JULY 2021
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Leesa Muir
Photo credit: Mads Porter Photography
Ag career pathway Eager youngsters are taking on a hands on approach each and every year to springboard their careers in agriculture.
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n June, 16 young people between the age of 18 and 25 graduated from the Hay Inc Rural Education Program. They were the seventh intake of the program, which came to a close at the Hay Merino Sheep Show on June 19 and has now supported 99 people in a career in agriculture. A source of pride for the program organisers is that 12 of the graduates are currently working on properties in the Hay district. Among them is
Lachlan Tronson, who relocated from Queensland and works with Wanganella farmers Colin and Amanda McCrabb. He saw the program as a way to get ‘real life’ training in all aspects of stockmanship, which would assist his with his new job in the Riverina. The McCrabbs’ Avenel Merino Stud breeds large-framed sheep which produce heavy-cutting medium wool. They sell off at least 100 of their
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Information contained in this magazine is presented only after being carefully researched. However, there are differences in state and regional regulations and conditions. Farmers are asked to check with their own advisors. FARMtalk can assume no responsibility for the contents.
KYALITE, NSW rams at an annual sale each year, and the McCrabbs also run a kelpie stud. Quite a few of Colin and Amanda’s staff have been through the Hay Inc program, and say they see a marked improvement in confidence and knowledge in their workers as a result. Lachlan saw the benefits too, and jumped feet first to take on the opportunity. “I was previously working at a mango farm in Queensland, but I had no experience working with livestock,” he said. “Agriculture was something I was always interested in though, since I was young. “One of my uncles had a dairy farm, so that was something that made me curious. “I also attended an ag school, and was really interested in working on its cattle farm. “So when the opportunity to come to Wanganella came up, I went for it.” Lachlan is a jackaroo for the McCrabbs, and said he is “thoroughly enjoying learning the ropes”. “I’m loving it,” he said. “It’s been so great and the McCrabbs have been great too.” Lachlan said there is no typical day at the farm life, but he said that’s what makes it so enjoyable. “My main job is working with the sheep and helping in any way needed — to work hard and do the best I can. “Every day is different, which is great. “If I’m learning something every day that’s the goal, and I definitely am.” Lachlan also appreciated the opportunity to learn from other long-time local farmers through the Hay Inc program, which covers many facets of Riverina farming life in its lessons. The unique program is a 15 day course run in February, March and June that provides handson training covering all the necessary skills of stockmanship in both sheep and cattle, and farming skills. Specialised training days this year included learning about fence construction and maintenance from Shear Outback, insights into cattle handling and animal health from Coopers and grazing and natural resource management with the Local land Services.
JULY 2021
FARMtalk • 3
Photo credit: Mads Porter Photography
Graduates also learned about lamb marking, prime lamb assessment and Merino sheep and wool classing. The program culminated in graduates competing in the junior Merino sheep judging at the Hay Merino Sheep Show in June. “The program really opened my eyes,” Lachlan said. “I had little experience handling cattle before, so I got so much insight. “I was really impressed with how much I learned and the skills I gained.” While he has a cache of new skills under his belt because of the program, Lachlan said he’s not done leaning yet. His goal is to keep working hard and soak up all he can. “For now I am really enjoying what I am doing and being a jackaroo.
Hay Inc: Lachlan Tronson and other Hay Inc. participants learned about sheep and wool classing.
“In the future, I would love to own my own property. “As I said, if am learning every day, then I’m happy — and that’s what I’m doing right now.” As for others considering a career in agriculture, Lachlan said the Hay Inc program is a must. “Some people are interested in university, but for others there’s always a job in agriculture. “The program is a great and it’s also being a great way to make connections with like-minded young people in the area. “The friendships I made are valuable; they are people I continue to talk with.”
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JULY 2021
4 • FARMtalk
A bloomin’ good idea
UPPER LURG, VIC
JULY 2021
FARMtalk • 5
‘Bloom where you are planted’ is precisely what Bridget Doyle of Upper Lurg is busily doing.
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alling pregnant with her first child in 2019 was the catalyst for sowing the seeds for two start-up businesses. “Taking my maternity leave seemed like a great opportunity to set up Bridget Doyle Landscape Design and establish Wattle Creek Flower Farm.” Bridget possesses a very matter-of-fact approach to juggling motherhood, business ownership and her quality of life. “Balance is important. I feel good being outside with Jack (20 months) working with plants and other days I come inside and design gardens, without Jack, design days are daycare days.” Bridget knows a thing or two about the land. She holds a Bachelor of Environment from the University of Melbourne, majoring in landscape architecture, and is currently doing a diploma of agriculture through an Agriculture Victoria scholarship, ‘Upskill and Invest’. Originally from Berrigan, Bridget is familiar with the work involved in a grain harvest and has spent many a hot and dusty day behind a potato harvester, growing up on her parents’ farm. Bridget and her city-boy turned country-boy husband Paddy Ryan are both passionate about agriculture and life on the land, so the duo were keen to get more involved in the family business. In 2017, together with her father John Doyle, the decision was made to find a suitable grazing property in a higher rainfall area to expand the breeding and finishing capacity of their Hereford herd. Bridget and Paddy put up their hands to manage the Victorian block and have hit the ground running since they moved to Upper Lurg from Wagga Wagga four years ago. “Initially when we moved down, I was working as a landscape architect for a firm in Shepparton. “It was a two-hour commute and we were squeezing in farm work on the weekends. “When we found out we’d be having a baby I figured I’d be at home on the farm for maternity leave, so I combined my love of gardening with a few unused acres and was planting right up until I was 40 weeks pregnant. “A big part of it was planning and preparation. “We spent significant time and resources making sure the foundations for the flower farm were well setup. “I put a lot of thought into drainage and earthworks, and we installed a fairly significant irrigation system to give us the best chance of plant survival and long-term productivity.” Bridget was able to draw on her extensive plant knowledge as she looked for species that were well suited to the slightly acidic soils of their farm and their specific microclimate. A childhood friend and professional florist, Alyssa Pyle of Studio Alyssum at Savernake,
“Once you get them planted you have two or three years before they’re productive enough to be selling flowers.” BRIDGET DOYLE
was able to advise Doyle on the best long-lasting flowers, preferably with a vase life of two weeks. “We have planted native Australian and South African trees and shrubs, such as proteas, pincushions and eucalypts. Some of the stock has been hard to get because we’ve gone for a few speciality species, and there’s been an element of trial and error to see what plants really thrive here,” Bridget said. “The varieties I chose make for a low input flower farm — well, as low as possible. “This spring we will be selling pincushions in bunches at local produce stores in Glenrowan and Benalla. The other varieties will be picked in autumn 2022; that’s when the intensity of the farm will really kick off. “Before we broke ground everything was drawn up on the computer in AutoCAD so we knew exactly what we were getting into as far as layout, quantities we’d plant, and we could calculate a bit of a return-on-investment plan. “We bought a three-point linkage ridger and I mounded up the rows with the tractor. GPS was very handy to get the rows nice and straight! Then we installed the driplines which are run on a timer system.
“Once you get them planted you have two or three years before they’re productive enough to be selling flowers. “So we got them planted and half way through, Jack came along. Now I tend to them and Jack, and I’ll watch them grow for 10 to 20 years.” Whether Bridget is referring to her son or her plants, both appear to be thriving and in very capable hands. And as they say, if you want something done, ask a busy person. The Hereford herd — 140 cows with calves — are also on the receiving end of Bridget’s studious efforts. She is using her scholarship to invest in weighing and electronic identification technology, to help with reproductive data and overall efficiencies in managing the herd. Doyle is a shining example of what a woman with a baby carrier is capable of, but there is naturally, an element of challenge in her pursuits. “In hindsight, I wasn’t really on top of tip pruning in the first year. I had a newborn so I just pruned whenever I had time, maybe I should have asked for help.” Like a true gardener, Bridget doesn’t get bogged down in retrospect as tomorrow is another day of growth. When asked if she has any advice for those who may not have a green thumb she simply says, ‘start with a plan.’ “Don’t go and buy random things at Bunnings because you will get home and be out of pocket and out of ideas.” Bridget has learnt through her career in garden design that the silver lining to COVID-19 is that people have remembered the importance of enjoying their own space. Whether it’s a sprawling country garden or a small backyard environment, she encourages everyone to sow your seeds and watch them grow.
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JULY 2021
FARMtalk • 7
Weeds be gone A multi-year boxthorn removal project at Cummeragunja near Moama has received a boost this year with the engagement of the Murray River Council’s boxthorn puller and spray units.
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“After initial efforts at cutting and pasting infested areas, the task was deemed too large, and the Cummeragunja Local Aboriginal Land Council engaged the council’s machine to continue the work.”
urray Local Land Services senior land services officer – central Murray Ramsar project Jamie Hearn said boxthorn has been a problem on the 700ha property for many years, with seeds from the site spreading into the adjoining Ramsar site and neighbouring properties. “After initial efforts at cutting and pasting infested areas, the task was deemed too large, and the Cummeragunja Local Aboriginal Land Council engaged the council’s machine to continue the work. “The 100 horse power machine makes short work of lifting the larger plants out of the sandy soil and stockpiling them for later burning. “Murray River Council then sprays the remaining smaller plants and regrowth from the cut and paste site. “This work will bring the total area of boxthorn controlled on Cummeragunja to over 300ha, almost half the entire property.” Project manager Tim Moodie also organised a few days extra as a contribution from Murray River Council.
JAMIE HEARN
Uncle Col Walker lives at Cummeragunja and has seen the weed spread across the farm over the years. Col has been watching the machine at work and is excited to see boxthorn control in action. African boxthorn is a listed Weed of National Significance. It aggressively invades pastures and forest areas, out competing native species and providing harbour for feral animals such as rabbits, foxes and pigs. The NSW Central Murray Forests Ramsar site adjacent to Cummeragunja, is habitat to a wide
range of key wetland and terrestrial species within the Murray region. It also supports a wide range of native flora and fauna, including eight threatened species of fish, plants and birds, and is habitat for 11 migratory birds listed under international agreements. The boxthorn project directly addresses the key threat of invasive pest species which impact on native plants and animals. Other exotic weeds which out-compete native flora, choking natural waterways and harbouring pest animals will also be
targeted. The Murray LLS Ramsar project is funded through the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program. The project is a great example of the indigenous community, land managers and local government working together to improve the local environment. The boxthorn puller will also be used on a property near Womboota to undertake some follow-up work there. For more information on the machine, contact Mr Moodie on 0447 516 202.
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JULY 2021
FARMtalk • 9
Vaccines for lambs – Scabby mouth With all the vaccines on the market, how do you know which you should be using on your farm?
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epending on the nature of your sheep operation, you probably have different risks and different vaccination needs. Clostridial vaccines such as 5-in-1 (or 6-in1 which also protects against cheesy gland) are usually a standard inclusion in the lamb marking process. They are widely used as they provide protection against diseases such as pulpy kidney which can cause the death of rapidly growing lambs on rich feed. Gudair vaccination may also be given at lamb marking, particularly in areas where Ovine Johnes Disease is widespread. Gudair vaccinated lambs should be tagged with a V-tag to help recognise them as ‘approved vaccinates’, and small premiums can sometimes be paid where restockers are seeking OJD vaccinated sheep. The other vaccine available for lambs is for scabby mouth. Scabby mouth, sometimes known as Orf or contagious pustular dermatitis, is a highly contagious viral disease of sheep and goats. It commonly affects lambs and kids less than a year old. The virus enters through breaks in the skin and results in painful scabs and pustules. In sheep grazing rough country, such as thistles or burrs, these lesions are usually around the mouth, hence the name scabby mouth. Wet conditions can lead to damage to the skin around the feet creating an entry point for the virus, resulting in foot lesions and lameness. The udder may also be affected which can lead to mastitis and affected ewes refusing to let their lambs drink. While scabby mouth is rarely fatal, it can cause considerable production losses due to reduced feed
intake. This causes delays in finishing and sale of affected mobs of lambs. Infected animals usually recover on their own over four to six weeks. The lesions tend to ease after about three weeks and normal feeding and movement resumes. Previously infected animals usually do not get severe disease again, although sometimes they may experience brief, mild reinfection. The virus survives in the scabs from infected animals and can go on to contaminate the environment for a long time (potentially years). Carrier sheep can also be a source of the virus. This means that once an outbreak has occurred on farm, the virus tends to stick around, so you may be more likely to consider vaccination in future. Severe disease outbreaks don’t necessarily occur every year, but they are more common in conditions where skin abrasion is occurring and providing a window of access for the virus. Scabby mouth is also zoonotic, which means that it can infect humans. This typically occurs via damaged skin on the hands leading to a single lesion on a finger which usually heals in six or seven weeks. You should speak to a health care professional if you suspect you may have Orf. The scabby mouth vaccine is a live virus vaccine. It is administered to the lamb as a scratch on the inner thigh. A mild infection then develops at the site of the scratch five to 10 days after vaccination, triggering immunity after about two weeks. It is a good idea to check a few lambs about a week after vaccination to ensure that pustules are present at the scratch site, indicating that the vaccine is taking effect.
A single dose of vaccine is usually enough as this provides good primary immunity. Natural environmental exposure over time usually maintains immunity. As previously mentioned, the vaccine contains a live virus, so vaccination can introduce the virus onto properties if it was not already present. It also means that care must be taken while vaccinating to protect yourself from the virus. The virus is easily inactivated by disinfectant so frequent washing of hands and wearing gloves can help protect you. It is also important that you don’t use disinfectant on the scratch applicator or near the scratch site on the animal as this can inactivate the vaccine and stop it working. As with all vaccines it is important to read the label to get the important information around dosage, handling and safety. There are many factors that may influence your vaccine choices at lamb marking. Risk of disease, where the lambs are going, timing, number of procedures around the cradle, and cost-benefit factors should all be considered. Scabby mouth vaccine may not be necessary for all operations, but it is worthwhile considering and you should seek advice before adopting it as an inclusion in your vaccination program. For further information on scabby mouth or vaccinating lambs contact your nearest LLS district vet. Linda Searle is a district veterinarian with Murray Local Land Services.
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JULY 2021
FARMtalk • 11
Rodent rates warning Will winter stop the devastation mice are causing?
That is the question district farmers are asking themselves as the cool weather sets in.
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n the last 10 months, mice numbers have boomed thanks to favourable climatic conditions which have created optimal opportunities for mice to breed. Numbers have been severe in Queensland and parts of NSW and, while perhaps not to the same level, Federation Council farmers have also been impacted. Mouse activity has started to drop in June, but agriculture agronomists warn an emergence could be on the way. “With winter here, we can expect colder temperatures to slow mouse populations,” Rabobank grains analyst Dennis Voznesenski said. However, crop replanting and a re-emergence of populations in spring remain real risks in the outlook.” Mr Voznesenski said at risk could be one of the best cropping seasons seen in a long time, with the Rabobank 2021/22 Winter Crop Outlook indicating a second consecutive year of near-record winter crop planting, as excellent prices and good seasonal conditions see planted hectares rise. CSIRO researcher Steve Henry said a mouse plague of this kind happens about every ten years. “Mice are currently responding to seasonal conditions. There’s been good rainfall after several years of drought and the bumper grain crops grown over spring and summer provide excess food for mice,” he said. “Farming practices have also changed over the years. Water conservation and environmentally sustainable methods, such as minimum or zero tillage have resulted in significant increase in both available shelter and alternative food sources for mice in fields.
“Shelter and food sources combined create perfect conditions for mice to thrive and survive.” Urana mixed cropping-livestock farmer Andrew Dore said mice numbers were “crazy” around Easter time. “It was pretty bad, just like the videos we were seeing in the media,” he said. “In the last month or so (in June), the numbers have certainly eased. I think the couple of frosts, and the rain we’ve had certainly helped. “We are probably only seeing one or two mice on the paddock now, and about 20 to 30 around the feeder each night.” One method Mr Dore used to reduce the number of mice on the paddocks was to allow livestock to graze the stubble in the lead up to sowing. That reduced the feed availability for the rodents. “The farmers in the area who are 100 per cent croppers, have fared a bit worse than us because they had more feed available for the mice after harvest,” he said. “Hopefully with the continued rainfall and a few more frosts, we’ll see the end of them. “A good sign is when they start feeding on each other. We haven’t seen that yet but hopefully it’s not too far away.” In Rand, Mark Kreutzberger said recent baiting had been a success with mice numbers in June much lower compared to the beginning of April. “Around here the canola was probably the worst affected, but the baits have worked well. Particularly after the rain we had,” he said. Mr Kreutzberger said there was concern of a high survival rate of mice over winter which would cause problems in spring. “There is a chance mice will still be around after winter, but things are looking pretty good at the
moment. The situation is definitely easing. We just have to continue to monitor the situation.” As farmers in the region finish sowing, Mr Henry warned that the colder weather will not necessarily wipe the rodents out. “We know that if their burrows are 30-50cm deep, they’re pretty good, comfortable places to live and the mice will persist under a whole range of conditions,” he said. “We need to be monitoring mice right through as the crop develops so we can be reducing numbers in the lead up to spring.” In NSW, primary producers experiencing financial hardship due to the mice plague will be able to claim rebates for the purchase of the mouse control chemical zinc phosphide, as part of an extension of a Mouse Control Program. It will offer primary producers a rebate of 50 per cent on zinc phosphide purchases, up to $10,000, to provide financial relief, cash flow and confidence to place advance orders on zinc phosphide ahead of spring. A zinc phosphide rebate framework will be developed, which is in addition to a $50 million package designed for households and small businesses. Primary producers who live where they work can also claim rebates of up to $1000 for mouse bait, traps and cleaning products used to protect their homes. Regional households may be eligible to claim rebates of up to $500 for mouse bait, traps and cleaning products and small businesses could claim up to $1000. For more, go to www.nsw.gov.au/mice.
JULY 2021
12 • FARMtalk
Farm to plate Family business: Daniel, Lawry, Lauren and Kathy Smits.
Long Table Cafe at Warragoon, 22km east of Deniliquin, is the true farm to plate experience.
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athy and Lawry Smits built the popular eatery at their ‘Joy Pine’ property almost 10 years ago. The on-farm restaurant provides a taste of Riverina life, with everything served either grown or produced on the farm or in the local area. As a result, customers can expect food in its purest form and with absolute flavour. “At Long Table, we want you to relax and unwind and enjoy a truly unique experience of food that is as fresh as you could find,” Kathy said. “All our produce is grown naturally as it is intended, so you are able to appreciate the true flavours. “Our vegetables and herbs come straight from the garden, not even making it into the cool room. We work with what is in season at the time. “All our livestock is also naturally grown right here on our farm.
“Our vegetables and herbs come straight from the garden, not even making it into the cool room. We work with what is in season at the time.” KATHY SMITS
“We even offer a farm tour so you can fully enjoy the authentic paddock to plate experience.” Their farm is the restaurant’s pantry, where the Smits also produce fresh eggs, wonderful homemade sauces, jams, chutneys, mayonnaise, honey, award winning salami and milk from their goats. They also have access to 35 different varieties of trees including stone fruits, citrus, berries and an olive tree. “Our two milking goats provide us with another wonderful product,” Lawry said. “They are milked every day, which provide our household with milk as well as the restaurant. “Kathy is able to make some incredible soft cheese including halloumi and fetta, which is very popular on our starting platters.
WARRAGOON, NSW
“These starting platters are a showcase of all our produce including our amazing salami, olives, candied cumquats, quince paste, dried fig and fresh herb dips.” As the restaurant has grown and evolved, it’s also become a teaching kitchen. “For a few years now we have had school groups come through,” Kathy said. “We teach them where their food comes from, and how to cook it with our very popular cooking classes.” The idea of Long Table Cafe stemmed from Kathy’s passion for cooking, and wanting to showcase the “perfect location” the family had at its fingertips. “We had wanted to do something in the way of hospitality,” Kathy said. “I have always loved to cook for friends and family, but I wanted to do more. “Lawry and I thought we had the perfect location here on our farm ‘Joy Pine’, so we thought why not open a restaurant?” This passion for people and food has been the heart of the business, and Kathy and Lawry have enjoyed sharing the experience with their children. “The love of food and that connection of sharing a meal with family and friends is a part of who we are,” Kathy said. “It has been a family run business, with our daughter Lauren and son Daniel helping out where needed.
“We even offer a farm tour so you can fully enjoy the authentic paddock to plate experience.” KATHY SMITS
“It has been very special starting this adventure with them. “This has been our lifestyle and we are so excited to share a part of this through our restaurant and our wonderful little farm. “My favourite part of my work is putting on my apron and spending a day in the kitchen. “And of the most rewarding experience is seeing families gathering together for their reunions and just witnessing the amazing bond they share over a great meal together.” Like many other businesses, Long Table Cafe has been forced to take a break during COVID-19 because of restrictions. But the Smits’ are keen to welcome more people back soon. “We have been closed most of the time since March last year when COVID hit, but we have managed to have a few private functions when we have been able to,” Kathy said.
JULY 2021
FARMtalk • 13
“We are definitely looking forward to getting back to normal. “When this settles down, we will be open for private group bookings again by reservation. “We also look forward to having our open days once again, which are usually the first Sunday of the month.” More details about the farm, including announcements regarding reopening, can be found at http://www.longtablecafe.com.au
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JERILDERIE, NSW
JULY 2021
FARMtalk • 15
Community cropping There are few other better examples of how important farming is to the Southern Riverina than the annual community cropping project in Jerilderie.
T
he Jerilderie Football Netball Club and the local farming community all work together to sow, grow and harvest a barley crop each year. The proceeds go back in to the football netball club, to enable it to offer sporting activities and host community events that benefit a wider range of the population. The sowing and harvesting is completed by club volunteers, to ensure every cent over and above input costs is put to good use. Club president Dean Knight said as is the nature of farming, particularly recently with issues regarding water availability and climate conditions, most of the crops in the last five years have resulted in a loss. But those losses have been absorbed by the club’s generous supporters and volunteers. Last year was a different story though, with the club finally enjoying a profit after the 185 hectare crop yielded 474 tonnes of barley when harvested in December last year. “It was the first successful harvest in at least three years; it was great.” Dean said. Fellow clubman Craig Knight said the volunteers were on the tools again in mid-June to sow the next crop. And he said at this stage it is looking just as lucrative as the 2020 crop. “It rained two days after sowing and has been wet ever since, so it’s a very promising start so far,” Craig said. Twenty people volunteered their time for a full day to get the crop in the ground, on land leased from Murrumbidgee Council. Harvest will take place this December. Seeds, chemicals, and time are donated by the club’s committee and supporters. Among those who have played an active role in this year’s crop already include Cadman Ham and family (sowing), Bobby Arnold and family (sowing), Greg Lawton Ag Spraying, Glen Baxter
and family (seed donation) and IK Caldwell agronomist David Jarrott. “The cropping ground is a very valuable way to keep the football club running and over the years there has been numerous businesses and supporters of the club that have made significant donations,” Dean said. “I would like to thank all the people who have helped over the year, and those currently helping with this year’s crop. “Their time and effort is much appreciated and we look forward to continuing the strong relationship between the football club and the community.”
“The cropping ground is a very valuable way to keep the football club running.” DEAN KNIGHT
Elders Riverina
SHEEP EXPO
2021
DATE: 10am Friday 13th August 2021 VENUE: Edward River Oval, Deniliquin
The day will consist of: • $1000 Elders Riverina Merino Ram of the Year, sponsored by Elders +$500 in Genetic Services, donated by Apiam • $500 Elders Riverina Merino Ewe of the Year, sponsored by Elders • $1000 Elders Riverina Performance Ram of the Year, sponsored by Rivalea + $500 in Genetic Services, donated by Apiam • $500 Elders Riverina Performance Ewe of the Year, sponsored by Elanco • Static Wool & Merchandise Displays • Animal Health Displays
JULY 2021
FARMtalk • 17
Riverina Sheep Expo The region’s sheep and wool industry will be celebrated at the Elders Riverina Sheep Expo in Deniliquin on Friday, August 13.
T
he event will feature sheep and wool judging, providing COVID-19 restrictions at the time allow. Extra activities which pay homage to the wool fashion industry and the shearing industry are also proposed. There will be static wool and merchandise displays, and animal health displays. The most coveted event of the expo will be the awarding of the Elders Riverina Merino Ram of the Year, with Deniliquin company Australian Food & Agriculture expected to make an attempt for its eighth win in a row. Other judging categories include Ewe of the Year, Performance Ram of the Year and Performance Ewe of the Year. Each of the ram categories carry a prize of $1000, plus $500 in Apiam genetic services. The ewe categories offer up a $500 prize each. The event will also include the presentation of the Northern Clip of the Year. Elders Rural livestock production advisor Errol Horneman said with the 2020 event cancelled
“It’s important for the industry as it gives studs the opportunity to show off what they have to prospective ram buyers. ERROL HORNEMAN
because of COVID-19 restrictions, organisers are hopeful plans will come together nicely this year. This will be the 12th Elders Riverina Sheep Expo in Deniliquin. “We started this off from necessity when the Riverina Field Days finished up due to the drought,” Mr Horneman said.
“It’s important for the industry as it gives studs the opportunity to show off what they have to prospective ram buyers. “Without the support of our sponsors Elanco and Slingshot, who have supported us from the first event, as well as Apiam, this event wouldn’t be possible.” Mr Horneman said COVID restrictions and border rules in place in July will see a reduction in the number of studs from Victoria attending the expo in August. But organisers are hopeful crowd numbers of about 1000 people from previous years will be replicated regardless. The expo will be hosted on Deniliquin’s Edward River Oval this year, just north of the Deniliquin CBD across the National Bridge and will begin about 10am, and run through until about 4pm. For more information, contact Elders Deniliquin on 5890 5100.
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JULY 2021
FARMtalk • 19
Soil nitrogen increases The soil nitrogen for three winter irrigated cropping rotations from 2019 to 2021 has surprisingly increased.
D
eep nitrogen tests were taken for three years in a row in the same three paddocks, conducted by the Finley Discussion Group and discussed at the recent farmer meetings. The farmers have used continuous winter cropping rotations in the three paddocks. The trend was unexpected as continuous cropping decreases soil nitrogen. Pasture, legume crops and brown manure crops are recommended to bolster and maintain soil nitrogen (John Angus, CSIRO - 2013 Moama GRDC Grains Update for Growers). Continuous cropping is expected to increase nitrogen rates. The sowing years of the three cropping rotations and yields, total urea/ha applied and the Deep N tests are shown in Table 1. NB. The nitrogen (N) in starter fertiliser was converted to a urea rate and all nitrogen applied totalled as kg urea/ha.
Table 1. Crop Rotations, Annual Nitrogen Rates and Soil Deep N‘s for 2019-2021. Crop year
(1) Crop rotation
Kg urea/ha applied
2017
2.5t/ha Canola
454
1.8t/ha Canola
2018 2019 2020 2021
Deep N kgN/ha - before sowing
4.6t/ha Wheat
128 272
17
6.5t/ha Wheat
325
76
Barley
85
(2) Crop rotation
Kg urea/ha applied
5.8t/ha Wheat
328
1.3t/ha Wheat
Deep N kgN/ha - before sowing
2.8t/ha Canola
325 102
76
5.8t/ha Wheat
261
92
Wheat
128
(3) Crop rotation
Kg urea/ha applied
2.8t/ha Canola
372
2.8t/ha Barley
3.1t/ha Wheat
145 92
92
3.8t/ha Canola
273
126
Wheat
Discussion points •
The three rotations started with high urea rates in 2017 because there were good canola prices and moderate wheat prices.
•
The 2018 season was drought, with high canola prices justifying the higher canola urea rate.
•
The first rotation had a very low deep nitrogen test of 17kg of nitrogen per hectare in 2019, contributed by the low 128kg/ha urea rate on wheat in 2018. Low fallow rain resulted in low soil mineralisation and low release of nitrogen.
•
The second rotation had a low deep nitrogen test of 76kg N/ha in 2019, and the 328kg urea/ ha applied in 2017 on wheat and 328kg/ha for canola in 2018 were not high rates for the excellent yields. Farmers were surprised by the higher 128gk N/ha deep nitrogen this season after the moderate urea rate of 273kg for the high yield of 5.8t/ha wheat in 2020. The good deep nitrogen test of 126k N/ha was a factor enabling less urea to be applied.
•
The third rotation has higher annual deep nitrogen compared to the two rotations. Its lighter red loam to red grey clay loam soil and higher rainfall may be a factor. Farmers were again surprised that the moderate urea rate of 273kg urea/ha in 2020 for a very high yield of 3.8t/ha was enough.
•
The three paddocks all had high organic matter percentages of 2.4, 2.8 and 2.7. Mineralised organic matter contributes to nitrogen.
Deep N kgN/ha - before sowing
John Lacy (pictured) is an independent agricultural consultant, based in Finley.
151
JULY 2021
20 • FARMtalk
Acute Acidosis
Are your cattle getting too much of a good thing? Many producers will be aware of the problems of acute acidosis in their cattle. Such cases are the result of lactic acid buildup within the animal, a rapid lowering of rumen pH and often death is the result.
W
e typically associate this acute acidosis with cattle consuming high grain diets. However, there is a less recognised form of ruminal acidosis which may be impacting your herd, which is costing them (and you) lost production and performance. Sub Acute Ruminal Acidosis (or SARA) is similar to the more acute (and fatal) form of lactic acidosis in cattle. It is essentially the result of an accumulation (an imbalance) of volatile fatty acids in the rumen, as the animal cannot absorb all the nutrients it is receiving from its diet. The optimal pH range for the rumen is 5.8 to 6.1. Typically what we see in this SARA condition are rumen pH levels in the range 4.9 to 5.5. This may not seem like a huge difference, but we must remember that pH is based on a logarithmic scale — a pH of five for example is 10 times more acidic than a pH of six, and is 100 times more acidic than a pH of seven. Small changes to rumen pH can have large influences on the health of the rumen, and more importantly the type and make-up of the billions of micro-organisms contained within the rumen itself.
What are the signs of SARA in cattle? The typical signs of SARA are two-fold. Firstly, we see faeces which are ‘loose’ and quite watery, and often we will see gas bubbles in the manure. Secondly, we see animals often lying around seemingly quite content — but without cud
chewing. Apart from these visible signs, the animals appear to be functioning and behaving quite normally. Within the animal itself, the clinical signs include a lack of gut movement and a distinct decline in saliva production. Saliva production is particularly important, as saliva acts as a buffering agent to counteract the acid produced in the rumen — in order to maintain the pH in its healthy range. Because of this, we can often see SARA manifest itself in hot weather as well, as animals typically produce less saliva under such conditions.
What are the consequences of SARA? SARA is typically a chronic condition, that if managed correctly, animals can quite readily recover from. Remember, this condition is sub-acute, so death is unlikely. However, if the condition worsens and moves into the acute form, then deaths can occur. Because the condition is a consequence of sub-optimal rumen function, what we typically see is: • A decrease in the efficiency of digesting both organic matter and fibre; • A decrease in feed conversion efficiency; • A decrease in milk yield and milk solids — a ‘double wammy’ for dairy producers; • A decline in reproductive efficiency.
JULY 2021
FARMtalk • 21
Whilst it can be difficult to put a precise value on the impacts on performance, producers would expect to see a noticeable decrease in the milk quality and quantity of their dairy cows. In beef cattle, it is more difficult to ‘see’. However, if growth rates fell by 15-20 per cent (which could easily be expected) and you were expecting growth rates of 1.5kg/hd/day, then based on current prices of say $6.00/kg/liveweight, the condition could be costing producers as much as (or more than) $2/hd/day in lost production.
What can we do to minimise the effects of SARA? SARA is often the result of ‘too much of a good thing’. We typically see the condition when there is a change in diet, where the animals are grazing high quality pastures and forage crops or where there is some inconsistency in the diet. High quality pastures often contain higher amounts of nitrogen (protein). More nitrogen entering the rumen can also contribute to declines in pH, and the total quantity of rumen bacteria, which can further exacerbate the condition. There are a couple of management actions we can take to help minimise the occurrence of SARA in our herds. •
Provide effective fibre in the diet. This effective fibre is important, as it stimulates cud chewing and the production of saliva (remember saliva acts to buffer the acidity produced in the rumen). Fibre is typically provided in the form of hay – and by effective, the length of the fibre should be at least as wide as the muzzle of the animal. Finely chopped hay or chaff will not provide the benefits. Importantly, studies have shown that provision of this fibre will actually stimulate the animal to eat and drink more – which can lead to increased productivity. One other point to note is that the fibre (hay) you provide must be a good enough quality that the animals will voluntarily consume enough of it. You simply cannot throw out a bit of straw from last year’s harvest (which might be contaminated with mice excrement this year) and expect your animals to happily consume it. Simply putting some poor quality roughage out in the paddock will not provide the benefits to your livestock that they need.
•
•
Provide a buffer in a loose lick. Whilst there may be some benefits in providing a loose lick such as bi-carb – in reality, this could be best described as ‘hit or miss’ at best. We know that not every animal will consume a loose lick in the paddock, nor consume enough. Remember, the rumen can hold over 200 litres of fluid, and for an animal to consume enough buffer to counteract the acid produced above what is optimal would be significant, not to mention costly.
Conclusion Sub Acute Ruminal Acidosis is a condition that can affect all ruminant animals. Often the result of changes to, or the consumption of, high quality diets can lead to significant lost production in both beef and dairy cattle. Careful management, and perhaps most importantly, the provision of effective fibre in the diet, will help to alleviate the condition and lead to improved performance of your livestock. Talk with your animal health advisors, private veterinarian or Murray Local land Services district veterinarians to obtain correct diagnosis of the problem, and to seek advice on how to best manage the condition. Note: This article was in part based on a presentation provided by Owen Rees (Total Result Ag Consulting) for Meat and Livestock Australia, and his contribution is dutifully and gratefully acknowledged.
Providing a consistent, balanced diet. Whilst this can be challenging at times, it is vital as changing feeds will lead to changes in the composition of the microorganisms in the rumen. Rapid changes can lead to the death of certain species, or proliferation of others. Remember, the rumen is essentially a large fermentation ‘vat’ — keeping the balance right is critical in maintaining a healthy gut (and animal).
•
more of the whole plant (leaf and stem), and by consuming slightly older plants, the overall dry matter digestibility and protein of the diet will be moderately reduced, thereby avoiding some of the problems associated with SARA. There is also some thought that providing a range of species (as opposed to a monoculture) in the pastures (and therefore the diet), will likely have some impacts in reducing the occurrence of the condition. A range of plant maturity, growth and quality in the pasture will certainly help.
Implement good grazing management. The high quality, high protein part of any plant is typically in the youngest leaves. By encouraging (through grazing management) the animal to eat
Adrian Smith (pictured) is senior lands services officer — mixed farming with Murray Local Land Services.
Stop random state border closures. State border closures are devastating for our communities. The NSW and Victorian Government have cost our small businesses millions of dollars by shutting the border with no warning and confusing rules. People have missed out on medical appointments and family visits, even though there are no Covid-19 cases in their towns. While Government MPs remain silent on border closures, I will keep fighting. I have lobbied both state and federal governments for a national approach to border management. We need to provide sensible exemptions for border communities and proper, ongoing compensation to businesses impacted by lockdowns. Follow my Facebook page Helen Dalton MP to see my work. Regards Helen Dalton MP for Murray
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JULY 2021
Must reads! Looking back and moving forward Rum - A Distilled History of Colonial Australia. Matt Murphy Matt Murphy’s account of Australia’s colonial history. Brimming with detailed research and irreverent character sketches, Rum looks at not just how much was drunk in colonial Australia (a lot!), but also the lengths people went to to get thier hands on it, the futile efforts of the early governors to control it, and the often disasterous and/or absurd consequences of its consumption. Those consequences aren’t just in our past. Murphy goes beyond foundation stories to look at the legacy our love affair with alcohol has created, from binge drinking to lockout laws, and from prohibition to urinating on the parilamentary carpet. So here’s to Rum, for making bad decsions look like a good idea at the time. $34.99 The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Tractors. John Carroll A comprehensive history and directory of tractors around the world with full coverage of all the great marques, designers and manufacturers. The ultimate book for every tractor enthusiast. A detailed portrait in words and pictures of the machine and its evolution. Covers every aspect of the tractor and its components, from the history of the inventors, innovators and factories, to the various vehicles engine capacities and power. Includes a fascinating introduction to the history of the tractor manufacture, tracing its use from the early 20th century through to the start of the new millenium. $29.99 The Farm. Andrew Chapman A u s t r a l i a ’s countryside, deeply and richly scarred by the human presence, shows the marks of sweat and toil, of lives and generations, of triumphs and failures and of enterprise often slowly decaying with time. These beautiful images captured by Andrew Chapman in The Farm are glimpses of the past amidst the reality of the present. They are an evocative record - by one of Australia’s most acclaimed photographers - of an everchanging landscape. Was $29.95 NOW $19.99 These great titles and more available instore. We post direct to you, contact us today to discuss getting your copies posted* *Postage and Handling fees apply.
Deniliquin Newsagency Office Choice 249 Cressy Street, Deniliquin. Phone 5881 2080. www.deni.com.au
FARMtalk • 23
NSW Quad Bike Safety Rebate Program The NSW Quad Bike Safety Rebate Program has now been extended until June 2023, and more businesses are also eligible. All NSW registered businesses who own and use a quad bike or side-by-side vehicle for work tasks is now eligible to access the rebate, not just farmers. Up to $2,000 (per ABN) is available for preapproved models, while workers can access a helmet rebate worth up to $90. The worker rebate is also for a pre-selected list of helmets. To access the rebate you must first complete a free eligible interaction with SafeWork NSW. After purchasing your new item eligible for the rebate, retaining the receipt or invoice, the quad bike safety rebate program application form can be found on the NSW Farmers Association website – https://www.nswfarmers.org.au/QuadBikeRebate
FARM
life
Photo of the Month Two large poultry shows with 1000 plus birds were held at the Shepparton Showgrounds Pavilion on Sunday, July 11. Poultry fans from all over the region flocked to see the best ducks and chickens around. Country News photographer Megan Fisher snapped this photo of curious one year-old Jonathan Ladson checking out the entries in the Victorian Waterfowl Association and Essendon Poultry Club shows.
Submit your photo and caption for the FARMlife Photo of the Month via Facebook (@farmtalkmagazine), Instagram (@farm.talk) or email farmtalk@denipt.com.au.
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