North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

Published since 1986

DECEMBER, 2019

Donkeys of Hee Haw Farm

www.farmernews.com.au

Fire awareness and prevention

PAGES 2-3

New Jersey judges PAGES 10-12

PAGE 21

MILKING THE CAMEL: More sought after than frankincense or myrrh, this liquid white gold is not only beneficial to your gut and skin health, but is great for those with allergies and intolerances to normal dairy products. Employing nine full-time staff in Kyabram, and currently sourcing more camels to add to their 300 strong herd in order to meet demand, the Camel Milk Company has been a success story for owners Megan (pictured) and Chris Williams. Turn to pages 4 and 5 for the story.

Green light to Gillieston FOLLOWING on from the Environment Protection Authority approval, the City of Greater Shepparton has given the green light to Meatworks Australia to construct an abattoir in Gillieston.

7KRXJK D GHo QLWH ERRVW WR the Shepparton economy, the DSSURYDO LV D EDFNp LS RQ SUHYLRXV commitments to retain agricultural land for farmers.

Conversations had previously indicated that the Greater City of Shepparton’s focus was

maintaining the region as an agricultural hub with a strong emphasis on protecting its rural constituents and their landholdings, and encouraging LQYHVWPHQW VSHFLo FDOO\ LQ IDUPLQJ “The council has a strong approach to protecting agricultural land for that investment in the future,” Colin Kalms, manager of building and planning at the Greater Shepparton City Council said on a previous occasion.

“We do our due diligence in

GO FAHR GO FURTHER with a 5105.4G

03 5832 5500

www.goulburnvalleyag.com.au

Christian Barnett 0409 475 462

protecting agricultural land,” Mayor Kim O’Keefe said.

“Our planning processes are strict, but they are fair to everyone, and within that we are mindful of protecting agricultural land.”

The primary concern with the location of the abattoir is the proximity to residential and rural properties, with surrounding properties being directly impacted by the construction and approved operation of this facility.

The size of the abattoir, along

102HP

with potential issues of dust, noise, odour, biosecurity, drainage and WUDIo F PDQDJHPHQW KDYH DOO EHHQ cited as concerns.

As the 160 hectare property on Lancaster-Mooroopna Road was previously a dairy farm and milking shed, the change in purpose will GLUHFWO\ LQp XHQFH WKH YHU\ FKDUDFWHU and nature of Gillieston, and as such has some locals banding together to object.

The Gillieston Action Group represents the majority of the 60

98,890

$

INCL GST

TRACTOR & LOADER

Ŷ

Continued page 6

1.99%

P.A.

FINANCE

DEAL

20% DEPOSIT 36 MONTHLY REPAYMENTS GST REPAID IN 4th MONTH*

Wet Clutch Powershuttle

Luke Stammers 0428 107 552

Gillieston residents with objectors’ properties hemming the site.

These are families who run dairy and meat cattle, who are cropping and growing tomatoes.

Cassandra Rowe and Kevin Hoarder front this group.

Having only settled on their dream property in the last 18 months, Cassandra and Kevin ZHUH KRUULo HG RQ OHDUQLQJ RI WKH proposed development adjoining their land.

*T&C’s apply

Mark Lewis 0429 930 083

7847 GOULBURN VALLEY HWY, SHEPPARTON VIC 3631

NEWS

Page 2, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

The donkeys of Hee Haw Farm

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

T

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

j/30d02789/35-19

Emma Oliver JOURNALIST

Michael Kidman ADVERTISING MANAGER

Noelene ALLAN PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Jarrah Loh SENIOR EDITORIAL

December 2019

KH o UVW GRQNH\ ZDV D SHW “John said ‘one, just make sure you get only one’,� Deb Hanton remembered. “Alright,� Deb said.

And within a few months one donkey became two, and over the years there have been as many as 27 on the property.

It was 15 years ago, on 50 acres in Yea that the Hantons’ love affair with donkeys began.

The original donkeys had bloodlines diUHFWO\ GHVFHQGHG IURP VRPH RI WKH o UVW ,ULVK and English donkeys to be brought to AusWUDOLD VSHFLo FDOO\ IRU EUHHGLQJ However, it was miniature and microminiature Mediterranean and Irish donkeys that would become the main breeding stock at Amelia Rise Donkeys at Hee Haw Farm.

0LFUR PLQLDWXUHV E\ GHo QLWLRQ VWDQG DW D maximum of 30 inches from the wither to the ground, with miniatures standing at a maximum height of 36 inches.

Originally from Sicily and Sardinia, the

HAPPY AND HEALTHY: The herd consists of stud donkeys and the current rescues, and all surround John and Deb Hanton looking for attention and a bit of a scratch.

micro and miniature donkeys are the result of intervention by breeders intent on perfecting size, disposition and conformation within this incredibly tame and gentle breed.

Coming in a variety of colours from the traditional grey and chocolate, to the sorrel, spotted, coloured, roan and less common white, their coats also vary in consistency from woolly to curly to short and wiry.

Deb Hanton’s favourite is the coloured donkey, and she particularly loves the donkeys when they have their thick winter coats, and not in spring when they are rolling and scratching on the ground, and looking most decidedly scruffy as they moult.

John and Deb’s passion and love for donkeys is evident throughout Hee Haw Farm.

From the original farm in Yea, the Hantons relocated in 2016 to 80 acres at Terip Terip, in the central Victorian highlands.

With views in all directions from Eildon to the Paps and across to Euroa, Hee Haw Farm is an idyllic location for donkeys.

The farm is incredibly beautiful with bush surrounds and 40 acres of scrub for the donkeys to wander through providing stimulation with the varied terrain.

7KH PRYH ZDV GHVLJQHG VSHFLo FDOO\ WR EHQ Ho W WKH GRQNH\V DV WKH WHUUDLQ ZLWK LWV URFN\ paddocks and mountain grass suits the donkeys’ constitution better. “Too much grass is bad for them and Yea was much too green,� Deb said. “Donkeys are browsers, being more like a goat in the way they eat. “They’ll eat wood, leaves, the bark of trees, so Terip Terip with its sparse mountain grass with not much of anything in it, suits them. “They’re a stoic animal, but you really do need to monitor how much food they eat, as you won’t really know they’re sick until they turn up their toes.�

Another consideration is the importance of shelter. “They need shelter, and this needs to be at least three sided,� Deb said. “As donkeys only have one coat, unlike horses that have two, when they get wet and cold they are prone to pneumonia. “And you shouldn’t coat donkeys as it means their coats won’t grow thick and shaggy to deal with the climate.�

And these hardy little mountain beasts need a thick coat for the bad weather that can come howling over the ridge, and blast Hee Haw Farm.

Weather like this keeps Deb busy tidying the paddocks picking up fallen branches and raking sticks.

-RKQ o QGV WKLV VOLJKWO\ DPXVLQJ “Who rakes and picks up sticks on 80 acres?� John said. “You buy a bush block and try and turn it into the botanical gardens, it just doesn’t work.�

But he does admit that both he and Deb can be a bit fussy. “It’s as much or as little work as you want to make it,� John said.

John and Deb both spend about an hour and a half each morning and evening tending the donkeys, with their health and wellbeing the paramount concern. “The time is spent feeding and cleaning up around them, and we remove all the poo from the animals’ paddocks as worm control,� John said.

The stables are immaculate so that infections and disease are avoided, especially when welcoming foals and young ones into the herd.

The Hantons are also involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of donkeys, so the relinquished, the abandoned and the welfare

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

For more information on country shows visit

www.vicagshows.com.au or www.countryshows.com.au

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

NEWS

December 2019

donkeys that arrive at the farm have to go into quarantine before being introduced to the residents.

In quarantine the rescue donkeys have their health assessed, and are wormed, deloused, immunised and have their teeth and feet done.

The farrier visits Hee Haw Farm four times a year, with the donkeys having their feet done quarterly.

The upkeep and effort the Hantons put into their donkeys is huge, and the result is incredibly healthy, happy and socialised donkeys.

There is a calmness in the paddocks, and a comfortable hierarchy among the donkeys.

Each donkey tends to bond to another speFLo F GRQNH\ ZLWK D SDLULQJ WKDW EHFRPHV XQ breakable, however, they are still very much a herd. “They also make excellent therapy animals,� Deb said. “In comparison to horses, donkeys are thinkers, they are more laid back and have PXFK OHVV RI WKH p LJKW DQG IULJKW LQVWLQFW RI horses.�

Deb talks with fondness about all the donkeys, describing their idiosyncracies and foibles, recounting stories on their personalities. “Saddler she’s bad to the bone,� Deb said. “She’s not been disciplined properly, she’ll just barge straight past you. “And be careful of that little lady over there, VKH ZLOO NQRFN \RX p \LQJ LI \RX GRQ W JLYH KHU attention. “She loves a scratch behind the ear.�

The majority of the foals sold at Hee Haw Farm become pets, or other breeders buy them for their genetics. “They are the best animal,� Deb said. “But they do require time and energy, otherwise they’re not the animal for you. “They love attention and though they can be good companion animals for other species, they are highly intelligent and can bore easily when not getting the stimulation they need from other animals. “And not all are suited to guarding, they can become territorial and can kill a dog immediately. “They can kill sheep and goats if they’re not suited.�

Disposition is one of the main criteria for breeding donkeys at Hee Haw Farm. “Good personality is important,� Deb said, when describing what makes a jack - a male donkey – into a stallion. “Only one in a hundred jacks are any good as jacks. “We look for good conformation – a nice straight back, a round bum, a gap between their back legs so they’ve got good legs and no long term problems with arthritis. “We want the front to be the same, with the

chest wide enough so at least there’s a hands width space between the legs. “We want perky, and a perfect bite so that we know they’re consuming their food properly.�

And at a less than commanding 27.5 inches stands Tally, the Hee Haw Farm stallion, who ticks all the boxes and has fathered the newest six foals to join the donkeys of Amelia Rise. “He’s John’s donkey,� Deb said. “John completely fell in love with him, and it’s John who deals with him when the girls are in season. “We hand breed here as we don’t want the jack or the jennies to be injured. “He puts the halter on him and he brings the girls over to him in the holding pens.�

To assist with the larger jennies, there is a ramp devised behind the pens to assist the diminutive donkey with his exertions. “He’s usually too interested in the sky, and the trees, and the wind in his mane, that it often takes Tally about 45 minutes to do his business,� Deb said. “But once his business is done, almost a year to the day later Tally’s offspring are born. “A jenny can be in foal, between 11 and 14 months, but generally we say 12 months and the foal is born. “John delivers every baby. “By trade he was a mechanical engineer on oil rigs, but he grew up on a dairy farm, so he always assists.�

The birthing suites are situated close to the house, and once the donkeys show signs of going into labour they are placed in the birthing stable.

They have a mercury switch device attached to their halter which activates when their water breaks and they OD\ RXW p DW D SRVLWLRQ that most donkeys do not assume when asleep.

This sends a signal to the house indicating the action is happening.

The Hantons also have closed circuit television to monitor the jennies when their time is almost due. “I don’t get much sleep during this period,�

Deb said. “John does, but I don’t.�

Sleeplessness is just one of the downsides of Deb and John’s love affair with donkeys.

The unbridled joy and enthusiasm the Hantons have for their donkey herd completely outweighs any negatives, with Hee Haw Farm being purely a labour of love.

And though the foals do get sold on, and money is exchanged, as John said “it is more a hobby that pays for itself, and for that we’re incredibly lucky�.

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 3 THE TERIP TERIP DIET: Mountainous grass and bush scrub are ideal for these browsers, with rich green grass proving problematic for animals that can carry fat in excess rolls around their necks.

“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 problemâ€? said N. Bond, Braybrook, Âą=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�

NFOCT17

NALINGA STEEL AND ROOFING SUPPLIES PTY LTD Nalinga Steel is one of the LARGEST STEEL DISTRIBUTORS in Rural Victoria and southern NSW. AUSTRALIAN MADE SINCE 1989

ÂŽ Prosperity through Soil Care.

DELIVERIES FOR ONLY

$

NALINGA STEEL AND ROOFING SUPPLIES PTY LTD

INC. GST

200km RADIUS

3090 Midland Highway, Nalinga, Victoria, Australia 3631.

P. (03) 5828 9220 F. (03) 5828 9215

k/12d12468-v24/1516

77

‍¨ חג‏Ć?ȸ˥ɎɎ ÂŤČ’Ć?Ƴً ĂĄĆ?ȇǕĆ?ȸĆ?ÉŽÉŽĆ?

P. 03 5721 6002 | M. 0421 574 443

northeastag.com.au E/201935007/1

Located at Nalinga (between Shepparton and Benalla) on the Midland Highway, we stock a large range of First and Downgrade Steels, cut to order.

NEWS

Page 4, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

Camels pioneer dairy industry

Megan Williams

John Houghton’s

ELDERS INSURANCE Wangaratta

T

We want to save you money Ask one of our team for a comparison quote for all your insurance needs

FARMS BUSINESS PERSONAL siness

Let us quote for your bu

!

You have nothing to lose Speak to our team John Houghton Shane Lindsay Carmel or Cos

0407Â 303Â 691 0488 221 225 (03) 5722Â 1400

t/12d12274-v13/1516

Elders Insurance Wangaratta

24 Rowan Street WANGARATTA 3677

December 2019

(03) 5722 1400

he Camel Milk Company Australia is busy.

On a single day in early November, Channel Nine was there conducting an interview as news had just broken that camel milk was now recognised under the Dairy Act of Victoria, allowing the product to fall under dairy food safe legislation and as a result make licensing and export easier.

An older farming couple had pulled into the car park enticed by the paddock after paddock of browsing camels, and were inquisitive to know more.

And unanticipated, a busload of 24 on a Probus excursion had suddenly arrived keen to participate in a tour of the farm.

Megan Williams, co-owner of the Camel Milk Company, had sprung into action and within minutes chairs had been set-up and displays positioned and the tour had begun.

7KLV ZRXOG EH KHU o UVW JURXS IRU WKH ZHHN but the following two days had three tours already booked in, and this was all on top of running a working farm and negotiating a family of three young boys, one at home, one at kinder and one at school.

Megan and her husband, Chris, live onfarm on 480 acres just outside of Kyabram, and run between 300 and 400 camels at any one time.

The camels predominantly come from the outback, wild camels that roam the vast open space descended from the original camels brought over by cameleers from Afghanistan in the 1860s.

Fundamental to the colonisation of the Australian interior, the cameleers and their camels worked in nearly all areas of transportation from exploration, to mining and the supply of provisions to homesteads.

THE WHOLE CAMEL: Tee Rowe has been with the Camel Milk Company since 2016, and as a qualified vet nurse her assistance has been invaluable with the camels, with prevention rather than cure the company’s motto. Not only does the company produce camel milk and camel milk powder, it has a whole skin care range, and as the company prefers to treat its animals holistically with apple cider vinegar and garlic, all products are free of nasties.

The introduction of cars and trucks into Australia in the 1920s, saw the camels and their handlers become redundant, and though some cameleers remained and became small property owners the majority returned home.

Taking the camels home wasn’t really an option, and the cameleers were instructed to shoot their camels. “These people had the strongest bonds with their beasts and been made to sleep with their camels as they weren’t allowed into mainstream community,� Megan said. “They had a rough time, and with their camels had played an incredible role in building and pioneering outback Australia, so when they were told to shoot the camels many set them free.�

With no natural predators, apart from humans and a climate to which they

are particularly suited, the camels have thrived and as such are considered a pest, ringbarking trees, wrecking water bores and troughs, and destroying pastoralists’ fencing.

Aerial culls have more than halved the estimated number of wild camels in Australia, with the total reduced from 750,000 to 300,000 in the last decade.

However, with an animal that is fairly easy to domesticate, wholesale culling may not be the best use of this resource.

When the original Afghani camels were brought over only the biggest and strongest were chosen for the task, and the core genetics of the Australian camels are now superior to their Middle Eastern ancestors.

Australia also has the only disease free status in the world for camel-spread Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus, and as such the camels themselves are sought

LET US HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT DUNCAN SEEDER OR BALE FEEDER FOR YOUR NEEDS *** Pictures are for illustrative purposes only***

Duncan SLR Seeder

Duncan Eco Seeder

IN STOCK NOW

Duncan Renovator Classic 19 IN STOCK NOW

from

from

from

$24,500 inc GST

$29,000 inc GST

$46,500 inc GST

WODONGA - 3 MELROSE DRIVE - T 02 6055 9992 MYRTLEFORD - 62 - 66 MYRTLE STREET - T 03 5752 1828 www.regionalac.com.au

December 2019

NEWS

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 5

HAPPY MUNCHERS: Typically fed oaten hay and lucerne, the Camel Milk Company has recently been trialling different feed for the camels during the drought.

Recently corn cobs, husks and stalks have become an alternative.

after as an export item, and Australian produced camel milk does not require boiling o UVW EHIRUH FRQVXPSWLRQ With shortages in camel products and camel milk due to the virus which is transferable between camels and people and VSHFLo FDOO\ WKURXJK FDPHO SURGXFWV WKHUH LV a huge overseas and burgeoning local market IRU $XVWUDOLDQ FDPHO PLON It was this perceived demand for camel milk that inspired Megan and Chris Williams to take the leap of faith in 2014 and turn their LQWHUHVW LQ FDPHOV LQWR D EXVLQHVV “Chris and I met in 2008 in Alice Springs,�

0HJDQ VDLG “Chris was from Wales and was on a working visa, and I was a tour guide out at Uluru, and learning heaps, among other WKLQJV DERXW HDUO\ H[SORUHUV DQG FDPHOV k, ZDV MXVW UHDOO\ LQWULJXHG ZLWK WKHP k1RZ , P D ERUQ DQG EUHG .\DEUDP JLUO k, ZHQW WR VFKRRO KHUH DQG OHDUQHG P\ WUDGH KHUH k7KH FRPPXQLW\ LV DPD]LQJ DQG LQFUHGLEO\ VXSSRUWLYH DQG , DOZD\V SHUFHLYHG P\VHOI UHWXUQLQJ k, QHYHU UHDOO\ HQMR\HG VFKRRO SUHIHUULQJ ZRUNLQJ RQ P\ SDUHQWV SURSHUW\ DQG ZDQWHG WR IROORZ P\ IDWKHU LQWR GDLU\ “So when Chris and I decided to leave the 1RUWKHUQ 7HUULWRU\ ZH PRYHG WR WKH RULJLQDO IDPLO\ IDUP DQG VKDUH IDUPHG ZLWK P\ PXP DQG GDG k%XW REYLRXVO\ WKHUH ZDV VRPHWKLQJ DERXW FDPHOV WKDW KDG FDXJKW P\ DWWHQWLRQ DQG DIWHU ZDWFKLQJ WKLV IDVFLQDWLQJ GRFXPHQWDU\ RQ FDPHO PLON DQG LWV KHDOWK EHQHo WV , VDLG WR &KULV C:H UH JRLQJ WR PLON FDPHOV

“I don’t know how serious he thought I was at the time, but I kept sending him all these links about camel milk, about what camels eat, about how we could house them, and LQ WKH o UVW WKUHH FDPHOV DUULYHG RQ RXU WKHQ DFUH SURSHUW\ “The original three came from Bordertown LQ 6RXWK $XVWUDOLD DQG WKH ODG\ ZKR KDG them had got them wild and tamed them GRZQ k7KLV ZDV ORYHO\ IRU XV QHZELHV WR working up close and personal with camels – and we also did a camel handler course with a gentleman called Peter Hodge, who LV DPD]LQJ ZLWK FDPHOV DQG FRQGXFWV FDPHO ULGHV DOO RYHU $XVWUDOLD “Peter explained what he did with the FDPHOV EXW DOZD\V HPSKDVLVHG WKDW ZH QHHGHG WR GR ZKDW ZRUNHG IRU XV “So he taught us about camels, and we WDXJKW RXUVHOYHV DERXW PLONLQJ WKHP y 0LONLQJ D FDPHO LV D VORZ SURFHVV 7KHUH LV WKH WUDQVLWLRQ IURP WKH GU\ SDGGRFN WR WKH PDWHUQLW\ SDGGRFN ZLWK KDOWHU DQG OHDG IHHGLQJ WR UHDG\ WKHP IRU EHLQJ KDQGOHG WZLFH GDLO\ ZKHQ PLONLQJ &DPHOV KDYH WKHLU o UVW FDOI ZKHQ WKH\ UH EHWZHHQ IRXU DQG o YH \HDUV ROG DQG DUH pregnant for between 12 and 14 months, QDWXUDOO\ ZHDQLQJ WKH FDOI RII DW DERXW WKH PRQWK PDUN 7KH &DPHO 0LON &RPSDQ\ ZLOO QRW MRLQ FDPHOV ZKHQ WKH\ UH PLONLQJ DQG DV D UHVXOW WKH FDPHOV RQO\ FDOYH HYHU\ WKUHH WR WKUHH DQG D KDOI \HDUV The calves are born without a hump ZKLFK LV HIIHFWLYHO\ D IDW GHSRVLW WKDW develops over time) and are kept with the PRWKHUV H[FOXVLYHO\ IRU XS WR D ZHHN WR HQVXUH WKH\ JHW WKH HVVHQWLDO FRORVWUXP IRU WKHLU JXW DQG RYHUDOO KHDOWK

The mother camel and her calf are then ZDONHG WKURXJK WKH SXUSRVH EXLOW GDLU\ WR DFFOLPDWLVH WKHP ERWK WR WKH VSDFH As the calf’s suckling is needed to stimulate milk production and let down in the mother, WKH FDPHOV DUH DOZD\V VWRSSHG LQ WKH PLONLQJ SRVLWLRQ ZLWK WKHLU EDELHV EHVLGH WKHP 7KH PLONLQJ PDFKLQHU\ LV WKHQ WXUQHG RQ VR WKDW WKH\ JHW XVHG WR WKH QRLVH DQG RQO\ ZKHQ ERWK WKH PRWKHU DQG FDOI DUH comfortable with the entire process, does the &DPHO 0LON &RPSDQ\ HYHQ DWWHPSW WR PLON “You can’t just take milk from a camel,�

0HJDQ VDLG k7KH\ KDYH WR JLYH LW WR \RX “It has to be relaxed enough to milk, in a VDIH DQG JHQWOH HQYLURQPHQW k2WKHUZLVH LW ZRQ W JLYH \RX PLON k$ WHOO WDOH VLJQ ZLWK DQ XQKDSS\ FDPHO LV LWV SRR k1RUPDOO\ URXQG DQG o UP DV VRRQ DV LW EHFRPHV UXQQ\ ZH NQRZ WKH\ DUH XSVHW DQG QHUYRXV DQG WKDW V ZKHQ ZH VWRS DQG RQO\ HYHU SURJUHVV ZKHQ WKH FDPHO LV UHDG\ y Although individual camels all respond a OLWWOH GLIIHUHQWO\ WKLV VHW URXWLQH LQWURGXFLQJ the mothers to milking seems to work for the &DPHO 0LON &RPSDQ\ 2QFH WKH URXWLQH LV VHW WKH EDE\ FDPHOV are separated from the mothers for two hours EHIRUH PLONLQJ WR GHYHORS DQ DSSHWLWH 7KH PRWKHUV DUH WKHQ OHG LQWR WKH \DUGV LQ WKH GDLU\ ZLWK D EDU DW HLWKHU HQG RI WKH FDPHO WR VHFXUH LW LQ SODFH The calf which has been tethered on RQH VLGH RI WKH GDLU\ LV WKHQ OHG RYHU WR WKH PRWKHU WKH SDLUV LGHQWLo DEOH E\ HDU WDJV RQ the mother matching a velcro collar on the EDE\ Let off, the calf suckles and stimulates the OHWGRZQ DQG RQO\ WKHQ DUH WKH FXSV IURP WKH mini milkers put on the camel’s teats, milking from the side as opposed to from behind like ZLWK FRZV 7KH FDPHOV DUH QHYHU RYHU PLONHG WR ensure there is enough milk left for the calves, DQG DV D UHVXOW HDFK EHDVW SURGXFHV DERXW o YH OLWUHV D GD\ ZLWK WKH &DPHO 0LON &RPSDQ\ FXUUHQWO\ PLONLQJ RI WKHLU SOXV FDPHOV %DWFK SDVWHXULVHG DW D JHQWOH GHJUHHV WKH PLON LV KRW KHOG IRU PLQXWHV DQG WKHQ JUDGXDOO\ FRROHG ,QFUHGLEO\ ZKLWH DQG VOLJKWO\ VDOW\ WR WKH taste, the milk is as natural as can be and is QRW KRPRJHQLVHG ,W LV WRXWHG IRU LWV EHQHo WV WR VNLQ DQG JXW health, and is high in potassium, magnesium, FDOFLXP LURQ DQG D VRXUFH RI YLWDPLQ & “Low in fat and lactose, and not containing DQ\ ZKH\ SURWHLQV LW LV SHUIHFW IRU WKRVH ZLWK LQWROHUDQFHV DQG DOOHUJLHV y 0HJDQ VDLG k$QG LW V FRQVLGHUHG D ZKROH IRRG VR LI \RX were to survive on camel milk alone it would VXVWDLQ \RX y With this in mind, and the knowledge of the invaluable work that camels did in FRORQLVLQJ $XVWUDOLD LW LV HDV\ WR VHH ZKDW LQLWLDOO\ LQWULJXHG 0HJDQ DQG &KULV ZLWK WKHVH FXULRXV FUHDWXUHV Their commanding presence and JXWWXUDO PRDQLQJ DORQJ ZLWK DQ RYHU ULGLQJ LQTXLVLWLYHQHVV PDNHV WKHP LQFUHGLEO\ endearing and a more than exciting farming SURVSHFW $QG WKRXJK WKH :LOOLDPV LQLWLDOO\ ZHUH PHW ZLWK JRRG QDWXUHG FKXFNOHV ZKHQ WKH\ EHJDQ WKHLU FDPHO GDLU\ WKH\ KDYH EHFRPH LQGXVWU\ OHDGHUV WKH ELJJHVW GDLU\ RI LWV NLQG LQ $XVWUDOLD DQG D VRXUFH RI .\DEUDP SULGH

has tractor Daryl y, Hone Look &KULVWPDV 6SHFLDOV for many tractors parts RQ 1HZ &OXWFK .LWV *ODVV 'RRUV (QJLQH 5HEXLOG .LWV DQG DOO 3DUWV IRU )LDW 6$0( NEW TRACTOR PARTS AVAILABLE FOR: SAME, /DPERUJKLQL 0F&RUPLFN /DQGLQL LAMBORGHINI, FORD, FIAT, LANDINI, DAEDONG, 7($ )HUJXVRQ DQG 'HXW] 7UDFWRUV MCCORMICK, DEUTZ & NEW HOLLAND. &DOO 1RZ DQG ZH DUH WKHUH WR DVVLVW \RX

PLUS, A HUGE RANGE OF GREY FERGUSON TEA PARTS.

Used Tractors

WINTER SPECIALS

$$ *( ) ( )+* $"- ) +' 0',) '')

‡ 0F&RUPLFN 0& ZLWK 7ULPD /RDGHU /RZ +RXUV 2 $ ** '')* ') % 2 ) + ()" '& )+" ‡ 0F&RUPLFN & 0D[ +& (TXDO :KHHOHU &DELQ /RZ +RXUV /LNH 1HZ

) +')* ,+1 % ') !"&" Hammers & " + ‡ 0DVVH\ )HUJXVRQ ; 5LSSHU 6PDOO +3 7UDFWRU ZLWK 1HZ 5HDU 7\UHV 2 ( " $* '& "+) / # 1HZ &OXWFK

2 "$+ ) #"+* ') $$ ' +! '- .! $* "& *+ ‡ 7($ )HUJLH WR FKRRVH IURP DW DQG RQH DW %' $ +) +')* ‡ ,QWHU ZLWK 6ODVKHU DW

"%"+ *+' # 2 , ( " $* '& ‡ )RUGVRQ 0DMRUV ZLWK 1HZ 5HDU 7\UHV HWF IXOO\ -D]]HG XS )+* 2 . 0$"& ) )#"&* $// 35,&(6 ,1&/8'( *67

2 ‡ 0DVVH\ )HUJ MXVW DUULYHG 'DU\O¡V SURMHFW IRU 'HFHPEHU '. ) *+ )"& #"+ ') & "& *

WRECKING TRACTORS * ‡ :UHFNLQJ )RUG ‡ 6$0( *ROGHQ " $! #& * $% * %('' '$

‡ 6$0( )UXWWHWR ‡ /DPERUJKLQL ) ) 3OXV * (')

* " $% #

!(& "$%

Give me a ring and discuss these Tractors WE OFFER 7-DAY SERVICE. CALL NOW ON 03 5823 2257 OR 0428 235 000

OfďŹ ce: 75 Gordon Drive, Kialla VIC 3631 Phone

03 5823 2257

Workshop: 6 Sofra Drive, Shepparton VIC 3630

info@aussieagsupplies.com | www.aussieagsupplies.com

Page 6, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

NEWS

December 2019

Green light to Gillieston Ĺś

From page 1

Purchasing the property through the same agent who negotiated the sale of the land to Meatworks Australia, Cassandra and Kevin realise that with due diligence they would never have purchased the SURSHUW\ LQ WKH o UVW SODFH “My main concern with the abattoir and the proposed holding yards and incoming stock trucks is the risk of contracting zoonotic diseases, which can be passed from animals to humans,� Cassandra VDLG “With Q-Fever, a zoonotic disease transmissible in contaminated dust, an exclusion zone with a 5 kilometre radius is recommended so that locals in Gillieston are not affected DQG SRWHQWLDOO\ LQIHFWHG y $QG ZLWK o YH \RXQJ FKLOGUHQ who are unable to be immunised they are unwilling to risk their family to the possibility of this disease, and would choose to relocate rather than live near WKH VLWH Realising they would struggle to sell the property, the only good outcome would be if Meatworks Australia bought WKHP RXW However, this is not an option for many of the other objectors whose families have been farming this land for genHUDWLRQV Current recommendations on the location and operation of rural abattoirs to protect the quality of water resources also discourage construction of fa-

A COMMUNITY AFFAIR: Families united - the De Palmas, the Cassettas, the Speed, Thompson and Haines families, along with Cassandra Rowe and Kevin Hoarder and their five children battle to save the intrinsic nature and character of their Gillieston township.

FLOLWLHV LQ DUHDV WKDW DUH p RRG prone or where the groundwater table is less than two metres EHORZ WKH VXUIDFH Watertable contour and p RRG]RQH PDSV IRU WKH UHJLRQ position the abattoir precariRXVO\ FORVH WR ERWK D VLJQLo cant watertable and to land WKDW p RRGV ZLWK WKH SRWHQWLDO to contaminate waterways and ERUH ZDWHU Two industry professionals, both abattoir owners in the region, also questioned the sustainability of another abattoir LQ WKH DUHD 7KH\ DOVR p DJJHG FRQFHUQV over the touted 150 jobs, both low skilled and high skilled, seeming to be a huge underestimate of the required workIRUFH WR UXQ VXFK DQ HQWHUSULVH One abattoir owner with the capacity to process similar numbers to the Meatworks

Australia proposal, operates with twice the number of staff to process 3000 head of sheep D GD\ And though he wanted to remain anonymous he said “my thoughts are either that the operator is completely inexperienced and unaware of the physical demands of an abattoir, or alternatively they are amazing operators and can process the sheep with a much reduced staff body and the abilLW\ WR VXVWDLQ VLJQLo FDQW ORVVHV LQ WKH VWDUW XS DQG o UVW \HDU RI RSHUDWLRQy “It’s not unusual for an abattoir of this size to lose half a million dollars a week, and this can JR RQ ZHHN DIWHU ZHHN y KH VDLG k,W V D GLIo FXOW LQGXVWU\ DQG even in a good year you may RQO\ WXUQ D SURo W IRU RI WKRVH ZHHNV “It becomes a waiting game

as to who can sustain those losses the longest, and the othHUV MXVW JR XQGHU y With JBS, Cobram, the McGillivray Abattoir, Gunbower and the Australian Meat Group, Deniliquin all closed since 2017, and Riverside Meats Echuca liquidated in 2018 under the cloud of animal cruelty, Australian family-owned and run local abattoirs are in a state of decline with a trend of naWLRQZLGH FORVXUHV The abattoir industry is an unstable market, subject to p XFWXDWLRQV DQG volatility, and with the lamb processing industry in particular there is an over-capacity of processors relative to the supSO\ SRRO RI VWRFN In drought when there is an RYHUVXSSO\ WKHUH LV KLJK SURo W ability for the processors, but WKLV FDQ EH VKRUW OLYHG

Subsequent stock shortages lead to big losses as abattoirs that remain in operation reduce the amount of kills per ZHHN DQG LQFXU KXJH o QDQFLDO ORVVHV Stock shortages can continue on well after a drought has broken, with farmers scrambling to re-build their herds DQG XQZLOOLQJ WR VHOO And with wool prices at current highs, wethers that would previously be sold into the meat trade are being retained IRU WKHLU p HHFH This severe decline in liveVWRFN VXSSO\ DQG WKH GLIo FXOW\ and expense of procuring stock has forced the closure of nuPHURXV ORFDO DEDWWRLUV As a result investment in abattoirs is now largely coming from international companies, who are either refurbishing existing abattoirs or building new RQHV Meatworks Australia itself is an off-shoot of the EI Group Consulting Project Management, which specialises in portable and modular constructions and is based out of an RIo FH LQ 3UDKUDQ 0HOERXUQH A variation in their usual business, the EI Group is subsidised by investment company AL Reef which is based in Dubai, and has its primary interests in oil, gas, telecomPXQLFDWLRQV DQG DYLDWLRQ An abattoir specialising in small animals is an interesting new venture for such an interQDWLRQDO RSHUDWLYH And though Australia is the

largest consumer of meat per capita, international demand for protein continues to grow and as a result investment from overseas operatives in the Australian meat processing indusWU\ With the onset of swine fever and the estimated infection of over 77 per cent of the world’s swine population, China is scrambling to purchase any available protein to cover the VKRUWIDOO RI SRUN Abattoirs in Australia who possess licences to export to China can command between DQG H[WUD SHU NLORJUDP IRU WKHLU SURGXFW And with bans on live trade export, which only recently have been lifted, the international market is investing in Australian processing facilities with the objective of shipping refrigerated meat overseas, FROG VWRUH Meatworks Australia clearly have their eye on this prize, the strong international market with the potential of high export prices and growing dePDQG The question is at what cost to the people of Gillieston does this growth come?

And can the industry sustain and supply another abattoir without driving others out of business?

Time will tell what impact on economic growth the abattoir has on the region, but for the moment for the farmers and residents of Gillieston there are QR ZLQQHUV

December 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 7

Get rid of septic odours and blockages for good

ECOCARE ACTIVATOR

Odours or blockages in your septic or aerated wastewater treatment system are a clear sign that something is wrong. Instead of enduring costly callouts and expensive repairs, rural homes across Australia are turning to EcoCare Activator to restore their wastewater systems to peak performance quickly and affordably.

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.

Households have saved on costly callouts and expensive repairs by starting with a free consultation and then following a tailored treatment plan to solve their issues.

balance to the ecosystem within your drains 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.

Stop treating symptoms, get straight to the cure

“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 Activator. Within three months our problems were completely solved. The trench is now draining freely and no more smells,” said Conrad from Queensland.

EcoCare Activator works by tackling the underlying problems that cause odours and blockages. Most wastewater supplements add bacteria and enzymes which provide a short-term fix; EcoCare Activator restores

Scientifically developed, non-toxic, environmentally responsible and completely biodegradable, EcoCare Activator is the tried and tested solution to wastewater issues.

“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,” says V. Wright from NSW.

1

2

3

Start with a free diagnosis.

Our experienced wastewater consultants will thoroughly diganose your system and issue over the phone - for free.

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.

FREE Consultation FREE Delivery FREE Cleaning Kit

“My wife rang and spoke at length to Rob at EcoCare about our problem and based on his assurances we decided to try EcoCare Activator. We thought, ‘Really, what do we have to lose?’

It was only a fraction of the cost of the other options we had.

Within a couple of weeks the smell had gone and the ground around our trench outside was drier than it had been for years.

We could not be happier with the result and will continue to use this fabulous product.”

MIKE MAYNARD

100% Australian Owned

SCIENTIFICALLY DEVELOPED & ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE 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.

ACTIVATOR WASTEWATER + SEPTIC TANK SOLUTION

Eliminate odours

Dissolve blockages

Non-toxic Biodegradable

For expert advice that won’t leave you stranded

CALL 1800 633 866 ECOCARE.COM.AU

NEWS

Page 8, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2019

Merrijig Campdraft success THE Merrijig Campdraft grows in popularity each year, with competitors travelling far and wide to attend the annual event.

Even one of the best in Australia, Mansfield born and bred, and an Australian legend, Rob Leach, was in attendance this year – taking out two of the competitions over the weekend for his efforts.

The Merrijig Campdraft committee works tirelessly to make sure their grounds, including the arena surface, are second to none – with weeks of preparation put in before the event, and hours spent behind the scenes during it.

1

1) LETS TALK ABOUT THIS: Merrijig Campdraft committee member who has been part of the club since the start, Graham Pickett, pauses during his duties on the gate to chat to a competitor.

2) RIDE HIM: Kate Reiter making it look easy during the Sunday Novice.

2

Victorian Labor – one hand gives, while the other takes away CORRYONG sawmill operator and pallet manufacturer Graham Walker received a letter in October from Victoria’s Minister for Regional Development, Agriculture and Resources Jaclyn Symes good enough to take to the bank.

In fact, he did.

The letter recommended he continue to work with VicForests to “fully utilise the available timber resources” to supply his mill. Source: Timberbiz.

It was the Victorian Government’s view, the letter said, “that the careful management of Victoria’s state forest can support the sustainable supply of resources as well as protection of biodiversity”.

“I used that letter to go to the

bank to borrow money,” Mr Walker said.

But late last week the State Government announced that native timber logging in Victoria will be phased out by 2030.

The current level of native timber available for logging is to be reduced from 2024-25.

“I received it on October 10,” he said.

“It’s just hypocritical isn’t it.

“We hadn’t had a commitment and that letter gave us a commitment.

“The bank rang on November 7 to say that everything looked okay but I had to tell them the news.

“They haven’t cancelled the approval yet.”

Mr Walker said he had meet-

ings with engineers last week to work on the designs for the new $3m plant.

He planned to go ahead with his plans because otherwise, should the current government, or a future government, change its mind “we are behind the eight-ball”.

Mr Walker said the decision was “absolutely devastating”.

“The effects will be long term,” he said.

“We manufacture Chep pallets.

“There are only two manufacturers and we are one of them.

“We’ve been making them for 50 years.

“My father is 96 and he has been in sawmills since he was 16.

“We’ve been in the same area for 80 years.

“It’s insane for them to say that we are unsustainable.

“We can’t build a pallet out of softwood.”

Mr Walker said Chep tried softwoods in the 1980s but abandoned the idea because the number of broken pallets being returned was far too great.

“Softwood hasn’t got the strength,” he said.

Mr Walker is also concerned for the future of his town.

“We are only a small town with a population of around 1000 people,” he said.

“We employ 22 full time. k:KHUH GR WKH\ JR WR o QG work?

“I’m 56 years old and I’ve had my life but those guys haven’t.

“They are still paying off houses and cars and putting kids through school.”

According to Longwarry Sawmilling Company’s Bruce Craig the end of native forest logging in Victoria by 2030 would make the future of his own business very uncertain.

Mr Craig says the announcement of the end of native forest logging in Victoria by 2030 would make the future of his own business very uncertain.

“Best possible case, we’ll be here to 2030 but it might not even be that long,” he said.

“Not that making the switch

to plantation timber is a bad idea, but it’s a job that would take 40 years, not the 11-year timeline the State Government has declared.

“We’ll be out of business.”

That’s not particularly good news for his 14 employees.

“That’s all they’ve done, they won’t be able to re-skill themselves,” Mr Craig said.

“Not everyone can work in IT or aged care or tourism or whatever, some people just have got a job, and they won’t have one.

“There’ll be a bit of a pine softwood plantation industry, there might be a bit of pulp for export but I don’t think there’ll be a native hardwood industry.”

FO R C E O F N AT U R E

RTV X900

0%

C O M P A R I S O N

GO WILD

R A T E

This spring, take a ride on the wild side with Kubota’s unstoppable RTV Series.

These all-terrain all-rounders take utility vehicles to the next gear, ensuring exceptional performance and comfort in equal measure. Designed with absolute safety in mind, the RTV will always get you where you need to go.

3 6

kubota.com.au

WWW.BERTOLIS.COM.AU

BENALLA VIC 183 Bridge Street Phone: (03) 5762 3633

M O N T H S*

across the RTV range

*0.00% comparison rate based on $30,000 secured loan with 60 monthly repayments. For both business and consumer borrowers. This offer is only available with a minimum 20% deposit, 36 monthly repayments and a minimum financed amount of $4,000. Credit criteria applies. No upfront fees or account keeping fees. Fees may apply depending how loan is conducted. Credit provided by Kubota Australia Pty Ltd ABN 72005300621, Australian Credit Licence Number 442007. “WARNING” The comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts may result in a different comparison rate.

This finance offer is available until 31/12/19 and applies to new RTV models.

SHEPPARTON VIC 198-200 Numurkah Road Phone: (03) 5821 3299

F O R

ALBURY NSW 520 Dallinger Road Phone: (02) 6025 5390

NEWS

December 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 9

NEED TO BOLSTER: The continuing exodus of farmers from the dairy industry needs to be addressed with prices that reflect the true cost of milk production. Farmers need to be empowered to be price givers rather than takers.

Delivering for Regional Australia

Fair price not a floor price THE Federal Government will work with dairy farmers to ensure they are paid a fair farm-gate price for their milk so that future generations can enjoy safe, nutritious and delicious Australian dairy.

Minister for Agriculture, Bridget McKenzie, said the drought and high input costs were making things especially hard for dairy farmers across Australia as feed and water costs rose, and labour and electricity put even more pressure on balance sheets. “Reregulating the industry would harm, not help our dairy farmers,� Senator McKenzie said. “It’s not something the industry has asked for, in fact the vast majority of dairy farmers I’ve spoken with have pleaded with us to stop it. “The private member’s bill that was defeated today held

out false hope to those doing it tough as though one measure could ever be the silver bullet to the complex, unique and diverse issues of this important industry. “Setting a minimum farmgate milk price would do QRWKLQJ WR o [ WKH FXUUHQW power imbalance between dairy farmers and processors and would do nothing to drive down input costs. “What it risks is reducing the incomes of dairy farmers in the long-term by decreasing demand for milk and suppressing incentives to innovate and improve productivity.�

This government is progressing a range of measures to help the dairy industry including: v D PDQGDWRU\ &RGH RI &RQ duct to improve contractual arrangements between dairy

BBF

farmers and their processors; v PLOOLRQ LQ JUDQWV WR assist dairy farmers to upgrade or invest in energy efo FLHQW HTXLSPHQW WR UHGXFH their energy costs; v PLOOLRQ LQ DGGLWLRQDO funding to the Australian &RPSHWLWLRQ DQG &RQVXPHU &RPPLVVLRQ V $JULFXOWXUH Unit - including establishing a dairy specialist; v PLOOLRQ LQ JUDQWV WR support farmer groups to set up farm cooperatives and other collective business models; and v PLOOLRQ WR SURYLGH dairy farmers with contracting and legal advice including WR GHVLJQ GHYHORS and test new milk pricing and trading concepts. k2XU GDLU\ IDUPLQJ families deserve meaningful support and thoughtful policy,� she said.

Support for drought affected farmers and farming communities New Small Business Drought Loans, $200 million extra for the Building Better Regions Fund, $138.9 million extra for Roads to Recovery, $10m to keep kids in school and $5m for childcare Investment in Communities Investment in Agriculture $20 million to reinvigorate showgrounds The Regional Agriculture Migration and ensure country shows continue to Package gives growers better access to bring communities together more workers when they’re needed Investment in Water Security Investment in Tertiary Education $15 million to establish five new Regional University Centres

$3.3 billion to build dams, weirs and pipelines and establish the National Water Grid Authority

Investing in Infrastructure $3.8 billion worth of infrastructure work over the next four years

Investment in Connectivity $160 million to fund more Mobile Black Spot Stations

We’re getting on with the job of building stronger, prosperous regional communities

Bridget McKENZIE DEPUTY LEADER OF THE NATIONALS Q MINISTER FOR AGRICULTURE THE NATIONALS LEADER IN THE SENATE Q SENATOR FOR VICTORIA

02 6024 2560

Q

1300 889 103

Q

senator.mckenzie@aph.gov.au

/senatormckenzie

@senbmckenzie

Authorised by Senator The Hon Bridget McKenzie - The National Party of Australia, 172 High Street, Wodonga VIC

Family business with over 30 years experience

Fertilizers

CALL US NOW BBF Benalla, 82 Roe Street, Benalla. FAX: 03 5762 4366

IN OPEN TA W O N T GARA WAN

BBF Wangaratta, 59 Shanley Street, Wangaratta

Email: office@bbfertilizers.com

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 10, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

Labor chooses politics over fire safety

DANIEL Andrews’ decision to ban Victoria’s native timber industry will weaken the capacity for country comPXQLWLHV WR o JKW GHYDVWDWLQJ IRUHVW o UHV DFFRUGLQJ WR WKH Liberal Party. “Daniel Andrews doesn’t care that communities will be placed at increased risk from EXVKo UH EHFDXVH RI /DERU V planned destruction of the naWLYH WLPEHU LQGXVWU\ y GHSXW\ leader of the Liberal Party Cindy McLeish said. “Each year tens of millions of dollars’ worth of additional HTXLSPHQW LQFOXGLQJ PRUH than 75 excavators and dozHUV DUH PDGH DYDLODEOH E\ WLPEHU FRQWUDFWRUV WR o JKW IRUHVW o UHV k7RGD\ LQ 3DUOLDPHQW /D ERU V (QYLURQPHQW 0LQLVWHU

/LO\ ' $PEURVLR UHIXVHG WR JXDUDQWHH WKDW QR OLYHV ZLOO be lost as a result of Labor’s decision to close Victoria’s sustainable native timber industry. “Victoria’s native timber industry contractors have inWLPDWH NQRZOHGJH RI WKH GLIo FXOW DQG RIWHQ GDQJHURXV WHU rain of Victoria’s forests and KLJK FRXQWU\ “Under Labor’s plan the native timber workers who played such a central role in VDYLQJ FRXQWU\ FRPPXQLWLHV GXULQJ PDMRU EXVKo UHV LQFOXG LQJ RQ %ODFN 6DWXUGD\ ZLOO QR ORQJHU EH DEOH WR SURWHFW WKH community. “Labor has chosen poliWLFV RYHU WKH VDIHW\ RI o UH SURQH DUHDV RI 9LFWRULD y 0V McLeish said.

FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION

December 2019

FIRE READY: With a remote start feature you can fight fires when you’re not even there.

Versatile pump automatically switches function in fire emergencies A PUMP that can prioritise emergency use over normal pumping duties is available from Davey.

The Davey Remote Start Firefighter MKII is suited to both firefighting and regular farming tasks, making it a highly versatile addition to rural properties.

It was developed in response to buyer feedback on the original Remote Start Firefighter launched in 2017.

The RSFFMKII model offers extended capabilities for broader farm use, while retaining the auto emergency start

feature of its predecessor.

Davey head of training and education Ashley White says many firefighting pumps are never used, which is good because it means properties have not come under fire threat, but it also means the pumps are an under-utilised resource. “The MKII allows the pump to be used for everyday tasks like filling stock troughs, sprinklers or watering trees, with the benefit of immediately switching over to emergency responses such as sprinklers on roofs if heat sensors detect

an issue,� Ashley said.

The Davey Remote Start Firefighter MKII provides SMS confirmation of starts and stops, as well as details about battery charge, phone signal strength and even failures, and the emergency response can be turned off by text or by turning a key at the unit. “People are busy these days and this allows them to know that their property is protected in emergencies, but that their pump can be doing day-to-day operations in the meantime,�

Ashley said.

“It’s a great combination of practicality and peace of mind.�

Davey is Australia’s international water products company, designing, building and selling products to protect and enhance people’s lives with water.

The Remote Start Firefighter MKII is now available from dealers across the country in both single and twin stage models.

To learn more about the range, how to protect your home this fire season and to locate your nearest Davey dealer, visit www.davey.com.au.

Did you know bushfires kill from 300m away?

BushďŹ res can reach temperatures of up to 1100°C. Long before the ames reach you, the wave of radiant heat can kill you from up to 300 metres away - the distance of two football ovals. Planning and preparing for bushďŹ re is the only way to survive it.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to vic.gov.au/knowfire

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

December 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 11

ARE YOU BUSHFIRE READY? GET READY

DAVEY FIRE ACTION PROTECTION PLAN

STICK ME ON THE WALL!

Help protect your property and your family.

The best time to get bushfire ready, is now. Make a fire protection action plan, put it up where everyone can see it and ensure family members are well trained. In a fire, you’ll be glad you did.

Davey’s recommendations for effective fire pump management and maintenance are an important part of your fire protection action plan.

1. Know the machine: Ensure all members of the household know how to locate and operate attachments like inlet and outlet hoses to the fire pump.

8. General maintenance regime: Regular checks will ensure fuel lines are in good condition and the recoil starter works. A regular service schedule is invaluable.

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

9. Check the plumbing: Investigate and maintain the water system.

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. 4. Engine oils: Engine manufacturers offer their own 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.

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.

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.

13. Practice: A well-rehearsed and documented fire plan is critical to personal survival.

Don’t wait for a bushfire, find the Davey pump that’s right for you NOW.

6. Ensure your pump set has adequate clean air access: Check and replace the air cleaner or filter per engine manufacturer recommendations.

7. Keep the engine cool: Ideally protect the pump from radiant heat in a flame proof enclosure, otherwise add a mist spray around the pump or its enclosure to aid cooling and humidify the air.

From L to R: Single Stage Firefighter Twin Stage Firefighter Remote Start Twin Stage Firefighter

daveywater.com | 1300 232 839

FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION

Page 12, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2019

How well do you know fire?

POWERFUL IMAGERY: This year’s campaign features graphic images and scenes that may be confronting and hard for some people to watch, in order to drive home the message.

A HARD-HITTING new campaign will get Victorians to sit up and take action to prepare and protect themVHOYHV DJDLQVW o UH DV WKH state prepares for a long, hot and dry season.

Country Fire Authority FKLHI H[HFXWLYH RIo FHU FKLHI RIo FHU 6WHYH :DUULQJWRQ Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Lisa Neville joined staff at the State Control Centre to launch Victoria’s bold new DSSURDFK WR o UH ‹ RQH RI WKH ODUJHVW o UH FDPSDLJQV LQ the state’s history.

Victoria is one of the most o UH SURQH DUHDV LQ WKH ZRUOG and everyone needs to un-

derstand just how devastatLQJ o UH FDQ EH QR PDWWHU ZKHUH WKH\ OLYH ‹ ZKHWKHU it’s the outer suburbs, the coast or the country.

Starting early November, the ‘How well do you NQRZ o UH" FDPSDLJQ ZLOO KLJKOLJKW WKH GHDGO\ ULVN o UH poses and the importance of planning and preparing for the season. “Our research has shown people are becoming increasingly complacent in planning, and actioning WKHLU SODQV y 0U :DUULQJWRQ said. “Our communities need to wake up to the fact that not having a plan could have devastating consequences.�

Many people would have no idea that radiant heat IURP D EXVKo UH FDQ NLOO \RX from 300 metres away, that a single ember can start new o UH IURP NP DZD\ RU WKDW o UH FDQ WUDYHO DW NP SHU hour.

It’s these facts, together with confronting imagery that will jolt Victorians into action, after research found many people were becoming complacent about their personal bushfire risk.

This includes thousands of our dedicated volunteer and career firefighters from across all agencies, as ZHOO DV D UHFRUG IOHHW RI aircraft, which will hit the skies to help fight fires and

keep communities safe.

Victorians and communities need to start preparing themselves for the o UH VHDVRQ ‹ YLVLW ZZZ YLF JRY DX NQRZo UH WR SODQ DQG prepare.

People should also download the VicEmergency app now in order to receive emergency information and warnings. “Everyone should be SUHSDUHG y 0U :DUULQJWRQ said. “I urge you to prepare your properties, and have a plan for yourselves, your families and animals. k,I D o UH RFFXUV ZH ZDQW you to be ready, and to stay VDIH WKLV o UH VHDVRQ y

It’s time to legally prepare for bushfire season

By DISASTER LEGAL HELP DISASTER Legal Help Victoria is a Victorian legal sector collaboration that responds to disasters by providing free legal information, advice and referrals to affected Victorians.

It was originally formed 10 years ago to provide free legal assistance to those affected by the 2009 Black Saturday EXVKo UHV Program manager of economic and social rights at Victoria Legal Aid, Joel

Townsend, said the main legal problems people face after D GLVDVWHU VXFK DV D EXVKo UH include insurance, tenancy, credit and debt, government grants, property damage and accommodation. “It’s not something anyone wants to think about, but if you lose your home and belongings, you’ll need to be prepared to handle some legal issues,� Mr Townsend said. “Preparing and planning before a disaster happens are really important to help you work through the aftermath

as smoothly and as quickly as possible.�

Things you should do to legally prepare: v PDNH VXUH \RXU LQVXUDQFH is up to date, and has the right FRYHU IRU o UH DQG p RRG v EH SUHSDUHG WR ORGJH DQ insurance claim soon after WKH HYHQW v JHW DGYLFH RQ DFFRPPR GDWLRQ RU WHQDQF\ LVVXHV v NHHS D OLVW RI HPHUJHQF\ contacts you may need for dealing with recovery from a GLVDVWHU DQG v SUHSDUH DQ LPSRUWDQW

documents kit, including a description of your home and a list of your valuable belongings.

Mr Townsend said people should include the Disaster Legal Help Victoria number (1800 113 432) in their emergency contacts list, along with numbers for their insurance company, bank, doctor, Centrelink, local council and power company. “Lawyers are available from 8am until 6pm Monday to Friday on 1800 113 432 and can help with understand-

ing your legal options after a disaster and next steps with issues such as insurance or tenancy,� Mr Townsend said. “They can also refer you to specialist support services if they’re not able to help in your situation.�

After a disaster, Disaster Legal Help representatives from community legal centres or Victoria Legal Aid attend recovery centres or community meetings to help people with legal questions.

In the event of large-scale disasters, lawyers from across

the legal profession are called on to provide legal assistance to the affected community.

Mr Townsend said people should look out for notices in local recovery publications for details about how to get help through Disaster Legal Help.

Disaster Legal Help is a collaboration between Victoria Legal Aid, the Federation of Community Legal Centres, the Law Institute of Victoria, Justice Connect and the Victorian Bar. For more information, visit www.disasterlegalhelp.org. au.

BE PREPARED THIS FIRE SEASON! 400L SILVAN HONDA DAVEY UNIT / 4 Stroke 5.5HP GX160 Honda Engine, direct coupled Impellor / Fuel capacity 3.6L (Unleaded), 2 hours approx run time / 80psi max pressure or 425L/Min open flow

THE STEEPER THE SLOPE: Containing fire before it reaches an uphill slope is essential to bringing the fire under control. As the radiant heat preheats the fuel in front of the fire, and as the flames can easily reach more unburnt fuel on an uphill slope, a fire on a hill will increase its speed and ultimately its intensity.

north east SQF400D-1 SPECIAL PRICE

WAS $3,549

$3,299*

*Terms and conditions apply. Special price valid till 15th January 2020 or while stocks last.

fuel reduction mulching and slashing services

NOW is the time to be preparing for the ďŹ re season

D Y FO R U S

E

FA

R

EA

ED

ORY TEST CT

All Silvan FireFighting units come fully assembled and tested ready for use

see this impressive machine working at YouTube:

The Spraying Specialists

Connect with us Call 1300 SILVAN (745 826) or visit silvan.com.au for our full range of firefighters.

http://youtu.be/nMfhTpVJgMg

call mick 0418 251 375 mickcarey3@bigpond.com

v/12d13163-v4/45-16

NEWS

December 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 13

Concern over workplace law WANGARATTA state MP Tim McCurdy (MLA, Ovens Valley), wants more clarity around the State Government’s proposed workplace manslaughter legislation.

The Nationals MP told the Wangaratta Chronicle this week that the new criminal offence - to be further discussed in State Parliament’s lower house this week - was raising concerns locally. “Farmers are concerned... they’re asking where does home meet work when you live on the workplace,� he said. “I’m not opposed to making for safer workplaces, but there are some grey areas that need addressing in what is being proposed.�

Mr McCurdy said questions were also being raised over Worksafe Victoria inspectors - rather than Victoria police’s role - investigating and leading to manslaughter charges.

He is expected to raise his concerns in parliament this week.

Under the tough new legislation introduced by the State

BY JEFF ZEUSCHNER jzeuschner@ nemedia.com.au

Government to Parliament last month, WorkSafe Victoria will investigate the new offence of workplace manslaughter using their powers under the OHS Act to ensure employers can be prosecuted.

Minister for Workplace Safety, Jill Hennessy, has said the proposed new laws, which deliver on an election promise, will see employers who negligently cause a workplace GHDWK IDFH o QHV RI XS WR million and individuals face up to 20 years in jail.

The offence will fall under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (OHS Act) and will apply to employers, selfHPSOR\HG SHRSOH DQG CRIo F ers’ of the employers.

The legislation will also apply when an employer’s negligent conduct causes the death of a member of the public.

Minister Hennessy said too many Victorians have had their lives tragically cut short after simply going to work and this new offence will hold employers who don’t put safety o UVW WR DFFRXQW As many as 30 people are killed in workplaces across the state every year, with 19 people having already lost their lives so far in 2019.

FARMER, industry and builder organisations are calling on the State Government to make amendments to its proposed new workplace manslaughter law.

The VFF, Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Housing

Industry Association, Master Builders Association of Victoria and Australian Industry Group have jointly warned that the draft legislation “risks failing to create safer workplaces� while imposing fines of around $16 million and up to 20 years jail for employers

Changes are needed to manslaughter law THE Victorian Government has introduced a new workplace manslaughter law to Parliament.

If passed as drafted, this law risks failing to create safer workplaces while imposing fines of around $16 million and up to 20 years jail for employers responsible for negligently causing death.

With such significant penalties it is vital that the government gets this law right.

Jointly, our organisations help employers to get it right - we advise our members on how to meet their workplace obligations and keep their workplaces and workers safe.

Our organisations and our members consider that any workplace death is one too many.

The new law must have safety as its number one objective and be workable, proportionate, fair, support continuing collaboration

on safety and avoid unintended outcomes.

Victorian employers and employees have a shared responsibility for safety by working together.

Jointly, employer groups have proposed several sound and workable improvements to the drafting of the legislation that would have enhanced its safety objectives.

We consider that, without significant change, the legislation will have detrimental effects on safety, investment and jobs.

Once introduced, a workplace manslaughter offence must apply to anyone who has engaged in criminally negligent conduct resulting in death, not just organisations and senior officers.

We consider that the laws will disproportionately impact small business.

Put simply, the operators of smaller enterprises are more likely to have

a ‘hands on’ role in the business.

Overseas experience has shown that they will likely bear the brunt of these laws.

We need laws that ensure that good employers are not held responsible for the criminally negligent actions of “rogue� employees.

The proposed legislation provides no such protection.

As workplace manslaughter would also apply to fatalities resulting from mental injuries, it is particularly important that appropriate protections are in place to ensure employers are not made culpable for conduct that is not directly related to their business.

We also need more education and support for business to help them focus on prevention and provide the safest possible workplaces, and for WorkSafe to ensure its

+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

$53,900.00

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 ABN:13147978097

$35,900.00

+GST

officials are prepared to manage the complexities of a manslaughter case (currently, manslaughter investigations are conducted by highly trained Victoria Police officers).

Employers look forward to working with the government, opposition and cross bench to ensure that these laws are fair and equitable and that they deliver improved workplace safety outcomes.

Mark Stone, chief executive, Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Stephen Sheridan, chief H[HFXWLYH RIo FHU 9LFWRULDQ Farmers Federation Fiona Nield, executive director Victoria, Housing Industry Association Rebecca Casson, chief H[HFXWLYH RIo FHU 0DVWHU Builders Association of Victoria Tim Piper, head Victoria, Australian Industry Group

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

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

$64,900.00

responsible for negligently causing death.

They have jointly stated they “consider that the laws will disproportionately impact small business�, and have called for changes.

$25,900.00

+GST

+GST

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.Â

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

Proposed manslaughter legislation needs ‘clarification’ Ĺ°

NEWS

Page 14, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2019

Discover a hands-on degree with a big future

FUTURE OF FARMING: Hands on learning is a huge bonus for Clare Jensen in the Bachelor of Education at the University of Melbourne.

ACCOUNTING for over 319,000 Australian jobs across a range of sectors including science, technology and policy, the agriculture industry is providing young people with a range of rewarding career paths.

Just ask Clare Jensen, Bachelor of Agriculture student at the University of Melbourne. “I know people who have graduated and are now journalists, working in banks or working on-farm,� she said. “There’s no limitation to where an agriculture degree can take you.�

Beginning her journey in the Diploma in General Studies, which she used as a one-year pathway into her University of Melbourne undergraduate degree, Clare spent her first year of study at the Dookie campus

in the Goulburn Valley region. “If you study the Bachelor of Agriculture, I’d recommend spending at least a semester at Dookie campus, especially if you’ve grown up in the city,� she said. “It’s a wonderful way to experience how a farm is run.�

Clare has already found that her studies have opened doors. “I did an industry internship subject, so I did a placement working on-farm during the calving period. “In another one of my subjects, I ended up being offered summer jobs at two organisations.�

When asked about sustainable practice and tackling climate change, Clare said, “We’re looking at more sustainable ways to run enterprises.

“There is so much technology and research we can apply to create more sustainable practices.�

For Clare, the practical application of her learning and the network she’s built is key to the success of the program. “I’m a hands-on learner,� she said. “The fact that I can apply my learning at Dookie campus has helped me so much. “The agriculture group is a very close cohort. “It’s a very welcoming vibe. “I’ve met 300 to 400 people through the course. “Agriculture is an industry where networking and connections are key – all the connections I’ve made here at university will help to secure jobs in the future.�

Keeping farm businesses viable CONCESSIONAL drought loans offering two years with no interest or repayments are now available with the Regional Investment Corporation taking the Federal Government’s drought commitment to over $8 billion.

Minister for Drought and Rural Finance David Littleproud said the concessional loan product complemented the government’s suite of

measures to assist farmers in drought. “If you’re a farmer, if you’re in drought, you should see if \RX UH HOLJLEOH WR UHoQDQFH your debt into this loan,� Mr Littleproud said. “This is not just about new debt it’s the opportunity to UHoQDQFH H[LVWLQJ EDQN GHEW and pay absolutely nothing for two years. “These loans can save farmers more than $250,000

in interest and repayments in WKH oUVW WZR \HDUV FRPSDUHG to bank loans. k)DUPHUV ZLWK H[LVWLQJ 5,& drought loans can also access to the two year interest free period. k$SDUW IURP UHoQDQFLQJ bank debt farmers could also use to pay for freight, fodder, water, netting and other essential costs of maintaining a farm. “This complements oth-

er programs such as Farm Household Allowance that puts more than $120,000 in payments in farmers’ pockets to put bread and butter on families’ table. “These loans are for viable farm businesses who just QHHG EHWWHU oQDQFH WHUPV “They will help those that have shown they have the capacity to repay. “This is an investment in hard-working Australians.

“Once it rains farmers will make a quid.�

More information about the drought loan can be found at ric.gov.au or calling 1800 875 675.

Fast Facts: z the new terms enable loans of up to $2 million over ten years; z after ten years there is an RSWLRQ WR UHoQDQFH DQ\ UHmaining balance; z loans can be used to pre-

pare for, manage and recover from drought.

7KH ORDQV FDQ UHoQDQFH H[LVWLQJ GHEW IXQG GURXJKW related activities, enhance productivity or pay for operDWLQJ H[SHQVHV RU FDSLWDO Drought Loans are offered by the Regional Investment Corporation along with a range of other products including Farm Investment Loans and AgRebuild Loans.

0% FINANCE*

RAKE IN THE VALUE. MASSEY FERGUSON HAY TOOLS – RAKES, TEDDERS, MOWERS & MOWER CONDITIONERS Massey Ferguson has combined years of experience with the latest technical knowledge to develop a range of hay tools that help you work smarter and improve the output of your hay operation. Get in now for great ďŹ nance and save on mowers, mower conditioners, tedders and rakes.

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MASSEY FERGUSON DEALER TODAY COBRAM Cobram Farm Equipment, Lot 3 Murray Valley Highway CORRYONG Roger C. Brown P/L, Hanson Street ECHUCA McKees Garage & Engineering, 39 McKenzie Road KYABRAM Albion (Kyabram) Motors P/L, 33-39 Albion Street

(03) 5872 1722 (02) 6076 1788 (03) 5482 2264 (03) 5852 1977

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

*Finance with an interest rate of 0% p.a. on minimum 30% deposit, the equipment GST component repaid in the fourth months and monthly repayments in arrears over a 12 month term. Offer available until 31 December 2019 or while stock lasts to approved purchasers with an active ABN, for Chattel Mortgage finance and business purposes only, subject to terms and conditions and credit approval by AGCO Finance Pty Ltd ABN 42 107 653 878. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Fees and charges do apply.

MASSEYFERGUSON.COM.AU

A world of experience. Working with you.

December 2019

Come as you are, leave as you want to be.

Shape the world’s future, starting with yours.

CRICOS: 00116K

Contribute to a sustainable world with a secure career in a growing industry. Explore the Bachelor of Agriculture.

Bachelor of Agriculture unimelb.edu.au/cop

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 15

NEWS

Page 16, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2019

Life for horses after the track

Merrijig cattleman to swap Herefords for horses ลฐ

LAST week, thousands headHG WR WKH 0DQVo HOG 5DFHFRXUVH WR FHOHEUDWH ERWK WKH 0HO ERXUQH DQG ORFDO FXS UXQQLQJ +RUVHV WKDW KDYH VSHQW \HDUV LQ WUDLQLQJ WKXQGHUHG GRZQ WKH WUDFN SHRSOH

)-m]-u-ย - "-ัด;ย -u7v

"ย rrou| ัดo1-ัด ruo7ย 1;uv -m7 0ย ย -| )-m]-u-ย -ฤฝv v|-|;ล o=ล |_;ล -u| =-1bัดb|ย

ATTENTION: Reduced number of Sales in December due to Christmas period

);;hัดย ubl; -ย ัด; "-ัด;v December 5th and 12th "|-uเฆ m] -| |_; m;ย เฆ l; o= ัถ-l

om|_ัดย "|ou; "-ัด; buv| ub7-ย o= |_; lom|_ -| ฦ ฦ ฤบฦ ฦ -l

ลชฦ ฦ ัด-| ;; r;u _;-7 ล );b]_ ;;v -m7 +-u7 ย ;vล

ลชฦ ฦ ัด-| ;; r;u _;-7 ล );b]_ ;;v -m7 +-u7 ย ;vล

v/21D13453-V12/4919

VFUHDPLQJ RQ HLWKHU VLGH -XVW KRXUV HDUOLHU 0RXQWDLQ &DWWOHPDQ &KDUOLH /RYLFN VDGGOHG XS KLV IDYRXU LWH KRUVH q D SUHYLRXV UDFH FRPSHWLWRU q EXW LQVWHDG RI KHDGLQJ WUDFN VLGH WKH SDLU ZDQGHUHG DORQJ 6ZDQVWRQ 6WUHHW LQ 0HOERXUQH 6ZDPSHG E\ IDQV RQ HLWKHU VLGH &KDUOLH KDV EHHQ SDUW RI WKH 3DUDGH RI &KDPSLRQV IRU PRUH WKDQ D GHFDGH +LV KRUVH 0DODNL LV D IRU PHU UDFHKRUVH q UHVFXHG IURP WKH PHDW SHQV DW WKH (FKXFD KRUVH VDOHV 6LQFH WKHQ KH KDV EH FRPH D VWDSOH IDYRXULWH DW WKH /RYLFN IDPLO\ IDUP q VR PXFK VR WKDW &KDUOLH LV VHOOLQJ RII KLV +HUHIRUGV LQ IDYRXU RI UH SXUSRVLQJ UDFHKRUVHV 7KH GUDVWLF PRYH FRPHV DIWHU &KDUOLH ZDV LQVSLUHG E\ FXUUHQW LVVXHV VXUURXQGLQJ WKH KRUVH LQGXVWU\ k7KHVH KRUVHV QHHG D VHF RQG FKDQFH DQG , KDYH WKH VSDFH WR JLYH WKHP WKDW y &KDUOLH VDLG k:LWK DOO WKH EDG SXEOLFLW\ DERXW WKHUH LV VWLOO D VLOYHU OLQ LQJ LI \RX ORRN KDUG HQRXJK q , YH JRW WKDW VLOYHU OLQLQJ y &KDUOLH GRHV QRW KDYH D SUREOHP ZLWK UDFLQJ EXW WKLQNV WKDW HYHU\ KRUVH VKRXOG EH JLYHQ D JRRG KRPH DIWHU WKH\ UHWLUH 7KDW V H[DFWO\ ZK\ E\ WKLV WLPH QH[W \HDU KH ZLOO KDYH H[ UDFHKRUVHV JUD]LQJ RQ KLV 'HODWLWH 5LYHU p DWV k, P JRLQJ WR ZRUN ZLWK

WHAT A CHAMPION: Malaki is an OTT thoroughbred, saved by the Lovicks from the meat pen. His calm temperament has inspired the family to open their farm up to race horse re-education. Malaki is pictured here with Kelly Lovick, having a bit of fun between mustering stints in the bush.

HDFK DQG HYHU\ RQH WR o QG RXW ZKDW WKH\ DUH EHVW VXLWHG IRU y KH VDLG k7KHVH KRUVHV RIWHQ KDYH D JUHDW IRXQGDWLRQ q WKH\ YH EHHQ HGXFDWHG DQG ULGGHQ E\ WKH EHVW LQ WKH FRXQWU\ k0RUH RIWHQ WKDQ QRW LW V MXVW D ODFN RI WLPH WKDW VHHV WKHVH KRUVHV HQG XS DW WKH VD OH\DUGV y &KDUOLH NQRZV WKLV EHWWHU WKDQ PRVW 0DODNL ZDV ERXJKW IRU DW DXFWLRQ WKH RQO\ RWKHU ELG GHU D EX\HU IURP WKH DEDWWRLU 3V\FKLF 5XOHU q DV KH ZDV NQRZQ WKHQ KDG VHYHQ VWDUWV IRU VHYHQ ODVW SODFHV /XFNLO\ IRU KLP KLV OLIH GLGQ W HQG ZKHQ KLV UDFLQJ FDUHHU GLG k, WUXVW KLP WR GR HYHU\ WKLQJ q KH KHOSV PH PXVWHU GRHV WUDLO ULGHV DQG SUHVHQWD WLRQ ZRUN WKHUH LVQ W D KRUVH LQ WKH SDGGRFN , SUHIHU y &KDUOLH VDLG k$OO KH QHHGHG ZDV VRPH RQH WR VKRZ KLP D OLWWOH WLPH DQG SDWLHQFH y 7KDW V H[DFWO\ ZKDW &KDUOLH LQWHQGV WR GR ZKHQ KLV SUR

JUDP EHJLQV (DFK KRUVH ZLOO EH JLYHQ D FKDQFH WR H[FHO q ZKHWKHU WKDW EH LQ GUHVVDJH KDFNLQJ RU DW SRQ\ FOXE k, OO PDNH VXUH WKH\ DOO o QG D KRPH DIWHU WKH WUDFN q WKDW V WKH ZKROH SODQ y &KDUOLH VDLG :KHQ &KDUOLH VDGGOHG XS 0DODNL ODVW 0RQGD\ KH ZDV KRSLQJ WKH ROG FKHVWQXW KRUVH PLJKW LQVSLUH WKH FURZGV WR WKLQN EH\RQG ZKDW WKH\ VHH 7KDW SHRSOH FDUH ZKDW KDSSHQV DIWHU WKH MRFNH\ SDG LV SXW DZD\ 0DODNL q OLNH DOO WKH RWKHU \HDUV KH SDUWLFLSDWHG q MXVW KRSHG VRPHRQH LQ WKH FURZG KDG DQ DSSOH IRU KLP k, YH ULGGHQ D ORW RI JRRG KRUVHV LQ P\ WLPH DQG KH LV ULJKW XS WKHUH DW WKH WRS RI WKH OLVW y &KDUOLH VDLG k+H KDV FRPH D ORQJ ZD\ IURP WKDW GD\ , SLFNHG KLP XS y 7KH 3DUDGH RI &KDPSLRQV LV UXQ HYHU\ 0RQGD\ EHIRUH WKH 0HOERXUQH &XS VWDUWLQJ DW WKH LQWHUVHFWLRQ RI 6ZDQ VWRQ 6WUHHW DQG %RXUNH 6WUHHW DW SP DQG o QLVKLQJ DW )HG HUDWLRQ 6TXDUH DW SP

NEWS

December 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 17

Local saw miller says decision to cease native logging is pure politics at play

By PHILIPPE PEREZ BETTER protections have been given to the Greater Glider possum as part of an announcement by the Premier Daniel Andrews to phase out native logging throughout Victoria by 2030.

Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio (MLA, Mill Park) launched the Greater Glider Action Statement in Creek Junction recently, which will provide a roadmap to protect the species, which is prominent within the Strathbogie Forest. “(Areas protected) go from parts of the Central Highlands, through to East Gippsland and of course these wonderful Strathbogies,� Ms D’Ambrosio said. “The Strathbogies repreVHQWV RQH RI WKH PRVW VLJQLo cant strongholds for the Greater Glider and (the species) will have a much stronger future from this day onwards.�

Mark Blackwell, who is a o IWK JHQHUDWLRQ VDZ PLOOHU based in Strathbogie, said the decision to phase out logging will mean forests will become poorly managed. “Logging is a good way to manage this forest, and it will protect it from feral weeds – Vic Forest has done a stellar

job of it in the past,� Mr Blackwell said.

However, Ms D’Ambrosio said there will be processes in place to manage forests for feral animals in the Strathbogie Forest through ongoing community consultation. “We’ve set aside $7 million that will go into managing these areas that have been set aside for immediate protection,� Ms D’Ambrosio said. “We understand what needs to occur to protect the biodiversity here, and we will do that with communities.�

Mr Blackwell believes the decision to phase out native logging was an overreaction and that logging in the region can be managed. “This is purely a political decision and has nothing to do with the logging industry,� he said. “I did not see any decline of Greater Gliders in this region when logging was allowed to be managed correctly.�

In early 2018 logging resumed in the Strathbogie Forest after a hiatus, with VicForests, the organisation conducting the timber harvesting, rejecting protesters’ assertions that timber harvesting would do irreparable damage to the forest and the species living within it Bill Paul, who is a com-

GROUP HUG: Environment Minister Lily D'Ambrosio being hugged by members of Save Our Strathbogie Forest group during her visit to the area yesterday.

PHOTO: Philippe Perez

munity forestry manager at VicForests, said at the time that only 0.1 per cent of the Strathbogie Forest was being harvested, directly supporting around 25 jobs in the region.

In May the Minister for Agriculture, Jaclyn Symes (MLC, Northern Victoria) announced all logging in the Strathbogie Forest would be stopped, after releasing the government’s Timber Release Plan, showing the re-

moval of all logging coupes from the forest.

Research was also conducted by Victorian Government scientists in 2017 that found the Strathbogie Forest was home to at least 69,000 Greater Glider possums.

Many other threatened species including the Leadbeater Possum are also protected as part of the action statement, with 96,000 hectares of forest across the state

being mapped out as exempt from logging.

Chairperson of the Save Our Strathbogie Forest Group Bertram Lobert said the local campaign to stop logging had grown in support over the years. “What has been happening in this forest is really just a microcosm of what was happening across the state,� Mr Lobert said. “We can now put our energy into really positive and

constructive work around the forest.�

Leader of the Nationals Peter Walsh said the announcement will mean jobs will be sent offshore. “Today is a dark day for our regional communities and the industries that underpin us,�

Mr Walsh said. “Daniel Andrews should be supporting and promoting Victoria’s sustainable industry, not shutting it down.�

Mr Lobert, however, rebuked this, saying that around 90 per cent of all jobs and economic industry in Victorian forestry was already in plantation. “Native forest logging is a really small part of the logging industry and the logging industry will not notice one iota,� Mr Lobert said. “It will certainly affect local people and they have to be taken into account and transiWLRQHG ZKHWKHU LW LV o QDQFLDOO\ or contractually.� “But it’s also about the potential to create more jobs and long term sustainable economic activity.�

The announcement by Premier Andrews on Thursday will also see an additional 90,000 hectares of Victoria’s remaining old growth forest be protected along with the 96,000 hectares protected as part of the action statement.

TERRY MILLER CONCRETE TANKS S P E C I A LIS T S IN UNDER GR O UND CONCRE TE TAN KS

Follow us on Facebook

M: 0419 462 814

r e t a W n a e l C , l o o C

ғ Tanks are algae free ғ Cool in summer ғ Won’t blow away

P: 02 6026 7021 E: cjf57@bigpond.com

Bale-Up Hayfeeders

ѡ www.terrymillerconcretetanks.com.au

$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 oor.

Bale-Up Hayfeeders 1IPOF rsgarth@hotmail.com

t 'BY www.baleupfeeders.com

Standard cow feeder $2350 inc GST

Calf feeder $2100 inc GST

v/12D13605-v2/3617

ғ All tanks are 2.26m (7’6�) in height ғ All tanks walls are 125mm (5�) thick ғ All foundations (tank floors) are 150mm (6�) thick

NEWS

Page 18, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

Export opportunities buoy farmers on AgDay EXPORT opportunities and challenges facing agriculture are at the forefront today as farmers across the country mark the third nationwide celebration of Australia’s agriculture and related industries.

Agriculture Minister Bridget McKenzie said while large parts of the country are doing it tough in the face of bushfires and an intensifying drought, agriculture continues to be a bulwark of the economy and a major contributor to the character of our nation, to the benefit of all Australians. “AgDay is also about getting much-deserved recognition for our agriculture sector and related industries, such as transport and rural supplies businesses, stock and station agents and accountants,� said Senator McKenzie. “Agriculture is also the lifeblood of many rural and regional communities, with agriculture and affiliated industries providing jobs to about 329,000 Australians, while vaulting us into a position as one of the top 10 agricultural exporting countries in the world. “We ship about two-thirds of our agricultural production to the world every year, with efficiency second to none. “We want to keep harnessing the many opportunities before us for growth in food

and fibre exports to our region and the world, as well as here at home. “While we don’t underestimate challenges, booming populations and dynamic markets to our north and elsewhere underline that our best days for farmers and agricultural producers are ahead. “This year we are working to progress the National Farmers’ Federation’s vision to build an agriculture industry worth $100 billion over the next decade, propelled by Pacific-spanning trade deals our government has signed up to including with major Asian neighbours, while working hard to secure more opportunities in Europe and elsewhere. “We are doing that while dealing with the challenges of drought and offering more help to farmers and agriculture dependent communities, while also strengthening our country’s readiness to meet biosecurity threats with increased border protections. “In three short years AgDay has become a fixture in calendars across the country. “It’s a day where we can be proud of the contribution our farmers and their communities make to providing safe, nutritious and delicious food to Australians and to millions of others across the globe.�

December 2019

Nation’s fruit and veggies bear weight in 2030 debate THE Australian horticulture sector could climb to up to $30 billion over the next GHFDGH SXWWLQJ D VLJQLoFDQW dent in the national agriculture industry’s target of reaching $100 billion in production by 2030.

Revealed in a recent submission to the Federal Government inquiry into growing Australian agriculture to $100 billion by 2030, Hort InnovaWLRQ VDLG WKH oJXUH FRXOG RQO\ be reached through targeted research and development investment, and regulatory support.

Hort Innovation chief executive Matt Brand said horticulture is already the fastest-growing agricultural sector in Australia – with a 40 per cent hike in value over the SDVW oYH \HDUV WR ELOOLRQ – and production is expected to continue to climb. “The Aussie horticulture sector is in the box seat when it comes to growth,� he said. “There is so much untapped potential when you look at macro trends, such as plant-based diets and plantbased food packaging, and the increasing need for urban farming solutions. “There is also plenty that can be done using existing research, development and trade activities that are already under way through

MARKET POTENTIAL: Targeted research and development investment will capitalise on growth already experienced in the agricultural industry.

Hort Innovation, with impacts already being seen through levy investment.�

Mr Brand said a recent independent project impact assessment revealed Hort Innovation is delivering a cost EHQHoW UDWLR RI XS WR WR across R&D investments. “Projects, such as a strawberry breeding program – which has delivered 12 new varieties that now capture a large share of the market – have proven a big success,� he said. “And, there are many ways to continue to get maximum ‘bang for buck’ through options such as expanding existing trade markets, and continuing to pool Rural Research and Development Corporation resources through initiatives such as The Plant Biosecurity Research Initiative, to stamp out duplication and drive efoFLHQF\ y

Mr Brand also said to realise peak growth in the sector, multiple roadblocks need to be addressed. “The low connectivity of much of regional Australia impacts on the effectiveness of digital transformation which, along with a lack of data integrity and visibility, results in a non-data-driven culture,� he said. “Competition for water and water availability is also an impediment, particularly in the Murray Darling Basin and in drought-affected areas. “The cost of production – including labour, water, energy and access to inputs – also has an impact on business.�

Mr Brand said on top of that, extension and adoption need greater investment and refocus, with a dedicated unit being established in Hort Innovation now to address this issue.

He also said state agencies, in particular, need to also focus on ensuring research oQGLQJV FDQ EH DSSOLHG RQ farm as a lack of funding over the past decade has affected productivity. “With the rapid advancement of new, disruptive technologies, that is a concern,� he said.

Projections compiled by the Hort Innovation data and insights unit – which draw from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resources Economics and Sciences, and the Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook – show that if the horticulture sector remained as it is now, without regulatory support and minimal R&D investment, it would reach $17 billion by 2030, in line with the Consumer Price Index.

A conservative outlook – which takes into account targeted R&D investment, and some regulatory support – is $20 billion by 2030.

And, with regulatory intervention across issues such as labour-hire, network connectivity to regional areas and climate change, combined with targeted R&D investPHQW WKDW oJXUH FRXOG UHDFK $30 billion.

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

- " !#) ## &

- $$ % " & " ##'&

- % %& " # + %&

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

AW3734641

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

NEWS

December 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 19

Save Hay and Money with ABC Hay Tarps Dura-Tarp 4000 Hay Covers ʄ 6XSHULRU 4XDOLW\ 3RO\HWK\OHQH ʄ 6WURQJ 'XUDEOH ʄ 9HU\ (FRQRPLFDO ʄ 89 6WDELOL]HG ʄ 8S WR P [ P ,1 672&. ʄ 6XLWDEOH IRU URXQG VTXDUH EDOHV ʄ 5RSH UH LQIRUFHG HGJHV

Check what’s growing over the fence AS we approach the season for managing weeds in summer fallow, it is important that land managers check what types of crops are growing around them before they start spraying.

Agriculture Victoria leadLQJ FKHPLFDO VWDQGDUGV RIo F er, Felicity Collins, said land managers need to properly assess suitable spray conditions and monitor and consider the weather conditions.

“Vegetable crops, such as tomatoes, are extremely sensitive to spray drift damage from herbicides,” Ms Collins said.

“Even a very small amount of herbicide drift can result in serious crop losses.

“Tomato crops are rotated each year and could be planted in a paddock near your farm this spring or summer.

“Land managers are strong-

ly encouraged to talk to their neighbours to let them know the location of their crops and discuss chemical use practices that minimise the risk of spray drift damage.”

Ms Collins said all herbicides, including amine salt formulations, are capable of VLJQLo FDQW GULIW DQG FKHPLFDO users should not be complacent.

Spray drift that causes damage to or contaminates another person’s crop is an offence in Victoria, therefore caution must be taken when herbicides are used in the vicinity of tomatoes.

Recommendations include: z use the coarsest droplet size possible, lower speeds and keep boom height to a minimum; z always read and follow the product label directions.

Some labels specify a minimum droplet size, wind speed range, buffer zones and boom height that legally must be followed by the user; z spray in appropriate weather conditions.

Do not spray when a surface temperature inversion is present, such as at dawn and night.

Wind speed, wind direction, humidity and temperature all play a key role in reducing the potential of drift.

Spray when the wind is blowing away from sensitive crops and do not spray when little, no wind or variable winds exist; and z leave a buffer zone between the target area and sensitive crop where no chemical is applied.

This allows droplets to settle before potentially leaving your farm.

ʄ 5XVW SURRI EUDVV H\HOHWV ʄ :HEELQJ ORRSV IRU HDV\ WLH GRZQ ʄ $YDLODEOH LPPHGLDWHO\

DID YOU KNOW the North East Farmer newspaper reaches over 35,000 READERS every month?

NO KIDDING? Well, let’s call Michael and get our business in there!

Call MICHAEL TODAY on 03 5731 3306 or email: mkidman@nemedia.com.au NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria 30d02583/4518

LIVESTOCK

Page 20, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2019

Hay and silage for early weaners Cows that have had their calves weaned early can be shifted to more marginal country so only ‘growing’ stock are run in the best paddocks.

Cows will need less feeding later on because they will have lower weight loss once calves are weaned.

Better utilise supplementary feed: Buying supplementary feed during a drought is a costly exercise.

Early weaning will enable you to better allocate supplements to different classes of animals.

By weaning the calf off the cow early, the cow returns to maintenance requirement energy levels.

This separation can provide a 30 per cent savings in energy across the farm.

High energy and protein feeds can be fed to young growing stock, and lower quality feeds (that is, poorer quality hay) to the dry cows.

This will reduce the overall cost of supplements during the drought.

Save water: Early weaning can reduce water requirements of cows by up to 60 per cent.

Lactating cows require up to 100 litres per day.

Although a calf’s water intake approximately doubles when it is weaned as it’s no longer getting liquid via its mother’s milk, there is a signif-

icant net saving in water from early weaning.

Sell cull females earlier: Early weaning will enable earlier pregnancy testing and mouthing and the earlier sale of non-productive, cull or aged animals.

Age of weaning: In most cases it is preferable to wait and wean calves at 12 weeks old or around 120kg, because they will then require less protein and be easier to feed.

If cow survival is of concern, calves can be weaned earlier than this, but a milk replacer will be required if calves aren’t going to be sold as bobby calves.

In a drought, all calves older WKDQ o YH WR VL[ PRQWKV VKRXOG be weaned and fed separately.

Deciding when to wean: Cow condition is a major consideration when deciding when to wean.

Wean early in order to maintain cow herd productivity.

The appearance of calves should also be considered.

Calves with dry, coarse coats (woody calves) are almost certainly not receiving adequate milk from their mothers.

Early weaning is the best policy in this situation.

Calves with glossy coats are receiving an adequate diet and early weaning can be delayed.

Pre-weaning: Expose calves to the postweaning supplement while

JADE PARK ANGUS Bulls available for inspection all year round, feel free to contact the teams at Rodwells Benalla and Wangaratta for advice and inspection opportunities.

they are still on the cow.

For example, if calves are going to be given silage postweaning, feed silage to the cow-calf mobs a few times prior to weaning.

Rumen microbial populations can require up to 14 days to completely adapt to a new diet.

Consider introducing calves to post-weaning supplements slowly via creep-feeding two weeks before weaning.

Weaning: Avoid combining stressful procedures like castration and dehorning with early weaning.

If yard weaning, where possible keep the yards damp to minimise pink-eye.

Fly traps and backline inVHFWLFLGHV ZLOO DOVR UHGXFH p LHV a vector for the disease.

Eye ointments and patches of heavy material will provide relief for affected calves and SUHYHQW p \ DFFHVV When penning calves allow four square metres per calf at a minimum, increasing to 6-8 square metres for larger calves approaching 150kg.

Provide high quality hay, such as clover, vetch or lucerne hay.

If these quality hays are not available then oaten hay combined with high protein cattle pellets will supply the weaners with nutrition.

Weaned calves need to have DQ DGHTXDWH o EUH VRXUFH VXFK as a barley straw in a feeder at all times, this will help their rumen development.

It’s important to clean water troughs regularly as young weaned calves will not drink fouled water.

The high-quality ration required by early weaned calves will increase their risk of developing pulpy kidney so a 5 in 1 vaccination for clostridial diseases is very important.

'XULQJ WKH o UVW ZHHN RI weaning observe any small calves or shy feeders that are being pushed away from the feed source.

It is best to draft these off and pen them as a smaller mob in another yard, so they have adequate opportunity to feed with less stress.

Yard weaning is the best option as the calves are contained, don’t wander, learn to stay as a mob, are close to feed

and water, best to socialise calves to human contact, plus daily observation and feeding is easier. <DUGV VKRXOG EH VRIW p RRUHG free of dust and mud, have adequate access for stock to feed and water trough space.

Shade and shelter can be provided by using shade cloth along the exposed external fences.

Yard weaning is also an ideal opportunity to quieten down stock by regularly moving through the mob or teaching them to move slowly through gates and walk through the crush without any stress.

Leaving the farm ute nearby with the radio playing gets stock accustomed to voices and sounds and helps prepare them for future yarding or market noise.

Once weaned and accustomed to people, the mob can be taught to move with dogs or vehicle in the paddock or kept within a stock containment area until adequate pasture/ groundcover returns to your paddocks.

Post-weaning nutrition: Nutrition, nutrition, nutrition.

The younger the weaning age of the calf, the higher the energy and protein levels need to be.

Unless the feed has adequate energy density, feed intake and animal performance may be restricted by small rumen capacity.

Much of the pasture hay and silage made in Australia is by itself unsuitable for earlyweaned calves.

Introduce any concentrate (for example grains) slowly.

Introduce initially to calves at 300g per head per day and increase the amount by 100g per head per day with access to hay.

Supplement the mix with a buffer to prevent acidosis. ,QVXIo FLHQW SURWHLQ LQ WKH ration of early weaned calves will result in short, dumpy cattle.

Likely sources of protein to use are lupins, peas, linseed meal, canola meal, lucerne and soybean meal.

Feed merchants can supply high protein calf grower pellets comprising of 16 per cent protein and 13ME (metabolisable

energy) which are safer to feed than grain mixes.

If using grain mixes ensure it is a formulated ration with adequate protein, energy and a pH buffer and introduce the new feed slowly to the weaners.

Avoid changing ration mixes if at all possible or if necessary, to change blend the new and old mix over a 10-day period to ensure smooth transition to the new diet.

Ideally, roughage should be chopped and mixed with the other components of the calvesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; diet, before feeding.

Palatability is important to JHW FDOYHV WR HDW VXIo FLHQW o bre.

Consider adding a sweetener such as molasses or grape mark to a mixed ration for young calves.

Calcium is the mineral most likely to be needed in a diet for calves.

Generally, calcium carbonate (such as ground limestone) should be added to a grainbased diet at the rate of 1½ parts per 100 (that is 1.5 per cent) by weight of the grain in the diet.

A manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grain mix or pellets will already have the calcium added.

Although good quality roughage (lucerne or clover hay) provides a reasonable supply of Vitamin A, some supplementary Vitamin A is usually necessary for early weaned calves if they only have access to a dry ration and have not had access to green pasture for some time, for example three months.

This can be included in the feed, given orally or by injection.

Alternatively, complete rations in the form of pellets or grain mixes are available from commercial suppliers.

Post-weaning management: Rather than letting calves roam barren paddocks, consider weaning into containment areas where they will tend to rest and feed, conserving energy and minimising damage to paddocks.

Six weeks after weaning, draft off tail-enders into a separate management group.

Repeat this process four months after weaning.

AUTO RELEASE LAMB MARKING CRADLE

Kenny CML K6 Hingaia son will feature heavily with our heifers and low birth weight bulls.

Now with optional wide cradles

Beef week will be an opportunity to see new genetics and females that are driving our herd The herd has been built on Ardrossan, Millah Murrah, Coonamble, and NZ Stern Angus blood

FEATURES: Â&#x2039; (\[VTH[PJ YLSLHZL VM SHTIZ Â&#x2039; ,HZ` SVHKPUN Â&#x2039; >PKL JYHKSL VW[PVU BENEFITS: Â&#x2039; 3HIV\Y ZH]PUN Â&#x2039; -HY SLZZ KHTHNL [V QVPU[Z Â&#x2039; 3HTIZ OLSK JHSTS` Deluxe illustrated

STD

STANDARD Base model with all features but does not have post, tray and arm or detachable arms.

DELUXE Includes post, tray and arm plus detachable arms.

Both models can be fitted with wide cradles.

1617 Wangaratta-Kilfeera Rd Hansonville 3675 www.jadepark.com.au

t/30d02445-v4/4519

For further details, please contact Andrew McLean on 0427 608 810

Save Time, Costs & Lambs

>0+,

NOW FITTED WITH â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Râ&#x20AC;&#x2122; PIN SPRING WIR ES

MANUFACTURED BY

Tel: (08) 9344 7433 Fax: (08) 9345 3256 OR YOUR LOCAL RURAL MERCHANDISE STORE

FOR PRICES & DETAILS GO TO ^^^ OHY]LZ[HPYL JVT H\

T/12D12557-V4/1516

EARLY weaning and supplementary feeding of beef calves is a good strategy during drought and dry conditions, according to Agriculture Victoria.

The reasons to consider early weaning can be broken down into several categories.

These are: Maintaining herd fertility: Early weaning helps beef producers to maintain cow condition and therefore fertility of their breeding herd during and after a drought.

For example, by weaning spring calving herds before cows fall below a fat score of three will mean they only need maintaining to calving for acceptable post-calving return (interval) to oestrus and conception rates.

Cows down in condition are more likely to cycle and conceive sooner after calving, if the calves are weaned prior to joining.

Save your pasture: ,W LV PRUH HIo FLHQW WR FRQ vert feed directly into calf weight than milk for a cow and calf pair.

Weaning early will reduce the dry sheep equivalent demand on your property.

When combined with feeding appropriate quality and quantity of feed to dry cows and weaned calves, rather than cows with calves at foot, VLJQLo FDQW IHHGLQJ FRVW UHGXF tions can result.

LIVESTOCK

December 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 21

New judges to decide Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best Jersey cows for 2019 TWO new judges are expecting to face tough decisions as they assess Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best Jersey cows for 2019.

Pat Nicholson, from Girgarre, near Kyabram in northern Victoria has been appointed Great Southern Challenge judge and Pat Buckley from The Oaks, near Camden in NSW will decide the Great Northern Challenge.

Judging for the 2019 Jersey Australia/Semex Great Southern and Great Northern Challenges will start on November 17 and winners will be announced on December 6.

Winners of these two competitions will then be judged for the Great Australian Challenge and announced at the Jersey Australia annual general meeting in June 2020 Mr Nicholson has previously judged at International Dairy Week and says judging the Great Southern Challenge is â&#x20AC;&#x153;right up thereâ&#x20AC;? in prestige. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve judged a lot of onfarm challenges over the years from all breeds and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an honour to be able to judge

a competition like the Great Southern,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re judging the best of the best.â&#x20AC;?

Mr Nicholsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jugiong Stud has had great success over many years, including Supreme Champions Jugiong Daydream 5744 in 2013 and Jugiong Ilagay 142 in 2003, along with several age category winners. $ IRUPHU FODVVLoHU 0U 1Lcholson said he would be looking for â&#x20AC;&#x153;a good dairy cow with good, high wide rear udders and strong ligamentsâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no doubt competitions like this are getting stronger and stronger,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As you get more people entering at the grass roots level and more herds involved, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re identifying a lot of top cows that go through to the oQDO y The Great Southern Challenge is being presented for the 21st time.

At 33, Mr Buckley has become the youngest person to judge both Southern and Northern challenges.

Mr Buckley has been a JerVH\ FODVVLoHU IRU VHYHQ \HDUV and has judged many competitions, including the Great Southern Challenge in 2016. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Great Southern was a massive highlight and having the opportunity to judge the Northern is just as prestigious,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Mr Buckley runs Killarney Grove Jerseys, while his parents David and Linda Buckley have their stud Nimerald at The Oaks, near Camden in NSW. He will travel from far north Queensland to Bega and other NSW locations to judge cows in their natural settings.

Mr Buckley won the 3-year-old championship in the Great Northern Challenge in 2011 with Transit Park Hattie 5746.

He said he would look for the type of cows heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to milk and breed on his farm. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Like all dairymen, I look for cows with high, wide rear udders that are balanced right throughout and have that dairy strength we all look for,â&#x20AC;? he said.

He expects a tough judging assignment. k,W V OLNH WKH JUDQG oQDO VR often thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not much beWZHHQ WKH WRS oYH y KH VDLG â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ultimately you look for the cow thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most correct, with the least faults.â&#x20AC;?

Jersey Australia president Chris MacKenzie said Mr Buckley and Mr Nicholson have the experience needed for the job. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We look for judges with

experience, a good knowledge of cows and who knows how to mark the scoresheet,â&#x20AC;?

Mr MacKenzie said.

The judges will score entries over 22 categories in Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier On Farm Challenge competition with awards for 2-YearOld, 3-Year-Old, 4-Year-Old, 5-Year-Old and Mature Cows and a Supreme Champion.

The competition starts

David 0419 275 686 Tallangatta Valley VIC 3701 Tara 0419 600 527 www.brewerbeef.com.au

Beef Week Day 2

with club on-farm challenges.

The Great Southern Challenge covers Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia and the Great Northern Challenge includes clubs from New South Wales and Queensland.

Winners are then judged by a panel of three judges via video to determine the Great Australian Challenge winners which are announced at the Jersey Australia AGM in May.

Highest scoring composite steer, 3rd highest total scoring steer and 3rd highest carcass score out of 475 steers in 2018 Beef Spectacular Feedback Trial.

Thursday 30th January 2020

BULL SALE - 14th FEBRUARY 2020 PRESTIGIOUS POSITION: Pat Nicholson of Jugiong Stud in Girgarre has been appointed Great Southern Challenge judge.

35 BULLS FOR SALE

BEEFWEEK 2020 WEDNESDAY 29TH JANUARY TO WEDNESDAY 5TH FEBRUARY NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria

ADVERTISING SALES

Michael Kidman - Advertising Manager Email - mkidman@nemedia.com.au Ph. (03)5731 3306 Mob. 0409 841 954

DEADLINES

BOOKINGS: Monday, December 9, 2019 AD COPY: Thursday, December 12, 2019 Editorial is welcome for consideration at no additional cost with ads booked, space permitting.

Beef Week is just about the biggest event on the beef industry calendar with Open Days and On-Property Sales.

Get in early to promote your beef week open day or future sale dates.

NEWS

Page 22, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

December 2019

Tips for longer lasting Australian asparagus AUSTRALIAN asparagus grower and president of the Australian Asparagus Council Alex Motta shares some tips on purchasing and storing asparagus. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shoppers should keep an eye out for asparagus that are bright, smooth and uniform in size with closed, compact tips,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That way they know their asSDUDJXV ZLOO EH oUP DQG PRLVW â&#x20AC;&#x153;To keep your asparagus fresher for longer, you can store WKHP OLNH IUHVK FXW pRZHUV Stand them upright in the fridge in a glass with a splash of cold water or wrap them in a damp towel and place them in the crisper.â&#x20AC;?

This versatile veggie can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, dinner or even as a snack â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Australian asparagus

Boost Livestock Performance with Anipro Liquid Supplements Deliver protein and minerals to optimise production

Suitable for:

Improving results in livestock systems requires year-round nutrition planning.

Anipro provides convenient, custom nutrition liquid supplements that optimises available forage, minerals, and protein for herd health and proďŹ tability. % Molasses based liquid supplement % Provides essential protein, minerals and vitamins % Up to 27% improvement in forage intake % Fully serviced program saves time and money

Beef Cattle

Dairy Cattle

Contact your local Anipro Distributor for Wangaratta and Surrounding Districts

Agri-Gene

|

03 5722 2666

|

Brian Holmes 0408 364 619

is tender and luscious with a KHUEDFHRXV DQG HDUWK\ pDYRXU SURoOH DGGLQJ D XQLTXH pDYRXU DQG WH[WXUH WR HYHU\ day meals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fresh, locally-grown spears can be enjoyed in many different ways and can boost WKH KHDOWK SURoOH RI HYHU\GD\ meals,â&#x20AC;? Mr Motta said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cook some spears on the barbecue, toss them through a stir-fry, roast them in the oven, blanch, steam or boil, or even eat them raw to make the most of them while they are in season,â&#x20AC;?

Australian asparagus has a ZHOO EDODQFHG KHDOWK SURoOH and is a delicious addition to your diet.

Just one serve of asparagus (3-4 spears or 75g) contains: v % YLWDPLQV VXFK DV WKLDPLQ ULERpDYLQ QLDFLQ DQG

biotin, which helps enzymes metabolise food; v )RODWH RQH VHUYH RI DVparagus provides 22 per cent of an adultâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daily needs.

Folate is particularly important for normal cell division and tissue formation during pregnancy; v 9LWDPLQ & RQH VHUYH RI DVSDUDJXV SURYLGHV D TXDUWHU of our daily needs of vitamin C. It helps absorb iron in the diet and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important for a healthy, functioning immune system; v 3RWDVVLXP HVVHQWLDO IRU D steady heartbeat and healthy blood pressure; v ,URQ DVVLVWV WKH pRZ RI oxygen around the body; v /RZ LQ NLORMRXOHV DVSDUDgus has no cholesterol, virtually no fat and only 67 kilojoules per serve.

Asparagus Fish Burger Thanks to Asparagus Australia for the recipe.

Vanguard Engines

8â&#x20AC;?, 10â&#x20AC;? or 13â&#x20AC;? conventional augers

Hydraulic mover & life kits, or PTO drive

Reversible gearbox

ʡˢ˨Ë&#x2022;Ë&#x;Ë&#x2DC; ˌ˧Ë&#x201D;˼˧ Đ&#x201A;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x161;Ë&#x203A;˧Ë&#x153;ËĄË&#x161; Ë&#x2122;ˢ˼ Ë&#x153;ËĄË&#x2013;ËĽË&#x2DC;Ë&#x201D;ËŚË&#x2DC;Ë&#x2014; Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x201D;ËŁË&#x201D;Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x153;˧ˏ

Ë&#x201A;ˣ˧Ë&#x153;ˢ˥Ë&#x201D;Ë&#x; Ë&#x;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x161;Ë&#x203A;˧ Ë&#x17E;Ë&#x153;˧ ˢ˼ Ë&#x2DC;Ë&#x;Ë&#x2DC;Ë&#x2013;˧˼Ë&#x153;Ë&#x2013; Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x;˨˧Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x203A;

Serves: 6 Makes: 6 patties Cooking time: 10 mins Ingredients: z 400g boneless firm white fish (ling, snapper, flathead etc) z 1 tablespoon red curry paste z 1 garlic clove z 1 spring onion, roughly chopped z 1 slice of bread z 1 handful of coriander z Salt and pepper to taste z ½ lime, squeezed z 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 asparagus spears, sliced thinly z 6 bread rolls (one for each) z Olive oil, for cooking

PTO augers range in sizes from 10â&#x20AC;? up to 16â&#x20AC;?, with lengths from 60ft up to 104ft. Ë&#x201A;ˣ˧Ë&#x153;ˢ˥Ë&#x201D;Ë&#x; Ë&#x203A;ËŹË&#x2014;ËĽË&#x201D;˨Ë&#x;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x2013; Ë&#x203A;ˢˣˣË&#x2DC;ËĽ Ę&#x2122; ËŞË&#x153;ËĄË&#x2013;Ë&#x203A;Ę&#x; ʤʣʣʣ ËĽËŁË ËĽË&#x2DC;˧˼ˢ Р˧ Ë&#x17E;Ë&#x153;˧ Features include: ĎĽ

Ë&#x2026;Ë&#x2DC;ËŠË&#x2DC;ËĽËŚË&#x153;ËĄË&#x161; Đ&#x201A;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x161;Ë&#x203A;˧ Ë&#x2014;ËĽË&#x153;ËŠË&#x2DC;

ĎĽ

Straight seem barrel for maximum strength

Sizes from 4â&#x20AC;? and 6â&#x20AC;? diameter, and 11ft to 21ft in length.

Features include: ĎĽ

Electric 240V motor

ĎĽ

Reversing gearbox

ĎĽ

Ę¸Ë Ë&#x2DC;ËĽË&#x161;Ë&#x2DC;ËĄË&#x2013;ËŹ Ë&#x17E;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x;Ë&#x;Ę ËŚËŞË&#x153;˧Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x203A;

ĎĽ

Straight seem barrel for maximum strength

ĎĽ

Ë&#x201A;ˣ˧Ë&#x153;ˢ˥Ë&#x201D;Ë&#x; Ë&#x;Ë&#x153;Ë&#x161;Ë&#x203A;˧ Ë&#x17E;Ë&#x153;˧

We import and assemble other FarmKing products too, such as the FarmKing grain cleaner, liquid supply trailer, grader blades, slashers and mowers Please contact us for pricing & availability on any of our products

www.burandohill.com.au

Scott - 0427 224 422 Ë&#x201A;Ë&#x2122;Đ Ë&#x2013;Ë&#x2DC; Ę ĘŁĘŚĘ¨ĘŞ ʼʤʧ ʤʌʍ

P30d023630-V15/3619

39 Gibson, Wangaratta VIC 3677

Topping Ideas: z 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3 Asparagus spears, peeled z 1 medium tomato, sliced thinly z 1 small red onion, sliced z 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced thinly z 2-3 tablespoons Kewpie mayonnaise

GROWS QUICKLY: Asparagus spears are cut by hand, usually at night and early morning when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cooler in order to retain maximum freshness. In ideal temperatures, the spears can grow as quickly as 1cm every hour, meaning the spear can grow fully overnight.

Method 1. In a blender add fish, curry paste, garlic, spring onion, bread, coriander, salt, pepper and lime juice.

Blitz until it becomes a fine paste and everything is sliced evenly.

Place mixture into a bowl.

2. Slice asparagus spears thinly and add into the bowl.

Fold the asparagus through the mixture.

Divide the mixture into 6 balls and shape each ball into a patty.

3. In a medium non-stick pan, add a splash of olive oil and heat over a medium high heat.

4. Lay the patties into the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until lightly golden and cooked through.

5. Toast your bread and add some toppings.

The ones listed are a guide, but you can add your own favourites.

Better feeding, higher production

. ' % % #% * # " # # % " ' % # # % ' # #% % % " #'" % % * '" * # ' '"% " s ( ' # # %) #% " # % # ( ' % "* # # ' % * # # % " % " # %" " # % * s %% % % * ' "

0 / " !! ) $)- ) # ** 1& #* 0

s " # " ' % * '" '# ## * "

# % # ) " ' %* * s #% % "* # ( ' % & * " ) " * s " # #% % % " % #' % * '" " * %* # " ' # ' " # !# ' ( ) # * # ' '"% " ) % #% % % "

$ " - "$*- $/- $ 2$/) 2 #0 *-" #- !! % 33 3 + $) ) # $)" - $# & $) $#*/!- - $#(

Phone 1800 808 685 NOW or www.wastenot.com.au

#

$/ #

GP1580378

HAY GOES MUCH FURTHER WITH A WASTE-NOT HAY FEEDER

December 2019

North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer, Page 23

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

Classifieds

Phone (03) 5723 0100 LIVESTOCK

WANTED TO BUY

Wangaratta Monthly Store Cattle Sale

WANTED TO BUY 2 x Second Hand Tractor Tyres 13.6"x 28" Ph: Allan 0447 651 370

(1st Friday of each month)

For more information on country shows visit www.vicagshows.com.au or www.countryshows.com.au

TRADES AND SERVICES

AGRICULTURAL REPAIRS

MOBILE REPAIRS

Friday January 3rd 2020 For further information contact your local representative

Wangaratta Associated Stock Agents

FOR SALE

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

PAUL WILLIAMS - CHESHIRE & WILLIAMS REPAIRS P/L Ph (03) 5721 4419 mobile 0428 574 195 1 WENHAMS LANE, WANGARATTA

Target over 35,000 readers across NE Victoria and score a bullseye with an ad in the...

FLY OR LICE PROBLEMS? The magic eye sheepjetter since 1989

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

RM2171651

' 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

NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY

1800 146 892 | dipping@electrodip.co.nz - www.electrodip.com Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria

7OV[V! 4PJOHLS (TLUKVSPH

R E S TO R E S IG HT FO R J U ST $ 2 5 DONATE NOW

1800 352 352

HOLLOWS.ORG. AU

Make North East & Goulburn Murray Farmer your ‘go-to’ place to reach your customers and that’s ‘No Bull’ Call

Michael today on 03 5731 3306 or email: mkidman@nemedia.com.au

j/34d00211/30-18

ADVERTISEMENT

Pink eye in cattle TUESDAY "KING VALLEY RUN"

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

*FOR REDUCED TRAVEL PRICES*

32 WARBY STREET, WANGARATTA

5721 7177

Pink eye, or infectious bovine kerato-conjunctivitis, is a contagious bacterial infection of the eye.

It mainly affects young cattle in summer and autumn. Older cattle tend to have developed natural immunity. Pinkeye is caused by Moraxella bovis, of which there are several strains. The bacteria produces a toxin which attacks the cornea and conjunctiva, causing inflammation and ulceration of the eye. It is spread by flies and long grass. Sunlight and dust make it worse.

The prevalence of pink eye varies from year to year, and depends on seasons, weather, fly population and grass length. Some farms may only have occasional cases, while others may have 60-80% of cattle affected in severe outbreaks. The average infection rate is 5-10%.

The initial signs of pink eye are watery discharge, aversion to sunlight, excessive blinking/squinting, reddening and swelling of the eyelids and third eyelid. Later signs are cloudiness of the eye and ulceration of the surface of the eye. Most animals will recover completely, but a small number of

cases may progress to abscessation which may lead to rupture of the eye and permanent blindness. Severely affected animals, especially those with both eyes affected, will have reduced growth rates.

Many cattle will recover from pink eye in 3-5 weeks even without treatment. Mustering cattle to treat pink eye can sometimes actually be counter productive as the dust and flies and close contact increase the spread of infection.

The percentage of cattle affected should be considered before making the decision to muster and treat. However, if mustering is required for other reasons such as weaning or drenching, any cattle with pinkeye should be treated while in the yards. Severely affected cattle (eg those with abscesses in both eyes) should be isolated and treated daily.

The most effective treatment is Cloxicillin eye ointment. A single dose is usually sufficient, but it can be repeated every 48 hours. Sprays and powders for pink eye are very short term, must

be repeated several times a day, and are more irritating to the eye. In late stage or severe cases, an injection of antibiotic/anti-inflammatory under the eyelid by a vet can be helpful.

Eye patches are very helpful to prevent further irritation from sunlight, dust and flies. They also reduce the spread. Heavy denim cloth or a dust mask can be glued over the eye (taking care not to get any glue in the eye).

It is important to check for grass seeds in the eye, including behind the third eyelid, as cattle with grass seeds in the eye will not get better unless the seed is removed.

The vaccine Piliguard® helps to prevent some strains of pink eye. A single dose is given to calves and weaners 3-6 weeks before the onset of pinkeye season.

Other measures that can help prevent pink eye include: controlling fly numbers with the pouron insecticide deltamethrin, prompt segregation and treatment of affected stock, avoiding unnecessary yarding of cattle during problem months, and selective breeding for cattle with complete eyelid pigmentation.

Please give us a call (5721 7177) for further advice if you are having problems with pink eye on your property.

December 2019

$52,900

$63,900

$48,650

$59,800

$72,000

LANDINI 8860 84HP 4WD ROPS WITH FEL

LANDINI 90HP 4WD NARROW CAB TRACTOR. THIS TRACTOR IS A REVERSE POWER SHUTTLE, DELUXE MODEL

LANDINI 85HP 4WD ROPS

TYM 91HP 4WD CABIN FEL STANDARD BUCKET, CLUTCHLESS FWD/REV TRANS

LANDINI POWER FARM 110 HIGH CLEARANCE 102HP POWER SHUTTLE

$55,000

$43,560

$13,970

$49,990

$38,000

MCCORMICK 105HP/2100HRS CX105 XTRASHIFT 4WD CAB W/FEL, 32 SPEED POWER SHUTTLE BUCKET AND FORKS ALSO INCLUDED

MCCORMICK 165HP 4WD CAB W/FRONT WEIGHTS

JOHN DEERE 36HP 4WD ROPS TRACTOR HST TRANS - 2 IN STOCK WITH LOW HOURS

LANDINI 85HP 4WD CAB TRACTOR W/ FEL BUCKET & FORKS ONLY 1500HRS

S/H L85 NH 4WD CAB FEL BUCKET AND FORKS

$21,000

$32,670

$23,000

$11,700

$5,940

$28,600

CONNOR SHE 19 TINE SEEDER W/ BAKER BOOTS & COULTERS

DUNCAN MK3 RENOVATOR 23 RUN ON 6” SPACING WITH COULTERS NEW POINTS & DISCS

S/H SILVAN SUPAFLO 2000L AIRBLAST SPRAYER ELECTRICS ALSO 4200LT $23,000

S/H MODEL 317 NEW HOLLAND SMALL SQUARE BALER

S/H MODEL 275 NEW HOLLAND SMALL SQUARE BALER

S/H D1000 EXCELLENT CASEMODEL MOWER CONDITIONER COND NEWMTR HOLLAND MEDIUM/ 8DISC-3.2 WITH STEEL SMALL BALER ROLLER.SQUARE GREAT CONDITION

$18,500

$8,600

$35,750

$13,200

$825

$20,900

$1,800

NEW GALAXY 7.2M ORCHARD VINEYARD VEE SIDE THROW

NEW BECCHIO 2.25M CUT WITH HYDRALIC SIDE SIFT 8,600

S/H MASSEY FERGUSON 12 DISC 8.5M CUT, 3 P/L BUTTERFLY

NEW SITREX 12 WHEEL MOUNTED VEE RAKE 7.8M WORKING WIDTH

LINKAGE OR FEL FIT ROUND AND LARGE SQUARE BALE FORKS. ROUND BALE FORKS $825 BIG SQUARE FORKS $1,400

NEW SITREX 12 WHEEL VEE RAKE 7.1M WORKING WIDTH

NEW FED SILAGE BALE GRAB

SAVE $1,090

DEMO FLOOR STOCK SPECIALS

HAY RAKES/ HANDLING & TEDDERS

SEEDERS/SPRAYERS BAILERS & WRAPPERS

USED TRACTORS

NEW TRACTORS

Page 24, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer

SAVE $1,990

SAVE $2,390

NOW $7,400 NOW $8,300 NOW $11,000 NOW $12,600 $7,700 CRZ 42” CUT R/R $8,490

SAVE $700

KAWASAKI DEMO SALES

SAVE $1,190

SAVE $1,330

CRZ 52” CUT R/R $9,490

NOW $6,300

NOW $10,300

OFF ROAD KLX 230 R/R $6,040

SPORTS Z300 R/R $7,360

CRUISER VULCAN 650 R/R $11,500

SAVE $3,000

NOW $9,880

NOW $11,460

MOTOR CROSS KX250 R/R $11,050

MULE 400CC TWO SEATER R/R $14,460

YOUR

355 Benalla Road Shepparton Ph: (03) 5821 4411 Fax: (03) 5831 2187

XRZ PRO RS 48” CUT COMMERCIAL GRADE R/R $14,990

NEW1.2MT 5 DISCCUT LINKAGE ATV 13HP MOWER, 2M WORKING WIDTH. SLASHER

SAVE $1,200

NOW $5,340 SAVE $1,170

XRZ PRO 61”CUT R/R $12,990

SAVE $4,000

Y DEAL FACTOR CARD* IFT ASAKI G W A K 0 $30

NOW $17,800 MULE 1000 CC 3 SEATER DIESEL R/R $21,800

KFX50 | KFX90 | KLX140L | KLX140 | KLX1101L| KLX110

DEALER FOR MULES, ATV’S AND MOTORCYCLES

For more information go to

www.konigs.com.au www.bikes4sale.com.au

A/H 0419 399 109

LMCT 11745