Gippsland Farmer September 2020

Page 1

Phone: (03) 5135 4444

September, 2020

Home where the baa-rt is

Jill Noble and Gary Tie at Hallston Valley Farm as the property gets ready for the upcoming sheep sales.

WINE GROWER EYES HIS NEXT VINTAGE PAGE 3

FULL STORY PAGE 20

MID PHASE ONE NOW COMPLETE

photograph hayley mills

PAGE 5

PARK’S PLEA By MICHELLE SLATER

LARDNER Park is pleading for financial help to keep the major Gippsland events centre ticking over and ready to reopen at the end of the pandemic. Lardner Park chief executive officer Craig Debnam said the venue had to ice any plans to re-open this month to hold a

two-day seed and fodder expo with 65 exhibitors. The park had to can a further 14 events booked after September in the hope restrictions would ease, but instead was forced into operating in “sleep mode”. Mr Debnam said they were down more than 90 per cent in lost revenue since the functions

space was forced to shut its gates in March. The not-for-profit events centre had lost $2.2 million in revenue from cancelled events out of a yearly $2.4m turnover. “I’d hate to see Lardner Park lost, it would be a real crying shame, but who saw this pandemic coming?” Mr Debnam said. “We need significant amounts of

money to keep us going. I’m not sure anyone has contemplated what Gippsland’s events space would look like without Lardner Park.” Lardner Park is asking for $100,000 each from both the state and federal governments to help it get through the slump. Continued on page 4

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RURAL NEWS

Farmers can call on a friendly pal By LIAM DURKIN

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A NEW agricultural enterprise, aimed at improving mental health in farmers, is beginning to take shape in Maffra. It is the brainchild of Freedom Key founder Christos Iliopoulos, who hopes the project will reduce suicide rates in the farming community through on-going practical and social support from farmers. Working on the principle that better farm management and outcomes may contribute toward good mental health, Mr Iliopoulos devised a miniature cooperative network structure to serve farmers, getting off the ground thanks to a grant received from the Gippsland Primary Health Network. Fittingly, Mr Iliopoulos has titled the project the Pentagon Agricultural League - otherwise known as ‘PAL’. “It’s not a bad acronym, it’s about having a farm pal,� he explained. With a previous career in the rural financial sector, Mr Iliopoulos said small farmers particularly were feeling the heat in the current climate. “The problem at the moment is there is a lot of farm consolidation going on, some of it is driven by overseas interest, other farm consolidation is driven by local farmers, and they’re scrambling for profit because margins are diminishing,� he said. “They scale up to get the absolute profit that they need to run the farm, the problem there is the smaller farmers have got nowhere to go, if they can’t consolidate - they’re out. “That leads to a change in the whole character of the region but it also puts a lot of pressure on farmers mentally because they’ve got a lifestyle to protect, they get very desperate and it leads to suicide which is really tragic.� Sensing the need to do something, Mr Iliopoulos said he felt he had developed a business plan to benefit local farmers. “I grew up in Greece on a subsistence farm in a village and people helped each other and they survived that way, so I thought mini-cooperatives might be the go,� he said. “The way to do it would be to have mini co-ops with five agricultural enterprises within each co-op and then to have an affiliation of those co-ops so it becomes impossible for a takeover. “Each mini co-op runs its own cooperative, they trade with it for their mutual benefit, keep their own enterprises separate and all the benefits of the co-op flow directly back into their enterprise. “In doing that there’s a by-product of what we are aiming for which is social cohesion, social support and sharing of knowledge, friendship building and bonding of farmers.�

Christos Iliopoulos hopes his new Pentagon Agricultural League will be embraced by the farming community.

In layman’s terms, five farmers will band together to form a team, while also working independently on their own properties. “This doesn’t mix up their enterprise and tell them what to do with their stuff, this is a bonus to them, they’ll form the team when it suits them to actually get some sort of benefit and it will keep running beside them,� Mr Iliopoulos explained. “The co-op will not be directing them to do anything - it is not a top-down co-op. “They are the co-op and they’re taking the decisions among themselves and operating their enterprises totally independently. “Farmers enjoy getting the views of other farmers and also having them as support. “If you’re a dairy farmer and can’t milk your cows it’ll be pretty good to ring up the other guys in the co-op to help out and then you’d reciprocate as well.� With the Pentagon Agricultural League still in its early stages, Mr Iliopoulos was optimistic the proposal would garner enough interest to get off the ground. “I’m pretty keen for the idea to get out there so we can start with the first nest,� he said. “Phase one of this project is to establish one pentagon - that’s five enterprises together - and cycle through it, and then phase two is to establish another four pentagons so that makes it 25 enterprises and at that point it will be self-priming. “From there on if other farmers want to join they can apply, and when five enterprises are suited to each other they can form a nest. “They then become another one of those pentagons that attaches to the system. “I think they’ll grab it by the horns, excusing the farming terminology pun.� Those interested in finding out more are encouraged to phone Christos Iliopoulos on 0438 356 145.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

RURAL NEWS

Wine grower eyes his next vintage By MICHELLE SLATER

Nicholson River Winery owner Ken Eckersley at his cellar door.

photograph supplied

GIPPSLAND wine growers are in the “box seat” to ride out the effects of climate change while still producing quality grapes, according to a Nicholson vineyard owner. Nicholson River Winery owner Ken Eckersley lost all his grapes to smoke taint in the summer bushfires, but was now noticing some fresh buds appearing on his vines. Mr Eckersley established the small winery more than 40 years ago, selecting land with the right soil and climate, but has noticed he was now picking a lot earlier than decades ago. “We are experiencing longer and more extreme dry periods, this burns the grapes. Twenty years ago we were told to open canopies up to let the grapes into the sun,” Mr Eckersley said. “But now we have to protect them from the sun to stop them ripening early, and we also need to cool them in refrigerators and this is a major cost. We can’t help but see these changes take place.” However, he said that although East Gippsland had been going through years of drought, the region was still better placed than some of the more drier climate grape areas. Mr Eckersley said hotter climates meant that grapes were now ripening quicker and sweeter, which meant the alcohol content was marginally increasing. “You will feel the effect of a glass of wine sooner, especially women.

The higher alcohol makes the wine sweeter and softer initially, followed by a burning sensation at the back of the throat,” he said. “Red wines in particular may tend to taste the same with plain overripe characters, and there is a tendency for the wine to be heavy and overwhelm the food.” Mr Eckersley said since 2017, it has been legal for wine makers to add water to lower the sugar to no less than a potential 13.5 per cent alcohol, with no mention on the label. “At this stage there is no analytic test as to if or how much water has been added. So if a wine tastes watery it probably is,” he said. “Wineries could start putting no added water on their label, to give a point of difference in a highly competitive market.” Mr Eckersley said many wine producers were looking to plant new vineyards in cooler areas, or growing grape varieties better suited to hot, dry climates. He said Gippsland’s strong point was producing wine with flavour that paired well with food, opening up more opportunities for food and wine tourism. “We opened a restaurant here to bring together food and wine, this is what we are good at, but we’ve had to close three times since Christmas with the fires and coronavirus,” he said. “You just have to hang in there and outlast the downturns and look to a brighter future, as Gippsland does have a future in flavour and tourism.”

Avian flu threat eases Danny 0’BRIEN MP AGRICULTURE Victoria has completed work on depopulating the four poultry farms confirmed to have avian influenza in the Golden Plains Shire and East Gippsland. Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Graeme Cooke said that while this was an important milestone as part of eradication efforts, this did not mean the threat was over. “We’re urging everyone to remain vigilant and be alert to the presence of sick or dead birds, either in their own backyard hens or flocks, and in wild birds,” Dr Cooke said.

“Avian influenza is present in our wild birds and environment, so it can occasionally spill into our domestic bird populations. It is crucial that we can identify these cases quickly so we can stop it spreading. A strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H7N7) virus was first detected at a free-range egg farm near Lethbridge on July 31, with a second affected farm confirmed to have the virus on August 6. A turkey farm in the Golden Plains Shire and at Bairnsdale were found to have the low pathogenic

strain (H5N2) of avian influenza on August 10. “With no live birds remaining on the infected properties, work is now underway to thoroughly decontaminate the sites to ensure we eliminate all remnants of the virus.” Dr Cooke said movement controls of domestic birds, bird products or equipment, into, out of or within the Restricted and Control Areas, spanning all of the Golden Plains Shire and the specified area near Bairnsdale, is not allowed without a permit from Agriculture Victoria.

State Member for Gippsland South

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RURAL NEWS

Lardner Park’s plea for assistance Continued from page 1

The federal government announced a $2.7 million boost for agricultural field days to continue operating after the pandemic, which Larnder Park will be able to apply for. Baw Baw Shire recently upped its contribution to $70,000 for a renewed strategic partnership with Lardner Park, increased from $30,000 in past years. Mr Debnam estimated that maintaining the 120 hectare property would set them back about $250,000 in the next 12 months, including forking out for rates, utilities and insurance bills. He said the park’s biggest financial hit was from cancelling Farm World 10 days ahead of schedule after Victoria was put into a State of Emergency. “It was heartbreaking to when you go into the planning phase and then we had

VFF backs a relaxing of border restrictions

Lardner Park is pleading for financial help to keep the major Gippsland events centre ticking over and ready to reopen at the file photograph end of the pandemic.

to cancel. We’ve operated for the past 57 years without ever having to close the gates,” he said. He said Lardner Park injected more than $40m into the Gippsland economy through major events such as Farm World, Tough Mudder, and the Beyond the Valley music festival. “When events get going, we will be okay, but surviving

between now and then with no revenue and still having to maintain the property when times are tough will be a struggle,” Mr Debnam said. “It’s my personal belief we will get through this, but it would be nice to get some support from government.” Gippsland Farmer approached the state government for comment.

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THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) welcomes the partial relaxation of border restrictions announced by both the New South Wales and South Australian Governments, but warns that Victorian farmers will continue to experience problems with the movement of people and product in both states. VFF President David Jochinke said the need for a common-sense, logicdriven solution is needed now to ensure Victoria’s almost $40 billion agriculture industry can continue to feed the nation without unnecessary restrictions. “I commend the tireless efforts of Minister (Jaclyn) Symes and the work being done behind the scenes to get this decision across the line,” Mr Jochinke said. “I know that she well understands the enormous toll this has taken on Victorian farmers. “(Minister) Symes is continuing negotiations with her counterparts, not only on border restrictions, but also the eagerly awaited National Agriculture Worker Code. “I have been talking to farmers day and night and I’ve never seen this level of anxiety and worry from farmers. That is why we need a uniform and consistent approach to these border and labour force issues and not the constant changing of the rules that we have witnessed in the last fortnight. “Victorian farmers have been hit by drought and bushfire and now COVID19. We have been looking forward to the prospect of one of our best seasons in years, only to now be tangled up in a web of red tape imposed on us by people who simply do not understand the economic implications.” The VFF will continue to discuss the frustrating limitations on agriculture that are still in place with the Victorian and Federal Agriculture Ministers and

VICTORIAN FARMERS FEDERATION PRESIDENT DAVID JOCHINKE

push for a solution through the recently announced National Agriculture Worker Code. “Our sector cannot have this sort of massive business interruption that we’ve seen over the last fortnight,” he said. “We need to be increasing our output, growing the economy and jobs with a skilled and innovative workforce, with an eye to continue to expand our international market because that is what will take our nation forward.” “All we want is common-sense decision making so Victorian farmers can continue to do their job which is to feed the nation.”

. 3820. Authorised by Russell Broadbent MP, Liberal Party of Australia, 46C Albert Street, Warragul VIC

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

RURAL NEWS

MID phase one is now complete

THE first phase of Macalister Irrigation District upgrades has been completed in a modernisation project designed to save water and improve productivity. Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the completed work set the stage for the next $62.7 million phase of the project, scheduled to ramp up next winter. Mr Chester said MID2030 would support hundreds of local jobs, protect the environment and build on a “world-class” agricultural region to make it sustainable for the next 50 years. “Irrigators are seeing the benefits of the modernisation project which has allowed them to make significant on-farm investment and improve their irrigation practices,” Mr Chester said. “It’s been a massive undertaking and a huge investment that has already saved 21 gigalitres of water that would have been lost, including through evaporation and seepage.” Southern Rural Water is leading the project, which so far has included upgrading infrastructure in the Nambrok, Denison, Tinamba, Mewburn Park and Riverslea areas. Phase two is centred on some of the oldest and least efficient zones in the MID. Improvements are forecast to save more than 12 gigalitres of water and include reconfiguring the Newry River irrigation supply, replacing channels with pipelines and automating outlets. The Nuntin and Stratford

Member for Gippsland South Danny O’Brien, Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull, Chair of the Macalister Customer Consultative Committee Raelene Hanratty and Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester mark the completion of the first phase of the $155 million MID modernisation project. photograph supplied

irrigation supply networks will also be upgraded and reconfigured. Some work has already begun as part of the second phase, including installing four new gates and desilting almost 10 kilometres of channels on the Stratford supply. Mr Chester said the completed project would turn the MID into a highly automated, efficient,

reliable, modern water delivery system, with clear environmental and economic benefits. Mr Chester said MID contributed an estimated $500 million to the Victorian economy. “Upgrading the remainder of the irrigation network will save water, boost the production of milk and food in Gippsland, and reduce the

amount of nutrient discharges reaching local waterways and the Gippsland Lakes,” he said. “Completion of phase two allows for more efficient irrigation practices and secure a strong future for the agricultural sector in Gippsland.” All phases of the modernisation project are due to be finished by

mid-2024. The $60 million cost of Phase 1B was split evenly between the federal and state governments and Southern Rural Water. The federal government will provide $31 million to phase two, Southern Rural Water will contribute $21.3 million and the state government will kick-in $10.4 million.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Advertorial

CarpalTunnel and Painful Hands

Phill Saws Above the Rest

PAINFUL hands and carpal tunnel syndrome is very common especially in older people who have lead a generous and productive working life. It is sometimes difficult to sort out the cause of hand pain as it can result from ‘wear and tear’ such as osteoarthritis in the small joints of the hand, the moving structures such as inflammation of the tendon sheaths or from compression of the median nerve at the wrist. To complicate things, problems with the neck and also the elbow can also refer pain to the hand. Pain in the hand especially at night which causes you to wake or prevents sleep along with characteristically pins and needles or numbness in the thumb index, middle and half of the ring finger tends to be diagnostic of compression of the median nerve in the base of the palm or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Think of it as the nerve crying out for more space. Sometimes, if the clinical symptoms are not that clear nerve conduction studies or an MRI of the hand and wrist may have to be done but most of the time the clinical situation is convincing. The fix for this is relatively simple. Either rest the hand in a splint for months, sometimes a steroid injection which is a bit painful and not that successful or a simple operation under local anaesthetic.

Phill Schuhmann has been servicing Gippslander’s arboreal needs for over 20 years. Environmentally and civically minded, Phill has completed full national compliance certification for his latest patriotic endeavor. He’s added a tool designed and manufactured in Australia by an Australian company to his fleet; Phill’s C.E.A. 40 metre “Starprobe” cherry picker is now available for hire throughout Gippsland and Latrobe Valley. To ensure he continues to provide the expert aboreal service his clients have come to rely on for many years to come Phill has decided to ease up on the entertainingly death defying physical demands of tree climbing.

Carpal tunnel decompression can be done in a hospital under a general anaesthetic but with skill and expertise it can be easily done in a half an hour without discomfort and is equally successful and without all the fuss. In most situations relief from the nocturnal pain is immediate, or within a day or two.

Phill won’t let anyone scratch his old Acco but him... So he now provides “wet hire” (with operator) for electricians, plumbers, roofers, television antenna/solar panel installers and anyone that needs to work at an elevated height. Phill’s Travel Tower comes with base controls allowing up to two workers including their tools to utilize the; 250kg safe working load, 10 amp 240 volt AC electricity and intercom available in the cage. Imagine being able to weld bits of metal together at 130 feet in the air!

The pins and needles and altered sensation in the fingertips takes longer to resolve.

The term carpal tunnel syndrome comes from the tight space between the small bones of the wrist and the sinew or ligament bridge crossing above the median nerve and tendons that control finger movement.

With long-standing carpal tunnel syndrome it can take many months but if the symptom duration is short these tend to improve over a few weeks.

The nerve is quite large and thick, almost the thickness of a little finger and is prone to being compressed in this tight anatomical area causing the symptoms of pain and ‘pins and needles’.

Unfortunately the procedure is not a general practice procedure and a referral will be necessary for an opinion and discussion of individual circumstances and how to proceed.

The Starprobe also has an incredible 22.5 metres of lateral outreach and this goes straight up for over 30 metres. Phill can reach over your shed and prune the windbreak along your back fence, and even the neighbours, at the same time! Being called a possum on many occasions Phill has let word of mouth be his advertising and has flown under the radar for decades letting his humility and reputation speak for him. From a farming background in the Strzelecki Ranges and using “in house” cherry pickers for many years as a subcontractor to local firms Phill has amassed vast experience using heavy equipment.

Mr Adrian Aitken M.B.B.S., Ph.D., F.R.A.C.S.

Phill’s “Starprobe”, which he affectionately calls “Oma” after his Grandmother, is inherently smooth; built with rugged reliability and all the required safety features and locks. His traveling Elevating Work Platform provides a safe workplace that promotes efficient, cost effective, productive and enjoyable conditions for work, and the view is pretty good too! Couple that with a great man at the wheel and Gippslanders you are truly in good hands. Fully insured. For a quote on all your tree maintenance or tower hire needs send a message to “Phill’s Trees & Tower Hire” on Facebook or call Phill on 0407 526 304

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

7

RURAL NEWS

Farmers can tune into Ag Vic Talk VICTORIAN farmers will be able to hear stories from fellow producers, advice and information with a new podcast from the state government. Agriculture Minister Jaclyn Symes launched Ag Vic Talk, a pilot series discussing bushfire recovery, drought, weather and climate, as well inspiring stories from young farmers.

The series will include Agriculture Victoria industry development officers covering topics such as pasture recovery after fire, and how farmers can support their neighbours during challenging times. The series will profile dairy farmers who are adpating their properties in different climates and how to use technology to

manage seasonal risk. Two episodes will profile Upskill and Invest Young Farmer Scholarship recipients Sarah McLean and Clay Gowers. Sarah will share her story of how she turned her dream of running a farm into reality, while Clay will discuss how he has used aerial drone mapping on his family farm. Ms Symes said the series would

Send your news tip to farmer@gippsnews.com.au or share your story with journalist Michelle Slater by phoning 5135 4444.

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RUSSELL NORTHE MLA

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“Gippsland, such a great place to live, work and visit. Through fire, flood and drought the resilience, generosity and goodwill of Gippsland people always shines through”

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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deliver “ thoughtful discussions and knowledge for everyone to benefit from”. “Farmers are best placed to chat to other farmers - they know the specific challenges and rewards that face them each day,” Ms Symes said. “We know our farmers are progressive and resilient - these podcasts build on those strengths

by sharing practical examples of how lessons learned can be shared to make our agricultural industries stronger.” The series is designed to address priority topics that assist farmers to grow profitable and sustainable farm businesses. Ag Vic Talk will be available on multiple podcast platforms and at agriculture.vic. gov.au/AgVicTalk

A fresh podcast series with agriculture focus TE MANIA ANGUS has launched a new fortnightly podcast series RawAg to help improve the perception of the agricultural industry. Te Mania Angus director and podcast host Tom Gubbins said the podcast would engage the agricultural community and urban population through sophisticated ag focused conversations. Mr Gubbins also hoped it would help mitigate some of the traditional, negative stigmas around agriculture as a basic, simple occupation and industry. “It is our hope RawAg becomes your link to the food chain - and every episode will take you somewhere along that chain,” Mr Gubbins said. “We can all be better far mers, sustainable, regenerative, and innovative - and we can all be more informed and aware consumers.” Mr Gubbins said listeners would will hear from the cutting-edge players in Australian agriculture with industry news, unique views, and presentations. He said podcasts were more accessible than most traditional forms of marketing. “Podcasts make it possible to relay large quantities of information in a relatively short period of time,” Mr Gubbins said. “From farmers on machinery in paddocks

Tom Gubbins dons the headphones for the new Raw Ag podcast series. photograph supplied

to people driving or sitting at the office desk filling in some of that paperwork.” The first episode kickedoff with Queensland’s RCS co-founder Terry McCosker, other guests include regional vet David Beggs discussing animal welfare ethics and science, and Bellarine Peninsula carbon neutral cattle farmer Fiona Conroy. “We want to bring agriculture into the spotlight as increasingly, consumers are becoming more curious about where their food is coming from and how it is produced, with particular

focus on innovative and sustainable practices,” Mr Gubbins said. “By covering a range of developments in the food production industry and connecting with the audience in a positive way, we are looking to improve brands and business practices within the industry and beyond. The episodes can be found on Spotify, Apple Podcast, or your favorite podcast app. Further details and current episodes are available at temania.com.au.

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A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

Special offers feature in Silvan’s spring spraying and farm equipment catalogue JUST in time for spring, Silvan has released an eight page Spraying catalogue which also features a 12-page Farm Equipment guide inside. The catalogue is packed with special offers on the sprayers and farm equipment featured, which are valid from August 15 to October 31. The new products in the spraying catalogue are a SuperPak sprayer with 400 and 600 litre capacity tanks and an 1100L, Front Linkage Tank. The SuperPak sprayer is equipped with a diaphragm pump which can deliver 58 litres/ minute. It has a six metre galvanised boom with an independent hydraulic folding mechanism to save time. Other features include air induction nozzles, nozzle protection, manual on and off controls and pressure adjustment. An electric controller for full in-cab spray control is also available for an extra $660 down from $1320 both GST inclusive. The 400L sprayer retails for $7810 and $7991.50 for the 600L model, both including GST. The Front Linkage Tank comes with a 12 volt, 20L/ minute transfer/agitation pump, a 5cm (2”) bottom fill, 86cm light bar and a Cat ll linkage. The tank is priced at $7975 including GST. When combined with a Silvan 800 or 1100 litre three-point-linkage sprayer this allows for the overall tank capacity to be more than doubled. The spring spraying catalogue features a wide range of Silvan linkage, air-assist, turbomiser

September, 2020

prayers. sprayers and trailed pasture sprayers. ducts, such as a It also contains lifestyle products, nted 1.2m carryall Redlink sprayer with a discounted er suitable for option, a Poly Hopper spreader pplications and small to medium spreading applications ariety of products capable of spreading a wide variety including fertiliser and seed. ducts section The back page Lifestyle Products of the catalogue also includes Silvan’s Australian made, 102 Series GP (general aring padpurpose) slasher suited to clearing sides. docks, fields and private roadsides. any Special pricing applies to many trol and upgrades for example on control boom upgrades for 800/1100LL Super m series TPL and hydraulic boom packages. arm The 12-page Spraying and Farm ange equipment guide lists a wide range rs and of Italian-made Nobili mulchers lian Breviglieri rotary hoes, Australian manufactured Silvan slashers and Sitrex hayrakes. DCM horticulture and broadacre twin disc fertiliser g spreaders as well as oscillating ders are and single disc fertiliser spreaders also featured. To find your local dealer, visitt www.silvan.com.au, call 1300 SILVAN (1300 745 826) or email info@silvanaust.com

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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A D V E R T I S I N G

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Important steps to superior silage Silage is increasingly used in dairy feed regimes, providing an efficient and nutritionally available source of energy and fibre to lactating cows, and supplying the required nutritional plane for good overall herd health. National Corn and Microbial Lead for Pioneer Seeds in Australia Jason Scott works closely with silage contractors and the dairy industry to help them deliver maximum silage quality from corn crops grown for livestock feed. “Everyone is looking for two things; quality and quantity of the silage produced,” Jason said. “The goal of ensiling is to stabilise the harvested crop yield and nutritional value via the action of the Lactic Acid Bacterial growth in an anaerobic environment. This reduces the pH through the efficient conversion of sugars to lactic acid, and halts the effect of the epiphytic (natural microbial population) populations that exist on the crop which can spoil some or all of the plant matter being stored.

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National Corn and Microbial Lead for Pioneer Seeds in Australia Jason Scott.

“The best silage will always be made with good quality crops, free of weed and other contaminants, and supplied with enough water and nutrition to maximise yield potential,” he said. Jason then advised growers to determine the correct cutting stage of the silage by following

the guidelines for that crop, the targeted quantity and quality of the silage required. “Additional to agronomic factors, growers should not forget the importance of selecting the right bacteria in inoculant to apply at the harvest stage,” he said. Pioneer ® Brand Products

has been researching and identifying safe and effective bacterial strains to be used in silage additives and inoculants since 1978 and has developed a wide-ranging portfolio of crop specific inoculants. “A properly inoculated and ensiled silage pit will have minimal activity on the face of the silage at feed out, reducing risk of spoilage losses and herd health issues,” Jason explained. Pioneer commercialised the first proprietary inoculant containing L. buchneri , the main bacterial strain of choice to ensure silage pits remain cool and to prevent feed losses due to the growth of yeasts and moulds in 2000. “Pioneer has been making advances ever since,” he said. “We know that an inoculant that reduces pH to below 4.5 in a fast and efficient action will have reduced risk of spoilage through a slow fermentation. “So in 2016, we introduced our Rapid React technology products which contain a new L. buchneri strain that works to produce stable silage in just seven days.

“With the trait characteristics of a quick season corn hybrid like Pioneer P9911 coupled with Pioneer brand inoculant 11C33 with Rapid React, dairy farmers are able to harvest and ensile for maximum energy and maximum milk production.” Pioneer has also supported the advancement in inoculant technology with the development of an application system designed and calibrated specifically for Pioneer brand inoculant products. “The unique design of the Appli-Pro application system reduces water requirements and offers a high level of application precision and convenience,” he said. The Appli-Pro has been designed to work with all major brands of forage harvesting equipment, and allows the operator to use the cab-mounted control panel to turn the applicator on and off to precisely control the application rate. For more information visit www.pioneerseeds.com.au/ inoculants/

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September, 2020

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

11

RURAL NEWS

Key exports to China rise 8%

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said a funding opportunity for organisation with a proven research and development ability would help create better tools and technologies to control pest species.

AUSTRALIAN food and agricultural exports to China rose by eight per cent in value terms in 2019/20, reaching the highest level in the history of the China-Australia trading relationship. However, agribusiness specialist Rabobank believes that could be the peak of Australian agriculture’s exposure to China,. Data released last month showed the biggest gains in Australian agricultural exports were registered by beef and sheepmeat, as Chinese buyers filled the hole left by African swine fever. Swine fever had more than halved the Chinese sow herd in recent years and created a shortage of animal protein in the local market.

Shipments of dairy, wine, grains and oilseeds and fruit also all saw year -on-year gains. Rabobank reported Australia continued to ride opportunities from China’s rising incomes, a 2015 China Australia free trade agreement, sophisticated e-commerce supply chains and Australia’s food provenance. While there was a surge in shipments to China, the total value of Australia’s food and agri exports “basically stood still in 2019/20” - with shipments down by just under two per cent. As a result, China’s share of Australian F&A exports rose to 32 per cent for the 2019/20 period - up from 29 per cent in the prior year, and reaching the highest level in the history

of the China-Australia trading relationship. But the recent trajectory of Australian agriculture’s increasing exposure to China was not inexorable, and 2019/20 could well prove to be the peak, the bank said. Rabobank head of food and agribusiness research Tim Hunt said “extracting one in three of our export dollars from one market” brought considerable concentration risk for the Australian food and agricultural sector. “We haven’t been this exposed to one market since the 1950s, when we were still joined at the hip to the UK,” Mr Hunt said. “And that was a very different political relationship.”

Rain hopes spring up Funding will fight weeds and pests THE federal government is ramping up its fight against pest animals and weeds with the announcement of a $13 million funding pool to better equip farmers and land managers. Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said a funding opportunity for organisation with a proven research and development ability would help create better tools and technologies to control pest species. “Pest animals and weeds are a significant threat throughout the region and affect local farmers, the ecosystem and the economy,” Mr Chester said. “Our farmers and land managers are already doing a great job managing the impact of pests on their land, but there’s more to be done to minimise the damage they create and the risks they post. “Throughout Gippsland we have pests - including wild dogs, foxes, rabbits and deer - causing harm to livestock and native animals and to

vegetation on farms and in bushland. “This program will help ensure we are on the front foot against pests while improving the resilience and guarding the productivity of our farmland. Mr Chester said the grants program would look at new advanced control solutions that would challenge traditional approaches to pest control and innovations in detection and monitoring. “Examples of projects could be investigating genetic modification technologies, chemical and non-chemical herbicides, disruption technologies and electronic resources,” Mr Chester said. Funding applications for the Advancing Pest Animal and Weed Control Solutions grants program are open until September 25, 2020. For details, visit: https://www. agriculture.gov.au/pests-diseasesweeds/pest-animals-and-weeds/ grant-round

THE Bureau of Meteorology’s prediction of a La Nina rain pattern is being welcomed across Gippsland, but local farmers are still cautious about proclaiming an end to the ongoing dry. Weather forecasters are predicting a high chance of good rainfalls and lower temperatures during summer because of the build-up of cooler water in the tropical Pacific. It’s encouraging, but not guaranteed. While there are plenty of wet patches in some areas across Wellington Shire, many on the land know that promises are not the same as delivery. “There is quite a bit of moisture in the soil, but there is a long way to go,” Briagolong farmer Barry Noble, whose voice is pained after years of drought, said. “When it’s been dry for so long, you think it’s never going to rain. “Weather is still a guessing game - you can’t guarantee anything.”

Much of Gippsland has been blessed with three easterly weather patterns in the past few months, but Mr Noble told Gippsland Farmer some areas are still missing out. “It’s really beyond the point of no return for some farmers; the rain is still not getting to us here like it is further south,” he said. Ironically, in parts of South Gippsland, it’s so wet that some farmers have even moved their stock to slightly drier ground around Wellington Shire. “It might look wet up here, but it’s dry enough,” Mr Noble said. In Giffard West, merino farmer Steve Harrison was hopeful earlier in the year that January rain was a sign of much more to come, but says that didn’t come to fruition and the region is still “stuck in a bubble”. He added all farmers had heard the forecasts of a La Nina, but as a lot of dams were still only half full and there are

only pockets of wet areas, they had met the news with mixed reactions. “The rain doesn’t always get here, so we’ll believe it when we see it,” he said. “We haven’t recorded double figures of rainfall here since March.” Mr Harrison said while predictions suggested a good season, if there was any heat in the weather “it could be a very short spring”. The Bureau of Meteorology upgraded its La Nina watch to an alert last month. While the bureau’s El Nino-Southern Oscillation is currently neutral, it says the chance of La Nina forming in the coming months has increased to about 70 per cent - roughly three times the normal likelihood. A La Nina alert is not a guarantee that La Nina will occur - rather, an indication that most of the typical precursors for La Nina are in place.

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RURAL NEWS

Roo harvesting program to resume

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It makes sense for the Kangaroo Harvesting Program to resume in the areas not extensively impacted by the bushfires earlier this year. MARK SANDIFORD

A VICTORIAN Kangaroo harvesting program will resume in Gippsland and the state’s north east after an assessment of kangaroo populations following this year’s bushfires. The program was suspended in January to consider the impact of the fires. The program recommenced across most of the state in February and will now be active in a wider area. Tags will be issued for Gippsland harvest zones, but the Towong, Alpine or East Gippsland shire areas are off limits due to the impact of the bushfires.

Forest and Game acting executive director Mark Sandiford said only authorised and accredited harvesters could participate in the program with protections to ensure best-practice shooting and processing for pet food. “It makes sense for the Kangaroo Harvesting Program to resume in the areas not extensively impacted by the bushfires earlier this year,” Mr Sandiford said. “It’s important that kangaroo numbers are sustainably managed to reduce their impact on landholders and the farming sector.”

The Kangaroo Harvesting Program began last October to enable the commercial harvesting of kangaroos in Victoria, primarily for pet food. The program ensures Victoria’s kangaroo population is sustainably managed in line with animal welfare standards, while helping landowners who are having problems with kangaroos. Kangaroos can cause crop destruction, competition with livestock for feed, and damage property such as fences. Harvest numbers are set by a quota based on annual kangaroo

population surveys and modelling undertaken by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning. Harvesters need to be authorised and hold a firearms licence and have accreditations in firearm proficiency and game harvester skills. They must also abide by the National Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos and Wallabies for Commercial Purposes. For further infor mation visit, agriculture.vic.gov.au/ kangarooharvestingprogram.

Past mistakes distorting bushfire policy By PHILIP HOPKINS

MISTAKES in the Stretton Royal commission into the 1939 bushfires - misunderstanding the role of lightning and traditional indigenous land and fire management - have distorted bushfire policy over the years, according to the Mountain Cattlemen’s Association of Victoria. The MCAV said these inaccuracies were at the core of many conventional wisdoms colouring the debate on the value of grazing as a management tool, grazing and fuel loads and the correct management of the land using fire. “Those (Stretton) findings set in place land management practices and misconceptions which still exist today even though they are based on errors of fact,” the MCAV said in a submission to the 2020 federal Royal Commission into Natural Disasters. Stretton maintained that lightning was responsible for few, in any, bushfires, and that burning by graziers to promote grass growth caused the scrubbing up of the previously open and ‘park-like’ forest. It was the white men who introduced fire to the forests, which previously had not been “scourged by fire” and were in their ‘natural state’. These findings were incorrect, the MCAV said. The facts were: ■ Lightning indeed starts most bushfires. About 98 per cent

of the 2020 Eastern Victorian bushfires were started by lightning. ■ The scrubbing up of our forests only began after European settlement and followed disruption to thousands of years of Aboriginal ‘firestick’ management. “Stretton also missed the negative impact the rabbit plagues had in eating out the grassy species allowing the woody species to dominate, aided by the lack of fire,” the association said. The MCAV said the Stretton report was contradictory in advocating control of graziers’ burning but allowing strategic burning by the Forest Commission. “This is an early example of local knowledge being disregarded by the Commission and followed by the authorities. This bureaucratic culture still exists today where local bush knowledge is not utilised by authorities,” the submission said. “This situation became worse when the Forest Commission was disbanded in the early 1980s and with it much corporate knowledge about fire and fuel reduction was lost.” The MCAV said Aborigines’ use of fire to burn the grass and form open forests had been shown by Bill Gammage’s 2011 book, The Biggest Estate on Earth, how the Aborigines made Australia.

Mistakes in the Stretton Royal commission into the 1939 bushfires misunderstanding the role of lightning and traditional indigenous land and fire management - have distorted bushfire policy over the years, according to the Mountain Cattlemen’s Association of Victoria.

“The early graziers attempted to copy the indigenous burning practices. However, over time they were stopped by the authorities and then ironically blamed by Stretton for ‘introducing fire to the forest’,” the submission said. The MCAV said their forebears

were correct in their claims that grazing leases should have been regularly burnt with mild and therefore cool autumn fires. “Those fires tricked around causing a mosaic effect and kept the undergrowth and fuel under control,” the submission said.

“In turn this patch burning reduced the intensity of summer bushfires. The cattle then maintained the growth between burns, keeping the grazing areas short and green.” The MCAV said the cattlemen were eventually stopped from continuing this practice. “In fact, some were charged by the authorities for attempting to continue what they saw as a vital part of managing their cattle run and the health of the land,” the submission said. The association said the Stretton findings set in place a culture of forest management that had resulted in a radical change to biodiversity in Victorian forests. This included high fuel loads and in places impenetrable understory that was never there at European settlement. “In turn this has led to regular and intense bushfires which have destroyed forests that will take generations to recover, if at all,” the MCAV said. “We are not claiming that fuel reduction by burning, slashing and grazing stops all bushfires in their tracks, only that bushfire intensity is greatly reduced, thus often becoming more manageable.” The MCAV, formed in the late 1950s, represents families who graze cattle in the Victorian High Country, which dates back to 1834. Grazing in the Alpine National Park was banned in 2005, but some families still graze cattle in State Forest.

September, 2020

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

CALF HEALTH - SALMONELLA Lower salmonella, higher profits on the dairy farm

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BOTH sub-clinical and clinical salmonella infections can severely impact profit on a dairy farm. As a result, milk production losses, reduction in feed efficiency, foetal abortions and even death can occur, leading to long-term economic implications. The cost of treatment and increased labour associated with dealing with sick animals is very high. In addition, there is also the human health risk of salmonella passing from the cow to people on the farm.

SYMPTOMS OF SALMONELLA INFECTION: â– Watery manure, with strong

odour and often containing blood clots â– Reduced milk production

â– Elevated temperature â– Elevated heart rate â– Dehydration (little urine)

Although salmonella bacteria exist to some degree on most farms, disease problems typically occur only when environmental levels of the bacteria reach a threshold (such as manure build up in the paddock) or when the cow’s immunity is compromised by stress. Salmonella is primarily spread through ingestion of manure, thus is easily spread throughout a herd. With that in mind, the following management practices are generally recommended to reduce salmonella in the environment.

1. IDENTIFY, ISOLATE AND SANITISE

QUICK identification and isolation of

infected animals, followed by good cleaning with disinfectants of areas that contained these animals, is advisable.

2. REDUCE MANURE LOAD DURING summer many farmers tend to feed their stock on small feed pads or in a reduced number of paddocks. This can lead to increased levels of manure, which is a breeding ground of salmonella. Reducing manure loads in these paddocks is critical to reducing the risk of salmonella infection outbreaks.

3. REDUCE STRESS SALMONELLA outbreaks often occur in dairy cows when they are subjected to stress, such as during:

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Calving Inconsistent diet Deprivation of water or feed Transportation Crowding

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

defences and maximising growth and efficiency. One component of the Alltech Gut Health Management program is a product called ACTIGEN ®. ACTIGEN is a unique product derived from a select strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast using a proprietary process developed by Alltech. When incorporated into the calf’s diet, ACTIGEN supports gut integrity and overall performance and is key to building a foundation for performance and profitability in dairy production. For more information, contact your local Alltech Lienert representative or call 1800 649 231. GP1613112

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

RURAL NEWS

Pugged pastures in spring

There are a few scenarios that may occur given the wet season

Paddocks that require full renovation, those that can be over sown and managed to bolster pasture production and those that can be maintained through grazing management and fertility management. 1. Define the problem areas and allocate what the plan will be, based on the paddock presentation. Spring paddocks and those that have been used as sacrifice areas are going to require attention the soonest. This also provides the opportunity to pick underperforming areas that could potentially protect other areas that will be used for fodder conservation, or newly established pastures that need to be protected. 2. Choose the best species for each area and your time frame. Determine how long the area can be out for, prior to making crop selection, as this can help to determine the most suitable choice.

Feed options Quick Feed 6-8 weeks

Hunter Leafy Turnips provide options for in crop weed control as a high weed burden will be expected from areas that have been badly damaged. Pests will need to be monitored from establishment up until grazing. Wait until maturity prior to grazing and ensure that animals are fully fed with access to water and fibre prior to going in. Gradually introduce animals to the crop and monitor weather conditions to help offset risks associated with grazing brassicas. Very quick feed with high energy and protein available.

Later Feed 10-12 weeks

Turnips are a great option where the soil has been significantly disturbed or for those paddocks that have been used as sacrifice paddocks. They provide an opportunity to fully renovate and are best suited to areas that are free draining. Turnips can give high yields with minimal

September, 2020

inputs and are a very cost-effective cropping option. When done well will provide excellent yields. One-time grazing with no potential for regrowth once grazed.

Later maturing Brassicas such as Winfred 10-12 weeks

Good hardy performer with higher resilience when it does dry out. May be paired with companion species to increase yields and reduce risks. Multiple grazing’s and versatility when it comes to soil type and fertility. Great opportunity to be used as a transition crop through a clean-up phase before returning to perennial pastures. When sown later millet is a good option to pair with to promote extra versatility and bulk. As a rule of thumb for brassica crops dedicate 7ha/100 cows to ensure consistent feed through the summer.

True Summer crop: Millet, Sorghum and Sudan grass

Wait until the soil has consistently reached 16 degrees for five consecutive days when measured at 9am. Millet based blends can be a suitable rotation tool later in the season when other areas have already come back into the rotation from the true Spring sowing. These options may also be blended with legumes to add protein to the diet where protein may be lacking. Millet is a very safe and user friendly crop that does not have as many risks associated with it as others. For optimum energy and protein, grazing should be at gumboot height. Due to the high water content in the plant the dry matter will not be as high at grazing as other fodders. When the weather heats up so does the production you will get from the millet with the opportunity for 4-5 grazing’s.

Sorghum

Suitable where the soil is free draining. Will provide large volumes of feed relatively quickly where the growing season is favourable and the heat units are there. The species planted will determine the grazing height as a general guide aim for 80cm to begin grazing and minimise the animal health risks associated with nitrates and prussic acid. BMR varieties will be the most effective in a dairy system to ensure you are getting the most out of crop.

Chicory and clover 6-8 weeks

A great summer fodder

option that provides excellent quality for weight gain or milk production with high summer growth rates.

This mix can be sown when the soil temperature is 12 degrees and rising and provides a good renovation tool that can be over-sown in the autumn with annuals or Italians to provide ongoing high-quality feed. In some areas renovation may not be the answer, it may come down to grazing management where soil disturbance isn’t an issue. Another option where paddocks have been slightly pugged but are still producing is to top up the pasture with a biannual option. This increases the plant populations and removes the risk of weeds coming through in the gaps that have been left by pulling or slight pugging in higher traffic areas. This will only work if the paddock is clean of weeds and the establishment can be effectively managed to protect emerging seedlings and existing pasture at the same time.

It is important to plan now and look at where you are headed, and where feed shortages for cattle may become an issue, not just now, but down the track.

Keep in mind on paddocks that have been sown to annuals once the peak of spring is upon us they will begin to dwindle in production so ideally if other areas can be brought on line before this happens you can maximise overall production and keep the wheel turning. The most important thing when deciding how to rejuvenate pugged pastures is not to overthink it or to go with a shotgun approach which is just for now. Plan where shortages may occur so you can minimise the need for brought in feed.

GP1613049

‘THEY say there is money in mud, so now is the opportunity to capitalise on what is ahead.’ With the great start to the season and ongoing rainfall, there is a great opportunity now to plan and look at where you are headed and where feed shortages may become an issue - not just now, but down the track.

Home grown feed is the most cost effective and done well it can be maintained year-round. As with anything on a farm it is not a one size fits all approach it needs to be assessed on a case by case basis. Make a feed budget based on demand and seek good independent advice to make a whole farm plan for now and for the seasons to come. The plan can always be rejigged if seasons change but the most important thing to remember is to have one to start with.

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

15

RURAL NEWS

More than $1 million in grants

MELISSA HORNE

GIPPSLAND recreational fishers will benefit from different projects across the state thanks to a round of grants worth more than $1 million. Fishing and Boating Minister Melissa Horne said the grants will fund fish habitat projects and important infrastructure to make fishing safer and more accessible. “These projects will boost fish habitat and infrastructure, and encourage more people to get out on the water when it’s safe to do so,” Ms Horne said.

“This investment will provide a significant boost for local communities to build infrastructure and create programs which make fishing safer and more enjoyable.” The Gippsland Lakes will receive a major boost, with the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority granted $110,000 to place woody habitat into lakes. This will provide more shelter and feeding sites for black bream, estuary perch and Australian bass.

The Australian Trout Foundation will receive $110,000 to deliver another year of the Victorian Trout Fisheries Management Program.

Report cards for 10 key native fisheries will continue for two more years thanks to a $120,000 grant.

This program includes monitoring river populations in Gippsland and the state’s north east.

The funding will also go towards the Victorian Fisheries Authority’s 2021 Recreational Fishing Guide, as well as fish length rulers and measures for rock lobsters and spiny crayfish.

A further $163,000 will be used to monitor fishers’ catches in Corner Inlet, the Gippsland Lakes, Port Phillip and Western Port. The government is also providing $23,000 to help OzFish Unlimited build shellfish reefs in Tambo Bay.

The grants are funded by recreational fishing licence fees. For information, visit vfa.vic.gov. au/feesatwork2020.

Peter Greenham senior died last month at the age of 83.

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Vale Peter Greenham

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

MOE meat processor Greenham Group announced that the company’s founder Peter Greenham senior died on August 16, aged 83. The Australian-owned company issued a statement saying Mr Greenham was a fifth generation meat processor whose “passion for the industry touched all who had the privilege of knowing him”. It said his “vision, dedication and drive has shaped Greenham into the company it is today”. “Peter will be remembered for his boundless love and commitment to the Greenham business and Greenham family. “We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.” HW Greenham and Sons has operations in Gippsland, Tongala and Tasmania purchasing livestsock from more than 9000 suppliers through live weight buying centres or over the hooks trading. Its brands and products can be found at Australia’s leading restaurants and it exports grass fed beef to more than 25 countries including the USA, New Zealand and throughout Asia. Pandemic restrictions mean the late man’s family and friends are unable to come together to celebrate “his extraordinary life”. However, there are plans to celebrate Mr Greenham’s memory once possible, “We are truly proud of the legacy he has built and are committed to seeing his vision through,” the company said.

September, 2020

RURAL NEWS

Every cloud has a silver lining

Above: The South Gippsland Dairy Expo will be run online in 2020 due to COVID-19. Right: The Strzelecki Lions Club has hosted the event for the last 21 years.

Events not to miss

WIN $1000 in the Udder Truth Show bag competition. Visit the Dairy Expo online between September 7 and 21, 2020, to complete the competition entry form. The second prize is a 25kg bag of SF Greenland Forage Rape. Back by popular demand, Matt Harms, from On Farm Consulting is hosting an event from the cloud titled “Dairy

Snakes and Ladders... it’s a gamble! Panel Members include: Evan Campbell (Yannathan), Phillip Ould (Loch) and Paul and Louise Sherar (Loch). Deal or no Deal is a chance to roll the dice and

listen to real life cases of farmers who have taken the plunge to invest in dairying. Whether it be with outside equity, surplus stock accumulated from the “home farm” or a desire to “just have a crack at it”.

With considerable interest in investing in multiple farms by experienced dairy farmers as well as investors, it answers such questions as: What are the gains to be made? What can the losses look like? What are the pitfalls for people to be aware of before they embark on an expansion in a challenging industry? The Virtual Ag Careers initiative allows secondary school students to learn about the diverse range of careers available in dairy, and go into the running for a $500 school and a $100 student individual/ team prize by researching career information from online exhibitors.

Obviously 2020 has been a challenging time for many, and it is never more important than it is now for community groups to be able to raise money to help those that may be in need. The Strzelecki Lions Club are keen to make this event a huge success, so that they can still contribute in supporting their community through this challenging period. So please help to pay it forward. Access to the South Gippsland Dairy Expo online event is free. No pre-registration necessary. However if you enjoy the event, you can click on the Strzelecki Lions Club donation tin and make a small contribution to the Gippsland community. Visit the South Gippsland Dairy Expo online at www.dairyexpo. org.au between 9am on Monday, September 7 to 4pm on Monday, September 21, 2020. If you wish to find out more please contact the event secretary, Deanne Kennedy by emailing dairyexpo@jaydee.net.au

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FOR the last 21 years the Strzelecki Lions Club have hosted the South Gippsland Dairy Expo. The Expo provides the local dairying community with an event that showcases the latest in innovation, products and services available to the dairy industry. However, this year, the South Gippsland Dairy Expo will deliver the event in a different style with more than 100 exhibitors showcasing their products and services online from a Gippsland Cloud. Many of the exhibitors are having sales, discounts and promotions for the event. So don’t miss out on your chance of visiting these exhibitors online from the comfort of your own home at www.dairyexpo.org.au The funds raised from the Dairy Expo have assisted the Strzelecki Lions Club to distribute over $590,000 back into the community. This contribution is not possible without many loyal companies who support the Lions and their activities and events each year.

September, 2020

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

17

A D V E R T I S I N G

F E A T U R E

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Alpine Angus will run its 2020 Spring Bull Sale in full compliance with COVID-19 health orders

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ALPINE Angus will run its 2020 Spring Bull Sale on Wednesday, September 23 commencing at 1pm at the Alpine Sales Complex at Rosewhite. The Alpine Sales Complex is a large well ventilated shed with the sale bulls on display in the pens outside the shed from 10am on sale day. A total of 45 HBR and APR registered bulls will be for sale by auction. Pre-sale inspection of the sale bulls will also be available at the Alpine Sales Complex at Rosewhite on Sunday, September 20 from 10am - 4pm. If this is not convenient another suitable time can be arranged by calling Chris Oswin on 0427 562 254 An excellent Autumn has allowed

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Alpine to present with this Spring Bull Sale line up a very even draft of well grown, well fleshed bulls with a great temperament. The sale features 18 sons by the Outcross Reality son Karoo Knockout K176 - renowned for his thickness, muscling and docility. In addition Knockout’s pedigree is stacked with maternal quality. The sale also features five sons by Baldridge Beast Mode B074 - number 7 for calf registrations for the past two years. On Sale Day AuctionsPlus will livestream the audio to enable on line bidding. If intending to bid via AuctionsPlus buyers need to register at least 24 hours

prior to the sale. It is a good idea for those who are not familiar with on-line bidding to view the video on line to be comfortable with how on line bidding works at www.auctionsplus.com.au A phone bidding option is also available upon request. Quality assurance with independent structural and semen quality assessment is further backed up by Alpine’s 3 Year Guarantee (Conditions apply) and is all designed to give buyers great confidence when purchasing an Alpine bull. 2020 is destined to go down as one of the most challenging years in recent history. The swing from a bushfire scenario to the COVID-19 epidemic has required

many adjustments as to how we all do business. The next phase of COVID-19 restrictions will not be in place until September 13. Visitors to Alpine Angus can be confident, all COVID-19 guidelines will be complied with both for the pre-sale inspection and for sale day. Currently these measures include visitor registration, a minimum 1.5 metre social distancing, the compulsory wearing of masks, and the provision of hand sanitiser. Please note that any changes to the COVID-19 measures referred to above will be updated on the Alpine website by September 14 at www.alpineangus.com.au The Alpine Sales Complex is at 1138 Happy Valley Road, Rosewhite.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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A D V E R T I S I N G

ROYAL Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Victoria and Relationships Australia Victoria (RAV) are working in partnership to provide mental health and wellbeing services to support individuals, families and emergency service workers affected by the East Gippsland bushfires.

F E A T U R E

“People can feel like the bushfires have been pushed to the back of people’s minds and COVID-19 is the only thing we’re all talking about,� he said.

During COVID-19 local face-to-face appointments are available at some sites and will resume across all sites as restrictions ease.

For anyone having a tough time, Campbell says there is no shame in asking someone for some help with a mental health problem.

“Eight months on and the trauma of the bushfires is still being felt by many. It can feel like COVID-19 has overshadowed the recovery process and created additional challenges with physical distancing, local shutdowns and home-schooling,� RFDS Health Service manager Lauren Zappa said.

“Put your hand up. Ask somebody. We’re going to get through this,� he said.

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RFDS and RAV are encouraging people to reach out and make an appointment if they are: â– Feeling stressed, worried, anxious or overwhelmed â– Feeling flat, exhausted or depressed â– Experiencing family stress or relationship difficulties â– Having difficulty sleeping â– Experiencing distress or bad memories that impact on your daily activities â– Feeling a sense of panic, loss or anger â– Withdrawing from usual activities â– Feeling teary, numb or detached

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“Despite COVID-19, RFDS and RAV continue to offer counselling and wellbeing support to East Gippsland residents who were impacted by the bushfires. Our clients tell us that the process of making an appointment is easy, and the support offered by our counsellors is caring and helpful.� Motivated by his personal connection to the Buchan community, RFDS psychologist Campbell Sinclair works as part of the Bushfire Counselling and Support Service. Campbell knew that support for bushfire affected communities wouldn’t just be needed in the immediate aftermath of the bushfires - it would need to be ongoing. “At the moment, people are feeling exhausted and that there’s no time to recharge our batteries,� Campbell said. “Despite that, people are looking after each other and there’s been some wonderful stories of people helping out - just dropping some eggs off on the doorstep, or some potatoes or beans - just that little message that lets others know ‘we’re thinking of you’.� Campbell admires how the community has come together and is proud to be part of the support services there to help people dealing with the stressors of the bushfires and COVID-19.

September, 2020

If you are experiencing these or other symptoms, there is support available. Contact us for more information about how we can support you or to make an appointment. If you’re experiencing any of these or other challenges related to the bushfires, our counsellors are here to support you. Contact us for more information, to make an appointment or to find out more Phone: 1800 001 068 Email: bushfiresupport@rav.org.au This service is funded by the Gippsland Primary Health Network, which is leading the mental health response to bushfireaffected areas of Gippsland.

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Free and confidential counselling is available via telephone and telehealth (video).

“But people are still dealing with the effects of the bushfires, as well as the isolation that comes with COVID-19. So if you’re feeling worried or anxious give us a call.�

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

19

Sheep Sale PREVIEW

Got news to share?

Do you have an agricultural story to share with the Gippsland Farmer? Send your news tip to farmer@gippsnews.com.au or share your story with journalist Michelle Slater by phoning 5135 4444.

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Hallston Valley Farm

HALLSTON Valley Farm nestled in the rolling Arcadian hills of the Strzelecki Ranges has built its patch of paradise on the three fundamental beliefs of community, sustainability and animal welfare. Property owners Jill Noble and Gary Tie are breeding Wiltshire Horn sheep along regenerative farming principles, as well as offering home delivered paddock-to-plate meat packs. Ms Noble said Wiltshire Horns were an “easy care� self-shedding sheep, well suited to small acreages for people wanting a lawn mower they could either breed with or produce quality meat. They sell stud and commercial rams, joined ewes or weaned lambs to those ready to start their own flock. “Our farm is based on specific principals, it’s a low input farm with no chemical fertiliser and we don’t use machinery to plough, and we use rotational grazing,� Ms Noble said.

“Our animals are grassfed and chemical free, they are raised ethically and we use painkillers to dock their tails and castrate them. “Our rams are genetically tested so we know the lambs will survive a cold Gippsland winter.� Ms Noble said interest in home delivered meat had piqued through COVID19, with consumers keen to order whole lambs. She said they had always sold “100 per cent� of their product, but now customers were making

their decisions quicker. Hallston Valley has its lambs slaughtered locally and sends the meat straight to customers in Melbourne and Gippsland. “Customers want to know what’s gone into their leg of lamb. Customers are messaging us about the flavour, sweet tasting meat with intramuscular fat, it’s not greasy lamb,� she said. “These are the original meat sheep, we have a refined tasting product. We also get feedback from the butchers about the carcasses, this really helps us make decisions on our farm.� Hallston Valley also runs farm experience packages for those wanting to get their hands dirty, or even come and pat a sheep and learn that “yes farming is beautiful, but you can’t romanticise it�. Those keen to hear more about all things ovine can also tune into Ms Noble’s The Sheep Show Podcast on the Hallston Valley Farm website.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

Sheep Sale PREVIEW

Pepperton Stud,Elmore PEPPERTON Poll Dorset and White Suffolk Stud is gearing up for its upcoming online auction on October 21 with an on-property inspection opportunity the week before. Stud principals Roger and Dianne Trewick are offering 45 Poll Dorset and 45 White Suffolk rams at their sixth annual auction. “There’s been a lot of breeding put into these sheep, these are the pick of our program,” Ms Trewick said. Many of these animals are trait leaders for LEQ, LMY, TCP, post weaning weight, fat and muscle, Lamb 2020 and birth weight, to produce “nice good tasting, easy eating lamb the consumers want”. The rams are produced predominately from AI, with their top ram 180339 “well above national breed averages” with high ranking Lambplan scores - an important part of the breeding program. “We weigh and tag every

Forest Springs Merinos FOREST Springs Merinos produces an all round sheep with both meat and wool producing capacities. The Western Victorian stud is offering 60 poll merino rams at its seventh on-property sale on September 16, with COVID-19 safety measures in place. The sale will also be streamed via AuctionsPlus and Forest Springs will hold an inspection day on September 11. Stud owner and fourthgeneration farmer Bruce Dean said he breeds dual-purpose animals, targeting carcass as well as wool. “We breed plain bodied, stable and wrinkle-free animals, with a bold crimp and long staple elite wool, suitable for non-mulesing,” Mr Dean said. “We are getting a premium for non-mules wool, demand is getting bigger all the time. These type of sheep have higher

fertility as they have more meat on them.” Mr Dean said his rams produce “quick growing” lambs with the potential for shearing at six or seven months or sell as prime lambs at 10 months. He said the ewes had the potential for joining at eight months. Forest Springs runs

1200 head of merinos on 1000 hectares of the sheep and cropping enterprise at Joel Joel. “You can run more merinos compared to cross-bred sheep,” Mr Dean said. “They are lower maintenance and you get the whole market, the whole package is very profitable.”

lamb and at about 200 days a post-weaning ultrasound scan is done by an accredited Lambplan scanner for fat depth, muscle depth and weight,” she said. “We’ve had a high percentage of lambs, one of the last ewes to lamb had quads all by herself and they are doing very well.” Pepperton runs 1200 sheep with 500 breeding ewes, of which 190 of them dropped 308 live lambs within eight days last month. Mr Trewick is a fifth generation farmer since his family founded the

Elmore property in 1864. His father established Wharoonah Dorset Horn Stud in 1943. Mr Trewick began the Poll Dorset stud in 1994 and then started breeding White Suffolks in 2004. “This season is the best it’s been since the 70s. We’ve had timely rain in April and this has set us up for a fantastic season, it’s looking magnificent here,” Mr Trewick said. “We have a very good lifestyle here, it gives us a lot of pleasure to produce good sheep and we hope one day our children or grandchildren will take it on.”

” n o t r e p p e P “

Poll Dorsets & White Suffolks

ONLINE AUCTION 21ST OCTOBER 2020 Elite Livestock

www.elitelivestockauctions.com.au With Michael Glasser from GTSM and Elders Rams available for inspection by appointment during the week prior to sale

Farm visits and medication pickups still available Call us or visit the website www.maffravet.com.au for more details

Roger & Dianne Trewick, Pepperton Farm 327 Elmore-Minto Road, Elmore. Vic

Mob: 0428 326 190

Email: peperton@bigpond.net.au

We’ve got you covered

Maffra Vet 03 5147 1177

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Semen Packages Available in Top Rams

www.pepperton.com.au September, 2020

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

21

RURAL NEWS

Farmers have backed fuel reduction in forests using indigenous knowledge for protection against bushfires and improving biodiversity, particularly if the climate gets hotter and drier.

Farmers back fuel reduction

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By PHILIP HOPKINS

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

FARMERS have backed fuel reduction in forests using indigenous knowledge for protection against bushfires and improving biodiversity, particularly if the climate gets hotter and drier. The National Farmers’ Federation said this appr oach should be enshrined in changes to the Environment Protection Biodiversity Act 1999, which is being reviewed by the federal government. In its submission to the review, the NFF said the current act’s classification of fire, including fuel reduction burning, as a threat to biodiversity was a concern. “While frequent fire regimes can alter vegetation structure and compositions, it is also well understood that fire and associated smoke are important for regeneration and germination of certain plant species and landscapes in Australia,” the NFF said. “Fire also clears thick understorey, encourages new growth that provides food for animals and can create hollows in logs and trees that are used for nesting.” The NFF said the concept that planned use of mild fire was a big threat to biodiversity was a major contributor to the decline in the level of fuel management and fire preparedness in Australia. This also ignored the

counter argument that appropriately managed fuel loads could significantly reduce catastrophic fires that have a much worse impact on biological communities, threatened or otherwise. “If appropriately managed, fires will not pose a significant threat to biodiversity and ecosystem values,” the submission said. “Part of the problem is the narrowminded approach reflected in the EPBC Act that attempts to conserve every species in a landscape instead of a more practical and landscape-scaled view.” The NFF said the environment and landscape would continue to change, especially with greater development and climate change. “Plants and animals will continually move and adapt to the conditions. Conservations outcomes are not and will not remain static. It is impossible to return to a pre-1788 state of the environment,” the submission said. “The NFF supports laws that facilitate active management of the landscape.” The farming group said indigenous knowledge could play a key role in both improving biodiversity and managing fire risk in Australia. Indigenous Australians introduced the firestick, controlling vegetation at a landscape level for more than 40,000 years, an

era that included large environmental and climate fluctuations. The NFF said vegetation management, especially since 1970, was trying to preserve a vegetation mix that had evolved under the impact of Europeans, not one that was ‘here’ at European settlement. “Government must recognise that if fuel reduction burning does not occur, intense fires inevitably do, and in a drier and hotter climate, this poses a far greater threat to biodiversity and ecosystems,” the NFF said. “Although broader than the EPBC Act, the cumulative weight of environmental legislation has diminished landholders’ ability to manage fire risk on their properties.” The NFF said the 201920 bushfires were a strong example of how ‘conservation’ parks and ‘preserved’ ecosystems were destroyed by poor management of fuel loads. In a changing, hotter climate, “the only pragmatic solution is to manage risk through land management practices”, the NFF said. “The EPBC Act should neither prevent nor hinder effective bushfire mitigation from taking place, but indeed promote the use of controlled burns.” This should include indigenous fire management knowledge and practices, the NFF said.

September, 2020

RURAL NEWS

Rise in nation’s quad bike fatalities

Farmers are urged to take caution with quad bikes, with 14 people dying in quad bike related accidents in the first six months of 2020, compared to eight deaths in the whole of 2019.

within the vehicles’ marketed uses. University of New South Wales research revealed that almost half of quad bike accidents involved riders with more than 20 years experience operating them. Mr Keogh accused quad bike manufacturers of ramping up

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claims that improved quad bike stability and rollover protection devices, as required under the safety standard, will increase fatalities as riders will have a false sense of security. “If this argument was applied to the design of cars, none of the modern safety features would be

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SOUTH Gippsland Shire Council’s 2021 Australia Day Awards will proceed but with a few changes due to COVID-19. There will only be two categories in the 2021 awards - Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year. Normally there would also be a Community Event of the Year category to recognise events held during 2020 but as most events this year have been cancelled or postponed it was decided not to run this category in 2021. Another significant change is that an award presentation ceremony will not be held in 2021 due to concerns that COVID-19 restrictions may not have relaxed enough by January. Instead, 2021 award nominees will be invited to a celebratory dinner with council chair administrator Julie Eisenbise and chief executive officer Kerryn Ellis.

scare campaigns in opposition to the new safety standards coming in, with some threatening to pull out of Australia. “If a manufacturer withdraws from Australia, others will willingly step in to provide the safer quad bikes,” he said. “We’ve also heard nonsense

available, and the nearly 70 per cent decline in road fatalities since the mid-1970s would not have occurred.” Mr Keogh said state and federal governments had rolled out education campaigns, and Honda and Yamaha also provides accredited training courses. “Yet, quad bike fatalities continue to occur at an unacceptable rate, and that shows education and training alone is not an adequate long-term solution,” he said. The ACCC has produced two new videos to help consumers and suppliers understand the new safety standard. One of the videos shot in country Victoria shows how easily a quad bike can tip over and trap its rider. A second video shows what suppliers must do to comply with the new standard. The ACCC is also reminding consumers to be mindful of the risks associated with riding side-by-side vehicles which can be similar to quad bikes. SSVs offer more protection with increased stability, roll cage, seat belts, doors and nets, but many fatalities occur when these safety measures are not used. “We have seen an increase in in fatalities and serious injuries linked with SSVs because people are not practicing safe use,” Mr Keogh said. “Always wear a helmet and use a seat belt every time you get into these vehicles.”

ROLLER MILLS

Ph: 03

5450 3077

sales@easternspreaders.com.au

MARSHALL MULTISPREAD All purpose spreaders

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QUAD bike fatalities have almost doubled in 2020 compared to last year, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission revealed. Fourteen people - including three children - died in quad bike-related accidents in the first six months of 2020, compared to eight deaths in the whole of 2019. Seven of this year’s fatalities were in Queensland. Quad bikes are the leading cause of death and severe injuries on Australian farms, with 150 deaths in the past nine years, including 23 children. In addition, six people present to hospital each day for quad bike related injuries. The first stage of a federal government Quad Bike Safety Standard will take effect in October. ACCC deputy chair Mick Keogh said manufacturers had been blaming rider behaviour for the number of deaths and injuries to shift the focus away from the unsafe design of quad bikes. “The truth of the matter is, the inherent instability of quad bikes causes them to frequently roll over,” Mr Keogh said. “It has been reported that at least eight of the fatalities so far this year involved rollovers, with four of them resulting in crush injuries.” The design limitations of quad bikes mean many people - including experienced, mature operators - are getting seriously injured or killed, despite operating them

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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A D V E R T I S I N G

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ow cows are fed through the transition period can determine how healthy, productive and profitable cows will be. One of the key determinants of whether a cow will maximise its genetic lactation potential after calving is determined by blood calcium levels soon after calving. Typically, blood calcium levels are lowest one day after calving and may not fully recover until 3 - 4 days later depending on the fresh cow diet. The best way to ensure proper blood calcium status is held throughout the transition period is by feeding a fully acidogenic diet during the last 3 to 4 weeks of the dry period. Feeding a fully acidogenic diet results in a urine pH between 5.5 - 6.0, often by using diets with a DCAD of -100 to -150 meq per kg DM.

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When urine pH is reduced, calcium excretion from blood into urine is increased.

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This increases the flux, or turnover, of calcium in the cow’s body.

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At calving, the biologically available calcium being lost in the urine is reabsorbed from the kidney and used by the mammary gland to help meet the sudden demand for calcium during colostrum production. Fully acidogenic diets significantly reduce the prevalence

Stopping milk fever and lowering sub-clinical hypocalcaemia sets cows up for a productive lactation

of milk fever and sub-clinical hypocalcaemia maximising fresh cow production, higher intakes, less metabolic problems and better reproductive performance.

program and is available to come on farm to better understand the uniqueness of your herd requirements, so animal health and productivity can be optimised.

The Phibro team is ready to assist with visiting your farm to assist in urine pH testing cows to review if current diet is working for you and reviewing the transition cow diet to see if there are things that maybe altered to unlock the potential of your herd.

Emily holds a bachelor in Agricultural Sciences, majoring in Animal Health.

Local Gippsland representative, Emily Dewing, is trained in the Animate transition feeding cow

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P H I B R O

Before joining Phibro, Emily spent a few years as an Agribusiness analyst and banker to understand the financial workings of a dairy farm business, these skills she considers when working with dairy producers to come up with recommendations on farm.

R E P R E S E N T A T I V E

E M I L Y

D E W I N G

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Is Milk Fever causing you concerns and issues for your herd?

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Following the Animate transi on program will reduce milk fever on your farm and give you the peace of mind that your cows will calve and produce towards their true poten al without the setbacks of milk fever.

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To find out more please call Emily Dewing on 0488 744271 or www.animate-dairy.com

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Characteristics and Benefits include:

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Highly palatable and readily consumed even in top-dressed situations

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One of the most concentrated commercially available anionic products allowing for easy diet formulation

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Formulated with proper levels of chloride (Cl) and sulphur (S) for easy and effective negative DCAD ration formulation

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Provides supplemental levels of phosphorus (P) and magnesium (Mg), key nutrients needed for a complete anionic diet formulation

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

RURAL NEWS

Stop the Support to manage natural resources grand theft of water

September, 2020

produce the best food and fibre in the world, but they are also our greatest environmentalists. “Our farmers have always looked after the land and through these grants we can give them a helping hand to adopt the next generation of sustainable farming practices. “There is $6.5 million available under this round of Smart Farms Small Grants to support one to two-year projects that boost best practice sustainable farming awareness, skills and capacity. “We’re looking for projects across a range of areas such

as pest control, vegetation management, farm input efficiency, climate and market management, and the use of new technologies. “Previous rounds of this program have delivered benefits across the length and breadth of the country. “I want to continue that trend and get innovative practices out on the ground and delivering real benefits to our farmers.� For more information and to apply, visit the Community Grants Hub at www.community grants.gov.au/grants

DAVID LITTLEPROUD

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GP1613553

AN international team of researchers led by the University of Adelaide has developed a new method to better understand the drivers of water theft, a significant worldwide phenomenon, and deterrents to help protect this essential resource. In a paper published in Nature Sustainability, researchers developed a novel framework and model, which they applied to three case studies: in Australia, the US and Spain. Lead author Dr Adam Loch, Senior Lecturer at the University of Adelaide’s Centre for Global Food and Resources, said that water theft is a research topic that has not received a lot of coverage due to a lack of data and because often those stealing water are poor, vulnerable and at risk in developing countries. “But theft also occurs in the developed world, especially in agricultural settings,� Dr Loch said. “According to Interpol, thieves steal as much as 30-50 per cent of the world’s water supply annually - a big number. “Compounding this problem is the fact that, as the scarcity of our most precious resource increases due to climate and other challenges, so too do the drivers for water theft.� Drivers to water theft include social attitudes, institutions and future supply uncertainty. With the novel framework and model, water managers can test the impact of changes to detection, prosecution and conviction systems, and accurately measure the effectiveness of current penalties which may not provide an effective deterrent. “If users are motivated to steal water because it is scarce, and they need it to keep a crop alive, then the opportunity cost of that water may far exceed the penalty, and theft will occur,� Dr Loch said. The case studies also provide evidence that where authorities fail to support detection and prosecution theft will increase, and stronger deterrents may be needed to dissuade users from stealing water to maximise profits. “In Spain regulators were assaulted by users when they tried to stop them from stealing water; in the US marijuana growers stole water from fire hydrants and the police felt powerless to do anything about it,� Dr Loch said. Researchers said there are many cases of water theft that could be studied using the framework and model - and they encourage institutions to use the free tools located within the paper’s supplementary materials. “Much of the world’s focus right now is on water efficiency investments, which might achieve (at best) between 10-20 per cent savings for water managers. But if we can recover 30-50 per cent of ‘lost’ water, targeting those who steal for profit making, then that would be good for our water supply, and good for us,� Dr Loch said.

FARMERS, fishers and foresters can now apply for federal government funding of up to $100,000 to support natural resource management efforts. Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management Minister David Littleproud said applications for Round 4 of Smart Farms Small Grants were now open. “This is a hugely popular program that provides a real bang for buck when it comes to delivering benefits for farms, the environment and local communities,� Mr Littleproud said. “Aussie farmers not only

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

25

ADVERTISING FEATURE

EFFLUENT PUMPS ...SIMPLE IS BEST DAIRY farmers, piggeries and chicken producers all have to deal with effluent, it’s collection and treatment in conventional methods, including the use of long column sump pumps, submersible pumps and aerators. Having the pump units submerged does pose advantages in terms of priming but equal and opposing disadvantages when it comes to service and maintenance.

AUSSIE SELF PRIMERS

photograph supplied

pump design of a large inbuilt priming tank, cast into the pump’s body. The pump body is filled through a priming plug in the body and is ready to start pumping. Here’s how it works. As the pump kicks in, the primed water within the body is expelled through the discharge port. That creates a vacuum within

the pump and opens a check valve on the inside of the suction port. It’s that same check valve that keeps the liquid in the pump when it’s first primed. When the vacuum occurs within the pump body, the suction hose, which can pull water up through a vertical lift of as much as 6 metres, fills the pump with water and the pump process proceeds. It’s a simple process

EASY CLEAN-OUT

A FRONT mounted cleanout port is built into the pump’s body, mounted below the suction port.

That simple feature means the pump can be cleared of debris or blockage in a matter of minutes without disconnecting suction or discharge pipework. Although the Aussie GMP self priming trash pumps standard configuration is cast iron, 316 grade stainless steel impellers are available as an optional extra. It should also be noted that the stub shaft from the motor to the pump, is 316 stainless steel as well.

STAINLESS STEEL OPTIONS

PUMPS in complete 316 grade stainless steel cast configuration are capable of dealing with corrosive liquids of all types, including caustics. They are available as close coupled motor pumps or bare shaft versions. For mobile applications on road tankers, they can be fitted up with hydraulic drive as well, providing loads of power and simplicity of installation.

SIMPLE IS BEST

“WE worked with one of Europe’s leading pump manufacturers to develop the design of these super simple self priming pumps,” Aussie’s chief engineer John Hales said. “What we strive for is to relate to the users issues of maintenance and reliability and to come up with products which will provide sustained performance over long periods.” The company knows that cast iron long column sump pumps handling farm effluent generally last around two to three years. “Pulling the pumps out after they fail is a big issue,” Hales said. “It’s not just messy, but time consuming as well. The beauty of the self priming pump design is it’s surface mounted and thus easy to repair and maintain.” Further information, is readily available from Aussie Pump distributors in Gippsland.

GP1612292

UNDERSTANDING these challenges, Australian Pump Industries have come up with a range of 2” through to 4” heavy duty cast iron semi trash pumps that self prime automatically. The pumps, with flows up to 2,300 litre per minute and heads as high as 78 metres are compact and powered by heavy duty two pole, three phase 415 volt motors. They achieve their self priming characteristics by the incorporation in the

Aussie’s heavy duty cast iron surface pumps are easy to service and have low maintenance costs.

and requires no priming devices! The big open style impeller will p pass spherical compress compressible solids in suspension u up to 39mm in diame diameter! Apar Apart from that that, these big, sim simple pumps com with come stai stainless steel wea plates and wear sili silicone carbide m mechanical seals with counterface and ni nitrile rubber elastomers. vers Smaller versions of the pump in 1 ½” and 2” ports are available in both single and three phase configurations. For bigger pumps, those 4kW and over, ranging up to 15 kW in power rating, are in 415 volt configuration.

26

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

27

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

GIPPSLAND FIRE ALERT

WITH an early fire season on the way, Gippslanders need to review the events of last summer and take action to prepare for the coming fire season. Who can forget 550,000 hectares being burnt out with a minimum of 50 structures, including homes lost? Lives were lost as well as sheep, cattle and wildlife destroyed. One Australian company, Australian Pump Industries, has moved swiftly to prepare for a fire season that could be even worse than 2019. With all eyes on the California experience, we have to understand that this year’s season could be dramatically worse than last year’s catastrophe. Farmers and homeowners, preparing to protect their property, need to start planning now. Waiting until smoke is on the horizon could mean being caught short without the water resource needed to defend your property. “There are fundamentals that are obvious,”Aussie Pumps’ product manager Brad Farrugia said. “Having an engine pump is vital. “The first thing you learn when a fire hits is that everything goes out!

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“That means the power, often the water supply, even from town mains and even the internet.” A good quality petrol or diesel drive portable pump that can perform the right combination of flow and pressure is an absolute essential for protection. Going along with that is the need for an adequate water supply in the form of a 20,000 litre water tank or well. “There’s’ no point having a great pump if you run out of water after the first ten minutes of pumping,” Farrugia said. Having the equipment isn’t

To Celebrate the

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125 Year Anniversary

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of New Holland, together with CNH Industrial CAPITAL we announce a special finance offer

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everything. Training and preparation complete the package. Understanding how to use the equipment, making sure the engine is fuelled and oiled, the pump is primed and there are no leaks in the suction line are practical and necessary steps. Family members must be trained in how to use the equipment with practice drills. Farrugia warns that having great equipment without knowing how to use it and without practical experience, can be very dangerous. When Australian Pumps started marketing the Aussie Fire Chief, almost 25 years ago, they didn’t realise this pump would quickly prove itself to be not only popular but praised by users for its reliability, performance and high quality. With a maximum head of 75 metres, the big 7 ½ “diameter single impeller delivers loads of water at pressure! The large water passages within the pump design enabling the volute/impeller combination to provide excellent results. That 75 metres head translates into around 100 psi! “Best of all, the pump will deliver up to 200 lpm at 50m head! That’s extraordinary performance from a single impeller pump,” Farrugia said.

Australian Pump standardised on Honda for petrol engine drives for their pumps. Even the big twin impeller units that provide even higher pressure and flow combinations, are powered by up to 13hp Honda engines! The Aussie Fire Chief comes with steel skids and anitvibration mounts as standard and an optional roll frame is available. The inlet is a big, bolt on flanged 2” diameter, designed to get more water into the pump than smaller suction pieces. Competitors third world products seem to use 1 ½ inlets. That means a reduction of 25% of the volume of water that can get into the pump, creating an immediate limitation of performance. Australian Pump indents full containers of Honda engines on a regular basis, specifying oil alert and getting the benefit of getting Honda’s three-year engine warranty, for use anywhere in the world.

AUSSIE FREE FIRE SURVIVAL GUIDE AFTER working closely with fire authorities, like the RFS in NSW and the CFA in Victoria,

Australian Pump has come up with a Fire Survival Guide that really helps homeowners and farmers prepare for the worst. The document, lays out clearly how to prepare for fire and warns about the dangers of leaving it too late to get organised! Being ready to protect livestock, crops, homestead or sheds is an important task and requires serious preparation.

BUY THE RIGHT PUMP AUSTRALIAN Pump offer the biggest range of high pressure firefighting pumps. Their outlets are prepared to provide the best products and services. “We love the way people relate to our unique five-year warranty,” Farrugia said. “We are the only company in the world that we know of, that produces high pressure firefighting pumps with a guarantee for five years from the acquisition of the product.” Further information, including the Fire Survival Guide is readily available from Aussie Pump distributors in Gippsland.

Take advantage of our 1.95% interest rate on Tractors Now! *Conditions Apply

Offer ends 30 September 2020

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*Terms and conditions apply. Finance provided by CNH Industrial Capital Australia Pty Ltd to approved ABN business applicants and subject to credit approval. Finance rate subject to 30% deposit over 60 months and is available on all Balers & Haytools, except the BB High Density Baler. Offer ends on 30 September 2020, with delivery before 31 October 2020. GST is due month 4, monthly or annual repayments, deposit is a % of customer invoice price inclusive of GST. Contact your local New Holland Agriculture dealer for further information.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

GP1612093

September, 2020

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

29

PADDOCK Richenhagen bowing out AGCO, a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of agricultural equipment and solutions last month announced that Martin Richenhagen has chosen to retire as chairman, president and chief executive officer on December 31, 2020.

AGCO, a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of agricultural equipment and solutions last month announced that Martin Richenhagen has chosen to retire as chairman, president and chief executive officer on December 31, 2020.

The Company further announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Eric Hansotia, currently AGCO’s senior vice-president and chief operating officer, to succeed Mr Richenhagen effective January 1, 2021.

In addition, Mr Hansotia has been elected to the Board of Directors, effective immediately. Mr Richenhagen joined AGCO in 2004 as president and CEO, and was named chairman of the Board of Directors in 2006. “It’s been my greatest privilege to serve alongside my AGCO colleagues for the past 16 years,� he said. Their dedication, integrity, innovativeness and commitment to our customers are what make AGCO such an extraordinary Company, and I’m proud to have been part of

its history. I have tremendous confidence in Eric, the Board, our employees and our dealer network, and believe that AGCO’s best days are yet to come.� Speaking on behalf of AGCO’s Board of Directors, Gerald Shaheen, AGCO’s independent lead director praised his contribution to the company. “Under his leadership, AGCO evolved into an integrated global manufacturer of hightech, sustainable, agricultural solutions to serve our farmers around the world. AGCO expanded its product portfolio,

entered into new markets, consolidated product platforms and modernised facilities,� Mr Shaheen said. “Driven by strong financial performance under his direction, AGCO improved to an investment grade credit rating while initiating a dividend and a substantial share re-purchase program. Martin has been a model of corporate leadership and integrity in the industry. “We wish him well in his retirement and look forward to new levels of success under Eric’s leadership.�

AFS Connect Magnum elevates connectivity

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LOCAL farmers will be introduced to a new level of tractor connectivity and remote monitoring when the AFS Connect Magnum becomes available through Case IH dealerships. The Case IH AFS Connect Magnum 340 upgraded models features a new display, operating system and receiver, and redesigned cab. Case IH ANZ high horsepower product manager Alyx Selsmeyer said the AFS Connect portal was the key to this series of tractor. “Giving the customer a view of the field operations, fleet information and agronomic data from their preferred device, wherever they are, and also allowing for the sharing of this information with trusted third parties,� Mr Selsmeyer said. “With new levels of connectivity, comfort and customisation, this tractor recognises the increasing demands on farm businesses and offers solutions to improve productivity, enhance efficiency and management options, and minimise downtime.� Ms Selsmeyer said they ensured the new Magnum would fulfil expectations by putting it through its

The new Case IH AFS Connect Magnum in action.

paces in local conditions for 18 months to get feedback from farmers. Tamworth farmer Daniel Elias trialled the Magnum for four months, putting it to the test across a range of functions and said he was impressed by what he found both inside and outside the tractor. “The level of technology the tractor had was very evident, and one of the things I really liked was that while a lot of functions in previous models are factory-set, with the AFS Connect Magnum you can adjust the functions and adjust them easily,� Mr Elias said. “It had really good power to ground, rode really well and during cultivation it pulled nicely.�

Kadina farmer Matt Davey said the technology set the new Magnum apart from its predecessors, and he liked the new-look cab and the new screen. “Its features are impressive and there are things there that will definitely benefit less experienced operators,� Mr Davey said “There’s so much more programming you can do in it as well, with more options, and it allows for so much customisation.� The AFS Connect Magnum will be available in 200 to 400hp wheeled models, and 340hp, 380hp and 400hp Rowtrac models. Contact your local Case IH dealership for more information.

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30

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

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Bairnsdale Latrobe Valley Maffra Sale Sale Traralgon September, 2020

Brown Wigg Valley Pumps & Irrigation Brown Wigg Brown Wigg (Pumps only) PK Equipment (Pressure cleaners only) RODWELLS

[03] 5152 1313 1800 060 965 [03] 5141 1544 [03] 5144 4441 [03] 5144 2200 [03] 5174 2944

Dealer enquiries welcome THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

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WEATHER OUTLOOK August Rainfall Observations for Eastern Victoria (source: BOM)

With the national rainfall outlook unavailable, this map shows the interannual rainfall difference between July 2017 and July 2020.

East Sale Airport.........30.2mm Hogan Island...............86.8mm Latrobe Valley.............80.6mm Mount Baw Baw.......272.8mm Mount Moornapa.......94.6mm Wilsons Promontory.153.6mm Yanakie ........................73.4mm Yarram Airport............48.8mm Bairnsdale....................52.4mm Combienbar .............116.2mm

The Victorian total rainfall chart for July.

Gabo Island.................86.4mm Gelantipy .....................70.8mm Lakes Entrance...........94.2mm Mallacoota.................155.0mm Mount Nowa Nowa....97.4mm Omeo...........................36.6mm Orbost........................113.0mm Point Hicks...........................N/A Pound Creek...............85.4mm Wonthaggi...................97.0mm

GIPPSLAND’S

Cattle Market REPORT PAKENHAM LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE

Monday, August 24

Numbers declined again this week after significant rain fall across the supply area. Quality was similar with the addition of some outstanding grain assisted young cattle. One major export processor was absent again this week for the usual buying group. The market was very firm with the exception of veal jumping 20c. Some outstanding grain assisted vealer calves were available to processors with the pick selling between 440c and 460c/kg. Yearlings to the trade were firm with both heifers and steers selling between 395c and 410c/kg, the dearer lines also grain assisted. Grown steers were very scarce with a single pen selling in a firm market for 388c/kg. It was a small offering of 170 cows, selling in a firm market with the heavy beef cows reaching 315c and light cows making between 230c and 265c/kg. Bulls sold to the usual buying group with the best shapes reaching 320c/kg. Please note that due to COVID-19 related constraints this market report has been compiled without physical MLA attendance at the saleyard. Yarding 550

Change -90

Category Weight

Grade Score

Carcass

Low

Estimated Estimated Carcass c/kg $/Head High

Avg

Change

Avg

Low

Weight Avg

Grade Score

Carcass

Live Weight c/kg

Estimated Estimated Carcass c/kg $/Head

Low

High

Avg

Change

Avg

Low

High

Avg

395

395

395

N/C

745

1659

1659

1659

B,C,D,2,3

360

360

360

5

692

1512

1512

1512

B,C,D,2,3

265

315

282.4

2

602

1391

3465

1642

Yearling Steer B,C,D,2,3

395

410

402.5

9

745

1778

2050

1914

Yearling Heifer 400+

Change 30

Category High

Thursday, August 27

Numbers lifted slightly this week and the yarding improved in quality. Over half the yarding comprised of mixed quality cows. A full field of buyers were in attendance operating in fluctuating market with insufficient numbers to quote all categories. A spattering of vealer calves were available with both heifers and steers selling for 410c, lifting 5c/kg. Very few trade steers and heifers were available with the best steers selling up to 395c and the small heifer portion making 360c, gaining 5c/kg on last week. Additional bullocks were available to export processors and prices were stronger with the best bullocks selling to processors for 390c/kg. The market fluctuated across the cow run with heavy beef cows gaining 20c selling between 295c and 315c/kg. The middle run made from 265c and 290c/kg. Chopper cows eased 10c with the best cows reaching 260c and the light portion making between 210c and 245c/kg. Restocker’s were active this week on cows suitable to turn out paying between 255c and 265c/kg. A small offering of bulls went to the usual buying group reaching 310c, gaining 10c/kg. Yarding 230

Live Weight c/kg

Yearling Steer 400+

BAIRNSDALE LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE

B,C,D,2,3

400+

B,C,D,2,3

Yearling Heifer 395

410

402.5

13

774

1778

2050

1914

Grown Steer

400+ Cows

500-600

B,C,D,2,3

388

388

388

N/Q

706

2250

2250

2250

520+

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Tuesday, August 25

Agents penned a smaller yarding this week predominantly made up of cows. An additional restocker buyer joined the regular field with prices remaining firm across the cow run, too few numbers to quote individual categories on young cattle. The few yearlings sold to a mixture of buyers. The best yearlings went back to the paddock selling between 330c and 389c/kg. A few yearlings to the trade reached 356c/kg. Export processors were all operating on the small cow offering, buying in a very firm market. The quality of beef cows declined this week with the best cows selling to 270c/kg. Light cows weighing over 520kg sold between 210c and 256c/kg. Bull numbers lifted along with quality. Restocker’s participated on suitable lots paying up to 366c/kg whilst bulls to the processor were selling up to 278c/kg. Yarding 80

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Category Weight

Grade Score

Carcass

Live Weight c/kg

Estimated Estimated Carcass c/kg $/Head

B,C,D,2,3

High

Avg

Change

Avg

Low

High

Avg

337

356

346.5

12

680

1200

1200

1200

Yarding 1025

326

326

326

N/Q

652

1604

1604

1604

Weight

Yearling Heifer 400+

B,C,D,2,3

520+

B,C,D,2,3

260

277

268.5

-9

571

1443

– Market figures supplied by Meat and Livestock Australia’s National Livestock Reporting Service

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Carcass

Cows 1634

1539

Wednesday, August 26

Agents penned 100 less cattle this week, despite very wet conditions the quality improved across the yarding. One major export processor was absent again from the usual buying group, however, there were price gains across most categories. Veal quality was very good with gains up to 20c with the pick selling between 438c to 450c/kg. It was a very good offering of yearling heifers suiting domestic processors with finished lines selling from 350c to 404c, lifting 6c/kg. Feedlot buyers were unable to compete with processors on suitable lines. There were no quality steers for the domestic market to quote. Grown steers and bullocks were minimal with bullocks slipping by 12c, selling to 375c/kg. Feedlot buyers dominated the grown steer portion, steers made from 406c to 414c/ kg, with processors not prepared to go the extra mile. Quality slipped on the manufacturing types with dairy steers easing by 6c, making between 295c and 305c/kg. Quality was mixed across the cow run with prices generally from 5c to 10c dearer across all weights and grades. Heavy 4 score beef cows were selling up to 315c, with one single European cow selling to 320c/kg. The best of the Friesian cows selling to 289c and light Friesian cows made from 235c and 256c/kg. Very light Jersey cows were sold from 170c and 220c/kg. The regular buying group were operating in the bull sale, bulls with shape selling up to 330c gaining 10c/kg.

Low

Yearling Steer 330-400

LEONGATHA LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE

Live Weight c/kg Low

Estimated Estimated Carcass c/kg $/Head High

Avg

Change

Avg

Low

High

Avg

Yearling Heifer 330-400

B,C,D,2,3

380

404

392

N/Q

754

1520

1616

1568

400+

B,C,D,2,3

350

404

376

6

723

1575

2084

1802

B,C,D,2,3

320

320

320

N/Q

616

2080

2080

2080

Cows 520+

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32

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

To promote your Trade, Service or Business here, call (03) 5135 4444 Email: farmerads@lvexpress.com.au BOLTS

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33

GIPPSLAND SPORT

Journalist and cricket tragic Liam Durkin takes a deeper look at the sport’s customs as a new season looms just over the horizon.

photograph hayley mills

The customs of club cricket By LIAM DURKIN

WITH the cricket season approaching, players from across Gippsland will no doubt be looking forward to whiting up once again. To the uninhibited, cricket can appear to be a confusing game played out by eccentrics in long trousers who stand out in the sun for six hours, but to millions of devotees worldwide, it is the ultimate battle of wits, cunning and attrition. The game itself throws up a host of peculiarities - it takes an inordinate long time to play, often with no guarantee that there will actually be a winner. You can play the same game in scorching heat one day and then driving rain the next. A bowler can bowl their best spell and take 0-20, and then bowl an average spell and finish with three wickets. A batsman can be caught off a blinder for nought and then spend the rest of the day watching as someone else gets dropped four times on their way to 80. These things and a host of others contribute to the unique appeal of club cricket, so much so that one could argue park cricketers get more value from the game than say, Virat Kohli does. Kohli will never derive as much satisfaction from executing a perfect cover drive as a park cricketer does - because Kohli does it continuously day after day, whereas for the park cricketer, there remains the thrill element of having waited all week for the chance to get out in the middle. At club level, there are also many idiosyncrasies that occupy the make-up of the game. Here are a few things you are likely to experience either playing or watching a game of park cricket this season:

Afternoon tea

CLUB reputations can be made or destroyed on the quality of the afternoon tea. As the mid-afternoon tea interval approaches and cricketers become peckish, there can be nothing more demoralising than walking into the clubrooms and seeing a below-average spread.

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The cricket afternoon tea is the ideal sporting diet - ideal for watching sport on television that is, and is usually made up of party pies, sausage rolls, sandwiches, fruit, cake and slice. Some clubs are fortunate to have dedicated volunteers who take great pride in showcasing their catering skills during afternoon tea, while in the majority of cases, each player from the home team is assigned a food product each. Many young players have kept their spot in a first grade team because their mothers provide scrumptious afternoon teas. In being good hosts, it is seen as polite to allow the visiting team to have the first helping to the afternoon tea banquet.

Drinks break

UNLIKE football where players take in water or sports drinks at quarter time breaks, cricketers consume a much more hydrating beverage - cordial. As well as having enough time to drink two cups of cordial, the drinks break must also be long enough for players to change from a baggy to wide-brim hat, or to puff down at least one cigarette. The drinks break is usually held every 20 overs and is seen as a mystical destination that the batting team must calmly get to with wickets in hand. On the flipside, the bowling team will look to rush as many overs as it can before drinks in the hope of stealing a wicket on the eve of a break. Spin is usually activated the over before drinks, and the batting team generally eliminates any risk in facing the final six balls.

Umpiring yourself

ONE of the greatest challenges in park cricket is when players from the batting team have to stand in the central umpiring position and at square leg to officiate the game. That being said, the majority of players take a common sense approach when there is no official umpire, and do not go down the path of excessive appealing or claiming 50-50 catches have carried. The tendency when umpiring

THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

yourself is to show a fair amount of leniency to your own team, however, the danger is that this will lead to blatant cheating. Generally if there is no official umpire players are encouraged to walk. This helps to defuse any potential issues with the opposition and does not put people standing in as the umpire under pressure to give their own teammate out. Additionally, on the leg before wicket law, club umpires will more than likely only give it out if it is absolutely plumb. A major problem that can arise from umpiring yourself is that the strength of the batting order is compromised if there is young players in the team, as it is generally seen as appropriate to only have adults out in the middle officiating. When there is only one official umpire, they will take on central duty at both ends, while the batting team will provide someone at square leg. The person at square leg will often hold a water bottle to offer to the batsman, and the fielding team if they ask nicely, and will usually stand at the post for 10 overs before changing.

Skippers salute

AS a show of good will, upon arrival at the wicket the captain of the batting team receives a round of applause from the fielding team. The captain of the fielding team will generally say “opposition captain boys” as the batsman prepares to face their first ball. The skippers salute is seen more-so in lower grades and is generally implemented on a ‘if they did it for us’ basis. Furthermore, if a batsman reaches a century, it is courteous for the fielding team to applaud the innings and for each member of the fielding team to shake the batsman’s hand. In lower grade cricket there are also a number of unwritten rules that fall under the sportsmanship banner. In most circumstances, anyone that is listed to bat one to seven is considered capable of holding their own, however if it is clear a

young batsman down the order is not going to score, then the bowling team will refrain from sending down any bouncers or having their quickest bowlers operating. A similar concept applies to batting, and fully fledged adults should not shamelessly whack kids around the ground, but rather turn the strike over. In first grade cricket and senior finals however this custom goes out the window and anyone that is playing is fair game.

Scoring

UNLESS a club has a designated scorer, generally batsmen listed to come in at numbers 10 and 11 are ‘on the book’. The scorers must keep an up to date and legible record of the game as things progress, and also be able to juggle manually entering scores and operating the scoreboard. Given there is something aesthetically pleasing about a well-kept scorebook, those granted this task have a responsibility to make sure it is completed in a neat manner. The fielding team will often be called upon to assist the scorers, either by signaling if a boundary was four or six, or by responding to the call of “bowlers name?” from the sidelines. In another quirk, a cricket game will often be played long after it is clear one team has already won just to “make sure the books add up”. Fair be warned to the scorers who present a botched scorebook when the captain and umpires get together at the end of the game and discover the bowling adds up to 170 and the batting to 190.

Rain delays

IF rain drops, cricket stops - most of the time. Once the covers are called for the batting and fielding teams frantically drag the tarps from the sidelines onto the square and then peg them down using either the one hammer available or the heel of their shoes. Seeking shelter inside, players will then look for any boredom

cures to pass the time as the message comes back from the umpires to “have another look at 3pm”, even though the square is underwater. Boredom cures can involve playing cards, watching the races or playing miniature versions of cricket in the change rooms. Rain has both saved and robbed many cricket teams over the years, and has also backfired spectacularly for others who have played the rain card on a Friday night, only to wake up Saturday morning to see clear blue skies.

Fines

AFTER the days play, all teams at the club will get together and go through their respective scorebooks to relive what has happened that afternoon. The captain or a player from each team will present a verbal match report and point out any highlights, lowlights or humorous instances. After the match report the person at the club who is the designated fines master will go through and issue lighthearted fines for various indiscretions. Common fines include: if a fielder drops a catch, a batsman makes a duck or a bowler is hit for six. In keeping with the jovial nature of fines, even players who have performed on the day are not exempt. A player who has scored a century may still be fined for ‘not giving anyone else a go’. On a particularly bad day the whole team could also be fined, for things such as losing outright or getting bowled out in a session. The money accumulated from fines during the season usually goes toward the end of season night or trip away.

President’s shout

IF every team at the club wins on a Saturday, the club president will open the bar for a period of time or shout every player a drink. To ensure the club doesn’t hand out too many freebies, the club must field a minimum of three senior teams for the president’s shout rule to exist.

September, 2020

GIPPSLAND SPORT

Bombers eye North Gippy move By DAVID BRAITHWAITE

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The review, by Melbourne-based boutique strategy consulting firm ColganBauer, recommended dropping the Traralgon and District Junior Football League Under-16s competition. Also opposing that recommendation, Kyle said there needed to be a better alignment of age groups between junior and senior leagues. “We need more time to have more discussion and form some alliance where we are united,” he said. Total player payments in the NGFL will be reduced from $80,000 to $65,000 next year, although under AFL Victoria guidelines, struggling clubs can apply for an increase. Kyle said the reduction reflected the difficulty many clubs would have in gaining sponsorships as businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. “It helps them balance their books in 2021,” Kyle said. has seen clubs come and go, we’ve had Newry, Nambrok, Boisdale and Stratford leave, and Yarram and Woodside come in. “We’ve got some experience in that space. We’re an open-minded league when it comes to this.” Trafalgar will formally ask to leave the Mid Gippsland league to join the Ellinbank and District league after 90 per cent of members voted in favour of the move. More than 67 per cent support was needed. The distance and route to travel to South Gippsland for matches is seen as a major factor in the two MGFNL clubs considering their future. The integration of the six Alberton league

clubs into the MGFNL was one of the recommendations in the recent G25 report, which has been endorsed by AFL Victoria. Another of the recommendations backed was replacing the NGFNL Under-18s with Under-17s, a move not supported by the league. Kyle was hopeful the change would be delayed by at least a year. “It would allow kids to have one last year in the Under-18s,” he said. With the need to encourage juniors to remain involved, Kyle was fearful the prospect of top age Under-18s playing against grown men in the reserves could deter them from staying in the sport. “We don’t think that’s right,” he said.

Alberton clubs join Mid Gippsland By KATE WITHERS

A NEW era in Gippsland football is on the horizon. At a special general meeting on August 24, Gippsland Farmer understands seven Mid Gippsland league clubs voted to accept all six Alberton league clubs into the competition, while one voted against and one abstained. But the 15-team competition won’t undergo a rebranding. Instead, the Alberton Football Netball League will cease to exist and all clubs moved into the Mid Gippsland Football Netball League under AFL Victoria Country’s club transfer process. “I would think that this would make us one of the biggest leagues in regional Australia,” MGFNL publicity officer Rob Popplestone said. “On a positive note, 15 teams makes us a strong, viable and exciting competition. “The very fact we know almost exactly what 2021 will look like means we’re planning with confidence and there’s a lot more positivity around getting back to playing football and netball.” The finer operational details will be ironed out in coming months, with due consideration to be given to junior structures, including the possible abolition of Under-16s and Under-18s in favour of a single Under-17s competition. “Discussions continue within Mid Gippsland and are expected to continue with our six new clubs to determine just where we stand as to the best outcome for our juniors,” Popplestone said. “They’re (new clubs) wanting everything to be tied up within the next 30 days, so the idea is to have some clarity around what season 2021 looks like in the next 30 days.” The preservation of Alberton league history under the Mid Gippsland banner is

September, 2020

“an issue worth considering”, according to Popplestone, as are the jumper clashes between new and existing clubs. “As much as this is a merger, the invitation was from us to apply to join our competition, which is important to note,” he said. “The issue of history is definitely something we will look at and there may well be a round dedicated to the Alberton league, but that is something we will work on.” A merger of the two competitions was proposed by AFL Gippsland at the tail-end of the 2018 season and was met with vehement opposition by nine of the MGFNL’s then-10 clubs. Shortly thereafter, on the recommendation of AFL Gippsland, Yarragon departed to join the neighbouring Ellinbank league. In March, a highly anticipated AFL Victoria-commissioned report into the state of football across the region was unveiled and reiterated AFL Gippsland’s recommendation to merge the two leagues. In the months since, Trafalgar and Yallourn-Yallourn North have both signalled their intent to breakaway from Mid Gippsland. But the Bloods’ move was thwarted and their application to leave the league rejected, 7-2. The club is expected to appeal the decision with AFL Victoria. The Bombers are yet to lodge an official application to leave the league. A 2021 draw is some way off and hedges on the outcome of both applications. “We are hopeful Trafalgar will stay - they are very much a part of the competition for 2021 and we are hopeful Yallourn Yallourn North don’t get to a stage where they apply to leave the competition,” Popplestone said. “The G25 recommends that 15 teams is sustainable and AFL has endorsed that, and we believe this is the best thing for football in Gippsland.”

In a statement, AFL Gippsland area manager Don Harley commended both leagues for making the transfer process a “smooth” one. “I would like to thank all members of the Alberton FNL and the Mid Gippsland FNL for their dealings over the past month,” Harley said. “I would like to make mention of the Alberton FNL executive. This process has been extremely difficult on those who have committed so much time and effort over many years to proper their league. “Those members continued to advocate unrelentingly for the best outcome for their clubs, which has been reached by their acceptance into the Mid Gippsland FNL for 2021.” Stony Creek FNC president Mark Le Page took to Facebook and said the club was “extremely thankful and honoured” to be joining the MGFNL. “We look forward to forming new relationships, friendships and rivalries with the MGFNL clubs from 2021 and beyond,” he said. “To the Toora, Foster, Fish Creek, Tarwin and MDU FNCs, the SCFNC thanks you all your efforts over the last couple of months and the ability to work as one is something we should all be very proud of. “It is a credit to all involved and whilst we form new relationships in our new home, our club will always look forward to our games for many more years to come. “The Alberton FNL was important to us, however the survival of our five fellow clubs is more important to us. “We sincerely thank the MGFNL for their acceptance and we can’t wait for our future to start with the Mid Gippsland Football Netball League.”

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THE Yallourn-Yallourn North FootballNetball Club members will vote on a move to the North Gippsland Football-Netball League next season. The club committee voted on August 20 to allow members and players to decide between remaining in the Mid Gippsland league or to transfer to the NGFNL. “By no means was this decision made lightly, over the past six weeks a due diligence process has taken place, comprising of meetings with both the NGFNL and the MGFNL executives, the outcomes of the meetings were presented to the YYNFNC executive on Friday, August 14, for their consideration,” the club stated on Facebook. “Prior to the general committee meeting on Thursday night the YYNFNC executive released a document to the general committee that recommended to take the decision to the players and members.” The club will share information with members over the next month before a vote takes place. YYN considered its options on a league switch before the six Alberton clubs were welcomed into the MGFNL on Monday night. A significant majority of members will be needed if the club wants to progress a change of leagues. If the club wants to become North Gippsland’s 11th club, it will need the move to be approved by the MGFNL before accepted by the NGFNL. A move for next season would need to be completed by October 31. NGFNL president David Kyle said his league and YYN had an “amicable meeting”, with both parties presenting their current status and where they were heading. “Yallourn initiated this, it wasn’t North Gippy knocking in their door,” Kyle said. “North Gippy has been a league which

Yallourn-Yallourn North Football-Netball Club members will vote on a move to North Gippsland next season.

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THE GIPPSLAND FARMER

September, 2020

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