North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - December 2021 by Provincial Press Group

Published since 1986

DECEMBER, 2021

Cow future for Darby

www.farmernews.com.au

Gin and berries combine

Laila dux of Scots School

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CHERRIO AFTER 30 years on the land popular Mt Bruno cherry farmers Tony (pictured) and Marion Rak are hanging up the secateurs after this summer’s harvest. Full story including how you can get your hands on these Christmas delicacies, go to pages 18-19.

Rendering the industry less productive WITH the Fair Work Commission looking to amend the Horticultural Award so that all employees receive a minimum of $25.41 per hour on piecework rates, an industry

that is already struggling under a critical labour shortage may now have their wage costs pushed to unsustainable levels. Tony Mahar, chief executive officer (CEO)

of the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), said that it is a bitter blow to many farmers who are already doing the right things, but who are right now facing another harvest

with a woefully inadequate workforce. “Farmers want to ensure workers are paid fairly, and they also want to be able to reward their most productive workers,” he said.

The removal of piecework rates has the potential to render the industry less productive, and remove the advantage for employees to work at their own pace. The Fair Work

Commission in its findings, however, claimed that current piecework rates are not determined in accordance with the Horticulture Award. ■ Continued page 3

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December 2021

Cows Create Careers program forges Goulburn Valley teenager’s future FUTURE: Darby McClaren has accredited the Cows Create Careers program with allowing him to focus on a career connected with cattle. 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

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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.

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FIFTEEN-year-old Darby McClaren was inspired enough by the Cows Create Careers program to pursue a career with cattle and already has practical dairy experience under his belt as he studies towards his goal. “We did Cows Create Careers for three years while I was at St Joseph’s in Nagambie,” he said. “We had three lots of calves and I really got into it from there. “It was a very good learning experience and inspired me to work in the cattle field.” The program exposed him to the joys of raising dairy cows and Darby now has his own fledgling stud, Derryvale Illawarras. He has 15 Angus beef cows and this year bought 15 Illawarra dairy steers to rear for the dairy beef market. On school holidays he has enjoyed working on Raymond and Sarah Parker’s dairy farm, Glencliffe Illawarras at Undera, near Shepparton, and he’s now returned to study at Yanco Agricultural High School. “He’s been staying with us at Glencliffe, with Raymond mentoring him during school holidays, since he was eight years old and he’s now studying at Yanco for a career in agriculture and it all came from Cows Create Careers building his enthusiasm,” said Sarah. Gardiner Dairy Foundation provided seed funding in 2005 to launch Cows Create Careers across Victoria and recently returned as a sponsor of the program. In 2021, Cows Create Careers is being delivered to 68 schools and about 2380 students across Victorian dairy regions, giving students an insight into the different skills and capabilities required for a career in dairy and the different job opportunities that abound. Usually, students get to raise calves as part of the program but that was curtailed in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19, although the program continued on Zoom and it’s hoped calves will return to schools in 2022.

GIVING BACK: Sarah and Raymond Parker, who run dairy farm Glencliffe Illawarras at Undera, near Shepparton, have been staunch supporters of the Cows Create Careers program. For Darby the program has forged a clear path ahead to a career connected to cattle, potentially as a stock agent. “I just feel it’s where I belong,” he said. “I really enjoy working with cattle. “I’ve had a passion for cattle since I was a little kid.” While keeping options open, he will also consider a dairy traineeship. He had started a traineeship with the Parkers when he couldn’t return to school during lockdown but has since been able to return to college. Darby recommends the Cows Create Careers program to a new era of primary students. “I’d love to see more kids getting into it,” he said. “It’s good learning for everyone. “If they’re anything like me, they’ll just absorb it all and hopefully in the future they can buy their own calves like I did.” Raymond and Sarah have been staunch supporters of Cows Create Careers since buying their farm at Undera in 2006 and initially Raymond forged a bond with Darby when providing calves for Cows Create Careers at his school. While Raymond started in the program supplying calves and speaking to classes, Sarah joined later wearing a different hat - as an industry advocate while working as a milk supply manager.

The industry advocate role within the Cows Create Careers program provides a great opportunity for those in off-farm roles to get involved. As a team, Raymond and Sarah were able to offer students a unique experience where they learnt about the role of farmers, raising calves, animal health and welfare, and nutrition from Raymond, followed by post farm gate roles in the industry and the value of processors in the industry from Sarah. The students were also able to try a variety of cheese and dairy products, with Sarah talking about the processing off-farm and Raymond talking about the many impacts on-farm systems have on milk quality and production. “We wanted to get involved to give back to the industry and we also realised the need to start educating those interested in the industry from a young age and offer them opportunities to develop and learn, and engage with farmers,” Sarah said. “Some of the kids in urban areas like Shepparton never get an opportunity to go on a farm.” Sarah said the program helped to engage students and give them a different learning experience. “The kids respond really well to the calves,” she said. “It gives them structure because they’re working in teams and have to feed them morning

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and afternoon, and the calves come back here healthy and very friendly.” Darby is a prime example of the program’s ability to engage young people. “He’s dead keen on cows and developed that interest through Cows Create Careers, which was an enriching experience for him,” Sarah said. “He was able to work with other dairy farmers and industry professionals as part of a show team. “These people, from around the world, mentor the young people, enabling them to learn about cow health and nutrition, animal management and teamwork.” Raymond and Sarah are both beneficiaries of Gardiner Foundation’s investment in building the capacity of people and leadership in the dairy industry. They were both Gardiner recipients for the Fairley (Goulburn Murray) Community Leadership Program, and both have gone on to leadership roles in the industry, holding executive positions with their state breed society. Raymond is a cattle judge and served on the Classification and Production Committee at a national level while Sarah has served on state, national and regional boards including the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority.

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December 2021

Rendering the industry less productive From page 1 Mr Mahar attributes this to the complexity of the formula required to calculate piecework rates, and said that the NFF has been vocal in calling for a more streamlined and less complex industrial relations system to address this situation. He believes that the wholesale changes the commission is considering will only result in greater complexity, and with a December 16 deadline for the commission’s final determination, no consideration is being made for seasonal impact. With the floor rate set to be legislated equal to a casual rate, growers will need to keep a record of hours worked, and industry professionals are concerned that this additional reporting will increase overall administrative costs. Phil Turnbull, Apple and Pear Australia Limited CEO, said: “Members who have been paying hourly rates and piece rates in compliance with the requirements now face the prospect of even more administration, and employees and employers ■

will lose flexibility and incentives. “If, as we fear, the Commission proceeds with its decision, we are also calling on them to adopt an implementation timeline that reflects the significant business impact. “This decision will require orchard businesses to review and revise already compliant labour management policies, practices and systems, to train up orchard leaders, and to find the resources needed for the additional record keeping. APAL is one of numerous industry groups that opposed the application to vary the Horticultural Award, with the Australian Fresh Food Alliance, the Ai Group, Fruit Growers Tasmania along with the NFF, just a few who were voicing concern over the decision. The Australian Workers Union (AWU), however, proceeded with the push to amend the award, concerned that there was no floor wage and that workers were paid solely on the amount of produce they picked.

Supporting the application were the Queensland, Victorian and Western Australian Governments, along with the Uniting Church of Australia, the Australian Council of Social Services and 88 Days and Counting, an organisation to support those on working holiday visas. “The changes our union proposed, and that the Fair Work Commission has now accepted, will put a safety net under fruit pickers to ensure they get what every worker in Australia deserves: a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work,” said Daniel Walton, the national secretary for the AWU. Mr Walton believes that fruit pickers have been routinely and systematically exploited and underpaid. However, Mr Turnbull said that this behaviour has never been acceptable in the industry. “If the draft decision goes ahead, the industry will incur a heavy burden for the non-compliance and poor administration practices of a small number of horticultural industry members,” he said.

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Boutique gin is a berry good collaboration for Bimbimbi Organics By EMMA OLIVER NINA Meiers is usually a positive person, however, staffing shortages have left her disheartened and in the unenviable position where she and husband Andrew are contemplating downsizing or worst-case scenario - selling their Barjarg farm, Bimbimbi Organics. “We have had to make the decision to plough in two fields of strawberries - which is effectively two fifths of our income,” said Nina. “We lack pickers again, and by ploughing in the field we eliminate the ongoing costs and the risk. “The weather has hit us significantly, and with more rain forecast we have had to pull the pin on parts of our farm, and scale down to supply only our local market and home delivery clientele.” Previously supplying fruit to both the Melbourne and Sydney markets, terms and conditions of payment have also made the situation untenable when contending with staffing shortages.

The Meiers are constantly fielding calls and emails from stores across Victoria and New South Wales who are keen to stock their premium quality product. “Unlike many other strawberry growers who are struggling to find buyers at the moment in the current glut, we can’t keep up with supply,” said Nina. It is devastating for the couple not to have the pickers to complete these orders nor even contemplate taking on new clientele. Expanding what should be a highly successful business is not even a consideration under current circumstances. “After the years of drought, we promised we’d never complain about the rain,” Nina said. “It’s not having the staff that is particularly debilitating. “We have rows full of water damaged fruit, and paying people to throw away fruit - rather than harvest it - is a special sort of torture. “We have, however, managed to salvage some of this delicious fruit which we are

selling at a heavily reduced price in an attempt to claw back some of the costs.” It is this fruit that when advertised on a local Facebook page caught the attention of Hank and Carrie Thierry from Mansfield’s Swiftcrest Distillery. Familiar with the quality product, the couple had often contemplated making a strawberry gin with this incredible fruit. The strawberries are aromatic, sweet and gloriously red, and the Thierrys knew that they would perfectly complement Swiftcrest’s house gin. And so Hank and Carrie headed out to Bimbimbi with the intention of buying eight kilograms of strawberries to trial in small batch production. However, on hearing that Bimbimbi Organics had not only the water damaged fruit, but a surplus of strawberries frozen away the result of regular trade being impacted by COVID restrictions, a collaboration was born. “We came home with 200 kilograms,” said Hank. Now Swiftcrest is a bou-

WORKING TOGETHER: Hank and Carrie Thierry from Swiftcrest Distillery have entered into a collaboration with berry growers Bimbimbi Organics to create an Organic Strawberry Summer Gin. tique distillery, and 200 kilograms of fruit represents an awful lot of infused gin to the Thierrys - even when they are making strawberries the hero ingredient - and so they needed an avenue to move some of the stock. Looking to Australianowned and based crowdfunding platform Pozible, Hank decided to launch the first batch of their Organic Strawberry Summer Gin online. Pozible was in the process of piloting a new concept called Community Buy, which seemed a great fit for Swiftcrest’s new product. Within 24 hours of going live, more than 50 per cent of the 100 bottle allocation had been sold, with the remaining gin snaffled up before the offer ended shortly after.

And with the product selling out, consumers received the maximum discount available, securing a 28 per cent price deduction on the premium quality liquor. Hank and Carrie also gave consumers the option of having the gin posted to them, or alternatively were offered a free distillery tour and tasting which they could redeem when they picked their purchase up directly from the distillery’s Mansfield location. And with the first batch sold out before it even hit the shelves, Hank is quick to reassure that Organic Strawberry Summer Gin will always be available at Swiftcrest. “We’ve developed a great working relationship with Andrew and Nina Meiers from Bimbimbi, where we share a

similar ethos on organic quality produce, that as long as they have excess fruit available we’ll be making the summer gin,” said Hank. For Nina who is struggling with the impacts of weather and staffing shortages, collaborations like the one with Swiftcrest provide an excellent avenue to move surplus stock and the opportunity to change the focus of the business to a more local one. And during a season when many farmers are being forced to plough crops back into the ground, to see fruit that might have gone to waste being made into such a quality niche product can only alleviate some of the heart ache, and hopefully give Andrew and Nina Meiers the energy to persevere.

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North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 5

December 2021

Thinking ahead on climate in North East vineyards NORTH East viticulturist Mark Walpole likes to think ahead - sometimes decades. As a champion of ‘new’ grape varieties that match long-term changes in climatic conditions at his Whorouly and, more recently, Beechworth vineyards, Mr Walpole said he can see no reason why production of grapes in the Murray Valley ‘food bowl’ couldn't be moved upstream in future to North East Victoria. “We might see a fundamental shift of horticulture back towards the Hume Dam and to places like Rutherglen which have the soils,” he said. “There is no reason why we couldn’t become a horticulture centre and use a greater percentage of the water available in our region.” Mr Walpole has spent many years attempting to

reconcile those winegrape varieties that make the most of the region’s climatic advantage with the commercial demand for the wines they produce. His long career at Brown Brothers as a viticulturist saw him bitten by the non-mainstream grape variety bug and supported a move to plant touriga nacional, tempranillo and verdelho vines at the Walpole family vineyard at Whorouly in 1988. “We were probably the first to grow tempranillo in Victoria and it’s really done very, very well so we have expanded those plantings as time has gone by,” he said. “The grapes used to go to Browns and they made a cellar door only wine for many years that was very successful. “As time went by they had to take a more national approach and they planted

CLIMATE MANAGEMENT: Viticulturist Mark Walpole thinks the North East can become a horticultural powerhouse, with the right assistence. vines at Banksdale (King Valley) and Heathcote to ensure an increased supply. “After a while at Whorouly, we thought we’d have to pull our head in a bit and plant something a bit more mainstream, so we planted cabernet, shiraz and chardonnay. “Ironically the chardonnay is gone, the shiraz is gone and the cabernet is going.” Even still, during the past 20 years, the changing climate has brought forward ripening of pinot grapes at Beechworth

from March to February. That prompted Mr Walpole to graft his pinot vines over to grenache, aiming to push out the ripening to the middle of March or April. “Ideally the best vines are made from grapes that ripen towards the end of the season, so having pinot ripen in the middle of February is really very challenging,” he said. “The heat at the beginning of spring is one of the most critical things related to ripening.

“A hot October and November tends to bring ripening forward, while if you get a cool October and November it tends to push the ripening out. “I expect that will be the case this season based on the accumulation of warmer days over the growing period.” The North East Catchment Management Authority is undertaking a number of case studies, demonstrating how leading farmers from North East Victoria are man-

aging the risks associated with climate change. The Embedding Climate Adaptation in Agriculture project is working with the region's farmers to determine how the use of climate projections supports their farm management. This project is supported by North East Catchment Management Authority, through funding from the Australian Government‘s National Landcare Program.

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December 2021

Herd dispersal doesn’t disappoint Sale ends over 50 years at Killawarra property for the Hendersons

By NATHAN DE VRIES THE cattle sale in Wangaratta on Friday, November 5 saw approximately 650 head of cattle go up for auction at the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange, but for one producer, it was a bittersweet occasion. Clive and Diane Henderson recently sold their Killawarra property, and put their remaining 76 head of shorthorn cattle up for bid. “We sold some of them last year, but the remainder went on Friday,” Ms Henderson said. “We’ve sold the property and we’re off to Adelaide, where one of our children lives. “None of our children are here, so we’re a long way away from them - the furthest is in San Francisco. “They’re all over the place, so we’ve decided we had better go near one of them, at least. “We actually bought a house there back in March, and we haven’t been able to go over.” After more than 50 years rearing shorthorn cattle, the Hendersons hoped whoever bought their cattle would show them the same level of love they’d dedicated to their herd for over half a century. “I’m very fond of them, the shorthorn cattle - they’ve all got names,” Ms Hender-

ALL GOOD THINGS COME TO AN END: Friday’s cattle sale in Wangaratta closed a major chapter in the lives of Killawarra cattle producers Diane and Clive Henderson. Having recently sold their property, they dispersed their remaining shorthorn cattle herd and were delighted with the prices: PHOTOS: Nathan De Vries son said. “It’s going to be very sad to say goodbye to them, so if they bring a lot of money then hopefully people will look after them well. “Prices are much better than we could’ve ever wished for.” Despite current prices for prime cattle being extremely strong, the Hendersons never expected to get

as much as they did for their herd - the final price tag for over 50 years of work coming in at $217,765. Their two bulls made $11,500; 36 cows made $122,325; 16 heifers made $34,560; and 22 steers made $49,380 - for an overall average of $2865.33 per head. “We sold one of our bulls for $8000, which was just remarkable,” Ms Henderson

UNDER THE HAMMER: The Hendersons’ 76 shorthorns made almost $218,000. said, happy to see the stud bull go off to Euroa, with most of the remaining herd acquired by local buyers,” Ms Henderson said.

“Some three-year-old cows sold for $3800 each, six pregnant heifers for $3725 - that’s over $22,000 just for those six.

“We were very surprised at how much everything brought, and very pleased with the result. “The agents did a great job in publicising the cattle, which are the result of 50 years of very selective breeding.” AWN Livestock and Property agent Peter Dargan said because the market has been so strong for a long time, he wasn’t surprised the Hendersons’ stock sold as well as they did. “Good luck to them, because they’ve put a lot of work into those cattle over the years and they’re very nice people to boot,” he said. “The cattle are very, very good too, so I’m pleased they had a good result. “It’s been exceptionally good, and it has been for a while. “People have got used to paying that sort of money now, and they’re getting a very good result for the finished article, so it goes hand in hand a bit. “And of course for people selling, if they can get that sort of money, why not sell them?” With this chapter of their lives over, the Hendersons will start their next one in Adelaide, with quite a handy purse.

NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria

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December 2021

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Page 10 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2021

Armsden is the Dux

HUGE ACHIEVEMENT: Laila Armsden has recently been awarded Dux at The Scots School Albury, and will be heading to the United Kingdom in 2022 to study agriculture at the University of Reading. A prefect responsible for the agriculture portfolio at the school, Laila was also awarded a cash prize for her achievement in the subject with Laila planning to put the money towards her schooling.

MANSFIELD’S Laila Armsden is still reeling from what has been a crazy couple of weeks. A year 12 student at The Scots School Albury, Laila was recently awarded Dux for outstanding academic achievement, and on top of this honour has been accepted into the University of Reading in England to study agriculture. Laila has known that she wanted to study agriculture since completing her Certificate II in Agriculture as an enthusiastic year nine student at Mansfield Secondary College. At the same time Laila was really getting into the horses and by default, cattle, through working with horses. “I attended a two day stock handling clinic under Tom Curtain who comes over every year from the States and is renowned for his horsemanship skills,” said Laila.

BY EMMA OLIVER eoliver@ nemedia.com.au

“At one point he was talking about moving cattle. “He said that literally by moving the cattle in a different way you could increase your sales, affect the quality of the meat and improve the welfare of the animals.” The comment stuck with Laila and carried such resonance that her love of horses developed into an interest in livestock farming. It was the turning point. From there Laila knew she had found her career path in the agricultural industry, and with Mansfield Secondary College not offering an avenue in year 11 and 12 for Laila to further her agricultural studies she set her sights on The Scots School Albury. Now Laila is one who dreams big, and she makes things happen.

So on receiving a scholarship not only to the boarding house, but another in recognition of her academic performance, Laila relocated to the Victorian-New South Wales border to continue her education, with the option of returning home to Mansfield and family for the weekends. “Initially I was interested in the science side of agriculture, as my passion was in cattle genetics and welfare,” she said. “However, my direction changed and I decided that I wanted to study both Agriculture and Law and combine the degrees. “I would love to work in the field of protecting family farms against large scale corporate farming. “And part of this would be championing innovation within the agricultural industry, so that small scale farmers had the access to this information and technology to make sure they

were running a successful farming enterprise.” To achieve this goal, Laila decided that she wanted to pursue agriculture as her first degree. She had always wanted to visit the United Kingdom, but had never really entertained the idea of studying abroad. One day when chatting with her mum Sarah, Laila was toying with ideas about her future career path. “Wouldn’t it be cool to go to Oxford?” she said, almost as a throw-away comment. “Why don’t you go?” her mum said. “Why do you think you can’t?” Laila has worked towards that goal ever since. “I knew that I wanted to study law at the University of Oxford, which also meant that I needed to move to the UK to study agriculture,” Laila said. ■ Continued page 11

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North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 11

IN THE RING: Laila Armsden has spent the last four years honing her horse and stock handling skills, yearly participating in clinics hosted by Tom Curtain an American stockman. ■

From page 10 “I needed to already be in the system to even be considered for Oxford, so the University of Reading was the obvious choice.” The University of Reading is considered Britain’s premier university for agriculture and forestry, and is ranked twelfth globally

in the QS World University Rankings, and for Laila who wants to major in stock production the three year degree is the perfect place to begin her tertiary education. For the meantime though Laila is not content to just sit back and relax waiting on the September

2022 start of her degree. “This summer I’m hoping to do work placement at a large private equity firm in Melbourne, which has recently started to specialise in agriculture,” she said. “I’m aiming to get some real life work experience before I head overseas.

“And if all goes to plan, in about seven years’ time I’ll have the two degrees under my belt and hopefully I can start to make a difference.” Laila believes part of that difference begins with a change of perspective. “I think with the major issue of climate change, agriculture has taken a big blow,

and people blame a lot of our problems on the industry,” she said. “Sure there are many practices that need to be changed, but that’s what I want to work towards. “So many farmers are now working towards management practices that are healing the problems

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Page 12 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

Floods and fires

December 2021

Climate crisis, the new reality

GOVERNMENTS around the world are scrambling to not +*(5 !2!(+, Ɲ ++ )%0%# 0%+* programs but also to prepare for what appears to be a pattern of 3%( Ɯ .! /! /+*/ 0$ 0 ( /0 (+*#!. than any on record. A classic example is the (%"+.*% * .!#+* Ɯ .!/ %* 0$! United States where, at one stage, :; /0 0!/ 3!.! +* Ɯ .! ! .(%!. 0$%/ year. DEALING WITH FLOOD One Australian company, Australian Pump Industries, is in a unique position to provide support for these emergency situations. The company focused on the development of technologies that were highly specialised but had a degree of synchronicity in their relationship with one another. Setting out to be the country’s leader in development of self priming centrifugal pumps, they also produced Australia’s leading brand of advanced designed high pressure water blasters for professional applications. Aussie Pumps’ range is distributed throughout Victoria through top quality highly professional distributors trading under the ‘Aussie Pump Shop’ banner. TRASH PUMPS ... SAVING HORSHAM The Aussie range of trash pumps were originally developed for construction sites, mines and quarries. Capable of handling large 2+(1)!/ +" Ɲ +3ŀ 0$! ,1),/ .! 2 * ! %* 0$!%. !ƣ %!* 5ŀ ! /5 to maintain, simple to use and !40.!)!(5 !Ƣ ! 0%2!Ł Ranging from two inch portable Honda powered pumps, often being used by plumbers and construction companies, and culminating in big six inch models that can handle up to 6000 litres per minute. “Our big six inch guzzler, model MQ600TD is famous for having saved the town of

+./$ ) ".+) Ɲ ++ %*# 3$!* Millers Contracting, a leading earthmoving contractor, moved swiftly to put a six inch Aussie trash pump into operation, %2!.0%*# Ɲ ++ 3 0!./ * / 2%*# the town,” said Aussie Pumps product manager, Brad Farrugia. “The reason we’re so enthusiastic about this is because these pumps are so easy to service and support. “It’s no wonder our distributors like them because the number of come-backs we get is almost zero. “That’s why we provide longer warranties at no extra charge to the customer on all our centrifugal self priming pump range.”

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FLOOD CLEAN UP 0ƍ/ %ƣ 1(0 0+ +)! 1, 3%0$ Ɯ #1.! 0$ 0 +2!./ 0$! +/0/ +" (! *%*# 1, "0!. ) &+. Ɲ ++ Ł The Fitzroy River in Queensland has seen at least 15 ) &+. Ɲ ++ /Ł * "1(( /0 0!ŀ 0$! Ɲ +3 . 0! %/ estimated at 23,000 cubic metres per second, meaning in six hours %0 +1( Ɯ (( 5 *!5 . +1.Ł All this water was dumped on the Great Barrier Reef on a daily basis. Cleaning up is a massive chore with both Local Government and Emergency Services and volunteers doing amazing things to help those impacted. FIRE HAZARD ... BEWARE The rain events of the last months may prove to be both a blessing and a curse for farmers. Metre high grass is becoming normal. The rain has also brought a $1#! %* .! /! +" Ɯ .! "1!( (+ /Ł To make matters worse, the wet weather has prevented the CFA and national parks from carrying out levels of hazard reduction. That poses serious dangers, not just for farmers but also those living on the ‘urban interface’ sections of towns right through Victoria. Soggy paddocks can turn to a ) &+. Ɯ .! $ 6 . %* &1/0 ) 00!. of days.

QUALITY P production RODUCT: Aussie bee fe to keep up with dema d up nd.

In Australia we are used to 1/$Ɯ .!/ * .!(5 +* 0$! .%((% *0 work done by the volunteers under the leadership of state run 0%+* ( .'/ * %.!Ɯ #$0%*# authorities. The reality is nobody has any real appreciation of what hellish conditions we may be in for as we come towards the end of the calendar year. Again, Aussie Pumps has done a lot to help people prepare, %//1%*# 1/$Ɯ .! 1.2%2 ( 1% ! 0$ 0 /0.!//!/ *+0 &1/0 0$! Ɯ ./0 class equipment they make but also the techniques not just for property protection, but also livestock and crop protection. Aussie Pumps’ Bushire Survival Guide is an indispensable aid to help get prepared. Whether you’re a broadacre farmer, a pig, dairy, sheep or beef 00(! ,.+ 1 !.ŀ #. // Ɯ .!/ * ! &1/0 / (!0$ ( / 0$! Ɲ ++ / ,.+2! to be in Townsville when the Ross River burst its banks. Aussie Pumps distributors actively promote the idea of buying the right equipment, doing the homework and comparing performances, features and warranties as a Ɯ ./0 /0!, !"+.! ) '%*# * acquisition. +. ,. 0% ( ,1.,+/!/ŀ Ɯ .!

pumps are used at high pressure. The amount of pressure produced, combined with the volume of water, normally expressed by pump people on a performance curve, can be the %Ƣ !.!* ! !03!!* / 2%*# /$! ŀ crop, livestock or even human lives. It’s not overly dramatic to say this can be a matter of life and death. FIVE YEAR WARRANTY ... BETTER PRICE Aussie’s Fire Chief, claimed to be the best lightweight, ,+.0 (! Ɯ .! ,1),ŀ +) %*! with a Honda engine, is probably the optimum in terms of performance. Whether it’s Aussie’s single impeller Fire Chief or the mighty performance of their big twin impeller Mr T pumps, producing more water at pressure is the ) &+. " 0+. %* Ɯ #$0%*# Ɯ .! +. putting out spots. The Aussie Fire Chief has a two inch inlet that gets more water into the ‘big belly’ pump body. “We recommend using a one and a half inch delivery hose out +" 0$! Ɯ .!Ɯ #$0%*# 0.!! "+. *5 serious work and only using the two one-inch outlets, with one inch hose and nozzles for spots

or wetting down assets (and livestock),” said Farrugia. A three inch version of the standard Mr T twin impeller pump will produce 200 litres per minute at 70 metre head, astonishing performance for any pump powered by a 13 horsepower Honda engine. That big three inch twin impeller has been a huge asset to farmers wanting to move water at high pressure. Three inches of water ‘in’ (the suction side) and delivering three inches of water ‘out’ of the outlet elbow means minimum !ƣ %!* 5 (+// * 0.!)!* +1/ performance. These big pumps can also be 1/! "+. " /0 0 *' Ɯ ((%*#ŀ (0$+1#$ Aussie also has Australia’s biggest range of transfer pumps that can Ɯ (( 0 *'!./ +. 3 0!. .0/ 0 +2!. 2500 litres per minute. Those big pumps and the Mr T pumps are also available with larger fuel tanks that provide longer run times without refuelling. Apart from that, Aussie has a .!,10 0%+* "+. $ 2%*# Ɯ ./0 ( // . *#! +" Ɯ .!Ɯ #$0%*# ,1),/ * 0$! +*(5 ,.+ 1 !. +Ƣ !.%*# Ɯ 2! year warranty on the pump end, matched by Honda’s three year warranty on the engine. The combination of Aussie and Honda makes them a bargain compared to other similar pumps selling for up to 60 per cent more than Aussie’s retail price. Further information on how Aussie is gearing up with new products for 2022 that will help regional dwellers help contend with the impact of these climate moves is available from Aussie Pumps - aussiepumps.com.au.

December 2021

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 13

Farming for the future FARMER Grant Coombes decided to embrace an ‘electric’ approach to farming by replacing his fleet of traditional farm bikes with UBCO 2X2s. For him, the bikes were part of a plan to improve sustainability, both on his farm and the wider dairy industry. Always a progressive thinker, Grant’s viewpoint was that every innovative solution implemented on farms can reduce the environmental footprint and improve sustainability. “This gives us and the dairy industry a competitive edge and helps us work towards a greener future and the UBCO bike is part of that,” he said. Having always been passionate about sustainability and health and safety, replacing his fleet of farm bikes with a more sustainable option was something

Grant had considered for a while. “We were running a fleet of quads and conventional two-wheel farm bikes but had been looking at phasing out the quads for a while due to their cost and perceived health and safety issue,” Grant said. “Plus, there was the hassle of having fuel and oil stored on the farm and the issues associated with that. “The UBCO’s two-wheel drive and lightweight frame appealed to me as a replacement option for the 4X4 quads and traditional twowheelers, as we were restricted to where we could get in the wet conditions. “Now we’re certainly getting over terrain that we previously couldn’t. “The safety benefits of the 2X2s, such as the low centre of gravity, also appealed to me. “There is a perception that

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VERSATILE: The bike’s lightweight design and two wheel drive makes it ideal for working in wet conditions. In an average day, Grant’s UBCO 2X2s are used to shift mobs, monitor stock and pasture, and get the cows and calves in. “They are certainly cheap to run compared to other traditional farm bikes,” he said. “You can’t ignore the savings.

quads are a health and safety issue, however, if they’re used appropriately with the correct training they aren’t. “The problem is that doesn’t always happen. “Now our health and safety discussions and training regarding operating the UBCO are 100 times easier.”

“The other appealing thing about the UBCOs is that they’re light and have a lot of torque down low, so we could get over land that we couldn’t with a standard two wheeler or lift it out if it got stuck. “And the other thing is the lack of heat and noise.

“It’s great around the stock. “Saving costs, resources and potentially lives is not something you can turn a blind eye to. “When you compare the benefits to the cost, you’re coming out on top with the UBCO 2X2.”

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Page 14 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2021

REPRESENTATIVE: Former member for Murray Dr Sharman Stone has been appointed to the board of the National Rural Women’s Coalition (NRWC).

Northern Victorians shine for rural women’s coalition

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FORMER member for Murray Dr Sharman Stone has been appointed to the board of the National Rural Women’s Coalition (NRWC). The announcement was made by NRWC president Leonie Noble during the organisation’s annual general meeting. Shepparton-based Sharman will sit on the board alongside well-known Undera dairy farmer and rural advocate Sarah Parker, who is vice-president of the organisation, which represents regional, rural and remote women across Australia. “I think it’s a great privilege. I’m very excited to join with the other women from such a diverse range of regions across Australia but also a range of interests, backgrounds and ages,” Sharman said. “Rural women are sometimes lumped into one amorphous mass, but rural women cover a very large gamut of life experience and skills, aptitudes and interests. “However, while there is that huge diversity, there is also a lot of issues that they have in common, like it is usually harder in rural areas

to access services or to get access to the same quality of services - whether that’s the internet or education and health. “Regional, rural and remote women have the right to the same quality of life as women who live in more densely settled parts of Australia.” Sharman was born a fifthgeneration wool grower. She is a human rights advocate, in particular championing the rights of all rural women. She was a pioneer analyst of institutional racism in Australia; and helped shape the gender equity and environment protection agenda in the Federal Parliament as member for Murray, and in the Victorian Public Service. Sharman worked to advance Australia’s standing internationally as the Global Ambassador for Women and Girls, and as a writer and academic. She is an advisor to national and state bodies addressing FASD and women’s sexual and reproductive health rights. She is currently a parttime Professor of Practice, Gender and International

Relations, Monash University. Meanwhile, Sarah, from Glencliffe Illawarras, has been on the NRWC board for several years. Sarah is the immediate past president and current treasurer of Australian Women in Agriculture and is pleased to continue to represent this organisation for the coalition. “I like to ensure that policy making has a regional, rural and remote lens over it and I also think that if you want something to change you should step up and make it happen,” she said. “It’s really important that we inform and engage with decision makers at all levels and across all industries so that our voices are heard and that our viewpoints are considered.” In the year ahead Sarah said economic security for regional, rural and remote women would be an important issue, particularly concerning climate change and recovery from COVID. “It’s not just about agriculture, we all need to thrive in regional, rural and remote areas for communities to survive,” she said.

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North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 15

December 2021

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Page 16 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2021

Euroa Lions back ‘Need for Feed’

By HEATHER BAMFORD

SINCE 2019, the Euroa Lions Club has been actively involved with the ‘Need for Feed’ program. This activity entails sourcing and trucking hay to farmers in need throughout Australia - needs which may be related to drought, fire or floods. In the most recent convoy, 136 rolls were donated by a local Lions Club member. In October alone four loads have been sent from Euroa with three going to Taree in New South Wales and one to Winton, Queensland. With contributions from across the state, in total, 14 to 15 trucks went to Taree and 25 went all the way to Winton. ‘Need for Feed’ was established in 2006 in response to what was at that time the driest period on record. The subsequent bushfires that raged as a consequence of the drought affected many farmers

LOCAL CONTRIBUTION: John Sargood (right) with Nathan and Marie Wilson prior to departure with Euroa’s donation of hay. and rural communities. At that time, reportedly three farmers per week around Australia were taking their own lives and many others were walking off the land, unable to cope with circumstances beyond their control. Like many of the great Lions projects, the idea behind it came from one club member with a special interest in making a difference.

The Lions member was Graham Cockerell (from Packenham) who had lost his own father years before to farm related suicide, and didn’t want to see other farmers and their families go through the same heartbreak. “My father wasn’t a bad farmer, in fact quite the opposite; he found himself in circumstances beyond his control where he could see

LOADING UP: John Sargood assisted with the loading of Euroa’s contributions. PHOTOS: Alan Borden no other way out,” Mr Cockerell said. At the time, he had given away one small truckload of his own hay to a group of farmers burnt out in East Gippsland. When Mr Cockerell saw the scale of the destruction and spoke to those affected, he returned home determined to do something about it. He talked to his Lions

Club (Packenham), got them on board and rounded up a group of mates to get involved with the fundraising and finding more hay. The ‘Need for Feed’ team came to the rescue during the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009 and have continued on each year through fires, floods and droughts to provide fodder and raising funds to keep the trucks rolling. The response to the latest

THIS IS GETTING THE JOB DONE.

drought has seen well over 1300 truckloads of fodder worth around $12 million delivered to farmers totally free of charge into all of the eastern states including Tasmania and South Australia, along with more than 700 truckloads with a value of at least $6.5 million for those affected by last summer’s horrific fires. Over 90 truckloads have now been delivered to support those impacted by the current floods with more deliveries planned. Not only is the hay donated, but the trucks are driven voluntarily with the fuel paid for by further donations. The ‘Need for Feed’ project has now been adopted by many Lions Clubs across Australia where it is managed 100 per cent by volunteers. In addition, the hay deliveries are usually accompanied by household hampers, personal care packs, Lions teddies and toys for the children and food for farm dogs.

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December 2021

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Page 18 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2021

A merry, cherry farewell

PICK OF THE CROP: Marion and Tony Rak will celebrate the end of a 30year era when they finish their final cherry harvest in December.

By STEVE KELLY

DEALING with droughts and flooding rains have been the run of the mill for many people working in the agricultural and horticultural industries.

The task has been true for none more so than Marion and Tony Rak who will be finishing up on their Mt Bruno cherry farm after this year’s harvest. ■ Continued page 19

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From page 18 They have sold the business and property they’ve worked hard on for three decades, with a move to a smaller property in the Wangaratta district. Locals have come to love the cherry season every year with the crop ripe for the picking in time for Christmas for people to enjoy with family and friends. For the Raks, it has been a very busy time and they have over the years celebrated Christmas in September or October because they’ve grown accustomed to it being all hands on deck during the picking season. Marion and Tony have farmed without irrigation from rivers or dams throughout their time working the farm and, like many farmers who have been in the game for a long time, they have memories of the millennial drought which killed many trees and untimely rains that split the fruit just before harvest. Another challenge in recent years has been the supermarkets setting unobtainable benchmarks in cherry sizes but it’s something in the industry that Ms Rak believes is out of kilter as it should be the consumers who determine what they want, not the supermarket conglomerates. Marion and Tony moved to the area from the

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 19

Mt Bruno couple’s final harvest is there for the picking _ DJUL#WKHUD WIV FRP

FINANCING FOR LIVESTOCK, CROPS & LAND STILL WORK TO DO: Tony Rak still has work ahead picking the 20 varieties of cherries they grow this season before moving off the property. PHOTO: Kieren Tilly Dandenong Ranges 30 odd years ago and they have made many cherished connections with people ever since. They started a modest orchard, originally planting 500 trees, and the operation grew from there with about 5000 trees in operation today. They are both life members of their given associations, Marion for the Australian Women in Agriculture since 1997, and Tony with the Country Fire Authority for the past 45 years. The Raks will enjoy their last season of selling direct

to customers through a call and collect system or if people want to come and pick their own at the Jones Road farm, they can do so. When they put down the secateurs for the final time, they will be able to enjoy more frequent travel to NSW to visit grandchildren who have all but grown up. And the one thing they are looking extra forward to is Christmas 2022 to be celebrated in December next year, something they’ve wanted to do for three decades, Perhaps they’ll even share a bowl of cherries or two with their grandkids.

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Page 20 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2021

State government rides roughshod over local grain growers concerned about rumours of a shutdown. “I asked the minister to check whether a shutdown was planned and asked him to re-examine the timing of the works to ensure they didn’t disrupt harvest,” Ms Ryan said. “If the government had bothered to ask anyone locally about the timing of this shutdown, they would have been told that the window they have chosen presents serious challenges for the local community. “Local grain growers have told me that last year there were approximately 2000 truck movements into GrainCorp for the season. “They’re anticipating that number will be even higher this year, with up to 150,000 tonnes of wheat and canola expected to arrive at the site in just a few weeks. “While local detour routes will allow access to the site for smaller vehicles, the government has no workable solution for B-doubles which will put a handbrake on harvest. “This is a city-centric government that clearly doesn’t understand how crucial harvest is and what it means for our community.”

NATIONALS member for Euroa Steph Ryan has slammed the state government for closing the Shepparton train line and cutting off B-double access to the Murchison GrainCorp silos in the middle of harvest. The government confirmed that the line would be closed from December 1 to December 10. Ms Ryan, who is also the Shadow Minister for Public Transport, said the government was ignoring the impact this would have on local grain growers. “The government is completely and utterly out of touch with the needs of our community that they asked growers to delay harvest,” Ms Ryan said. “The timing of these works shows blatant disregard for the livelihoods of locals during the busiest and most important time of the year. “It will add significant time and cost to growers who will be forced to cart their grain to Elmore or take a 38 kilometre detour to get to the other side of the tracks.” Ms Ryan said she had raised the issue personally with the Public Transport Minister in Parliament at the end of October after growers contacted her

What next for Gippsland dairy vet? MATT DeCicco has seen the difference he can make as a vet. Now he’s planning to take his expertise to the next level. His current work on Gippsland dairy farms already fulfils a life-long ambition, but Matt thinks there’s more to achieve. “I’m enjoying what I do and feel more confident every day, but I’d like to look at further studies to continue challenging myself and look for different skills or roles in areas such as cattle medicine and surgery,” he said. Matt grew up on a dairy farm at Merrigum in northern Victoria, and a career connected to dairying was always on the cards. He graduated in 2018 and now works for the Gippsland Veterinary Group based in Leongatha. “Dairy was always a big focus of my life and where I wanted to be,” he said. “I had a connection with and love of animals. “I was always out on the farm with Dad helping with the cows. “Every time the vets came, I was fascinated by what they did.”

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out buying into a dairy farm at some stage in the future, Matt relishes his veterinary career choice and his location. “Seeing first-hand how hard it is to be a dairy farmer while growing up, has definitely made me appreciate the industry, the dairy community and my role as a veterinarian even more,” he said. There was no question about working in a dairy area. “I didn’t want to go home after graduation,” Matt said. “I was keen to venture away to another dairy area. “I hadn’t been exposed much to South Gippsland but I was blown away by the

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practice and the area. “It’s such a beautiful region.” About 50 per cent of his job involves cattle or large animal work, although he describes himself as “a true mixed vet” who also enjoys small animal work. “I try to be as versatile as I can,” he said. Calving issues dominate this time of year. “Spring calving is very common around here and we see a lot of calving and health issues post calving, plus a lot of sore feet, especially in the wet weather,” Matt said. “Making a difference is rewarding. “Going through the whole calving process, managing calf sheds, colostrum management and dealing with different bugs in the sheds can make a really big impact on a farm.” Moving into the workforce has had its challenges, but Matt says the support network at Gippsland Vet Group had been pivotal in his success and growth. “Like any job, some days are harder than others and we are faced with some pretty challenging things in our industry,” he said. “But having a strong support network to discuss and debrief is something I’m very grateful for.” He also encourages eligible VCE students to apply for the scholarship. “It’s something I never thought I’d receive,” he said. “It’s been a huge assistance and an honour to have been a recipient.”

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North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 21

Cost-saving electrical upgrades to benefit GMW customers ELECTRICAL upgrades at Goulburn-Murray Water’s (GMW) Tungamah pump station will improve reliability in water supply for customers. GMW has been working with contractor SCD Tech to bring aging electrical equipment at the pump station, which provides stock and domestic water to customers along a pressurised pipeline from the Shepparton ir-

rigation network, up to current standards. GMW project delivery manager Stuart Nield said the control system’s Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) had been replaced, enhancing pump station control and ensuring future system reliability. “This upgrade has enhanced the transmission of control system signals and maintained the productivity savings associated

with operating staff not having to regularly attend site for customer water flow monitoring and operational changes,” he said. Improvements have also been made to the pump duty cycle, pump and filter monitoring with more operational controls and efficient maintenance of discharge pressure, as well as graphics and more technical and operational

visibility on the operator interface panel. “It has improved the overall efficiency of the pump station by optimising the operation of the electrical and mechanical assets,” Mr Nield said. “In short, it has increased the operational life of the pump station and improved reliability of the pump station to supply stock and domestic water.”

GMW delivers water shares to irrigators ALMOST 7000 irrigators have received water shares recovered from Goulburn-Murray Water’s (GMW) $2 billion irrigation modernisation project. Following the successful completion of the Connections Project in October last year, the irrigators’ share of the savings is being distributed to delivery share holders across the GoulburnMurray Irrigation District as part of the Irrigators’ Share Distribution. GMW managing director Charmaine Quick said the project improved the efficiency of channels and pipelines, while recovering 429 gigalitres of long-term average annual yield of water. “Water recovered became available to irrigators who use and pay for the upkeep of the infrastructure as a mix of high and low reliability shares, equating to 770 gigalitres of long-term annual average yield,” she said. Based on data during the census on October 1, 2021, eligible irrigators will receive either water shares or the financial value of around four megalitres of highreliability water share and around two megalitres of low-reliability water shares per one megalitre per day of delivery share. “This means more water for irrigators to use for their farming

BONUS: Water recovered became available to irrigators who use and pay for the upkeep of the infrastructure. operations across northern Victoria,” Ms Quick said. “It is an important investment in the future productivity of the Goulburn-Murray Irrigation District, providing confidence to farming families and businesses when planning for the season as well as the agricultural sector and attracting investment into the region. “An enormous amount of work

has been undertaken to deliver this project, including confirming the details of more than 13,000 customers, and I would like to acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved.” Almost 7000 irrigators who held more than 0.25 megalitre per day of delivery share on October 1, 2021 this month received high and low reliability water shares and

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seasonal allocation, which can be used during the irrigation season. More than 6000 customers with less than 0.25 megalitre per day of delivery share will receive a credit on their water bill in July 2022. The combined water shares for these customers will be sold on the open market over the next few months, with the revenue shared among these customers.

Hay demand tipped to fall as much as production AUSTRALIAN hay production is tipped to be down 40-50 per cent, with demand also predicted to fall by at least that much, signalling a return to more normal trading conditions, according to Feed Central. The Feed Central November market report said there isn’t an undersupply of hay despite the drop in production, but buyers need to secure quality product while it’s available. The report warns that quality is likely to be a concern again this year. Feed Central general manager Cieran Maxwell described the drop in demand as “the elephant in the room”, leading to a possible return to normality of demand versus supply. “Growers need to show urgency in providing product information so buyers can make decisions on new season purchasing,” Mr Maxwell said. “Good quality hay is around, as we are seeing through our Quality Assurance system, but despite favourable grazing conditions buyers are still in the market,” he said. Production has been impacted by extreme weather and continued rain over the past month, with more forecasted. This is very much a ‘watch this space closely’. Mr Maxwell said straw supply is bountiful if producers are willing to accept the prices being offered, but cereal hay supply is down with high grain prices and limited opportunities to bale due to rain leading to many cereal crops going through to grain. Lucerne is “growing like wildflowers” this season but early Vetch is looking to be as bad if not worse than last season, although those cutting later will bring more quality. Mr Maxwell said demand could be perceived as sluggish, but those who know that quality will be limited are now in the market. “Buyers want high quality product that drives animal production at competitive prices,” he said. On the lot feeding front alternative by-product roughage such as almond hulls and cotton hulls are firmly in the picture this season, once again placing price competitive pressure on straw. Cereal buyers are “keen on green” new season hay with good fresh aroma, while dairies in Victoria are still dominating demand for protein hay with Lucerne demand lower than previous months.

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Page 22 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2021

Rising chemical costs spark demand for spot sprayers UPTAKE of spot spraying technology is set for a major leap heading into summer as growers look to avoid rising chemical costs. New spot sprayers also could be put to immediate work after a higher rainfall season in many parts that is likely to contribute to increased weed seed set, plus with forecasts of wetter than normal conditions in coming months. Scott Jameson with McIntosh Distribution, national distributor of the WeedSeeker 2 spot spraying system manufactured by Trimble, said prices of some knockdown herbicides had nearly doubled. Pressure on input prices also was likely to continue, with manufacturing in China and the United States affected by the pandemic, hurricanes and related power shortages in the US and flooding throughout China. “It has resulted in a supply demand scenario that has

caused a spike in prices, but growers have the ability to save on these rising chemical costs with spot spraying systems,’’ Scott said. “Any extra dollars per litre on chemical that growers are having to pay adds to the savings that can be achieved with spot sprayers.’’ He said WeedSeeker 2 dealers around the country already were reporting consistent enquiries from growers. “The interest is growing quickly,” Scott said. “Significant orders have been placed for regions in New South Wales, we have sold systems into Victoria and around the Dalby region in Queensland, and we are expecting more orders for the northern WA wheatbelt. “We have been consistently quoting to WA growers and this is earlier than normal. “Growers are not waiting for harvest before looking into it.’’ He said the wetter than normal forecasts ahead would

present ideal conditions for summer weed growth that would need to be controlled as cost effectively as possible, particularly to help manage future weed populations. “Some growers can decide there are only a few weeds in a select paddock, so they won’t worry (about spraying them),” Scott said. “But those weeds can give you dramas down the track, so being able to effectively control them with the WeedSeeker 2 is a big positive.’’ Scott said the WeedSeeker 2 spot spray technology was now well proven and the number of units operating around Australia was “quite staggering’’. “Most of those grower owners are now heading into their second season with the systems,” he said. He said the big attraction with the WeedSeeker 2 was its ability to be retrofitted to the suspended booms of most sprayers.

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USEFUL: The ability for retrofitting to the suspended booms of most sprayers has been the big attraction of the WeedSeeker 2 spot spraying system. “The reduced weight of the compact WeedSeeker 2 sensors has seen growers put them on booms that the original WeedSeeker units would not have gone on,” he said. The WeedSeeker 2 sensors are 50 per cent lighter, helping to reduce the overall weight of the system on spray booms, while their spacing along booms has widened from 38 centimetres to 50 centimetres, effectively reducing sensor numbers by 30 per cent. They also had proven their reliability and robustness since market introduction, with very few of the thousands of sensors delivered having returned for updating. Unlike alternate systems that have to maintain an accurate boom height for spraying, WeedSeeker 2 is not restricted to installations on ground following booms, which also can have mechanical problems due to the typical spraying conditions. “The WeedSeeker 2 sensors

can be retrofitted to your existing sprayer,” Scott said. “You don’t need to get a dedicated, ground following spot sprayer. “During summer, the tractor tyres, trailer tyres and wing tyres with these sprayer set-ups also can kick up a lot of dust and force you to go slow.” He said ISOBUS compatibility, enabling the use of just one screen in the cab, and the autocalibration feature with the intelligent, self-learning WeedSeeker 2 sensors also were being praised by growers. The auto-calibration ensures the sensors constantly adjust to the environment they are working in and had made smart technology easy to use. Weed mapping, which pinpoints where and when weeds are treated in paddocks and, hence, can assist with herbicide resistance management, also is expected to be increasingly adopted once

growers fine-tune their systems and weed management programs. Scott said section control, which was another exclusive feature of the WeedSeeker 2 platform, had particularly impressed growers. “They may be spraying only 10 per cent of the chemical they used before, but now they are saving even more by eliminating double applications with section control,’’ he said. “Preventing double rate applications can be important to avoid residual issues for following crops as well. “Some of these issues have occurred when spot sprayers have targeted problem weeds in fallow situations. “With nozzles that overlap, some areas can receive double and triple the rate if section control is not an option.’’ Growers seeking further information on the WeedSeeker 2 spot spraying system can contact their nearest dealer.

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North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 23

Supporting the next generation of beef industry leaders RIGA Angus’s Tim Finger has recently completed a three-day online workshop as part of the 2021 GenAngus Future Leaders Program. Ten young beef industry representatives were selected from across the country, with Tim being only one of two chosen from Victoria to participate in the 12-month program. The customised leadership program is aimed at supporting the development of young talent among Angus Australia members so that they can either launch a new beef enterprise, or in Tim’s case further develop an existing one. A third-generation beef farmer, Tim has been working in the role of farm manager for the last two and a half years at the familyowned Angus stud just outside Mansfield. “I found the workshop to be incredibly beneficial, and learnt so much,” said Tim. “It was really relevant to what we are doing at Riga Angus, and what we are hoping to achieve going forward. “I’ve already applied some of the knowledge, and in consultation with my mum,

DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE: Riga Angus’s Tim Finger was thrilled to be accepted into the 2021 GenAngus Future Leaders Program. hope to formulate some plans for the business and its future. “Of course we will continue to play to our strengths, building the herd and maintaining that genetic profiling that is so profitable to our clients.

“We’re known for breeding bulls that work within the system and perform. “However, we’re always sourcing new genetics to make sure we’re ahead of the game, with our priority given to quiet, well-structured cattle.

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“And in regards to the impacts of climate change on the industry, feed efficiency is a major consideration.” This year’s leadership program will focus on topics like marketing your beef brand in an ever-changing environment, along with the

importance of risk mitigation and understanding insurance. Part of the year-long leadership journey also involves a mentorship program, with Tim already putting his hand up to be involved, excited about the insights he hopes

to gain to take Riga Angus to the next level. On completing a three year degree at Marcus Oldham College, Tim had initially planned to get some work experience in the beef industry before returning to the family farm to apply his knowledge. However, with his father unwell, Tim took over as farm manager and is now embracing the opportunity of additional mentorship through the leadership program. “The program is giving me some of that experience I wanted to gain before returning to Mansfield,” Tim said. “I’m particularly looking forward to the new year, with a face-to-face workshop planned for participants. “It will be great to network with like-minded people, who share my passion for Angus. “And I hope that by being involved with the leadership program, the skills I learn will help me to become not only a better leader within the business but also the greater Angus Australia community.”

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Page 24 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2021

Local emergency groups to receive equipment funding EIGHT CFA brigades and three SES units across the Euroa electorate will receive funding under the latest round of the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP). Deputy leader of the Nationals Steph Ryan (MLA, Euroa) said it was important local emergency services were well equipped, with an

increased risk of grassfires forecast this summer following a wet winter and spring. “These grants will allow brigades to purchase critical operational equipment and appliances to help serve and protect our local communities ahead of the approaching fire season,” Ms Ryan said. “Eight local brigades and three SES units will receive a

share of more than $300,000 of funding for vehicles and appliances and minor facility improvements that will ensure their betterment of future firefighting capabilities. “The VESEP provides $2 for every $1 raised by local brigades who do an extraordinary amount of their own fundraising throughout the year.” Ms Ryan said successful

CFA brigades and SES units included: z Avenel CFA: $13,334 towards a new generator to provide community refuge during power outages; z Bailieston CFA: $6666 towards building a new office space for brigade members; z Boho CFA: $442 towards new brush cutter and blower for station maintenance;

z Euroa SES: $81,476 towards minor facility improvements; z Goomalibee and Upotipotpon CFA: $2115.15 towards new station storage; z Mitchell Shire CFA Group: $43,334 towards vehicle and appliances; z Murchison SES: $21,221 towards minor facility improvements;

z Ruffy CFA: $66,666 towards an extra station bay to store vehicles; z Rushworth SES: $67,347 towards vehicle and appliances; z Toolamba CFA: $14,983 towards electronic sign board indicating fire danger rating; and z Tooborac CFA: $788.53 towards new operational equipment.

DELWP preparing for wetter bushfire season By NATHAN DE VRIES

LOOKING AHEAD: Additional forest fire operations officers have been recruited in the Ovens Valley ahead of this summer. PHOTO: DELWP

north east

fuel reduction mulching and slashing services

NOW is the time to be preparing for the fire season see this impressive machine working at YouTube: http://youtu.be/nMfhTpVJgMg

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PREPARATIONS for the upcoming bushfire season are well underway, with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) shoring up their equipment and manpower before the summer months. DELWP Ovens fire district manager Jarrod Hayse said the conditions in forested areas of the region were quite damp. “We’re monitoring the weather and obviously the ENSO (El Nina-Southern Oscillation) tracker is sort of identifying La Nina, which is wetter than average conditions at the moment,” he said. “We’re seeing that with the rainfall totals, the forest conditions are quite wet at the moment. “From a forest-conditions point of view, the indicators are that we’ll probably see a lesser than average bushfire season for forested environments. “The main risk at the moment with the current conditions would be grassfires. “People better not be complacent around their properties and maintaining the grass around their properties, but certainly from a landscape scale view of the world, in the Hume region,

the forested regions are looking wetter than average. “Nevertheless, we’re going to prepare for bushfire season, because we know Victorian summers are hot and dry, generally.” Mr Hayse said preparations were well and truly in progress already. “We’ve concluded our recruitment for project firefighters for this season in the Ovens Valley - they’ll be all on-board shortly with the returnees, the previous project firefighters,” he said. “Many of those have already commenced, including our repel firefighters. “From now, mid-October through until late November we’ll be undertaking training for our general firefighters, and for our repel firefighters - they’ll become accredited in repel operations so they can respond to remote fires. “We’ll be undertaking our fire equipment, our 4X4, our ultralight tanker and heavy tanker training. “Our winter servicing and preparedness of our firefighting equipment, including our heavy tankers, our ultralight tankers and our bulldozers have all been completed and they’re ready to go. “Our incident control centre at Ovens is undergoing audited assessment at the

moment to ensure it’s good to go for the bushfire season. “Our fire towers - we have four across the Ovens Valley at Mt Hotham, Mt Porepunkah, Mt Stanley and Mt Barambogie - will all be having checks and ready to go. “Our fire lookouts, when conditions require, will commence so we’ll have our fire lookout observers in town ready to detect fires when they start.” In response to the devastating 2019/20 bushfires, Mr Hayse said they had brought on more fixed-term project firefighters, on top of their seasonal crew. “Locally in the Ovens Valley we’ve recruited seven fixed-term forest fire operations officers - that’s on top off our normal project firefighter seasonal workforce,” he said. “A lot of those have been to respond to bushfires and other emergencies, but also to support some initiative programs that we’ve got underway around our joint fuel management program with the CFA around planned burning, and the construction of strategic fuel breaks. “This is the first chance to make the community aware as we move into November conditions will dry out - we’re leading into the bushfire season again.”

Be smart, be safe this season Slip a skid unit in the back of a ute or into a trailer and be fire ready within minutes. ` ` ` ` Limited Trailing stock available – 1000 Litre capacity with heavy duty braked axle.*

450 or 800 litre tank capacity Honda 11/2” Aussie Fire Chief combo 20m of 3/4” fire fighting hose Machined aluminum twist grip nozzle

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North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 25

December 2021

Built tough for Aussie conditions ARE YOU BUSHFIRE READY? Get ready and help protect your property and your family. THE BEST TIME TO GET BUSHFIRE READY, IS NOW. )HZ SHRSOH DUH HYHU IXOO\ SUHSDUHG IRU DQ HPHUJHQF\ OLNH D EXVKࢉUH RXWEUHDN DQG WKH VSHHG DW ZKLFK WKH ࢉUH IURQW FDQ WUDYHO &RQVHTXHQWO\ WKH\ RIWHQ DOORZ OLWWOH WLPH WR LPSOHPHQW DQ HࢆHFWLYH ࢉUH GHIHQFH )ROORZ 'DYH\ȆV OLVW RI UHFRPPHQGDWLRQV IRU HࢆHFWLYH PDQDJHPHQW DQG PDLQWHQDQFH DKHDG RI WKH ࢉUH VHDVRQ 1. Know the machine: Ensure all members of the household

8. General maintenance regime: Regular checks will

2. Fuel - Petrol: Petrol has a limited life and can become

9. Check the plumbing: Investigate and maintain the

know how to locate and operate attachments like inlet and RXWOHW KRVHV WR WKH ࢉUH SXPS

‘stale’. Change the fuel every two months by running the pump or draining it of fuel. Better still, use a fuel stabiliser which will dramatically extend the life of the fuel (must be added when new fuel is purchased).

ensure fuel lines are in good condition and the recoil starter works. A regular service schedule is invaluable. water system.

10. Check for leaves, debris and sticks that can impede

the inlet system. For permanent installations, a foot valve and strainer at the end of the suction line can overcome obstructions.

3. Fuel - Diesel: Has a longer shelf life but generally needs to be stored at low ambient temperatures. Expect diesel fuel to last 12 months or longer at an ambient temperature of 20ºC, or six months at an ambient temperature of 30ºC.

11. Checked for air leaks and that all gaskets and seals are in good order.

12. An underground ring main installed around your

property with durable hydrant or standpipe outlets can give you much greater coverage.

4. Engine oils: (QJLQH PDQXIDFWXUHUV RࢆHU WKHLU RZQ

specially branded engine oils to best suit their engines. Synthetic multi-grade engine oil is NOT a suitable alternative. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s engine lubrication recommendations.

5. Run engine regularly to ensure oil is well distributed

around the moving parts. This provides best lubrication and a longer working life.

6. Ensure your pump set has adequate clean

air access: Check and replace the air cleaner or ࢉOWHU SHU HQJLQH PDQXIDFWXUHU UHFRPPHQGDWLRQV

13. Practice: $ ZHOO UHKHDUVHG DQG GRFXPHQWHG ࢉUH SODQ LV critical to personal survival.

6R DV WKH VXPPHU ࢉUH VHDVRQ DSSURDFKHV WKH WUDGLWLRQDO PRWWR RI ȅEH SUHSDUHGȆ DSSOLHV (VWDEOLVK \RXU ࢉUH SODQ early. Adequately brief and train all family members in its resources and features. )LQDOO\ HQVXUH WKDW DOO \RXU ࢉUH SURWHFWLRQ HTXLSPHQW IURP D 'DYH\ )LUHࢉJKWHU SXPS WR \RXU KRVHV DQG QR]]OHV DUH ZHOO maintained and able to operate without delay.

7. Keep the engine cool: Ideally protect the pump IURP UDGLDQW KHDW LQ D ࢊDPH SURRI HQFORVXUH RWKHUZLVH add a mist spray around the pump or its enclosure to aid cooling and humidify the air.

Dawmac Industries Berrigan | Ph: (03) 5885 2382

Bridgewater Farmware Bridgewater | Ph: (03) 5437 3004

Wodonga Pumps and Mowers Wodonga | Ph: (02) 6056 1633

Trewin Pumps & Irrigation Benalla | Ph: (03) 5762 1735

Gordon Gibson Nominees Wangaratta | Ph: (03) 5721 6122

Think Water Echuca | Ph: (03) 5480 6055

A T Jones Albury | Ph: (02) 6021 2377

Water Plus Irrigation Shepparton | Ph: (03) 5822 2224

daveywater.com | 1300 232 839

Midland Irrigation Ballarat | Ph: (03) 5336 3600 Kyneton | Ph: (03) 5422 0000 Bendigo | Ph: (03) 5442 5655 Mitchell Irrigation Supplies Seymour | Ph: (03) 5792 3130

Page 26 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2021

HAVE A GREAT Christmas

DECEMBER 2021

R E WA R D YO U R S E L F W I T H A N

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4,000 psi AUSSIE PRO BLASTERS … HARD WORKING AUSSIES ‘Big Berty’ Bertolini triplex pump, gearbox drive, stainless steel frame Scud 400 Honda 13HP, ABBSS400/GX390...$4,605 Scud 400 Honda electric start ABBSS400/GX390E...$5,157 Stainless steel hose reel kits with ABSS40-GT/GX390 30m hose available

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Genuine Honda engine Heads to 37m, suit most ag chems NOW $1,888 SAVE $234

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2,000 psi to 5,000 psi (Class A) Industrial electric drive pressure cleaners Bertolini Triplex pumps, stainless steel frames, 4 pole motors FROM

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See the Smart )DUPHUV JXLGH WR Aussie Smart Pumps

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North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer - Page 27

December 2021

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www.farmernews.com.au ADVERTISEMENT

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Spring is almost finished, and with it one of the best parts of our job: new born foals! Foals can require veterinary attention for a variety of reasons, one of which is eyelid entropion. Entropion is when the eyelids roll inwards, causing contact of the external eyelid skin and hair with the surface of the eye. This can cause irritation and ulceration of the cornea, the surface of the eye. This can happen due to dehydration or weight loss, both of which cause the eyeball to sink backwards into the head, or can be because the foal hasn’t yet “grown into” the size of its eyelids. Treatment involves placing sutures or staples to reposition the eyelid margin. The sutures are temporary as most cases will resolve themselves with time and not require permanent surgical correction. In the occasional case where surgical correction is required, this

is delayed until the foal has reached adult size. If you notice your foal is squinting or has discharge from its eye, please give us a call ASAP: Warby Street Vets 5721 7177.

Entropion of the lower lid Entropion corrected in a foal. with sutures. (Source of photos: McKinnon et al, Equine Reproduction Second Edition 2011)

Page 28 - North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2021

NEW

From TGB Blade 520 ATV Made in Taiwan

9,900

$$$ PAY ONLY SALE $$$

From

inc gst

NEW

Argo Amphibious Vehicle

NEW

17,900

inc gst

NEW

From

85,000 24,900 inc gst

7,990

inc gst

UBCO Electric 2x2 Work Bike

Kawasaki TERYX4 4 Seater, Demo

inc gst

106,000

Landini Landforce 125HP Cab Tractor Front End Loader

inc gst

79,900 inc gst

NEW

57,600 inc gst

NEW S/H

49,940 inc gst

NEW

14,600 inc gst

NEW

63,000 inc gst

12,800 inc gst

Network Small Linkage Seeders 16 Row 9ft Seeder

5,400

inc gst

Landini Rex 4-100GT Cons, 95HP 4WD 500hrs

36,000 inc gst

Sitrex 3plt Rakes 6-Wheels w/w 4.1m

John Deere 4650 Cab 165HP also 4850, 190HP 2wd both with linkage

39,000 inc gst

2,800

$ John Shearer As2400 6m Air Seeder Drill Double Disc Openers Auger Kit

218,900 inc gst

inc gst

3,885

inc gst

14,500 inc gst

16,900 inc gst

10,600 inc gst

inc gst

Mahindra Max 36 HP Rops Tractor with Front in Loader, 4 in 1 Bucket

26,900 inc gst

Mahindra 41hp 2wd Rops Tractor with Front End Loader

NEW

$ Ford 3910 Rops Tractor 50Hp 2wd ROPS Front End Loader

22,000 inc gst

15,290 inc gst

Bobcat Xrz Pro Rs 61 Zero Turn Mower 61” Cut Fabricated Deck

NEW

102,000 inc gst

5,200

inc gst

80,000 inc gst

7,400

Cosmo 1250L Twin Disc Spreader with Double sided conveyor

inc gst

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Cosmo Bully Sfm130 Mulcher 1.3 Mulcher with Hammers

4,600

inc gst

Kanga 3.6m Topper 3.6m Trailing Topper

28,380 inc gst

NEW

$ Yeoman L43-11 Deep Ripper 3.43m 9 X 26" Shank Roller

$ Abati Titanium BDS-3000 Single Disc Seeder

NEW

Cosmo ATV Fertiliser Spreader 480kg

For more information visit:

48,000

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17,800

inc gst

94,000

Grizzly, 36 Plate Field Master inc gst Trailing Cultivator. hydrate folding Lift on 28” Scalloped Disc

rther u F r a ll o D r u o Y g in Driv 355 Benalla Road Shepparton Phone: (03) 5821 4411. Fax: (03) 5831 2187. A/H Leo 0419 399 109

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NEW

$ Kanga 3M Hyd Grader Blade

John Shearer Airmatic Seeder 24 Row, Direct Drill

inc gst

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$ Cosmo Tm120/160-300 Power Harrow 3m Power Harrow with Cage Roller

TYM 25hp Front End Loader

NEW

Silvan 400L Redlink Sprayer 400L Redlink, 6m Boom

Becchio Fw320 Mulcher 3.2m Cut Mulcher

22,900

NEW

S/H

NEW

Silvan Stiletto 2000Lt Air Blast Sprayer with Powerhead

inc gst

82,500

NEW

$ 1.8m Kanga Slasher

$ Kubota M8540 Cab Tractor, Near New, 85HP Only 370hrs

NEW

S/H

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Silvan 3000l Broadacre Sprayer 18m Boom

QR12 Vee Rake w/w 7.8m

inc gst

24,490

NEW

96,500

NEW

$ Connor Shea 9000 Series Seeder 2.8m Coulters

S/H

J/ Deere 6520 110HP Cab Tractor Front End Loader, 3300hrs

TYM T265 25hp Rops Front End Loader

S/H

Landini Rex 100 GE 95hp 2wd low cab version

S/H

inc gst

TYM 50hp Cab / Loader

NEW

49,770