Summer 2010
Edition
7
AUS $6.95 (inc gst)
Sale O, Sale O
Preparing for this season’s weaner sales
Storing and selling
Tips for smart grain marketing Getting a grip on summer weed control New weapon in drench resistance battle
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Summer 2010
Edition
7
An Elders Magazine
Contents
4
11
8
General
3 News 4 Brothers bring Glenn to Booborowie 5 Producers pool profits for a good cause 6 Elders supports the essential role of grower groups 7 Making the right choice 8 Be bushfire-prepared this summer 11 Grains of truth...
Cropping
14 Summer weeding — what the experts say 16 Seed treatments — maximising crop potential 19 ETG takes grain marketing to the next level
Livestock & Wool 24 Prior preparation pays dividends 29 Risk mitigation rides on the sheep’s back 32 Rising to your region’s feed supplementation challenges 36 Fending off bovine respiratory disease (BRD) 38 Preventing production losses from pinkeye
Horticulture
39 A united front helps tackle zebra chip threat
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32
36
Published by Elders Rural Services Australia Limited ABN 72 004 045 121 Cover photo by: Kondinin Group Printing: Lamb Print This Publication is produced on paper from sustainable forests and printed using environmentally friendly vegetable based inks by Lamb Print. © 2010 Elders Rural Services Australia Limited Editorial and production Support Centres Office: Contact Details: Publishing: services: 27 Currie Street Phone: (08) 8425 4000 General Manager, Marketing: Kondinin Group Mark Geraghty Adelaide SA 5000 advancemagazine@elders.com.au Marketing Manager Mailing Address: Websites: www.elders.com.au – Brand & Marketing Strategy: www.eldersweather.com.au GPO Box 551 www.advancemagazine.com.au Julie Williams Adelaide SA 5001 Disclaimer. Elders Rural Services Australia Limited, its servants and agents, in publishing Advance are engaged in disseminating information and are not rendering professional advice or services. Statements made in this publication are the views of the authors only and do not necessarily represent the views of Elders or its editorial team, unless specifically stated. Elders, its servants and agents in the production of this magazine, make no representations or warranties with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents published in this document and specifically disclaim any implied warranties or fitness for any particular purpose and shall in no event be liable for any loss of profit or any damages, including but not limited to direct, indirect, special, incidental, consequential, exemplary, punitive or other damages. The entire risk of acting or omitting to act on reliance upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication, including the entire cost of all necessary remedies, is with those who choose to act on the whole or any part of the contents of this document and not with Elders, the Editor or their employees. No person should act on the basis of the contents of this publication without first obtaining specific, independent professional advice. AFSL number: 238042.
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PEDIGREE 20kg is available at your Elders branch in Working Dog, Adult and Light & Mature.
News
Aussie farmers take centre stage From the wheatbelt of Western Australia to the Queensland hinterland, and places in between, Elders is excited to be sharing the stories of farmers from across Australia. Spanning the country Elders went on farm with video cameras and sound technology to find out what farming businesses today are really like.
Merchandise Manager at Elders Merriwa, Nathan Barry presents Merriwa Rugby League Football Club President, Ben Moore with a cheque for $500 thanks to Elders ‘Kick in for your club’ campaign.
“Why they love doing what they do, the passion behind their business, and the challenges and opportunities of farming were topics explored with each farmer,” Mark Geraghty, Elders General Manager Marketing said.
Communities get a kick out of drench competition
“The overwhelming consensus was, despite the obvious challenges, farming is a rewarding business and a fantastic way of life.”
A collection of community sporting clubs across Australia has benefited from a $500 cash injection, thanks to their farming members and Elders.
Western Australian sheep farmer, Glen Ford, is one of the farmers whose story will be told in a series of press advertisements to feature in media across the country.
The Elders ‘Kick in for your club’ campaign enabled cattle producers, who purchased 15 drums or more of drench, to nominate a sporting club of their choice for a cash donation of $500.
“It may not be a life for everyone but as a third generation farmer, I wouldn’t want to be doing anything else. And it’s a great setting to raise children in and then to see grandchildren grow up,” Glen said.
The campaign was a huge success with 22 sporting clubs registering to receive the money. Merriwa Rugby League Football Club, in the Hunter region of New South Wales, was one grateful beneficiary of the proceeds.
“Many Australians have never set foot on a farm and a lot of people around the world don’t understand what outback life is really about, so this was the perfect opportunity to take a little piece of the bush onto the global stage.”
More than 10 members purchased the 15-drum drench quota to qualify their club for the $500. Merchandise Manager at Elders Merriwa, Nathan Barry said the club had already put the money to good use.
Also passionate about the business of farming, Elders recognises that it’s not always an easy industry to be involved in and that telling the story of Australian farmers is an important part of recognising the efforts that go into running a farm.
“The donation gave the club the resources to replace old first aid and medical kits — refreshing its supply of essential footy gear such as denco rub and strapping,” Nathan said.
Glen is one of four farmers that will feature in the campaign. Also included will be Euan Murdoch and Nick Cameron from Queensland, Alec and Jo Moore from Victoria and Michael Butterick from SA.
“Sporting organisations, such as Merriwa RLFC, are an essential part of rural communities, with most operating through the fundraising efforts of their members.” “The ‘Kick in for your club’ campaign is a great chance to give these groups a helping hand and to contribute to the general well-being of rural Australia.”
“Elders shares the good times and the bad times with Australian farmers — our message to farmers is ‘we’re there when you need us’,” Mark said.
The campaign is set to run again during 2011. Find out more details in an upcoming edition of Advance magazine.
Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 3
Community
Photo: Michelle Osborn, The Mid North Broadcaster
Brothers bring Glenn to Booborowie
Former Australian cricketing great Glenn McGrath pictured with the Pearce family, Nick, Ashton, Isaac, Jodie and Scarlett on the Booborowie Oval.
For Booborowie brothers Isaac and Ashton Pearce it was a dream come true when they won the chance to have a ‘backyard’ hit with cricketing legend Glenn McGrath
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ast month Glenn McGrath travelled to regional South Australia to bowl a few overs to Issac and Ashton and then enjoy a 15/15 over game with cricketers from across the district. Glenn’s visit to Booborowie, near Burra, was a result of a competition exclusive to Elders clients. The competition asked people to detail in 50 words or less why they should win a backyard cricket game with Glenn McGrath. Isaac and Ashton impressed judges with their poem: He’s a better bowler than the rest. He could teach us all new skills. We’d provide lunch with the frills. He’s the best says our dad. Glenn for a game would be rad. Come to Booborowie, a great town. Come on Glenn, join us now! Elders Burra Branch Manager, Sharyn Roberts, said Glenn’s visit was a
momentous occasion for the whole community, most of all the Pearce brothers. “It’s not every day that a sporting hero visits the area and young and old turned out to see the bowling that made Glenn an Aussie legend.”
“Booborowie has a population of only about 250, so it was definitely a big event for the small town.”
Elders in collaboration with the Pearce family and the Booborowie Cricket Club used the opportunity to fundraise for the McGrath Foundation, which provides breast cancer nurses to regional and rural communities. “We ran a raffle, for which the prize was a spot to play in the 15/15 over game with Glenn, we also handed around a donation box,” Sharyn said.
“Isaac and Ashton were elated that their poem was the reason for Glenn’s visit. They had beaming smiles when Glenn presented them with a signed cricket bat.” Sharyn said Glenn enjoyed chatting with local farmers asking them about their enterprises and how the season was treating them. “Glenn also took the time to sign autographs and share cricketing tips with his rural fans.” Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 4
Glenn McGrath coming to a town near you! • D ecember 1 — Advantage SA Foundation event, Adelaide, SA • December 2–3 — Burnie, TAS
Community
Producers pool profits for a good cause
About RMHC RMHC creates, finds and supports programs across Australia that helps seriously ill children and their families. There are six major programs operated by the Charity:
FA: RMHC Herds Of Hope Logo
Colour x2 specials PMS 281C PMS 485C BLACK 100%
Elders, with other members of Australia’s beef industry, has teamed up to lend their support to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), with the Herds of Hope program.
Ronald McDonald House Program: provides a home away from home for families of sick children being treated in hospitals. There are 13 houses across Australia, which accommodate more than 5000 families every year.
Proudly supporting
RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES®
H
erds of Hope will be rolled out in Victoria, New South Wales and across Australia between December 2010 and April 2011. As part of the national fundraising initiative, cattle producers will be asked to donate the proceeds of the sale of selected cattle from their herds to RMHC when they are sold, either direct from farm to feedlots or processors, or via agents at cattle sales across Australia. Elders Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Malcolm Jackman said RMHC had had a strong connection to the rural community since its establishment during 1985. “Through its programs, such as family accommodation and respite services, RMHC has benefited countless rural-based families whose seriously sick children have required treatment in metropolitan hospitals.” “Often these families need to travel thousands of kilometres from their rural homes to obtain treatment for their children.” “RMHC eases the burden by providing a home-away-from-home environment for
families as well as services such as family retreats and temporary school facilities for sick kids.”
Ronald McDonald Family Room Program: provides homely retreats within hospitals giving families a break from the stress of many hours spent by their child’s bedside.
Mono
BLACK 100%
Elders is joined as a founding member of Herds of Hope by the Australian Beef Industry Foundation, Cargill Beef Australia, MAC, Allflex, Rural Press and McDonald’s. RMHC will produce custom-branded ear tags to identify donated cattle ahead of sale. Elders is voluntarily facilitating the FAaccount contribution to RMHC through an set up in the Charity’s name, allowing producers to easily contribute as part of their regular sales process. Cargill Beef Australia will also process donations direct to RMHC from cattle sold to Cargill. phdcreative strategy to store™ 02 9431 1400 studio@phdcreative.net www.phdcreative.net Level 1, 168 Willoughby Road, Crows Nest, NSW 2065 Australia
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Ronald McDonald Learning Program: prevents children from falling behind in their education following absence from school due to illness.
Trim size: N/A Scale: 1:1 Note: N/A
Ronald McDonald Family Retreats: provide families with seriously ill children a week’s free accommodation, enabling them to enjoy a holiday when they most need it and can least afford it.
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How to get involved Producers wanting to be a part of the Herds of Hope program need to complete a vendor registration form at www.rmhc.org.au.
More information: George Last, Elders M: 0427 349 273 E: george.last@elders.com.au
Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 5
RMHC Cord Blood Banks: collect cord blood mainly as an alternative treatment for children suffering from diseases such as leukaemia and other cancers. RMHC is the major private funder of Cord Blood Banks in Australia. RMHC Charlie Bell Scholarship Program: awards one-off grants of up to $5000 towards vocational and tertiary studies for children who have experienced serious illness.
Community
Elders supports the essential role of grower groups Elders was delighted to be the premium sponsor of the inaugural Farming Ahead 2010 conference, which focused on the role of grower groups in Australian agriculture.
T
he conference was held in Sydney, during September and attracted a mix of farmers, extension experts, researchers, policy makers and agribusinesses.
Mark said sponsoring this event enabled Elders to not only build relationships with these groups but also to gain a deeper understanding about them.
There were representatives from all over Australia and from a wide range of sectors including the grain, livestock, dairy, horticulture, sugar and cotton industries.
“These groups are progressive, informed and influential and they play an important role in highlighting the innovation and technical expertise of Australian farmers,” Mark said.
It is estimated there are more than 400 grower groups servicing about half of Australia’s farmers. It is expected that grower groups will play an increasingly important role in the extension of research information to Australian farmers. Elders General Manager Marketing Mark Geraghty gave the opening keynote address on day one titled: The future competitiveness of the Australian agricultural sector. Mark discussed the future for Australian agriculture based on world food demand, competition from other exporters, climate change and other risks and the outlook for finance and credit for the sector.
“This conference enabled us to make valuable contacts within these grower groups with some even seeking support and information on how they could develop sustainable relationships with Elders in the future,” he said. More than 170 grower group and farming systems group members and stakeholders from across the agriculture sector participated in an interactive and information packed two-day conference program. The conference showcased best practice methods amongst grower groups and
Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 6
Elders General Manager Marketing Mark Geraghty gave the opening address at the recent Farming Ahead 2010 conference.
offered practical advice to assist in providing effective services to their members.
Participants welcomed the opportunity to network, gain information and share ideas for ways to best deliver results for the nation’s farmers. Elders agronomists regularly contribute to a number of grower groups including the South Australian No Till Farmers Association (SANTFA), Southern Precision Agricultural Association (SPAA), Western Australian No Till Farmers Association (WANTFA), Farmlink, the Central West Farming Systems Group and the Leibe Group. More information: For more information about grower groups active in your area, contact your local Elders agronomist.
Rural business
Making the right choice Whether it’s the type of car we drive, the clothes we wear, or the food we eat, life should be about choice. But when it comes to the products you use on your farm, making the right choice becomes even more important because it could mean the difference between a bumper year and one best forgotten.
A
greater range in products is one thing clients ask for. In responding to this expectation Elders has developed an exclusive range of agricultural chemicals that offers a cost-effective generic option to primary producers. Elders understands that some years may be tighter than others, and the preferred branded choice may not always fit with the budget, and a more cost-effective alternative may be an option in the meantime. The challenge for farmers is working out which generic product to trust. Elders has helped take the guesswork out of that dilemma by working with suppliers to develop a wide product range designed to suit the needs of clients, and offers a range of generic agricultural chemicals that doesn’t sacrifice quality and represents price competitiveness in the marketplace. Elders has strengthened its relationship with Titan Ag to provide exclusive access to their diverse product range that includes
non-selected and selective herbicides, fungicides and insecticides to control weeds, pests, plant disease, enhance yields and improve yield quality. Titan Ag is an Australian-owned company that provides progressive, high-quality agricultural chemicals. All Titan Ag products have undergone extensive quality assurance testing to ensure all products are of the highest standard.
The new product range adds to the wide range of recognised branded products available from Elders. Elders Merchandise Manager at Goondiwindi, Queensland, Tony Johnson says by growing relationships with manufacturers such as Titan Ag, Elders can better help Australian farmers obtain the product most suited to their business. In the lead-up to the launch of this exclusive product range, a number of Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 7
Elders clients have been using the range on their properties. “The Goondiwindi branch has been supplying clients with a number of Titan Ag products to use and farmers have been very pleased with the quality and performance of the products.” “Essentially, it’s all about giving our clients more choice and peace of mind,” Tony said. To find out more about the Titan Ag range exclusively available from Elders, please contact your local branch.
More information: Mark Pedlar, Elders National Technical Services Manager T: (08) 8425 4674 E: mark.pedlar@elders.com.au
Rural business
Be bushfire-prepared this summer Rural residents need to be fire-ready with forecasts predicting most of south-eastern Australia to have a higher than average fire risk this summer.
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lentiful winter and spring rainfall has resulted in abundant plant and pasture growth and the potential for intense bushfires this season. Elders strongly encourages people in bushfire-prone areas to follow government and fire authority advice and guidelines on being bushfire-prepared, and recommends having a fire action plan in place.
The main priority in any fire event is to ensure the safety of yourself and family.
No matter what the fire danger rating of the day, one of the most important decisions people need to make is whether they will leave early or stay and defend a well-prepared property. For example the government and fire authority recommend that on days of a catastrophic fire danger rating, the safest action is to leave early — avoiding the potential of being caught in a bushfire-prone area. On such days, even well-prepared houses are at risk. The national Fire Danger Rating (FDR) scale assesses the potential behaviour of fires,
the difficulty in controlling them and the impact on communities. It is intended to be used before a fire. A new scale has been developed in response to an increase in severe bushfire conditions during the past decade. The FDR is based on the Fire Danger Index (FDI), an index determined by weather components including temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and vegetation dryness. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), with fire agencies, determines the FDR for all weather districts.
Table 1 What to include in your fire plan Leave early plan
Stay and defend plan
• Tidy up and prepare the house so it has the best chance of making it through the fire. • Decide at what point you will leave. • Tell your neighbours and friends your plans. • Consider what you will do with your pets or animals. • Consider whether your plans will be the same on a weekend or weekday. • Plan where you will go if you decide to leave. • Have your relocation kit ready at all times.
• Tidy and prepare your house. Is it defendable? Ask yourself again “should I be staying?”. Fill gutters with water and wet house down. Pull down curtains and other window dressings that are flammable. In the event of a fire maintain a constant vigil inside and outside the property. • Consider whether you can cope emotionally with the stress of going through a bushfire. • Have you got a Plan B? What will you do if you realise you can not defend your property? • Have you got adequate equipment, such as pumps, hoses and water supplies? • Set up your equipment and be ready to use it when necessary. Ensure pumps are fully fuelled and adequately maintained. • Secure stock and pets. Stock fare better when left in an open paddock than locked in sheds. • Ensure you have enough drinking water — you will drink a lot more than usual in fire conditions.
Relocation kit
Survival kit
• Personal protection equipment — boots, long-sleeved shirts and long pants and gloves. • Battery-powered radio. • Fully-charged mobile phone. Remember your phone car charger. • Drinking water. • Do not forget your glasses — if you require them. • Valuables, such as photographs and important documents.
• Personal protection equipment — boots, long-sleeved shirts and long pants, gloves, goggles, broad-brimmed hat, and bandana for mouth and nose protection. • Drinking water — have plenty of it! Remember you will need to drink many litres of water to rehydrate during and after the fire. • Woollen blankets that you can wet down and get underneath if necessary. • Fully-stocked first aid kit. • Equipment — torches, batteries and car chargers for mobile phones.
When you have decided upon your fire plan, write it down and ensure it is communicated to all family members.
Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 8
Rural business
A FDI of 1 (low-moderate) means fires will burn slowly and be easily controlled; there is little or no risk to life or property. A FDI of 100 or greater (catastrophic) means fires will be very fast moving, uncontrollable and unpredictable; people and property will not be safe and an actively-defended, well-prepared and wellconstructed home may not survive.
• When operating machinery during high fire danger periods, carry a full water knapsack, spray pump or hand-held chemical fire extinguisher.
Reducing fire hazards on farm, having adequate and operational fire-fighting equipment and developing a bushfire survival plan all help reduce the risk of bushfire.
• Identify the best places for livestock to be moved to in the event of a fire, such as fuel-free or reduced-fuel paddocks and ploughed paddocks.
• Stop regularly and check factors such as hot bearings, grass or straw build-up. • Ensure equipment will not start fires before leaving it unattended.
In managing fire risk on your property consider the following:
• Learn about bushfire behaviour and its key elements, such as fuel, weather and topography.
• An appropriate fire-fighting tank and well-maintained pump are essential.
• Consider constructing firebreaks to prevent or slow the speed of a bushfire.
• Ensure your property is adequately insured. More information: For more information on fire safety and fire danger ratings contact your local fire authority. Elders Weather www.eldersweather.com.au and the Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre www.bushfirecrc.com are also handy references.
Peace of mind Insurance is one of those things many people don’t think about until it’s needed. But as many farmers have found out, as a result of fire and other unforeseen events, the cost of being under insured can be high. A lack of general knowledge about insurance and the need to update the value of assets (including new purchases) when renewing insurance policies, can lead to many farmers being under insured. With the bushfire season here, Elders Insurance is encouraging farmers to review their level of farm property insurance cover. National Manager for Claims and Operational Services at Elders Insurance, Brenton Crabb, said the financial and
emotional impacts to individuals, businesses and families could be reduced when assets were properly protected.
requirements. These requirements will be unique to your enterprise and your region.
“Seeing the devastating impact a bushfire can have on people’s lives is one thing, but not being able to re-build and replace the business’ assets due to under insurance is something we dread for our clients,” Brenton said.
This will include an annual review of the sums insured of your assets helping you keep pace with the rising costs of materials and labour.
“Determining what assets require insurance cover and checking they are insured with a sum that accurately reflects their replacement value will ease the burden in the aftermath of a bushfire.” Local Elders Insurance agents have a wealth of local knowledge, and can provide the advice and support you need to determine your insurance
Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 9
In the event of a bushfire, Elders Insurance can also offer ‘interruption cover’ which will help your business with the cost of contractors or hire machinery, for example, to continue sowing crops, making hay or harvesting while insured machinery is being fixed or replaced due to a claim. More information: Phone 13Local (13 5622) to connect to your local Elders insurance agent.
Unlock your crop’s full yield potential. When planning a fungicide program for potatoes, take the Power Yield approach • • • • •
Highly effective control of early and late blight. The crop health benefits of pyraclostrobin contained in Nufarm Aero fungicide. A new fungicide group (Group 7) for use in potatoes in Nufarm Filan fungicide. A new active ingredient for potatoes in boscalid contained in Nufarm Filan fungicide. A unique disease control program proven to increase both potato yield and quality in Australian field trials.
w w w.nufarm.com.au Power Yield: Optimising growth potential in potatoes. Available at your local Elders branch. ® Power Yield is a registered trademark of Nufarm Australia Limited. ® Aero, Filan & Polyram are registered trademarks of BASF used under licence by Nufarm Australia Limited.
Rural business
Grains of truth... Mark Thiele has a reputation for telling it like it is. And the Elders Toepfer Grain Managing Director is no wallflower when it comes to driving the business forward and delivering real benefits for growers. It’s this tenacity that has been vital in taking ETG from an underdog when it started three years ago to being the nation’s fourth largest grain exporter today.
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dvance recently caught up with Mark Thiele and put him in the hot seat to discover his secrets of success. An uncompromising drive to succeed is nothing new to Mark Thiele. At a young age his parents were told that a defect in both his legs would mean he wouldn’t be able to run or play sport like other children or even walk fluently. But, as was to become his trademark style, Mark quickly proved the naysayers wrong, not only overcoming this challenge but going on to play multiple sports at a senior level. His rural upbringing sparked an interest in the land that has continued throughout his working career, and today he remains a part-owner of the family sheep and cattle property located in the south-east of South Australia. Speaking in Adelaide, his sparse office décor hints at someone who would be as
happy being outside on a farm as working in corporate surroundings. “I grew up in a small rural community. Rural life is in my blood and I am lucky to be able to still spend time talking with growers about their crops, the season and their challenges — and working out how ETG can help them with their business of farming,” Mark said. “It’s been a rollercoaster ride since ETG began three years ago. Also during this period the market has also undergone significant changes. However, I have no doubt the decision to deregulate the export wheat market released the shackles, encouraged greater competition and innovation and ultimately paved the way for better opportunities for growers.” “Now we not only have a more transparent market to operate in, but the spotlight has been put on the true supply and funding Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 11
costs of the industry, and we have seen a number of new products, companies and alternatives entering the marketplace to provide growers and off-shore consumers with more choice.” But with ETG still a relatively new player in the market, how has it gone about establishing itself as a force to be reckoned with? “Our strength has been our simple, common-sense approach to the way we operate. In some ways we opted for a ‘back to the future’ approach that doesn’t compromise our endeavours to innovate and create change. Our model is based on reviewing and removing any wastage and maintaining an efficient process — with the key idea to add value to those who are working in the business of farming.” “We have built, reviewed and tested a model that works and continue to build
Rural business
a high-quality team so we can take the business to the next level, which includes greater focus on trading, accumulation, logistics and finance. Getting the right people in place is essential in delivering the best service possible to both growers and customers.” “When we started, the traditional players were somewhat dismissive of us and told us this approach wouldn’t work — which only served to encourage the team to work harder and deliver results for those clients who put their trust and belief in us right from the beginning.” “Now we have a well-established link for growers that can draw on the combination of the Toepfer global presence and the nation-wide Elders network that they can use to access markets and achieve market prices for their produce.” But how important is it to invest in maintaining strong client relationships? “It’s critical to our success. Our customers and their needs are our central focus, and we have developed a simple, transparent national operating model that reinforces our intention to be in this business for the long haul. We remain committed to working with growers from one season to the next. We want to add real value to their business, and help them reap the rewards of their work — and they understand that we share a long-term ambition to encourage growth opportunities in the marketplace.”
“It is that sort of relationship with our clients that has seen us recently launch a Grain Pool for SA and WA. We had a number of growers come to us wanting this added to our product offering because they trust us and want to take advantage of an alternative marketing strategy, because we concentrate on their hip-pocket outcome rather than having a blinkered focus on free on board (FOB) prices.”
“This year, more than ever, has demonstrated the fickle nature of the business. In south and eastern Australia the moons have aligned and provided a spectacular outlook for the season, which is shaping up to be the second largest crop ever experienced. It will be a magnificent yield and I expect prices to be solid, despite the challenges of a high Australian dollar.”
Quizzed on future challenges likely to be faced by the industry, Mark highlights several long-time factors that will remain issues in the future.
“But in the west, areas have been crippled by drought. While pricing in WA is showing a premium for most grades, unfortunately because WA’s domestic market is so small once local demand is satisfied, we would expect the WA grain prices to revert from the current drought premiums to export parity. The exception may be noodle wheat varieties due to the inelastic demand of countries such as Japan and Korea for that product.”
“Growers have to be comfortable with their position and understand the products they should use to market their grain. They need to understand the benefits, the risks and the real value — not just the price. They have to make sure they draw on marketing intelligence and recognise that marketing will continue to get more intense and prices will always fluctuate, and put in place strategies to manage that risk. Growers need to recognise when a price creates value for their enterprise and how they can manage when this is not the case,” Mark said. “Because this is a risk-filled industry, ETG and growers alike, need to ensure the controllable risks are handled effectively so we can spend time working on mitigation strategies designed to minimise the impact of those uncontrolled risks, such as seasonal weather conditions, vermin and insect attack — not to mention international grain markets.” Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 12
Mark believes that in many ways, the grain industry is still trying to find its feet in a deregulated market. But rest assured, when it comes to finally hitting full stride, Mark Thiele is a man who knows how to run, and can certainly set the pace.
More information: Damian Bradford National Grain Accumulation Manager — Elders Toepfer Grain P: (08) 8425 5091 E: damian.bradford@etgrain.com.au
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SA (08) 8260 0800
WA (08) 9353 1611
Cropping
Summer weeding — what the experts say Weed management strategies that maximise soil moisture levels and increase nitrogen are becoming increasingly important with climate modelling forecasting a hotter drier farming environment.
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ummer weeds use soil water and nutrients valuable for winter-growing crops and pastures. Their control is one of the most cost-effective investments grain growers can make to increase productivity for the following winter crop. Depending on the species, weed infestations can be controlled by the use of machinery, chemicals and/or grazing. Growers can tap into the knowledge of their local Elders agronomists to develop smart summer weed management strategies, suitable for their region and enterprise. Elders National Technical Manager, Mark Pedlar said the early control of summer weeds, using a well-developed integrated weed management strategy, was essential.
“Early identification and control of summer weeds is the most successful and economical way to reduce the amount of plant material that could compete for crop moisture and nutrients or become a cultivation or stock health problem,” Mark said. Some growers consider summer weeds beneficial if they reduce soil erosion or provide fodder for grazing. But many weeds, such as common heliotrope (Heliotropium europaeum), hairy panic (Panicum capillare) and caltrop (Tribulis terrestris), are toxic to livestock. They can cause wool contamination and also physical injury (for example the Bathurst burr). Allelopathic or toxic effects from weeds such as goosefoot (Chenopodium pumilio) are also known to occur on emerging winter crops.
“Summer weed control starts with destruction of seeds out of the header and machinery such as the Harrington Weed Destructor will reduce the seed population in the ground,” Mark said. “Secondly the use of herbicides is important for weed control and, unlike cultivation, this method conserves soil moisture and has little impact on soil structure. Soil erosion is also minimal.” There is an extensive list of herbicides available for control of summer weeds and most of these are available from several manufacturers. Most mixes commonly use a knockdown as the primary component with a secondary component, such as a phenoxy product, added to improve the effect on harder-to-kill weeds in adverse, dry summer conditions. Glyphosate has become the knockdown partner of choice in many of these mixes although paraquat is used for specific weeds such as heliotrope. The chemical 2,4D ester 680 is effective against many brassica weeds and goosefoot. Metsulfuron and dicamba appear in wireweed mixes, while one of the knockdowns mixed with Hammer® from CropCare (one of the few patented products used) is highly effective against peppercress. “Given the vast range of mixes available it’s well worth talking to your Elders agronomist before deciding what to use,” Mark said. “Choosing the right knockdown is becoming increasingly important due to glyphosate resistance,” he added. Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 14
“The increasing trend in glyphosate resistance can not be reversed — we can only slow its progress. Alternating the use of glyphosate with a paraquat product, such as Gramoxone®, or one of its paraquat lookalikes, or Spray.Seed® is the obvious choice to slow the progress of resistance.”
“The slightly higher cost of the mix is minimal compared with the cost of finding you have glyphosate resistance,” Mark said. “It’s no good saying ‘resistance won’t happen to me,’ because it will. It’s only a question of how soon.” Australia is the world’s home of herbicide resistance, registering lower use rates for many chemical actives compared with other countries. A common cost-saving exercise in Australia is to lower the rates beyond those recommended on the label. These two practices have led to this situation. “Summer weed control makes obvious commercial sense. The biggest favour you can do yourself when choosing your spray program this summer is to stick to the right rates and make half of your knockdowns paraquat in one of its forms,” Mark concludes. More information: Mark Pedlar, Elders National Technical Services Manager T: (08) 8425 4674 E: mark.pedlar@elders.com.au
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Cropping
Seed treatments — maximising crop potential
Maximum crop yield is a finely-balanced combination of genetic potential, environmental conditions and management.
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eed dressings and in-furrow fungicides form a cost-effective strategy that not only protects against disease, but ensures germinating crops get the best start possible. According to Elders National Technical Services Manager, Mark Pedlar, the key message is that regardless of the method of application, seed protection is the cheapest protection of yield potential. “Money invested on seed protection is money well spent,” Mark said.
“By the time growers see disease in their emerging crops, yield potential has already been sacrificed.” “While tangible evidence of efficacy and benefit are often difficult to see in the developing crop, yields almost always show a healthy return on investment.” Dressing for success Modern seed treatments and crop protection technology combine to protect the genetic base of carefully-developed crop varieties and allow growers to maximise yield potential in any given season through management. Seed treatments for cereal crops have been around for decades and were initially designed to protect against disease such as smuts and bunts.
But some modern treatments, such as Dividend®, have an additional focus on maximising genetic potential at the same time as providing protection against disease. Boosting the benefits Compared with direct seed application, in-furrow use of fungicide-coated fertiliser, such as Intake®, close to the seed allows use of higher rates of fungicide without causing seedling phytotoxicity. This use of higher fungicide rates can provide longer seedling protection for some diseases, such as rusts and Septoria in wheat, scald and powdery mildew in barley and blackleg in canola. However, currently-available in-furrow fungicides do not control seed-borne diseases, therefore it may be necessary to use them in conjunction with a seed dressing for control of smuts and bunts. When choosing seed dressing or in-furrow fungicides, growers also need to consider the range of diseases that are likely to affect the crop. According to Mark, in-furrow treatments are widely used in Western Australia and the eastern States but less so in South Australia. On-the-ground advice Elders Agronomist Jason Stokes, Wyalkatchem, WA suggests one of the best Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 16
early protection packages for high disease pressure environments, is to combine the smut and bunt, pythium and rhizoctonia activity of Dividend, with the long-lasting protection against leaf diseases from Intake in furrow. “Pressure for some diseases will be determined by the presence of a green bridge during summer,” Jason explained. A green bridge occurs when there are large amounts of green growth during the period leading up to sowing. “If there is no green bridge present or little green material to harbour both root and leaf diseases then the requirement for early season protection for some diseases will decline,” he said. However, high-rainfall environments will be under more pressure than low-rainfall areas due to the extended moist periods experienced through the season that are conducive to disease development.” “For specific locally-relevant advice growers should contact their local Elders agronomist.” Jason’s experience is supported by Elders Agronomist Peter Watts, Cowra NSW. “If you get a wet year, such as we have just experienced, with limited effective spray days, timing is often compromised using post-emergent fungicides,” he explained.
Cropping
When choosing seed dressing or in-furrow fungicides, growers also need to consider the range of diseases that are likely to affect the crop.
“Or the timing is linked to that of the companion herbicide — one or either can be compromised.” “Up-front protection with Intake is paramount in my mind, you know its covered while you sleep, especially in relation to stripe rust.” Geoff Thomas, Plant Pathologist with the Department of Agriculture and Food, WA supports the recommendations from the Elders team.
“Seed dressing and in-furrow fungicides can be an important component of crop disease management programs,” Geoff said. “Activity against a range of seed, root and foliar diseases is available and understanding the disease risks confronting a particular crop and the regional and seasonal influences will help make appropriate fungicide choices.”
Thank you Australia! You continue to demand our Firefighter pumps ahead of all other portable high pressure pumps – and you know why – dependability! Right from the Australian Made pump to the genuine Honda engine, you get the best! Demand the Best – Demand Davey. Available at your local Elders branch.
More information: Mark Pedlar, Elders National Technical Services Manager T: (08) 8425 4674 E: mark.pedlar@elders.com.au
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For your local Davey dealer call: 1300 367 866 or visit: davey.com.au
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Cropping
ETG takes grain marketing to the next level Multiple selling options, up-to-the-minute market information and a global footprint are fast putting Elders Toepfer Grain at the top of the grain marketing ladder.
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he Australian grain industry landscape has experienced significant change during the past decade and will continue to evolve in the years to come. As a result of this change Elders Toepfer Grain (ETG) has emerged as one of the fastest-growing grain marketers in Australia focusing on a simple direct grower-to-customer model. “ETG is strengthening existing grower relationships and continues to forge new ones through transparent cash pricing, pooling alternatives and initiatives such
“Conversely our customers appreciate the direct linkage to the grain producer with the ability to provide live, coal-face information on crop progress and grain quality.”
Toepfer International’s global footprint of 44 international offices provides Australian grain growers with significant marketing opportunities. Furthermore ETG prides itself on creating market access for growers through its own contacts in both key domestic and international markets.
ETG provides multiple sales options for growers, backed by the assurance that comes with dealing with proven and trusted organisations, such as Elders and Toepfer International.
Participating in wheat (milling and feed), barley (malt and feed), sorghum and canola markets ETG provides a range of marketing options with competitive prices distributed through the Elders network.
as our Private Warehouse Program,” ETG Managing Director Mark Thiele said.
Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 19
Cropping
Growers can source up-to-date cash prices from the Elders website, direct email or alternatively a free SMS service from their local Elders Branch.
The ETG product suite will expand to Wheat Pools in Western Australia and South Australia for the 2010–2011 season. Client requests for the provision of a full service offering cash and pooling options, has resulted in ETG developing a wheat pooling product for the export States of South Australia and Western Australia. The ETG Wheat Pool will be transparent and provide growers with essential benchmarking capabilities through the comparison of costs and performance against other offerings in the market. Simple model ETG offers attractive prices to growers through the direct business model. “It’s a simple model,” Mark said. “Buyers tell ETG exactly what grain they need and we source it directly from growers through our extensive Elders branch network across Australia. The result — a shorter supply chain that provides both growers and buyers with clearer indicators of each other’s expectations for price and quality.”
Grain grower Tony Donohue, Meatian, Victoria values the uniqueness of ETG’s direct business model. “Listing and selling our grain with ETG allows us to take advantages of spikes in the market and links us with ETG’s extensive network of grain buyers.” “Sourcing prices via SMS and being in regular contact with the ETG’s grain accumulation team through their extensive branch network allows me to keep abreast of the market trends,” Tony said. Private warehouse program The Private Warehouse Program (PWP) is a national on-farm storage accreditation and warehouse system that is based on internationally-recognised principles. The aim is for growers to store, market and deliver grain from their on-farm warehouse with increased confidence and control. The program allows ETG to source grain from a high-standard alternative supply system in addition to existing commercial operators. Ultimately, recognising the investment growers have made in on-farm storage will increase the competitive tension at their farm gate. “Our domestic and international business is growing and we will continue to focus on grain stored on farm to supply these markets,” Mark Thiele said.
Grain storage insurance Insuring stored grain can be an afterthought for farmers as most insurance policies are renewed at the start of each year when harvested grain has left the property and farmers have switched their minds to the coming cropping season. But farmers need to consider what amount of grain they are likely to store on farm after the next harvest and adjust their insurance accordingly. Most growers have some grain cover but should discuss their grain insurance requirements with their local Elders Insurance representative to tailor their policies to avoid duplicating or leaving gaps in their grain insurance cover. Elders Farm Insurance Policy, Farm Property Cover, provides cover for grain stored on farm after harvesting. This is an optional cover under the Farm Property section and if the theft section is also purchased, the policy can also cover theft. Within the Farm Insurance Policy, grain is covered for accidental damage up to the sum insured selected by the client per occurrence. There are a number of exclusions that apply to this cover, for example Elders will not pay for storm or rainwater damage to grain unless it is contained in a fullyenclosed building or in a silo at the time of the damage. Elders Broadacre Crop Insurance Policy also provides cover for stored grain but only for the previous season’s harvested grain. Cover is provided for grain stored in a temporary bin or field bin for a period of seven days after harvesting, and grain is also covered if stored in permanent grain storage facilities or a silo. Grain is covered for loss or damage caused solely and directly by fire, lightning, explosion, riot, malicious act, impact by aircraft, impact by a motor vehicle, earthquake or storm. Elders Broadacre Crop Insurance Policy also covers the current season grain while it is being transported from the farm.
Elders broardacre crop insurance provides cover for grain stored in permanent grain storage facilities or silos. Cover is also provided for grain stored in a temporary bin or field bin for up to seven days after harvesting. Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 20
Previous season’s grain or purchased grain can also be insured under the Transit section of the Farm Insurance Policy while being moved between locations.
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Cropping
“Long-term on-farm storage and warehouse solutions are becoming increasingly popular across Australia, but this brings the need for farmers to find solutions for better managing their cash flows,” Mark Thiele said.
“The program is nondiscriminatory and we will continue to strengthen relationships with growers across the entire grain-growing areas of Australia.” ETG has teamed with the independent Swiss-based company SGS to deliver the program and grain quality testing, with audits being carried out on farm by SGS. A set of common processes and standards for the storage of grain on farm are used to accredit growers and their storage systems. The accreditation system focuses on types of storage; existing management systems; record management and sampling techniques; safe and correct use of chemicals and farm safety. The independently audited program promotes best practice and greater certainty for suppliers and customers in the supply chain. The program offers benefits beyond the farm gate, providing better traceability and identity preservation along the supply chain. “Participating in the on-farm accreditation program makes us more aware of grain quality and ensures we tick all the boxes to maintain quality,” Murray Mott of Mott Agricultural Enterprises Pty Ltd said. To assist in managing cash flow needs, growers have the option to transfer warehoused tonnage on farm to ETG and are paid as per agreed terms before the grain leaves the farm. Tony Donohue is also a participant in the PWP and says one of the biggest issues growers face is the lag time in selling grain and payment receival. “One of the main benefits we have found since participating in the PWP is that when we transfer ownership of the grain to Elders we are paid before the grain leaves our farm.” The program has been well received within the feedlot, stockfeed flour milling and malt processing industries that support
increased grain supply chain efficiencies and quality control improvements. Deputy General Manager Brewing Materials, COFCO, Beijing, Li Yebin said COFCO was very excited about the ETG PWP. “We look forward to working with ETG to better manage malt barley quality from Australia. By exporting direct from the PWP COFCO and ETG can share the supply chain savings with growers by offering better on-farm prices compared with local silos.” “COFCO and ETG have worked jointly to build a bridge between farmers, Chinese maltsters and the Chinese beer market. The PWP is a living example of how all participants in the grain market can work together creating and sharing value.” Grain is marketed in individual parcels or collectively, based on quality, varieties, production and storage management. Growers participating in the PWP have access to a secure web-based warehouse system, which allows them to track tonnage in and out of their on-farm storage warehouse in conjunction with their existing inventory programs, fumigation and treatment schedules and contract management reporting. Comparisons can be made between growers’ self-tested grain and SGS results. Withholding periods for treated grain can also be nominated on the website. The website also has an automated facility to transfer ownership of grain in on-farm warehouses to ETG or isolate tonnages under finance with Rural Bank.
“This is a significant change to the way the Australian grain market works, providing growers with an innovative tool to assist in accessing finance to meet working capital needs while maximising the flexibility of marketing and logistics of grain warehoused on farm under certain conditions.” “ETG’s on-farm storage program, which was launched during October 2009, has been welcomed by farmers and we can now provide a finance solution as an additional element to better assist farmers in managing their bottom line,” he said. Grower expectations The ETG PWP aims to develop a growermarketer partnership that shares in the costs, benefits and information. Accreditation lasts for three years, with an annual audit review. Growers nominate 100% of grain stored in approved storage units, which enables ETG to create markets for the known commodities and quality on farm. Growers need high-quality sealed silos. High-quality enclosed shed structures will be accepted and quality bunker facilities will be reviewed on application. Growers need to adhere to set sampling and quality management procedures, and fumigate and treat grain as per industry standards. Running samples from nominated storage cells must be submitted for off-site testing by SGS throughout the season. Delivery and fumigation records need to be kept and entered in the secure access online warehouse. To find out more about ETG’s product offering or apply for email or SMS updates contact your nearest Grain Accumulation Manager or local Elders Branch.
Inventory finance product Farmers will be able to leverage their stored grain on farm as security for a loan following an agreement between ETG and Rural Bank. This new product has evolved from ETG and its PWP providing Rural Bank with the confidence and rigour to commit to such a finance facility. Growers will be able to unlock 50 per cent of the on-farm value of their grain at harvest, with the flexibility to physically market the grain at a later date. Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 22
More information: Damian Bradford National Grain Accumulation Manager — Elders Toepfer Grain T: (08) 8425 5091 E: damian.bradford@etgrain.com.au Chris Ewart National Product Manager, farm insurance T: (08) 8113 1570 E: chris.ewart@eldersinsurance.com.au
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Livestock
Prior preparation pays dividends Careful management of stock before and after sale can pay dividends in the form of higher prices, reduced weight losses and better feed conversion efficiencies.
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he weaner calf sale circuit is about to kick off and producers are gearing up to truck thousands of cattle to selling centres such as Hamilton, Wodonga, Naracoorte and Roma. Elders livestock experts are reminding producers of the importance of pre-sale planning in order to ensure their stock are well prepared and given the best chance to stand out in the crowd on sale day.
“Cattle are subjected to a number of critical physiological and nutritional challenges during handling, weaning and transport that can affect their temperament, appetite, and bodyweight,” Elders National Technical Services Manager — Livestock and Wool, Robbie Neale explained. Elders Livestock Management Solutions (ELMS) can help producers reduce marketing stresses and boost the likelihood of receiving price premiums with the tools for effective on-farm preconditioning. As the first events in the weaner sale circuit, the Hamilton and Casterton calf sales, held during January, regularly see yardings in excess of 12,000 mixed-sex calves.
“Buyers are keen to purchase wellprepared stock that have been yard weaned, vaccinated, well handled and have accurate health and vaccination documentation,” Hamilton Livestock Manager Andrew Gunn said.
Typically, the buyers, who come from across Australia, are looking for genetically-sound breeding cattle with a reputation for having do-ability. “We encourage our clients to fully describe their stock and provide as much detail about their history from birth to the sale pen. Providing background information on genetics and sire estimated breeding values, weaning protocols and health and vaccination records gives buyers greater confidence their purchased stock will really go forward when they get home,” Andrew said. “Presentation is the key and Elders staff pride themselves on the high standard of presentation of stock on sale days. We aim to leave no stone unturned in promoting the sales and displaying the stock to their best potential. And with Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 24
above-average rainfall along the eastern seaboard boosting producer confidence, the signs are positive for a buoyant start to the selling season.” Yarded weaning Weaning is a critical time for the education and development of cattle. Properly yardweaned cattle generally adapt more readily to being yarded or transported and go on to perform better in feedlots due to superior social skills and greater immunity. The ELMS Weaning Protocol provides producers with a step-by-step guide to yard weaning and access to specially-formulated dietary supplements that maximise weaning outcomes and subsequent animal performance. “The protocol provides producers a costeffective system that delivers superior postweaning growth rates, reduced excitability, greater appetite and vigour, higher immunity and enhanced lifetime feed and reproductive efficiency,” Robbie said. The protocol is a step-by-step management system that includes recommendations such as imprinting or supplementary feeding from a young age with hay, pellets and grain to improve uptake
Livestock
during weaning and to familiarise cattle with handling. Ideally animals should be separately grouped and yarded according to bodyweight in order to prevent bullying.
ELMS weaning pellets, specifically designed for the program, are critical for developing the rumen and assisting in maximising future feed efficiencies. The pellets (and, ideally, some supplementary grain) should be fed for 21 days at weaning, although younger animals may benefit from a longer feeding period. It is important there is sufficient trough space provided to allow animals adequate access to feed and clean water should be available at all times. Hay should also be provided and a protein supplement may be needed depending on the type of hay and pasture available. Close attention to vaccination and parasite control programs is important for
Going home Poor stock management post sale can be costly to the bottom line and means stock take longer to recover and start gaining weight. But with ELMS Advanced Arrival Protocols Elders clients have access to an easy-to-follow system that can minimise stress and weight loss, aid in socialisation of mixed mobs of cattle and calm stock derived from a variety of sources. The formal induction process ensures newly-introduced animals are free of pests or disease before they come into contact with other animals on the property. On arrival quarantined stock in a small holding paddock near the yards and provide access to either ELMS Travel and Yard Pellets or Prime Mover Liquid or both before and after handling. Where possible, draft animals into smaller groups according to bodyweight in order to minimise bullying and competition. Provide stock with ad lib hay and clean water and treat cattle with an effective drench and an external parasite treatment for flies, tick or lice. If prior vaccination history is not known, vaccinate stock using a 7-in-1 vaccine. Administer injectable Vitamin B12 and Vitamins A, D and E. Supplements, such as selenium or copper, may also be appropriate for your property. Consider blood tests if unknown conditions such as pestivirus are a concern. Daily stock inspections provide the opportunity to walk through the yards quietly and help to calm and familiarise cattle to their new environment. Running purchased cattle as a group for at least six weeks promotes socialisation and helps avoid the stress of re-establishing animal hierarchies within the new herd structure. Consider constructing temporary holding areas with electric fencing and use the induction period as an opportunity to train stock to respect electric fencing.
The Elders Livestock Management Solutions (ELMS) Weaning Protocol provides producers with a step-by-step guide to yard weaning and access to specially-formulated dietary supplements that maximise weaning outcomes and subsequent animal performance. Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 25
Livestock
Elders livestock experts are reminding producers of the importance of pre-sale planning in order to ensure their stock are well prepared and given the best chance to stand out in the crowd on sale day.
maintaining ongoing animal health. A 7-in-1 vaccine and booster are essential and will provide extended protection against key clostridial diseases and leptospirosis (provided the correct vaccination schedule is followed), while an effective broad spectrum drench should also be administered. Injections of vitamins A, D and E and B12 are recommended for all weaners and selenium supplementation may also be required depending on a specific properties status. On guard in feedlots Feeder GuardTM is a smart option for cattle destined for a feedlot. Exclusive to Elders, Feeder Guard is a pre-induction vaccination protocol that aims to better prepare the cattle’s immune response to respiratory disease challenges at the feedlot. Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) is particularly associated with stress caused by the assembling and mixing of cattle of different origins through sale yards, transportation and feedlot entry. Pre-conditioning cattle before feedlot induction significantly reduces the economic impact of BRD and as a result some feedlots are paying a premium for properly certified vaccinated cattle, while others preferentially buy correctly vaccinated cattle. Studies from four feedlots across Australia found Feeder Guard treated cattle had a 30% reduction in morbidity and 50% in mortality, had higher
slaughter weights and hot carcase weights. Feeder Guard-treated cattle also performed better on carcase quality traits and had higher daily weight gains. See page 36 for more information on Feeder Guard. Correct travel preparation Trucking stock long distances during the hot summer months can take a huge toll on animals and returns alike. So it pays to correctly prepare stock beforehand to not only reduce weight loss and stress but also undesirable effluent in trucks and yards. “Stress significantly reduces an animal’s appetite and limits its ability to absorb critical nutrients from their diet,” Robbie said. “Stress-related hormonal and metabolic changes can also increase fluid and nutrient losses. Stressed animals not only experience a rapid increase in demand on their nervous systems but also burn more carbohydrates stored in muscles to meet energy requirements.”
Cattle under stress are difficult to handle, lose more weight, take longer to adapt to new feeds, grow more slowly and require more feed to achieve target weights. Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 26
They can also be more susceptible to conditions such as pinkeye and respiratory infections, and may suffer from other metabolic diseases. In stock being transported to slaughter, consequences of poorly-managed stress can include a significant loss of bodyweight, lower yielding carcasses and lower-quality meat with increased incidences of dark cutting. “ELMS transport protocols have been designed to reduce shrinkage while improving carcase yield and meat quality and help keep stock calmer on arrival at their destination,” Robbie said. ELMS Travel and Yard Concentrate pellets and Prime Mover liquid supplement are specifically prepared blends of buffers, carbohydrates, vitamins and other critical nutrients that cattle require in the period during transport and handling. ELMS Travel and Yard Concentrate pellets are suitable for trough feeding, whilst ELMS Prime Mover Liquid can be conveniently and easily poured over hay.
More information: Robbie Neale, Elders National Livestock and Wool Technical Services Manager T: (08) 8425 5381 E: robbie.neale@elders.com.au
Pestivirus is haunting the reproductive success of most Australian herds.
Pestivirus infection can be a haunting experience. This devastating disease, which impacts on reproductive success through reduced calving, weaning and turnoff rates, can affect every cattle breeder in Australia. You may not think you’re at risk, but your herd could already be infected, silently robbing you of their reproductive potential. And if your herd has never been infected before, the introduction of a new pestivirus infection could have a significant impact on the future of your operation. So if you’re seeing less calves or more poor doers than you expect, act now and insure your herd with Pestigard®.
For more information contact your local Elders branch or Pfizer Animal Health representative on 1800 335 374. Health. Performance. Growth. www.pfizeranimal health.com.au Pfizer Australia Pty Ltd, 38–42 Wharf Road, West Ryde, NSW 2114. ABN 50 008 422 348. ® Registered Trademark of Pfizer Australia. PAL0162/WT.
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Livestock
Western Australian sheep producer Roger House has found the New Zealand Kelso breed to exhibit higher levels of worm resistance than Merinos.
Risk mitigation rides on the sheep’s back
Improved fertility and growth rates, worm resistance and ease-of-care are the priority breeding objectives of Western Australian sheep producer Roger House.
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arming 2200 hectares at Kojonup, 250 kilometres south east of Perth, Roger runs medium micron Merinos as well as Kelsos — a highly fertile composite maternal breed from New Zealand. With an average annual rainfall of 500 millimetres, Roger manages sub-clover and ryegrass pastures on gravel and sandy duplex soils. “Within the traditional side of the enterprise, our 3500, 20 micron Merino ewes, the focus is on producing plain– bodied easy-care sheep, we use Merino Tech rams joining during February to lamb mid July-August.” Roger said. Spreading risk “The Kelso breed fits nicely into our operation. As Merinos provide riskmitigation for our cropping program, Kelsos (meat sheep) provide a buffer against disappointing wool prices.” High lambing percentages, survival and growth rates are cornerstones of the Kelso breed, but genetic improvement has also seen the development of strong resistance to internal parasites.
“The foundation of the Kelso initiative is breeding sheep that will increase profit to commercial farmers,” Roger said. “Our Kelso breeding regime involves using the top one per cent of genetics from Kelso in NZ, which are transferred via artificial insemination or natural mating.”
With worm resistance becoming more of a problem, Roger is benefitting from the defence Kelso exert against worms. “I carry out worm counts on all sheep regularly, and every few years I test drench efficacy.” “During the past seven years, I have observed that the Kelso sheep appear to have a lower worm burden than the Merino.” Marketing matters Roger sells his Merino wool at auction, staggering his selling times, to average out prices. In the meat operation, lambs are weaned as early as possible. Ewe lambs are Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 29
retained. The surplus are sold as breeders. As many lambs as the season allows are sold off the ewe to abattoir, the remaining lambs are either sold to a feedlot, sold as store lambs, or for export. Roger has been an Elders client for about 30 years, accessing the expertise of the Elders team at his local Kojonup branch. “What I find most beneficial about Elders is they can service and support all aspects of my enterprise mix, including crop and animal health needs,” Roger said. “I also work closely with my Elders branch and agronomist to make critical management and buying and selling decisions.” Bright future Roger’s involvement in the sheep industry does not stop at the farm gate. His passion extends to greater industry involvement including roles as the chair of the Sheep’s Back producers’ advisory panel, an Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) State extension network initiative.
Livestock
New tool in drench resistance armoury Sheep producers have a new powerful weapon in the fight against drench resistance, with the recent Australian launch of Zolvix. The first new drench class to be released in Australia since the 1980s, Zolvix contains the novel active ingredient, monepantel and is claimed by manufacturer, Novartis Animal Health, to be 99.9 per cent effective against worms. Elders National Livestock and Wool Technical Services Manager, Robbie Neale says the benefits of Zolvix will be two-fold for producers. “Not only is Zolvix an alternative to current faltering drenches, more importantly, by using Zolvix in rotation with existing products, it will actually extend the longevity of current drench classes.” Robbie said drench resistance was a rapidly growing problem in Australia, and recent wet conditions across southern Australia, were likely to exacerbate the problem. “Drench resistance is widespread. There are now examples of properties recording resistance to all types of drench in all regions of Australia. “And with a traditional wet winter in southern pasture areas, we’re already seeing significant worm burdens, which will carry over to next year unless brought under control with an appropriate strategic or summer drench program with a fully-effective drench like Zolvix.” The current buoyant prices of sheep and lambs mean producers cannot afford production losses from worms. “With the current typical price of lambs about $150 and ewes about the same, the loss of a ewe/lamb unit from a severe worm infestation, plus the cost to replace the ewe, would be about $450,” Robbie said. “Not to mention the cost of infested animals, who exhibit a failure to thrive and reduced wool growth.” “Zolvix is priced at the upper end of the price scale but in light of current market conditions, and if it is used strategically, the spend is well worth it.” “Because of Zolvix’s excellent safety profile and high efficacy, it can fit in and
take the place of any drench where a good worm kill is required, such as a weaning drench for lambs and ewes, a first or second summer drench, and because there is no resistance it is an excellent quarantine drench.” Robbie said to prolong the efficacy of any drench, administration needed to be carried out in conjunction with smart pasture management. Using Zolvix as part of an integrated parasite management system, in combination with other drenches and non-chemical control measures such as pasture management, will provide more effective control and also prolong the life of current drenches. Monitoring worm burdens and testing for drench efficacy is also essential. “We’d recommend of course, that producers carry out faecal egg count tests before drenching, but another test, for example with short-acting drenches, 10-14 days after will determine drench efficacy,” Robbie said.
Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 30
“Your local Elders livestock expert, will be able to help you with the development of a worm management strategy including the tactical use of Zolvix and other drenches.” To complement the release of Zolvix, Novartis has also released the Optimum drenching system with a new more ergonomic drench gun and backpack. “It is a great new system that takes a lot of the hard ‘back’ work out of drenching,” Robbie said. “It’s all about that old saying ‘work smarter, not harder’.” Zolvix and the Optimum drench system are available from Elders retail outlets.
More information: Robbie Neale, Elders National Livestock and Wool Technical Services Manager T: (08) 8425 5381 E: robbie.neale@elders.com.au
nEw gEnEration ZolviX. worMs don’t stand a chancE.
introducing thE nEw orangE drEnch class, thE first nEw class of shEEp drEnch sincE thE 1980’s.
kills >99.9% worMs of
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With its unique mode of action, zero resistance2 ZOLVIX offers unparalleled levels of worm control and certainty. This season, use ZOLVIX as part of your drenching program and boost your productivity3 now and into the future.
References 1. Kills > 99.9% of barbers pole, small brown stomach and black scour worms. A pooled analysis of the efficacy of monepantel, an amino-acetonitrile derivative against gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep. Hosking et al., Parasitol Res (2010), 106: 529-532. 2. Zero Resistance – no monepantel resistant nermatode populations exist in the field. 3. “The production costs of anthelmintic resistance in sheep managed within a monthly preventive drench programme.” Sutherland, I.A.1, Bailey, J.2 and Shaw, R.S.1 1AgResearch Ltd., The Hopkirk Research Institute and 2Novartis Animal Health Australasia. ZOLVIX contains 25 g/L monepantel, a member of the Amino-Acetonitrile Derivative (AAD) class of anthelmintics. ZOLVIX® is a registered trademark and OPTIMUM™ is a trademark of Novartis AG, Basel, Switzerland. For full product details contact NOVARTIS CUSTOMER ADVISORY LINE on 1800 633 768 TOLL FREE between 8.30am and 5.30pm E.S.T. Monday to Friday. Bleed line Novartis Animal Health Australasia Pty Limited, ACN 076 745 198, 54 Waterloo Road, North Ryde NSW 2113.
EvEry flock, EvEry yEar
To find out how to benefit most from ZOLVIX contact your local Novartis Worm Control Advisor on 1800 ZOLVIX or visit your local Elders branch.
1
Livestock
Rising to your region’s feed supplementation challenges
While regions in northern Australia are preparing for the annual wet season, livestock producers in southern Australia will be looking at the best possible ways to take advantage of the likely abundant crop stubbles and dry feed, after the best winter rains for many years in most eastern Australia regions.
B
oth of these summer grazing climates bring with them a range of feed supplement requirements to ensure livestock use the available feed and continue to perform during the warmer months.
Producers in southern Australia typically provide supplements to livestock during summer to increase the use of available dry feed and reduce the risk of health problems. Summer pasture and crop stubbles can be tested for crude protein and digestibility (measured as energy) to determine which form of supplements will be most effective. Pasture and stubble protein levels are usually more limiting than energy, as crude protein of nine per cent or more is critical for stimulating the appetite of grazing animals so they eat enough to maintain weight. Protein has traditionally been supplemented by feeding grain. But if the grain portion of the diet exceeds 30%,
the animal’s rumen pH level will lower, becoming more acidic. This causes an imbalance in the rumen microbes in favour of those that work on starch-based feeds (such as grain) at the expense of those that help digest cellulose feeds (such as stubble and dry pastures) The animal becomes unable to efficiently utilise the dry feed provided and relies more and more on the grain supplement to maintain performance. Supplements the secret According to Elders Dairy and Animal Production Segment Manager Brian Walker, the more desirable outcome is to provide animals with a protein supplement that will still enable efficient rumen function and digestion of the valuable and relatively inexpensive source of feed available in the form of stubble and dry feed. “One way to do this is to allow stock access to a molasses and urea multi-nutrient block, which will feed the rumen microbes and encourage them to multiply. This in turn allows more dry feed to be consumed and digested, supplying more nutrients to the animal,” Brian said. Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 32
The southern situation Different types and classes of livestock will have different feed and supplement requirements during summer in southern regions. Sheep can find more protein in pasture than cattle but cattle are better at extracting energy from low-quality roughage and recycling sulphur. “Cattle also have higher energy requirements, so are more likely to respond to urea supplementation. Livestock will respond better to urea supplementation when there is a wider gap between available feed and that required by the animal,” Brian said. “For example, pregnant or lactating livestock on poor-quality dry feed will respond more to urea than castrated, dry or young livestock.” Research carried out by the University of New England at Armidale in northern NSW, showed that wool and meat production could be further increased if a by-pass protein source (such as cottonseed meal) was supplemented to stock on stubbles or dry pasture. This is because by-pass protein is digested in the true stomach
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Livestock
rather than being broken down in the rumen and later washed down into the stomach for digestion. “The Elders Livestock Management Solutions (ELMS) program has taken advantage of the most up-to-date and proven technical advice available and formulated a dry feed block specifically designed to ensure livestock maintain feed efficiency, health and productivity during the dry season,” Brian explained. A typical analysis of the ELMS Dry Feed Block shows it is made up of 30% by-pass protein in the form of protein meal and crushed grain, 8% urea, up to 25% salt and carefully formulated levels of other essential nutrients. “The blocks are hard pressed to help limit intake to the recommended daily level per animal and are weather resistant to help avoid urea poisoning in wet weather.”
Animals in phosphorus-deficient regions will therefore require a phosphorus supplement to maintain production. Sussing out the right supplement With these production limitations in mind, Elders stock the Coopers nutritional supplement range for northern Australian livestock producers. While green pasture is available, producers in phosphorusdeficient areas are encouraged to use Coopers Ultraphos® blocks, containing 5% phosphorus to address livestock needs. As pasture matures towards to latter part of the wet season, the percentage of urea in the supplement can be increased from 5% to 15% by switching to Coopers Phosrite® blocks. These blocks are made up of a less palatable formulation than the Ultraphos
blocks. Both the Coopers Ultraphos and Coopers Phosrite blocks are weather resistant (so require no shelter) and have been formulated to deliver phosphorus and urea in a convenient and cost-effective way to improve herd productivity and reduce the incidence of bone chewing. Both blocks have been designed to target the maintenance needs of mature breeders, the production needs of first- and second-calf heifers and the requirements of growing cattle, such as yearling steers and bullocks. A third Coopers product, the Territory Tuff Phosrite® block, is a very hard, weatherresistant phosphorus block designed to withstand wet season rains without protection. The hardness of the block has been manipulated with the aim of restricting the intake of cattle to the recommended rates over the wet season in deficient country.
While urea can encourage animals to eat more dry feed, improved feed digestion and utilisation are only likely when there is insufficient protein in the feed but energy and limiting minerals, such as sulphur and phosphorus, are still adequate. The ELMS Dry Feed Blocks contain 2.5% phosphorus, 3.5% sulphur and 4% calcium to aid pregnant and lactating livestock on dry feed. The blocks are also very costeffective, with the recommended daily intake of 20 grams per head for sheep costing about $0.03 per day and 100 grams per head per day for cattle costing about $0.15 per day when a 20 kilogram block is used. The blocks are also available in a 100kg size. Working out wet season diets In northern Australia, the wet season brings a return to green feed and summeractive growth for livestock producers. But during the latter part of the wet season, pasture protein levels decline. Like their southern counterparts, if animals are not supplemented when available crude protein levels drop below 9%, they will lack the necessary stimulation to eat and gain or even just maintain weight. “Many areas of northern Australia are also deficient in natural phosphorus. This is most limiting when livestock are gaining weight, such as during the wet season. It also has serious implications for the health of pregnant and lactating animals, especially heifers and animals with their first progeny, and their ability to conceive again,” Brian said.
More information: Brian Walker, Elders Dairy and Animal Production Segment Manager M: 0437 216 151 E: brian.walker@elders.com.au
Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 34
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Livestock
Fending off bovine respiratory disease (BRD) More than 450 Australian cattle producers have joined the Feeder GuardTM protocol and Australia’s largest grain feeding company, JBS SWIFT Australia, is promoting and actively supporting Feeder Guard to their suppliers.
F
eeder Guard is audited by independent third party, AusMeat, and is aimed at combating bovine respiratory disease (BRD), which is estimated to cause up to 90 per cent of all sickness in feedlots.
So far it is estimated that more than 240,000 Australian cattle have been treated under the Feeder Guard program.
“Mingling cattle from different backgrounds in a feedlot is like having one sick child at daycare, the complaint will quickly spread through the whole yarding,” General Manager of Elders Vet Supplies, Ian Tope explained.
A study carried out by Nutrition Services Associates revealed the success of Feeder Guard. The research looked at cattle in four eastern States that had received two shots of the Feeder Guard vaccine.
Thorough preparation pays off
“The lungs are one of the weakest organs in bovines, a respiratory virus will start, and then if left untreated, bacteria will inhabit the lungs and pneumonia will then set in. Then the only course of treatment is antibiotics.”
“The treated cattle had higher daily gains, leading to higher slaughter and carcase weights, and also performed better on some carcase traits as well,” Ian said.
The results of respiratory disease range from a failure to thrive and weight loss to death.
There was a 13kg gain in live weight over non Feeder Guard-treated animals.
How it works
“The most important and most cost-effective results were a 30% reduction in morbidity, and a 50% reduction in mortality.”
Under the Feeder Guard program members treat their feedlot-destined cattle with the two-dose vaccine, to better prepare their stocks’ immune response to any respiratory disease challenge. The program allows producers to identify cattle treated under the protocol, so feedlot operators can be sure the cattle they are procuring are vaccinated in the proper manner.
“Some producers have reported Feeder Guard has improved herd performance while still on pasture. One producer said his herd had never performed as well as it had after being treated with the Feeder Guard vaccine.” For the results it yields, Feeder Guard is comparatively inexpensive. “The two necessary doses, of the threevaccine mix, costs producers $15.50 per head. The feedlot operator will then reimburse the producer $23.50 for every head of cattle treated. Therefore, producers are actually making money.” Feeder Guard producers can not only receive a premium for their livestock, but also achieve preferred supplier status at the feedlot. “Over time producers who don’t treat their herd with the Feeder Guard vaccine could be discounted, some feedlots may even refuse to take the cattle,” Ian said.
A similar study is being carried out to show the benefits of Feeder Guard to the producer, in terms of a herd’s overall health and weight gain, while in a backgrounding regime.
Traceability the key
“So far the results from this study are merely anecdotal, but they are overwhelmingly positive,” Ian explained.
“The producer must be a registered member of Feeder Guard, as a part of which they make an undertaking to record the
Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 36
Ian said the effectiveness of Feeder Guard laid in its totally audited format, which was carried out by independent organisation, AusMeat.
Livestock
Feeder Guard vaccination history of each of their animals. Registration is free. This way feedlot operators, and subsequently, those further down the supply chain, know the exact status of the animals and the meat they are handling.” “They also undergo training in the responsible administration and storing of vaccines. This training is provided by Pfizer, and provides a refresher on elements such as the correct operation of a vaccine gun and how to store vaccines once they are opened.” Non-monetary benefits As well as the financial and production gains of not having sick animals in a feedlot, the prevention of respiratory complaints is also a huge step forward in animal welfare. “Animal welfare is a major issue and is going to become an even bigger issue, in particular, for the feedlot industry. Adopting techniques that prevent animals getting sick is an important part of demonstrating a commitment to best-practice animal welfare,” Ian said.
“We’re supporters of pre-vaccination, and of Feeder Guard in particular, because of its independent third-party audit component,” JBS Swift General Manager of Feedlots, Michael Doyle said.
“The audit system provides peace of mind and integrity to the whole program.” Besides the cost savings of reducing the number of sick animals in the feedlot, Michael believes Feeder Guard is set to deliver benefits to the entire cattle industry. “I’m excited to see the quantified advantages on farm, especially for backgrounders. Our veterinary manager already has impressive anecdotal data on the better performance of on-farm herds.”
Feedlotters show their support
“Pre-vaccination will open up further marketing opportunities for producers in areas that have previously not been suited to feedlots because of the low respiratory challenges in their region and, for example producers running closed herds.”
Australia’s largest feedlot JBS Swift has supported the Feeder Guard program since its inception.
“From a whole industry perspective, building a critical mass of animals that we can deliver to global markets will mean
Australia’s beef industry can promote itself as strong and risk-free, which will ultimately drive the price of beef up.” JBS Swift research has revealed some of the reasons why producers don’t administer a pre-feedlot vaccination. “It really boils down to having to re-handle their herd,” Michael said. “But we encourage producers to incorporate the vaccinations into their existing handling regimes such as weaning. The risk of not vaccinating and closing down market opportunities is too great.” “I look forward to the day when we have enough numbers that we can refuse to accept cattle that aren’t pre-vaccinated. It will begin with a discount but ultimately pre-vaccination with become a prerequisite.”
More information: Ian Tope, Elders Vet Supplies General Manager M: 0429 775 022 E: ian.tope@elders.com.au
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Livestock
Preventing production losses from pinkeye Pinkeye is a painful, debilitating condition that can severely affect animal productivity, estimated by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) to cost Australian beef producers more than $23 million in lost production and treatment costs annually.
M
ost cattle producers will be familiar with pinkeye, but may not know how best to treat it and minimise its spread within a herd. Production losses as a result of pinkeye can include; decreased milk production, a reduction of between 3–5 per cent in sale weights of affected young stock, reduced heifer fertility, and increased death rate of weaners.
Pinkeye can affect up to 80% of a mob, with affected weaner calves losing 10% of their body weight. When both eyes are affected, cattle may die from thirst, starvation or accidents. Livestock under two years of age are more susceptible to pinkeye with the infection spreading more rapidly in confined areas such as feedlots and dairies especially where nuisance flies are present. Elders Nutrition and Animal Health Sales, Kylie Matthewson says young dairy heifers with reduced eyesight as a result of pinkeye struggle to find their way around the paddock to feed and water and often end up running into fences and injuring themselves. “These heifers are the breeding stock for the dairy herd and pinkeye at a young age reduces their potential milk production.” Pinkeye – what is it? Pinkeye (infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis, or IBK) is a bacterial infection of the eye that produces a toxin. The toxin
then attacks the surface of the eye eroding it and causing inflammation and in severe cases, temporary or permanent blindness. Predisposing factors for pinkeye include dusty conditions, flies, bright sunlight or physical irritation from things like long grass or thistles. Major outbreaks of pinkeye are more likely to occur during summer and autumn when flies are prevalent and ultraviolet radiation is high, especially in dairies where cattle are regularly in close contact. This also coincides with the time when mature dry thistles and dusty conditions are more likely. Diagnosis Signs of pinkeye will be familiar to most cattle producers, the first usually being profuse tear secretions running down the animal’s face with reddening of the membranes of the eye. Infected animals often blink frequently or hold the eye partly closed due to increased light sensitivity. A white spot, which identifies the site where an ulcer is forming, then develops in the centre of the eye. Depending on the severity of the infection and whether or not treatment is started, this ulcer may expand and affect the whole eye or remain localised and start to heal. In a dairy situation where cattle are monitored daily, early detection allowing early treatment and prevention for the rest of the herd will reduce the impact on production. Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 38
Prevention Pinkeye is undoubtedly a case where prevention is better than cure. Infections can often take four weeks of treatment before the eye returns to normal, providing the eye isn’t permanently damaged from a severe infection. Coopers Easy-Dose® is a pour-on providing up to three weeks control against most flies and lice on cattle, with no withholding period on milk or meat. Fly prevention combined with a single dose of Coopers Piliguard® vaccine before pinkeye develops can prevent outbreaks that cause costly production losses and require ongoing treatment. Coopers Piliguard vaccine also has a nil withholding period on milk or meat and is best applied 3–6 weeks before the prevalent pinkeye season. Kylie Matthewson says a cooler spring means fly season is likely to come on in a hurry and in high numbers. “The best time to treat livestock is before the weather heats up. The first sign of fly season is when flies are seen around the dairy and sheds and livestock, especially young dairy stock, will benefit from a preventative treatment of Coopers Easy-Dose and Coopers Piliguard.”
More information: For more information on pinkeye preventative and treatment products contact your local Elders store.
Horticulture
A united front helps tackle zebra chip threat Elders is supporting a national effort to protect Australian potato growers from the potentially devastating, zebra chip disease.
A
ustralia’s peak vegetable industry body AUSVEG, is steering a taskforce to help maintain Australia’s zebra chip-free status and to prepare a strategy to minimise the impact if indeed the disease is discovered. The highly-destructive zebra chip disease complex (spread by the tomato-potato psyllid and a relationship with a bacteria called Liberbacter) has wreaked havoc on potato crops in the Americas and New Zealand and is estimated to have caused losses of up to $43 million for New Zealand producers alone during 2008/2009. Though traces of ‘zebra chip’ are yet to be found in Australia, AUSVEG has been on the front foot to ensure Australian growers do not face a similar fate to their New Zealand counterparts. As a founding member of AUSVEG, Elders recognises the importance of taking a united industry approach when it comes to issues such as disease control and supports AUSVEG’s role in bringing stakeholders together. Elders National Manager — Potatoes, Rene de Jong, attended an AUSVEG-convened Zebra Chip Industry Mini-Summit in Melbourne at the end of 2009. “Organisations, such as AUSVEG, enable growers to act as a group rather than
individuals, having a voice so government regulators can consider all sides of the story,” Rene said.
“They ensure communication lines are open and that important industry issues and their ramifications are clearly conveyed.” Rene joined other industry and government representatives at the summit, as well as delegates from Horticulture Australia Limited, Biosecurity Australia and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. AUSVEG Communications and Public Affairs Manager Hugh Tobin, said the resulting zebra chip working group combined the knowledge of disease experts and growers, with the aim of developing innovative zebra chip-management strategies. “The working group includes members from each of the State-based grower organisations, along with experts in exotic plant pests such as Dr Kevin Clayton-Greene, who is Chair of the Technical Advisory Group to the Processed and Fresh Potato Industry Advisory Committees,” he said. Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 39
“AUSVEG has campaigned hard for the Australian Government to think carefully before they allow the importation of fresh potatoes from New Zealand for processing. AUSVEG believes this application if approved would put the industry at serious threat of an incursion. “It is important that the Government fully understands the serious nature of this destructive disease. There is just not a compelling case for putting our potato industry at this unnecessary risk,” Hugh said.
More information: To find out more about zebra chip, growers can access a comprehensive zebra chip factsheet as well as feature articles published in AUSVEG’s Potatoes Australia publication by emailing info@ausveg.com.au The fact sheet provides detailed information on the general symptoms of the disease, how to inspect for psyllids and what to do if an outbreak is discovered.
Calendar
An Elders Magazine
C alendar Glenn McGrath Advantage SA Foundation event (SA) Dec 1 2010
Kangaroo Island Field Day (SA) Feb 23–25 2011
Euroa ‘Black Friday’ Sale (VIC) Dec 3 2010
Glenn McGrath in Burnie, (TAS) Dec 2–3 2010
Hamilton Weaner Sale (VIC) Jan 4, 6 & 13 2011
Casterton Weaner Sale (VIC) Jan 7 & 14 2011
S ubscribe here If you have enjoyed reading Advance, why not subscribe. Subscription is free to Elders clients. To subscribe email advancemagazine@elders.com.au or submit an online form at www.advancemagazine.com.au
The business of farming isn’t always easy. But, like you, that’s the business we’re in. Which is why, in good times and bad, we’ve supported generations of Australian farmers and will continue to do so for future generations. We’re there when you need us.
Advance/Summer 2010/#7/elders.com.au 40
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