Ag Focus 2020 by McPherson Media Group

PUBLICATION

ISSUE 12

2020

BIODYNAMIC FARMERS GO BACK TO BASICS DIGITAL SALES HERE TO STAY INDUSTRY FINDING THE WAY OUT OF COVID-19

NETTING

REWARDS

How a simple idea is reaping benefits for fruit growers

Trent Berryman Leo Dullard Bruce Watson

0418 632 096, 0428 886 086, 0407 433 504

Supporting our primary producers

Shepparton District and the broader Goulburn Valley is often described as the ‘food bowl of the nation’. We are a powerhouse of irrigated dairy, agriculture and horticulture and a major centre for food-processing.

Access to irrigation water

Murray Darling Basin

Renewable energy

Primary production has and will continue to be a vital economic driver for our state and national economy. Access to irrigation water is critical to ensure a thriving and innovative regional economy. I have been fighting to ensure that no more irrigation water leaves the consumptive pool.

Water continues to be a primary focus of my advocacy. Our community has felt the socio-economic hardships as a result of the MDBP. As your local member and co-chair of the GMID Water Leadership Forum I have been advocating the views of our irrigators and farming families to all levels of government.

Renewable energy is crucial to transitioning to a more sustainable and energy efficient future. I’ve advocated for investment in our region’s energy infrastructure while also preserving our prime agricultural land for irrigated farming.

Suzanna Sheed MP

INDEPENDENT MEMBER FOR SHEPPARTON DISTRICT

Phone: (03) 5831 6944 www.suzannasheed.com.au

@SheedSuzanna

@SuzannaSheed

Funded from Parliamentary Budget. Authorised by: Suzanna Sheed, 5 Vaughan St, Shepparton VIC 3630.

22 18

32 38

Cover photograph: The daysThompson Geoffrey of ladders,Orchard bags and tractors have general orchard come manager to an end Brent at Ardmona’s Reeve and Plunkett Clinton Prygoda Orchards, with a new survey the netting machine at improving the efficiency and company’s Coomboona safety. orchard Photo: Rodney Megan Fisher Photo: Braithwaite Page: 14-15 12-13

Editor Geoff Adams Alana Christensen Editorial co-ordinator Writers Rodney Woods Sophie WritersBaldwin Jamie Salter Geoff Adams Andrew Mole Rodney Woods Alana Christensen Photographers Rodney Braithwaite Photographers Megan Fisher Sub-editors Rodney Braithwaite Sandy Lloyd

Sub-editors Thomas Moir Sandy Lloyd Advertising Wendy Russell Ashton Still Advertising Karen Chatterton Ashton Still Advertising support Karen Chatterton Rhiannon Nicholas Advertising support Graphic Rhiannonartists Nicholas Kirsten Gleeson Jacqui Maskell

ENVIRONMENT

VITICULTURE

MARKETS

Turning trash into treasure............. 6

Harnessing the power of the sun…...............................................................18

Outlook strong for agriculture .........................................................................30

WATER

REAL ESTATE

Novel idea delivers water security…....................................................20

Online clearing sales here to stay .........................................................................36

Making every drop count................21

Farm values continue to rise.......37

Growers are netting the benefits….....................................................12

LIVESTOCK

MAN’S BEST FRIEND

From a web developer to a blueberry farm owner.......................14

Delivering performance results. .........................................................................25

Best of Man’s Best Friend.............. 38

TECHNOLOGY

MACHINERY

App connecting farmers and backpackers…...........................................15

Tax incentive boosts sales............. 27

HORTICULTURE Pomegranates find home at SPC............................................................. 8 Dynamic producers go back to basics......................................................10

DAIRY Editorial: (03) 5820 3229 Advertising: (03) 5820 3187

Reinventing a farming enterprise...................................................16

CROPPING New tech brings insights............... 41

New baler tech on the way........... 27

NEWS

Productivity focus of new sprayer.............................................28

Fruit fly project continues to protect industry.................................. 42

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ENVIRONMENT

KYABRAM BUSINESS IS NO RPM Pipes owner Terry Kay.

erry Kay and his family have a dream. Not just any dream, either. Theirs is a pipe dream — and on a grand scale. And all they want is for everyone who comes across their pipe dream to bury it.

The Kyabram business, RPM Pipes, started when Terry’s father Chris had an idea to make large bore diameter agricultural drainage pipes from recycled plastic scrap — something no-one else had done. Chris already had a reputation for engineering innovation in the irrigation business as the man behind the bay plugger. “Dad knew nothing about plastic when we started, but did know it was a resource going to waste; this was at a time when kerbside collection of recycling had just begun,” Terry said. But like all big ideas it started off seriously small. “Dad sat at the kitchen table, with a pair of scissors and a plastic milk bottle, he cut it into strips and then cut those into flakes and started experimenting on turning them into something that could, and would, replace traditional concrete and new plastic piping, such as poly,” Terry recalled.

AGFOCUS 2020

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ENVIRONMENT “Once he got a better idea of how this could be transformed into a commercial product, he realised there was no machinery to do the job; that meant developing and building the infrastructure we needed ourselves, with the help of many people along the way.” Chris didn’t waste any time either — he started work on the project in 1996 and was selling his first pipes (11-inch and 15-inch) in late 1997. “In the early days of development we had some unusual outcomes once or twice over the years,” Terry conceded. “We trialled a product made with baling twine but after a short time in the cooker it simply melted into something of a technicolour soup so we put that one down to experience. “Then there was the one we did with recycled chemical drums — there’s plenty of those reclaimed from farms. All we ended up with were plastic lined steel tubes because we couldn’t get the plastic out of the moulds.” But those outcomes have been few and far between. Now the company’s pipes can be used for everything from culverts and flood irrigation, to drainage or pipelines. And they’re looking to continue to grow their business by engaging local councils. “Our raw material is kerbside plastic

and we source it through companies like Veolia in Echuca, so it would be great to show the local community that their recycled plastic has been recycled and used by their local council to show how the circular economy can work,” Terry said. To make itself even more accessible to jobs of all shapes and sizes, RPM today makes pipes in a range of sizes from 315 mm to 630 mm in 6 m lengths — and is now working on a range of smaller diameter pipes. Whatever the size, there is no missing an RPM pipe when it is delivered — it’s like looking at a kaleidoscope because whatever colour plastic goes into the mix remains through the whole process, making Terry’s pipes look like psychedelic quilts. The product Terry sells today is the result of 22 years of experimentation, hard work and determination by two generations of the Kay family — with the invaluable input of engineers, partners and staff. “We are proud of what we have achieved to date and by delivering the more complete all-Australian product — from performance specifications to longevity — and all with an unparalleled environmental impact,” Terry said. “We know we have a great future.” Pictures: Steve Huntley

RPM Pipes in Kyabram uses recycled plastic to make a range of pipes.

The final product is a kaleidoscope of colours due to the recycled materials.

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HORTICULTURE

ANCIENT FRUIT FINDS A NEW HOME Shane Hall and his family have been leading the way in the region with their pomegranates.

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HORTICULTURE

ustralia is still a newcomer to the commercial pomegranate market, despite a recent worldwide spike in demand for the ancient super-fruit once prized by Roman emperors and Egyptian pharaohs.

The Hall family in Toolamba, near Shepparton, was one of the first Australian fruit growers to dip a toe into the market 15 years ago, when pomegranates were still considered a backyard fruit tree with no commercial potential. Shane Hall said after years of dealing with Israeli growers on irrigation matters, the family became convinced there was an opportunity to produce pomegranates in Australia. In 2005 the Halls formed a company, Australian Pomegranate Growers, with Melbourne-based shareholders and three years later took the plunge into commercial production. “We had no knowledge at all. We’ve gone from absolute zilch knowledge to knowing about as much as anyone in Australia about growing pomegranates now,” Mr Hall said. The business was recently acquired by SPC as part of a $3 million push into the pomegranate market. SPC chief executive Robert Giles described the purchase as “the first of quite a few acquisitions in the coming future” and would accelerate the growth of SPC. Australian Pomegranate Growers is now the largest pomegranate producer in Australia, with 80 000 trees at Coomboona near Shepparton producing about 1500 tonnes going to restaurants, supermarkets and general markets up the eastern seaboard of Australia. However, the growth curve has not been without its challenges. “It doesn’t grow like a tree, it’s more of a bush. As much as you try to manipulate it to get it do what you want, it seems to do its own thing,” Mr Hall said. “It can get fruit fly, and the fruit is

difficult to handle too. When you harvest it can crack, and after harvest it doesn’t keep too long. “It can also flower very late — the frosts here can burn the green tissue so the flowers come late and you don’t get the growing time to get the size. There’s a few challenges.” Mr Hall also said a mysterious disease had emerged over the past decade, which sees trees yellow and die — sometimes with devastating impact for Australian pomegranate crops. "It’s wiped out a lot of crops and it’s been very difficult to put our finger on the cause of it. "We have been affected, but not to the same extent as other areas. "We think maybe the climate in this area is protecting us. We’re not sure why, but it seems where it’s hotter they’ve had worse results." Mr Hall said visiting scientists had seen it elsewhere in the world but not to the same extent as in Australia. "It’s a very strange phenomenon. It’s a tough tree, but there’s something about it that also makes it fragile.” Although the disease is so far unnamed and inexplicable, he has his own theory of the cause. “Sometimes in commercial production you fertilise, you irrigate and you prune and all that attention I think at times makes the tree more vulnerable. “When it’s sitting out there on roadsides just growing away, it’ll grow for years and nothing will happen to it. “It’s not a standard fruit. It’s an interesting plant and it’s got us in a bit — there’s a bit of romance about the whole thing.” Mr Giles said pomegranates had a well-established market internationally, including the Middle East, India and the United States. “It’s a super-food, so people are looking for those products that are better for you,” he said. Mr Giles said SPC expected to see pomegranate products become more mainstream, anticipating it would become the new super-food — just as

The Halls first began growing pomegranates in 2005.

the avocado was in the late 1960s to early 1970s. He said the company would expand its fruit portfolio to include a range of new pomegranate-based products. Australian Pomegranate Growers chief executive Gal Shapir said he was proud to have played a part in introducing the Australian community to the benefits of pomegranates.

“The PomLife brand has found a new home at SPC where it can thrive and reach new heights,” he said. “APG will continue to develop our orchard and support the iconic SPC business in their future endeavours in the pomegranate space and beyond.” APG will continue to own the orchard and sell fresh fruit, with SPC purchasing the off-grade produce for processing.

SPC plans to release a range of pomegranate-based products.

The Halls’ company Australian Pomegranate Growers was recently purchased by SPC and Shane Hall hopes it will see consumer demand for pomegranates grow.

SPC will now process pomegranates, after acquiring super-food brand PomLife.

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HORTICULTURE

BIODYNAMIC ORCHARDISTS

fruits of their labour

Adrian and Valda Martin on the Ruffy property.

arming is in their blood, but Adrian and Valda Martin’s life on the land began some 150 km from the biodynamic Ruffy orchard they now call home. They were both born into families of orchardists and fruit growers in East Melbourne but when they married in 1960 the suburbs had caught up with their families’ properties. The newlyweds moved further out to Wantirna South, cleared a block of land and began growing flowers and peaches. But in 1972 the Melbourne Metropolitan Board of Works came for their land and eventually it would become the bushland that traverses Eastlink. Mr Martin had always been interested in broadacre farming so they traded their lives as flower farmers for jobs at a property called Strathearn in the Strathbogie Ranges. By 1974 they had accepted an offer for their former flower farm and when the money came through the couple bought what would become Mill Spring Farm. The Martins had grown concerned about the use of chemicals. “When we moved the men were dying because after World War II the salesmen came around said ‘you can’t grow your orchard without this pesticide or this’ and the men down the road were all dying of cancer,” Mrs Martin said. “So we decided we weren’t going to use any chemicals.” Their remote land in the Ruffy tablelands happened to be the ideal location to build a biodynamic farm. They cleared the bush themselves and Mr Martin said knowing the land’s history helped achieve their Demeter certification. “It only took two years because we knew the story of the paddocks, it can take you three or four years in most places,” Mr Martin said. “The audits every year are very strict but once you’ve got that it shows people what they’re getting is what they’re getting.” For Mr Martin, biodynamic farming is like going back to basics. “It’s sort of farming exactly the way that it was farmed back before the First World War,” he said. “When the peasants farmed, say in Germany or the Ukraine, they did it very basically without chemicals. The fertilisers they used were more or less what came out of their pig pens.” While they initially ran sheep and grew oats, the Martins missed their orchard and began planting in 1992. “We planted peaches, cherries and nectarines. The cherries are still there 28 years later,” Mr Martin said.

HORTICULTURE

Adrian Martin inspects the olives at Mill Spring Farm, a biodynamic orchard in the Strathbogie Ranges.

“Our main things have been cherries, peaches, apples, plums and quinces.” Just 400 m down the road from the farmhouse, what started as two blocks of fruit is now five. “We pick it pretty close after being ripe because it’s all hand-packed and it’s gone to market,” he said. “What we pick say on Sunday, can be in the shop in Melbourne 8 o’clock the next morning and that’s when fruit’s good, it’s that last three days as it ripens.” They added olive groves to the property in 2000 and now produce olive oil in a private press at little orchard just 8 km away. The sheep are still there but Mr Martin said they had

struck the perfect balance, with 150 first-cross ewes. “We don’t own a drench gun,” he said. “For 10 or 12 years we haven’t drenched the sheep because the biodynamic pasture doesn’t ever look like any other pasture, it’s shorter, it is of better quality. “We’re not putting a lot into growing that grass, except for the Biodynamic 500, which we spray twice a year.” Mr Martin said that soil activator was the difference between the biodynamic and organic. “It starts its life off as fresh cow manure, no more than eight hours old; that fresh cow manure is put into cows’

horns and it is put in a pit then you sprinkle dirt over. “Five months later it comes out as rich, living black soil with 500 000 microbes in it.” While Mr Martin said some call it witchcraft, he believed the living organism was the key to success. He said you can taste the difference in the flavour of the fruit. Now in their 80s, the Martins have created a selfcontained enterprise and can enjoy the fruits of their labour, with most of Mill Spring Farm’s fruit sold at the Epping Fruit Market while the lambs are sold to a biodynamic butcher in East Gippsland.

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HORTICULTURE

Geoffrey Thompson Orchard’s Clinton Prygoda and Brent Reeve examine the new netting.

IS NETTING REWARDS S

hepparton company Geoffrey Thompson Orchards will use the services of Queensland company NetPro once again, this time to cover 35 ha of apple trees at its Coomboona orchard. Geoffrey Thompson Orchards general orchard manager Brent Reeve said the business had partnered with NetPro for nearly two decades. “We’ve worked with NetPro for 18 years now,” he said. “We decided to get the first netting after a significant hail storm turned everything to juice on our Zeerust property. “Two years after that hail event, we installed the netting on a 100 acre (40.5 ha) block.

AGFOCUS 2020

“Now we’ve got 265 ha (out of 850 ha) netted at the moment across a few farms covering apples, pears and some stone fruit.” Mr Reeve said the netting had many benefits including its ability to save the company on irrigation. “It (the netting) definitely helps prevent sunburn, helps with moisture loss, it results in 30 per cent water savings, it improves the skin finish of the fruit and improves quality,” he said. “It allows us to secure our crop and also to prevent against hail damage and birds.” Despite admitting the benefit of water savings was “huge”, Mr Reeves said the other benefits were equally important. “If you get a hail event, then you’ve protected the

whole crop and that becomes huge too.” Lindsay Adams, who works in horticultural sales at NetPro, said it was important to reduce the risks of sunburn, hail and bird damage due to the supermarkets’ demands. “There were issues around sunburn in the last few seasons and a lot of fruit was rejected because supermarkets want first class,” Mr Adams said. “The netting is a 12- to 15-year project and the structures can even last beyond that.” While orchardists are the primary clients in the Goulburn Valley, NetPro also provides protective canopies for feedlots and commercial car storage areas across the country, New Zealand and the United States.

HORTICULTURE

A total of 265 ha out of the 850 ha orchard is now covered by netting.

The netting is secured by large timber posts at each end of the line.

NETTING PROGRAM DELAYED The guidelines for the Federal Government’s netting program, which allowed growers to install new netting or replace damaged netting, has been pushed back due to the impacts of bushfires, a change in Federal Agriculture Minister and now COVID-19, according to Apple and Pear Australia. “Under the original proposal, 50:50 grants of up to $300 000 were going to be made available for eligible growers, however, there is the potential that this amount may be reviewed,” an APAL spokesperson said. “APAL has been in regular contact with the Federal Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud and his office regarding the implementation

Geoffrey Thompson Orchard general orchard manager Brent Reeve, pictured with Clinton Prygoda (right), said the netting had delivered a number of benefits.

of the program. “At a recent meeting in Canberra, the minister advised that the government is still progressing the program but wanted to ensure that it was more equitably distributed across the country. “Originally, there were inconsistencies in the amounts allocated across the states. “It is still understood South Australia will receive a proportionally larger amount in response to recent hailstorms, as well as the program covering other sectors other than apples and pears. “We are hopeful that an announcement will be made shortly.”

AGFOCUS 2020

HORTICULTURE

to a thriving business

ina Meiers’ life changed forever when she and her husband Andrew packed up and moved from the city to a property in Barjarg.

Mr Meiers was sick and tired of sitting in traffic for hours on end as a tradesman, and decided to become a farmer. The land they bought had never been farmed before, and had no power and water — but the couple was determined to turn it into a blueberry farm. Four years on, Bimbimbi Farm is now a thriving business. Mr Meiers’ family were passionfruit growers in

Queensland, but the couple was unprepared for the volatile climate of Barjarg, near Mansfield. “The wind here is so harsh with no tree breaks, we now have one greenhouse and we will be getting more to modify how we grow blueberries,” Mrs Meiers said. The couple lost 3000 blueberry plants from frost three years ago, but this year hopes to grow 5000 plants in grow-bags in the greenhouse and in the field. While the initial plan was to be blueberry farmers, strawberries are grown while the blueberry plants mature to commercial quantities.

Bimbimbi Farm owners Andrew and Nina Meiers on theair Barjarg property.

The strawberries have been a hit, thanks to a no-waste approach, with less perfect strawberries being sold as ‘Organic Uglies’ — which are sought after by locals and are big sellers at the farmers’ markets they attend. The business is now in the final year of organic certification and Mrs Meiers said her advice for farmers starting out was to apply as soon as possible. At 60 years old, and having been a web developer since 1996, Mrs Meiers has abandoned thoughts of retirement and aims to continuously adapt how she grows her produce. She believes there is a clear disconnect between farmers and

the public, with much less money being spent on fresh food in Australia compared to other countries. “When people have a lack of understanding of farming methods and how hard it is, they want to buy cheap food, rather than buy from a local greengrocer and support local business,” she said. Discussing farming, food and health, and wrapping up with talks about technology, Mrs Meiers will host her ‘Farm Food Health’ radio show on 99.7FM from July, on Thursdays between 6 pm and 8 pm.

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TECHNOLOGY

APP CONNECTS

JOB SEEKERS AND FARMERS A

new app to help connect farmers with job seekers has now opened up to all of Australia.

Robinvale’s David Fevaleaki designed the free app, called Backpicker, to create a quicker and easier way to fill positions on farms. Mr Fevaleaki said the app was created to ease the difficulties for business owners bringing in seasonal workers, and said the Pacific Islands Program was not a sufficient long-term solution. “We want to connect job seekers with employers, so they don’t have to travel into areas where there’s no work,” Mr Fevaleaki said. He said there was often a disconnect between where farm workers travelled

to find jobs and where work was available. “On the app, jobs are posted by the business owner with a description and they can request a video from the applicant asking why they want the position. “When the job seeker registers, they enter their experience; and in the next couple of updates, job seekers will be able to request endorsements from previous employers.” Backpicker has 5000 registered job seekers and 150 business owners — including direct employers and labour hire companies — which Mr Fevaleaki said he also wanted to connect with one another.The Backpicker app has registered

Backpicker app designer David Fevaleaki of Robinvale said the app was a quick and easy way to fill job vacancies on farms

businesses in every state but the majority are located in Victoria. Mr Fevaleaki developed the idea for Backpicker after meeting a travelling farm worker while he was employed all across Australia. As a first-generation Australian, Mr Fevaleaki was also inspired by his parents — migrants from Tonga who spent 26 years picking grapes. Backpicker co-founder Ofir Kuberman is a student from Israel, who has worked as a software developer for about 10 years.

The pair has been working together for about eight months and met through a global accelerator program — the Founder Institute — a program originally based in Silicon Valley in the United States. Mr Fevaleaki said the focus for the app in future was to listen to business owners in order to add value to the app. “For the whole thing to work, we need business owners to jump on board and give feedback, we want to provide them a voice and give them what they really need,” he said.

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DAIRY

SOAP-MAKING HELPS BUSINESS

adapt

Sarah Mostyn and Gloria the goat

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DAIRY

f farming has taught Sarah Mostyn anything over the years, it is to be flexible. Her business has weathered some pretty serious times, including drought, high water prices and COVID-19 and she has reimagined herself throughout it all; and Windella Farm remains standing. When Sarah and her husband Shayne moved to their current home, a small farm on the outskirts of Cohuna, they were open to whatever opportunities presented themselves — she had no idea the opportunity would initially come in the form of goats and then lead into soap making. “It really has been a massive six years and the only thing I can take home from it all is none of this was ever in the original plan, not even buying a farm. We were just a couple of crazy tree changers,” Sarah said. They decided to move into goat farming because there was demand for milking goats and felt they were a good, drought-tolerant animal to farm in northern Victoria. “Initially we were going to sell young

goats as milkers,” Sarah said. They started out with 18 goats and a buck and it didn’t take long before Sarah began receiving requests to make soap from friends suffering from skin conditions like psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and dry skin. After a lot of research, Sarah began dabbling in making a few soaps and was amazed at how well they took off. In the meantime, they continued to build up goat numbers and it wasn’t until numbers built up to around 80 that they felt comfortable enough to start selling a few. “It took us two years to build up stock numbers and we probably had two seasons of selling and then the drought and high water prices kicked in,” she said. The couple made the decision to partially destock and focus on the product line but after another hard year with even higher water and hay prices, they decided to destock even further. “We had to take the emotion out and make a sensible business decision and while it wasn’t an easy one to make, we had to do it,” Sarah said.

Today they are down to 12 does and two bucks but the Windella product line, which includes luxury handmade soaps and bath and body products, is thriving. But it has been a lot of hard work to get the business to where it is today. “In November last year I made the tough decision to leave my full-time accounting job to put more time into the business — I do a little bit of part time farm work to keep some wages coming but essentially my focus now is on the Windella line,” she said. Sarah said staying employed and keeping money coming in had been an essential part of her success to date. “A lot of business fails around 3–5 years and I think that could be because people quit their jobs well before their business can sustain itself. It is hard work and I am pretty impatient, but I have had to learn to keep an open mind and take each opportunity when it has presented because there is always bills and the mortgage to pay,” she said. She also said business success wasn’t necessarily about having a huge product line, but rather focusing on what you can do and doing it well. “I produce a range of natural handmade goat milk and other soaps along with other certified Australianmade bath, body and skincare products promoting the philosophy natural is best and we don’t test on animals,”

Sarah said. It was a dream come true when the upmarket retail store Gewurzhaus began stocking her soaps. “They have been selling my soaps for a year now and when I walked into their shop for the first time and saw our product line on the shelf, I just thought to myself, wow we have finally made it.” She is hoping to further develop the wholesale side of her business in the future. Her goal for 2020 was to get Windella into the high-end market and farming events around the country Sarah had invested $3500 in a custom fit-out for her market stall and then COVID-19 hit, meaning she has had to refocus yet again. “With the markets all cancelled I had a pretty anxious period. Markets allow me to meet new customers and with that aspect now gone, I have had to up my social media presence which includes sharing our farm life and not just selling soap.” Sarah also said COVID-19 had given her some much-needed sleepins on the weekend and a chance to focus on the next stage of the business — building Windella Farm its own purpose built space.

Your calf’s of good health. Yourcalf’s calf’s Your Your calf’s Your calf’s ofgood good health. of of good health. Your calf’shealth.

Pictures: Shayne Mostyn Photography

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PLASTIC SHELL IMPACT RESISTANT (mm)• Reduced (mm) (mm) (mm) teat-to-teat MILKRITE A Bcontamination C optimise liner • Reduced in atotriangular shape A Bcontamination C removal D PLASTIC SHELL •teat-to-teat More efficient milk • Exceptional cow comfort Internally mouldedMILKRITE REFERENCE (mm) (mm) (mm) PLASTICtoSHELL REFERENCE (mm) (mm) (mm) Liner Range optimise liner performance • (mm) More IP10-AIR 312.3 efficient 22.5milk removal 9 57.9 Internally moulded in a triangular shape • More efficient milkteat removal Internallyperformance moulded • Exceptional cow comfort • Improves condition 312.3 22.5 9 57.9 in a IP10-AIR triangular shape Liner Range optimise liner RESISTANT in a triangulartoshape IMPACT • Exceptional cow comfort IP10-01-AIR 287 22.5 9 58.5 • Exceptional cow comfort Liner Range to optimise liner • 287Reduced teat-to-teat contamination performance Liner Range •IP10-AIR Improves teat IP10-01-AIR 22.5 9 • Reduced slips and kick-offs MILKRITE B58.5 C to optimise liner 312.3condition 22.5 A 9 57.9 performance

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COVID-19 may have prevented Sarah from attending markets across the state, but when they return, she has her new set-up ready to go.

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Narrow Bore Liner Range Impulse 300 Claw 1144 03 5862 Narrow Bore Liner Range Narrow Bore Range shellsLiner and weights. Narrow Bore Liner Range 03 1144 Cnr 5862 Nelson/Orchard Sts, Numurkah, VIC, 1144 3636. Narrow Bore Liner Narrow BoreRange Liner Range 03 5862 03 5862 1144 sales@ndservices.com.au Cnr E: Nelson/Orchard Sts, Numurkah, VIC, 3636. | www.ndservices.com.au Narrow Bore Liner Range

58.5 58.5 58.5 58.5 55.6 55.6 58.5 58.5 58.5

58.5 55.6 IP20-AIR 278.4 21.1 55.6 IP20-AIR 278.4 278.4 21.1 10278.4 55.621.1 55.6 IP23-AIR 21.1 1510 55.6 278.4 21.1 15 55.6 IP20-AIR 278.410 21.1 10 IP20-AIR 278.4 IP23-AIR 21.1 IP23-AIR 55.6 IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 15 22.5 55.6 IP12-AIR 302 N/A 8 15 12.555.6 58.5 303.5 58.5 IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 55.622.5 IP23-AIR 21.1 IP13-AIR 15 IP20-AIR 15255.6 278.4 55.6 IP25-AIR 278.4 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.621.1 21.1 55.6 IP14-AIR 22.5 N/A15 10 58.5 IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 N/A 55.6 IP20-AIR IP15-AIR 278.4 21.1 10 IP23-AIR 278.4 55.6 320 10N/A IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 15 22.5 55.6 55.6 IP20-AIR 278.415 21.1 10 N/A 55.6 58.5 IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 15137.2 55.621.1 IP24-AIR 21.1 N/A 55.6 IP20-AIR 278.4 21.1 137.2 10 55.6 IP23-AIR 278.4 IP24-AIR 21.1 IP24-AIR 55.6 137.2 21.1 55.6 IP24-AIR 21.1 N/A 55.6 IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.621.1 IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 15 IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 137.2IP20-AIR N/A 55.6 IP13-AIR 303.5 22.5 278.4 55.6 55.6 22.5 58.5 IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 12.510 N/A 1555.6 58.5 IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 IP14-AIR 10.1 55.6152 THE IP20 RANGE ISIP23-AIR ONLY AVAILABLE WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. IP20-AIR 278.4 21.1 10 55.6 IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 N/A 55.6 278.4 21.1 15 55.6 IP15-AIR 320 22.5 10 58.5 IP20-AIR 278.4 1010.1 55.6 55.6 IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 N/A 21.1 55.6 IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 N/A278.4 55.621.1 IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.6 IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 come 15 Products featured in packs of 4 55.6 IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 IP25-AIR N/A 55.6 IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 15 55.6 IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.6 MILKRITE IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.6 IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.6 IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 55.6 55.6 THE IP20 RANGE ISIP24-AIR ONLY WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 N/A15 10 N/A 137.2 21.1 N/A 55.6 58.5 IP14-AIR 152 DESCRIPTION IP15-AIR Impulse AirONLY liners can only beAVAILABLE usedMOUTHPIECE in conjunction with Impulse 22.5 THE IP20 RANGE IS AVAILABLE WITH VENT. IP25-AIR 278.4 55.6 58.5 IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 15 22.5 55.6 IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 320 N/A 21.1 55.6 10.1 REFERENCE Products featured come in packs of 4MOUTHPIECE IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 N/A 55.6 IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.6 MOUTHPIECE IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 RANGE 10.1 55.6 IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 21.1 55.6 THE IP20 IS ONLY AVAILABLE WITH VENT. IP20-AIR 278.4 21.1 10 55.6 55.6 IP23-AIR 278.4 15 THE IP20 RANGE IS ONLY AVAILABLE WITH VENT. MILKRITE shells and weights. Impulse Air liners can only be used in conjunction with Impulse THE IP20 IS ONLY AVAILABLE WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 N/A N/A 10.1 IP25-AIR 21.1 THE IP20 RANGE ISconjunction ONLY AVAILABLE WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1278.4 55.6 55.6 55.6 DESCRIPTION Impulse AirRANGE liners can only be used in with Impulse THE IP20 RANGE IS ONLY AVAILABLE WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. MILKRITE IP15-AIR 320 22.5 10 Products featured come in packs of 4 used IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.6 58.5 THE IP20 RANGE IS ONLY AVAILABLE WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 N/A 55.6 IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.6 REFERENCE DESCRIPTION Impulse AirMOUTHPIECE liners can only be in conjunction with Impulse IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.6 Stainlessshells Impact resistant shells and weights. MILKRITE Impulse liners can only beWITH used in conjunction with Impulse THE RANGE ISAir ONLY AVAILABLE VENT. THE IP20 RANGE ISIP23-AIR ONLY AVAILABLE WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. THE RANGE ONLY WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. and weights. REFERENCE Impulse AirIP20 liners canIP20 only used inISconjunction with Impulse 278.4 21.1 15 MOUTHPIECE 55.6 VENT. IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 N/A 55.6 DESCRIPTION IP25-AIR Impulse Airbe liners can only beAVAILABLE used in conjunction with278.4 Impulse 21.1 10.1 55.6 THE IP20 RANGE IS ONLY AVAILABLE WITH shells and weights. IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.6 REFERENCE Impulse Air liners can only be used in conjunction with Impulse Impulse Air liners can only be used in conjunction with Impulse plastic weight andIP20 weights. IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 55.6 steel weight Products featured come inwith packs of 4WITH MOUTHPIECE shells and RANGE weights. RANGE ISconjunction ONLY AVAILABLE VENT. Airshells liners can only be used inWITH Impulse THE Impulse IP20 ISTHE ONLY AVAILABLE MOUTHPIECE VENT.

03 Cnr 5862 1144 Nelson/Orchard Sts, Numurkah, VIC, 3636. E: sales@ndservices.com.au www.ndservices.com.au

Cnr Nelson/Orchard Sts, Numurkah, VIC, 3636. E: sales@ndservices.com.au | www.ndservices.com.au| www.ndservices.com.au E: sales@ndservices.com.au

| Cnr Nelson/Orchard Numurkah, VIC, 3636. Narrow Bore Liner Range Impulse Sts, 300 Claw E: sales@ndservices.com.au SPECIFICATIONS: | www.ndservices.com.au Narrow Liner Range Impulse Airand liners can only used in conjunction with Impulse shells weights. Claw Types THE IP20 RANGE ISbeBore ONLY WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. Impulse Air liners can be only used inAVAILABLE conjunction with Impulse shells and weights. IP20-AIR 278.4 Impulse Air liners can only be used21.1 in conjunction 10 with Impulse SPECIFICATIONS:

SPECIFICATIONS:

03 SPECIFICATIONS: 5862 1144 A

Total Length

Claw Types

TotalDiameter Length B A Orifice Cnr Nelson/Orchard Sts, Numurkah, VIC, 3636. SPECIFICATIONS:

Orifice Diameter

Narrow Bore Liner Range

THE IP20 RANGE IS 278.4 ONLY AVAILABLE WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. shells and weights. IP24-AIR 137.2 21.1 21.1 N/A 10.1 55.6 55.6 IP25-AIR 55.6 shells and shells weights. and weights. andIP20 weights. MILKRITE Impulse Airshells liners can only be used inISconjunction withused Impulse Impulse Air liners canISonly be inWITH conjunction withMOUTHPIECE Impulse THE IP20 RANGE ONLY AVAILABLE MOUTHPIECE VENT. THE RANGE ONLY AVAILABLE WITH VENT. shells and weights. DESCRIPTION IP20-AIR 278.4 21.1 10 55.6 Impulse Air liners can only used conjunction with Impulse Impulse Airbe liners can in only be used in conjunction with Impulse IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 shells and weights. shells and REFERENCE weights. Fits claws with 13mm OD nipples IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 10.1 15 55.6 55.6 THE IS weights. ONLY AVAILABLE WITH MOUTHPIECE Impulse Air liners canRANGE only beonly used in conjunction with Impulse IP10 shells and shells and weights. IP20-AIR 278.4 21.1 Impulse AirIP20 liners can be used with Impulse15 10VENT.55.6 55.6 with square cut in conjunction IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 Fits claws with 13mm OD nipples shells and weights. IP24-AIR 137.2 Fits claws with 21.1 N/A 55.6 IP10 with 13mmwith OD nipples MILKRITE shells and RANGE weights. Impulse Airsquare liners can only be used conjunction Impulse THE IP20 IScut ONLY AVAILABLE WITH MOUTHPIECE VENT. IP20-AIR 278.4in 10 55.6 55.6 DESCRIPTION IP10 IP23-AIR 278.4 15 with21.1 square21.1 cut Fits claws with 13mm 137.2 OD nipples IP24-AIR 21.1 N/A 55.6 MILKRITE REFERENCE MILKRITE shells weights. IP25-AIR 278.4 21.1 55.6 IP10and DESCRIPTION Fits claws with 13mm OD nipples DESCRIPTION with square REFERENCE MILKRITE Air liners can only be used incut conjunction with 21.1 Impulse10.1 REFERENCE MILKRITE Impulse IP23-AIR 278.4 21.1 15 N/A 55.6 55.6 IP24-AIR 137.2 DESCRIPTION MILKRITE IP10-01 with square cut. This is a shorter Fits claws with 13mm OD nipples DESCRIPTION

Claw Types AGFOCUS 2020 17 Claw Types Bore Liner Range Narrow

Claw Types

VITICULTURE

Make some Shiraz Wine not

MAKE SOME SHIRAZ Tracie and Peter Young run Silver Spoon Estate in Heathcote – an off-grid winery and cellar door.

pproaching retirement, Tracie and Peter Young were looking for some small acreage to grow a few grape vines and make a bit of wine.

They never dreamt they would end up with a slightly larger enterprise and the birth of Silver Spoon Estate. “We just wanted around 10 acres and a lifestyle,” Peter said, jokingly. “And we both love wine, had travelled a lot and were fit and healthy,” Tracie added. As these things go, the four hectare property soon morphed into 40 ha, with just 0.4 ha of Shiraz vines, and then in 2013 the opportunity to purchase a neighbouring property of 60 ha with 20 ha of vines was added to the estate. According to Peter, the couple are now living the dream — providing you don’t mind long hours and a bit of hard work. “There are only so many coffees you can sit and drink in Camberwell in your retirement, our lifestyle certainly keeps us fit, healthy and motivated,” Peter said. Located on the slopes of the Mount Camel ridge line near Heathcote in

AGFOCUS 2020

northern Victoria, Silver Spoon Estate specialises in growing Rhone Valley and Spanish grape varieties. Around 80 per cent of the planting is Shiraz with the remaining area planted to Viognier, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Tempranillo. The plantings are segregated into four vineyards situated on the east and west sides of the Mount Camel range. The hilltop vineyard is located at 320 m altitude and is one of the highest vineyards in the region. The vines are all hand-pruned, the grapes hand-picked, and the wine is made using traditional techniques. “We have very low chemical use within the vineyards and winery. “Our grapes are processed in small batches during fermentation and aging on-site in the winery, and then blended just prior to bottling. “Prior to the 2019 vintage around half of the harvested grapes were sold to other winemakers in Heathcote and throughout Victoria, with the remainder retained for production in the winery. Our grapes are highly sought-after and form the basis of a number of medal-winning wines,” Peter said.

wine not

“Since 2019 we have kept all the grapes for our own production of wines and been exporting to China”. Interestingly, the vines are grown without the aid of irrigation, something the couple attribute to the deep rocky Cambrian soils that preserve moisture and encourage deep root penetration. “We are very proud of our dry vineyard. It is 100 per cent sustainable and even though we do have lower yields, the quality of our fruit is very high which creates some pretty intense profiles in our wines,” Tracie said. The couple are currently in the process of mulching 50 per cent of one of the vineyards with 20 mm white river pebble gravel as part of a moisture retention trial. At their cellar door, Peter and Tracie created a working ornamental wine garden, planting 250 vines (50 of each grape variety grown over the hill in their larger vineyards) and mulched these vines in 2017. The success of this smaller scaled moisture retention project harvested 600 kg of grapes from these 250 vines in a 2020 vintage. The other aspect the couple is proud

of is that the entire estate operates 100 per cent off-grid. In 2008, the couple were quoted $80 000 to deliver power from the closest power pole 1.2 km away. They then faced additional costs to get power delivered up the hill to the cellar door site 1 km from the road. “The cost of installing the solar system was less than connecting to the grid which was a no-brainer for us really. The only ongoing cost we have is a bit of petrol for the back-up 12-volt generator which would be no more than $20 a month,” Peter said. The winery, cellar door and house are all now powered by the 17 kW solar panel system with lithium iron battery storage. The system produces enough solar energy to run the destemmer, pumps, basket press, high-pressure water hose and other equipment. “Our house runs like everyone else’s; we just did our homework to ensure we installed low energy use appliances, we have a dishwasher, drier and all the mod-cons, we just don’t have the power bill to go with it,” she said. The couple have no complaints about

VITICULTURE the new solar system; in fact it is more reliable than their old mainstream power. Farming in an environmentally conscious manner has always been an important aspect of Tracie and Peter’s business philosophy. “We have a duty of care for future generations to leave the land better than we found it. We live in a beautiful part of the country with rolling hills and trees over 400 years old. We have indigenous sites on our land and the sustainability program we have in place will ensure it will all be here for the next generation,” Tracie said. The couple also work in conjunction with their next-door neighbour, who runs sheep on their property. “We have 750 lawnmowers on our property and a program where our pastures are constantly rotated to help protect the soil and keep the countryside preserved and regenerating,” she said. The arrival of COVID-19 might have forced the couple to shut down their cellar door, but in hindsight it has allowed them to re-focus and rethink some of the ways they do business. One of the ideas they came up with was the Silver Spoon @Home DIY Wine Tasting experience where customers can order a selection of six different wines

and have them sent to their home. “Effectively we are bringing our estate to the customer’s home and it has been an incredibly successful process. We have sent wine to every state in the country. “Some people have even been having their own wine tasting events over Zoom so they can still connect with other wine enthusiasts,” Tracie said. The couple are also looking at partnering with a local chef to deliver food and wine parcels. They are more than happy to open the doors to their estate to anyone who shows an interest in wine or solar systems. “Last year we had a group of school children from Colbinabbin Primary School spend some time here learning about solar and running a business off-grid. If we can educate these kids on the possibilities of working and living off-grid and with nature, what a future we will have.”

The vines at Silver Spoon.

The cellar door, along with the winery, is run off-grid.

AGFOCUS 2020

WATER

GUNBOWER FARMERS REFLECT ON A GROUND-BREAKING DECISION U

ncertainty surrounding the future of irrigation was the catalyst for Gunbower dairy farmers Harry and Jodie Rowlands to look outside the square and do something no – one in the area had done before – install a bore. And now with a season of irrigation under his belt, Harry is sitting back and contemplating the results. “I pumped 800 megs out of the bore with pumping costs of around $50 – 55 a meg,” Harry said. He said he was able to irrigate like it was a normal season, growing the same amount of pasture, milking the same number of cows and producing a similar amount of milk. “If I didn’t have the bore, I would have had to buy a heap of hay and feed lot the cows like everyone else,” he said. Harry is currently in the process of doing some soil sampling across his farm with the Department of Agriculture to check the mineral load in his soil. “The bore has been a great backup. Ideally, I would like to use it meg to meg which would cut our water costs in half.” To finish the project off, he is in the process of installing a 40 kW solar panel system on the rotary dairy to continue to reduce irrigation costs even further. Harry said the process to install the bore began in October 2018 and after sitting on the paperwork for a while, he decided to go ahead and dig a test bore in September last year, deciding the initial $10,000 to $15,000 was worth the risk. “There is no real way of knowing what is underground unless you drill. It is a whole new world under there, and our area hasn’t been mapped before, so we had no idea whether this was a good idea; we certainly didn’t get our hopes up.” The Rowlands family has farmed on Gunbower Island for generations and Harry’s grandfather always thought there was groundwater in the area; it turns out he was right, although not for the reason he thought. “The drillers laughed when I told them my grandfather’s reasons why

AGFOCUS 2020

there would be bore water here, apparently old wives’ tales don’t work underground!” he said. At 90 m they hit a small water pocket, but it wasn’t until 130 m they hit the jackpot. It took around three weeks to build and line the bore. A 14 – inch pump sits in the bore. It has a 110 kW electric motor sitting underneath which pushes water 55 m up eight – inch lay flat tubing to the surface. The bore line then connects into the black brute pipe – and – riser system and can be sent anywhere around the farm. Before the bore water hits the farm line, it passes through a Delta water conditioner which in layman’s terms changes the way the minerals react in the water once they hit the soil so there is no build – up of salt or nasty elements. “The conditioner was optional, but I thought it was worth spending the money on to be safe and improve our water quality,” Harry said. A second – hand diesel generator currently powers the bore site. Harry said running a grass – based system with very little grain consumption made the risk of constructing a bore worthwhile. “Continuing to grow green grass from bore water is very appealing. In 2007 – 08 I spent the whole year sitting in a tractor feeding out hay and I never want to do that again, I would much rather grow grass than drive machinery.” Harry said the bore offered security for the 380 – spring calving herd, along with the possibility of expansion down the track. “I have been concerned about the future of our existing irrigation scheme for a while now,” he said. “I am not sure if politicians have an agenda to finish irrigation − the National Party’s silence on the water issue has been deafening. “Water policy is buggered, and it is like irrigation is now a filthy world. My farm is not far from the national park, but I can guarantee irrigation brings more biodiversity to my farm than I have ever seen in the bush,” he said.

WATER

TECH TO HELP ENSURE EVERY DROP COUNTS A new partnership between the CSIRO and ag tech company Goanna Ag will see sensors and analytics combined to maximise every drop of irrigation water used to grow crops in Swan Hill.

In an Australian first, WaterWise is the only water-use efficiency product for irrigated crops that measures crop water stress and predicts future water needs in real time. The CSIRO technology is set to help growers save water or produce more crop per drop. Goanna Ag, which produces agricultural sensing systems for water-use efficiency, will be delivering WaterWise’s smart analytics as a data stream to their on-farm customers. The company’s chief executive officer Alicia Garden said that for Goanna Ag and its customers, being involved in this innovation meant they could access brand new, Australian-made, sciencebased technology and incorporate it into their existing GoField system. “Being able to predict when to irrigate will allow our clients — farmers — to plan based on what the plant needs,” Ms Garden said.

The WaterWise system ‘lets the plants do the talking’ with in-field sensors that measure the canopy temperature of crops every 15 minutes. It then sends the data to CSIRO’s sensor data infrastructure, adds in the weather forecast and uses machine learning to apply CSIRO’s unique algorithm to predict the crop’s water requirements for the next seven days. WaterWise team leader Rose Brodrick said predicting the future was the real breakthrough science. “It means for the first time, growers can see the water stress of their crops at any point and predict their future water needs,” Dr Brodrick said. “Just like humans, plants have an optimum temperature. “When things are normal it’s easier to predict when a plant will need water. “But when conditions change — like with a new crop, a new field, or unusually hot or cold weather forecasted — farmers want backup with their decision making. “The usual strategy is ‘if you’re unsure, just add water’. “This is where using high tech can help give them data and more confidence in their decision making,

CSIRO’s Rose Brodrick with a prototype WaterWise sensor in a tomato crop.

because every drop counts.” Developing and commercialising breakthrough agtech, like WaterWise, is a feat CSIRO is one of few organisations capable of achieving. It involved a range of skill sets from agronomists to plant physiologists, data and machine learning experts, software engineers, social scientists

and innovation specialists. The next step for WaterWise is to take it from in-field based canopy sensors to drones or satellites. Goanna Ag expects the GoField system incorporating WaterWise will be commercially available in time for the 2020 summer cropping season.

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LIVESTOCK

STOCK PERFORM BEST WHEN

drinking from troughs D

rinking water quality is a high priority for most livestock producers.

Research shows that cattle, when provided with high quality water, will drink more, eat more, stay healthier and, ultimately, gain weight more quickly. Transporting water around the farm through a reticulation system can increase the flexibility of the grazing system and improve production. A trial showed that pasture carrying capacity could also be increased by 14 per cent, as a result of keeping cattle within 250 m of drinking water (Landefield & Bettinger 2002). For more information, contact Ag-Crete in Kerang by calling 5450 4400 or emailing: sales@ag-crete.com.au

Key benefits to using concrete troughs

Trough types and tips

• Strength and stability: Concrete troughs are stock-proof and due to their weight, they are ideal in floodprone or windy areas.

• Large round troughs are high volume and mainly used for cattle to provide adequate storage for peak demand periods. Also the best option if you have low flow rates.

• Water tastes better: Due to concrete’s high mass, it insulates well, reducing water temperature fluctuation and slowing algae growth in summer. • Better animal health: Cleaner water helps prevent sickness. Stock prefer to drink from concrete troughs as the water is more palatable and easy to access. • A breeze to clean: Surfaces are flat and Ag-Crete’s big outlets allow fast drain of water.

• Rectangle troughs are easiest to clean and ideal if water supply is adequate. They should be placed on a level base, raised slightly above the surrounding area. • Protect the trough area from erosion by placing road base material such as gravel or crushed rock to a depth of 150 mm. Plastic grating can be used as a surface stabiliser, or old car tyres.

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MACHINERY

BALERS BOAST new D

rought conditions across large parts of Australia prompted a surge in demand for balers in recent seasons.

With that demand expected to continue this year, Case IH has flagged a number of upgrades and new features within its baler ranges. Case IH Australia/New Zealand product manager for hay and harvest Tim Slater said they expected demand to continue. “Many farmers invested in a new baler in the past few years as hay and straw production became a vital income lifeline in drought-affected regions,” he said. “While conditions have certainly eased across some areas, we still expect hay and straw production to remain a popular option for many businesses, with the market for balers and associated equipment to reflect that demand. “With this in mind, we’re excited about the updates we’re able to offer customers on our model Year 2020

baler ranges, reinforcing the reputation for excellence our large square and round balers have always been known for.” For the ever-popular and reliable large square baler LB4XL series, one of the most anticipated new features is a new knotting concept that dramatically improves the process. Case IH has introduced the newgeneration TwinePro knotter on all LB4XL balers, including the LB434XL for the Australia/New Zealand market. This new knotting concept combines the advantages of the double knot system with the additional benefit of a loop knot. Key benefits include a reduction in twine off-cuts left on the bales, stronger knots with higher tensile strength and improved daily productivity. “Case IH has been a pioneer of double-knot technology, but no matter how good your product, you have to keep striving to do better and this is what we’ve achieved with the TwinePro

BOOMING A

gricultural businesses will be able to access the $150 000 instant asset write-off scheme until the end of the year, in a bid to help them rebound after coronavirus.

Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the extension would cost $300 million and was expected to help about 3.5 million businesses. “(They) will be able to go and purchase equipment or machinery, tools, up to a value of $150 000 — as

many times as they want — and then write it off,” he said. The news comes as tractor and machinery sales boomed for the third month running. Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia executive director Gary Northover said improved weather and the increase in the instant asset write-off program had led to the boost. “Tractor sales reported a year-on-year increase of 30 per cent for May and are

features

knotter,” Mr Slater said. Other changes include a stronger pick-up system and redesigned rotor cutter tines to improve cutting performance in high volume conditions. For the RB5 Series round balers, there is now the option for the addition of a fully-integrated moisture sensor, the first time this has been offered for Case IH round balers. The operator can use the moisture information — as they’re operating the baler — to make an informed decision on the potential quality of the crop and storage options. “By using a baler-mounted moisture sensor, the operator has real-time information on the moisture of the crop being baled,” M Slater said. “There’s no need to stop baling to probe the bales, as would previously be done with a hand-held moisture sensor.” Another significant improvement is the addition of an AFS Pro 700 display monitor, which now comes as standard in the round balers, with the larger

screen giving the operator a clearer view of the baler functions. “With many of the features controlled from the monitor, like bale core size and bale and core density, along with information on the size and shape of the bales, the increase in display size will be welcomed by many operators,” Mr Slater said. As with the large square balers, there’s also a range of pick-up refinements introduced to the round balers. The pick-up end flare shape has been revised to improve edge feeding, and a larger diameter wind guard roller and the ability to adjust to a lower position for improved feeding in all crop conditions has also been introduced, with the new design resisting stalling and ploughing of the windrow when compared to narrower diameter rollers. “These new features and benefits across our baler offering are about enhancing performance and providing increased productivity for our customers where it counts,” Mr Slater said.

now 12 per cent ahead on a year to date basis,” Mr Northover said. “Around the states, huge lifts were once again seen in all eastern states; Victoria continues to flourish, up another 32 per cent on the same month last year, now 24 per cent ahead for 2020. “NSW was again up 38 per cent for the month, now 12 per cent up year-to-date.” Mr Northover said the recent sales would give some comfort to dealers after a “torrid” couple of years. “The news on the weather front keeps getting better and demand for commodities remains extremely strong, even despite some trade tensions with China,” he said. The 100 to 200 hp (75–150 kW) category leads the way with another strong month up 60 per cent, up 31 per cent for the year to date. “The strength in the horticultural space is having a big impact on demand for this range, strongly supported by the financial incentives in place,” Mr Northover said. “The under 40 hp (30 kW) range, was up 16 per cent for the month and

now sits 5.6 per cent ahead for the year-to-date. “The 40 to 100 hp (30–75 kW) range was again up strongly 39 per cent, now nine per cent ahead for the year, and the 200 hp (150 kW) and above range dipped 13 per cent for the month and is now seven per cent behind year-to-date.” However, sales of combine harvesters have effectively stalled with very few sales completed in May and the outlook still subdued. “Whilst there continue to be encouraging signs of a return to grain planting activity, which will ultimately lead to harvesting, meaningful demand for new harvesters is still a fair way off,” Mr Northover said. The expanded instant asset writeoff took effect in March and applies to businesses with annual turnovers of up to $500 million, up from $50 million. Assets can be new or second hand, and must be used or installed by December 31. Businesses can benefit from the instant asset write-off multiple times.

AGFOCUS 2020

MACHINERY

SPRAYER UPDATES WILL REDUCE COSTS P roductivity and innovationfocused updates to John Deere’s 4-Series Self-Propelled Sprayers will merge greater efficiency, better traction and a quieter ride with the proven performance and lightweight strength of carbon fibre.

Now available to order, key changes to the model Year 2021 line-up include the roll out of John Deere’s CommandDrive all-wheel drive system to the R4038 and R4030 models (already available on R4045 and R4060), and additional enhancements to the optional carbon fibre boom across the entire range. John Deere Production and Precision Ag tactical segment manager Marko Koelln said the updates would further boost producers’ ability to apply the right product at the right rate and the right time. “Reducing input costs and maximising productivity are critical to efficiency and profitability, and producers having greater control over the way they run their businesses,” Mr Koelln said.

“Through these changes, John Deere is not only providing optimised operator comfort but also helping to ensure we’re working with our customers to integrate features that have direct impact on their bottom line.” CommandDrive helps cover ground more easily, allowing operators to travel over hills, wet spots and soft ground. It is an intelligent powertrain that uses a single hydrostatic pump to power all four variable-displacement wheel motors. If one or more wheels lose traction, the system adjusts to slow the slipping wheel and directs more flow to the other wheels with traction, to power the sprayer over the terrain. In addition, CommandDrive works in tandem with the engine and entire sprayer system to automatically increase RPMs when more power is needed and to maintain proper spraying. The auto mode setting allows operators to maintain selected ground speed and application rate at lower engine RPMs and automatically reduces the engine’s RPM to 900 when the machine is stopped, thereby reducing

Updates are focused on reducing input costs and maximising productivity for growers.

fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent. “The addition of flotation tyres can help to further reduce compaction to help farmers get in the paddock sooner and spray later, while hitting tight application windows that can make a marked difference to yields,” Mr Koelln said. Another popular option is ExactApply which brings precision farming technology and cost control to the forefront with an industry-exclusive nozzle that minimises overlap by controlling product application with individual nozzles rather than the whole section, while AutoTracTM Vision and RowSenseTM options offer a higher degree of accuracy for in-row crop applications using a camera or paddles. Mr Koelln said a further standout feature of the 4-Series update was enhancement of the already highperforming carbon fibre boom option.

Best under pressure Make sure you prepare your hydraulic machinery for this harvest season Servicing and repairing all brands of hydraulics • Cylinders • Loader cylinders • Valves • Hoses • Rotary dairies • Motors • Truck hoists • Feed-out machines • Pumps

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Excellent on-site service Best work facilities Huge stock range.

“These upgrades include new T6 and T7 rope design, an additional breakaway bumper for more stability, new breakaway strap wear plate and new breakaway solenoid design to improve fold functionality,” he said. As with all John Deere products, the updated 4-Series line-up is fully supported by the knowledge and advice of John Deere’s trusted network of dealers. Orders can be placed with John Deere dealers for delivery in late 2020 or early 2021. Customers can also take advantage of finance offers and early order programs offering a discount until August 31. To learn more, contact your local John Deere dealer or visit: www.deere.com.au/en/sprayers

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MARKETS

THE CORONAVIRUS IMPACT A

s we continue to feel the impacts to our daily lives from the COVID-19 virus, the impact on Australian agriculture is generally considered to be much lower than for most other parts of the economy — not withstanding the hospitality and food services industry, which has been hit hard, particularly with suppliers direct trading to restaurants.

Looking at some agricultural sub-sectors, grain prices were buoyed by stockpiling, while livestock prices have grown in some markets and pulled back on uncertain export market demand in others. Wool has seen sharp declines from record highs over recent years on the

back of reduced international demand. Locally, COVID-19 impacts on agribusiness have seen export sales opportunities diminish and freight logistics, particularly by air, become difficult — although gradual improvements are being seen now. Overall, the NAB Rural Commodities Index fell 2.5 per cent month-on-month in April, largely reflecting lower beef and lamb prices (although with EYCI and NTLI on hold we are using alternative measures) and a collapse in wool while grains were generally higher. On a year-on-year basis, the index is still up 14.1 per cent, reflecting strong growth in agriculture across the economy. The Australian dollar had fallen precipitously compared to the US dollar

earlier this year, trading into the 50s during parts of March. It is now back over the mid-60s range, taking out some of the spike that could have accrued to local prices for imported goods if it had remained low. NAB’s current view could see the AUD back to the US 70 cent mark by mid-2021. International trade remains a key for Australian agriculture and tension with major partners like China for barley and beef will be closely monitored. Seasonal conditions for most parts of Victoria and eastern Australia have

been above average, with expectations of continued good rainfall through winter. There is confidence that upcoming production levels for cropping, dairy, livestock and horticulture are high. As Australia’s largest lender to agriculture, NAB continues to support broader COVID-19 initiatives for individuals and business to help the economy recover, and if you have any concerns please contact your local NAB representative or call 132 265. • NAB Goulburn Valley managing partner Dave Davies

LOCALS ASSISTING LOCALS

• RURAL • WATER TRADING REAL ESTATE SALES WE SPECIALISE IN -

• ONLINE MACHINERY AUCTIONS VIA

Land & Water 295 Benalla Rd, Shepparton, VIC 3631 — 5833 0221 30

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NAB Goulburn Valley managing partner Dave Davies said the impact of COVID-19 on agriculture was much lower than other industries.

CONDITIONS ARE PERFECT TO BUY OR SELL A favourable exchange rate, low interest rates and moisture in the ground – I’ve rarely seen a better time to transact. Recent sales activity speaks for itself. We’ve had strong competition for recent listings delivering excellent sales results. So I encourage anyone thinking of selling to give me, or one of our rural sales specialists a call.

Kevin Hicks

SHEPPARTON 03 5821 8388 • NUMURKAH 03 5862 2611

www.kevinhicksrealestate.com.au

OUR RURAL SPECIALISTS: CHRIS DRUM 0400 213 223

PAUL DURDEN 0409 563 671

KevinHicksRealEstate.com.au

KEVIN HICKS 0428 271 270

@kevinhicksrealestate

MALCOLM BLAKE 0409 426 486

• RESIDENTIAL • RURAL • COMMERCIAL • LAND SALES •

KevinHicksRealEstate.com.au

FOR SALE Large scale dairy with lifestyle KYABRAM – 1607 Graham Road

— 795 acres (approx) — 5 titles Fully enclosed entertaining area, built in BBQ overlooking • 320ha • the inground pool and ﬂood lit tennis court Homes — Rotary Dairy — Great Location • 2Superb Extensive modern irrigation home comprising 40 squares of modern living • • (built 2009), 5 Bedrooms, open plan living, theatre room, • 50 stand rotary dairy ducted refrigerated reverse cycle air conditioning • A 12,050-litre vat with auto wash

$3.8mil CONTACT: • Kevin Hicks ....................... 0428 271 270

INSPECT: By appointment

FOR SALE Versatile farming opportunity GIRGARRE EAST– 4340 Midland Hwy

• 155.8 ha — 385 acres (approx) • 80% lasered • 2.9 delivery share • 208 meg spearpoint bore (licensed) • Large recycle dam

• 6 bay machinery shed • 2 hay sheds • Cattle yards, horse yards and 15 double-up dairy brick home with 2 living areas, BIRs in 3 bedrooms and • Solid ceiling fans

$1.1mil CONTACT: • Kevin Hicks ....................... 0428 271 270

INSPECT: By appointment

LATEST UPDATES:

KevinHicksRealEstate.com.au

SHEPPARTON • 228–232 WYNDHAM ST NUMURKAH • 1–3 MELVILLE ST

@kevinhicksrealestate

PH: 03 5821 8388 PH: 03 5862 2611

@kevinhicksrealestate

• RESIDENTIAL • RURAL • COMMERCIAL • LAND SALES •

FOR SALE Blue chip dairy enterprise FINLEY – 183 South Coree Road

• 480ha – 1185 acres approx. – 3 titles Leading dairy complex; 80 stand platform, 1000 cow • Industry capacity, auto feed system, cup removers and draft system • Well designed ﬂood irrigation layout • Central laneway system to all paddocks

• 800 meg ground water licence • Undercover cattle yards with veterinary area • 3 homes with quality improvements on separate titles road frontage, ideal location just 5 minutes • Bitumen north-west of Finley

Expressions of Interest close Thursday, 2nd July CONTACT: • Kevin Hicks ....................... 0428 271 270

INSPECT: By appointment

FOR SALE The cream rises to the top KATAMATITE – 2254 Powerline Rd – Kilbarchan Farm

• 311.5ha — (770 acres approx.) — 6 titles home 4 bedroom + study, 2 bathroom, 3 separate • Main living areas. • 2 other residences for manager or tenant Quality 40 stand rotary dairy with fully automated • technology and 12,600L vat capacity • Superb all-weather laneways with permanent fencing

• Outstanding stock routes to approx. 55 main paddocks • 2 centre pivot irrigators, 37 Ha each growing fodder • Excellent supply and use of irrigation water • Quality soil types and outstanding infrastructure • High performing dairy enterprise • Dairy or intensive beef ﬁnishing operation

Expressions of Interest close Friday, 17th July @ 4pm CONTACT: • Kevin Hicks ....................... 0428 271 270

INSPECT: By appointment

RURAL SALES

AGRICULTURE FORGES AHEAD When it comes to rural property in the Goulburn and Murray Valleys, the team at Gagliardi Scott Real Estate has the local knowledge and decades of experience in selling land, and with improved seasonal conditions and the COVID-19 crisis, it’s time for the area to shine. COVID-19 has shone a spotlight on the need to underpin the nation’s food security and local rural real estate experts Gagliardi Scott believe northern Victoria has a crucial role to play. Director Darren Scott said tens of millions of dollars’ worth of agricultural land had changed hands in the area since the beginning of 2020, and the outstanding autumn break was only adding to the positive outlook. “We’ve had bushfires, low milk prices, high water prices, ongoing drought and now COVID, people are finally starting to look at how important this area is for food production,” Mr Scott said. “The rain has been a great start; it really changes people’s mindsets. When farmers make money, we all make money because they’re the ones that go into town and spend.” Mr Scott said he, and his team, had always been positive about the future of agriculture in the area, and now it was time to demonstrate to the rest of the country what the land can produce.

www.gagliardiscott.com.au

“We need to suspend some of that environmental water for a year and put that water on the paddocks,” Mr Scott said. “This land can grow huge amounts of dry matter per megalitre of water, and that translates into amazing amounts of food.” Recent sales have been to a 50/50 mix of corporate entities and traditional family farmers, with cropping land, horticulture properties and dairy farms changing hands. Cropping land continues to be sought after, in particular tightly held dry land farms, which don’t have the burden of water entitlement delivery share, and at the opposite end of the spectrum farms with the security of groundwater are always of interest. In good news for the local dairy industry Mr Scott said he has sold five dairy farms in the last few months, which will continue to operate producing the quality milk that the region is renowned for.

182 High St, Shepparton | 0358 31 1800

FOR SALE

COTTONS ROAD, COBRAM $ 1,400,000

203 acres dairy farm with solid, red-brick home, in-ground pool and ample sundry shedding Very good rotary dairy, which is currently disused, but fully intact. 90% of the property is under a fully-linked pipe and riser system joining GM water and Katunga deep lead water throughout the property. Both Katunga deep lead water and GM high and low security water are available at market value to the successful purchaser. A large 600-cow flood wash concrete feed pad only adds to the quality infrastructure of this farm. The high quality ex-orchard soil types have a good fertiliser history and will underpin any agribusiness venture. Contact Darren Scott on 0419 001 708 for further particulars.

www.gagliardiscott.com.au

70 Melville St, Numurkah | 0358 31 1800

REAL ESTATE

Shepparton Nutrien Harcourts Land and Water team Rob Bruns (left), Lauren McCabe and Michael Downie.

are here to stay D

igital is the way of the future.

That is according to the team at Shepparton’s Nutrien Harcourts Land and Water business, who say the future of clearing sales has shifted online. Business director Rob Bruns said buying and selling online was proving to be a great success for farmers who embraced the change. “If organised properly, the vendors selling their equipment can arrange for inspections to take place prior to the auction commencing – so there is still the opportunity to thoroughly inspect and ask questions regarding the items on offer,” Mr Bruns said. “Nowadays all facets of our business have a presence and can be conducted online, water sales, real estate auctions

AGFOCUS 2020

and clearing sales.” He also said the main benefit for vendors was that an online auction opened up the sale to a much broader buying group, resulting in increased buyer activity achieving better results for the vendor. The last online clearing sale generated interest from all over Australia, with numerous lots selling to Queensland, NSW, South Australia and various parts of Victoria – differing substantially from the usual 50 – 100 km reach of a standard paddock clearing sale. “As far as purchasers go, we had a lot of positive feedback saying they liked the fact that (it) took the urgency out of having to make quick and uncalculated decisions when bidding on a particular

item,” Mr Bruns said. “In fact, some even said that because the auction ran over a few days, they could take their time to weigh up the pros and cons of paying a little extra or not, they could step away from the auction for a while and then come back to it. “They also liked that they didn’t know who it was they were bidding against.” He said a lot of time and effort went into photography, making videos and creating detailed descriptions of each lot, to prepare a catalogue that would be uploaded to AuctionsPlus. “Presentation is everything with an online auction, the better the quality of equipment, backed up with a good service and maintenance history, the

Shepparton Nutrien Harcourts Land and Water team member Rob Bruns says the future of clearing sales is online.

more people will compete to purchase the items,” he said. With the recent success of online clearing sales, the team are now conducting monthly, multi – vendor machinery auctions as a valuable service for their farming clients. “This idea is being embraced by many vendors which are contacting us wishing to list various items for sale when they don’t have enough equipment to justify having their own clearing sale,” Mr Bruns said. To host an online clearing sale with Shepparton Nutrien Harcourts Land and Water, phone the office on 5833 0221, specialist staff Michael Downie on 0428 241 242 or Robert Bruns on 0457 830 779.

Positive outlook

BOOSTS LAND PRICES

REAL ESTATE

arming properties continue to soar in value according to local real estate agents, underpinned by strong corporate interest and a positive seasonal outlook.

Kevin Hicks Real Estate owner Kevin Hicks said agricultural land had improved in price, with many old listings having now been completed. He said beef, grain and dairy were all improved markets and that blocks had increased from original titles of 10 to 20 ha, to 20 to 100 ha. “The biggest opportunity relies on the dairy sector with the best bang for buck, there is exceptional value in some of our dairy listings,” Mr Hicks said. “Broadacre cropping still remains very strong and with the favourable autumn break, current owners are reluctant to sell. “The April/May rain event has given confidence on dryland and irrigation land, allowing irrigation reservoirs to capitalise on runoff — which has been a wonderful asset, ready for spring irrigation. “All of the properties have such a great autumn rain event with sub-surface moisture providing a long-term season.” Mr Hicks said the outlook for the future was bright due to a low Australian dollar, meaning strong export markets in most commodities would not cause competition between sectors. “Now is a good time to buy or sell a

property because if you engage in an early settlement as a purchaser prior to August, you would capitalise on a cash flow positive spring with exceptional reserves; and if you’re a seller, you have a wonderful opportunity to showcase your property in the spring months, to prove the quality of your current operations.” Gagliardi Scott Real Estate director Darren Scott said agricultural land sales had increased over the past two years due to corporate involvement. “All throughout Yalca and Katungah — 70 per cent of the Murray Valley — has got really strong corporate buy, mainly due to groundwater,” Mr Scott said. “Whilst that has been going on, even small parcels of land are being looked at now — we had a good autumn break, so everyone is looking into buying farmland.” Real estate prices have continued to be insulated from the effects of COVID19, according to a recent Rabobank report. The report, Port in a storm — Australian ag land prices will remain afloat in rough COVID-19 swell, showed that despite a global recession, agricultural land was expected to remain profitable in 2020 and 2021, buoyed by positivity in the agriculture industry and stronger season outlooks.

Real estate agents say agricultural land has improved in value.

AGFOCUS 2020

MAN’S BEST FRIEND

The best of

Man’s Best Friend 1

an’s Best Friend is one of Country News’ longest running and most popular features. Every week there is a new dog (or two or three) with a new story to share. Take a look at some of the best, most interesting, strange or loved dogs from the past year. Have a dog you’d love to see featured in the Man’s Best Friend section? Get in touch with the team by emailing editor@countrynews.com.au

1. At the Numurkah cattle and cropping farm owned by Peter Caccianiga and Alex Howes, you will be greeted by 12-week-old Jack Russell, Chester. Chester follows Alex around wherever he goes and follows in the footsteps of three-year-old Jack Russell, Tonnie. 2. Pip lives with Yarroweyah cattle farmers Neil and Sue Crowther on their 230 ha farm. Two-year-old Pip filled a hole in the family’s heart after the loss of another dog, Duster. Pip enjoys life on the farm, chasing motorbikes and stirring up cows.

3. Nine-month-old Bingo lives with three kelpies and their owner Glenn Haines, a Wahring sheep farmer. Mr Haines never has a dull moment with his four furry friends. 4. Owner of Air Charter Today and Secure AirFlight Training Susan Carroll with her border collie Bonnie. When Bonnie isn’t on the tarmac, she enjoys the open space of her home at a Murchison vineyard.

AGFOCUS 2020

MAN’S BEST FRIEND

5. Cavalier/cocker spaniel cross Jess has lived with her owner Angela Varcoe for 14 years. Jess is deaf but will respond to visual commands. She spends her days with Buddy the kelpie and three cats at Vala Holsteins in Toolamba.

6. L abrador Sanka spends her days at the Cheeky Grog Co with her owner Lisa Morey. She will fetch anything and loves to eat apples at the Bunbartha cidery. She was named after the character in the movie Cool Runnings. 7. Life on the Tuhan family farm at Tatura East is complete with gentle four-yearold kelpie Oscar. Dairy farmer Michael Tuhan says Oscar made the perfect fit into the family of four; and although he isn’t a great working dog, he was never intended to be. Daughters Lily, 6, and Charlotte, 4, refer to the canine as their best friend as he spends his days by their side. Charlotte loves to give Oscar big cuddles.

8. K aarimba’s Col Grinter runs his cropping and sheep farm with the help of two kelpies named Jack and John. Seven-year-old Jack is the leader of the duo but unfortunately is all bite and no bark, making room for 10-month-old John who, Mr Grinter says, barks his head off. Both dogs enjoy a trip in the ute or riding shotgun in the Chamberlain tractor.

AGFOCUS 2020

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What Can PSC Griffiths Goodall Help With?

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How Long Has PSC Griffiths Goodall Been In Operation?

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We know insurance. It’s been our business for a very long time, and we are one of the largest regional insurance brokers in the nation With experience, integrity and all the right underwriter distribution channels, we provide advice and guidance to help you make informed decisions. We are efficient and responsive in everything we do and we always have your best interests at heart, which is why we offer flexible payment arrangements. We know insurance. It’s been our business for a very long time, and we are one of the largest regional brokers in the nation. Our senior principals and key staff have more than 100 years of continuous experience in all facets of insurance and our account executives are

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CROPPING

ropping farmers will soon be able to gain more insight into soil moisture following the update of an Agriculture Victoria website detailing 36 soil moisture monitoring sites across the state.

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The Agriculture Victoria Soil Moisture Monitoring website has been updated to include a detailed page dedicated to each of the sites, with new tools translating soil moisture data into meaningful, real-time, local information. Nutrien Ag Solutions Elmore agronomist Chris Dunn praised the update to the Soil Moisture Program and said the amount of detail on the website was better than expected. “It gives farmers a bit more confidence for things like nitrogen fertiliser application later in the year or for working out a yield estimate,” Mr Dunn said. He said as farmers accessed more relevant information, they would increasingly need more information on their own paddocks. “Having that soil moisture information will encourage farmers to monitor soil moisture on their own properties — it will become more and more common,”

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he said. “I think it’s a good thing for farmers to have the website link pinned on their tablet or smartphone, that’s what I tend to do.” Agriculture Victoria seasonal risk agronomist and project co-ordinator Dale Boyd said previous soil moisture data had lacked real interpretation. “The new website takes this data and adds value to it, with tools that are easy to use such as a temperature gauge, current soil moisture profile and a one JUL/AUG 2019 to three-month rainfall outlook for the state,” Mr Boyd said. Mr Boyd said his favourite tool on the new website was the ‘speedo’ graph, showing the change in overall soil moisture at a particular site. “It’s a simple way to represent how the soil moisture profile has changed over the last year, in other words how full the ‘tank’ is,” he said. The ‘speedo’ tool is just one of the features of the new website explored during a website walk-through webinar, which will be made available on the Agriculture Victoria website: www.extensionaus.com.au/ soilmoisturemonitoring

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AGFOCUS 2020

NEWS The GMV Fruit Fly Area Wide Management Project received the Victorian Regional Achiever of the Year Award and took out first place in the Prime Super Agricultural Innovation Awards at the Regional Achievement and Community Awards.

Fruit fly project is

kicking goals T

he Goulburn Murray Valley Fruit Fly Area Wide Management Project has been recognised as a leader in controlling the spread of fruit fly in Australia and overseas.

It has established benchmarks in creating awareness, education and engagement within the community, industry and government to reduce fruit fly populations and eliminate the threat the pest causes to our domestic and export horticultural markets. The project has been successful in curbing the spread of Queensland fruit fly through a range of innovative control and engagement measures. Regional fruit fly co-ordinator Ross Abberfield said reducing the spread of fruit fly was vital to both the region’s horticultural sector and the national economy, with the Goulburn Murray Valley recognised as the largest producer of pears in the Southern Hemisphere and the Murray Valley the nation’s largest producer of stone fruit. “A 60 per cent reduction in fruit fly trapped at comparative peak periods over the past two years highlights the success of the project in reducing the fruit fly population across the region,” Mr Abberfield said. A whole of community approach has been taken to achieve ‘community ownership’ through increased community awareness, education and, most importantly, engagement. “We have actively engaged and educated the community and encouraged landholders and property owners to accept responsibility for managing their fruit trees and vegetables effectively — whether they have one fruit tree, 10 trees or 10 000,” Mr Abberfield said. Education workshops and an extensive community

AGFOCUS 2020

engagement campaign has increased awareness and assisted home gardeners, commercial growers and orchardists to play an active role in combating the spread of fruit fly. Community partnerships are integral to the project and have been extended to include a number of service clubs such as Lions International and Rotary International. The project monitors more than 400 traps as part of its regional trapping grids with data collated, analysed and interpreted by an independent researcher. Population trends and forecasts are disseminated to growers and the community and this information is a key aspect in the assessment of fruit fly populations and hot spots across the region. Increasing fruit fly populations are known as a hot spot and are identified through the multiple project trapping grids across the region. Action to reduce these populations must be undertaken immediately to stop the spread of fruit fly to neighbouring properties. “Trapping grids are used to identify emerging fruit fly hot spots and once these areas of concern are identified, field officers are on hand and available through the project to assist affected landowners implement a series of integrated control measures necessary to control the hot spot,” Mr Abberfield said. Established in 2017, the project encompasses an area stretching 16 354 sq km and spans the five local government areas of the City of Greater Shepparton and Campaspe, Moira, Berrigan and Strathbogie shires. The eradication and removal of fruit fly habitat has been pivotal in reducing fruit fly numbers, with more than 90 000 unmanaged fruit trees and plants removed

since June 2017. “The free tree removal program has significantly reduced potential breeding grounds, making it harder for fruit fly to lay eggs, breed and increase their populations,” Mr Abberfield said. The program allows for the removal of unwanted and unmanaged fruit trees in non-productive orchards, private residences and public areas such as nature strips, roadsides, channel banks and reserves at no charge to the property owner. The removal of just one unmanaged fruit tree means a permanent reduction of suitable habitat and a potential food source for new generations of fruit fly to flourish in. Further to the 60 per cent reduction in Queensland fruit fly populations recorded across the region, Cobram has experienced a 73 per cent reduction in fruit fly numbers, partly attributed to a three-year SITPlus trial program. The trial research project began in March 2019 and has resulted in the aerial release of more than two million sterile male fruit fly each week during consecutive growing seasons. SITPlus is part of a national long-term research and development partnership led by Macquarie University and Hort Innovation Australia. The Goulburn Murray Valley Regional Fruit Fly project takes a collaborative approach to the management and control of fruit fly and is funded by the Victorian Government’s Managing Fruit Fly Regional Grants Program. For more information on how you can help reduce the spread of fruit fly in the region, visit: www.gmv-qldfruitfly.com.au

WORKING TOGETHER

TO PROTECT HORTICULTURE IN OUR REGION The Goulburn Murray Valley (GMV) Regional Fruit Fly Project works with the community, industry and government to improve fruit fly management. The project has been successful in curbing Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) numbers across the region through a range of innovative engagement and control measures.

Key area wide management strategies and project highlights include: • Fruit fly populations are monitored through extensive regional trapping grids comprising nearly 500 traps • Identified fruit fly ‘hotspots’ are targeted and Field Officers deployed to assist affected land owners in integrated management control measures • Education workshops for community, industry and government have increased awareness and promoted management strategies to combat QFF populations based on ‘Ownership of the Issue’ • More than 90,000 fruit fly host trees and plants have been removed from private property, public land and unmanaged orchards through the Unmanaged Host Tree and Plant Removal Program • Cobram was selected as a three-year trial site for the airborne release of sterile QFF as part of a national long-term strategic research and development partnership led by Macquarie University • The project has extended its partnerships to include community service clubs such as Lions International and Rotary International • The GMV Fruit Fly Area Wide Management Project received the 2019 Victorian Regional Achiever of the Year Award and took out first place in the Prime Super Agricultural Innovation Awards at the Regional Achievement and Community Awards

Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes and GMV Regional Fruit Fly Coordinator Ross Abberfield

COMMUNITY | INDUSTRY | GOVERNMENT

T h e p r o j e c t i s f u n d e d by t h e Vi c t o r i a n G ove r n m e n t ’s M a n a g i n g F r u i t F l y R e g i o n a l G ra n t s P r o g ra m . www.gmv-qldfruitfly.com.au

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