North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - October 2021

Published since 1986

OCTOBER, 2021

Mitchelton wines recognised

www.farmernews.com.au

Farm worker plan PAGE 5

Next gen farmer support PAGE 13

PAGE 25

Looming labour shortages threatens second season GROWTH MARKET JUST out of Whitfield in the King Valley, there’s a small farm doing big things.

Andrew Boyd started off breeding Murray cod for the table market, but expanded into native fish when he purchased established business Glenwaters Native Fish Farm. Initially a dairy farmer, Andrew had always had an interest in aquaculture. The fish were seen as a lifestyle change, however, keeping up with demand and the rigours of all the different breeds keeps Andrew busy from dawn until dusk, seven days a week - and he loves it. Turn to page 2 and 3 to read about Glenwaters Native Fish Farm.

CHRISTIAN 0409 475 462

LUKE 0428 107 552

MARK 0429 930 083

7847 GOULBURN VALLEY HWY, SHEPPARTON VIC 3631

03 5832 5500

www.goulburnvalleyag.com.au

FOR many Victorian farmers who are experiencing one of the best years on recent record, the lack of an available workforce has many concerned they will be ploughing produce back into the ground.

Signs are promising of a bumper crop in the fruit growing district of Cobram and surrounds, with growers holding their breath until they have got through the vagaries of spring storms to be truly confident.

However, the hope of a strong season is overshadowed by looming labour shortages.

Karen Abberfield from the Cobram and District Fruit Growers Association (CDFGA) fears that the shortage of labour will be as bad if not worse than the previous season.

“It was estimated that about 25 to 30 per cent of fruit was not harvested in the Cobram area over last season,” Ms Abberfield said.

“Many growers had to make the difficult decision to not harvest all of the available crop after a time in the growing cycle that had seen them expend 100 per cent of outgoings.

“All of the trees had been pruned, thinned, watered, treated for pets, fertilised and so on, and to have a significantly reduced marketable yield was debilitating.

“And then growers incurred additional costs

BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@ nemedia.com.au

of managing fallen fruit to make sure it did not become a haven for fruit fly.”

The other major noneconomic impact is the effect on growers’ mental health.

“It’s incredibly difficult to work so hard, to hold strong expectation and then be impacted so negatively,” Ms Abberfield said.

“Each year the growers contend with nature whether that is insufficient rain, hail damage, storms or extreme pest incursions.

“Last year’s crop was excellent quality and it was heartbreaking to see it rot when it is such a valuable commodity that people around the world need.”

In Cobram and surrounds the majority of crop activity is stone fruit.

A dynamic and demanding type of crop, there is a short window of time to get the fruit picked once it’s ripe, and then to market to ensure the fruit is at the required standard of quality.

“Unlike other crops the fruit just can’t be held either on the tree or in storage,” Ms Abberfield said.

“It was the stone fruit industry that was really significantly impacted by labour shortages.

■ Continued page 23

NORTH EAST & GOULBURN MURRAY PLATINUM DEUTZ-FAHR DEALER

TRACTORS RANGING FROM 50-350HP

FINANCE FROM

0%P.A.

Page 2 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

Covering Central, South Victoria, and West Gippsland

NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

Est. 1984

Covering North East Victoria, Southern New South Wales and Goulburn Murray Valleys 37 Rowan Street,Wangaratta Victoria, 3677

Phone (03) 5723 0100 Email: nefarmer@nemedia.com.au Website: farmernews.com.au Advertising Manager

Michael Kidman Phone (03) 5731 3306 Mobile 0409 841 954 mkidman@nemedia.com.au

Journalist:

Emma Oliver Mobile 0433 267 203 eoliver@nemedia.com.au

Senior Journalist

Jarrah Loh Phone (03) 5733 1108 jloh@nemedia.com.au

Pre-Press Coordinator

Noelene Allan Phone (03) 5723 0110 nallan@nemedia.com.au

Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

YOUR

ON THE

SPOT

TEAM

Glenwaters riding the wave of increased interest in aquaculture

By EMMA OLIVER

Emma Oliver JOURNALIST

Michael Kidman ADVERTISING MANAGER

Noelene ALLAN PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

SIGNIFICANT INFRASTRUCTURE: Andrew Boyd, of Glenwaters, diversified into native fish after initially looking to purchase equipment for his Murray cod business.

Jarrah Loh SENIOR EDITORIAL

A FEW years ago, Andrew Boyd was looking to expand his Murray cod aquaculture business and was in the market for some new equipment, when he learned that Glenwaters Native Fish Farm in Glenburn was selling off its infrastructure.

Established in 1986, Glenwaters was Victoria’s oldest breeder and supplier of native fingerlings for farm dams, wetlands, aqua-

PERMANENT-HIGH SECURITY WATER AVAILABLE ABN: 14 060 919 502

Zones 1A Broken 2 Murray 6 and 7 Ovens 9A 9B Kiewa River Main stem Kiewa Groundwater Temporary All Zones

j/12d12582-v43/40-18

P. 03 5722 3117 F. 03 5722 1388 M. 0419 355 473 bruce@waterwheeltraders.com.au Member of the Australian Water Brokers Association #302

ponics and the aquarium industry, and Andrew was reluctant to let such an established institution get disbanded for parts.

Andrew’s own enterprise in the King Valley was breeding Murray cod commercially, growing them out over two years for the hospitality industry, and he had no real intention of diversifying into more native fish.

Yet the opportunity suddenly presented itself to buy Glenwaters and integrate it with Andrew’s own business.

And so working alongside Glenwaters’ founder John Main to learn the tricks of the trade, Andrew started stocking silver perch, golden perch, Australian bass, tandanus catfish and yabbies.

“Don’t mention the yabbies though,” said Andrew, with a laugh.

“I really can’t keep up with demand for the yabbies.”

Andrew has always had fish.

As a child he used to breed them, and as an ag teacher he found aquaculture fascinat-

ing, and on visiting a Murray cod farm he was inspired by the huge potential of this native table fish.

Looking around his dairy farm in the King Valley, he recognised what resources he had available on the property that would lend themselves to fish farming, and he thought to himself “I believe I can do this”.

And so he did.

“It’s the most fun I’ve had in my life,” Andrew said.

“However, it is also the most challenging, and things can go wrong in a very short space of time.

“It’s been a huge learning curve, especially diversifying into the other types of fish as they are all so different, and each have their own idiosyncracies.

“Murray cod are incredibly territorial and will cannibalise each other, so you need to get a high density of fish in the cage system - which actually stops them from fighting.

■ Continued page 3

Call now very for early deli on incentives d SuPerfect an spreading

FULL RANGE OF LIMES: %DWHVIRUG *DORQJ 'RORPLWH :HVW/LPH 1DWXUDO *\SVXP

5722 4741 BBF Wangaratta - 59 Shanley St Wangaratta 5762 6886 BBF Benalla - 82 Roe St Benalla

Servicing the North East

www.bbfertilizers.com.au office@bbfertilizers.com

October 2021

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 3 THE SOUTHERN

Covering Central South Victoria and West Gippsland

www.farmernews.com.au Low Cost NLIS Approved Ear Tags

NETTED PONTOONS: The Murray cod are grown out in a high density cage system to stop the territorial fish from cannibalising each other.

■

From page 2 “From incubating the eggs, to fry ponds to growing out the fish inside for the first year until they reach 100 grams, the cod are then moved to the outdoor cage system - pontoons with nets effectively - for the next year.

“At the two year mark, they weigh an average of 800 grams to a kilogram and it’s at this point that we sell them live into the restaurant market.”

And when it comes to breeding the other fish Andrew said each process is quite specific.

“We choose not to milk the fish as it damages them, so with the golden and silver perch we just inject them with the hormones, put them in the tank and let them do their thing,” he said.

“We take the fish out and then incubate the eggs.

“Catfish we leave to their own devices, and just drain the pond and harvest the fingerlings when they are moved inside.”

For a man whose initial intention was to simply grow out Murray cod, the enterprise has expanded rapidly, fuelled primarily by Andrew’s admitted sentimental attachment to the original Glenwaters in Glenburn.

“I couldn’t bear the idea of all that knowledge and expertise being lost,” he said.

“It was too important a business, and the invaluable role of native fish in the ecosystem is often overlooked.

“That needs to be redressed.”

Andrew does find it heartening though that among his clients for native fish are local councils that are rehabilitating and rejuvenating wetland areas, and stocking local reservoirs.

He doesn’t chase the large contracts with Fisheries, but does occasionally sell some of the larger fish for fishing events that are being put on.

“I can’t always help them out, but if I can they’ll buy some of the breeders,” Andrew said.

Otherwise, Andrew’s market is property owners who want fish for their dams, ponds

and aquaponics systems, and interestingly pet shops in Melbourne.

Glenwaters is going into the breeding season now, with native fish all seasonal breeders.

So from mid-spring to early summer, Andrew will be flat-out negotiating a number of routines to have fish ready for release at the height of summer.

“They love the heat,” he said of the fingerlings.

“So we aim to get them into the dams and ponds well before winter.”

Of his chosen profession, Andrew believes the room for growth of the domestic industry is incredibly exciting.

“We had a plan to grow out 100 gram fish for the table,” he said.

“We left that plan after a year, and started a new one and have just grown exponentially since then.

“The industry in Victoria is still somewhat of a fledgling one.

“So while aquaculture has been the fastest growing industry in agriculture for the last 30 years around the world, much of Australia - excluding Tasmania - is about 10 years behind.

“There is so much untapped potential, and I’m embracing the challenge and everything it offers.”

When calculating how many fish to introduce to a dam or pond, Andrew determines the number based on the surface area of the water.

“Air water contact is the simplest way of getting oxygen into the water,” Andrew said.

“However, if it has water flowing into it, or it is well planted the water will be more oxygenated.

“Any plants are good, but reeds aren’t particularly helpful as they are predominantly out of the water.

“Water plants are the best, as it’s the process of photosynthesis that produces oxygen, and if the plant is in the water then that is where the process will occur.”

ғ '' / )&. - сѵсх( җцҁх҃Ҙ $) # $"#/ ғ '' / )&. 2 ''. - ртп(( җфѵс҃Ҙ /#$ & ғ '' !*0) /$*). җ/ )& !'**-.Ҙ - сфп(( җшѵч҃Ҙ /#$ &

Order at www.aaatags.com or Phone 0419 608 570

“Solve Your Bird Problems” With my Hawk Bird Scarer OR your money back guaranteed.

This scarer will save you money because it only costs $39 and it is guaranteed to work.

“You saved my Roses from parrot and Cockatoo damage”” Wendy Burgin, Riverside Drive, Warburton,Vic..

“I have solved my bird problem” said N. Bond, Braybrook, ±=SYV RI[ ,E[O &MVH 7GEVIV VITPEGIW XLI Vic..

SPH JEWLMSRIH 7GEVI 'VS[² looks real so it scares all You can protect your stone & birds including Starlings, Indian pome fruits, nut, berry or broad Mynahs, Crows, Cockatoos, acre crops on calm or windy days Galahs,Corellas,Parrots, Jays,Black because you suspend your hawk over or near your crop. No power, birds, all Native Birds, Silver Eyes, Lorikeets. wind or poison needed which protects the environment.

Other uses: Stops Pigeons, Swallows, Seagulls, roosting on Your Hawk Bird Scarer

boats, sheds, verandahs and roofs. Scares ducks off dams & swimming pools. But does not give 100% results for Sparrows.

Order now & you will receive a FREE 28 Page Booklet on Bird Scaring Techniques.

Hawks are just $39 each from:

Tisara (Aust.) Pty. Ltd. 175 Swan Street, Morpheth, NSE 2321 Phone: (02) 4934 8330 Fax: (02) 4934 2107 www.facebook.com/ hawkbirdscarer www.hawkbirdscarer.com Email: info@hawkbirdscarer.com

To: Tisara (Aust.) Pty. Ltd. – PO Box 36, Morpeth, NSW 2321 Fax: (02) 4934 2107, (02) 4934 8330 Yes, please rush me .................................................... Hawk Bird Scarers at $39 each plus $9.00 postage and packaging each. (Orders of 2 or more P&P Free). Please include my Free Booklet.

My credit card details are, or I enclose my cheque or money order for $ .........................................................

Name:....................................................................................................................................................................................

Address:................................................................................................................................................................................ .................................................................................................................... Postcode: .........................................................

“No Quibble Money Back Guarantee” NFMAY21

ғ )&. - '" !ғ **' $) .0(( ғ *)ҁ/ '*2 2 4

Page 4 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

It’s never you, until it is.

More people die on farms than in other workplaces – let’s change that.

Every death and injury on any farm is preventable.

You might think you’re bulletproof and an accident won’t happen to you.

You know your land like the back of your hand.

You know your tools, your machinery, your vehicles.

But accidents can happen to anyone.

At any moment, the worst can happen.

At any moment, it could be you.

You can prevent accidents. You can prevent deaths. worksafe.vic.gov.au/agriculture

Scan for farm safety support.

October 2021

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 5

Mitchelton’s ‘outstanding’ wines recognised in Halliday Wine Companion

By CLEMENCE CARAYOL MITCHELTON Winery in Nagambie has achieved 17 top ratings from the Halliday Wine Companion released last week from wines across the portfolio.

Four wines achieved an “Outstanding” rating of 95, with 13 other wines receiving top marks across the board.

The “Outstanding” wines include the Mitchelton Estate Heathcote Shiraz, Mitchelton Heathcote Collection Shiraz, Mitchelton Print Shiraz and Mitchelton Spring Single Block Heathcote Shiraz, all from the 2018 vintage.

“Highly recommended” wines in the range included Mitchelton’s well-loved 2020 Blackwood Park Riesling and other wines from the 2020 Estate range such as the Mitchelton Single Vineyard Roussanne and Mitchelton Single Vineyard Nagambie Shiraz Chief winemaker Andrew Santarossa, originally from North Queensland and chief winemaker at Mitchelton for the last three years, told The Euroa Gazette he was loving working at the vineyard.

“I’ve been in the industry for 25 years but this is unique; Mitchelton is a

12 wines reach 90+ ratings from prestigious review

AWARDED: Four wines achieved an “outstanding” rating of 95 according to the Halliday awards, with 13 other wines receiving top marks across the board.

DEDICATED: Andrew Santarossa is chief winemaker at Mitchelton. unique winery within Victoria with unique history and heritage and this ability to make wines from all over Victoria was very appealing

UNIQUE: Mitchelton and its wines are one of a kind.

and unique to me,” Mr Santarossa said.

“I think the region is beautiful to live and work in with river and ranges, close to

Melbourne but still in the country, even more so in these challenging times.

“For Mitchelton to be recognised by the Halliday

results is a glowing endorsement of the hard work and dedication of our entire team.

“Just as it takes a village

to raise a child, it takes a passionate team effort and common goal to make our wines.”

Mr Santarossa said it gave further confidence that the Mitchelton wine journey and commitment to excellence was reaping rewards.

“Join us in raising a glass.”

The team effort was brought to life this year as locals from around the Nagambie area joined Mr Santarossa in harvesting this year’s vintage, as national border restrictions prevented the usual farmhands from Europe from flying in.

The vintage brought the community together and offered many a unique insight into the process of making these award-winning wines.

Earlier this year the prestigious London Wine Competition, which receives entries from across the globe, granted medals to eight individual wines from the Mitchelton portfolio, including gold medals for three 2017 vintage premium shiraz from Heathcote, and the 2019 Mitchelton Estate Chardonnay.

Those looking to experience Mitchelton’s array of award-winning wines are invited to head to the website: https://mitchelton.com.au/ product-category/halliday/.

ce & Parts ffi O – IC V , op Drive, Kialla 00 IC – Worksh V 75 Gordon , n o t r 0429 235 0 a : p n r p e e B h | S , 0 e 0 0 6 Sofra Driv l: 0428 235 y r a D supplies.com | g 7 a 5 ie 2 s s 2 u 3 .a 2 w 8 5 ww Ph: 03 plies.com | p u s g a ie s s u E: info@a

New Parts for Tractors

We have tractor parts ready to go!

Our Shelves Are Well Stocked! + #% ) "$# " ## ) " %# " %# # $ %$* " $ " ' ) $ "# + " $ " $ $ ) %" " + & !% $) %# "$# %" ' " # + & & " ) "# ( " $ %#$") GIVE US A CALL TO DISCUSS YOUR TRACTOR PARTS NEEDS

utteto en 85, Fr 0, Grey ld o G g in rer 9 reck We are w 0, MF 3350, Explo5 & 990 9 7 7 & hini 75,85 Lamborg Fergies &

ing Wreck nd a SAME ghini r Lambo ors Tract

Used Parts for Tractors and Also Wrecking Tractors New & Used s Tractor Part – with good Old Fashion Service

Page 6 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

Getting our food to global markets THE $15 million Food to Market program is a state government initiative aimed at supporting agricultural food producers across the state to get food to market sooner growing sales on a global scale, as well as building domestic market capability and managing supply chain risks.

“We are a strong export state and it’s vital that we keep working to deepen our existing relationships and secure new market,” Minister for Trade Martin Pakula said Global Victoria under its Export Recovery Fund along with Agriculture Victoria have partnered with industry on numerous initiatives to provide export recovery support to key industries impacted by disruptions as a result of the pandemic.

The first tranche of funding saw $8.4 million allocated across 13 key industry and regional peak-bodies to support projects designed to deliver whole-of-industry benefits, with Global Victoria investing an additional $2.8 million in the program.

The peak body for Victorian fresh vegetable exporters, AUSVEG, has received $960,000 to commence a pilot in partnership with the Victorian government to investigate and trial alternative packaging and transport options, to enable viable export pathways remain open for broccoli, cauliflowers, asparagus, celery and lettuce crop producers.

“This funding will allow AUSVEG to explore new packaging and export pathways to ensure Victoria’s high-quality vegetables can continue to make their way onto dinner tables around the world,” said AUSVEG chief executive officer Michael Coote.

Citrus Australia and the Australian Table Grape Association received funding to lead two innovative traceability pilots for premium fruit - in order to grow, diversify and protect high-value exports.

Aimed at safeguarding the industry from fraudulent products and ensuring that the integrity of Victorian premium fruit brands and varieties is protected, the pilots will use leading technology along with isotope testing, cool chain tracking to orchard mapping to achieve this objective.

Cherry Growers Australia has received $750,000 to support the development of a ‘Chemical Use for Export Toolkit’, which will provide evidence-based practical advice to growers hoping to export so that they can adhere to international regulations and expectations.

Meat and Livestock Australia has received a $2.5 million grant to promote premium Victorian beef and lamb products in both established and emerging export markets.

The project supports the industry to expand its grass-fed beef promotions in North America and grow the successful ‘Lambassador’ program across a range of international markets.

Dairy Australia received a $2 million grant to build the capability of Victorian exporters to increase the competitiveness of the Australian dairy industry internationally by growing markets in South East Asia, China and Japan.

The funding will also support a targeted in-market campaign and boost market engagement with India.

SAFEGUARDING INDUSTRY: Citrus Australia along with the Australian Table Grape Association received funding to lead two innovative traceability pilots for premium fruit.

Karen Abberfield from the Cobram and District Fruit Growers Association welcomes any initiative that will bolster the fortitude of Australian produce on export markets.

“The ability of growers to afford and obtain export freight, however, is a significant issue that needs to be addressed,” she said.

“Growing for export is part of many business plans, and if growers are unable to access overseas markets then the fruit as a result becomes available in Australia.

“This is turn negatively impacts the fruit prices paid to growers whose market is the domestic one.

“It simply becomes unviable to pick some crops as the cost of production is high, but the return is low.”

Too many workers face this every day It’s never ok

worksafe.vic.gov.au/itsneverok

g n i r p S

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 7

October 2021

AussiePumps

AUSSIE PUMPS

SEPTEMBER 2021

IS HERE

– EARLY FIRE SEASON …. GET READY – AUSSIE FIRE PUMPS ….WORLD’S BEST AUSSIE FIREMAN Honda 5.5HP GP160 QP-2S/GP160 NOW $849...GREAT VALUE!

NOW

9 $84

AUSSIE FIRE CHIEF Honda 5.5HP GX160 QP205SE/GX160 JUST $968...TOP SELLER! Full frame option QP205S/GX160F… $1,160 AUSSIE MR T TWIN Exceptional performance Honda 9HP QPT205SLT/GX270 $2,241

QP205SE/GX160

5 Reasons to choose an Aussie

QP-2S/GP160

M

FRO

988

$2,

QPT205SLT/L100E

AUSSIE YANMAR FIRE PUMPS

JUST

6DIHU WR UHIXHO LQ D EXVKğUH HPHUJHQF\

KUBOTA FIRE CHIEF

AUSSIE FIRE CHIEF YANMAR 4.8HP RECOIL START (EADS TO M mOWS TO 420 lpm QP205SE/L48 NOW JUST $2,988 SAVE $540

%LECTRIC START CONVENIENCE ,)-)4%$ 34/#+ş &2%% STAINLESS STEEL FRAME UPGRADE ,/!$3 /& 0/7%2 M MAX HEAD LPM MAX mOW

QP205SL/OC95E JUST $4,928

$4,9

Smooth Kubota 9.5HP oil cooled HQJLQH IRU TXLHWHU FRROHU UXQQLQJ

AUSSIE MR T TWIN YANMAR 10HP ELECTRIC START (EADS TO M

mOWS TO LPM QPT205SLT/L100E NOW $6,514 "ATTERY NOT INCLUDED

28

– PUMPS FOR ALL SEASONS … AUSSIE’S BIGGEST RANGE OF HONDA PUMPS – 2” & 3” SMART PUMPS WATER CART PUMPS CAST IRON VALUE AUSSIE ULTRALITES Leak free chemical transfer HIGH FLOW / HIGH PRESSURE 1” & 1½” FROM \HDU +RQGD *; FROM $980 HQJLQH ZDUUDQW\ JUST $718 Flows to 210 lpm SAVE

$494

Heads to 60m 3UITS lRE PROTECTION HIGH PRESSURE TRANSFER

$996

2”& 3” AUSSIE GUSHERS ...

MOVE WATER FAST 1”version QP1/GX25 $494

1½” version QP154SX/GXH50 $735

2” HIGH FLOW Honda 5.5HP 'USHER LPM mOW QP209/GX160 JUST $996

QP303/GX160

BIG 3” Smart Pump

3” Honda 5.5HP 'USHER LPM mOW QP303/GX160 JUST $996 ELECTRIC START AVAILABLE

v v (ONDA PETROL 9ANMAR DIESEL GUSHERS ALSO AVAILABLE

– CLEAN UP WITH AUSSIE – $866,( %/$&. %2; %/$67(5 3,400 PSI EWP with FREE turbo Y ONL

+HDY \Z Cham HLJKW p!

0

$99

Triplex pump 1450 rpm motor SAV E +GS OF CLEANING DYNAMITE )NCLUDES M $262 HOSE GUN 6ARIO LANCE

FKB8.15

FR

‘Big Berty’ Bertolini triplex pump, GEARBOX DRIVE STAINLESS STEEL FRAME Scud 400 Honda 13HP, ABBSS400/GX390...$4,605

M

FRO

3,000 psi AB30 86 $2,2 WITH Honda 6.5HP FREE Turbo valued at $172 ABSS30/GX200...$2,286

Scud 400 Honda ELECTRIC START ABBSS400/GX390E...$5,157 ABSS40-GT/GX390

FROM 3” Honda & Yanmar powered tanker pumps 3EMI TRASH x HANDLES DIRTY WATER +RQGD *; HOHFWULF VWDUW, NO BATTERY SUPPLIED &LOWS TO LPM SOLIDS TO MM HEADS TO M

$3990

v 6)4/. SEALS FOR MOST CHEMS Genuine Honda engine &LOWS TO LPM M HEAD 23% "26 '8 NOW $1,180 SAVE $281

– HOT WATER STEAMERS … KILL COVID-19!

– – HOT &WATER & STEAMERS – ELECTRIC DRIVE HOT WATER & STEAM POWER

HONDA STEAM POWER MOBILE, POWERFUL, EFFECTIVE

51

$39

4,000 psi AUSSIE PRO BLASTERS …

HARD WORKING AUSSIES

New Stainless Steel Frame

with Viton seals...

FAST FILL, Genuine Honda engine -ASSIVE mOWS TO LPM

SUIT MOST AG CHEMS 23% "36 '8 NOW $1,888 SAVE $234

2” EPDM seals…

FOR AG CHEMS Genuine Honda engine &LOWS TO LPM M HEAD 23% "2, '8 NOW $980 SAVE $331

SAV

$10

E

00

ABMONSS300

NOT AVAILABLE AT BUNNINGS!

3,000 PSI & 4,000 PSI HONDA BLASTERS

4,000 psi AB40-GT Honda 13HP FREE Turbo valued at $288 ABSS40-GT/GX390 … $3,896

AUSSIE MONSOON BLASTERS AUSSIE MADE OM 3,000 psi to 5,000 psi #LASS ! NO CERT REQUIRED )NDUSTRIAL ELECTRIC BLASTERS 4HREE PHASE Bertolini triplex pump Stainless steel frame mAT FREE TYRES 1UALITY ACCESSORIES

See the Smart )DUPHUV JXLGH WR Aussie Smart Pumps

3” Smart Pump RSE3BSV/GX200

ABBSS400/GX390 (shown with optional lifting bar)

AussiePumps (02) 8865 3500

FROM

$4605

FHD191 ADMIRAL

SLASH CLEANING TIMES ...

Hot wash & steam cleaners from $5,260 3,000 PSI STEAM CLEANER ... AUSSIE’S ADMIRAL HEAVY DUTY ... 130°C Heavy duty slow speed triplex pump & motor ROM F (UGE LPM mOW 2UGGED STEEL CHASSIS BUILT TOUGH FOR AUSSIE PROS $ JUST $7,734 SAVE $1,000

5260

AVAILABLE ONLY FROM THE FOLLOWING AUSSIE PUMPS GOLD DISTRIBUTORS PRICES EX SYDNEY WAREHOUSE, GST INCLUDED - SUBJECT TO PRIOR SALE

N.B 5 year warranty covers faulty manufacturing or workmanship on QP & Smart Pump components only.

HSM40004HG

4,000 psi Aussie Heatwave Honda (0 ELECTRIC START

MOBILE STEAM CLEANER Steam to 130°C Stainless steel frame, 3PIRALAST COIL WITH LIFETIME WARRANTY

JUS

$11

T

900

Email: info@aussiepumps.com.au Full product specs... aussiepumps.com.au *See tax agent for details

ALBURY .............Marks Spray Barn .................... (02) 6025 8862 MYRTLEFORD ....Ovens Valley Chainsaws .......... (03) 5752 1270 BENALLA ...........Delatite Pumps & Irrigation ..... (02) 5762 8120 MANSFIELD ......Mansfield Pump Shop .............. (03) 5775 1751 BERRIGAN .........Murray Valley Rural Services... (03) 5885 1155 YARRAWONGA ...Murray Valley Rural Services... (03) 5743 1900 ECHUCA .............Stihl Shop Echuca .................... (03) 5480 9566 WANGARATTA....Wangaratta Pump Shop ........... (03) 5722 1955

Page 8 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

MF 1840 SMALL SQUARE BALER

MF 2200 SERIES LARGE SQUARE BALERS

MF WR9900 SERIES WINDROWERS

MF TL-V VERTICAL-FOLD MOWERS

MF RK SERIES RAKES

MF TD SERIES TEDDERS

GET EXCITED ABOUT THE GREEN & GOLD! (THAT’S FORAGE & STRAW )

Right now you can win on your farm with Massey Ferguson’s extensive range of mowers, rakes, tedders, conditioners and balers - all in stock and ready to perform! Enjoy the gold standard with high quality and robust gear that’ll perform day and night. See your local dealer to find out more.

COBRAM Cobram Farm Equipment, Lot 3 Murray Valley Highway CORRYONG Roger C. Brown P/L, Hanson Street ECHUCA McKees Garage & Engineering, 47 McKenzie Road

(03) 5872 1722 (02) 6076 1788 (03) 5482 2264

NAGAMBIE John Sanderson Machinery P/L, 36-38 Industrial Crescent (03) 5794 2272 SHEPPARTON Bertoli Farm Machinery, 198-200 Numurkah Road (03) 5821 3299 WODONGA CJ & LH Wiesner P/L 16 Osburn St (02) 6024 6444

MASSEYFERGUSON.COM.AU

A world of experience. Working with you.

5 Kendall Street, Wodonga VIC 3690 www.intersales.com.au SALES: Kurt Dissegna 0418 728 805 Henry Risson 0499 614 395 Sandy Massina 0459 215 518 SPARE PARTS: Justin McInnes 0429 728 802

Are you ready for Hay season – choose Intersales to support your Hay and Harvest Operation today Consistent quality bale production is the essential trait in any baler, and it’s at the heart of the LB4 series design. Each component is created to be robust enough to perform bale after bale, field after field, year after year, whatever the crop type or condition. Our two models cover the key baling sizes, and with packer and rotor cutter options, means there is an LB baler to suit every farming and contracting operation.

209934

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MASSEY FERGUSON DEALER TODAY

October 2021

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 9

Sheep rustling season in local area

SHEEP RUSTLING: A trend has emerged with stock being stolen from properties that adjoin main roads with a dirt road running parallel along the back.

Local CIU warns producers about stock theft this spring

LOCAL police are warning farmers and stock owners to be vigilant for stock theft as the warmer weather approaches, and lambs are weaned and drafted off into paddocks by themselves.

Benalla and Mansfield CIU farm crime liaison officers warn that this is the season when police see a rise in reports of stock theft, mainly weaned lambs.

Sometimes reports aren’t made until shearing or crutching time, but this is the time the stock are going missing, in the spring and early summer.

The winter period this year has been fairly quiet with stock theft reports thought to be due to COVID-19 lockdowns restricting the reasons for people to be out and about, also the wet weather has made it harder to get into and around properties particularly on the sides of the roads.

Over the last 10 years a trend has been stock being stolen from properties that adjoin main roads with a dirt road running parallel along the back of the property.

Also lease blocks or paddocks that are not visible from residences.

Farm crime liaison officers have some tips to keep your stock safe and detect trespassers to properties: z make sure gates off main roads are locked and secured from being lifted off the gate posts; z consider investing in a ‘trail cam’, which can be set up covertly on properties to capture any unwanted visitors; z CCTV signage is a great deterrent, as is CCTV where able; z consider locking up paddocks for hay that adjoin main roads, and run the stock in the central paddocks. Anyone driving or walking through the hay paddock will leave obvious signs; z tag your lambs at marking with NLIS tags, don’t wait until you sell them to tag them; z consider investing in farm management software which helps record stock numbers and movements; z when picking up dead stock, place the ear tags into a container to keep an accurate record of stock deaths; z report trespassers or suspicious activity immediately via Crime Stoppers, phone 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers internet page; z obtain registration numbers of any suspicious vehicles, write it down or text it to yourself or a family member and report it to police; z notify police immediately if you think you have had stock stolen.

“We are happy to speak to farmers/stock owners about farm security and any other issues and if we can’t help, we are sure to know someone who can,” they said.

“Unfortunately, we aren’t able to get out to trade shows and field days due to restrictions and cancellations, but we are only a phone call away.”

Farmers in the Mansfield district can contact Sergeant Matt Bennett at the Mansfield police station on 5775 2555 for a free Farm Security Checklist and other resources.

Before we can do the thing we want to do, there’s something we all need to do first.

Book your COVID-19 vaccination.

Visit Australia.gov.au or call 1800 020 080.

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.

Page 10 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

New yabby discovered and named

By JARRAH LOH A NEW local species of freshwater crayfish, known as the Swamp Yabby, has been formally named and described after 15 years of rigorous fieldwork from scientists at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) and private research firm, Australian Aquatic Biological.

“We’d heard rumours from landholders and riverusers that there was a different and larger yabby - little did we know it would take so long to track it down,” said ARI senior scientist - fish ecology, Dr Tarmo Raadik.

“The first step to conserving biodiversity is discovering and naming new species, as we cannot protect something properly if we don’t know it exists in the environment.”

DELWP executive director biodiversity division James Todd said the exciting discovery of the

Swamp Yabby (Cherax latimanus) is a significant biodiversity achievement, which adds to the wealth of important information used to manage and protect Victoria’s waterways and its aquatic creatures that call them home.

“This work demonstrates the commitment of our skilled scientists at DELWP, highlighting how much work can go into locating and then formally describing a new species especially one that’s found deep underground,” said Mr Todd.

“By formally describing the Swamp Yabby, governments and land managers are able to make the best management decisions, particularly during drought, to ensure its survival into the future. “ It’s the first time in 80 years that a new yabby species in the Murray-Darling Basin system has been formally described, making

the Swamp Yabby only the third species known to naturally occur in the basin.

It’s found in deep clay soil burrows in northern Victoria’s Goulburn, Broken and Ovens River catchments, and as far north as Deniliquin in New South Wales.

The exciting discovery led by ARI scientist Dr Tarmo Raadik and Robert McCormack from the Australian Aquatic Biological, said the species looks similar to the well-known Common Yabby (Cherax destructor), but is much larger and has uniquely shaped broad claws.

The species is not considered threatened.

Formally describing a new species is critical for researchers to clearly identify and share biological information with the scientific community, as well as governments, agencies and land managers responsible for the protection and care of flora and fauna.

CHERAX LATIMANUS: The all new Swamp Yabby.

Financial incentives for kinder teachers.

Giving Victorian children the best start means more qualified teachers are needed across the state.

Teachers not currently working in the sector: Join or re-join the sector and be financially rewarded with $9,000.

All qualified teachers: Get up to $50,000* on top of your salary for positions at high-priority services.

Search and apply for a position that suits you via the new Jobs Board at vic.gov.au/kinder *Terms and conditions apply, visit vic.gov.au/kinder

IS MID-SIZE YOUR SIZE? “Many of us grew up on quad bikes, and we still love them. But few years back, we started migrating to the utility, comfort and maneuverability of the mid-sized two-seat side-by-side and È ®Ë ® Ãv Èâ ® ïÈ È â ³ Àƛ And now it’s happening in droves.

Polaris RANGER development means these American-built workhorses remain at the front of the queue. Tow more, carry more, haul, heave, hunt and get more done.” - Mark Larkham MARK LARKHAM & BOYCE Larko - V8 Legend, Ace commentator, Technical Guru and Cattle farmer Boyce - Hard working Farm dog, best mate, growing media personality

/Polaris Australia

WATCH NOW!

1300 654 142 | www.polarisaustralia.com |

/PolarisAustralia |

/polarisorv_aus

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 11

October 2021

The Aussie Fire Chief is in demand for it’s top quality and value.

BLUE SKY FUTURE ….. BUT!

THIS story is contributed by Australian Pump Industries’ Chief Engineer, John Hales, with the support of a range of very competent pump distributors spread throughout greater Victoria. We know that we have seen record agricultural production, spread right across Australia from sugar cane in Queensland to the fabulous looking crops in the Southern Riverina of New South Wales all the way through to Victoria.

We have had lots of rain over winter, Spring is here, cattle are fat, milk prices are up and we’re heading for $73 B in agricultural production. We look like coming out of lockdown in most parts of Australia by the end of October/ November! All this and an Australian summer as well!

10 0$!.! ) 5 ! /!.%+1/ Ɯ.! danger ahead.

FIRE PUMPS … WHAT WORKS AND WHAT DOESN’T Aussie Pumps developed the Aussie Fire Chief around 25 years ago. It was driven by a good quality Japanese engine from Honda, but the secret of the pump’s performance was in its components and absolute fanatical approach to quality.

Our original designs had in mind the user, not dividends for shareholders! We set out to bring a product that delivered more water at pressure in those critical points of 0$! 1.2! 3$!.! Ɯ.!Ɯ#$0%*# %/ +*!Ł What makes the Fire Chief so good is its capacity and perfectly matched components. Here are a few pointers.

The pump is based on a 3” transfer pump design with a big belly body that simply lets more water through the pump, even at high pressure.

The pump’s impeller, a beautifully crafted diecast aluminium closed design, is 7 ½ ” diameter, providing real velocity for the pump. It has substantially more material than competitors.

In fact, it weighs 3 times more than some other impellers (which costs Aussie more but, this pump is designed to work, not to cut costs).

The volute that the impeller runs in is also perfectly designed to produce the absolute maximum performance without overloading the Honda engine. It’s designed to get the best out of the product and provide real longevity.

The Fire Chief pump has a 2” suction port. That is 25% bigger than most of its competitors. It seems obvious that having more water getting into the pump, means more water getting out of it as well! $! /1 0%+* ,+.0 %/ Ɲ *#! mounted to the front of the bowl.

It’s another cost but, it gives the user easy access to the pump bowl and, enables the check valve, the ability to be serviced where required. You don’t have to pull the pump apart!

A three-way head, 2 x 1” and 1 x 9 Ʌ Ɖ +10(!0/ .! Ɲ *#! )+1*0! 0+ the top of the pump body. Those ports are capped with metal caps and chains, like a professional Ɯ.!Ɯ#$0!. 3+1( 1/!ŀ * *+0 plastic caps.

All Aussie Fire Chief pumps, both single and big twin impeller versions are supplied either on steel skids with anti-vibration mounts or, in the Red Brigade Series, supplied in heavy duty welded steel frames with separate bases and anti-vibration mounts.

The Aussie Fire Chief can draught water through a vertical lift of 7.6 metres, based on the inherent design of the pump

dairy yards. They help make the right selection, give the right advice and are happy to provide technical information on the product. ! +*ƍ0 %*Ɲ 0! (%/0 ,.% !/ 0+ gauge customers or give dealers a fake discount.

Aussie Pumps Chief Engineer John Hales compares competitor nylon impeller with Aussie’s impeller, made from marine grade aluminium.

and its impeller and volute combination.

Dealers report replacing other famous brand pumps that can only suck from 6 metres vertical lift with the Aussie Fire Chief or, its big brother the Mr. T twin impeller.

IT’S NOT MAGIC, BUT QUALITY HAS A COST So you see the performance of the pump, its longevity (yes they last decades) is not magic.

We see competitor products with two piece or even plastic nylon impellers that are, in our +,%*%+*ŀ Ɲ 3! (+#% 0+ /0 .0 with. We would never put a plastic impeller in a pump. We know it would be shredded in no time if the pump has to pump any sandy water.

We would never use a two part impeller held together by a bolt or Tek screw. We know what can happen inside a pump in its life and we understand people depend +* ,.+ 1 0/ (%'! Ɯ.! ,1),/ŀ

in what can be truly dreadful emergencies.

FIVE YEAR WARRANTY …

ONLY AUSSIE PUMPS One of the things Aussie Pumps Dealers and Gold Distributors (+2! +10 0$! ,1), %/ %0/ Ɯ2! 5! . warranty. None of our competitors $ 2! .! 0+ +Ƣ!. * !-1%2 (!*0Ł The extended warranty is also +Ƣ!.! +* (( +0$!. 1//%! 1%' Prime wet ends. The engines last longer too because of the perfect balance of performance to horsepower and torque availability.

AUSSIE DEALERS GET IT … NO FAKE PRICES The Aussie Gold Distributors are geared to provide consumers not with just good top quality Aussie product but also advice on pump selection. Whether it’s protecting farm buildings from Ɯ.!ŀ !/0 (%/$%*# / "! .! "+. (%2!/0+ ' +.ŀ &1/0 "+. Ɲ1/$%*# +10

CLIMATE CRISIS – FLOOD OR FIRE Fire Authorities around Australia are all conscious of the fuel build-up over the winter months. The rain we have had has been great for the crops but also has produced potential for massive 1/$Ɯ.!/ 0$%/ /! /+*Ł !%*# prepared means not only buying a pump, tank and hose kit but also !%*# 0. %*! %* %0/ !ƣ %!*0 1/!Ł Here’s 5 handy hints’ Train the family or neighbours on how to use the equipment.

Make sure the pump is primed, 0$ 0 %/ 0$! +3( Ɯ((! 3%0$ 3 0!. and the pump and engine oiled.

Carry out drills on a regular basis Plan ahead of your routes in and out, including an escape route if it becomes necessary Secure your livestock in a safe area, where possible, and give them an escape if things get desperate.

Animals may run, through or in ".+*0 +" Ɯ.!Ł ,!* 0$! # 0!/ŀ (!0 them free, marking big animals, cows and horses with your phone number with livestock crayons on the rear haunches.

Training and preparation is everything! We tell people “Hope For The Best but Prepare For the Worst” Further information on Dealer locations is readily available from Aussie Pumps. Don’t compromise on gear, buy the best, buy products that are designed to work, not merely to be sold.

Page 12 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

Driving innovation in the Goulburn Valley fruit bowl

FRUIT BOWL: Fruit harvesting practices are being targeted in a new University of Melbourne innovation project.

THE EFFECTIVE & PROVEN ANIMAL & BIRD REPELLENT YOU CAN RELY ON

REGISTERED FOR USE AGAINST ALL ANIMALS & BIRDS t Protects herbs, vegetables, trees and shrubs from possums, kangaroos, wallabies, rabbits, hares, bandicoots, deer, foxes and other wildlife.

Protects vegetables, fruit trees, ornamentals, seedlings and buildings t from cockatoos, crows, ducks, pigeons, rosellas, starlings, swallows, other birds, fruit bats and microbats in building cavities. t Protects homes, gardens and patios from dogs and cats or rats and mice. t Protects one plant or a whole area — perimeter &/or band sprays t Repels — without harming animals or humans. t Not considered a poison — no withholding period. t (DV\ WR XVH VSUD\ RQ (ႇHFWLYH ZKHQ GU\ t 6DIH 3URYHQ DQG (ႇHFWLYH t Available in 100g, 1kg & 4kg Sizes. is unique. Reject products said to be "just as good", nothing is at all "like it".

For more specific information send 2x$1 stamps, please mention your problem, post to: D-TER, Dept. SF, PO Box 3, Oyster Bay, NSW 2225.

Enquiries: Phone (02) 9589 0703. Fax (02) 9589 0147.

P R O T E C T I O N

30d03087

®

FOOD production in the horticultural heartland of the Goulburn Valley will be boosted, with the State Government supporting a new University of Melbourne innovation project.

Minister for Higher Education Gayle Tierney recently launched the $4.7 million NorVicFoods Agri-Food Innovation Cluster project which will explore innovative and digital solutions to grow and increase the efficiency of the vital food and agricultural sectors.

“This new project will deliver real-world solutions for our valuable food and agricultural businesses - while also giving fantastic opportunities to local researchers and students,” Ms Tierney said.

The project will be based at the University of Melbourne’s Dookie campus, which is a gateway to local agri-food businesses, including SPC, and the companies that support them.

The project team will

initially work with at least five local producers and businesses on tailored solutions, then support them to secure private investment and grants to implement solutions.

Projects might include aerial technology to improve fruit harvesting practices, real-time GPS trackers to monitor milk quality and delivery and technology to better regulate the quality of red-meat products like mince and meatballs in international markets.

It will create about 87 jobs, including six full-time research positions, as well as 30 student internships at local companies.

“This project allows University of Melbourne knowledge, expertise and facilities to be applied to provide real-world solutions for Goulburn Valley producers that will benefit the economy, the consumer and everyone in between,” University of Melbourne

Dean of veterinary and agricultural sciences Prof John Fazakerley said.

Goulburn Valley businesses are being encouraged to sign up at fvas.unimelb.edu. au/norvicfoods.

The government contributed $2.7 million to the project in a joint effort by the University of Melbourne and Sensand Technology and was one of many pitches from universities to the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund, which was developed in response to the significant impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the sector.

The $350 million Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund is supporting universities with capital works, research infrastructure projects and applied research focused on boosting Victoria’s productivity and economy as the state recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.

W E A R Australian Owned

Other sizes available

Wangaratta (03) 5721 4138

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 13

October 2021

WORKER ACCOMMODATION: To try to address labour shortages exacerbated by reduced accommodation options in regional areas the state government is exempting farms from needing to apply for planning approval.

New on-farm accommodation plan to boost workforce FARMERS across Victoria can now invest in worker accommodation on their farms without the need for a planning permit, under a new streamlined planning approval process adopted by the Victorian Government.

Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas has announced an amendment to the Victoria Planning Provisions that exempts farm businesses from requiring a planning permit for onfarm accommodation for up to 10 people.

“On-farm accommodation will provide more options for farm workers and make it easier for growers to recruit the workers they need for the upcoming harvest,” Ms Thomas said.

“These planning changes are about supporting our agriculture sector to thrive.”

This will help farm businesses provide suitable on-

farm accommodation for their vital seasonal workforces, removing one of the common barriers to the attraction and retention of workers for this industry.

On-farm accommodation eliminates the need for seasonal workers to find a place to stay in nearby towns.

It removes the often long-distance travel to and from farms, cuts travel expenses and reduces the impact on rural and regional roads.

The planning permit exemption is available exclusively for accommodation for workers engaged in agriculture and must be on at least 40 hectares of land on a property within the Farming Zone.

It must meet requirements relating to connections to electricity, water and wastewater treatment.

The new planning process will deliver yet anoth-

er boost for the industry ahead of the peak harvest season and aligns with the government’s comprehensive $84 million package to support the Victorian agriculture industry as it continues to meet seasonal workforce challenges.

This support includes the $6 million Seasonal Workforce Accommodation Program, which has backed 13 projects to boost accommodation options, pastoral care and transport services for 2000 workers in key horticulture areas.

It also includes $5.2 million in grants through the Agriculture Workforce Plan for new and upgraded accommodation to support 80 businesses.

Increased on-farm accommodation may also contribute to improving broader housing supply issues in regional areas by reducing seasonal demand on housing in rural towns.

BERENDS The Largest Range of Australian Made Farm Machinery

Australian made aerators using the Shattertine technology.

Great for cracking open hard ground and rejuvenating pastures.

Australia’s No1 locally built mulcher for the last 25 years.

Available in Low Body or High Body models in various sizes.

Great for clearing up paddocks and bush blocks.

)-m]-u- - "-Ѵ; -u7v

" rrou| Ѵo1-Ѵ ruo7 1;uv -m7 0 -| )-m]-u- -Ľv v|-|;Ŋo=Ŋ|_;Ŋ-u| =-1bѴb|

Large range of linkage and trailing disc ploughs to suit all tractors and applications.

Australian Made slashers with 5 year gearbox warranty.

Various sizes and models in single and twin rotor set-up.

Great value and strength.

Also available in galvanised.

10 ‘ & 12’ Trailing Grader Blades.

2000kg in weight Best value for money blade of its type

);;hѴ ubl; - Ѵ; "-Ѵ;v

ŪƐƑ Ѵ-| ;; r;u _;-7 Ő);b]_ ;;v -m7 +-u7 ;vő

October 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th "|-uঞm] om |_; m; 7- -m7 |bl; o= $ ;v7- Ľv -| ƐƐ-l

om|_Ѵ "|ou; "-Ѵ;

1st Friday of the month at 10:30am

Huge range of linkage models available also.

ŪƐƏ Ѵ-| ;; r;u _;-7 Ő);b]_ ;;v -m7 +-u7 ;vő

Contact your local Berends dealer for more information or call direct on (03) 9791 2494 www.johnberendsimplements.com.au sales@johnberends.com.au

John Berends Implements (03) 9791 2494 Fax (03) 9794 5568

sales@johnberends.com.au

www.johnberendsimplements.com.au

NEED TYRES? CAR

4WD

TRUCK

AGRICULTURE

TRACTOR

EARTHMOVER

ALL TYRES

5722 2163 ALL FLEET VEHICLES WELCOME EMERGENCY ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE

22 Newman Street, WANGARATTA |

tufftyreswangaratta.com | tuff@tuffwang.com

Page 14 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

Scientists probe bee recovery after fires THE aftermath of the Black Summer Bushfires will give researchers a rare standpoint to study the recovery of wild honey bees and other pollinators, providing important insight for growers facing future catastrophic events.

More than 15 million hectares of native forest were destroyed nationwide after the 2019-2020 bushfires, with NSW losing 68 per cent of its national parks and other floral resources.

These resources are critical for maintaining healthy honey bees that support pollination in 65 per cent of agricultural crops.

Hort Innovation is funding a new research project based in the major apple growing region of Bilpin, NSW, looking at how the recent bushfires affected crop pollination and how long these effects will be felt.

Hort Innovation research and development manager Ashley Zamek said that while the devastating bushfires are gone, they will not be forgotten, and growers remain under threat of an increasing number of extreme weather events.

“The project we’re launching today will provide a detailed case study of the impact left by a major bushfire on wild pollinator communities by looking at the services they provide to the ap-

BEE RECOVERY: A new study is monitoring the recovery of native bees and pollinators after recent bushfires, and what affect this has had on crop pollination. ple crops of Bilpin,” Zamek said.

“This project provides a rare opportunity for scientists, who had already been studying the pollinator populations and floral resources in Bilpin for three years prior to the bushfires.

“That piece of research provides excellent pre-fire data to launch this project.

“Over the next few years, the new study will help growers better understand how pollinators and the landscape recover after a disaster, and hopefully lead to recommendations and mitigation measures that will help protect crops and pollinators from future fires.”

Project lead Professor

James Cook, from Western Sydney University’s Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, said the project will look into how fires impact wild pollinators and the flora they rely upon, and how these change or recover after fires.

It will also study the relative contributions of managed honey bees, wild honey

bees, and wild native insects in crop pollination, and how changes in non-crop floral resources affects pollination services.

“The Black Summer fires were awful, but they have provided our team with a unique opportunity to study the impacts of extreme events on pollination services,” Professor Cook said.

“Fires burnt right up to apple orchards that we had been studying for the previous three years, so we had already quantified the abundance and diversity of pollinators there.

“Now we can find out how the fires have affected the pollinators and the floral resources they rely upon outside apple flowering season, and how these things recover or change over the next few years.”

Findings from this study will also be useful for the horticulture industry’s understanding of the potential impact of varroa mite on honey bee pollination of crops, and what may happen if the pest takes hold in Australia and the free pollination received from wild honey bees is dramatically reduced.

While this project focuses on apple crops in Bilpin, the case study is expected to benefit growers of many pollination-dependent, horticultural crops such as almonds, avocados, lychees and others.

This project, funded by the Hort Frontiers Pollination Fund, is part of the Hort Frontiers strategic partnership initiative developed by Hort Innovation, with coinvestment from Western Sydney University and contributions from the Australian Government.

PJN SIMPLY BETTER SHEDS Licence No: 164513C

The Farm Shed Specialists Hay Sheds - Shearing Sheds Machinery Sheds - Horse Arenas Workshops

(02) 60292 411 daniel@pjnsheds.com.au www.pjnsheds.com.au

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 15

October 2021

KELTEC BALE SLICE Removes plastic and netting while splitting the bale so you can drop straight into the feedmixer or bale feeder without worrying about contaminating the feed. Slices from bottom up and holds wrap securely.

Can be fitted to any loader.

N.D.E.

VERTICAL FEEDMIXERS Exceptional performance.

Reliability & Value.

Single or Twin Augers.

NDE Vertical Feedmixers deliver optimal results.

Quick & effective mixing.

Complete and rapid emptying.

What you put in your mix gets to your herd, consistently.

10 - 32 cubic metre models

BOOMERANG TWIN BALE BOOMERANG TwinFEEDERS Bale Feeders

RENN ROLLER MILLS

MARSHALL MULTISPREAD All purpose Fertilizer Spreaders

SITREX HAY RAKES

2.5 to16 Tonne Models

Get ready for the hay season now Agents for: YEOMANS PLOWS JOHN BERENDS IMPLEMENTS K TWO MUCK SPREADERS

ROTOWIPER WEED-WIPERS

Effective for tussocks and rushes, onion grass, thistles and other tall weeds

Eastern States Distributor

EASTERN SPREADERS PTY LTD

Ph: 03 9508 Murray Valley Highway, Kerang, Vic 3579

5450 3077

Page 16 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

Restore Your Leach Drain, Don’t Rebuild Instead of undertaking expensive physical repairs or replacements, use biological remediation to restore your leach drains for a fraction of the cost.

SCIENTIFICALLY DEVELOPED & ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE

Trusted by thousands for decades EcoCare Activator has been used for more than 20 years across Australia to help rural families live odour and blockage free. EcoCare’s LD Kit is the most advanced solution to restore failing leach drains without the need for physical intervention.

“After ten years usage we thought our septic trench had failed… the system appeared totally blocked and overflowed at the inspection pit. We assumed the only solution was to dig a new trench. While contemplating the pros and cons of such a huge job we decided to try EcoCare. Within three months our problems were completely solved. The trench is now draining freely and no more smells,” - Conrad from Queensland.

Stop treating symptoms, get straight to the cure EcoCare LD Kit works by tackling the underlying problems that cause leach drain odours and blockages. Most wastewater additives add bacteria and enzymes which provide a short-term fix; EcoCare LD Kit restores balance to the entire ecosystem within your leach drain and tank so that problems are solved and they don’t return. With the optimal balance within your system, enough bacteria and enzymes are produced naturally so that you live odour and blockage free.

“I have been using your product for over a decade. During that period I have had no occasion to use the services of a plumber. Drains run freely, never is there an offensive odour and the septic system works perfectly,” - V. Wright from NSW. Scientifically developed, non-toxic, environmentally responsible and completely biodegradable, EcoCare LD Kit is the tried, tested and affordable solution to leach drain issues.

Formulated using essential micronutrients and bidegradable surfactants, our solutions are 100% natural and highly effective.

COST-EFFECTIVE & LONG-LASTING Save on costly callouts and expensive repairs by curing the underlying issue instead of treating the symptoms.

FAST-ACTING & SIMPLE TO USE Our solutions are applied from within your home and even the most stubborn of odours or blockages will be cured within weeks.

1

2

3

Start with a free diagnosis.

We will diagnose your system to make sure our products will work for you.

Get expert advice on the best solutions.

Our consultants will give you practical, honest advice on the best way to solve your issue with no obligations.

We’ll help until your’e happy.

Our solutions come with as much ongoing customer support as you need to help resolve your issue.

LD KIT

CLEARS LEACH DRAIN BLOCKAGES

Eliminate odours

Dissolve blockages

100% Septic Safe

For expert advice that won’t leave you stranded

1800 633 866 ECOCARE.COM.AU

October 2021

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 17

Australia Post will continue to deliver perishable goods

MANSFIELD CROPS: Bumper crops of canola are contributing significantly to the Australian agricultural sector, with the industry expected to exceed production value records this year. Farmers are propelling the sector to $73 billion, indicative of how strong the agriculture is at the moment, despite the uncertainty of a global pandemic.

FOOD producers across the country are set to benefit, after Australia Post committed that it will continue to deliver perishable goods.

Australia Post announced that due to complex state and territory regulatory requirements, it intended to discontinue the carriage of perishable goods from June 30, 2021.

The announcement to cut the service, which delivers consumable goods such as cheese and meat, was provided with little notice and sparked serious concerns from farmers and small businesses.

Nationals Senate leader and Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie said the decision

by Australia Post to continue

delivering perishable goods is a win for regional and rural Australia.

“This commitment provides certainty for families and businesses that rely on Australia Post to deliver their agriculture and food products,” Senator McKenzie said.

“To drop the service would have been absolutely devastating.

“Many of our regional food producers were quite alarmed and businesses from various sectors in Victoria, Tasmania, Queensland and South Australia were going to be impacted.

“This commitment from Australia Post is really going to provide them confidence to continue their operations.”

Sustainability for export LIMITING food waste, packaging, and boosting water and energy efficiency are just some of the opportunities captured in a new Australian-Grown Horticulture Sustainability Framework that has been developed with input from industry.

Created with input from more than 600 industry participants, the framework details 17 focus areas that align with existing business measures and initiatives, as well as the United Nations’ Sustain-

able Development Goals.

Hort Innovation chief executive Matt Brand said the framework has been developed for Australian horticulture industry participants at a time when consumers and investors are increasingly asking for evidence of ethical and sustainable practices from their food producers.

“The aim of this sustainability framework is to acknowledge the significant contribution Aussie fresh produce growers make to

M7-2

BIG

the nation’s families and environment through the provision of fresh and nutritious food,” he said.

“It also promotes sustainable and responsible care for our natural environment and provides a vital roadmap for a stronger Australian farming future.”

Mr Brand said the initiative aligns with a range of research efforts being delivered

by Hort Innovation, in line with the target to grow agriculture to $100 billion by 2030.

Joseph Ebbage, market development manager at the Almond Board of Australia, said sustainability is important to customers both domestically and internationally.

“Our trade partners in Europe and in the UK are looking for suppliers that can meet sustainability metrics.

Our ability to communicate sustainability credentials is vital to maintaining and growing these relationships,” Mr Ebbage said.

“The framework provides

an invaluable foundation document for our industry.

“The Australian almond industry is looking to leverage this rich body of insights to create a program specific to growing and processing almonds in Australia.”

The Horticulture Sustainability Framework was developed over more than 12 months and involved input from producers, employees, industry peak bodies, service and input suppliers, and researchers.

! p u s d d a l l a t I

Financers and investors, marketers and exporters, retailers, governments and consumers also had input.

Mr Brand said all groups shared very similar sustainability priorities with topics such as limiting produce waste, food safety and energy use being some of the most important issues.

“The next step is to measure the sector’s current performance against each indicator identified in the framework,” he said.

0.9

% FINANCE PA F O R 3 6 M O N T H S *

ACROSS THE M7 SERIES

SAVINGS 170

HP

5

Y E A RS

130-

IN STOCK NOW! M7-2 Series Tractors Upgrade to Kubota’s biggest and best Tractor with this amazing limited time offer across the M7-2 range, contact your local dealer today to find out more!

Find us on www.bertolis.com.au

*Offer is available for business borrowers only. This 0.90% p.a. finance rate offer is only available with a minimum 20% deposit, 36 monthly repayments and minimum financed amount of $4,000. Terms, conditions, fees, charges and credit criteria apply. Different term and different deposit may result in a different rate. Credit provided by Kubota Australia Pty Ltd ABN 72005300621. This finance offer is available until 31/10/21 and applies to new M7 Series models.

BENALLA VIC: 183 Bridge St Ph: (03) 5762 3633

SHEPPARTON VIC: 198–200 Numurkah Rd Ph: (03) 5821 3299

ALBURY/WODONGA: 520 Dallinger Rd Ph: (02) 6025 5390

Page 18 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

Ecosystem decline attributed to wildfires

UP IN SMOKE: Bushfires have decimated fragile ecosystems and biodiversity in some regions over the last 20 years.

By PHILIP HOPKINS

INTENSE wildfires, particularly over the past 20 years, are key factors in ecosystem decline, and result from poor policy and ineffective strategy, according to Latrobe Valley forestry and business consultant John Cameron.

Mr Cameron said six high intensity fires in Victoria over the past 20 years had burnt more than one million hectares of forest and “have had an undesirable impact on Victoria’s biodiversity and ecosystems”, as well as causing billions of dollars in economic loss and 183 lives lost.

He was addressing the Upper House inquiry into ecosystem decline in Victoria, of which Gippsland Nationals MP Melina Bath is a member.

Mr Cameron has a Diplo-

ma of Horticulture and an MBA, is a former chairman of Private Forestry Gippsland, and has been involved in tree breeding, forest genetics and the CRC for Forestry and CRC for Pulp and Paper Science Monash.

Mr Cameron said these mega fires were predictable and avoidable, as best practice fire mitigation in Western Australia showed; over 60 years, only two lives had been lost in WA compared to Victoria’s 312 lives.

“Fuel load drives fire intensity more so than the Forest Fire Danger Index or weather,” he said.

Victoria had the chance after the 2009 Bushfire Royal Commission to implement improved fuel reduction but failed.

The ‘Safer Together’ policy

had delivered less than two per cent fuel reduction compared to the commission’s recommended annual five per cent.

“There was a two-week window of opportunity to control the 2019-20 bushfires with best practice fire detection, initial attack and suppression, but we failed potential justification for a coronial inquest and class action,” Mr Cameron said.

Mr Cameron said a single Forest Fire Management organisation was needed that reported to one minister with unfettered control and responsibility over all public forest land.

DELWP had four ministers, with no one fully ‘accountable’.

“Talented people in DELWP/Parks Victoria could be

more efficient and effective if released from the shackles of an unfocused mega department,” he said.

“DELWP is a cumbersome conglomerate embracing too many functions.

“Conglomerates have proved to be ineffective and were discarded by business in the 1980s.”

Mr Cameron said an efficient and effective land manager should have fewer than 52 per cent of staff in Melbourne’s CBD and much more than 11 per cent of field staff that DELWP had.

“DELWP/Parks Victoria should introduce low-cost flight aircraft equipped with heat sensing and retardant, capable of detecting and suppressing fires within minutes or hours from ignition,” he said.

“Fires started by overnight lightning can be attacked before dawn the next day when easier to control.

“Reliance on expensive large aerial water bombers has not been very cost-effective.”

Mr Cameron said Victoria’s ‘Safer Together’ bushfire policy was flawed, as the Auditor General had shown.

The modelling of residual fire risk meant the policy was not ‘fit for purpose’.

“The target of 70 per cent residual fire risk is far too high and is not supported by any fire behaviour experts that I am aware of,” he said.

“Achieving 70 per cent residual risk by counting areas burnt by wildfire is a nonsense given that the objective of Safer Together was to substantially reduce wildfire.

“Wildfire subsequently

delivers more elevated or ‘ladder’ fuel, resulting postfire fuel conditions that are worse than areas prescribed burnt.”

Mr Cameron said the ‘Forestry Plan’ to close the native forest industry by 2030 should be scrapped.

“Continuation of sustainable harvesting of some native forests will deliver a mix of native forest age classes and genetic recombination, both desirable for adaptive ecosystems,” he said.

“This will provide continued diversified rural employment.

“It will also avoid the adverse impact on scale economies in agriculture under the ‘Forestry Plan’, which is based on converting large areas of farmland to plantations.”

TURN UNWANTED MACHINERY INTO CASH NATIONAL ONLINE MACHINERY AUCTION OPENS 1ST AND 3RD FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH WITH .COM.AU WE ACCEPT A WIDE RANGE OF MACHINERY AND VEHICLES INCLUDING TRACTORS, HARVESTORS, TRUCKS, IMPLEMENTS AND FARM EQUIPMENT CONTACT ONLINE-AG NOW TO LIST YOUR ITEMS FOR OUR NEXT ONLINE MACHINERY SALE YARD

295 Benalla Rd SHEPPARTON Ph: (03) 5833 0221 machinery@nutrien.com.au 0457 830 779

IT’S A NO BRAINER. DESTROY UP TO 99%

BI-DIRECTIONAL AUGER

STONE TRAP

EASY BYPASS

DIRECT MECHANICAL DRIVE

REAR HATCH ACCESS

of targeted weed species

Avoids foreign objects entering mills Less moving parts, more efficient

To actively feed the mills, avoiding blockages

Ag Solutions 0458 241 242

0409 807 851

STO AVAIL CK ABL NOW E FOR T HARV HIS EST

For windrowing and/or harvesting without iHSD For simple grain loss checks

MODELS AVAILABLE New Holland

Case IH

John Deere

Claas

FROM $76,000+GST

PLUS FITTING

* For selected John Deere models.

ihsd.com | Simpler. Better.

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL DEALER Shepparton O’Connors (03) 5821 4555 Rokewood Western Plains Motors Pty Ltd (03) 5346 1223

HSD and iHSD products are designed and manufactured in Australia by de Bruin Engineering Pty Ltd. Core iHSD Mill Technology was developed by UniSA with funding and support from GRDC. Through GRDC, licencing fees and royalties on HSD and iHSD products are used to enhance research in Australian agricultural systems and fund programs to benefit grain growers.

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 19

October 2021

Ground Engaging Tools & Equipment - ('' " & " '&

- " !#) ## &

- $$ % " & " ##'&

- % %& " # + %&

" # #" , , %$ %'& ! #!

$73,900 +GST $64,900.00 +GST AL400 13T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER NEW ACE AL400 13T Articulated Wheel Loader The MOST POWERFUL Wheel Loader in its class. t GENUINE Cummins 6BTA5.9-C180 - 180HP 750nm t 4000kg Capacity t 13000kg Operating Weight t Joystick Pilot Control t Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch t A/C & Heated ROPS Safety Cab t Premium Stereo System t Reverse Camera t 2.0m3 GP Bucket t FREE fork attachment t FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre t Extended loadframe - NN -JGU height t Auto Level & Auto Float system t Fitted with Remote 3rd valve E-Stops and Full Mine Spec inc Suppression & Emission Systems available on request.

3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE. 5&"34 )0634 &/(*/& 8"33"/5:

FINANCE AVAILABLE **TO APPROVED PURCHASES

ABN:13147978097

.00 $25,900+GST +GST $29,900

.00 $35,900+GST +GST $43,900

.00 $53,900+GST +GST $59,900

New ACE AL350 11T Articulated Wheel Loader t Extended )J -JGU Load-Frame t GENUINE Cummins 6BT3.9-C130 t 3500kg Lift Capacity t t 4 00mm -JGU Height t 11000kg Operating Weight t Joystick Pilot Control t 1SFNJVN Pumps & Valves t Joystick $POUSPMMFE Transmission t Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch, t A/C & Heated ROPS,FOPS,TOPS Cab. t AM/FM Stereo with USB. t Reverse Camera with LED’s, t 1.6m3 GP Bucket t FREE Quick-Hitch t FREE 4 in 1 bucket t FREE fork attachment t FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre.

Fitted with Remote Hydraulic 3rd valve - FULL FLOW

:&"34 1"354 -"#063 8"33"/5: "6453"-*" 8*%& 5&"34 )0634 &/(*/& 8"33"/5:

MARK@ACEMH.COM.AU WWW.ACEMH.COM.AU 11 ROYAN PLACE BAYSWATER NORTH VIC 3153

CALL MARK "$& ."$)*/&3: )064& 15: -5% PH: 0410 059 136 PH: (03) 9761 7882

AL270 6.9T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER

AL200 5.2T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER

NEW ACE AL270 6.9T Articulated Wheel Loader

NEW ACE AL200 5.2T Articulated Wheel Loader

t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t

GENUINE Cummins 4BT3.9-C100 2700kg Capacity 6900kg Operating Weight Joystick Pilot Control 1SFNJVN Pumps & Valves Joystick $POUSPMMFE Transmission Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch A/C & Heated ROPS,FOPS, Cab AM/FM Stereo with USB Reverse Camera with LED’s 1.4m3 GP Bucket FREE 4 in 1 bucket FREE fork attachment FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre Fitted with Remote Hydraulic 3rd valve - FULL FLOW

t t t t t t t t t t t t t t

Joystick $POUSPMMFETransmission 2000kg Capacity 5200kg Operating Weight Joystick Pilot Control 8 HP Turbo Diesel Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch A/C & Heated ROPS Safety Cab. AM/FM Stereo System with USB Reverse Camera 1.0m3 GP Bucket FREE 4 in 1 bucket FREE fork attachment FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre Fitted with Remote Hydraulic 3rd valve.

Digital Scales also available.

3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE.

3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE.

:&"34 )0634 &/(*/& 8"33"/5:

BETTER QUALITY, BETTER VALUE, BETTER SUPPORT

t/12d13713-v21/32-19

*/ 450$, '03 *..&%*"5& %&-*7&3: "6453"-*"ɤ8*%&

AW3734641

- ( ' ' "& " ' " %& - #* # '&

Page 20 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

Has Australia hit peak grain acreage?

AS Australia’s grain industry forecasts one of its largest crops on record, a discussion paper released

by ANZ in early September questions whether the na-

tion has finally hit “peak” grain acreage.

According to the report, the Australian grains sector remains on track to record one of its largest production

volumes ever, driven by two seasons of optimal weather conditions.

At the same time, strong global demand for Australian grain looks set to

continue, driven by poor weather forecasts for some Northern Hemisphere grain producers and strong global demand both for food and animal feed.

“One issue industry stakeholders need to contemplate is whether the industry has reached a point of ‘peak acreage’, meaning Australia’s current cropping area is unlikely to rise much further in future,” ANZ’s head of food, beverage and agribusiness insights, Michael Whitehead said.

“Australia’s cropping acreage has varied considerably over the decades, but it has broadly been on an upward trend.

“To some degree, the growth rates of Australia’s three largest agri sectors cropping, cattle and sheep impact each other, with the major interaction being between cropping and sheep.

“Over the past decade, Australia’s cropping acreage has plateaued to a degree not seen before, and while there was some volatility caused by drought during that period, cropping acreage would appear to have peaked in a band between 20 to 23 million hectares.

“Over the same period, Australia’s sheep numbers have also seen their steadiest period, sitting within a narrow band of 68 to 75 million head.

“Looking ahead, particularly over the next 10 years, the experience of the past decade would suggest that Australia’s main agri sectors are likely to remain at this level for the medium term and possibly longer.

“Importantly, in contrast to the plateauing of Australian crop acreage, crop production levels show lit-

tle signs of slowing in their overall growth.”

The paper also explored the increasing diversity of Australia’s cropping breakdown, with wheat’s acreage share dropping from around 80 per cent in the 1960s to around 50 per cent today.

While wheat, barley and canola have been the dominant crops, other varieties such as oats and sorghum may see an increase in production share.

It also forecast an increasing number of larger farms choosing to produce pulses, including chickpeas, lentils and beans.

Domestically, this would be driven by the growth of the plant-based protein market, while the export demand for these is also likely to see strong growth, particularly as COVID disruptions fade.

BUMPER CROPS: Canola, wheat and barley have been the dominant crops, recording the largest production volumes ever.

FITZGERALD EARTHMOVING AND IRRIGATION Formally Bosch Irrigation - Albury

For quotes, sales, service an installation General earth works and irrigation of all types

Michael Fitzgerald – Owner | 0427 01 2220 or (02) 6072 0059 v12d13699/4017

Eco Seeder - 2 IN STOCK NOW

RENOVATOR CLASSIC

This is the perfect drill for a farmer who wants high quality reliability on a smaller budget.

The Classic will sow a wide range of crops in both cultivated and uncultivated ground. The standard Classic is capable of sowing small seeds at 800 grams SHU KHFWDUH WR IHUWLOLVHU DW ZHOO RYHU NJ SHU KHFWDUH

Whether you want to sow seed and fertiliser or just seed, there is a model suitable for you. Each Eco 6HHGHU PRGHO FDQ EH FRQ¿JXUHG DV D WUDLOLQJ RU OLQNDJH model and options such as tine harrows and disc openers add to the versatility of this drill.

***All images are for illustrative purposes only ***

CONTACT OUR TEAM FOR MORE INFORMATION

7KH VWXUG\ PP FRLO WLQH ZLWK WKH %DNHU ERRW ZLOO ensure the seed is placed at the correct depth. The Nihard casting and tungsten tipped point ensures a long life in the toughest environments. The Classic is fully powder coated to protect it from the harshest ZHDWKHU DQG NHHS LW ORRNLQJ VKDUS IRU \HDUV WR FRPH ***All images are for illustrative purposes only ***

WODONGA - 3 MELROSE DRIVE - T 02 6055 9992 MYRTLEFORD - 62 - 66 MYRTLE STREET - T 03 5752 1828 BENALLA - 29 SYDNEY RD - T 03 5762 2999 Visit us online at www.regionalac.com.au

October 2021

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 21

Mining application has community on edge A MINING company has been ordered to re-advertise for an exploration licence application in the local district this week following concerns raised by the community.

A complaint was lodged concerning an advertisement in local and national media advising of the licence application that it didn’t meet legal requirements.

Ironbark Mining Pty Ltd has applied for an exploration licence (EL007515) for mining activity from Carboor to Eldorado, including the towns of Tarrawingee, Oxley, Milawa, Markwood and Everton and land four kilometres out from Wangaratta.

Community members, including landowner Natasha Lobban who created the ‘Let’s stop proposed mining exploration in North East Victoria’ Facebook page, are calling for more transparency and consultation from the company.

“Our main concern was it wasn’t well advertised so people weren’t aware of it; it feels like it’s been snuck under the radar,” she said.

“My main goal with the Facebook group was to inform the local community so they can make their own decision.

“I was made of aware of the advertisement and did some research when I realised it didn’t meet require-

BY LEAH ANDERSON-BYRNE landersonbyrne@ nemedia.com.au

ments so I contacted Earth Resources, where all applications have to go through, to get that remedied.

“Our other concern is it covers such a big area; it’s not just one paddock where it won’t affect anyone, and they’re looking for everything; base metals like copper, lead, zinc plus gold and diamonds.

“They haven’t been very forthcoming with information; I want to know what gold mining looks like these days, if diamond mining means huge mines or a small area; we have no idea.

“We don’t really want to have full access so ideally we need transparency and open conversation from them so we can make accurate comment on the application.

“The area will impact a huge number of landowners with both small and large scale farms and I’m also concerned about the impact on water, tourism and the environment.

“Tim McCurdy has been trying to contact the company directly for an information session but is yet to hear back.”

Ironbark general manager Jason Fothergill confirmed with the North East Farmer

CONSEQUENCES UNKNOWN: Landowners from Carboor to Eldorado have raised concerns about a company’s mining license application that has recently been made.

PHOTO: Kieren Tilly recently that advertisements would be re-published in last week’s Wednesday’s edition of The Age and last Friday’s edition of the Wangaratta Chronicle.

“Earth Resources have advised our advertisement didn’t meet the requirements so we’re in the process of arranging applications to be republished,” he said.

“The ad will include better links to information as there were concerns that people couldn’t easily access the website for information.

“This will mean the 21 day period for lodging objections or comment will re-commence but any objections already made will carry over.

“At this point we can’t re-

ally have a community information session until such time that the application has been granted because it is just an application.

“The process for us is to apply for a licence, this is considered by Earth Resources and, if it’s approved, then we do research for about two years before we do any on-ground work.

“Right now it’s just an area we’ve identified as interesting to us, the research we do is purely history and literature and we may decide after two years it’s not of interest to us anymore.

“If it is, we will then do on-ground work but prior to that we will undertake extensive community consultation.

Fix your water today Î Soften hard water for decades on $10 power yearly Î Clear out scaled pipes, increase flows Î More effective than magnets by design Î Salinity, scale, iron and hardwater solution

Î Î Î Î

“The other thing we want to emphasise is we cannot and will not enter any private land without a consent agreement of the landholder and land occupier.

“Those consent documents are listed with Earth Resources.

“I come from a long family history of mining and I have huge appreciation for the historical side of things and that area has a lot of interest in the past.

“I’ve been involved with mining for nearly 30 years and the environment and community are our top priorities.”

Mr Fothergill said there are two other applications (EL007374 and EL007375) being considered in the vi-

cinity and another yet to be advertised (El007510).

Ms Lobban said the problem with this timeline is, once the application has been approved, there’s “nothing we can do to stop them”.

“Once they have right to explore there’s nothing to stop them,” she said.

“Having community consultation down the track is useless because you can’t stop it.

“It’s talking at someone and you can talk back but it doesn’t affect anything but objecting now is when you can stop it.”

For more information, go to shorturl.at/dhvL1 and to provide comment or object got to https://rram.force. com/ObjectionSubmission.

Grow Healthy Plants Using Saline Water

Healthy stock using hard water No waste streams or decreases in flow Used by farmers, stations, councils, mining companies Scientifically tested and proven technology

Call 1300 138 223

www.hydrosmart.com.au

Page 22 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

A.G. EVANS HAY & SILAGE CONTRACTOR

5RWDFXW DQG VPDOO VTXDUH EDOHU &XW UDNH EDOH DQG ZUDS PRZHU FRQGLWLRQHU DQG WHGGHU

&RYHUDJH QHW ZUDS Wangaratta and surrounding area

COMPETITIVE PRICES

SALE O HAY & F BOOK EARLY TO SILAGE GUARANTEE AVAILABLE

TIMING

&DOO $OODQ RQ

SOUND ADVICE: The 32 page booklet on tips for a profitable hay season is now available from Feed Central.

0427 202 324

http://abctarps.com.au/ ht tp://ab p:///ab /ab /a /abc ab bct c a ps.ccom om m.au/ SAVE Hay, SAVE Money with Hay Covers &RYHU 6L]HV 0HWHUV 3.6 x 16.4 3.6 x 27.0 6.0 x 16.4 6.0 x 22.5 7.5 x 22.5 8.3 x 9.0

10.0 x 12.8 10.0 x 16.4 10.0 22.5 12.0 x 21.0 15.0 x 21.0

)HHW 12 x 54 12 x 90 20 x 54 20 x 74 25 x 74 27 x 30

33 x 42 33 x 54 33 x 74 40 x 70 50 x 70

Hay Covers Superior Quality Polyethylene Suitable for Round & Strong & Durable

Square Bales

Very Economical

Rope Reinforced edges

UV Stabilized

Brass Eyelets & Webbing Loops for easy tie-down

Waterproof Large Size Range

Available Immediately

Any tarp related questions? Feel free to contact us on: Call : 1300 656 211 (All Hours) Website: www.abctarps.com.au http://abctarps.com.au/

Email : info@abctarps.com.au https://www.instagram.com/abctarps/ ttps: tps p Instagram: @abctarps

Publication released to help hay growers have a profitable 2021-22 season A NEW publication is giving Australian producers tips for a profitable hay season, with predictions of soft demand and a focus on quality.

Feed Central’s ‘Tips for a Profitable Hay Season 202122’ booklet looks at the supply and demand forecast for 2021-22.

The 32-page publication released mid-September also covers the benefits of making hay, what types of hay to make, the hay price outlook, what hay buyers really want, what prevents hay from selling, hints and tips for producing quality hay, preparations, the pros and cons of hay versus silage, storage, tips for handling mice and how to interpret feed tests.

This is the seventh year the annual booklet has been published.

The Feed Central September market update also says hay movements remain low with price cuts to clear old season product and limited quality left in the current market.

Overall new season production is down compared to the past two years.

Feed Central general manager Cieran Maxwell said no matter what nature and the markets do, good hay making practices will be crucial, and quality should be the focus of any production management plan.

“There will be a market for quality hay,” he said.

“Storage will be key and producing hay or straw with

no shed storage plan risks significant negative financial impacts.

“The standard requirements apply: high density bale weights, consistency in bale shape and size, visual appearance and feed test result.”

Mr Maxwell said immediate demand was expected to be soft for a further period, due to the impact of feed on the ground backed by a higher level of users’ own production supply for feed.

“Level of demand in the coming seasons with the present challenges is very much an unknown,” he said.

“There is a large enough quantity of carry-over old season stock heading into the 2021-22 season.

“The majority of this is below the normal quality of previous seasons.

“New season quality hay will be preferred.”

He advised growers to have finances ready for a possible prolonged selling period and to be prepared to be flexible on delivery spreads.

“End users are seeking high-quality ‘A’ grade or better product only.

“Livestock of any kind are expensive, therefore keeping gains on is a priority.”

Mr Maxwell said Australia remains in a strong herd rebuild phase with no ease off forecasted.

“Higher quality hay will sell this season and the next dry is never that far away - 8 out of 10 years there is a shortage of high-quality ce-

WHITTY

COMMODITIES

GRAIN TRADING Specialists in on farm grain buying 37 Cusack Street, Wangaratta | Phone: (03) 5721 6588 | Mobile: 0428 356 463 Family owned and operated for over 35 years www.whittyproduce.com.au

real hay at some stage in the cycle,” he said.

There is confidence in the feeder market and prospects will also be boosted by feedlot expansions.

Threats for the season include unfavourable curing and baling conditions, lack of shed storage leading to damaged product, mice damage, over-supply of lower quality product to market requirements, large amount of feed on the ground and end users’ own production.

There is also uncertainty about COVID-19’s disruptive effect on connected markets.

Mr Maxwell said there was no crystal ball to help predict hay prices over the next 12 months, however, this year’s harvest and baling time will see a low demand period and prices likely to return to historically lower positions.

Every year about 10 million tonnes of hay, straw and silage is produced in Australia with total value around $2 billion.

About half is traded, and half retained for on farm use.

“Growers with good quality hay, who are prepared to store the product in a shed can achieve great returns,” Mr Maxwell said.

It is expected there will be limited buyers purchasing hay off the paddock this season.

He added that almost every year hay outperforms grain in gross value per hectare.

October 2021

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 23

Looming labour shortages threatens second season in a row ■

From page 1 “Pome has been similarly affected and growers are still struggling to get workers to pick citrus.

“The industry as a whole is contending with an unmet demand for pruners and thinning, and it appears that under the current situation stone fruit growers will suffer again this season.”

Cherries will be ripe for harvest soon and growers are anticipating difficulty in accessing sufficient labour.

“Changes in the housing market are also going to make it harder to find sufficient affordable accommodation for workers,” Ms Abberfield said.

“The state and federal governments have provided a range of support packages, which have gone some of the way towards alleviating the situation.

“The problem still remains that people just simply refuse to work in orchards.

“You can offer bonuses and subsidies to entice and assist workers, but if people don’t come we cannot use the support mechanisms.

“We still remain hopeful that our marketing activities will attract workers and we can get on with the job.”

However, with the Sign On Bonus scheduled to end in October, this successful initiative aimed at attracting workers into horticulture, will become unavailable to Cobram growers just as their season is beginning.

BUMPER CROP: In 2020, over 100 staff members worked on the cherry harvest at Cobram’s Boosey Fruit, and owner Tony Siciliano will be anticipating similar staffing requirements this year.

“The CDFGA along with Fruit Growers Victoria and the Shepparton City Council have been working together on the Pick Goulburn Valley program to attract workers to our respective areas, as well as an online platform to link workers and growers and training, so that we’re being proactive within our own regions,” Ms Abberfield said.

Growers are hoping this extensive marketing will attract a workforce, with the AgVisa a welcome future option that unfortunately may not address the immediate shortage in a timely enough fashion.

“It is known across the

VINCENT CONTRACTING HAY & SILAGE

industry that we have a long reliance on foreign labour, and it is not expected that the AgVisa will help our members at all this season,” Ms Abberfield said.

“We literally start in weeks, and there is too much yet that remains to be sorted, to imagine that plane loads of pickers will arrive in Cobram to pick our fruit.”

Hort Innovation contracted Ernst and Young to do a report on the labour requirements of Agriculture over the 2020/2021 and the 2021/2022 seasons.

The upshot of the report is not positive for growers and packing sheds.

According to the report current supply is at least close to demand, however, growers are struggling to get enough pruners.

However, when peak season hits the industry will be 15,000 workers per month away from demand, and this includes the Australian workers

with government provided incentives.

And this is the more optimistic outlook, with estimates that there could be a shortage of up to 24,000 across the country, with Victoria predominantly impacted given the size of the sector.

It is sombre reading, and

Ms Abberfield believes the government may need to look outside the box for a solution.

One suggestion is that an immediate moratorium on undocumented workers already in the country might go some way to addressing the shortfall.

“There is thought to be a very large number of undocumented workers, and the CDFGA proposes that we offer this untapped workforce impunity, get them back into the system and allow them to work lawfully,” she said.

“They can contribute to the taxation system , get immunised and work for quality businesses that cannot take the risk of using undocumented workers.

“Their visa status as a result will be more controlled, and though we are not proposing an overhaul of the government’s normal visa control mechanism, we are asking the government to look at this situation for what it actually is.

“This situation is an emergency that requires greater flexibility and faster action.”

ELDRIGAN AG SERVICES SPECIALIST IN OUR FIELD AND YOURS

GROWER AND SUPPLIER OF HIGH QUALITY

HAY & SILAGE CUT, RAKE, BALE & WRAP ROUNDS AND SMALL SQUARE BALES FERTILISER AND BULK LIME DELIVERED AND SPREAD

ROUND BALES, CUT, CONDITION, TED, RAKE, BALE, WRAP. CARTAGE AVAILABLE. t -BUFTU FRVJQNFOU t $PNQFUJUJWF 1SJDFT

Servicing all areas.

Contact Nathan Vincent

0428 250 576

CONTACT

CLINTON NAYLOR

0429 093 454 SERVICING WANGARATTA AND SURROUNDING DISTRICTS

HiPerFert

HIGH PERFORMANCE FERTILISER

Page 24 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

Dry fertilisers costing too much?

Liquids are the answer WITH the prices of traditional dry fertilisers skyrocketing in the last six to 12 months farmers are looking for an economical yet highly beneficial alternative.

Liquid soil and foliar applications are the most efficient tools available to stimulate pasture and crops as they give the plant what it needs now.

While liquids will take time to adjust soil element levels Bayley Organics can highlight through tissue testing that their liquids program is giving the plant immediate nutrition.

To explain further please see the following key points: 1. Foliar uptake Foliar versus soil uptake helps plant growth for two reasons.

Firstly, uptake efficiency of soil applied nutrients is much lower than foliar; this is due to a greater dilution of fertiliser in soil as well as slower uptake by the root system.

Secondly, foliar uptake uses less energy than soil uptake per unit of nutrient; this is because when a nutrient is taken from the soil, energy is used on its uptake

at two distinct points.

Foliar uptake in contrast only uses energy once when ions are taken up from leaf free space into leaf cells.

2. Phosphate and nitrogen in foliar spray is essential to benefit from Integrated Fertiliser Management (IFM) It has been shown that when foliar phosphate is applied especially in sun-

light, the root system develops pockets of activity that are otherwise absent; these pockets exude hydrogen ion (by proton pumping) and organic acids to mobilise tied up soil nutrients.

Liquid programs are fantastic for both small and large operations as you the farmer have total control and do not have the need to employ contractors.

In addition with the majority of our products needing 2 litres to the hectare farmers have a very economical alternative.

To learn more about foliar feeding and to receive information on the full range of our liquids as well as our biological applications please contact Bayley on 0420 946 156 or email Bayley@goodeorganics.com.au.

NPK LEAFSPRAY PASTURE AND CROPPING AVAILABLE IN 1000Ltr, 200Ltr & 20Ltr DRUMS

ZIINNCC,, D E Z D D D E A D H D T I A WITH SEAW W WEEEEDD , A N E O S , R N O O B BORRACEE EELLEEM NTTSS E M N E T AANNDD TRAC

CONTACT - BAYLEY GOODE b 0420 946 156 E bayley@goodeorganics.com.au S goodeorganics.com.au ;> @goodeorganics

Bale-Up Hayfeeders

FIELDS OF GREEN: Liquid programs are fantastic for both small and large operations providing a highly beneficial alternative.

$2800 inc GST per unit

Australian Steel, Australian Made, to survive Australian Conditions!

Our modular feed pad model, the next level in feed pads, comes in 4-metre units. Buy two ‘bookend’ units and add as many open ended centre units as you need. No more feed on the ground and extremely low waste, and like all our feeders it comes with our rolled corrugated floor.

Bale-Up Hayfeeders 1IPOF rsgarth@hotmail.com

t 'BY www.baleupfeeders.com

Standard cow feeder $2350 inc GST

Calf feeder $2100 inc GST

Servicing Northeast Victoria Luke Keam ҋ !$ " ! " ! ş !$ ҋ Ɛ $ & " ҋ ! & $ !$ " !"ķ ş + "& ҋ !$ +ķ " ķ ) ķ ! ş ! ( ҋ (+ &

Ph 0408 500 361

h;-l=;uঞѴbv;uvŠ0b]rom7ĺ1ol

October 2021

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 25

Supporting the next generation of farmers to succeed

By PAM ZIERK-MAHONEY THE Victorian Government is calling on young farmers to take their careers to the next level, with expressions of interest open for the 2022 Young Farmer and New Entrant Mentoring Program.

Minister for Agriculture MaryAnne Thomas recently announced eight positions were available in the 2022 program which pairs young farmers with experienced farmers in a mentorship, overseen by a skilled farm business consultant.

“The Young Farmer and New Entrant Mentoring Program is a great way for young farmers to meet and learn from someone with a lifetime of experience and form valuable relationships in the industry,” Ms Thomas said.

“Our young farmers are the future of Victoria’s agriculture industry - this program is a chance for experienced producers to share their knowledge with the next generation and support the sector to continue to thrive.”

The program is open to farmers aged 18 to 35 years to develop the skills they need to better manage their farm businesses, identify risks and develop strategies to build resilience and achieve their business goals.

During the 12-month program the mentor and mentee will meet regularly to assist the young farmer in building professional networks, utilising trusted sources of advice and information, and setting business goals.

Elizabeth (Libby) Paton of Tallangatta is one such participant in the current mentoring program.

Libby is a 34-year-old who farms and contracts in the far North East working in the beef industry and also operates a commercial spraying business in Tallangatta district.

Libby is enjoying the program and would recommend that other young farmers apply to be a part of it.

“I highly value networking,” she said.

“It increases the amount of people to call on, seek out extra guidance and just extends the group of mates in ag in general.”

Libby grew up in the local town but always had a love for and was

drawn to farming - always landing jobs in agriculture.

When in school she had an ambition of getting a double horse float with one half for the horse and the other to contain her motorbike so she was fully mobile - and along with her ute was going to head up north and become a jillaroo.

But also from the age of about six or seven years she was also planning her farm - where her house would go, her shed and mapping out paddocks - it was always her dream.

“My parents were both raised on farms - dairy, sheep and crop but they didn’t go farming at all when they grew up so it skipped my childhood, but there is a long line of farming in the background,” she said.

Libby is thoroughly enjoying her dual role in farming combining her beef farming and the contracting business - primarily spraying commercial chemical applications for the government and for producers but also doing a lot of ‘patch management’ as well.

In the mentoring program she has one mentor - John - who she meets up with once a month.

“John advises on a bit of everything; he is just wonderful,” Libby said.

“With the program we also have a facilitator and they are mostly from the financial background but also from an agricultural background, so you’ve got that facilitator with a lot of knowledge.

“But then you’ve also got onthe-ground experiences, farm finances as well as the day-to-day stuff in farm management coming from the mentor - it’s a good combination,” she said.

Libby splits her time 50-50 between beef farming and contracting, depending on the season.

“I can see me doing this (farming and contracting) for the rest of my life -100 per cent,” she said.

“Sometimes you can be a bit sceptical joining a program like this, but as my parents were not farmers, unlike some other kids going into agriculture they usually have parents with a farming background that they can call on, I didn’t have that in the background.

“So to replace that parent expe-

rience with another person who is going to step in and be a mentor has been invaluable with the daily stuff.

“John is so friendly and helpful - it’s just like catching up with your dad.”

Libby said the advice on every day planning and work, like pulling a calf from a heifer and what to do next has been the best help.

“I would love to become a mentor myself in the future,” she said.

“I am pretty passionate about aspiring young farmers in ag.

“Where it is embedded in the ones that were brought up in agriculture they can be pretty entrenched in their generational ways.

“Being involved in the industry with the ‘first-gen farmers’ as they are called now, many are coming and going, some are making sense of advice but some just sit back and build a better scope.

“But you still can’t pass up experience.”

Even though this program has been invaluable to her, Libby would like to see the program

extended for longer - beyond 12 months.

“It would be good to overlap seasons such as joining and calving which is up to 18 months,” she said.

“And the seasons are so different - this year it is a wet year but next it could be a dry year and farming is different each year.”

The Young Farmer and New Entrant Mentoring Program is funded by the government’s $20 million Smarter, Safer Farms initiative, which includes targeted training support to build capability in financial literacy, risk management, farm planning and adaption to climate change.

z LOVE OF FARMING: Elizabeth (Libby) Paton is a young farmer currently participating in the Young Farmer and New Entrant Mentoring Program.

OBEE R A J SPRING ANGUS

BULL SALE

2020 at at 1pm 1pm Friday25th 15thSeptember October, 2021 Friday

Jarobee Sale Complex. Robinson Road, Beechworth.

PRESALE INSPECTIONS WELCOME PRESALE INSPECTIONS WELCOME ANYTIMEBY BYAPPOINTMENT APPOINTMENT ANYTIME ALLINSPECTIONS INSPECTIONS WILL ADHERE ALL WILL ADHERE TO TO CURRENT COVID 19 GUIDELINES CURRENT COVID 19 GUIDELINES

Alan & Jan Robinson 0429 324 124 Greg White: 0417 215 883 | Email: jarobee@bigpond.com

Brett Shea 0428 691 489 Steven Street 0428 579 338

AUCTIONEERS

Michael Glasser 0403 526 702

Peter Ruaro 0447 600 825

AW3942099

50 HBR BULLS

QUALITY QUALITY GENETICS FOR FOR COMMERCIAL COMMERCIAL IMPACT IMPACT

Page 26 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

Fluctuating prices “painful” for North East’s lamb producers CONSISTENCY is the name of the game for local lamb producers, with fluctuating prices and uncertain weather conditions making for an unpredictable past few months.

Everton Upper lamb producer Don Bennett said the impact of COVID restrictions hadn’t gone unnoticed by the industry.

“Prices are fluctuating a bit, because of abattoirs

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@ nemedia.com.au

having to shut down - that’s happened a couple of times now, it has a flow-on effect back to the markets,” he said.

“If you take a buyer out of the mix, they don’t have the competition then, so things

don’t make as much money as they should.

“It’s a bit up and down.”

Mr Bennett said while some producers received exemplary prices one week, and some had just scarped even just a week later, the prices were trending upwards across the board.

Meat and Livestock Australia’s sale graphs tell the full story, with extreme high prices and sudden crashes.

The average price for light lamb (between 22-24kg carcase weight) at the end of July was around 860c/kg - 10 days into August the price had dropped almost a dollar to 770c/kg.

“Consistency would be good but it’s bloody hard to get in this game,” Mr Bennett said.

“My uncle sold some a couple of weeks ago, and he got $240 for his, which is bloody excellent for his first draft of lambs for the season, but they’ve come back since then too.

“It was very similar this year - they didn’t know what the processors were doing and who was going to be operating, who’s not.

“It’s very hit and miss.

“I know we had to send lambs up to Tamworth and we did alright out of them, but within that one week there was a big drop in the market and people were selling their stock for $10, $20 less than what we got for ours.

“It was just up and down, it’s bloody painful.”

Mr Bennett said the rest of the year looked promising, and with plenty of ground mo0isture and a gradual transition into the hotter temperatures, his stock would be sure to fatten nicely.

“I’m hoping, because we’ve had a lot of rain out here, I’m hoping that we

don’t get hot too quick - I’m hoping we have nice, warm days because the grass will just jump out of the ground here,” he said.

“That’ll be excellent for the stock, they’ll fatten well.

“In saying that, from the long weather forecast it looks like we’re going to get a bit more rain which won’t hurt.

“If it does happen to turn and we get those 30 degrees days really quickly and soon, well that’ll send everything to head and it’ll cut the season out pretty quickly.

“It’s hard to say what’ll happen.

“I’m hoping it’ll do the first option and things will tick along nicely.”

For more information and list of regional studs Contact Secretary: Margot Falconer 0419 581 121 Email: secretary@polldorset.org.au Website: www.polldorset.org.au

BRED FOR AUSTRALIAN CONDITIONS fast growth rate strong black hooves high fertility (very high percentage of twins) gentle temperment fully shedding marbled fat - (with very low melting point) 32-35 degrees centigrade ͪ omega 3 - saturated fat ͪ ͪ ͪ ͪ ͪ ͪ

FAMILY TRADE: Don Bennett (centre) and his boys (from left) Archie (3), Leo (5), and Brooks (1) with some of their stock.

PHOTO: Kieren Tilly

Low Cost NLIS Approved Ear Tags

Grant Davey - 0458 055 023 | Richard Boadle - 0428 953 044 @australianwhitesheepbalmattum

richard.boadle@bigpond.com

For more information, visit our website or contact us directly. www.australianwhitesheepbalmattum.com

Order at www.aaatags.com or Phone 0419 608 570

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 27

October 2021

Classifieds

:;>@4 1-?@ -:0 3;A8.A>: 9A>>-E

Phone (03) 5723 0100 LIVESTOCK

WANTED TO BUY

Wangaratta Monthly Store Cattle Sale For further information contact your local representative

FIREWOOD Farmers do you need extra CASH!

7OV[V! 4PJOHLS (TLUKVSPH

Wangaratta Associated Stock Agents

RESTORE SIGHT FOR JUST $25

Bartel Firewood needs large amounts Of RED GUM firewood DRY or GREEN PADDOCKS CLEARED Cash Royalties Paid in advance

FOR SALE

GH FARM MACHINERY 1HZ 8VHG 7UDFWRUV )DUP 0DFKLQHU\

Garry Hamlyn

0484 782 929

SPECIAL PRICES ON MULCHERS BLADES

ghfarming@gmail.com

FLY OR LICE PROBLEMS? The magic eye sheepjetter since 1989

Quality construction and options Get the contractors choice Featuring...

Ph Garry 0418 600 550

DONATE NOW

1800 352 352

' Incredible chemical economy ' Amazing ease 1500+ per hour ' Unique self adjusting sides ' Environmentally and user friendly ' Automatically activated ' Proven effective on lice as well as fly ' Compatible with all dip chemicals ' Accurate, effective application

HOLLOWS.ORG.AU

AGRICULTURAL REPAIRS

MOBILE REPAIRS

New Holland Baler parts * Tractors * Diesel * Baler * Hay machinery mechanic.

Service & repairs all makes of tractors, agricultural, industrial, earthmoving machinery Over 30 years experience, factory trained. Specialising in Ford New Holland

Classifieds WORK 5723 0100

RM2171651

TRADES AND SERVICES

1800 146 892 | dipping@electrodip.co.nz - www.electrodip.com

PAUL WILLIAMS - CHESHIRE & WILLIAMS REPAIRS P/L

BUY NOW FOR S, CHRISTMA

Ph (03) 5721 4419 mobile 0428 574 195 1 WENHAMS LANE, WANGARATTA

ey’re b e f o re t h id gone. Avo tment disappoin

2nd Annual Sale, 60 Top Quality Rams Monday 8th November 1.00pm

10FT & 14FT AVAILABLE

At the Yea Showgrounds Vic Contact Tim Fincham M: 0427 871 294

STO IN CK

PLAYSAFE TRAMPOLINES Limited Playworld Swing Sets available

Lucy & Bill’s Toyworld Wangaratta Find us at Fincham’s Burando Southdowns

Shop 13, Co-Store Complex, 88 Ovens Street, Wangaratta.

Phone: (03) 5721 3836 ADVERTISEMENT

TUESDAY "KING VALLEY RUN"

THURSDAY "BEECHWORTH, MYRTLEFORD RUN" PRE-BOOKED VETERINARY WORK

*FOR REDUCED TRAVEL PRICES*

32 WARBY STREET, WANGARATTA

5721 7177

Having problems with mites and worms in your chickens?

Two new products for chickens are now available to combat poultry red mite and intestinal worms. The exciting news is they are registered for use in chickens and it is safe to eat their eggs whilst treating your flock!

Poultry red mite Poultry red mites feed on your chickens’ blood at night before hiding away in cracks within your poultry shed.

They are extremely hard to eradicate, very tiny (~1mm) and can survive for 8 months in your coop environment without a blood meal. Poultry red mite can also feed off dogs, rodents and humans!

What to watch for: 7LQ\ EODFN UHG PLWHV FUDZOLQJ RYHU eggs or on perches of a night <RXU FKLFNHQV· FRPEV JRLQJ SDOH 8QH[SODLQHG FKLFNHQ GHDWKV <RX \RXUVHOI IHHOLQJ LWFK\ DIWHU collecting eggs or being in the coop Mite populations can explode under warm conditions so keep an eye out for them!

The new product is easily added to your birds’ drinking water and protects your flock for one month.

Roundworms/tapeworms Intestinal worms can also be a silent killer of poultry, especially in immature

growing birds.

What to watch for: 5HGXFHG JURZWK 6FUDZQ\ VNLQQ\ ELUGV 8QH[SODLQHG GHDWKV A new product on the market targets both roundworm and tapeworm and is easily added to your chicken’s feed.

Not sure what’s going on in your flock?

We also offer poultry post-mortem examinations. Please call us on 5721 7177 to arrange an appointment.

By Dr Breanna Carr

Page 28 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

October 2021

$18,700 S/H 417 SMALL SQUARE BALER ALSO 317 AT $11,450 AND 275 AT $7,400

$46,990 NEW 75HP ROPS LANDINI 4WD FF.E.LOADER 4IN1 BUCKET

$17,100 BOOMERANG MK6 TWO BALE HAY FEEDER , ROUND AND LARGE SQUARE BALES, 2 SETS REMOTE COUPLINGS REQUIRED

JOHN DEERE 4850 190HP P/SHIFT LINKAGE 39900 ALSO 4650 165HP AT $39,000

$21,600 NEW 15 BALE JADAN SMALL BALE ACCUMULATORS. ALSO JADAN 15 BALE GRAB $6,000

NEW 1.9MT MOWER

$96,500 NEW LANDINI REX 100 GE LOW PROFILE CAB TRACTOR

$11,000

NEW GRIZZLY DISC PLOWS 28 PLATE .40PLATE $48,500

$21,500

$23,900

$49,940 NEW SILVAN 3000LT BROADACRE, 18MT BOOM HYD LIFT AND FOLD

$22,000

EURO HITCH SILAGE GRABS NEW

$29,400

$39,600

NEW SIP 7.2MT DUAL ROTARY RAKE

$2,050

S/H 4.7MT LINKAGE ROTARY RAKE ALSO S/H 4.5MT ROSSI $7,850

$8,690

NEW LANDINI POWERFARM 110 4WD CAB WITH 4IN1 BUCKET

HOLLAND TD85D CABIN 4WD F.E. LOADER 1680HRS

NEW SIP 3.8MT 9DISC CENTRE PIVOT MOWER

$4,100

NEW SITREX 16 WHEEL VEE RAKE 9.4MT W/W OTHER SIZES AVAILABLE ALSO 14 WHEEL AT $28,350

3.2MT NEW TOPPING MULCHER 3MT AT $ 15,900 2.2MT AT $9,900

$29,900

$49,000

13 WHEEL INLINE W/W 8.5MTS ALSO TR 9 INLINE AT $10,290

$16,900

$28,380 3.6MT KANGA TOPPER ALSO 3MT SKID UNIT AT $20,000

$17,300

$13,950 NEW 4 ROTOR TEDDER 5.5MT W/W

$91,990

2017 MERLO TURBO FARMER TF33.7 FARMER TELEHANDER 15HP BUCKET AND FORKS

$39,900

$13,800 QR 10 W/W 6.7MT ALSO QR 8 W/W 5.8MT $11,300

$106,600

$2,400 4FT SLASHER ALSO 5FT SLASHERS AT 2700 6FT AT $5400. 7 FT AT $6000

1.8M COSMO FINISHING MOWER ALSO 2.3 MT AT $5,390

$69,900

$15,700

NEW JADAN BIG BALE STACKER

S/H JOHN DEERE 342A SMALL SQUARE BALER. ALSO DEUTZ HD 460 SMALL SQUARE BALER. $16,500 EXCELLENT CONDITION.

$26,000

$15,700

TYM TS25 25HP TRACTOR 4WD ROPS MANUAL DRIVE NEW TYM T265 ROPS NEW MAHINDRA 41HP F.E.LOADER INCLUDES NEW HOLLAND 658 BALER CRUISE CONTROL INDUSTRIAL TYRES WITH FRONT END 25HP 4WD HYDROSTATIC DRIVE ROPS TRACTOR BUCKET AND THIS IS LARGE FRAME TRACTOR, ALSO J/DEERE AT $6800 LOADER AND 4IN1 BUCKET. THREE YEAR WARRANTY WITH FRONT END LOADER & 4 IN 1 BUCKET SUITABLE FOR ROUND BALES.

3pt linkage W/W 2.4mt 6 disc.

Requires 45hp and above. Hyd lift.

NOW YOUR LOCAL

New

L ODE ingcs.t OM 0 DEM . $9,90 IL AVA

$10,272 EX GST $11,300 INC GST Image for illustration purposes only

inc gst

$

33,490

Many more models in stock to choose from Rotary hoe in stock

MAHINDRA Konigs EOFY Deals DEALER

13,990 ,900 inc gst MAHINDRA JIVO, 24HP $

New

inc gst

MAHINDRA MAX 36, 36HP, 4WD, HST TRANS, INDUS. TYRES, FEL, 4 IN 1 BUCKET

SPECIALS OF THE MONTH 355 Benalla Road Shepparton

Ph: (03) 5821 4411 A/H 0419 399 109

Driving Your Dollar Further

For more information go to

www.konigs.com.au

LMCT 11745

S/H MCHALE 991B TRAILING BALE WRAPPER 90 DEGREE REAR TIPPER, EXCELLENT ORDER

$22,000