deck trailer into a 14m3 or 28m3 transport tanker suitable for carrying liquid molasses, supplement feeds, liquid fertilisers, granular fertilisers, feed pellets, grain, seed, mineral supplements and many other products. The tank outlets can be optioned either with a liquid drain outlet with a 100mm pipe to the side of the frame fitted with a butterfly valve and a camlock fitting to make hose attachment a breeze or for dry goods transport a 150mm petrol driven break away auger can be fitted to enable easy transfer into seeders, troughs or smaller bins such as Enmach’s other great product the Stakka Bin. Our Stakka Bin is a class leading product that is the largest size on the market, a full galvanised steel frame, extendable legs and a stainless-steel no-buckle outlet that will make feed and fertiliser storage and delivery a breeze. Cubing out at a massive 1.75m3 with a max storage capacity of 1.3 tonne the Stakka Bin will take anything you can throw into it, with a fully removable lid as standard and a bag splitter option, dispensing non-returnable bulk bags can now be a safe and simple operation. Enmach has used polyethylene in a smart range of poly silos designed to meet storage needs ranging from one tonne to 46t. “Reinventing products usually made of materials such as steel, aluminium and fiberglass extends the life of those everyday items,” said a company spokesman. “Enmach’s poly products are lighter, have one of the world’s best UV protection ratings, resist rust and have compounded colour that won’t fade or scratch off.”

Ultimately, Enmach has created the poly advantage – unbeatable durability. Enmach’s innovative poly silos’ have revolutionised feed, grain and fertiliser storage. Sweating is greatly reduced or removed as the insulation properties of polyethylene keep your feed cooler resulting in reduced incidence of sweating. All silos heat up during the day and then on nightfall the outer steel skin of a steel silo cools rapidly. The feed stored inside retains a high temperature and causes condensation or sweating to form on the interior of the roof of the silo. Poly silos are thicker than steel, 10 to 30 millimetres thick to be exact, and this thickness helps to keep your feed cooler during the day and then on nightfall, the temperature change is more gradual resulting in a slower dissipation of stored heat and less or no incidence of sweating. Another issue with steel silos is rust, Poly silos give you peace of mind by removing the threat of degeneration through rusting. The poly silo bin sits in a galvanized steel frame with a stainless-steel knife gate at the outlet of the silo. Any bolts through the silo wall are all stainless steel to further enhance the no corrosion standard. To stand behind this, Enmach offers a 10 year warranty on their Poly Silos, you don’t get that on a steel silo. The range of poly silos 4.2m3 Multi Feeder which is a 3.5 tonne silo coupled with a 1800mm diameter round trough and an all-weather shield, perfect for supplement feeding on the land, the poly silos then range from the 1800-millimetre diameter round silos which hold from 3t to 10.5t, the 2700mm diameter round silos which hold from 5t to 25t, and the 3400mm diameter silos which holds from 28t and 46t, all in unbeatable Poly, made to last. Another great feature of the poly silos is the ability to configure the silos to store liquid. The flagship of the range is the 35000 litre liquid storage silo. This silo will hold up to 50 ton of liquid supplement, great for storing feed for cattle in the dry times. Other products offered by Enmach include a range of water troughs, rainwater tanks from 1000 litres to 29,500L, hay racks and many other poly items.

Fencing

CYCLONE – GATE FITTINGS THAT LAST! Cyclone provides a large range of gate fittings to suit all gates and strainer types. From steel, timber and concrete, Cyclone has all your gate fitting needs covered. All Cyclone gate fittings come hot dipped galvanised, which provides customers with added corrosion protection that is far superior to other gate fittings on the market. Cyclone’s hot dipped galvanised gate fittings were put to the test in our local laboratory with some interesting results. Three different gate fittings were tested: a Cyclone hot dipped galvanised gate fitting (cyclone gate fitting), and two different zinc electroplated (zinc electroplated 1 & zinc electroplated 2) gate fittings. All gate fittings were installed in a timber post and subjected to an accelerated salt spray environment for 3 months (1,500 hrs). These were the results: • Within the first 500 hrs the zinc electroplated 1 had jumped up to 72% corrosion while the zinc electroplated 2 was at 12%. The Cyclone gate fitting had only reached 7% corrosion. • At 1,000 hrs, the ineffectiveness of the zinc electroplated gate fitting was starting to show. The zinc electroplated 1 had reached 86%, zinc electroplated 2 had skyrocketed up to 72% corrosion, while the Cyclone gate fitting had risen slightly to 26%. • At the end of the 1,500 hrs, zinc electroplated 1 was 95% corroded and zinc electroplated 2 was 100% corroded. In contrast, the Cyclone gate fitting had only reached 30% corrosion. The test conditions, gate samples and salt solution were conducted to meet Australian standards and red rust was used as the determinant of coating degradation and failure. This test really demonstrated the anti-corrosive power of hot dipped galvanised gate fittings.

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Corrosion to gate fittings can create all sorts of issues. The corrosion can migrate to your gate and could also get into your wire, damaging the entire integrity of the fence line. Peter Reeves, the NSW State sales manager, has seen too often what can happen when farmers get it wrong. “A fence line is only as strong as it’s weakest link. When you use the wrong gate fittings you are creating that weakest link which will soon infect the entire integrity of the fence line.” Cyclone’s gate fittings may not look the shiniest and may not have the gleam and colour, but their rugged look is what allows them to outperform other gate fittings on the market. Peter said, “I know our gate fittings aren’t the best to look at, but this allows them to last longer! I would recommend you give them a try, I think you will be surprised.” Need help selecting the right gate fitting? The Cyclone website now has a new feature – the ‘gate fitting picker tool’! It’s a great way to logically select the right gate fitting – Firstly, pick the type of Cyclone gate you have purchased, then select your strainer post material (timber, steel or concrete); then select your fitting! Then you can print the flyer or click to download it straight to your phone or computer. Use this tool at www.cycloneproducts.com.au/gate-fitting-picker or on the Cyclone gate fitting page. To find out more about Cyclone’s gate fitting range, the gate fitting picker or the corrosion testing, visit www.cycloneproducts.com.au or call 1800 199 450.

A BETTER TROUGH! • Hot dipped galvanised • Stronger than poly troughs • More manoeuvrable than concrete troughs • Independent feet • Resists cracking and puncturing • Steel valve cover over valve/float

Click or scan here to find out more about Cyclone troughs

P: 1800 199 450 E: sales@cycloneproducts.com.au

Bacstim

BRAND RULES

RHIZOVATOR

Gradients

BILLIONS OF WILLING WORKERS IN HORTICULTURE Soil micro-organisms can be your hardest working and often most forgotten teammates. Growers have found that encouraging what is available in the soil, introducing and nurturing soil micro-organisms, like beneficial bacteria, can improve yields, quality and crop efficiency. Around the world leading companies are registering strains of bacillus bacteria to control plant diseases such as yellow sigatoka in bananas, rhizoctonia in potatoes and pineapple disease in sugarcane. Healthy plants grown in healthy soil have always been more resilient to disease. Beneficial soil micro-organisms help to subdue harmful micro-organism levels reducing the prevalence and impact of plant diseases. In the rhizosphere, micro-organisms can improve the plant availability of moisture and nutrients. Bacstim 100 has been used by Australian growers for over 6 years with trial and commercial use quantifying real value for growers. When tank mixed with Rhizovator the results are improved and reliability is increased. Darren Thomas, Sales and Marketing Manager for Omnia said, “Bacstim and Rhizovator have been successfully used in commercial tree crops, potatoes, sugarcane and vineyards. Growers report visual improvements often consolidated with yield and quality gains at harvest.”

“Bacstim 100 contains five beneficial bacillus strains and is generally applied at rates of 1L per hectare per application. Once applied to the soil, the bacillus species will multiply when conditions are right, and when conditions are unfavourable they sporulate, ready to get going again when conditions are more favourable,” Darren added. Rhizovator is a synergistic tank mix partner with Bacstim 100 as it provides food source and biostimulants to beneficial soil microorganisms, including the bacillus species in Bacstim. The synergy of applying these two products together is powerful and means growers have a better chance of increasing root efficiency in terms of moisture and nutrient uptake. In a growing number of geographical regions in Australia nutrient use efficiency is becoming highly critical. Ensuring fertiliser inputs are used efficiently by the crop and not lost to the environment is great for the hip pocket and great for the environment. Applying Bacstim 100 and Rhizovator can improve nutrient uptake by boosting root growth and making the nutrients readily available to the roots. “We have two formulations of Rhizovator, both work really well with Bacstim 100. Rhizovator OB is our original formulation and Rhizovator PC has been formulated with a higher level of biostimulants for when extra root growth is critical,” Darren added.

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“With growers becoming increasingly interested in improving soil health, Bacstim 100 and Rhizovator sales are set to grow exponentially. These products are not silver bullets, they are another important tool in the soil heath toolbox and it’s important to understand how adding these inputs affects a grower’s nutritional program and overall crop management. Your Elders agronomist is part of a strong network of experts with information and experience to assist you integrating a soil health program into your current practices”, Darren concluded.

Soil Nutrition

Diesel Storage

POLYMASTER HAS BULK DIESEL STORAGE COVERED What you need is the 10,000Ltr Diesel ESSENTIAL Self Bunded Tank, designed to suit everyone’s budget. It’s not rocket science in knowing that buying Diesel in BULK saves you a pretty penny. Some farmers have reported up to 25cents per litre* saving when comparing to pumping at the station.

So, if you are running 60,000-100,000 litres through your equipment each year you can be saving up to $30,000. Better in your pocket than someone else’s! Bulk diesel on farm also saves a lot of hassles, not to mention the reduction in downtime because of the simple convenience of the tank being on site. There are many different Diesel Tanks to choose from in the market, all with different options from the basic tank where you add your own pump, through to fancy units with all the bells and whistles. Each have their own pros and cons. So, what best suits you? The short answer is

“one that it reliable, never misses a beat, has all essential equipment included and doesn’t break the bank to buy!” Diesel ESSENTIAL Self Bunded Tank - 10KL This tank of Polymaster’s ticks all the criteria. Designed and built to last, giving you years and years of reliable fuel dispensing on farm. With a 25year design life and a 5yr tank warranty this new tank is packed with ‘tried and true’ pieces of equipment. Polymaster has a reputation of building tanks to last with over 26yrs designing and manufacturing in Australia. Proudly family owned, Polymaster tanks are shipped Australia-wide, across the Tasman and into parts of Asia. The Diesel ESSENTIAL is fully kitted out at the factory so all you need to do when it arrives is to connect power and have the tanker fill it up. Included: • Quality Italian Piusi 240V pump up to 70LPM – the most reliable diesel pump brand in the world • 6mtr hose with automatic trigger nozzle • Digital level indicator • Bund alarm • Mechanical overfill protection – prevents overfilling & spills • 2” camlock & ball valve for quick filling – suits all tanker trucks • 30micron water capture filter – ensures your equipment is getting clean fuel

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•M echanical fluid meter - record dispensing to equipment • Lockable secure cabinet to house equipment – to keep unwanted guests ‘borrowing’ your diesel • External bunded tank and cabinet constructed of UV sun tough material – also flame retardant and built to withstand Australian conditions The Diesel ESSENTIAL tank, joins the already successful Ranger and Quantum family of bulk storage diesel tanks, offering an affordable above ground double walled tank, designed for rural Australia. These tanks are designed with safety on the farm in mind and ease of use. The double wall technology protects your diesel and creates a barrier from accidental bumps/collisions with equipment. The outer tank is also constructed of a specially formulated flame-retardant polymer. Storage Solutions For All Situations Polymaster also manufacture a wide range of other diesel tank and pump solutions to suit a variety of different uses, including; Portable Ute Packs Ranging from 100ltr to 800ltr. These units are all equipped with Piusi designed pumps and are perfect for the back of the ute. The ‘Cube-style’ sits perfectly in the tub of a dual cab and can be fitted with a secondary bund for added security. Transfer Tanks Ranging from 600ltrs to 3000ltrs. These units are the gobetween storage solutions that can be filled by the ESSENTIAL unit then run out to the header in the paddock, saving you time. These are also fitted with the Piusi pumps. Diesel Trailers Ranging from 1200ltrs to 2000ltrs. These trailer units sit on a tough hot-dipped gal frame with dual axle, electric brakes, lights and reflectors. The Piusi pump, meter, hose and auto nozzle are stored securely in a lockable toolbox at the front of the trailer. To get your hands on one of the Polymaster Diesel Tanks, simply drop into your local Elders store or jump onto the Polymaster website for more information –polymaster.com.au

Quick Coupling Valve The Plasson Quick Coupling Valve saves you time and money and is quick and easy to install. Permanently attached to the irrigation pipe, the valve allows you to regulate the number of sprinklers in use.

Key for Quick Coupling Valve

Quick Coupling Valve

Features

Applications

Highly-reliable & durable

Sprinkler irrigation systems

Easy release of key, automatically shuts valve

Livestock watering

Body: Polypropylene and acetal

Landscape irrigation

Spring: Stainless steel Seal: NBR

Installed beneath the surface, the Plasson Quick Coupling Valve allows close mowing and similar work and is suitable for mown fields, grazing pastures and the like. The Quick Coupling Valve can be used: • As part of a permanent or portable irrigation line: fixed valves, movable sprinklers • And as part of a portable field crop irrigation system

PLASSON Australia Pty Ltd Sydney: PO BOX 6163, Alexandria NSW 2015 Brisbane: 49 Distribution Street, Larapinta QLD 4110 P: 1300 752 776 - F: 1300 248 027 - sales@plasson.com.au

w w w.plasson.com.au

Water Management

PLASSON QUICK COUPLING VALVE

Soon after the development of the Plasson compression fittings in the early 1970’s, Plasson engineers developed the first plastic turf valve which became known as the Plasson Quick Coupling Valve. The Plasson QCV has become very popular as a ground-level fixed valve since it presents no unsightly or dangerous obstructions and stays damage free. During the early 1970s, the use of poly pipe was still in its infancy. Plasson had developed their world-famous compression fitting only a few years earlier and the Engineers at Plasson were keen to develop a product to complement the fittings. One of the engineers at that time was Achiezer Israeli who remembers the development of the Quick Coupling Valve or QCV incorporated several bold design concepts implemented by Moshe Lishinski. Moshe Lishinski was the chief designer of Plasson products during this developmental era. Moshe Lishinski cleverly utilised the special characteristics of the poly material to develop the components of the QCV. Some of the bold design concepts he implemented include: • The split nut that retains the upper part to enable assembly without the need for a locking nut O-ring. This innovation simplified the manufacturing and assembly process and led the way for a similar design in other products.

The QCV has a single-action snap-in key that opens the valve for water flow into the hose or sprinkler. This is a timesaving and money-saving valve that is highly durable and reliable. To shut off the valve, there is an easy release of the key which automatically stops the water flow. The Plasson QCV is easily recognized with its yellow cap which is highly visible at ground level. More recently, the introduction of Lilac coloured caps for the QCV has allowed this unique valve to be used in recycled water and treated effluent systems. More recently, the introduction of Lilac coloured caps for the QCV has allowed this unique valve to be used in recycled water and treated effluent systems. Poly installations for recycled water are covered by Australian Standard AS 3500.1:2018 which requires the system to be kept entirely separate from the potable water supply. The piping is to be colour-coded and labelled to identify it as non-potable. The water from these sources can be used for: • Grey-water systems

• The integral plastic spring-loaded latch that retains the riser. Being made of the same plastic material, it is resistant to corrosion and dirt. This simple design also saves on parts.

• Flush systems

• The Quick Coupling Valve spool is retained just by the thick O-ring. This reduces the number of parts required and the thick O-ring provides good sealing, even if some dirt or scratches exist.

Plasson compression fittings can also be supplied with Lilac components for this application.

T he Plasson QCV has become very popular as a groundlevel fixed valve since it presents no unsightly or dangerous obstructions and stays damage-free. The QCV is ideal for:

• Irrigation • Cleaning and laundry

The QCV - Plasson Quick Coupling Valves are available from AIRR outlets throughout Australia. Call us on 1300 752 776 and let’s connect!

• Livestock watering systems • Sprinkler irrigation systems • Landscape irrigation • Treated effluent disposal 77

Seed

ECOTAIN ® BOOSTS LAMBING PERCENTAGES

Weeks into its first winter, Ecotain® environmental plantain is already showing its potential for improving lambing percentages and productivity, as well as ewe and lamb health. Rebecca and Dan Gardiner at ‘Ambleside Pastoral’ at Foxhow, Victoria chose Ecotain® in a bid to better match feed supply with demand at lambing. Just weeks into its first winter, a new forage herb product is already showing its potential for improving lambing percentages and productivity, as well as ewe and lamb health.

“Another thing is I haven’t had to pull a single lamb this year, even from the maidens and we had about 120 maiden ewes,” she said.

Ecotain® environmental plantain was planted on half of the pasture country at ‘Ambleside Pastoral’ at Foxhow in Victoria’s Western District late last spring.

The Ecotain® will also be given the job of fattening the lambs after weaning.

Farmers Rebecca and Dan Gardiner chose Ecotain in a bid to better match feed supply with demand at lambing. ®

“In our lamb business, we are trying to achieve a higher stocking rate with a higher lambing percentage and to get more kilograms per hectare, and so far, Ecotain® has been brilliant,” said Rebecca. Ecotain® environmental plantain is a broad-leaved perennial pasture herb which offers excellent nutrition for stock and strong autumn, winter and spring growth. Rebecca and Dan planted 38 hectares of Ecotain® at a seeding rate of 10 kg/ha with 100 kg/ha of MAP and the crop established well through a relatively mild summer. This year, they scanned 567 ewes in late February and moved them from crop stubbles onto one of two new Ecotain® paddocks at a stocking rate of 11.5 DSE/ha or 6.5 DSE/ha, or the phalaris and clover paddocks at stocking rate of 6.5 DSE/ha. Rebecca said lambing started in April and by lamb marking at the end of May, they had 871 lambs and the Ecotain® was already showing its worth. “Our lamb marking rate was 153% overall, but the really outstanding point when we looked at the data was that our marked percentages increased by 10% on the two Ecotain® paddocks compared with the rates in those paddocks last year,” she said.

“All of the lambs will go on to the Ecotain® environmental plantain. It will be more beneficial for them, nutrition-wise, and they will probably get some hay or silage too,” she said. They aim to finish lambs as early as September and definitely before harvesting starts on their 600 hectare farm. Rebecca and Dan plan to weigh their lambs twice this season to gather more data on the potential productivity gains they could make from the Ecotain® in terms of kilograms of lamb produced per hectare. Hamish Best, National Product Development Manager with AusWest Seeds and Stephen Pasture Seeds, is also keeping a close eye on the comparison. He and his colleague Geoff Ross helped weigh the lambs at marking time and will return to assess their progress later this winter. Hamish said there were significant gains to be made in both productivity and animal health by switching to Ecotain® for lambing. “At marking on Rebecca and Dan’s farm, the ewes grazing Ecotain® were in better condition and they visibly looked like they were lactating more, with bigger udders,” he said. “The potential animal health benefits from Ecotain® are massive, especially for twin-bearing ewes because it allows them to lactate off the feed, not off their backs.”

She also noticed improvements in ewe health and mothering ability where they were grazing the new feed.

He explained that lambing was a significant feed challenge for many graziers, particularly with highly productive multibearing ewes, because they are not able to process grass quickly enough to fulfil their high energy demands.

“We didn’t see any mismothering on the plantain, the ewes were all clean and they had big bags of milk, so you could see they were doing well,” she said.

“They need a feed source that allows them to physically eat more, like plantain, which has half the rumen degradation time of ryegrass. It makes all the difference.”

She estimated that the condition score of the ewes grazing Ecotain® was about 4 through winter and the lambs also seemed more vibrant and energetic.

Hamish encouraged graziers to contact their local Stephen Pasture Seeds or Auswest Seeds sales representative to discuss their farming system and ways to make the most of Ecotain® environmental plantain in their business.

On the two Ecotain® paddocks they achieved 185% and 179%.

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Ecotain® environmental plantain is fast establishing and winter active. • •

Winter active plantain Clover friendly

• •

Persistent Highly digestible forage

Plant Ecotain® today to maximise future ewe milk production, leading to higher weaning weights and more prime lambs sold than ryegrass and winter dormant plantain varieties.

Available at your local reseller today or contact Stephen Pasture Seeds ausweststephenseeds.com.au

FOR FARMERS AND THEIR COMMUNITIES for Australian agriculture

Seasons magazine Spring 2021

Articles inside

Ecotain® boosts lambing percentages

Plasson quick coupling valve

Multi Trans 7000, simply a smarter bin

S&W: spring sowing forage brassicas Award-winning Gallagher water tool perfect for small farms

Valor brings flexibility to weed control Begin the 2021 cropping season in the clear, with a clean boom sprayer

Delaying tick control can be costly Combination vs rotation: The big question in lice management

A green future for Nitrate fertilisers Tackling environmental stress for your best pollination and yield

Success Neo now registered on onion thrips Research provides hope in face of rising crown rot

Dipel® – technology ahead of its time Mollusc mitigation – What risks do snails and slugs pose?

Wetout®