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Stockfood specialists
Farm environment awards open
Entries for the 2025 Ballance Farm Environment Awards (BFEA) are open with farmers and growers across the region invited to enter.
The awards, facilitated by the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust, recognise and celebrate excellence and innovation in sustainable farming and growing within the primary sector.
Trust general manager Sarah Harris invited farmers and growers at any stage of their sustainability journey to get involved.
“Being part of the awards programme is an excellent way to gain constructive feedback on your business, help identify your strengths, and learn from others who are passionate about the food and fibre sector.”
feed from anywhere in the world via your smartphone or tablet.
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Cow & Horse Processing in Levin
No Moore Hassel Pet Food is an MPI approved and recognised primary meat processor. Based in Levin we offer local farmers a free and highly professional pick-up service for unwanted healthy cows and horses in the Manawatu-Wanganui region.
If you would prefer to transport your animal yourself or have your horse or cow put down on the farm then we can arrange this with a No Hassell guarantee.
About Us
James, Debbie, Dave and Jan Stewart of Stewart Dairylands were named this year’s Horizons regional supreme winners. They encourage anyone who is considering entering the awards to take up the opportunity.
“Don’t hold back, just do it,” said James. “It’s been really beneficial for us. We’ve really done a deep dive into our business and learned so much more than we thought we would.”
Debbie said they definitely recommend it. “It’s a great experience, and an opportunity to look into the business, and for the whole family to focus on ‘are we doing the right things and how can we be doing things better’.”
The BFEA programme offers a platform for farmers and growers to showcase, benchmark and enhance the sustainability of their operation through the judging process, whereby rural peers and agribusiness professionals provide valuable feedback, commendations and recommendations.
Judges take a comprehensive approach, evaluating the entire farm system, including water and soil management, climate stewardship, biodiversity, waste
management, team and community wellbeing, business health, biosecurity and animal care.
A Catchment Group Showcase is also featured in the awards. This award recognises the efforts of a rural community working together to improve water quality, promote good on-farm practices and sustainable land management, and encourage positive environmental and farmer wellbeing outcomes.
This initiative is designed to celebrate the efforts of catchment groups and services to inspire other communities with examples of good practice.
A range of leading agribusiness and regional councils throughout the country support the BFEA programme. Many of these sponsor award categories and provide valuable professional advice and feedback to entrants through the judging process.
Entries are open until October with initial farm visits taking place before the end of the year. The Horizons BFEA event will be held on Thursday, March 13 2025. Entries can be made online at nzfeawards.org.nz.
Our in-house processing plant enables us to guarantee the consistent quality and reliability of the process from the picking-up to the putting-down of the animal. As a recognised specialist you can rest assured that our years of expertise and close connection to the farming industry makes our service as convenient, respectful and professional as it can be.
James and Debbie Stewart, Horizons 2024 regional supreme winners
Rangitīkei farmer wins Arable Farmer of the Year
by Denise Gunn
Rangitīkei farmer Simon Nitschke’s consistently
recently with the 2024 Arable Farmer of the Year award.
Simon was also presented with the Maize Farmer of the Year award during the Arable Industry Awards in Christchurch.
Federated Farmers arable chair David Birkett said he was hugely impressed by the calibre and commitment of this year’s winners of awards in seven categories.
“Arable is a sector that tends to fly under the radar a bit in New Zealand, but it punches above its weight. Our growers are pivotal to domestic food staples, seed export markets and supplying the grass seed and animal grain that the bigger dairy, meat and wool sectors rely on.
“In what’s been a tough season, the resilience and innovation of our growers has shone through,” said David.
Simon, a third-generation grain grower, grows nearly 200ha of maize grain and 100ha each of wheat and barley on his farm near Marton. He and his father Malcolm own Arable Solutions.
“Arable Solutions has been going for 10 years, when we purchased the grain silo complex,” said Simon.
“We are a fully integrated business that leases land, which grows grain, dries, stores, transports and process. It’s the whole process of the grain cycle.”
A team of five employees help run the business.
“We use a lot of yield-mapping and plant tissue analysis. We are always
looking to be more efficient and have a lighter footprint on the soil.”
Simon said it was exciting to win the award, and a good recognition for him and his team.
“We are working with a lot of different facets of the industry.”
The awards judging panel said Simon’s yields are extremely high by industry standards thanks to careful cultivar
selection, effective management of soil fertility and optimised use of resources. Arable Solutions has invested in stateof-the-art grain-drying facilities and also offer a package of contracting services. Simon’s industry and community credentials include involvement in the
Foundation for Arable Research, Arable Research Group and the Growers Leading Change programme.
“He can be described as an all-rounder, and a very worthy winner of the Arable Farmer of the Year Award,” the judges said.
Federated Farmers sponsored the Arable Farmer of the Year award.
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From left: Rangitīkei farmer Simon Nitschke holding his Arable Farmer of the Year award, with Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford alongside
by Denise Gunn
Taihape farmer Stephen Ponsonby has
Growing Future Farmers (GFF) was formally established by several sheep and beef producers throughout New Zealand. The charitable trust’s objective is to train students and
involved with Growing Future Farmers since the inception of the farmer-led workforce
open up career pathways to fill labour shortages in the agriculture industry.
A two-year, free on-farm Essential Farm Skills training programme is geared towards young people ages
16–20 who are keen to follow sheep, beef and deer farming careers. Funding for the programme is received from the government (Tertiary Education Commission), farmers and industry and corporate sponsors. Students live onfarm, training and gaining experience four days each week. One day a week is set aside to attend courses and spend time on their academic studies.
Farmers around New Zealand can apply to become a farm trainer, passing on their skills, training and experience to a student for the two-year duration. More than 100 farm trainers are currently
involved in the programme’s delivery, backed up with support from GFF regional liaison managers.
Stephen is farm manager of the Plimmer family-owned Kelly and Black Hill properties. The two adjoining properties, known as the Kelly Land Company or Kellys, are located 30km north-east of Taihape, on the Napier-Taihape Road.
Covering 2,581ha of very steep to moderate hill country, the Kellys also features rolling flats on the tops. The Rangitīkei River runs between both blocks with 60ha of flats. Currently, the property runs 10,000 Romney ewes,
Year two group of students participating in a horsemanship day
Stephen found out about GFF through a friend who was involved in setting up the pilot scheme.
“I rang him, and asked if they could come and talk to some of the local farmers around here to see if there was some interest in it.
“I have been involved in it since the start. I was using university students over summer anyway, so I thought it would be a good fit.”
He has already seen one of his students graduate from the programme and currently has two cadets; one in the second year and the other beginning in early 2024. Students live in fully-furnished accommodation, including electricity,
heating and Wi-Fi on the Kelly block. As part of the programme, each student receives a living allowance and payment for meat and vegetables.
In their first year, students are given a heading pup in February and a Huntaway pup in August, and taught how to train them.
“When they leave after two years, they should have a near broken-in heading dog and a Huntaway able to muster a paddock.”
Stephen said graduating students can also fix a fence, swing a gate, drive a tractor and use a chainsaw.
“They can do most of the general work on a farm and be confident around stock. They can also prepare and cook a meal.”
Regional liaison managers support the training, working with farm trainers and
students. The GFF programme includes practical training and development in the workplace, NZQA level three qualifications, pastoral care and support.
Andrea James has been involved with GFF as the Taihape liaison manager for just over two years. She began with three students, and now has 16 across the two year groups.
“It’s a rewarding job watching 16 to 20-year-olds graduate with level two and three NZQA qualifications, Essential Farm Skills certification, a good understanding of health and safety, and an array of amazing life skills and experiences.”
Andrea said it’s also been hugely beneficial to see farm businesses become a learning environment.
“We often help young people at a crossroad in life, who might otherwise
go down an alternate pathway that is not always good for them.”
With more than 73 graduates to date, 100% of those are in full-time employment within the agricultural sector as shepherds, shearers, fencers and agricultural contractors.
“The most rewarding thing is to see them when they come as shy and not knowing too much, and leaving as confident, capable young people,” said Stephen.
In the four years since the charitable trust began, GFF is now the largest farmerled workforce training programme in New Zealand. There are aspirations to expand into the dairy and horticulture sectors.
Stephen Ponsonby is farm manager of the Plimmer family-owned Kelly and Black Hill properties near Taihape
Year one student Jack Hope fencing
Dedication to sport and community
by Denise Gunn
For more than two decades, Bronwyn Troon’s involvement in all aspects of competitive gumboot throwing has seen her contribute to the sport’s smooth operation.
Bronwyn became involved with gumboot throwing after years watching and supporting her husband Curly, and sons throwing
competitively. Curly first picked up a gumboot to throw during Taihape’s inaugural Gumboot Day in 1985. Back then, gumboot throwing was
held in Taihape’s main street on State Highway One.
“The road was closed and traffic diverted for Gumboot Day, which was held during Easter Weekend. It was well supported by locals and travelling public,” said Bronwyn.
competitors, and Bronwyn placed second in her age group, securing a silver medal.
“I still have a throw of a gumboot, but I would have to say I’m not a competitive thrower or have ever been. It always makes me smile, because I can’t get the distance, especially, when I have Curly on the field as my target.”
Bronwyn’s best throw was also in Taihape, when the town hosted the World Gumboot Throwing Championships in 2019. The competition drew international
Involvement in gumboot throwing grew after Bronwyn regularly attended
Bronwyn with Olympic gold medallist Joseph Sullivan at the Ford New Zealand Rural Sports Awards
As organiser and overseer of registration tables at gumboot throwing events around New Zealand, Bronwyn’s role is essential
Taihape’s gumboot days, helping and supporting various competitions.
“When the New Zealand Boot Throwing Association was formed, I joined the committee, organising, supporting, setting up fields for competitions, registrations, recording results and final results.”
Bronwyn said she’s always looking for ways to improve the events. “Ideas with continuous improvement and learning.”
Watching children as young as three to adults in their 90s having a go throwing gumboots is one of Bronwyn’s highlights as an administrator of the sport.
“People who might not have a first good throw coming back and tweaking their throws and going further. Also, watching people from different parts of New Zealand and around the world having a go.”
She has seen records broken at the North Island Gumboot Day and South Island Gumboot Day, too.
“I saw Kristin Churchwood from Taihape break the New Zealand women’s record with 36.88 metres, and Kieran Fowler from Dunedin break the New Zealand men’s record with 56.65 metres.”
Curly and Bronwyn have lived in Taihape for more than 45 years, becoming a central part of the community. Between them, the couple has clocked up many decades of community service.
Bronwyn is employed as a teacher aide at Taihape Area School. Nine years ago, she established the school’s Breakfast Club, and helps run that on a voluntary basis, too. The list of community clubs and groups that have received assistance from Bronwyn is
extensive. She’s also volunteered as a coordinator for the New Zealand Heart Foundation appeal.
Curly currently holds the rank of chief fire officer with the Taihape Volunteer Fire Brigade, where he has served more than 30 years.
Earlier this year, Bronwyn’s efforts were recognised as one of three joint winners of the Outstanding Contribution Award to New Zealand Rural Sports. This award was presented during the Ford New Zealand Rural Sports Awards.
“I feel overwhelmed and so humble,” said Bronwyn. “I would like to give a special thank you to all the sponsors, the New Zealand Rural Games Trust and the New Zealand Boot Throwing Association.”
Ford Motor Company of New Zealand Limited managing director Simon Rutherford said the Ford New Zealand Rural Sports Awards provide a platform to recognise the extraordinary talent and dedication of athletes who embody the true essence of rural New Zealand.
Bronwyn’s award follows Curly’s recognition at the 2021 Norwood New Zealand Rural Sports Awards, where he was a joint winner of the Toyota Lifetime Legacy Awards to Rural Sports.
“With all the support I have received from the Taihape community and around New Zealand, I feel so proud to be part of the gumboot throwing and the sport being recognised.
“My goal is to get more young people involved in helping. I want to be involved with gumboot throwing as long as I can.”
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Earlier this year, Bronwyn was one of three joint winners of the Outstanding Contribution Award to New Zealand Rural Sports
Bronwyn has been involved with the sport of gumboot throwing for more than two decades
Chopping a path to success
by Denise Gunn
Former world champion woodchopper Alma Wallace comes from a long line of family members involved in the
Alma was in her late teens when she first picked up an axe in competition, entering a show in the King Country. With her grandfather, parents, uncles, an aunt and cousins all keen woodchoppers, it was only natural that Alma would take up the sport.
However, it wasn’t until she was 30 that she began to compete in earnest.
“Losing my nan and mum in their mid30s drives me,” said Alma.
The 54-year-old Ōtaki dairy farmer went on to represent New Zealand in the
women’s woodchopping team for 15 years before retiring in 2017. She also captained a winning international relay team.
Alma’s first taste of international competition was as a member of the New Zealand women’s Axeferns team.
“In 2007, I won the championship underhand at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. This class is the Wimbledon of woodchopping, so the best in the world compete.”
More placings followed. “Then in 2012, I won the world championship underhand
in Hayward, Wisconsin. That was probably one of the hardest to prepare for as at that time my grandfather battled cancer.
“I visited him every day. The day after his funeral, I was on a plane to the US, so the win was quite emotional.”
Throughout Alma’s sporting career she has won many Australian and New Zealand titles.
“I also made finals, cutting against the men. “
However, Alma said her most meaningful competition was when
cutting with her father, and son Perry. More recently, Alma has cut against her youngest son, Welby. She said the sport is all about technique.
Since retiring from the top-level competition, Alma has continued to compete at local shows to keep fit.
“I compete in the Stihl Timbersports held annually in Palmerston North. I love that this event is held in my local area.
“This is quite a new event for women. I think it has been running for four years now. I have yet to win but have been
It’s all effort and focus as Alma competes in the single saw
On the podium at this year’s Stihl Timbersports New Zealand Championships with Alma in third place
close, placing second, third and fourth to date.
“This event is a multi-discipline; a chainsaw, single saw and underhand. Soon a standing chop is to be added.”
Alma’s most successful event is the underhand chop. “I’m starting to love the single saw but the chainsaw wins hands down.”
Woodchopping legend Jason Wynyard encouraged and convinced Alma to compete in the Stihl Timbersports series.
“I had happily put down my axes. He called me and pretty much said, ‘Cut it out, you are not old enough to retire, and fill out the form’, so I did.”
Back in training, Alma cuts as many blocks as possible, works out at the gym three times a week and finds any
fallen trees for chainsaw practice and single-saw training. She’s a member of the Ōtaki Axemen’s Club, training on Wednesday events from around October as the season kicks off.
“I cut at a few shows to get me race fit and then I’m ready for March when we compete at the next Stihl Timbersports in 2025 if I get accepted,” said Alma.
Alma and her husband Malcolm are now in their 25th year working in the dairy industry. The couple milks 185 Friesian-cross cows, and in the last four years switched to once-aday milking. They have two sons and a daughter.
This month, Alma competed in the 2024 Waka Ama World Sprint Championships in Hilo, Hawaii.
“I’m in the W6 master women’s team. Three teams qualified from the Ōtaki Waka Hoe Club. Training is six days a week, twice a day, with land training in the morning and water training at night.”
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“I also love netball, and still playing at 54, running centre. I guess I live by use it or lose it attitude,” she said. “My goals are to stay healthy to live a good quality life.”
Alma has represented New Zealand numerous times
Competing in the chainsaw class requires intense concentration
Course on environmental risk management
In the ever-evolving landscape of dairy farming regulations, staying ahead is imperative. Dairy Training’s Farm Environmental Planning course is designed to support pastoral farming businesses with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate government regulations around freshwater management with a Freshwater Management Action Plan.
“Understanding and adhering to freshwater regulations is not just about compliance; it’s about improving water quality for everyone,” said course developer Craig Zydenbos.
Course participants will gain insights into regulatory requirements and develop actionable strategies tailored to their farm’s unique needs. This includes a Freshwater Management Action Plan.
“Farmers might invest up to $10,000 in a consultant to develop a plan. However, when they participate directly in designing and implementing the plan, they gain a deeper understanding of the rationale and the environmental impact on their farm and finances. This involvement often boosts their motivation to achieve positive outcomes, large or small, because every improvement matters.”
The Farm Environmental Planning Course covers topics, including the impact of contaminants on water quality, nutrient management and the development of effective management plans. Upon completion, participants earn a Farm Environmental Planning micro-credential.
“For farmers, the drivers that will improve on-farm water quality will also improve onfarm efficiency and profitability,” said Craig.
Under the current regulations, farmers will need a Freshwater Farm Plan if they have 20ha+ in arable or pastoral use, 5ha-plus in horticultural use, or 20ha-plus in combined use.
The course is suitable for managers, sharemilkers, contract milkers and farm wwners. The roll-out for freshwater farm plans began in August 2023. Farmers will hear directly from their regional council when they need to get the plans in place.
“Long term, there is only going to be more pressure on the environment. Having a base understanding will put you in a good position to adapt and go forward as required,” Craig said.
This FREE fortnightly course includes four part-days, 10am to 3pm, with betweenclass contact. The Feilding course starts October 15. Dairy Training’s popular contract milking course also starts in Feilding on October 8. For more information and to enrol, visit dairytraining.co.nz/courses/fep.
In the air since 1987
Air Whanganui, based in the city of Whanganui, provides aeromedical and aviation services throughout New Zealand.
Originally formed as Air Wanganui Commuter Limited in 1987, it first served scheduled flights between Auckland and Whanganui and ad hoc charter work. This service ceased when Air Nelson began a scheduled Whanganui to Auckland service, and a regular service to Wellington commenced in conjunction with Ansett NZ.
By the mid 1990s, Air Wanganui Commuter focus was as an air ambulance serving the local community. In 2005 Air Wanganui Commuter purchased a Beech King Air C90, registered as ZKMKG (a tribute to the early founder of the company).
This twin engine turboprop pressurised aircraft, was one of the first of such to be used for aeromedical work in New Zealand, greatly improving the service offered in the sector. In 2010, a second Beechcraft C90, ZK-SNM was leased until 2012.
In 2016, with the retirement of older aircraft, a Beech King Air B200, ZK-MDC was purchased. Building on this growth in 2019, Air Wanganui Commuter purchased its second Beech King Air B200, ZK-PMJ (chosen after another founder) and keeping with the theme of honouring its heritage within the community.
In 2022 Air Wanganui Commuter formally rebranded as Air Whanganui, recognising the companies long, esteemed history in the Whanganui region and its importance as a supplier of critical air mmbulance services. ZK-MDC was the first aircraft to wear the brand livery, ‘Care in the Air’, the brand mantra, underpinning the values held by the company.
Later in 2022, Air Whanganui seized an opportunity to enhance and complement its air ambulance services to the region by providing road ambulance Inter-hospital Transfers (or Patient Transfer Services — PTS).
Shaping the future of housing
Since setting up shop in a garage 12 years ago, 242am Architects’ principal Monika Puri has developed the business into an awardwinning practice.
Now based at 202 Broadway Avenue in Palmerston North, Monika and her small team of highly-skilled individuals continue to build up the practice on its firm foundation, project by project.
242am Architects has completed more than 500 homes in the region and around 800 across the lower North Island, ranging from prefabricated to high performance, multi-unit dwellings to high-end homes and the first eight-star Homestar in the Manawatū region.
The team aspires to shape the future of housing by weaving building performance, climate resilience, aesthetics and environmental consciousness in measured ways.
“One such project was Roger’s home built on an infill section in Palmerston North,” said Monika.
This home was designed around existing native trees planted by Roger 30 years ago.
“The house with its small footprint of 150sqm, including a garage, has generous living, dining kitchen with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, along with a snug study in the hallway.”
Living areas have been extended out to the established native gardens on opposing sides. This has created opportunities to nestle under native trees in summer whilst enjoying the winter morning sun on the other.
Built on passive house design principles of air tightness, high-performing timber
windows and a mechanical ventilation heat recovery unit has seen Roger’s electricity bills minimised. It’s also provided a thermally comfortable home to live in throughout the year.
“The home also incorporated solar panels and storm water recycling to flush toilets, water plants and run the laundry,” said Monika. “By incorporating small, but important features, like composting bins, raised vegetable garden beds, Lifemark Standards, and emergency battery outlet, the home is not only fit for the future but is a joy to live in. It has created human architecture that is designed for life.”
In the last 12 years, 242am Architects has consistently won architectural
awards in housing. Monika has twice been convenor of the New Zealand Institute of Architects local awards for the western region.
Monika is a Registered Architect and a passive house design consultant. She holds a Bachelor of Architecture and a Master’s in Construction Management.
Visit 242am.co.nz for further information or make enquiries at 021 0272 7023.
True Home in Feilding
Northland — home of the friendly field days
Northland Field Days is the largest agricultural event in Northland, attracting thousands of visitors and more than 400 exhibitors each year; the event is in Dargaville at Northland’s premiere outdoor event venue.
A hub for the latest innovations in the farming industry and machinery and technology, the Northland Field Days receives visitors from around New Zealand interested in what’s the latest in the agricultural field. It doesn’t stop there. With Ripiro Beach, the longest driving beach in New Zealand as our backyard, the event is the perfect opportunity for all things hunting, fishing, 4x4 and the outdoors.
For the petrol heads, the Northland Field Days always puts on show with Lawn Mower Racing, Mini Mack Rides and the exciting Tractor Pull, where you can watch the big machines race on the dirt track to test brute strength, skills and technique.
While at the Northland Field Days be sure to watch the sheepdog trials where men and their best friends show their skills
herding sheep in this calm and entertaining farming sport.
With 400-plus exhibitors and more than 20,000 people at the last event, the committee of the Northland Field Days is preparing for its 39th event. It is determined to keep its motto of the ‘Friendly Field Days’, all whilst delivering not only the largest, but the best event in Northland, where there is something for everyone.
Exhibitors’ registrations are now open and sites are selling fast, so get in quick and secure a site at the biggest outdoor event in Northland.
The Northland Field Days is also planning a painting competition for the community, so keep an eye on its website if you would like to show your skills to more than 20,000 eventgoers.
Nutritional medicine for osteoarthritis (Part
one)
by John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) founder of Abundant Health Ltd
Almost everyone above 60 will have joint tissue degeneration caused by osteoarthritis (OA). Unfortunately, there are few medical options outside of surgery and pain relief; this is one health problem where nutritional therapy can be very helpful.
My discipline of Nutritional Medicine identifies compounds in food and supplements that can stimulate the bodies joint repair processes. The results can be significant and in many cases life-changing.
As an example, I have one client that contacted my last year with pain from hip and knee OA. This restricted him by limiting the exercise he really enjoyed. Now, six months later, he said that the pain had almost gone. He is now exercising and has much-improved quality of life.
Inflammation is a major part of OA, and can cause more discomfort than actual cartilage loss. OA is a disease of cartilage loss and associated reduction in joint space between the bones of the joint. The main process is the death of specialised cells called chondrocytes that maintain cartilage. Free radical damage and certain enzymes can damage chondrocytes, eventually causing them to die. Unfortunately, chondrocytes cannot replicate, so when they die, the
tiny patch of cartilage it maintained starts to degenerate.
The immune system then tries to heal the problem with inflammation, making the problem worse. Extra fluid accumulates in the joint capsule causing stiffness, pain and swelling in some cases.
An anti-inflammatory diet combined with therapeutic levels of chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine sulphate and curcumin from turmeric can help. Of these, chondroitin is by far the most important. To be effective, chondroitin needs to be at 800mg or more. There are only a few joint supplements that have this amount. Most have either none or very little. I guess that this is because of the high cost of quality chondroitin. Feel free to contact me for a copy of my OA programme.
John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423 559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his newsletter at abundant.co.nz.
What is Bettaflex?
• Bettaflex is a joint support formula to promote healthy joint cartilage function
• Bettaflex has 400mg (per capsule) of high-grade avian chondroitin, 400mg of glucosamine and 100mg of BioSolve® bioavailable Curcumin (from turmeric).
• Try Bettaflex for 3 months and see for yourself.
How can Bettaflex help?
• Chondroitin and glucosamine are building blocks of cartilage.
• Supplementation with correct levels can support healthy cartilage function and cartilage repair processes.
• New BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin helps joint function while gentle on the stomach.
• Research indicates that chondroitin is highly effective at 800mg daily.
John Arts comments:
“My latest Bettaflex formula includes BioSolve® bioavailable curcumin for faster results. The normal dose is 2 capsules daily but I recommend an initial higher dose for 1-3 bottles to saturate join tissue.”
(John Arts, Founder, Abundant Health)
Northland Field Days is the north’s premier agricultural event of the year
Prolan rust protection improves COF and WOF checkouts
A common creeping problem with any vehicle is chassis rust. Even if a vehicle seems to have no rust problems now, a bit of undercarriage work at this point could save a lot of money in the future: prevention is cheaper than trying to fix it later.
This is where Prolan, a NZ-made product, based on sustainability and natural products comes into their own. Prolan lanolin-based industrial lubricants and corrosion inhibitor products, made by Kiwis from Kiwi sheep, often known as ‘Sheep n a Can’, is supporting industry and customers throughout NZ and Scandinavia to protect their assets.
Prolan is safe and easy to apply, environmentally friendly and biodegradable. The time saved in preparation is one of the benefits of Prolan as the surface to be coated is easily prepared by a quick waterblast or wash down — any flaky rust can be removed with a wire brush. A Prolan coating can then be sprayed directly over the surface, even over existing rust, it will stop it in its tracks.
Once coated, if the Prolan is left to dry as long as possible before returning the vehicle to the road, it will attract less dust and dirt and leave a cleaner finish. The coating will last anywhere from one to five years or longer, depending on the situation and product applied. Even cold water blasting will not remove the coating. Prolan has a range of products that vary, depending on
See us at site 53 NZMCA Mystery Creek Pavilion Hamilton. 27-29th September
• Stumpchipping and
• Grinding of forestry and sawmill waste
• Chipping whole trees and residue
• Hog fuel and chip boiler fuel
• Supply of animal bedding and cartage • Landclearing and site
•
• Grinding
the application required or the environment with which the vehicle is operating in. For harsh environments, salt, sand, mud etc, a heaver grade Prolan is preferable.
The beauty of the Prolan lanolin coating is that it sticks to chassis long-term, stopping corrosion by preventing air and moisture attack. Farmers, fleet owners, fertiliser and truck companies and the marine industry are using the product in some harsh industrial environments. Demand is also increasing for coating motorhomes, bus, truck and caravan chassis. This is of a huge benefit to vehicle owners, as it increases WOF and COF chassis checkouts, and ensures a protective coating stops rust, even when parked up, as we know the old saying is — ‘Rust never Sleeps!’.
By applying a simple coating of Prolan, it will protect valuable assets, increase their value longer term and save time on maintenance. It ticks all the boxes for being environmentally friendly, with multiple uses for industry. Try ‘Sheep n
Prolan New Zealand
a Can today — a product taken from nature to protect nature.
See us at the NZMCA Motorhome Show at Site 55, Mystery Creek Pavilion in Hamilton, September 27–29 2024.
Safety trumps accidents
Significant interest from farmers nationwide has been shown in the recent crush protection device incentive with the Safer Rides programme for quad bikes.
The new programme aiming to encourage farmers to install crush protection devices (CPDs) on their quad bikes has been oversubscribed, hitting its initial target within 38 hours of the incentive offer being launched.
“It is about being responsive to the practical needs of our farmers. Our members and retailers invested in this incentive programme to remove the cost barrier, and this pilot has struck a chord with farmers. Farmers want to make their quad bikes safer,” said Farm Without Harm ambassador Lindy Nelson.
More than 100 farm businesses nationwide have signed up to the pilot scheme offering a discount of up to 75% on CPDs from Trax Equipment and Quadbar. There are approximately 100 more farm businesses on the waitlist, having applied to be part of the programme. Safer Farms is exploring options to fund CPDs for these farmers, too.
“The reasons people have given include heartbreaking personal accounts of losing loved ones and neighbours through quad bike accidents,” Lindy said. “Many also cited the hilly nature of their
farms, their desire to keep their people safe. Many said they had been thinking about fitting CPDs on their quads for a long time but cost had been a barrier and this incentive was ‘the nudge’ they needed.
“Others talked about how it would provide them with peace of mind when their partner or colleagues were working out on farm alone. I feel, one farmer’s application comment, summed up our goals succinctly: ‘safety first — prevention is better than an accident’.
“Farm Without Harm recognises solving this problem is going to require the whole industry coming together. The Safer Rides programme is a practical way the industry is supporting farmers.
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the two people, who died recently in accidents involving ATVs.”
The initiative is being driven by the industry-wide initiative Safer Farms in partnership with Rabobank, ANZCO Foods, LIC, Craigmore Sustainables and PGG Wrightson.
For more details, visit farmwithoutharm. co.nz/saferrides.
BY PROFESSIONALS IN YOUR COMMUNITY NOT “EXPERTS” ONLINE
QUADBAR
“I have no doubt that if I did not have a Quadbar fitted, my accident would have been fatal!” — Rozel Farms “The Quadbar saved our employee from significant injuries.” — Colin van der Geest
The Safer Rides programme has been well received by farmers and businesses wanting to make crush protection devices more accessible
SPOTLIGHT ON PALMERSTON NORTH
by Denise Gunn
One stitch at a time helps others
In just seven years, Peggy Purl Manawatū has more than doubled the number of blankets made and delivered to community groups.
Peggy Purl began during the Great Depression when four-yearold Peggy Huse began knitting her mother’s wool scraps into squares. Peggy’s mother sewed the squares together to create blankets for Peggy’s dolls.
When family friend and radio presenter Muriel Lewis noticed Peggy knitting squares, she took the concept back to her radio station. A nationwide radio campaign soon began for people to knit squares for impoverished children and families during the Great Depression
In 2007, the project was resurrected by Peggy’s daughter Adair Eady during the recession to help children in need. Peggy Purl Manawatū coordinator Jessica Thompson said the project was brought to the MidCentral region in 2016 by Child Health Services. Child Health Services, SuperGrans and Kind Hearts formed a collaboration to launch the project in October 2016. Since
2020, the project has operated under independent management and is run entirely by volunteers.
“In 2017, the first full year of the project, we delivered 318 blankets, and last year, we delivered 720. We started out supporting about five community groups, and are now supporting between 20 to 25 on a regular basis.
“Around a third of our blankets have gone to Child Health Services, which disseminate them throughout the MidCentral region. This is a community-based health service that works with children and their families through their clinics.
“Each month we deliver to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Child Health Services, Midwives on Heretaunga, and one of the Tamariki Ora or Whanau Ora services, alternating between Feilding, Palmerston North, Dannevirke and Levin.”
Blankets are also given to three teen parent units at Freyberg High School, Waiopehu College
and Te Aroha Noa Community Centre, Palmerston North Women’s Refuge and Te Roopu Whakaruruhau Wahine Māori Refuge, Age Concern, YOSS, Heart Kids, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, Child Cancer and some of the retirement villages.
“On average, we deliver 60 blankets a month. Our highest blanket delivery was March this year when 130 blankets were delivered into the community.”
The community group’s first Knita-thon was held in 2021, and has become an annual tournament. Peggy Purl’s most desired items are squares and blankets, with the highest demand for cot-sized pure wool blankets. Baby and children’s beanies, vests, cardigans, jerseys, booties and house slippers, as well as handmade toys and donations of yarn are also accepted.
People can deliver items to a drop box at Knit World on The Square in Palmerston North, and to Knit World in Oxford Street, Levin.
Peggy Purl Manawatū coordinator Jessica Thompson with some blankets for delivery
SPOTLIGHT ON PALMERSTON NORTH
A site of history
by Denise Gunn
From its establishment through to present day, Te Marae o Hine — The Square in Palmerston North has been a centrepiece of the city’s history.
Te Marae o Hine, which translates to the courtyard of the daughter of peace, was chosen by a contingent of Māori, including Rangitāne chief Te Peeti Te Awe Awe, around 1878. Te Peeti was involved with the negotiations and sale of Māori land for Pākehā settlement in the district.
A statue to honour Te Peeti was unveiled by Sir James Carrol in The Square in 1907. When the original plans for the town were first drawn up, the central square was laid out as a reserve. The Beautifying Society began creating formal gardens in the early 1900s.
Located in the heart of the city, with shops and business surrounding the four sides, The Square has been a venue for many events throughout its history. It is also the centrepoint for the meeting of four of the city’s main streets. A railway line through the middle of The Square provided a service for many decades. The last passenger train journey ran in 1964 and the tracks were later removed.
The seven hectare park-like surroundings include gardens, trees,
lawns, a pond, fountains and historical monuments providing areas of interest and recreational spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy. The King Edward Coronation Memorial Fountain was built in 1902, marking King Edward VIII’s coronation. Plaques were also added to celebrate the Borough of Palmerston North’s 25th anniversary.
Hopwood Clock Tower stands near The Square’s centre. Local businessman Arthur Hopwood donated funds for the clock tower’s construction in 1957.
In 1926, the war memorial was erected by the people of Palmerston North to commemorate local soldiers who died in the first world war. Since then, the names of other soldiers who lost their lives in other wars have been added, along with those killed in the line of peacekeeping duties
The Square has been the site where crowds gathered to farewell soldiers before heading overseas to wars. It’s also been the place of Anzac services, royal visits and capping ceremonies for graduating tertiary students.
Palmerston North City Council and Rangitāne are working together on a project to create storytelling elements in the city centre.
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by Liz Clark
Concrete can be a stunner
Twenty years ago, when my home was built with a concrete slab as the
with it on a tight budget was difficult.
On the builder’s recommendation at the time, it was hastily sealed with a layer of cheap acrylic paint in the hope it would last. A few mats on the floor, and it was done. However, in high-traffic areas like the kitchen and living room, it wore off after a few years, and it was back to square one.
Concrete is far from cold — just the opposite. It gathers heat during the day and gives it off at night, resulting in a warm home in winter. The options available compared to that 20 years ago are now numerous. If you’re building using a concrete slab foundation, polishing it can be a great and cost-effective way to have a beautiful floor that will last a long time.
Numerous companies nationwide have proliferated and offer several options, including fine polishing, acid edging and adding colour. The price ranges from $40 a square metre and beyond. It can be as costly as putting down carpet and linoleum. Still, once done, the extras won’t be needed, and it will save the budget in the long run.
A good pour for a slab should result in a crack-free finish. However, things can go slightly askew, which results in hairline cracks coming through after polishing. They can add to the character of the floor as a whole — consider them part of the process.
If the budget is tight and polishing isn’t an option, there’s now an extensive range of hard-wearing specialised concrete surface paints available to beautify your floors. Cracks can be filled with a specialised filler from your local paint specialist, which should be done before going any further. The floor must be dust-free and clean before proceeding. Applying two coats of concrete undercoat are required before applying the top coats of colour. The undercoat can be tinted so it’s the same colour as the final top coat. If you’re adventurous, a concrete benchtop, either coloured or highly polished, can add something special to your kitchen. There are specialists available that can help provide the
rather than timber piles, the dilemma of what
Concrete is a versatile and enduring product that can give a stylish finish to your home best options and colour choices where required to produce a long-lasting and beautiful surface. Cleaning is easy. Hot, soapy water and a sponge will keep the surface clean and intact. Talk to your local concrete professional about options for your home.
&HOME
ADVERTORIAL
by Denise Gunn
From the earth — for the earth
Marton Brick and Tile has made clay pipes and field tiles since 1858, using the same successful recipe.
The 6,000-year-old technology traces back to the ingenuity of the Babylonians, becoming a defining feature of many ancient civilisations that continue today. Clay pipes have since been in use for thousands of years — standing the test of time.
In New Zealand, some clay pipes that are more than 120 years old are still in use.
“Combine clay, water, pressure and heat, and you’ve got the most environmentally friendly, high-performance, long-lasting
draining solution on the planet,” said Marton Brick and Tile managing director Michael Meehan. “Our products are made from clay and water, and that’s it. No nasty chemicals and no special additives of any kind. Just pure and natural clay mined right next door to our factory,” he said. “In short, the most environmentally friendly drainage solution available.”
Clay field tiles are resistant to almost all chemicals, and can be used in the
Locally made earthenware field tiles for all your drainage solutions; the world’s strongest, most durable and eco-friendly drainage technology... and it’s 6000 years old!.
PRODUCT INFORMATION, CONTACT: Michael: office@mbat.co.nz or www.mbat.co.nz
FOR INSTALLATION, CONTACT: Kevin - kevin.blackley@blackley.co.nz
Steve - deependdrainage@gmail.com Brent - office@longburndraining.co.nz
Marton Brick & Tile, 23 Vera Street, Marton 4710 mbat.co.nz
harshest environments. Unaffected by temperature changes, their inherent strength makes them perfect for hightraffic areas.
Lasting far longer than plastic equivalents, clay field tiles are often cheaper to install as not as much bedding material is required. This saves money up front, and over the life of the tile.
Marton Brick and Tile sells tiles direct to farmers by the pallet. The company partners with three businesses in the Manawatu and Rangitikei areas, which install the tiles — Blackley Construction, Deep End Drainage, and Longburn Draining.
Recently, Longburn Draining installed 100mm x 600mm field tiles near the road upgrade at Ohakea. Longburn Draining owner/operator Brent Wootton said the tiles were easy to install.
Marton Brick and Tile is located at 23 Vera Street, Marton and can be contacted at 06 327 8985.
Tiles in the kiln after firing
Longburn Draining installing the field tiles
by Andy Bryenton
There’s a certain kind of person, and we all know one or two, who will look out the
at a
sideways
and wistfully sigh as they contemplate the barbecue season to come.
It’s probably been the same, ever since some enterprising Portuguese pirate conceived of the idea of prying the metal hatch cover off of his captain’s ship, and using it as a hot griddle to roast a wild pig, on the shores of a sunny Carribean island. History records that this first ‘barbie’ went down in the Dominican Republic, though it doesn’t say if the captain was pleased that bits of his boat had been turned into cooking utensils.
If you are the kind of person who can smell smoking mānuka three kilometres away against the prevailing wind, who considers brisket and ribs to be ‘grocery essentials’, and strikes up conversations with perfect strangers about smoked chilli rubs and marinades, spring is just around the corner.
For many, it’s not spring until they have seen lambs bouncing among the daffodils, but for others, the sight of lamb turns the brain inexorably toward words like ‘mint’ and ‘rosemary’. A bit mean? A bit delicious, they’d say. For the barbecue purist, a break in the rain long enough to
slow-cook a point end means that the halcyon days of outdoor cooking are coming.
Some of us will look upon our barbecue areas at this time of the year and despair. Slugs, snails, moss and nameless green slimes of winter have advanced like a nasty invasion force across concrete and brick since the last time we hung up the combination spatula and beer bottle opener, but all is not lost. A weekend’s work with the waterblaster, some organically-based weed killers, an edge cutting tool, a stiff brush and some wood stain will render the ‘hear of the yard’ workable again.
That means it’s time to get ready to spruce up your outdoors. Those small engines in the shed are ready to get out of hibernation and could do with a service. There’s charcoal to source, and a grill to prep, and possibly even a trip to the best bit of your local hardware store to check out new barbecue hardware. An offset smoker this year, or something just for fish? Maybe that pizza oven?
All that’s certain — is this. After tucking into most outdoor chores, all you get is a warm glow of satisfaction. When you get your barbecue area ready to rock, you’ll be filled with something much more warming and substantial. The first ‘proper’ dinner of the new season.
A (probably) accurate impression of the first ever barbecue, the great-great-grandfather of New Zealand’s favourite method of cooking
LANDSCAPING&HOME Faster track to small buildings
by Andy Bryenton
The issue of housing and building supply across rural New Zealand may be eased by the proposition of new building rules, introduced by Winston Peters.
We are New Zealand's No. 1 House and Building Movers. This has been achieved through the simple, practical no-nonsense business principles and plain hard work. Customer Satisfaction is our ultimate aim for every move.
Housing has been a topic of intense scrutiny for rural district councils, a major point for regional economic development committees, and a recurring discussion around the nation’s council table. From early in the term of the Luxon coalition administration, rhetoric has focussed on making it easier to build locally, with core documents itemising systems for affordable housing design and preapproval and a push to minimise consenting requirements and costs.
Mr Peters made easier building a platform in his coalition agreement, and the rules he proposes, alongside RMA reformer Chris Bishop, would allow for simple standalone homes up to 60 square metres in size to be exempt from building consent.
“Removing the regulatory red tape will not only speed up the build process, it is also estimated to save up to $6,500 just in the
standard building and resource consenting fees per build,” Mr Bishop says.
“Over a quarter of households that do not own their home spend more than 40 per cent of their income on housing,” said Mr Peters.
“The National-NZ First Coalition Agreement commits the government to amending the Building Act and the resource consent system to make it easier to build granny flats or other small structures up to 60 square metres.”
While ‘granny flats’ have been much mentioned in the discussion around these proposed new rules, some landowners may be looking at other sub-60-metre options. Large sections, rural lifestyle blocks and small farms will welcome this news, as it can open up opportunities for off-grid buildings, worker accommodation and cabins.
DO YOU WANT THE WARM WALL FEEL OF A NEW HOME?
Warm, healthy homes start with blown insulation. If cold or damp are words you’d use to describe your home or if you’re tired of high heating bills, insulation is a major part of the solution. While heating solutions seem like the answer, reducing the amount of heat escaping from your home is the most cost effective way to get an energy efficient, warm, dry home.
Winston Peters, proponent for new, easier building rules
by Liz Clark
Classic — but beautiful
In the age of the perfect lawn, sometimes it’s nice to be adventurous and enjoy planting some colourful annuals and perennials to brighten things up.
The classic cottage garden look can fit into any setting. You don’t need a charming wee cottage to have long-lasting colour to remove the uniformity of that green everywhere. No matter how small the space is, there’s always something to fill it up with. Besides, the bees and butterflies will love you for it.
Unlike the traditional orderly landscaping of architectural lowmaintenance shrubs, a cottage garden has no rules. It means you can do whatever you like with the available space and fill it up with as many plants as you can get your hands on.
Create your planting bed shapes by using a garden hose as a guide to creating serpentine curves and winding paths. Use a sharp spade to cut into the soil and create edges. Lay down generous amounts of cardboard and newspaper to give a weed-suppressing foundation for the new garden beds. Combine a few bags of good-quality compost and potting mix together and cover it well. The weight will
keep the weeds down and provide an ongoing organically-rich nutrient source for the plants.
The question is what to plant. That comes down to individual preference rather than a set formula. Layering the plantings with tall in the centre or at the rear, if the planting bed is against a wall or fence. Reuse and recycle old pots, farm implements and even old boats to create something pleasing to the eye and a talking point for friends and family.
In the flowering plant range, most of which can be easily grown from seed at minimal cost, the choices are endless. Take the option of either choosing a cottage garden seed mix and sowing direct into the planting bed or buying young plants from your local nursery.
Suggested plants include alyssum, cosmos, delphinium, dahlia, foxgloves, cornflower, poppies, hollyhock, lavatera, stock, echinacea, salvia and achillea.
Roses are another favourite. The best colours for a cottage garden theme
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are pink, white and purple. Look for old varieties with classic bloom forms and a climbing variety to grow over a rose arbour. Lavender provides year-round greenery and colour, especially in the winter months when annuals and roses are no longer flowering. Mix in with herbs such as borage, thyme, rosemary and basil.
Spring and summer flowers can colour up even the blandest of lawn spaces
by Andy Bryenton
A nationwide contest to find the pick of the crop in the arable farming sector has turned up innovators, leaders and record-breaking veterans.
The sector of the rural economy dealing mainly in growing crops is often a silent partner to the dairy sector, but the tonnes of grain grown by agronomists, as they’re known, is as vital to New Zealand as anything found in your fridge.
Like annual awards in other areas of farming expertise, the 2024 Arable Awards seek to foster excellence and promote innovation, giving accolades to those advancing the industry into a sustainable and more profitable future.
“The awards are about celebrating all that’s good in our arable sector — the innovation, commitment and achievements of the best of us,” said Federated Farmers arable chair and event spokesperson David Birkett. “It hasn’t been an easy season for arable farmers, with rising costs and variable returns, so it’s great to see a strong crop of highcalibre award entries this year.”
Those fiscal and economic pressures are being felt across the rural sector, but
the answer, in arable cultivation as in other spheres, is a reasoned, scientific approach. Part of that approach is in making sustainability pay, and that’s the focus of one of the awards categories, the Positive Environmental Impact Award. Another, the Innovation Award, recognises fresh ideas that will bear future dividends.
“I’m excited about the finalists for those categories because they’re all people helping us to create a stronger and more sustainable arable sector,” says Mr Birkett.
Finalists in the environmental category have taken the initiative on green technologies, such as creating an anaerobic system to reduce the impact of chicken manure, or organising a planting regime for sedimentation control. Researchers and informationsharing trailblazers are featured strongly in the innovation category, with finalists pioneering new cereal fungicides, new methods of nitrogen fixing in soil, and fresh thinking about preventing disease in barley crops.
The convenor of the judging panel for this year’s awards says that selecting finalists was no easy feat.
“Elevated awareness of environmental impacts shown by finalists across all award categories,” said Ivan Lawrie, who brought the panel together.
“Managing that impact has been paramount to everyone, and that’s really encouraging. It was hard for the judges to come to a decision. All of them are people we would happily have named as a worthy winner.”
The final call, and the naming of the Arable Awards 2024 Agronomist of the Year, will come late in August.
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Federated Farmers arable chair David Birkett is pleased to announce a strong field of finalists in the hunt for the title of Agronomist of the Year
by Liz Clark
Overstocked and underfed
One of the biggest mistakes newcomers to lifestyle blocks can make is overdoing the stocking rates on the land in winter.
The results can be disastrous. Along with wrecked paddocks come hungry animals, and sometimes, if they have empty bellies, they could get out on the road. If the land is susceptible to flooding or bogging when winter rains set in, it’s better to understock the property or completely destock before winter. It’s also a welfare issue if animals are left hungry and dropping body condition due to lack of forage.
The basics are simple enough. If you’ve got two hectares of land (five acres) then five cows won’t fit on it — a couple is best, rather than an entire herd. A few sheep might do, but even then, ensuring they have adequate feed in winter is another challenge entirely. Many people love to have animals and enjoy them, but it is a lifelong commitment to ensure they’re taken care of.
Always consider the amount of land set aside for grazing animals. Cattle, while not requiring as much as a fully-
grown horse might, will still require adequate grazing for winter and extra forage too. While hay is a good filler, baleage has a much higher nutritional value. These usually come wrapped in plastic to keep out the air and seal the moisture in. Horses, too, can eat baleage, but always ensure it’s fresh and without any rot or mould in the contents. If the wrap has any holes in it — don’t buy it.
Before considering having any stock at all, talk to a local livestock consultant or farmers about which is the best fit for your property and how many. While spring and autumn have abundant growth, a drought in summer and a cold, wet winter can drastically change feed availability for stock. Beef and Lamb New Zealand have an excellent online app for calculating feed requirements for cattle and sheep. Visit FeedSmart at feedsmart.co.nz.
Winter can be a hard time for stock; extra feed will give them a boost and keep them healthy
Report points the way to future gains
by Andy Bryenton
The Industry Working Group (IWG) report on New Zealand’s genetic gain system for dairy herds is out now, and it’s been welcomed by major names in the cattle improvement sector.
DairyNZ, along with major industry luminaries LIC and CRV, have responded positively to the findings of the important report, which was charged with the task of evaluating the dairy sector’s genetic improvement progress.
The report comes with suggestions for the future, which could drive faster rates of genetic gain across the entire national dairy herd. Those recommendations are being weighed up by the leaders at the forefront of livestock improvement.
That’s important, as the evidence points out that New Zealand may be slipping behind foreign competitors in this field. DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel has called the report groundbreaking, in that it encapsulates all the areas Kiwi farmers could get back out front.
“It also shows New Zealand can catch up quickly by taking key actions, and underscores the immense benefits to dairy farmers, including efficiency and
productivity gains through animals that are more resilient, profitable and easier to farm,” said Mr van der Poel. “Overcoming sector challenges to provide New Zealand farmers with world-leading genetic gain will require significant contributions from all parties.”
The IWG was established in November of 2023 to help the sector achieve world-leading rates of animal genetic gain. Mr van der Poel said the report acknowledges the unique nature of New Zealand’s dairy herd, and other challenges, including a significant decline in the quality and accuracy of New Zealand’s phenotypic data and farmers’ relative lack of confidence in the use of genomically evaluated young sires.
DairyNZ is joined in its support of the IWG report by two of the biggest commercial names in the industry, LIC and CRV. Both companies have praised the focus on transparency and consistency the report shows, and seek to evaluate
SIS BALL COCK VALVE
its recommendations in a bipartisan spirit of cooperation.
“Genetic gain is a critical pillar in the future success of our farmers’ businesses. It is only right that, where needed, we come together to improve the structures underpinning this success,” says LIC chair Corrigan Sowman.
“We’re looking forward to working closely with DairyNZ to set up the right governance structures, workstreams and reporting mechanisms, so we can effectively achieve the report’s stated objectives for the betterment of dairy farmers and the efficiency and profitability of their dairy herds to support New Zealand’s future.”
The genetics of New Zealand’s dairy herd could improve at a rapid pace if the recommendations of a new IWG report are implemented, say its supporters
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