FARMTalk September 2023 by McPherson Media Group

SEPTEMBER 2023

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Rice Industry Awards 2023

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Champions of NSW

The annual NSW School Merino Wether Challenge reached new heights this year, attracting nearly 20 new schools to participate in the program.

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hief among them was our own Deniliquin High School who were competition champions. Deni High was one of 58 schools competing, and its Year 11 agriculture students were among 500 participating. “Students embraced all activities and presented the sheep with pride,” the school said. “It would not have been possible without the organisation of Emily Pearn, Genevieve Dunmore and our driver/ supporter Shane Moorse.” The Year 11 agriculture class has been working on the school’s NSW Schools Merino Wether Challenge entry for the last six months. Each school is allocated six wethers from the same age drop from Egelabra Merino Stud, purchased by the Dubbo National Ram Sale Association. The students raise the sheep over the next six months, and bring them to the competition at Dubbo to be judged. The challenge is coordinated by the Dubbo National Merino Ram Sale Association Inc., with the assistance of the Bralca NSW Stud Merino Breeders’ Association and Australian Wool Innovation. The annual program aims to provide students and teachers with education and exposure to the Merino industry and

associated industries, such as wool classing and broking, shearing, nutrition, sales and meat processing. It has been running for more than ten years and has grown exponentially since its first year. “We are looking at encouraging students into the industry and providing schools a resource to add to their agricultural curriculum,” Dubbo National Ram Sale Association deputy chair Angus Beveridge said. “It was initially about promoting the Merino as a breed, and we continue to evolve with the industry, providing opportunity and further education for the future of the sheep industry as a whole.” A total of 348 wethers were purchased and distributed to participating schools this year. Students are responsible for the health and wellbeing of the wethers, adjusting their diet and monitoring their weight gain, and teaching them to lead with the aim of producing a commercially productive animal. Training days are held throughout the six month challenge to provide ongoing assistance for school staff and students, while also helping to develop industry skills and knowledge.

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Trevor Basset from Elders Deniliquin (centre) with Deniliquin High students (from left) Abbey Lawson, Brooke Jervis, Darby Watson, Marcus Moorse, Hayden Doncon, Will Edge, Tahlia Johnstone and Jess Hillier.

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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.

SEPTEMBER 2023

FARMtalk • 3

Pictured with the competition judges are teachers Emily Pearn (far left) and Gen Dunmore (far right), and students (from left) Abbey Lawson, Tahlia Johnstone, Darby Watson, Will Edge, Hayden Doncon, Brooke Jervis, Jess Hillier and Marcus Moorse.

At the conclusion of the challenge, the sheep are assessed and scored based on the commercial values of their wool and meat, and their estimated five-year earning capability. The students are also assessed for sheep handling, presentation and knowledge of the industry. “It really exposes the students to not only the Merino industry but all those associated industries that are crucial to sheep breeding such as shearing, wool handling, nutrition, meat processing and livestock agencies,” Mr Beveridge said. The investment commitment continues following the conclusion of the program. The wethers are sold a percentage of the profits from each animal’s carcase and wool value is returned to the school to raise them.

Deniliquin High School has two teams looking after the wethers. “Team A was first in the western region for their combined value,” Mrs Pearn said. “The team placed third in the carcase value and took best fleece out of all the schools combined. “In the overall results, they were awarded best team and then champion school in the state - a wonderful result for Deniliquin High School. “Along with the judging of the sheep, students participated in workshops teaching them about stock handling, pregnancy scanning, and agriculture careers, and were also to see top quality Merino rams and ewes being judged at the National Merino Sheep Ram and Ewe competition. “The students were fantastic representatives of Deniliquin High School, and it was great to see them

engaging with industry leaders and networking with students from other schools. “We would like to thank Elders Deniliquin and Rivalea stock feed for their ongoing support and feed donations, and the organisers of the NSW School Merino Wether Challenge.” Elders Deniliquin representative Trevor Basset said the students had attained “an excellent achievement”. “We were very happy to offer some livestock advice and look forward to continuing the ongoing relationship next year,” he said. Deniliquin High School principal Glen Warren also praised the students on their “amazing achievement”. “It is rewarding for them to be crowned the champion school, and a great opportunity to be in attendance (at Dubbo).”

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SEPTEMBER 2023

4 • FARMtalk

Coly cotton celebrated

Julie and Dave Bellato on the farm with son Oscar.

COLEAMBALLY, NSW

SEPTEMBER 2023

FARMtalk • 5

Coleambally farmers Dave and Julie Bellato made their introduction to the cotton industry eight years ago.

nd they’ve obviously taken to it with gusto, leading to their recognition as Southern Valley Cotton Growers Association’s 2023 Cotton Growers of the Year. The pair - who have Greenline Farming - were the toast of the SVCGA awards night on August 18, held in Griffith. The judges recognised Dave and Julie for their outstanding contributions to the industry and environment, sustainability in water use and cotton production which has set a benchmark for excellence in the region. “Their dedication to sustainable practices and commitment to advancing the cotton industry has earned them this award,” the citation read. The Bellatos first grew cotton eight years ago and have been actively growing since with consistently high yields. Cotton, corn and soybeans make up their summer rotation, as well as farming winter cereals. “Dave and Julie are well known and respected in the Coleambally area,” their citation read. “They are heavily involved in community organisations and events, and are local business owners. “Julie started the Taste Coleambally Food and Farm Festival in 2012 to showcase local food and fibre and to educate consumers how produce is grown for Australia and the world in a sustainable and productive manner. “The festival has quickly grown to attract thousands of visitors to Coleambally and become a highlight of the community calendar.” The other big award from the evening was the Service to Industry Award, presented to Robert Collins. Rob was

Dave and Julie Bellato at the Southern Valley Cotton Growers Association awards night.

the farm manager at Merrowie for Tynam from 1998 until its recent sale. He was the foundation president of the Southern Cotton Growers Association, and spent a great deal of time on industry boards and representing the southern cotton industry as a whole. “Rob led the way for establishing cotton as a viable crop in the south and sustainability was at the forefront as an avid supporter of Cotton BMP,” his citation read. “He was always willing to support trials to help better the industry and was the initial co-operator for CSD trials as well as helping with many others.” Southern Valley Cotton Growers Association president Paul Cleton highlighted the remarkable accomplishments of the association and its members, emphasising the collective commitment to fostering sustainability and sense of community in the cotton sector. A notable feature of the evening was the association’s philanthropic efforts. Mr Cleton proudly announced that the SVCGA had successfully raised $20,000 through fundraising initiatives to support Can Assist Griffith last year. This initiative reflects the association’s commitment to making a positive impact on the local community beyond the realm of agriculture. The SVCGA annual awards evening is designed to be a “remarkable tribute to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the cotton industry and exemplified excellence in sustainability and environmental stewardship”.

“Julie started the Taste Coleambally Food and Farm Festival in 2012 to showcase local food and fibre and to educate consumers how produce is grown for Australia and the world in a sustainable and productive manner.”

SVCGA president Paul Cleton, 2023 Service to Industry recipient Rob Collins and David Sim from INCYT Ag.

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SEPTEMBER 2023

FARMtalk • 7

Farming Forecaster - Connecting you to Local Soil Moisture Probe Data Have you ever considered installing a soil moisture probe on your farm? Or wondered the benefits of having access to such data within your area?

onitoring soil moisture levels and having access to this information across the region can greatly assist you in making on farm decisions regarding sowing times, species selection and, if you have access to it, planning your irrigation schedule and quantity of water to apply. You may also be able to utilise comparable information between sites to assess the influence of management practices on water infiltration and retention for your soil type. This information coupled with other observations and practices is another tool to assist with informed decision making on farm. Farming Forecaster is a public website managed by a consortium of groups including Farming Systems Groups, Consultancy Groups and Local Land Services. This website provides data from a network of soil moisture probes including rainfall, soil moisture levels at varying depths, weather forecast information and for some sites, pasture growth modelling. There are currently several sites within the Murray Region which have various data points depending on what infrastructure is at the site. Where pasture modelling is available for the site, Farming Forecaster includes information relating to soil type and characteristics, pasture species, enterprise background and other information for you to be able to compare to your own soil types and enterprise. This is useful in assessing potential feed available for a period of time and when more crucial decisions may be required such as stocking rates and supplementary feeding. Murray Local Land Services is currently increasing the network of sites across the mid-western area of the region and are seeking potential host sites for these stations. Further information regarding suitability of sites, associated costs, host responsibilities and commitments can be provided on enquiry. To express an interest in hosting a site, contact Rebecca Stacey, SLSO- Mixed Farming, Deniliquin on 0436 342 086 or email Rebecca.stacey@lls.nsw.gov.au.

Contributed by Rebecca Stacey (pictured), senior local lands officer - mixed farming with Murray Local Land Services.

Subscribe Home delivery to your letterbox from $5.50 per edition. Contact us Leesa Muir, Marketing P: 03 5881 2322 E: farmtalk@denipt.com.au Zoe McMaugh, Senior Journalist P: 03 5881 2322 E: farmtalk@denipt.com.au

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Auto Go Hay

Helen Dalton MP INDEPENDENT MEMBER FOR MURRAY

Water buy backs remain one of my main priorities at the moment. The Minns Labor government refusing to back my Water Management Amendment (Transfer of Water) Bill 2023 in parliament is a shot across the bow for Southern Basin irrigators.

The Victorian Government has already blocked the purchase of Victorian water by the Federal Government. NSW rural communities need the same protection. Without my bill, there will be no limits on how water is recovered for the environment.

Caving into Federal Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek’s buyback policy sends a clear message to the people in the bush that the NSW Government really doesn’t care about us, our future or the future of food and fibre production in NSW.

The NSW Government needs more reliable information and feedback from those who are most at risk in order to make well informed decisions.

It is clear that ruining rural, regional and remote communities, industries and the environment is acceptable to the Federal Environment Minister, Tanya Plibersek and the Premier, Chris Minns, to meet an environmental target.

Every megalitre that leaves rural communities leads to hardship and the downgrading of services like hospitals and schools.

We all know the Commonwealth target of 450GL of environmental water recovery from the Southern Basin is a water accounting problem, and a water management problem. It’s time the NSW Government followed Victoria’s example and stood up for everyone in their state who relies on water.

We know the damage water buybacks inflict on irrigation communities.

Jobs are lost, banks close, our food security is compromised, production costs increase and our reliance on imported products will force us to pay more for better quality food. It’s not too late to stop this happening and we all have to work together as a community to make sure our futures are secure. The 450 gigalitres buyback must never happen and the NSW Government can stop this now.

Helen Dalton MP for Murray Authorised by Helen Dalton MP, Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements.

Griffith 02 6962 6644 | Deniliquin 03 5881 7034 | Buronga 0475 683 288 | murray@parliament.nsw.gov.au

SEPTEMBER 2023

Gabby’s top chook

FARMtalk • 9

Hailing from a farm in the Finley area, Blighty Public School student Gabby Hoskin has a love of all things chooks.

nd it’s all thanks to her dad Andrew Hoskin, who is a chicken fancier. “He got me chooks, and I started (showing) at a few ag shows and then it grew from there.” Gabby, her dad and her brother have more than 15 chooks on the farm. “I have five to six bantams that I show, and a couple of ducks,” Gabby said. “All of them have names - but mainly the ones I show or have for breeding,” she giggled. Mr Hoskin said the kids were interested right from the start. “It took a bit of time to learn how to prepare the birds for showing,” he said. “Once we learned a few tricks of the trade and made some of our own, it made life easier to get them to shows.” Gabby and her family have to prepare the chooks for shows with lots of love and attention. “Most of the preparing is done 12 months before, when breeding,” she said. “We start by cleaning and scrubbing their legs up to get rid of most of the dirt on there. “From there they are placed into small pens off the ground and are sprayed with the hose on a mist over their bodies and their legs. “After that they are left in the sun to dry, while they organise their feathers. “Then the last step is to put some polish on the birds before putting them into our transport boxes. “The chooks’ get the best possible care we can give. They are fed a good diet in their grain, and have room to move around on fresh green grass as well as fresh water.” The process of having a prize winning bird starts in the breeding season. What you select to breed to and from can improve your bird’s genetics. “We select ours on the type of bird we want or like,” Gabby said. “As we were told for our breed is type, type and type again - the colour and lacing is only paint work.” Feather patterns in chickens are the unique and distinct markings on the feathers made up of lacing,

trims, lines, bars or spots. This diverse patterning of the feathers has been produced by hundreds of years of selective breeding by chicken fanciers. In regards to the breeding season “most people start breeding from August to November depending on your breed”, Gabby said. “With big breeds, you want to get them out early to give them the longest time to grow and mature. “With ducks we normally hatch them later on, around November to December, as they grow quickly.” Gabby says she attends as many shows as she can during the year. “Whatever we plan to do, it depends on what shows dad can get us to. “At a guess, it could be eight to 10 (shows),” she said. Gabby has had a bit of luck of late, recently picking up two big awards in one weekend. “The first one was at the Vic Rare Breed show, and the next day was the Victoria Junior State Championships,” she said. When asked what the judges are looking for, Gabby said “it depends”. “Every breed is different, but they judge a bird on how close they are to the Australian standards guide. “For my breed they look at the lacing in the females and characteristics of the breed, like nice yellow legs, a nice eye colour and overall condition of the bird. “I have been showing since I was five years old and I’m turning 11 this year.” Gabby said her dad has helped along the way with the breeding and selection side of showing. “He helps me know what to keep, but also the people in my breed club help. “Ron Brown has helped me a lot with my birds by offering his knowledge over the years, but also birds to help me along the way on my journey.” Gabby loves sharing her passion for chooks with anyone who wants to know more. Her classmates at Blighty were given an insight recently, when the family brought their birds and prize ribbons in for a special ‘show and tell’ session.

From left: Michael Holmes, Courtney Arminie, Robbie Rogers and Gabby Hoskin.

When looking at the lace patterns on the feathers, the lace continues all the way down to the tail, making it a great bird.

Gabby Hoskin with her State Junior Championship bird.

“For my breed they look at the lacing in the females and characteristics of the breed, like nice yellow legs, a nice eye colour and overall condition of the bird.” GABBY HOSKIN

Gabby Hoskin with her State Junior Champion, known as Mrs Brown.

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SEPTEMBER 2023

FARMtalk • 11

All you need to know about poddy calves Whether you have a commercial farm or a small amount of stock that are more like pets, you might find yourself bottle feeding a calf at some point.

oddy, or hand reared calves, can face a few challenges. By understanding these risks you can set yourself and your poddy calf up for the best chance at success.

1. Biosecurity While some producers rear calves born on their own property, others will be sourcing their calves off farm. When sourcing calves you should consider where they come from, their potential disease risks and immunity status. Calves from mixed sources bought from a calf market are more likely to have exposure to stress and diseases, both from the trip and mixing together. By getting calves from one source, such as a local farm, you minimise disease risks and you can ask for calves to be given colostrum, an important factor in the calves early immune response.

Previous use – avoid using the same area every year to rear calves. This can lead to the build up of pathogens. If repurposing an old shed avoid anything with potential chemical residues or where chemicals have been stored. Bedding – if using bedding you need to think about what material to use. Will it allow faeces and urine to drain away from the calf? Is it edible or harmful if the calf tries to eat it?

antibiotics from treatment or contamination of feeding equipment (especially important if selling bobby calves). Restricted Animal Material (RAM) cannot be fed to ruminants. RAM can be found in some pig and chook food so make sure calves don’t have access to these products.

4. Nutrition

Have a plan for management and husbandry procedures such as vaccinations, drenching and marking or dehorning if being done. Consider pain relief and the pros and cons of different management techniques. Raising poddy calves can be both challenging and rewarding. Put yourself in the best position to succeed by having a good plan in place. Further information can be found on rearing calves in the Rearing Healthy Calves Manual which can be found on the Dairy Australia website or by having a chat to your local district vet on 1300 795 299.

Before weaning calves will need to be fed milk or milk replacer. If making milk replacer from powder, you need to follow the instructions on the bag. Calves should also have access to fresh water. Solid feeds can be introduced in the first few weeks. The introduction of fibre in the diet is necessary for the rumen to start functioning.

2. Identification

5. Scours and illness

Calves purchased should be identified with a National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) electronic ear tag. They should arrive with a document called a National Vendor Declaration (NVD). You then need to do a transfer on the NLIS database to move the specific tag onto your property identification code (PIC). This allows the animal to be traced from where it was born to your place. Tracing is vital in a disease outbreak or chemical residue traceback to allow all potential at risk animals to be identified.

Poddy calves can be prone to many diseases especially if they have not had colostrum and if they are run at a high stocking rate. Scouring can be caused by different issues at different ages. Diagnosis of the cause can allow the appropriate treatment to be given. Some examples of organisms causing scours include viruses like rotavirus, bacteria like e coli, protozoa like coccidia and parasites like worms. Whatever the cause it is important to manage factors like dehydration (such as using electrolytes). Sick calves should be isolated from others to avoid spreading disease. Good hygiene of feeding equipment such as washing teats and buckets used for feeding and feeding healthy calves before sick calves reduces the spread of disease.

3. Housing Calves will need shelter from the weather. This can vary from temporary constructions made of hay bales to permanent sheds. The important factors to consider when deciding on shelter are: Ventilation – poor ventilation contributes to diseases such as pneumonia. You should not be able to smell a strong ammonia smell in a shed with good ventilation.

7. Husbandry and management

6. Beware of residue risks Calves can be curious and put things in their mouth that they shouldn’t. Potential issues can include chemicals such as lead from batteries or paint and

Linda Searle (pictured) is a district veterinarian with Murray Local Land Services.

SEPTEMBER 2023

12 • FARMtalk

Legends of rice Anthony Vagg with RGA Honorary Councillor John Walter. Photos by Emma Cross.

Three stalwarts of the Riverina rice industry have been inducted as Honorary Councillors of the Ricegrowers’ Association.

ohn Walter of the Deniliquin RGA branch and George Rathbone of the Wakool branch were toasted alongside Yanco branch member Barry Kirkup. The presentations were made as part of the larger rice industry awards dinner at the Woodside Hall in Griffith in August, as part of the 2023 Australian Rice Growers’ Conference program. RGA president Peter Herrmann said the RGA Honorary Councillor award recognises outstanding contributions within the Australian rice industry. “The three individuals were nominated by their peers for this award, who recognised their unique and incredible contributions to our industry,” he said. “It was heartfelt to see the recipient’s response for being recognised for their dedication to the Australian rice industry.”

“It was heartfelt to see the recipient’s response for being recognised for their dedication to the Australian rice industry.” PETER HERRMANN

Mr Walter grew his first rice crop for the 1958 harvest. As a rice industry innovator, he worked with Ennor Engineering to develop the Ennor disc rice banker and the company’s tandem disc plough. Later both became implements of choice for many rice farmers across the Riverina. Mr Walter was the first rice farmer to pursue research into alternate uses of rice straw, working with the New England University to trial treatments of the straw to increase its palatability for livestock. In regards to winning the award, Mr Walter said he was “very surprised”. “I did not pick up on it, they hid it well,” he said. “We even caught the bus and the lady sitting in front of me tapped the trophy on the window accidentally. “That was my trophy and I still wasn’t awake to it. “I felt very honoured to receive it, as I’ve been in the industry a very long time.” The major difference that Mr Walter finds between when he started and to growing rice or farming today is “the equipment”. “The evolution of the equipment over the years has changed greatly,” he said. “It certainly makes life a little easier in the way you go about things today. “When I first started there wasn’t even hydraulics on tractors.” The only bit of technology he didn’t bother to improve on was his means of checking the rice bays. “I’ve always ridden a horse around to check the rice,” he said with a chuckle.

RICE INDUSTRY AWARDS 2023

SEPTEMBER 2023

FARMtalk • 13

“The evolution of the equipment over the years has changed greatly.” JOHN WALTER

“I open gates and don’t have to get on and off, I can see the bays, it’s easy access and a nice way to do the job. “I used to ride a horse to school too and I’m still doing it that way today. “When I had my hips done, I used a four-wheeler to measure, and I was doing 1500km a year on horseback just for the rice.” Mr Walter says he is still doing “some farming” as it “keeps me fit”. This year Mr Rathbone delivered his 77th rice crop. His first crop was delivered in 1945 as a share farmer at the age of 15, while working for his father. He has also been a loyal member of the RGA since 1952, rarely missing a meeting or annual conference. Mr Rathbone has held several leadership roles within the industry in that time, including as Wakool branch president and Rice Marketing Board member. Although it’s his loyalty and dedication that stands out amongst his peers. Mr Rathbone also said the award came as “a bit of a surprise”. “They covered it really well. I didn’t have a clue; I thought I had passed all of that,” he laughed. “I’m very pleased and humbled to be honoured with the award. “You put a lot of work in over the years. It is nice to be recognised.” When asked about what is the biggest challenge today compared to his early years as a grower, his answer was short and sharp. “That’s easy, water,” he said. “Without water you can’t grow anything. “I guess there was less demand for it in the early days, but it was easier to obtain back then.” These days Mr Rathbone said he’s “pretty quiet”. “I just dabble in it (growing rice) a little bit here and there.” Barry Kirkup’s interest in research and extension has meant he hosted rice trial plots, including seeding techniques, fertilizer, and water use efficiency trials nearly every year of his farming career. He was one of the first to adapt delayed water techniques and growing rice on beds successfully. Mr Kirkup is also an engineer, innovator and aerial ag operator. He was chairman of Irrigation Research & Extension Committee (IREC), Agri Futures, and advisory panel delegate and member of the RGA seed committee. Very few weeks went by where Mr Kirkup would not host a farm tour, including schools and university students on behalf of the RGA or SunRice.

RGA Honorary councillor Barry Kirkup and Scott Williams.

“I just dabble in it (growing rice) a little bit here and there.” GEORGE RATHBONE

Ricegrowers Association Honorary Councillor George Rathbone with Alison Glenn.

SEPTEMBER 2023

14 • FARMtalk

Top yield from

Mayrung

Port of Melbourne business development manager Wayne Murphy with yield award winners (from left) Nathan and Kylie Ceccato, David and Nancy Lashbrook, Justin and Stevie Barker and Adam and Brianna Gray. Photo by Emma Jane Industry.

Mayrung farmer Justin Barker has accepted a prestigious rice industry award for what he has described as “the best crop I have ever grown”.

is crop of VO71 - a relatively new cold tolerant variety - from last season was awarded the Port of Melbourne overall Highest Yield Award at the 2023 Rice Industry Awards in August. Justin was one of four nominees for the top prize, after initially topping the yields for the Eastern Murray Valley district. He and father Graeme had a yield result of 14.38 tonne per hectare from the crop of just over 46ha. Helping them achieve the amazing result was their brother and son Matt Barker, who is an agronomist with Agri Vision Consultants. Other nominees for the overall prize, and winners of yield awards in their irrigation districts, were: • Western Murray Valley - Larnoo Nominees Pty Ltd, yielding 13.65T/ha on 239.99ha. • Coleambally Irrigation Area - Lionola Farming, yielding 11.279T/ha on 48.89ha.

• Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area - Nathan and Kylie Ceccato, yielding 14.16T/ha on 149.30ha. Justin said the award-winning result came down to the right conditions at the right time. “It is the best crop I have ever grown by over a tonne per hectare,” he said. “It was a lot of luck. “When rice hits pinnacle initiation and microspore it is very susceptible to the cold. “But we did manage to get the crop in on time, by October 17, while a lot of other crops were sown late because of the wet conditions.” Local growers were also recognised among the Yenda Producers Specialist Grain Yield Awards, also presented on the night. Winners were as follows: • Topaz highest grain yield - Knagge Family Trust, yielding 9.82T/ha on 45.57ha. • Langi highest grain yield - Wayne and Janelle Sullivan, yielding 11.35T/ha on 57.86ha. • Opus highest grain yield - Laurence and Pamela Beer, yielding 10.61T/ha on 30.62ha. • Koshikari highest grain yield - Michael and Felicia Chalmers, yielding 7.23T/ha on 235.40ha.

The winner of the Excellence in Extension, Research and Advisory Award - recognising agronomists, advisors and researchers who have significantly contributed to advancing rice production - was Laurie Lewin. Receiving the Grower Industry Contribution Award - to acknowledge an individual who has made exceptional contributions to the rice industry beyond their farming operations - was John Bonetti.

Justin and Stevie Barker.

RICE INDUSTRY AWARDS 2023

Andreazzas are best in rice

SEPTEMBER 2023

FARMtalk • 15

Significant efforts in water saving measures are among the reasons Robert and April Andreazza of Willbriggie, near Griffith, were awarded the crop year 2023 SunRice Grower of the Year Award.

he major award was presented as part of the 2023 Rice Industry Awards, and Peter McDonnell from Rice Extension said it was “important to recognise the best of the

best”. “Robert and April’s farm shows innovation and is focused on sustainability practices,” he said. The pair were nominated for their advocacy for growing rice, their innovative techniques, and willingness to take on and share information. Robert and April are considered passionate members of the rice industry, integral members of their community, and strive every day for the longevity of their own business and the industry overall. Robert attributes his success to spending time and money in redesigning the farm and in bringing his trade background, as a fitter and turner, back onto the farm. It has enabled them to more easily manage breakdowns, fix and modify machinery and think outside of the square. Robert is also very proud of the fact that their C23 yields equate to 22 million meals around the world. Irrigation Research and Extension Committee executive officer and C23 Grower of the Year judge Iva Quarisa OAM said there were several things that set the Andreazza farm apart. “We were very impressed with the Andreazzas’ farm operations and efficiency improvements. “For example, in one paddock they’ve gone from 15 bays down to six bays - improving water and agronomic efficiencies. “Robert and April are also innovative, passionate, and proud to quality food producers.” Mr McDonnell congratulated Robert and April, noting that they are “at the cutting edge” of rice growing with their focus on sustainability and future proofing their farming business. “As a second-generation rice farmer, Rob’s love for farming rice is apparent in every conversation you have with him. He and April are very deserving winners, and assets to SunRice and the wider industry,” he said. The Andreazzas expressed their appreciation for being awarded the title of SunRice Grower of the Year. “It’s wonderful to be recognised by the industry for doing what we do as a matter of course every day,” they said.

Laurie Arthur, Chair SunRice Group; Robert and April Andreazza.

“It is very humbling because there are a lot of growers out there doing the same as us.” Robert’s parents started growing rice in 1965 and since then there has only been one year where rice has not formed part of the family’s production mix. “We feel very supported by the structure of the rice industry. There aren’t many industries which have this level of support, from grower services, research and development to a local receivals network and the international marketing of our grain. It makes for a very reliable part of our farming business.” The 2023 SunRice Grower of The Year Award is assessed on farm by a panel of three judges, including two industry representatives and one independent judge and the 2022 Grower of the Year. The panel assess applications based on eight key areas: production and agronomy, water use efficiency, innovation and technology, business management, sustainability, work health and safety and, industry and community involvement. The SunRice Grower of the Year Winner receives an impressive $2,500 support package to help them further expand their business such as personal or business development, and a nomination for the Australian Farmer of the Year Award (Kondinin Group).

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SEPTEMBER 2023

FARMtalk • 17

Planning for the long haul Participating in Dairy Australia’s Our Farm, Our Plan program has given Leigh and Ange Verhey great insight into their business.

he couple are dairy farmers on the outskirts of Koondrook, in the Murray Dairy region. They have been on the farm for 17 years, and currently milk 350-400 cows across a pasture-based system spanning 600 acres. The Verheys have been considering succession planning for their business, and Our Farm, Our Plan provided the structured and personalised support they needed to develop a customised plan for their farm and their family. “Doing Our Farm, Our Plan was a real opportunity to look at our business and where we are currently at, where we want to get to and looking back on where we have been,” Leigh says. “Dairy Australia supported this immensely. The handbook that was put together and the process that we stepped through was mapped out so well. “There was no stone unturned in how we thought about our farming business and where we want to end up.” The one-on-one tailoring of Our Farm, Our Plan and being able to connect with other like-minded farmers was also beneficial for the Verheys.

“Doing Our Farm, Our Plan was a real opportunity to look at our business and where we are currently at, where we want to get to and looking back on where we have been.” LEIGH VERHEY “It’s great to be in a room with progressive farmers, having conversations of growth and going forward and how we manage our businesses,” Leigh explains. “I got a lot out of the other participants in the program – just as much as being a participant myself.” Leigh is optimistic about the farm’s future.

“For our business, it’s all about developing and going forward with reliable, good staff. “We’ve had a fair crack for 17 years and we want to see some reward for all the effort we’ve put in. “One thing that was holding us back was the ability to attract people into our business. “Having people support us in this is just phenomenal. “We’re really understanding we can’t do it on our own for the size of what we are, but if we get the right people in there, it builds that work/life environment. “We’ve identified some key things in our business that we need to do better at. It was irrigation – the system in general – and the breed of our cow, our labour unit and our holdings, whether we need more or less.” Leigh and Ange’s journey into the dairy industry has been a successful one, and Leigh says he’s in it for the long haul. “We’re not generational. We’ve worked together and built what we’ve got today. “This is something we’re quite proud of, and we’re proud to be in the dairy industry.” For further details about Our Farm, Our Plan and how it can help enhance your farm business management, visit dairyaustralia.com.au/ofop or call 1800 548 073.

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SEPTEMBER 2023

FARMtalk • 19

Control those pest pigs Murray Local Land Services biosecurity officers have been working closely with landholders to reduce feral pig numbers across the region.

s part of the Billabong Creek Feral Pig Program, officers recently installed a new pig trap which features an automatic feeder. The trap was strategically placed in a secluded location with known pig populations on a private property. The installation of the trap allowed for many pigs to be successfully contained and removed from the area. LLS says using these new technologies provides another effective tool to work with landholders to assist managing feral pig numbers. Feral pigs cause damage to crops, pastures, water holes, fencing and can cause significant economic losses to agricultural production through predation of livestock, disease introduction and environmental damage. They create significant soil disturbance, altering drainage, increasing turbidity and sedimentation and greatly assisting the spread of weeds. Feral pigs can also carry disease and parasites that affect stock and pose a disease risk to humans (eg brucellosis), and are a major potential host of a number of exotic diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease. Feral pig populations can be both stationary and transient, with weather conditions and food availability influencing their movements. In many habitats there is a seasonal trend of movement between specific areas depending on the current food supply. Even if disturbed, feral pigs will not move far and will readily return to their home ranges. Under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015, every landholder has a general biosecurity duty to reduce risks caused by feral pigs by undertaking control activities. Feral pigs are an invasive species introduced to Australia as domestic livestock. A pig can be identified as being feral if it: • was born or has lived in the wild • demonstrates wild and erratic behaviour • is not domesticated

• has long coarse hair, an elongated snout, or sloping hindquarters. As with any pest control program, a single method of control used in isolation may only provide limited control of pig populations. However, a coordinated program involving neighbours and multiple control methods will prove more successful. There are many methods available for the control of feral pigs including 1080 baiting, trapping, exclusion fencing, aerial and ground shooting.

This pig trap set up as part of the Billabong Creek Feral Pig program has had some success already.

Create a feral pig management plan Effective control of local feral pig populations can be achieved, although it may take weeks to a few months.

hese efforts will need to be followed up when populations re-establish the area. A broad landscape approach can achieve long term gains and bring feral pig numbers down to manageable levels. Start by identifying and mapping the location of feral pigs and the extent of their impact on your property. Discuss your concerns and gauge feral pig impacts with your neighbours. Things to look for include: • sightings • predation of lambs

• rooting (digging of soil for underground food such as roots and bulbs) • crop and fence damage

• pads (a feral pig game trail) • tracks and scats

• wallows (indentations in waterbodies)

• mud rubs and tusk marks on vegetation and infrastructure • nests

You should then work with your neighbours to determine what resources (e.g. time, money and expertise) you have and what you want to achieve, and prepare an action plan. Start with short term goals (for a 12-month program) and how you will continue an ongoing program to ensure that the impacts are mitigated. Local Land Services can provide technical advice and training to any landholders and can loan out feral pig traps, provide 1080 training and poisoned bait.

For more advice on controlling feral pig populations, and other pest species, go to https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/ help-and-advice/pest-control.

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SEPTEMBER 2023

FARMtalk • 21

The Deakin University freshwater plants project at Barwoon Downs, Victoria. Photo by Paul Benjamin.

Carbon initiative insights In a monumental leap towards a greener future, AgriFutures Australia proudly presents the outcomes of the Carbon Initiative Program, a $2 million commitment fueling 15 pioneering research projects.

he 15 projects have not only enriched current industry-specific endeavours towards a net-zero future but have also forged new frontiers in crossindustry carbon research. Venturing into unchartered territory has yielded remarkable revelations, including five hero insights across the 15 projects: • Innovative Carbon Testing: The fusion of cuttingedge machine learning with satellite sensing technology is re-writing the rules of soil organic carbon testing. By driving down costs, these methods are racing to surpass the Australian Government’s ambitious target of $3 per hectare. • Reimagining Farm Irrigation: Exploration into emissions from Australian farm irrigation dams has stunned the scientific community, where traditionally there has been a lack of carbon footprint data. The discovery showcases nitrous oxide emission rates that defy conventional wisdom, sitting four times lower than the estimations by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). • Nature’s Methane Solution: Unlocking the potential of native freshwater plants and seaweed species has unveiled an ingenious solution to curbing methane emissions in cattle. This foundational evidence

opens new pathways for research into freshwater alternatives to red seaweed.

• Precision in Valuation: A fresh set of guidelines caters to rural valuers, promising enhanced precision when valuing carbon projects. This leap will elevate the accuracy of assessments, paving the way for more robust carbon initiatives.

• Empowering Producers: Embarking on a mission to empower producers, a user-friendly online tool has emerged. This digital companion assists producers in navigating the complex landscape of carbon methods, ensuring alignment with their unique business vision, risk tolerance, and individuality. AgriFutures Australia general manager rural futures Michael Beer said supporting efforts to enhance the effectiveness and adoption of carbon farming was a pivotal role for the organisation. “This was a strategic investment borne out of the conversations we’d had with farmers, landholders and rural industry participants who said they wanted to enter the carbon space but were not sure how to do it or where to find the right information,” Mr Beer said. “This is a complex and rapidly evolving area so guidance from trusted sources is essential, especially

as the nation accelerates the decarbonisation of the economy and seeks to meet emissions reduction targets,” Mr Beer added. AgriFutures Australia’s managing director John Harvey said he is proud to be investing in programs that will help rural industries transition towards net zero emissions. “Through the course of the AgriFutures Carbon Conversations events, it became clear there was a considerable and growing thirst for knowledge about emission reduction efforts in our agricultural sector and the desire for people in communities across Australia to be heard,” Mr Harvey said. “The discussions we’ve had with Australians has brought home the importance of research programs like the 15 carbon initiative projects in providing guidance for those who are directly affected,” Mr Harvey said. The program, launched in 2021, explored novel approaches to carbon storage, greenhouse gas emission reduction and emission avoidance, as well as methods to drive awareness, overcome barriers and develop market pathways for farmers, fishers and foresters. It was led by Julian Hill on behalf of AgriFutures Australia. To review all 15 reports, go to www.agrifutures.com. au/carbon-initiative-program/.

Australian Books

SEPTEMBER 2023

FARMtalk • 23

MORE GREAT AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK TOWNS & PUBS STORIES Bill Marsh

Bill ‘Swampy’ Marsh has been on yet another adventure, this time gathering more stories from outback towns and pubs; from the green fields of Tasmania to the vast red sands of Simpson Desert. The unique characters of the outback will touch your heart as Swampy presents all the drama and delight of life in remote Australia. There are tales of all-night revelry, the pub that became a refuge during a bushfire, the thirteen-year-old sent from the city to work on a remote sheep station, the priest with a sideline in illegal poker games, a sighting of the elusive yowie, a murder or two and a few ghosts thrown in for good measure. And, yes, the saddest story of all - the pub with no beer. If there’s a good story out there, Swampy has captured it in this book. Bill ‘Swampy’ Marsh is an award-winning writer and performer of stories, songs and plays. He spent most of his youth in rural south-western NSW and now lives on South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsular. Swampy is one of ABC Books’ bestselling authors of Australian stories; this is his twentythird book.

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100 WEIRDEST TALES FROM ACROSS AUSTRALIA

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The annual battle to curb the Queensland fruit fly menace will resume with the region’s control program receiving funding for the next two years.

he pests are beginning to emerge from their reservoir homes in backyards, as the spring weather warms up. Goulburn Murray Valley regional fruit fly co-ordinator Ross Abberfield said the pest had been overwintering in urban areas and as the weather warms to 15 to 17 degrees the flies become active and enter a breeding cycle. They will feed on backyard fruit and vegetables and then move out into orchards. The Goulburn Murray Valley program has been operating for a number of years. Mr Abberfield said between 2017 and 2019 a reduction of 60 per cent in Queensland fruit fly trapping numbers was measured across the Goulburn Murray Valley region – encompassing Greater Shepparton City Council, Campaspe, Moira, Strathbogie and Berrigan Shires. “In Cobram, where the Sterile Insect Technique release trial was being conducted, fruit fly trap numbers reduced by 83 per cent,” he said. “The program has been independently assessed by experts and is recognised as the most effective Fruit Fly Area Wide Management Program in Australia.” Victorian Agriculture Minister Gayle Tierney announced the funding as part of the Victorian Fruit Fly Strategy program, which will help roll out fruit fly management programs across regional Victoria. The Goulburn Murray Valley program has received grants to train community groups, nurseries and rural supply stores with skills so that they can identify risks and implement control strategies. The first round of Victorian Fruit Fly Strategy grants helped regional co-ordinators to engage with the community in key horticultural areas via more than 130 events and enabled the removal of more than 3100 high risk trees. This second grant will fund the program from this year to 2025.

Other fruit fly management measures outlined in the strategy include regulation, research and preparedness for exotic fruit fly incursions. Queensland fruit fly management programs are ensuring Victorian growers are well placed to respond to biosecurity risks, while promoting and building confidence in the sector and the community. Ms Tierney said the grants would help equip home gardeners and commercial producers with the necessary skills to fight Queensland fruit fly across the Goulburn Murray Valley, Sunraysia and Yarra Valley. “We’re funding regional fruit fly coordinators to deliver targeted programs that will help industry and community manage Queensland fruit fly into the future,” she said. Anyone who has a fruit tree they no longer want or can no longer manage can apply to have it removed free of charge.

Goulburn Murray Valley regional fruit fly co-ordinator Ross Abberfield.

SAFE BURNING IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY Permits are required during the Bush Fire Danger Period for burning activities. From October 1 you must have a permit to burn.

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YOUR SAFE BURNING CHECKLIST Check you’re allowed to burn. Contact your council or local Fire Control Centre Get a permit. They’re free and easy to obtain. Notify your neighbours at least 24 hours in advance of a planned burn. Check conditions, such as weather and fire danger rating. In bad conditions,permits may be suspended. Monitor the fire. If it gets out of control, call Triple Zero.

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