Southern Farmer

Published since 1986

MARCH, 2020

FA R M W O R L D 2020

LIFT-OUT

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Pasture and Fertilisers PAGE 10-11

PAGE 14 -15

Snobs Creek Hatchery encourage further trials

By EMMA OLIVER

FROM LITTLE THINGS BIG THINGS GROW: Bayley Goode pictured with daughter Sakura, and the incredible bonsai that Bayley has offered as a prize to all who donate to Buy a Bale on his Goode Organics website. With all donations over $5 going into the draw to win the prize, this living artform has been independently valued at $2500. Bonsai served as the initial inspiration for Bayley’s business Goode Organics where fertiliser was a crucial element of maintaining these amazing trees. His daughter Sakura has also proven to be a driving force, as Bayley strives to create a connection with the land for his daughter in this age of technology. Regularly joining him on deliveries, and engaging with farmers and livestock in his day to day work, Bayley and Sakura have also started a huge vegie patch at home. Turn to page 4 to read the story.

ALONG the mountain fed Jamieson River, and in spots along the Queens Creek (part of the water shed from the King River, just near Cheshunt) a group of dedicated trout enthusiasts are quietly going about the rejuvenation of wild trout stocks in the state’s waterways.

Matt Byrne, president of the Mansfield and District Fly Fishing Club, was inspired after a trip to America and witnessing the revolutionary effects the Jordan/Scotty Fish Egg Incubator was having on wild trout breeding programs in the country.

Up until the invention of the Jordan/Scotty Incubator, disease was the primary cause of mortality in hatchery-harvested eggs.

“In-stream incubators are not a new thing,” Graham Godber, secretary of the Mansfield and District Fly Fishing Club, said.

“The problem though is that once you get a disease like White Spot for instance in the ova it spreads.

“Any egg that is in contact with it gets it straight away, and before you know it the whole incubator and all the eggs are infected.

“The transmission rate is so high, that in no time the disease can go right through a whole hatchery.

“For decades it’s been a problem in raising trout and other fish as well in hatcheries.”

To combat this problem, commercial hatcheries are constantly monitoring for disease and batches of eggs are segregated in numerous containers in order to isolate outbreaks.

The revolutionary design of the Jordan/Scotty Incubator takes this segregation one step further, by separating each and every egg in a plastic honeycomb configuration.

Within the incubator there are five cells with 200 eggs to each cell.

The individual cells are then fixed together accounting for 1000 eggs and then the incubator is placed in-stream.

“The beauty of the device is that any disease is only confined to the infected egg and it is not transmissible due to its isolation,” Mr Godber said.

“Though a game changer it is quite labour intensive to load up the incubator, and at this stage commercial hatcheries couldn’t really do it as a viable alternative.

■ Continued page 2

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Page 2 - Southern Farmer

March 2020

Notice of making of an Order to revoke the declaration that unprotects the Common Wombat Wildlife Act 1975 I, John Bradley, Secretary to the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, give notice under section 7A(3) of the Wildlife Act 1975 that the declaration of Common Wombats to be unprotected wildlife in parts of eastern Victoria made under section 7A of that Act has been revoked.

The declaration was revoked by Order in Council dated 4 February 2020 and published in the Victoria Government Gazette No. G5 on 6 February 2020.

Snobs Creek Hatchery encourage further trout incubator trials ■

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The effect of this Order is that the Common Wombat is now protected throughout the whole of Victoria. It is an offence to kill, take, control or harm Common Wombats anywhere in Victoria without authorisation under the Wildlife Act from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.

Dated: 6 February 2020 John Bradley, Secretary to the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning www.wildlife.vic.gov.au Customer Contact Centre 136 186

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JORDAN/SCOTTY INCUBATORS: Mansfield Fly Fishers Club president Matt Byrne and Australian Trout Foundation president Terry George installing incubators in a local stream.

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Fungus infection is non-existent and the eggs are protected from predators and silt suffocation, and buried in the right gravel and area eggs can be raised from alevins, which are newly spawned trout still carrying the yolk, to fry while safely contained in the incubator cells.

With such positive results, the ultimate goal is to use wild trout ova in the incubators as opposed to ova from the Snobs Creek Hatchery to ensure the resilience of the supplemented trout in the waterways.

With hatchery progeny subject to loss of natural instinct and ability to breed in the wild, using predominantly hatcheryraised ova could result in breeding sterile fish.

“We need wild fish to survive in the wild,” Mr Godber said.

“But from our original position of starting with only 20 incubators to increasing the number to 50, and now extending the trial and incorporating new waterways into the experiment, I am sure we are well on our way to achieving our goal.”

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The results have been so promising that the initial three year trial - now completed - has been extended for another three years until 2022, with locations along the Upper Goulburn River and further tributaries along the King River also under consideration, with further trials to take place in the Dargo River in central Gippsland.

With attrition rates incredibly high among wild-spawned fish, with predation and extremes in water flow, temperature and climatic conditions all contributing to their demise, only between five and 20 per cent of wild ovum hatch in the first place.

With a low survival rate from such a small percentage of viable hatchlings, the recovery of wild trout in the streams and waterways of the region does require significant assistance.

Incubators guarantee a 90 to 95 per cent hatch rate, and the unique design of the Scotty/Jordan Incubator virtually eliminates most of the problems experienced by natural spawning.

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LOADING INCUBATORS AT SNOBS CREEK: Volunteer assistance is invaluable in the trial, as they carry out the time-consuming task of loading the incubators.

From page 1 “It does require the assistance of a number of volunteers, and that’s where we come in.

“It was the Australian Trout Foundation (ATF) that approached the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) through their principal hatchery at Snobs Creek, and suggested experimental trials of the Jordan/Scotty incubators in nominated streams, offering their assistance for the project.”

A member of the Australian Trout Foundation, the Mansfield and District Fly Fishing Club (MADFFC) is proactive in implementing the foundation’s goals.

A spokesbody for enthusiasts, clubs and fishermen in Victoria, the Australian Trout Foundation is a non-profit organisation which is dedicated to the recovery, development and ongoing management of wild trout in Victoria, and all over Australia.

Working alongside the VFA and the ATF the MADFFC has assisted in these trials placing the incubators in local streams.

March 2020

Southern Farmer - Page 3

Coronavirus and agriculture THE coronavirus outbreak is already having a severe impact on China’s foodservice and ontrade channels and this could become “more serious and longer-lasting” if the virus is not contained in the next six to eight weeks, leading agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank has warned.

But the extent of the impact on Australia’s agricultural sector will be limited in the shortterm and will depend on how quickly the virus is contained, it said.

In a just-released report by the bank’s China-based research team, Recent Coronavirus Impacts on Chinese Food and Agriculture, Rabobank says “disruptions are being experienced across the entire F&A (food and agri) supply chain” with the virus – which has infected more than 40,000 people to date – disrupting trade, production and supply chains as well as having a significant impact on out-of-home food consumption with the closure of many foodservice outlets.

With the virus outbreak arriving at the peak of 2020 Chinese New Year activities, it has had a large impact on out-of-home dining in the country, the report said.

To quote, “Given what we have seen on the ground, along with news received from major chains – for example, the closure of stores

by Starbucks, Haidilao, McDonald’s and Yum China – potential revenue losses for both retail and foodservice for the Chinese New Year week could range from 20 per cent to 80 per cent”.

Which equates to a loss of between AUD 46 billion to AUD 186 billion across retail and foodservice, it said.

While the report says a quick and effective containment of the virus could lead to a rapid bounce-back, the longer the virus is uncontained beyond March, the more extensive, sustained and structural the impact will be on the F&A chain.

For Australia Regardless of when coronavirus is contained, Australian-based head of Rabobank Food & Agribusiness Research, Tim Hunt said it will “almost certainly” have a larger impact on food and beverage industries than the global SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) epidemic in 2003 – including in Australia.

Discussing the current and potential impacts of the virus on Australia and New Zealand’s food and agribusiness industries in a podcast, Coronavirus: How worried should we be, Mr Hunt said coronavirus has already spread more widely than SARS but it is Australia’s “much larger exposure to China” that is the biggest difference between current events and SARS. “If we go back to 2002 just before the SARS crisis, Australia sent eight per cent of its ag exports to China”, Mr Hunt said.

And this was largely in the form of fibre to be processed for export.

Fast forward to 2020, he says, and Australia sends around 28 per cent of its food and agricultural exports to China, much of which is consumed within China.

“Add to that, the stronger links that have been developed between Australia and China in terms of exports, tourism, education and

investment, we have a very different environment in which we might see the potential impacts of coronavirus this time compared to SARS in 2003,” Mr Hunt said.

There are likely to be both first and secondround impacts of coronavirus on the Australian agricultural sector, Mr Hunt said, with the first round already being felt by any food and ag business relying heavily on the food service channel in China, particularly perishable goods.

“For example, rock lobster shipments to China have all but ceased in the last couple of weeks, while chilled meat shipments for food service are also a risk category given a lot of hot pot restaurants are closed at the moment,” he said.

And while wine isn’t perishable, Mr Hunt said, sales are also likely to be low for those focused on the Chinese foodservice industry.

While Chinese consumption of meat, dairy and grains is unlikely to fall in the short-term, Mr Hunt said if the virus continued for many months to come, second-round impacts –“likely to hit our F&A industries” – would come into play.

“Hopefully we won’t get to ‘round two’, but if we do, incomes may fall in China and we may eventually see less growth in sales of premium food and beverages as that wealth effect starts to kick in,” he said.

“And this may start to go beyond just foodservice sales and logistical disruptions to potentially impacting consumption in general of meat, dairy, grains and seafood.”

That said, in the event coronavirus has second-round effects, the currency exchange rate would act as an “important stabiliser” for Australian agricultural exporters, with the Australian dollar likely to depreciate significantly as the market responded to slowing economic growth and rising risk concerns.

And this, he said, would “somewhat offset” any fall in global commodity prices when ex-

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Going forward, Mr Hunt said it will be important to closely monitor developments, including this week’s return to work in China after the extended New Year holiday and how the Chinese government continues to manage the outbreak including restrictions on the foodservice sector.

“But the most important development will be when we see a slowdown in the rate of infection,” he says.

“SARS took around three and a half months for the infection to start slowing but after that, it didn’t take long for infections to cap a few weeks later.

“While we have no idea how this virus will behave compared to SARS, there won’t be any easing of restrictions until it does.”

Mr Hunt says it will also be critical to monitor the spread of the virus to other countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam and other parts of South-East Asia, because if it spreads “we will start to see the same set of impacts in a second very large set of export markets for Australia”.

By Commodity: Rock Lobster – likely to be the most exposed sector, with 95 per cent of sales going to China.

While rock lobster sales from WA have ceased for now, fishermen can leave the lobsters in the ocean and catch their quota later if quota windows allow.

Red Meat – short-term disruption is likely given logistical disruption and reduced eating out by Chinese consumers.

The general shortage of protein in China as a result of African Swine Fever is still expected to result in ongoing strong demand from China once the short-term impacts of coronavirus are overcome.

Grains – limited impacts are foreseen both initially and in the event of a second round phase.

Dairy – at this stage, limited first round impacts as most of what is shipped (ie powders

and infant milk formulas) have a good shelf life and are consumed at home.

That said, cheese consumption could be impacted as it is mainly used in foodservice (for burgers and pizzas).

Wool and Cotton – labour shortages due to travel restrictions and factory shutdowns are expected to reduce Chinese import demand in the short-term.

Depending on the extent of coronavirus, there may be implications for the Chinese economy which could impact the longer-term demand for wool.

For cotton, there is expected to be very little impact as recent figures suggest increasing demand emerging from China.

Sugar – very little disruption is expected to impact sugar trade flows, processing and consumption.

But indirectly, the dip in the oil market – associated with concerns on the impact of the outbreak on global growth – could push Brazilian millers to produce more sugar this season which would lead to a softening in global prices, and ultimately, Australian prices too.

Wine – on-premise consumption of wine in China in 2019 accounted for around one third of total wine sales.

Sales into this channel are expected to fall in the short-term while restrictions on group dining remain in place.

That said, volumes of wine sold via e-commerce are likely to rise as distributors attempt to push more product into, and invest more money in developing, this sales channel.

Horticulture – fortunately the cherry industry had air freighted most of its crop to China before the virus hit, something that would have been highly problematic a month later.

In the next two to three months the main threat to export fruit and vegetable crops will be logistical, with demand from Chinese consumers for quality imported fresh produce not expected to fall from current levels.

Page 4 - Southern Farmer

March 2020

Soil health proof is in the paddock BAYLEY Goode is passionate about soil health. “I started Goode Organics six years ago inspired by the results I had achieved using the Healthy Earth range,�

Bayley said. “The success I had with the products, and the belief I had in the range awoke in me the realisation that my job within the corporate world was not the path for me, and I gravitated towards land management. “As part of that process, I negotiated the distribution rights for the Healthy Earth range, and after 20 years of using the products I was now representing the brand throughout Victoria and Tasmania.�

For a man who has always had a passion for all things green, the transition has been a welcome one.

Working in the competitive world of sales, first for CocaCola and then a labor hire business, Skilled Engineering, Bayley’s time-out was his hobby - a keen interest in bonsai.

A trip to Japan cemented his love of this art form, with its particular cultivation techniques designed to produce small trees in containers that mimic the size and shape of full-size trees. “It was on my return from Japan, having visited all the significant bonsai nurseries, that I was inspired to find a tutor to guide me in the art of bonsai, and take the hobby more seriously,� Bayley said. “I began to understand how the plants were fertilised to achieve the desired results. “How the trees were grown in a soil medium that was deliberately barren yet contained lots of volcanic materials, with the objective being a greater body of foliage above the ground, as the roots hit the volcanic material beneath the ground and split and separated. “I had used every fertiliser on the market, and then had Healthy Earth recommended to me in a nursery. “I used it and realised that

nothing else came close to competing with it. “And I was sold.�

It is this absolute conviction that Bayley himself is now selling, and he gets a huge amount of satisfaction on contacting farmers and hearing how their trials with the products are going. “Farmers will do a trial, and the next year they will be completely on board and want to roll it out over the rest of the property,� Bayley said. “I would have to say 95 per cent of everybody who does a trial is suitably impressed by the results.�

This is reflected in the significant number of clients Bayley picks up via recommendations, and then there are those who’ve watched their neighbours apply the products with a casual wonderment, and then been impressed with the noticeable results. “Specific feedback from the client is that after only two or three applications there is already a sighted dif-

analysis, so we can get a true understanding of what’s going on under the ground,�

Bayley said. “It’s a process of then determining what is the desired outcome. “We then consult and advise based on these outcomes, the soil analysis and also what equipment the farmer has for applying the product. “We need a solution that works for each individual, depending on considerations such as budget, size of the property and time frame.�

With time frame a consideration, if farmers are unable to do bare ground work in perennial pasture, Bayley recommends clients slowly build up levels in the soil and concentrate on overall health, taking the seasons carefully into consideration to achieve optimum results.

It is a commitment that definitely pays the dividends, and Bayley is hugely invested in the process believing that through agriculture and

healthy soil management, bigger environmental issues can be addressed and ultimately rectified and healed. “I get a huge amount of pleasure seeing the results achieved by using the Healthy Earth range, and setting up clients to begin their applications in autumn,� he said. “With healthy soil, you ultimately build up the plant’s strength so that it is better suited to cope with climatic extremes, whether that is drought or heavy frost. “And by incorporating these products into your land management, we also build up the strength of the plant’s root systems and this combats erosion, and deters invasive weed and pest species.�

With the whole life cycle of the surrounding environment taken into consideration, native fish and animals are not affected by the use of Healthy Earth, and algal blooms downstream of application sites are not an issue.

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ference,� Bayley said. “And that’s across the board whether the client is into pasture or cropping, horticulture or floriculture, whether they’re running a market garden or have a vineyard or an orchard, the results are tangible and quantifiable. “They are also sustainable.�

The Healthy Earth range boasts 16 agricultural products which are all organic without the certification.

Developed by Peter Jack over the last 40 years, the company is all Australian and has a strong farming and horticultural heritage, producing high end results for low cost with soil health the primary objective.

The emphasis is on a balanced approach to trace elements not focusing on a singular outcome, so that the soil beneath the plant is nourished, and the fertiliser is not temporarily feeding a plant or providing limited long-term benefits. “It’s a considered approach that always begins with a soil

MORE than $115,000 has been raised for farmers impacted by Australia’s bushfires in a special appeal launched

by Jersey Australia and Global Impact Supremacy with the support of International Dairy Week (IDW).

Funds raised during the drive at IDW are being donated to the Salway family and to the dairy farmers affected by the bushfires.

Robert Salway, 63, a longterm Jersey Australia member, was killed alongside his son Patrick, 29, as they were trying to protect their farm at Cobargo NSW. Jersey Australia general manager Glen Barrett said the top item was $50,000 paid to take the pick of the herd of 10,000 at Moxey Farms.

World Wide Sires Australia donated $15,000.

Rob and Kerrie Anderson of Kings Ville Jersey matched the $5880 Global Impact Supremacy Jersey sale average

A GREAT CAUSE: Jersey Australia director Paul Lenehan serves coffee and donuts for a gold coin donation to Grace Wolfe and Samantha Daniel (with hat) at International Dairy Week. at IDW as a donation to the bushfire appeal.

During the Global Impact Supremacy Sale at IDW, a Casino pregnancy due in July out of Lightning Ridge Tequila Fernleaf VG87 was auctioned for $5000.

The consignment was donated by Frank and Diane Borba, Callum Moscript and Declan Patten.

Jersey Australia provided coffees and donuts for a gold coin donation to add to the appeal.

Mr Barrett said the amount

massively exceeded predictions. “It was extraordinary and only achievable thanks to the fantastic support of those who donated animals, goods, genetics and cash, and supporters who bid so generously,� he said. “It shows just how caring and resilient the Australian dairy community is.�

A silent auction of 63 donated items and supported by Elite Livestock Services raised an additional $35,000.

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March 2020

Southern Farmer - Page 5

GenAngus Future Leaders Program 2020 participants announced ANGUS Australia and their partner, farm insurer Achmea Australia, are pleased to announce that 10 young members of the beef industry have recently been selected for the 2020 GenAngus Future Leaders Program.

Following the success of the inaugural GenAngus Future Leaders Program in 2019, the 2020 program will take place in Melbourne, March 18 – 20.

Each participant will attend a three day intensive workshop, followed by a 12 month leadership journey with the assistance of professionals in the industry.

The GenAngus program has been designed to support members of Angus Australia, aged 18-40, to either start their own beef business or grow their current business, and further develop their skills to propel them into future beef industry leaders.

The 2020 workshop will be host to the following presentations: z Mindset, presented by

Julian Prosser of Slight Edge Consulting; z Risk and Liability, with Allan Deacon of Achmea, Australia’s specialist farm insurer and partner of Angus Australia; z Business Writing with Australian Online Courses; z Improving your Herd Genetics with Matt Reynolds of Angus Australia; z Finance Fundamentals and Beef Benchmarking presented by John Francis of Holmes and Sacket; z Marketing and Branding with Diana Wood of Angus Australia; z Finding Your Places in the Market with Alastair Rayner of Rayner Ag; z Succession Planning, with Isobel Knight of Proagtive.

Angus Australia youth development officer Candice Liddle looks forward to working with those selected.

“We have an excellent group of participants for the 2020 program, who as young

members of the beef industry are dedicated to using this opportunity to further progress their personal and professional development within the industry in order to benefit their beef businesses,” said Mrs Liddle.

“Each participant comes from a different stage and background within their careers, and I look forward to working to facilitate a program that provides great opportunity in the development of young future leaders in the beef industry.”

Yea local Hugh McKay will be one of the 10 participants in the program.

Currently managing a 500 head mixed breed commercial operation while also establishing his own enterprise, through operating a smallscale business of trading cattle, the program offers an excellent opportunity to achieve his overall goal.

Over the next five years Mr McKay’s main objective is to have a commercial beef

breeding enterprise, with a focus on utilising genetics to drive business decisions.

Mr McKay looks to further develop his skills in risk management, financial budgeting and benchmarking to assist in making sound business decisions.

“As I take on further responsibility, I have identified several areas that I believe I could improve to further myself and improve my role as a producer within the industry,” Mr McKay said.

“Being part of the GenAngus Program would provide me an amazing opportunity to develop essential business skills and share my ideas with likeminded people.”

Achmea chief executive officer Emma Thomas congratulates Mr McKay along with the other nine young beef industry leaders on their

successful nomination for the 2020 GenAngus Future Leaders Program.

“This unique 12-month leadership program articulates Achmea’s international history of excellence and knowledge sharing, spanning two centuries,” Ms Thomas said.

“We are thrilled to continue to work with Angus Australia and support a program that will shape the beef industry for years to come.

“It has been a catastrophic summer for our agricultural communities, many of which have also had to deal with the harsh effects of the prolonged drought.

“Initiatives such as the GenAngus program are important in supporting the long-term resilience of our sector.”

“The GenAngus program is

about strengthening the beef sector and boosting the opportunities for the next generation of leaders, their families and communities right across Australia.”

Lori Vamvas, Achmea regional manager for Southern Australia said the applications were of a very high calibre and the interest in the 2020 GenAngus program has been ‘remarkable’.

“Achmea looks forward to working with the successful 2020 GenAngus applicants to help fast-track their careers in the sector,” Ms Vamvas said.

“We wish the participants a rewarding and enjoyable experience.”

For further information, please contact Angus Events and youth development officer Candice Liddle on (02) 6773 4622 or youth@angusaustralia.com.au.

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Page 6 - Southern Farmer

March 2020

Funding to boost agricultural R&D smarts A NEW Australian Government grant will support a national hub of agricultural know-how.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has invested in a wider community understanding of agricultural research, by supporting a team of experienced agricultural communicators.

Regionally based Research for Agriculture is sourcing, curating, sharing and tracking world-leading Australian agricultural and environmental research through print and digital media.

The group’s footprint is national and international; already it has 15,000 initial subscribers, a website www. researchforagriculture. com.au, a free weekly enewsletter, a free quarterly digital publication, social media and plans for an annual printed magazine of the year’s-best research.

Subscribe to the free weekly e-newsletter at www.

researchforagriculture. com.au.

The collaboration is supported by a $230,000 grant from ACMA’s Regional and Small Publishers Innovation Fund.

Research for Agriculture is based at Lismore in northern NSW, with linkages across Australia through its partner Agriculture Media, a publishing company with more than 20 years’ experience in the sector.

It is the brainchild of cofounder and entrepreneur John Hancock, former director of outreach at the Australian Centre for Agricultural Research.

The team is led by the recently appointed chief executive officer Sue Webster, a highly experienced networker and recognised agribusiness leader who has a passion for R&D. “Australia has a long and distinguished heritage of agricultural research,” she said.

“Australians invented the

FUNDING: LEADING THE WAY: Taking robust ag-research off dusty shelves and putting it into action is the objective of the project as touted by Sue Webster, Research for Agriculture CEO. world’s first mechanised grain stripper, air seeder, Dethridge irrigation wheel and many shearing technologies.

“Few people know that an Australian – Bill Mollison – established the global practice of permaculture.

“And the impetus continues into the modern world; advances in IVF have been assisted by Australian live-

stock research, CSIRO scientists invented the Hendra vaccine and South Australian research saved the world’s tuna stocks by developing the world’s first captive-breeding program.

“So much good research for agriculture gets buried in low-traffic webpages or dark storerooms.

“The Research for Agriculture team is committed

to taking good research off dusty shelves and putting it into action.

“Our model is straightforward.

“We invite the research community to send us the good oil on what’s happening here and abroad in agriculture.

“We curate this for various audiences – government, corporate, academic

and the layman – and publish it through our website, newsletters, press releases and our magazine.

“In addition to our media, Research for Agriculture will also run networking events across Australia through the year.

“I’d encourage everyone with deep interest in agricultural research to get involved.”

Subscribe to the free weekly Research for Agriculture e-newsletter at www.researchforagriculture.com.au or visit us at https://www.linkedin.com/ company/researchforagriculture or the Facebook, Twitter or Instagram pages at @Research4Ag. For more information, phone 1300 690 218.

This project received grant funding from the Australian Government, through the Australian Communications and Media Authority, under the Regional and Small Publishers Innovation Fund.

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REDESDALE Bush Market will be taking place on Sunday, March 8 at the Agnes Mudford Reserve which is located at 2631 KynetonRedesdale Rd, Redesdale.

Holding their annual Bush Market on the Labour Day long weekend, the Redesdale Hall Committee is confident the event will offer something of interest for all ages.

The market begins at 9am and finishes at 2pm so be sure to get there early to enjoy a full day.

The committee is pleased to announce that the much loved Bendigo and District Concert Band will once again be entertaining the crowds, preceded by the talented Floyd Black Band.

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Entertainment includes music, face painting, animal farm and a jumping castle.

Several car and bike clubs will be displaying their vehicles on the day, with room for more.

Car clubs and individuals with a classic car are invited to call in and display their vehicles, which is always a hugely popular event.

Classic bikes would also be most welcome and sure to please visitors.

There is also the opportunity to enjoy a wide selection of stalls, showcasing local produce like olives, honey, jams, chutneys, preserves, beef jerky, herbs, spices, cake stall and plants through to clothing (new, pre-loved and vintage), fishing tackle, tools, furniture, art, photography, jewellery, candles, craft items, crochet, bags and baskets, glassware, crockery, bric a brac, food stalls, Devonshire tea, ice cream, great coffee and lots more.

Just to name a few…

Why not invite your family and friends along to explore this very picturesque area in Central Victoria and make a day of it?

Bring along a picnic rug or chair, enjoy the music and take in the local surroundings.

(Please note that the weather can be quite different to other areas - sometimes drier. If in doubt, it’s a good idea to check with the Weather Bureau.)

With free entry and all welcome, this is not a day to miss.

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March 2020

Southern Farmer - Page 7

Caffeine linked to rapid testicle growth, stronger sex drive in male fruit flies

Food and Fibre Opportunities Do you have a passion for the Australian Food and Fibre Industries?

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CAFFEINE: CAFFEINE BUZZ: Enhancing the libido of sterile male fruit flies may be a game-changer in the battle to combat this orchard pest. tive failure.

“Once the females mate with the sterile males, they live out the rest of their short lives happily, thinking they have done their innate reproductive duty.”

Mr Adnan said researchers had bred a male Q-fly that is attractive to discerning female flies as part of the SITPlus program, and these new findings have the potential to make these sterile flies even more formidable.

“We have found that when we release sterile Q-flies from planes or ground vehicles to go and do their work with native females, some died before they could reach the age of sexual activity,” he said.

“Supplementing their diet with caffeine may just address that issue by accelerating development.”

In Australia, Q-fly presents a costly challenge to Australia’s $13.2 billion horticulture in-

dustry, affecting a wide range of fruit and vegetable crops.

The SITplus initiative has proven to be an important tool in reducing the impact of Queensland fruit fly reducing the reliance on more traditional approaches such as insecticide.

SIT has been used globally to combat some of the most damaging fruit fly species, including Mediterranean Fruit Fly, and a variety of other fruit fly species.

Detailed findings relating to Mr Adnan’s work are currently undergoing a peer review process in a high impact entomology journal.

This research has been delivered as part of the $60 million SITPlus collaboration, developed by Hort Innovation, with co-investment from various universities, State Government agencies and contributions from the Australian Government.

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IN their quest to create the ‘ultimate sterile male fruit fly’ to attract wild females and curb a pest that is costing Australian farmers up to $300 million in lost markets each year, scientists have turned to caffeine.

A recent study, conducted

by Macquarie University through the Hort Innovationdriven SITPlus initiative, has revealed that male Queensland Fruit Flies (Q-fly) reach sexual maturation faster after consuming caffeine supplements, partially due to a rapid increase in reproductive organ size.

Researchers also found that caffeine fed Q-flies become sexually active in 6-8 days while normal Q-flies take 10-12 days.

The flies were also keen to mate for a longer period before losing interest.

Researcher Saleh Mohammad Adnan said the finding has the potential to make sterile insect technique (SIT) that focuses on QLD Fruit Flies even more effective.

“The whole idea of sterile insect technique is to breed an ‘alpha’ Q-fly that is sterile, and these are then released into the wild to attempt to procreate with wild pest females,” he said.

“Which, in turn, leads to population wide reproduc-

Applications close on Tuesday 10 March 2020.

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Page 8 - Southern Farmer

March 2020

Victoria’s 2020 Rural Women’s finalists announced FOUR Victorian women have been nominated for the 2020 AgriFutures™ Rural Women’s Award to be announced in March in recognition of their innovative ideas to support Australia’s rural and regional communities.

“Victoria’s resilient and innovative rural women are at the forefront of

driving change across Australia – I congratulate our four finalists who will do our state proud,” Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes said.

The award encourages Australian women to develop their skills to benefit their industries and communities, including Victoria’s $14.9

billion agriculture sector.

The Victorian winner will be announced at a ceremony on March 24 and will receive $10,000 to implement her project.

“We are proud to support the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, and to acknowledge and support the

essential role women play in rural and regional industries, businesses and communities,” Ms Symes said.

The national winner will be announced at a gala dinner in Canberra on September 15.

In addition to the Victorian AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award,

the Andrews Labor Government is supporting Victorian women in agriculture with the Rural Women’s Network, working with rural women’s groups and individuals to encourage women to have a more active voice in government and community decisionmaking.

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REGISTERED FOR USE AGAINST ALL ANIMALS & BIRDS THREAT TO BIOSECURITY: Numerous plastic bags filled with varied breeds of fish were found concealed in baggage on an incoming international flight.

Fish smugglers schooled at Melbourne Airport TWO passengers have been intercepted at Melbourne International Airport attempting to smuggle 122 live fish into Australia.

Head of biosecurity, Lyn O’Connell, said the seizure was a joint effort between the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment and the Australian Border Force (ABF).

“As part of an intelligenceled operation, the two passengers were selected for a baggage inspection when they arrived at Melbourne Airport,” Ms O’Connell said.

“The live fish were not declared by the passen-

gers, they were discovered in a number of plastic bags that were filled with water and concealed within their checked-in baggage.

“Live fish can carry and transmit parasites, bacteria and viruses that could affect our native aquatic wildlife, and our $3 billion fishing and aquaculture industries.

“They may also be considered a biosecurity pest and be damaging to our unique aquatic environments and ecosystems.”

Australian Border Force Regional Commander for Victoria Craig Palmer said this seizure is a great ex-

ample of how the ABF and Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment work together to combat wildlife-related crime.

“Smuggling live animals in packages is not just illegal, it’s cruel and inhumane,” Commander Palmer said.

“Many animals smuggled in this way do not survive.”

The case is currently subject to an ongoing investigation by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment.

Further information will be available when the investigation is finalised.

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March 2020

Southern Farmer - Page 9

Restocker intent starting to show KEY POINTS:

* Yardings in New South Wales and Queensland fell this week with New South Wales seeing the biggest drop at 28 per cent. * The medium cow indicator reached a record high in New South Wales and Queensland * The US 90CL indicator dropped this week back toward the five-year average. e RESTOCK: LOOKING POSITIVE: Optimism after recent rains has cautious farmers looking to restock.

Victorian yardings increased 23 per cent to 13,309 head year-on-year.

Saleyard yardings compared to last week: New South Wales: z Wagga: up 8.5 per cent to 6309 head; z Tamworth: back 34 per cent to 835 head; z Gunnedah: back 39 per cent to 845 head.

Queensland: z Roma: back 38 per cent to 1927 head; z Toowoomba: back 89 per cent to 64 head; z Gracemere: back 58 per cent to 1369 head.

Victoria: z Mortlake: back 55 per cent to 409 head; z Leongatha: up 51 per

cent to 2725 head; z Shepparton: up 18 per cent to 2000 head.

Prices Cattle prices responded to the rainfall and the drop in yardings, with prices for female cattle lifting sharply.

In Queensland, yearling heifers averaged 347¢/kg live weight (lwt), 58 per cent above year-ago levels and 10 per cent higher compared to the week prior, followed closely by New South Wales at 342¢/kg lwt, a 56 per cent increase year-on-year.

New South Wales grown heifers were reported at a 12¢ premium to their Queensland counterparts, improving 64 per cent on year-ago levels to finish at

324¢/kg lwt for the week ending February 14.

Unsurprisingly, female cattle prices are nearing the highs last seen in 2016, on the back of high demand, following the record levels of female slaughter seen throughout 2019.

Average C2 yearling prices to restockers - 200280/280-330kg lwt: New South Wales: z Tamworth: Yearling steers averaged 416¢/kg, up 74¢ Yearling heifers averaged 362¢/kg, up 33¢ z Wagga: yearling steers averaged 372¢/kg, up 39¢ Yearling heifers averaged 322¢/kg, up 14¢ z Inverell: Yearling steers

averaged 383¢/kg, up 60¢ Yearling heifers averaged 335¢/kg, up 10¢ Queensland: z Toowoomba: yearling steers averaged 364¢/kg, up 32¢ Yearling heifers averaged 338¢/kg, up 29¢ z Roma Store: yearling steers averaged 382¢/kg, up 13¢ Yearling heifers averaged 350¢/kg, up 19¢ z Warwick: yearling steers averaged 397¢/kg, up 38¢ Yearling heifers averaged 344¢/kg, up 22¢ The medium cow indicator has also gained momentum, reaching record highs.

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medium cow indicator improved 79 per cent year-onyear to reach 291¢/kg, with the Queensland indicator following suit, tracking 62 per cent above last year, to finish at 282¢/kg lwt.

This week also saw the medium cow indicator, on a carcase weight basis, close in on the US 90CL indicator, a reflection of both domestic price rises and uncertainty in the trade surrounding short-term demand in China.

In December, the average spread between the respective indicators was 456¢/kg carcase weight (cwt).

However, driven by the aforementioned factors, to date in February, the 90CL indicator sits at a 196¢/kg cwt premium to the national medium cow indicator – back in line with the fiveyear average of 193¢/kg cwt.

Cattle supplies are anticipated to tighten to a greater extent in the areas which have received some good rainfall, in particular for young cattle and breeding stock.

Producers will be looking towards their autumn prospects and processors will be assessing supply and the situation in China - in the event of further widespread rain and China demand returning to late 2019 levels, the competition for cows could drive domestic and import prices higher.

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CATTLE prices across all specifications continued to find support this week, following further rainfall and reduced yardings.

Feeder steers have been in high demand, as lot feeders and restockers, particularly in areas where the impact of rain has already started to show, make clear their intent to secure cattle.

However, productive cattle, in limited numbers given the high breeding turnoff in the last year, have seen noticeable price rises.

There can be no question the cattle market is encouraged, evidenced with the recent price movements and with favourable conditions forecast for the south this week.

The market could find further support, especially for breeding stock as producers with improved feed availability look to restock paddocks.

Yardings For the week ending February 7 national cattle yardings totalled 55,158 head, a decrease of 11.4 per cent year on year.

Queensland saw the biggest decline in numbers, easing 22 per cent (or 6406 head) from year ago levels to 22,348 head.

In New South Wales, numbers totalled 11,972 head, down 28 per cent on the same week in 2019.

Page 10 - Southern Farmer

March 2020

Bull & On Farm Sales

Fodder database required for market transparency THE national fodder industry body has ramped-up calls for a market database to provide better insight into stocks and demand, as the growing need for livestock feed drains hay supplies.

Australian Fodder Industry Association (AFIA) chief executive John McKew said the recent bushfire crisis, coupled with on-going drought, was depleting the low national fodder stocks but a more accurate picture of the situation was required.

Mr McKew spoke about the need for reliable fodder information at the Bushfire Roundtable Meeting in Canberra late January, attended by agricultural industry organisations and hosted by the then Agriculture Minister Bridget McKenzie.

“Industry representatives continually ask ‘how much fodder is in the system? Where is it going? How much is there in reserves?’” he said.

“Quantitatively – I don’t know.

“The industry doesn’t know.

“That information is not recorded for domestic fodder production and sales.

“What we know is qualitative information.

“But in times like this – drought and bushfire recovery – there needs to be more transparency in the market so Australian agriculture has the capacity to forecast feed requirements and plan.

“It is something everyone wants, it was mentioned by the Grains Industry, and there’s value across a lot of industries, but it is a hard nut to crack.”

Mr McKew said the need for better data was a theme of the discussions at the Canberra meeting.

While the roundtable was a first step in a long process, Mr McKew was buoyed by the Agriculture Department’s “sympathetic ear” regarding the database.

He hoped government involvement would provide the much-needed assistance and funding, which had previously been lacking, to develop a model to allow Australia’s agricultural industry to better manage seasonal risk.

During his address to the roundtable, Mr McKew praised the agricultural industry for banding together to donate fodder, and the subsequent transport, to fire affected farmers.

But he stressed the urgent need for fodder in bushfire regions would further drain the nation’s low stocks.

“Australia will not necessarily run out of fodder, but the quantities available for trading – available for those who need to buy it in quantity – could run out,” he said.

Importing fodder won’t be an option either, according to Mr McKew, who said the biosecurity risk is too high.

ANGUS

STANDOUT: Growing and filling out over time, a recent client selling a cull 6 ½ year old Riga bull was amazed at the carcase dressed weight of 756 kilograms. This bull’s pedigree, like all Riga Angus bulls, was stacked with high EMA and C+ muscle.

Riga Angus as first choice

SHOWCASING this year’s sale stock, Riga Angus will be holding a preview on the March 18 at their ‘Nillahcootie Park’ property.

This year’s offering will further cement Riga Angus’ standing as a stud renowned for quality, consistency and premium genetics.

With close to 50 years of proven breeding and maternal performance combined with ongoing selection pressure for sustainable traits in conjunction with the latest technologies, Riga Angus has positioned itself as a stud that consistently breeds true to type with outstanding conception and fertility rates.

The unique construc-

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tion of their herd of 250 registered (HBR and APR) females has ensured generations of cattle have been monitored and recorded, and genetics identified to ensure all progeny meet the stud’s exacting standards.

Primarily a closed herd descended from the initial founding females purchased in 1971, the herd has grown only with the occasional introduction of outside females from stud dispersals.

Strict parameters set for fertility, calving ease, growth, carcase, structural soundness, doing ability, milk and temperament has guaranteed a premium quality product for their clients, with all requirements and outcomes kept in mind.

These generations of females breeding successfully

within their no frills environment has also enabled Riga Angus to supply bulls with an inherent ability to transmit productivity over the last five decades.

Genomic testing and extensive raw data collection in the production of the Single Step EBVs for the Riga herd, not only validates their breeding objectives but provides for a very powerful selection tool for their commercial clients.

TSU or tissue sampling technology was used to supply the samples for genomic testing and testing for pestivirus for the first time in 2019.

Samples were taken simultaneously with ear tagging and birthweights of calves, making for a much more efficient process.

Many of the bulls in this

year’s catalogue will not only be sire verified but also parent verified with several generations of genomic measurement, enhancing the accuracy and predictability of performance of the bulls on offer, even though they are yearling bulls.

Progeny from Baldridge Beast Mode, Pathfinder General K7, Baldridge Command C36, Pathfinder Komplete K22, Esslement Lotto, Texas Mount K2 and Clunie Range Legend will all be represented at the Yearling Bull Sales, to be held on Wednesday, April 15 at 1pm.

With such exciting sire lines for this year’s sale bulls, Riga Angus is the obvious choice for those looking to invest.

Previews will be taking place on March 18, with a sale to follow on April 15.

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QUALITY ASSURED RIGA BULLS

BULL PREVIEW MORNING WED 18 MARCH 10AM-1PM At Riga Angus, the focus is to produce top quality yearling bulls, to allow for the introduction of superior genetic material into herds a year earlier than normal resulting in more rapid genetic improvement for breeders For a catalogue, please contact us: Ian, Vera or Tim Finger 03 5775 2140 Vera 0429 939 105 Tim 0458 629 689 info@rigaangus.com.au

YEARLING BULL SALE APRIL 2020

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March 2020

Southern Farmer - Page 11

Bull & On Farm Sales

Conference examines future genetic developments and trends

ALPINE ANGUS: IN DEMAND: Geronimo Peralta Martinez of Argentina, Alpine stud principal Jim Delany, Kent Connley of Benambra, and auctioneer Lincoln McKinley with Alpine Junior N021, who sold for $10,000.

Alpine enthusiastic about upcoming sale

ALPINE Angus, has had a difficult summer.

Based in Porepunkah, extreme bushfire conditions prevailed for most of January, and evacuation was continuously on the stud’s mind.

However, with the change in conditions that February brought, Alpine Angus is back to business as usual and is enthusiastic about their upcoming sale on March 24.

The bulls on offer are the result of a balanced breeding program concentrating on structure, type and temperament with a focus on high 400 Day Weight and moderate birth figures.

Sires are specifically selected to complement the strong Alpine cow herd and add to the female base for the future.

Sires featured in the 2020 autumn line-up include sons of Sitz Investment 660Z, Ka-

roo Knockout K176 and sons of Coonamble sires Junior, Hogan and Leader.

Over the past few years Alpine has continued to grow and develop their breeding herd.

Alpine manager Chris Oswin said: “We have been able to grow our herd without compromising on the consistency and depth of quality which is clearly evident in the line-up of bulls we are offering.

“The addition of Key Welcome Swallow genetics has also added to our ability to achieve this.”

Alpine Angus also enjoys a close allegiance with the Western Australian based Coonamble Angus herd, run by the Davis family.

Alpine principal Jim Delany said: “The Davis family’s core values of honesty, integrity and attention to detail is a perfect fit with the ethos we aspire to, and

the quality of their cattle is second to none.

“They are producing some of the country’s leading sires and their genetics are topping sales Australia wide.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have a selection of their genetics throughout our herd including embryo calves from leading Coonamble cows.”

“In the pursuit of high performance genetics for our program we refuse to compromise the integrity of our herd and core breeding principles chasing so called latest and greatest sets of EBVs and the prettiest performance graphs,” Mr Oswin said.

“We travel extensively throughout Australia and the USA sourcing sires we feel will have a positive impact on our program and multiply genetics that will have a profitable effect on our clients’ herds and businesses by delivering live calves

that grow quickly.”

The Alpine program is backed by a comprehensive Quality Assurance program both pre and post-sale.

This involves all bulls having an independent structural assessment, semen test plus vaccinations for Pesti, Vibrio and Lepto.

Post-sale all bulls sold are backed up by a comprehensive support and guarantee program.

Alpine also deliver bulls free of charge. ”We do all in our power to ensure bulls arrive healthy and ready to work, but should problems arise we are always there to help,” Mr Oswin said.

It’s all about the quality product and a belief in what they’re doing at Alpine Angus.

A belief that never faltered even through the trials that summer brought to the region.

WORLD-leading genetics experts will outline what the future is likely to hold for the industry at a major Victorian conference in March.

Genetics Australia (GA) will host the threeday conference on March 18 to examine future directions in genetics with a horizon of 2030.

The GA 2020 conference will start with a oneday forum at Tabcorp Park in Melton on March 18 followed by farm tours in South and West Gippsland over the next two days to showcase progressive breeding programs.

The event has attracted leading international and Australian speakers, including Select Sires International Development vice-president Joel Mergler, Sexing Technologies chief executive officer (CEO) Juan Moreno, Assistant Professor Texas A&M University Dr Ky Pohler, Dairy Australia senior industry analyst John Droppert and Agriculture Victoria principal research scientist (genomic and cellular sciences) Professor Jennie Pryce.

Genetics Australia CEO Anthony Shelly said the conference would be a great opportunity to hear from some of the best geneticists and genetic professionals in the world.

“The conference will give dairy farmers and industry professionals a glimpse into what the future is likely to hold,” Mr Shelly said.

“It is rare to have such an outstanding group of local and international speakers all in one place.”

The conference will look at genetic developments in the global space and determine how these developments will impact the Australian breeding industry and the broader dairy industry.

“Over the past few years the progression of genetics in the dairy industry and more broadly in agriculture has been phenomenal, and with the volume of research and development happening, that will expand even further over the next decade,” Mr Shelly said.

“This conference will pull together all relevant information and help any interested farmer or industry member to understand how we can adapt to these new technologies to make sure we’re ahead of the game and achieving the best possible and most profitable outcomes.”

Day one of the conference will conclude with a dinner with Sexing Technologies CEO Juan Moreno speaking on his ST journey.

Participants can choose to attend the day one conference, the day one conference and dinner, or all three days of the event.

The farm tours on day two and three will showcase the daughters and family members from Australia’s best bull team and from Genetics Australia’s international portfolio.

People wanting to attend the conference can register via the Genetics Australia website: genaust.com.au.

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alpineangus.com.au alpineangus.com.au Chris Oswin: 0427 562 254 Suzy Martin: 0418 577 627 Jim Delaney: 0408 535 658

Page 12 - Southern Farmer

March 2020

Water Management and Irrigation

Time is right for blue-green algae blooms

ABOVE summer average temperatures, water reduction in farm dams and waterways are the main ingredients for outbreaks of blue-green algae blooms.

As the temperatures continue to stay high and rainfall is low and spasmodic, farmers and property owners with large ‘garden ponds’ or dams are advised to keep a close watch for ‘blooms’.

Farm dams are quite susceptible to algal blooms.

Further, they are difficult to reclaim once a bloom has occurred.

Blue-green algae is the common name for a group

of algae which have similar characteristics.

When they encounter the right combination of conditions, such as still water that is clear enough for light penetration, the right temperature range (warm) and adequate nutrients (phosphorous and nitrogen) in solution in the water, they can multiply rapidly.

When the mass of algae floats to the surface, a vivid green ‘bloom’ can appear overnight.

Blue-green algae in large numbers or ‘blooms’ can seriously reduce water quality by producing odours, thick scums and of particular con-

cern are some species of blue-green algae that can produce toxins which are poisonous to humans and livestock.

Property owners should look out for a sudden change in water colour overnight due to a mass of vivid green algae floating to the surface; the formation of scum which looks like green acrylic paint and leaves sky blue marks on rocks or plants around the edge of the dam, particularly on the leeward side of the dam or backwater of a stream.

Scums can be green, bluegreen or khaki green, and can turn brown/green or white once it is dying off.

There may be a strong earthy smell, or if the bloom is breaking down it may produce a strong rotting smell.

Some species of blue-green algae produce toxins which can have serious health implications for humans, animals and birds drinking or coming in contact with the water.

Although humans are less likely to drink water heavily polluted with blue-green algae, symptoms seen in those who have include gastroenteritis, diarrhoea and vomiting.

Water affected with bluegreen algae usually smells and tastes so unpleasant that peo-

ple are unlikely to drink it, but should nevertheless take care to avoid skin contact.

However, in areas where there are no alternative sources of fresh water steps have to be taken (eg special carbon filtration) to make the water safe for drinking.

Livestock are at real risk of poisoning by blue-green algae unless alternative drinking water supplies are provided, although livestock deaths are relatively rare.

In extreme cases death can occur minutes after drinking.

If swallowed by livestock in sufficient quantities, bluegreen algae may cause con-

Gippsland irrigation expo returns in 2020

Keep your soil rich in carbon SOIL carbon is critical for farm health and productivity, says Goulburn Broken CMA land health project coordinator Rhiannon Sandford.

“Soil carbon, organic matter, carbon credits and carbon neutral – they’re all different terms and while all linked, they are different aspects of ensuring our land is resilient to climate change,” Ms Sandford said.

“Of greatest importance is keeping your soil rich in carbon.

“The term soil carbon refers to the total amount of carbon in the soil - the organic and inorganic components.

“It is the organic component that is of most significance to farmers as that is what we can have most influence on.”

She said climate and soil type set the upper limit of soil organic carbon, however, management also had a big influence.

“Farmers will know which paddocks have more and less soil organic carbon; those that dry out quickly or hold on a bit longer,” Ms Sandford said.

“If you want to increase your soil organic carbon levels, then management is critical.

“Good management improves the health and productivity of your soil, which in turn provides

vulsions, paralysis, liver damage and skin sensitisation.

Property owners are advised to inspect farm dams and water troughs regularly (two or three times a week) during hot, dry times.

If a property owner suspects contaminated water they should isolate all people and stock from the dam or water supply.

They should also ensure stock have alternative water supplies and if there is no alternative water supply available contact your local Water Authority.

For further information go to gwmwater.org.au.

SOIL CARBON : FARM HEALTH: Rich in all the good microbes, soil carbon is the key to farm productivity. many other benefits such as reduced erosion and resilience to temperature extremes.”

Taking a soil test is a good way to benchmark current soil carbon levels.

“To increase your soil organic carbon, your soil organic matter needs to increase,” Ms Sandford said.

“The top 20cm of soil comprises a diverse collection of living components that can improve soil structure and nutrient cycling.

“Soil organic carbon is good for the soil and therefore good for farms.”

For more detailed information about soil carbon, practices to

improve your soil organic matter or to register your interest in future soil carbon workshops, please contact the Goulburn Broken CMA on 5822 7700.

Goulburn Broken CMA’s From the Ground Up project is supported through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.

THE Gippsland Irrigation Expo will return to the Sale Showgrounds this March with hundreds of irrigators from across Gippsland and the broader state expected to attend this highly regarded event.

Around 600 people visited the last expo in 2017 and organisers are anticipating similar numbers this year.

The free-entry expo is scheduled for March 4 with gates open from 9am until 3pm.

Agriculture Victoria senior irrigation extension officer Alexis Killoran said the event hosted a large number of exhibitors showcasing the very latest techniques and technologies for all aspects of irrigated farming.

“The previous event in 2017 attracted exhibitors from South Australia and New South Wales, as well as across Victoria,” she said.

“The expo is both indoors and outdoors and will showcase a range of equipment and products with plenty of expertise on site to help map out your irrigation needs.

“Each person attending will receive a ticket to the free sausage sizzle and entry into the prize draw, catering is also available on the day.”

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March 2020

Southern Farmer - Page 13

Water Management and Irrigation

Fixing bad water - the Hydrosmart way IRON and Calcium scale with its orange or white crusty build up happens in pipes, sprays and drip lines around Australia and has continuously bothered growers, farmers and station owners for a great many years.

That is until now.

The team at Hydrosmart have talked to thousands of Australians about their concerns over the past 23 years from their base in Adelaide.

It is at their base in Adelaide that the team manufacture a very simple to use appliance that uses just five watts of power to electronically fix water problems in a far more

powerful manner than simple static magnets or electromagnets, due to it providing over three metres of contact with the water molecules and a unique range of amplified frequencies.

Issues consistently faced by Australians using bores and dams are those caused by the presence of iron and calcium scale build up in irrigation and stock systems or just high salinity water.

Many homestead owners with lawns, gardens, crops and stock that have run out of ‘sweet’ rain water sources are suddenly forced to use a salty, mineralised bore or

dam instead.

Often they use it for a while, then begin to notice that it causes damage to the plants.

It does this by strangling off growth at the root zone.

In severe cases it kills the garden or crop and leaves soil damaged by blocking its pores causing tightening, so that water can no longer penetrate to the plants’ roots.

Salty water also causes corrosion, chewing out galvanised metal pipes and fittings, and making them leak like a sieve.

The team at Hydrosmart are very experienced at discussing individual water

Water hyacinth – don’t buy, sell or give it away WATER hyacinth is a highly invasive weed that is choking lakes, rivers and water ways around the world and Agriculture Victoria is encouraging Victorians to report it to prevent it from taking hold in Victoria.

Water hyacinth may look pretty but has a well-deserved reputation for being the world’s worst water weed.

An advertising campaign, ’Water hyacinth – don’t buy, sell or give it away’, targets the illegal buying or selling of the state prohibited weed - the highest category of declared noxious weeds in Victoria.

The campaign will run on social media and online advertising sites in English, Mandarin, Khmer and Vietnamese.

Agriculture Victoria biosecurity manager – High Risk Invasive Plants, Angela Constantine said water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) was very harmful in aquatic environments.

Ms Constantine said water hyacinth could rapidly affect water quality, native aquatic plants and fish,

related problems by phone or email to supply all the information about how Hydrosmart’s approach can be used to maximise the client’s water supply potential for the situation.

Providing free consultation Hydrosmart diagnose the best location to fit the appliance and the correct way to apply it with its unique electronic low frequency and complete lack of filters, chemicals or consumables.

Hydrosmart is hydrosmart, the technology fits in minutes and lasts for decades using only the tiniest amount of power to run and can be soHIGH RISK INVASIVE: A new campaign is attempting to eradicate this weed from Australia and heighten awareness of the harm it causes.

and have an impact on recreational activities such as fishing and boating.

“We are asking people if they see water hyacinth to contact Agriculture Victoria and we will remove it before it can spread further,” Ms Constantine said.

It is illegal to buy, sell, display, propagate or transport state prohibited weeds.

Ms Constantine said in recent years Agriculture Victoria had prosecuted people for selling water hyacinth on Facebook and Gumtree.

“It’s important to know what you are buying, selling or giving away,” she said.

Last financial year, Agriculture Victoria detected 21 cases of water hyacinth being traded online, and nine of these were in Victoria.

Ms Constantine said water hyacinth was easier to recognise during summer when it was flowering.

“Water hyacinth can be identified by its distinctive mauve flower and bulbous spongy stems,” Ms Constantine said.

“It is often kept for its very attractive flower but owners may be unaware of the profound threat it poses.

“In just one season, a single plant can produce more than 3000 seeds that can survive for more than 20 years.”

If you see or have any water hyacinth, or any other state prohibited weed, report it to the Agriculture Victoria Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or email weed.spotters@ ecodev.vic.gov.au.

lar powered if needed costing approximately $10 yearly to run in power.

In use on a wide range of water problems around Australia and overseas, the Hydrosmart is used by BHP, Rio Tinto for water softening, Adelaide Zoo and Ocean ParkShark Bay for water clarity/ algae improvements, Manly, Bunbury, Cromer Golf Courses for iron removal and prevention, Adelaide Oval for salt remediation, Katherine Country Club for scale removal and prevention, Table Grapes Cunnamula for salinity , Spirit of Tasmania for scale removal and prevention.

Hundreds of homesteads, farms and homes rely on its long term simple benefits.

Over several years Dr Bob Moore led a rigorous research and development program that has assisted the company to evolve scientific understandings and to improve on outcomes.

Scientific proof of its abilities and trial data showing dramatic crop yield improvements in both bad and good water sources means Hydrosmart is well on its way to becoming a global leader in the area of frequencies and sustainable physical water treatment methods.

Why mineral nutrition is important MINERAL deficiencies and imbalances are likely to occur during the course of a growing season and provide an explanation for the reasons why stock performance does not meet expectations.

Generally, problems will first be observed in the areas of animal health and reproduction, but the impact will not be immediate.

Many mineral deficiencies are noticed only after a prolonged period of underfeeding has occurred.

Although it may take time for clinical symptoms of a mineral deficiency to appear, subclinical deficiencies may have been impairing optimum performance for quite some time.

The primary exception to this rule is in the case of a mineral toxicity.

Minerals are elements required by the body for optimum growth and proper muscle and nerve function.

In addition, they are essential components of body enzymes, hormones and cells.

Recommended mineral levels are not constant; they vary with changing production, body size, environment and other dietary factors.

To calculate a cow’s true mineral needs, it is necessary to know her physiological status (pregnancy status, milk production level, maintenance requirements and growth rate).

Agmin’s Nutrimin Drench Plus is Australian made, was formulated based on large-scale production trials, and employs a unique chelation process to protect nutrients from being lost in the rumen liquor by reactions with substances which completely negate the availabilities for microbial protein synthesis or for the metabolic absorption in abomasum and small intestines.

Agmin designed Nutrimin to target commonly deficient nutrients that are vital for maximising your animals’ production.

For more information about Nutrimin and its applications, visit www.nutrimin.com.au.

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Page 14 - Southern Farmer

March 2020

Pasture and Fertilisers

Pasture, crop and stock health through volcanic based fertilisers supply of minerals.

Many minerals are needed to produce strong plants with cell walls resistant to stress damage, heat, drought, frost and fungus.

Plants and crops can grow (hydroponically) with just 10 or 12 minerals.

To be healthy, nutritious, tasty, stress and disease resistant, crops need at least 60 or 70 minerals.

These minerals are passed to the people or animals eating the crop thus increasing their health, ability to cope with stresses and increase productivity.

Applying essential minerals into the soil at the very beginning ensures their entry into the food chain.

The results flow through the entire farm system, benefiting the farm with improved production and quality of produce.

Healthy Earth active volcanic mineral fertilisers contain up to 100 minerals including rare earth elements and organic carbons.

To learn more about these products and receive information on any of the 16 Healthy Earth products please contact Bayley from Goode Organics on 0420 946 156.

OUR climate is in the throes of extreme events with the horrible drought that has caused horrific fires to “rain bombs” smashing our east coast.

We believe the occurrence of these weather events will be frequent but also more intense.

As farmers have adapted in the past they will do so in the future.

After many decades of using chemical fertilisers our farm soils have become unbalanced, demineralised, acidic, have lost carbon values and in many cases struggle to support any form of healthy microbial activity.

Because of this, crop and pasture failure is common, especially during severe drought conditions.

Sheep and cattle commonly suffer health problems, cancer, nervous system disorders and poor fertility are issues most farmers face.

Plants are extremely complex living organisms, the internal chemistry is very sensitive yet resilient.

To grow and perform properly and create all of the enzymes, vitamins, proteins and plant sugars needed for good robust health, they need a rich and extensive

Cost-effective fertilisers for the coming season PHOSPHORUS, calcium and sulphur are highly important nutrients for producing quality pasture and crops.

They are all ‘exported’ from the soil and sent offfarm within food, fibre, livestock or produce.

This means they need to be replenished, generally through the application of fertiliser.

Why these nutrients matter Phosphorus is essential for plant growth.

It plays an important role in all of the plant’s major metabolic processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, energy storage and transfer, cell division and cell enlargement.

Phosphorus is critical for early root development and for this reason, it should be applied before or at sowing.

Calcium is important in root and shoot stimulation.

It helps with the mechanical strength of the plant by contributing to the integrity and selectivity of cell membranes.

Calcium also activates

several enzyme systems, helps neutralise organic acids within the plant and is essential for good seed set in subterranean clovers.

Calcium can also help stimulate microbial activity and molybdenum availability.

Sulphur is used by plants to help with nitrogen metabolism, enzyme activity and protein and oil synthesis.

It also helps stimulate soil biology, rumen biology and helps maximise wool tensile strength.

A cost effective alternative for your farm If you are conscious of cost then a cost competitive alternative to chemical fertilisers is a BioAgPhos blend, with lime or gypsum.

BioAgPhos is made from highly reactive, highgrade reactive phosphate rock (RPR) combined with BioAg’s microbial digesting agent.

It provides long-lasting, sustained release of nutrient - making both annual and biennial (every second year) applications possible.

Allan Reid, BioAg’s Victorian area manager recommends BioAgPhos and blends to growers across Victoria.

“The beauty of using BioAgPhos is that it offers a combination of immediately plant-available phosphorus with a slow release portion of P,” Mr Reid said.

“Applied at the right rate, the process will not need to be undertaken again for two years.

“BioAgPhos can also be applied earlier than other fertilisers as the phosphate will not leach or lock up, remaining available to pastures and crops when it is needed.”

BioAg can supply blends ready to spread, or you can blend on-farm with your traditional lime or gypsum application to reduce your total spreading costs.

Successful independent trials of BioAgPhos and blends Two recent independent trials confirm that BioAgPhos is an effective and cost-effective option, compared to chemical fertilisers.

At Crookwell, in the Southern Tablelands of

NSW, a replicated pasture trial between 2014 and 2018 assessed and measured pasture dry matter response over time, comparing BioAg treatments (annual and biennial) with annual treatments of single superphosphate.

Based on the dry matter production and comparing per-hectare price over four years the trial showed that the most effective and cheapest option is to spread BioAgPhos Superb every second year.

At Dadswell Bridge in Western Victoria an independent trial mirrored the standard practice in this area of fertilising pasture every second year.

BioAg blends S10 BioAgPhos and BioAg Superb delivered more dry matter in the second year than other fertilisers, as well as in total across the two years.

If you’re searching for a better fertiliser experience, contact BioAg’s Victorian representatives Allan Reid on 0448 453 412 (Central, Western and Southern Victoria) or Peter Emerson (NE Victoria) on 0438 269 939.

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March 2020

Southern Farmer - Page 15

Pasture and Fertilisers

Looking to alternative pollinators to support apiarists and industry AS the bushfire crisis across Australia continues, so too does the threat to wildlife including bees which are crucial for successful pollination.

Early assessment has indicated that more than 10,000 honey bee hives have been destroyed across the Australian mainland and around 800 hives and 115 nucleus hives of the unique Ligurian subspecies of honey bee on Kangaroo Island.

The island is renowned for its floral diversity and distinctive tasting honey, being home to the only population of Ligurian bees in the world free of major diseases and biosecurity threats.

Hort Innovation research and development manager for pollination, Ashley Zamek, said the RDC was working with several research institutions across the country to assess the viability of alternative or complementary insect pollinators to ease the pressure on honey bees and their keepers.

“This research is now more important than ever considering the loss of such a significant number of hives during this catastrophic bushfire season,” she said.

Ms Zamek said promising preliminary findings had already been made in areas of alternative pollination

POLLINATORS: BUILDING RESILIENCE: When bees are such a significant part of our agricultural industry, alternative pollinators need to be recognised to combat declines in bee populations.

where native stingless bees were successfully introduced into protected cropping environments.

She said researchers are also working to diversify landscapes to promote other supporting native insects such as wasps, beetles, birds and the like.

“And in a national first research project, we have partnered with the Department of Primary Industry and Regional Development in Western Australia to trial the use of flies for pollination,” she said.

Professor James Cook from Western Sydney University, who leads several pollination focused projects for Hort Innovation, said these projects are looking to understand what the natural pollinators are doing and how that can be strengthened to better support industry.

“Moving forward we’ll see an increasing recognition of the role of

wild pollinators and pollinators other than honeybees,” he said.

“What our studies are showing at the moment is that insects such as native bees, wasps, flies and more are already playing quite a big role in pollination, but now we’re starting to get reliable data that demonstrates just what kind of contribution they are making.

“If you put together all the pollination work we’re doing around the country, what we’re looking to do is to be able to provide information for resilient pollination services that don’t rely too much on any one situation or one species – leading to a better understanding of all the different options and how we can manage the landscape or the protected cropping environment so that we can harness these natural pollinators and get good pollination for crop production.”

Pasture recovery after fire ONE of the early tasks for farmers returning to their property after fires will be to evaluate the viability of pastures and grasses.

Agriculture Victoria livestock extension officer Fiona Baker said most open plains grass paddocks that had short or little grass when the fires passed through generally experience low to moderate intensity burns.

“Paddocks will often look brown to dark brown in colour a few days after the fire,” she said.

“Most of these paddocks can recover on their own given time and moisture.

“Annual pastures generally will need to be re-sown.”

As for perennial pastures, Ms Baker said the need to re-sow would depend on the severity of the burn and what the paddock density was like prior to the burn.

“Paddocks that had long grass can suffer from moderate to high intensity burns,” she said.

“These paddocks may look dark brown to black in colour a few days after the fire and may struggle to return to normal production.

“The viable plant numbers in the paddock may have been reduced and may need either oversowing or re-sowing.”

Ms Baker said paddocks bordered by forested areas often suffer from high to very high intensity burns, therefore looked more charred or like ash beds with very little remnant vegetation remaining.

“A quick test to see whether grasses have survived is to go out into a paddock and give a tuft or two a gentle tug,” she said.

“If it stays/holds in the soil, the plant has a good chance to recover with adequate moisture.

“If it pulls straight out, it is dead and the paddock will need re-sowing.”

Another method farmers can use to test what will recover while waiting for adequate rains is to mark out a one metre square in a paddock and hand-water it with five litres of water each day - enough to maintain damp soil from day-to-day, for at least a fortnight.

“If nothing reshoots, the paddock will need to be re-sown,” Ms Baker said.

Native pastures will be first to respond to rain and show signs of recovery.

Ms Baker said this has been observed following the recent rains in the fire affected areas.

“Certainly, some paddocks may need a complete re-sow, some may just need to be over-sown to thicken them back up, while others may just need time to recover,” she said.

“Most perennial grasses are quite resilient and can survive the low to moderate burns.”

Agriculture Victoria staff are still on the ground in fire-affected areas to support and advise all farmers who need assistance – whether it’s animal welfare, pasture recovery – or anything agriculture related.

Page 16 - Southern Farmer

March 2020

UNDER COVER WORK. CAB MODELS AT ROPS PRICES.

*

MF GLOBAL SERIES MF 4700 SERIES 72 – 82 HP

MF 5700 SERIES 92 – 102 HP

MF 6700 SERIES 112 – 132 HP

2 3 and 4 cylinder powerful AGCO POWER engines 2 12 x 12 fully synchronised transmission 2 Mechanical fully synchronised shuttle or power shuttle transmission 2 Large 3,300 kg rear 3 point lift capacity

2 4 cylinder powerful AGCO POWER engines 2 12 x 12 fully synchronised transmission 2 Adjustable power shuttle – ideal for front loader work 2 Huge 4,500 kg rear lift capacity and 98 l/min hydraulic output

2 # *(&% '& %* # %" - * ( * control and external controls 2 ,/ " # * ' */ - * 98 l/min flow 2 &- ( ) +**# - * &$ &(* &%*(&# 2 &- ( +# % ( # # POWER engine

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MASSEY FERGUSON DEALER TODAY Dandenong

Small Horse Tractors

18 Lonsdale Street

(03) 9791 6414

Kyneton

L & G Sheppard and Sons

88 Piper Street

(03) 5422 1821

Nagambie

John Sanderson Machinery

36-38 Industrial Crescent

(03) 5794 2272

Silvan

Darmac Ag Sales & Service

249-251 Monbulk Road

(03) 9737 9255

*Offer ends 31 March 2020, while stocks last. Prices do not include dealer freight and delivery charges. Contact your local Massey Ferguson dealer for full terms and conditions.

MASSEYFERGUSON.COM.AU

A world of experience. Working with you.

FA R M W O R L D 2020 ‘A TRULY VERSATILE DESTINATION’

SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

THE SOUT HERN

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspap ers Covering Victoria

26 - 29 March 2020

Farm World set to impress

MILKING THE CAMEL: Camel milk 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 and Chris Williams. Megan Williams (pictured) will be one of the guest speakers at the Telstra Women in Ag presentation which takes place on Thursday, March 26 as part of Farm World.

IT’S that time of year again folks, Farm World at Lardner Park is just around the corner and we can’t wait to share with you what we have planned.

For 53 years this premier regional agricultural show has been providing patrons the opportunity to get up close and talk with experts in the field, learn all there is to know about farm animals, and purchase some great products direct from the makers and suppliers.

It’s a haven for the farming community but also a great event for locals and urbanites with a passion for the great outdoors.

With up to 100 acres of exhibitor displays, both indoors and out, you will find equipment, farm machinery, clothing, sheds, outdoor living including boats, caravans, horse floats and vehicles, technology, plants plus masses of must-have tools.

And it wouldn’t be Farm World without a huge variety of animals.

Come and chat to the cattle breeders and check out the different breeds, watch the kelpie dogs round up sheep, learn to walk an alpaca or get up close and cuddly with the animals in Farmer Darryl’s Animal Nursery.

The Telstra Women in Ag lunch, a signature event and highlight for many, will feature a spectacular line up of presenters including Frauke Bolten-Boshammer from Kimberley Fine Diamonds, Megan Williams from The Camel Milk Co and Sophie Stewart from Got You Girl.

Visit our website to read all about this year’s speakers and secure your ticket to this awesome event.

On the Saturday and Sunday only, the Events Centre will come alive with Farm World Market Place.

■ Continued page 2

Victoria’s premier regional agricultural show 26-29 March 2020 Lardner Park | Gippsland Featuring Ţ )DUP :RUOG 0DUNHW 3ODFH

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...and so much more

Strategic Partners

Book online at www.lardnerpark.com.au

Farm World Partners

For full event information and more, please visit www.lardnerpark.com.au or follow Farm World - Lardner Park on Social media.

Farm World Sponsors

Page 2 - Southern Farmer Feature

March 2020

FA R M W O R L D

26 - 29th March, 2020

Farm World set to impress ■

from page 1 Bring your basket and stock up on bone broth, honey products, vegan breakfast cereals and snacks, preserves, wood chopping boards, native floral arrangements plus loads more.

With live cooking demonstrations on the main stage, this is a must-see attraction during Farm World 2020.

Keen for fitness and a bit of a challenge?

Make sure you enter Farm World’s Fittest Farmer, located in the Entertainment Arena on Sunday.

Some great prizes are up for grabs so jump on our website and sign up; or if you’re happy to be a spectator, come along and cheer on the participants as they battle it out for the crown.

Shop until you drop with plenty of retail shopping options both large and small, for the home, wardrobe or workshop – add in a parcel delivery service to assist with all those shopping purchases, and you have the perfect way to shop.

And while Farm World’s landscape is a little bit up and down, there’s no need to be concerned if mobility is a challenge as we have fantastic single and double scooters available for hire.

Visit the Lardner Park website for booking details.

Farm World boasts a huge variety of unique and memorable experiences and value for all visitors including cattle dogs, animal nursery, pony and camel rides, food and drink, demonstrations and presentations, and so much more.

Great fun and entertainment for all the family – we can’t wait to welcome you to Farm World 2020.

Follow us on Facebook to keep up with all the latest news and additions to Farm World in the lead up to the event, or if social media is not your thing, sign up on our website to receive a regular e-newsletter.

Information and ticketing for Farm World and functions are available online now at lardnerpark.com. au, purchase ahead and save both money and time at the gate.

For further information please contact: Jo Kingwill - marketing and communications manager, Lardner Park on jo@lardnerpark.com. au.

BUCHANAN: PREMIUM PROGENY: When you’re working with genetics like that of Buchanan Park Lincoln, the result is always going to be impressive.

New genetics achieve success at Buchanan Park MANUFACTURED LOCALLY: Superaxe WS3150 (above) in action.

CELEBRATING 27 YEARS IN BUSINESS: David Burder, CEO and head designer for Whitlands Engineering.

Superaxe Australia’s leading log splitter for 27 years RURAL manufacturing company Whitlands Engineering is celebrating its 27th year of business throughout 2020 – marking also a decade of continuous growth despite the challenges facing regional business.

Located in a rural farming area in North East Victoria, the company designs and manufactures Australia’s leading brands of log splitters and firewood processors – Superaxe and Rex. Beginning with the famed Superaxe in 1993, David Burder (now head designer and chief executive officer) had the design ready to go but no experience running a business but persevered with remarkable success.

Through exposure at local field days, word of mouth and a truly innovative product, Whitlands Engineering expanded, even through the drought and the Global Financial Crisis.

These days the business has two manufacturing sites, 28 staff and massive export to NZ and the USA in their sights.

David is wholly committed to employing local people and manufacturing in North East Victoria.

Despite the temptation for cheaper production overseas, this decision has now become the cornerstone of the company philosophy and is fundamental to its success, longevity and reputation.

“Local manufacturing keeps money in the local economy, supports 25 employees and their families and most importantly keeps integrity in the manufacturing process,” David said.

“The imported machines may be cheaper but they certainly don’t last very long.

“To say we are Australian made

means more than anything.”

The other ingredient in their success is through their innovative design and benchmark manufacturing standards.

They’re truly made to last.

Beyond that, ergonomic design is key, making the backbreaking task of splitting wood simple and comfortable – the operator always has a straight back and lifting is eliminated with hydraulic log lifters fitted as standard.

The Superaxe has certainly proven itself over 27 years as Australia’s leading log splitter, setting new standards in performance, design and safety innovation.

Come down and say hello to David and the team at the Field Days, or freecall 1800 702 701 or visit the website for more details www.superaxe.com.au for more information.

BUCHANAN PARK WELSH BLACK CATTLE STUD

SUPERAXE LOG SPLITTERS WS 3150 SUPERAXE SHOWN HERE

SETTING NEW STANDARDS IN DESIGN, SAFETY & PERFORMANCE SEE THIS MACHINE SEE THIS MACHINE IN IN ACTION AT TALLANGATA ACTION AT FARM WORLD FIELD DAYS, SITE 118

- SITE 542

FREECALL 1800 702 701 VIDEOS & INFO >> SUPERAXE.COM.AU

BUCHANAN Park principals Allan and Jill Furborough, have been breeding Welsh Black cattle at their property in Tynong North for 20 years.

Over the years they have continually improved the quality of their cattle, with the introduction of new genetics to achieve their success.

Challenging conditions with drought and fires have put a lot of pressure on the stud in the past year.

Significant pasture restoration was required after the devastating fires that impacted their Tynong North property last March.

Pastures required complete reseeding along with added fertiliser to improve the paddocks destroyed by the fire.

Luckily the property has enjoyed recent rains, and is once again producing quality grass for the cattle.

Allan and Jill have been fortunate to have had a great deal of success in the show ring, which has been very rewarding, and it gives them great pleasure to showcase their cattle.

Temperament and structure are something the Furboroughs have put a lot of emphasis on in their breeding program, and it is fabulous when this is recognised in competition.

Fertility and ease of calving are also notable attributes of the Welsh Black breed, and one of the many reasons Welsh Blacks are considered an ideal choice for the commercial breeder.

Buchanan Park has several quality bulls and heifers for sale, and welcome enquiries to visit their Tynong North property, and view the cattle that are currently for sale.

BULLS & HEIFERS FOR SALE Enquries Welcome

Australia’s Leading Welsh Black Cattle Stud

PRINCIPALS: Allan & Jill Furborough, TYNONG, VICTORIA. 0428 398248 | buchpark@nex.net.au | www.welshblackcattle.com

j/30d02979/10-20

March 2020

Southern Farmer Feature - Page 3

FA R M W O R L D

26 - 29th March, 2020

Your vision - the Local Shed solution WHEN building a shed, are you looking for a company that guarantees every part of the process?

That is completely involved from conception to realisation?

A company that passes on all the warranties, and stands proudly behind their name and the finished product?

Where 70 per cent of their business is garnered solely through recommendations and referrals from satisfied customers?

Local Shed Solutions is that company, and after only four years in business already has a reputation for premium quality workmanship and outstanding customer service, and is the name to watch.

Manufactured out of Carrum Downs, this Victorian-based company has over 60 cumulative years of experience in the steel manufacturing sector.

Though Local Shed Solutions is effectively the new kid on the block, its owners and staff are not, and they bring their expertise and experience to this modern outfit, where modern technology, 3d modelling systems, and an enthusiasm for pushing the limits with engineering and design are the norm.

With an ethos that is based on supporting the local economy and industry, Local Shed Solutions has full Australian Made accreditation, and this continues all the way down

LOCAL SHED SOLUTIONS: SHED ENVY: For a shed that’s hard to beat, Local Shed Solutions is your company. the supply chain with all materials used in production also Australia Made.

Their mission statement is simple ‘We design, manufacture and build the best quality sheds on the market to suit our client’s needs’.

And they certainly come through with the goods.

Using BlueScope Steel, clients can be confident they are investing in one of the industry’s strongest and most durable products.

And utilising steel with cladding in

Zincalume or Colorbond, customers can rest assured.

With over 40 distributors across Victoria from Warrnambool to Mildura, to Albury and South Gippsland, your Local Shed contact is always that - a local.

And should you require it, the team from Local Shed Solutions can arrange an on-site consultation as there is always a representative in your region.

With extensive experience in steel fabrication, the company has the expertise to find a solution for any farming, dairy, shearing, or domestic demand.

“We take pride in our experience in the steel manufacturing industry, allowing us to create innovative designs, and work to the motto of ‘your vision, our solution’,” Lee Dodge, one of the directors of Local Shed Solutions, said.

“We work closely with qualified builders, engineers and in-house fabricators to bring the best product and customer service from start to finish, and with a network of distributors throughout Victoria there is always a Local Shed consultant on hand to assist.

“Everything is consolidated inhouse, right down to our very own crane trucks delivering the product right to the customer’s front door.

“It means we guarantee every part of the process, and we can confidently, as a company, assure the client that they are receiving the best quality product on the market.”

With all this in mind, Local Shed Solutions is the obvious choice for your next project, and the team encourages you to pop into Farm World and have a chat.

They’ll be at Site D7.

Hay Sheds, Machinery Sheds, Skillions Garages, Custom Sheds, Mini Storage, Barns Commercial Structures, Industrial Sheds Come and visit us at Site D7

1800 SHEDS 1 www.localshedsolutions.com.au

DBL 63900

Page 4 - Southern Farmer Feature

March 2020

FA R M W O R L D

26 - 29th March, 2020

Get more out of your solar SOMETIMES the best ideas are born out of simplicity… and necessity.

When an individual or partnership sees a need and executes it to such a degree of excellence that the idea develops from the original concept to a successful business.

Established five years ago EcoKleenSolar has done just that.

The beginning was modest with an initial franchise owner, based in Townsville.

Yet, due to the quality of the product and the demand for the service, this franchise quickly became two, with a second opening in Newcastle, and after rapid growth, EcoKleenSolar now incorporates 42 franchises nationwide with a reputation built on quality service at an affordable price.

Noticing the proliferation of solar panels in regional Victoria, one savvy local has capitalised on this by joining EcoKleenSolar’s national network of Solar Care Professionals.

There has been enormous growth in solar sales over recent years but installers have focused solely on sales and they have neglected the vitally important

after-market inspection and cleaning requirements that manufacturers require.

With solar being a significant investment for any home or business owner, it requires a regular maintenance program to ensure it is operating as designed and is actually saving money for the owner.

“Solar is most definitely not set and forget.

“It’s a large electrical appliance and it must be properly managed and operated,” Craig Grenville, owner operator at EcoKleenSolar Warragul said.

“Just like for a new car, in the solar manufacturer’s warranty document and the accompanying maintenance and operation manuals, the owner is obliged to maintain the system, otherwise the warranty can be voided for abuse or misuse.

“Primarily, it’s the owner’s responsibility to ensure the panels are regularly cleaned, and by that I mean once a year on average, twice a year or more often in areas that have high pollutants.

“Whether that is close to a highway, under a flight path or close to a coastline, these regions require more regular servicing.

“While rain will wash off loose surface dust, other pollutants will contribute to creating a tacky build-up surface layer that traps dirt, dust and other contaminants, and prevents sunlight getting into the panel’s solar cells where it is converted to electricity.

“Some contaminants like bird poo or bat poo, can also create shading on the panels.

“Localised, this can be more detrimental to the system than say wholesale shading created by trees.

“It means that not only less power is generated by the system, but also there is the propensity for internal issues that can lead to damaging the solar cells.

“Lichen build-up can also compromise the integrity of panels.

“Not only does it cause shading, the very fine, hair-like roots can get in and under panel frames, creating a path for water to enter the panels as well.”

With all these external influences causing damage and affecting performance, any resulting problems with the system will often not be covered by the warranty.

This is where EcoKleenSolar

Come visit WorkSafe at

Farm World 26-29 March Learn more about making your farm a safe and healthy workplace, check out our virtual quad bike experience and share the new developments on your farm. For further info, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/agriculture

Warragul comes to the rescue, delivering much needed inspection, cleaning and reporting services to the region’s solar owners.

Prevention is always better than a cure and this is the service that EcoKleenSolar delivers.

From cleaning the panels with water filtered through a de-ionising tank to remove any lime, calcium or other solids, to conducting a visual inspection to flag any issues, to thermal imaging inspections to determine if there any electrical performance issues, this comprehensive service also provides pest solutions and protective barriers.

Pest birds, especially pigeons, have discovered that solar panels provide an ideal shelter for nesting and, apart from the obvious disease, lice and other health issues that brings, nests and eggs also attract insects, moths, grubs and snails which, in turn, brings animals such as possums, rats and snakes.

EcoKleenSolar’s pest barrier systems have proven to be a safe and effective way of claiming back your rooftop.

An integral part of EcoKleenSolar’s complete

Solar Care service is, when technical or performance issues have been found, to help the client have the matter rectified as quickly and smoothly as possible.

“If anything needs further investigation, we pass it back to the installers, or we help the customer find a Clean Energy Council accredited electrical contractor, somebody reputable and solar qualified,” Craig said.

“We work closely with installers and electricians right across the country, and we’re almost the first port of call now because our reputation for attention to detail and excellent customer service is growing as rapidly as the number of solar installations.

“The installer will often recommend that the client gets their solar panels cleaned first if they are not achieving maximum efficiency or experiencing issues.

“The suggestion is once clean, let’s see what changes and if it doesn’t change you may have a technical issue.

“On many occasions, a clean will get the system back to where it should be.”

With this as their primary objective, all the EcoKleenSolar

franchisees take a huge amount of pride in the job with optimum efficiency of the solar panels their goal.

Being the only national network of Solar Care professionals, with the name comes the assurance of quality, as all franchise owners are required to undertake rigorous training before starting their business.

And with each franchise being owned and operated by a local servicing their own community, solar owners can rest assured that this local knowledge is working to their benefit.

The farming community have been early adopters, enthusiastically embracing solar.

With most sheds offering much more useable space than a normal home, farmers have capitalised on this as they seek to counter the ever-increasing cost of power.

As EcoKleenSolar Warragul’s complete Solar Care service continues to help home and business owners in the Warragul region to make more from their investment in solar, Craig says he is seeing a whole lot more of the region from the rooftops.

March 2020

Southern Farmer Feature - Page 5

Page 6 - Southern Farmer Feature

March 2020

Farm World Exhibitor List 212.................................................................. Jademar Pty Ltd 542..................................... (Superaxe)Â Whitlands Engineering BSC4 ........................................................ 2WP/Corry Marketing 213.......................................... AAA Kracht Dist-Water Purifiers 20-21 + 57-59 .......... AAA Quality Socks & Sheepskin Products A26 ...................................................................... ACE Industrial K2 ........................................................................................Aces 224....................................................Adjusta Mattress Australia BSC75-76................................... Advanced Therapy Massagers B17 ..............................................................Advantage Feeders 328-329 .......................................................... AEG Onsite Tools 47.........................................................................Aeolis Leather A27 ...................................................................... Agco Australia C32 ..............................................................Ag-Crete Industries LS82.................................................................................Agerris E28-29 ..................................................... AgPower & Transport BBP21+22................................................... Agriculture Victoria 107....................................................................... AJs Eventuate A3-4 .................................................Alberni Family Shorthorns BSC12 ........................... All Buttoned Up Equestrian Jewellery MP17 ................................................................. All Mine Stories BSC79 ................................................All Things Timber & More MP6 ....................................................... Allambee Flower Farm BBP39+41..........................................................Allflex Australia 52........................................................................... Alpaca Made 1-2 ........................................................................... Alto Motors BSC57-58....................................................... Anne of Dromana E14-15 ......................................................................ANP Metals 43-44 + LS53-54 ......................................................... Anu Tools TM2-3 ..................................... Aqua Max Rural Water Filtration 231-232 .....................................................ARB 4X4 Accessories G9 ........................................................................ ARK Outdoors LS21.......................................................................... Atlantic Oil C13-14 ................................................... AusEquip and Tractors TM10 ...................................................Aussie Bush Bird Callers 227.................................................................. Aussie Bush Hats 113-114 ........................................................... Aussie Disposals BSC1-2........................................................ Aussie Kids at Work BBP27+28....................................................Aussie Made Sheds E27 ................................................ Aussie Shade & Hot Houses 25..............................................................Aussie Wool Comfort BBP43-46 ....... Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited LP1 (Alpaca).....Aust. Alpaca Association Victorian Eastern Region BSC49 ................................................. Australian Citizens Party 413............................................................ Australian Fish Sales A11 ..................................................... Australian Galloway Soc 309..........................................................Australian Labor Party LS27-28 ...................................................... Australian Mapping BSC37 .......................................................Australian Tea House BSC17-21............................................... Ausworkwear & Safety BBP12+13.................................................Award RV Superstore 301 + 701-708 .............................................. BA Group Australia BSC60 ..................................BabyScent & Nature Lab Skincare LS24......................................................Bairnsdale Engineering A39-40 ........................................................Bale Up Hayfeeders LS25-26 .........................................................Ballarat Mahindra 24................................................... Bamboo Creations Nursery LS113A-114 ......................................................... Bargain Boots BBP4.......................................................................Bauer Media LS138..............................Baw Baw Old Engine & Auto Club Inc BBP20................................................... Baw Baw Shire Council

A14-15 ...................................................Baw Baw Speckle Park B8 .............................................................Bega Cheese Limited N7-8 ................................................. Bendigo Country Clothing 203........................................... Bendigo Discount Pet Supplies N3-5 ........................................................ Bendigo Hats & Hoses LS135-136 ..................................................Bergmann Australia N10 ....................................................................Best Ever Boots LS75..............................................................Best Sheds Pty Ltd BSC66-68................................................ Better Living Australia F26................................................................ Bison Engineering A5A-5B............................................................... BJs Stud Cattle N12 .............................................................Blade Electric Bikes 331................................................................. Blerick Tree Farm LS6-7 ..............................................Blonde d'Aquitaine Society 34-35 .................................................Blue Gum Forest Nursery BBPF11........................................................ Boost Juice Albury B25-27 ......................................................... Brazzen Gippsland LS4-5 ..........................British White Cattle Society of Australia BSC North ...........................................................BSC Industrial D5 ..................................................................................Bullmax 214...................................................................Bunyip Saddlery LS11-12 + LS13-15 ............................... Burder Ag Attachments 119-120 ................................................. Burke & Wills Australia BSC44 ........................................................... Burra Brewing Co. 238.......................................................................... Burra Foods D12 ..............................................................................Bushgear BSC26-27........................................................... Bushies Bakery 250-252+320-322 .................................Bushmans Water Tanks 201...............................................................Caldermeade Farm BSC23 ........................................ Callipari Wine / Ned Kelly Red T1-2 ................................................................. Campbell Floats BSC50 ...............................................................Caravan Hire Co E7-8 .......................................................... Carrfields Machinery 207............................................................................. Castworks LS62...............................................CCAS Respiratory Solutions HW1 ...................................................................... Central Clinic T8-9 ...............................................................CFMOTO Australia BBP54+56+58...................................... Chairo Christian School F29-31 ...................................................Challenge Implements LS29.................................... Cheeky Goose 2.0 The Food Truck BBP30+32.................................................Child Car Seat Safety D1-2 ............................................................... Chipstar Australia 69............................................................... Chooktred Australia 348-351+422-425 Christensens Motorcycles; Inverloch Marine LS104-110+LS115-121 ........................... CLAAS Harvest Centre LS122-123 + LS130-134 ................................. Clark Equipment LS51-52 ................................................................... Clark Tanks D9 ....................................... Clarks Ice-Cream & Cyclone Taties BBP19...................................................Clean Energy Regulator 235-236 ..................................................................... Cleanquip B9-10 ............................................Clipex Fencing & Stockyards 244 + A44 .......................................................... Coffee A La Cart LS97.............................................................................. Colac Ag 110................................................. Collings Wholesale Nursery 108............................................................. Colombo Soft Serve B11 .......................................................................Combi Clamp LS93.................................................Comet Windmills Australia 332.......................................................... Commonwealth Bank BBP59............................................. Complete Gutter Solutions D8 ..........................................................Concreters Warehouse A33 ............................................ Congroove Non Slip Grooving

67..............................................Connelly Home Improvements E5-6 ......................................................... Coolamon Spreaders TM8-9 ............................. Country and Vintage Babes Clothing D10-11+E10-11........ Country Clipper Zero Turn Mowers & Log Splitters Australia 216................................................... Country Solar Systems Vic BSC41 ..........................................................................Cozyosko 8................................................................ Crystal Clear Glasses T15-16 .................................................................. Cub Campers BSC8 .......................................................... Cushions and Decor 37.......................................Custom Creations by Ryan Parsons BSC30 ........................................................ Cutting Edge Knives BBPF5........................................... Danish Bake & Smokehouse MP18 ................... Darnum Park Estate/Jam Judy Condiments E3 ............................................................................... Datamars LS51-52 ................................................................Davey Pumps 45................................................................ Davo's Fencing Clip BBP34+36..........................................................DeLaval Pty Ltd TM1 ............................................................... Delta Systems Inc BBP33+35.................................................... Dial Before You Dig 210.................................................. Diggers Clothing Company 10A ......................................................... Dine with a Difference 540..................................................................... Dingo Australia 50......................................................Discount 12 volt led lights BSC15 ........................................................................... Dlightful 36..................................................................DNA Propogations MP2 ............................................................... Doggy Dungarees BSC52 .......................................................................... doTERRA 73...............................................................Dream-time Nursery C24-25 .................................Drouin Home Timber & Hardware BBP17............................................drumMUSTER & ChemClear 515....................................................................DTM Landworks BBPF4...............................................................Dutch Poffertjes 212A ..................................................................Eagle Outdoors 7......................................................................... Eco Bird Scarer BSC42 ................................................................ EcoKleen Solar BBP40+42............................................. Ecostar Double Glazing LS79-80 ................................................ Eddington Engineering BSC22 ................................................EGBP Building Surveyors BBPF7................................Elephant Rock Calamari & Seafood E30 ............................................................ Elite Feeds Australia 12............................................................. Emo's Leather Goods BBP33+35.................................................. Energy Safe Victoria BBP24+26......................................................... EnergyAustralia 240......................................Environment Protection Authority 23........................................................... EnviroPro Alternatives 228-229 .......................................... Eureka Garages and Sheds 30....................................................... European Tools Australia 319.................................................................. Evans Petroleum SCOOTER Hire O/s Ticket Box B ..................Event Scooter Hire A21-23 ........................................... Evison Grain Pet & Produce F22............................................................Eye Muffs by Reptiler A47 ..................................................................Ezyrollovercrush LS48............................................................. Fair Dinkum Sheds A39-40 ............................... Farm Automation Australia Pty Ltd C26 ................................................................ Farm Implements A38 .......................................................Farm Mapping Services LS98.........................................................Farm Tech Machinery LS50.......................................Farming Equipment Distributors BBP6-7 ....................................................Federation University LS76..........................................................Fence-Line Solutions 31.......................................................................... Fern Gardens A2 .....................................................................Fernleigh Angus

C26 ....................................................................Fix Engineering LS81...........................................................Fleximake Industrial BBP1+2......................................................................... Fonterra 256-257+326-327 ................................................ Ford Australia F13...........................................................................Form Direct BSC3 ....................................................... Forty Winks Traralgon BSC72 ..................................... Four Seasons Gutter Protection 54.......................................................................Frontline Socks BSC53 ................................................................. Full Body Care 48...............................................................................Funky trail 533.............................................................................. Gallagher 41......................................................................... Gardenacious LS60............................................................................... GE Silos 301 + 701-708 ........................... Gendore Tractors & Machinery A37 ................................................................Genetics Australia 42............................................................ Genuine Pet Products 63....................................................................................Gift Girl LS40-44+LS68-72 ..............................................Giltrap/Duncan A19 ........................................................... Gippsland Herefords 333..................................................................Gippsland Jersey A16 ................................. Gippsland Limousin Breeders Group 340........................................................Gippsland Motor Group A7 .............................. Gippsland Murray Grey Breeders Group A9-10 ............................................ Gippsland Veterinary Group LS96................................................Glenmac Sales and Service BSC73 ............................................................. Gourmet Morsels C26 ................................................... Graham Wood Machinery E1-2 ..................................................................Graham's Seeds 111Grand Ridge Propagation Nursery and Cheviot Sheep Stud E20 ............................................................. Green Valley Grains LS58+LS86..................................................................greenPRO 65.................................................... Grow Heirloom & Turmerix A34 ............................ Guernsey Cattle Society of Australia Inc LS125.................................................GW Tractors (Qld) Pty Ltd BSC65 ....................................................................... GWR Shirts T3 ............................................................................. Halen Vans LS88-89 .......................................................... Hansen Products BSC45 ......................................................... Harcourts Warragul LS94A-95 ...... Hardwood Mills/Norwood Sawmills/PJ Logging 230.................................................................. Harrison FTrucks LS61......................................................................Harvest Tyres 70........................................................ Heavenly Scented Roses 53................................................................................Henna Art BSC61 .......................................................Herbal Teas Australia 237........................................................... Heritage Water Tanks A49-50 ..................................................................Hico Australia T5-7 ....................................................Highway Caravan Centre 32......................................................................... Hillside Roses TM4 ........................................................... Hipower Flashlights D13 ............................................................ HiTech Ag Solutions 452-454+526-528 ........................................................... Holden F4-5 .......................................................................Hose Factory BSC6 ....................................................... Hot Paint Airbrush Art D4 ............................................................. Hydraulink Warragul BBP29+31................................................... IBT Oracle NetSuite 62...........................................................ICU Small Animal Rugs BSC38-39........................................................... iHealth Saunas 440/441 ........................................In Season Hunting & Fishing BBP23+25.......................... Indoors Outdoors Blinds & Shades C18-19 ................................................................................Inlon 10....................................................................... Intimo Lingerie 254-255+324-325 ........................................Isuzu UTE Australia E4 .......................................................... J&M Brain Safety Wear

March 2020 313..................................................................Jeff Bourman MP MP15 ............................................................... Jindigo Naturals 13................................................................... JMR Solar Pumps C28 ....................................... John Berends Implements Pty Lt 431+506..............................................................John Duff & Co BBPF3................................................ Juan in a Million Tex Mex 103....................................................................Kaiser Sausages C15 .....................................................................Kanga Loaders A1 ................................................................... Karcher Australia BSC14 ........................................................ Kensal Estate Wines LS46-47 ..........................................................Khouri Workwear LS74.............................................KIngspan-Rhino Water Tanks C1 .................................................................... Kubota Australia LS101-103 .............................................. Kuhn Farm Machinery 46........................................................................Ladies Fashion 411........................................................ Latrobe Valley Forklifts E12 ............................................................Lavorwash Australia 27...................................................................... Leawood Hemp N9 ..................................................Led Light Bars & Headlights N6 .......................................................................... LED Light Co C16 ................................................................................ Lemken MP7 ........................ Let's Eat Cake Homemade Confectionery 55...........................................................................Letzgetwired A35 ........................................................................................ LIC LS45+LS73............................................. Lightwave Technology BSC28 .............................. Little Bumble Reusable Food Wraps MP11 .................................................Little Lady Bug Creations D7 .............................................................Local Shed Solutions LS27-28 ........................................................Logan Contracting 545-546 ...................................................................... Lucas Mill 18......................................................... M & M Bamboo & Hemp BSC7 ................................................ Made By Nanna With Love MP3 ..............................................................Madebytaylahrose 66............................................................Maes Garden Giftware A18 ............................................................Maine Anjou Society 444-447+518-521 ................................................ Marriotts MPE LS66.............................................. Marxgold Starting Solutions LS56-57+LS84-85 .........................................McCarthy Catering BBPF8............................................Melbourne Paella Company B14 ...............................................................Melbourne Tractor 241..................................................................Melbourne Water 534..............................................................................Metalcorp B12-13 ....................................................................Metalstation BSC13 ..................................................Middys Data & Electrical HW2 ............................................................... Mindfull Australia BSC78 ..............................................................Miracle Shammy LS59+LS87.............................................................MLT Australia F26B ...........................................................Mobishear Australia E23 ................................................. Mobius Materials Recovery 535...................................................Mr Bratwurst German BBQ BSC47 .................................................................. Mr Pure Water LS1-2 ..........................................................Muckrunner Pty Ltd C22-23 ............................................................ Munro Engineers C33 .......................................... Murray Agricultural Equipment BSC29 ........................................................................My Foot Dr BBP5.......................................................National Hearing Care BBP49+51...................................National Operations Network BBP16....................................... Nationals for Regional Victoria BSC46 ........................................................ Natural Distilling Co BSC43 ...............................................Natural Freshwater Pearls D14 ..................................... Nemtek Electric Fencing Products 248-249 ...................................................... Newstyle Direct P/L BSC54-56......................................................... Niagara Therapy

Southern Farmer Feature - Page 7 F8-9 ........................................................................No Limit 4x4 A39-40 ..................................................Northern Feed Systems LS99-100 ....................... Norton Livestock Handling Solutions LS90............................................. NutriSoil Biological Solution E34-35+F17-18 ............................................OPS Country Tanks BSC63 ............................................................ Original Spirit Co. T17 ........................................................Oringi Protection Wear 258-259 .........................................................Outback Campers 118..................................................................... Paal Kit Homes 60.........................................................................Pachinko Hats T10-12 ........................................................ Page Bros RV Jayco 450-451+524-525 .......................................... Pakenham Mazda E24-25 ...................................Pakenham Mowers & Chainsaws A48 ..........................................Pakenham Produce & Saddlery 253+323............................................. Patterson Cheney Trucks 68............................................. Perry's Lemon Myrtle Products CAMEL Rides .......................................Peter Hodge Camel Hire K1 ......................................................................... PFG Australia 208..................... Phillipsons Accounting & Financial Planning LS83............................................ Pioneer Water Tanks & Liners 243.................................................... Pivot Stove & Heating Co. 121................................................................Plants at Rosedale 426-429+501-504 .......................................Poettinger Australia 442-443+516-517 ...................................Polaris Sales Australia BSC35-36....................... Polishpro - Concrete Floor Polishing E31 .............................................................. Polyfect Pipe Sales LS63-64+LS91-92 .....................................................Polymaster MP16 ................................................................. Postcode Hives C20-21 ............................................Power Hound Attachments BBP18...........................................Propharma Australia Pty Ltd 49........................................................................ ProSide Select 305................................................................................. ProviCo BSC48 ......................................................................... Pure Hide E30 .....................................................................Quality Testing LS58+LS86................................................................ Quik Spray C16 ................................................................. R.E.N. Machinery 239............................................................................. Rabobank A3-4 ............................................................Raedean Red Angus LS55..................................................................Rata Equipment BSC40 ......................................................Rawleigh Health Care 310..................................................................Ray White Drouin N10A ................................................ Recharge Battery Additive 223.......................................... Red Gum Farm Rustic Furniture A8 .................................Red Poll Beef Cattle - Victorian Region C9-12 ........................................................Red River Stockyards D17+E17 ................................................................Redback Agri BBP47+48............................ Regional Investment Corporation BSC31-32...................................Renovator Transforma Ladder N11 ....................................................... Riely's Little Lolly Shop A6 .......................................................... Rigdale Limousin Stud LS94.................................................... Robot Building Supplies F6-7 .......................................................................... Ropes Plus G6-8 .......................................................Rowville Horse Trailers 17...........................................................Safety Steel Structures BSC59 ................................................................... Salami Shack 112............................................ Sale and District Garage Doors 213A+215 ............................................................Sapphire Spas 306-307 ................................................. Saputo Dairy Australia MP12 ...............................................Saroma Natural Therapies D3 .................................................................Seed Force Pty Ltd B18-19 .................................................................Semco Pty Ltd A43 ......................................................................Semex Pty Ltd F10.............................................................. Shearwell Australia

Farm World Exhibitor List 314.................Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party of Victoria 217.....................................................Signs Stickers & Graphics J1...................................................................................... Silvan A12 .................................................................Simmental Cattle B20-21 ......................................................Small Horse Tractors TM7 ..................................Smarttek Smart Hot Water Systems E9 ................................................................... Smokehouse 720 BSC9 ...........................................................Soaporders.com.au F21.............................................................................Soilcharge 412.....................................................................Solar Dynamics LS113.......................................... Solartronics Gate Controllers A13 .............................South Devon Cattle Society of Australia 514..............................................South East Organic Fertilizers G13 ........................................ Southern Cross Smokers Pty Ltd BSC33-34...................................... Southern Skin Cancer Clinic LP Yards........................................ Spicers GoGetta Kelpie Stud LS77-78 ............................................................................. Spika 308.........................................................................Spitwater Vic 28-29 ................................................. Sproutwell Greenhouses 71-72 ....................................................Squatting Frog Nursery BBP60-62 ......................... St Paul's Anglican Grammar School T13-14 .......................................................................Star Vision E26 ............................................................................Start Solar C17 ............................................. Statewide Concrete Products 225-226 .........................................Steeline Gippsland Pty. Ltd. BSC77 ...................................................Step Forward Orthotics E18-19+F1-2 ......................................... Stephen Pasture Seeds 802-803 ......................................................... Stihl Shop Drouin BBP50+52................................... Straight Smiles Orthodontics EVANS BP Room ....................................................String & Salt E16 ............................................................ Sunrise Trailer Parts 16......................................................................Superior Boilers N1-2 ........................ Swagman Stockcrates & Vagabond Travel TM5 ..........................................Sweet Orchards Confectionery BBPF1........................................................ Swig Coffee Roaster BBP9................................................................. TAFE Gippsland 15............................................................. Tandderwen Nursery BBPF6...............................................................Tangled in Food LS18....................................................................... Tankformers 804-805 ......................... Tannertrack Tractors and Equipment 448-449+522-523 .............................................Te Pari Products D6 .....................................................................tecalink.com.au BBP10+11........................................................................ Telstra MP9 ...................................................................The Bakery Lab O/S Ticket Box C .................................................The Big Bowel BSC80 ........................................................... The Button Ladies BBPF2........................................................... The Cajun Kitchen 245-246 ......................................................... The Cassidy Crew 11............................................................ The Jolly Lolly Trolley MP14 .....................................................................The Mrs & Co E32-33+F15-16+F27-28 ........................................ The RedShed C31 ..........................................................The Tractor Company 430+505...............................................The Ultimate Hayfeeder 253A .........................................Tianli Tyres / Longmarch Tyres BBPF10............................................... Timboon Fine Ice Cream 61......................................................................... Timeless Toys MP1 ...........................................................................Tonemade 546A-547 .....................................................................Tool King 39.....................................................................Top Dog Kennels ANIMAL Nursery.............................................. Totalspan Sheds MP20 ..........................................................Touchwood Timber 3........................................................................Tow and Farm

339.................................. Toyota Material Handling Australia LS126-129 ....................................Trac Mac Farm Equipment BSC16 ...............................................................Tractor House BBPF9........................................Traditional Baked Potato Co LS111-112 ......................................................Trailer&Trailers BSC24 ......................................................................Tri Nature D15-16 .......................................... TriTech Lubricants Pty Ltd 38.........................................................................Trufficulture LS101-103 ..................................................... TTMI - Trafalgar BSC25 ..........................................................Turmerix Victoria BSC74 .................................................................Twins Pantry LS31.....................................................Twisted Spudz & Dogz BSC10-11................................................... Two Views Equine LS19-20 .........................................Tyntynder Stockfeeds P/L BSC69 ................................................................ Ugg Australia BSC70 ................................................... Uncle John's Licorice MP19 ................................................ Unforgettable Products 51...........................................................................Uni Gifttext F11-12 ......................... United Forklift and Access Solutions N13 ......................................................... Urban Tree Growers B22-24 ............................................Valton Feeding Solutions 40.................................................................. Van Berkel Farm A42 ....................................................... Van Diemen Genetics C29-30 ....................................................................VC Traders 64...............................................................................Vegepod LS3...........................................Vehicle & Equipment Finance E13 .............................................................. Venus Packaging LS124......................................................................... VIC Silos A41 ................................................. Viking Genetics Australia LS22-23 .............................................................Vikon Precast 302-304 ........................................ Vin Rowe Farm Machinery 22............................................................Vision Mart Eyewear E21 .................................................................................. Vitec BBP14-15 ........................................... Walterscheid Australia E22 ...................................................................WAM Australia C27 ...............................................................Waratah Fencing 402+508-509 .................................Warragul Forest & Garden MP10 ............................................................Warragul Grange B28 ....................................................WasteNot Stockfeeders 218-219 ............................................................... Weedwakka O/S Ticket Box B ............. West Gippsland Healthcare Group A9-10 ...............................................West Gippsland Vet Care A45-46 .....................................Western Valley Dairy Systems BSC62 ...................................................... Weyhill Farm Garlic LP2 ........................................................ Wheelie Good Pizzas 543-544 ........................................................... Whittley Boats 109........................................................ Wiltshire Horn Sheep 247.......................................... Wimmera Hearing Society Inc MP13 ............................................................... Windella Farm 10C ..................................................... WOLF - Telstra Partner BSC64 .............................................................Wombat Honey 536-539 ...... Wonthaggi Motorcycles and power equipment BBP53+55+57............................................. Worksafe Victoria LS49........................................................ Workspace Systems F3..............................................................................Worm Hit LS30.............................................Wun Hung Lo Dumpling Co BSC71 ...................................................................... Yardnajar G15 ......................................................... Yarragon Lions Club TM6 ............................................. Young Living Essential Oils BSC5 ...............................................................yourscarfs.com A9-10 ..............................................................Zoetis Australia

C15

Page 8 - Southern Farmer Feature

March 2020

FA R M W O R L D

SITE LEGEND BBP............... Baw Baw Pavilion BBPF............. Baw Baw Pavilion (food court)

BSC ............... BSC Pavilion Evans Room . Events Centre HW .................. Health & Wellness (Admin building)

LP ................. Lakeside Pavilion (Alpacas) LS.................. Lakeside Arena MP ................ Market Place - Events Centre -

Be part of a university that connects with employers Federation University courses are career-focused, giving you hands-on skills.

We provide a supportive, personal approach to learning.

And with our exible online and part-time study options, gaining your university qualiďŹ cation is now more achievable than ever.

Visit us at Farm World 2020 in the Baw Baw Pavilion or call 1800 333 864

Federation.edu.au 1800 333 864 (1800 FED UNI) #feduni

26 - 29th March, 2020

/fedaustralia

CRICOS Provider No. 00103D | RTO No. 4909. This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding to eligible individuals.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY ONLY TM ................ Adjacent to Baw Baw Pavilion west

March 2020

Southern Farmer Feature - Page 9

FA R M W O R L D Federation University supporting our community and future workforce FEDERATION University’s strong focus on providing industry-based experience is enabling graduates to make the best possible start to their career.

This focus is also supporting the growth of our local economy, to ensure skilled graduates remain in the region.

The university partners with leading employers to ensure courses provide the knowledge, skills and qualifications that are in demand.

Not only do students gain valuable experience, but they also have the edge to gain employment locally and beyond.* Examples include extensive placement experience for nursing and education students in our local hospitals and schools.

There is also a growing list of Gippsland organisations providing work placements in fields such as information technology, business, engineering and science.

Choices for study and careers extend well beyond these fields to areas such as exercise and sports science, occupational therapy, criminology, veterinary and wildlife science, mechatronics systems engineering, fine arts and more.

Flexible study options are also a major advantage of studying with Federation University.

Off-campus and flexible study modes are available, including convenient online learning options – popular with students who are juggling

employment or family commitments, or live some distance from campus.

Many Federation University students are parents, employees or small business owners who are changing their lives through a university education.

There’s also ongoing support for all students, with the university’s extensive expertise in mentoring, academic assistance and well-being services.

For more information about Federation University visit their stand in the Baw Baw Pavilion at Farm World 2020.

You can also visit federation. edu.au or call 1800 333 864 (1800 FED UNI). *#1 in Victoria for Full-Time Graduate Employment. The Good Universities Guide 2020

BERENDS The Largest Range of Australian Made Farm Machinery

Australian made aerators using the Shattertine technology.

Great for cracking open hard ground and rejuvenating pastures.

26 - 29th March, 2020

Skin Cancer checks a life-saver THE Southern Skin Cancer Clinic again looks forward to providing bulk-billed Skin Cancer checks at Farm World 2020.

Having seen thousands of patrons in rural Victoria and NSW over the past four years (finding hundreds of skin cancers including 50+ Melanomas) we continue to spread the word of the importance especially for farmers - who spend most of their time outdoors - to have at least one skin check every year.

It just might save your life.

Never had a skin cancer check before or are you due for a yearly check-up?

Don’t put it off any longer.

Make sure you, your family and friends visit our friendly, caring and knowledgeable team of doctors and nurses on site at Farm World for a bulk-billed skin cancer check.

Statistically two out of three people in Australia will develop some type of skin cancer before the age of 70.

Which highlights the importance of being SunSmart and protecting your skin and eyes from

months, particularly if it grows in size, shape, or if you notice a change in colour and irregular border, a persistent itch, or a non-healing sore that easily bleeds, these can all be a sign of skin cancer.

Skin cancers are generally visible so are more detectable at an early stage.

Early detection and prompt treatment leads to a greater chance of a cure.

But it must be diagnosed early.

The saying prevention is better than cure is particularly relevant to skin cancer and can be lifesaving with early detection so make sure you visit a skin specialist today.

Don’t put it off any longer.

Our friendly, caring and knowledgeable team of doctors and nurses looks forward to providing the Farm World patrons, locals and farming community with bulk billed skin cancer checks.

And don’t forget to wear a hat, sunscreen, long-sleeve shirt and your sunglasses when you walk around outside.

excessive sunlight and following up with regular skin checks.

Skin cancer does not discriminate and is not as some people might think an old person’s disease.

Sun damage just keeps adding up and eventually is likely to become a skin cancer.

DID YOU KNOW…. * In 2019 there were 15,229 diagnoses of melanoma of the skin - close to one diagnosis every half hour; * Melanoma is the third most common cancer in Australian men, after prostate and colorectal cancer; * Melanoma is the third most common cancer in Australian women, after breast and colorectal cancer; * Melanoma is the most common cancer affecting 15 to 39-year-old Australians; * In 2020, it is predicted that there will be 1726 deaths from melanoma of the skin - that is one Australian every five hours.

What to look out for …

If a mole or freckle changes over a period of

Com

e vis

it us

at sit

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

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LITHIUM BATTERY SYSTEMS Since 2014, Halen Vans has been specialising in Lithium battery systems. Along with our solar panels, chargers and inverters, you can harness the sun's energy, and can go anywhere, anytime.

Huge range of linkage models available also.

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Page 10 - Southern Farmer Feature

March 2020

FA R M W O R L D

26 - 29th March, 2020

Get ready to be inspired THE Telstra Women in Ag luncheon, now a signature event on the Farm World calendar, provides the perfect platform to not only hear from some inspirational speakers, but also to network and liaise with a room full of energetic, talented women.

Patron of the Telstra Women in Ag event, Angela Betheras, winner of the 2011 Victorian Agri-futures Rural Woman of the Year award, initiated this event in 2012 as a way of celebrating the significant contribution that women make in rural and regional Australia, many of who she met through her award travels.

So many fabulous women making huge impacts in their businesses and communities, and through the Telstra Women in Ag lunch, we wish to celebrate them.

This year’s luncheon will feature speakers who will engage, inspire and motivate you with their personal and professional journeys.

Their stories are from the heart and will challenge you to think outside the box, believe in your abilities and provide some real life, day to day experiences – both the trials and celebrations.

It’s an afternoon for fabulous networking in a casual and charismatic environment over a delicious lunch and a glass of wine.

So, grab your friends, round up your colleagues and book your tickets online now.

Meet our speakers at Telstra Women in Ag Lunch 2020:

Frauke Bolten-Boshammer – Kimberley Fine Diamonds Kimberley Fine Diamonds proprietor Frauke Bolten-Boshammer lives by a motto that more than aptly encapsulates the inspiring story behind her enormously successful foray into the diamond industry – “never begin to give up and never give up beginning”.

When a tragic accident took the life of her husband just three years after immigrating to Australia from Germany, the then 37-year-old Frauke was alone in the most desolate place on earth.

She had a choice - to take her four young children home to her family or forge a new life chasing what seemed an impossible dream - to open a boutique diamond business in the heart of the outback.

In 1984 the small town of Kununurra in the east Kimberley was totally undeveloped.

It was dry, maddeningly hot and still very much a man’s wilderness.

What on earth would it want with a European style diamond house?

With no background in the jewellery trade, how would Frauke successfully make her mark in such dangerously unchartered territory?

The tourism potential of the area was yet to be realised but in true pioneering spirit, Frauke was convinced a business opportunity with limitless bounds was waiting to be capitalised upon so set about making her vision of promoting Argyle Diamonds a reality.

TWIAG: DIAMOND IN THE DUST: Frauke Bolten-Boshammer of Kimberley Fine Diamonds is one of the inspirational speakers who will address the luncheon.

In 1991, Frauke opened her own store in Kununurra, Kimberley Fine Diamonds, where she did everything from designing jewellery to cleaning the store in between educating herself about diamonds and the industry.

Within five years Kimberley Fine Diamonds moved to new premises in the town that was double the size.

Frauke became a panel member and appointed distributor of the exclusive Argyle Diamonds and built an international network within the industry.

Twenty-eight years on, Kimberley Fine Diamonds is now one of Australia’s largest suppliers of the rarest diamonds in the world, the

exquisite pink diamond.

Kimberley Fine Diamonds’ range of pink diamonds is sought the world over and includes diamonds acquired from the exclusive Argyle Pink Diamond Tender at the nearby Argyle Diamond Mine.

With the closure of the Argyle mine imminent, the interest in their ‘Beyond Rare’ TM beauties is growing each and every day.

In 2018, Frauke released her memoir, written by Gippsland local, Sue Smethurst.

A Diamond in the Dust is a tale of love and loss, hardship and heartache, but ultimately the inspiring story of how a young girl from Germany overcame tragedy to pioneer an international diamond

empire in one of the most unforgiving terrains on earth.

The release of A Diamond in the Dust has inspired visitors from all over Australia to come and visit our region to see for themselves the amazement and wonder described within its pages.

Megan Williams – The Camel Milk Co. This is not your average love story.

For Megan, a born and bred Victorian dairy farmer, life during the past four years has been so much more than a walk in the park.

Megan first met her partner Chris in the Northern Territory where they both lived and worked on Andado Station, one of Australia’s largest privatelyowned cattle stations.

With a passion for living on the land and working with animals, the couple decided to move to Kyabram in Victoria, and join Megan’s parents share farming on an 800-head dairy farm.

But the urge was always there to do something more, so inspired by a program about camel milk and its benefits, they began to explore the potential of farming these distinctive creatures.

After months of research and training, they purchased their first three camels from a lady in Border Town, South Australia.

Soon after that came another 14, then 25 and so on.

A purpose-built processing room to process and bottle the camel milk for sale was created and with this came

Weedwakka deals with your weeds quickly and efficiently WHETHER you are farming, contracting or clearing the back yard, you need Australia’s safest cutting attachment – the Weedwakka.

A specialised cutting attachment for your brushcutter that is designed to eliminate the frustration of using nylon cord and conventional blades, the Weedwakka is an innovative approach to an age old problem.

David Thorne developed Weedwakka for heavy vegetation, such as blackberries, saying the attached steel blades could cut anything from grass to woody weeds without ever needing sharpening.

“If the blades strike a rock, they are able to deflect, greatly reducing the kick back, and minimising the stress on the brush-cutter,” he said.

“This makes the Weedwakka Heavy Duty ideal for clearing scrub in

rocky country.”

There are two models of Weedwakka – the Weedwakka Heavy Duty and Weedwakka Multicut.

The Weedwakka Multicut has flexible nylon blades that cut cleanly through much heavier vegetation than nylon cord will handle.

The blades are clearly visible when rotating, and can be used around trees without damaging the bark.

The MultiCut is ideal for cutting along paths, walls and netting fences, as it eliminates the constant breakage and rapid wear common to nylon cord.

When the blades are worn, they can be replaced in seconds without the use of tools.

Both Weedwakka models are designed for straight shaft brush-cutters, and are easily attached in exactly the same way as a conventional steel blade.

the enormous task of learning all there is to know about food handling laws and the strict testing that’s required.

The business has now moved to a 480-acre farm milking 60 camels and home to almost 300.

Their fresh milk is sent to regional areas, most major cities around Australia, plus shipments to Singapore and Malaysia.

And alongside the milk, Chris and Megan also introduced a camel milk skincare range including body butters, hand cream, lip balms, soap and body wash.

With loads of product ideas to add to their portfolio and an ever-growing clientele recognising the health benefits of camel milk, the future is definitely looking bright for this innovative couple.

The Telstra Women in Ag lunch will be held from 11:45am – 2:30pm on Thursday, March 26.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.lardnerpark. com.au and are $60 each or a table of 10 for $500.

Ticket price includes entry to Farm World, Telstra Women in Ag presentations, lunch, gift bag and a glass of wine or soft drink on arrival.

This event is proudly supported by Telstra.

Catering by Khan’s Hospitality Services.

For further information please contact: Jo Kingwill - marketing and communications manager, Lardner Park on jo@lardnerpark.com.au.

WEEDWAKKA Brushcutting made easy...

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WEEDWAKKA Heavy Duty Cut blackberry & lantana with ease

WEEDWAKKA Multi Cut Out performs nylon cord in every way

CRAZY ABOUT WEEDS: Dave Thorne is the second generation in his family to run Weedwakka after his dad invented the Australian designed and made product some 20 years ago.

Weedwakka Pty Ltd (03) 9844 4512 www.weedwakka.com.au

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March 2020

Southern Farmer Feature - Page 11

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Page 12 - Southern Farmer Feature

March 2020

BUY DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER AND SAVE!

Farm World 2020: Stand BBP 18

Premix Manufacturers and chemical processors, custom blending, milling, sieving and packaging

Loose Lick Mineral & Vitamin Supplement A range of weather-resistant and mineral loose lick supplement specifically formulated for cattle, sheep/goats, horses and alpacas.

WEATHER RESISTANT COST EFFECTIVE SCIENTIFICALLY FORMULATED Supplied in 25kg bags or in bulk bags

Propharma has been manufacturing and providing services to the stockfeed, veterinary, pharmaceutical and food industries for over 35 years. We have an excellent reputation for high quality & dependability, we are well known for specialising in custom manufacture of small quantities.

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Our strength lies in being able to align: r multiple systems (quality, OHS, cGMP, HACCP etc.) r diverse client requirements; and r government programs and legislative requirements into a workable and successful model.

03 9794 7166 info@propharma.com.au www.propharma.com.au 6 Elliot Road, Dandenong Vic 3175