Australasian Farmers' & Dealers' Journal by Provincial Press Group

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AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 2013

Featuring: Hay & Summer Fodder section Grain Harvesting, Storage & Transportation

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Australasian Farmers’ & Dealers’ Journal AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL

Established 1984 Publisher & Manager Editor Hartley Higgins General Manager Elizabeth Bouzoudis Editorial Mandy Parry-Jones Email: edit.afdj@ryanmediapl.com.au Advertising Manager Sheryl Braden Ph: (07) 5523 9771 Mb: 0438 877 072 Email: s.braden@ryanmediapl.com.au Production Luke Westle Email: prod.afdj@ryanmediapl.com.au Nathan Grant Email: prod.afdj@ryanmediapl.com.au Circulation Email: admin.afdj@ryanmediapl.com.au Subscription One year subscription within Australia: $33 (inc GST) for four issues, Overseas: $66 (inc GST) for four issues. Phone Cathy Johnson (03) 9888 4822 or email to subscribe: admin.afdj@ryanmediapl.com.au Printing Lane Print & Post Adelaide, South Australia Ryan Media Pty Ltd ABN 85 085 551 980 Suite 103, 486 Whitehorse Road, Surrey Hills, Victoria 3127 Phone: (03) 9888 4822 Fax: (03) 9888 4840 Email: admin.afdj@ryanmediapl.com.au Website: www.afdj.com.au

ISSN 1442-4983 Conditions Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the editor/ publishers; information is published in good faith and we do not accept responsibility for damage which may arise from any possible inaccuracies. All rights reserved, none of the contents may be used in any other media without prior consent of the publishers. Published by Ryan Media Pty Ltd.

From the Editor ... Before we know it, it will be Christmas and then 2014, and off we go again into another year. Now the biggest field days have been run for 2013. The last of the big ones were the Henty Field Days in late September in New South Wales, and Elmore, Victoria in early October, finishing off a good year for the machinery industry. Elmore and Henty both celebrated a 50th anniversary this year. Elmore enticed the Premier of Victoria to travel to there to officially open the event. Denis Napthine is a country born veterinarian who knows the opportunity the region holds. Elmore attendences were down a little from last year, at around 35,000 people. It was possibly due to the wild weather but that didn’t keep serious buyers away, as exhibitors said they were very happy with sales, though as usual no-one wants to quote figures. On the other side of the state border ex-parliamentarian Tim Fischer opened Henty Field Days. Henty experienced wet weather leading up to the event and on the first day. This didn’t affect machinery sales there either. New CEO Belinda Anderson said that in

some ways it was better as it meant that it kept the tyre kickers away. Around 60,000 people attended Henty. Belinda is taking over from Graham Hicks who has been running Henty for the past three years and wants to retire. Belinda is a local farmer and with Graham’s experienced hand is transitioning into the role. With so much activity in the field days it means machinery sales will pick up, and the Tractor and Machinery Assocation has released figures that are promising. In particular, sales of tractors in the 100 to 200 horsepower range are up 2%, at 1362 against 1338 last year. Another promising outcome is the hay season as most states of Australia are seeing an increase in volume. This is another good sign for the machinery industry with sales of balers and hay making equipment sure to spring to life. To the end of September 243 balers had been sold with plenty more sales in October. Have a safe and wonderful Christmas. Mandy Parry-Jones, Editor. edit.afdj@ryanmediapl.com.au

In this issue ...

February 2013 Issue 87

Regulars

Features

Law Review.............................. 35

Future Farming.......................... 39

News........................................... 4 My view.................................... 37 TMA News................................ 38 Field Days................................. 44 Products.................................... 64 w

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AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 2013

Featuring: Hay & Summer Fodder section Grain Harvesting, Storage & Transportation

This issue’s cover: Grizzly Engineering (see also pages 26 and 69)

What’s New in Finance............. 36 Seed destructor in the east......... 43 What’s New in Hay

and Summer Fodder.................. 53 What’s New in Grain Harvesting & Storage................ 58 What's New in Ag Bikes........... 62

What’s Making News Farm machinery on track for good results The farm machinery industry is on track for a strong result in 2013 following a recent kick in sales and enquiries. Tractor & Machinery Association executive director Richard Lewis said figures for the first nine months were generally behind last year but members were reporting an upsurge in interest as harvest approaches. “Hay equipment is on the rise after several years in the doldrums and combine harvesters are holding up well,” said Lewis. “Over 1000 harvesters were delivered in 2011 and 2012 and we were expecting a fall back to maybe 750 this year. “But the year to date September figure was only down 7%. We’ll certainly do better than 750 now.” Lewis said a strong positive signal was coming from the machinery finance sector. “They’re always a good barometer. They get an early sniff of any change in direction and they’re reporting a

big lift in September and October,” he said. Greg Crawford, national sales manager of De Lage Landen, said September had been a record month for the company with applications up 25% on last year. “And October is trending the same way with strong quoting activity. “I think a lot of it is to do with getting the election out of the way. The uncertainty is gone and farmers are looking forward to a good harvest, except for those in northern New South Wales and Queensland. “It’s still dry up there and the outlook isn’t so good,” he added. Managing director of Lely Australia Clive Edwards also has a smile on his face after what he describes as "three or four difficult years". “We are seeing good sales across the board compared with previous years. Balers are much better but hay tools are also moving well,” said Edwards. “In fact, stocks are running low and we may end up cleaned out."

Edwards also said that drier conditions were slowing momentum up north. Alan Kirsten of industry analyst Agriview said 243 balers had been sold until the end of September. “That’s a couple of units behind last year but we know there are a lot of sales going on at present and we’re expecting a big fourth quarter. Kirsten said tractor sales had also picked up after a quiet start to the year. Sales for the first quarter had been 14% down on the previous year but by the end of September were only 6% behind. Total sales for the nine months sit at 7769 compared with 8289 in 2012. “But some interesting trends are emerging,” he said. “Lower and higher horsepower tractors are down but the middle 100 to 200 horsepower range is up 2% at 1362 against 1338 last year. It’s the first time we’ve seen any joy in this sector for a long time." Sales of tractors over 200 horsepower fell from 1031 to 984, a fall of 4.6%.

Free enews service for AFDJ readers Ryan Media Pty Ltd, publishers of Australasian Farmers’ & Dealers’ Journal, has announced that in December 2013, it will unveil a new fortnightly enews service for registered readers of Australasian Farmers’ & Dealers’ Journal. Titled AFDJ eNews, it will focus on farming, product and agricultural dealership news and will be designed to complement the quarterly print publication, Australasian Farmers’ & Dealers’ Journal. “Ryan Media recognises the importance of engaging with its readership regularly and providing a timely news service. An enewsletter service is one of many online initiatives introduced and planned for Australasian Farmers’ & Dealers’ Journal readers”, said Ryan Media general manager Elizabeth Bouzoudis. “Since its purchase of Australasian Farmers’ & Dealers’ Journal just 12 months ago, Ryan Media has updated the magazine’s website, www.afdj.com.au, which now includes an online copy of each 4

Essential farming and rural machinery online news current issue and an up-to-date online Field Days Calendar. “In keeping with current publishing trends, we’re excited to be offering yet another new digital initiative to readers,” said Bouzoudis. AFDJ eNews will be available from December 6 to all Australasian Farmers’ & Dealers’ Journal readers that have registered their details with Ryan Media. To register, email admin.afdj@ryanmediapl.com.au with full name and email address details. Readers of Australasian Farmers’ & Dealers’ Journal can also opt to complete the details requested on the magazine address label and fax to 08 8369 9501.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Deloitte report shows agribusiness to be on a high A new report released by Deloitte shows that agribusiness will be one of five sectors expected to deliver an additional $250 billion to Australia’s economy over the next 20 years – a prediction welcomed by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF). NFF President Duncan Fraser said the report shows that there is vast potential to be tapped in Australian agribusiness. “The Deloitte report assesses Australia’s potential future boom industries on the basis of expected growth and on Australia’s competitive advantage – and agribusiness emerges as a strong likely performer for both growth and Australian advantage,” Fraser said. “This is unsurprising given the opportunities ahead for Australian agriculture, with close to half of the world’s population living on our northern doorstep. “As this report points out, Australian agribusiness has something most other sectors don’t – the prospect of rapid increases in global demand meeting domestic comparative advantage. “Our agricultural sector, from farmers through the supply chain to exporters, are well placed to meet the growing demand from a booming Asian middle class, and our

geographical location means the opportunity is ours for the taking. “Of course, there are many challenges to first be overcome as the NFF-led, industry-developed Blueprint for Australian Agriculture and now the Deloitte Positioning for Prosperity report shows. “Ensuring our farmers and the sector can remain productive and profitable, investing in innovation, research and development and infrastructure, encouraging the next generation into agriculture, breaking down barriers to trade, and using our natural resources in a sustainable way are all fundamentally important considerations – and all must be addressed now in order to secure the future opportunity. “… both business and government will have to take ‘bold steps’ to overcome these challenges. Pleasingly, the agricultural sector is already leading the way by driving forward the future of the agricultural sector, and tackling these issues head on, through the continued development of the Blueprint. “And, with the Federal Government committing to develop an agricultural white paper, we hope that many of these issues will be addressed from a government perspective as well,” Fraser said.

Davimac purchases Agrowplow New South Wales based Davimac Manufacturing, an engineering company already in the agricultural business, has purchased Agrowplow. Davimac is a family owned company established in 1982 that specializes in manufacturing direct drills, disc planters, chaser bins, seed boxes and pasture seeders. Agrowplow is also a well-regarded equipment supplier to the industry. Shannon McNab, the owner of Davimac, said that Agrowplow had a good name and product, and that the company planned to expand the reach of the product in Australia and overseas. Davimac’s growth has been based on traditional solid Australian engineering and construction, instilled in machines that are straightforward and reliable to operate. Its approach has been to grow its user base and distribution network, now covering five eastern states, at a manageable pace to maintain quality support for its equipment and customers. Agrowplow has a long and innovative heritage closely allied to true conservation farming concepts and rugged durability. McNab said that Agrowplow is “a good name and a good product on the Australian landscape." “We aim to grow the company and grow the name even further – locally and internationally,” he said.

Wade Smith and Shannon McNab.

“We plan to continue manufacturing Agrowplow equipment incorporating the traditional Australian hallmarks of quality, reliability, simplicity and robustness.” McNab will run the businesses separately but will take advantage of common componentry and manufacturing where that is appropriate. New product is expected. Wade Smith will continue to work with Agrowplow and Neil Wilsmore will cover the dealer and distribution network.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Call for dealers to share more information According to Agriview, researchers for the agricultural industry, the number of single outlet machinery dealers in Australia will drop. Alan Kirsten of Agriview was at the Tractor and Machinery Association annual conference when he discussed trends in the industry. He said that in 2011 Australia had 720 dealers, of which single-outlet dealers

outnumbered dealers who had multi-outlets by 55% to 45%. But now there are 604 dealers outlets and only 250 single outlet agricultural machinery dealerships. Kirsten said in 2012 there was over $1.8 billion worth of new agricultural machinery sold. He said a growing number of overseas dealers were investing in the Australian

market, which had implications for the valuation of dealerships making them more valuable items. However, not every company in industry is keen to have reliable information regarding sales and forecasts as a number of companies are still refusing to provide information regarding sales. The more accurate the data is the better for everyone as it helps to plan for the future.

Keech receives productivity grant Keech castings Australia will receive a $141,700 productivity grant from the Victorian State Government. Minister for Manufacturing David Hodgett made the announcement in Keech’s home town of Bendigo. The Investing in Manufacturing Technology funding will support the purchase and installation of a 3D digital printer for prototyping and pattern making. “The Victorian Coalition Government is pleased to provide support to Keech Castings Australia, as part of the $24.8 million Investing in Manufacturing Technology program,” Hodgett said. “This project will allow Keech Castings to undertake technology improvements that will increase pattern making productivity by 90% at its subsidiary, Bendigo Pattern Makers. “These improvements will help Keech Castings to continue to grow locally and expand its fine range of components into new international markets. “Keech Castings Australia is a great example of a local manufacturer that is using technology, ingenuity and industry know-how to stay ahead of the pack,” Hodgett said. Keech Castings Australia has manufactured high integrity steel castings for almost 80 years for the domestic and international market. The foundry makes cast steel products for heavy industry, such as teeth for buckets used for excavating, rippers for agricultural work, gear box housings and custom made products. Hodgett said a successful manufacturing industry was at the heart of the world’s fastest growing economies with the Coalition Government committed to helping Victorian manufacturers tackle current challenges. “Victorian manufacturers face serious challenges due to the strength of the Australian dollar, the carbon tax and an increasingly competitive and rapidly changing global environment,” Hodgett said. “We recognise these challenges and are providing a range 6

of programs to help lift the competitiveness of Victoria’s manufacturing sector." Investing in Manufacturing Technology is part of the Coalition Government’s manufacturing industry strategy, which is designed to lift the productivity and competitiveness of Victoria’s manufacturers. Grants require a minimum co-contribution from the business of 75% of total eligible project expenditure.

Keech has received a grant to assist with its pattern making productivity.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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What’s Making News NZ AgResearch confirms reconfiguration It will not be without some pain but the need for modern progressive agricultural research centres of excellence has Federated Farmers supporting the reconfiguration of AgResearch. “You could possibly squeeze several AgResearch’s onto the footprint it currently occupies,” said Dr William Rolleston, Federated Farmers vice-president. “If it is ‘bricks and mortar’ versus capability then capability must win out. Excepting a few modern buildings, AgResearch is operating out of tired facilities and these are not good advertisements for world-beating science. “Current facilities are as removed from the Google Campus experience as a microwave meal is from Masterchef. “For AgResearch staff, who have undergone consultation, no moves are scheduled before 2016. It is beneficial that they are being given good lead times because many will face major personal and professional decisions. “I have been assured by AgResearch that its linkage with the University of Otago’s exceptional genetics team will be maintained and that drystock farm system capability to support deer, sheep and beef farming is being retained at Invermay. “I do however understand why Hamilton and Dunedin, and even some of our own members near those centres, cannot see many upsides right now. “While the remaining Invermay team will move into their new building there, further investment in Ruakura and Invermay would defeat the concept of creating scientific and applied research hubs. “There is a ‘Food HQ’ coming to Palmerston North comprising AgResearch, Massey University, the Riddet Institute, Plant & Food Research, the Bio Commerce

Centre and Fonterra. In the South Island, an ‘Ag HQ’ campus at Lincoln will see AgResearch co-located with Lincoln University, DairyNZ, Plant & Food and Landcare Research. “I should add that the New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Centre is based in Palmerston North and comprises most of those who will be at either the Food or Ag HQ hubs. “Neither Ruakura nor Invermay are shutting up shop, instead, they are changing focus to specialise in the land and water interface - key priority for New Zealand farming,” Dr Rolleston concluded.

To continue to provide world-beating science AgResearch must be reconfigured.

Starlings and tractor fires Farmers should check tractors for starling nests to avoid tractor fires this summer. Starlings like to build their nests in dry areas and their favourite spot is in tractor engines. Now it’s nesting season so it is a good time to be vigilant with preventative measures. This is a real safety issue as well as costly to farmers and it can be avoided by simply popping the hood to check for nests before starting the engine, and keeping a fire extinguisher on board. It only takes a starling 18 minutes to build a nest so it pays to check each time you use the vehicle. 8

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

SAME Deutz-Fahr sets up in NZ The strength and strong outlook for the future of New Zealand agriculture has led European tractor manufacturer SAME Deutz-Fahr to commit to the market. Vice chairman of the company, Francesco Carozza, was in New Zealand recently and said the future of world agriculture is very strong with New Zealand well positioned to capitalise on that potential. “Globally speaking, food demand is going to double over the next 40 years, so the market is going to increase big time – and so are the opportunities for New Zealand agriculture,” he said. “New Zealand is an important market for SAME Deutz-Fahr now, and obviously that’s going to increase in the future as the demand for New Zealand agricultural products worldwide increases. “We think New Zealand agriculture will grow a lot over the next few years, and we want to be part of that.” Carozza was in New Zealand to attend the opening of the new headquarters for Power Farming in Morrinsville. Power Farming is the New Zealand and

Australian distributor for SAME and Deutz-Fahr tractors. Carozza said that Power Farming is a very strong partner and because of the confidence in the company and the positive outlook for New Zealand agriculture, his company is investing with Power Farming to cement its position in this market. “Power Farming is a very good company and a very good partner for us,” he said. “It’s a well structured company with professional management, and we like their passion for the business and their professionalism." Managing director of Power Farming, Geoff Maber said that SAME DeutzFahr’s commitment to the New Zealand marketplace reflected its confidence in the strong future of agriculture, and its determination to grow business. “This region is important to them, because they see it as a growth market,” he said. “Europe is pretty flat and they know it won’t show much growth in the next 10 years or so, so if they want to develop their

SAME Deutz-Fahr has partnered with Power Farming to gain a stronger position in the New Zealand market.

business as a major world supplier, they have to be in growth markets like New Zealand and Australia.” Maber said New Zealand is a very competitive market for tractors and farm machinery and because of that tractors are cheaper here than in Europe where subsidies distort prices. SAME Deutz-Fahr is contributing to the New Zealand market by ensuring the tractors are very competitively priced and by backing up their presence here with a commitment to equipment and technical training and service on an ongoing basis.

NZ looks to supply machinery to Columbia Around 170 Colombian farmers spent a week in New Zealand to get first-hand insights into New Zealand’s pastoral farming systems and agritechnology. The New Zealand Agribusiness Centre, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), the Ministry for Primary Industries, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade welcomed the largest Colombian delegation to ever visit New Zealand. New Zealand’s trade with Colombia has significant potential to grow. Colombia has enjoyed a decade of strong economic performance and is consistently ranked as one of the best investment destinations in Latin America. There is growing interest in Colombia 10

for New Zealand’s capability in agribusiness, particularly in dairy production. That interest covers all stages of the supply chain from genetics, equipment and machinery through to cattle management systems or education and training. Led by Fedegan, the Colombian Federation of Ranchers, the delegation to New Zealand followed Prime Minister John Key’s official visit to Mexico, Colombia, Chile and Brazil earlier this year, as part of the Government’s increased focus on strengthening bilateral relations and capitalising on trade opportunities with Latin America nations.

It also followed New Zealand’s recent participation in AgroExpo, Colombia’s largest agriculture tradeshow. “Colombia is an emerging market for New Zealand agribusiness, and we are delighted to host Dr Carlos Severini, the Chairman of the Fedegan board, and this full delegation of Colombian farmers,” said Fiel Days general manager commercial, Nick Dromgol. Colombia is a rapidly emerging market and along with Indonesia, Vietnam, Egypt, Turkey and South Africa it makes up ‘CIVETS’ – the group of countries considered as the next big emerging markets. A key part of the week-long visit was a seminar in Hamilton.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Unit 2, 204 Stickland Road East Bendigo Victoria 3550

Stubble burning research The Foundation of Arable Research’s & Environment Canterbury’s report on stubble burning has been released. The ‘Review of the role of stubble burning in New Zealand, including alternative options and possible improvements’ is a key tool used on arable farms. Federated Farmers was involved in the research, which confirmed what was already known that crop residue and stubble burning is not simply an indiscriminate tool to dispose of unwanted material, but a key cultural tool used for sound agronomic, economic and environmental reasons. “New Zealand has some of the highest grain yields in the world, and that also translates to a lot more straw than is present in other countries. “This unique challenge means that we need all tools

available to arable farmers to control weeds and establish crops,” said Ian Mackenzie, Federated Farmers Grain & Seed chairperson. “It doesn’t mean that we have to burn every paddock every year, but it does mean that we can use it rotationally in order to avoid using more chemicals and more cultivation, which can damage the soil structure. The report also indicated that farmers are generally using this tool responsibly and feedback from local councils is that most farmers are acting in accordance with regulations. “There is a code of practice, developed by Federated Farmers, to manage some of the possible adverse effects of stubble burning and our members need to ensure that they are keeping to that,” said Mackenzie.

Martyn Dunne new MPI director-general

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Martyn Dunne CNZM is the new director-general of the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). “Mr Dunne is an experienced leader, respected diplomat and highly regarded former public service chief executive,” said deputy state services commissioner Sandi Beatie. Dunne is New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Australia, a position he has held since 2011. As High Commissioner he has been responsible for managing trade issues with one of New Zealand’s most important trading partners. “Mr Dunne has outstanding experience in the protection of New Zealand’s borders, regulation of exports and trade,” said Beatie. “Primary production and exports are the backbone of New Zealand’s economy and MPI plays a critical role,” she said. MPI’s core role is to “grow and protect New Zealand” by helping boost primary sector productivity and export earnings through sound policy and regulation, food safety assurance and protection from biological risk. Mr Dunne has been appointed for a term of three years commencing on 18 November 2013.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Keech has designed and manufactured quality components for use across Australia’s agricultural sector for over 70 years, so we know how to make sure the design and quality of our components meet the unique demands of Australian conditions.

Keech is an Australian owned manufacturing company. ‘For more information on Keech’s product range and for details on where to source Keech tillage products, contact Keech Australia on 1300 4 KEECH

Keech’s extensive product range includes: • Minimum tillage points and adaptors • Deep tillage equipment • Sowing systems

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Inventor of the year Winners of The Land and NSW Farmers’ Association 2013 Inventor of the Year Competition were announced at the Australian National Field Days (ANFD) in late October. Equal third prize went to Sam Johnston from Forbes for the Johnston Multi-Hitch, and Harrison Clifton from Corowa for the Ewe Lift. Both winning designs were originally made as Year 12 Design and Technology projects. Second prize went to Jeff and Eddie Munns from Beacon, WA with the Fence Faster. Victorian Peter Cocciardi was awarded first prize for the Cocky Flow Regulator Valve. His invention has irrigation applications and has already been taken up by Murrumbidgee Irrigation as a measure to deal with the increased pressure when open channels are converted to pipes. Cocciardi said the ANFD had been “invaluable” for feedback and

exposure. “It’s a very difficult process to get prototypes out and show people,” said Cocciardi. “Without days like this and competitions like this it makes that process much harder. We as inventors aren’t just crackpots in a shed. We see a problem and we think about the market for it. “This is not a big irrigation area but I have had people in irrigation come over to have a look. “There are a lot of people who are just curious. As an inventor it has just been incredible. The feedback is great and you just never know who is going to be the next person who walks up and talks to you.” “I think it’s quite hard, if you have an invention, to get a forum to share or market it and get feedback on it. There are not many forums like this where people can share their inventions and perhaps find some commercial interest,” said NSW Farmers’ Association President Fiona Simson.

Honda powers a winner with water Queenslander Owen Clapham has won the Honda 30 Years of Blood, Sweat & Cheers competition to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Honda GX Series of engines. Clapham, from just outside Dalby, has won a Honwave package

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valued at over $2200. The prize consists of a 2 metre Honwave inflatable boat and a BF2.3 outboard engine. The 30 Years competition saw dozens of entrants submit photos of their GX Series engines powering all sorts of power equipment and leisure products, from drilling equipment and pressure cleaners to go-karts. Clapham used his GX engine in the same application as countless other Honda users around the country, powering his water transfer pump. A single pump from one of Honda’s OEMs, Davey Water Products that has helped transport the dam water around his farm for 21 years. “We couldn’t have done without it,” he said. “We don’t get water from the Dalby town supply so the Honda-Davey combo has been faithfully pumping our dam water for the veggie garden, kid’s pool and all the cleaning jobs around the farm for decades.” Honda Australia’s engine manager, Chris New, said that ultimately it was Owen’s combination of a great image and moving story that clinched him the prize. Owen Clapham and his trusty GX engine.

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AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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ABARES on What Asia Wants A new report released by Barnaby Joyce looks at Asian food consumption trends A new paper from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) has been welcomed by the nation’s peak farming body as a tool to help farmers understand and adapt to key export markets in Asia. The report, What Asia Wants, released by Minister Joyce at the ABARES conference, focuses on the long-term food consumption trends in Asia and opportunities for Australian agriculture. National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) President Duncan Fraser said the report gives farmers and the wider sector a greater insight into burgeoning markets in Asia, with food consumption in the region expected to increase significantly due to larger populations and higher incomes.

“This report was instigated in response to a key ask from the NFF – ensuring that work is done beyond the farm gate to build understanding of our international markets and to improve opportunities for our sector to sell produce,” Fraser said. “The resulting report into food needs and preferences in Asia is an important tool for the farming sector to understand changing market drivers and adapt production accordingly, but – as Minister Joyce has today recognised – for our sector to be able to capitalise on the Asian opportunity, the Government must reduce market barriers and commit to comprehensive free trade agreements.” The release of the ABARES report comes as another report from the European Commission Directorate-General for

Trade has found an increase in potentially trade-restrictive measures imposed by countries that trade with the European Union – many of whom also trade with Australia. “The EU report shows that over the past 13 months, 154 new potentially traderestrictive measures have been introduced by the EU’s trading partners,” Fraser said. “Many of the countries employing these tactics are countries that Australia also trades and competes for market access with – and some sit within the Asian region. “This shows why it is so important for the Government to focus on reducing barriers and committing to free trade agreements, as Australian farmers are currently operating on a very uneven playing field.”

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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FMIA onboard with TMA The Farm Machinery and Industry Association (FMIA) of Western Australia has joined the industry’s national body taking a seat on the board of the Tractor and Machinery Association (TMA). TMA executive officer Richard Lewis said this would give the farm machinery industry a national footprint. FMIA has 120 members headed by executive director John Henchy, who will take the seat on the TMA board and expects a close working relationship to form.

"A day to day involvement to help promote our industry and the significant influence it has on the efficiency of agriculture in Australia," said Henchy. "We are also all about promoting career opportunities within our industry which are significant – agriculture is not only about farming, the agribusiness sector is one of the largest employers in the world. "It is important that the farm machinery industry speak with one voice when in discussion with government or any

interested parties," he said. "We are in this together and to have a combined voice to help better explain what our industry is about is important. "Too often government-sponsored programs are introduced with little understanding of how they would work in a practical sense. Having one body to help people develop these programs will be an advantage."

ANZ wheat production upgrade ANZ upgraded the Australian wheat production and price forecast for the 2013-14 season. Australia’s wheat production forecast is at 26.5 million tonnes, with crop conditions generally better than normal across south east Australia. According to ANZ’s latest agricultural research paper, Grains

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Case IH calender It’s not quite the Pirelli calendar but Case IH is giving photographers the chance to feature on its calendar in 2014. In place of scantily clad women the Case IH calendar wants Case IH equipment at work in Australia. “The Case IH yearly calendar has become an icon on walls and noticeboards across rural Australia,” said Gemma ButlerFleming, Case IH communications manager. “The images capture the best qualities of Case IH equipment and people tell us how much they enjoy seeing a new photo every month.” By using customers’ images, Case IH has decided to do something a little bit different for 2014. According to Butler-Fleming, a lot of farmers have been posting their images on the company’s Facebook page, so it made sense to capture this enthusiasm. “Our engineering is geared towards

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customer needs and design improvements made to our products are largely based on customer feedback. “Our products wouldn’t be what they are today without this input so it makes sense that our customers be given the

opportunity to contribute to the calendar as well,” she said. A call went out to people with a love of Case IH equipment to submit an photo but we’ll have to wait until the end of the year to see who made the cut.

Giant of the land The Land newspaper has recently shown photos of a giant disc cultivator built by south-west Queensland farmers Scott and Anne Simpson. It covered 48 hectares an hour during its trial run on their Hebel property. The newspaper said this was possibly the world’s largest cultivator, which was built in the farm workshop on the Hebel property, Tara. The giant machine has been through its paces, pulled by a Case Quadtrac tractor with the global positioning system (GPS) set on a cut of 37 metres, cultivating an area of 48 hectares an hour. At that work rate, the tractor goes through 100 litres of fuel an hour for a fuel use of 2.08 litres/ha. Depending on what aggressiveness the discs are set at, it normally has about 800 discs. According to The Land, Simpson said the machine was a follow up to a smaller experimental cultivator they built a few years ago that covered over 48,000 hectares in its life. He said they had entered the new, pink-coloured machine with the Guinness Book of Records to see if it held the record for the most hectares disced in 24 hours. The Simpsons are toying with the idea of manufacturing the giant cultivators as they believe there would be a market for them with large-scale farmers. Source: The Land. 20

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Beef farming from the clouds Seeing how an entire beef farm is working, including the animals, the climate, the pasture plus the external forces like commodity prices, from one dashboard is not in the fantasy realm any more. Thanks to a joint initiative between CSIRO, James Cook University, the Queensland Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry (QDAFF) and Queensland University of Technology, the Digital Homestead project is investigating how the data needed to make beef farm management decisions can be fed in to a central ‘control room’. “The different streams of information we are pulling together, sometimes from thousands of kilometres away, can help make farms more productive, profitable and environmentally friendly, as well as provide related support and social services to rural residents,” said project leader, Dr Dave Henry from CSIRO. At the Lansdown Research Station near Townsville, a team of researchers is testing a range of sensors and wireless technologies that feed into a simple decision support system for farmers and agricultural advisers. These systems operate on what’s known as ‘the cloud’, meaning they are internet-based and accessible from anywhere via a login and password. One of the gadgets in the spotlight is a solar-powered, wireless cattle collar that gathers information about an individual animal’s

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location and behaviour. This includes when it grazes, ruminates, sleeps or walks and indicators of animal health. This information is critical for understanding the current status and performance of animals in order to make better management decisions about feed supply and when to muster. The end goal is to increase the percentage of animals meeting market specifications and optimise their reproductive performance. Data on climate, soil, pasture growth as well as animal behaviour will help farmers and land managers estimate which regions of their farms may be under-grazed or over-grazed. Still in early phases, the project team is testing the visualisation of the data and prototypes of the dashboard with industry stakeholders including graziers and extension officers. Once the technology at Landsdown is working well, it will be evaluated on a commercial scale at QDAFF’s 400 square-kilometre Spyglass Beef Research Station at Charters Towers. The state of Queensland has Australia’s largest beef cattle herd and is the nation’s largest producer and exporter of beef. But the northern beef industry is not the only potential beneficiary of this work, according to Dr Henry. “Enabled by a national broadband infrastructure, this technology could be transferred to other industries like dairy or horticulture,” he said. “We are definitely keen to explore how other industries could use more accurate, timely and objective information that is delivered to them wirelessly to improve the management of their businesses.”

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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Australian Pump is one of the biggest Honda engine users in the country and is highly regarded by Honda not just for its volume of production but also for the close relationship and program of improvement of its engine powered products. “They support our R&D efforts to develop new Honda engine powered products,” said Hales.

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AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Fourth CANSTAR win for ANZ ANZ has been awarded the 2013 CANSTAR Best Value Australia Agribusiness Award for offering the best value to agribusiness customers for a record-breaking fourth year. “ANZ is committed to providing specialised banking to agribusinesses, built around customer and industry knowledge, to enable our customers to grow,” said ANZ general manager regional business banking, Tania Motton. “Winning this award for the fourth time acknowledges not only ANZ’s strong product suite but the valuable contribution we make to the agribusiness industry through our expertise and market insights.” As outlined in the recent ANZ insight report, ‘Greener Pastures: The Global Soft Commodity Opportunity for Australia and New Zealand’, Australia stands to capture up to $1.7 trillion in agricultural exports by 2050. “Our footprint across Asia Pacific means ANZ is best positioned to help agribusinesses to play an integral role in developing the food bowl for Asia,” Motton said. “ANZ is committed to the economic development and wellbeing of the rural sector, which is a key part of our Banking on Australia program, and this award is a testament to the commitment and efforts of our people to position ANZ as Australia’s best value regional bank.”

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AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Next year's S-Series harvesters John Deere’s S-Series harvesters for model year 2014 will feature better performance, more comfort and control for the operator. “We continuously look at our harvesting line-up, gain feedback from our customers, and test new features to bring more productivity to our machines and headers,” said Steve Wright, marketing manager John Deere Limited. “For the first time ever, John Deere Limited will be offering 26 inch and 36 inch tracks to Australian and New Zealand producers for better flotation with reduced compaction and fuel use in challenging field conditions.” Because of a large footprint, the tracks allow reduced ground pressure and the ability to harvest in a variety of conditions. They are designed with a high-idler configuration for enhanced performance and easy changeability between tracks and tyres. “When harvesting in tough conditions, operators will be able to get in the fields earlier and harvest longer with the new track options,” said Wright. Other enhancements to the S-Series line-up include a new Interactive Combine Adjustment (ICA) in base equipment,

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which automates harvester settings while harvesting on-the-go. This simplifies overall operator adjustment and brings more consistency and accuracy when harvesting in varying field conditions. “We also added a new heated and ventilated leather seat with lumbar support,” said Wright. “A leather wrapped steering wheel and leather instructor seat completes the new comfort package. “Operators spend many hours in their machines during harvest and with our large cab, increased visibility, improved heating and cooling systems, and integrated AutoTrac, the S-Series harvesters provide a comfortable and productive operator environment.” There is also a new dual adjust chaffer to provide an additional adjustment for improved grain tank cleanliness and an eight wing feed accelerator to improve material flow in tough harvest conditions for customers with the variable stream rotor. The S-Series will be available to Australian and New Zealand producers with a US EPA Tier 2 engine. “We recognise that the needs of Australian and New Zealand producers vary to those in the United States and Europe," said Wright. “This is why we offer Australian and New Zealand producers the more economically priced Tier 2 engine on model year 2014 S-Series Harvesters.”

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Case IH Red and Ready “The Australian small tractor market, in particular, has seen an influx of various tractor brands,” said Case IH Australia brand director Bruce Healy. “But Case IH has a long history of providing small tractors in Australia.” The new Farmall B compact tractor range features six models from 23hp (17kW) to 57hp (42kW). The range is suitable for many types of applications from hobby farming to utility work in larger operations. The new Farmall JX range features six models, from 60hp (49kW) to 110hp (81kW) and is described as an easy to handle, no-fuss utility workhorse. Rounding out Case IH’s small to mid-size tractor range is the Quantum C (86hp-97hp (63kW-71kW)), a powerful general purpose tractor which is suited to council and specialty horticultural applications. According to Healy, having a good product offering is only part of the story. He said customers should also consider other factors when choosing which tractor is right for them. “Tractor buyers should ask ‘Is this tractor easy to drive? Is routine maintenance easy? Is my dealer experienced and reputable? “Because sometimes benefits that aren’t listed on the spec sheet are going to have a huge impact on whether or not a customer enjoys

The new Case IH Red and Ready range was launched in October.

their tractor once it’s delivered to their property,” he said. With a network of over 100 outlets across Australia, Case IH has just completed a national training event to ensure its dealers know their product and how to best serve their customers, and this is in addition to ongoing training for staff across various dealer departments. Case IH has dubbed its small to mid-size tractor range ‘Red and Ready’: while the trademark colour red is obvious, the word ready relates to many aspects of this product range.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

CROPtical app to improve yields Australian farmers can see detailed cropping data via an easy-to-use, lowcost App to help them manage their crops across their entire farm. Through complex and certified science, the CROPtical App transforms highly detailed satellite imagery and more than a decade of historical data into simple information that helps farmers make decisions. Targeting solutions such as weed and disease control and application of fertilisers paddock by paddock helps farmers to protect their crop and be as efficient and cost-effective as possible. The CROPtical App constantly tracks crop health, with data available paddock by paddock. Large commodities firms already use cloudbased information like this but the new App makes it affordable for farmers to access advanced technology in their hand. The service is a world first – with rollout to

the tech-savvy Australian agricultural sector prior to the global launch of the CROPtical App. Newbridge crop and grazing farmer Greg Pickering was among the first to download the App and has begun using it to track the growth of his crops. “We’ve done a very small amount of biomass stuff before and being able to do it yourself is a great advantage. It will be a very useful tool in the future of farming,” Pickering said. GEOSYS sales and support specialist Jim Castles said a large part of the appeal of CROPtical lies in its easy to understand graphs and charts. “Using CROPtical, you can monitor your crop’s health on a daily basis in the palm of your hand. See what’s happening across paddocks and compare growth year on year – all from the comfort of your tractor. It allows a farmer to make critical decisions impacting yield," said Castles.

“The App is easy to navigate and has a direct use in relation to monitoring crop health. It also allows you to compare and compete with neighbours or friends.” The CROPtical App can be downloaded from the App Store for $1.99.

NEWS BRIEFS Shearer has new cultivator John Shearer has a new model Single Fold, 5-row Universal Cultivator. The new machine is for conventional, conservation farming, winter and summer farming practices. The Universal Cultivator is fitted with hydraulically loaded tyne assemblies The system includes in-line valves, which control the recoil speed and force of the tynes as they return to the work position after jumping over obstructions.

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AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Iraqi wheat debt 25 years and still going An Iraqi debt dating back to the 1980s is still hanging over our farmers heads even though around $3.3 million will be distributed in the near future. The Victorian Government is likely to claim another third because many of the growers cannot be found. According to Ferrier Hodgson Corporate Advisory about 24,000 growers were still to be located. From 1987 to 1990 the former Australian Wheat Board sold around $685 million worth of wheat to Iraq but then Iraq defaulted on the repayments when the first Gulf War started in 1990. While the Federal Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Export Finance Insurance Corporation paid AWB for 80% of the debt it left a shortfall of $140 million. The Paris Club of Nations, a meeting of international governments, waived about half the debt in 2004 and that meant Iraq still had to pay just over $20 million over 17 years. In 2013 $3.3 million was available for payouts. Growers have received installments and will continue to do so until 2028. Those with small amounts were paid out and the average distribution appears to be in the thousands of dollars. Money is still owing from Iraq and there have been calls for the Federal Government to step in and pay out the farmers who are still owed money, then the government can wait to collect the money in stages from Iraq rather than have the farmers do so. Waiting until 2028 is unfair and can cause hardships to many on the land. Ferrier Hodgson, the company distributing the money, realize that many farmers may have left the land or even died but it still wants them or their relatives to come forward as beneficiaries from estates are eligible to receive payments. Not surprisingly due to the long time between payments some farmers have treated the call from Ferrier Hodgson with the offer of money with scepticism, incorrectly assuming that it could be a scam. There is still $1.4 million from the first instalment for unidentified growers and the company has a further $1 million unpaid from the second instalment. With a new Federal Government hopes are high that incoming Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce will step in and fix the situation. At this stage his only response is that he will review the situation. Growers who may be eligible for funds can contact the Iraqi Funds Distribution Project at IFDP@fh.com.au or phone (03) 9604 5128.

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Agsafe updated code of practice

Agsafe general manager Martin Shafron.

Farmers who buy chemical products from accredited outlets are contributing to an industry-led initiative protecting reputations and promoting safety. “While other industries may just now be recognising the importance of managing risk, the chemical supply industry has been leading the field on safety and compliance

since the 1990s,” said Agsafe’s general manager Martin Shafron. “Proper chemical safety training and accreditation is good for everyone in the supply chain. It’s just good business practice. “We know reputation and business success are closely linked. Choosing an accredited reseller is an investment in your reputation, and of course it also means you have the confidence of knowing the product you buy has been properly transported, stored and handled.” Over the two decades since Agsafe was established as an industry-led initiative, the industry has maintained an excellent track record. As the Agsafe scheme enters its third decade, Shafron says the accreditation procedures and training programs have been updated to meet changing needs. “The needs of our members have changed – and continue to change – so Agsafe has been changing with them,” he said.

“We’ve been working on a raft of new innovations over the past 18 months to ensure Agsafe continues to meet the needs of members and the wider industry. “This is really essential because certification remains extremely important for reputation and risk management. We’re committed to continuing to offer a certification and training scheme that is relevant and valuable.” Among the major changes has been the development of a new membership structure that recognises excellence within the industry. “We’ve already introduced updated training material that reflects changes to new work health and safety regulations rolled out in most states and territories. Agsafe’s updated Code of Practice reflects the very latest changes to Work Health and Safety legislation across the country. WHS laws in NSW, Northern Territory, Queensland, ACT, South Australia and Tasmania have been harmonised."

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NEWS BRIEFS Chair of GRDC NSW grain grower Richard Clark is the new chair of the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC). Clark was senior vice president of NSW Farmers from February 2006 to July 2009. He has held roles on the association’s board as well as its Grains and Business Economics and Trade (BEAT) Committee, and has been an active member of the association for over 30 years. He has represented farmers on the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) Farm Business Committee, Trade Committee, Biofuels Taskforce and Climate Change Taskforce. Clark has an intensive grain production enterprise at Tulloona.

Grain lookout by ABARES South Australia is expecting a big year according to the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) crop report. ABARES

has total Australian crop production at 39.2 million tonnes, with wheat making up 24.5 million tonnes. This is a 7% increase on last year. South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia are looking good but there will be a fall in NSW and Queensland. Canola production is forecast to fall by 18% in 2013-14 to 3.3 million tonnes as a result of a significant decline in planted area.

Dow AgroSciences sports grants More than 700 community sports clubs applied for grants under the Dow AgroSciences Growing Community Sports Clubs program. The 20 successful entrants were announced. Each entry was reviewed by a panel of judges who considered the club’s community inclusiveness and the impact the grant would have on the club and within the wider community.

Vintage tractors sold The machinery of Norm Bates, who was an avid collector and restorer of vintage tractors and farm machinery, has been lying idle since his death. Now more than 750 lots, including a range of rare Australian and international vehicles, were auctioned at the Bates property just outside Bencubbin.

Scale of Sydney markets The scale and diversity of fresh produce transactions worth more than $3 billion at Sydney Markets each year is driving agribusiness innovation and shaping agricultural investments, a University of Western Sydney study has found. Sydney Markets has moved an average of more than 2.5 million tonnes of fresh fruit and vegetables through its doors each year for the past five years.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Connected farm with a dashboard Trimble has released the Connected Farm dashboard that provides one centralized location for farmers to view key information impacting their operations. With this information, farmers will be able to make better daily decisions based on the latest data. The Connected Farm dashboard is customizable and accessible via internet-enabled devices such as desktop and notebook personal computers, smartphones and tablets, and Trimble’s new TMX-2050 display. The TMX-2050 allows farmers to: • check daily rainfall totals for each virtual rain gauge • view the weather forecast weekly, daily, or hourly for a given location

including temperature, humidity, chance of precipitation and wind speed • set up a Doppler radar map to show upcoming weather patterns for the area • check the latest commodity prices • view farming operations data • monitor a fleet by tracking the location and status of vehicles and receive geo-fence and curfew alerts. Farmers also can link through to Trimble’s new app to add landmarks or for turn-by-turn directions to locate vehicles from their current position, and view historical positions and a boundaries map created with Trimble’s Connected Farm scout app. Following the completion of the

The Connected Farm dashboard.

recently announced IQ Irrigation asset acquisition, irrigation pivot data is expected to be available on the Connected Farm dashboard in New Zealand in the fourth quarter of 2013 and the US in the first half of 2014. These features will allow farmers to use their proprietary information to make real-time decisions needed to manage operations. The Connected Farm dashboard is free.

NEWS BRIEFS How now Brown’s cow WA’s oldest dairy, Brownes, took out 23 individual prizes at the Royal Agricultural Society Dairy awards. In addition to winning the prize for its fresh, full-cream milk, Brownes also took out five first prizes, nine gold medals and 14 silver medals for products ranging from whipping cream and mature cheddar cheese.

Chemical code of practice The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) welcomed a new National Code of Practice to prevent potentially dangerous chemicals, including farm chemicals, from ending up in the wrong hands. The initiative aims to prevent terrorists from accessing chemicals that can be used to manufacture explosives.

Concessional loan scheme open for business The Federal Farm Finance Concessional loan scheme is open. The application form and guidelines are available on the Rural Finance Corporation of Victoria’s website $30 million is available this financial year. 32

The program will be administered on a first come, first served basis. The Farm Finance Program gives farmers access to five-year concessional loans of up to $650,000 at variable interest starting at 4.5%. Another $30m will be rolled out in 2014-15.

Give 'em the flick Flick Anticimex has warned about the dangers of leaving Personal Protection Equipment unattended. The improper handling and storage of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) can lead to an insect sting or bite and potentially lead to injury. Anyone who wears Personal Protective Equipment should store it in a protected location and above ground level when not in use. Equipment should also be checked before putting it on.

FTA tread carefully FTAs are necessary but government should tread carefully when finalising trade agreements. Markets such as Korea, Japan and China that provide commercial outcomes for the entire agricultural industry need to be a priority for Minister for Trade

Andrew Robb and the government. The NFF understands the government’s commitment to finalising trade agreements quickly, but cautioned against signing a deal at any cost. A report currently being finalised by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) examines the implications of recently implemented trade agreements. The report suggests that Australian agriculture is significantly disadvantaged by bilateral deals that have been completed by some of Australia’s neighbours – and highlights the importance of reaching positive outcomes for Australian agriculture.

Agrifac party invitation Agrifac Machinery has invited all AFDJ readers to their event at Agritechnica where the company will display new machine models. Refreshments will be on hand so if you are in Europe for the Agritechnica it’s a great opportunity to network. The Agrifac event is on November 10 at midday in hall 16 at stand E12.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

New manager for Yanmar Mark Critchley has joined Power Equipment the authorised distributor of Yanmar and JCB diesel engines. Critchley has been appointed to the position of WA/NT industrial equipment manager. Prior to joining the Power Equipment team, he enjoyed 14 years in the WA market in a similar role with a competitive brand. “In my previous role I used to come up against the Yanmar brand all the time,” he said. “It is such a strong brand which has an extremely solid reputation for quality and durability." In his new role at Power Equipment, Critchley will be responsible for the Yanmar and JCB brands of diesel engines. Typically these engines are sold to dealers and OEM customers who mostly build purpose designed and manufactured gen sets, pumps and lighting towers. “While Yanmar is an established and strong brand in WA, there are still significant opportunities to enhance our market presence even further,” Critchley said.

Manitou joins with FRM FRM is the new Tasmanian distributor for the Manitou Rough Terrain Handling range and Gehl compact equipment range of skid steer loaders, track loaders and articulated loaders. Manitou Australia will benefit from this partnership to reinforce its position in Tasmania, and will be able to reach new potential customers. FRM has a strong branch network in Tasmania as it is located in Launceston, Hobart and Devonport. David Mills, sales and business manager of the FRM network, sees the partnership with Manitou as an opportunity to enter new markets.

Mark Critchley

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AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Morris – new distributor, prize winner and new seeder Morris Industries of Canada, a leading agricultural manufacturer, has appointed McIntosh Distribution as its authorized national distributor for Australia. McIntosh is a leading Australian machinery dealership established since 1955 it has been a Morris distributor serving Western Australia and South Australia since 1992. Morris Industries also recently launched new air seeding technology with the 9 Series Air Cart and RAZR Disc Drill to complement the innovative C2 Contour Air Drill. The RAZR Disc Drill received the Henty Machinery Field Days “Machine of the

The award winning RAZR Disc Drill.

Year” prize. This year a record was broken with more than 30 entries.

The award was announced on the opening day as a “farmers’ choice’’ award and was presented to the most outstanding new piece of agricultural machinery exhibited at the Henty Machinery Field Days .It was judged by an independent panel of regional primary producers. The farmer-inspired disc drill offers the latest technology and efficiency. Judging criteria included the machine’s purpose and suitability, scope of application, construction, ease of maintenance and service, ease of operation and adjustment, availability of parts and overall value for money. Morris' new 9-Series Air Cart incorporates many of the efficiency and safety improvements farmers say they needed. “The 9-Series Air Cart makes it easier for the farmer to work longer hours more efficiently and safely,” said chief operating officer Don Henry. “Farmers familiar with the 8-Series will immediately notice the new tank shape that is designed to increase efficiencies and operator safety. "The Input Control Technology available on the 9-Series is a simple intuitive system that prevents costly overlaps.” Several new features, such as easier and safe tank access, reflect Morris’ farmer-inspired engineering. The auger has been moved to the left side of the 9-Series for easier access when filling. The conveyor is also on left side with transmission and stairway access. At the product concept stage, farmers told Morris the design criteria should reflect ‘one farmer seeding all night alone’.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Law Review Timing is everything when it comes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) By Gavin Hanrahan, managing partner Turnbull Hill Lawyers A decision in a case before the and stated that the parties agreed to be Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) bound by the terms of the Agreement earlier this year highlights how costly it notwithstanding it was “subject to and can be if you get the timing wrong and conditional upon” the execution of a how easy it is to get it wrong. contract for sale of business. In this case the business owner decided After the “due diligence” was completed to sell his business. The prospective the contract for sale was signed and the purchaser was interested in buying the vendor made a capital gain of $704,129. business but wanted the opportunity Just prior to the signing of the to undertake a “due diligence” before contract for sale, the vendor qualified committing to the purchase. for the CGT small business active What was required to asset exemption and facilitate this was an the small business agreement to protect retirement exemption, Unfortunately the parties’ interests the consequence of during and after the which was to reduce the for the vendor due diligence process. capital gain to $0 as he signed an The prospective long as the CGT event purchaser wanted agreement prepared (the sale) was effected the exclusive right to when the contract for sale by his business agree to the purchase was signed. price within a set Unfortunately for the sales broker. period after completing vendor the ATO took the due diligence, and the view (and the AAT the vendor wanted agreed) that because the confidentiality in relation to the details stated in the Heads of Agreement information disclosed during the due were so extensive, the CGT event diligence process. occurred on the day the Heads of So what was needed was an Agreement was signed. agreement restricted to exclusivity and The problem for the vendor was that confidentiality. just prior to signing the Heads of Unfortunately for the vendor he signed Agreement, the vendor did not satisfy an agreement prepared by his business the maximum net asset value test and sales broker. It was a pro-forma Heads of therefore, he did not qualify for the Agreement. exemptions at all. This agreement provided for I don’t know how much tax the much more than just exclusivity vendor had to pay but I suspect and confidentiality. It also set out it was considerably more than the the purchase price, stated that a deposit $2000 (approximately) it would have was payable on the signing of the cost him to have a lawyer draft the Heads of Agreement, set out what appropriately worded Exclusivity the apportionment of the purchase price and Confidentiality Agreement. was, it apportioned between goodwill, That $2000 would have been a very fixtures, fittings and equipment worthwhile investment indeed.

Gavin Hanrahan is Turnbull Hill Lawyers’ managing partner and the son of farming parents, having been raised on the farm his parents still operate in the Oberon District in the Central West of NSW. He has worked at Turnbull Hill Lawyers for more than 20 years, during which time his principal areas of practice have been in assisting those suffering catastrophic personal injury to obtain compensation from the insurers of negligent parties, and to obtain total and permanent disability (TPD) payments from their insurers, and assisting business owners to manage their human resources (HR). For more information call Turnbull Hill Lawyers on freecall 1800 994 279, or direct 02 4904 8000 or visit www.turnbullhill.com.au.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

What's New in Finance Grains in focus: capturing the opportunity by Mark Bennett, head of agribusiness, ANZ Regional Business Banking

Grains and oilseeds account for a significant share of Australia’s agricultural production value, at around $11 billion or nearly 25% of gross agricultural production in 2011. While wheat has historically accounted for the majority of this, oilseeds (in particular canola) have experienced rapid growth in recent decades and they are increasingly included in crop rotations. Relative to its production volumes, Australia punches above its weight in global export share. Australia currently produces 1.4% of global grains and oilseeds, yet this accounts for approximately 6% of global exports. By 2050, the global demand for grains and oilseeds is forecast to require between 1.4 billion tonnes and 2.5 billion tonnes of additional production. The most aggressive industry forecasts point to demand almost doubling by 2050. For Australia to maintain its global share of grain and oilseed production, it is estimated that we would need to export 60 million tonnes of grain and oilseed in 2050. This level of exports could provide an extra $10.5 billion in export revenues in 2050 or an extra $178 billion in export revenues across the period to 2050. 36

To capture this prize, ensuring international competitiveness is critical. This will be a key issue for Australia’s grains industry – along with government – to tackle. And it’s fair to say that without change, we are likely to miss our chance. Maximising growth and driving competitiveness will require Australian agriculture to overcome a range of barriers including capital constraints, skill shortages, land-use conflicts and inefficient water markets, unfocused R&D and extension services, rising supply chain costs, and market access limitations. For the grains industry specifically, topics such as infrastructure, rail networks and the potential for new genetically modified (GM) varieties all remain hot topics for the industry. Unfavourable and increasingly variable weather has affected grains and oilseeds significantly in the past decade. This has led to reduced farmer confidence, a decline in investment in new technologies and decision-making that isn’t as informed as it could or should be. For example, farmers are not investing enough in soil nutrition or failing to use total available land area because of an overly pessimistic seasonal outlook and shortage of capital. Often, decision making is undertaken with a short-term focus. Even before this bad run of weather, yield and productivity performance were deteriorating. Wheat yield growth has slowed since the mid-1980s and canola yields have declined since the early-1990s. These trends are troubling as Australian wheat and canola yields are not high by world standards and Australian varieties are relatively substitutable. Canola is also facing increased competition from other oilseeds, such as soy and palm.

These oilseeds are produced at low cost by international competitors, and Australia has yet to adopt them for widespread production.

Highlighting two key issues for all industry participants to tackle: 1. The grains industry remains fragmented and requires improved co-ordination. Supply chain challenges exist for all industry players and this is placing competitiveness at risk. There is a lot that the Australian grains industry could learn from a sector such as mining, whether in terms of being able to sell itself to the public, government and media as a vital component of a prosperous society, but also in terms of being able to restructure itself to be able to grow in a changing world. Greater alignment between farmer and supply chain priorities is necessary to ensure that opportunities can be captured. 2. The role of genetically modified (GM) varieties remains unclear. GM varieties are considered by many as a logical supply response to meet growing demand and an opportunity for farmers to improve gross margins. However, are we adequately ‘organised’ as an industry to produce GM and to manage GM-free? More broadly, is the industry organised to capture higher value, sustainable markets such as organic, to cater to the tastes of the rising middle class in Asia and changing food preferences on a global basis? Agriculture, and the grains industry specifically, is one of Australia’s most vital industries, and is being presented with a once in a lifetime opportunity that’s right on our doorstep. Let’s not let it pass us by.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

My view Elmore 50 years in the making David Trewick, president Elmore Field Days Week long celebrations took place in Elmore during the first week of October as the Elmore Field Days celebrated its 50th anniversary. It was a time for celebration and reflection, particularly for the inaugural members who returned from the Wimmera Field Days 51 years ago and said "We think we can do this, let's run a field day in Elmore." It is the support of the current committee, members, life governors, the exhibitors and many volunteers, that make Elmore Field Days what it is today, a pioneer in agriculture, a leading events centre and a vibrant hub of community activity playing a pivotal role in servicing the needs of Victoria and southern New South Wales. First held on the banks of the Campaspe River in 1964 at Ayson’s Reserve and later relocating to the current site – Elmore Events Centre the goals haven’t changed. Remaining true to the founding members’ original purpose of an agricultural and machinery field days event, the committee is still offering a high quality event for the agricultural sector. We are keeping up with the times and having the conviction to expand operations by continuing to improve our assets and infrastructure. Elmore Field Days has continued to grow over the 50 years with expanding exhibitor numbers, however the focus remains the same: the field days provide exhibitors with an opportunity to showcase the latest in technology and design through static displays, in-paddock demonstrations and various awards. This is an era where some other field

days throughout rural Australia seem to be facing a greater struggle for survival from dwindling numbers of exhibitors or dwindling community involvement as society changes. Elmore too faces these challenges but we have not only managed to attract a full house every year but also have an extensive waiting list of exhibitors, keen to become part of the event. Exhibitors use the opportunity to bring international experts in their field out to Australia to speak directly with the farmer at the event. This brings the level of information and knowledge to a whole new level, an experience one certainly wouldn’t receive over the internet. There’s no denying the fact that many will research requirements online but when it comes time to make the final decision and you need to kick the tyres and touch the steering wheel before making your choice, then Elmore Field Days will always have a place in the agricultural sector.

David Trewick understands the pressures field days face in today's environment.

Elmore on the opening day of this year's show. After 50 years exhibitors are still taking out large stands to display a large number of machines.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

TMA News Is the internet killing the field day? Richard Lewis, executive director Tractor & Farm Machinery Association of Australia Years ago manufacturers and dealers would put huge amounts of resources and effort into displaying machinery at the local field days, where farmers and contractors would turn out in droves to look at the latest and greatest on offer from Australia and around the world. These days, those same farmers and contractors are jumping onto the internet in the comfort of their homes and viewing the same products on company websites and farming forums, often viewing new releases from Europe or the US before they have hit the ground here in Australia. So the what is the future for field days as a marketing tool in the Australian machinery market? Today there are as many field days being held throughout the country as there was 15 years ago, however what is becoming increasingly evident is that there are far fewer people attending these field days. Numbers through the gate are getting smaller every year. Conversely to this, the costs of exhibiting machinery at these field days are increasing – transport, site fees and labour costs associated with manning the stand have gone up during the same period for the exhibitors and many are asking the question – is it worth going? For a medium sized company to display tillage equipment at a decent

field day will cost them upwards of $10,000 by the time they get the equipment to site, unload, set up tents and marketing paraphernalia, pay a couple of reps to attend the three days, along with accommodation, meals, advertise in the program, then pack up and move on to the next field day two weeks later in another state. For most medium sized companies this will be their largest marketing expense of the year and depending on how many field days they attend, it can total in the hundreds of thousands. Can this money be better spent on some HD filming of their product for TV or internet advertising? Back in the day, deals were done during the field days and many sellers would report sales off the stand for equipment large and small. It was a way of justifying the expense of the field days and kept exhibitors coming back every year. These days the sales off the stand have diminished and although some still exist most sellers will judge their field days by the amount of opportunities they get to follow up after the field days are over. Importantly, sellers are able to see many of their customers over the few days which would take them months to do in visits and appointments, however if the crowds are not turning up this justification becomes harder to argue.

For most medium sized companies this will be their largest marketing expense of the year.

Richard Lewis at this year's Farmworld Field Days in Gippsland.

And therein lies the challenge for the organisers of field days – how do we get people to come through the gate to justify the expense of the exhibitors? Are there too many field days throughout the year? Can we bring the three day event back to two days? We believe that the field days are still an important part of the marketing process for agricultural machinery – they support the local community, bring farmers and suppliers together and generally contribute to the fabric of the machinery/farmer relationship. We need and want the field days to continue to prosper, however with the power of the information found on the internet, the field days have to encourage attendance.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Future Farming

Australia’s future relies on farming profitably and efficiently. We have to use modern, technologically advanced equipment and methods. David Palmer describes these & how they can be used.

Controlled traffic farming hits a roadblock By David Palmer According to a recent CRC for Spatial Information survey, 90% of farmers seeking advice on a one-on-one basis about controlled traffic farming (CTF), approach farm machinery dealers or agronomists. But the survey also found that most dealers and agronomists did not understand controlled traffic farming systems either. Between 2008 and 2011, CTF related cropping increased from 15% to 21% across the country, according to a Grains Research and Development Corporation survey.

But in many large farming regions “change was slow or insignificant”. One major barrier to wider CTF is a perception that the switch costs megabucks. Not true, says the GRDC, although for farmers who have employed contractors to spray and harvest their crops in the past, the farmers will usually have to buy their own machines in the switch, to ensure wheel widths fit the newly established tracks through the crops. About 20% of those surveyed thought partial adoption was sufficient. But experience has shown that the only way is to establish fixed tracks in the crop to minimalise compaction and stick to them with every piece of equipment

passing over a particular paddock. Murtoa, Victoria farmer Rob Ruwoldt, a go-to person for information on CTF according to the GRDC, said he had opted as most did for minimum wheel spacings of 120” or 3.048m, for all his cropping machinery. He emphasised the measurement in inches though, because most wheel widths of cropping machinery was determined by US manufacturers catering for the universal row spacing for US corn of 30 inches (760mm). Ruwoldt has been engaged in CTF for more than a decade and is totally dedicated to the concept, “although I looked at it for a long time beforehand,” he said.

Lime spreading at 12 m. The tracked tractors are on 3m wheel tracks. Photo: Brady Green.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

The JCB Fastrack has been modified to 3m wheel track spacings and is operating a farmer designed 24m boomspray. The farmer is Nigel Moffat, Geraldton, WA. Photo: Guy Isbister, Agmech.

This JCB Fastrack has rear axle extensions. Photo: Guy Isbister, Agmech.

He partially adopted CTF initially, by extending the wheels of his John Deere 9760 headers, but with the short-term aim of converting entirely. Headers are often the first to be modified because they are the heaviest machines used on cropping paddocks and cause the most compaction. Ruwoldt said his farm management consultant had come on board with the concept and 80% of his clients were CTF adherents, “although none of them are over 40 years old”. He said farm machinery dealers were “useless” at promoting or even being knowledgeable about CTF. “I have explained to dealers when I have bought equipment why I wanted the wheel widths changed. “But then when I have traded in that equipment some years later, they have taken the wheel widths back to the original spacing, even though the new buyer was going to engage in CTF,” he said. The GRDC in a recent CTF fact sheet, said there was an urgent need for improved seeding and harvesting efficiencies for equipment wider than 12m. There was also an issue with poor spreading of straw and lime beyond

9m and a difficulty in moving burned windrows. Ruwoldt said he started CTF at 18m but has moved back to half that over time. He said that width was significantly dictated by yield, because in a 6T/ha wheat crop with paddocks up to 1.5km long, the grain tank on the header would fill well before reaching the end of the tramline. Research by the Western Australia Department of Agriculture and Food has found that a farm greater than 2000ha moving to CTF in 2012, was estimated to benefit by $36/ha if autosteer was already used and $45/ha if it was yet to be adopted, based on conservative conversion costs. “A 5% increase in grain yield and grain quality, and decreased fuel use, accounted for the first $36, while a 10% reduction in inputs would also occur, due to less overlap if autosteer was used,” the report said. The report added that if someone growing 2800ha of wheat a year invested $200,000 at an interest rate of 8.5% to convert their equipment for CTF, the yield benefit on average would be 15% and the investment could be paid off in about one year, based only on yield improvements.

The header auger has been extended to unload into a chaser bin operating from adjacent wheel tracks in a 9m system with a 3m wheel track. Photo: Department of Agriculture and Food WA.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Future Farming

Latest bailing technology is worth having

By David Palmer Refinements over the last couple of decades in the way agricultural machinery deals with bulk fodder and grain is saving farmers billions of dollars a year in efficiency gains. For example, most new balers now have precision chopping knives, which were once found only on forage harvesters processing wilted grass, into a product which could be suitably compacted in a silage clamp. While using a knife equipped baler to chop grass for baled and wrapped silage is slower and requires more fuel, it becomes possible to reduce the number of wrapped bales by 20% and just as importantly, excludes most of the air. For example the Lely Welger RP 445 baler combines knives and a drop floor and effectively handles what some

farmers might consider wet grass, without blocking. There are three knife unit options: 13, 17 and 25 knives on a shaft. The biggest Xtracut25 chopping system can be split into different groups, which can be used independently of one another. The operator can select 25, 13 or 12 knives from a handset in the tractor cab, without having to physically remove the knives. The drop floor comes into its own with a blockage: again from the cab the operator simply lowers the bale chamber floor to expel the blocking material. The 445 also has a rubber mount on the door below the rotary feed that flexes enough to let large chunks go through, which eliminates a lot of blockages. The other massive attraction of such balers, though, is their ability to easily

bale what would at one time would have been considered difficult to handle forage, wilted to just 65% moisture. In fact wilting should not be allowed to progress below 65% if silage quality is to be maximised. Below 65%, more and more plant sugar is lost and because of that and moisture loss, the effectiveness of fermentation is reduced. Silage expert and western Victorian based vet John Lyne makes the point that mown grass can often wilt to 65% moisture in a day or less. He urges farmers and contractors to test moisture content using a microwave oven, something that perhaps could be incorporated in a small scale on balers. Further, with 20% more material in the same size bale, a lot of air has been expelled from the bale.

Claasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 454/455 baler is well equipped to ensile optimally wilted forage. A Roto Cut system features 25 blades, which give a chop length of 4.8cm. A lowering cutter chamber improves working convenience and reliability, because the tilting base lowers in the event of a blockage to release excess material. The baler switches itself back on automatically after a few seconds without the operator having to leave the cab.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; & DEALERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

The less oxygen the better; ideal anaerobic fermentation works best with no oxygen. But until now that has been impossible to achieve with available bale wrapping material. However, for silage clamps it is possible to economically buy covers, which exclude oxygen from compacted silage to dramatically reduce dry matter losses and increase silage quality. One marketed here called Silostop claims to be 100 times more effective at keeping out oxygen than existing covers. In wrapping silage bales film technology is not quite there yet because of the difficulty in making stretched wraps air proof. But it may be available for the 2014 silage season. Another way of improving harvest efficiency, but this time for grain crops, is to fit a super wide front to a header. A new one just on the market this year is 18m wide and made by Dalby, Queensland manufacturer Midwest Fabrication. The company produced the 4.9T Durus

The Lely Welger RP 445 in action in Europe baling hay.

Premium front mainly for farms that have adopted controlled traffic farming techniques using tramlines spaced 60 feet apart. As well though, there is no doubt the new front will prove useful in harvesting poor yielding crops, with evidence available already from contractors using custom made fronts this size that harvesting crops

as light as three bags to the acre suddenly become economical to strip. Midwest director and engineer Craig Schutt said in designing the front the company was conscious of keeping weight down. A 250mm high tensile tube runs through the middle of the front but the special drive system weighs just 5kg instead of incorporating a 40-50kg gearbox.

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www.afdj.com.au AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Seed destructor debuts in the east

The Harrington Seed Destructor made its first appearance in eastern Australia at Elmore. This new machine can destroy 95% of annual weed seeds during harvest. The machine is made and sold by De Bruin Engineering of Mount Gambier, South Australia who purchased the rights from the GRDC. “It was invented by a farmer in Western Australia and it’s all to do with herbicide resistance,” said John Millhouse, general manager De Bruin Engineering. “They’ve got rye grass seed problems over there ... particularly where they’re doing pure cropping, and Ray Harrington invented this. That’s why its called the Harrington Seed Destructor. “What’s happened is the GRDC has come along and bought the IP (intellectual property) because they thought it was such a good idea. “Ray and his brother put about $800,000 into it but ran out of money. The GRDC then picked it up and paid for and financed two prototypes that they built, each one getting better than the previous. Then thought they were ready for commercialisation last year and they called for tenders.” De Bruin applied and won so the company is the licensed Australian

manufacturer and pays a commission back to the GRDC. “We’re engineers we’re not farmers at all. We are learning all about the farming issues as we go,” said Millhouse. “We got a prototype and while it was great for the GRDC and also the Australian herbicide resistance initiative – they used it to prove the efficacy of the principle and that’s been done. We have to turn it into a commercial reality. "Our engineering has boosted up the weaknesses we saw … the first year we manufactured and sold two of them (last year).” Initially De Bruin used an Isuzu engine that was running belts but in the first season the company decided to replace the belts and move to a hydraulic system. They now use a Cummins industrial engine where the Isuzu was a truck engine. “What goes on inside the header is the chaff and straw separate and what happens is the chaff comes out on the bottom and straw comes out on the top,” said Millhouse. “We then get the chaff, we capture it in a cross auger that gets mounted on the back of the header, and there’s a blower fan and that chaff will come through the cross auger and the blower fan will blow it up a spout and into an inverter duct. “That duct steers that chaff only into that cage. So that chaff contains the bulk of the weeds … they get thrown around in there and impact against a heap of rods … it gets hit 20, 40, 50 times and it fractures the seed so it won’t germinate. “It comes out of that cage like talcum powder and gets blown out. “The straw comes out of the header and falls onto a belt that runs straight through underneath the whole machine, and it brings it out onto the back onto some spinners that spread the straw.” So far three machines have been sold, all in Western Australia. “Most of our enquiries are coming from Western Australia - loosely 85% of enquiries from Western Australia, probably 15% from South Australia and then two

or three from Victoria, Tasmania and New South Wales,” said Millhouse. “Anyone in this part of Victoria or in South Australia is doing cropping and grazing together so they often use the grazing as their weed control. “Anyone that’s 100% cropping knows that weed resistance is a problem and we’ve certainly spoken to Victorians here in Bendigo and further north. We’d love to get one into Victoria.” That’s why De Bruin took a stand at this year’s Elmore Field Days, to get close to farmers that may be interested in the machine. “We’re the only licence holder for Australia … we are having discussions with the GRDC about us having access to the USA and Canada,” said Millhouse. “This has been patented in the US and Canada and a couple of European countries I think. “We’ve had enquiries from the USA but it's not realistic, the price would be prohibitive to get it there so we’d never consider manufacturing here and sending them over. You might manufacture key components and assemble there. The chaff gets thrown around in the cage.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

2013 FIELD DAYS CALENDAR November 2013

MARCH

MARCH/April

4-5 Farming Small Areas Expo Hawkesbury Hawkesbury Showgrounds Ph: 02 4570 4444 W: www.farmonline.com.au E: expo.fsa@fairfaxmedia.com.au

4 King Island Show Contact: Tanya Arnold Currie Show grounds, Currie, Tas Ph: 03 6462 1346 E: tanya_arnold@bigpond.com W: www.ascti.com.au

21-3 Sydney Royal Easter Show Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney, NSW Ph: 02 970 1474 W: www.eastershow.com.au

7-10 EQUITANA Definitive Events Ph: 03 8698 2000 Fax: 03 9646 1559 www.equitana.com.au 4-6 Wimmera Machinery Field Days Contact: Murray Wilson Wimmera Events Centre at Longerenong near Horsham, Vic Ph: 03 5384 7210 E: info@wimmerafielddays.com.au W: www.wimmerafielddays.com.au

22-24 RV & Camping Leisurefest Bendigo Racecourse Ph: 03 9329 5311 E: info@ciavic.com.au W: www.leisurefest.com.au

February 2014 12-14 Sungold Field Days Contact: Louise Thomas At Allansford, about 12 km east of Warrnambool Ph: 03 5565 3142 E: sungoldfileddays@wcbf.com.au W: www.sungoldfielddays.com.au

7-8 Wagin Woolorama Contact: Mandy Harrington West Australia Ph: 08 9861 2242 E: tradefair@woolorama.com.au W: www.woolorama.com.au

14-16 Seymour Alternative Farming Expo Contact: Colin Stray Goulburn Valley Highway, Seymour, Vic Ph: 03 5799 1211 E: admin@seymor-expo.com W: www.seymour-expo.com

21-22 South East Field Days Contact: Lyn Crosby Yakka Park, Lincoln, SA Ph: 08 8766 7001 E: sefds@bigpond.com W: www.southeastfielddays.com.au

21-23 ActewAGL Royal Canberra Show Contact: Marketing Manager Exhibition Park, Canberra Ph: 02 6241 2478 E: marketing@rncas.org.au W: www.rncas.org.au

27-30 Farm World Contact: Mark Cockerell Burnt Store Road, Lardner Park, Warragul, Vic Ph: 03 5626 1373 E: office@lardnerpark.com.au W: www.lardnerpark.com.au

April 5 The Weekly Times Rural Lifestyle Expo Cnr Creswick Road & Howitt Street, Wendouree, Vic Ph: 03 5338 1877 E: info@rurallifestyleexpo.org.au W: rurallifestyleexpo.org.au 10-23 Sydney Royal Easter Show Sydney Olympic Park Sydney NSW Ph: 02 9704 1111 W: www.eastershow.com.au

MAY 1-3 Agfest Field Days Contact: Carlee Lee Quercus Rural Youth Park, on Oaks Road between Carrick and Bracknell, TAS Ph: 03 6331 6154 E: admin@agfest.com.au W: www. agfest.com.au 2-4 Tocal Field Days Contact: Carol Cairney Tocal Agricultural College Tocal NSW Ph: 02 4939 8827 E: fielddays@tocal.com W: www.tocalfielddays.com 9-10 East Gippsland Field Days Contact: Peter Treasure Bairnsdale Aerodrome, Bairnsdale, Vic Ph: 03 5153 1398 Mob: 0427 878 645 E: info@egfielddays.com W: www.egfielddays.com

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

2013 FIELD DAYS CALENDAR 9-10 Riverina Field Days Contact: Ffiona Beverley Griffith Showgrounds, Griffith NSW Ph : (02) 6964 8811 E: riverinafielddays@bigpond.com W: www.riverinafielddays.com 23-24 Deni Innovations Expo Contact: Andrew Richardson Murray Valley Industry Park. Off Todd Road, Deniliquin. NSW Ph: 0407 503 978 W: www.deniinnovationsexpo.org.au

JUNE 3-5 Farmfest Field Days Kingsthorpe Park, on the Warrego Highway, 20 kms west of Toowoomba Ph: 02 6768 5800 E: farmfest@ruralpress.com.au W: www.farmfest.com.au 19-21 Primax Primary Industry Exhibition Bruxner Highway, Casino, NSW Ph: 07 5531 4600 E: info@primex.net.au W: www.primex.net.au 11-14 New Zealand National Agric Field Days Mystery Creek Events Centre, 125 Mystery Creek Road, Hamilton, North Island, New Zealand Ph: +64 7 843 4499 W: www.fieldays.co.nz

JULY 3 BCG Grains Research Expo Birchip P12 School, Campbell St. Birchip Ph: 03 5492 2787 E: info@bcq.org.au W: bcq.org.au 9-11 Ag-Grow Charters Towers Field Days Charters Towers, Qld Ph: 07 4982 4244 E: admin@aggrow.com.au W: www.charterstowersfielddays.com.au 11-12 Mudgee Small Farm Field Days Mudgee, NSW Ph: 02 6372 3899 W: www.arec.com.au

– F I E L D D AY S S E C T I O N

18-20 Australian Wool and Sheep Show Contact: Andrew Ternouth Prince of Wales Showgrounds, Holmes Road, Bendigo, Vic Ph: 03 5439 5094 E: secretary@sheepshow.com W: www.sheepshow.com

August 4-5 Sheepvention Hamilton Showgrounds, Hamilton, VIC Ph: 03 5572 2563 E: info@hamiltonshowgrounds.com.au W: www.sheepvention.com 6-7 Mallee Machinery Field Days Contact: Andrew McLean 2 km south of Speed on the Sunraysia Hwy, VIC Ph: 03 5084 1320 E: mmfd@bigpond.com W: www.mmfd.com.au 12-14 Eyre Peninsula Field Days Contact: Kathy Wedding Eyre Peninsula SA Ph: 08 8628 2219 E: secretary@eyrepeninsulafielddays.com.au W: www.eyrepeninsulafielddays.com.au 19-21 Commonwealth Bank AGQUIP Field Days 8 kilometres west of Gunnedah on Blackjack Road, Gunnedah NSW Ph: 02 6768 5800 E: agquip@ruralpress.com.au W: www.agquip.com.au 27-28 Dowerin GWN7 Machinery Field Days Dowerin, WA Ph: 08 9631 1021 E: info@dowerinfielddays.com.au W: www. dowerinfielddays.com.au

september 2-4 Heritage Bank Ag Show Ph: Damon Phillips Toowoomba Showgrounds, Toowoomba, QLD Ph: 07 4634 1155 E: perwin@agshow.com W: www.agshow.com.au

3-4 Newdegate Machinery Field Days Contact: Anne Bishop Newdegate, WA Ph: 08 9871 1655 E: nfday@westnest.com.au W: www.nfday.com.au 19 Mingenew Expo Contact: Kym McGlinn Midlands Rd, Mingenew, WA Ph: 08 9928 1138 E: secretary@mingenewexpo.com.au W: www.mingenewexpo.com.au 19-20 Riverland Field Days Contact: Tim Grieger Sturt Highway (Short St) Barmera, SA Ph: 0409 099 122 E: fieldays@riverland.net.au W: www.riverlandfielddays.com.au 20 Sept - 1 Oct Royal Melbourne Show Melbourne Showgrounds Epsom Road Melbourne Ph: 03 9281 7444 E: customerservice@rasv.com.au W: www.royalshow.com.au 23-25 Henty Field Days Cookardinia Road Henty, NSW Ph: 02 6929 3305 E: hmfd@telstra.com W: www.hmfd.com.au 24-25 South Gippsland Dairy Expo Contact: Deane Kennedy Korumburra Showgrounds, cnr South Gippsland Hway & Charles St, Korumburra Ph: 0419 878 055 W: www.dairyexpo.org.au 27 Sept - 4 Oct Perth Royal Show Contact: Robin Bartlett Perth Showgrounds, Garlands Road, Claremont, WA Ph: 08 6263 3100 E: info@raswa.org.au W: www.perthroyalshow.com.au

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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Everyone at Elmore to celebrate 50 years

With Elmore Field Days celebrating its 50th anniversary it was a great opportunity for a number of people from all walks of life to get together at the official opening on October 1, 2013. Hence there was the Mayor of Bendigo and all the councillors, many politicians including the Premier of Victoria Dr Denis Napthine and most importantly Nancy Harding of Elmore, who was celebrating her 90th birthday as well as 50 years of working with the organization of the field days. “This is 50th consecutive event. That’s an incredible achievement and we thought we needed a title and catch phrase, and as I watched the marquees get blown around by the wind last night I thought ‘A blast from the past powering to the future’,” said David Trewick, president of the Elmore Field Days committee, at the official opening ceremony. The day and night before, Victoria had experienced some exceptionally high winds and many exhibitors arrived in the morning to find that they had some quick repairs to perform to get their marquees back to show condition. “We must congratulate the vision of a small group of local farmers who said ‘yes, I think we can set up the first Elmore field days’ 50 year ago – five kilometres north of 46

A bit of high jinks to start the celebrations at Elmore.

do' attitude,” said Trewick. “This event can attract over 40,000 people over the three days, where many deals are brokered between growers and exhibitors … the wealth of knowledge that changes hands is insurmountable. It is encouraging now to see a fourth generation participating.” To recognise the contributions of the Elmore Field Days’ members, committee and volunteers, the organisers launched a book on the history of the field days titled Community Involved the Elmore Field Days: the First 50 Years. As if to confirm that importance, the Victorian Premier Dr Denis Napthine travelled the two and a half hours from Melbourne to officially open the event. Premier Napthine grew up in rural Winchelsea, Victoria on a diary farm and later became a vet before entering

Premier Denis Napthine and David Trewick of Elmore Field Days.

here,” said Trewick. The Elmore Field Days were started in 1964 and held on a different site to the current one, which was purchased in the 1980s. The new site has been developed and extended comprehensively to house an event that reaches more than 40,000 people in Western Victoria. “Since then the event has grown from strength-to-strength with that same 'can

politics. “I saw ex-premier John Brumby in the audience and he was very keen to spend a few dollars. So if you see him wandering around sell him something,” Premier Napthine said as an opening remark. “Congratulations on the presentation of field days here today, it’s outstanding. “It’s no wonder the Elmore Field Days are recognised as not just one of the best

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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Nancy Harding has worked with Elmore Field Days since its inception.

agricultural field days in Australia but they are recognised as one of the best field days anywhere in the world. “Of course this year is very, very special because it’s the 50th year of the Elmore Field Days and that 50 years is built on the back of a lot of hard work, a lot of innovation and a lot of conviction by many, many volunteers. “Our research shows that this is the home of Hugh McKay. He was famous for revolutionising agriculture with his innovative invention the Sunshine combine-harvestor and made a real difference to agriculture in Australia and across the world.” McKay invented a combine-harvester that could harvest, thresh and winnow wheat. He developed and expanded the manufacture of a range of farm machinery and products. In 1904, McKay heard a sermon on the power and benefits of sunshine and was so impressed he called his machine the Sunshine Harvester. He became the largest agricultural exporting manufacturer in the Commonwealth and the name of the suburb where his factory was set up was changed from Braybrook Junction to Sunshine. “Look at that equipment that stems from the sort of innovation that he left,” said Premier Napthine. “It’s also important to know that

Elmore is geographically so well placed because Elmore is just at the junction of some of the best dairy country in the world, some of the best cereal growing country in the world and some of the best areas of prime land producing food and fibre, that not only feeds Victoria and Australia but also feeds the world. “The field days are important to our communities so people can come along and see the leanest innovations and see the practical displays of the machinery, and become more productive and more efficient in their farming production. “It’s able to play an important part in the local economy, bringing $12 million into the local economy, 40,000 visitors … we as a government are pleased to support the field days.

“The challenge for all of us, particularly in Victoria, is agriculture – to continue to grow and develop our agriculture. “Agriculture is a $9 billion industry in Victoria and we need to double that again because we have a growing Asian community at our doorstep … the Indian, the Chinese, the Japanese, the Korean … these people are the fastest growing economies in the world. “They have literally millions upon millions of people - Indonesia alone is expected to have 60-70 million additional people in the consumer class in the next 20 years. “They’ll be looking to Victoria and Australia to be providing them with clean green agricultural production. We are well placed here in Elmore, Victoria to supply that Asian market. “We have got great opportunities, enormous opportunities. I think these field days are an important part. “As the Victorian Government we want to continue to grow opportunities in rural Victoria with the billion dollar regional growth fund. “We want to grow jobs, opportunities, and population in regional rural Victoria because we believe that by growing population it is good for Victoria, good for our economy and good for our future. “Here in Elmore you are very typical of the opportunity that abounds.” Then Premier Napthine plucked the cover from the plaque and declared Elmore Field Days 2013 open for business.

A parade of vintage tractors on the opening day.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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33rd annual Sungold Field Days

2013 Elmore Field Days Site Awards 1. Telstra Award - Technology & Innovation Winner: AWMA - i-Riser Plus Site No 199 2. BETTY CHILDS MEMORIAL AWARD Best Display in General Interest Area Winner: Dream Pot 3. The TMA’s Elmore Machine of the Year Award Winner: Air Filter Blaster, Demonstrated by Graintec 4. The Bendigo Advertiser Best Paddock Demonstration Award Winner: Lely Australia 5. The Weekly Times Machines of the Year Imported Machine of the Year Winner: Lely Splendid PC370 & 330 Mower Conditioner Exhibited by Lely Australia Australian Machine of the Year Winner: New Chaser Bin Design Exhibited by Dunstan Farmers Engineering

Wednesday 12th, Thursday 13th & Friday 14th February 2014 SITE BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN Contact: Emma Kavanagh / Lou Hollis Ph: (03) 5565 3142 Fax: (03) 5565 3158 Mob: 0407 724 552 Email: sungoldfielddays@wcbf.com.au Website: www.sungoldfielddays.com.au

FEATURES INCLUDE:

6. The Best Agribusiness Pavilion Exhibit Award Winner: Aussie Storage Centre 7. The Weekly Times Best Static Award Winner: Seed Distributors 8. LIFE GOVERNOR’S AWARD (Best Overall Exhibit) Elmore/Lockington/Rochester Community Bank Branches, Bendigo Bank Winner: Claas Harvest Centre Echuca

> the latest technology in milk harvesting equipment > motor vehicles and farm bikes > machinery display & demonstrations > soil and fertiliser advice > farming information > financial advice > tools & hardware supplies

SOUTH WEST VICTORIA’S ONLY DAIRY FIELD DAY

Major Sponsors:

Technology & Innovation winner i-Riser. 48

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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2 8 t h E A S T G I P P S L A N D F I E L D D AY S

COMMUNITY GROWTH THROUGH The Life Governor award went to Claas Harvest Centre Echuca.

AGRIBUSINESS

Lely won an award for its paddock demonstrations.

Sungold Field Days – a great day out! Now in its 33rd year, Sungold Field Days is again gearing up for a great event to be held February 12-14, 2014. This event is focused on providing the latest information, services, products and technology to the dairy and cattle breeding markets, and providing an entertaining day out for the whole family. Sungold Field Days is held over three days, opposite the Warrnambool Cheese & Butter Factory at Allansford (near Warrnambool in Victoria) at the start of the Great Ocean Road. It is a highly successful occasion for both exhibitors and farmers, highlighting the crucial role of the dairy industry in the regional economy. New machinery and product releases create a lot of interest at the event and a diverse range of farm services are also featured. This year will also feature some great entertainment, and a range of general interest and art and craft sites – something for everyone. As the field days event is located close to many tourist attractions along the Great Ocean Road, you could make exhibiting at the Sungold Field Days the start of a fabulous holiday. Find out more at www.sungoldfielddays.com.au or phone 03 5565 3142.

FRIDAY MAY 9 & SATURDAY MAY 10, 2014 BAIRNSDALE VICTORIA For a prospectus please visit www.egfielddays.com or telephone (03) 5153 1398

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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Henty wet but still welcoming Tens of thousands of visitors trampled through the mud to attend Henty Machinery Field Days’ (HMFD) 50th anniversary in September and thanks to the good rainfall across Victoria and central NSW, farmers were happy to open up their wallets, giving a welcome boost to the agricultural industry. According to HMFD chairman Ross Edwards the rain, election results and promising crop yields resulted in the large crowds. Hutcheon & Pearce group sales manager Andrew Sands helped launch a limited edition John Deere 150 horsepower tractor on opening day, selling 36 tractors by the final day, with toys and merchandising proving to be very popular. “The wet weather added to it and the field days were very positive for us,” Sands said. Owner of Konigs Shepparton Leo Schoonderbeek said that despite the wet weather he had plenty of good enquiries. “What I like about Henty is that you get to be involved with a broader range of farmers and you can sell to them directly,” Schoonderbeek said. “The farmers get to talk to you and see the tractor, or

The weather may have been wet but the crowds still came to Henty.

52nd Annual

Machinery

4,5,6 MARCH 2014

SITE APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN Ph: 03 5384 7210 info@wimmerafielddays.com.au www.wimmerafielddays.com.au Wimmera Machinery Field Days Inc. Longerenong via Horsham Victoria Australia

Phone: 03 5384 7210 Fax: 03 5384 7276 Email: info@wimmeraﬁelddays.com.au

www.wimmeraﬁelddays.com.au

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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mulcher, or hayraker and have confidence in you that you can really help them.” Gavin Stewart of Metalscape also said he had a great day with “a lot of good, genuine interest”. There were a record number of 34 entries in the Machine of the Year competition, with Morris Industries RAZR disc drill voted the winner. A contour special disc planter designed by NDF principal Dale Foster took out the coveted Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia award. A collection of vintage headers without air conditioned cabs, CD players and GPS technology were on display over the three days evoking memories of dust, heat

and wind for many older farmers. The collection of four vintage headers, a seed cleaning machine and a crane were a focal point on the opening day. A vintage fashion parade of garments worn over the past 50 years was one of the highlights in the Country Lifestyle pavilion, with more than 70 exhibitors displaying everything from soap bars that look like cupcakes to jewellery, woollen jumpers and shawls, to people willing to shine your muddy boots to demonstrate their products for sale. The 10th Henty Natural Fibre Fashion Awards showcased designers who created garments containing at least 70% natural fibres.

Open to amateurs and professionals, the awards recognise the innovative use of natural fibres, from paddock to catwalk, in creative but wearable clothing. Wodonga fashion designers Cathy Upton and Leanne O’Toole drew on inspiration from the Australian outback to take out the overall title, which was flooded with more than 70 entries from throughout Australia. With the surrounding canola crops in full bloom, visitors also took advantage of the helicopter joy rides, while the children splashed in the muddy puddles, taking much delight in getting as dirty as possible.

Wimmera Field Days broadacre business hub Held each year since 1963 in the first week of March at Longerenong near Horsham in western Victoria, the Wimmera Machinery Field Days is one of Australia’s largest agricultural and agribusiness trade and industry shows. It is one of the first major field days on the rural Australian calendar and along with being Victoria’s oldest field days, it is also Australia’s largest broadacre agricultural machinery focussed field day. A volunteer committee consisting of farmers and regional agribusiness representatives combine to manage the not-for-profit event each year. The Wimmera Machinery Field Days is a modern showcase of the latest developments in machinery equipment, technology and services and the field days committee has maintained a long-term charter to foster innovation and development in primary production and agribusiness. Wimmera is nationally recognised as the Victorian and southern Australian premier broadacre and agricultural machinery event. It attracts tens of thousands of patrons and exhibitors from across the country and overseas,

From the air you can see how large Wimmera Field Days really is.

and it generates millions of dollars in trade across a broad cross section of agricultural industry and rural business. Conservative estimates suggest the three days generate well over $50 million in direct field days’ trade. The Wimmera Field Days provides agricultural companies, businesses and organisations the chance to make strong and viable connections with the public and is a proven successful method of direct marketing. Being part of the event will ensure that products and services are seen by the largest number of potential buyers in

the shortest possible time. It’s direct and personal and it connects industry with customers and clients. It is faceto-face business that works. The Wimmera Field Days provides a forum for people to gather and discuss farm-technology developments, create networks, socialise, rekindle friendships and business relationships and to stay in touch with industry advances. For agricultural companies, farmers and rural landholders the Wimmera Machinery Field Days offers the perfect forum to talk and conduct business.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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Wandin Silvan event award winners

The 44th Wandin Silvan Field Days were held over the weekend of October 11 and 12 in 2013. The Field Days are the principal focus for the horticultural and agricultural

After a good few days of sales at the Wandin Silvan Field Days the winners of the best stands were presented. Best Presented Stand: Heavy Machinery - Darmac Ag Silvan Best Presented Stand: Light Equipment - Rural Fence and Trade Coldstream President’s Award: Glenmac, Lilydale Best Presented Stand: General Interest Top of the Range Nurseries Best Innovation Award: Hillbilly Camping Best Machinery and Equipment Award: Agpower Open Photographic Competition: Anita Mackay

South East Field Days

Lucindale 2014

O W !

Darmac won the award for best presented stand in the heavy machinery section at the Wandin Field Days.

producers of this particular region, and beyond. Some exhibitors came from as far as Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia and South Australia, as well as from regional and country Victoria, along with a large number from local and metropolitan areas. This year feature exhibitors ranged from farm machinery, light industrial equipment, motor vehicles and motor bikes, irrigation equipment and water tanks to information on the latest pest and weed control, fertilizers and chemicals. Demonstrations and displays of new equipment such as chain saws, ride-on mowers, retractable water sprayers and pruning techniques were held. Information on the packaging, transporting and labelling of fruit was also promoted.

E T I S U R O Y OK

Fri 21st & Sat 22nd March Put it in your diary &

BO The Family Friendly Field Days y Applications open now! y

SSSEF0170913

Please note: An extra administration fee of $30 per site will be charged to all applications received after the 6th December 2013

Contact Field Days Office 08 8766 7001

www.southeastfielddays.com.au AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

What's new in Hay and Summer Fodder Making hay with the sun shining Hay cutting was well underway as AFDJ went to press, with many farmers playing catch-up following a delayed start caused by wet conditions during September in much of Australia. The delayed start will have an impact but as yet that is an unknown quantity. The time of cut is significant when it comes to achieving first grade analysis and so a delay will have an impact on nutritional values. It is too early to even guess if there will be any negative impact because of the cooler temperatures, without many hot days the plants have not matured quickly and so the moisture may not have had much of an impact. According to the Australian Fodder Industry Association (AFIA), across the country we are seeing high levels of optimism from hay growers and contractors for a big fodder harvest. This is fuelled by low levels of carry over fodder stock from the 2012/13 season with prices and demand remaining fairly high on the domestic market. There is still some uncertainty as to what impact export hay prices will have. In general, crops are looking good in many hay growing regions. There are areas of frosted wheat in some parts of New South Wales and Southern Queensland. The exceptions to the positive harvest outlook are in northern Victoria, the Mallee, northern New South Wales and southern Queensland, that have dried off and will now need good rains to finish off the season. Moving onto silage, there are some early signals of a big summer crop planting for the coming season. Northern Victoria and southern New South Wales have irrigation allocations close to 100% and there is speculation of increased interest in maize again this year. This will contribute to restocking on farm fodder supplies in the dairy and beef sectors. Right across Australia the trade of

A big fodder harvest is expected so that should bode well for machinery sales.

domestic hay slowed considerably, with prices remaining fairly steady, after starting to soften in August. The exceptions are areas in northern New South Wales and Queensland that have had low rainfall/drought where demand for fodder for cattle is steady. In general there is very little bulk hay available for trading across the country. Looking forward, positive signals are coming from the dairy sector as milk prices increase. Hopefully this will resolve some cash flow issues that have affected the sector throughout this year. If this positive trend continues in the dairy sector it looks good for the fodder. The AFIA is encouraging farmers who rely on purchased fodder to start considering requirements for 2014 now. “The market for Australian fodder is becoming increasingly competitive and buyers can benefit from big savings and security of supply if they consider purchasing hay behind the baler in spring,” said AFIA executive officer Darren Keating. “Hay prices skyrocketed in autumn and winter this year due to a combination of declining hay production, little carry over fodder from 2011/12 and increased

demand for fodder,” Keating said. According to figures from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES), fodder production in Australia has been declining since 2008. Demand from the export sector has stayed steady as most exporters use a mix of contracts and purchasing hay at baling time. As a result they have long term relationships with fodder growers and have been able to maintain consistent supply. AFIA pricing data indicates that in 2013 domestic buyers who purchased hay behind the baler in spring made savings of up to $100-$150/T, compared with buying fodder in the peak of the season. “Buyers who were active and bought in spring, or maintained a good relationship with their growers, were generally insulated from paying high spot market prices this year,” Keating said “It’s important that stakeholders are aware of the importance of clear market signals between fodder growers and buyers, with the best time to have that conversation being now.” If you would like further information visit afia.org.au.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Faster better bales New South Wales contractor Stuart Garland’s fleet of Lely hay and silage machinery has improved the speed of his operation and raised the quality of his bales. Stuart and wife Kate own 200 acres at Glen William in the Hunter Valley, where they grow beef cattle and breed and show Clydesdale horses. Their contracting business, Williams River Farming Services, does hay and silage baling, ground preparation including deep ripping and discing, as well as fertiliser and chicken manure spreading. Stuart works another job from Monday to Friday and he wanted a way to speed up his contracting work. He bought his first Lely machine, a Lely Attis PT 160 bale wrapper, in September 2010. “I thought the Lely wrapper looked more robust and better constructed than other models and I like the fully automatic operation,” he said. “My son Jack has been doing our wrapping for 12 months – that’s how simple it is and easy to use.” Next Stuart and Kate bought a Lely Welger RP 445 variable chamber round baler in the spring of 2011 after doing extensive comparisons between it and other brands. “The baler’s robust construction and the feedback I received from other

contractors and farmers helped me decide on the Lely, and it has exceeded my expectations,” Stuart said. “It’s got a drop floor so if you get a blockage you don’t have to get out of the tractor and unblock it. You just lower the floor and it clears the blockage away. “It also has a rubber mount on the door below the rotary feed that flexes enough to let large chunks go through, which eliminates a lot of blockages.” Stuart said that you can’t put too much hay or fodder into the RP 445, regardless of how big the windrows are. “The more you feed it the better it is. It makes a beautiful bale. All my clients have commented on the better quality bale since I purchased the Lely baler. It’s also very easy on maintenance because it has an automatic oiler.” Two months ago the Garlands added to their fleet with a Lely Hibiscus 745 CD Vario rotary rake. The Hibiscus Vario 745 has a working width from 6.85m to 7.35m, and Stuart said it has lifted his bale quality even further due to the amount of fodder it pulls into each windrow. “The Hibiscus 745 rakes extremely clean and leaves a lovely fluffy windrow, and this has further enhanced the quality, shape and the compaction of the bale. It comfortably

rakes 16-20 acres an hour, which has cut my preparation time down immensely.” To complement the rotary rake, Stuart also runs a Lely Lotus 770 tedder, which follows a 3.0m mower conditioner. “Three passes of the mower match one pass of the tedder rake. It’s perfectly matched to my mower, which has again cut down the work. The previous tedder I had only covered two runs of the mower,” he said. “The Lely tedder has really sped up the preparation time and shortens the exposure to bad weather. “The gear I’ve got is probably larger than some of the people around here currently use but I’ve done it because I work Monday to Friday in a job and my time is limited.” Stuart has also run a 3.0m Lely Tulip power harrow for the past two years and uses it primarily for pasture preparation for lucerne. “It does a sensational job of breaking down the clods to very fine particles and leveling the seed bed.” Stuart buys his Lely equipment from Reliance Motors in Dungog, which he says offers excellent service and backup. For more information contact Lely Australia (03) 54 84 4000.

Stuart has invested heavily in Lely equipment. 54

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Aussie farmer tests prototype mower Queensland farmer David Schossow is waiting to take delivery of his Lely Splendimo PC 330R mower conditioner after being the test driver for two years. Schossow was looking to upgrade his old nine-foot mower when he was told about the Lely Splendimo PC at the field days in Toowoomba last year. He agreed to trial a prototype of the 3.3m model with roller conditioners that Lely wanted to test under Australian conditions and became a fan. David and wife Kate farm 280 acres at Boonah with 100 acres of lucerne as well as barley and grazing beef cows. Schossow tested the mower on lucerne and grass crops for six months and has had three different prototypes. He then ordered his Splendimo PC. The new Lely Splendimo PC is the first joint venture development project between Lely and US company Vermeer and is aimed at a global market. The PC stands for pull-type conditioner and it is available as a 330, which has a 3.3m working width, and a 370, which has a 3.7m working width. Lely Australia managing director Clive

Edwards said it was designed to handle American-style lucerne crops and European farming systems with both models having the option of steel roller conditioners or flail conditioners. Lely tested prototypes in Australia across the whole spectrum of crops – from lucerne to sorghum. “When we trialled this new one I liked the arm linkage where it pivots,” Schossow said. “It’s really good to use on David Schossow and the splendid our odd-shaped paddocks as you can turn Splendimo. a lot shorter.” Another feature he liked is the suspension and you won’t pick up mud. system and the mower’s ability to ‘float’ “We’ve mowed very thick grass for a over the ground in wet conditions. neighbour and it did a beautiful job. The frame includes two double-acting We’ve mowed lucerne with it and it’s also rams to control ground pressure and done a good job.” lifting of the mower. The operator can David pulls the mower with a Case IH adjust the ground pressure to suit field MX80C tractor with the wheels out wide conditions from the tractor cab. to straddle the crop when he’s mowing “If it rains a bit you can hold it up and lucerne. For a big crop he uses his Case make it float over the top of the ground. IH MX100. Plus it’s an easy adjustment to tilt the front,” Schossow said. “You can mow when Baler Belt Fasteners the ground is damp

Mato systems for high tensile round baler belts MATO Hammer Systems H20 and U20 are designed for use on high tensile round baler belts. The H20 series is a patented system manufactured from highgrade stainless steel. The low profile design of the fastener and compression into the belt provides a very smooth surface at the splice. The fastener operates well on small pulleys. The design leaves minimum wear on the splice and pulley offering extremely long service life. A standard box of fasteners consists of 12 strips of fasteners and 6 connecting pins to suit a 175 mm (7’’) wide belt. Longer fasteners and connecting pins are readily available. MATO Hammer System H20 fasteners are installed using either the 180mm or 350mm Eco Installation Unit. The Eco Installation Unit is available in two sizes with splice widths up to 180mm and 350mm being installed in one step. MATO Hammer System U20 fasteners are installed using the Profi range of Vice Lacers. For more information visit www.mato.com.au.

New installation tooling now available

For fasteners to suit all agricultural belts, contact: MATO Australia Pty Ltd Phone: 1300 850 795 Fax: (02) 4936 1388 Email: maus@mato.com.au

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

New Pöettinger dual rakes Pöettinger has new centre-swath TOP 612 C, TOP 702 C and TOP 762 C dual rakes to deliver unique manoeuvrability and protection of the ground and forage. Connection to the tractor is via a yoke tube and a practical PTO shaft holder and hose harness are provided to create a tidy laid out headstock. All models feature a steering angle of 73 degrees with a turning angle indicator. High manoeuvrability of the rake is ensured thanks to a single wide-angle PTO shaft and a 200mm shorter frame. The new TopTech+ rotor unit combines proven technology with a new design: the new rotors with a diameter of 2.80m

on the TOP 612 C, 3.07m on the TOP 702 C and 3.30m on the TOP 762 C and 11 or 13 tine arms retain their fieldproven characteristics. On the TOP 702 C and 762 C, Pöettinger offers the largest cam track diameter of 420mm and a tine arm bearing spacing of 600mm. The smaller TOP 612 C features a cam track diameter of 350mm. The large diameter and smooth cam track without steep inclines ensures uniform tine movement and gives the tine arms maximum stability with minimum stress on the arm bearings. The tine arms are easy to replace using just two bolts.

The cam track can be adjusted according to changing forage quantities and harvesting conditions. In spite of the impressive rotor diameter of up to 3.30m (with 13 tine arms) the transport height is below 4m on all models, without having to remove the tine arms. These machines are narrow during transport with a width of just 2.55m, for quick and safe transfer from one field to the next. For stability on slopes, the chassis frame is available with an outside width of 2.55m or 2.90m. For more information visit www.poettinger.com.au.

Poettinger has just released its new centre-swath dual rakes.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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What's new in Grain Harvesting & Storage New strain of grain

Dr Lee Hickey of the University of Queensland has developed a new strain of wheat.

Victorian grain growers are set to benefit from a new strain of wheat, resistant to stripe rust and pre-harvest sprouting. It’s one of the first products developed at the University of Queensland using a new breeding strategy that slashes the time needed to introduce new genes into an existing crop variety from over 10 years to just two-and-a-half years. The university is working with local Ballarat grower-owned seed company GrainSearch, and these wheat lines are

being grown in field trials in Victoria and New South Wales. “Pending the performance of the wheat lines, we reckon that this new wheat variety with high yield potential, resistance to stripe rust and pre-harvest sprouting tolerance could be available to Victorian growers in less than four years,” said Dr Lee Hickey, University of Queensland. With his team, Hickey has used the same techniques to rapidly produce disease resistant strains of barley.

Grain harvest management scheme for NSW NSW Farmers welcomed the establishment of a grain harvest management scheme announced by Roads Minister Duncan Gay. Bill McDonnell, NSW Farmers spokesperson, said this is something that will make a huge difference to grain farmers across the state, providing flexibility of up to 5% over general mass limits for both gross vehicle mass and axle group masses. McDonnell said it was almost impossible to know with any accuracy the weight of a truck when it leaves the farm during

harvest. “This scheme will provide farmers with the confidence to load to the current legal limits knowing that if they go marginally over they will not be penalised,” McDonnell said. Some councils were still deciding on whether to participate in the scheme, which require the consent of each individual local government area. McDonnell said some councils feared the scheme would lead to increased truck weights. “But just as it is nearly impossible to

accurately guess the legal weight limits, it is equally impossible to try and load trucks to exactly 5% overweight,” he said. “Drivers will have to load to the current legal weight limits with the 5% used as flexibility.” Around 27 councils have signed up to the scheme, mostly in the centre of the state. Councils in the Riverina area are yet to sign with Moree, Wentworth, Murray, Berrigan and Corowa all declining to participate, thereby disadvantaging grain farmers and grain handlers in their area.

GrainCorp app now on Android GrainCorp has an Android grain price and stock management Smartphone app. The App was configured for iPhone and has amassed around 7000 users. “Over 80% of grain delivered to the GrainCorp network is warehoused and sold at a later date, so the ability to keep up to date with prices is crucial to growers as they make important marketing decisions,” said GrainCorp acting general manager, storage & logistics Neil Johns. The new app gives users of Android Smartphones the same functionality as the 58

iPhone app. It features the best cash price displayed, all site comparisons, site segregations, information, alerts and notifications, GrainCorp contract prices, site price comparisons, summary of deliveries, direct lines to local sites and for local merchants and estimated pool returns. Johns said the current app was used by growers and by brokers working on behalf of growers, traders and by truck drivers. “The app, with live pricing linked to our GrainTransact stock management

platform, is playing an important role in the decisions growers are making about where to take grain at harvest and when to sell it,” he said. “Opening and closing times can be critical for truck operators at harvest time. Many are using the app to keep abreast of extensions or variations in our opening times at the peak of harvest.” The GrainCorp Android app is available from the Google Play store and via the Android app link at graincorp.com.au.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

GrainCorp foreign takeover on hold

Farmers have described selling off Australia’s largest agribusiness GrainCorp to a US buyer akin to putting Telstra’s infrastructure under foreign control. “The Federal Government would never allow Telstra’s communications infrastructure to be sold off to a foreign company,” Victorian Farmers Federation grains group president Brett Hosking said. “Yet they’re willing to consider selling off Australia’s largest agribusiness to a US global food giant (Archer Daniels Midland), which would give it control of 90% of Australia’s east coast grain export handling infrastructure and 75% of domestic grain storage and handling. That’s just not on.” Hosking joined NSW and Queensland grain growers to present their case esel Engine Oil on opposing the ADM takeover of GrainCorp to Federal Treasurer Joe

Hockey’s advisers, Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce and Senator Fiona Nash. Farmers were heartened to see that Hockey had signed an interim order under the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act, delaying his decision on the ADM takeover until December 17, 2013. “It is clear the proposed takeover by ADM will be the first true test of the Liberal-National Coalition Government,” Hosking said. “We emphasised to the Treasurer’s office that an ADM takeover delivers very little new investment,” he said. “It simply hands essential ports and other grain network infrastructure into foreign hands – right along the eastern seaboard of Australia. “Treasurer Hockey must carefully Tractor Transmission consider the impact of an ADM Tractor Transmission and Hydralics takeover and on Australia’s grain supply Hydralics chain.

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“For these reasons and more we appeal to the Treasurer to deny the purchase, so we can ensure a transparent and competitive grains food market. “An ADM takeover is not in the interest of grain growers nor the nation as a whole.” The National Party has steadfastly opposed the ADM takeover.

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AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

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B-double grain tipper As farms get bigger and harvesting equipment increases in output, grain growers are looking for ways to improve efficiency of cartage operations. Dunstan, a Victorian-based company, has released a new B-double grain tipper that went on show at this year’s Mallee Machinery Field Days. It follows the launch of the company’s single aluminium grain tipper earlier this year. Dunstan’s trailer division factory manager Brendan Murphy said the same design philosophy has been applied to the design of the A-trailer. “With the earlier B-trailer, which is the second part of the new combination, we were aiming for between six and seven tonnes and got that easily,” he said. “We’ve now brought the A-trailer in at 6.9 tonnes with standard high tensile G350 steel.” Murphy said that while weight reduction had been a major design goal, his team had also set out to improve efficiency and appearance. “The internal slider guides run on ultradensity polyethylene with removable and adjustable bearing plates. It gives the chassis a clean appearance and eliminates the wear and stress points found on some trailers.

“Locking pins are positive action with a very visible indicator.” Chief designer Chris Liston said the trailer was very versatile offering open B-double, road train intermediate, and single or closed end tipping configurations. “It’s set up for fast, clean output and turnarounds with a proven tip through grain emptying system. There’s a large centre chute and the wheel chutes don’t require the removal of any guard material. “We’ve also given a lot of thought to integrated lighting,” Liston said. “The sidelights are full combination units incorporating indicators that increase the visibility of a turning vehicle, especially important with B-doubles.” “And a custom designed wiring extrusion creates a very smooth appearance while still providing ready access for maintenance. It also makes integrated top power accessible for other applications like internal tub lamps, load instrumentation and monitoring devices. “The sealed cavity keeps out moisture and dust but a rubber strip is easily removed if you do need to get at the wiring,” he added. “Two high power LED lamps at the top of the tailgate give great work area illumination. They’re easily angled and the

switch is down where the driver can get at it easily.” Murphy said they had paid particular attention to the mounting of the spare wheel. “They’re usually on a low hanging tyre carrier which is very prone to damage. Instead, we’ve used a wind up mechanism that pulls the spare up tightly under the rails clear of stubble and out of harm’s way.” The current release Dunstan trailers feature Hendrickson Intraxx suspension running on aluminium wheels. But Chris Liston explained the company could source all major brand suspensions, axles and other equipment to meet customer requirements. Jost Hidromas hoists provide lifting power with four-stage on the A-trailer and five on the B-trailer. Landing legs and kingpins are also from Jost. Dunstan director Craig Miller said the tare weight reduction across both trailers was significant and would improve harvest efficiency. “Extra payload and investment in good gear helps reduce transport costs,” he said. “We’ve had over 50 years experience building high-capacity mother bins and chaser bins. Moving into road trailers to provide integrated grain handling solutions has been a logical extension for us.”

Dunstan’s new B-Double tipper for grain applications is now available. 60

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

A Case for spraying Excellent growing conditions in multiple regions across Australia should ensure good crops. In South Australia, grain farmers are anticipating one of their biggest ever crops thanks to the wettest start to winter in 10 years: central and southern New South Wales, particularly the Riverina, have had above average rainfall and good growing conditions; and southern Western Australia is already seeing excellent crop development. “These lucrative crops could be at risk if they are not adequately protected, and the optimal growing seasons could be a waste,” said John Dreves, Case IH product manager for Patriot sprayers. Case IH’s AIM Command technology improves spraying efficacy with spray pressure control that ensures even application for any type of machinery speed or terrain. The operator can also control the chemical droplet size, resulting in better coverage and less drift. “The short-term cost of spray drift may be wasted chemicals, but the bigger issue is loss of crop,” said Dreves. AIM Command can operate at speeds up to 40km an hour and the user can change tip-size on-the-go and toggle between two pre-set application pressure valves without varying the speed ratio or stopping to manually make the change. “The ability to deliver consistent droplet size at varying speeds in irregular paddocks truly sets our technology apart,” said Dreves. “The range of field conditions and the efficient chemical application of the AIM Command provide a more efficient system without the worry of damaging nearby crops.” It’s easy to switch between AIM Command spraying and conventional spraying using the same boom.

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Case IH’s AIM Command improves spraying efficiency with a large amount of operator control.

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AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

What's New in ATVs, SSVs, RTVs, Ag Bikes ROPS not what they seem says FCAI The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) and the Australian All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) industry (a group of ATV distributors) called for proposals for the use of rollover devices (ROPS) on ATVs to be rejected. Reports released by Dynamic Research Inc (DRI), an international company specialising in applied research in the areas of vehicle dynamics and controls, simulator technology and accident investigation, confirmed that Rollover Protection Systems (ROPS) and Crush Protective Devices (CPDs) on ATVs can cause unacceptably high levels of harm in comparison with benefits. Updated research into one type of locally produced CPD found it caused more harm than it prevented in the sample of overturns examined, regardless of whether a helmet was worn. “The ATV industry will continue to put

GoPro with CFMoto CFMoto has a new promotion to benefit customers that purchase a CFMoto Z6, Z6EX or Z8 side-byside vehicle. Every CFMoto Z6, Z6EX or Z8 side-by-side vehicle sold until the end of January 2014 will include a free GoPro camera. “We wanted to make it as simple as possible for customers to capture, edit and share vision of their adventures with their CFMoto products,” said CFMoto Australia’s Michael Poynton. “So, for a short time, we’re giving customers a GoPro camera via redemption so they can capture some great footage. “We’re also giving customers a chance to win $1000 by sharing their GoPro footage of their CFMoto on our Facebook page – facebook.com CFMotoAustralia.”

the safety of riders first by opposing the use of rollover devices in Australia,” said Cameron Cuthill, FCAI motorcycle manager. “The research is state-of-technology and is based upon published research and relevant portions of international research standards, as expected of a quality report. “It confirms that rollover devices, and in particular so-called ‘crush protective devices’, should not be fitted to ATVs.” According to the FCAI recent calls by interest groups for rollover devices to be mandated is based on flawed logic, misinformation and research that does not adhere to relevant international standards. “Studies conducted in Australia attempting to make a case for CPDs are very limited, don’t follow international standards, and have not involved any practical tests undertaken with injury monitoring crash dummies to verify the The GoPro promotion will run from 1 October 2013 to 31 January 2014. For more details visit www.cfmoto.com.au.

Every Z6 CFMoto sold comes with a GoPro camera until January next year.

validity of the assumptions upon which they rely,” said Cuthill. The DRI research included refinements to ATV accident scenario simulations to specifically address concerns raised by local interest groups. All ATV riders should be trained to operate the vehicle, always wear a helmet, not carry more than the approved number of passengers, and only use the vehicle for its intended purposes. Children under 16 years of age should never be allowed on an adult-sized ATV. “ATVs are not toys and should not be treated as such,” said Cuthill. “Unfortunately, while the focus remains on rollover devices, real solutions will continue to be ignored. “Attention should instead be maintained on helmet use, training and keeping children off full-size ATVs.”

Tomcar Alternative ATV Tomcar Australia has an offroad alternative to current vehicles. Its safety features include an armor reinforced drive system and front end, long suspension travel. It has a strong light tubular steel frame welded as a one piece unit roll cage. Tomcar uses more than 300 welded parts to make up the frame with armoured steel in strategic locations. The vehicle’s low centre of gravity keeps it more stable at steep angles and when cornering and makes it less likely to roll. It can drive along slopes at angels of up to 45 degrees. The frame supports a car style independent four wheel suspension. Each bucket seat has a four point harness and the windscreen is made of clear safety glass. For more information visit www.tomcar.com.au.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Motorcycle and ATV sales up Motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and scooter sales have risen almost 1% this year, with almost 80,000 sold in Australia between January and September 2013. The 79,949 sales are 0.8% higher than in the same period last year. Releasing the motorcycle, ATV and scooter sales figures for the period 1 January to 30 September 2013, Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) chief executive Tony Weber said road motorcycle sales remained steady, increasing by 0.8% (31,401 sold); however off-road motorcycles were up by 10.7% (26,628 sold). ATV and scooter sales decreased 7.5% and 11.9% respectively compared with

the same period in 2012 – 14,968 ATVs and 6,952 scooters sold. “Honda led sales of road motorcycles and ATVs for the period. Yamaha led off-road motorcycle sales and Piaggio led scooter sales,” Weber said. Honda sold 6299 new motorcycles, followed by Harley-Davidson with 5779 and Kawasaki with 5211. Victory Motorcycles continued its steady progress towards increased market share, selling 364 units – a 12.7% increase on the same period in 2012. Yamaha increased its sales of offroad motorcycles by 9% (7811 sold) compared with the same period last year. Honda followed with steady growth (13.5%) at 6356 units sold. KTM

and Suzuki came third and fourth, respectively, in the off-road segment with 4499 and 3390 sold. While Honda continued to lead the ATV sales race, its sales volume contracted in comparison with the same period last year - down 11.1%, with 3772 sold. It was followed by Yamaha (3033), Polaris (2904) and Suzuki (1478). BRP experienced significant growth (1283 units) - up 24.6% compared with the same time in 2012. Across all segments, Honda was the leading volume manufacturer with 17,286 units sold, followed by Yamaha (14,133), Kawasaki (8,501) and Suzuki (7,669).

Polaris goes heavy-duty for Australia The Polaris 2013 Hawkeye 400 2x4 HD now comes with greasable/sealed ball joints, sealed driveshaft splines and sealed suspension bushings to provide increased durability and easier maintenance. The Hawkeye 400 2x4 HD has a liquidcooled, 455cc high-output engine, independent rear suspension and a combined 122kg front and rear rack capacity, 557kg towing capacity and disc brakes all around.

ATVs and UTVs are gaining a following on farm and on the track.

For more information visit www.polarisindustries.com.au.

MOTO EXPO to show ATVs and UTVs The inaugural MOTO EXPO on March 21-23 2014 at Brisbane’s RNA Showground will showcase the emerging side-by-side (UTV) sector within its major exhibition. UTVs are growing in popularity in Australia and overseas and MOTO EXPO will display many of the latest vehicles, from heavy-duty farm models to full-blown, modified race machines. The competitive sport of side-by-side racing is also on the rise. Off-road racing

and 4WD events all cater for various versions of these side-by-side vehicles.   MOTO EXPO will hold live racing demonstrations, as well as offer test rides for visitors interested in finding out more about these four-wheel machines. Event patrons will also have the chance to win a number of hot laps with special guest drivers including Troy Bayliss.   MOTO EXPO will display a wide range of brands and styles of UTVs and ATVs.

The Polaris Hawkeye 400 is now in heavy-duty configuration for Australian conditions.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

What's New in Products – General Equipment Strong yields by improving soil

Smeeton chooses precision seeding over deep digging.

Optimal soil structure is the holy grail for WA grower Colin Smeeton, who believes he’ll achieve strong yields without having to rely so heavily on well-timed rain by making his paddocks into water-holding sponges. Smeeton has been edging towards improved soil health since 2006, and the 70ft Flexi-Coil PD 5700 precision hoe drill he bought in 2012 is an important part of his plan. The Smeeton family has been farming at Trayning, 80 km east of Dowerin, for more than 100 years. This year they put in 500 hectares of lupins, 300-400 hectares of barley, and the balance of the 3600 hectare property is planted with wheat. Smeeton chooses precision seeding over deep digging as part of his approach to optimised soil health, and bought the PD 5700 after seeing a demo from Boekeman Machinery in Dallwallinu and being impressed by the consistent crop establishment that followed. “I’d been looking at a lot of machines, all different types,” he said. “I went to a demo and was just blown away by its flexibility and ability to hold the seed down.” 64

The PD 5700 uses automatically adjustable downward frame pressure to keep the seed depth even, regardless of soil conditions or undulation of the terrain. This was important because the property still has changeable soil from one area to the next. “Being able to manage seed placement is very important in my program but it’s a challenge because I have varying soil types. It can change in 100 yards through the paddock, from sandy soils to gravel country at the other end,” he said. “In the PD 5700, I just set the breakout and the machine uses the automatic downward frame pressure to keep the seed depth consistent. When it doesn’t need as much breakout, it releases frame pressure.” Smeeton sets his bar at 70% of the maximum 250 kg/ 550 lb breakout force (about 180 kg/400 lb), with two settings on either side. The automatic adjustment makes accurate seeding easy enough that an operator unfamiliar with a property can still get good results. “You could turn it off and leave it up to the tractor operator but they’d have to really know the paddock and the soil.

Setting to automatic means you don’t have to rely on your operator to know the property well,” he said. “There’s nothing complicated. You need to get your head around how the pressures work and get used to using the Flexcontrol screen, but it’s very straightforward.” The unit folds into a compact and narrow envelope that makes it easy to transport. “I could sink in deep and burn lots of diesel and buy the latest and greatest tractor to pull a smaller bar, but that’s not the way I wanted to go,” said Smeeton. “There’s growing evidence that if you can improve your soil structure, you can go the other way, with wider bars, and smaller horsepower tractors, so that’s the direction I’m going. “I’m working on agronomy for my soil types, trying different things like liming to get the calcium down. “I’m also looking at adding nutrients to get the soils right to increase crop yields.” For more information visit www.flexicoil.com.au.

Colin Smeeton has been edging towards improved soil health since 2006.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

AgClutch has comprehensive range AgClutch is a major brand underneath the Australian Clutch Services (ACS) banner. It is Australia’s and possibly the Southern Hemisphere’s largest manufacturer and distributor of agricultural and fork truck clutch kits, power take off units, marine dampers and components. ACS has a great sales reputation and excellent technical support of the clutch product it distributes, as well as extensive experience, which makes AG Clutch and ACS a market leader. AgClutch now has one of Australia’s most comprehensive ranges of clutch

kits and components. It has the A (Allis Chalmers) to Z (Zetor) catalogue, specializing in rare and obsolete components as well as focusing on the new and common machinery in today’s market. AgClutch also has a full workshop facility for clutch re-building and flywheel machining, including stock of various friction materials, giving them the ability to customize any clutch package for unique or particular applications. Contact AgClutch on 1800 CLUTCH (258824) or visit www.agclutch.com.au.

Coupled up Walterscheid Australia has a modular coupling system that suits a large number of combinations of different tractors. The K80 ball coupling system is suited to towing trailers, loader wagons, manure spreaders, liquid-manure tanks with high drawbar loads. The system comprises of the tractor, the coupling system and drawn implement, which is exposed to severe impacts and jolts when travelling on and off highway. As a result safety may be impaired using a standard drawbar pin device which is subject to extensive wear or breakage. The Walterscheid K80 system draws implements without any impact even while on difficult terrain and at relatively high speeds. The K80 ball at the back of the tractor and the cup on the implement side have

large surface contact areas: they engage positively but display extreme angular mobility. According to Walterscheid the system will not jam even at extreme driving angles such as turning at headlands. Additionally connection and disconnection is possible at axial and vertical angles of well over 20°. The K80 is designed for drawn implements with high drawbar loads up to 4000kg provided the tractor has a corresponding rating. Tractor ladders, drawbars, hitches and cups are available for nearly every tractor on the market. The K80 System is available through the Walterscheid dealer network or call 03 9580 7300.

AgClutch has its catalogue available online.

Agrifac Condor crop protection The Condor is available with tank capacities of 3400, 4000 or 5000 litres and with spray booms from 24-51 meters. Its low weight, adjustable track width from 150cm-225cm (6''- 88’’) or with the Condor WideTrackPlus 225-300cm (88”118’’), high ground clearance (standard from 125cm, option 200cm), boom stability and exceptional manoeuvrability the Condor ideal for the Australian crop grower. The Condor is available with a 205bhp or 285bhp power option and is the first self-propelled sprayer on the international market to fulfil the Stage IIIB/Tier 4A regulations thanks to Adblue technology. For more information visit www.agrifac.com.

Make TRAX for tools TRAX Kawasaki Australia, a family owned and operated import and wholesale company based in Melbourne, Victoria, is offering a comprehensive range of guaranteed tools from Taiwan and Japan to Australian rural and farming industries. The company, established for 27 years,

offers excellent service to the rural sector via 500 stockists and outlets throughout the country. All products are guaranteed, backed by a comprehensive spare parts backup, quick delivery and 99% stock holdings. A catalogue of products is available and can be obtained by sending a request

note to Airtex Pty Ltd, PO Box 2719 Seaford BC, Seaford Vic 3198. Products are diverse, from pneumatic tools from ¼” to 1½” drive, bearing removal tools to specialised Japanese lock nut shifters and stainless combination pliers. For more information call 1800 686 657.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Manutec Mud Razors Manutec has released a new range of Mud Razor 16” gauge wheels to suit John Deere Single Disc Openers 1860 and 1890 models and Double Disc Openers (MaxEmerge 1700/1730 models) and similar makes. The new wheels are a split spoked rim design. Tyre options include a hard rubber tyre with a unique inbuilt steel face scraper for the 1860 and 1890 models and a soft tyre with a hardened face for the MaxEmerge models. Various hub options are available to allow fitment to a large range of machines. Tyre widths of 80mm and 110mm are available. The new wheels have been specifically designed to operate in Australian conditions and to reduce the through life operational and maintenance costs associated with these types of wheels.

The new wheels will be able to fitted straight on to most current machinery makes such as John Deere, Case, Titanium, Massey Ferguson and Barton. Additionally the wheels can be fitted to Australian made equipment such as AUSTIL, EXCEL and BOSS. Rims, tyres and hubs have been specifically designed to allow fitment to the John Deere 1860 and 1890 single disc openers and MaxEmerge double disc openers. The new gauge wheels have an inbuilt steel scraper that removes more mud and clay and straw from the disc, helping to reduce plugging. Spoked rims allow better flow of residual mud and trash through the rim to further reduce plugging. Hard tyre gives increased wear and resistance to hard stubble tyre damage. Soft tyre options are also available.

Manutec has a large range of press wheels, gauge wheels and coulters to suit Australian and overseas machinery.

An aluminium rim reduces weight, which reduces wear on other componentry. Tyre design helps to reduce compaction of soil along the disc cut. The new 21” replacement gang tyres for the John Deere 1820 and 1830 Air Drills are also now in stock. A complete replacement wheel for the 1820 and 1830 should be available for the 2014 season. These wheels should also be compatible with a number of machinery makes such as Bourgault and Flexicoil. New 16” replacement press wheel rims and tyres for the John Deere 1870 Conservapaks have also come into stock. Manutec has a large range of press wheels, gauge wheels and coulters to suit all Australian and overseas brands and it has been serving Australian farmers for more than 25 years. For more information call Dan or Mick on 08 8260 2277

Manutec wheels in a spoked rim design.

Honda OHV engines since 1983 It was 1983, a time of bad hairdos and Pac Man and from deep within Honda a landmark – the release of the GX Series Overhead valve (OHV) engine. At the time, OHV technology was regarded as unnecessary but in the 30 years since the unit has been widely recognised as one of the most successful developments in the industry. In a 2003 interview, the Japanese engineer responsible for the GX Series 66

OHV engine, Yonekazu Uestsuji, said that getting the engine past management at the time was incredibly difficult. “Some managers felt that the additional cost of OHV was not warranted,” he said at the time. Uestsuji persuaded his managers that the OHV was a worthwhile product as well as the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). “There’s a hugely diverse range of

products that the GX Series engines are used in – too many to list – but our website is a great place to start looking,” said Honda Australia’s engine manager, Chris New. The website is poweredby.honda.com. au and it has a full listing of available engines. The site details the product categories that incorporate Honda engines and Honda’s OEM partners who sell them.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Labrador discs perform beyond expectations Great Western Tillage has been marketing Labrador discs since July 2004 and in this time, more than 23,000 discs have been supplied throughout Australia. These discs are now working successfully on many different types of offsets; examples include 22” & 26” discs for the ever popular IHC 3-4 and IHC3-5 offsets, 28” discs for the Grizzly “S” offsets and 32” discs for the robust Alfarm 080 units. All these machines and many others are working successfully in a wide and varied range of soil conditions with virtually no adverse effects in the field

being reported to date. The increasing number of repeat customers who have decided to continue using Labrador discs on their machinery indicates great end user satisfaction. The increased wearing capabilities of Labrador discs, coupled to the fact that the price is identical to the traditional scalloped discs, ensures that the end user gets value for money. To view a short video of Labrador discs working in the field, go to the Great Western Tillage website at www. gwtillage.com.au and navigate to the Discs & Coulters section.

For more information contact the GWT sales teams at the Toowoomba branch on 07 4636 9150 or the Bendigo branch on 1800 087871.

More than 23,000 Labrador discs have been sold in Australia.

Strong, light, ultra-wide spray booms are the future Hardi sales and marketing manager Steve Parker said growers and contractors are recognising the potential for strong but lightweight aluminium booms to dramatically improve productivity in a cost effective way. “Every grower and contractor wants to optimise their spraying operation,” he said. “Increasing tank volume to reduce the number of fills and going faster can both increase the work rate, but nothing is more effective than a wider boom. “A wider boom means you cover more ground in less time while reducing engine hours, labour hours and fuel consumption. But traditional steel booms are heavy so there’s a practical limitation in terms of the widths they can go to.

“As in so many industries, weight is the enemy of power and performance. “Aluminium booms are much lighter, but Pommier’s construction methods mean their lighter weight doesn’t compromise on strength. “Our Pommier booms are just half the weight of their steel counterparts but they are incredibly robust.” Pommier engineers its own profiles, using larger cross-sections than in many steel boom designs. “The aluminium truss designs deliver incredible performance through design and construction techniques perfected by Pommier over 30 years of manufacturing experience. “The Pommier aluminium booms are also very hard-wearing even in harsh conditions because aluminium is more

corrosive-resistant than steel and does not require painting.” Hardi offers four Pommier aluminium booms, in widths ranging from 24 to 42 m. For more information visit www.hardi.com.au.

The Pommier aluminium booms are half the weight of steel equivalents.

Spot spray from an ATV The latest addition to the Silvan Selecta Spotpak range is for use on an ATV or similar vehicle for spot spraying, fence line, row or general maintenance needs. With the Spotpak 12V Redline model, the sprayer has a 55 litre capacity UV stabilised Polytuff polypropylene tank, supplied as a self-contained unit.

The pump is 12V self priming providing 2.5 litres per minute of open flow at a maximum of 50 PSI and includes Viton valves and a TPU diaphragm, which is ideal for spot spraying. Call 1300 SILVAN (1300 745 826) or visit www.silvan.com.au.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

For spring and summer planting Controlling weeds to preserve the moisture content of paddocks in fallow is no doubt front-of-mind for farmers considering spring/summer planting. Considering the impact of machinery on yield is a factor that can sometimes be overlooked. Using a planter designed around the latest agronomic science such as the Case IH Early Riser 1230 will ensure plant uniformity, which has a profound and positive impact on yield. While in-row spacing is important for accuracy, it is in fact uniform spacing, uniform soil-to-seed contact and uniform emergence that best boost productivity and profit. “What puts the Early Riser 1230 in a class of its own is the ‘V’ seed trench – the only true ‘V’ available,” said Case IH product manager, William Connolly. “The furrow firming point of the ‘V’

eliminates loose bulk soil and creates accurate depth placement, uniform soil pressure below the seed and superior moisture conductivity to the seed.” “Combined with a zero-pressure press wheel, narrow seed trench and small soil retention groove on the gauge wheel, this results in earlier, more uniform emergence – and an advantage of up to three days.” To get uniform emergence you need a planter that provides: proper seed depth uniform correct seed depth across the planter and throughout the field • good seed to soil contact • uniform soil density all around the seed “Case IH in the US collected data of 162,000 plant measurements from more than 20 sites, in six states, over four growing seasons,” said Connolly.

“It showed that the Early Riser planter produces a 6% to 10% improvement of Net Effective Stand Percentage (NESP) over conventional row units. “This means growers get season after season of better stands, more uniform emergency, accurate populations and – in the end – higher yield.” A limited supply of Early Riser planters is available in Australia.

• •

Case IH has the solution for planting with its Early Riser 1230.

Steps to check your water pump With the approach of the fire season Australian Pump Industries is urging property owners to refresh their bushfire survival plan. A bushfire survival plan has two options: "stay and defend"or "leave early". “If the plan is to stay and defend then preparation must include checking that your fire pump and hoses are in top working order,” said Australian Pump Industries’ chief engineer John Hales. Step 1: check the engine oil level according to the engine manual. Step 2: make sure the air and fuel filters are clean. Step 3: flush out stale fuel, if any, and refuel. It is necessary to repeat this at least once during the season to ensure the fuel doesn’t degrade. It may be advisable to add fuel stabiliser. Step 4: make sure the engine starts easily. The spark plug may need replacing. For further information refer to the engine manual. If in doubt it’s a good idea to get the engine serviced by a competent mechanic. 68

Before connecting the hoses check them. Give them a visual check and run your hands along them to make sure they’re sound. The next step is to connect the fire hoses and check for leaks. A pump that sucks air won’t prime. Lastly, check pump wet end for leaks. If your pump is over five years old it could be time to replace the seals. Elastomers do deteriorate over time and even top quality seals and o-rings can have a limited shelf life. Don’t take chances. When the pump is ready ensure there is quick and easy access to a water source. Check the suction hose is the correct length. If the water source is a dam or pool that contains debris a suction filter must be fitted. During the fire season the pump should be run for a short time every two weeks. After use disconnect your pump from the water supply and drain the pump housing. To “stay and defend” a simple, robust, high performance, engine drive self priming pump like the Aussie “Fire Chief”

Checking water pumps before the heat of summer is vital.

is essential. It is available in either single or twin impeller versions and can produce an 450 litre per minute maximum flow. It also offers a delivery in the Mr T twin impeller version, of up to 110 metres. Further information is at www.aussiepumps.com.au.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Grizzly brings sand back to life When you think of offset discs in Australia the first brand you think of is Grizzly – but there is more to Grizzly’s range than disc ploughs. In Australia the company also designs and manufactures a range of 3-point linkage rear mount hydraulic heavy-duty grader blades and a complete range of straight shanks key-line style rippers and the curved/parabolic style rippers. The Grizzly Deep Digger is a curved tine ripper that is starting to prove extremely popular with farmers bringing back to life areas of non-wetting sands over clay. The really appealing thing about the Grizzly Deep Digger, according to sales manager Scott Williams, is that the machine is so versatile. “You can use it simply as a ripper to bust up ground or knock out rabbit burrows or you can adapt wider fronts to the tine to use it as a delver when you have sands over clays,” he said. “With the heavy duty crumble roller your paddock remains smooth and ready for what ever you wish to do on your paddock next, unlike delvers which are specific to one job only, require huge

amounts of horsepower and leave your paddock rough and generally then require a working with a spader or an offset.” The Deep Digger comes in sizes from one tine through to 11 tine or one metre to five metres wide and in both linkage and in trailing models all with 500mm tine spacing and with a maximum working width of 26”. Grizzly says the secret lies in the “V” formation of the machine, which allows for maximum efficiency with pulling

through the ground and also allowing for best flow of soil and organic matter. Farmers have had success with using the Grizzly Deep Digger in WA, SA and also the North West Parts of Victoria and in some cases farmers have report to Grizzly that parts of their farms have had a four-fold increase in production from just one pass of the Deep Digger. For more information 1800 637 250. Grizzly's Deep Digger is versatile.

Danfoss hydraulic power solutions Sauer-Danfoss is a supplier of hydraulic and electrohydraulic solutions to the mobile machine market. The company is now known as Danfoss Power Solutions, a fully integrated business segment within the global Danfoss Group. Apart from that its business as usual. One of many new products is the first orbital motor in the V-Series, targeting medium-duty agricultural machinery. The V-Series enables OEMs to optimise the system design and cost of small to medium-size farming machinery. The first V-Series orbital motor is the VMP, covering a displacement range of 50 to 315 cm3 [3.05-19.2 in3] and with a pressure capability up to 140 bar [2030.5 psi], offering the same

space-saving and quality features as the Danfoss O-Series orbital motors and even lighter in weight. By focusing on hydraulic work functions in the medium-duty range, Danfoss has given the VMP the necessary durability to last the lifetime of the machine. “The VMP has been designed with less demanding or infrequent tasks in mind. "That makes it of particular interest to manufacturers of seasonal farming machines, such as harvesters, seeders, spreaders and for medium-duty tasks, such as driving the conveyors on agricultural equipment,” said Bill Renton, national sales manager Danfoss Power Solutions. In addition to the design flexibility provided by the symmetrical three-

chamber motor design, the VMP features a high-pressure shaft seal. For many applications, this eliminates the need to connect a drain line to the tank, significantly reducing installation costs. The VMP joins the other well-known O-Series and T-Series motors in the Danfoss Power Solutions range. More information at www.powersolutions.danfoss.com.

AUSTRALASIAN FARMERS’ & DEALERS’ JOURNAL - NOVEMBER 2013

Advertiser Index Airtex Pty Ltd.......................................................................29 www.traxtools.com.au

Manutec Pty Ltd..................................................................15 www.manutec.com.au

Ag Appointments Employment............................................22 www.agri.com.au

Mato Australia P/L...............................................................56 www.mato.com.au

Agrifac Machinery BV..........................................................28 www.agrifac.com

Mirco Bros Pty Ltd...............................................................16 www.mircobros.com.au

Australian Clutch Services....................................................24 www.australianclutch.com.au

Munro Engineers Pty Ltd.....................................................34 www.munroeng.com

Australian Pump Industries..................................................20 www.aussiepumps.com.au

Murray Valley Lasers P/L......................................................59 www.murrayvalleylasers.com.au

Bare-Co................................................................................71 www.bareco.com.au

Poettinger Australia Pty Ltd..................................................57 www.poettinger.com.au

Brown Brothers Engineers Aust. Pty Ltd................................7 www.brownbros.com.au

Power Equipment Pty Ltd....................................................19 www.powerequipment.com.au

Burder Industries..................................................................21 www.burder.com.au

Powerlite Generators............................................................30 www.powerlite.com.au

Case IH..................................................................................2 www.caseih.com

Sauer-Danfoss-Daikin P/L...................................................12 www.powersolutions.danfoss.com

Clark Equipment Sales.........................................................25 www.clarkequipment.com

South East Field Days..........................................................52 www.southeastfielddays.com.au

East Gippsland Field Days....................................................49 www.egfielddays.com

Southcott Hydraulics..............................................................9 www.southcott.com.au

Fairbrother Industries Ltd....................................................67 www.kinghitter.com

Starmaxx17

Geronimo Farm Equipment Pty Ltd....................................61 www.geronimo.com.au Great Western Tillage...........................................................11 www.gwtillage.com.au Grizzly Engineering...................................................... 1 & 26 www.grizzlyag.com.au IB International....................................................................27 www.ibinternational.com.au Keech Castings.....................................................................13 www.keech.com.au LK Diesel Service Pty Ltd.....................................................33 www.lkdiesel.com.au

Sungold Field Days..............................................................48 www.sungoldfielddays.com.au Trailco Irrigation..................................................................31 www.trailco.com.au Tyres 4U..............................................................................23 www.tyres4u.com.au Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics...........................................72 www.2wglobal.com Walterscheid Australia..........................................................14 www.walterscheid.com.au Wimmera Machinery Field Days..........................................50 www.wimmerafielddays.com.au

Australian owned since 1944

PETER

Hopes you will take this seriously!

After removing his shaft guard for maintenance, professional farmer Peter Gohery allowed the leg of his overalls to touch the PTO shaft Bare-Co patent PTO safety guards are tested and approved to the latest Australian AS1121.4 safety standard

PTO safety videos at www.bareco.com.au

Technical Service

Equipment Processing Centre

Our dedicated Australian facilities provide superior quality and on time delivery across the following services: • Product preparation • Accessorising services • Storage and Inventory management • Build planning

• Post production quality inspection • Repairs (paint and mechanical) • Distribution services • Production visibility • Container un-pack services

As a global company we understand the unique logistics need of the industry. Our expertise can be assured as we operate 11 inland terminals handling more than 3.5 million units per annum. Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics (WWL) spcialise in rolling and static equipment including Agricultural product such as combine harvesters, tractors and farming equipment.

For more information visit www.2wglobal.com or call you nearest WWL Equipment Processing Centre: Port Kembla: +61 2 4252 0600

Brendale: +61 7 3881 0377

Laverton: +61 3 8345 8300

Kewdale: +61 8 9353 6000