Southern Farmer August 2019

Page 1

Published since 1986

AUGUST, 2019

Nick and Vicki’s boutique operation

www.farmernews.com.au

Hay and silage

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PAGE 2-3

with GREG AND FIO O’BRIEN OF CALLISTA PARK

PAGE 18

PAGE 13-16

DAVID’S VEALER ENTERPRISE

DAVID Gibbs (pictured) runs Sussex Farm Vealers at Red Hill. The boutique operation turns out a limited number of vealers during the month of December, which he sells over the hooks to Cardinia Meats. Turn to pages 4 and 5 for the ‘Marketing the future’ story.

A truffle obsession

“FROM early childhood I used to go out with my father and collect mushrooms for eating,� said Dr Peter Stahle, VicWRULDQ WUXIp H IDUPHU DQG SUHVL GHQW RI WKH $XVWUDOLDQ 7UXIp H Growers’ Association. Foraging as a child instilled a love of nature in Peter, and KH GHYHORSHG D NHHQ LQVLJKW into the ground and the symbiRWLF UHODWLRQVKLSV WKDW H[LVWHG within it. This interest led to him

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Peter Stahle’s love of harvesting white gold

LQLWLDOO\ SXUVXLQJ D FDUHHU DV D research scientist for the DeSDUWPHQW RI $JULFXOWXUH VSH cialising in microbiology. ,W ZDV WKLV H[SHUWLVH WKDW made him the obvious choice to conduct an economic evaluDWLRQ RQ WKH SRVVLELOLW\ RI D WUXIp H LQGXVWU\ RQ PDLQODQG $XVWUDOLD ERWK IRU H[SRUW DQG GRPHVWLF FRQVXPSWLRQ

Though he had left the world of research science behind, DQG KDG HPEDUNHG RQ D FDUHHU in management consultancy, it ZDV KLV VFLHQWLo F EDFNJURXQG that assisted him most when conducting the study. “I got to travel the world eatLQJ DQG WDONLQJ WUXIp HV y 3HWHU UHPHPEHUHG DV SDUW RI KLV o HOG research.

7KH UHVHDUFK DOVR RSHQHG KLV H\HV WR WKH HFRQRPLF SR WHQWLDO RI WUXIp HV DV D FURS DQG he has been involved with the industry ever since. His initial foray into growLQJ WUXIp HV ZDV D MRLQW EXVLQHVV YHQWXUH LQ -DSDQ EHIRUH WKH <DNX]D WKH -DSDQHVH PDo D drove him out and he lost everything.

$IWHU VXFK DQ H[SHULHQFH something more familiar and FORVHU WR KRPH EHFNRQHG +LJKODQGV D UHJLRQ WXFNHG between Seymour, Yea and <DUFN SUHVHQWHG DQ RSSRUWX QLW\ ZLWK SHUIHFW FRQGLWLRQV DQG DPSOH UDLQIDOO IRU JURZLQJ WUXIp HV Peter also had fond memoULHV RI WKH UHJLRQ KDYLQJ VSHQW

his childhood visiting a friend whose family had lived there for generations. 7KH SUR[LPLW\ WR 0HO bourne also became a decidLQJ IDFWRU DV WUXIp HV RQFH KDU YHVWHG QHHG WR EH WUDQVSRUWHG UHODWLYHO\ TXLFNO\ LQ RUGHU WR UHWDLQ SRWHQF\ DQG PRLVWXUH 7DNLQJ DOO WKLV LQWR FRQVLG eration, in 2006 Peter and his ZLIH SXUFKDVHG DFUHV RI JUD]LQJ ODQG LQ +LJKODQGV

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Continued page 6

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Page 2, Southern Farmer

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Sher Wagyu is a “HOW often do I eat Wagyu?� k2K QRW PRUH WKDQ o YH WLPHV D ZHHN y 1LFN Sher said with a laugh. And so Nick sums up his love affair with Wagyu, and his fundamental role in the development of this product and the overall industry in Australia. Nick and Vicki Sher are Sher Wagyu, a boutique Wagyu operation based over three owned properties and seven agistment properties from south western Victoria to north eastern Victoria and the Riverina. Ballan, a small town between Bacchus Marsh and Ballarat, is home to the Shers, and it was here in the early 90s that they took the o UVW VWHSV LQWR WKH ZRUOG RI :DJ\X EUHHGLQJ In the late 1980s, Nick had researched Wagyus and thought they sounded interesting as they produced a completely different quality of meat from anything that was available at the time. “We didn’t have our own farm, or herd,� Nick said. “We basically started from nothing and needed to produce something for a niche market that had some real commercial possibilities.� And possibilities Wagyu did have. Firstly the Shers discovered there was potential for strong export market to Japan.

And after meeting with numerous Japanese distributors who expressed their interest, the 6KHUV SXUFKDVHG VRPH RI WKH o UVW :DJ\X HP bryos imported into Australia and bred the o UVW SXUHEUHG FDOYHV ERUQ KHUH LQ Japan was their focus, and live trade their initial market, with the Japanese interested to see the results of feeder cattle imported from $XVWUDOLD DQG WKHQ IHG XQGHU WKHLU VSHFLo F UH gime. In those early days the Japanese did not think that Australia would be able to feed the cattle to their exacting standards and produce the quality of meat they were after. But with the Shers excelling at producing quality pure and cross-bred Wagyu cattle, their customers enquired if they could progress from developing cattle to also processing it in Australia. Nick believed they were more than capable and the business evolved from live trade to meat sales. Feeding the cattle on a barley-based Japanese style ration, supplemented with hay, rolled grain, canola meal and wheat by-products, the Shers produced beef of a comparable quality to high-grade Japanese bred and fed Wagyu. The product was slightly different to meat developed in Japan, due to variances in feed

THE 2019 winter crop outlook is a mixed bag, with a solid, late break in Western Australia, Victoria and South Australia driving strong plantings, while New South Wales and Queensland continue to face very tough conditions. Released today, the National Australia Bank (NAB) Rural Commodities Wrap reports a national winter wheat crop outlook of 20.4 million tonnes, slightly lower than the ABARES June outlook of 21.2 million tonnes. NAB agribusiness economist, Phin Ziebell, said the bank’s assessment of the winter crop outlook was optimistic for Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia (WA), but substantially more subdued for New South Wales (NSW). “Our concern at this stage is that the Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a drier than average winter and start to spring, which would keep production low in the already dry eastern regions,� Mr Ziebell said. The NAB Rural Commodities

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Index rose 0.5 per cent in June, with record lamb prices and a slight upward trend in the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) both contributing factors. “Lamb prices are well into record territory, surging beyond 900c/kg amid strong demand and a drought induced supply short-

age. The ability of prices to remain at these levels through the spring p XVK UHPDLQV XQFHUWDLQ WKRXJK y Mr Ziebell said. “Wool is lower, with the Eastern Market Indicator below $18/ kg. While still a strong price, there is cause for caution should the trade dispute between China and the United States continue.� 7KH SUHPLXP IRU o QLVKHG DQG VRXWKHUQ FDWWOH FRQWLQXHV UHp HFW ing strong demand for beef and younger animals in regions able to support a growth in numbers. “Ultimately, tough northern conditions continue to put a brake on prices, and we don’t see a major upside to the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator unless NSW and Queensland receive good rain,� Mr Ziebell said. The report outlines that Global Dairy Trade auctions have been negative for four auctions in a row in USD terms, while opening prices for 2019-20 are generally very strong with Saputo opening at $6.80/kg and Fonterra at $6.60/kg. Farm input prices are mixed,

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with fertiliser trending lower on the back of softer urea and US natural gas prices, while feed has risen. “Domestic feed prices rose 2.5 SHU FHQW LQ -XQH WKH o UVW ULVH VLQFH December 2018. Overall, the NAB weighted feed grain index is at $290/t for June, having peaked at $386/t in October 2018,� Mr Ziebell said. “Challenging seasonal conditions in NSW and Queensland, combined with high lamb prices justifying higher supplementary feeding levels, will likely see eastern Australia import WA or international feed grain, driving higher cash prices.� On a state-by-state basis, higher grain prices saw WA, South Australia and NSW jump 3.2, 1.8 and 1.4 per cent respectively in June. Lower Global Dairy Trade auction results drove Victoria and Tasmania down 1.1 and 3.8 per cent respectively. Queensland was almost unchanged in June, up 0.2 per cent.

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and the production system, however, the Shers’ beef was greeted favourably by the Japanese market and so began a relationship with Japan that continues to this day. Nick likens the eating experience to the variety of good wines that exist on the market. There are variances and similarities but whether a particular variety is better than another is in the opinion of the consumer. “The Wagyu we produce is a really top quality product,� Nick said. “But what we produce is not as rich as the Japanese Wagyu. The Japanese Wagyu is very rich so you eat a much smaller quantity of it.� The Shers sell varying grades of Wagyu, from a range of cross bred and fullblood cattle, which dictates the level of marbling in the meat and ultimately the richness. They also now sell their product all over the world, with distributors in 14 countries, and a loyal customer base in Australia. “We are able to sell all the various grades of our product, with people in Australia chasing the higher marbling because they’re looking for that eating experience,� Nick said. Incidentally, Japan does not purchase the Shers’ top products, taking more secondary cuts employing their extensive knowledge and experience to use them.

Challenging seasonal conditions affect winter wheat crop outlook

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Southern Farmer, Page 3

boutique operation Ĺś

From page 2

The premium products go to different markets throughout Asia, USA and the Maldives, with some of the best products sold in Australia. These extensive export and local commitments primarily resulted from a need to branch out and not have so many eggs in one Japanese basket. In September 2001, Japan discovered a case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy or Mad Cow Disease, and the entire Japanese beef market collapsed. Then, when the market did rally, the Japanese had lost trust in meat from overseas and were reluctant to support imported products. If Nick did not have a loyal customer in Japan who honoured the business commitment to the Shers, their enterprise would have seriously suffered. However, the unpredictability of the market did force the same customer to hold off reordering until the situation had settled down, DQG 1LFN ZDV IRUFHG WR o QG QHZ PDUNHWV At the same time as expanding into Singapore and Hong Kong, people in Australia, predominantly chefs, had heard about the Shers’ product and started approaching them. From the original business model of supplying Japan, Nick was surprised at how strongly Sher Wagyu grew in Australia. Back in the early 2000s, there were very few branded beef products on the market, but the food scene has changed, and Wagyu is now a well-recognised and sought after commodity. Having such a strong product with loyal support from customers and consumers has ensured the business remains viable even under current trying conditions. “We’ve been through this pretty severe drought, which has meant a really high cost of feeding and feeding a lot more younger cattle than we normally would because there’s not enough pasture,� Nick said. “It’s not a great time at the moment, but our meat sales are still strong, so there is light at the end of the tunnel.� Consistent feed is a crucial part of any Wagyu operation, with Nick needing to ensure all cattle are raised on the same ingredients and rations. At harvest, the Shers had to source and purchase an entire year’s hay requirement to ensure they were covered. Grain is usually forward contracted and delivered on a regular basis. Cattle are then pasture raised until 18

PRQWKV DQG WKHQ o QLVKHG LQ IHHGORWV IRU EH tween 400 and 500 days. The weight gain is gradual at a kilogram per day, with each beast consuming between 12 and 15 kilograms of high roughage feed to maintain this growth. Nick monitors the cattle all the time, with no exact time for cattle to exit the feedlots. k7KH\ o QLVK DW GLIIHUHQW VWDJHV DQG WKHQ they’re ready to be processed,� Nick said. “They get to a stage, where that’s it, they’re o QLVKHG DQG WKHUH V QR EHQHo W IRU \RX RU WKH animal to keep it going.� The added maturity of the cattle assists with marbling development and ensures that their bodies can handle the weight gain, with the majority of the beasts going to slaughter weighing in at about 750 kilograms. The Shers process 400 head per month, around 5000 per year. To keep this operation running smoothly, Nick maintains 7000 cattle in the feedlots at any one time. It is a massive undertaking. However, it is necessary for the consistency of the product that Sher Wagyu is renowned for. This consistency has been honed and perfected since the early 90s and the arrival of WKRVH o UVW :DJ\X HPEU\RV They have constantly looked at genetics and researched fat composition, to tailor their genetic herd and add to it. 7KH\ KDYH UHo QHG KRZ WKH\ IHHG WKH FDWWOH DQG WKH DOO LPSRUWDQW JUDLQ o QLVKLQJ And the Shers have addressed grazing management, and improved soil and pasture composition. With a changing climate, they have also instigated different farm management techniques to cope with more volatile weather conditions. All this and they are still very hands-on in a farming operation of 15,000 head of cattle overall. “From where we started it has certainly become more complex and challenging,� Nick said. “But you don’t start off doing it all at once, you start off breeding cattle, and then it has all evolved. “I didn’t think we’d end up with this branded product, marketing our beef into 14 different countries and working directly with chefs. “It’s been a fantastic ride and we’ve loved it.�

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Page 4, Southern Farmer

August 2019

Marketing the future F

or small scale farmers who have employed more labour intensive models of farming focusing on best practice, it is often GLIo FXOW WR GHPDQG WKH SULFHV necessary to sustain their endeavours. Selling direct to consumers usually means lower costs and overheads and a lower number of restraints. However, with these benHo WV WKHUH H[LVW ULVNV WKDW FDQ easily derail a farm business trying to get their share of that lucrative retail dollar. Demand for products may p XFWXDWH PRUH IUHTXHQWO\ WKDQ WKH ZKROHVDOH PDUNHW and typically the volume of products sold is lower overall. A Department of Agriculture study found more time needs to be spent by farmers RQ PDUNHWLQJ DQG GLVWULEX tion, and often farmers need to increase their income by value-adding and identifying various possibilities of farmrelated enterprise to add to their portfolio. With agri-tourism being one push from state and local governments, the endeavour is to help farmers stay on the land and give them strategies to grow and improve the resilience of their business. Studies indicate that an urbanised population is increasingly wanting to connect with

Primary producers embrace different approaches to ensure that all food produced can be sold, and at a price that reflects true production value Å°

growers and rural landscapes, DQG WKLV EHQHo WV WKRVH ZLVK ing to establish a farm gate or VHOO DW D ORFDO PDUNHW The Victorian Farmers MarNHW $VVRFLDWLRQ DWWHPSWV WR support local producers by reTXLULQJ WKH VWDOO KROGHU WR KDYH either grown, reared, caught or processed the produce. The objective is a fair marNHWSODFH VHOOLQJ IUHVK ZKROH some and locally grown produce not compromised by resellers. However, with 22 per cent of Victorian farmers selling direct to the public in some caSDFLW\ WKH TXHVWLRQ DULVHV DV to why more farmers are not WDNLQJ DGYDQWDJH RI WKH EHW WHU SURo W PDUJLQV RIIHUHG E\ direct sales. 6PDOO GLYHUVLo HG IDUPV DUH

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NH\ FRQWHQGHUV IRU VHOOLQJ GL rect to the public, with many choosing this option as the only viable income stream WKDW UHp HFWHG WUXH SURGXFWLRQ costs. However, according to the Australian Government Department of Agriculture the percentage of farmers who acWXDOO\ PDGH D SURo W IURP VHOO ing direct to the public via farm gates was only 50 per cent. Furthermore, only 21 per cent overall managed to earn more than 90 per cent of their income via these means. This struggle results in IDUPHUV KDYLQJ WR o QG RII IDUP ZRUN LQ RUGHU WR VXUYLYH and hinders their ability to LPSURYH WHFKQLTXHV DQG XS grade infrastructure.

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PRIMARY PRODUCER: Anna Kelly of Plains Paddock Lamb

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August 2019

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From page 4

A

nna Kelly of Plains Paddock Lamb sold her meat at markets for nearly a decade. It was the drought and the cost of production that forced her to walk away from her market enterprise. Unable to pass on the cost she refused to pay for feed and just had to reduce her stock numbers. Based in Kyneton but farming on the family farm in Deniliquin also made the weekly kilometres to service her marNHW FRPPLWPHQWV GLIo FXOW WR sustain. Markets had also changed over the years, and with the price of booking a stall at a market increasing, compounded with the additional costs of insurance, fuel and labour, stallholders had become a little more stressed. “In the beginning it was the best place to be,â€? Anna said. “All the other traders were willing to share their experiences. “They would stand in your stall. “They would set up your tent with you. “Everyone was happy and there was a lot of love. “It was a fun place to be. “But over the years more people started trying to get that retail dollar, a lot more farmers wanting to get paid properly for their produce, it became more competitive‌and I don’t know if you’re getting that many more new shoppers.â€? There has been an explosion of markets and stall holders, however, shopper demand

has not necessarily risen at the same rate. “We need more people, we need more customers,� Anna said. “I would go back to the markets, if I could pick the good ones. “In the early days I sold to the restaurants, to a few butchers. “There were the markets, and then later on there was a food stall, value-adding with lamb burgers. “As money goes, the food VWDOO ZDV WKH EHVW SURo W PDU gin, and I was able to use all my product. “On a personal level though the markets gave me the most satisfaction. “It wasn’t a monetary thing, it was a relationship thing. “Getting the feedback was always great, it would inspire you.� It is also the feedback that continuously inspires David Gibbs of Sussex Farm Vealers, in Red Hill. David sells over the hook to Cardinia Meats and they sell direct to the butchers. David does inspect every single carcass with the buyers, to get a sense of how the animals are presenting at kill. The feedback is invaluable for monitoring progeny and improving his farming practice. “I occasionally go to the butcher shop with the carcassHV WKDW DUH LGHQWLo HG DV PLQH and I talk to the butcher about how the meat is cutting,� David said. “I follow the supply chain one more step.

Southern Farmer, Page 5

that autumn and winter and it went really well, and it just progressed from there.â€? The CSA system has changed the way that the Wyatts farm, creating a more stable farm model and income. “If we have a crop that fails the subscribers just don’t get it,â€? Tim said. “We try and make it up somehow with other stuff. “However, if it’s just Mother Nature, we all take a hit, instead of just me the farmer taking a hit.â€? It has also given them access to a demographic who want quality organic food but can’t HARVEST: Tim Wyatt of Angelica Organics harvests the crop 24 hours before delivery so all get to the farmers’ markets. produce is fresh and premium quality. Farmers’ markets have been “The butchers are often a lit- tions itself under the banner of ing the rewards of organic or the best and most easily accesMornington Peninsula Produce agro-ecological farming but sible market for many smalltle bemused by my question. DQG LWV UHSXWDWLRQ IRU o UVW FODVV also the risks, and allows the time producers for the last “What do you mean? k,W V FXWWLQJ o QH KDV EHHQ agricultural practices and pro- farmer to plan and budget for decade. duce, and this commands Da- the agricultural season. the response.â€? However, as models of food Although Sussex Farm is a vid a better wholesale dollar. “We initially started off pro- production and distribution boutique operation, turning eputation has also ducing boxes but we didn’t adapt to accommodate changout between 20 and 30 vealers proven important to have enough practical experi- ing time and lifestyle restraints during the month of DecemTim and Deri-Anne ence in farming to make it a vi- for farmers, many need to look ber, the nature of his product Wyatt of Angelica Organics able farm business,â€? Tim said. to alternatives to market their dictates marketing choices. “Putting the weekly boxes produce. in Glenlyon enabling them to Markets and farm gates are evolve from weekly vegetable RQ LQGHo QLWH KLDWXV ZH IRFXVHG Many farm gates like Ravens not an option, and restaurants boxes to selling at markets to on farmers’ markets, restau- Creek in Moriac sell all the proneed a continuous supply of o QDOO\ VHWWOLQJ RQ &RPPXQLW\ rants and shop supply. duce grown on farm directly meat. “We really loved farmers’ to the public, and strategically Supported Agriculture(CSA). David has found that it is This model directly supports markets, really loved connect- value-add with a cafĂŠ on-site. too hard for both butchers and labour intensive small farms, ing with other people. This model works for a restaurants to do point of sale with a guaranteed income k,W GHo QLWHO\ KHOSHG EXLOG small biodiverse farm wishing marketing for just the month of from the start of the produc- our business. to make its entire living off 90 December. “But I just got to this point in acres. tion year – from seed purchasSo while it is a quality prod- ing onwards. However, this model does life where going to the markets uct from a small acreage farm, In this farm share program every weekend, and doing de- not suit such producers as Dathe enterprise does not lend members purchase up-front liveries on Friday as well, was vid Gibbs or Anna Kelly. itself to any sales direct to the a share of the annual season’s physically killing me. In chasing the elusive retail public. “Then there was one market dollar, the growing public deharvest, and in return receive a “You can get my meat only weekly supply of fresh, premi- that was not paying for itself. mand to know where their food in December never leads to um quality, organically grown “We’d been told about CSA comes from and how it is grown any sales,â€? David said. from a lady who was doing may be the farmer’s best means vegetables. Sussex Farm instead posiIt is based on not only shar- pigs, and so we did a trial over of marketing their future.

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Page 6, Southern Farmer

August 2019

A truffle obsession Ĺś

From page 1

He then undertook the monumental task of inoculatLQJ KLV RZQ WUHHV ZLWK WUXIp H VSRUHV IURP WUXIp HV LPSRUWHG from Italy. Tuber borchii, a white trufp H ZDV WKH FKRVHQ IXQJL DQG Italian stone pines were the trees of choice for the process. The process, however, proved to be an absolute nightmare, with pathogenic species of fungus infecting the trees raised in his glasshouse. With limited results, Peter was relieved to discover Colin &DUWHU RI 7UXIo FXOWXUH 1XUVHU ies had trees inoculated with Tuber borchii, and the Black 3HULJRUG WUXIp H 7XEHU PHOD nosporum. Peter purchased these to bolster his investment. 1RZ KH KDV WKUHH DFUHV XQ GHU WUXIp HV LQ D WUXIo ĂĄUH WKDW LV well fenced to deter predators and has good access to water. The soil is regularly monitored for moisture content, and the PH is maintained around the high sevens. 7KH WUXIo ĂĄUH SURGXFHV ERWK ZKLWH WUXIp HV DQG EODFN WUXI p HV Harvesting both types of WUXIp HV WDNHV SODFH IURP -XQH until September, and the trufp HV ULSHQ VHTXHQWLDOO\ k7KH WUXIp HV KDYH EHHQ growing since early summer, DQG WKHQ WKH\ UHDFK WKHLU o QDO size and start ripening once the cold hits,â€? Peter said. “A good frost commences the ripening process.

“It is the trigger.â€? 7KHLU GRJ -RVÂŚ 3HWHU VDLG “is the world’s only pedigree WUXIp H SXJy DQG LW LV KH WKDW LQGLFDWHV ZKHQ WKH WUXIp HV DUH ready. 7UXIp HV DUH WKHQ VROG GLUHFW ly to restaurants in Sydney and Melbourne, mainly to contacts who have approached Peter for KLV TXDOLW\ SURGXFW “It’s a real pleasure to provide that service to the restaurants,â€? he said. He did clarify though, “It is important to remember that even though you harvest umpWHHQ NLORJUDPV RI WUXIp HV RQO\ so much of it is of commercial value because the restaurants do like perfect form, nice and round, a good size.â€? This form is partly a result of aerated sandy soil that allows WKH WUXIp HV WR IRUP D QLFH QHDW ball. It is also reliant on controlling invertebrate pests who ORYH WR IHHG RQ WUXIp HV “Millipedes, slaters and VOXJV LQ SDUWLFXODU DUH D VLJQLo cant issue when growing trufp HV FRPPHUFLDOO\ y 3HWHU VDLG k7KH o UVW KDUYHVW ZDV IDQ tastic, very little damage by insects and invertebrates, and then they discovered the crop and their numbers built up.â€? Pest control is now one of Peter’s main concerns, as slugs really make a huge mess of the WUXIp HV 7KH $XVWUDOLDQ 7UXIp H Growers’ Association has successfully applied for a minor use permit for the use of che-

lated iron as a molluscicide in WUXIo ĂĄUHV Peter hopes this may be a JDPH FKDQJHU IRU WUXIp H JURZ ers. This is just one of numerous breakthroughs and discoveries LQ UHODWLRQ WR VXFFHVVIXO WUXIp H production in Australia. From the effect of different sites to different soils, and the results produced by varied tree KRVWV DQG WKHLU URRWV WUXIp H growers are garnering a better understanding of their crop. With Dr Peter Stahle at the KHOP RI WKH 7UXIp H *URZHUV Association knowledge can only continue to grow. His has been a lifetime dedicated to learning and exploring, and ultimately celebrating A MAN AND HIS PUG: Peter Stahle and JosĂŠ battling the elements on the quest for ripe truffles. WKH WUXIp H

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TUBER BORCHII: Bounty from the Highlands.

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August 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 7

Decades of septic system misery, banished in days. Queensland couple Mike and Rose Maynard talk about their decadeslong battle with septic tank odours and fouling, and the environmentally friendly solution that restored their pride in their home within two weeks.

“Our septic system was put in when we built in 1988,� says Mike Maynard from his rural property in sunny Queensland. “Over the years we have had continuing problems with the system not working properly. The area around the trench would get so wet and boggy that we could not even walk near it, let alone use the mower.� But that wasn’t the worst bit of their dysfunctional septic system. “The smell would become almost overpowering at times,� says Mike, “especially when it rained or when we had visitors to stay, which was quite embarrassing.�

The stink that stuck The problem wouldn’t go away, which is common with septic tanks and wastewater treatment systems. “As time went on, the smell was becoming a constant thing,â€? explains Rose. Septic systems are much like a digestive system for your house. Just as you need healthy bacteria in your body, your septic system needs a healthy balance of good bacteria to process the waste from your home. Otherwise, problems occur and recur. “We were at a loss as to what to do to ďŹ x it, apart from getting the septic pumped out again, digging up and replacing the trench, or even replacing the whole system – all expensive options,â€? says Rose. “But then we read in a magazine about Ecocare Activator.â€?

Cleaners don’t cut it Often confused with traditional septic system cleaning products, Ecocare Activator is much more than a cleaner.

Sound advice about odours “My husband rang and spoke at length to George at Insight Environmental about our problem and, based on that conversation and George’s assurances, we decided to try Ecocare Activator,� says Rose. “We thought, ‘Really, what do we have to lose,’ as it is only a fraction of the cost of the other options we had.� What happened next surprised Mike and Rose, but not George.

Fast forward for the Maynards “We were astounded by the results and how quickly it happened,� says Rose with a smile. “Within a couple of weeks the smell was gone and you could see the area around the trench drying – something that had not happened for twenty years or more.� That was in the winter of 2013. Today, Mike and Rose still have a healthy, odour-free septic system. “We now have a dry paddock,� Mike explains. “We can mow and walk all around the area. “We could not be happier with the results and will continue to use this fabulous product.�

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NEWS

Page 8, Southern Farmer

August 2019

Top line up at VFF Peninsula branch night CELEBRATING the vibrancy of agriculture on the peninsula, the Victorian Farmers Federation is hosting its annual dinner on Saturday, August 24. The success of past events has made this night one to mark in the calendar, with this year’s line-up of guest speakers sure to entertain. Captain Roy Stanbrook, harbour master of the Port of

AWARD WINNER: Victorian Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award winner Claire Moore will be a guest speaker on the evening.

Melbourne, should definitely have more than a story or two, having held similar roles in both London and Gibraltar. The Victorian AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Winner for 2019, Claire Moore has an interesting tale to tell also. Her research has been in breeding genetically diverse queen bees that are healthy and adapt-

able in a variety of climates. Addressing the decline in bee colonies and engineering solutions is a subject all farmers should find heartening. Well-considered entertainment has been matched with an equally impressive venue for the event. The Pier 10 Winery Restaurant has been consistently well reviewed, commended

not only for its firstclass wine and food but also its excellent customer service and lovely location. All this, and the opportunity to meet your neighbours and support agriculture and farmers’ interests in Victoria. Previous events have proven to be extremely popular and well worth attending, so make it your priority to book tickets now.

It’s bee’s knees over $5m boost KEY crops will receive a pollination boost under a new research project that investigates novel technology and practices for optimising pollination in protected cropping environments. The $4.7 million grant, awarded under round four of the Rural ReVHDUFK DQG 'HYHORSPHQW IRU 3URo W program by the Department of Agriculture, aims to improve and advance innovative methods of mechanical pollination to achieve SROOLQDWLRQ DUWLo FLDOO\ DQG LQ FUHDVH LQVHFW SROOLQDWRU HIo FDF\ and pollination by improving the performance of honeybees under covers. Hort Innovation research and development manager for pollination, Ashley Zamek, said this was a collaborative research project that brings lead researchers across $XVWUDOLD WRJHWKHU ZLWK VLJQLo FDQW commercial growers, private industry groups, government and peak industry bodies to increase the uptake of knowledge to improve and sustain high yields in protected cropping systems that UHWXUQ KLJK IDUP JDWH SURo WDELOLW\

“Protected cropping covers over three million hectares of crops globally to increase the reliability or duration of production,� she said. “In addition to protection from extreme weather, covers are also advantageous as they can prevent foreign pollen contamination that results in reduced yields or undesirable hybrids in seed production. “This project aims to increase WKH SURGXFWLYLW\ DQG SURo WDELO ity of pollination-dependent crops grown under protected cropping systems. k:H ZLOO XVH RXU VFLHQWLo F H[SHU tise and strong connections with industry partners to develop new mechanical pollination methods, improve plant reproduction and increase the effectiveness of insect vectors and pollination under covers. “The methods developed will EHQHo W DOO SROOLQDWLRQ GHSHQGHQW cropping systems in the fruit and vegetable seed industries, including berries, apples, cherries, carrot DQG FDXOLp RZHU ZLWK D FRPELQHG worth of over $2.4 billion per an-

num in Australia. “This project expects these tools to enhance productivity and return on investment by approximately 2 per cent annually.� Ms Zamek said the project will also build on knowledge and expertise gained across other relevant research programs already funded through the Hort Frontiers Pollination Fund and run by the project partners the University of Tasmania, University of New England, University of Adelaide, Plant and Food Research Australia, Seed Purity and NSW DPI. Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie said the Liberal and National government’s Rural R&D for 3URo W SURJUDP ZRXOG KHOS SXW FXW ting edge research and technology into the hands of farmers. “Investing in pollination now is vital to securing Australia’s food supply in the future,� Minister McKenzie said. “There is a strong link between research and development, and agricultural productivity growth, the returns are far greater than the investment.�

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August 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 9

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NEWS

Page 10, Southern Farmer

August 2019

Australian 2019 vintage grape crushes predictions THE Australian winegrape crush for 2019 is estimated to be 1.73 million tonnes, just one per cent below the 10-year average, according to the National Vintage Report 2019 released by Wine Australia. 7KLV o JXUH LV ZHOO DERYH early predictions that the harvest would be 10–20 per cent down on the 2018 vintage. Wine Australia chief execuWLYH RIo FHU $QGUHDV &ODUN GH scribed the announcement as welcome news for the sector. “This is a good-sized crop that will ensure Australia can continue to supply its export DQG GRPHVWLF PDUNHWV FRP fortably,� he said. “It further reinforces Australian winegrowers’ ability to deliver consistent winegrape harvests and mitigate WKH HIIHFWV RI GLIo FXOW ZHDWK er conditions such as those widely reported during the 2019 season.� 0U &ODUN VDLG PDQ\ UH JLRQV GLG VXIIHU VLJQLo FDQW losses, including the Barossa, $GHODLGH +LOOV DQG &ODUH 9DO ley, which were the worst affected in tonnage terms, but yields were generally not as low as originally feared. The effects of heat and dryness were mitigated by good

canopy management and irrigation regimes, while the dryer season reduced disease pressure, and the lower yields were offset by exceptional FRORXU DQG p DYRXU LQ WKH UH sulting wines. 7KH /LPHVWRQH &RDVW UH JLRQV &RRQDZDUUD 3DGWKD way and Wrattonbully) produced much larger crops than their low-yielding 2018 vintage, while the warm inland regions (Riverland, Riverina and Murray Darling– Swan Hill) had very similar crops to last year, demonstrating the ability of managed irrigation, where available, to offset the effects of heat and dryness. “It needs to be remembered that Australia frequently experiences drier conditions and we have been modifying our viticultural techniques, including canopy management and irrigation, to suit our climate for decDGHV y 0U &ODUN VDLG Winegrape value grows strongly The lower yields were balanced by higher grape prices with the average value of winegrapes reaching $664 per tonne, up by more than $50 per tonne (9 per cent) on the 2018 average value of

per cent) to 356,250 tonnes – its lowest crush in the past o YH \HDUV This brought its share of the national crush down to 22 per cent, in line with its share of exports in 2018. 7KH 3URVHFFR FUXVK ZDV XS 42 per cent to 9936 tonnes. It has increased its crush volume by an average of nearly 50 per cent each year since 2015, mirroring similar sales growth in the domestic ZLQH PDUNHW DQG LW LV QRZ WKH tenth largest white variety by production volume. Shiraz remained the dominant variety with 418,364 tonnes – accounting for 44 per cent of the red crush and GRAPE EXPORT PRICE RISE: Growth in export value underpins the continuing success of the 24 per cent of the total crush – Australian wine sector. despite its crush being down port value over the past 20 to increased premiums paid $611 per tonne. by two per cent compared for Australian winegrapes.� 7KLV o JXUH LV WKH KLJK years continued in 2019. with last year. The main varieties align Average export value inHVW VLQFH PDNLQJ Shiraz accounts for 29 per WKH o IWK FRQVHFXWLYH YLQWDJH creased by nine per cent in with demand cent of exported Australian Red varieties generally where the average purchase the year ended March 2019 to ZLQH DQG H[SRUWV JUHZ E\ o YH fared better than whites in price for winegrapes has in- its highest level since 2009. per cent in volume in 2018. “Growth in export value terms of yield, with the red creased. The survey The total farmgate value of underpins the continuing crush up by 16,224 tonnes The National Vintage ReAustralian winegrapes is es- success of the Australian (2 per cent) compared with port is based on a survey of timated to be $1.17 billion in wine sector, with exports ac- 2018, while whites were ZLQHPDNHUV FRQGXFWHG LQ 2019, a six per cent increase counting for 63 per cent of down 66,949 tonnes (8 per May–June 2019. despite the reduction in ton- ZLQH SURGXFWLRQ y 0U &ODUN cent). Responses were received Most varieties showed only said. nage. from over 570 businesses, “It is pleasing to see the val- small changes overall, ex0U &ODUN VDLG WKH VWURQJ estimated to account for 88 correlation between wine- ue growth in Australian wine FHSW &KDUGRQQD\ ZKLFK ZDV per cent of all winegrapes grape prices and average ex- LQ H[SRUW PDUNHWV WUDQVODWLQJ down by 47,975 tonnes (12 crushed in 2019.

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August 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 11

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NEWS

Page 12, Southern Farmer

August 2019

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

GOVERNMENT GRANTS BENEFIT EXPORT INDUSTRY: DIT Pty Ltd has received a grant from the Federal Government to accelerate commercialisation in the livestock export industry valued at $1.2 million as part of the country’s national Entrepreneurs’ Program. Pictured is Direction Injection Technologies founder Mark Peart.

Historical rate cut means opportunity for farmers to $30,000 instant asset deduction. Increasing revenue through exports should be another consideration. A lower Australian dollar THE Reserve Bank of Australia cutting the cash rate could set your farm up for the allows greater sale returns, therefore investing into export to a record low of 1 per cent future. Otherwise, using a basic cal- opportunities or increasing/dimeans money has never been culation, if you are in a position versifying stock (using savings so cheap. Farmers who have been to maintain current payment made from loan rates) may ofSXWWLQJ RII o QDQFLDO GHFLVLRQV amounts, you may be able to fer positive results. Potential savings could also or projects until conditions im- pay down the loan in approxiprove, may need to act now to mately 20 years rather than afford a part-time farm emtake advantage of current op- 30, with $300,000 allocated to ployee to relieve some of the your principal loan and sav- workload. portunities. $V ZHOO DV REYLRXV EHQHo WV Although many farmers are ing $150,000 in bank interest currently operating in survival (based on interest being 3.5 to the community, being able mode, doing it tough physi- per cent over this period and to get off the farm for some FDOO\ o QDQFLDOO\ DQG PHQWDOO\ not including sliding scale of respite, or get important jobs done that were being put off, taking the time now to seek reducing principal). Other prospects to consider can improve overall wellbeing. DGYLFH RQ \RXU o QDQFLDO RS Unfortunately, interest rate tions may provide some relief include transitioning out of farming through succession, drops may affect earnings on to added pressures. ([HFXWLYH RIo FHU RI 5XUDO sale and retirement planning, savings. With current Farm ManageFinancial Counselling Service scaling, diversifying or changGippsland Kylie Holmes rec- ing industries, export sales, ment Deposit (FMD) mostly ommends “if you’re managing farm improvements, farm ranging between 1.8 per cent a farm loan and paying down management deposits, or la- – 2.5 per month for 12 month o [HG WHUPV VHHNLQJ DGYLFH UH debt on an interest rate higher bour hire. The opportunity to transi- JDUGLQJ YDULDEOH YV o [HG UDWH than 4 per cent, now is the time to revaluate your loan op- tion out of farming through options could be favourable. If you hold a mortgage or sale, retirement or passing tions�. “Lenders are being encour- onto the next generation, is other credit with your FMD provider, there may be an opaged to do more for farmers now. /RZ FRVW RI o QDQFLQJ QRZ portunity to negotiate a higher with the Federal Minister for Water Resources, Drought, makes it affordable to buy fam- savings rate over a lower credit Rural Finance, Natural Disas- ily members out of the farm, rate, or offset lending, which ter and Emergency Manage- expand the business, pur- DJDLQ FRXOG EH PRUH EHQHo FLDO ment recently calling on banks, chase assets, or sell property depending on long-term forewhich have made millions at a higher value and/or more casting. Financial management is infrom farmers over the years, to quickly. Applying the savings to farm tricate and individual to farmer do the right thing and pass on rate cuts in full, so farmers get management and improve- needs, goals and ability to rement activities, including pas- pay debt. WKH IXOO EHQHo W y .\OLH VDLG Therefore, it is highly rec“If your lender has not ture and stock recovery in dry SDVVHG RQ D VLJQLo FDQW UDWH FXW areas, could be refundable via ommended to utilise advice contact them and instigate a current government grants, IURP D o QDQFLDO SODQQHU RU DF allowing you to reapply the countant. renegotiation.� Otherwise if you require furRenegotiating a $1 million funds into other farm activities. Spending on farm assets, ther assistance, RFCS Gippsloan at the current average rate of 5.0 per cent down to 3.5 per business and market diversi- land is funded by the state and cent saves you $15,000 per year o FDWLRQ RU GHYHORSPHQW DQG federal governments to proexpansion activities will make YLGH IUHH o QDQFLDO FRXQVHOOLQJ in interest. Applying these savings to it tax deductible, again freeing services to primary producers. Contact them on 1300 045 other areas of your farm busi- up funds that can be allocated ness or transitioning activities back into the business with up 747.

Kylie Holmes of the Rural Financial Counselling Service, Gippsland, talks with Southern Farmer.

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Southern Farmer, Page 13

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Page 14, Southern Farmer

August 2019

HAY AND SILAGE Confidence boost in June for tractor sales WHAT began as a gloomy outlook brightened considerably in June for tractor sales in what can only be described as a modest ERXQFH LQ FRQoGHQFH The Australian agricultural tractor sales market continues to demonstrate a wide variation in activLW\ Many parts of the country are in fact unaffected by drought and as a result machine demand has remained strong, particularly in the ZHVW It is the drought affected regions of NSW and northern Victoria that FRQWLQXH WR VWUXJJOH All in all, tractor sales were GRZQ SHU FHQW IRU WKH PRQWK and remain exactly 10 per cent beKLQG ODVW \HDU It appears that the combination of a Federal Coalition Government re-election, reduced interest rates and some suitable rainfall has led WR DQ HQG RI oQDQFLDO \HDU SXVK IURP PDQ\ FXVWRPHUV Fortunately, dealers are well stocked and have generally been DEOH WR GHOLYHU WR WKLV GHPDQG

Gary Northover is the executive director with the Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia.

6DOHV LQ WKH KS NZ DQG above range led the charge in June, up 9 per cent for the month and QRZ SHU FHQW DKHDG RI ODVW \HDU 7KH WR KS NZ segment was steady but remains SHU FHQW EHKLQG ODVW \HDU 7KH WR KS NZ range was down 4 per cent now sitting 12 per cent behind last year

and it was a similar story in the ORZHU XQGHU KS NZ UDQJH down 2 per cent and 10 per cent on D \HDUO\ EDVLV Across the states, it continues to be a mixed bag at present with Western Australia a particular VWDQGRXW Sales there were up again, this time by 14 per cent for the month and remain around 10 per cent DKHDG RI ODVW \HDU Queensland was another state that recorded a positive result with a 9 per cent lift for the month but remaining 10 per cent behind for WKH \HDU Sales continue to be a challenge in Victoria, now 7 per cent behind for the year while NSW continues to struggle, 20 per cent behind last year after another 9 per cent drop LQ -XQH Elsewhere, sales in South Australia are down 20 per cent for the year, Tasmania is up 7 per cent and the Northern Territory is in line ZLWK ODVW \HDU Combine harvester sales continue to struggle with the decline

in northern NSW grain production KDYLQJ DQ LPSDFW Full year estimates remain in WKH UDQJH RI XQLWV WR RFFXU This is down from the mid 800s OHYHO RI WKH SDVW IHZ \HDUV Baler sales continue to perform well as the demand for hay is still VWURQJ Overall, balers are now 20 per FHQW XS RQ ODVW \HDU Finally, sales of out front mowHUV ERXQFHG DQRWKHU SHU FHQW LQ the month, now sitting around 12 SHU FHQW GRZQ RQ D \HDUO\ EDVLV Only one week to go until this \HDU V DQQXDO 70$ &RQIHUHQFH This year’s event will be held on Tuesday, July 16 at Hyatt Place Melbourne at Essendon Fields and will present a focus on better understanding the customer of toPRUURZ This event is a must for all manufacturers, dealers and suppliers to the industry and promises to be D KLJKOLJKW RI WKH \HDU Tickets are now available and can be found on the TMA website ZZZ WPD DVQ DX

Goldacres for all your application solutions THE Goldacres range of Hysi applicators are an ideal way of treating hay in the EDOHU Choose from 100 litre tank capacities in HLWKHU XSULJKW RU FRQYHQWLRQDO FRQoJXUDtion to suit your baler or the larger capacLW\ OLWUH YHUVLRQ $OO +\VL DSSOLFDWRUV DUH oWWHG ZLWK 6KXUpR SVL OLWUH SHU PLQXWH YROW pumps, to give the operator trouble free VSUD\LQJ ZLWK JUHDW SUHVVXUH DQG YROXPH 7KH XQLWV DUH oWWHG ZLWK D SUHVVXUH regulation valve and gauge for accurate application which is delivered through 2 x 77 93 QR]]OHV This nozzle combination allows rates IURP q OLWUHV SHU PLQXWH DQG D SUHVVXUH UDQJH RI q EDU ZLWK RWKHU QR]]OHV DYDLODEOH RQ UHTXHVW All tanks are made from rotationallymoulded, UV resistant polypropylene for ORQJHYLW\ DQG FKHPLFDO UHVLVWDQFH For more information on the Goldacres Hysi applicator range please go to goldaFUHV FRP DX RU FRQWDFW *ROGDFUHV RQ

National wheat yield prospects ‘poor’ THE July 2019 national wheat outlook is predicting well below average yield across many parts of Australia’s wheat belt, according to seasonal climate researchers at the University of 4XHHQVODQG Dr Andries Potgieter, from the Centre for Crop Science at the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture DQG )RRG ,QQRYDWLRQ 4$$), DW the University of Queensland, said the team’s advanced crop modelling linked to national climate projections, indicated below average yield prospects for many parts of the ZKHDW EHOW “In particular, most of central and northern New South Wales and VRXWKHUQ 4XHHQVODQG VKRZ VLJQLocant departures below expected norPDO \LHOG OHYHOV y 'U 3RWJLHWHU VDLG “Although some regions received good rains during June, it was variable and patchy across the

EURDG ZLQWHU FURS UHJLRQV y He said widespread above average rainfall during July to August is needed to improve this current poor FURS RXWORRN The QAAFI national seasonal wheat outlook, available online, is based on the integration of an agro-climatic wheat yield model 2] :KHDW ZKLFK LV VHQVLWLYH WR GHoFLW RU H[FHVV ZDWHU GXULQJ WKH JURZLQJ VHDVRQ Professor Graeme Hammer, who helped develop the wheat outlook modelling capability, said the model uses actual weather data across the wheat belt up to the forecast date, and then uses projected data after WKDW GDWH “The projected weather data is drawn from historical analogue years based on the prevailing phase of the El Nino - SouthHUQ 2VFLOODWLRQ (162 V\VWHP y

3URIHVVRU +DPPHU VDLG “The model has been calibrated against historical shire wheat yield data from Australian Bureau of StaWLVWLFV $%6 y Forecasts are updated at the end of each month, and available online VKRUWO\ DIWHUZDUGV Professor Hammer said it was important for growers and industry to have access to the best seasonal foreFDVW LQIRUPDWLRQ “This information should be available to industry at national scale as it is critical to decision-making and impacts on businesses from farm scale through to bulk handlers, grain traders and insurers,� Professor +DPPHU VDLG “QAAFI is committed to using the best science and the best researchers to ensure the monthly release of this national wheat yield IRUHFDVW WR LQGXVWU\ y

YIELD PREDICTIONS: Percentage departure of the forecast shire median yield at the end of June from the long-term expectation.

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August 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 15

HAY AND SILAGE Worm Hit – working when it counts

IMPROVE: Bayley Goode can improve the quality of your pastures.

Improve the quality and weight of your hay and silage By BAYLEY GOODE of Goode Organics OVER the last 12 to 18 months we have given readers an insight into our approach to soil nutrition through the use of trace elements, minerals and rare earths sourced from the sea and activated volcanic rock. Given August’s special on hay and silage we thought it was a good time to lay out how we apply these elements to your soil and foliage from a pasture perspective. 7KH o UVW VWHS LV DOZD\V D soil test. Ideally this would have been completed in the last two years, or if not we can have one completed for you through SWEP Analytical. From here, we present you with recommendations using

appropriate products from our HealthyEarth range of 16. Yes that’s right, we have 16 SURGXFWV WKDW DUH VSHFLo F WR agricultural needs. Step two is to prepare the soil to address acidity, low calcium and trace element GHo FLHQFLHV Apply our liquid calcium product, N:Cal, or calcium magnesium, Cal/Mag 5:1, at two to 60 litres per hectare for a low cost immediately available calcium. Add our liquid KickStart NPK + trace element liquid fertiliser to the mix and have a low cost, concentrated trace element application. $SSO\ o YH WR OLWUHV SHU hectare. Mix both together for a minimal pass, low cost trace element mix. Step three is directly af-

WORM Hit continues to impress with its combination of being environmentally friendly, cost effective and providing better crop yields, ultimately winning fans across the country. Worm Hit pellets, made from the castings of worms feeding on composted material, are full of a highly active natural biological PL[ RI EHQHo FLDO VRLO PLFUREHV HQ]\PHV DQG water-soluble plant nutrients, as well as being packed with minerals essential for plant growth. Early trials produce outstanding results with improvements to root growth, while trials on cereal crops proved even more exciting when farmers started returning better yields. Farmers also saw changes to the soil structure with less compaction and a more friable soil. Doug and Michelle Brunskill of Brunslea, Forest Hill, have used Worm Hit this year, and are pleased with the results so far. They sowed 40 kilograms per hectare of Worm Hit (costing $35 per hectare) with a Moby barley crop, which is grazed through the winter and cut for silage or hay in the spring, depending on the season. “At this stage, we are particularity impressed with the barley’s large root mass and growth, even after grazing it three times so far this winter,� Mr Brunskill said. “We sowed the barley and Worm Hit dry in April into a very hard clay-based soil type, which wasn’t ideal, but the plant growth, deep root development and moisture still in the soil at this stage of the current drought has been awesome.� The Brunskills also used Worm Hit exclusively with Moby barley on their other prop-

erty, where they are getting similar results despite the current drought conditions. Worm Hit had humble beginnings when Chris Curran and a couple of farmer mates discussed the possibility of compressing composted green waste into a form that could be spread or sown by farmers using conventional equipment. Chris was already in the recycling business - shredding green waste and other materials for councils around Australia, and what he was seeing was vast mountains of composted material building up around the country with very little uptake by farmers. The reason for this was the cost of moving the compost was cost prohibitive, unless the buyer was located close to the source. Chris decided to work with an organisation that used worms to breakdown the compost, turning it into vermicast (worm poo) – with the idea being then to pelletise the castings. Worm Hit turns a mixture of worm castings and a carbon food source into a pelletised form, creating one of the richest natural fertilisers on the planet. “Our worm cast pellets stimulate plant growth more than any other natural product RQ WKH PDUNHW DQG FRPSDUHG WR DUWLo FLDO IHU tilisers and animal manures,� Chris said. “Our worm cast pellets are absorbed easily, making it plant available immediately.� Worm Hit pellets are safe to use on all plants, pasture and cereal crops. They won’t burn roots, or damage the soil – and are easily dispersed by conventional equipment. Worm Hit is available direct from the manufacturer, their authorised agents, or for more information go to www.wormhit.com.au.

ter hay-making, grazing or mulching, spray onto the soil o YH WR WHQ OLWUHV RI .LFNVWDUW per hectare. If nitrogen/calcium or magnesium is low apply 20 to 60 litres of N:Cal or Cal/Mag 5:1 per hectare. Step four is maintaining the yields with foliar spraying. A few days before grazing, foliar spray with our liquid NPK LeafSpray. Also add N:Cal and Cal/ Mag 5:1 at one to two litres per hectare. To receive a copy of our pasture program, fact sheets on any of our 16 products, articles on soil nutrition and of course a price list with a cost per hectare breakdown give Goode Organics a call on 0420 946 156 or email bayley@goodeorganics.com.au.

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ALLOWED INPUT 12669

Page 16, Southern Farmer

August 2019

HAY AND SILAGE

Leadership program a life-changing experience GIPPSLAND dairy farmer Lauren Finger was told that if she was going to apply for one leadership program, Australian Rural Leadership Program should be it. “I was told the program would be a life-changing experience and it has lived up to expectations,” she said. The Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP) has taken Lauren across Australia and beyond and has inspired her to continue forging a path as an emerging dairy industry leader. She was supported by the Gardiner Dairy Foundation which sponsors a Victorian dairy applicant each year. Lauren, her husband Simon, and their eight staff run two farms while raising their children Matthew, 10, Claire, 9 and Rachael, 7. From starting out sharefarming 12 years ago with 200 cows, they currently milk 950 Friesian and crossbred cows on their home farm at Yannathan and a

second leased farm at Labertouche. Lauren’s mother grew up on a beef farm and even though she lived in the city, Lauren always harboured visions of becoming a farmer. She has fully embraced the dairy industry and as deputy chair of GippsDairy is keen to further contribute to a positive future for the industry. The ARLP brings together a group of about 30 people each year and aims to develop stronger leadership within the communities and industries of rural, regional and remote Australia. Lauren said the program was inspiring, with many great presenters, but much of its success came from learning with and from other participants. Lauren found many experiences had parallels with her own situation and could be taken home to apply to family, business, workplace and industry.

Lauren has attended sessions in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, Toowoomba, Tasmania, and a two-week overseas program to Indonesia to learn about leadership in another country. The final session is in Canberra. Participants are given challenges to work on in a range of contexts and explore opportunities to become an intuitive leader, able to influence others and build positive relationships. “It brings a much greater level of self-awareness of how your actions and behaviours are perceived and the impact you have on others,” she said. “By observing and working with different leaders, you can use techniques and tips from all of them and similarly you can observe things that might not be so useful. “It helped me to be more aware of myself and others; how to get a better under-

standing of the motivations of others and how I can work with them.” The 15-month program is a big commitment, but Lauren encourages other farmers to apply. “There are very few scholarships of this magnitude and depth,” she said. “I was very fortunate that the Gardiner Dairy Foundation continues to support the program. “There is no doubt it is increasing the capabilities of leaders in the dairy industry.” Lauren said dairy farmers could be challenged by the time commitment but she urged them to find a way to make it happen. “It’s worth the effort,” she said. “You’ll be amazed at how people step up to keep the farm running and the benefits are well worth it. “It certainly makes me want to give back to the industry that has supported me.”

TAKING THE REINS: Lauren Finger has recently completed a 15 month leadership program thanks to the Gardiner Foundation.

Feed central grower report HAY and silage sales have slowed in volume due to buyer resistance to the higher prices and buyer belief that there is no product available, according to the latest Feed Central Grower Report. Most regular buyers have hay and straw covered until new season crop, but some have been caught short, especially on straw. Some drought buyers have also been caught out with the cold weather especially with cereal hay. Demand from these buyers has driven the market in the last fortnight. The winter solstice (shortest day) has now

passed, which means that where there is moisture, things start to grow, albeit slowly DW o UVW The rain through the Victorian cropping district has almost assured a hay crop for 2019-20. Prices are expected to come off the record highs but stay strong into late winter and spring. With the assurance of a hay crop and reQHZHG FXVWRPHU FRQo GHQFH LQ IXWXUH DYDLO ability and affordability, the signs point to an uptake not only in the hay and silage market but in feed stores across Victoria.

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NEWS

August 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 17

CNH Industrial announces new structure for Australian ag machinery market CNH Industrial has announced a restructure of its agricultural machinery business in Australia and New Zealand, with the appointment of a new leader across both the Case IH and New Holland Agriculture brands. Brandon Stannett has been appointed the managing director – agriculture, Australia and New Zealand, assuming responsibility for CNH Industrial’s agriculture segment from Michele Lombardi, in a new position created as part of a global restructure announced in January. At that time CNH Industrial revealed changes to its organisational structure DFURVV WKH oYH VHJPHQWV RI its operations, in a bid to become closer to its customers, streamline decision-making processes and encourage faster and more market-focused innovations. Brandon has been leading CNH Industrial’s captive oQDQFH EXVLQHVV LQ $XVWUDOLD and New Zealand for the past four years, which he said

offered the advantage of a strong knowledge of the local market when it came to his new role. “It’s certainly an advantage already knowing the Case IH and New Holland Agriculture teams and having those existing relationships, and I look forward to the opportunities this new structure offers both brands, our dealers and our customers,” he said. “Taking a fresh look at our engagement with both dealers and customers will be a priority. “The local ag sector has had more than its share of challenges in recent times, so the time is right to refocus and re-invigorate our approach to products, services and support, together with business DQG QHWZRUN HIoFLHQFLHV “CNH Industrial, through our Case IH and New Holland Agriculture brands, are global leaders in the agricultural equipment and products sector and are always looking to the future with advances such as automation,

connectivity and alternative fuels that will be the foundations for the next generation of advances in farm producWLYLW\ DQG HIoFLHQF\ “This restructure has come about because our industry is experiencing a period of accelerated change – automation and digital technology being key examples – so we need to make the changes that will secure our reputation for innovation and excellence into 2020 and beyond. “I’m privileged to be leading this process across Australia and New Zealand for CNH Industrial and know that we have the teams in place with the knowledge, passion and foresight to make some real differences where it matters: innovative products and market-leading agricultural solutions.” %UDQGRQ KDV D VWURQJ onancial background, working in senior roles in some of Australia’s largest banks, and IRXQGLQJ D oQDQFLDO FRQVXOtancy practice and leasing business, before joining CNH Industrial.

NEW LEADER: Brandon Stannett has taken on a new role heading up the Case IH and New Holland brands.

Page 18, Southern Farmer

August 2019

96C2@A<08 Climate for change

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CALLISTA Park is a 92 hectare property north of Trafalgar. It is a small beef enterprise run by Greg and Fiona O’Brien. In the following article Greg explains the challenges of farm management under changing climatic conditions, and his strategy for maintaining fodder for his cattle. LIKE most small farms, we initially relied heavily on off-farm income to get us to where we are today. Thankfully we no longer need to work offfarm, having concentrated on value adding which is important when you have small numbers of stock. We have a Belgian Blue beef stud and a vealer enterprise, running a total of 70 beef breeders. We also sell about six Belgian Blue bulls annually and a similar number of females. In addition we fatten around 20 steers and heifers. Meat from our vealer calves is sold as bulk packs of beef (sides, quarters or mini-packs of 15 – 20 kilograms of meat). Our customers discover us through word of

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GREG AND FIONA O’BRIEN: “We have learnt so much since purchasing Callista Park.�

mouth, and we use a local butcher to cut, pack and label our beef ready for sale. The business model is to have high quality, low cost beef. It is exceptional eating quality. The calves reach carcase weights of around 220 kilograms at eight to ten months of age when the beef is still very tender, so even the lower grade cuts eat well. Also, being ready for market at weaning saves on the cost and effort of growing calves on to reach target weights. We also lease 18 hectares of additional grazing from neighbours, as risk management. 7KH\ DUH WHUULo F WR ZRUN ZLWK DQG DOORZ XV to treat the property as if it were our own. We have learnt so much since purchasing Calista Park, primarily the ability to adapt to the ever changing farm-scape. At the clearing sale just before we took possession, the paddocks were under an inch of water and all the vehicles became bogged. It stopped raining soon after and we have had to adapt to meet the variability of seasons ever since. 2018 was the driest year since we purchased the property in 1996. We are in an annual rainfall of 850 millimetres but only had 400 millimetres by the end of October. We decided to reduce stock numbers in early October to allow us to make as much fodder as possible. In the past we have bought in feed in the drier years, but there was plenty of information around to tell us that this is not the year to be exposed to the fodder market. The strategy paid off as we made 75 per cent of our normal silage and 15 per cent of our normal hay. :H DGMXVWHG EUHHGHU QXPEHUV WR o W the fodder reserves, calving down 56 breeders this autumn (a 25 per cent reduction on 2018). We set aside some money from cattle sales LQ WR KHOS ZLWK FDVK p RZ LQ WKH FRPLQJ year. 7KLV LV WKH o UVW WLPH ZH KDYH WDNHQ WKLV SDWK We bought in some weaner steers in summer and some replacement heifers this autumn to help with the rebuild of the vealer herd next year. As they eat a lot less than a cow and calf, this helps with our 2019 feed budget. For the year ahead we have plan B and C depending on how the season goes. We might do some early weaning in winter if fodder reserves drop too far below budget. The next option would be to reduce numbers. We need to have calves reach target weights at eight to ten months, so reducing the feed LQWDNH RI RXU FRZV LV QRW DQ RSWLRQ WKDW o WV

well with our business model. We factored in late autumn rains, however, it was not until late May that we had good soil moisture so autumn growth was a long way behind average. In early June things are still a bit tight, but a good winter will just about see us through without resorting to our back-up plans. There is a chance we may sell some older cows in winter that are ear-marked for sale at the end of spring. The calves will be grown on to sell in the following spring. The other big risk we have had to manage is water. We didn’t get any runoff in 2018 and the “soaks� didn’t run either. This has never happened before. We would have run out of stock water by summer except for the fact we had a dry year in 1997 that required us to sink a bore for stock water. The bore has been essential to getting through despite having increased our dam storage over the years. The bore has been the best investment we ever made on the farm (although the purchase of a hay feeder is a huge improvement on rolling bales out by hand in the early years when money was tight). We have also spent a lot of money on paddock subdivision and laneways. This enabled management tasks to be completed more quickly (essential when working off farm) as well as improving grazing management and pasture growth. Our enterprise focuses on much more than producing beef. We are also focused on animal welfare, quality assurance, quarantine and the environment. About 40 per cent of the farm is native forest that provides biodiversity and habitat, shelter and amenity, as well as carbon storage. In regards to farming, the worst decision we made was to borrow enough to purchase the property, but not enough to have extra cash to make the improvements needed to make the farm more productive. 7KDW FDPH RXW RI FDVK p RZ DQG RXU RII IDUP income. We did get a good interest rate but the amount of foregone productivity was certainly bigger than the interest saving. It put us back about 10 years but we got there. Until recently, we took things one year at a time as we had a relatively reliable climate. Now we look at implications of seasonal conditions on how we farm this year and next year. If the hotter, drying trend continues we might need to look at even longer term planQLQJ DQG PRUH p H[LELOLW\

August 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 19

96C2@A<08 Commitment to high quality, performanceorientated cattle

IMPRESSIVE: Buchanan Park Lincoln, winner of the Supreme Exhibit at Berwick Show 2019. He is pictured with Andrew Spierings, Berwick Show Society cattle committee president, Allan and Jill Furborough, and Karen Chipperfield – Allan and Jill’s daughter.

Breeding the best in Welsh Blacks EQUAL TOP PRICE: Geronimo Peralta Martinez, Argentina, Alpine stud principal Jim Delany, Kent Connley, Benambra, and auctioneer Lincoln McKinley with Alpine Junior N021, who sold for $10,000.

A feature of this year’s sale will be a run of six sons by Sitz Investment 660Z. Investment excels at producing light born calves with explosive performance, big eye muscle area and good fat cover. He combines a well below average birth weight EBV of 3.6 with growth and carcase weight EBVs entrenched in the top one per cent of the breed and eye muscle area and high fat EBVs sitting in the top 10 per cent. His dam has produced at least three leading AI sires for the Sitz herd. His progeny have excelled in the USA, highlighted by the December 2016 annual Sitz sale where he produced the four highest priced bulls from 420 sold. There will also be available sons from three of Alpineowned recognised sires. Alpine-owned Sterita Park Black Jack produced the grand champion carcase at last year’s Royal Melbourne Show. Coonamble Junior is a higher intra-muscular fat bull that has consistently produced quality, high growth bulls in past sales. And Hazeldean High Roller is one of the highest docil-

ity bulls in the breed and the producer of some of Alpine’s truest-to-type females. Alpine Angus enjoys exceptional support throughout the North East and Central Victoria, Upper Murray regions, the High Country and East Gippsland. Ideally positioned to access these areas, Alpine Angus also provides free delivery to all of Victoria and Southern NSW. The 2019 Autumn Bull Sale also saw bulls being delivered to the Western District, SA, NSW and Tasmania. Service is a key focus at Alpine Angus, with all bulls independently structurally assessed, semen and fertility tested, vaccinated for pestivirus, vibriosis and 7 in 1 and tested PI free. Alpine Angus aims to give prompt service and support should problems arise and are always more than willing to help achieve a quick solution to problems. All sale bulls will be on display from 10am at the Alpine Sales Complex, 1138 Happy Valley Road, Rosewhite, on sale day, Wednesday, September 11. Morning tea plus a delicious beef lunch will also be provided.

BUCHANAN Park principals, Allan and Jill Furborough, take great pride in breeding quality Welsh Black cattle. They continually introduce new genetics to achieve their breeding success at their property in Tynong North. Highlights for the stud this year are with their champion Welsh Black bull Buchanan Park Lincoln, winning the Supreme Exhibit at both the Berwick and Bunyip shows. Lincoln went back-to-back at Bunyip winning this award also in 2018. Numerous other awards were won by the show team at various shows this year. Welsh Blacks are an underestimated beef breed. They originate from Wales and are very hardy cattle, with a good temperament, ease of calving, excellent fertility

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2019 ALPINE ANGUS SPRING BULL SALE 45 HBR & APR ANGUS BULLS

and strong weight gain. Welsh Black cattle are suitable for the commercial breeder, and are well suited to our harsh Australian conditions. Welsh beef is tender, tasty and succulent, slightly marbled which benefits the tenderness of the meat. Tynong North, and surrounding areas, are recovering after the devastating fires that hit the district recently. The landscape, however, is scarred with the enormous amount of blackened trees visible throughout the affected areas. Repairs to kilometres of fencing both on roads and properties is still to be completed - an enormous task for all. Pastures, however, are now green, which eventually will provide much needed feed for the stock.

P/37d07395/3219

ALPINE Angus will hold its annual Spring Bull Sale on Wednesday, September 11 on-farm at its Rosewhite bullselling complex. A total of 40 performance recorded Herd Book Register and Angus Performance Register bulls will be offered. All are backed by Alpine’s commitment to producing high quality, performance-orientated cattle bred with a speFLo F IRFXV RQ ELUWK WR JURZWK spread while maintaining and improving the basic fundamentals of structure, type and temperament. Alpine’s breeding strategy focuses on developing the quality of the Alpine cow herd with breeding objectives designed to ensure structural integrity and true Angus type are maintained. Alpine have a rigorous process to ensure only sound females with constitution are used. In addition the Alpine herd is run under challenging conditions to ensure increased selection pressure on the Alpine herd’s natural fertility levels and ability to breed back under challenging conditions. Alpine selects sires that combine responsible maturity patterns with leading growth the aim being to produce easy calving cattle that grow quickly with excellent carcase performance. We are fortunate to also have a number of high quality bulls backing up our ET and AI program. 7KH DUWLo FLDO EUHHGLQJ SUR gram uses leading sires from the Coonamble herd in Western Australia, as well as some of the USA’s highest performing Angus sires. 6LJQLo FDQW WLPH DQG HQHUJ\ is spent sourcing sires to ensure they continue to develop the herd in more ways than just Estimated Breeding Values alone.

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SHEEP SALES

Page 20, Southern Farmer

August 2019

Merinos take out state show accolades By EMMA OLIVER FOUNDED in 1996 after John and Rosemary Humbert took out state winner for the Victorian Flock of the Year, Keddleston Park was registered as a stud in 2005. Breeding objectives emphasise growth rates with many of their top young rams reaching 90 kilograms of body weight by 12 months of age. In relation to ewe lambs, they have sufficient enough

body weight to be joined at nine to 10 months of age, with maidens removed from the flock if they fail to conceive. Not only are the sheep quick maturing, large framed and fertile, they are incredibly robust with high genetic fat and muscle, producing high-yielding carcases. Wool-wise, the sheep produce soft, deep, crimping, long, stapled, lustrous, medium wool with a yield average of between

71 and 76 per cent. At between 18.5 and 20.4 microns, this long stapled wool is ideal for shearing every six months. With such strong breeding credentials it is well worth marking August 27 in the diary for the annual Merino auction at Keddleston Park. OUTSTANDING GENETICS: John Humbert with his highly decorated ewe at the 2017 Australian Sheep and Wool Show.

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RXU FRPPHUFLDO p RFN RI DS proximately 800 meat maternal ewes in recent years, it was time to increase our focus on lamb survival. k:H DUH o QGLQJ RXU EHVW results are coming from ewes having 4.5 - 5.5 kilogram lambs at birth.” Lambs that are born earlier are not necessarily lighter, but are born with a lot more ease. Simon explained they generally appear wetter at birth, and the ewes appear to lamb quickly and with fewer presentation issues. The actual gestation length of the ewes, recorded over the past eight to ten years, has varied from 141 days to 154 days. As a result of selection, we have reduced our average gestation length from 148.5 days back to 147 days in the past three years. As a direct result of the information gathered from gestation-length progeny,

Derrynock has seen a reduction in its birth assist rate to less than one per cent in approximately 1000. 7KHVH o JXUHV DUH IURP their 2018 lambing from the 2010 to 2017 drop ewes. The result is a lamb survival rate of 95 per cent at birth, over all birth type categories. “Our focus this year is also on eating quality with a particular emphasis on marbling,” Simon said. “In the coming months, we will have available for sale some of the highest ranked Poll Dorset rams for marbling. “Their progeny will be utilised in testing to evaluate lambs at different ages and weights being fed on a range of different rations.” For more information, contact Simon or Ted directly on 0429 330 562 or 0409 189 116 or head to the website at derrynock.com. au.

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All enquiries welcome - catalogues available Ted Beattie 0409 189 116, Simon Beattie 0429 330 562 derrynock@outlook.com - www.derrynock.com.au

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MANAGEMENT and nutrition of the ewe will always KDYH WKH JUHDWHVW LQp XHQFH over lamb survival. So says Derrynock Poll Dorset stud principals, Simon and Ted Beattie. The pair have been at the forefront of Dorset breeding for years, their philosophy of stronger lambs at birth, with a greater cold tolerance, paying dividends on the farm. Their focus on moderate birth weights with an average or shorter gestation length, and increased milk production, has helped to decrease the ewe assist-rate at birth. “Improving lambing ease, and lifting survival rates to above 95 per cent at Derrynock - well above the industry standard of around 70 per cent – is a very exciting development for us,” Simon said. “With scanning rates reaching 185 per cent in

NEWS

August 2019

Horticulture exports rival lamb and dairy

NAB HORTICULTURE: The Australian horticulture sector continues to show strong export growth.

Fruits that are less export oriented, like strawberries and bananas, have not seen major price growth in a long period of time - PHIN ZIEBELL (NAB AGRIBUSINESS ECONOMIST)

number of almond trees in Australia has increased to over 11 million,� Mr Ziebell said. “With nearly four million of these yet to mature to fruit bearing age, we anticipate the value of almond production is set to increase rapidly in the near to medium term.� New opportunities in Asia have led to a resurgence in the table grape sector, with annual table and drying grape production increasing from 75,000 tonnes in 2011-12 to 164,000 tonnes in 2016-17. “Permanent plantings in the Murray Darling Basin are increasing and are water intensive. “With this planting increase, and lower and less certain rainfall and allocation availability, we anticipate a structural increase in water prices,� Mr Ziebell said. The value of Australian vegetable production has increased to reach over $4 ELOOLRQ LQ The report shows that

while domestic production is increasing, so too are vegetable imports. “Vegetable imports now total over $1 billion per annum, predominantly consisting of frozen and processed food,â€? Mr Ziebell said. “The trade position underlines the importance of market access for exports, as well as an internationally competitive food processing sector. “Wholesale market prices for vegetables continue to display seasonal volatility but have not seen the major growth over the past decade that the fruit sector has enjoyed. “The question of whether prices are sustainable at current levels remains open, particularly given higher input costs like water.â€? The most recent NAB Agribusiness Banker Survey, released in May 2019, indicates that horticulture business conditions are positive and strongly outperforming agriculture more broadly. Š2019 R.P. MOTORS PTY. LTD.

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JEFF Bourman, MP of the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party of Victoria, has called on the Victorian Government to increase the fox bounty in addition to H[SORULQJ RSWLRQV IRU GURXJKW SURRo QJ our agricultural sector and providing further drought relief measures. “Our farmers are struggling in this drought and adding to this the losses from wild dogs and foxes are costing many sheep farmers hundreds of thousands of dollars annually,� Mr Bourman said. However, recent record prices for lamb set in Shepparton look to be a bright spot in the farming sector which is beset with problems caused by drought. Further investigation reveals that the record price is due to the old supply and demand paradigm, and the demand is higher than supply due to drought conditions which has shrunk the amount of sheep available to the market drastically. “We have some of the greatest produce in the world which commands a good price, but the recent drought has meant that the number of sheep available to the market is at its lowest in one hundred years,� Mr Bourman said. “This has driven the price up which ZLOO EH UHp HFWHG LQ WKH VWUHHW SULFH RI lamb.� As family farms are selling up, corporate farmers are taking over and are now in a better position than ever to take advantage of the higher prices. “As the cost of raising livestock rises GXH WR GURXJKW DQG IDFWRUV VXFK DV LQp D tion, soon it’ll only be corporate farmers that will be in a position to run a sustainable farming enterprise. “This means that our food sources could be in the hands of international interests rather than families who have been the lifeblood of our society for generations.� Drought relief is an ongoing issue and will continue to be until the end of the current drought. It is the government’s responsibility WR ZRUN WRZDUGV CGURXJKW SURRo QJ WKH farming sector so the next drought will not have the same effect as the current one.

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THE Australian horticulture sector continues to go from strength to strength, with the value of horticulture exports closing in on Australia’s lamb and dairy sectors. That’s according to the In Focus: Horticulture report released by National Australia Bank (NAB). Analysing data from the Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES), the report reveals the Australian horticultural sector is worth approximately $11.4 billion, with growth in export value a key feature. NAB agribusiness economist, Phin Ziebell, said the growth in horticultural export value was closely linked WR EHQHo WV p RZLQJ IURP WKH China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (ChAFTA), which entered into force in 2015. “At a value of $3.2 billion, Australian horticulture exports are now comparable to those of lamb and mutton, and dairy, which are valued at $3.6 billion and $3.5 billion respectively,� Mr Ziebell said. “Improved market access and lowered tariffs under ChAFTA have had a large impact, particularly on fruit. “The value of Australian navel orange exports douEOHG LQ WKH o UVW WKUHH \HDUV SRVW UDWLo FDWLRQ DQG PDQ darin export values tripled over the same period.� While overall the value of Australian fruit exports is 112 per cent greater than a decade ago, not all fruit has benHo WHG IURP &K$)7$ WHUPV “Fruits that are less export oriented, like strawberries and bananas, have not seen major price growth in a long period of time,� Mr Ziebell said. The report shows the tree nut sector is booming, revealing a 67 per cent increase in Australian almond trees in WKH o YH \HDUV WR k,Q WKH SDVW o YH \HDUV WKH

Southern Farmer, Page 21

NEWS

Page 22, Southern Farmer

August 2019

New research to optimise heifer development

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$35,900.00

+GST

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$25,900.00

+GST

+GST

AL270 6.9T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER

AL200 5.2T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER

NEW ACE AL270 6.9T Articulated Wheel Loader

NEW ACE AL200 5.2T Articulated Wheel Loader

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

3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE. 2 YEARS CUMMINS ENGINE WARRANTY PROVIDED BY CUMMINS AUSTRALIA

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Joystick Activated Transmission Shuttle 2000kg Capacity 5200kg Operating Weight Joystick Pilot Control 86HP Turbo Diesel Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch A/C & Heated ROPS Safety Cab. AM/FM Stereo System with USB Reverse Camera 1.0m3 GP Bucket FREE 4 in 1 bucket FREE fork attachment FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre Fitted with Remote Hydraulic 3rd valve.Â

Digital Scales also available. 3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE.

30d02423-v9

CONNECTION: Heifer conception rates, calving ease, mothering and early re-breeding are under investigation.

August 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 23

Winter Warmth & Heating Spikemaster for all equipment Castleton a modern forestry and agricultural stove with a classic look /$67 PRQWK WKH o UVW RI WKH WUXO\ DXWXPQ ZHDWKHU EOHZ LQWR 9LFWRULD $FURVV WKH VWDWH IDPLOLHV WXUQHG WR WKHLU ZRRG o UHV WR SURYLGH QRW RQO\ KHDW EXW FRPIRUW DV UDLQ SHOWHG DJDLQVW ZLQGRZ IUDPHV 7KHUH LV QR IHHOLQJ TXLWH OLNH KDYLQJ D ORJ o UH EXUQLQJ TXLHWO\ LQ WKH URRP q LW FUHDWHV DQ DPELHQFH RI GD\V JRQH E\ RI VORZLQJ GRZQ DQG VSHQGLQJ WLPH ZLWK ORYHG RQHV 6RPH \HDUV DJR &DVW ZRUNV UHFRJQLVHG WKH QHHG IRU TXDOLW\ ZRRG KHDWHUV WR EH PDGH DYDLODEOH IRU WKRVH ORRN LQJ IRU VW\OH DQG IXQFWLRQDOLW\ DW D UHDVRQDEOH SULFH &DVWZRUNV KDV JURZQ IURP D VPDOO FRPSDQ\ WKDW VROG ZRRG o UHV WR D UHVSHFWHG LPSRUWHU DQG GLVWULEXWRU RI KRPH KHDW LQJ SURGXFWV WR WKH $XVWUDOLDQ PDUNHW 1RZ WKH\ DUH SURXG WR SUH VHQW WKHLU ODWHVW LPSRUWHG RI IHULQJ q WKH &DVWOHWRQ VWRYH 7KH &DVWOHWRQ RIIHUV HYH U\WKLQJ \RX QHHG LQ D VWRYH D ZRRG o UH DQG D IDPLO\ OLIHVW\OH DOO UROOHG LQWR DQ DWWUDFWLYH VRDS VWRQH DQG FDVW LURQ SDFNDJH 7KH &DVWOHWRQ LV GHVLJQHG WR LQFOXGH WKH HVVHQWLDO IHDWXUHV WR PDLQWDLQ D ZDUP FRPIRUWDEOH KRPH q VR \RX FDQ VSHQG OHVV

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END OF SEASON SALE! Castleton 8030 WOOD STOVE Hearthstone wood stoves provide exceptional heat retention HEAT YOUR HOME: Castworks stock a large variety of heating options for your home, including wood-fires.

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Heathstone wood stoves can burn overnight using secondary burn technology and continue to radiate a beautiful heat for hours after with the all soapstone and cast-iron construction. This means your home stays at a comfortable Temperature - the Soapstone Comfort Zone

Until September 2019 each Hearthstone Castleton 8030 will come with a Free Fan and Heat Shield www.castworks.com.au

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SpikeMasters Best Deals Ĺ…Äš ßŅųüŸĆ‹ųƟ ¹ĚĂš Ä€ųüƾĹ…Ĺ…Ăš ľ¹Ă?ĘĜĚüųƟ ¹ĚĂš ĆľÄœĆ‹Ä˜ ü¹ŸƟ Ä€Ě¹ĚĂ?üƤĂšü¹ďŸ ¹ƴ¹ÄœÄŹÂąĂ†ÄŹĂĽ FĆ‹ŹŸ ¹Ÿ Ä?Ĺ…Ĺ…Ăš ¹Ÿ ÄœĆ‹Ÿ Ä?ĂĽĆ‹Ÿú Ƥ

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Page 24, Southern Farmer

August 2019

BUY THE TRACTOR, * GET A BONUS MOWER . MF 2600 TRACTOR RANGE 39 - 74 HP W I T H BONUS RIDE ON MOWER The MF 2600 Series is a rugged and versatile range of utility tractors that are built to get the job done. And right now you can get even more jobs done, as they come with a bonus Massey Ferguson Zero Turn Mower.* Hurry into your local Massey Ferguson dealer before this great offer ends on September 30.

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MASSEY FERGUSON DEALER TODAY Dandenong Kyneton Nagambie Silvan

Small Horse Tractors L & G Sheppard and Sons John Sanderson Machinery Darmac Ag Sales & Service

MASSEYFERGUSON.COM.AU

18 Lonsdale Street 88 Piper Street 36-38 Industrial Crescent 249-251 Monbulk Road

(03) (03) (03) (03)

9791 5422 5794 9737

6414 1821 2272 9255

A world of experience. Working with you.

*Offer refers to a bonus MF42-ZT ride on mower valued RRP$4499 with the purchase of an MF 2600 Series tractor. Offer valid to September 30, 2019, while stocks last. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Contact your local Massey Ferguson dealer for full terms & conditions.

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