Gippsland Farmer January 2022 by gippslandtimes.com

Phone: (03) 5135 4444

January, 2022

Victorian Agriculture Ag g Minister Mary ry-Anne y Thomas examines a new seaweed feed additive with Ellinbank Smart rtt Farm dairy ryy scientist Pablo Alvarez. photograph michelle slater

EMISSIONS WEED-ED OUT red seaweed has reduced methane by 90 per cent when fed to cattle in feedlots. “Here we want to understand the potential to reduce methane emissions and also the impact on milk production,” Prof Jacobs told Gippsland Farmer.

“We still want the animals to produce milk cost effectively to make this a viable option for dairy farmers.” The dairy cows at the West Gippsland-based farm were being given the special additive in their twice daily feeds in a controlled

setting that mimicked their grazing patterns. The milkers were decked out in a special non-invasive harness and halter with tube over the animal’s nose that led to a canister to capture the animal’s belches. Continued on page 6

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ELLINBANK dairy cows are taking part in a trial to chow down on a special species of seaweed in an attempt to reduce their greenhouse gases. Ellinbank Smart Farm

researchers are feeding dairy cattle Tasmanian-grown red seaweed (Asparagopsis) which has shown great potential to significantly reduce methane emissions. Agriculture Victoria research director, Professor Joe Jacobs said

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By MICHELLE SLATER

RURAL NEWS

Expert: Solid emissions plan needed By MICHELLE SLATER

AUSTRALIAN agricultural producers could be left behind as global markets introduce carbon tariffs unless a solid plan is laid on the table to meet emissions targets, a climate researcher has told. Melbourne University Primary Industries Climate Challenge Centre research scientist Natalie Doran-Browne was part of talks at the COP 26 climate summit in Glasgow in November. Dr Doran-Browne was discussing the co-benefits for farmers to deploy climate change mitigation strategies as part of their farming systems – such as tree planting to provide wind breaks. But she warned that Australia needed to get behind the world’s climate targets if it was to remain competitive internationally. “(US president Joe) Biden said that failing to curb emissions means America will tax your exports and the European Union is in a similar position,” Dr Doran-Browne said. “Europe will start imposing taxes on other countries without a carbon price as early as 2023, and this will come quite early and it will impact Australia’s ag sector.” Dr Doran-Browne pointed to some of the world’s largest companies such as Kellogg’s and Unilever setting their own ambitious targets which was driving emissions reductions down supply chains. She said while the US was aiming for a 50 per cent reduction on 2005 levels by 2030, Australia was “lagging behind” at just 26 to 28 per cent reductions by the end of the decade.

Australian agricultural producers could be left behind as global markets introduce carbon tariffs unless a solid plan is laid on the table to meet emissions targets, a climate researcher has told. file photograph

Australia also failed to make any methane reduction pledges, while 105 other countries signed up to 30 per cent methane reductions by 2030. “This is a huge concern, and it means we have not kept pace with the rest of the world. It means if other countries reduce ag emissions then they don’t want farmers disadvantaged as a result,” she said. “Australia has a net zero by 2050 target, but no strong policy to take it up or any

checks or balances or five-year plans. We need an action plan and this is where the gap is at the moment.” Dr Doran-Browne urged farmers to take a “bottom up” approach rather than waiting for the federal government to show climate leadership. “We know politicians can take action at the last minute but it will end up costing a lot more and more disruptive than having a plan in place to transition over time. We

know it will be an issue economically if we don’t do anything about it, there are market benefits of being carbon neutral, some markets are paying a premium for carbon neutral products,” she said. “There are a number of thigs that can be done now, even with promising concepts coming in five years or so, we have the technology now that can be used for zero emissions livestock projects.”

Mining giant Forrest grabs slice of Bega cheese WESTERN Australian ore mining giant Andrew Forrest bought a $108 million chunk of dairy processor Bega Cheese late last month. An ASX announcement stated that Mr Forrest had purchased more than 20 million shares into the cheesemaker under his company Tattarang AgriFood Investments. It means Mr Forrest has 6.61 per cent voting power into the company, which has a factory on Princes Drive in Morwell. The purchase further diversifies the billionaire’s portfolio after he bought fine boot manufacturer RM Williams last year, on top of other interests in agri-foods, marine and pastoral. It comes after Bega reported before Christmas it was focussing on managing the “cumulative effect of the direct and indirect costs associated with COVID-19”. It stated these impacts had been “extensive and significant” ranging from market disruptions from lockdowns, factory shutdowns, increased safety and testing and major supply chain cost increases. Other changes included key markets in China affecting infant and toddler dairy products sales.

“Despite positive seasonal conditions, farm milk supply across the Australian dairy industry remains flat to declining with strong competition for supply continuing,” Bega said in a company notice. “The company expects upward pressure on farm gate milk prices to remain for the balance of the year reflecting high global dairy commodity prices, limited supply availability and the resultant competitive circumstances.” But it also stated Bega was comfortable with the “overall operations of the business”. This included confidence in brand quality, planned investments growth and efficiency investments and the company’s ability to respond to market opportunities in Australia and internationally. It said the short term impacts of COVID and a highly competitive milk procurement environment are expected impact to this financial year’s earnings. The company expects normalised earnings before interest, tax and depreciation to be between $195 million to $215 million.

Western Australian mining magnate Andrew Forrest has purchased 6.61 per cent of dairy processor Bega Cheese. file photograph

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RURAL NEWS

The Loughridge family also won the Group Class with their three Mogul daughters. photograph michelle slater

Leading Edge Genetics On-Farm Competition overall champion was 5986 - sired by Mogul and owned by the Loughridge family in Poowong North. photograph supplied

A POOWONG South farming family cleaned out the top honours at this year’s Leading Edge Genetics On-Farm Competition, which attracted 427 head of dairy cattle from 58 Gippsland farms. The on-far m competition in its 12th year is one of the largest of its kind in Australia. The lunchtime presentation was held at the Drouin Golf Club by judge Lindsay Marshall from Finley, at the event attended by 120 farmers and 15 agribusiness representatives. Overall Champion and winning the three year old class was entry 5986 sired by Mogul and owned by Bill, Faye, Brett and Jodi Loughridge of Poowong North. This well balanced dairy cow on her

class unfortunately. But for me I was looking for the most correct, well balanced cow.” The two-year-old class was won by Warren Lace and Carrie Ralston with their Jersey 2569 sired by Grant. “She was the most correct and balanced cow in a very strong class,” Mr Marshall said. A Guthrie daughter 927 owned by the Thomson family at Fish Creek won the four and five year-old class, and amazed the judge with her “tremendous balance and unbelievable udder”. “Once I saw her I knew she would be a cow that was going to be hard to get around. Interestingly her Samite daughter won the two-year-old class in 2020,” Mr Marshall said.

Poowong South family claims coveted competition success second lactation was a standout for Mr Marshall. “Her dairy frame and outstanding udder made her the obvious cow to lead this class,” Mr Marshall said. The Loughridge family also took out the coveted Group Class of three animals by the same sire, with a winning pen of threeyear-old Mogul daughters. The same family walked away with most successful exhibitor prize. Mr Marshall said it was a very busy four days of judging in Gippsland looking at most breeds of dairy cattle. “It was certainly a competition of great depth. Each farm had animals of tremendous quality,” Mr Marshall said. “There could only be one winner in each

The highest placed non-registered Holstein breeder was a tie between Peter, Helen and Michael Thomson at Fish Creek and Ben Elliott of Jindivick. Leading Edge Genetics owner Brad Aitken said he “marvelled” at the quality of cattle presented in the competition each year.

“It truly has become one of the leading on-farm competitions here in Australia,” Mr Aitken said. “Based on the large attendance today, there is no doubting there is not only great fellowship in our dairy cattle industry, but also great pride that everyone has in their animals.”

Native oyster trial in Gippsland Lakes is set to begin A NATIVE oyster aquaculture trial in the Gippsland Lakes is set to start this year. The trial is being carried out in a partnership with Victorian Fisheries Authority and the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation to grow Sydney rock oysters and angasi oysters. Both species are native and abundant in the Gippsland Lakes system. VFA chief executive officer Travis Dowling said the trial could mean Victorian-grown Sydney rock oysters

would be back on the menu for seafood consumers - which would be a “huge win” for the state. The trial will assess the viability, growth rates and eating qualities of the two species at five sites around Flannagans and Rigbys islands, west of Lakes Entrance. “A native oyster industry in the Gippsland Lakes would create jobs for Gunaikurnai, support regional tourism and supply fresh, local and sustainable seafood,” Mr Dowling said.

“The Gunaikurnai have a strong interest in a native shellfish industry whereby its people can work on Country and maintain a meaningful connection to land and water.” Interstate oyster aquaculture is worth more than $100 million, so a successful trial which could lead to permanent oyster farming could mean economic prosperity for Gippsland Lakes towns. “Oyster aquaculture isn’t new to Victoria with angasi oysters are already grown

by several licensed farmers closer to Melbourne in Port Phillip and Western Port,” Mr Dowling said. Gippslanders are being invited to complete a short online survey to let VFA and GLaWAC understand what users value most about the areas in and around the trial sites. The survey will close on Sunday, January 16. To take part, visit surveymonkey. com/r/GippsOysters.

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RUSSELL NORTHE MLA

RURAL NEWS

Member for Morwell

As your representative in the Victoria an Parliament, please know my staff and I are here to assist you u, your family or your business whether it be in response to the COVID-19 pandemic or an issue or idea relating to public transsport, roads, schools, employment and/or any other State Governm ment related matter. My staff and I are happy to provide you with information relating to available Government programs and grants, or assist in the recognition of individual, family and d business milestone events. So feel free to drop into our office e at 12 George Street, Morwell or give us a calll on (03) 5133 9088.

RUSSELL NORTHE MLA

Member for Morwell

12-14 George Street, Morwell VIC 3840 / PO Box 214, Morwell VIC 3840 p. 03 5133 9088 | f. 03 5133 9388 | e. russell.northe@parliament.vic.gov.au w. www.russellnorthe.com.au Authorised by Russell Northe, 12-14 George Street, Morwell VIC 3840. Funded from Parliamentary Budget.

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Rhyll winemaker Rick Lacey from Purple Hen Wines with his array of 2021 Gippsland Wine Show trophies. photograph supplied

Medal glory for a supreme vintage

GIPPSLAND winemakers were up for 40 medals at this year’s Westpac Gippsland Wine Show held at Phillip Island Winery in late November. Rhyll-based Purple Hen Wines took home five of the six major trophies, including Most Successful Exhibitor, best wine and best red for its 2020 Shiraz and best white for its 2020 off dry Riesling. Purple Hen also won Wines of Provenance with its Pinot Noirs from 2014, 2016 and 2019. The award looked at three vintages from a five-year period, judging consistency and longevity, a longer-term view of the vineyard and winemaker’s expertise. The judging panel was led by multi awardwinning Yarra Yering general manager and winemaker Sarah Crowe. Ms Crowe noted the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay were strong classes in Gippsland, showing these varieties were particularly suited to the region. She said entries were down overall slightly on previous years reflecting the challenges of the 2020 vintage. But she said the quality of the 2021 wines in some classes demonstrated this year

was a promising vintage, and was likely to show well in the future. Central Gippsland wineries took out three of the top class awards with Blue Gables 2019 Jesse Chardonnay, Glenmaggie Wines 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon and Toms Cap’s Three Dog Sauvignon Blanc 2021. Lightfoot and Sons in East Gippsland won the Chair of Judges’ trophy for its Myrtle Point Vineyard 2021 Chardonnay, which also won best white. It also won best in class for its 2021 rose. Tynong North winery Cannibal Creek won top Pinot Noir for its 2019 vintage and Krooked Row from Neerim South won Best Other Red varieties for its Sangiovese 2019. Bass River Winery produced the Best Sparkling for its 1835 Sparkling Brut 2017. Wine Gippsland chair Alistair Hicks said that the profile of Gippsland wine producers and winemakers has expanded greatly in recent years. “It gives our producers and winemakers the opportunity to gain feedback from highly respected judges, who base their marks on national standards, not just the best within Gippsland,” Mr Hicks said.

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January, 2022

RURAL NEWS

Fowl play leaves owners saddened By JOSH FARRELL

ROSEDALE residents are enduring a spate of chicken thefts over the previous months as the price of laying hens climbs dramatically. Jan and Colin Macreadie have had more than 50 Hy-line and Isa Brown chickens stolen from their property near Rosedale on three separate occasions. The price of chickens on resale sites such as Gumtree range from $15 through to $50 for some, bringing the Macreadies’ loss up to $1000. The first time hens went missing Jan and Colin were unsure whether a fox had taken them. The second they suspected they had been stolen. On third occasion Jan spotted the headlights of the thieves in the early morning as they drove along the driveway. She said she awoke to the sound of a car door closing, got up to investigate and saw the headlights from the back door. The thieves took the trouble to close the gate that provides access to the chicken pens. “They have to travel up the driveway and right next to the house to get to them — it’s scary,” Jan said. “I can’t sleep at night. “I just sit up listening and waiting in case they come back.” After the second and third break-ins the couple reported the thefts to Rosedale police, but said they had not visited or taken any statements. Rosedale Police are investigating the thefts and urge anyone with information to contact the Rosedale Police station. Jan and Colin have now lost all of their young hens, and egg collection has dropped from five dozen to just a single dozen in a month.

They have now installed locks on all of their gates, and have begun making enquiries into security camera systems. “We are going to have to install security cameras and other measures to better protect ourselves,” Jan said.

Jan and Colin want to bring the thefts to light, as they believe it is likely others have been affected. “I am sure we are not the only victims — it’ll help others better protect themselves,” Colin said.

Colin Macreadie has had 50 of his chickens stolen in recent months. photograph josh farrell

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Seaweed feed on the menu at Ellinbank farm Continued from page 1

Professor Jacobs said methane was responsible for producing 60 per cent of the smart farm’s greenhouse gases, and the seaweed could help it achieve emissions neutrality by 2026. “Thus study has applicability to any ruminant, if it works in dairy cows, there’s no reason why it can’t work in beef cattle, sheep or goats,” Prof Jacobs said. “Our role is to test this for the dairy industry, and then potentially other grazing industries. “At our other smart farm in Hamilton, we have a paddockbased feeder that allows the animal to eat certain amounts whilst grazing.” The red seaweed was being grown by FutureFeed under the auspice of the CSIRO, but Prof Jacobs said he hoped there could be more local commercial opportunities for the product. “I’d love it, if down the track this becomes a viable option for livestock, we have a fantastic coastline in Gippsland, that maybe there would be an opportunity to have seaweed farms in Victoria.” Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas visited the smart farm last month to check out the trials. “Farmers are in the frontline when it comes to experiencing the real impacts of climate change, but they also know they are key emitters of greenhouse gases,” Ms Thomas said. “Farmers really want to be a part of the story of change and want to be a part of the solution. It’s vital we work and-in-hand with the sector. “The experiments being designed and the solutions being proposed have real applications and can maintain the productivity of every cow.”

RURAL NEWS

Hay farmers!!! Be cautious says CFA THE CFA is urging far armers r to be cautious when cutting, bal aling l an and n stori ring i hay with wii the strong seasonal all growt wth t of pastures and an n crops. Distri rict i 9 acting assistan ant n chief fire officer Emma Conway sai aid i there have already all been hay stack fires in the local all area arr this season, after aff crews responded to dozens of instan ances n across the state last year ar. r ACFO Conway sai aid i significan ant n grass growt wth t across Gippslan and n would present some chal allenges l for fire fighters with wii the increases in fuel, especial ally l along all roadsides. “The curr rrent r weather pattern mak akes k dry ryi ying i hay chal allenging l wii war with arm r peri riods i interspersed with wii rai ain, i and an n it doesn’t tak ake k much to mak ake k the hay damp,” she sai aid. i “With so man any n far armers r try ryi ying i to get hay finished, we understan and n it can an n be difficult for contractors to ask far armers r to wai ait i until the grass on the ground is fully dry ry. y “The risk rii of bai ailing i ear arly r however, can an n have devastating consequences.” ACFO Conway sai aid i haystack fires could star art rt quite easily from lightning stri rikes i or spar arks r from equipment and an n machinery ry. y But she sai aid i spontan aneous n combustion of the hay bal ales l themselves was a major source of ignition. Spontan aneous n combustion occurs when hay has either not properly dri ried i before bal aling, l or has been exposed to rai ain i or damp conditions, mean ann ing moisture content is higher than an n recommended levels. “This can an n happen to any an n hay bal ales, l regar ardless r of size ze, and nd it is something farm rmers can help prevent,” she sai aid. i “Af After f bal aling, l mak ake k sure you check the heat and an n smell of the bal ales l before stacki king i them into haysheds or lar arge r ext xternal t all stacks, and an n leave any an n suspect bal ales l separ arate r from the rest. “By doing so, you’re not just protecting yourself from the finan ancial n all impact of losing val aluable l fodder, you’ll also all be helping your local all bri rigade i an and n community ty y as haystack fires often occupy

cru rucial u all firefighting resources duri ring i the season when CFA volunteer firefighters are arr required to monitor haystack fires for several all days to mak ake k sure smoulderi ring i fires don’t spread.”

Important tips:

• Ensure hay is well cured before bai ailing. i • Know Kn n the history ry y of the hay you purchase.

• Keep haystacks to a limited siz ize, z and an n don’t stack hay right rii to the top of a hay shed. Allow All some air aii to circulate at the top to help car arr rrry y away moisture. • Regular arly r monitor the moisture and an n temperature of your hay. • Watch for unusual all odours such as pipe tobacco, car aramel, r burning or musty ty y smells. • Store hay in separ arate r stacks or sheds away from far arm r equipment and an n other buildings. • Keep your hay dry ry. y Protect it from rai ain, i leak aki king i rooves or spouts, and an n runoff. ru u Cover stacks with wii tar arp rps p or hay caps. Temperature guide – what to do when your hay is overheating. Use a thermometer in a probe or insert rtt a crowbar arr into the middle of the stack for two tw w hours. • If it is less than an n 50 degrees - or if you can an n han andle n bar arr without wii discomfort rtt - check the temperature dai aily. i • Betw tween w 50 and an n 60 degrees - or if you only can an n han andle n crowbar arr for short rtt time – then check the temperature twi tw wice i dai aily. i Remove machinery ry y from the shed. • Betw tween w 60 and an n 70 degrees - or if you can an n touch bar arr only bri riefl i fly l - check the temperature every ry y two tw w to fou ur hours. Move the hay to improve aii flow. air fll • If it is more than an n 70 degrees – or the bar arr is too hot to hold – th here is a potential all for fire. Cal all l 000 immediately. Avoid wal alki lking i on top of haystack.

Victorian Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas says hello to a dairy cow taking part in a red seaweed feed trial at the Ellinbank Smart Farm. photograph michelle slater

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A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Regen Dairy Forum A NEW date has been set for a forum to support dairy farmers who are looking for long term sustainable options to stay profitable and viable in the industry. The Regen Dairy Forum is set to take place on February 8 and 9 in Warragul, Victoria and will provide the opportunity for dairy farmers to engage with and listen first hand to active dairy farmers who have transitioned to profitable and healthy dairy systems. The event, which includes a field trip to a local dairy farm, will be hosted by agroecologist David Hardwick from Soil Land Food. It will focus on making a profit, pasture-based dairying, along with pasture, soil and animal health. “Dairying can be an expensive business, but there are farmers out there who have turned their systems around and are more profitable. This takes so much stress out of a really demanding profession,” Mr Hardwick said. “The Regen Dairy Forum will include guest speakers like Greg Bott from Bott Consulting who has 40 years’ experience in the finance sector, many of them with Rabobank. “We also have Judi Earl coming along, who has extensive knowledge and experience in holistic planning and grazing management to regenerate farming landscapes.” The event will also provide the opportunity for an on-farm visit to meet a local dairy farmer who has successfully rebooted his dairy farm. The forum is a great networking event to meet other like-minded people in the regenerative agriculture space. “It can be really daunting thinking about changing the way you farm, which is why networking events such as this forum are really important. Farmers need all the support they can get when trying something new,” Mr Hardwick said. “The good news is that there will

David Hardwick, agroecologist speaks to farmers about soil health.

be a number of great stories about dairy farming businesses who have successfully transformed their farming model. “For example our on farm visit will be to a local dairy farm. “The farmer has tweaked his grazing management, amongst other things, which has significantly improved the water infiltration and holding capacity of his soil. “This has many flow on benefits.” The event, which has been sponsored by a number of innovative companies in the regenerative agriculture space, has limited numbers. To secure your spot you can book online through Humanitix, by searching Regen Dairy Forum 2022 or by contacting Soil Land Food on david@soillandfood.com.au or on mobile 0409 646 565.

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January, 2022

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

January, 2022

RURAL NEWS

Staying ahead of drought cycle

Gippsland farmers are encouraged to act now to get ahead of the drought cycle while times are good, according to a new drought resilience hub.

GIPPSLAND farmers are encouraged to act now to get ahead of the drought cycle while times are good, according to a new drought resilience hub. The Victoria Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub is a collaboration between government, academia, industry, and community to prepare farms for future droughts. The Drought Hub will contribute $8 million in four years through the Future Drought Fund, funded by the Commonwealth government. Drought hub co-director Tim Reeves is urging producers to act when their farm is in a favourable position to prepare for future drought resilience. Prof Reeves said farmers could be looking at projects such as fodder supply,

renewables, stock containment infrastructure, diversification or transitioning into different production systems. It comes as a Rabobank Farm Viability Index released in June found rural confidence is at a 20-year high with yields high and commodity prices generally strong across the board. “It’s wonderful to see Victoria’s farming communities generally doing well. Part of our job now is to ensure this continues when the seasons turn,” Professor Reeves said. “It is critical farmers take action regarding decisions or investments that can set them up for the long term.” The program is led by the University of Melbourne’s Dookie Campus, association with Deakin, La Trobe, and Federation

University and Agriculture Victoria and five regional nodes. The Gippsland node is being led by Food and Fibre Gippsland. Industry consultation has been focusing on East Gippsland and Wellington Shires which were hit hard in the last drought. Some of the programs include a future fodder project and water efficiency on irrigated agriculture. Prof Reeves said there were four key stages of the drought cycle, and steps must be taken at each stage to prepare and build resilience. “There are the good times when there’s a dollar in the pocket, and there are the periods where an El Niño might be forecast, and the future is uncertain,” he said. “It’s during these periods where the

file photograph

rubber hits the road, with prompt, effective decision-making essential to limit drought’s impact on a farming business. “There is the drought itself, where risk and cost are front of mind – and mental health must be looked after - and the recovery where green shoots are signalling things are possibly on the way back. “Here, farmers can ramp up effectivity, generate cash flow and set themselves up to go again.” Farmers are being encouraged contact the Gippsland node leader Julian Hill or Food and Fibre Gippsland to share their thoughts on building more resilient farms and communities. For more information, email julian.hill@ foodandfibregippsland.com.au.

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January, 2022

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

RURAL NEWS

$100m timber transition

Organics product regulations are set to be improved

By SARAH LUKE

NEW funding to support the timber industry ahead of the native timber harvesting ban in 2030, as well as enhanced environmental protections, were announced by the state government last month. In announcing more than $100 million in support for workers, communities and businesses affected by the 2024 step-down from native timber harvesting, the government said the money would cover opt-out packages and increased redundancy payments. Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the timber industry was changing – “this is why we have a substantial financial package ready to support workers and communities, as we move to a new timber future based around plantations”. The government said recent legal challenges to timber harvesting highlighted the need for new mechanisms to ensure the timber industry could meet the requirements of the Code of Practice for Timber Production. It will introduce legislation early next year to include standards that set out how the industry can meet its obligations to a section of the code called the precautionary principle. The government says the changes will provide the industry with greater certainty about how the precautionary principle should be implemented. The enhanced plan will expand the Victorian Timber Innovation Fund and the Forestry Business Transition Vouchers program by $20 million. In addition, $14 million will be provided to implement new environmental measures. This includes a new coupe regeneration plan, which will increase confidence that regeneration requirements are met before coupes are taken off the Timber Release Plan. The Conservation Regulator will be strengthened, with new infringement powers for anyone breaching the code of practice, and bringing its disciplinary powers in line with other regulators in Victoria. This builds on the additional powers provided to the regulator in the new Forests Legislation Amendment (Compliance and Enforcement) Act 2021. Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the changes would deliver new ways to protect precious wildlife, while supporting the transition of native forests from timber harvesting by 2030. “We’re continuing to strengthen the Conservation Regulator, with new penalties and provisions enabling them to take timely and appropriate action.” The union representing timber

The state government says $100 million in additional funding will help timber communities, such as Heyfield, transition “to a new timber future based around plantations”, but the union representing timber workers is arguing jobs are better than increased redundancy packages. file photograph

workers, CFMEU Manufacturing, welcomed the significant improvements to the workers’ assistance component of the plan, but warned it remained opposed to significant parts of the plan, adding it would continue its campaign to fight for every job. The union says it has argued for two years that the plan is not consistent with either universally accepted “just transition” principles or “Labor values”. However, it welcomed the move to revise capped government payments of just $23,000 for workers made redundant because of the government’s own policy to shut down the industry. The new package will result in the government paying a top-up to any statutory redundancy payments payable by employers to four weeks (up from three weeks) for every year of skills investment in the industry, so that they receive up to $120,000. The union says this is more consistent with previous forestry industry adjustment packages, such as the 2003 Victorian Government Our Forests Our Future assistance, and the assistance provided to Tasmanian workers in 2013 by the Commonwealth and Tasmanian governments. CFMEU manufacturing division national secretary Michael O’Connor said the significant improvement, when coupled with increased funding for relocation assistance, would now make a real difference to timber workers, their families and communities. “Our members, their families and communities have stood up and fought every step of the way for fairer treatment,” he said. “While the fight for jobs in the industry continues, we now have a

significantly better deal for impacted workers. We thank the government and particularly Minister Mary-Anne Thomas for listening to our members’ concerns and advocating within the government for an improved deal for workers.” Mr O’Connor said the union remained far from convinced that the extent of cuts to supply outlined in the plan were necessary, desirable or sensible. “Current problems like the national timber shortage and the hardwood pallet shortage, show just how shortsighted this plan is,” he said. “Just like the workers’ assistance component of the package was not properly thought through, nor was the decision to completely shut down the native forest industry in 2030. “The improvement in support for workers made redundant is welcome. “But a job is better than a redundancy. “A redundancy package is like the life rafts on a ship. “It’s great that we’ve now secured them, but we need to stop the ship from going down. “It is possible to reach a sensible approach to forest management and the forest industry including ongoing sustainable forest management for timber production in the public native forest estate where appropriate. “We have always supported sustainable forest management and the need to vary resource outlooks and projections from time to time to ensure social, economic, and biological sustainability. “But we do not support ideologically driven anti-forestry positions.” For more information about the Victorian Forestry Plan, visit vic.gov. au/forestry

THE federal government is looking to improve regulations around organics products in an attempt to protect consumers, producers and exporters. The government has opened consultations around improving Australia’s domestic organics industry, focusing on potential regulatory or non-regulation options. The move has been welcomed by peak body Organic Industries of Australia, which had been pushing for better domestic regulations over the use of the word organic. An OIA spokesperson said the term organic was not as regulated in Australia as it was in the United States, Japan and China. “It is legal to produce a product and call it organic without providing the consumer with any proof that it is actually organic,” the OIA spokesperson said. “In fact, Australia is the only advanced country that doesn’t regulate use of the term organic or is well-progressed in implementing such regulation.” The OIA said a lack of domestic regulations means there was no protection from products being sold as organic when they may have been produced using synthetic fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides. Producers have added costs of production and certification, but are being unfairly impacted by having to compete with products labelled as organic but are not certified organic. Export markets are also being constrained due to the lack of domestic regulation. The OIA will be advocating for legal enforcements to ensure that organic means all stages of production have been certified as using organic methods. It will also be pushing for better governance, information and consistent domestic and export regulation to minimize certification costs and improve market access for exporters. Agriculture Minister David Littleproud organics exports were already being regulated, but this process would focus on managing imports, production, and sale of organic products within Australia. “We want to support growth in the industry, as well as give consumers the confidence the products they purchase are genuinely organic,” Mr Littleproud said. “Improving the regulatory framework will focus on growing our industry, improving market access, minimising red tape, and saving money.” The Australian organics industry contributes approximately $2.6 billion to the economy each year with revenue projected to grow at 14.6 per cent annually into the mid decade. Australia also has the largest organic agricultural area in the world. “It’s not just great organic Aussie food, our industry also produces textiles, cosmetics, and other products,” Mr Littleproud said. “Improving the regulatory framework will focus on growing our industry, improving market access, reducing red tape, and saving money.”

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Reviewing Options In Good Times

SUN is shining, rain is falling, hay is growing… compared to the recent years of turmoil experienced by various Agri industries and regions across Gippsland, 2022 is finally starting to look more optimistic. Applying the benefits of increased production and commodity prices during a recovery period should be carefully considered. We all know how fickle positive times can be, and the sting of recent crises are still very raw. Making informed decisions could reduce the risk of jeopardising any gains from a profitable season, as well as helping to protect against future downturns. With the prospect of potential surpluses, increased land value and expected interest rate rises, the start of this new year is a perfect time to know your financial position when considering ideas, options and investments. Taxation, debt reduction, asset purchases, sale, farm or retirement planning? Action now is imperative. Waiting until June 30 may be too late to best apply your money for tax effectiveness and future planning. It is even more imperative if you are receiving the Government Farm Household Allowance. Planning is everything. Determining what your potential tax liability is will help you to review budgets and ascertain what excess funds or stock you may have at your disposal. If debt has increased while you were managing through the last few difficult years, paying it off/down may be the priority. If your income V’s debt payment ratio is higher than 1:1 (e.g. debt of $500k with income of $250k therefore 2:1), then it could be considered a serious risk that must be managed - particularly if this has been a trend over the last few years. Similar ratios can also determine the level of debt the farm can carry. Using 10:1 as a safe ratio (total interest paid being less than 10% of income), if interest owed is over 25% of your average gross income, it is considered a very high risk. Note: When budgeting your income - use average

prices and yields - not current rates. Otherwise, you could be forecasting additional risks if market conditions change again suddenly. On the flip side, protecting yourself against future risks; investing in your farm business or topping up your retirement nest egg may be the better option for you and your family. Availability of the instant asset write-offs are tempting to invest in new farm machinery, but this decision should be soundly based, taking into consideration the current market value for machinery and what benefits to your business it will provide. Whilst it makes sense to make capital investments with available cash, the perceived tax savings may not be what you expect. Your tax percentage rate and business structure will determine what is actually saved against any depreciation value. However, if the upgraded machinery or technology reduces time; replaces labour and/or improves yields, then it could be a sound investment for future profit potential. Maybe it is time to sell whilst demand and land value is high, and funding is available for young farmers? If you are starting to feel like you’ve had enough of

farming or thinking of downsizing, then it is time to put plans in place and analyse options for succession and/or retirement. Results could show that leasing your farm may actually be a better option until the time is right for you or your family. Can I finally go on a holiday? How much should I pay; borrow or invest? What is my capacity to service debt or scale operations? Will I have enough to retire and when? Decisions and plans should be suited to your individual circumstances and aligned with how best (and when) you will achieve your ultimate goals. Therefore, it is imperative to discuss options with trusted professional advisors to ensure any decisions are right for your particular situation. RFCS Gippsland, along with your business team of accountants; solicitors; Ag consultants; financial advisors and of course, your family, should all be involved when analysing future opportunities before making any decisions. Start the New Year by receiving free planning support by contacting 1300 045 747.

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

GP1632082

January, 2022

RURAL NEWS

Concerns raised over relocation plans sourced from, this could have large impacts regionally if the animals will all be sourced from a single location or in locations where koala numbers are already very low,” the spokesperson said.

By JULIANNE LANGSHAW

FRIENDS of the Earth says it is concerned that an “unspecified number” of young male Strzelecki koalas will be soon on their way to South Australia “as part of a breeding program aimed at saving the species”. The organisation said it first learnt of these plans earlier this year, and has been trying to find more information since November. A recent article published by the Murdoch Press headed ‘Koalas strike gold. Crossborder love’, states “The boys will shack up with a group of very special koalas — known as the Golden Children — at Cleland Wildlife Park, the only sanctuary-managed population free from both chlamydia and koala retrovirus”. South Australia’s koalas have extremely low genetic diversity, because their source population comes from only three translocated French Island animals, introduced to South Australia in the 1920s. Koalas in South Australia are showing signs of inbreeding because lack of genetic diversity. According to Friends of the Earth, the plan is to breed up a koala population that is genetically robust and does not suffer from chlamydia. While the organisation says the plan may appear to have merit, it has concerns that are not addressed in the “vague details” about the plan. It says there has been no support from the federal government, state government or South Australian government to support long-term protection for the Strzelecki koalas in either the Federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act or the Victorian Wildlife Act. It says the Strzelecki koalas therefore have limited protection provisions, despite the

“The Strzelecki koala population is probably as low as 1500 to 2000 animals, but no-one knows exactly how many animals remain.” The spokesperson said there had been no communication about the translocation plan with the Strzelecki and South Gippsland communities which were concerned about the long term future of the animal in the region, claiming VicForests was now targeting key koala habitat in Alberton West, Jack River and Mullungdung Forest areas. “These combined impacts will all lead to a further decline of the species in the region,” the spokesperson claimed. According to a spokesperson from the South Australian Department of Environment and Water, the koalas will be sub-adult, pre-breeding males seven kilograms or less, and will be taken from a private forest plantation. Friends of the Earth says it is concerned that an ‘‘unspecified number’’ of young male Strzelecki koalas will soon be on their way to South Australia. file photograph

South Australian Environment Minister David Speirs being quoted as saying: “The arrival of the koalas is part of a bold new South Australian-Victorian conservation initiative, which will be a historic achievement in helping ensure the survival of koalas in Australia”. A Friends of the Earth spokesperson said there was also no information provided

about where the animals would be sourced, other than “The Victorian koalas will be taken from a private forest plantation under an agreement between the two state governments”. They added Hancock Victorian Plantations owns about 50 per cent of known Strzelecki koala habitat. “Depending on where the animals are

The spokesperson said the Victorian government approved a translocation permit until June 30, 2022, with COVID19 regulations and weather to determine collecting times. It is understood in-field chlamydia tests will be conducted, while retro-virus testing will be conducted once the animals have settled in South Australia. The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning was approached for comment.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

RURAL NEWS

VFF backs new legislation By MICHELLE SLATER

RADICAL vegan activists could be facing on-the-spot fines being introduced this year for trespassing on farms. The state government has introduced new legislation to address the impacts of trespass on farms and biosecurity risks that are being breached from animal activists. Activists could face penalties “among the heaviest in Australia”, with on-the-spot fines between $1200 and $10,900 for an individual, or between $8100 and $54,500 for an organisation. Victorian farmers have been impacted by a series of events involving animal rights activists intimidating farmers, stealing livestock, and disrupting businesses. Animal activists had been found guilty of stealing livestock from the Yarragon Gippy Goat, but got away with one dollar fines. These new measures are part of the government’s response to the Inquiry into the Impact of Animal Rights which recommended issuing heftier on-the-spot penalties for farm invasions. Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said farmers should be able to do their work without fear of being targeted by animal activists. “Victorian farmers work hard to keep their animals safe and protect them from pests and diseases with robust biosecurity systems,” Ms Thomas said. “This new legislation will deter behaviour that puts that hard work at risk.” Victorian Farmers Federation president and Mirboo North farmer Emma Germano said these fines were overdue and hoped this would mean the end of “token” one dollar fines. “It’s time animal activists faced proper penalties for trespassing on people’s farms and homes,” Ms Germano said.

Radical vegan activists could be facing on-the-spot fines being introduced this year for trespassing on farms. file photograph

“We believe that this is in line with community expectations, trespass is not an appropriate form of protest.” Farm Transparency Project executive director Chris Delforce said biosecurity was being used as an excuse to limit consumer awareness of the “systemic cruelty occurring in farms and slaughterhouses across the country”. The group had launched a website which included hidden footage inside farms and animal industries, as well as listing the private addresses of farmers involved in animal production. “Were these industries transparent and honest about what happens inside these facilities, there’d be no need for anyone to

take it upon themselves to capture evidence of it,” Mr Delforce said. “Undoubtedly, these laws will not deter people who already know that they’re risking their own lives and liberty in seeking to bring to the public’s attention the systemic mistreatment of animals.” Nationals Leader Peter Walsh said he would be carefully combing through the wording to make sure the government hadn’t left loopholes to allow activists to escape penalty. “But by finally introducing these laws on the very last day of Parliament for 2021, Labor’s made sure farmers will be forced to wait at least another six months before they actually get the protections,” Mr Walsh said.

Electronic tag rules are in effect ALL sheep and non-exempt goats should have a NLIS electronic tag before leaving a Victorian property from January 1 in the final step of National Livestock Identification System roll-out. The electronic identification of sheep and goats is helping the state’s traceability system, to track for food safety, disease control and market access. Victorian chief veterinary officer Graeme Cooke said electronic tags provide accurate tracking for sheep or goats from property of birth through to export or processing. “This system provides assurances to our export and domestic markets that we can quickly trace animals in the event of a disease outbreak or food safety issue,” Dr Cooke said.

“It gives Victorian producers a significant advantage and added industry protection.” Electronic identification was introduced to Victorian sheep and goat farmers in 2017. Since then, producers have purchased more than 51 million electronic NLIS sheep tags, and almost 35 million sheep and goat movements have been recorded on the NLIS database. Dr Cooke said electronic tagging and property identification codes were key planks in Victoria’s biosecurity system. “The entire supply chain is to be congratulated on their efforts to fully implement electronic NLIS for sheep and goats in Victoria,” he said. “The hard work by industry has shown

that the system is commercially viable and now integrated throughout the whole supply chain.”

Dr Cooke said a SAFEMEAT sheep traceability evaluation showed Victorian EID tagged sheep were 99 per cent traceable, compared to 70 per cent traceability for interstate sheep without electronic tags. Duties are also rising from the start of the year to 27 cents per head to be paid when sheep and goats are traded. Duty payments are collected into the Sheep and Goat Compensation Fund which gets reinvested into industry through the Livestock Biosecurity Funds grants program.

Finance loans for equipment as farms stock up EQUIPMENT finance loans to National Australia Bank have jumped 341 per cent in total value over the past two years, as farmers are stocking up on critical agricultural equipment. The latest NAB data shows equipment finance for agricultural businesses generally increased 33 per cent from September 30 2019 to September 30 2021. NAB regional and agribusiness executive Julie Rynski said this reflected good seasonal conditions and the ongoing uptake of government incentives including the instant asset write-off scheme. Ms Rynski said the positive outlook, solid commodity prices and the prospect of record crops has led to an 80 per cent jump on lending for sheds, and a 65 per cent increase on grain silo lending in the past two years. Riordan Grain Services Victoria has been investing in equipment and has seen an uplift in investment across their supply chain. Managing director Jim Riordan he has seen a significant increase in on-farm investment by grain growers, especially in large silo and storage complexes. “Our business model is about finding the best and most efficient ways for the supply chain to deliver quality grain to their global client base in particular,” Mr Riordan said. “This year was our 25th year in operation and we loaded our one millionth tonne of export grain to bulk vessels. “We have upgraded our transport fleet, prime movers, trailers and invested in our facilities to meet the demand.” Demand for tractors finance is up 69 per cent in the same period and NAB expects these trends will continue as farmer confidence remains high. It comes as Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences forecasts winter crop production will reach a new national record of 58.4 million tonnes. Ms Rynski said summer crop planting in 2021–22 is forecast to increase by 36 per cent to reach 1.4 million hectares. Finance for cars and light commercial vans was up 43 per cent, trucks and trailers jumped 40 per cent, while lending for construction equipment such as cranes and earth movers bumped 39 per cent. “This is reflective of the ongoing migration of many capital city residents to regional Australia, which is great news for regional communities and their local economies,” Ms Rynski said.

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

January, 2022

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

RURAL NEWS

Million reasons to smile for Rural Aid

Trained sniffer dogs were using their noses to find pest species poo in East Gippsland. photograph

file

Sniffer dogs assisting researchers TRAINED sniffer dogs were using their noses to find pest species poo in East Gippsland. The canine helpers let researchers understand the diets and geographical ranges of foxes. The program was developed by an amalgamation of Landcare groups which have used detection dogs to locate fox scat in East Gippsland. The Black Summer Bushfires has left native animals extremely vulnerable to the canine predators, and Landcare wants to understand how many foxes were in the district, what they ate, and where they roamed. East Gippsland Landcare Network project manager Matt Stephenson said the dogs were from Phillip Island and found this information in significantly less time than human volunteer legwork. “What would have taken a week-anda-half with three or four volunteers, only

took a day-and-a-half with the dogs,” Mr Stephenson said. The dogs had previously been used for fox control to help protect the famous Little Penguins on Phillip Island. Dog handler Craig Bester said he chose English springer spaniels “to sniff out the fox waste because they naturally work from side to side in front of the handler.” Poo analysis found the foxes ate everything from small lizards and amphibians, to feasting on cattle and sheep carcasses, plus the odd lamb. Mr Stephenson said this information, and an understanding of the fox number and range - all derived from the scat will be used to come up with fox control strategies. The project was supported through a $14 million Landcare Led Bushfire Recovery Grants Program and to support projects in regions impacted by the Black Summer bushfires.

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

BUSH charity Rural Aid has been overwhelmed with more than $1 million in donations as part of its inaugural December Giving Day, exceeding original targets of $750,000. Rural Aid chief executive John Warlters said the outpouring of support shows just how loved and valued Aussie farmers are. “Our incredible farmers push through disaster after disaster to put food on our tables and clothes on our backs,” Mr Warlters said. “It’s heartwarming to see the public recognise their grit in such a generous way. Thank you to the thousands of Australians who dug deep to help our mates in the bush. “We are grateful beyond words for every dollar donated. Thanks to the generosity of the public, Rural Aid will be able to help more farmers in more places in 2022.” Rural Aid provides disaster and financial relief services, water and fodder donations, and free on-the-ground counselling and volunteer support. Its first Giving Day raised funds to provide

these critical services to support rural families in future disasters. In the past two years, Warwick crop and cattle farmer Chris Neilsen has battled bushfire, drought, mouse plagues and recent excessive rains. His wheat and barley crops were days away from harvest before flooding rains caused them to shoot. “We’ve been from one extreme to the other. In the period of a month, you’ve seen what you’ve worked the last six months for and it’s gone,” Mr Neilsen said. Rural Aid’s supporters left messages when making donations. “You are the backbone of our society and very much appreciated for all you do. Thank you,” one supporter stated. “I know this is only a small amount but I am extremely grateful for your hard work, dedication and commitment to farming,” another said. “Coming from a farming family I understand the challenges and difficulties you face, especially from circumstances out of your control. Hang in there.”

Warwick crop farmer Chris Neilsen welcomed support from Rural Aid.

photograph supplied

Golden Tag competition extended GIPPSLAND anglers have another year to try their luck at catching a Golden Tag fish worth up to $10,000 with the competition being extended until the end of next year. The state government launched the competition in February 2020 to encourage visitors to Gippsland and the state’s north-east following that season’s devastating bushfires. The competition was later expanded statewide to support local businesses following pandemic restrictions. Fishing and Boating Minister Melissa Horne said extending the competition would help improve tourism rates in regional communities and encourage more people to go fishing more often. “Victorians are back on the road and exploring the best our state has to offer,” Ms Horne said. “This includes the countless fishing opportunities. The extension of the Golden Tag competition will ensure this continue.” More than 950 tagged fish are still uncaught across the state, including

in local Gippsland waterways such as Mallacoota, Bemm River and Lake Glenmaggie. Gippsland species include flathead, bream, estuary perch, luderick, King George whiting, silver trevally, tailor, and Australian bass, while around Omeo, fishers can target tagged brown and rainbow trout. Gippsland fishos can try to find these tagged fish in the Gippsland Lakes, Lake Tyers, Blue Rock Dam, Dartmouth Dam, Upper Mitta Mitta River, Tamboon Inlet, the Snowy River, and the Victoria River. The majority of fish are worth $2000, however, there are still a number of $10,000 fish up for grabs. The Golden Tag competition is encouraging locals to wet a line in their favourite spot close to home and draw recreational fishing tourism. “We’re enjoying seeing visitors return to the region to make the most of our diverse fishing opportunities, whether it be tasty flathead or sportfish like Aussie bass and estuary perch,” Labor Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said.

January, 2022

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

A D V E R T I S I N G

LIVER flukes are known by the scientific name of Fasciola hepatica. They are widespread in wetter areas of Australia. Their survival requires three important factors: dams and ponds, a special kind of snail, and an infected animal. Liver flukes can infect cattle, sheep, goats, horses and kangaroos. Western Australia is declared free of liver flukes. All livestock being moved from the east to the west require testing to screen for freedom. Registered laboratories are required for these tests. Once the life cycle of this parasite is understood, then it is easier to work out if you need to test for it or not.

F E A T U R E

Liver flukes in cattle

They are infective when this happens, If they are eaten by a very particular species of snail - called Lymnaea truncatula, the parasite then infects the tissues of the snail, and is released from the snail as a motile miracidium.

whether you have liver fluke is to obtain the results from any abattoir processing, where livers are individually assessed.

The main point here is to note that these stages need water to move in.

As a loose rule of thumb, treat for liver fluke in April (so that fluke eggs can’t be picked up by the few remaining snails and over winter), and, in August, which combats infestations arising from the new seasons flukes.

If this is along edges of dams and creeks, animals in warmer weather eat there to ingest the greener grass and foliage fed by the moisture. After being eaten by the now host animal, there is a life cycle within the animals, which includes migration through the tissues of the animal, one key one being the liver.

There are some excellent drench products available to treat liver flukes.

Fasciola hepatica, or liver fluke, 3D illustration.

should consider checking your animals. Any animals brought onto a farm should be screened for liver flukes, as remember that the adult flukes will move with the infected animals.

Doing a web search for “liver fluke life cycle” results in many good sets of data.

The stages can inflict great damage on the liver tissues and it is this damage that accounts for the significance of Live flukes.

‘Liver flukes’ describes the adult egg laying stage that thrives in the bile ducts of infected animals.

This year there has been substantial rain in Gippsland over spring, and early summer.

Laboratories can test for active infections using faecal samples, where the characteristic eggs are searched out.

The eggs are passed down the bile ducts and exit in the faeces.

It is easy to see the huge pools of water in flat fields and paddocks.

A liver fluke test screens for the characteristic eggs using a special sieve technique.

Flooding is one of the main ways that liver fluke snails can be spread.

The eggs look like pineapples under the microscope and have a bright yellow brown colour.

Once the eggs are passed in the faeces, they hatch and release an infective stage called a miracidia.

Therefore if you have traditionally not had flukes on your property, but have been in floods, at some stage you

The fact that the specific snail does not live on your property does not guarantee that you are free.

This is the preferred method for all species.

liver flukes is to test blood for antibodies, but this does not tell you if you need to drench. Dairy farmers can have milk tested for antibodies. All that is needed is a sample of fresh milk from below the cream line, to be submitted for an ELISA test. If you are unsure also, see if you can locate the snails which hibernate over winter. This time of year is excellent to locate them. Laboratories can also diagnose your snail species for you, and there are some excellent web sites to guide you.

Cattle have the benefit of some extra tests being available.

The snails which perpetuate live flukes have a characteristically scrolled shell, and the direction of the spiral is diagnostic.

One other way of detecting

One final area of advice on

This year is not your typical year, and so rules may differ. However, animals which are chronically infected with liver flukes may not respond to treatments, because there damage and host reaction to the infection stops the active drugs from contacting the active liver fluke. Interpretation of results monitoring drench efficacy should be carefully interpreted. In summary, the simplest form to detect liver flukes is a screening faecal sample, with one sample from each herd or flock, testing up to 10 animals. If you can, choose the animals in poorer condition or with scours. Always pair your fluke result with a worm count result, in case you need to use a combined worm fluke drench program.

Parasite Diagnostic Services Testing worms, coccidiosis, and other parasites

We count and identify parasites from livestock, horses and poultry. • We accept bulk submissions, or as little as one sample • Mail your samples from anywhere in Australia. • Intestinal worms, flukes, and coccidiosis are our speciality.

Details and pricing are on our website, or call now for a test kit. www.parasite.com.au 03 5979 3101 lab@parasite.com.au 3 Bray St Hastings VIC 3915

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

January, 2022

BEEF WEEK

Thursday 27 January to Thursday 3 February 2022

Bowman B owman P Performance erformance Genetics Genetics ““Access Access A All ll M Markets” arkets” Annual A nnual B Bull ull Sale Sale

igh performance bulls will feature at the third annual on-property Bull Sale of Bowman Performance Genetics on Friday, March 11 at 1pm, in Neerim South.

A large portion of the sale draft will highlight bulls in the top 20 per cent of the Angus Breeding $ index values. The “Access All Markets” sale recognises the importance of supplying the market with well-bred, easy-doing cattle and producing livestock that regularly hit MSA grids, creating high profit margins. These genetics will produce cattle that excel in all areas, whether it be grass finishing, feed lots or direct to processors.

January, 2022

With buyers becoming more conscientious in sourcing their cattle and the kind of genetics being used, stud principal Glenn Bowman believes, now more than ever high-performance bulls are in demand. Pedigrees feature a “who’s who” of world class female lines, including matriarchs Millah Murrah, Flower Y10, Brenda Y33 and Genetics Australia’s multiple sire producing Prue H113. Along with the prolific Ardrossan Princess W38, Vermont Champagne X130 and one of the best all-time USA cows, Baldridge Isabel Y69.

This is sure to inject significant maternal punch into producer’s herds. Mr. Bowman points out that increasing land prices are adding pressure on producers to become more efficient and gain maximum profit out of every facet of their business. “Gone are the days of fattening three to four-year-old bullocks when these new genetics can accelerate the process, producing a higher quality animal, finished faster, at a higher weight,” he said. Bowman Performance Genetics continues to promote their point of difference - producing grass-fed only bulls which allows buyers to see their

natural doing-ability. The upcoming sale will feature Baldridge Beast Mode, Baldridge Compass, Bowman Nashville (son of Millah Murrah Loch Up), Bowman Manhattan (Ascot Hallmark full ET brother), LD Capitalist, Musgrave Stunner, S Chisum 255 and Sydgen Enhance. The sale is an excellent opportunity to gain access to world class genetics. The sale will take place at ‘Crystal Brook’ 100 Sawyer Road, Neerim South. For more information contact Glenn Bowman on 0437 172 748 or email glenn@bowmangenetics.com or visit www.bowmangenetics.com

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

BEEF WEEK

Thursday 27 January to Thursday 3 February 2022

Pinora P inora A Angus ngus is is all all sset et ffor or 53rd 53rd annual annual bbull ull sale sale

inora Angus g are holding g their 53rd annual bull sale on Wednesday, March 23 at 1pm on the property at Heyfield.

The bulls this year are by some of the breed’s leading sires. Among these are sons of last years’ top price sire Miwillah Fevola M16. His sons show growth for age but are deep and thick and extremely docile. Miilah Murrah Loch Up known for his thickness, temperament and soundness has a good selection. Baldridge Command one of the breeds top selling semen sires has sons that are known for their light birth but high growth and thickness. Alpine Investment has his first sons for sale. He was purchased for use over heifers and his progeny have exceeded all expectations. They were, as expected, easy born but

have had huge growth from then and some of the EBVs on these bulls are as good as Tambo Angus has previously had, they are also sound and extremely quiet.

The bulls are showing the effects of the best spring Pinora Angus has had and they will present in great condition and there will be bulls for everyone’s needs. There will be videos of the bulls

available in early March and the Sale will be interfaced with Auctions Plus. If anyone would like to see the bulls before the Sale just call Pinora Angus and they will make a time for you to see them.

Pinora E L A Angus S L A U N N A D R 53

On propert rty ty Wed dnesdayy 23rd March 2022 at 1pm m

Selling S elling 5 50 0 B Bulls ulls Millah Murrah Loch Up Milwillah Fevola M16 Baldridge Command

20 MONTHS OLD

FEATURING SONS OF:

DSK Man Made and outstanding new calving ease and growth sire Alpine Investment P46

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: email: pinora@wideband.net.au

453 Dawson Road, Heyyfield f 20

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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John Sunderman 0427 482 607

January, 2022

BEEF WEEK

Thursday 27 January to Thursday 3 February 2022

Kelly K elly A Angus ngus aautumn utumn ssale ale he Kelly Angus third annual autumn sale is expanding with an exciting selection of high-end commercial females and elite embryo packages added to another impressive line-up of 18-month Angus bulls selling at auction at the Yea property. Stud manager Patrick Joyce said along with the 60 bulls going under the hammer, AI bred commercial heifers and a range of embryos from some of the stud’s best cows with maternal lines back to GAR Prophet, GAR Anticipation and Black Onyx will now be included in the sale, on Thursday, March 24. Mr Joyce said adding females and embryos to this year’s sale offered buyers more value and an opportunity for the stud to showcase its genetics during a period of strong positivity in the industry. “We thought it would be an opportunity to introduce commercial females into the marketplace so people can get into top-end genetics out of proven genetics.” Mr Joyce said. “It can only have a positive impact. The females are all high-end commercial product out of stud cows; they are robust with strong pedigrees behind them, and they could go into any operation for breeding or creating sound foundation herds around them. “You could do anything with these heifers and achieve a great outcome. The most important parts of our own breeding operation are our robust, resilient, good-doing females. “We have been selling quite a lot of embryos privately. They are out of our leading cows and people are always hunting for embryos, so we decided to offer a selection in this sale.” While commercial females and

embryos will be an added attraction attraction, they won’t detract from the depth of quality in the bulls. “We’ve got several home-bred bulls that are performing very well,” Mr Joyce said. “There’s a strong blend and an even playing field of both US and Australian sires. Across the board, they are a very balanced set of bulls and very consistent on data, even from multiple sire lines.” Kelly Angus has maintained its focus on exceptional calving ease and birth weight, backed up by explosive growth and strong carcasses. “With any of these bulls, you can use them for heifer mating through to cow mating and not be compromised,” Mr Joyce said. “The bulls across the board have calving ease, growth and their carcase is exactly where it needs to be. You could do any job with them. “It has been an exceptional season. “We’re in a fortunate part of the world. If everywhere else is doing well, we’re usually doing exceptionally well. “There’s a lot of positivity in the market.” Mr Joyce said Kelly-blood infused weaners were smashing prices per kilogram at markets. “It’s quite exciting for our clients to be able to buy bulls from us, follow our program and now reap the rewards,” he said. “Our genetics have proven profitability at multiple markets. We know the end goal and the most profitable outcomes for our clients and work from there.” Prospective buyers are welcome to preview the full annual sale offering, along with elite stud sires and females during the stud’s Beef Week Open Day on Sunday, January 30.

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Bull Sale

18 FEBRUARY 2022

AT 1PM

55 Black Simmental SimAngus - Angus Bulls Introducing

KOETONG ANGUS 0419 275 686 www.brewerbeef.com.au Tallangatta Valley

January 31st 2022

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January, 2022

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

BEEF WEEK

Thursday 27 January to Thursday 3 February 2022

Raedean R aedean R Red ed A Angus ngus

aedean was established in 1988 at Lillico just out of Warragul and is now located at Buln Buln.

Annette and Noel started breeding Red Angus 16 years ago and loved them so much the whole herd is now Red Angus.

Cheltenham Park Angus

The focus is on economic traits and producing sound, functional high performing cattle. Culling heavily for undesirable traits and a docile temperament is extremely important and as they have their granddaughter with them a lot they don’t tolerate cattle that are difficult to deal with.

Private Bull Sale!

Gippsland Bred - 2 Year Old Stud Angus Bull’s. By Breedplan and A.I.Sires. All Bulls are Very Quiet and Structurally Sound, High growth and Calving Ease Bull’s available

Their trip to Canada in 2019 saw them purchase semen from U2 and they got to

see a Red Northline bull at the collection centre. The 2021 drop of calves are exciting by Red U2 Reckoning 149A and these are the first calves in Australia by Red Northline Revival 122C. They also used semen from their home grown bulls Raedean Viceroy F6, Raedean Limited Edition L24 then backed up to Goondoola Maverick M20. Spring calving females will be on display along with the new sire Tronar Kemble. They will have bulls and females for sale. They look forward to welcoming you to their property.

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Bet-On-Black

Enquiries Please Call Andrew Haw: 0487 858 544 457 Old Carrajung Road, Carrajung cheltenhamparkangus@gmail.com Dane Perczyk c/o Alex Scott - 0408 176 063 Details & E.B.V.’s on Angus Aust.Website

19TH ANNUAL ON PROPERTY SALE

MARCH 16

see us

eek Beef Wy 2, on Da 28 Friday ry Janua

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60 HEREFORD BULLS DEHORNED POLLED

Come and

Barry and Topsy Newcomen P: 5157 3209 M: 0427 242 238 Mat Marshall M: 0400 606 269 Max Beecher M: 0439 332 305

E: newcomen@skymesh.com.au GP1636619

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

January, 2022

BEEF WEEK

Tarwin T arwin Poll Poll H Herefords erefords

arwin i P Pollll H Herefords f d h have b been b based d at the Meeniyan property for over 70 years, taking its name from the Tarwin River that fronts the property.

online selling, with five young bulls offered on Auctions Plus as members of the Gippsland Performance Herefords group in September.

Commenced in 1950, at the request of local agents for sons of Studlea Playmate, purchased at the 1950 Melbourne Royal Show.

The stud’s objective is to produce attractive, sound, commercial poll Hereford cattle, able to perform on grass. To achieve this they use a mix of AI breeding and judicious selection of sires for natural mating.

The stud has maintained its objective of producing sound commercial cattle for Gippsland producers ever since. “In those early days a lot of emphasis was placed on pedigrees and showing,” current owner David Meikle commented. “Now we have tools such as performance recording and DNA testing to predict how our animals should perform. “This is a performance recorded herd with the calves being regularly weighed up to 600 days and the weights submitted to the Breedplan program.”

Sires chosen will generally have a modest birth weight coupled with above average growth weights and carcass traits, traits such as eye pigmentation and hooding are also considered in their sire selection.

Sale bulls are scanned for eye muscle area and fat cover. These results will be available on the Beef Week open day.

To further test the performance of their genetics, the Meikles regularly compete in the Lardner Park Grass Finished Steer trials.

Replacement heifers and sale bulls are DNA tested to confirm parentage and polledness.

Currently they have one team sitting equal third at 1.38 kg/day, within 0.02kg/

2021 was also Tarwin’s first effort at

Charellen C harellen Poll Poll H Hereford ereford S Stud tud

Thursday 27 January to Thursday 3 February 2022

day of the leader. Their other team performed at a creditable 1.29 kg/day. Typically their steers finish within the top third for weight gain and routinely meet specifications. At this year’s Beef Week open day, Tarwin Poll Herefords will have on display the first calves of Tarcombe Homeland as well as sale bulls sired by Wirruna Nolan, Wirruna Lamond, Koanui Techno, Ravensdale King Pin and Days Brigadier. Next year’s crop of bull calves will also be on display with their mothers. It is planned to also have unjoined weaned heifers on display as well. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the hospitality of a cup tea and a light lunch as well as to discuss the studs breeding program with the Meikle family.

harellen Pollll H Hereford Stud h ll P f d St d iis llocated t d at Pearsondale, approximately 5km west of Sale.

bulls sired by Ravensdale Spark M016 and Yavenvale Powerhouse P499 will be available for inspection.

On the western approach to Sale, turn off the Princes Highway at Wurruk into Settlement Road at the roundabout (BP Service station) then travel 3km along Settlement Road and turn right into McOwens Road.

Some from the younger group will form the team for the second “Gippsland Performance Herefords“ Bull sale which will be held on September 7, 2022. This year Charellen has added Super Sire - Elite M202 Q008 and Churchill Broadway 858F to their AI program.

After 400m the property will be on the left.

They believe these genetically superior sires are well suited to ensuring continued improvement in their herd.

Charellen’s aim is to breed functional cattle with emphasis on performance. structural soundness, fertility and quiet temperament.

Tarwin

All the bulls are DNA tested free of

ESTABLISHED 1950

Beef Week Day 3, Saturday 29 January 2022 Location: Parrys Road, 3km from Meeniyan on Meeniyan-Dumbalk Road (Signs will be posted) ENQUIRIES:

A number of two-year-old and yearling

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

Charellen Poll Hereford Stud looks forward to welcoming visitors to inspect their cattle.

Charellen

POLL HEREFORDS

The Meikle Family extend a warm invitation to visitors to inspect their Tarw rwin w Poll Hereford Stud.

January, 2022

genetic defects, semen tested and predominately homozygous.

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Bull and heifer selection is based on above average Breedplan figures in many traits including IMF, EMA, growth and easy calving whilst maintaining

Poll Hereford Stud

Established 1994

Breed for Structural soundness nesss ek Beef We EMA & IMF 2 Day 8/1/22 Friday 2 rty at Fertility e on prop ens Rd 3 McOw 4 Growth dale Pearsstoon ale] S f [We Temperament Enquiries: Stan and Denise Walker Ph 51443904 Mob 0428 919 691 Email sdwalker@netspace.net.au THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

BEEF WEEK

Thursday 27 January to Thursday 3 February 2022

Balgowan B algowan G Gold old G Gelbvieh elbvieh

algowan Gold Gelbvieh Stud invite you to the Open Day and Private Treaty Sale of our entire Polled Gelbvieh Herd on Saturday, January 29 from 9am to 6pm. Principal Shirley Trenery has been breeding stud cattle since 1972.

Firstly, with Simmental and then in 1990 a Gelbvieh Stud was established using A.I. and embryo transfer. The Gelbvieh Cattle have won many major awards at Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Canberra Royal Shows. This is an excellent opportunity to COMPLETE D R POLLED HEEEF FOR SALE BRDAY U WEEK SAT 29TH JANUARY 2022

purchase a small established polled, grass fed herd with quiet temperament and calving ease. Shirley and Ted look forward to presenting their cattle to you. Light refreshments available.

BALGOWAN GOLD GELBVIEH EST. 1990

2303 Main Neerim Road NEERIM SOUTH

Contact: 0407 303 100 Email: balgowan@dcsi.net.au

Annual Bull Sale

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On-Property - Opposite Ensay Saleyards Wednesday 16 March 2022 - 1.30pm

Open Beef Week Day... Day 2 Friday 28 January 2022 40 HEREFORD & POLL HEREFORD BULLS FOR SALE

Nunniong Hereford Stud Phillip (Bluey) Commins Commins. Ensay - Victoria - 3895 Ph: (03) 5157 3331 Mob: 0427 573 331 24

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

January, 2022

BEEF WEEK

Thursday 27 January to Thursday 3 February 2022

22022 022 A Alpine lpine A Angus ngus Autumn A utumn B Bull ull Sale Sale

Many of the feature sires are the same as the 2021 Alpine Angus Spring Bull Sale which were so enthusiastically received.

“Overall the Alpine 2022 Autumn line up of 100 HBR and APR Angus Bulls comprises a strong, consistent to type line of bulls out of a cow herd that is heavily focused on maintaining the functional traits that has made the Angus breed so successful in today’s world.” Alpine manager Chris Oswin said.

These include sons of Karoo Main Event whose progeny sold to $75,000 and Coonamble No Limit whose son made $46,000.

“Structure, temperament and femininity are key strengths of the Alpine Angus females. Sire lines used by Alpine Angus have been selected to maintain this, while injecting growth, performance and carcase potential.”

Sitz Investment has also left Alpine Angus with an outstanding line of performance females. In addition, Baldridge Beast Mode and 38 Special who are half-brothers are out of one of the top dams in the Angus breed.

The 2022 Alpine Angus Bull Preview will be held at Rosewhite on Monday, March 14 between 11am-3pm.

Lawsons Momentous and Rennylea N542 are two highly credentialed carcass sires with sons in the sale.

This is the Monday of the Victorian Labour Day long weekend, just two days prior to the sale. “The 2022 Alpine Sale Bull Preview has grown in popularity over the last four years,” Alpine principal Jim Delany said.

Momentous has already produced numerous sale topping progeny while N542 has sired top priced and high selling bulls from his first run of calves and seems destined to follow the same trajectory.

“In 2022 we have decided not to take part in Beef Week so that we can avoid transporting the Sale Bulls from three different properties more than once thereby reducing the risk of injury and stress on the bulls.

As usual, Coonamble bloodline sires are heavily represented in the sale line-up, with heavy set, strong bodied sons of Alpine Muzza and M268, Coonamble Leader, No Limit and Navigator.

“If that timing doesn’t suit a private preview can be arranged with a phone call to Chris.”

“Every effort is made to ensure Alpine Bulls go to work in peak working condition,” Mr Oswin said.

Other sires represented include the explosive Birth to Growth performance sires Sitz Investment, Baldridge Beast Mode and Baldridge 38 Special.

TAMBO ANGUS Ardrossan Angus Bloodlines

OFFERING

12 ANGUS BULLS (in conjunction with and following Nunniong Herefords Sale)

Wednesday 16 March 2022 Contact: Kevin Dean at Tambo Crossing

Phone 5157 0217

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he 2022 Alpine Autumn Bull Sale will be held at the Alpine Sales Complex, Rosewhite on Wednesday, March 16 at 1pm.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

Glenellerslie Glenellerslie N

SW Hereford stud Glenellerslie have a quality line up for their 29th Sale at their property, 908-1064 Yaven Creek Road, Adelong, NSW.

Thirty Hereford and 20 Poll Hereford bulls will be offered on Tuesday, February 8 from 1pm by Helmsman Auctions. Once again, the sale will be interfaced with Auctions Plus so the bulls can be inspected on Day 1 of the Stock & Land Beef Week Field Day on Thursday, January 27 and buyers can bid with confidence from home on Tuesday, February 8, or just come to the sale. This year’s excellent draft includes five bulls by new sire Kaludah Haymaker

Last year, Glenellerslie Tolmie (H) made top money in the Herefords selling to Neil and Bernice Mitchell, Walwa for $18,500 and Glenellerslie Tooleybuc (PP) shared top price of $8500 in the Polls with Glenellerslie Troy (PP), Glenellerslie Tempest (PP) selling to Shane and Patricia Murtagh (Mudgegonga), JA, GA & SW Rogers (Gelantipy) and Kenneth Yerbury (Farrer ACT) respectively.

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Glenellerslie bulls are famous for their docility and doing ability. All the bulls carry the Glenellerslie Guarantee, they are semen tested and inoculated with Vibrovax, Multimin and 7 in 1. The stud was established by Gordon and June Smith in 1974, now run by Ross and Mandy Smith, son Blake and

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M593 (H), eleven by WRL Makka (H), nine by Kymarney Avalanche (H), two by Karoonda Showman (H), eight by Glenellerslie Patriot 2 (H) eight by Ennerdale Accomplice (PP), six by Quamby Plains Jaguar (PP) and one by Days Fahrenheit K103 (P).

For catalogues phone Ross and Mandy on (02) 6946 4233, Blake and Carly on (02) 6946 4239 or head to www. herefordsaustralia.com.au or www.glenellerslieherefords.com to view the online catalogue.

C Celebrating elebrating 330 0 yyears ears O Off B Banquet anquet A Angus ngus

elebrating the first 30 Years of Banquet Angus will be the theme for the Branson’s Annual Sale on Thursday, February 24, 2022. For the first time in the history of Banquet sales, stud females will be offered. Thirty top stud females, including embryo donors, will be presented.

with further help from daughters Alicia and Rebecca, operate a Certified Grass Fed, EU accredited fattening enterprise alongside their stud operation.

Headlining this elite offering will be Banquet Kite J463. Her first son Banquet Mirrool M078 topped Banquets’ 2018 Autumn Sale at $35,000.

N099, Her second son, Banquet Nixon N topped Banquets’ 2018 Spring Sale at $32,000. Kite J463 is being used extensively in Banquets embryo program and will be offered open and ready to flush. Elite heifers will also be offered including the pick of twin sisters Banquet Champagne R222 and R223. The annual draft of 120 Banquet bulls and 120 commercial PTIC heifers will complete this event. The sale on February 24 will be the first in Banquet’s new complex at 184 Steeles Lane, Mortlake.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

January, 2022

Sharinda S harinda Angus Angus

harinda Angus Stud is a proud proud, passionate, family run business that was established 35 years ago. Originally based on Blackmore and Te Mania genetics; the stud later introduced Ardrossan bloodlines into the herd, producing the stud seen today. Based in Gippsland, 20 minutes from Traralgon, Sharinda Angus Stud has experienced its share in dry conditions. These tough climatic conditions have helped shape the current and future direction of the herd. Through select breeding, Sharinda has built a female line that maintains condition, is fertile and can nurture a calf to a high standard. This, combined with structural

soundness and docility, has resulted in the cow herd the stud presents today. It’s these principles that enable the stud to produce bulls that are docile, easy-care, and above all else; performance sires. It is said that behind every good bull, there is a quality female. When researching A.I. sires, these same principles apply. Only sires with the utmost docility, structural integrity and performance data to match, are selected and utilised. Seeing is believing, so the Stud’s principals have taken opportunities over the years to visit a number of farms both here and overseas; seeing first-hand the bulls and the breeding females behind those bulls.

Sharinda Angus will once again participate in 2022’s Beef Week Field Day on Friday, January 28.

Due to circumstances, Sharinda will be selling approximately 30 of its quality stud females alongside the sale bulls.

Not N ot jjust ust a fflash lash iinn tthe he ppan an ANGUS STUD BREEDING DOCILE, QUALITY PERFORMANCE CATTLE, FOR 35 YEARS

hen Fiona and John Glover started Wattlewood Angus more than 20 years ago, they concentrated on breeding cattle that were structurally sound, easy doing, quiet and that they themselves appreciated to own. Along the way, Wattlewood cattle have being praised in the show ring, and in major carcass competitions around Australia, all backed by the experience gained by Fiona when she was the Angus Societies University of Illinois Scholarship recipient.

Fast forward to now, the couple are still loving the type of cattle that they breed, grow and sell to cattle breeders for them to enjoy and enhance their herd. “I love where we are at with our breeding and sales, and it is terrific to have our bull buyers coming back year after year to get the next generation of

genetics,” Fiona said. “The return buyers tell us that we are doing things right.” Wattlewood had a stellar Beef Week in 2021 and are taking it a step further and offering 31 bulls and 20 HBR and APR females in the stud’s first on-property bull and production sale on Wednesday, March 16, 2022. The 2022 Beef Week on Saturday, January 29 will be a preview to what will be offered at the stud’s inaugural sale. The husband and wife team are proud of the animals that are available and state that they are completely grain free and performing on their own merits and backed by HD50K genotyping, sire verification and vaccinations of 7in1, Pestiegard and Vibrovax. For more information call Fiona on 0416 216 951.

The Wright Family extend a warm invitation to visit us at any time 1492 Sale-Toongabbie Road Winnindoo 3858 Sharyn 0413 663 004 Colin 0417 574 573

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

January, 2022

RURAL NEWS

‘Disturbing’ animal cruelty results in 18 months jail for Trafalgar man A Trafalgar man has been jailed for 18 months, fined $15,000 and banned from owning or being in charge of dogs for 10 years over” disturbing acts of wildlife cruelty” after appearing at the Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court in December 2021.

O’Brien laments poor quality of Gippsland region’s roads By JOSH FARRELL

A TRAFALGAR man has been jailed for 18 months, fined $15,000 and banned from owning or being in charge of dogs for 10 years over” disturbing acts of wildlife cruelty”. The conviction included charges for illegal hunting dogs to kill and injure native wildlife and deer in East and West Gippsland. The man convicted at the Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court in December 2021 and will serve a non-parole period of 15 months. Magistrate Simon Garnett described the animal cruelty offences as “very serious” and the offending in 24 separate occasions as “calculated, callous and cruel”. He further noted the “deliberate, blatant and appalling” mistreatment of animals depicted in the footage. In imposing his sentence, the Magistrate noted that it had to reflect community disgust and condemnation and had to send a message to others that such “despicable violence and cruelty towards animals will not be tolerated”. The convicted man admitted using Mastiffcross dogs to hunt and kill 19 Common Wombats, Eastern Grey Kangaroos, Brushtailed Possums and Sambar Deer between 2018-2020.

He also admitted to illegally using a firearm on 12 occasions against Sambar deer. The conviction followed a four-month investigation by the Conservation Regulator which found graphic videos filmed by the man, encouraging up to three dogs at a time to attack and maul live animals. The man pleaded guilty to 53 counts of cruelty and hunting offences, including one count of aggravated cruelty for killing a protected Eastern Grey Kangaroo. He also pleaded guilty to a further three charges for offences committed under the Forests Act andLand Conservation (Vehicle Control) Regulations. Gippsland senior forest and wildlife officer Glenn Lineham said it was a “horrific case of wildlife cruelty with an unnecessary loss of life”. “We are lucky to have a unique wildlife population in Victoria and these animals deserve to be treated humanely,” Mr Lineham said. “It is illegal to hunt native wildlife without an authority in Victoria, and it is the responsibility of hunters to follow this law and know the rules around using dogs to hunt deer and game. “Anyone caught breaching these rules will face penalties.”

A LOCAL MP has raised concerns about Gippsland roads failing, despite recent upgrades. Gippsland South MLA Danny O’Brien lamented the poor condition of local roads generally, and called on the state government to make improvements. He said he was “extremely disappointed” in works that had been completed on a number of roads. “I was pretty happy earlier in the year when, after a lot of lobbying, shoulder sealing and widening was undertaken on a number of local roads,” he said. “But to my dismay — and that of many locals — it’s taken just weeks or months for these works to deteriorate badly, particularly along the ‘seal’ between the old road edge and the new shoulder, creating potholes, an uneven surface and dangerous conditions for drivers. “Many of these roads are now in a worse condition before the works were completed.” Mr O’Brien has written to Roads Minister Ben Carroll to ask that failing roads be repaired to an acceptable standard, and called on a reviews of the engineering and tender processes to ensure it doesn’t happen again. Motorists have raised concerns about the quality of the Bengworden Rd, which runs between Bairnsdale and Sale. Despite being resurfaced earlier in

the year, sections of the road have begun to deteriorate — particularly along the edges. One resident — who wished to remain anonymous — complained the road was being worked on, but the problems were not being rectified. “They’re fixing it again – they’re on their third fix now,” he said. “It’s not going to work — it’s like putting a Band-Aid on a gaping wound. They’ve left it in a worse state than when they started.” A state government spokesperson said regional roads were the lifeblood of communities, and it was working hard to ensure they are up to standard. “Our crews are out across Gippsland inspecting, assessing and repairing our regional roads following recent bad weather to ensure the network, including Bengworden Rd, is safe for road users,” the spokesperson said. The spokesperson said it was not uncommon for potholes to form after heavy rainfall — “wet conditions can result in road seals deteriorating before the end of their anticipated lifespan”. Bengworden Rd received $6.3 million in funding from state and federal governments for upgrades. Under the state and federal governments’ road safety program, it will receive targeted safety barriers, shoulder sealing at selected locations, audio-tactile line marking, intersection upgrades and other safety improvements.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

RURAL NEWS

New website launched A NEW free and accessible website has been launched to assist land managers, pest controllers and community groups to manage rabbits, gorse and serrated tussock on their properties. The Virtual Extension Officer website (VEO) was developed by the Victorian Gorse Taskforce (VGT) in collaboration with the Victorian Rabbit Action Network and the Victorian Serrated Tussock Working Party, to help people take control of pests. Agriculture Victoria biosecurity leader Nicole Garfi said rabbits, gorse, and serrated tussock are widespread in Victoria and impact agricultural productivity and the environment. “The VEO was developed to enable landholders battling one of these species, to replicate their individual situation online and gather relevant information, in one location, without leaving their home,” she said. “In just four clicks of a button, the user can choose their property location, species, infestation size and type of control they are interested in, and the VEO will advise the most appropriate methods of control.” VGT chair Ron Cosgrave said communities will find great value in the website. “We have tried to simplify finding best practice information for those affected by these species, so they can apply it to their own situation,” he said.

A new free and accessible website has been launched to assist land managers, pest controllers and community groups to manage rabbits, gorse and serrated tussock (pictured) on their properties. file photograph

“We hope it gives people the right advice and a little bit more confidence to start effectively managing their pest species.” Funding for the website was provided

by the federal government’s Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper in collaboration with Agriculture Victoria. The website can be accessed at virtualextensionofficer.com.au

$40m powers up wind projects THREE major offshore wind projects in Gippsland — two off the coast of Wellington Shire — will receive a state government funding boost of $40 million from the Energy Innovation Fund. Flotation Energy (with its ‘Seadragon’ site proposed to be built offshore of Seaspray and Golden Beach), Star of the South (off Port Albert), and Macquarie Group (off Bass Coast) have the combined potential to create up to 5600 jobs, bring more than $18 billion in new investment to Victoria and power about 3.6 million homes. Wild winds off Victoria’s coastline − which among the strongest in Australia and the world − could result in the state becoming an offshore wind powerhouse, driving economic development and helping Victoria reach its target of 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030. The funding boost will support feasibility studies and pre-construction development, including environmental assessments, and adds to $96 million the companies are already spending on these projects.

The Star of the South will receive $19.5 million to support pre-construction development activities for an offshore wind farm off the Port Albert coast. If built to its full, proposed scale, it would have up to 2.2GW of capacity – enough power to provide nearly 20 per cent of Victoria’s energy needs. Flotation Energy will receive $2.3 million for scoping studies and surveys for its 1.5GW ‘Seadragon’ offshore wind farm near oil and gas platforms in Bass Strait, off Wellington Shire’s coast between Seaspray and Golden Beach. Macquarie Group will receive $16.1 million to facilitate initial development stages of a 1GW offshore wind farm off the Bass Coast. The funding will help each company conduct studies to determine the best location of each project. All major projects will require a rigorous community consultation process and will be subject to a range of regulatory approvals, including environmental impact assessments. Premier Daniel Andrews said Victoria

was the “clean energy capital of Australia”. “We’ve led the way on renewables, created 24,000 jobs with our Victorian Renewable Energy Target target alone, supported a thriving supply chain of businesses and attracted billions in investment,” he said. Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the funding was the single largest offshore wind announcement in Australia’s history. “Offshore wind projects have the potential to create gigawatts of reliable, renewable energy and help us deliver on our ambitious target to halve emissions by 2030,” Ms D’Ambrosio said. The announcement was welcomed by Environment Victoria (EV) and the Clean Energy Council. EV chief executive officer Jono La Nauze said the funding helped to “walk the talk” of providing a just transition for coal workers and their families by providing much-needed clean energy employment opportunities for communities in Gippsland and beyond.

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Fears for Gippsland Lakes dolphins FEARS numerous Gippsland Lakes Burrunan dolphins may have perished have emerged, following extended periods of rain and high freshwater inflows into their habitat. During fauna surveys conducted in the Gippsland Lakes in the past year, 29 resident Burrunan dolphins have not been able to be found. Some dolphins have been observed in poor condition, with ulcerative lesions and discolouration of their skin. Decreased salinity in the lake system is believed to be the cause of the skin condition, according to the Department of Land, Water and Planning. DELWP wildlife emergencies principal officer, Rodney Vile, said the absence of the dolphins from the lake system was “concerning”. “While we are fairly certain that the low salinity levels have impacted the health of the dolphins, we do not know what has become of them,” he said. “While there is a possibility that some have moved out of the lakes system into a more favourable environment, it is likely that many have died.” Mr Vile said as a result of recent flood recovery funding, DELWP would increase the number of surveys and data collection. “This will allow us to continue to monitor the population and hopefully see the numbers increase,” he said. People venturing out and about on the Gippsland Lakes are also being urged to help out, by providing photographic evidence of dolphins. Photographic data helps to record resident dolphins, identified by their markings and the shape of their dorsal fins. Burrunan dolphins are a unique Victorian species, found only in the Gippsland Lakes and Port Phillip Bay areas, and surveys of the population are conducted quarterly in the lakes system over several days, with observational and photographic data recorded. The data helps DELWP and the Marine Mammal Foundation to monitor the population and its movements and behaviours. Foundation founding director, Dr Kate Robb, said the Gippsland Lakes, as an estuarine system, was subjected to substantial changes — which in turn affected the animals which lived there. “Over the past year, the Burrunan dolphin population has endured several challenging adjustments to the overall water quality in their habitat, which has resulted in a number of reported deaths late in 2020,” she said. “With every fauna survey, along with dolphin population and health assessments, we also gather numerous water quality measures, including salinity, turbidity and temperature, at 22 sites and share this data openly with partnering organisations. “This information continues to paint a more complete picture of how we can support the long-term survival of the species.” Citizen scientists and mariners on the Gippsland Lakes can help strengthen the breadth of data collected by uploading images of sighted dolphins to marinemammal.org.au/trakmm Boats must remain at least 200 metres from whales and dolphins when in the water.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

RURAL NEWS

Changes to close contact definition a concern for Rural Doctors Association THE Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) says it is concerned with National Cabinet’s decision to “water down” the definition of a ‘close contact’ of someone diagnosed with COVID-19, warning it can only lead to a further exponential rise in Omicron cases across the country. National Cabinet has re-defined ‘close contact’ to now be a household (or household-like) contact of a confirmed COVID case – and has reduced the time that confirmed cases and close contacts need to remain in quarantine. Additionally, National Cabinet has removed a requirement that confirmed COVID cases who are no longer symptomatic must return a negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) on Day 6 of their time in quarantine, before being able to end their seven day isolation period. “Given Omicron is surging across much of Australia, this is not the best time to completely water down the definition of a close contact,” RDAA president Dr Megan Belot said. “The new definition does not cover those who work together, at a time when many are returning to their regular workplace and are in close contact for more than four hours each day, or those who have been exposed to the virus in close public settings. “All it will do is ensure those who may have been infected with COVID can continue to move freely in the community, and potentially further spread the virus. “It is also not the time to be removing the need to return a negative test, before leaving isolation, for those who have been

Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) president Dr Megan Belot (left). The RDAA says it is concerned with National Cabinet’s decision to ‘‘water down’’ the definition of a ‘close contact’ of someone with COVID-19, warning it can only lead to a further exponential rise in Omicron cases across the country. photograph supplied

in quarantine due to having had COVID. “It is particularly troubling given that some jurisdictions are also putting less

emphasis on requiring people to check in when going to shops and other public venues – a simple requirement that could

greatly assist health authorities in being able to educate people with messaging aligned with the new testing and isolation protocols. “While evidence so far indicates that Omicron is a less severe COVID variant, the exponential growth in cases means we can expect many more people to require care either in community or in hospital, even if it’s not with the same extent of severe illness we saw with the Delta variant. “An exponential rise in those admitted to hospital with Omicron will mean growing pressure on the health system, and the likelihood of having to furlough even more health professionals, even if for shorter periods. “We can’t afford to throw caution to the wind at this point in time, but that’s exactly what National Cabinet is doing here.” While RDAA supports the increased use of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) – given they will help to reduce demand on PCR testing – it has warned that more will need to be done to ensure rural and remote Australians can access free RAT kits instead of the PCR test (where eligible, such as for close contacts) or RAT kits at affordable prices (for those not eligible for free RAT kits).

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

January, 2022

RURAL NEWS

Millions to target animal disease risks AGRICULTURE Minister David Littleproud said the federal government would invest $8.4 million in a new program aimed at bolstering Australia’s wildlife health and early warning capabilities. He said the initiative would focus on preventing, detecting, and mitigating the impacts of emerging animal diseases, including those with pandemic potential. “COVID-19 has brought into sharp focus the importance of recognising and managing emerging zoonotic disease risks which can originate from wildlife,” Mr Littleproud said. “That’s why we are taking a ‘true One Health’ approach, that recognises the interdependencies of human, animal, and environmental health, which is essential to preventing future pandemics. “This program positions Australia as a world leader of the global transformational change agenda aimed at preventing future disease risks emerging from the humananimal-environmental interface.” Nearly all major exotic livestock diseases of potential concern to Australia, including African swine fever and foot-and-mouth disease, will have wildlife and/or feral animals as part of their cause or spread. Mr Littleproud said the protection of the country’s native wildlife and ecosystems is also critical to pandemic prevention, with increasing potential for disease emergence as climate change and land use changes put pressure on the environment. Environment Minister Sussan Ley, who represent Australia on The One Health Global Leaders Group on Antimicrobial Resistance said the program’s focus on the interconnection between people, animals, and their shared environment will be vital to addressing global health issues. “The health of our environment is a

Agriculture Minister David Littleproud said the federal government would invest $8.4 million in a new program aimed at bolstering Australia’s wildlife health and early warning capabilities. photograph supplied

precursor to both human and animal health. This funding will prioritise the investigation of significant wildlife disease events to identify the underlying causes and determine their relevance to human, livestock/domestic animal, and environmental health,” Ms Ley said. The government has partnered with Wildlife Health Australia (WHA) which will lead delivery of the program, maximising its already extensive networks across

the country to expand investigation and analysis capacity of wildlife disease events. “This significant new program will help us to identify the underlying causes of wildlife health events, to both improve the outcomes for our wildlife as well as providing the information we need to more thoroughly analyse the potential One Health implications of such events,” WHA chief executive officer Dr Rupert Woods said. The initiative will involve the establishment of a ‘One Health Investigation fund’ to

be administered by WHA, which will bolster support for thorough field, laboratory, and epidemiological investigation into selected wildlife disease events. The program will also seek to establish WHA as an official World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) Collaborating Centre on Wildlife Health for Australia and the Indo-Pacific. CSIRO’s Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness will be a key partner in delivering the initiative.

GP1636008

January, 2022

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Floods then fire... Get ready

This story is contributed by Tyson Siecker from Australian Pump Industries. Tyson, being deeply involved in supporting Aussie Pump distributors in the Gippsland region, understands the basics of the agricultural cycle and the ups and downs of the lives of farmers and regional dwellers. Here he shares his ideas and general philosophy of the hugely successful product range of Australian Pump Industries.

CLIMATE CRISIS ... FACT OR FICTION? Following what meteorologists tell us about global warming and watching the climate events in the Northern Hemisphere during their summer, makes us realise its possible here. The floods we’ve had in Gippsland were bad enough but farmers know that moisture in the sub soil has a dramatic impact on growth, not just grass and crops but on the bush and National Parks as well. The Firefighting authorities and National Parks operators can do their best to carry out hazard reduction during the winter months but with the consistent unseasonal rains, this has been more difficult than ever before. One thing we do know is that all that moisture will result in a massive spurt of growth in underbrush, bush and grass. Fire authorities are warning of a major fire outbreak early in the year with the fuel load being the big problem.

Be prepared with Aussie’s Bushfire Survival Guide.

Volunteers can’t be everywhere! Protect your property with Aussie’s Fire Chief.

PREPARING FOR THE URBAN INTERFACE

TWIN IMPELLER PUMPS … EXTRA PERFORMANCE

Farmers are experienced in using pumps. They use pumps every day for a myriad of applications and many are already familiar with the great Aussie Pump range and terrific service orientated distributors who supply those products in Gippsland. With the danger of a massive fire outbreak this year, it’s acknowledged that the firefighting authorities, particularly volunteer brigades can’t possibly be everywhere at once. That shifts some responsibility to homeowners who have to decide whether to stay and fight a fire or to take precautionary action to protect their assets, whether its property, building, pets and livestock or human lives! Here at Aussie Pumps, we have a huge respect for the firefighting authorities but also know they are promoting the idea of self-reliance.

house or outbuildings with sprinklers! That ‘halo’ protection around the house can be a lifesaver! The purpose of the guide ultimately is to inform those million or so properties in what firefighting authorities call the “Urban Interface”. That is people who like to live on the edges of cities or towns or in remote hamlets. There are real risks involved and although they live “life among the gum trees”, there is still very real danger.

AUSSIE’S BUSHFIRE SURVIVAL GUIDE

SETTING UP YOUR PROTECTION

One step that we have taken is to produce huge quantities of our Aussie Pump Bushfire Survival Guide. It is a terrific document that shows a wide range of actions that can be taken to protect property and livestock. We send them out to the volunteer brigades to distribute as well as through our dealerships. The guide tells you not just how to fill your gutters with water and move debris from around the house. These are things that are easily done. The guide covers more professional protection that includes setting up a

The first essential is to have a water resource in the form of either a swimming pool, water tank, dam or well. If you have water, you need a pump! At Aussie Pumps, we believe if you intend to fight the fire and protect your property, which may be your most important asset, it’s worth doing the research to make sure you get the right gear. We produce competitive information (comparisons between our product and competitors), just to make sure that customers are properly informed. We even have a video that illustrates

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

the difference between the Aussie Fire Chief, what we claim is the world’s most effective portable lightweight fire pump, that shows why it’s better! We believe that more performance, better components and features, and the ability to do the job is essential. A third world ‘knock off’ or a counterfeit product of any kind is asking for trouble. Those pumps are designed for sale, not for performance in a fire storm. IF IT LOOKS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE FROM A PRICE POINT OF VIEW … IT PROBABLY IS!

When our engineers started working on the design of a twin impeller pump, we soon realised that a pump with an expectation of serious firefighting capabilities can’t be run off a 6.5hp engine. Real performance means you have to give it the horsepower to get the job done. So, the smallest unit we built with a twin impeller is a 9hp Honda or in our diesel range, a 10hp Yanmar engine. We won’t under power a product because we know what happens during the intensity of a fire. We call it the “Magnum Force” effect. If you are going to be armed, you need to be armed with a product that will work! Honda have been a terrific support to us in the evolution of our product and in helping us with distribution around the globe. Their service support team in almost every country is very proactive and will honour the universal warranty that comes with every engine in our line-up. Honda always meets their delivery commitments and have never let us down. Their product comes with a three-year warranty and matches our unique Aussie five year Quik Prime pump end warranty.

DO IT NOW If you’ve got plans to prepare your property for potential fire risk, don’t procrastinate.

The trouble with fires is, as we saw in December in Western Australia, they can come out of nowhere. It only takes three or four days of blistering heat to dry out the bush, a crop or grazing land. It’s important to buy the right product the first time and make sure it is set up in an effective way.

CHOOSING A PUMP We think that’s easy. Check the performance, take the trouble to read the performance curves. You’ll find that our Aussie Fire Chief has 20 per cent more performance in terms of pressure than key competitors. Not only that, but our pump is built better with a heavier duty impeller. There’s simply more metal in the product and a superbly balanced load to the power of the Honda engine!

VALUE FOR MONEY We don’t build in any fancy profit margins for dealers to discount. Our prices are real and we put our Aussie Fire Chief on the market for less than $1000. Advertised in the Gippsland Farmer this month, you can pick up an Aussie Fire Chief for $968 including GST. Competitors, with products that are proven to be inferior offer them with retail prices as high as $1600. They’re either paying too much for their components, or they’re loading their prices. We don’t do either!

WORDS OF ADVICE First and foremost, do your research. Buy the right pump and make sure you’ve got adequate water. Set up the pump and practice with it. Make sure your family or team is experienced in how to operate the equipment. Don’t pay more than you need to. If you can’t buy a good quality fire pump with the performance of the Aussie Fire Chief for under $1000 you know you’re paying too much! Further information including loads of free info, movies and documentation is readily available from Aussie Pumps. We’re out to protect the urban interface aussiepumps.com.au

January, 2022

STOP LOOK UP LIVE NO GO ZONE for power poles

NO GO ZONE FOR POWER POLES

Anywhere above power line and within 3m each side or below. See special provisions.

3m 3m

Spotter required between 3 - 6.4m of power lines. Open area outside 6.4m of power lines.

DON T RISK IT BE SAFE, NOT SORRY!

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ACE Earthmoving Pty Ltd has placed this advertisement fo ollowing a near miss incident. Thankfully no-one was injured. January, 2022

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PADDOCK

Showcasing the X Series The John Deere X9 1000 in action during the Hutcheon & Pearce X Series Demonstration Day, at Deniliquin. photograph supplied

GRAIN growers had a front-row seat to see John Deere’s game-changing X Series Combine Harvester make short work of an irrigated wheat crop near Deniliquin last month. The X9 1000 in action was one of three machines touring key Australian grain growing regions to demonstrate the lineup’s enhanced capacity, efficiency and intelligence, while providing an opportunity for producers to speak directly with John Deere specialists. The X Series’ arrival in Australia has coincided with the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) prediction of a 58.4 million tonne wheat crop in the 2021-22 season, the nation’s largest harvest on record. John Deere Australia and New Zealand Territory Business manager Max Cusack said the unprecedented forecast had sparked even more interest in the X Series, as its increased capacity coupled with improved efficiency would ensure

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

farmers could capitalise on peak windows of opportunity. “With the ability to harvest twelve hectares of wheat per hour depending on conditions, the X Series brings a new level of capacity to the Australian agriculture industry,” Mr Cusack said. “Increasingly, farmers are facing shorter harvesting windows due to challenging weather conditions, which is a high-pressure environment the X Series thrives in. “Within twenty minutes of this X9 1000 arriving on the farm, we had optimised its performance and were working at full capacity, harvesting between ten to fourteen kilometres per hour with a fifty-foot HDR header. “What made this performance striking for the farmers who attended the day, was the remarkable fuel efficiency and minimal grain loss achieved.” Grain grower and harvesting contractor Paul Park, who played host to farmers from as far north as Coleambally and Hillston at the demonstration on his property Keralee,

watched as the crop achieved a five tonnes per hectare yield average. Mr Park grows 1500 ha of irrigated cereal crops, and services Northern NSW and parts of Victoria with his contract harvesting business, and was impressed by the productivity achieved by the X Series while retaining an ideal frame size. “With the X Series you are getting an extra half a header, but it’s in the same size as the S Series,” Mr Park said. “For a long time, the new harvesters were becoming larger, however this machine is the same size, but with bolstered capacity and has 20 per cent lower fuel consumption. That’s a huge saving as the fuel costs add up. “Anything larger than four metres, for us, becomes awkward to transport when we are moving equipment to different locations.” Mr Park said he also particularly noted the smooth front-end handling of the machine. “What I also found impressive when watching the X9 1000 was the ability of

the platform to float and ride along as it followed the ground,” he said. “It was hugging the ground so well, it looked as though it moved independently to the harvester, which I think has ticked a huge box.” Hillston grower Jochim Jager, whose business has secured an X Series harvester due to arrive in 2022, said the Demo Day confirmed the traits which drew him to the machine. As a producer of wheat, canola, lentils and barley across 10,000 ha, Mr Jager said productivity and efficiency were key. “It’s overall capacity and the fact it has minimal grain loss was evident during the demo, and a harvester with little grain loss is what we’re looking for,” Mr Jager said. “During the demo, the X9 1000 harvested varying crops, including some lighter grain, and didn’t throw any of it out – which with crops like that, can easily happen.” To find out when an X Series model is heading to your region, contact your local John Deere dealership.

January, 2022

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

WEATHER OUTLOOK December’s Rainfall Observations for Eastern Victoria (source: BOM)

Victoria’s rainfall total for the month of December. of meteorology

image bureau

The national rainfall outlook for the period February to April 2022. image bureau of meteorology

East Sale Airport.........48.4mm Hogan Island...............22.4mm Latrobe Valley.............41.6mm Mount Baw Baw.........84.2mm Mount Moornapa.....163.8mm Wilsons Promontory.55.0mm Yanakie ........................32.6mm Yarram Airport............25.6mm Bairnsdale....................83.8mm Combienbar..............142.8mm

Gabo Island...............156.6mm Gelantipy .....................98.8mm Lakes Entrance.........115.9mm Mallacoota.................179.6mm Mount Nowa Nowa..114.8mm Omeo...........................75.8mm Orbost..........................94.2mm Mount Hotham.........134.4mm Pound Creek...............18.0mm Wonthaggi...................15.2mm

GIPPSLAND’S

Cattle Market REPORT PAKENHAM LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE

Monday, December 13

There were approximately 830 export and 450 young cattle penned representing an increase of 200 head week-on-week. The usual buying group was present and operating in a cheaper market in places. Quality was excellent in the young cattle and mixed in the grown run. The best of the vealers sold firm while most young cattle eased 5c to 15c/kg. Bullocks lost 4c to 7c/kg. Heavy grown heifers showing good finish sold 9c/kg cheaper. Manufacturing steers slipped 30c/kg. Cows sold mostly firm. Heavy bulls held firm. Vealers sold from 500c to 580c to processors with restocking lots up to 596c/kg. Yearling trade steers made between 514c and 570c/kg. Yearling heifers to the trade sold between 459c and 560c/kg. A sprinkling of grown steers made from 470c to 490c/kg. Bullocks sold from 436c to 476c/kg. Heavy grown heifers showing good finish made between 420c and 452c/kg. A handful of Friesian manufacturing steers sold between 357c and 381c with the crossbred portion between 380c and 455c/kg. Most light and medium weight cows made from 266c to 352c/kg. Heavy weight cows sold mostly from 320c to 404c/kg. Heavy bulls made between 317c and 413c/kg. Yarding 1284 Weight

Grade Score

Live Weight c/kg

Carcass

Low

High

Avg

Change

Avg

Low

Weight High

Avg

Yearling Steer 330-400

B,C,D,2,3

490

-10

908

1960

400+

B,C,D,2,3

486

570

542.6

941

2193

2538

2446

Yearling Heifer 330-400

B,C,D,2,3

459

560

509.2

-18

922

1721

2240

1968

400+

B,C,D,2,3

440

520

486.9

906

1870

2500

2307

B,C,D,2,3

511

528

521.7

N/Q

943

1584

1736

1652

B,C,D,2,3

483

520

505.7

N/Q

922

1594

1690

1647

500-600

B,C,D,2,3

478

490

487.1

881

2677

2940

2807

600-750

B,C,D,2,3

460

476

463.2

N/Q

855

2990

3094

3011

B,C,D,2,3

350

410

374.7

762

1925

2625

2217

Vealer Steer 280-330

Change 142 Comparison date 02/12/2021