A
PUBLICATION
MURRAY Issue 28, February 2017
Sister Sucess Girls show the way at Dairy Week » page 3
Dehorning dilemma » page 14 Organic choice » page 20 Psychology for calf rearing » page 22
Expansion in a tough year » page 34
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contents
Learn from 2016’s lessons
Seeking new horizons......................................... 4 Suppliers get milk price rise.............................. 4 Price outlook improves....................................... 5 Setting goals for the new year........................... 6
Take a deep breath and step into a new year. Hello and welcome to 2017. I hope you all had a happy Christmas and new year and had the opportunity to spend some time with family and friends. 2016 will long be remembered as a year of contrasts; a dry summer and autumn followed by a wet winter and spring. When you add in milk price stepdowns and a low opening price, it set 2016 to be a bloody tough year, not just financially but also physically and mentally, especially when we were calving cows into wet paddocks. We can focus on the negatives but that won’t help us move forward; we need to learn lessons from what has happened and focus on changes and strategies for the future. Feed and financial budgets are a must when tackling a challenging year; we all pushed our businesses and we need to remember to take stock of where we sit and plan accordingly. A huge amount of damage was done to infrastructure throughout this past season, which will need to be budgeted for this coming year, because it can all happen again. Farm safety has had one of its worst years yet with six dairy farmer deaths occurring across Australia, three being in Victoria. These statistics are scary and change needs to occur to take it down to zero — one death is a death too many.
MG appoints new chief....................................... 7 Dehorning the humane way.............................. 8
Murray Dairy, in conjunction with WorkSafe Victoria and the National Centre for Dairy Education, hosted a Farm Safety Open Day in Tatura in December that took a proactive look at key changes farmers can implement to make farms safer for our employees, our families and ourselves. Dairy Australia has resources available to help you do this and you can order your own copy of the Farm Safety Starter Kit via www.thepeopleindairy. org.au/farm-safety/safetystarterkit If you haven’t thought about the autumn and getting that set up, it’s time to start now. Do a water budget and plan your strategy. Temporary water has come down in price which is a major positive going into the next season. In your planning, consider your feed gaps over the whole year and start to plan your rotations of different forages or feed sources to ensure they are filled. Sowing plans in autumn might have been impacted by ongoing soil structural issues due to the wet winter. If you need assistance working through this come along to Murray Dairy’s Autumn Start-Up days throughout February where soil scientist Christian Bannan will use soil pits to discuss and demonstrate impacts and options to support a successful autumn sowing program. –Rick Cross Murray Dairy chairman
Water solution is a winner............................... 10 Managing perennial rye-grass......................... 12 Mural celebrates Legendairy town.................. 13 Doing his best to keep life simple................... 14 New cheese plant for Cobram......................... 16 Organics a natural progression....................... 18 Future is organic................................................ 20 Calf psychology.................................................. 22 Aim for quality colostrum................................ 23 Camp fosters industry’s future........................ 24 Sights set on dairy career................................. 24 Grazing timing under the microscope............ 26 Focusing on the big picture.............................. 28 Chance to see a bigger picture......................... 30 The latest on heat-stressed dry cows ............ 32 Guide will connect the dots............................. 33 Taking the risk out of the business................. 34 Future looks bright............................................ 36 Making safety a priority on farms................... 36 Direct Dates........................................................ 37 February – March 2017....................................... 37 Successful Sisters.............................................. 38 Holstein judging at Dairy Week....................... 38 Calf smashes record.......................................... 39 Grand Champion awarded............................... 39 More than happy with result........................... 39
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Editor Geoff Adams editor@countrynews.com.au Writers Geoff Adams, Sophie Baldwin, Rodney Woods, Alana Christensen Graphic design Stacey Taylor, Bella Considine, Alysha Bathman Cover: Katie & Renee Anderson from Yarroweyah Story page 38
Advertising James MacGibbon james.macgibbon@countrynews.com.au Published by Country News PO Box 204, Shepparton, Victoria 3632 (03) 5831 2312 www.countrynews.com.au Printed by Edge Print
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dairy news
Seeking new horizons Conference will look at latest developments in herd improvement. The dairy industry’s biennial herd improvement conference, Herd 17, will be held in Bendigo on March 22 and 23. Marj Faust will speak about ‘Skills, Attitude and Change’, drawing upon her experience with one of the world’s largest bull companies. In charge of the development of new reproductive technologies at Genus ABS Global, Ms Faust sees a quantum change ahead, but warns these changes must be underpinned by the right combination of attitude and skill. She will give an insight into emerging technologies and the challenges of introducing them. Andrew Fear from LIC NZ will share the highs and lows of herd recording during New Zealand’s milk price volatility.
Michelle Axford from the Herd 17 organising committee said the program was designed to help delegates look forward to new horizons while providing a practical take on the latest developments. There will also be updates on significant developments in herd improvement on the home front, including the recently formed organisations DataGene and DairyBio. Delegates will get sneak previews into new breeding values under development and the latest results from key projects such as Improving Herds. To register, visit: www.ivvy.com/ event/HERD17 or phone Laura Calder on 9835 7627 or email herd17@holstein.com.au
Suppliers get milk price rise The global improvement in commodity prices has spurred Tatura Milk to offer an increase to its suppliers.
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Tatura Milk suppliers are getting a milk price increase due to what the company says are improved market circumstances. Their price will move from $5/ kg milk solids to $5.13. Bega managing director Barry Irvin said there had been a relatively rapid improvement in global commodity prices in recent months, and while volatility remained, the outlook for sustained improvements in global dairy commodity pricing was becoming more positive. “At the beginning of this financial year the company did have the view that commodity prices would improve and in order to try and give a level of confidence to our suppliers we built into our opening price much of the recent improvements we have seen occur. “It is pleasing to see the markets continue to improve which allows a more positive outlook for the remainder of the year
and continuing through to the 2017–18 financial year.” The new price will be paid from this month. Mr Irvin warned that the rapid nature of that improvement meant that not all of the benefit of those rises would be seen in this year because a great deal of production and sales would have occurred at the commodity prices seen in the earlier months of this financial year. Commenting on public speculation around infant formula exports to China, he said there was now significant price discounting and signs of short-term oversupply of infant formula and milk powders. “While there are some challenges in the sector there continues to be strong consumer demand for infant formula in China and other Asian markets. Moreover, as a sub-category the consumer demand for organic infant formula which Bega Cheese produces is also strong”.
dairy news Price outlook improves Higher global commodity product prices are helping to spur a milk price increase.
“
Global dairy market analyst Freshagenda has in the United States and prospects for forecast a farm gate milk price of between weaker metal commodity prices in 2017. Our analysis is $5 and $5.40 in milk solids for the 2016–17 For the 2017–18 season, further significant independent of the season. improvement is expected as the strong lifts The outlook has improved during the season, in product spot values are locked into export dairy companies, and wholesale prices, giving a forecast range Freshagenda’s previous forecast was a range or a cow with eight milk price between $5.90 and $6.30/kg MS. of $4.80 to $5.20/kg MS. lactations of data. The updated forecast reflects the net effects of: The drop in global milk output will start to reverse in mid-2017 but will take some time • Higher global commodity product Steve Spencer to impact product values. prices, helped by worse -than-expected Freshagenda director Steve Spencer said milk output from major European the forecast had been developed and producers, and recently led up by a surge Freshagenda’s forecast is based on its Global in GDT prices for WMP which has updated to provide dairy farmers and other Dairy Directions analysis, a commercial lifted spot and other reference prices; industry stakeholders with improved pricing product provided to dairy companies, • Strong cheese demand in transparency and an input to planning. ingredient buyers and traders in Australia, developing markets; “There has been a lot of industry discussion New Zealand, Europe, Asia and the US. • A sharp fall in Australian milk since the events of April last year about the This provides a unique platform to project production which will increase need for improved information on future international commodity values, which are manufacturing conversion costs; directions in farm gate milk prices,” he said. then converted into an average farm gate • Continuing tight margins in local milk price based on relevant product mix “We have had a lot of farmers tell us they grocery markets for cheese; and and exchange rate assumptions. would welcome clearer and more timely • A lower full year estimate for the value information on the market outlook and what “Our analysis is independent of the dairy of the Australian dollar of $US0.74 companies,” Mr Spencer said. with the return to positive interest rates it means for them on farm.”
”
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Doing Dairy
with SOPHIE BALDWIN
Setting goals for the new year Hello 2017 — and let’s hope you are a better one than 2016 for us all. I have started 2017 with my annual trip to Nelson Bay visiting family and I am hoping that 10 days of beach fun will charge me up for the coming year. This year I was fortunate enough to sort of fulfil one of my lifelong dreams: I got to see my first ever whale. Admittedly it was washed up on the beach and dead but nevertheless I could still get a feel for its massive bulk and it has definitely made me determined to return during whale watching season to see a live one. I hope it is an omen for a great year to come! This is the year for fresh starts and, while I am not one to set resolutions, I am hoping to do some more overseas travel, focus on my girls, my family and friends and my fitness, and I intend to live each day like it is my last. The only thing stopping me achieving my goals and dreams this year is me, so look out 2017! I have plans to do another half-ironman if the body holds up and I think I might finally try my first full 42 km
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FEBRUARY 2017
marathon towards the end of the year. It wouldn’t be summer and the start of the year without a trip to International Dairy Week, and what a week it was. It is always great to head over and check out the cows on show, the proud owners and the general excitement around the ring. This year I was fortunate enough to attend the Power of Women in Dairy dinner, and what a fantastic, entertaining and thoughtprovoking night that was. We are all well aware of how tough the past eight months have been and to see more than 100 women from the industry, young and old, come together and share their stories, some good food and great entertainment and leave the night with a skip in their step and a smile on their face, indicates it was a very successful dinner. The night really was a credit to the organising committee. Speaker Robyn Moore has a unique way of looking at things, and she posed the
question: What if you looked at everything as if it was for the first time? Instead of concentrating on the negatives, look for the positives in everything you do. It was a message that really struck home and gave everyone on the night something to think about. I think 2017 is going to be an interesting year regarding milk supply and it is great to see farmers voting with milk now and moving suppliers and continually looking for better deals. I know one supplier who is now onto their third company since the milk price drop, but she said the swap was worth an extra $40 000 to her business and she couldn’t pass it up. Hopefully it is a way of keeping milk supply companies on their toes. It is pretty obvious there is no loyalty left and farmers have every right to chase the best milk price they can. In my humble opinion, biting the hand that feeds you is not the best way to develop supplier loyalty for the future.
MG appoints new chief Ari Mervis hopes to ‘transform and refocus Murray Goulburn’. New Murray Goulburn managing director Ari Mervis has promised an open and transparent management style. Murray Goulburn chair Philip Tracy announced in December the appointment of the former Carlton and United Breweries chief. Mr Mervis, 52, starts on February 13. His career with SABMiller, the world’s second largest brewer, began in 1989 and included senior positions in South Africa, Swaziland, Russia and Hong Kong. Most recently, he was managing director of SABMiller in the Asia Pacific and chief executive officer of Carlton and United Breweries in Melbourne, with responsibility for overseeing businesses across the Asia Pacific including China, India, Vietnam, South Korea and Australia. Mr Tracy said Mr Mervis had relevant experience for the milk processor, and some of his customers were the same that MG deals with. He said Mr Mervis had a proven track record for achieving results and he appreciated his
calm and rational manner. Mr Tracy described Mr Mervis as an ideal fit for the company. He said getting to understand MG’s business would be a high priority for Mr Mervis, who will be visiting the factories and dairy production regions. Mr Tracy has indicated he will step down from his position but said he would prefer to wait until Mr Mervis settled into his new position. Asked about the relationship between the board chair and the managing director, Mr Tracy said he expected it would be transparent. Murray Goulburn announced Ari Mervis as its new managing director and chief Mr Mervis said he was aware the dairy executive officer on December 12. industry was in a down cycle at the moment and he expected it was at the bottom of the “While I don’t pretend to offer an overnight cycle. solution to Murray Goulburn’s situation, He has told suppliers he appreciated that I have had experience in similar situations 2016 had been a difficult year and he was and together we will hopefully be able to transform and refocus Murray Goulburn under no illusions about the task ahead and the expectation to deliver lasting and positive for a prosperous and successful future,” Mr Mervis said. change to transform the co-operative.
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7
animal health
Keith Fletcher, Rochester Veterinary Practice
Dehorning the humane way There are a few steps that can be taken to ensure dehorning calves causes as little distress for the animals as possible. Dehorning cattle is a painful procedure that is deemed necessary to enhance the welfare of the cattle by reducing the risk of injury to animals and handlers, particularly during handling. Ideally, cattle should be bred without horns (i.e polled) and many operators are selecting for natural polled cattle, but until this is achieved, dehorning will remain a very important management tool. It must however be performed in such a way as to minimise the pain and stress of the procedure. The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) guidelines state: “Cattle should be dehorned before six months of age using one of the following methods: Heat cautery (disbudding iron) in calves up to 40 days or dehorning knives for small horns and scoop-type dehorners for larger horns.” Unless heavy sedation is used, the calf must be restrained using a suitable calf cradle/ crush. The ideal procedure would be for the calf to be sedated, given a dose of analgesic (pain relief drug) and then given a local anaesthetic injection into the cornual nerve. After 5–10 minutes to allow the anaesthetic to take effect, the horn buds can be burnt or cut out with minimum discomfort. The calves should then be allowed to recover quietly and monitored over the next couple of days for excessive bleeding and flystrike.
Farmers are sometimes sedating and anaesthetising calves for dehorning.
Farmers are sometimes sedating and anaesthetising calves for dehorning.
Where calves are done early while the horn buds are small, it is possible to carry out the procedure without using local anaesthetic, which is what is done by non-vet technicians. However these calves should still receive a dose of analgesic to relieve the post-operative pain. There is now an oral preparation of meloxicam (ask your vet) that can be squirted (1–2 ml, depending on the size of calf ) into the calf ’s mouth 5–10 minutes prior to dehorning. For calves to be sedated and injected with local anaesthetic requires a vet to perform the procedure and most cattle practices will
offer this service. Even if you are using a technician for the job, you can still insist on dosing the calves with analgesic prior to disbudding. With animal welfare being high on consumers’ priority list we need to be seen to do as much as possible to mimimise pain and discomfort to the animals under our care as well as having a responsibility to the animals themselves. We should always be asking ourselves — can we do this better?
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See page 14 in this issue for one farmer’s experience with dehorning calves.
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Tom Acocks on his Rochester dairy Rochester dairy farm. farm. Mr Acocks was runner-up in the statewide 2016 Rural Water Awards in the surface water category after taking out the regional title in the same category.
Water solution is a winner Finding an irrigation system to grow more feed has done more than just impress the cows. established a new connection to the Rochester farmer Tom Acocks has backed Campaspe River, which allows them to up his regional victory in the surface water divert water for irrigation. category of the 2016 Rural Water Awards with a runner-up prize at state level. Water is now pumped from the river, through a pressurised pipe system to two Mr Acocks said the reason for investing centre pivot irrigators. time, effort and money into a new irrigation connection was simple. The innovative project allows them to “We wanted to grow more feed for the cows. double-crop the section of land, securing feed for the herd. This set-up guarantees feed,” he said. “By using a spray system, instead of flood In 2011 the Campaspe Irrigation District was decommissioned, leaving about 110 ha irrigation, we’re also saving between four and five megalitres of water per hectare per of Mr Acocks’ Rochester dairy farm year,” Mr Acocks said. without access to water for irrigation. With his wife Emma and his parents Mick It was a decision that affected the dairy and Heather, Mr Acocks milks an 850farming business’ ability to grow enough head Friesian herd in a 50-stand rotary feed for its cows, so the family got to work dairy. finding a solution. Growing feed for the herd is particularly After much planning and designing, they
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11
Taking the guesswork out of perennial rye-grass New research tries to find the optimal mix of pasture and supplements. Most dairy farmers in south-eastern Australia use pasture-based systems because of their low cost of production. Pasture alone cannot provide a high producing dairy cow with all of her nutritional requirements, so supplementary concentrates are commonly fed in the dairy to increase nutrient supply, especially when pasture quality and quantity are low. New research at DEDJTR Ellinbank will focus on complementing the nutrients supplied from pasture with appropriate supplements to optimise milk production. In the dairying regions of Victoria, perennial rye-grass is the most commonly used pasture species. Advancements in plant breeding have produced a wide variety of cultivars, with farmers typically sowing more than one cultivar on their farm. In addition, seasonal changes in pasture from vegetative in spring to reproductive and stalky in summer results in differing quantities of nutrients available for grazing cows throughout the year. The flowering date of rye-grass cultivars can be manipulated, so that plants flower earlier or later in the season to take advantage of increased growth in winter or continued growth into summer. For example, the Victorian SE cultivar (commonly known as Vic Rye) has an early flowering date and starts to seed earlier in spring compared with late flowering cultivars such as Bealey NEA2 and Trojan NEA2, which may only start to become reproductive in late spring. Tetraploid cultivars, which have larger leaves and are more palatable to dairy cows, have been developed, and plant breeders can
now also choose a specific novel endophyte with which to inoculate each cultivar. A research project at Ellinbank is examining the variation in the degradation of different perennial rye-grass cultivars in the rumen. A recent experiment conducted by research scientist and PhD student, Meaghan Douglas, investigated the degradation of nutrients in three perennial rye-grass cultivars from northern and south-western Victoria, harvested during early spring. These cultivars were Bealey NEA2, Trojan NEA2 and Victorian SE (Vic Rye). The farm in northern Victoria where these samples were harvested has access to irrigation, while the farm in south-west Victoria was dependent upon rainfall. Degradation characteristics were determined by the disappearance of feed samples from nylon bags. Bags were incubated for up to 72 hours to determine the degradation over time. Results reported below are representative of ruminal degradation characteristics in a high-producing dairy cow. There were no differences in the rate of degradation of crude protein between the three cultivars within each region, with the rate of degradation in the range of 13 to 20 per cent/hour over the two regions. There were minimal differences in the amount of crude protein in each cultivar that was degradable in the rumen, however, in both regions Trojan tended to have a lower proportion of total degradable crude protein. An important finding was that there were differences between the amount of protein degraded in the rumen, and post-ruminally, between the cultivars in each region.
In northern Victoria, Bealey had the greatest total amount of protein available for degradation among the three cultivars, and had the greatest amounts of rumendegradable protein and bypass protein. These results were similar in south-west Victoria, however, it was Vic Rye that had the greatest amounts of rumen-degradable and rumen bypass protein. Despite this result, formulating an optimal supplementary ration for grazing dairy cows in spring may not need to consider the individual perennial rye-grass cultivars as the protein content of pasture in spring is already greater than cow requirements. However, these data may assist in formulating supplementary feeding rations for spring that have protein degradation characteristics that complement those of the pasture, which can help to reduce the energy cost of excreting excess protein that the cow cannot utilise. Further research will examine the degradation characteristics of the same perennial rye-grass cultivars from these two regions harvested in summer, and from Gippsland harvested during early spring and summer. Collaborators on the project include The University of Sydney. Dairy Australia and the Victorian Government are funding this research. For more information, email Meaghan Douglas at meaghan.douglas@ecodev.vic.gov.au
Research scientist Meaghan Douglas.
Dairy cows grazing perennial rye-grass pasture at Ellinbank. 12
FEBRUARY 2017
Mural celebrates Legendairy town Photo mosaic will capture Stanhope’s community spirit and cheesemaking history. Fonterra Australia is on a mission to collect thousands of photographs to create a massive photo mosaic wall mural at the entrance to its new Stanhope cheese plant designed to ‘wear our pride on our side’. The 30 m by 5 m wall mural, with the theme of ‘Legendairy Stanhope: Proud People, Proud Community’, will celebrate cheesemaking history dating back to the 1920s, along with a rural community known for its dairy farms and agricultural abundance. Stanhope and district residents of all ages are being asked to submit photos that highlight the theme, and every entry received will be captured on the mural. The mural will be unveiled to the community in mid-2017. Fonterra Australia managing director René Dedoncker said the multi-milliondollar rebuild of the cheese plant and expansion of the Stanhope factory was an opportunity to celebrate a strong community
and Fonterra’s place in it. “There’s a lot to be proud about, from Stanhope being awarded Legendairy Capital of Australia status in 2015 through to the farmers who keep us supplied with top quality milk and our people who make some of the tastiest cheese in Australia,” Mr Dedoncker said. “We love being part of a community which represents some of the best qualities of rural Australia.” Among the first to get the photo ball rolling is Stanhope dairy farmer Rob Schloss, who has been supplying the Fonterra factory for more than 10 years. “As Stanhope is currently the Legendairy Capital of Australia, the new cheese factory is only going to enhance further the status of Stanhope as a dairying region,” Mr Schloss said. “We will be able to lay claim to a state-of-the-art cheesemaking facility, producing cheeses which will be world-class and unique to this region.” Dairy Australia is behind the Legendairy
(From left) James Harris, dairy farmer Rob Schloss and Campaspe Shire Mayor Adrian Weston following the announcement of the Fonterra mural project.
Capital initiative, and is also supporting the project by sharing many of the community photographs it has collected. The mural will be installed on the northern wall of the Fonterra site and will be easily seen from Midland Hwy. On the other side of the wall, Stanhope’s rebuilt cheese plant will be converting milk from about 220 local farms to produce some 45 000 tonnes of cheese each year for domestic and export customers. Submit photo/s with a short description at: www.legendairystanhopemural.com There is no limit to the number of photos that can be entered. Entries close on Friday, March 17. Country News is a media partner in this project and will carry stories about its progress.
FEBRUARY 2017
13
Doing his best to keep life simple
Steve Dalitz has made animal welfare a huge priority on his Katunga dairy farm.
Staying stress-free and caring for his animals drive this farmer’s actions. Animal welfare plays a huge part in the life of Katunga dairy farmer Steve Dalitz. The self-confessed softie always has the health of his animals at heart and it was a catalyst for his decision to put his calves to sleep as part of the de-horning process. “I used to hate de-horning calves. I saw on the #dairylove site someone who put their calves to sleep so I rang my local vet in Numurkah and decided to give it a go,” Mr Dalitz said. “We grouped the calves into a corner of the pen and gave them a jab in the bum to put them to sleep. A pain killer was put in behind their eye and they were all de-horned while they were asleep. “It was quick, it was easy and there was no stress whatsoever to the calves. It was done in half the time and with half the effort.” The calves were de-horned in three groups and by the time the last group was finished, the first group was starting to wake up. “Some just dropped to the ground and looked like they were dead and it was funny watching them afterwards but the main thing was it worked well and they didn’t suffer any side effects at all. It was a pain-free process for us all,” Mr Dalitz said. “I didn’t feed the calves before they were de-horned and I went down a couple of 14
FEBRUARY 2017
hours later to feed them and they all drank. I touched their heads and there were no side effects at all.” Mr Dalitz estimates the process only added an extra $3 to the cost. “We rear about 300 calves a year so in the scheme of things it is not that much extra. “We rear every single calf on our property because I can’t stand the thought of the bobby calf market. I also buy calves in from the saleyards to rear up and sell later.
The calves that were put to sleep and de-horned have shown no side effects from the process, which will now become a permanent part of the stock management.
“I sell my calves as bulls not as steers because that is one less thing they have done to them.” Mr Dalitz said while he would never be able to convince the animal liberationists, he was happy with the way his cattle were treated. “The animal libbers are always going to find something about farming and take it out of context and we won’t ever be able to stop that.” Mr Dalitz has been dairy farming all his life.
Longevity and cow health is the focus of breeding for the herd on this Katunga dairy farm.
He only moved to his Katunga dairy farm 12 months ago after it was unsuccessfully managed by sharefarmers. He is currently in the process of simplifying his dairy operation and downsizing from 350 cows. “I have three sons and none of them are interested in farming — it’s my interest only. I want to milk 150 cows, run some beef and sell square hay bales for horses. “I work on the KISS theory now — keep it simple stupid — and it works for me.” What is no laughing matter for Mr Dalitz, though, is his battle with depression. “It used to upset me terribly selling calves and stock because I am such a big softie. I
love the cows and I can’t bear the thought of them being hurt in any way. “I hate cow selling day so I always try to sell them all at once because it is less painful that way. “Animal welfare is an important part of my farming practice and I aim to keep my cows until 10 years old. I breed for health traits and use a lot of Viking Genetics now. I am looking to not spray the cows in the future. Instead I am relying on genetics and breeding for low cell counts. “Not one of my Viking animals had mastitis this year so I have used their genetics on half of my heifers this year. I am focusing on what suits my own system and management
and I am looking after myself.” Mr Dalitz also has no loyalty to any particular dairy company and always shops around for the best price he can get. His current contract will run out at the end of this season. He has locked in half his water requirements for the next three years to help take some risk out of his business moving forward and this season has provided him with plenty of hay which he considers money in the bank. “I am confident in my future but I am not sure about the industry as a whole. Milk companies are going to have to pay for the milk or there will be no-one left dairying. It’s that simple.”
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New cheese plant for Cobram Murray Goulburn says higher milk prices will flow from factory upgrade.
A new cheese plant at Murray Goulburn’s Cobram factory will be a boon for its milk suppliers, according to the company. Murray Goulburn is investing $91 million into the new plant to complement the one already there. The new plant, which will process already-made cheese, will have the potential to produce up to 60 000 tonnes of cheese a year and will help dairy farmers, according to Murray Goulburn interim chief executive officer David Mallinson. “It’s going to result in higher milk prices for farmers. The board and management are committed to delivering the highest farm gate price we can,” Mr Mallinson said.
A block of cheese on the spiral conveyer belt at the new Murray Goulburn cheese plant at Cobram.
The money invested into the new plant is welcome after nearly three years of planning and construction. “From planning to completion, it has been two-and-a-half years,” Mr Mallinson said. “By investing in the new plant, it will allow us to be globally competitive as it will lead to lower costs and improved packaging.” Despite it being worthwhile for Murray Goulburn’s production, especially with a new deal with Coles just around the corner, employment numbers are not likely to increase. “As we ramp up to meet the additional volume from the new Coles private label cheese contract, we will utilise both our
existing site at Cobram together with the new facility,” Mr Mallinson said. “Longer-term there is expected to be a small reduction in permanent head count across our Cobram operations due to the automation of some processes at the new facility.” He said the plant’s re-seal packaging for cheese blocks was “a first for Australia”. “I think that’s the one new innovation we are bringing in that’s going to be quite exciting for all consumers as well.” The new facility will officially open in February, coinciding with Murray Goulburn’s new private label deal with Coles.
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Heather and Colin Stone have joined ACM and are converting their 300-cow dairy farm to organic milk.
The 24 double-up rapid exit dairy.
Organics a natural progression Devastated by milk price cuts, these farmers have found an achievable solution. Soil health and probiotics have been the focus of Heather and Colin Stone’s dairying management for the past 10 years. Their decision to join ACM and convert to organic dairy farming is the next progression. “We will have to make a lot of changes to our current system but we are guaranteed $8/ kg milk solids when we convert and we are prepared to take on the challenge,” Mr Stone said. The couple was devastated when Murray Goulburn dropped the milk price. “All we could see were huge losses and no adjustments,” Mr Stone said. “We went to ACM as an option to have a look and see what opportunities there were and we came back from their information
to the farm and convinced me to try one of day thinking what they were saying was achievable for us.” his products to restore the balance naturally and we just grew from there. The couple has been through the organic audit process and the timeframe for the “Our use of probiotics was the same. I find conversion is April. it is harder to fix a problem, so our focus “The challenge for us will be sourcing organic has always been about prevention — healthy cows and the right soil biology.” grain,” Mr Stone said. “We have a shorter conversion period because The couple will milk 300 cows this year and of our current farming practices, but we will run a flat calving pattern which means there have to source our own feed.” are about 250 cows in the dairy at all times. The couple purchased a 170 ha property at “We want to maintain herd numbers around Katunga in 2001. 300 and that means we might just have to push the farm a bit harder,” Mr Stone said. “We came here because of the groundwater,” Mr Stone said. The Stones expect to keep their pasture mix fairly similar. They will sow raw seed at a “The previous farmer used a lot of synthetic higher rate to increase plant density and fertilisers and I had a soil test done and it just happened that a biological rep turned up discourage weed growth.
Autumn Start Up/Managing for Soil Success These on farm days will examine and discuss options to remediate the soil impacts resulting from the prolonged wet winter. Soil Scientist Christian Bannan will use soil pits to discuss and demonstrate impacts and options for the autumn sowing program. Dates: Tuesday 7, Wednesday 8, Thursday 9, Tuesday 14, and Wednesday 15 February, 2017. Locations to be advised. Call Murray Dairy on (03) 5833 5312 for more information.
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FEBRUARY 2017
Visit www.murraydairy.com.au
“I will probably just have to be more vigilant “This is American-style and we have fed the cows this way ever since we moved here,” when it comes to topping,” Mr Stone said. Mr Stone said. “I am trialing a plant variety called Teff at the “They know the feed is waiting for them after moment, which is an Indian-style rye-grass milking and we don’t have any problems at which is very water efficient while still being all.” palatable. “We are also looking at a hemp legume which The feedpad was built at the same time as the dairy and is big enough to fit 450 cows. has some protein but is also supposedly a huge nitrogen fixer for the ground and under It is covered by a series of shade sails, which normal conditions it should fix enough regulate the temperature. The cows have nitrogen for the next crop.” access to the pad at any stage of the day and it is not uncommon for them to spend hot The Stones hope to maintain a 7500 litre days under the shade. average for the cows and down the line they would like to get that figure up to about There are no sprinklers as the Stones don’t 8000. believe they are needed. The herd is milked through a 24 double-up Farming is a tough job and Mr Stone rapid exit dairy. All grain is on the feedpad. believes converting to organics will help them overcome burn-out. “We are worn out. We have pushed the cows and achieved high conversion ratios, but the input costs are too high and we have lost If things don’t change, control,” Mr Stone said. “We are now hoping to sit back and take there will be nothing left things a bit easier in the future and I think for the next generation. converting to organics will help us. “We have had field officers and consultants tell us to produce more per hectare and per
“
”
cow, but at the end of the day if the milk price doesn’t move, nothing will work. Even if they are producing 50 litres, you still don’t make money. “It’s sad the dairy industry hasn’t marketed its product properly considering all the nutrition and health benefits it brings. “If things don’t change, there will be nothing left for the next generation.”
Fruit waste from SPC is mixed into the feed ration which is fed out on the feedpad.
The 450-cow feedpad backs on to the dairy and is covered by shade sails, which do a great job at regulating the temperature during the hot summer months.
Feeding Pastures for Profit Helps to improve profit from your dairy farm business, by using more home grown pasture and efficient use of supplements.
These decisions have a large impact on farm profit through making the most of the farm business’s available resources.
Feeding Pastures for Profit (FPFP) program aims to help dairy farmers to develop skills and gain confidence in making decisions around.
• Growing more grass • Profitable use of pastures and crops • Efficient use of supplements.
1. How much pasture do I allocate to the herd today? 2. How much supplement should I be giving the herd today?
The program also provides information on: Visit www.murraydairy.com.au
Murray Dairy is calling for Expression of Interest for new groups to commence in April 2017. Please call Murray Dairy on (03) 5833 5312 to register your interest. Locations to be determined.
FEBRUARY 2017
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Sharyn and George Kantarias hosted an organic field day at their property at Katunga in December.
Future is organic for dairy family Conversion boosts former MG suppliers’ confidence in the industry. If you had told George and Sharyn Kantarias that one day they would be organic dairy farmers, George would have probably scoffed at you. But it is funny how things turn out and the couple is now looking forward to supplying the organic market. The Kantariases hosted a farm walk for their milk supply company ACM in December. They purchased their 63 ha dairy farm at Katunga in November 2015. The former Murray Goulburn suppliers
were in a world of hurt after the milk price drop announced in May 2016 seriously threatened their future. “Things with MG were not that good but we are so grateful ACM have given us the opportunity to transition and supply organic milk,” Mrs Kantarias said. “It has given us confidence in the industry and now a future.” Mr Kantarias has been dairy farming since he was 13. The move to organics is something he never thought would be part of his future.
“Years ago if anyone said I was going to be involved in organics, I would have said they have lost their marbles. But times are changing and people are really starting to wonder what is actually going into their food,” he said. “There is a lot of genetic modification in food and lots of sickness around and you have to wonder what is causing all that.” The couple believes the move to organics will provide the farm business with a sustainable future. “We are only a small farm but if we can milk
Building a Remarkable Dairy Workforce Mandy Johnson, best-selling author, speaker and business adviser will be presenting to dairy farmers the best techniques to help business recruitment, solving employment issues and how to get the best from your staff. Mandy’s sessions will include: • What’s changing in the labour market
• Attracting and hiring great recruits
• Self-reflection — Your achievements and disappointments in the people area
• Performance Management — Getting the best from your people
Workshops will be run on Thursday 16 and Friday March 17 2017 in various locations around northern Victoria and southern New South Wales. Contact Sarah at Murray Dairy on 0418 844 621 to express your interest and put your name down for this great event. 20
FEBRUARY 2017
Visit www.murraydairy.com.au
Kevin Beecroft talks organics to the crowd.
ACM field officer John Hommes (centre) with Sharyn and George Kantarias.
Field day participants.
120 cows for the same money as roughly 200 then we are happy to have a go,” Mr Kantarias said. “It is achievable for us and just a matter of going through the transition process. “We are getting to the point in our life where we want to slow down and milking a smaller herd size really appeals to us.”
who grew up in Tongala. The farm walk was a success, drawing people interested in organic farming. “We had around 40 people come to the day. Most of them are in the process of conversion but some are still looking,” Mr Kantarias said.
They decided to purchase the Katunga property because they liked the soil types and water security.
“It’s a good group and if we can stick together and learn off each other over the next few years then I am sure the process will be a lot easier for us all.”
It was also close to home for Mr Kantarias,
ACM organic milk liaison officer Rebecca
Gell said it was the second organic field day the company had held. “We have had a lot of interest in organic milk supply since our initial information day in Shepparton,” Ms Gell said. She said the downturn in milk prices, the up-and-down nature of the industry and concern over health issues had all contributed to increased interest in organics. “Some people have found the traditional system doesn’t work for them any more and they are willing to look at things a little differently.”
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Call Murray Dairy on (03) 5833 5312. This program is supported by the Australian Government and Gardiner Foundation.
FEBRUARY 2017
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Whole-calf approach needed Calf rearers sometimes overlook the psychology of the calf, according to experienced calf rearer Janine Brennan. Young calves are sometimes exposed to unnecessary stress which will contribute to poor outcomes and in some cases slow their growth. Janine Brennan has raised calves for about 10 years and now works for the animal nutrition company Provico, which presented a seminar at the recent International Dairy Week. Changing feeding methods, moving them to new pens, isolating calves, and even allowing farm dogs to wander around the pens, can add to stress for calves. “Think about how much stress we can cause for animals,” Ms Brennan said. “Stress can make a huge contribution to scouring.” She said some farmers might see an indication of scouring and immediately jump for a bottle of antibiotics, when the cause might lie somewhere else.
While good shelter is important for calves, Ms Brennan said when the weather was mild the calves were often better out in the sunshine and fresh air and away from concentrated sites which had disease potential. But she said wind breaks were particularly important because strong wind in cool weather could create a severe chill factor which could quickly reduce calves condition. She pointed out that, in the wild, calves could seek out protection from the wind beside their mothers, but they had to find other protection when separated. Old straw bales, arranged in an “L” shape, could sometimes do the job. Ms Brennan said to reduce stress she vaccinated her calves while they were on the feeder. At the International Dairy Week seminar Ms Brennan fielded a series of questions on
Calf rearer Janine Brennan. “A healthy calf makes a healthy cow later,” she says.
feeding, weaning, shelter, electrolytes and rumen development from the crowd of about 50 engaged listeners. She recommended careful planning in weaning to reduce stress and warned that changing feeding methods suddenly would introduce stress. If a calf was taken off milk for a week or more and they had to be returned to milk, they would have to be carefully reintroduced as their stomachs would need to adjust. “A healthy calf makes a healthy cow later.”
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FEBRUARY 2017
Aim for quality colostrum Improving the quality of colostrum is one of the keys to a good start for calves. Provico general manager David Reynolds told a seminar at International Dairy Week that vaccinating dams and lead feeding were excellent ways of improving the quality of colostrum. Quoting a feed study, Mr Reynolds pointed to the use of micronutrients in lead feeding resulting in a 17 per cent increase in antibody content in mature cows and a 40 per cent increase in first calving heifers. “So nutrition has a big role to play in the quality of colostrum and getting the antibody levels up,” he said. He said the methods of collection and storage of colostrum also impacted on its quality. Adding rennet to colostrum would also give a better outcome for the calf. Mr Reynolds said the most recent northern Victoria spring created particular problems in calf rearing. Farmers were on a feeding regime, and suddenly there was a change
David Reynolds.
and they discovered their calves were not performing as well. “We believe it was a lot colder and they needed more milk — and if they couldn’t get it, their growth rates were affected,” Mr Reynolds said. He said the way to combat that was to increase the calves’ milk intake. Referring to research, Mr Reynolds said calves given more milk in their feeding regime produced more milk in their first lactation. “Milk intake had a three times greater influence on milk production than gene selection,” Mr Reynolds said one study had shown. “I was floored when I read that. It makes you understand the importance of feeding calves correctly.” He urged caution with early weaning when the rumen was not properly developed.
He said although it might seem attractive from a cost point of view, when it came to rearing herd replacements, early weaning might be counter-productive to milk production. “The question is: Can we increase our milk solids but still maintain early rumen development? “We need to think outside the box, rather than just feeding whole milk,” Mr Reynolds said. “You may need to consider introducing a calf milk replacer somewhere along the line. “The advantage of fortification is that you can increase milk powder but keep the volume the same.” Mr Reynolds said research had demonstrated, and farmers knew, that disease restricted calf growth rates. However he said the research also showed that disease-affected animals produced less milk in their first lactation.
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23
National All Breeds Dairy Youth Camp leaders Lucy Galt, Ben Taylor and Tom Pearce said the camp was an excellent experience
Gianni Serra, 17, hopes to take over the family farm in Stanhope.
Gabrielle Hasell, 16, from Yarrawonga attended the dairy youth camp but a foot injury forced her to take a more passive role. Colleagues helped clip her cow.
Aleesha Burney of Grantville was at a youth camp for the first time.
Camp fosters industry’s future Young humans and heifers learn the ins and outs of the show ring together. Organisers of the National All Breeds Dairy Participants in the camp came from Youth Camp have been doing their bit to across the country and were taught skills encourage young people to get involved in in breeding, nutrition, communication, the dairy industry. showmanship and judging skills. The camp, which began in 1992 and runs “We really want to grow their passion for the in early January, this year brought together dairy industry and show them that there are 35 young people with a range of experience options,” Ms Galt said. levels, from those who live and work on The camp was used to prepare the young farms to those who have no dairy experience. handlers for International Dairy Week, with Camp co-ordinator Lucy Galt said the camp the 16 to 20-year-olds even holding their aimed to help young people make stronger own exhibition day. networks in the dairy community. Participants were put in charge of a heifer “Dairy can be an isolated industry, this is a calf to care for throughout the week, chance to meet like-minded people,” Ms including daily watering, feeding and Galt said. monitoring. “It helps to encourage young people to grow Each person was also involved in the networks in the dairy industry.” presentation of the calf, from washing and
clipping the heifer to preparing it for the final exhibition. Ms Galt said it was great to see the young people grow in confidence over the course of the camp. “The camp has been excellent. Day one and two were a bit stressful but it’s been great to see everyone getting more comfortable with the cows,” she said. Youth camp leader and dairy farmer Ben Taylor said for some people the camp could mark the beginning of their careers. “(Some of them) want a career in dairy, they might want to take over the family farm one day,” Mr Taylor said. “We try to tell them ‘you get out what you put in’.”
Sights set on dairy career Gianni Serra, 17, a participant in the National All Breeds Dairy Youth Camp, has hopes of one day taking over the family dairy farm that was started by his father. The property in Stanhope has 140 cows, and Gianni hopes the skills he’s picked up at the camp will help him to “get the best out of the farm”. Gianni is currently completing a Certificate III in Agriculture with ATEL, and using his family farm to further his education. 24
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He said the camp allowed him to widen his range of handling cattle and gain more experience in clipping cows. Overall, Gianni said the camp was a great experience and looking after cows all day helped him to improve his time management and reaffirmed his desire to run the family farm.
Gianni Serra, 17, from Stanhope watches trainer, Bill Macadam of Tatura, complete the top line of the heifer.
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FEBRUARY 2017
25
Grazing timing under the microscope How does pasture allocation affect the cows’ use of the robotic dairy? In the late spring and early summer of 2016, an experiment was conducted at the Dookie dairy to examine the impact of the timing of pasture allocation during the day on cow movement to the robotic dairy throughout the day. The research was conducted in collaboration with the Future Dairy project led by the University of Sydney. In the three-way grazing system used at Dookie, three grazing sessions are provided each day — in the morning, evening and
night. In this experiment the control treatment had one third of the daily pasture intake allocated in each grazing session. This was compared to treatments where pasture was restricted in either the evening or night grazing sessions. In the restricted pasture treatments, the proportion of pasture allocated was reduced to 20 per cent of the daily pasture intake for that session, with higher pasture allocation during the day. November 1, 2016
December 1, 2016
January 1, 2017
Cow numbers
143
130
130
Kg milk solids/cow/day
2.20
2.10
1.95
Kg concentrate/cow/day
8.0
6.7
7.4 *
0
0.9
6.4**
Pasture (KgDM)/cow
11.5
10.5
4.8
Area in rotation
43.0
43.0
43.0
Average milkings/cow/day
2.5
2.4
2.4
Number of failures/day
2.5
3.0
2.5
Number of cows got/day
5
5
5
Litres/machine/day
1510
1320
1230
Rumination minutes/cow/day
386
353
347
Kg fodder/cow/day
ZO620370
26
The treatments where pasture allocation was reduced in the evening or night grazing sessions were designed to encourage the movement of cows to the dairy at times of day when cows are not frequently being milked. The overall aim is to develop grazing management strategies that utilise the milking capacity of the robots throughout the day. Results of the experiment are still being analysed but will be reported later in 2017.
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John and Elise Pethybridge and children Owen and Molly are Murray Dairy Focus Farmers for 2016–18. The couple milks 220 cows at Whorouly.
Focusing on the big picture Whorouly couple hopes the program will help take the business to the next level. Whorouly dairy farmers John and Elise Pethybridge are looking forward to being Murray Dairy Focus Farmers for 2016–18. The couple joined the program in August, and has already hosted three meetings and an open day. The farm had already been through a family succession plan, so the couple felt it was the right time to join the program and take the operation to the next level. “We selected a good mix of professionals and farmers, in particular a few older generation farmers, and I have learnt so much more about the business and keeping the books already,” Mrs Pethybridge said. “I was a stay-at-home mum who milked the cows and helped out, but it has been a massive eye-opener for me to learn more about the logistics of the business.” Mr Pethybridge grew up on the farm that has been in his family since the 1950s. He was one of six boys and was always going to be a farmer. Tragedy struck when Mr Pethybridge’s father 28
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died 15 years ago, but instead of selling up, one of his brothers stayed on to look after the farm until John was old enough to leave school and take over the operation with his mum, Rhonda. “I love the variability of farming and I am certainly never bored, and it’s a great life for the kids,” Mr Pethybridge said. His three-and-a-half-year-old son Owen agrees. “You grow grass and then you milk cows and
“
I love the variability of farming and I am certainly never bored, and it’s a great life for the kids. Elise Pethybridge
”
then you make money to buy things like a toy tractor with a boom sprayer,” Owen said. You can’t say Owen isn’t a passionate little farmer already. The Pethybridges milk 220 cows on 154 ha. Total land holdings are about 350 ha and include 109 ha owned by the couple, 100 ha owned by Rhonda, a 100 ha lease block and a 40 ha block owned by Elise’s father which they use to run steers on. While the herd is split-calving (about 75 per cent autumn), the Pethybridges would ideally like to lift that figure up to 80 to 90 per cent to fit in with pasture growth. They run a 10-week autumn calving and six-week spring calving pattern. They have 14 ha of irrigation but they classify their farm essentially as a dryland operation. “We grow lots of Italians and sow annuals each year,” Mr Pethybridge said. “We direct graze and cut silage but December through to March is the toughest period we experience and we try to keep the cows fed
Cows and paddocks.
on maize and rye-grass silage.” The couple grows maize on a leased block that has access to flood irrigation. “We managed to knock the block into shape and we harvested 19.5 tonne dry matter last year,” Mr Pethybridge said. “I have a few issues to sort out yet but I am hoping to get that figure up around 22 tonne.” This season he has focused on keeping costs down without impacting too severely on cash flow. The herd has been cut back from about 240 cows. “It has been a very hard six months and cash flow is very tight, but we are focusing on doing what is best for our pasture-based system and getting all those principles to line up,” Mr Pethybridge said. They were fortunate to receive a $14 800 grant to purchase a second-hand silo for their feed system, through Coles and the VFF Farmers’ Fund.
“There were over 600 people who put in and only 60 got approved,” Mrs Pethybridge said of the grant. “This silo will enable us to store more protein to be mixed through our roller mill and give us a bit more flexibility.” They have secured their grain requirements from a local grower for a pretty good price for the rest of the season, so that is at least one cost they know they can budget on. The Pethybridges are hoping their involvement as a Focus Farm will help them improve their business as a whole. “I have learnt a lot about our business and the process so far has been very insightful,” Mrs Pethyridge said. “As a mum of young children who didn’t grow up on a dairy farm, a lot of this stuff used to go over my head but I am learning a lot and really enjoying our involvement so far.” The couple will host another field day in April.
The Pethybridges received funding for a second-hand silo through Coles and the VFF Farmers’ Fund. FEBRUARY 2017
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Chance to see a bigger picture Katandra farmer hopes to learn from Kiwi farming practices. A young Katandra farmer will travel across the Ditch to take part in the 2017 Gardiner Dairy Foundation and UDV New Zealand Study Tour. Nick Minogue, who works alongside his parents John and Ann-Maree on the family farm, said he hoped the tour would be beneficial. “It means an opportunity to see a more broader view of the dairy industry and it’s an opportunity to learn and bring things home to use up here in Victoria,” he said. Mr Minogue, 23, has grown up on the family farm, which is home to 180 Friesian cattle, and said he was looking forward to seeing NZ farming practices. “We use a similar farming practice on our farm to what they use in New Zealand — pasture-based and spring-calving,” he said. After completing Year 12, Mr Minogue hit the road to the University of Melbourne, where he studied a Bachelor of Agriculture and said he was
looking forward to learning more about all aspects of the industry. “It’s an opportunity to see dairying on a larger scale and to see the research and manufacturing side of it as well,” he said. Despite a rough period for dairy farmers, Mr Minogue hoped the industry would get back to where it once was. “I hope to continue in the industry and to see it grow again and continue to see it grow.” Mr Minogue said farm ownership was of interest to him. “I intend to stay in on-farm farming,” he said. “I would like to stand on my own two feet, whether that’s taking over the family farm or moving on to another farm.” Mr Minogue, who will travel to NZ with five other participants, thanked the UDV and the Gardiner Foundation for the opportunity.
Katandra dairy farmer Nick Minogue will take part in the 2017 Gardiner Dairy Foundation and UDV New Zealand study tour. 30
FEBRUARY 2017
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Heat-stressed dry cows impact bottom line Research shows it’s not just the milking herd that needs to keep cool. Dairy farmers across mainland Australia use shade and evaporative cooling to keep their milking herds cool over the hot months. However, dry cows have received relatively little attention when it comes to managing heat stress. Cows generate less metabolic heat when dry than when lactating, and have a higher upper critical temperature. So you would presume that dry cows are far less of a concern than the milking herd when it comes to heat stress. However, research studies consistently show that if cows experience heat stress during late pregnancy (that is, during their dry period), they produce less milk in the next lactation. Reduced milk yield in next lactation Why does this carry-over effect on milk yield occur? Researchers believe it is due to impairment of blood flow through the dry cow’s udder during the last two months of pregnancy, when the udder is growing and developing rapidly in preparation for the onset of the next lactation. Other metabolic/hormonal mechanisms may also contribute to the carry-over effect on milk production. For example, if cows are subjected to heat stress soon after drying-off it may affect normal involution of the udder. Further research is required. Smaller, lighter calves born Not only does heat stress during late pregnancy affect development of the cow’s udder, it also affects development of her placenta, which the unborn calf is totally dependent on for its supply of oxygen and nutrients. Cows that suffer heat stress during their dry period have smaller placentas, with reduced blood flow through the uterus and umbilical cord. As a result, calves of these cows (which were 32
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heat stressed while still in the uterus) tend to be born several days earlier and several kilograms lighter than calves of cows that kept cool during their dry period. Greater risk of health problems around calving When cows experience heat stress during late pregnancy it suppresses their immune system for many weeks. Studies have shown that the neutrophils (the white blood cells which are the first line of defence against pathogens) of heat-stressed cows become less aggressive against bacteria. The level of circulating antibodies is lower than in cows that remain cool during late pregnancy, for example, cows that calve in spring. Cows that experience heat stress during late pregnancy may therefore be at greater risk of health problems such as mastitis and retained foetal membranes around calving (when their immune function is already naturally suppressed). Calves are less healthy, fertile and productive in first lactation Studies in many species of animals (including humans) show the conditions that offspring are subjected to while still in the uterus affect their lifetime health and performance. When the foetal calf ’s body temperature is increased, as it is when its mother experiences heat stress during late pregnancy, it appears that this negatively affects the calf ’s metabolism and gene expression, pre-programming it for sub-optimal health and performance. Calves born to cows heat-stressed during the dry period have been shown to be less able to absorb maternal antibodies from the first colostrum consumed soon after birth, so have lower blood antibody levels than calves from cool dry cows.
Their cell-mediated immune function may also be compromised. So they are more susceptible to infections that commonly occur preweaning and are more likely to die or be culled due to health problems or poor growth. Researchers at the University of Florida have recently found that the effects on calves born to cows heat-stressed during the dry period extend through their growth and development into adult cows. These calves go on to be less fertile as maiden heifers, taking more inseminations to get incalf. They then go on to have reduced milk yield through their first lactation (4.5 litres/ day up to 30 weeks of lactation in the University of Florida study). What does this mean? So, if many cows in a herd experience heat stress during their dry period, it may impact significantly on productivity and profits, not just for a few weeks, but for many years. Autumn and year-round calving farms with a high heat stress risk level should therefore ensure that their early dry cows and transition cows have access to adequate shade and cool drinking water at all times. As per the milking herd, the aim should be to protect dry cows from direct sunlight, particularly during the hottest part of the day. If existing natural shade from trees in paddocks on the home farm or support block used for dry cows is inadequate to provide 4 sq m shade per cow at midday, then alternative paddocks should be sought. (Portable paddock shade structures or a permanent shade structure are also options.) In the longer term, the farm plan should be reviewed with the aim of establishing more tree belts along dry cow paddocks and springer paddocks. For further information on keeping cows cool, visit www.coolcows.com.au — Dr Steve Little, Capacity Ag Consulting, for Dairy Australia
Guide will connect the dots Connections process explained step-by-step. “The Landowner Guide explains the process The Goulburn-Murray Water Connections project has released a new Landowner Guide in simple terms. We want to make it easier which provides a step-by-step process for for landowners to engage with the project,” landowners engaging with the project. Mr Fisseler said. The guide has been created to help The new eight-step engagement process is landowners understand how the described, along with how the project will Connections project will interact with them undertake reconfiguration planning. and their businesses and sets out guidance Irrigators unhappy with a decision on the around what to expect and when. landholder agreement can lodge an appeal In a first for the project and in direct with an independent reviewer who is response to community feedback, G-MW employed by DELWP. has also published the rules by which it Supporting the guide is the landowner makes important decisions about the project. information portal, ‘My Connections Connections Project Operational Rules Update’, which was launched last September provides information about how meter types and shows the plans for each channel within and sizing are determined, as well as the the Goulburn Murray Irrigation District. principles of co-contribution, voluntary dryoff and on-farm works. “One of the biggest challenges of this project is that it spans the entire GMID and a large Connections director Frank Fisseler said number of communities. The portal enables making this information available was an important step in maintaining good working everyone across the GMID to access the relationships with landowners. latest information,” Mr Fisseler said.
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We want to make it easier for landowners to engage with the project. Mr Fisseler
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“Our cows were 25 per cent down on peak production and the 41 inches of rain received drastically impacted on that.” The hay season finished five weeks later than normal, resulting in reduced quantity and quality. The business is looking at setting up one of the new properties with a centre pivot to increase fodder production. It has access to river water and a bore. “We can currently irrigate 133 ha but we want to get that figure up around 220 ha,” Rod said. “I am apprehensive about our expansion while we are still operating and losing money based on the current milk price, but we have to be ready when things turn around.” Rod has been farming for 39 years and the past 12 months has been the toughest period he has gone through. The next generation of Newton dairy “We signed up to supply Murray Goulburn farmers, twins Josh (left) and Andrew (right) and Michael, are keen to take in 2015 and I have been disgusted by the the farming business forward. board’s complacency and they have made some abhorrent management decisions,” he said. “It is a no-win situation for MG. They will lose and keep losing their core business, which is milk, and this is also not the year to be taking money off their suppliers. “Even though they have suspended the claw-back, we have still paid back so-called overpayment for five months and it’s still It’s been a tough year, but the Newtons have hanging over our heads for the following three years. expansion plans for their farm and their family. “It is tight enough as it is and it has affected so many lives negatively.” farm came up and we thought with the boys Despite a year of roadblocks, the Newtons coming home it made sense to expand our are driving forward on the Whorouly Rod said while everyone dealt with things in operation,” Rod said. property the family has farmed since the their own way, he thought it was important 1930s. for farmers to keep communication open “We are in the process of upgrading our and talk to someone if things were getting feedpad to service 700 cows with a mixer Brothers and current custodians Rod and them down. wagon.” Wayne are readying the business for the next generation as Rod’s son Michael and Wayne’s The wet winter and consequent pugging of “The milk price will change again, we know twins Josh and Andrew are making their way the paddocks convinced Rod a feedpad was that. It’s just about managing things as best into the family-run business. as we can until it changes,” he said. the way forward. The operation milks 550 cows through a The business has cut costs where it can and “The cows will be able to receive a proper diet 60-unit rotary. every single purchase is scrutinised. when it is wet and also take advantage of the Expansion plans are definitely on the cards as cool and shade over the summer months,” “We are all about minimising our losses so the business is hoping to milk 700 cows next he said. we don’t go too far backwards,” Rod said. season while focusing on self-sufficiency and The feedpad is 120 m long and consists of “Wheat is about $60 a tonne cheaper than producing more home-grown fodder. two 6m-wide alleyways with 200 mm high last year and our labour bill is down about concrete sleepers for cow access at the front “We want to take the risk out of the business $30 000 as we structure our workers more and concrete walls at the back, covered by and become more efficient as we move efficiently.” forward,” Rod said. a tin roof. Six years ago the business installed an Some of the efficiency has come through “Our paddocks were extremely pugged over automatic calf-rearing shed which allows securing a low interest rate productivity loan winter and we lost a lot of the feed we the Newtons to rear every calf born on the through the government and the purchase of normally would conserve because of this,” property. two new properties to expand land holdings Rod said. “We run Angus-cross-Friesian steers on our to 710 ha, including lease blocks. “We also have the cost of renovating a lot lease block and good beef prices have helped “The opportunity to purchase next door more of our pastures next autumn and that insulate us from the milk price drop a bit came up and then 10 months later another is something we want to avoid in the future. this year,” Rod said.
Taking the risk out of the business
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FEBRUARY 2017
The automated calf-rearing system was installed six years ago. The business rears bulls and heifers through the system.
The rotary dairy.
Silage.
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Future looks bright Increasing world population bodes well for the dairy industry, experts say.
Carl Kent of Holstein Association USA with Greg Lavan of the American Jersey Cattle Association. Both talked about the American dairy scene at International Dairy Week.
billion people have to eat. We as stewards of Two dairy experts from the United States mid-1985 to 6102 in mid-2015. the land have been put in a wonderful place,” Despite a reduction in Australian farms talked up the US dairy scene, with one he said. suggesting there is no better time to be during the past 30 years, Mr Lavan said working in agriculture. Mr Lavan said generation counting, which the rise of genomics had seen more Jerseys was a way to assess at a glance the depth of Greg Lavan from the American Jersey Cattle on the American Jersey Cattle Association Association and Carl Kent from the Holstein known and recorded ancestry in a Jersey register. pedigree, could reduce problems with Association USA talked to a small crowd of “In 2009, genomics came along and that’s identification. about 12 as part of the International Dairy where we’ve seen our greatest increases,” he Week seminar program at the Tatura Lawn “These generation counts can help us to said. Tennis Club rooms on Tuesday. simplify some of the ID problems that we According to Mr Lavan, registered Jersey have with animals that are originated from “I don’t think there has ever been a better numbers weren’t the only thing going in other breeds,” he said. time than the present to be involved in an upward trend. agriculture and I think it’s going to get Mr Kent said that there were about 46 000 “Semen sales continue to grow. Over nothing but better,” Mr Kent said. dairy farms across the US, with roughly 33 3 million units of Jersey semen were sold in per cent of them having between one and “If you think about it, the world’s population 2015. We don’t have 2016 data in yet but 100 cows. In comparison Australia’s average right now is at seven billion people and they are predicting another small increase,” within 10 years it will be eight billion people. herd size is 284 cows, with Dairy Australia he said. figures stating the number of Aussie farms As far as I know, the good Lord isn’t making has fallen by more than two-thirds during any more land, we’ve got all the land for Mr Kent said genomics had also considerably the past three decades from 19 380 in crops and cattle … and all of those eight increased the net profits of Holstein farmers.
Making safety a priority on farms Murray Dairy safety open day highlights dangers of quad bikes. With deaths on dairy farms increasing last year, farmers were reminded of the importance of safety at Murray Dairy’s safety on-farm open day in mid-December. The open day, at Greg Perry’s Tatura dairy farm, allowed about 20 farmers to hear about quad bike safety as well as an announcement from Victorian Finance Minister Robin Scott about the success of the Andrews Government’s quad bike safety rebate scheme.
farm open Tatura farmer and safety onorian day host Greg Perry with Vict Finance Minister Robin Scott.
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Murray Dairy extension officer Sarah Thompson said the day was all about promoting on-farm safety. “Safety is a key priority for Murray Dairy, especially as we have seen an increase in deaths in dairy this year (2016),” Ms Thompson said. “We held this day so farmers can make sure farms are a safe workplace and so we can stop deaths and injuries on dairy farms.” Ms Thompson said it wouldn’t be the only safety day Murray Dairy would hold. “We have tools available and will be hosting more on-farm days to ensure we are proactive in promoting the importance
Toolamba dairy farmer Rick Cross at the Murray Dairysafety on-farm open day at Tatura.
of safety and helping farmers implement simple safety systems on their farms,” she said. WorkSafe Victoria group leader Simon Brown said the day allowed farmers to have questions answered. “Days like (the open day) are all about answering questions and concerns of farmers in a proactive rather than a reactive manner,” Mr Brown said. Ms Thompson said there were six deaths on dairy farms nationwide in 2016, with three of those in Victoria. “This number needs to be zero and we are working with industry, government and farmers to try and change the attitude and culture around safety,” she said. Toolamba farmer Rick Cross said he was aware of the consequences quad bikes could have. “Just about every farm has a quad bike and they are, and have been proven to be, unsafe if used incorrectly,” Mr Cross said. “If you are an employer of labour you have an obligation to provide a safe workplace.”
Direct Dates
Making the most of your water — Kyabram (day 3)
February – March 2017
Friday, March 24 Ag Vic Building a Remarkable Dairy Workforce
Thursday, March 16 Murray Dairy
February
Building a Remarkable Dairy Workforce
Autumn Start Up/ Successful Soils Management
Friday, March 17 Murray Dairy
Tuesday, February 14 Murray Dairy Autumn Start Up/ Successful Soils Management
Murray Dairy
Wednesday, February 15 Murray Dairy
www.murraydairy.com.au Phone: (03) 5833 5312 NCDE www.ncdeaGOTAFE.vic.edu.au Phone: 1300 468 233 DEDJTR www.depi.vic.gov.au Phone: 136 186
March Numurkah (day 1)
Murray Dairy Tactics for Tight Times
Wednesday, March 8 Ag Vic
Taking Stock — now to June 2017
Making the most of your water — Numurkah (day 2)
Wednesday, March 15 Ag Vic Making the most of your water — Numurkah (day 3)
Wednesday, March 22 Ag Vic Making the most of your water — Kyabram (day 1)
Friday, March 10 Ag Vic Making the most of your water — Kyabram (day 2)
Friday, March 17 Ag Vic
Free 1:1 business assessment and support service designed to help you take stock of your situation by assisting in the collection and analysis of current financial and physical data with the aim of clarifying future farm business options. This is available to all levy paying farmers, regardless of who they supply. Call Murray Dairy on (03) 5833 5312. This program is supported by the Australian Government and Gardiner Foundation. Event dates and venues will be advertised via the Murray Dairy website, local media and the fortnightly eNews. please contact Murray Dairy on: (03) 5833 5312, admin@murraydairy.com.au or visit www.murraydairy.com.au Business Analysis Scenario Planning Business-focused group sessions aimed at providing tools and scenarios for better understanding of business position and options.
Do you need to speak to dairy farmers? Dairy Direct delivers the expertise, advice and regional specific industry news farmers need to stay at the cutting edge. The Dairy Direct team has been producing vital information to local dairy farmers through Dairy Direct for the past five years. Building on our weekly regional newspaper Country News, Dairy Direct now brings the same uncompromising commitment to quality journalism for farmers. If your business needs to talk with dairy farmers in northern Victoria or the Gippsland region, then talk to us. Dairy Direct can provide a targeted, cost-effective advertising solution.
PUBLICATION A
GIPPSLAND
ber 2016
Issue 13, Decem
Leveraging the network » page 20
Wrestling with the ‘black dog’ » page 14
ries had What the facto to say about price » page 18
Bottling Jerseys » page 17
Dairy Direct Gippsland
December 2016.indd
A PUBLICATION
MURRAY Issue 27, Decem
ber 2016
Working the breeding equa tio » page 22
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Beating the ‘blac k dog’ » page 24 Extracting valu e on a low input farm » page 28 What the facto ries to say about milk had price » page 32
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Renee Anderson from Yarroweyah in the ring at Dairy Week.
Successful Sisters Winning Premier Exhibitor was a dream come true for sisters Katie and Renee Anderson from Yarroweyah. “We had never even won a Holstein class up until yesterday,” Katie said. The sisters have been coming to dairy week for the last six years — they left with swag of ribbons including Grand Champion Heifer in the youth show with Sun Vale Shottle Dancer.
The girls took 16 animals to the show Champion in the Holstein Class. which all stood top four and above in their “We are really happy with the way things respective classes. have gone for us this year. IDW is a great In the holstein classes Sun Vale Real Sally social place and a great place to show your won honourable mention Intermediate animals. We have been working on this for Champion, Bluechip TT Goldust Frosty months and it is great to see all our hard won Reserve Junior Champion and the work pay off for us this year.” girls received an honourable mention with Bluechip MH Hero Marion shown on behalf The girls milk 320 Holstein cows with their of Frank and Diane Borba USA. parents Greg and Michelle Anderson at Yarroweyah. Sun Vale Colt 45 Dancer won Junior
Udders lined up for Holstein judging at Dairy Week.
Illawarra: Co-owner of Wallumlands Sunstorm 8, Glen Gord, during best udder judging. The six-year-old went on to win Best Udder, along with Supreme Champion and Champion Cow.
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Brown Swiss: Tandara Mobby Sarajevo 101, owned by Ben Govett and led by Brylie Taig (pictured) made a clean sweep of the senior awards at the National Brown Swiss Show during International Dairy Week, winning Best Udder, Champion Cow and Supreme Champion.
Jersey: Supreme Champion of the National Jersey Show, Bushlea Van Fernleaf 10, at International Dairy Week. The four-year-old, owned by Wayne Kuhne from Bushlea Farms, was also crowned Best Udder, Champion Cow and Grand Champion.
Calf smashes
record
A two-month-old calf has sold for $251 000 at International Dairy Week. Lighting Ridge-CMD Jedi Gigi-Imp-Et smashed the previous Australian record for price paid for a beef or dairy cow by $101 000. Hundreds of people saw the calf, which was the highest ever Genetic Total Performance Index heifer to sell in the world, bought by an American genetics company at the World Wide Sires Evolution sale. Owners Declan Patten and Callum Moscript, from Gippsland, were thrilled by the record sale, high-fiving and hugging on stage. Lighting Ridge-CMD Jedi Gigi-Imp-Et is a full sister to twoyear-old Blondin Illalogen Golden VG, will now be transported back to the United States. The calf was the highest selling lot at the auction which saw 32 other heifers sold, at an average price of $14 760.
Glen Gordon with Wallumlands Sunstorm 8.
More than happy with result Two titles have made the trip to International Dairy Week a winner for a Cohuna farmer. Glen Gordon from Gorbro Holsteins Cohuna had a great International Dairy Week, taking home Supreme Champion Illawarra with Wallumlands Sunstorm 8, owned in partnership with Daniel Bacon and Ben Govett, and Reserve Champion Illawarra with Llandovery J.R. Joan 982, owned in partnership with Craig Rapley from New Zealand. “This is the first show we have won both a supreme and reserve champion cow, so we were very happy with our week, it was well worth the trip,” Mr Gordon said. “We had high hopes for Sunstorm — she won the All Breeds two years ago and we wouldn’t have shown her if we didn’t think she would do well again this year.” Mr Gordon also took five Holsteins which all placed in the top five. Gorbro Solomon Robin placed first in the All Australian Calf class and Gorbro Doormez Shimmer second. Mr Gordon also sold the top-priced Illawarra in the Red Revolution Sale with Gorbro BT Pingerly Sunstorm selling for $7600 to L Alwer from Invergordon. Gorbro Awesome Jordan sold for $8100 in the World Wide Sires Evolution Sale. “We had a great week and the weather was kind. We only had one really hot day and always expect at least one.”
Grand Champion awarded A cow from Koonwarra has been named the Grand Champion at International Dairy Week. Bushlea Farms took out the Grand Champion award in the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria’s (RASV) Dairy Interbreed Competition with its Jersey Bushlea Van Fernleaf 10, presented at International Dairy Week on January 20. The four-year-old from Koonwarra, which also won the Supreme Champion, Champion Cow and Best Udder in the National Jersey Competition, received a $2000 cash prize. RASV chief executive officer Mark O’Sullivan said the group was committed
to showcasing quality. “The RASV Dairy Interbreed Competition is an important part of our commitment to showcasing quality and celebrating excellence in dairy,” he said. The Intermediate Champion was awarded to Rockvale Burdette Prim from Bluegum Park in Gippsland, with the Junior Champion was won by Miami Magnify Dawn 5206 from Philmar Dairy Co at Tocumwal in NSW.
Grand Champion Cow Bushlea Van Fernleaf 10 with Semex's Alex Mathews (left), Matt empleton (front) and National Jersey Show judge Chris Lahmers from the United States. FEBRUARY 2017
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