Gippsland Farmer August 2021 by gippslandtimes.com

Phone: (03) 5135 4444

August, 2021

Kiel Industries business developer Peter Ceeney said the program provides the opportunity for the Morwell-based company to tackle the challenges it faces in the creation of new products. photograph tom gannon

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN By TOM GANNON

SEVEN food and fibre projects across Gippsland will welcome a major boost as part of the ‘What’s Your Food or Fibre Challenge, Gippsland?’ initiative. The initiative is being delivered by Federation University and Food & Fibre Gippsland with partnership and support provided by Regional Development Victoria, Food Agility CRC, Food Innovation Australia Limited, Latrobe Valley Authority, TAFE Gippsland and the Committee for Gippsland. Launched in March, the initiative will help bring innovative ideas across Gippsland to fruition through research and industry expert support. The initiative invited businesses in the

local food and fibre sector to pitch solving the challenges they face could grow their business and the industry as a whole. Successful applicants include Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation, Bulmer Farms, Kiel Industries, Ingram Wild Caught Fisheries, Gurneys Cider, South Gippsland Dairy and Gippsland Jersey. These organisations will receive comprehensive research and innovation support, funding and collaboration from experts and leaders in academia, business, science and the food and fibre industry. The outcomes of each project has the potential to transform food and fibre in Gippsland by creating new possibilities for the industry. Lakes Entrance’s Gippsland Jersey

co-founder Sallie Jones told Gippsland Farmer that the business’s inclusion in the program will help facilitate the expansion of infrastructure as the business continues to grow. “Our little milk brand is getting bigger by the day and is growing at a pace that we will need a bigger factory within the next two years,” she said. Gippsland Jersey are working to develop a feasibility study into the creation of the ‘dairy factory of the future’, a centrally located, all-inclusive dairy manufacturing plant for Gippsland Jersey that will enable supply chain efficiencies. Ms Jones believes the program will go a long way in helping the business overcome the challenges it faces.

“There’s so much to address, analyse and table before we even think about milk going into bottles - and being part of this challenge is going to give us access to a range of expertise that we’re hoping can help our expansion dream get one step closer to reality,” she said. She also highlighted the importance of programs such as this to facilitate growth within Gippsland’s food and fibre industry, which according to the 2019 KPMG report ‘Accelerating growth for the Gippsland food and fibre industry’ contributes $7 billion worth of Gippsland’s $116 billion gross regional product. Continued on page 4

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Radial to strengthen fresh avenues By PHILIP HOPKINS

YARRAM’S Radial Timber is looking to move into producing a high-strength structural timber product, Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL), from pine plantations and possibly process native forest ‘thinnings’ despite the planned closure of Victoria’s native forest industry by 2030. Radial aims to leverage its special ability to process small-diameter timber for a variety of uses. Managing director Chris McEvoy set out his hopes during a presentation to a webinar ‘Victoria’s Production Forests – a way forward’, hosted by the Institute of Foresters/Australian Forest Growers. Radial, which sources wood from VicForests, is in transition to process timber from its durable plantation hardwood species, using its radial technology that cuts timber in wedges like a cake. Mr McEvoy said radial sawing of small diameter logs, ‘thinnings’ and difficult timber was able to deal with growth stresses and create more timber that was also stabile. “Our ideal log size is 30-40cm, but we can process down to 25cm,” he said. Mr McEvoy said Radial’s oldest plantation was 16 years old, but with further plantings, the company by 2030 would still be “five-to-ten years short” of being totally self-sufficient in timber. However, he had not given up on native forests despite the 2030 ban. “I still think things will come out of that, or fire control for forest management - small diameter 12-25cm, small material that you can value-add,” he said. The Executive Director, Forest and Fibre in the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions Nathan Trushell, told the webinar that post-2030, timber would come from

Yarram’s Radial Timber, pictured here with Victorian Governor Linda Dessau earlier this year, is looking to move into producing a high-strength structural timber product, Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL), from pine plantations and possibly process native forest ‘thinnings’ despite the planned closure of Victoria’s native forest industry by 2030.

management of the forest, such as thinning, roadside management and firebreaks. Small volumes would be available, he said, but “the broader forest management future is a matter for DELWP” (Department of the Environment, Land, Water and Planning). Radial has received a $397,000 state grant to introduce a small log line and experiment with processing plantation timber. Mr McEvoy said this would allow the business to target farm forestry species such as spotted gum or yellow stringybark, but not in commercial volumes. “We will look at look at the grain, recovery

and finished products, to get a better understanding, when our trees are mature, to know how they will perform,” he said. A second project would pay for a survey in Victoria to see how Radial could supplement its resource until its trees matured. “We need more wood fibre. Private forestry has not been looked at for some time and some agroforestry. We’ll see what’s around,” he said. Mr McEvoy said the returns on thinning often did not cover the costs, but the small log line would take thinnings from plantations closer to the mill. The worst would go

to firewood, but the better would be peeled down to heartwood for use as organic fence posts or vineyards. “We are confident we can get organic non-treated posts to get good re turns from thinnings,” he said. Mr McEvoy said the company would put in its own money to build an LVL line to produce structural LVL. “This will be only the second LVL plant in Australia; there is a large one in Western Australia. We will be a boutique plant to supply structural LVL in shorter lengths for the construction market, which is crying out for material,” he said. Also, Radial was close to establishing a bioenergy plant, a pyrolysis plant, to create heat and energy and valuable products biochar, wood vinegar, biodiesel. “With thinnings, sawdust and shavings, we have a lot of wood fibre on site. We can start to become closed loop. The circular economy is a dream of mine, to be a benchmark for the future of the industry – something else quite exciting,” he said. Radial Timber, only processing 12,000 cubic metres a year, was small, “not a mover and shaker”. “But we are lucky we can move and change to moving markets very quickly. I’m not happy about the 2030 decision, but it forces people to think differently. There is a lot of doom and gloom, but it’s important to get trees in the ground. They take 30-35 years to grow. Every year that goes past is another year lost,” he said. “I can’t believe Australia, with so much land and so much technical knowledge, has been too long an importer of timber, particularly structural timber and LVL. It’s about time we were more independent and supply our own resource. We have the land, capability and knowledge.”

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Yinnar dairy farmer James LInn welcomes the help from BlazeAid volunteers Ray Esler and Mohsen Ako to rebuilt his flood-ravaged fences. photograph michelle slater

BlazeAid team is being kept busy By MICHELLE SLATER

FARMING charity BlazeAid expects to be in the region until the end of the year helping property owners recover from the the magnitude of the June storm damage within the Latrobe City area. The most recent spate of COVID lockdowns put a halt on the local volunteer effort, with a smattering returning to the Yinnar recreation reserve base camp last week. BlazeAid Yinnar camp coordinator Luke van der Meulen was on the ground after the district was ravaged by the 2019 bushfires. Back then, there were 30 properties listed for help rebuilding fences. Mr van der Meulen said this time they had 158 properties on the books within the Latrobe City boundary and another 10 in South Gippsland. “It’s a much bigger job than last time and this time we are working into the depth of winter,” Mr van der Meulen said. “Given the amount of properties we have, we hope to get a lot of units out every day to get the jobs behind us. This will be a big fix.”

Mr van der Meulen said much of the work entailed removing fallen trees from infrastructure and fixing damaged fences from flooding and savage storms. He said they were on the hunt to borrow four-wheel drive tractors to access wet paddocks or small excavators to tackle the jobs at hand. “In some places, it’s acres and acres of huge trees that have come down. It’s like pick up sticks with tree upon tree uprooted,” he said. Mr van der Meulen said he expected about 20 volunteers to return to base camp once further COVID restrictions had eased, and encouraged locals to jump aboard. He said previous to the July lockdowns, many of the volunteers had come from all over Victoria, with some coming from South Australia. “There are regulars who will spend a week with us and we also have plenty of newbies, a lot of people come without skills, we teach each other and we mix skilled and unskilled groups,” he said. To volunteer, donate machinery, supplies, or to billet volunteers, email yinnar.blazeaid@gmail.com.

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Initiative boosts industry innovation Continued from page 1

“Programs like this are so important for regions like Gippsland to help our food and fibre sector continue to grow and compete in national and international markets,” she said. “Sometimes problems and challenges are just too big for one business to tackle on their own.” Morwell’s Kiel Industries are a rotational moulding business and create products like plastic pallets and bins, however the business has its sights set on manufacturing sustainable bin liners which keep liquid in, are more durable against sharp objects and can be ergonomically folded down so producers get more value out of freight. Kiel Industries business development manager Peter Ceeney said the program provides the opportunity for the business to tackle the challenges it faces in the creation of the bin liners. “It’s a good opportunity for us to solve a problem that we were stumbling to do with our own resources,” he said. “We’ve got to find a product that is thick enough, flexible enough, something we can reuse so there’s an end of life option for it and it fits the bill for what the customer requires and is something we can rotationally mould and do here, not something we need to go overseas to source.” Despite the final product likely being a few years away, Mr Ceeney is thrilled the business has been given the opportunity to take important first steps to having their goal realised. “This is going to get us to that first stage and without that push and resource support its probably something that would sit around and we’d never get around to doing, because we have other things that would be more important, so it makes us actually

ABOVE: Kiel Industries business developer Peter Ceeney said the program provides the opportunity for the Morwell-based company to tackle the challenges it faces in the creation of new products. RIGHT: An example of the plastic bins which the liners will be designed for. main photograph tom gannon

do some research and development and come up with a new and exciting product,” he said. Mr Ceeney is looking forward to the academic support through Federation University and other invaluable resources the program provides, which he said are usually the missing puzzle piece when it comes to developing a new product.

“I think it’s really important, it provides local businesses resources to actually stretch their wings,” he said. “It gives you some specific support and they connect the dots, we know what we want to achieve but we don’t really have the contacts or the network to achieve it, so when you’ve got an over-arching body like that, they extend their networks so now all

of a sudden we are talking to researchers and scientists at Federation University where we wouldn’t even know where or who to ask.”

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THE Environmental Effects Statement process for the proposed Fingerboards mineral sands at Glenaladale mine has attracted community criticism, after the company behind the mine proposed, Kalbar Operations Pty Ltd, applied for a mining licence prior to the EES completion. The appointed Inquiry and Advisory Committee and has only just made its recommendations about the future of the mine project. But Mine-Free Glenaladale representative Debbie Carruthers said the group believed Kalbar’s early applications for a licence was treating the IAC process “with contempt” and put the community under further duress by having to response to the application now. “People have to spend time and emotional energy in writing another submission, which could all be wasted if the Minister for Planning concludes, on environmental grounds, against the project proceeding,” she said. The mining licence application is for an area of 2,148.3 hectares, larger than Kalbar’s retention licence of 1675 hectares specified in their Environment Effects Statement document. “At over 21 square kilometres, this proposed open-cut mine is enormous and is now proposed to be a whopping 27 per cent bigger,” Ms Carruthers said. “No surveys have been conducted on the cultural heritage or biodiversity values of this new area and it will result in some landholders now having their house on the mine footprint.” A mining licence application must be advertised with submissions closing on August 11, 2021. The IAC has until September 16, 2021, to submit its findings and recommendations about the EES to the Planning Minister, with the Minister required to announce his decision within 25 business days of receiving the IAC’s report. The recent application cannot be considered until after the Minister’s decision on the EES.

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Berrys Creek cattle grazer Fergus O’Connor is concerned that the expiry of a moratorium on conventional onshore gas drilling which came into effect recently could expose Gippsland farmland to gas exploration.

Concerns raised

A BERRYS Creek cattle grazer is concerned that the expiry of a moratorium on conventional onshore gas drilling which came into effect recently could expose Gippsland farmland to gas exploration. The state government had put the temporary ban in place in 2014, but the end of the moratorium means parts of the Latrobe Valley and South Gippsland, as well as parts of south-west Victoria could be open for exploration. However, unconventional gas drilling – or “fracking” - remains banned under the state’s constitution. Beef farmer and Coal and Gasfield Free Mirboo North member Fergus O’Connor said it was “hugely disappointing” onshore conventional gas is now being considered. “As farmers, we are dealing with a changing climate on a daily basis and must adapt our farming practices accordingly,” he said. “It is a well-established scientific fact that the burning of fossil fuels contributes to climate change and gas is a fossil fuel.

“It’s imperative that renewable energy takes over from fossil fuels as soon as possible.” Environment group Friends of the Earth will next month launch a new online tool called Drillwatch to help communities track and oppose new gas developments. It comes after world’s leading energy organisation - the International Energy Agency – released a report stating that there should be no new oil, gas fields or coal in order to reach net zero emissions by 2050. Friends of the Earth campaigns coordinator Cam Walker said the state government’s decision reopen the state to gas companies was “bad news” for regional communities, farmers and climate. “It is at odds with climate science, and the government’s own commitments to reduce greenhouse emissions to net zero by 2050,” Mr Walker said. Gippsland Farmer contacted the state government for comment.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

August, 2021

RURAL NEWS

Show’s cancellation is hitting home By MICHELLE SLATER

Vicki Gilbert’s champion bull Rotherwood Qointreau On Ice. photographs supplied

Rotherwood Lowline Stud owner Vicki Gilbert with her champion bull Rotherwood Qointreau On Ice, is devastated this year;s Royal Melbourne Show is cancelled two years on the trot.

and again during WWII between 1940 and 1945. Ms Gilbert was counting her losses after spending months preparing her cattle for the show, with halter training, teaching them to be washed, and months of specialised feeding. She said extra expenses had gone into ordering custom-made show halters and signage to promote her stud, as well as booking accommodation.

“I don’t think people quite realise what goes into it. Because the lowline was to be featured breed this year, we went over the top with it,” she said. “Winning at a royal, you can add another two grand-a-head to the sale price. A couple of our heifers were going to be sold at auction but now they won’t be there and we missed this opportunity.” Ms Gilbert said she was still planning

to prep her prize animals for next year’s show circuit, but would be “very wary” in the wake of statewide lockdowns, border closures and event cancellations. “It puts us off, but not enough to stop me altogether. Showing is very rewarding and is a part of how successful our business is because my animals are proven in the show ring,” she said. Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria is exploring new initiatives and opportunities to showcase rural industries and agricultural producers, despite the show cancellation. RASV president Matt Coleman said the board was disappointed to cancel this year’s show, which he described as “a much-loved major Victorian event to promote excellence in agriculture”. “We felt it important for all those planning to be involved in the event - including exhibitors, competitors, judges, stewards, sponsors and volunteers - that they have certainty so they can make informed decisions in relation to their own arrangements,” Mr Coleman said.

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GIPPSLAND showies are devastated after this year’s Royal Melbourne Show has been cancelled for the second year in a row due to COVID-19 uncertainties. Grand Ridge lowline cattle breeder Vickie Gilbert estimates she has lost several thousands of dollars after spending the past five months preparing 20-head of animals for the September event. Ms Gilbert said she was particularly disappointed as lowline cattle were going to be a featured breed this year and she had missed an opportunity to show off her current crop of junior heifers. The champion showie entered her first Melbourne Royal in 2007 and said she has only missed one year since. Earlier this year, her elite cattle cleaned up the broad sashes at the Canberra and Sydney royals, going on to take out top accolades at the Beef Australia expo in Rockhampton. “It’s gut wrenching. I really wanted to take my team this as it’s a good opportunity to advertise them for export. The Melbourne Royal is quite prestigious and it’s nice to win against the other states on our home ground,” Ms Gilbert said. It comes as 11-day show scheduled to start next month was cancelled due to the pandemic, which disrupted planning and delivering major events, particularly those with large free roaming crowds. The Royal Melbourne Show is Victoria’s largest annual community event, attracting 450,000 visitors each year and contributes more than $244 million in value to the state’s economy annually. It has only been called off on two occasions prior to 2020. First, when the Melbourne Showgrounds was requisitioned for the war effort in 1915

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The Mountain Cattlemen’s Association of Victoria is asking primary schools to help name a new book about bushfires.

An excerpt out of a new book about bushfires, published by the Mountain Cattlemen’s Association of Victoria. photographs supplied

Hey kids, can you help us with a title? THE Mountain Cattlemen’s Association of Victoria is asking primary school kids to help name a new book about bushfire awareness that will be donated to hundreds of schools across the state. The new book being released by the cattlemen’s association tackles the emotional toll of bushfires in in a child-friendly format. The MCAV estimates there will be more than1000 books to donate thanks to a grant from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. MCAV president Bruce McCormack said priority to be given to libraries, schools and kindergartens in towns impacted by the 2019/2020 bushfires. He warned students should be prepared for a realistic look at bushfires and its impact.

“We have tried to create a story that is educational, but realistic,” Mr McCormack said. “It’s about the Mountain Cattlemen – and farmers in general – with their long history with the land, and how that history was impacted by the 2019/2020 bushfires. “There are illustrations picturing dead stock and the mental affects felt by older members in the story, but ultimately it is a story of family connection, love and the continuation of life.” The MCAV has launched a name this book competition, inviting students from across Australia to submit title suggestions to encourage primary schools to get involved with the project. Learning packs will be sent to all shires

impacted by the 2019/2020 bushfires with information on the book, discussion topics, craft activities and how it can be related back to the curriculum. There will also be online content to complement the story, to further help students engage. “But we would also love to hear from educational providers from early childhood to high schools from around Australia,” Mr McCormack said. “We want this book to become an engaging, educational resource and think letting students come up with a name is a great start.” Each student from the class with the winning entry will receive a signed copy of the book.

There will also be an opportunity along to provide a class photo and spiel about the impact bushfire has had on Victoria to be included in the final publication. Mr McCormack will also visit the winning school to read the story aloud. The book is written by journalist and MCAV office manager Rhyll McCormack and illustrated by award-winning artist Timothy Ide of Tom the Outback Mailman fame. For more information on the book and to access online educational resources, visit mcav.com.au. To receive an education learning pack, or submit an entry into the competition, email book@mcav.com.au.

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Big shift ahead says expert SOUTH Gippsland genetics expert Darren Fletcher is predicting a big shift to sexed semen and more beef sires in dairy enterprises as more farmers are moving away from bobby calves. The Leongatha-based new Total Livestock Genetics sales manager predicts that that within the next few years, more than 50 per cent of semen sales were likely to be sexed. “It could even go further than that if we follow the trends in Scandinavia, especially with the Jersey breed where 70 to 80 per cent of farmers are using sexed semen,” he said. “It’s already a hot market and going to get hotter.” Mr Fletcher said the main driver behind sexed semen was the ability to get out of the bobby calf market. “You get heifers earlier and can then incorporate dairy beef to add more value to your business,” he said. While conventional semen will continue to play a role in Australian genetics, Mr Fletcher said more farmers were seeing the benefits of investing in sexed semen. “The price difference will mean some farmers will always use conventional semen but sexed is definitely a good investment. You’re 90 per cent guaranteed a heifer calf,” he said. Mr Fletcher said that health traits were also a strong focus for farmers. “For a long time, the focus was on production but the last five years the AI industry has been big on fertility, health traits and longevity,” he said. Mr Fletcher comes to the role with a strong background in dairy farming and breeding and genetics. The former dairy farm owner has most recently worked as breeding advisor account manager for Viking Genetics. TLG was recently purchased by Genetics

Leongatha-based Total Livestock Genetics sales manager Darren Fletcher is predicting a huge shift to sexed semen. photograph supplied

Australia but continues to operate as a stand-alone business. Mr Fletcher will mostly be responsible for semen sales but also genomic testing and assisting clients with their embryo transfer requirements “I want to make sure we supply a good range of bulls to suit all types of dairy farming,” he said.

“Being a dairy farmer, you tend to have a part of the business that interests you. Some are grass, some are machinery, some are breeding. “I loved the breeding, watching the heifers come through from calves and seeing them raised and joined and then standing in the dairy in front of you.”

Future Drought Fund projects EXPRESSIONS of interest are invited for projects to manage and prepare for the impacts of drought through the Australian Government’s $5 billion Future Drought Fund (FDF). Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said the Drought Resilience Innovation Grants would drive development, extension, adoption and commercialisation of drought resilience practices and technologies. “If we want our Australian farmers – and the communities and businesses that depend on them – to thrive through future droughts, we need new ideas, practices, technologies and ways of doing business,” Minister Littleproud said. “Innovation is critical to our agriculture sector. We are looking for those bright sparks out there with ideas that could transform agricultural practices, technologies and business models to make Australian farmers and communities more resilient to droughts. “If you have a great idea that needs some dollars behind it, then I encourage you to participate in the Future Drought Fund’s Drought Resilience Innovation Grants, which has over $34 million available to support drought resilience innovation projects.” For more information about the FDF Innovation Grants and to apply please visit www.communitygrants.gov.au For more infor mation about the FDF Research and Adoption Program visit: https://www. agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/ drought/future-drought-fund/ research-adoption-program

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

RURAL NEWS

Scholarship’s value continues today By MICHELLE SLATER

FISH Creek dairy farmer Graeme Nicoll has learnt a lot about resilience in his 25 years in the industry. Much of this knowledge was gained from undertaking a Nuffield Scholarship in 2010 where he studied ways to enhance the resilience of high rainfall dairy systems. The experiences continue to influence his operation and his attitude towards agriculture. “If farmers farmed today the same as they did 25 years ago, they probably wouldn’t be profitable,” Mr Nicoll said. “To be a successful farmer, you need to continue to change and evolve.” Graeme and Gillian run a pasture-focused crossbred herd along with dairy beef as a sideline. The 250-hectare property includes the farm where Mr Nicoll grew up. He recently returned to the Dairy Australia Board to fill a casual vacancy after retiring at the last election, and is a former chair of the GippsDairy Board. The Nuffield Scholarship further opened his horizons. His key study areas were cross breeding, pasture management, and farmer learning development. “The opportunity to visit a diverse range of agricultural systems, not just dairy systems, really opened my mind to different concepts and the potential of agriculture,” Graeme said. His investigation into cross breeding exposed a variety of systems in New Zealand, Europe and North America. Mr Nicolls crosses between Holsteins, Jerseys and Red dairy breeds, with Monbéliardes to a small degree. While seeing the systems at work on farms, he also wanted to understand the science behind them and his scholarship

took him to universities, departments of agriculture and research farms. “A lot of my learnings confirmed the practices we already had in place in Victoria,” he said. “The data behind the long-term profitability of three-way crossbreeding systems was strong then and it remains that way today.” He also looked at the science behind resilience, a popular buzz word at the time that continues to appeal to government funding bodies. “I looked at the concept of resilience and how it applies to productive agriculture and is challenged by our inputs and outputs,” he said. “I think we all have a good understanding of what a resilient farm is but it’s a bit like sustainability, it’s a term that’s very hard to tightly define. “For me, the basic concept is the ability to adapt to change and thrive. “We’re constantly adjusting to different pressures, probably more to external pressures now than in the past, but that’s part of the evolution of agriculture.” A decade after his study, Graeme believes Victoria’s dairy farmers remain resilient, adaptive and poised for a strong future. “The dairy industry is a changing environment but there are some really good opportunities,” he said. “The current aggressive opening milk prices show there is strong demand for dairy products from processors, but we’ve got to keep working at it. “To be a successful dairy farmer you have to be resilient and focused on the big picture. “It can be challenging at times but those attributes are what make successful dairy businesses and why we have so many of them in Victoria.”

Fish Creek dairy ryy farmer Graeme Nicoll said undert rtaking t a Nuff ffield f Scholarship helped shape his att ttitude t to agriculture. photograph supplied

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August, 2021

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Feeding Lactating Dairy Cows

AS Gippsland Farmers take a day off to attend the Gippsland Dairy Expo they should, by rights, be at the tail end of spring calving. This is a period of high energy demand for their herds as they transition from foetal development to milk production post- partum. Milk yield at the peak of lactation, seen at approximately two months after calving, sets up potential milk production for the rest of the lactation cycle. It is generally accepted that one extra litre per day at peak lactation can produce an extra 200 litres over the year. However, the caveat with this is that the full response will depend upon balancing rations during mid and late lactation and on ensuring that diet matches the cow’s voluntary feed intake (VFI). At calving, appetite is generally only about 50 to 70 per cent of potential seen at peak VFI. During the dry period at the later stage of foetal development the calf takes up body space, reducing rumen volume. Furthermore, the density and total surface area of the papillae is reduced. Following calving, the rumen takes time to return to its full size as it stretches and the papillae need to regrow. As a consequence, it takes about 10 to 12 weeks for VFI to return to full potential. If feed has a high moisture content, such as fresh forage or pasture, then the rumen cannot hold enough volume to meet the dry matter (DM) requiirementts off the lacttatting cow. Bearing in mind that peak milk production occurs around eight weeks after calving, this restriction in amounts that can be eaten can cause a deficit in energy available for metabolic processes and, of course, milk production. The graph (above right) shows the relationship between VFI, milk yield and live weight for a typical Friesian cow with a 300-day lactation and assuming 12 months between calving. If you work on the basis that feed intake is largely dictated to by the stage of lactation then it stands to reason that managing the quality of the diet is the key to ensuring adequate energy intake. Or, to put it another way, providing a high quality ration negates the restriction caused by a lower VFI.

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

The other factor not touched on at this point, is that, even with a high quality diet, nutritional requirements during the first three months will generally exceed intake, resulting in mobilisation of fat reserves and a reduction in body condition score (BCS). Optimisation is the key here, so careful management means reducing BCS whilst cows increase intake until they reach peak appetite. At this point, energy intake should match requirements and the cow’s bodyweight will stabilise. During mid lactation the energy requirements change as milk production decreases, but foetal development, for in calf cows, and the need to build up body condition presents a different demand equation. It is also generally more cost effective to build up condition when there is availability of home-grown feed.

Furthermore, lactating cows utilise energy more efficiently than dry cows. Gippsland Farmer asked Roger Hazell Ridley’s Regional Sale Manager about the best time to optimise dairy cow rations in order to achieve best production and feed margins. Roger’s simple answer, “for the first twelve months of each year”. Roger grew up on a UK dairy and beef farm before completing a BSc(Hons) in Agriculture. He has experience in the agricultural and veterinary in ndustries based in the UK, New Zealand and Australia. He also ran his own transport business distributing wine out of the Barossa Valley. He brings this experience and business expertise to th he region, aiming to help his customers maximise profitability.

August, 2021

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

RURAL NEWS

Push for upgrade

South Gippsland Shire is applying for a $150,000 state government grant to upgrade the Foster Showgrounds under an Oval Upgrade and Irrigation Project.

SOUTH Gippsland Shire is applying for a $150,000 state government grant to upgrade the Foster Showgrounds under an Oval Upgrade and Irrigation Project. If the state government grant application is successful, it will sit alongside $260,000 from South Gippsland Shire and another $20,000 in community contributions. The proposed project will use recycled water from the waste water treatment plant, which is now available at the Foster Showgrounds. This recycled water will be run through a new automatic irrigation system that will be installed at the oval. The project will also include appropriate drainage, levelling and resurfacing of the oval.

South Gippsland Shire administrator chair Julie Eisenbise she was pleased to endorse the funding application for the Foster Showgrounds oval upgrade. “We would like to thank the Foster community, for their willingness to contribute their own funds to help make this project happen,” Ms Eisenbise said. It would prove an unlimited supply of affordable, recycled water to use on the council-owned oval and recreation reserve. It would also save between $5000 and $10,000 per year in water costs for maintaining the ground for community use, markets, and agricultural show with equestrian events.

Virtual reality tool proving an asset By TOM GANNON

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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A NEW virtual reality (VR) tool has been developed in South Australia to help sheep producers detect health conditions that are not visually identifiable. The tool ‘Sheep Health ConditionsCarcass Impacts’ has been developed by the Animal Health Australia (AHA) and the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) and will give producers an insight on the impact some sheep health conditions have on the carcass. The interactive tool will show producers six conditions, pleurisy/pneumonia, sheep measles, grass seeds, arthritis, rib fractures and vaccination lesions as well as further information on how to prevent or manage each condition. Animal Health Australia Biosecurity Extension manager Emily Buddle managed the project and said the idea came from limitations with showing producers evidence of these diseases in abattoirs. “We were relying on taking producers to the abattoir and walking them through the processing floor, the problem with that is that you have to get producers to the abattoir, obviously abattoirs are not fun places to be for a lot of people,” she said. “The other challenge was those conditions showing up in sheep that were being processed at the time, but when you’re monitoring something like 13 conditions you might see one or two but very rarely did we see them at the time we had producers on the floor.” Many animal health conditions in the agriculture industry are undetectable to the human eye and can have negative impacts on the productivity and profitability of businesses if parts of the animal are unusable. “With arthritis for example, it’s usually two joints that swell so you lose a good portion of that back hind leg if it is present in that leg so there’s huge production losses, but also losses for the processor and that meat just ends up not being sellable,” Ms Buddle said. Ms Buddle said the use of VR technology could become a key tool for producers across the agriculture industry to identify and become more informed on animal health conditions and the impact it has on their bottom line. “It is certainly something that has sparked interest for other species, we are looking at whether there is an opportunity to explore it in cattle and other types of animals,” she said. “It helps bottom line because you are able to maximise your production efficiency but it also improves animal welfare, to be able to make sure the animals are as healthy and fit as possible so they are living their best life is a huge priority for every industry.” Ms Buddle believes the technology could also be important in strengthening the country’s biosecurity by identifying ‘emergency diseases’ which are currently not found in Australia, but provide the looming threat of an outbreak.

August, 2021

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

THE NEXT EVOLUTION IN TRAIL ADVENTURE IS HERE Leading trail capability and elevated comfort features make this the ultimate trail line-up. POLARIS Off-Road is proud to announce the arrival of the next evolution in trail adventure in Australia with the RZR Trail S 1000 Premium and RZR Trail Premium. Offering all-new styling, leading trail capability, and improved rider comfort in both models, Polaris has made the industry’s undisputed leader in trail riding even better. These two new models add to Polaris’ extensive line-up of recreational SxS vehicles, the largest in Australia with more than 15 models. In 2007, Polaris started a recreation sport side-by-side market with the launch of the Polaris RANGER RZR 800. Since then, Polaris has led the way in trail performance and remained the market leader of the trail segment. With the all-new RZR Trail line up, Polaris demonstrates that its commitment to innovation and meeting the needs of riders is stronger than ever. “The RZR Trail was already an incredible, purpose-built machine, however, with the feedback of our owners we’ve refined and elevated the experience, with an emphasis on comfort and ergonomics,” Polaris Off-Road president Steven Menneto said. “The RZR Trail and Trail S offer unmatched trail agility to give customers more value for a better ride experience.”

Pair that with class-leading power-to-weight, turning radius, and fast engaging all-wheel-drive, riders will be able to quickly accelerate between corners and choose their line around obstacles for the most agile trail ride ever.

The RZR Trail and Trail S models feature all-new styling and have a narrow stance and the shortest wheelbase, making it easier for riders to manoeuvre on twisting trails and windy routes.

On top of designing one of the most capable trail vehicles, Polaris Off-Road has further refined rider comfort with a new adjustable steering wheel position that repositions rider posture to have shoulders

comfortably back against the seat. Keep trail debris out of the cab with new, sturdy full doors and receive more rear coverage from the factory with the new wrap-around roll cage. Add best-in-class suspension travel and ground clearance to soak up the bumps for a plush ride, and RZR Trail and Trail S make the last mile feel as comfortable as the first.

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

RURAL NEWS

Grant proves sweet news THE Australian Honey Bee Industry Council (AHBIC) has welcomed the announcement of a $600,000 Federal Government grant to help the sector recover from the devastating summer bushfires of 2019/2020. Announced by Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud, the investment will be managed by rural research and development corporation AgriFutures Australia and will fund research to help industry rebuild after what was a destructive and difficult event. This work will include communicating

best practice supplementary feeding to beekeepers and exploration of sophisticated hive management technology, which can be used after bushfires. AHBIC chair Trevor Weatherhead said the grant would be warmly welcomed by beekeepers as an investment in their industry’s recovery after losing millions of dollars at the hands of the fires. “The summer bushfires took a heavy toll on the Australian honey bee industry, destroying more than 15 million hectares of native forest, burning more than 12,000 hives and weakening

around 100,000 hives due to smoke,” Mr Weatherhead said. “That meant critical nectar and pollen sources for honey bee colonies were lost and many areas that would be typically used by beekeepers to support their hives were burnt out, which will take many years to recover.” The Bushfire Recovery Plan developed by AHBIC, in partnership with AgriFutures Australia, showed honey production had fallen since the fires, given the significant loss of beehives across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

Waterfront camping laws will go ahead By SARAH LUKE

THE state government has confirmed it still plans to allow camping on waterfronts licensed to farmers for grazing, but said details were still being finalised, and an announcement on how they will be enforced was imminent. The confirmation follows an article in The Weekly Times, which reported “two industry stakeholder groups” told the newspaper the government had opted to open up “25 pilot sites” instead. The laws will allow campers to light fires and camp for 28 consecutive days within 200 metres from farmers’ homes, collect half a cubic metre of firewood per day (despite farmers not being able to collect firewood themselves on the same land) and in some instances, void farmers’ insurance policies given the risk of biosecurity hazards, pollution and fire. The regulations are slated to begin from September 1. A government spokesperson did not answer Gippsland Farmer’s questions about whether a statewide rollout would be substituted by pilot sites come September, but did say the government would deliver on the election commitment which was “welcomed by more than 800,000 fishers and campers”. “The draft regulations – including how they’re going to be enforced – are still being finalised and we will have more to say soon,” the spokesperson said. “The government is delivering on the election commitment to make more water frontage land available for all to enjoy through fishing and camping — any suggestion that we aren’t is misleading.” The government maintains its regulations will require campers to behave appropriately and in a way which protects the environment, the interests of licence holders and adjoining landowners and Aboriginal cultural heritage sites and values. Victorian Fisheries Authority will prosecute people who disregard the laws, operating a 24-hour hotline for reporting misconduct and working with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Parks Victoria and Victoria Police to enforce the regulations. While public consultation has finished, the government said it was still engaging with key stakeholders, including fishing, agriculture, environmental and traditional owner groups. The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has called on the government to establish a dedicated stakeholder reference group to advise on the regulations’ implementation. VFF president Emma Germano said farmers and the environment would be significantly affected by the camping regulations set to come into force in just over a month’s time, and it was only fair those affected had their voices heard. “The Victorian government should have by now provided an official response to key stakeholder concerns and we remain hopeful that they will listen to the issues raised by the community,” she said. The VFF has led recent joint meetings on behalf of stakeholders including Environment Victoria, Landcare Victoria, Rural Councils Victoria, Thoroughbred Breeders Victoria and the Victorian National Parks Association. A parliamentary hearing last month revealed the government failed to provide any funding in the 2021-22 state budget to monitor and enforce its new camping regulations, instead cutting 15 per cent from the environment and biodiversity budget. During the hearings, Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio confirmed there was also no plan to support 10,000 farmers holding state-issued licenses to use the land who could no longer be able to obtain adequate insurance. The state opposition claimed a backdown was a win for farmers and environmental groups such as Landcare, with Shadow Environment and Climate Change minister Bridget Vallence saying the laws were “botched from the start”.

August, 2021

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Look forward to seeing you at the Expo THE Strzelecki Lions Club is pleased to announce that they will be hosting the South Gippsland Dairy Expo in Korumburra on Wednesday, September 8 and Thursday, September 9, 2021. This year, they will celebrate more than 20 years of providing the local dairying community with an event that showcases

the latest in innovation, products, and services available to the dairy industry. Be sure not to miss your chance to win $5000 in the Udder Truth show bag competition. The rules are simple, collect a show bag at the gate, answer 17 out of the 20 questions and request your card to be stamped

by the corresponding exhibitor.

place at 2.30pm on Thursday, September 9.

The first card drawn with 17 correct answers, with the exhibitor stamp, will win the $5000.

There will be 200 showbags available during the event’s two days and how many farmers will complete the card?

Participants must be farmers and over 18 years of age.

The odds of winning are pretty good. As the old saying goes ‘You have to be in it to win it!’

The announcement about the lucky winner will take

The funds raised from the

FEATURE EVENTS

Free Skin Check AT this year’s expo, there will be a Free Skin Cancer Screening Bus. Book in for your free skin

August, 2021

The planning for the Dairy Expo starts in January each year, and the committee meets monthly until the last week before the event to ensure all the plans are in place. for both young and old to get up close, pat, feed and hold a fantastic team of calm and well looked after animals.

Matt Harms, from OnFarm, is hosting a session called ‘Is your farm of FORMULA ONE standard? MATT is back by popular demand on Wednesday, September 8 at 11am. Panel members include: Michelle Axford – dairy farmer, Emily Pendlebury – dairy farmer trainee, Andrew Perry – dairy farmer, Rhys Farrelly – farm worker and Lachlan Harms – farm manager. You know the formula to what makes a great employee, come along to learn the formula that makes you an employer of choice. Let these young people share their ideas on what makes a great employer and what they seek from a career in the dairy industry. So, is your farm up to speed? Where do you sit on the starting grid and how do you make you and your farm business stand out from the crowd?

Dairy Expo have helped assist the Strzelecki Lions Club to distribute over $600,000 back into the community over the last 22 years.

The Gumboot Gift is full of fun ON Wednesday, September 8 at 1pm, the prestigious 120m gumboot footrace will take place. It is a must–see and do event with both male and female sections and a prize pool of $4000.

Other details you need to know about the Expo THE choice of days is up to you, but make sure you visit the South Gippsland Dairy Expo either on Wednesday, September 8 or Thursday, September 9 at the Korumburra Showgrounds, Korumburra. Opening hours are 10am to 3.30pm daily. check now by phoning 0418 500 520 or emailing dairyexpo@jaydee.net.au.

Keynote Presentation ON Thursday, September 9 at

11am, Nathan Burke, former champion for St Kilda and current coach of the AFL Women’s Western Bulldogs team, will visit and share his experiences about “Achieving your goals and relying on other people to deliver.”

The cost is $15 per person.

Farm Animals for the kids

Children under 16 years old are free.

THERE is something for everyone at the 2021 Dairy Expo, so bring the kids along and share the opportunity

For more information please phone Deanne Kennedy on 0419 878 055 or email dairyexpo@jaydee.net.au.

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

GEA introduces new generation of milking robots FOR greater profitability, Optimised Automatic Milking Systems from GEA bring economic and ecological benefits to dairy farms. With a series of optimisations, GEA is launching a new generation of the DairyRobot R9500 and DairyProQ automatic milking systems, which bring significant enhancements to the milking technology module, the In-Liner Everything milking process and the MilkRack milking unit, among other benefits. A new service concept also ensures improved serviceability, lower maintenance costs and minimised system downtimes. Rounding off the new generation systems is a comprehensive software package to optimise the milking process. All in all, dairy farms benefit from increased availability, more milkings and milk per day, and reduced operating costs of up to 35 per cent compared to the predecessor model, for greater profitability. For existing DairyRobot R9500 or Monobox and DairyProQ systems, appropriate upgrade packages can be purchased to take advantage of the new features.

Innovations in the milking process come with economic and ecological benefits THE proven In-Liner Everything technology performs every step of the milking process – stimulation, cleaning/ pre-dipping, pre-milking, milking and dipping – in just one single procedure. The dipping agent in the In-Liner Everything process is applied to both in the teat cup and teat, which means the teat rubber surface is also wetted. As a result, the dipping agent disinfects the teat skin as well as the teat cup. This can eliminate the need for intermediate disinfection with peracetic acid.

With a series of optimisations and a software update, GEA is now launching a new generation of the DairyRobot R9500 (pictured) and DairyProQ automatic milking systems.

This saves time and significantly reduces water, detergent and energy consumption. It also means that milking systems are ready for use again more quickly for the following cows.

Optimised service for maximum availability and greater durability of materials FOR the new generation of automatic milking systems, GEA has fundamentally revised the regular service intervals and service packages.

Longer-lasting materials and extended service intervals result in significantly lower service costs IN addition, the milking technology modules have been improved. With the milking technology modules, which contain the sensors for milk analysis and metering, GEA’s Automatic Milking Systems follow a unique service concept and are far ahead of other systems.

In the following, the camera and teat cup are now cleaned in parallel.

And thanks to fewer gaps, the MilkRack is now less susceptible to contamination.

This not only enhances the energy efficiency of the operation, but also provides sufficient flexibility for future expansion.

WITH the new software package 1.5, GEA brings another important innovation to the DairyRobot R9500: with just one click in the MView control, a convenient separation mode is activated.

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

The new generation milking systems also feature an optimised MilkRack: new cup segments increase the service life of the round belts and enable the cleaning position to be adjusted with less maintenance.

UP to four milking robots can be connected to the supply unit of the DairyRobot R9500.

New separation mode saves time and resources

Their design has also been redesigned: Improvements in the extended installation space allow better accessibility to the module components and faster replacement of control service parts for continued milking and minimised downtime.

Future-proof and flexible

These process improvements not only shorten the box time for more milkings per day, they also protect the environment and reduce operating costs.

This allows animals whose milk are being separated to be milked as a group without intermediate rinsing or cleaning after each individual cow.

Optimised technical components in these modules now ensure a significantly longer service life.

Optional empty space modules have been developed accordingly for the DairyProQ milking carousel.

The individual components of the replaceable milking technology modules are more accessible for maintenance in the new generation of automatic milking systems.

These can be used to reduce investment costs and increase throughput capacity at the appropriate time by retrofitting additional milking parlour modules.

August, 2021

Come and visit us at this year’s South Gippsland Dairy Expo

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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Boost your surv rvival v rates with ICU Small An nimal Rugs

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

The protection your animals need

Calf Rugs

ICU Small Animal Rugs commenced operation in 2014 operating out of Tynong located in the picturesque setting of West Gippsland. Four generations of the family have been involved in the farming industry and they have vast experience in breeding, rearing and caring for animals.

 Perf rfect f for premature and unwell calves  100% water/wind proof 100% breathable

ICU Small Animal Rugs are hands on farmers themselves and understand the requirements that farmers need when looking for added protection of their livestock.

 Safe to place on newborns still wet and covered with amniotic fluid  Heat pad pocket option

They specialise in the care of unwell newborn lambs, calves and kid goats with rugs that come with a pocket built in to allow for a heat pad.

World s first fii Dual Canvas Cow - Down n Cow Rug

These are also a great way to protect small animals in adverse weather conditions.

 Perf rfect f for down cows  12% canvas with the liner being 80% wool  A great barrier against the cold and moisture rising upwards from the ground keep ping g your cows dry ryy and warm.

ICU Small Animal Rugs are 100 per cent water/wind proof, 100 per cent breathable and the liner is double sided thermal that wicks moisture from the newborn skin. The rugs, blankets, coats and covers are fully washable. ICU rugs are the only safe rug that you can place on a newborn that is still wet and covered with amniotic fluid.

Australian made and owned For more information call Margaret on 0408 342 426 or visit the website ww www ww.icusmallanimalrugs.com.au w

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

Placing an ICU Small Animal Rug with a Heat Pad in the pocket of the rug will quickly warm and dry the newborn. ICU Small Animal Rugs help increase

survival rates in newborn lambs, calves and kid goats that have hypothermia, pneumonia, premature births, scouring, low birth weights, injury or poddy feeding problems. ICU Small Animal Rugs have also now extended their products to include cow canvas rugs, covers, coats and blankets. They have also designed a world’s first Dual Canvas Cow - Down Cow Rug with a front Infill for when you have a cow that is down with pockets where you can place heat pads that are situated on key areas of the animal’s nerves and vital organs. For more information contact Margaret on 0408 342 426.

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August, 2021

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Milking robots going gangbusters in Gippsland JUST three years ago the number of Lely milking robots on Gippsland farms (the most popular brand locally) stood at 14. But in the last 12-18 months the technology has seen huge growth thanks to a number of factors - a dedicated installation and service centre in Warragul, small-scale robot farms taking off locally in addition to the bigger variety, and farmers achieving great success with robots on pasture-based systems. “We’ve got 22 Lely milking robots working on Gippsland farms now, another six currently being installed, and 13 more on their way from the Netherlands,” Lely Centre Gippsland owner Greg Cole said. “Many of our customers only run two robots, servicing 130-140 cows. Herringbone conversions have really taken off because they’re such an easy changeover. They require very little infrastructure

cent increase in production since installing the robots and believes his conception rate has gone up as well with the Lely collars picking up when cows are on heat. Greg said this type of result is typical for his local

change and robots continue to be popular on large farms for easing the larger labour burden.” Gordie and Marg Lockett in Neerim North were Greg’s very first robot customers, installing two Lely Astronaut robots in their old herringbone shed. “We mounted the robots where the cows used to walk up into the platforms of the herringbone,” Gordie said.

“The cows come exactly the same way as they did with the herringbone, except now they come up into the individual robots. “We only A and B graze, so we basically left the system, the yards and everything as they were. We even use the same auger to go in to feed the two robots.” Gordie has seen a 10 per

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customers, due in part to cows spending less time standing in concrete yards

and more time grazing in the paddock, as well as generally improved cow health. “This isn’t experimental technology anymore, not with a brand like Lely,” Greg said. Farmers have been installing these Astronaut robots for more than 25 years and there’s 30,000 of them working worldwide. Now they’ve proven themselves on pasture in Gippsland, we’ve got the know-how to get great results here too. Farmers are interested in what other farmers are doing. The more robots we install the more people see for themselves how well they can work and it just grows from there. Robots are well and truly part of the landscape now.” The Lely Centre Gippsland team will be exhibiting one of their A5 Astronaut robots at the South Gippsland Dairy Expo from September 8-9.

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

See tUs a Site 47

Australia s best value hoof blocks and adhesives

The world s most popular hoof treatment crush

Professional products at trade prices

Available from Victorian Hoofcare Services

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For more information call Brian on

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For more information call Brian on

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7 GP1629996

GP1629996

Here to help

Burra Foods are one of Australia’s premier dairy companies with products sold in over 30 countries and trusted by some of the world’s biggest and well-known brands. Demand for our high value dairy products continues to grow and with our focus set firmly on a sustainable Gippsland supply chain we are striving to bring continued growth and economic development to the local Gippsland region. As demand for our high quality dairy ingredients continues, so too does our need for quality raw milk and we have a limited number of places available for local Gippsland based Milk Supply Partners to join us. If you want to be part of a growing local dairy business that values a sustainable supply chain and offers the following benefits: • Milk payment systems to suit your farm’s production • Transparent and reliable cashflow estimates • 24/7 support from a dedicated Milk Supply Team • Honest and responsive communication • Milk price range of $6.60-$7.00/kgMS for season 21/22 2 CONTACT us now to see where your farm sits in our price range. Peter Fort 0417 332 141 Clint Newcombe 0429 626 330 Jamie Serong 0477 992 274 Email milksupply@burrafoods.com.au

GS OLD PONSO R

GP1 1630142 2

Please contact my office if you require assistance with any State Government issue. Hon. Edward

O'DONOHUE MP

MEMBER FOR EASTERN VICTORIA REGION 51 James Street, Pakenham 3810 edwardodonohue.com.au 5941 1112 edward.odonohue@parliament.vic.gov.au

GP1630220

PARTNER WITH THE DAIRY COMPANY COMMITTED TO GIPPSLAND

Authorised by Edward O'Donohue, 51 James St, Pakenham 3810

GP1630175

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

August, 2021

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Lower Salmonella, higher profits on the dairy farm

BOTH sub-clinical and clinical Salmonella infections can severely impact profit on a dairy farm. As a result, milk production losses, reduction in feed efficiency, foetal abortions and even death can occur, leading to long-term economic implications. The cost of treatment and increased labour associated with dealing with sick animals is very high. In addition, there is also the human health risk of Salmonella passing from the cow to people on the farm. Symptoms of Salmonella Infection:  Watery manure, with strong odour and often containing blood clots  Reduced milk production  Elevated temperature  Elevated heart rate  Dehydration (little urine) Although Salmonella bacteria exist to some degree on most farms, disease problems typically occur only when environmental levels of the bacteria reach a threshold (such as manure build up in the paddock) or when the cow’s immunity is

is a breeding ground of Salmonella. Reducing manure loads in these paddocks is critical to reducing the risk of Salmonella infection outbreaks. 3. REDUCE STRESS SALMONELLA outbreaks often occur in dairy cows when they are subjected to stress, such as during:  Calving  Inconsistent diet  Deprivation of water or feed  Transportation  Crowding

compromised by stress. Salmonella is primarily spread through ingestion of manure, thus is easily spread throughout a herd. With that in mind, these following management practices are generally recommended to reduce Salmonella in the environment. 1. IDENTIFY, ISOLATE AND SANITISE QUICK identification and

isolation of infected animals, followed by good cleaning with disinfectants of areas that contained these animals, is advisable. 2. REDUCE MANURE LOAD DURING summer many farmers tend to feed their stock on small feed pads or in a reduced number of paddocks. This can lead to increased levels of manure, which

4. ESTABLISH GOOD GUT HEALTH IN CALVES ESTABLISHING gut health and development in calves is essential for building a foundation of performance and profitability in the herd to come. Healthy animals will eat and produce more efficiently, ensuring they are performing at their maximum potential. The Alltech Gut Health Management program focuses on supporting animal performance by promoting

good bacteria, building defences and maximising growth and efficiency. One component of the Alltech Gut Health Management program is a product called ACTIGEN®. ACTIGEN is a unique product derived from a select strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast using a proprietary process developed by Alltech. When incorporated into the calf’s diet, ACTIGEN supports gut integrity and overall performance and is key to building a foundation for performance and profitability in dairy production.

The key benefits of ACTIGEN: - Increases feed efficiency - Increases dry matter intake of calves post weaning Actigen is effective in milk replacers and starter feeds at an inclusion rate of 1.5g per head per day. For more information on Actigen or any of Alltech’s other dairy nutritional solutions, contact your local Alltech Lienert representative or call 1800 649 231.

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Innovative technology a natural winner PAUL Cox saw a need for an environmentally friendly way to clean up effluent waste that was cost effective and easy to use. He liaised with a world leading waste water remedial company to come up with a formula/products to suit the Australian conditions. Thus BioSystems Crust Buster was born. Biosystems Australia is an Australian distributor of Roebic’s. They specialise in highly effective eco-friendly cleaning products and water saving solutions based on Bio-Bacterial technology. This innovative technology consists of billions of specifically selected bacteria that target and digest organic matter eliminating the source of cleaning problems rather than masking them. This process guarantees a natural way to treat common cleaning problems with no need for harsh chemicals cleaners, making cleaning practices simpler and greener. The bacteria used in their products contain different strains of bacillus bacteria capable of producing enzymes, which results in extremely powerful biological products

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

“

that break down and digest the source of the problems. The bacteria is capable of multiplying every 15 minutes, increasing their population whilst creating and releasing enzymes and bio-surfactants that work effectively on organic sources, taking all the hard work out of cleaning.

Agricultural Applications BIOSYSTEMS use a highly concentrated spore mixture of six patented Bacillus bacteria. Each strain produces multiple enzymes resulting in an extremely powerful biological treatment product.

It is designed for use in waste water treatment systems including municipal sewage plants, food processing, livestock manure ponds and lagoons, or areas where large volumes of waste require treatment. Treatment includes the following: • Chemical and animal feed manufacturer • Dairy and pig manure lagoons • Abattoirs and rendering plants • Manure composting • Poultry operations • Milk processor wastewater

Testimonials

I called BioSystems in when I found two cows had drowned after trying to eat the grass covering my effluent pond. Biosystems Australia helped me view my pond as an asset rather than a liability. Six weeks after incorporating BioForce Crust Buster into my pond I could row a boat across it (if I wanted to!). This waste product is now a very important part of my fertiliser program. Thanks.” P. Benson, Gippsland.

“

Effluent pond 30m x 30m x 3m deep sludge then dirty stinky water on top. I could only get one third of the contents onto my pasture as my pump was consistently blocking up. Four weeks after applying CRUST BUSTER I was able to pump my dam almost dry and the improvement in my pasture quality and density is awesome. Also, no new weeds are growing and the old ones

the cows are now eating. Noticing a huge improvement in earthworm and dung beetle activity. A great product highly recommended to every dairy farmer.” W. Missen, Gippsland.

“

Smelly dairy, putrid effluent pond, flies and other insects, out of control. Not anymore, within seven days all symptoms had decreased or almost vanished. Thanks for introducing this product to us.” Contented Dairy Farmer’s wife, Newry, Gippsland.

“

Brix levels in my grass doubled and plant nutrient tests indicated 30-40 per cent improvement in nutritional value after using biologically treated waste water, a must for every farm. Thank you again for your professionalism.” A. Spencer, Northern Vic.

August, 2021

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Allflex Animal Monitoring provides lifestyle benefits BEN and Melissa Holloway who run the 370-hectare Gillear View Dairy Farm in southern Victoria have been using the Allflex Dairy Monitoring system for several years and have found multiple benefits. “We were basically looking for another set of eyes,” says Ben, “and we wanted more usable information that would allow us to take a break during joining. “The reports give us an optimum time to AI, which results in a significant increase in conception. “We also use it for metrichecking, for catching non-cycling cows and those with irregular heat. “Cows that had no visual signs or no rubs on the old heat detection systems can now be picked up and I estimate we’re getting an extra 15 per cent conception just by picking up those silent heats. “Catching cows one cycle earlier equates to another 40kg/ms or over $200 in increased production per cow.” “The Allflex system can also detect suspected abortions, meaning the Holloways have significantly reduced costs associated with pregnancy testing.”

The early detection and treatment of illness is another benefit allowing them to “be proactive with our treatments rather than reactive and save costs by using cheaper preventative drugs”. “Before we got the Allflex system I would need to be in the dairy every day for ten weeks during joining,” Ben said. “Now I can leave the staff to the milking and because heat detection is now automated I don’t need to be there at all. “Having the monitoring system is like having that extra pair of eyes.”

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

August, 2021

Money Matters GP1630030

Know your end game

Plan ahead to empower yourself and achieve the lifestyle you want DECIDING to leave farming could be one of the most difficult and emotional decisions ever to make.

is a free service focused on the financial viability, security and wellbeing of farmers.

Farming is more than a financial livelihood.

RFCS Gippsland are experts in supporting you to plan for transition.

It’s your Identity. Contribution. Purpose. History. Belonging. Your way of life.

RFCS Gippsland is a non-profit service with trained professionals, personally experienced and qualified in agribusiness, who can analyse and identify available options, as well as provide support to develop and achieve your planned end game.

Therefore, it is completely understandable to experience stress induced ‘decision paralysis’ when circumstances are forcing the issue. Making decisions when it’s too late and/or without professional consult, or worse… total indecision, can cause financial and emotional strain, as well as erode your assets and options. The key to any successful life change is to ensure you have as many choices; opportunities and assets as possible to achieve the lifestyle you want… then make a plan to get it. Whether you are a young farmer or someone that has been farming for a while, planning a successful end game is critical to making change easier. Knowing your end game (with alternative options) and making plans to achieve this goal will empower decision making, and hopefully be a more emotionally positive experience. Additionally, while managing a farm, knowing your end game can help decision making when faced with conflicting choices – an ability to always choose what best aligns with your ultimate goal.

Specialised Rural Financial Counsellors understand farm financial obligations and priorities. So maybe your goal is to:  Create work-life balance?  Have more time for family and life?  Build/Sell a farm enterprise to invest profits?  Semi retire and share/use skills?  Retire with secure income and travel?  Retire but stay living on the farm property?  Farm until the end?  Ensure fair distribution of estate?  Pass the farm onto family? Any end goal can be achieved if you plan your financials, assets, business structure, and farming practices according to your desired lifestyle, and know the best conditions needed to achieve it. Ideally, the catalyst to enact lifestyle change would be when

conditions are favourable, but more often the decision process is forced due to industry and financial pressures; economic and environmental downturns; family matters; or health. No matter the circumstance causing change, having a plan enables the ability to make choices; be financially secure and transition at a pace you are comfortable with. Continuing to farm because you don’t know what else to do, may risk your financial security and ideal lifestyle. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice what you worked so hard for. But it’s never too late to make a plan. Although it is more beneficial from the beginning, knowing all your options and creating a goal at any point of time is imperative -

They will work with you to develop an improved financial scenario, negotiate with creditors, develop suitable budgets, and refer to your team of professional advisors.

especially if you are making a big decision tomorrow. It is crucial to have a team of trusted professionals with your work/life goal in mind. Independent finance and agribusiness experts and support services can provide the advice, updated information and analysis required to achieve your desired outcomes. Your go-to team should include (but not limited to) Accountants; Financial Advisors; Estate Planners; Bookkeepers; Solicitors; Farm Business Consultants and commonly, Family Mediators. Having a team who know your ultimate goal will provide the clarity and confidence needed to decide whether to take an opportunity; continue as-is; or make a lifestyle change. Available to primary producers

They also offer personal wellbeing services to help manage your stressors and provide emotional support during life’s major changes. Furthermore, if your end goal is to continue working (either farming or other income sources), RFCS Gippsland’s Rural Skills Connect service enhances this prospect with funding and support to obtain formal accreditations for the vast and unique skills gained from farming. If you want to plan for a financially stress-free future, start by calling RFCS Gippsland on 1300 045 747 or chat with your professional advisors.

August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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August, 2021

g n i Spr BULL SALES eview CONSTANT improvement without chasing or following fads and trends has led Leawood Angus to the moderate framed high growth HBR, APR and commercial bulls it breeds today. They focus on what works best in their environment to enhance the clients program. Leawood has large confidence and respect in New Zealand genetics. This has been developed over more than 76 years of breeding Angus cattle. A lot of work goes into sourcing genetics that are used in the herd. This allows Leawood to breed consistently well-structured robust cattle that have great growth rates with high yielding carcass. The current 700 female herd is run in a realistic and tough commercial environment; with no tolerance for temperament, feet and fertility the females must produce a calf when they are two years old and a calf every 12 months after that with a joining period of under nine weeks. Leawood believe the maternal side of genetics is the most important. Leawood Angus is offering 46 Angus bulls at its Spring Bull Sale on Friday, September 24 at 1.30pm, followed by the sale of at least 60 Females. Due to a down scale in lease land Leawood

Leawood Angus

Angus will be offering a larger draft of females this Spring Sale. “It is never an easy or enjoyable task to select the females to let go, we are still finalising the female draft for the sale,” Luke Stuckey said. “This being said it creates a great opportunity for our clients to secure highly sort after Leawood Angus genetics at a commercial rate.

“Our female herd is well-known for its low maintenance, strong structure and balanced cow traits.” Built largely on New Zealand genetics Leawood females stand out in the midst of a drought being more efficient and in a wet winter like this year we notice the advantage in our cows being more robust and adaptable. “Being moderate in frame they can handle the extremities in our environment as well as

being a lot gentler on our soft paddocks in a wet winter,” Luke said. “The Female Sale Draft is still being finalised but will consist of autumn cows and calves units and spring cows and calve units along with Heifers.” This year’s spring bulls line-up show cases Leawood Angus strongest genetics with a large influence of New Zealand and Leawood breed sires, including Leawood Steaks N297 and Leawood Nugget N282 which are both sons of Merchiston Steakhouse. These are exciting sires that they believe are breeding just as well or even better than Steakhouse himself. Leawood Rambo N324 also is another young sire that has gained their full respect by producing consistently high carcass yielding progeny. N324 has the highest conception rate of all the sires in the herd. Other sires include, Rangatira Mack, Leawood Yeo K268, Leawood Tangi K115, Leawood Express G508, and Merchiston Steakhouse. All these sires have been used in the heifer program and leave easy calving, short gestation progeny. For more information or updates on the sale females keep an eye on Facebook or get in contact with Luke Stuckey on 0474 992 683.

Available Koonwarra September Bull Sale “14 Big Butted Angus Bulls”

Ben B en N Nevis evis M Metamorphic etamorphic

FERNLEIGH ANGUS Melinda Kent 0407 862 657

August, 2021

ALEX SCOTT & STAFF Rob Ould 0408 595 183

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Sires include Ben Nevis Metamorphic, Banquet Jamberoo, Te Mania Emperor He and Landfall Reality. bul ifer

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

SPRING BULL SALES PREVIEW

Challambi Charolais

CHALLAMBI Charolais is situated in far north-east Victoria. The herd consists of 100 registered Charolais breeders and 120 commercial Charolais breeders. Their cattle are all grass fed in the Upper Murray and they target grass fed programs for all their commercial calves. Challambi’s bulls are available for private sale this spring and offer a great line up of genetics. These bulls are all AI and ET bred with outstanding sires used including Palgrove Hannibal, Charnelle Louis, Silverstream Landis, Winchester Maximus and CML Distinction. These AI sires were selected for in herd use to produce progeny with traits that will suit a variety of market specifications. The Silverstream Landis and Palgrove Hannibal progeny are standouts within the bull pen. All the bulls available for private sale are above breed average for growth, EMA and fat. The bulls are all performance recorded with full EBVs available. Some bulls have been DNA tested and

homozygous polled, which will produce all polled progeny. These bulls will produce progeny that grow quickly, meet high MSA grading and have the ability to produce progeny that finish on grass. All bulls have been prepared on oats through the winter and are in a suitable condition to go straight to work. Further information is available on the website at www.challambicharolais.com.au or the Facebook page @challambicharolais.

GP1630363

Alpine Angus

ALPINE Angus 2021 Spring Bull Sale line up is promising explosive growth with bulls long, strong and full of body. The 2021 Alpine Angus Spring Bull Sale offering 60 HBR and APR Bulls will be held at the Alpine Sales Complex, Rosewhite on Wednesday, September 22 at 1pm. “This represents a 50 per cent increase on last year and has been years in the making as we are committed to ensuring quality is maintained with the hope that a bigger draft will deliver value to our clients,” Alpine principal Jim Delany said. For many years now the Alpine Angus program has been consistently investing in genetics that push the boundaries with growth spread and calving ease, as these traits are the most important to put extra dollars in Alpine’s client’s pockets. “Of course we use Breedplan as a selection tool but we also put as great an emphasis on getting length, capacity and growth,” Alpine manager Chris Oswin said. “We try to use genetics we know can breed true to type and deliver calving ease and a big growth spread from moderate birth to 600 day.” The Alpine Spring Bull Sale line up reflects the Alpine breeding philosophy so well with Sale average EBVs delivering breed average birth to 400 and 600 day weights in the Top 25 per cent for the Angus Breed. The sale line-up features sons of AI Star Sires Baldridge Beast Mode B074 and Baldridge 38 Special. Both are AI sires from US out of one of the USA’s most famous and productive females. They also deliver stellar EBVs and Indexes alongside their outstanding phenotype. Similarly with feature outcross sire G A R Ashland with his low birth to explosive growth in the top 1-3 per cent for 200,400 and 600

day weights plus EMA in the top 1 per cent plus IMF. Also in the line-up are the sons of Karoo Main Event M367 the sire of Alpine’s own home bred AI Sire Alpine Main Event Q192 sold to GENEX at the Autumn 2021 Bull Sale. Alpine continue their close association with W.A Angus Stud, Coonamble, offering the first draft of Coonamble Navigator N435 sons in the sale displaying their sire’s dense and heavy-muscled body type. “Every effort is made to ensure Alpine bulls go to work in peak working condition,” Mr Oswin said. “Both physically through semen testing pre-sale as well as being independently and structurally assessed. “In addition all Sale Bulls have been parent verified and have been genomic tested to verify their EBVs. “The fall of the hammer at our sales represents the beginning of a relationship with our clients. “A comprehensive After Sale guarantee plus our ‘can do’ attitude means we have our client’s back should something go awry.” Anyone wishing to inspect the Alpine sale line up pre-sale day can do so on Sunday, September 19 at the Alpine Sales Complex, Rosewhite. All sale bulls will be yarded from 11am-3pm with a delicious BBQ beef lunch and refreshments available. If this is not convenient pre-sale inspections can be arranged by appointment with Chris. This affords those who cannot be there sale day to make their selections and either bid themselves online via Auctions Plus or via their agent or by arrangement with Alpine’s Sale Agents Dan Ivone from Paull & Scollard, Myrtleford or Mick Curtis from Rodwells, Euroa.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

August, 2021

SPRING BULL SALES PREVIEW

Absolute Angus

ABSOLUTE Angus will take advantage of an extra month of spring weather and conduct its third annual spring sale on October 15. Stud principal Anthony Pisa said the sale bulls are looking great and with the diversity of sires and maternal genetics used in the breeding of the bulls on offer, he is confident that demand will be strong. “The positive, word-of-mouth referrals from happy clients gives any breeder confidence to be able to use any of our spring sale bulls over any type of herd and location as they adapt well to all terrains and get results,” Mr Pisa said. The spring sale will feature about 50, yearling and 24-month-old bulls with genetics from some of the best sires in the industry including Baldridge Command, Gdar Regulator, Landfall Keystone K132 and the stud’s own sire, Absolute M110 whose dam is a Lawsons Bartel Cow and his sire, Landfall Westward J169. Absolute Angus continues to use genetics from a range of industry leading studs known for genetic performance such as Landfall, Te Mania, Ardrossan and selected elite US studs. “Clients who purchase my bulls are looking for the type of genetics we have used in the studs’ foundation herds, we are now seeing proof of that investment,” he said. “When the bulls leave the stud their development takes-off; just amazing, beautiful animals. There is something to suit everyone.” Buyers will find a range of well-muscled, powerful sons from Ardrossan Honour, Ardrossan Edmund K1651 and Baldridge Command in the senior bulls. The yearling bulls sire groups feature progeny from Landfall Keystone K132,

Ardrossan Honour, Gdar Regulator, and Ardrossan Equator A241. The majority of bulls showcased in the auction catalogue are suitable for heifer joining, presenting with low BWT, high growth, good carcase, EMA, IMF and fat cover in their EBVs. The sale also meets strong market demand for bulls with strong growth, low birth-weight and meat quality with a focus on traits and how they adapt to being grass fed and grain fed. “It’s an exciting time to showcase the bulls in such a positive way,” Mr Pisa said. “We look forward to seeing you on sale day”. Absolute Angus Spring Bull Sale – Friday, October 15, 2021 – On-Property in Trafalgar South and Online via AuctionsPlus. Visit absoluteangus.com.au or their Facebook page for the latest sale updates.

Banquet Bulls

PRODUCERS using Banquet Bulls are consistently rewarded with premium prices. Grass finishers, feed lotters and restockers alike target progeny of Banquet Bulls for their improved performance, temperament and structure. However the most important premium is the continual improvement of their breeding herd by retaining heifers sired by Banquet Bulls. Banquet’s after sale service is well known in the industry. In the unlikely and unfortunate event that a bull fails to adequately perform, the Branson family stand ready to assist in getting your cows in calf. The level of quality assurance that a Banquet bull carries make any failure unlikely. These bulls are bred from a herd that has

been meticulously screened with structural soundness being a top priority for more than 30 years. Prior to sale these bulls are subjected to extensive vet checking. This includes examination of sexual organs and testing of both semen motility and semen morphology. The vaccination program includes 7 in 1, for leptospirosis, pestiguard and vibriovax. The Banquet herd maintains the highest level of assurance with Johne’s Disease and J Bas 8. The 40 bulls being offered on Friday, September 3 represent bloodlines that have dominated recent sales together with new sire lines. Banquet offers generous delivery options.

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

SPRING BULL SALES PREVIEW

Billy Creek Limousin DEB and Mark Reynolds established Billy Creek Limousin Stud in 2005. They were attracted to the breed by their temperament, maternal qualities and meat production abilities. After many years conducting an intensive AI and ET program Billy Creek now concentrates on a natural system using bulls from bloodlines which have proven successful in the Australian environment. This year they have an excellent line of bulls approximately 18 months old, the progeny of two quality sires. The first, Western Gold Kolt, was judged supreme champion senior bull at the Victorian

Tarwin

ESTABLISHED 1950

POLL HEREFORDS

Bulls and Females

FOR SALE

GP1629860

inspections welcome

Location: Parrys Road, 3km from Meeniyan on Meeniyan-Dumbalk Road (Signs will be posted) ENQUIRIES:

David Meikle 5664 7556 Mob: 0429 800 756 Email: meikledd@dcsi.net.au

Limousin Breeders “On Farm Challenge”. The second bull, Longreach Practical, is an ET son of Ivy’s Bubba Watson and all his progeny are showing the exceptional depth and thickness of their sire. Billy Creek Limousin are members of Breedplan and the Limousin Assurance Program which means all cattle sold have guarantees of fertility and docility. Anyone interested in breeding or crossbreeding with Limousin cattle is welcome to inspect their herd.

Tarwin Poll Herefords

TARWIN Poll Herefords has five, two year-old bulls up for private sale this spring, following 70-plus years of breeding and servicing South Gippsland. Stud principal David Meikle said these animals are strictly grass-fed, presenting “honest bulls with easy temperaments”. All bulls are performance recorded with better than-breed-average carcass and growth traits, and have been semen tested and vaccinated at the start of the year. Mr Meikle said these bulls are showcasing the stud’s better bloodlines including those of AnzacE114. “We run our stud along commercial lines, so our cows calf every year,” Mr Meikle told Gippsland Farmer. “We are also regular exhibitors at Beef Week, and the Lardner Park steer trials, where

we won the 2019 Hereford class and came third overall.” Tarwin Poll Herefords welcomes visitors via appointment.

Next available bulls Select Yearlings available for heifer joining from September

Limousin s Innesdale Angus,

718 Rosedale Road, Heyfield 3858

Geoff 0412 958 168 AH 5148 6371 E geoff@innesdale.com

Sire Innesdale Resource M37

GP1629828

FOR DETAILS CONTACT

BILLY CREEK

ALL VISITORS WELCOME 440 HAZELWOOD ESTATE ROAD, HAZELWOOD

GP1628650 GP162 GP16 GP1 G GP P1 P162 P16 P 16 1 628 62 6 28 2 86 650 65 50 5 0

Bulls for Spring joining 18 to 22 montths plus Cows and Heifers with calves availlable e

CONTACT DEB REYNOLDS 0427 401 142 FOR MORE INFORMATION 32

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

August, 2021

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Foot trimming chute a success GIPPSLAND Hoof Care started in October 2020 with Dean treating lame cows and trimming small numbers in farmers crushes using a pulley system to lift and secure the cows legs whilst he worked on their hoof. Now he has a state of the art hydraulic foot trimming chute. The new hydraulic foot trimming chute has made an enormous difference, making the foot trimming process ergonomic for both the cows and the operator. Now there is less stress on everyone, less chance of injury to the animal and less chance of the trimmer being kicked. Dean has a worth of experience foot trimming and treating lame cows. He has been in the industry for more than 15 years. A country boy that grew up on dairy farms in Newry, he began his career as a farm apprentice and was then fortunate enough to begin working under the guidance and expertise of local large animal expert Jakob Malmo. He also got to know personally, Karl Burgi who is a world renown teacher of hoof trimming courses to more than 1500 veterinarians, hoof trimmers, dairy owners, herd managers and agriculture consultants. Dean can trim up to 20 cows in an hour now that he has the new chute. Lame cows take approximately seven minutes to do. This becomes an important factor when you consider the large herd numbers in some dairy farms. Whilst the chute allows for bulk numbers of cows to be done in a timely fashion, Dean also prioritises visiting lame cows and has done many visits to just a single lame cow.

Designed by hoof health expert, Karl Burgi, the leg restraint system received international recognition because the leg position is safe for the cow and ideal for technicians to perform precise trimming procedures.

The chute enables extremely efficient loading of the cows with the effortless hydraulically synchronised controls do all of the work during animal loading. It then gives the technician an ergonomic work area for trimming the cow’s hoof which reduces manual strains, minimises steps and saves time. On average Dean is able to trim a cow every three minutes using this chute.

It carefully guides each leg into position, following the natural leg stroke and range of motion.

Gippsland Hoof Care provide a personalised and affordable hoof trimming and lame cow treatment service for the dairy and beef industries throughout wider Gippsland Region.

This eliminates any stress on the cow and securely holds the leg for effortless assessment of the hoof.

If you would like more information about foot trimming or lameness treatment call Dean on 0400 018 652.

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

RURAL DIRECTORY ONLY

To promote your Trade, S Service or Business here,

(03) 5135 4444

call Email: farmerads@lvexpress.com.au

GP1629149

PER MO NTH 2020 FENCING

The Watertank Cleaning Company

WANTED CYPRESS LOGS.

(THE WATER DOCTOR)

- Minimal water loss - Tanks can be FULL or low on water - Lid / Liner Installation GP1628151

Ph: 0428 594 565 www.watertankcleaning.com.au

Cleaning & Repairing Since 1996

WANTED

Quality Post & Rail fencing that you can afford

GP1630466

WATER TANK CLEANING

Good prices for quality logs. Harvesting and clean up arranged. 50 trees or more.

ne Tim mber Lone P Pine Timber

MOBILE: 0432 529 356 www.lonepinefencing.com

RURAL ADVISORY

FARM MACHINERY

G P 16 2 8 6 0 6

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Tim Ferguson 0400 744 185

FERTILISING SERVICES

MANURE

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The NATURAL Fertiliser

To add vital nutrients why not try one of our chicken manure products? Visit us on

@AinsworthAgServices

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CHICKEN

AUTO / TRUCK TOOLS

BULK QUANTITIES AVAILABLE For a free quote call Justin 0477 360 249 or Cam 0487 001 738

ON FARM BUTCHERING

This space could be

Phone Dave BUTCHERING

0401 885 729

GP1628294

G P 16 2 9 0 3 3

yours

Cool room supplied Meat packed in a clean environment

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

August, 2021

RURAL DIRECTORY

To promote your Trade, S Service or Business here,

(03) 5135 4444

call Email: farmerads@lvexpress.com.au LIVESTOCK BUYING

ONLY

GP1629150

PER MO NTH 2020

WANTED TO BUY

Colleen Bye 0467 533 003 Katrina Einsidel 0428 120 686 Phillip Fleming 0498 242 421 Steve Fallon 0427 352 231

CONNOR SHEA SEEDERS AND MACHINERY

WANTED We Buy For Wrecking or Renovation Prompt Payme entt and d Colle ectio on witth our own H I A B Trucks

Phone

02 62277227 0427 105 180

GP1628464

MILKING MACHINE REPAIRS

ALPACA STUD

MERUNGLE ALPACA STUD

GP1628595

GIPPSLAND BREEDER SERVICING AUSTRALIA

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$ $ $

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$ $$

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for times to visit please call

Jen & Peter 5147 2444 or 0412 383 655

email: mcdavitt@merungle.com.au

38 Sellings Lane, Maffra

www.merungle.com.au

SILAGE FOR SALE

CARAVANS

Round bales Dec Cut 2020

Feed test available

$70 (incl) each GP1629486

August, 2021

Stud and Commercial Alpacas always available Alpaca Products and Fleeces

inspection p welcome

Bairnsdale area - call Peter 0490 333 788

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

GP1629995

WEATHER OUTLOOK July’s rainfall observations for Eastern Victoria (source: BOM)

The state’s rainfall for the month of July. meteorology

image bureau of

The national rainfall outlook for the period August to October. image bureau of meteorology

East Sale Airport.........14.4mm Hogan Island...............74.6mm Latrobe Valley.............37.4mm Mount Baw Baw.......138.2mm Mount Moornapa.......10.2mm Wilsons Promontory...164.6mm Yanakie ........................89.6mm Yarram Airport............29.6mm Bairnsdale....................12.0mm Combienbar................28.2mm

Gabo Island.................46.2mm Gelantipy .....................11.6mm Lakes Entrance...........11.8mm Mount Nowa Nowa...... 7.8mm Omeo...........................27.2mm Orbost..........................10.0mm Mallacoota...................31.0mm Point Hicks...........................N/A Pound Creek...............67.6mm Wonthaggi...................98.4mm

GIPPSLAND’S

Cattle Market REPORT PAKENHAM LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE

Monday, August 2

There were approximately 620 export and 150 young cattle penned representing an increase of 55 head week-on-week. Most of the usual buying group was present but not all operated fully in a dearer market in places. Quality was limited with cows representing more than half of the sale. The limited selection of finished trade cattle sold firm while secondary young cattle sold dearer to restockers. A limited selection of grown steers and bullocks sold mostly to feedlots improving 7c/kg. Heavy grown heifers gained 4c and cows sold 5c to 10c/kg dearer. Heavy bulls eased 10c to 15c/kg. Vealers sold from 487c to 568c with light weight restocking steers reaching 614c/kg. Yearling trade steers made from 470c to 565c and the heifer portion to the trade sold from 430c to 497c/kg. Grown steers and bullocks made from 428c to 462c with a few heavy European steers reaching 500c/kg. Heavy grown heifers showing good finish sold from 396c to 430c/kg. Heavy manufacturing steers made between 326c and 438c/kg. Most light and medium weight cows sold from 262c to 350c/kg. Heavy weight cows made mostly from 296c to 393c/kg. Heavy bulls sold from 296c to 349c/kg.

BAIRNSDALE LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE

There were 69 export and 28 young cattle penned representing a decrease of 95 head week-on-week. The usual buying group was present and operating in a dearer market. Quality was very limited with few prime cattle and cows representing almost half of the sale. Most of the young cattle sold to local restockers. A handful of grown steers and bullocks sold a few cents dearer. Cows sold 5c dearer while heavy bulls gained 10c/kg. Vealers sold from 421c to 481c/kg. Yearling steers to local restockers made between 400c and 462c, while the heifer portion to local restockers sold from 342c to 434c/kg. Grown steers and bullocks made from 420c to 434c/kg. Light and medium weight cows sold from 213c to 313c with the heavy weights making from 272c to 380c/kg. Heavy bulls sold between 295c and 316c/kg. Yarding 97

Yarding 775

Change 55 Comparison date 26/07/2021

Category Weight

Grade Score

Carcass

Change -94 Comparison date 22/07/2021

Category

Live Weight c/kg

Estimated Estimated Carcass c/kg $/Head

Weight

Grade Score

Carcass

Low

High

Avg

Change

Avg

Low

High

Avg

Grown Steer

Yearling Steer

Thursday, July 29

Live Weight c/kg

Estimated Estimated Carcass c/kg $/Head

Low

High

Avg

Change

Avg

Low

High

Avg

500-600

B,C,D,2,3

430.0

-434.0

432.2

801

2430

-2509

2473

330-400

B,C,D,2,3

498.0

N/Q

889

1868

600-750

B,C,D,2,3

420.0

-420.0

420.0

N/C

750

2709

-2709

2709

400+

B,C,D,2,3

470.0

565.0

514.7

-18

899

2244

2551

2417

Cows B,C,D,2,3

327.0

-388.0

345.1

-12

700

1939

-2716

2124

B,C,D,2,3

355.0

497.0

-59

800

1598

2440

1982

B,C,D,2,3

549.0

N/Q

947

1647

Yearling Heifer 400+

520+

Vealer Steer 280-330 Vealer Heifer 280-330

B,C,D,2,3

519.0

549.0

N/Q

942

1557

1647

1619

B,C,D,2,3

428.0

500.0

815

2461

2750

2680

B,C,D,2,3

310.0

393.0

-3

726

1674

2531

2003

Grown Steer 500-600 Cows 520+

GIPPSLAND REGIONAL LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE SALE Livestock

Steers

Heifers

Beef Cows

Dairy Cows

Tuesday, July 27

Vendor

District

Avg Kg

C / Kg

Avg $ / Head

Sweeney R&B

Heyfield

855

376.6

3,219.93

Sweeney R&B

Heyfield

830

376.6

3,125.78

KW&EP Porter

Boisdale

350

528.6

1,850.10

Missen RJ

Toongabbie

415

416.6

1,728.89

Considine A

Sale

830

366.6

3,042.78

French Darin

Munro

665

360.6

2,397.99

LEONGATHA LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE

Wednesday, July 28

There were approximately 1,100 export and 200 young cattle penned representing an increase of 80 head week-on-week. The usual buying group was present and operating in a dearer market. Quality improved in the grown cattle with a better selection of prime cattle while cows represented almost half of the sale. Yearling heifers sold firm while the remainder of the trade cattle sold up to 25c/kg dearer. Grown steers and bullocks sold from 10c to 25c/kg dearer despite the extra order operating in the last sale being absent this week. Manufacturing steers improved 20c/kg. Cows sold from firm to 10c/kg dearer with competition increasing as the sale progressed. Heavy bulls sold firm. Vealers sold from 450c to 568c/kg. Yearling trade steers made between 454c to 524c/kg. Yearling heifers suited to the trade sold between 420c and 500c/kg. Grown steers made from 430c to 454c/kg. Bullocks sold from 420c to 462c/kg. Heavy grown heifers made between 410c and 460c/kg. Heavy Friesian manufacturing steers sold between 360c and 405c with the crossbred portion between 368c and 452c/kg. Most light and medium weight cows made from 239c to 359c/kg. Heavy weight cows sold mostly from 289c to 387c/kg. Heavy bulls made between 290c and 348c/kg. Yarding 1300

Change 77 Comparison date 21/07/2021

Category Weight

Grade Score

Carcass

Live Weight c/kg

Estimated Estimated Carcass c/kg $/Head

Low

High

Avg

Change

Avg

Low

High

Avg

Yearling Steer 330-400

B,C,D,2,3

502.0

930

2008

400+

B,C,D,2,3

440.0

524.0

487.0

883

1980

2358

2214

Yearling Heifer 330-400

B,C,D,2,3

440.0

480.0

-32

856

1584

1920

1767

400+

B,C,D,2,3

411.0

500.0

-6

861

1747

2352

2139

B,C,D,2,3

460.0

508.0

N/Q

863

1380

1651

1434

Missen RJ

Toongabbie

505

400

2,020.00

Higgins Pat J&LA

Heyfield

455

396.6

1,804.53

Morgan Sarah & David

Glengarry

750

368.6

2,764.50

Smith Kris

Seaspray

715

366.6

2,621.19

St Katharines Darriman

Giffard

490

375.6

1,840.44

500-600

B,C,D,2,3

430.0

450.0

801

2352

2670

2587

Higgins Pat J&LA

Heyfield

625

287.6

1,797.50

600-750

B,C,D,2,3

445.0

448.0

N/Q

792

2912

3338

3277

Higgins Pat J&LA

Heyfield

495

280.6

1,388.97

Cows

Higgins Pat J&LA

Heyfield

505

258.6

1,305.93

520+

B,C,D,2,3

325.0

375.0

709

1733

2275

1960

Vealer Heifer 280-330 Grown Steer

Market figures supplied by Meat and Livestock Australia’s National Livestock Reporting Service and Gippsland Regional Livesstock Exchange Sale.

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

August, 2021

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

FIRES & FLOODS… GET READY AUSTRALIA has been watching the northern hemisphere suffer a fire season from hell that came three months early!

overloading the engines they are fitted to.

“Our engineers deemed the counterfeit copies to be rough as guts,” he said. Products that are “Knock-Offs” provide the illusion to users that the product may be as good as the original but at a lower price.

With fires raging from Siberia to Sicily, and massive conflagrations in the USA and Canada, it’s easy to see the possible dangers for Australia.

That is a trap for young players!

Those fires are being balanced by horrific floods in China, Germany, India and more recently even London Aussie Pumps takes seriously the idea that the climate is changing, even if there is some debate about the reason.

“More and more we are hearing the mantra that low price is not a substitute for quality and that buying the right product the first time and paying a fair price is true for every product, but particularly so with pumps,” he said.

A DIRE WARNING FOR AUSTRALIA

STORMS AND FLOODS … AUSSIE IS READY

IF these catastrophes can happen in the northern hemisphere, it’s easy to see why emergency services and firefighting authorities are getting very nervous about the coming summer in Australia!

BIG trash pumps, petrol or diesel powered can move a lot of dirty water fast. They are also good for pumping effluent.

They have already seen floods in the Hawkesbury and Gippsland this year, with erratic weather right through the last few months. An early summer may not just bring sunshine and feed for livestock!

Aussie’s Pump Smart is an indispensable guide for pump selection.

These pumps are used for effluent pump out but in a flood situation can go so far as playing a major role in protecting property and even lives.

AUSSIE DEALERS ARE READY ONE Australian serious pump manufacturer, Aussie Pumps, is gearing up its retail dealer outlets to be ready for what could be an “all hands on deck” effort.

The 6” pumps can handle compressible solids as large as 3” in diameter. They have huge open non clog style impellers and all Aussie’s trash pump range feature a front opening port that enables the user to clear blockages or chokes, without having to disconnect pipes or hoses at the suction or discharge ports.

“We have lived through a six year drought that broke the hearts of many farmers with particular impact on the dairy industry, the Black Summer of 2020, with devastating fires on the east coast and the more recent and completely unexpected but devastating storms,” Aussie Pumps’ Kennedy Maeder said. Kennedy is the Area Manager for Victoria and has got a close association with key dealers who welcome the support Australian Pump offers. “We like the way Aussie’s team works with us to support farmers and the community generally,” Farm Depot’s Matt Keeble said. “We like the down to earth approach and the fact that their policy is Farmers First, not voracious corporate shareholders.”

AUSSIE QUALITY NO. 1 THE difference in the Aussie approach to corporate suppliers is very simple. Because it is a family owned business, with a small team of only 50 people, their success relates to the ability to empathise with the people who use the product. “Having a rural background helps to think in terms of the challenges facing users of pump products and trying to find ways of making their lives easier,” Kennedy said. The company is the leading manufacturer of high pressure firefighting equipment in the country with advanced designs that are now a success not only in Australia but around the world. It’s that philosophy of taking the user’s position as the highest priority that is the key to their success.

August, 2021

“From our observation, no dairy or piggery should be without a portable petrol or diesel engine drive Aussie trash pump. We make them in 2”, 3”, 4” and even 6” whoppers that can move up to 6000 lpm,” Kennedy said.

AUSSIE CATALOGUES … ABSOLUTELY FREE

The real Aussie Fire Chief pump on the left with the fake version on the right, chrome plated to hide casting flaws.

FIRE STORM POTENTIAL … BE READY AUSTRALIAN Pump campaigns about the safety of the million to one and a half million homes in what firefighting authorities call the “Urban Interface”. That’s a designation that covers all of the people who live on the peripheries or even leafy suburbs of big cities or regional towns where there’s very real danger of loss of property and life in the event of a major fire. “We learnt a lot during the Black Summer of 2020,” Kennedy said. “We worked with dealers and homeowners helping to protect properties and saw firsthand how our Aussie Fire Chief pumps performed better than any competitors.” The company builds their Fire Chief firefighting pumps in hundreds at the Castle Hill premises, building real Australian content into every machine!

DIESEL FIRE PUMPS TOO THE company has teamed up with Yanmar to produce a range of high pressure firefighting pumps now operated by firefighting specialists including National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Aussie believe that using diesel instead of petrol engine drives is intrinsically safer because of the volatility of the fuel. Aussie engineers tested our Yanmar powered pumps right through the range and found that the engines and pumps were perfectly matched for maximum efficiency without any trace of overload even at the most demanding points on the curve Supervised by Aussie Pumps Chief Engineer, John Hales, the pumps performed beautifully because of the hydraulic design with minimal rpm droop, even under load.

AUSSIE KNOCK-OFFS … WATCH OUT FOR POOR PERFORMANCE “PERFORMANCE tests of third world product, indicated the exact opposite,” Kennedy said. “We have test reports of copy products from third world countries, often sold by less than scrupulous importers, hoping that because it looks like an Aussie will be a saleable item.” The company found that quite the opposite was true with the performance of the pumps under tests, performing poorly and potentially

CONTACT your local Aussie Pumps dealer in Gippsland to get hold of a copy of their new release catalogues, Aussie Pump Smart 6 Blaster Blitz 6. These unique wholly Australian generated and produced documents provide an insight into the technology of both self-priming centrifugal pumps and high pressure piston pump technology used in cleaning gear. The catalogues are freely available and users should note that prices are ex works Sydney and the dealer has the right to charge a freight factor on top of the normal list prices. “Our retail and list prices are targeted to be rational and provide top value for money for farmers and buyers generally,” Kennedy said. “We continue to build more value into our product but are conscious that our value to the client is not only our professionalism but the Aussie teams understanding of the operating a no-frills approach to controlling costs and supply chain prices, even in the volatile world we are in now.” For a complete list of all Aussie Pump retail outlets in Gippsland, contact Kennedy Meader or check out Aussie Pumps website. Pump Smart and Blaster Blitz catalogues are readily available online. Further information is available from Australian Pump Industries aussiepumps.com.au

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

PADDOCK John Deere sets new precedent for connectivity and on-farm data collection in Australian agriculture IN A first for Australian farmers, John Deere last month announced JDLink will be available to customers at no ongoing cost, giving access to digital services that streamline the collection of agronomic and machine data to power efficient, profitable and environmentally sustainable primary production. The decision to remove ongoing costs to the secure and continuous data collection technology, which JDLink offers, sets a new precedent in the agriculture industry, as John Deere is the first manufacturer in the Australian farm machinery sector to take this step. John Deere Australia and New Zealand, Precision Agriculture manager Benji Blevin said ensuring JDLink connectivity was readily and easily available to all farmers was a key milestone for the company in achieving its overarching vision of contributing to a thriving farm sector through precision agriculture innovation and building a robust and accessible digital ecosystem. “This announcement means JDLink, which facilitates automatic data transfer from a machine to the John Deere Operations Centre, will be put into the hands of more customers to give them greater insight into their machinery and their business,” Mr Blevin said. “Connectivity is foundational to agriculture and farmers understand access to data and information about their equipment, farm and paddocks is crucial to unlocking productivity and efficiency gains. “John Deere has always prioritised making the secure collection and transfer of data as cost effective and streamlined as possible, and today, we have elevated this, so all customers have access to the continuous connectivity of their equipment

John Deere Australia and New Zealand has announced all customers will have access to JDLink at no ongoing cost.

John Deere Australia and New Zealand, Precision Agriculture manager Benji Blevin.

with no ongoing subscription fees.” Mr Blevin said JDLink connectivity also granted full access to much-valued remote backup support service, John Deere Connected Support. This includes tools such as Remote Display Access which allows a dealer to view the in-cab display and offer advice or resolve problems, which can deliver vast time and cost savings to farm businesses. JDLink was introduced to the Australian market in 2011 and has since become a cornerstone technology for farm data collection and equipment management. In the past, John Deere dealers had managed their customers’ connection to the subscription service, however farmers will now have full control to connect individual machines or their entire fleet through John Deere Operations Centre. “When machinery is connected to JDLink it automates the flow of on-farm and machinery data. This means farmers can focus

on what is most important, and that’s managing their farm,” he said. “By automatically transferring machine and in-field data to the Operation Centre, farmers can have almost immediate access to the key data they need on their machines and their people in the palm of their hand. “At harvest for example, they can see their work totals coming through from the paddock, review the progress being made, and even adjust machine settings in near real-time. So, with this technology, not only are they are ensuring a job is being done, they have ultimate

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quality control, to ensure the job is being done properly.” Mr Blevin said he was excited to see more farmers begin or expand their precision agriculture journey through JDLink. “At the end of the season, if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it,” he said. “Having all machines connected through JDLink allows equipment to capture information at every opportunity, and every piece of data collected can be used for analysis to make sure better decisions are made going forward. “Making connectivity accessible, seamless and continuously

available, without an ongoing cost, is a great leap forward in ensuring further utilisation of technology, which we know will underpin the future success of Australian farmers.” Farmers with older machines, which don’t have a 3G or 4G JDLink MTG (modem) needed for JDLink connectivity, can still take advantage of this system upgrade by purchasing and installing a 3G or 4G MTG. Once activated, there is no additional cost or monthly service charges. For more information about JDLink, visit the John Deere website.

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

RURAL NEWS

Interest in new plantation program By PHILIP HOPKINS

SIX potential investors are in the state government’s $110 million program to invest in new plantations in Victoria, according to senior government executive Nathan Trushell. Mr Trushell, the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions forest and fibre executive director, said the program aimed to leverage private investment so that investors could achieve a typical rate of return. The process would finish by the end of the year, he said. Mr Trushell, a former VicForests chief executive, was speaking at a webinar, ‘Victorian Production Forests – a way forward’, organised by the Institute of Foresters/Australian Forest Growers. The seminar looked at Victorian forestry’s future, with an emphasis on Gippsland, in the light of the government’s decision to close native forestry by 2030. Mr Trushell said the government strongly supported Opal Australian Paper in the Latrobe Valley. Its owner, Nippon Paper, had recently bought a packaging business for $1.7 billion. “I am not speaking on Opal’s behalf,” Mr Trushell said, but Opal had a strong focus on growing its package business. Globally, white paper was in decline, and had been hit by the COVID virus. In the strategic long-term, Opal would be more focussed on packaging business. “This is partly why we are working through the program to get the right species – it will be pine focussed,” Mr Trushell said. Mr Trushell said the government’s longterm forestry plan had committed funding until 2032. Apart from the $110 million, there was a $120 million support package for workers,

Senior government executive Nathan Trushell says new plantations will be pine-focused.

businesses and local communities. For business, there were business transition support vouchers, the Victorian Timber Innovation Fund and the Victorian Forest Plan Transition Fund, Mr Trushell said. Worker support included redundancy top-ups, retraining and career transition support, and mental health and wellbeing help. Support for communities included local

development strategies and money from the Victorian Forest Plan Transition Fund. Mr Trushell said 26 businesses to date had taken up forest business transition vouchers, while seven timber innovation grants had gone to businesses in Gippsland. These were $1.6 million to Australian Sustainable Hardwoods in Heyfield to install a new manufacturing line to produce engineered flooring made from

photograph supplied

plantation shining gum and radiata pine plywood; $397,000 for Radial Timber in Yarram to introduce a small log line and experiment with processing plantation timber; $246,000 for Longwarry Sawmill to use recycled and reclaimed timber to make new timber products; and $40,000 for Brunt’s Harvesting in Orbost to do a feasibility study for transition to plantation harvesting.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

August, 2021

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August, 2021

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

GIPPSLAND SPORT

Tennis ace shines bright in USA By ZAC STANDISH

THE Charlton name is synonymous with tennis in the Latrobe Valley. Headlined by long-time coach of the Traralgon Tennis Club Graham, who has helped nurture countless local talents in his time, his 21-year-old son Joshua is now beginning to make a splash on the international scene. Accepting a tennis scholarship at the prestigious University of Oregon in 2019, the Traralgon local is continuing to take his game to new heights and thriving in the elite sporting environment provided by the collegiate system. Currently in the off-season, he is taking part in competitions across the United States as part of the Universal Tennis Professional Tennis tour, where he recently took out the ITA Summer series in Newport Beach, California. Charlton gave an update on how things have been progressing in the American summer. “Everything is going really well at the moment, being the off-season for college it is a really good opportunity to travel and play tournaments,” Charlton said. “I am in Newport Beach at the moment and will potentially head to Dallas a bit later on, so it is really good to be out here testing my level outside of college and play some of these players who are consistently at a professional level to really test the waters.” He said playing these professional tournaments on the Universal Tennis tour has provided him great experience as he looks to keep progressing through the ranks and make a living

J sh Jo shua Cha harl r to rl on re rece cent ent ntly ly enj njoy o ed gre reat a s su ucc ces e s att a tourn ou urn rnam amen am entt in New en ewpo port po r Bea each ch h, Ca C ali ali l fo orn rnia nia ia. ia. photograph supplied

out of playing tennis on the global stage. “These tournaments provide players of all levels an opportunity to come and compete to earn good prizemoney and play good matches, pool prizemoney across each event is $20,000 and they take the top 20 players who enter for each event so it is good to be part of that,” he said. “There are a lot of professional players mixed with the top college players as well, so it is definitely a little bit of a different dynamic just because in the collegiate system you are only playing one to two matches per week, whereas in these events you are playing day after day so it offers great experience for conditioning as well, “It is definitely a great stepping stone and I have loved being able to adapt and really test my game at this higher level.” Being brought up in a tennis mad household, the game has been Josh’s life from when he can remember, as he recalls beginning his journey in Traralgon and learning the game from his father. “Born and bred in Traralgon, I grew up with my dad ‘Woofa’ (Graham Charlton) who is the head coach at the Traralgon Tennis Club, so I just grew up around that environment and saw him on court everyday which inspired me to get involved with the sport from a young age,” he said. “Growing up and always had a racquet nearby, my dad never pushed me to play tennis, but I just loved it so much as a kid and learning the game from him as my coach I could not have asked for a better pathway into the sport.” Recognised as an outstanding talent from a young age, Charlton used his platform at the Traralgon p g Tennis Club to quickly climb up the ranks and trav tr avel el to to tour urna name ment nts s in Mel elbo bour urne ne, a ro ac ross ss the cou ss ount n ry nt y and ult ltim imat im atel at ely el y overseas. He described how much the club mean a s to him and d his continu n ed conn co nnec nn ecti ec tion ti on n wit ith h hi his s ho home me tow own. n. “I hav a e al a wa ays y bas sed mys self lf ou outt of Trar Tr aral algo gon go n wh whic ich h I st stil illl do tod oday ay whe hen n Ig ge et th the e ch han nce to o come me hom o e, e I hav a e just ju st bee st en lu luck ck ky en enou ou ugh tha hatt Tr ha Trar aral ar allgo gon n has ha s a re real ally ly goo ood d se ett-up u bei up eing ng one n of the th e bestt reg egio iona n l cl na club ub bs in in Aus str tral alia ia,, so itt has as bee en grrea eatt to be in nvolv l ed d in w att is a re wh real ally y gre r a att ten enni nis ni s co c omm m un unit ity it y,” he h saiid. d.

Deciding to attend the University of Oregon has done wonders for Joshua Charlton’s growing tennis career. photograph supplied

“I still do get a lot of messages from all my mates back home, I do keep in touch with everyone around the tennis club who are following my career and I try to follow the results of everyone at the club and see how they are progressing, coming from a country town I feel there is a great sense of community and mateship which has definitely helped me through my career.” After finishing school, Charlton was tasked with the incredibly tough decision of where to go next as he looked to find the best avenue to reaching his dream of becoming a professional tennis player. He described this process and what it was about the college system and th U i it off Oregon O th t saw him hi the University that come down this path. “IIt was a difficult decision n to ma ake growing g up u bec e ause e I have a gr g eat

passion for tennis and I want to be able to make a career out of it in the future, and then when you get to 18 you have the choice to either travel the world and try and play professionally, which will be very tough at that age going against much more mature competition,” he said. “So I found college was a great opportunity for me to come and play because you have a lot of resources in the college environment and get to compete at that high level while also being funded and nurtured by the school, whereas if I was to go out on my money it would cost a lot of money to have those resources. “For me I was fortunate enough to be recruited by a lot of schools and Oregon just stood out purely because of the resources that they have and the very strong sports department that helps guide some of the world’s top athletes across a number of different sports.” Having now spent two years travelling around America with Oregon, Charlton pinpointed some of the highlights of his career to date. “It is tough to narrow down because there have been a lot, but I would have to say this year one of my biggest highlights came when we played Stanford, who are a renowned tennis program, at home in Oregon and we had a good win with around 300 people packed around the facility watching,” he said. “Personally, I beat England’s number one junior Arthur Fery, who just recently made the final round of Wimbledon qualifying which was a great win for me and more importantly helped the team to one of our most important wins.” A for f the th future, f t Ch lt hopes h h As Charlton he can continue to develop and make his way on nto t the profe f ssio i nal tour. “I hav ve on ne more year in college and d then e potentially a fifth year if I want to take it, butt aft fter e this I de d fiinite t ly y wan a t to o sta t rtt playi laying ing the ITF and d bui u ld ldin ing g m ran my anki k ng thr hrou ug gh h there her an he nd d then g on to the go he AT TP cha h ll llen enge gerr to tour ur and d p sh pu h to p pllay a gran nd d sla lams ms m s and d be in n the th e to top p 10 100,” he e sai a d. d. “I wan “I antt to o ma ak ke my m carree eer li livi ving vi n fro ng r m te enn nnis is s and d eve v n th thou ou ugh h it is s go oiing to tak ke a lo lot off har a d wo ork k I def e in nittel ey thin th in nk I ha have v th he e rig ight ht fou ound und n at a io on an a d th he pa pass siio on to to mak ke th t at a hap appe pen. n”

Traralgon’s Joshua Charlton is making a splash on the college tennis scene in America. photograph supplied

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

August, 2021

GIPPSLAND SPORT

BASS Coast local Adam Olszanski has been appointed the new chief executive officer of the Stony Creek Racing Club. Club president Michael Darmanin said that the new appointment follows on from the recent resignation of former club boss Sarah Wolf, after her pending relocation back to Melbourne. “After many solid applications and an extensive recruitment process, the club is pleased to be able to announce Adam as our new club CEO,” Mr Darmanin said. “Adam has a rich experience within the racing industry, having called races for over 20 years, presented on racing TV networks, which Adam will be continuing these roles as well as more recently being the Secretary at the Woolamai Picnic Races,

“Adam brings with him some big plans and innovative ideas for the club and we look forward to working with him to strengthen the club’s membership, develop our schedule of race day entertainment and ensure that our community continues to enjoy a great day of quality racing at Stony.” Commencing in August, Mr Olszanski will be well placed to begin planning for the next season of racing at Stony Creek with the first race of the summer season set to be in late December. Mr Olszanski said he was excited at continuing the great work already underway at Stony Creek. “I’m looking forward to meeting with members and regular race goers and continuing to build on the work being undertaking by the club in making race

days something for everyone to enjoy,” he said. “As a race caller I have enjoyed coming to Stony Creek for many years, so it is exciting to be able to spend more time at the club, helping drive future plans and welcoming even more people to the races over summer.” While the Stony Creek have welcomed Mr Olszanski to the role, Mr Darmanin again thanked Ms Wolf for her dedication and commitment to the club in leaving it in a strong financial position and well regarded within country racing. If you are interested in the upcoming season of racing at Stony Creek or would like to become a member of the Stony Creek Racing Club please contact Adam on 03 5664 0099.

Life as a rising Sun is suiting Flanders By ZAC STANDISH

FORMER Moe footballer Sam Flanders has been one of the bright spots of the 2021 season for the Gold Coast Suns and been duly rewarded with a two-year contract extension. Hailing from Fish Creek before moving to Moe to finish school, the speedy midfielder/ forward affectionately known as ‘Ned’ was selected with pick 11 in the 2019 national draft and after initially struggling to make his way into the senior side, is thriving at AFL level in his second season. Flanders said he was thrilled to be committed to the Gold Coast until the end of 2023. “There is obviously a bright future at the Suns, we still have to work hard, but I think we are really starting to dig in and believe now how special and talented the group we have is, so I am just super stoked to be on board for another two years,” Flanders said. Like all talented young players moving to an interstate club, there will always be some sort of urge to return home, however for Flanders he said the decision to stay put up north was an easy one. “It never really crossed my mind to do anything (but stay at the Suns), obviously you do miss home, but we played a number of games in Melbourne this year so I was able to get back and see family and friends which was really nice,” he said. “The club are really good with that side of things because they understand that there are not many players from the Gold Coast or Queensland, so any chance we get to go see family they are all on board, so they have made things really easy for me.” After playing just five games in his debut season, the 19-year old managed to crack into the senior side in Round 4 this year and has since played all bar one game while averaging 13 disposals, four tackles and three marks a game. Flanders explained the factors that have led to his improvement this season. “(This year) has been massive for my confidence and development, I probably just put it down to a really solid pre-season, I really dug in over that period and got super fit which allowed me to, when I came into the team in Round 4, have the confidence

Former Moe footballer Sam Flanders signed a two year contract extension to see him stay at the Gold Coast Suns until at least the end of 2023. photograph gold coast suns

August, 2021

Sam Flanders in action for the Gippsland Power in 2019. file photograph

to go out and play my role and I have been fortunate enough to deliver week in and week out,” he said. “(Moving into the midfield) more this year has also been great for me, being around the ball more and learning off teammates such as Touk Miller and David Swallow or even opposition players, lining up against Marcus Bontempelli and Jack Macrae you just learn so much, but for my development personally it is has been great to play different roles and get more exposure to the midfield.” Reflecting back on his journey in football to date, he detailed his experiences growing up in Fish Creek and climbing through the ranks as a junior in Gippsland. “I grew up on a dairy farm and for most of my childhood I was playing basketball and football and then coming into later on in my journey I ended up moving to Moe/Newborough and went to school at Lowanna (College) where I switched from basketball to primarily football playing with Moe and Gippsland Power,” he said. “Growing up in a small town I have found the odds have always been against me, the resources aren’t as good and there is no reason why I should be here, but the support of the community and hard work and dedication has got me here and I now just want to make every moment count.” He said he still keeps in close contact with his friends and family back home, with the support of both the Fish Creek and Moe communities something he values extremely highly.

“I still have mates that play for Fish Creek and I try check up on the scores every weekend to see how they are going, all the time I get messages from people at home so I know the support is always going to be there and that is something I am just so grateful for,” he said. “Moe is the exact same as well, even though I moved late they brought me into the Moe family really quickly, and I always get messages from families and mates from Moe and I always make an effort to get back there whenever I am at home – the support of both towns has been so great for me.” Being drafted to the Gold Coast, Flanders would be united with another Gippsland product in Morwell’s Ben Ainsworth, who he said has had a profound impact on his time up north. “Benny has been amazing for me, not only in my development on the field but off the field I lived with him and his partner and I just learnt so much from him about things like preparation and recovery and he certainly took me under his wing,” he said. “Playing alongside him this year he is always the first one to check up on me and see how I am going, so he is definitely a role model I try to base my game on and someone I love being around.” Flanders believes that some long-awaited success is just around the corner for the Sunshine State-based club. “Number one in my mind is just success, I think now we are starting to get some consistency and real belief that we can run with these top teams, again there is a lot of hard work we still need to do to get to that stage, but most importantly I think we just believe now that we can do it, we definitely have the squad to do it so we just need to keep building that confidence,” he said.

Omeo league straight to finals series THE pandemic has been enough to already force one football-netball league in Gippsland to abandon its home-and-away season. The six team Omeo and District Football-Netball League will play no more regular season games in 2021. Instead, the next lot of matches to be played will be finals and scheduled to start on August 7. Finals teams are based on the ladder as it currently stands with 11 games completed. A league best and fairest and goal kicking will be awarded. Best and fairest votes and goal kicking tally will also be final as it stands as of Round 11. The ODFNL has laid down a date of September 11 as the cut off for the absolute last day the grand final can be played.

Sale locked in for Good Friday races SALE will host Victoria’s first Good Friday race meeting next year. Racing Victoria and Country Racing Victoria announced the Sale Turf Club would stage the inaugural meeting, subject to state government approval. RV confirmed that the meeting would not start prior to 1pm – as happens on Anzac Day. An announcement on what the Good Friday program would look like is expecting in the coming months. The meeting will however, support fundraising efforts for the Good Friday Appeal. Sale Turf Club chief executive officer Brad Evans said the club would embrace the chance to host the first Good Friday meeting. “It would be an incredible honour for the Sale Turf Club to host the first Good Friday race meeting in Victoria and we warmly welcome the opportunity to showcase the sport and our region on what will be an historic day, subject to parliamentary approval,” Evans said.

Preston Rd, Ripplebrook Phone (03) 5627 6317 Fax (03) 5627 6385 www.stlegermachinery.com C.L, A.H., & A.E. FORREST

Specialists in Second Hand Farm Machinery.

WORKSHOP OPEN - Workshop available to repair your tractors and implements..... .DAIRY Frigrite Auto Wash vat, 3000 ltrs, excellent condition.

TILLAGE

Chisel plough, Jarrett 3 tyne. Discs, Connor Shea 16 pl trailing. Power Harrows, TerraNova, 5ft, with crumble roller. Scarifier, 17 tyne.

FARM IMPLEMENTS

Chisel Plow, heavy duty 9ft. Wick wipers, 3pl, 2mtr & 4 mtr. 8ft Port Multi grader blade. 12ft stick rake, heavy duty, suit 3pl or fel. 9ft – 12ft smudgers. 3pl aerorator. Assorted hay forks & spikes. Cranvel trailing backhoe, pto driven. Hardi 600lt 3pl boom spray with 6 mtr boom and hose reel. Hardi 600 ltr 3pl boom spray, 7.7 mtr boom & hose reel. Silvan 600 ltr 3pl boom spray, 6mtr boom, & hose reel. Landaco LS2000 3pl spreader, 2018. New Holland Roll-Belt 150 Superfeed baler, as new, 2020. Mulcher, 7 and 8ft Sylvan with hyd sideshift. Post hole diggers 6” to 18”, Post rammers .... Lyco with auger, Massey, Aussie Driver with hyd side shift.

TRACTORS

Cat Challenger MT445B 4wd, a/c cab, FEL. Cat Challenger MT445B 4wd, a/c cab. Cat Challenger MT465B 4wd, a/c cab, FEL ex. cond. Deutz 3006, 2wd, rops, 3pl. Deutz 5206, 2wd, rops, 1800 gen hrs, one owner. Deutz 140 hp, 2wd, a/c cab, 3pl, rem. Tidy unit. Fiat 115-90, fwa, a/c cab, as traded. Ford 4000, pwr steer, rops, 3pl remotes, as traded. Ford TW15, fwa, a/c cab, 3pl, rem, new clutch, 143hp. Iseki 5000, 2wd, cab. John Deere 1120, rops, 2wd. Massey Ferguson 135, FEL, rops, tidy unit. Massey Ferguson 165, pwr steer, MP, 3pl. Massey Ferguson 240, rops, pwr steer, tidy. Massey Ferguson 355 turbo, a/c cab, p/steer, d/bar, remotes.. . . New Holland TS125 4wd, a/c cab, ex. cond.

TYRES

Assorted new and second hand from 16” to 46”.

Delivery and finance easily arranged. Trade-ins accepted.

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Stony Creek calls on Big O

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

August, 2021