Farmlands April 2019 South by Farmlands

SPECIAL OFFERS AND INFORMATION FOR FARMLANDS SHAREHOLDERS

APRIL 2019 Valid from 1–30 April 2019

The FARMLANDER LET’S TALK TRADE PAGE 6

FARMLANDS AWARD WINNERS

GROWING SUCCESS INNOVATION BRINGS REWARD PAGE 8

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THE FARMLANDER | 3

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

APRIL

INTEREST

PLAN365

5 Farmlands staff profile

Plan365 Nutrition

5 From the CEO

31 Chook chat

6 5 minutes with Mike Petersen

33 Racehorse feeding practices and prevention of tying up

8 Special Feature – A winning formula 15 Farmlands celebrates team members’ success

35 PKE-free options grow

21 Celebrating success at our Supplier Awards

Plan365 Forage and Arable

23 Farmlands Technical Advisor wins horticulture award

39 Selecting the right dog food

Plan365 Animal Management

25 Change approach secures Farmlands’ win at HR awards

43 Technology key for successful calf rearing Plan365 Dairy Management

27 Hurricanes storm Dannevirke and Palmerston North

45 Putting your trust in the system

28 Buying Power Promise

APRIL

Three events that will deliver you the best tools, toys and try-outs all in one place! Find out more at www.farmlands.co.nz

Plan365 Horticulture 47 Going for gold

29 ASB Update – The goal posts might shift but it’s still footy

Plan365 Rural Infrastructure

56 Farmlands Fuel

51 Fencing further with less

57 Planning for safe use of agrichemicals

53 Beware the beech mast due to hit this autumn

58 Fire safety for rural living

55 Put a spring in your step this season

APRIL Gumboot Friday

63 Farm businesses encouraged to join RMPP Action Groups 65 Century Farms – McCullough family’s farming legacy 66 Farmlands Real Estate 69 Farmlands Real Estate – Top 10 award winning consultants

SPECIAL OFFERS AND INFORMATION FOR

FARMLANDS SHAREHOLDERS

APRIL 2019 Valid from

1–30 April 2019

The FARMLANDER LET’S TALK TRADE PAGE 6

FARMLANDS AWARD WINNERS

GROWING SUCCESS INNOVATION BRINGS REWARD PAGE 8

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PAGE 15

ON THE COVER The Imligs are innovative by nature. This, along with their love of the environment and risk-taking has seen their sustainable operations recognised. Read more on page 8.

INSIDE!

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The information contained in this publication is given in good faith and has been derived from sources perceived to be reliable and accurate. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and correctness of the information, Farmlands gives no warranties, express or implied, regarding the information nor does it accept any liability for any opinion or information (including the accuracy or completeness thereof) or for any consequences flowing from its use. The information and views expressed in this publication

4 | THE FARMLANDER

are not necessarily the views or opinion of Farmlands, its editorial contributors, freelancers, associates or information providers. Independent advice is recommended before acting on information or suggestions contained herein. Readers who rely on this information do so at their own risk. Reference to any specific commercial product, process, or service whether by trade name, trademark, manufacture, or otherwise does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Farmlands.

2-16 Blokes’ Day Out

41 Established pastures – a big resource worth protecting

24 Choices Rewards

WHAT’S ON

Put on your gumboots, give a gold coin and help us provide free counselling to any kid in need. Find out more at www.iamhope.org.nz

28 APRIL

HeART of the Community Work will officially begin on the next HeART of the Community masterpiece, this time in Tauranga. Join us at Farmlands Tauranga to check out Erika Pearce in action!

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of the publisher. Prices and offers apply only in the month stated on the front cover of this publication and while stocks last. Not all products are available at all Farmlands stores. All prices include GST unless otherwise stated.

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FARMLANDS STAFF PROFILE Libby Nuttall Contact Centre Employee of the Year winner Q: What is your current role at Farmlands? A: Customer Service Representative at the Contact Centre, based in Dunedin.

FROM THE CEO

Q: What do you enjoy about your job? A: Helping our shareholders and my colleagues every day. Q: What type of work were you doing before you started at Farmlands? A: I was working on a dairy farm in Maheno. Q: Where are you from originally? A: Waimate, South Canterbury. Q: What would you do if you won $100,000? A: Travel around the world! Starting in Pompeii. Q: What is the strangest thing you have ever eaten? A: Seaweed jam – made by my uncle and it was worse than it sounds. Q: Where is your favourite New Zealand getaway? A: Tekapo, I love the hot pools and the scenery. Q: What is the most interesting trip you have ever taken? A: When I was at high school I went on an AFS exchange to Japan where I stayed with a host family for 3 weeks. Q: What is your signature karaoke song? A: Working Class Man – Jimmy Barnes. It’s good for every crowd.

Welcome to the April edition of The Farmlander. The theme for this month’s edition is celebrating success, whether it be our shareholders, our suppliers or our own people. Following on from our National Conference, members of the Farmlands Leadership Team travelled the country for our Regional Conferences. We host these each year to ensure every member of our team understands how we intend to put your future success at the centre of everything we do, and to make all our people aware of what we are doing at the same time. It is also an opportunity to recognise the hard work of our teams around the country and how they all contribute to what makes Farmlands great. This includes acknowledging the Farmlanders that have been with us the longest – people like Feilding Business Manager Sue Hendra and Whakatu Technical Advisor Arnie Haydon. Between them they have contributed 60 years to our co-operative and both have recently retired. We are indebted to the contributions of our Farmlanders that leave a solid foundation for our next generation. In this issue, you will meet some of the Farmlanders that received awards at our National Conference. It is your ongoing success that drives each of them and you only had to hear some of the speeches to understand that as a co-operative, we are on the right path. “We”, not “I”. “Team”, not “me”. We have 68,000 shareholders that are part of that team and we celebrate your wins like they are our own. That is why Farmlands continues to work towards the best services and supplies so we can succeed – Together.

Kind regards,

Cheeseball Ingredients • • • •

250g tub cream cheese 1 cup grated cheese (any) 1 medium diced onion ½ diced capsicum

• 2 Tbsp relish • Nuts/seeds/dried fruit • Crackers/carrots/celery

Peter Reidie Chief Executive Officer Farmlands Co-operative Society Limited

Method 1. Dice up the onion and capsicum and fry in a pan with a little bit of butter to caramelise them. Then leave them to cool. 2. Mix the onion, capsicum, grated cheese, relish and cream cheese together. 3. Form this into a ball and roll in either nuts, seeds, or dried fruit (your choice). 4. Serve with crackers, or chopped carrots or celery.

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THE FARMLANDER | 5

5 minutes with Mike Petersen New Zealand Special Agricultural Trade Envoy.

How does your role help our primary sector, in terms of bringing our produce to the world? New Zealand is actually a small producer in the world of food but

How did you go from farmer to New Zealand Special Agricultural Trade Envoy?

with a small domestic market, our

This role is unique in the world of food and agriculture. It was established following the national agricultural reforms of 1985, to promote our story of reform in other agricultural nations from the perspective of a practising farmer. I have always held a strong interest in trade and opening new market opportunities for New Zealand’s agricultural sector, and I was offered this position in 2014.

years, successive governments have

This appointment is made jointly by the Minister of Trade and Minister of Agriculture but importantly I am not a government official – I speak for the industry. The role has evolved over the years, and the reforms of New Zealand agriculture have become well known. My job is to represent the interests of the sheep, beef, dairy, horticulture and wine industries both here and offshore. I advocate for improved market access and agricultural reform, and promote our sector through agricultural diplomacy.

“

primary sector is reliant on access to world markets. For more than 30 realised the importance of diversifying and opening new markets. We have worked hard to grow trade through new market opportunities and this has contributed to much of the success we see today in the primary sector. It is important to realise that trade agreements are the enabler for businesses to access markets. New Zealand has built an enviable network of trade agreements right across the world. However, the government can only open the door for trade and businesses need to walk through and take their products to the world. My role helps with this, for example I often travel to countries ahead of trade negotiations, to promote national interests and break down many of the myths about New Zealand agriculture. When required, I also provide advice and support as an industry voice alongside trade negotiations.

Free-range, grass-fed, naturally produced, hormone-free, antibiotic-free, unprocessed food is what wealthy people are prepared to pay for.

6 | THE FARMLANDER

Trade has been thrust into the spotlight over the past few years in Europe, China and the USA, among others. What is the largest threat to our primary sector exports? Two of the biggest risks for the New Zealand food and agricultural sector are losing access to markets and biosecurity. The biggest threat for us in the world of trade is losing access to markets, particularly in relation to other food-producing countries. There is much talk about the trade tensions between two of our largest trading partners – the USA and China. There is no doubt that this dispute has potential to spill over and affect New Zealand exports to world markets. Regarding Brexit, what I say today will probably change by the time this goes to print! Literally no one knows what the exact outcome is going to be. There is no doubt that the move by the UK to leave Europe is certainly a big risk for us and the key issue for New Zealand will be the future relationship between the UK and the remaining 27 countries of Europe. This is fast moving and there is considerable uncertainty. It is looking increasingly likely that some agreement will be reached and an extension to Article 50 will be required to pass the enabling legislation. In this scenario, a transition period will be in place to enable New Zealand and other third-party countries to finalise their relationships in this part of the world. The other big risk for New Zealand as a food-producing and exporting nation is the risk of biosecurity incursions. Being an island nation has real benefits for biosecurity but

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FARMLANDS 5 MINUTES

we have seen in recent years that this is no guarantee of protection. There are many pests and diseases that would be catastrophic for our primary sector if they became established here. The resulting cost on industry and loss of access to markets remains a real threat to our primary sector. On the flip side of the coin, where are our greatest opportunities? The opportunities for our primary sector are immense in a world where consumers are becoming more discerning about food. New Zealand should have no ambitions to feed the world, as we can only feed approximately 40 million consumers per year. In a 2050 world of 9 billion people, the focus of our food producers and exporters should be on those who don’t even ask the price. Free-range, grass-fed, naturally produced, hormone-free, antibioticfree, unprocessed food is what wealthy people are prepared to pay for. These attributes sum up New Zealand and we are unique in the world for being able to offer these with the integrity, trust and food safety that consumers are also seeking. The production and productivity gains made are delivering some of the most carbonfriendly and water-efficient food in the world, which is becoming more desirable for discerning consumers. Importantly, these consumers do not all live in one market. Market segments and targeting clubs or groups of consumers is now easily achievable and the internet and social media can be our friend in this approach.

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| Mike Petersen, New Zealand Special Agricultural Trade Envoy. Photo by Florence Charvin.

As awareness around social licence grows, so too does the spotlight on New Zealand – given how far our produce has to travel. How do we market our exports to offset this challenge? It is true that there is a trend towards “buy local” to reduce emissions and to support local communities. However, this desire can only utilise a relatively small amount of the world’s food. The seasonal nature of food production means that New Zealand often has a counter-seasonal opportunity in a number of the large consumer markets in the world. For many shoppers, the sheer quality and

attractive attributes of our food surpasses the desire to buy local. In many ways, New Zealand has relied on its reputation in food for too long. We have always believed our reputation will be enough to be able to command higher prices. However this is no longer the case, with many other countries stepping up and promoting themselves as the natural alternative. In order to secure higher prices for higher quality food in offshore markets, we need to improve our storytelling. This is happening but if we want to retain our place as one of the world’s most successful and profitable food sectors – continued differentiation and better storytelling will be key.

THE FARMLANDER | 7

A WINNING FORMULA

8 | THE FARMLANDER

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CELEBRATING SUCCESS

Franz and Sandy Imlig have taken best practice orcharding to the next level. Now their innovation and environmental passion has been recognised with three wins in the Bay of Plenty Ballance Farm Environment Awards. The couple took home the WaterForce Integrated Management Award, Predator Free NZ Trust Predator Free Farm Award and the Hill Laboratories Agri-Science Award. The hard-working pair are motivated by a love of the environment and an awareness to not rely on a one size fits all approach.

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THE FARMLANDER | 9

Twenty years of input has resulted in a consistentlyproducing avocado orchard, which combines profitability with environmental sustainability. Sandy was a self-confessed townie when she met Franz. He was the polar opposite, raised on his parents’ farm at Galatea with his Swiss father farming to a philosophy of sustainability and low environmental impact. Franz says back then his father’s alternative practices made him seem eccentric, when in fact his thinking was before his time. The couple met when 16 year old Sandy stayed with relatives in Galatea and Franz was her cousin’s friend.

“

We have our regime of doing things, which can be quite different to what others do.

They married at the age of 19 and later started their own electrical business in Galatea, utilising Franz’s electrical trade. Later they developed the mechanical and electrical engineering side of the business, focussing on irrigation and pumping. Looking to keep their options open, in 1996 they bought a 14ha block in Lower Kaimai, near Tauranga. They planned to keep the land as an investment to sell later on but instead fell in love with the property and its challenges. The bare land had around 60 avocado trees planted around the fringe areas. Franz says at that time the avocado was the “poor cousin” to kiwifruit. “We did our homework and while the block was marginal for avocado growing, it could be done, and I thought there was potential,” he says. They started planting avocados in 1998, about 200 each year. Today Springfield Orchard has 4.5ha of avocados, with 480 mature trees and 200 young trees planted 2 years ago. The family of four, with young children Michelle and Simon, would drive 2 hours each way every second weekend to work on their block and live in a caravan.

| Franz and Sandy Imlig are motivated by a love of the environment.

“They didn’t like it much at the time but when they turned 18, we gave them their accounts and it was life changing for them.” That was the pattern for 15 years until the “umbilical cord cutting” in 2011 when they sold their electrical business and made the permanent move to Springfield (named as a tribute to Franz’s father’s farm in Galatea). Living on-site meant the couple had more time to focus on the operation and become more environmentally-conscious. At nearly 500ft above sea level, the altitude means they do not produce as much fruit as lower orchards nearby, although they do produce consistent high yielding crops.

Sandy says their kids worked as well.

“We have our regime of doing things, which can be quite different to what others do,” Franz says.

“They were aged four and six when we bought the block – and they would help with battens and wind-cloth and fertilise by hand. We paid a small amount into their bank accounts,” she says.

It is that point of difference that saw the couple take out three categories in their region’s Ballance Farm Environment Awards, which recognise and celebrate good farm practices that promote sustainable land management.

10 | THE FARMLANDER

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The WaterForce Integrated Management Award recognised Franz’s strong interest and ability in electrical engineering, which he used to develop a smart irrigation system ensuring optimal use of water and electricity. The Imligs have an unconsented bore which, under their Regional Council’s rules, means they are permitted to take and use up to 35m3 of groundwater within 24 hours. They have five 30,000L tanks on-site. Franz has wired the bore so if the maximum usage is hit, the bore will stop and the submersible pump will not turn on again for another 24 hours. For irrigation, they use tensiometers to measure ground dryness and how hard the tree is working to pull moisture. The property is divided into five zones, each block with its own tensiometers. “There is no one size fits all, it is dependent on the size and age of the trees. There are lots of different requirements and we are always keen to read what each tree is asking for rather than taking a blanket approach,” Franz says. | Springfield Orchard currently has 4.5ha of avocado trees.

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As well as saving water, the process reduces electrical costs by not pumping unnecessary water around the property. Franz has installed a variable speed controller on the irrigation system, so if the system does not need the full power to draw the water, it does not use it.

The Imligs love birdlife, have their own aviary and enjoy planting trees to attract birds. This has prompted their passion for restoring a Bay of Plenty Regional Council-listed reserve on the property with native fauna and plants that are less attractive to pests such as pigs, possum and deer.

The Predator Free NZ Trust Predator Free Farm Award was in recognition of Sandy’s outstanding passion for insect life, which has seen her enhance a habitat for beneficial insects and native birds, while minimising the effects of browsing animal pests.

Sandy jokes that her children call her the “bug lady” due to the pest monitoring work she carries out for New Zealand Avocado, from photos of pests to collecting insects and her input on the avocado growers’ first detector site.

Sandy says they use soft sprays wherever possible, even though they are more expensive. They are a bee stud for an apiarist and have wild bees, so spray at night when the bees are in their hives. “We only spray specific sprays, so we don’t kill beneficial insects, and we shoot possums and rabbits,” Sandy explains.

The Hill Laboratories Agri-Science Award recognises the attention to detail of managing avocado trees in a marginal climate and the opportunities taken to enhance production and profitability. Franz says the altitude brings a lot of rain, resulting in them using a minimum amount of hard fertilisers. Spreading by hand allows them to give more to trees that need it. “We have installed a fertigation system, putting foliar nutrients in our irrigation, which means we can do small amounts (and often) for tree uptake,” he says. For 3 years they have been using reconstituted gypsum – old processed house wallboards – which they say is a great alternative for a waste product. The couple are innovative by nature but have also been prepared to take risks and chances. They have been part of a number of trials – both to improve their own orchard practices and find ways forward for their industry.

“

... it’s not just about orchard production – it’s about everything we can do sustainably while still making a profit.

“We haven’t yet had a bad result – and in fact, some of those risks have resulted in significant benefits,” Franz says. Trials have included soil microbiology, planting methods, new rootstocks and using a different product to lessen the use of copper on orchards and the successful trial of the plant growth regulator, Sunny. The Imligs are currently involved in a Farmlands trial using the adjuvant Wetcit and trialling how much water is needed for chemical application. Pesticide spraying of avocados traditionally involves high water volumes to ensure adequate coverage over large trees. Franz says their usual water rate for spraying was | The couple have their own aviary and also plant trees to attract birds.

12 | THE FARMLANDER

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| Franz and Sandy have been involved with a number of trials – both to improve their own orchard practices and find ways forward for their industry.

2,000-2,500L/ha and they are now using 1,500L/ha, which provides good coverage using less water and is very effective against pests. The trial involves a cold-pressed orange oil extract blended with biodegradable wetting agents, which have lipophilic properties that stick to the impenetrable waxy surface of the avocado leaf. “It’s actually working better than our standard way of spraying, so we’re conserving water and getting better efficacy. We used to spray five tanks, now we spray three and a half tanks,” Franz explains. The couple has great relationships with their Farmlands Technical Advisors and were thrilled when one of them, Alex Ashe, won the Bay of Plenty Young Fruit Grower of the Year award in February. Franz and Sandy say they have thoroughly enjoyed their involvement with the Ballance Environment Awards. They entered after they had been invited as one of three growers to become accredited to send fruit to China and were working with industry specialists and going through an intensive auditing process to ensure their procedures and processes were fit for market. “One of the team suggested we should enter the Ballance Environment Awards and that is how it started,” Franz says. The progressive couple has added to what they affectionately call “Imligville”, buying a 2.5ha kiwifruit orchard a few hundred metres up the road. The property was organic but they converted it to a conventional practice and have gold kiwifruit and avocados. They also bought a 1ha block across the road, which has a mixture of 90 mature avocado trees.

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| The Imligs have also purchased a 2.5ha kiwifuit orchard close by.

Franz says ensuring their operations become more sustainable hasn’t been very difficult. “It just takes a little bit of thought and ideas and putting them into practice and monitoring the outcomes to see what the effect is over time. And it’s not just about orchard production – it’s about everything we can do sustainably while still making a profit,” he says. “Most of what we do is normal practice, it just comes naturally. We love the environment and we like that we can work together as a team and our skill sets complement each other. It can be hard work but it is not a chore because the end result is worth it.”

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We’re here for the good of the country.

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Farmlands celebrates team members’ success The Farmlands Awards earlier this year were an opportunity to pay tribute to the Farmlanders that work hard to help our shareholders around New Zealand every day. Awards were handed out to Farmlands team members and teams, with an even spread of winners from across the country.

“

Our Farmlanders work hard every day putting the future success of our shareholders at the centre of everything they do.

Although only some of the awards went

| Peter Thompson (centre), with General Manager – Operations, Mal Scrymgeour (left) and Peter Reidie (right).

to teams, even the individual recipients paid tribute to their own team members

Branch of the Year –

and colleagues for their success.

Farmlands Invercargill

“What really stood out at the

One point was all that separated

Farmlands Awards was the way the

the top two all-round stores at this

recipients recognised their success

year’s Farmlands Awards – and

was due to the contributions of their team members, which was great to see,” Farmlands Chief Executive, Peter Reidie says. “Our Farmlanders work hard every day putting the future success of our shareholders at the centre

after 2 years of being runner-up, Invercargill has taken the top spot. Farmlands Invercargill won the Branch of the Year, narrowly defeating the Huntly and Rotorua stores to take the big trophy home.

of everything they do. While they

“Getting runner-up for the last 2

don’t do it for recognition, it’s great

years – every dog has its bone,”

to be able to acknowledge their

Invercargill Business Manager,

efforts at our Farmlands Awards.”

Peter Thompson says.

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“I was just rapt for the team, they’ve worked really hard for the last year. They put a lot into it.” The award is judged across a wide range of criteria, from performance to the store’s Health and Safety record. It is also an acknowledgement of the shareholders who have supported their co-operative and local team. Peter says the trophy, which is sitting proudly on display near the store counter, has generated a lot of interest from shareholders and customers. “They’re rapt their local store has won it. It’s a win for Southland really,” Peter says.

THE FARMLANDER | 15

the Technical Advisor and Technical Field Officer who have the highest percentage sales growth across specific parts of Farmlands’ business in their areas of work, along with multiple other performance criteria. Alena says she is passionate about horticulture and constant learning, and loves working with fantastic people, staff and growers. “What a privilege to win this and be part of an amazing team.” James says he wasn’t expecting | John Blick (centre), with the Stockman family, Farmlands Chairman, Lachie Johnstone and Peter Reidie.

Keith Stockman Memorial

why this award in his memory is

Award for Retail Salesperson

so fitting. He was a leader in every

of the Year – John Blick

sense, someone who called it as he

A particularly special and poignant

saw it and was respected, admired

moment was the introduction

and to this day, sorely missed.

of an award that pays tribute to an instrumental Farmlander we tragically lost last year. The inaugural Keith Stockman Memorial Award for Retail Salesperson of the Year was a fitting tribute to the man affectionately known as Stocky, who was Area Manager for Farmlands’ Western North Island region. Blenheim Salesperson John Blick was the first recipient of the award,

Field staff winners

the award and it was humbling because there were so many other Farmlands staff who did a great job. He has been in the job for about three years. “I love meeting new people and understanding their farm systems.” Meanwhile, Invercargill Technical Field Officer, Jess Peter became our Emerging Technical Advisor/Technical

Several of our field staff received

Field Officer of the Year for her first

recognition for their achievements

12 months with the co-operative.

over the past year.

“I was pretty stoked and surprised

Richmond’s Alena Griffith was awarded

to win. I do have a really good

the Technical Advisor of the Year,

team behind me – it wasn’t just

while Marton’s James Abbiss was

an individual effort, it was a

named our Technical Field Officer

wider team effort,” she says.

of the Year. The awards are given to

As a TFO Jess says she enjoys meeting

which was presented by the Stockman family, who came down from Taranaki to attend the awards ceremony. “It was a humbling experience and a bit of a shock,” John says. “To be the first person honoured with that is quite a special thing in its own right. It reflects the hard work of everyone in the store here as a team – it’s not just me.” John says though he never met Stocky, he had heard a lot about him and was honoured to be presented the award by his family. Stocky always strived to be better for our shareholders, which was | Technical Field Officer, James Abbiss.

16 | THE FARMLANDER

| Head of Sales, Jason McMillan and Jess Peter.

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

a wide range of shareholders, visiting

journey from good to great. With new

Farmlander of the Year

their farms and getting to know more

systems being implemented as part of

– Trevor Halkett

about them and how she can help.

the Braveheart Programme, Harriet has

One of our major awards was given

Penny McLean was awarded

been encouraging others to embrace it

to someone who prefers to stay

our Card Account Manager of

because she knows its success rests

behind the scenes but plays an

the Year, while Energy (formerly

with every person in the business.

instrumental role within the co-

Fuel) Account Manager of the

“Farmlands is on a journey and

operative. Communications Manager

Year went to Kaylene Haines.

embracing the new systems and

Trevor Halkett was named Farmlander

Phil Gavin received the Energy (formerly

the ‘Farmlands way’ is crucial to our

of the Year, an award given to a

Fuel) Territory Manager of the Year

success. We have a great support

member of staff that epitomises

Award for his role looking after the

network around us to ensure all

living the Farmlands values.

Upper South region. Nutrition Specialist

of our people have the resources

One of the reasons Trevor received

of the Year went to Megan Hardy.

and training to learn and adopt the

the award was because he identified

Libby Nuttall, who many

new technology,” Harriet says.

a need within our business to get

shareholders would have interacted

She says in an industry going

key information out to staff more

with, was awarded our Contact

through significant change, it is a

Centre Employee of the Year.

privilege to have a Board and senior management team with a leading

CEO Leader of the Year

vision, which will allow the co-

– Harriet Cameron

operative to deliver a greater level of

Central South Island Sales Manager

service and value to shareholders.

Harriet Cameron leads by example and

“I am extremely humbled to receive

has the sales figures to back it up. That

this award. I feel fortunate to work

is why she was named CEO Leader

alongside some exceptional leaders

of the Year at the Farmlands Awards.

in our business who are extremely

The award is given to someone who

passionate about our industry and who

demonstrates true leadership within

work together to lift each other up.”

the co-operative, meets the challenges

Preparing to make a difference every

and works to make situations better.

day, her passion, loyalty and knowledge

That is exactly what Harriet has been

of Farmlands were just some of the

doing as Farmlands goes through its

reasons Harriet picked up this award.

effectively. So, on top of his other day to day duties he comes in early to compile and send out morning communications to staff – which isn’t easy given how diverse the business is. “Our team is on shop floors, on the road or even standing in a paddock, so from a communications perspective we need to be innovating and trialling new methods to find the right balance,” he says. Trevor says the award was “extremely humbling” and he credited the people he works with daily. “They provide me with the tools and feedback to do my job and if not for that, I would not have been up there in a Magpies jersey, looking like a stunned mullet, receiving an award.” Support Person of the Year – Kate McLachlan Her positivity, infectious energy and willingness to go the extra mile are just some of the reasons Kate McLachlan was named our Support Person of the Year. Described as a passionate Farmlander and always coming up with ideas to improve our cooperative, Kate was presented with the award for her work behind the scenes – much to her surprise.

| Harriet Cameron and Peter Reidie.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

| Communications Manager, Trevor Halkett.

THE FARMLANDER | 17

“I was completely shocked. Anyone who knows me knows I am rarely, if ever, lost for words,” she says.

Two other people in the Braveheart Team were voted by their colleagues to receive awards.

Kate is a Change Advisor, working as part of the Braveheart Change Management Team where she has developed strong relationships with a large range of staff.

Pahiatua Business Manager Sonia McKay was named Kilt of the Year for her work ensuring our people have the skills and knowledge to work with our new systems and processes.

“I have such a hardworking and supportive team who should have been up there with me and I am so lucky to work with such amazing Farmlanders around the country every day,” Kate says.

Stephanie Murray, Assistant Business Manager of the Palmerston North store, was awarded the Change Clansperson of the Year for helping everyone understand Braveheart and the changes it is bringing. | Kate McLachlan and Peter Reidie.

Farmlands Awards

Branch of the Year: 1st Invercargill, 2nd Huntly, 3rd Rotorua

Kilt of the Year: Sonia McKay (Pahiatua) Change Clansperson of the Year: Stephanie Murray (Palmerston North) Card Account Manager of the Year: Penny McLean (Christchurch Wairakei Road) Farmlands Energy Account Manager of the Year: Kaylene Haines (Christchurch Wairakei Road) Farmlands Energy Territory Manager of the Year: 1st Phil Gavin (Upper South), 2nd equal Nigel McFadyen (Bay of Plenty) and DJared Tointon (Central) Technical Advisor of the Year: 1st Alena Griffith (Richmond), 2nd John McGinlay (Blenheim), 3rd Arnie Haydon (Whakatu) Technical Field Officer of the Year: 1st James Abbiss (Marton), 2nd Abby Henderson (Winton), 3rd Tim Orlando-Reep (Huntly) Emerging Technical Advisor/Technical Field Officer of the Year: Jess Peter (Invercargill)

Keith Stockman Memorial Award for Retail Salesperson of the Year: 1st John Blick (Blenheim), 2nd Stephanie Murray (Palmerston North), 3rd Jenny Greenwood (Leeston) Support Person of the Year: Kate McLachlan (Christchurch Wairakei Road) CEO Leader of the Year: Harriet Cameron (South Island Central) Farmlander of the Year: Trevor Halkett (Christchurch Wairakei Road) Store Category Awards Animal Health and Dairy Management: 1st Darfield, 2nd Blenheim, 3rd Rangiora General Farm Merchandise: 1st Te Puke, 2nd Richmond, 3rd Invercargill Infrastructure: 1st Gisborne, 2nd Darfield, 3rd Richmond Pasture and Horticulture: 1st Blenheim, 2nd Gore, 3rd Darfield

Contact Centre Employee of the Year: Libby Nuttall (Dunedin) Nutrition Specialist of the Year: 1st Megan Hardy (Upper South), 2nd Hadley Searle (Waikato), 3rd Roger Dettling (Western) Health and Safety Excellence Award: 1st Pete Yeoman (Te Awamutu), 2nd Greg Pollitt (Dunedin Seed), 3rd Andrew Marsh (Feilding)

Retail Nutrition: 1st Rangiora, 2nd Balclutha, 3rd Putaruru Bulk Nutrition: 1st Opunake, 2nd Invercargill, 3rd Ashburton Seed: 1st Wanganui, 2nd Opunake, 3rd Morrinsville Real Estate award winners can be found on page 69.

18 | THE FARMLANDER

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FROM THE PADDOCK TO PRIME TIME, THANKS FOR TELLING OUR STORY For the first time in our 50 year history, we have chosen to share the Farmlands story in a series of television ads. They are currently screening on TVNZ, TV3 and Sky. The ads star Farmlands shareholders, their staff and Farmlanders. These people aren’t actors but they tell the story of our co-operative in a way we are proud of, showing where we have come from and where we are going.

Together stronger™

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THE FARMLANDER | 19

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Celebrating success at our Supplier Awards The annual Farmlands Supplier Awards were held at Lincoln University in February, to recognise the suppliers that help our shareholders and their businesses succeed.

Skellerup won the Category Award – General Farm Merchandise and Can-Am took out Emerging Card Partner of the Year. Card Partner of the Year went to Bunnings, while the Card Shareholders’ Choice Award was awarded to Noel Leeming.

Twelve independently-assessed, major awards were handed out to suppliers and Card Partners. Iplex Pipelines and Gallagher Group were the big winners of the night, jointly taking out the Category Award – Infrastructure, as well as the Rural Supplies Supplier of the Year.

Challenge Fuel won the Partner of the Year Award. Farmlands Chief Executive Officer, Peter Reidie, says Farmlands is a business that likes to recognise and reward success. “Our partners and suppliers give us

the collective strength to deliver more for our shareholders, so we like to acknowledge their contribution to the success of our members,” he says. Those who attended the Supplier Awards got to listen to guest speaker Robett Hollis, an entrepreneur, ex-professional snowboarder and media and technology expert. Robett spoke about celebrating success and the need for New Zealanders to embrace it more to reduce our “tall poppy syndrome” culture.

Farmlands Supplier Awards winners: Category Award – Animal and Dairy Management: 1st FIL (GEA), 2nd Skellerup, 3rd MSD Animal Health Category Award – General Farm Merchandise: 1st Skellerup, 2nd Betacraft, 3rd Stoney Creek Category Award – Infrastructure: 1st Iplex Pipelines and Gallagher, 2nd Strainrite Fencing Systems, 3rd Euro Corporation Category Award – Pasture and Horticulture: 1st Nufarm New Zealand, 2nd Dow Agrosciences, 3rd Cosio Industries Category Award – Retail Nutrition: 1st Milligans Food Group, 2nd Nestlé, 3rd Fond Foods

| Rural Supplies Supplier of the Year joint winners, Iplex Pipelines and Gallagher.

Category Award – Seed Supplier of the Year: 1st Pioneer, 2nd Agricom, 3rd Agriseeds Rural Supplies Supplier of the Year: 1st Iplex Pipelines and Gallagher, 2nd Skellerup, 3rd Nufarm New Zealand Rural Supplies Farmlanders’ Choice: 1st Allflex New Zealand, 2nd Strainrite Fencing Systems, 3rd Gallagher Emerging Card Partner of the Year: 1st Can-Am, 2nd Triton Hearing Card Partner of the Year: 1st Bunnings, 2nd Mitre10 Card Shareholders’ Choice Award: 1st Noel Leeming, 2nd Mitre10 Partner of the Year: 1st Challenge Fuel

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| Card Partner of the Year, Bunnings.

THE FARMLANDER | 21

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Farmlands Technical Advisor wins horticulture award Farmlands’ Alex Ashe has impressed the judges in a major horticulture competition, being named Bay of Plenty Young Fruit Grower of the Year. The 24 year old was awarded $1,500 cash and will now go on to compete in Horticulture New Zealand’s national Young Grower of the Year finals in Tauranga in October. Alex is a Farmlands Technical Advisor covering the Tauranga and Te Puna regions. Despite his experience working in the industry, he says the win in February came as a surprise. “I wasn’t expecting it. I was pretty happy with that!” Avocado Production Manager Hamish McKain was runner-up, while Orchard Manager Emily Crum came third. The competition ran over 2 days where the eight contestants had to test their skills and ability to run a successful orchard, including tractor proficiency, orchard profitability and plant nutrition. It concluded with a gala dinner where each contestant presented

a speech to more than 400 industry experts, discussing future disruptors to horticulture. Alex says for him the speech was the most challenging element, despite impressing the judges. “I’m not a fan of public speaking,” he says. “But everyone there was supporting young people in the industry, so that made it a lot easier.” Alex grew up on a Bay of Plenty dairy farm before moving with his family to Queensland where they own an avocado orchard. He moved back to New Zealand to study a Bachelor of Agricultural Science majoring in Horticulture at Massey University. Alex has worked at Farmlands for 2 years and loves meeting growers, seeing what they are doing and helping them succeed. He says the Young Fruit Grower of the Year competition was a challenge and a good opportunity for him to grow his skillset and think outside the box. “Everyone was so supportive. We got to build our skills and meet new people from the industry with similar goals.” Farmlands Horticulture General Manager, Mark Daniels, says the competition is an important factor in the development of young people in the fruit growing sector. “Farmlands is absolutely delighted that Alex was the winner of the Bay of Plenty Young Fruit Grower competition,” he says. “Our New Zealand horticulture sectors have never had a greater need for talented young people. Farmlands

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

| Alex Ashe has been crowned Bay of Plenty Young Fruit Grower of the Year.

is therefore enthusiastic about supporting the investment of young people for both our shareholders and the industry as a whole.” Alex will compete against the winners of the Nelson, Hawke’s Bay, Gisborne and Central Otago regional competitions and the Young Vegetable Grower winner in the national Young Grower of the Year final. “We wish Alex the very best of luck for the national competition later this year. We know his preparation and participation will only strengthen his skills and experience for a very promising future in the horticulture sector,” Mark says. Horticulture New Zealand Chief Executive, Mike Chapman, says the competition is a highlight on the annual industry calendar. “Alex and the other contestants are exactly the kind of people the future of our industry will be based on, and it’s great to see them getting the limelight they deserve,” he says.

THE FARMLANDER | 23

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Change approach secures Farmlands’ win at HR awards Farmlands featured prominently at last month’s NZ HR Awards in Auckland. The co-operative was nominated in three categories and took away the trophy for Organisational Change and Development. These awards are organised by the Human Resources Institute of New Zealand (HRINZ) and represent the pinnacle of excellence within the national HR community. Farmlands’ win showcased the work of those ushering the co-operative through its largest-ever business transformation programme. To steward 1,400 employees through the Braveheart programme, Farmlands has created many landmark initiatives, including a dedicated peer support network. “The Change Clan has been instrumental in ensuring that culture, business process and technological change is happening with our people, not to them,” Farmlands Chief Executive, Peter Reidie, explains.

| Ruth Knewstubb accepted the Organisational Change and Development Award on behalf of Farmlands.

Change Clan members are selfnominated team members that receive Braveheart training and programme updates before their peers. They communicate these changes to their business units, answer questions and relay feedback. They can also highlight opportunities to do things in a better way to the Braveheart Team.

“We have seen many examples of Change Clan members stepping out of their comfort zone and doing things they would have never thought possible. It’s these growth experiences that will ultimately benefit our shareholders – through the increased confidence and capability the team members have gained,” Ruth says.

Farmlands Chief People Officer, Ruth Knewstubb, says that leveraging the scale of the Braveheart programme to develop Farmlands team members was a key commitment made to

Ruth accepted the Organisational Change and Development award on behalf of Farmlands, accompanied by Andrea Gardner and Kate McLachlan from the Braveheart Change Team.

people in the co-operative.

Farmlands was also named a

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

finalist in two of the 14 other HR awards celebrated on the evening – the Learning and Development Capability Award and the Christian Dahmen Memorial Award for HR Innovation and Technology. “This recognition shows we are tracking well on our journey to becoming a great co-operative,” Peter says. “We want to make sure all staff are fully prepared and equipped to embrace the opportunities this new technology and business model will bring for our co-operative and our shareholders, from day one and into the future.”

THE FARMLANDER | 25

26 | THE FARMLANDER

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Hurricanes storm Dannevirke and Palmerston North Six Hurricanes blew into Farmlands Dannevirke for a morning of fun last month, before heading to Palmerston North and beating the Brumbies in front of the sold-out shareholder zone. Finlay Christie, Sam Henwood, Jonah Lowe, Salesi Rayasi, Fletcher Smith and Heiden Bedwell-Curtis visited the store to have breakfast with local shareholders, take part in a question and answer session and hold a skills and drills session with the kids. There was also a farmer versus Hurricanes challenge where shareholders tested the rugby players’ farming skills, which surprisingly, the rugby boys won.

| The Murphy brothers flew onto the field in an A109 helicopter and delivered the game ball.

Afterward, some lucky fans got to go on the bus from Farmlands Dannevirke to Central Energy Trust Arena in Palmerston North where they attended the Hurricanes Captain’s Run, met the players and got their signatures. The next day the Hurricanes beat the Brumbies 43-13 in an impressive display, which saw second-five Ngani Laumape score a hat-trick in front of his home crowd. More than 1,000 Farmlands shareholders who attended the 1st March match got to sit in the soldout Farmlands Co-operative Zone.

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Tickets for the zone were cheaper for shareholders and they could also get free tickets if they spent a certain amount in-store. The game marked 23 years since the Hurricanes played their first match, which happened to be at the same stadium. It was the first time the team had played in Palmerston North in 3 years. The Murphy brothers from a shareholder family in Taranaki flew onto the field in an A109 helicopter and delivered the game ball before

heading to their seats before kick-off. Farmlands Dannevirke Business Manager, Ciaran Driscole says it was great to have the Hurricanes visit the store and they had the best feedback. “Shareholders were still buzzing the day after and even came back into the shop the next day just for a de-brief. It was great for our small town to get some hype around Super Rugby and they really turned out for it too. We must have had in excess of 200 kids I reckon!”

THE FARMLANDER | 27

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ASB UPDATE

The goal posts might shift but it’s still footy The highly anticipated final Tax Working Group report was released in February and by and large it contained what we expected it to. It recommended a Capital Gains Tax (the focus of this article) on assets other than the family home amongst a variety of other proposals. By definition then, some farming assets could be captured by tax under the Group’s proposals. The tax would be paid at a farmer’s marginal tax rate and would kick in from 1st April 2021. That is, any gains on farming assets to date and through March 2021 would be off limits but after that, they would be fair game. And assuming a farmer earns more than $70,000, then those gains would be taxed at 33 percent (or at the company rate if the farm is structured that way) but only upon realisation, i.e. at the time of the farm business sale. However, there are other important exemptions that would apply to the majority of farmers. For example, if a small or medium scale farmer sells his/her farm and then buys another similar, then the tax payment would be deferred in what is called “rollover relief”. To qualify for this relief, the Group suggests that annual turnover must be less than $5 million. Using dairy farms as an example, only farms with annual production of more than 800,000kg of milk solids would be captured. On the flipside, this then means the bulk of farmers will qualify for this tax relief. Also, like all tax payers the family home (even if on the farm) would also be exempt.

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Next steps It is important to note that the Group’s proposals are just that. The Government now has the task of deciding what proposals to adopt as policy and what ones to not. It may also choose to water down some of the Group’s proposals. The Government also needs agreement from its coalition partners, notably NZ First. Previously, NZ First has been a vociferous opponent of Capital Gains Tax. Accordingly, NZ First could play a spoiling role in any attempts to fully adopt the Group’s proposal. The final and (we judge) steepest hurdle for the Government is at the ballot box. Indeed, the 2020 election will be a stern test for the Government as it not only boils down to the merits of the policy itself but also the Government’s ability to sell it to voters, combined with its broader ability to win re-election. What if a Capital Gains Tax does get through? Bottom line, if the Capital Gains Tax is put through, farmers collectively will pay higher tax. But the question is – is a Capital Gains Tax the game changer for farming that some argue it is? In the short-term, we expect that land values are likely to adjust. Some farmers may choose to exit and take their earlier capital gains tax-free ahead of the April 2021 start date. If there is a large exit of farmers in a short period of time, then farm prices are likely to dip at that time. But we note farm values have already been adjusting lower to be more in line with cash returns anyway. Indeed,

| Nathan Penny, Senior Rural Economist, ASB.

farmers have already been factoring in higher costs of compliance and moving to lower levels of leverage amongst other things. Meanwhile, the Overseas Investment Office changes have taken most offshore buyers out of the market for the time being. Moreover, rollover relief will apply to a large number of small and medium scale farmers. As such, larger corporate style farmers will pay a disproportionate amount of the tax raised. That said, we do note that rollover relief will create an incentive to stay in the farming business longer than necessarily desirable (which the Tax Working Group describes as “lock-in”). For our part, though, we think that farmers would adapt to this tax new environment as they have adapted to other changes in the past. And farming will continue to be about farmers’ abilities to generate returns from the land. Long-term, we are positive that will still be the case. In other words, the goal posts might shift but it’s still footy.

THE FARMLANDER | 29

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Articles in the Plan365 section allow Farmlands suppliers to share best practice and the latest advances in rural technology, NUTRITION to help shareholders with their farming needs all year round.

Chook chat Keeping a flock of laying chickens is rapidly increasing in popularity, as it is a rewarding hobby. With this popularity comes more and more questions from beginners, so below are some frequently asked questions from people who are new to keeping chickens. Why have my chickens gone off the lay? It can be quite a problem-solving exercise to work out this one. Here are a few simple things to check: • Are you feeding a high-quality chicken feed – and enough of it? Laying chickens should have “ad lib” (as much and as often as desired) access to a layer-specific feed. This ensures chickens get enough protein, energy, vitamins and minerals to support the demands of egg production. If you are supplementing their diet with lots of added feeds like veggie scraps and/ or mixing wholegrains in with their layer feed, this could be your culprit for depressed egg production. Scale back on the added feeds and ensure they are eating their main meal (layer feed) before their

dessert (added treats/scraps). Breakfast is the most important meal of the day for chickens, so make sure they have access to layer feed before they go foraging. • Do your chickens have good access to water and shade? Hot, thirsty chickens will decrease their intake of feed, which decreases egg production. • Are your chickens going through a moult? If so, they will be off the lay, which is quite common when day length decreases as we head into winter. It is hard work growing feathers back and producing an egg a day, so something has to give. There are many other possible reasons, including certain diseases, stress, the list goes on – but check out these potential causes before digging any deeper. Consider if your flock needs worming and minimise contamination of feed by sparrows and vermin – a good feeder is a worthwhile investment. Can I feed leftover NRM Chick Starter Crumble to my laying flock? No, you cannot if you want to eat the eggs. While it may be tempting to get rid of your leftover NRM Chick Starter Crumble by directing it to your

layers, it is not advised because it contains a coccidiostat. A coccidiostat is a must-have in a feed designed for chicks, as it prevents a serious parasitic infection they are susceptible to. However, the coccidiostat has a withholding period for eggs intended for human consumption, so unless you want to dispose of your eggs for 10 days, it is best to avoid it. Why is my flock laying thin-shelled eggs? This is another complex one that tends to be linked to not eating enough layer feed. Run through all the same problem-solving checks from the previous question regarding laying, as well as a few more: • How old is your flock? Older chickens lay thinner-shelled eggs. • Have your chickens got worms? Gut health issues can impact on the absorption of nutrients from the diet and impact on eggshell quality. • Are your nesting boxes adequate? They should have 5cm or more of bedding material for a soft landing. Is there any benefit in feeding some whole wheat to my chickens? Many people like scattering some whole wheat for hens. A little is okay as a treat but wheat is very low in calcium and too much will reduce layer feed intake, which could have an impact on egg production and eggshell quality. Hopefully these frequently asked questions have helped some chicken newbies. If you need a bit more information, contact your local Nutrition Specialist or visit www.nrm.co.nz and use the “Ask an Expert” function to send in a question. Article supplied by Stacey Cosnett, Nutritionist.

| A Frizzle in moult, putting all her energy into feather production rather than egg-laying.

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| The same Frizzle post-moult.

THE FARMLANDER | 31

NUTRITION

32 | THE FARMLANDER

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NUTRITION

Racehorse feeding practices and prevention of tying up Thoroughbred racing and breeding is the largest equine industry in New Zealand, and along with the Standardbred industry, contributes significantly to the country’s economy. However, around half of all Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses bred don’t make it to a race. While this is mainly due to voluntary trainer decisions associated with poor performance, many are also due to involuntary reasons such as injury or ill health. Much of the data available on these involuntary reasons focusses on musculoskeletal reasons. There is little research available on the number of horses retired due to myopathies such as Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis (RER), or “tying up”. RER refers to a specific type of tying up, or muscle cramping, that occurs in response to exercise. Numerous variables including temperament, genetics, and feeding and management practices contribute to the prevalence and severity of the condition – and young female Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds are more frequently affected. Studies have shown that adopting a diet that is low in starch and provides energy through fat and fibre has significant improvements on tying up symptoms. Dietary recommendations are to limit starch sources to less than 20 percent of daily energy and include at least 20 percent of energy requirements as fat for horses in intense work. To discover the prevalence of trainer identified RER, and to more thoroughly

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| There has been little research into Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis (RER), or “tying up” in horses.

assess feeding and management practices of racehorses with RER in New Zealand, a data collection study was carried out in 2018. Data was collected via a cross-sectional, face-to-face survey of 100 registered Thoroughbred and Standardbred trainers on the number of horses in full work, number displaying signs of RER, gender and age (≤3 or >3 years) of each horse, amount and type of roughage available, weights of all roughage and concentrates added to a standard racehorse diet, turn out time and size of turn out area for both non-RER and RER horses. The overall crude RER prevalence in New Zealand was 8.4 percent, which is higher than the prevalence found in Thoroughbreds in Australia, the UK and the USA. The study also revealed that a small 7 percent (11/149) of horses displaying signs of RER were provided with dietary starch levels at the recommended less than 20 percent of energy, and

average starch levels as a percentage of energy provided to RER horses was 33.4 percent. More RER horses were provided the recommended amount of fat, with 38 percent (56/149) provided dietary fat levels at the recommended more than or equal to 20 percent of energy. However, total average fat levels as a percentage of energy provided to horses displaying signs of RER was lower than the recommendations at 17.5 percent. While further research in this field is required, the results of this study represent a need for education and a demand for appropriate feeds for RER horses. McMillan Muscle Relieve is a low starch, high fat and fibre racing feed that has been scientifically designed to assist horses with the condition. For assistance with feeding plans for racehorses to avoid tying up, consult with an experienced Equine Nutritionist. Article supplied by Luisa Wood, Equine Nutritionist.

THE FARMLANDER | 33

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NUTRITION

PKE-free options grow As animal feeds go, Palm Kernel Expeller (PKE) stimulates stronger opinions both for and against than most.

markets. Fonterra’s Fat Evaluation

PKE has grown to be a major forage replacer and filled a huge nutritional hole in the national dairy herd, ensuring a great many cows have been more fully fed over the last decade or so.

more PKE-free dairy products in

Its low price encouraged many farmers into supplementary feeding with by-products rather than conserved forages. Feeding to fill a pasture deficit and increase days in milk has increased efficiency. Body condition scoring cows and feeding accordingly could be especially relevant this year, as condition seems to have surprisingly slipped more than usual following the wet December in some regions. We have actively made people aware of the other by-product and grain alternatives if they prefer not to use PKE. Although not genetically modified, PKE is increasingly being included in the list of prohibited feeds if supplying particular milk processors for premium

range whilst avoiding any PKE.

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Index is also discouraging its use. For those commercial farmers looking not to use PKE, NRM has introduced recent years. NRM Dairy Zero PKE Extra, in particular, has struck a chord with dairy farmers looking to select a feed from the NRM standard PKE-free options have also increased for bagged feeds. For instance, NRM Multifeed (formulated to provide a balanced nutritional solution) never contained more than 10 percent PKE but with more and more people looking for PKEfree options, it became guaranteed PKE-free on 1st January 2019. Grain increases the energy density of a feed but contains rapidly fermentable carbohydrates, which increase the risk of acidosis when the rumen bugs

the formula, a proven rumen buffer – Acid Buf – has been included at the recommended rate for sheep and goats in compound feed. Acid Buf breaks down slowly in the rumen and helps neutralise acid produced by the rumen microbes over a longer period than many buffers. In combination with other minerals already included to help buffer rumen pH, Acid Buf will help during the transition process when NRM Multifeed is introduced to stock. As Acid Buf breaks down it also releases highly available calcium and magnesium, which can be absorbed by the animal. As part of the product makeover, the trace minerals and vitamins were also reviewed, which should be good for animal health and vitality. NRM strives to understand customers and deliver the products they require. More products are in the pipeline to meet the changing needs of livestock farmers.

To lessen the slightly increased risk

For further information, contact your local Nutrition Specialist.

associated with removing PKE from

Article supplied by Dr. Rob Derrick, Lead Nutritionist.

are not accustomed to grain feeding.

THE FARMLANDER | 35

NUTRITION

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36 | THE FARMLANDER

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NUTRITION

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THE FARMLANDER | 37

Works for you NUTRITION

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38 | THE FARMLANDER

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NUTRITION

Selecting the right dog food Figuring out which is the best food for your hardworking dogs can be challenging. Often, it comes down to a simple choice between what is available in your local store and what price you are prepared to pay. The objective, however, should be to select the food that best matches the incredible amount of work your dog performs every day. A look at the packaging will help you to choose the diet that provides the optimum nutrition for strength, stamina and alertness. First and foremost, working dog foods should provide a “complete and balanced” ration in accordance with nutritional guidelines established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Depending on where the food is manufactured, a working dog food may also meet standards set out by other associations such as (PFIAA) the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia. Look for these logos on the packaging. These exacting guidelines provide the recommended minimum and maximum levels of 40 different nutrients, including protein, amino acids, fats and vitamins and minerals, as well as the optimal nutrient ratios in many of these areas. Protein and fat are arguably the two most important ingredients. Protein provides key amino acids to help build muscle and aid in muscle recovery. A minimum protein level of 16.5 percent

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is generally what a non-working dog requires for optimal health. For a hardworking dog protein levels beneath 24 percent are probably insufficient to meet their full requirements. Likewise with fat, a working dog food should contain at least 10 percent. Fat is the “fuel” that keeps a working dog’s energy topped up. Fat also provides the pathway for the essential fat-soluble vitamins to be absorbed by dogs for optimum health and wellbeing. The next thing to consider is the quality and bioavailability of the ingredients. Good bioavailability means nutrients can more readily be absorbed into the bloodstream, reducing the amount of nutrients excreted as waste. Generally, a ration with a better nutritional profile will result in fewer, smaller and firmer stools. Meat is a great provider of easily digestible protein and fat. Check where meat is ranked in the ingredients list and then look at what types of “meat” are listed. Are individual meat sources, such as beef or chicken, specifically named or are they grouped together under the generic description of “meat”? Transparency of protein sources is especially important when purchasing food for dogs with sensitivities. You should then look at what types of grains are included. Cereals can provide a rich source of digestible carbohydrates, supporting sustainable energy for growth and endurance. Rice is easily digested by dogs, therefore

like meat it has good bioavailability of nutrients. Brown rice is one of the best sources of digestible carbohydrates. The ingredients list on the working dog food packaging should also confirm that it contains sufficient levels of vitamins, minerals and electrolytes, which are essential for the health and wellbeing of your dog. In particular, working dogs need a rich source of vitamins A and E, zinc and selenium to support the formation of cells and the maintenance of body systems. B-group vitamins promote metabolic function and energy production, while electrolytes stimulate muscles and nerves which can help to reduce fatigue. Finally does the ration contain a rich source of antioxidants? Antioxidants may assist injury healing, can aid muscle recovery and may boost immunity, therefore playing a vital role in keeping your dog fit and healthy. Having a close look at the food packaging should support your decision on the right working dog food to choose. The new CopRice Working Dog range provides high performance food for every life stage. It is made with real meat, vegetables and brown rice plus the vitamins, minerals and amino acids needed to provide everything your hardworking dogs require for optimal growth, development, peak strength, stamina and alertness. Article supplied by Scott Williams, Nutrition and Technical Services Manager (Companion Animal), CopRice.

THE FARMLANDER | 39

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40 | THE FARMLANDER

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FORAGE AND ARABLE

Established pastures – a big resource worth protecting It can be easy to overlook perennial weeds in established pastures as we head into late autumn and early winter. A few months down the track, however, you will want all the high quality dry matter you can get for lambing and calving – and that definitely does not include the likes of ragwort, buttercup and thistle. Late autumn provides the perfect chance to get all your paddocks cleaned up and ready to grow good grass come spring. There is a bonus as well – weed-free paddocks last longer. Established pastures comprise at least 90 percent of the typical New Zealand farm. They are effectively your bread and butter, earning the bulk of your annual income, and as such, they deserve to be well taken care of.

| Unsprayed pasture.

| Pasture sprayed with Sprinter 700DS.

The most important first step is to

chemical will not be carried through

identify which problem weeds are

the plant tissue as it should be and

Broadleaf weeds typically targeted in this type of winter spray programme include thistles, ragwort and buttercup.

present on the farm and where.

its effect will be compromised. Do

If you have any questions about

not spray weeds that are frosted,

identifying different weed species,

moisture-stressed or waterlogged.

They are autumn germinating, frost hardy and have the highest economic impact, especially where they have been able to colonise thin or bare areas of pasture.

talk to your Farmlands Technical Field

For cleaning up established pastures over winter, proven herbicide options from Nufarm include Agritone® 750, Relay Super S®, Baton® 800WSG, Sprinter® 700DS and later in the season (when weeds are large and hard to kill), Conquest®. However, Conquest will severely damage clovers and these may need to be re-sown in spring.

and spray timing for your situation.

Here are some handy guidelines around preparation and timing, which will help ensure you get the best return on any winter herbicide investment.

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• Watch the weather forecast!

Officer for assistance before you begin.

Relay Super S and Agritone

Your Technical Field Officer can then

750 need 2 hours to become

also recommend the most appropriate

rainfast, Baton needs 6 hours.

choice of herbicide, application method

• Comply with local regulations for phenoxy herbicide application.

For optimal results:

Some regions (e.g. Northland)

• Spray when there has been full

specify certain time periods

germination of the target weeds. • Graze the paddock before spray

for these products.

(good chemical coverage is

For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at

essential for best results). Allow 2 to

your local Farmlands store.

to ensure the weeds are exposed

3 days for growth to freshen, then apply the appropriate herbicide. • Remember that weeds must be actively growing – if they are not, the

®Agritone 750, Baton 800WSG and Conquest are registered trademarks of Nufarm Australia Limited. ®Relay Super S, Sprinter 700DS and are registered trademarks of Nufarm Limited. Article supplied by Nufarm.

THE FARMLANDER | 41

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

WITH

Win your share of $50,000 in prizes. Just buy yourself a pair of John Bull boots this month and you could win Simmons Mag Wheel sets, Tool Boxes, Petrol Vouchers and John Bull Prize packs.* Head to your local Farmlands store today.

Boot up, scratch away, win big! *Mags and toolkit depicted are not representative of the prize. Full terms and conditions available at www.johnbull.co.nz

42 | THE FARMLANDER JB_HTR19_210x275_Ad_V2indd.indd 1

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26/2/19 11:09 pm

1:09 pm

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT

Technology key for successful calf rearing For Ivan Knauf, owner of Wairua Dairies in Hawke’s Bay, technology is crucial to ensure he and his team are running the most efficient operation possible.

“We sell them at 100kg and get

Located at Maraekakaho, Wairua Dairies is a large dairy, dairy support and beef rearing property, which rears up to 1,400 calves a year. The calves are weighed every 10 days from 12 weeks old until they reach 100kg, when they are ready for selling on.

“It also helps us monitor the animal.

Ivan says tracking the growth is extremely important for selling his beef calves at the optimum time.

target weights at calving.

paid for that weight. Buyers don’t want 90kg animals and there are no bonuses for heavier animals, just extra rearing costs,” he explains. We can see if there is a problem happening with their feeding or health.” Ivan says heifer replacements are weighed monthly to monitor growth rates and feeding is adjusted so they reach or exceed industry Because tracking growth is vital for the business, Wairua Dairies uses a range

of technology from Tru-Test. Tru-Test has hardware and software solutions that make weighing and EID easy, which can add value to the bottom line of any operation – as well as ensuring your business meets compliance obligations and has herd traceability. Wairua Dairies uses weighing and auto-drafting in the milking shed and platforms and loadbars in the cattle yards, which all link to the MiHub Livestock Management system. The cloud-based MiHub system helps record, track weight growth and manage herd genetics. Free with the purchase of a Tru-Test 5000 series indicator, MiHub gives a graphical snapshot of animals’ weights and helps identify trends. Wairua Dairies also uses the EID stick reader for NAIT compliance. Ivan says they use it on Bluetooth in the field, so that tag information can be loaded directly to the monitor. “The wand can be used anywhere around the yard or on the property to read an animal’s tag,” he says. “It is efficient, especially when dealing with the numbers and range of stock classes we’re dealing with. For efficiency, having this technology on-board is just absolutely critical.” Tru-Test has recently updated the Data Link app, making it easier for farmers to move EID session data to both MiHub and their NAIT account. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Tru-Test.

| The calves are weighed every 10 days from 12 weeks old until they reach 100kg, when they are ready for selling on.

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THE FARMLANDER | 43

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44 | THE FARMLANDER

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DAIRY MANAGEMENT

Putting your trust in the system When it comes to cow health, there is a new tool in the toolkit for Matamata farmers Ivan and Christine Knyvett.

that most of them were on heat due to

In September last year they installed a monitoring system and applied collars to their 315 dairy cows. They admit that 6 months on, they are still learning how to interpret the data gathered by the monitoring system but they say it has been a great investment for the business. The Knyvetts have owned their 108ha property since 1984 and like many in the area, they have grown in cow numbers and farm size by taking opportunities along the way.

more important to the Knyvetts and

The desire for a monitoring system stemmed from an experience with a previous employee. “We had a young guy working for us and he wasn’t confident. He was capable enough but he didn’t believe in himself,” Christine explains. Due to events happening off-farm, Christine was unable to be there with him the whole time, so they needed an extra aid during mating. They tried a few options, including heat patches and a standing heat detector. The concept was great but the results were not – a large amount of false positives and lots of time spent cleaning up patches. This resulted in the decision to invest in a more in-depth monitoring system and the ruminationbased system from Allflex was the preferred option. “It tells a much better picture about what is going on. I can think of an example where the cows did an increased amount of walking due to a power cut one day. A straight pedometer system would have said

drafted them out of the herd and

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abnormal activity,” Christine explains. Heat detection is only one benefit of the system. The health side is much having the ability to monitor each individual cow is the big benefit. “The human eye is far too slow, a sick cow can easily loose herself in the herd and you may not spot her until she starts to become really unwell.” Within days of the data coming through, two cows appeared on the health report. Ivan and Christine were scratching their heads, as the cows visually looked fine. However, they

| The ability to monitor each individual cow is a big benefit.

within 24 hours they were down. “This

to make decisions about who to mate

was a great learning point for us, the

and who to leave until the next day.

system had detected health issues well

Christine was comfortable that they

before we could see it. Going forward,

had made the correct call by trusting

we can be very proactive on treating

the system. This trust has now flowed

them and avoid them going down.”

on to pregnancy testing and after

When the collars were first applied, it

doing the initial 6 week scan, the

took about a week for the Knyvetts to

approach they are taking is to trust

understand the data that was coming

the system in regards to empty cows

through the system. They have a

and then run a check in due course.

blanket rule on their farm, which is

Their mating process is artificial

“whoever gets the cows from the

insemination, bulls and then a follow

paddock, has to pick the cows that are on heat”, so they can have a group in their head and then pull the list from the collars. Initially there was some confusion as to why the list didn’t match the cows that were picked. It then became apparent that because the Knyvetts only inseminated once a day, some cows were just entering their heat and the perfect window for insemination was still to come. This difference gave them the confidence

up with short gestation semen. “We are very happy with the system 6 months in and we are really looking forward to completing a season – and tapping into all the benefits through the spring next season.” For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Allflex.

THE FARMLANDER | 45

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Round the Farm

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46 | THE FARMLANDER

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HORTICULTURE

Going for gold Kiwifruit growers are continuously striving for the highest quality fruit – and better knowledge on nutrient inputs, combined with current best practice orchard management, will help them on their quest. Grower-driven research currently underway into optimal nutrient inputs for the new Gold3 kiwifruit variety will also contribute to the ongoing viability of the kiwifruit industry, both locally and internationally. Funding from Ballance Agri-Nutrients and Zespri is helping Massey University PhD student Marya Hashmatt research nutrient inputs for producing high quality Gold3 kiwifruit. Fruit dry matter concentration at eating stage is the main indicator of kiwifruit quality, and the research is focused on optimising the balance between vegetative growth and fruit quality. The research is looking at the roles and interaction of nitrogen, potassium and calcium, and how this affects water uptake, fruit dry matter concentration and source-sink relationships. The research involves multi-season field trials at two locations to explore different nutritional inputs for optimal Gold3 productivity. It is thought that the

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application of potassium during fruit developmental stages may increase minerals and photosynthates in fruit.

“The ‘leaky pipes’ need pruning

The research came about when an onorchard brainstorming group identified plant nutrition as a key knowledge gap for optimising inputs and productivity. The group drew attention to the fact that different varieties would most likely require different inputs and that no research had been conducted on the new Gold3 variety.

by mature leaves to the growth

Ballance Agri-Nutrients Horticulture and Arable Specialist, Dusty Hulley, says the research will complement existing best managements practices.

• Remove erect water shoots

“To grow large fruit with high dry matter concentration and maximise return, you need the right balance between vegetative and reproductive growth – and both orchard management and nutritional inputs play a part in achieving this balance,” Dusty says. “Photosynthesising tissues such as mature leaves produce dry matter, while roots, shoots and immature leaves and fruits compete for dry matter.” He points to the “leaky pipes” analogy management practice created by the well-respected kiwifruit pioneer, Mike Muller.

as soon as possible so the vine doesn’t lose dry matter produced of unwanted shoots.” Removing “leaky pipes” involves the following:

• Remove unfruited shoots that are not required for next season, making sure the plant is not too crowded. to two or more buds. These are not required because of their erect growth habit. This will retain a growing point for replacement canes or spur wood. • Shorten any shoots starting to curl and tangle. Outcomes of the research into optimal nutrient inputs for the new Gold3 kiwifruit will be available when the PhD is completed. For more information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Ballance Agri-Nutrients.

THE FARMLANDER | 47

e h t o t Get in g

FAR_08855

swin s g n i of th this season

48 | THE FARMLANDER

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HORTICULTURE

Purchase $7,500 of Eurosteel and/or Gallagher fencing products this autumn and receive a set of Wilson HDX golf clubs.*

Get the job done and improve your game at Farmlands! * While stocks last. Terms and Conditions apply. See www.farmlands.co.nz for full details.

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THE FARMLANDER | 49

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To view these offers and more, check out the latest BCD catalogue at www.farmlands.co.nz/bigcarddeals Pricing is exclusive to Farmlands shareholders when transacting on your Farmlands Card. All prices are GST exclusive and subject to stock availability. Pricing is inclusive of all rebates and discounts. Prices are valid until 31st May 2019. For full Terms and Conditions visit www.farmlands.co.nz/bigcarddeals

50 | THE FARMLANDER

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RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Fencing further with less Fencing for sheep and beef farmers can be labour intensive and a large capital investment – and a permanent electric fence is not always seen as a viable option. However, electric fence droppers bring some practical and cost effective savings to fence systems that will enhance farmers’ ability to keep stock where they need to be. Electric fence droppers help to maintain the wire spacing in an electric fence set up. They maintain sufficient tension in the wire to stop even the most determined livestock creating a gap. Electric fence droppers also help take some of the cost out of a system by reducing the number of posts required in a fence line. Electric fence droppers only require a screwdriver to draw them over the fence wire, so are extremely fast to install, saving more precious labour time. They have wire attachment points, which are all electrically isolated by high strength, glass filled polypropylene insulators.

| Electric fence droppers help to maintain the wire spacing in an electric fence set up.

Experienced fencer and Gallagher Key Account Manager, Kevin Marquand, says Gallagher has been working with sheep and beef farmers to create a complete electric fencing system.

“Our Research and Development team went out on-farm and looked at how sheep and beef farmers were setting up their fencing systems and most importantly what they wanted to achieve,” Kevin says. “What they found was many sheep farmers wanted to implement a more intensive rotational grazing system but lacked the fencing infrastructure and saw it being cost prohibitive.”

The simple practicality of Gallagher’s Insulated Line Posts has been enhanced with the release of Electric Fence Droppers, designed to integrate with the line post system, or any five or six wire electric fence structure.

Having recently released the Insulated Line Post, Gallagher sought to enhance this electric fencing system to further reduce capital and labour. The addition of the electric fence droppers achieved this.

Like most Gallagher innovations, the electric fence droppers have come from working closely with farmers, identifying simple solutions to everyday challenges that farmers face.

“Usually with a standard five wire fence you would expect to have a post every 4 metres or so. By adding three droppers between each post you only need one every

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12 metres. This is a significant saving in materials and labour.” Kevin says the droppers are compatible with most multi-wire electric fence systems including steel posts, wood posts and the early Insultimber system. Farmers are finding the Insulated Line Post and Electric Fence Dropper system ideal for installing fence lines in hard to access areas like gullies and riparian strips, due to their light and easily erected design. “The system will also prove popular in areas such as hill country, as no machinery is required to install either the line posts or droppers,” Kevin says. For further information, contact your Farmlands Technical Field Officer or the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. Article supplied by Gallagher.

THE FARMLANDER | 51

RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

52 | THE FARMLANDER

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RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Beware of the beech mast due to hit this autumn Rodent numbers are expected to explode this autumn, with high levels of beech trees flowering and producing large quantities of seeds (mast). Masts are a climate phenomenon triggered by a summer that is warmer than the previous one and 2019 is predicted to be a big season. Beech tree seeds provide a food source for rats and mice and this abundance of food will result in a significant increase in rodent numbers. Stoat numbers are expected to increase too, as rodents are one of their primary food sources. The increased numbers of rodents and stoats places our native wildlife at significant risk. The problem can easily escalate once the beech mast finishes – as a diminishing food source means rodents then become predators, eating birds, lizards, eggs and chicks. Experts are indicating this coming season will see elevated flowering and fruiting in our forests, causing more pressure on our wildlife. There is a need for increased pest control during beech mast and Bell-Booth encourages land owners to form a baiting strategy to help reduce the threat to our wildlife.

| The increased numbers of rodents and stoats places our native wildlife at significant risk.

Controlling rodent numbers with a proactive pest control programme will help to reduce the number of predators on our farms, around bush lines and in other native areas. Follow these basic tips when carrying out your pest control programme to ensure you get maximum benefit at minimum cost: • Choose the right product for the job and seek advice if required. For example, PestOff Rodent Blocks and Pellets applied in bait stations (Dead Rat Café, Dirty Rat Motel or the Departure Lounge) will provide a potent solution to rodent problems. • Anticipate the problem rather than reacting to it. Preventative pest control is always cheaper, easier and more effective than remedial work.

and freshly made, so will provide a single feed, lethal dose. • Follow label directions. This will improve results and minimise the risk to non-target animals. • Replenish baits when they are consumed by pests and offer a generous amount of bait. • Manage pest immigration by establishing and maintaining control buffer zones. • Also use bait stations such as the Dead Rat Café to ensure bait remains fresh and dry. Bait stations also prevent access by non-target species. Controlling the pests that thrive during a beech mast will go a long way towards addressing the problems, allowing land owners to do their part to help our native wildlife flourish in their habitat.

control measure at the same time.

For further information, contact the friendly team at your local Farmlands store.

PestOff bait is highly palatable

Article supplied by Bell-Booth.

• Expose all of the pests to the

| PestOff Rodent Blocks and Pellets applied in the Dead Rat Café bait station are a potent solution.

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THE FARMLANDER | 53

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54 | THE FARMLANDER

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RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Put a spring in your step this season Here is a question – what do ancient Greece and 21st century farm workwear have in common? The answer might surprise you. It is a windlass, an apparatus first

The windlass mechanism inspired

is a good fit. That’s what it is designed

the unique innersole found in all

for and that’s what will give you the

Quatro boots, including the original

best performance and comfort.”

Insulated Knee-high Boot, Light

He recommends partnering the

Boot and Insulated Safety Boot.

boot with its own lightweight Quatro

invented by Archimedes of Syracuse

However, as Skellerup National

sock, ergonomically designed and

to lift heavy weights. These days, the

Manager Perry Davis points out, the innersole is not the only

featuring an Elastic Support System

“windlass effect” or the “windlass mechanism” is a theory based on

thing that sets Quatro apart.

this apparatus that is used world-

He says the biggest and most

wide by sports scientists, doctors,

important difference between it and

podiatrists and others who have a close

traditional gumboots is the fit.

interest in the way we walk and run.

“We’ve combined a foot-bed

The windlass mechanism describes

customised for the width and depth

how the plantar fascia supports

of Kiwi feet with a narrow ankle and

the foot during weight-bearing

leg, so that the boot wraps around

activities and provides information

farmers’ feet and ankles more securely.

regarding the biomechanical stresses

This prevents heel slip, improves ankle

placed on the plantar fascia .

support, helps retain warmth and

and extra protection on top of the foot.

Basically, it is all to do with the way the

makes the boot more comfortable.”

“Together the sock and the boot

heel and toe work together to literally

So, not your traditional “sloppy”

provide the ideal balance between

give us a spring in our step. This is

gumboot fit? “No – and that’s a really

practicality, comfort and warmth.”

something the footwear designers at

important point, which needs to be

Perry says improvements and

Skellerup paid close attention to when

taken into consideration when deciding

development continue with

they started developing the Quatro,

which is the right size Quatro for you,”

the Quatro range to make a

New Zealand’s first insulated gumboot.

Perry explains. “With Quatro, a snug fit

good concept even better.

(ESS) to lock the sock to the foot and stop it from riding down. Merino wool provides natural comfort, softness and warmth while strategically placed ventilation ribs control moisture and temperature. Quatro socks are now constructed for the left and right feet, which gives improved anatomical fit. They also come with double density cushioning

“We’ve just launched the latest member of the family, Quatro Safety Non-Insulated.” Like its predecessors, the newest Quatro is built tough for New Zealand conditions, including sunshine and UV levels that are the harshest in the world. For further information, talk to the friendly team at your local Farmlands store. 1.Bolgla, L. A., and Malone, T. R. (2004). Plantar fasciitis and the windlass mechanism: A biomechanical link to clinical practice. Journal of Athletic Training, 39(1), 77-82. Article supplied by Skellerup. | Figure 1: Anatomy of the plantar fascia and the windlass mechanism.

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THE FARMLANDER | 55

We’ve got your fuel covered on the farm. Operating out of 11 ports, Farmlands Fuel is New Zealand’s leading independent rural fuel supplier offering nationwide coverage, technical advice, loaned fuel tanks and everything in between to keep you moving.

For more information, please call the team on 0800 666 626 or email fuelaccountmanagement@farmlands.co.nz

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Your complete fuel solution on and off the farm. Your fuel to keep you moving. 56 | THE FARMLANDER

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HEALTH AND SAFETY

Planning for safe use of agrichemicals As we head into autumn, application of agrichemicals will be getting underway. Whether it is applying nitrogen or spraying pastures, advanced risk assessment and safety planning is essential. “Farmers use a wide range of chemicals in their daily work to increase productivity and grow high quality produce,” Agriculture Lead for WorkSafe, Al McCone says. “Many of these are dangerous to people, animals and the environment.

Chemicals and fuels can cause serious, long-term health damage if you breathe them in, get them in your mouth, on your skin or in cuts.” Health effects can include skin rashes, asthma and long-term damage to your nervous system. Some farm chemicals can cause cancer. Every year, an estimated 600-900 people die in New Zealand from work-related health issues and a further 5,000-6,000 are hospitalised with cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other chronic illnesses from workplace exposure to airborne contaminants. “Effects of exposure may not be visible for days, weeks, months or even decades,” Al says. “Farmers need to ensure everyone who will be applying agrichemicals is fully trained regarding the hazards and individual measures they need to take to keep themselves and others safe.” Al explains that no matter how familiar you are with a product, you should take a few minutes to refresh your memory around the specific risks and usage requirements by reading the product labels and Safety Data Sheet (SDS). Employers are required to provide the correct safety gear, for themselves and their workers. Planning ahead will also ensure everyone has the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) for the substances and planned task. “It’s going to be frustrating to schedule a job and find on the morning that your PPE isn’t up to scratch,” Al says. “The last thing you want is someone cutting corners and pressing ahead without the correct PPE – putting their

health at risk. So take a few minutes ahead of the job, to check what PPE you need for that product and that it’s up to the job. Does anything need replacing, are respirators calibrated or needing new filters or cartridges?” Safety gear will depend on the product you are using and the job you are doing – your SDS will tell you what is required. You may need different PPE for mixing, handling, applying, cleaning application equipment and cleaning spills. Planning ahead should also include the steps you are going to take to safeguard others who might be in the area. Let others who will be using the farm know (and neighbours if required) and have suitable signage, to flag up areas. Once you have finished using farm chemicals for the day, you should clean safety gear and store it securely. Wash your hands, arms and face, especially before eating, drinking, smoking or going to the toilet. Remove the clothes you were working in, have a shower or bath, with soap and water, shampoo your hair and put on clean clothes. Wash your work clothes separately from other clothes. If you’re disposing of empty chemical containers, it is a good idea to rinse them three times and take the containers to the nearest Agrecovery collection point. For further details, visit www.worksafe.govt.nz and download the guide to Working Safely with Chemicals and Fuels on Farms. Article supplied by WorkSafe.

| Safety planning and risk assessment for the application of agrichemicals is essential.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 57

Fire safety for rural living There are many benefits to living in the country, however, you will have a higher risk of fire than city dwellers.

• Landscaping: Keep the grass near your home green and mown. Select more fire-resistant plants and trees.

If a fire does start, emergency services could take longer to reach you due to the greater travel distances that may be involved. Water supplies may also be more limited than in urban areas. It’s important to understand the fire risks of rural living and take actions to minimise them.

• Home maintenance: Fires can start when embers get on your roof and under your house. Clean your gutters and make sure there is nothing flammable beneath the house.

Follow these tips to help protect your rural property from fire. • Smoke alarms: Install longlife photoelectric smoke alarms and test them every month. • Escape plan: Design an escape plan for you and your family to get out of the house and off the property. Practice it regularly. • Access: Make sure your driveway clearance is at least 4 metres wide and 4 meters high. Ensure there is adequate turning space for fire trucks and easy access to water.

• Signs: Make it easy for emergency services to find you by making sure your RAPID rural property identification number is on your signpost and clearly visible from the road. • Fire extinguishers: Install dry powder extinguishers near heat and fuel sources in your home and out buildings. • Sprinklers: Sprinklers are the fastest way to put out a fire. Consider installing a sprinkler system in your home. Modern sprinklers can be easily installed by a plumber and are less expensive than you might think.

• Water source: Ensure there is access to an adequate supply of water for fire trucks. Your garden hose should be connected and long enough to reach around the house. • Firewood: Store your firewood and other flammable material away from the house. • Fuel: Safely handle and store liquid fuels and gas. • Machinery: Make sure your machinery and equipment is properly maintained and in good working order. Check there are no birds’ nests in or around your machinery – they are a common cause of machinery fires. • Ash: Dispose of ash in a metal container or wet down with water. Ashes can stay hot enough to start a fire for up to 5 days. Create safety zones around your home Homes located near trees, scrub or dry grass can be at risk of wildfire during times of extreme fire danger. Embers can travel up to 2 kilometres ahead of a wildfire. Reduce the risk of embers starting a fire by establishing and maintaining two safety zones around your home. Zone 1 extends to 10 metres on all sides of your house – this should be a fire-resistant zone, free of all materials that could easily ignite from a wildfire. In this zone, use irrigated lawn and low-growing, fire-resistant plants, avoid tall trees close to the house and remove flammable debris like twigs and leaf litter. Reducing fuels and using “fire-safe” landscaping practices is particularly important in this zone.

| Homes located near dry grass can be at risk of wildfire during times of extreme fire danger.

58 | THE FARMLANDER

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Remove dead or dying trees

Store firewood at least 10 metres from house

10m Zone 1

10-30m Zone 2

Thin out the smaller trees Prune large trees and remove all branches within 2 metres of the ground

Remove overhanging branches near power lines

Zone 2 extends from 10 to 30 metres

Fire-resistant plants aren’t fireproof

around your home. In this zone, remove

but they do not readily ignite. Fire-

scrub and dead or dying plants and

resistant plants typically have

trees to eliminate the hazard of surface

moist, supple leaves, watery sap

fuels. It is also helpful to thin excess

that doesn’t have a strong odour

trees and evenly space remaining

and low levels of sap or resin. Dead

trees so they aren’t touching.

wood and dry, dead material doesn’t

Landscaping for fire safety

accumulate within these types of

Your landscaping choices and

plants. Most deciduous trees and

maintenance practices can influence

shrubs are fire-resistant, including

the chance of your home being

poplar, maple, ash, birch and willow.

damaged or destroyed by fire.

Highly flammable plants typically

Most homeowners want to create a

contain fine, dry, or dead material

landscape that complements their

within the plant, such as twigs, needles

home and has variations in colour,

and leaves. They can have aromatic

texture, flowers and foliage. When

leaves, gummy, resinous sap that has

selecting plants, you should also

a strong odour and loose or papery

consider the flammability of plants,

bark. Their leaves, twigs and stems

particularly if your home is located

can contain volatile waxes, terpenes

near a forest or dense bush.

or oils. Conifers – trees with cones

You can minimise or reduce fire hazard

and needles – are highly flammable

around your home by using fireresistant plants in your safety zones. Equally important is where you plant,

and should not be within 10 metres of your home. Other species to avoid in your safety zone include manuka,

• Open fire season You can light a fire in open air without a permit if you can do so safely and Fire and Emergency hasn’t prohibited lighting open air fires at your location. Open fire seasons do not apply to Public Conservation Lands. • Restricted fire season During a restricted season, lighting open air fires is riskier than during an open season, so you will need a fire permit from Fire and Emergency. Your fire permit will include specific conditions to help you light your proposed fire safely and prevent it from getting out of control and spreading. During a restricted season, you’ll need a permit to light campfires, bonfires and various types of agricultural burns. There are year-round fire restrictions on Public Conservation Lands and other lands where the Department of Conservation has fire obligations. • Prohibited fire season Lighting any fires in the open is banned. Fires are more likely to burn out of control and damage vegetation and property, or cause loss of life. Fire permits are only available in limited circumstances. If you have a permit, you must also comply with your local authority requirements such as smoke nuisance and regional council burning restrictions. Remember, you’re responsible for any fire you light – including campfires, cooking fires, braziers, rubbish fires and controlled burns. A fire permit doesn’t absolve you of your responsibility. Make sure you carry the appropriate insurance for accidental and open fires.

how plants are spaced and ongoing

kanuka, eucalyptus and blue gum.

maintenance. When done correctly, you

Fire seasons and permits

can create a fuel break and help protect

There are three fire seasons

For further information regarding fire safety at your rural property, visit www.fireandemergency.nz

your home by blocking intense heat.

you should be aware of:

Article supplied by Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 59

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CO-OPERATIVE NEWS

Farm businesses encouraged to join RMPP Action Groups More than 960 farm businesses have joined the Red Meat Profit Partnership (RMPP) Action Network programme and are benefitting from working with experts, trained facilitators and fellow farmers with shared goals.

alongside drawing on other relevant

Now RMPP is encouraging other farm

increased productivity and profitability.

businesses to seize the opportunity.

Strong facilitation is critical to

Action Groups are farmer-led and

successfully run groups. A common

supported by trained facilitators –

focus with structured approaches

drawn from across the spectrum

and the kick-start funding for each

of rural professionals – to guide a

business are also key factors.”

group and help identify experts who

Nadine Moore, who farms Friesian bulls

can share new knowledge and ideas

with her husband and parents on 500ha

needed to achieve their goals.

at Pararoa and Pouto, is a member of

Each group is made up of seven to nine

a Northland Action Group, which is

farm businesses and receives $4,000

made up of nine farm businesses.

kick-start funding for each business.

She says the facilitation is hugely

This is pooled for the group to pay

helpful in enabling the group to

for facilitation and input from leading

bond and work towards shared

experts on their topics of choice.

goals, while the funding provides

Brendon Patchett, Project Manager for

“access to fantastic expert resources

the RMPP Action Network, says it is

that would cost a lot if we had to

very well-resourced and focussed. “It

access them by ourselves.”

takes a small group-based approach

Nadine’s Action Group has opted to

of farmers learning from other farmers,

focus on regenerative farming and their

knowledge and expertise,” he says. “Combined together in a supportive environment, these factors help farmers increase confidence to act and make changes to their farm business, ultimately leading to

| Brendon Patchett, Project Manager for the RMPP Action Network.

facilitator John King is a specialist in regenerative and holistic farming, with a background in adult education. “John was suggested to our group as a facilitator because his knowledge is well suited to our goals but he is also knowledgeable about his role as facilitator. He is helping our group to mesh. He guides our conversation and finds the best expert speakers, aligning them with our goals,” Nadine says. “We are already learning a lot from the group but it also encourages you to do what you say you are going to do. We are all in the same boat together and the ongoing support creates confidence to make long-term change – it isn’t just ‘presented’ to us by experts, with no follow-up. Action Groups put farmers at the centre and you get to look at the topics of your choice.” RMPP began rolling out the RMPP Action Network late in 2017, with a goal of establishing 300 Action Groups. For further details, visit www.actionnetwork.co.nz or call 0800 733 632.

| Action Groups are farmer-led and supported by trained facilitators.

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THE FARMLANDER | 63

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64 | THE FARMLANDER

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The New Zealand Century Farm and Station Awards aim to capture and preserve the history of our country’s farming families. Each month we will share stories from Farmlands shareholders who have worked their land for 100 years or more.

McCullough family’s farming legacy Since 1866, the McCullough family have farmed Wattle Park in Temuka, Canterbury. Samuel McCullough was born in County Antrim, Ireland in 1824 and appears to have worked his passage to New Zealand on the Captain Cook, arriving in Lyttelton in 1863. His wife, Sarah and four children travelled later, making the 4 month trip on the Eastern Empire and arriving in 1865. This trip cost the family 25 pound 10 shillings and the government 16 pound 10 shillings. Samuel worked around Canterbury in the Selwyn area before moving to Temuka (Rangitira Valley), where he purchased his first 100 acres for the sum of 150 pounds in 1866. This farm reputedly had a paddock of wattle trees, which were flattened in a snow storm, giving the farm its name – Wattle Park. During his lifetime, Samuel went on to increase his land holding and had a total of seven children with Sarah. At the time of his death in 1909, only four of these children remained alive with his wife, Sarah dying in 1908. Samuel’s obituary in the Temuka Leader states that he was one of the “sturdy type” of old settlers who never spared himself and won his success by grit and perseverance. The original house on the property was a two storey house made of white pine, which was replaced due to dry rot in the 1920s with the

| Gilbert McCullough.

existing double brick house that the descendants now reside in. Horses were used for many years, with stables down at the riverbed block to limit the amount of time spent on travelling when working in these paddocks. The farm now runs sheep, cattle and deer but still grows the same winterfeed crops.

| Sheep yards, Wattle Park.

The land area and management has changed over the years with the advent of motorised vehicles, meaning that stock is no longer walked to the local saleyards and the land is farmed more intensively. Emphasis is still very much on the health of the soil and the animals. Blocks of land purchased in Rangitata, Fairlie and Waitohi were sold when necessary, whilst retaining the original blocks as a nucleus. Wattle Park is currently run by Peter McCullough, Samuel’s great-great grandson – and with five children of his own, the farm succession looks secure. | McCullough children – back row Gabrielle, James and Georgina, front row Charlotte and Victoria.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

THE FARMLANDER | 65

REAL ESTATE

Boundary indicative only

Tokomaru | Run-off − finishing block With its handy location, this block could suit a range of farming options. Currently part of a dairy platform, the land area is predominantly flat with slight contour rises and there are some easy sidelings, a dam and small pine plantation. The property is well-tracked with good paddock access and has quality improved pastures. Improvements include a 22 bail Herringbone dairy, hay barn, 1-stand woolshed with calf shed/implement shed extensions, multi-wire electric fencing and good water supply. Ideally suited for those wanting a tidy, well set up and easy-to-run property. Price by negotiation.

66 | THE FARMLANDER

Property ID: PN1126 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Bill Milham Lifestyle / Rural – Palmerston North 027 443 3324 bill.milham@farmlands.co.nz Yvonne Forlong Lifestyle / Rural – Palmerston North 021 456 565 yvonne.forlong@farmlands.co.nz.

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

REAL ESTATE

Boundary indicative only

Palmerston North | Tielcey Park – outstanding equine opportunity Set up to host a wide range of equestrian events, including dressage, show jumping, winter equestrian competitions and ribbon days. The services provided include grazing, livery, riding lessons and facility hire. Facilities include a 70x30m indoor arena, two 50x95m arenas, 32-stable complex, 80 yards, a commercial kitchen and café and large all-weather parking. With winter events in place and continuing local support throughout the year, this property and business offers an unrivalled opportunity for those involved in the equine field. Tender closing 4pm, Thursday 11 April 2019 (unless sold prior).

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

Property ID: PN1125 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Bill Milham Lifestyle / Rural – Palmerston North 027 443 3324 bill.milham@farmlands.co.nz Yvonne Forlong Lifestyle / Rural – Palmerston North 021 456 565 yvonne.forlong@farmlands.co.nz.

THE FARMLANDER | 67

REAL ESTATE

Tinwald | Lifestyle and income – Anthos Gardens • Large greenhouses totaling 1,500m2 supplying flowers to Christchurch market for 30 years – lilies, gypsophila etc. Records available to genuine purchaser. • 1980s, two storey, five bedroom family home. • Christmas tree block and seperate woodlot. • 8 hectares and ADC lease. • Close to town boundary. • Beautiful grounds including native trees, woodlot, spa pool, sheds etc. • Deadline sale closing 1pm, Tuesday 30 April 2019.

Property ID: AS1027 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

Rob Harnett Lifestyle / Rural – Ashburton 0274 323 562 rob.harnett@farmlands.co.nz

Boundary indicative only

Rolleston | Money does grow on trees • 10.4 hectare walnut orchard nearing maturity. • 14 tonnes harvested 2018. • Architectural, eco-friendly home with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and two living areas. • Superb outbuildings with studio over workshop. • Elite Templeton soil – irrigation consent. • Deadline sale closing 2pm, Thursday 16 May 2019.

68 | THE FARMLANDER

Property ID: LN1551 www.farmlandsrealestate.co.nz

John Davison Lifestyle / Rural – Lincoln 027 436 4464 john.davison@farmlands.co.nz Ron Ferguson Lifestyle / Rural – Lincoln 027 498 6256 ron.ferguson@farmlands.co.nz

WWW.FARMLANDS.CO.NZ

REAL ESTATE

Top 10 award winning consultants 1.

Ian Morgan and Glen Murray Matamata

Yvonne Forlong and Bill Milham Manawatu

Tim Falloon Masterton

Ian Moore, Tim Meehan and Neill Dick Waimate

Chris Neilson Timaru

Phil Badger Rotorua

Paul Evan and Mark Johnson Hastings

10.

Julie-Anne Davidson Waimate

Thank you New Zealand, for your support and belief in our Top 10 consultants. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service to all customers and our team is the very best in the industry. Whether it be dairy, sheep, beef, horticulture, lifestyle or residential property, we have the systems and marketing reach to help you achieve the best result.

Ondy Herrick Masterton

Patrick Bowden Balclutha

Congratulations to our Bunnings Spring Promo Winners

Farmlands has a deep understanding and knowledge of New Zealand property. We have been helping provincial New Zealanders for over 50 years. If you or somebody you know is thinking of making a real estate decision, then please contact one of these fantastic professionals today. Thank you for working with our Farmlands Real Estate team. We look forward to helping even more of you in the future.

Management team

Jason Wills General Manager 027 619 9784

Ian Morgan Northern Regional Manager 027 492 5878

Linda Fogarty Canterbury / Top of the South Regional Manager 027 294 4818

Logan Niederer Southern Regional Manager 027 454 4997

If you would like to join our award-winning team, please contact one of the management team for a confidential discussion.

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Congratulations to our winning vendor Marilyn Ward, who was gifted $1,500 by agents Hamish Anderson and Maurice Newell at the Rangiora Bunnings store. Our Canterbury real estate team had six winning vendors â&#x2C6;&#x2019; excellent effort by our busy agents.

THE FARMLANDER | 69

REAL ESTATE

READY F

Family Owned Australian Company Since 1958

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THE FARMLANDER | 71 Family Owned Australian Company Since 1958