Southern Farmer

Page 1

Published since 1986

DECEMBER, 2018

Lamb trials

www.farmernews.com.au

Mini cattle are cool PAGE 5

Fire awareness and prevention PAGE 7

PAGES 20-23

Rosebud contractor fined for illegal 1080 use Main Ridge truffle farmer also fined $9500 Å°

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN: Neil Cranston (right) has worked his way up from the bottom. Raised on a dairy farm, he began work at Dandenong Christmas Trees 40 years ago. Now he owns the business, along with partner Neale Drury (pictured), and also runs a 600 acre dairy farm at Nar Nar Goon. This month, the two Neils – as they are known – will harvest and sell up to 20,000 trees. Turn to page 6 for their story.

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of PIGOUT® Feral Pig Bait, FRQWDLQLQJ ZKLFK WKH IDUPHU VDLG ZHUH VXSSOLHG E\ WKH FRQWUDFWRU In a separate hearing, KHOG LQ 'HFHPEHU ODVW \HDU WKH WUXIp H IDUPHU ZDV o QHG DIWHU SOHDGLQJ JXLOW\ WR XVLQJ WKH SURGXFWV ZLWK RXW D OLFHQFH Agriculture Victoria’s VWDWH ZLGH FKHPLFDOV VSH FLDOLVW 6WHYHQ )LHOG VDLG VXSSOLHUV RI EDLW SURG XFWV PXVW EH DSSURSULDWHO\ OLFHQVHG DQG DFFUHGLWHG DQG KDG D UHVSRQVLELOLW\ WR VXSSO\ SURGXFWV RQO\ WR DXWKRULVHG SHRSOH k7KLV DSSOLHV QRW RQO\ WR UHWDLOHUV DQG UHVHOOHUV EXW DOVR EDLWLQJ FRRUGLQDWRUV DQG HYHQ IDUPHUV WKHP VHOYHV y 0U )LHOG VDLG k LV DQ LPSRUWDQW WRRO WR SURWHFW SULPDU\ SUR GXFWLRQ DQG HQYLURQPHQWDO DVVHWV

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Continued page 2

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NEWS

Page 2, Southern Farmer

Rosebud contractor fined for illegal 1080 use Ĺś

From page 1 “It is critical that continued access to these products is not jeopardised by the actions of rogue operators.� Mr Field said some of the biggest risks were when people failed to correctly notify their neighbours or place the appropriate signage, which are legal requirements when using 1080 bait products. “These two prosecutions demonstrate

Agriculture Victoria’s willingness to hold people that illegally supply or use 1080 to account for their actions,� Mr Field said. Under section 94(1) of the AgVet Code of Victoria, restricted chemical products such as 1080 must only be supplied to - or used by - an authorised person; such as someone who holds an Agricultural Chemical Users Permit with 1080 and PAPP endorsement.

December 2018

NEWS IN BRIEF

GOING IT ALONE: Michaela had to let go of her dairy hand when the industry was doing it tough, but she has learnt to run the operation alone.

Leaf, Twig & Stick Rake

For Ride on Mowers - Over 3,700 sold e THERE TO HELP: The Gippsland Jersey Calendar contains real stories of local farmers dealing with heartache, as well as a full list of health professionals. Each month, the Southern Farmer will feature a story from within its pages. For more information, go to www.gippslandjersey.com.au. If you need to speak to someone, contact Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

Going it alone

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Michaela runs her dairy farm alone, but knows there is no shame in asking for help

www.stumpmansales.com THE SOUTHERN

This story is re-printed from the Gippsland Jersey Calendar as part of the Southern Farmer’s on-going commitment to mental health awareness.

Est. 1986

Covering Central South Victoria and West Gippsland 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta Victoria, 3677

Phone (03) 5723 0125 Email: sfarmer@nemedia.com.au Website: farmernews.com.au Advertising:

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Jarrah Loh Phone (03) 5723 0129 jloh@nemedia.com.au

Senior Journalist

Rhyll McCormack Phone 5733 1107 rmccormack@nemedia.com.au

MICHAELA is a strong and dedicated dairy farmer from Labertouche. Since having to let go of her full time farm hand two years ago due to the dairy crisis, Michaela has been milking on her own. She says that there is a stigma in the community attached to sole female dairy farmers, a stigma that she wishes to blow out of the water. “Sometimes, when men come to the shed, they look past me to see where my husband is,� she said. It was always Michaela’s dream to run her own farm. For the past 14 years she’s been

milking up to 200 cows, raising two children, supporting her husband’s shed building business and encouraging other women in isolated careers to talk together and encourage each other. “There is a lot of juggling in my life; when I’m sick, l just take medication and get on with it,� she said. “I just have to hope that none of the juggling balls come crashing down. “The cows, my family - they need me.� Michaela says that during the winter months, the struggle to get up each and every morning is real, however, armed with her ‘can do’ and incredibly positive attitude she pushes on. Michaela’s biggest struggle in her own mental health journey is the guilt she experiences as a mother. The farm always calls her away to

Milking for h Mental Healt

different duties, particularly during calving season. Feeling a sense that she’s letting her children down is something she’s had to confront. During one particularly tough time, her kids and husband went on a holiday and left Michaela at home to milk alone. But Michaela pushed through the loneliness, always seeking other mums who understood her pain. kO YH VXUYLYHG WKURXJK o UHV p RRGV GURXJKWV DQG ZRUNLQJ IRU D loss during the crisis,� she said. “It’s a great lifestyle for the kids - every day is different and I love working for myself. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. “But it’s important to not always put ourselves last - remember to get off the farm, seek out a friend; any small gesture can help another.�

Livestock David Rizzoli Coordinator: Phone (03) 5341 7870 Pre-Press Coordinator

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Servicing many parts of Metro and Regional Victoria

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z Only three of seven correct THE Bureau of Meteorology has been slammed in a recent media report, which found that the threemonth rainfall outlook was predominantly inaccurate. The report found that out of 14 outlooks examined over seven years, only three were correct. z Anvil property for sale DESPITE initial plans to retain Anvil Angus and run a commercial beef operation, the site of the stud – which was disbanded last month – has been listed for sale with Pat Rice and Hawkins. The property, which takes in more than 1600 acres at Acheron, is being sold through expression of interest. z Apple exporter to expand A $46 million expansion has been planned by Montague Fresh, Australia’s biggest apple exporter, with plans for a packing and distribution centre to go in next to the company’s current facility at Narre Warren. z Strawberry scare woman arrested A 50-year-old woman has been arrested and charged over the strawberry contamination scare that began in southeast Queensland in September. It is understood the charge is linked to one of the original cases involving the company Berry Licious, which then is thought to have sparked copycat incidents. z Ewe sells for record price A NEW sale record has been set when a 1.5 year old first cross ewe was sold for $386 at the Naracoorte combined agents sale last month. Although the sale average was back slightly on last year’s prices, the sale top was bred by Coolawang Pastoral, who smashed their record set the previous year when they sold a ewe for $366.

NEWS

December 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 3

Aussies love consuming dairy „ New report finds sales across all categories on the rise AUSTRALIANS continue to eat more dairy, but a drop in production – thanks to ongoing drought conditions – has been predicted for the next 12 months. So says Dairy Australia’s latest Situation and Outlook report. For many dairy farm businesses, the 2018/19 season has shifted from an outlook of recovery and growth to one of drought, feed shortage and rising production costs.

As a result, the report has found it likely that there will be a national milk production fall of between o YH DQG VHYHQ SHU FHQW compared with 2017/18 levels. Despite the drop, sales across the board have risen – with a .9 per cent increase LQ PLON VDOHV ODVW o QDQFLDO year, a 3.9 per cent increase in cheese sales, 4.9 per cent IRU p DYRXUHG PLONV DQG 1.9 per cent increase for p DYRXUHG FKHHVH YDULHWLHV

The standout performer was traditional yoghurt – which experienced a massive 6.2 per cent rise in sales over the last 12 months. “The traditional yoghurt category, including products such as Greek yoghurt, saw impressive growth,� Dairy Australia senior industry analyst, John Droppert, said. “These traditional yoghurts now represent 41 per cent of total category sales as consumers appear

to be opting for products that are perceived to be more healthy and natural. “Australian milk, cheese and yoghurt sales continue to grow, with Australians purchasing 1.4 billion litres of milk in supermarkets – up on last year.� The report also found that, despite headwinds associated with growing milk production in New Zealand, global dairy markets have been favourable and exports

continue to grow, with healthy demand from major markets. “Demand has remained robust, with dairy exports from the six major exporters increasing 3.7 per cent over the past 12 months,� Mr Droppert said. “Greater China and Japan helped drive this growth, while demand from the Middle East and North Africa region increased for WKH o UVW WLPH LQ RYHU WKUHH years.�

Improved global commodity prices supported value growth of Australian exports up 12.7 per cent, to US $2.2 billion. The Situation and Outlook report is released three times a year, providing expert, unbiased analysis and insights into the latest national and international market trends in the dairy industry, as well as up-todate statistics and facts. The report is available at www.dairyaustralia.com.au.

NAB predicts EYCI to sit mid-400c/kg 875c/kg in early September, before falling to 671c/kg in early October, rising to 783c/kg in late October. “Despite this, lamb prices remain very good for producers on the whole.� In contrast, the demand for wool has softened, and this saw the Eastern Market Indicator drop back to 1776c/kg early in November. Despite dry conditions in much of the country, the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) remained resilient. “The ongoing resilience of the EYCI is largely a result of strong demand for finished cattle, as opposed to any restocker demand, which is likely to be constrained by a dry weather outlook and high feed costs,� Mr Ziebell said. “Whether or not this demand is sustainable remains to be seen, and we will be watching US domestic market developments closely. “Over the coming months, we anticipate that the EYCI will sit in the mid-400c/kg to low 500c/ kg level.� On a state-by-state basis, Queensland was the best performer in October, followed closely by Western Australia. “Our index showed that most regions gained on a monthly basis in October, although lower lamb and dairy prices did have an impact on Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and western New South Wales. “Global dairy trade auctions continue to disappoint, and

while the lower AUD has helped, it is difficult to see any major improvements in the short term.� Winter crops in the eastern states have had a very tough season, with October rain coming too late to many of the most drought affected regions. “Despite a somewhat mixed spring, WA remains on track for an above average season,� Mr Ziebell said. “However, downgrades in NSW and QLD saw the wheat production forecast fall from 17.4 to 16.9 million tonnes.� Cotton prices remain strong, despite having fallen slightly this month. Crop production is expected to be a key challenge, due to a sharp reduction in available irrigation water and tough dryland growing conditions. “The Bureau of Meteorology’s outlook shows a 70 per cent chance of El Nino this year, and the dry three-month outlook is concerning given that water storage levels are already low,� Mr Ziebell said. “Murray Darling Basin storage levels have now dropped below 50 per cent, which is the lowest spring amount since 2015. “If allocations are affected, then temporary prices will be high in coming months and growing conditions could become increasingly challenging.� The AUD was trading slightly higher toward the end of October, and is forecast to trade between the USD 0.71 – 0.75 between now and the third quarter of 2019.

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FOLLOWING a large monthly gain of 6.5 per cent in September, the NAB Rural Commodities Index has continued to perform well month-on-month, rising a further 1.8 per cent in October. Released last month, the latest index shows sugar and barley were key drivers of the increase, which was offset by weakening lamb and wool prices. NAB agribusiness economist, Phin Ziebell, said sugar had enjoyed a 24.1 per cent price rise in October, while prolonged drought conditions - and associated domestic feed demand - had led to an 11.7 per cent rise in barley prices. “Domestic feed prices are still extremely elevated compared to historic norms and global benchmarks,� Mr Ziebell said. “This is reflective of poor grain availability amid drought conditions, and below average 2018-19 winter crops. “Some recent rain caused grain price indicators to soften slightly, but things are far from normal.� The NAB feed grain price index is up 7.2 per cent month on month, and 76.6 per cent year on year in October. Lamb prices fell nine per cent over the period, in what was the biggest monthly fall across all commodities in the index, and wool was also five per cent softer. “Lamb prices have been on a rollercoaster recently,� Mr Ziebell said. “The National Trade Lamb Index peaked at an extraordinary

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Page 4, Southern Farmer

December 2018

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EXPENSIVE stock feed and a lack of pasture has seen the supply of quality o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c NJ FDUFDVH ZHLJKW FZW /RRNLQJ WR RWKHU VWDWHV WKH 16: heavy steer OTH indicator rose four per FHQW WR c NJ FZW ZKLOH LQ 9LFWRULD SULFHV IHOO RQH SHU FHQW WR c NJ FZW ,QFUHDVHG \DUGLQJV VDZ SULFHV IRU VWRUH FRQGLWLRQ FDWWOH HDVH ZKLOH KHDY\ VWHHU FDWHJRULHV JHQHUDOO\ VDZ VOLJKW LP SURYHPHQWV

NEWS

December 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 5

Validation trials prove accuracy of ASKBILL’s early forecasts TRIALS have proven the success of the ASKBILL program, showing that animal growth forecasts were proving reliable for both live weight estimates and pasture biomass. Developed by the Cooperative Research Centre for Sheep Industry Innovation (Sheep CRC), www.askbill. com.au provides timely and accurate predictions for sheep wellbeing and productivity using climate, stock and pasture information. The program is designed to complement grazing knowledge with detailed data about livestock and pastures to predict opportunities and threats to individual businesses from weather, pests or disease. Sheep CRC enhanced sheep wellbeing and productivity program leader, Professor Lewis Kahn, said the latest results from ASKBILL’s validation sites should give IDUPHUV LQFUHDVHG FRQo GHQFH in its forecasts of pasture biomass and animal live weight. “During the validation trials our team took comprehensive measurements of pasture, soil, live weight - ewes and weaned lambs carcase traits in lambs, wool and parasite risk every four to

IT’S WORKING: Sheep CRC validation trials on 11 commercial properties around Australia have proven the ASKBILL technology is highly accurate.

six weeks on 11 commercial properties located across the major sheep producing regions of Australia,� Prof Kahn said. “We used ASKBILL to SUHGLFW WKH UHVXOWV o YH WR six weeks in advance of the measurements being taken, and the data revealed ASKBILL’s predictions were highly accurate and should give

SURGXFHUV FRQo GHQFH LQ XV ing the tool to support their management decisions.� Pasture, forage crops and livestock were measured every five to six weeks for at least 12 months on each property. Each site had 100 ewes and 100 weaned lambs that were tagged and measured, with the enterprises monitored

including both Merino and prime lamb operations. The prime lambs were followed to the processor to measure carcase traits that underpin lean meat yields and eating quality, while pasture biomass, green content and nutritional quality – digestibility and crude protein were comprehensively measured on each occasion.

“Across all sown and native pasture and forage crop sites, the measured average pasture biomass of 3300kg of dry matter per hectare was close to the ASKBILL predictHG YDOXH o YH WR VL[ ZHHNV LQ advance) of 3000kg DM/ha – an accuracy level above 90 per cent when comparing the measured and predicted values from all of the individual

paddocks,� Prof Kahn said. “The measured average live weight of all weaners over all properties and visits was 38.9kg, compared to the mean predicted live weight of 40.2kg, while measured carcase weight and GR fat depth were predicted with an accuracy of approximately 80 per cent. “For the ewes, the measured average live weight was 63.0kg and the ASKBILL average predicted live weight was 64.4kg.� Prof Kahn said the next stage of analysis would test the accuracy of pasture quality predictions of metabolisable energy and crude protein content, as well as wool growth and the risk from worm infection. “While these results are very encouraging, these ongoing trials will be invaluable in continuing to improve the accuracy of ASKBILL’s forecasting models and predictions. “The results also provide WKH FRQo GHQFH WKDW WKH $6. BILL forecasts provide value to help sheep producers meet their future targets for production and wellbeing of WKHLU p RFNV y KH VDLG More information is available at www.askbill.com.au.

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NEWS

Page 6, Southern Farmer

December 2018

Christmas trees and dairy cows The Cranston family farm pine and milk Ű

EVERY morning, the alarm in Neil Cranston’s bedroom goes off at 3am. Although it has been the same for 40 years, the sound still jolts him upright. No amount of habit prepares a body for 3am starts – but so is the life of a dairy farmer, and Neil is busier than most. Not only does he own and operate a large dairy operation in Nar Nar Goon, Neil also runs Dandenong Christmas Trees. Right now he is at peak production – gearing up for yet another festive season. “Santa is due any day, and we have to be ready,” Neil said. “Just like the elves, it takes us 12 months to get here.” Joke though he may, the business of growing Christmas trees is surprisingly intensive. 0DWXUHG RYHU D IRXU WR oYH \HDU period, each tree is shaped with a hand-knife at least twice a year; and when you have 60,000-80,000 trees in the ground - like Neil does - that equates to quite a lot of work. “I started working for Mr and Mrs Boucher at the age of 18 – they had started growing the Christmas trees in 1960,” Neil said. “We used to be in Dandenong North, but had to move to make way for the East Link Motorway project – so even though the farm is now at OfoFHU IRU UHWDLO DQG 1DU 1DU *RRQ IRU wholesale, we kept the Dandenong name; we thought it was important to acknowledge that history.” Neil has always enjoyed working on the land, so when he “fell into” WKH WUHH EXVLQHVV LW ZDV D SHUIHFW oW q because he knew, from an early age, that he wanted to own a farm; but achieving that dream was going to take plenty of hard work. Brought up on a leased dairy in Narre Warren North, there was never a succession option for the Cranston family. So Neil rolled up his sleeves and began the road to ownership the old-fashioned way; saving week by week, month by month and year by year. Now, four decades on, he coowns not only the Christmas tree farm – he purchased the business in 2000 – but also a 600 acre dairy (300 owned and 300 leased), running 350

DASHING THROUGH THE FARM: The Cranston family run Dandenong Christmas Trees, and each year parcel up around 20,000 trees to send across Australia – bringing a little bit of joy to families everywhere.

HARD AT WORK: Christmas trees take up to five years to mature, and need hand trimming into shape at least twice a year.

Friesian and Friesian Jersey cross cows on a 15-swing over. “I look back now and see what we achieved, and I’m proud of that – but I also look back and see how much work it was,” Neil said.

At 63 years of age, Neil is not as busy as he was once. His brother, Peter, is employed full time on the dairy, with casuals helping out when needed. Despite the help, Neil is still no-

“It wasn’t just me who worked, my wife and three children did, as they were growing up, as well; but there were a lot of 18 hour days, and a lot of times I should have been home and wasn’t.”

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where near slowing down. After rising at 3am, he heads out to begin milking; after that it’s calf feeding, farm chores and then out to the Christmas trees to begin work on his second job. “There is a lot going on, all the time,” Neil said. “We can have up to 20 people working on the trees over the harvest. “This year has been a bit tough, what with the season, and if it doesn’t improve the trees will be set back by 12 months – it’ll have a big impact.” The dry season is also apparent on the dairy – normally, the Cranstons bank on an annual rainfall of at least 750ml. This year, less than half of that has fallen. “People think Gippsland is an oasis, and we do have it better than some this year particularly,” Neil said. Early last month, more than 50ml of rain fell at Nar Nar Goon – helping carry through the spring season. But unlike many farmers, Neil also has that second income comLQJ LQ WR EROVWHU pDJJLQJ GDLU\ SULFHV and skyrocketing feed. “We send trees not just across Victoria, but up into New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia – up to 20,000 each year,” he said. “So while it’s a lot of work, it does give us options when things don’t pan out on the dairy.” Dandenong Christmas Trees is run by Neil, his business partner Neale Drury – and this time of year, any family member who is willing to help out. “It’s all hands on deck from midNovember until Christmas; our kids come and help, the grandkids – everyone gets involved.” December for the Cranston family is not a month to relax – but it is still about being together. The family rise early, and children run delightedly around; playing hide and seek among pine branches. In the background, adults greet buyers, chop trees and process them – doing their bit to bring Christmas into homes across Victoria. “I guess it’s a bit like being in Santa’s workshop – except we aren’t making toys, we’re making trees,” Neil said. “But it’s become our family tradition, spending time together while we work. “Like everybody, we can’t wait for December 25 to arrive.”

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NEWS

December 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 7

Mini cattle too cool to be large MINI cattle breeds are better adapted to high temperatures, according to new research published last month. The study showed that mini breeds of cattle use different heat tolerance mechanisms than standard cattle breeds, making them better adapted to hotter climates. Potentially, the research could change the way cattle producers develop breeding stock, opting for smaller genetics rather than importing large international breeds. “Tolerant breeds are preferred as it requires minimum diet and management PRGLoFDWLRQV DQG WKXV causes less welfare and environmental issues compared to high yielding commercial breeds,” Dr Muhammed Elayadeth-Meethal said. Dr Elayadeth-Meethal, from India, led the study – along with a team from the University of Western Australia, training in thermal physiology measurements. Dr Elayadeth-Meethal said standard cattle breeds acclimatise to the warm environment through physiological, biochemical and molecular changes - while dwarf breeds have adapted through changes in their genes. “Standard size cattle breeds can acclimatise in the short term to higher temperatures but reach their tolerance limit under prevailing tropical con-

Ű

Research shows mini cattle are better suited to hot environments

NEW RESEARCH ON LITTLE BREEDS: Alison Livermore owns Winswood Miniature Herefords, and said there was no surprise that recent university studies has found miniature breeds were better suited to hot environments.

ditions, while the dwarf breeds are genetically adapted to the warmer climate,” Dr Elayadeth-Meethal said. Alison Livermore owns Winswood Miniature Herefords, and has been in the breeding game for more than a decade.

Ms Livermore, who said it was somewhat derogatory to refer to miniature breeds as dwarf – was unsurprised by WKH oQGLQJV “They seem to be more robust all round,” Ms Livermore said. “A lot of our bigger animals

are doing it tough this season, whereas the minis are sailing through – they are doing oQH y Ms Livermore runs both regular and miniature Herefords at Woodside, and said this season had been particularly trying.

“We have big cattle and the minis, and they are rugged and nuggety and their requirements are less,” she said. “It’s easier to keep them ZHOO IHG RQ QRW PXFK q , oQG them tougher overall.” Professor Shane Maloney

from UWA’s School of Human Sciences and Institute of Agriculture was part of the research team, and said the study highlighted the importance of these locally adapted breeds as a reservoir of genetic variation, which could be used as candidate breeds to develop climate-ready cattle. “There is an increasing trend of importing international breeds rather than relying on domestic breeds which may be smaller in size but are better suited to a tropical climate.” The paper, Size does matter: Parallel evolution of adaptive thermal tolerance and body size facilitates adaptation to climate change in domestic cattle was published in the journal Ecology and Evolution. The research formed part of Dr Elayadeth-Meethal’s PhD studies and was supported by Crawford Funding Australia, and Rothamsted International Fellowship. The collaborating institutions Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, University of Bristol, UWA and Rothamsted Research are all members of the Global Farm Platform initiative that attracts researchers from different communities and disciplines seeking to develop sustainable ruminant production globally.

NEWS

Page 8, Southern Farmer

December 2018

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Additional options can be included, such as visitor options, photo electric sensors to stop the gate closing on slower vehicles - large trucks or farm machinery - in ground vehicle loops to open the gate when a vehicle drives over the loop and

even remote controlled gate lock option so that all visitor entry buttons can be disabled from your vehicle as you leave the property or retire at night. Other options also include remote controls to control your JDWH IURP XS WR o YH NLORPHWUHV

away, or alarms to warn the gate is opening. The gate controller kits come as an easy to install do it yourself kit, with Solartronics offering full after sales support. For more information, give the team a call on 1800 141 555.

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Do you know the signs of Foot and Mouth Disease? By JESS RUMMERY, BIOSECURITY AND EXTENSION MANAGER, NORTHERN AUSTRALIA FOOT and Mouth Disease (FMD) is known to affect cloven hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, deer, buffalo and camelids. Thankfully, Australia is lucky enough not to have this highly contagious disease of livestock. In 2013, The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) estimated the

cost of an outbreak of FMD in Australia. The amount varied considerably depending on the scale of the outbreak. For example, a smaller scale outbreak was estimated to cost approximately $6 billion over 10 years, whereas, a larger multi-state outbreak would cost significantly more – estimated to cost roughly $52 billion over the same time period. Being such a large exporter of agricultural products, most of these costs are made up of revenue losses due to loss of our international markets.

The difference between the small and large outbreak scenario comes down to one key factor – early detection of the disease. Without early detection, the disease can spread unrestricted making containment and eradication a much larger job when it is detected. For this reason, it is important that everyone who works with FMD-susceptible species are familiar with the signs of the disease and if anything is found that is unusual that it is reported as quickly as possible.

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December 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 9

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NEWS

Page 10, Southern Farmer

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THE SOUTHERN

Pick up your FREE copy from:

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria BACCHUS MARSH Bacchus Marsh Farm Supplies 126 Main Street

GEELONG Geelong Farm Supplies 122 Victoria Street

LILYDALE Agpower & Transport 465 Maroondah Highway

SEVILLE Seville Tractors 51 Monbulk-Seville Road

BALNARRING Balnarring Produce 2990 Frankston-Flinders Road

GEELONG NORTH Hewitt & Whitty Geelong 132-136 Furner Avenue

LITTLE RIVER Little River General Store 28-32 Little River Road

SEYMOUR Seymour Equine & Rural 38 Emily Street

B A L L A R AT Cervus Equipment Corner Brewery Tap Road & Western Highway Brown Hill Mega Merch Rural & Pet 151 Learmonth Street Alfredton Munash Natural Fertilisers 560 Ballarat-Daylesford Road

HASTINGS Hastings Produce 2083 Flinders-Frankston Road

MELTON Jon Kay Agri Service 9 Norton Drive

HEALESVILLE Healesville Stockfeed and Farm 281-283 Maroondah Highway

MONBULK Murphy’s Mitre 10 Corner Main & Silvan Roads

SILVAN Darmac AG Sales & Service 249-251 Monbulk Road E.E. Muir & Sons 397 Monbulk Road

H E AT H C O T E Heathcote Rural Merchandise Court 85 High Street

MORNINGTON Budget Stockfeeds 125 Mornington-Tyabb Road

BENDIGO CEPA Farm Supplies 4-10 Stanley Street Quarry Hill Elders VP 109 Midland Highway Epsom COLDSTREAM Rural Fence & Trade 611 Maroondah Highway Coldstream LPO 670-672 Maroondah Highway

INVERLEIGH Inverleigh Farm Supplies 28 High Street KILMORE Highlands Produce 125 Northern Highway KOOWEERUP Kooweerup Newsagency 44-48 Station Street

CRAIGIEBURN Melbourne Farm Supplies 304 Sydney Road

KYNETON L & G Sheppard & Sons 88 Piper Street R S Perry & Sons 5 Market Street

DELACOMBE Westag 12 Wiltshire Lane

L E O N G AT H A Gendore Tractors & Machinery 82-84 Yarragon Road

MT EVELYN Mt Evelyn Garden & Produce 41 Monbulk Road PAKENHAM Elders VP 2 Livestock Way Glenmac Sales and Service 85 Bald Hill Road Pakenham Produce 2 Bormar Drive

Ag able to access any of your Can-Am requirements. Darmac Ag is located on Monbulk Road, Silvan, and whether you’re after an allterrain vehicle, a quad or a side-by-side, all Can-Am’s units come with the essentials, leaving only one thing up to you: where you take it.

SMITHS GULLY Smiths Gully General Store 914 Main Road SUNBURY Perry’s Produce Sunbury 123 Evans Street SUNSHINE Western Farm Service 588 Ballarat Road TA G G E R T Y Taggerty Store 26 Taggerty-Thornton Road

PANTON HILL Panton Hill General Store & PO 586 Main Road

TOORADIN Kverneland-Gendore Australia 78-83 South Gippsland Highway

RED HILL SOUTH Peninsula Farm Supplies 79 Arthurs Seat Road

WALLINGTON Wallington’s WRG 370 Grubb Road

ROCKBANK Godings 2129 Western Highway

WANDIN NORTH Wesfarmers Landmark Unit 1, 7 George Street

WARRAGUL Farm Depot 183 Queens Street R.E.N. Machinery Warragul 14-18 Normanby Street WERRIBEE E.E. Muir & Sons 879 Duncans Road WERRIBEE SOUTH Anglers Anchorage 670 O’Connors Road WHITTLESEA Whittlesea Produce 31 Forest Street WINCHELSEA Winchelsea Trading 32 Harding Street YARRA GLEN Hoogies of Yarra Glen 9-15 Bell Street Yarra Glen Mower & Tractor 21 Bell Street Yarra Glen Stockfeeds 2/1 Armstrong Grove YARRA JUNCTION Baroona Produce & Pet Supplies 2434 Warburton Highway YARRAGON Graham’s Seeds 98 Waterloo Road YEA Yea Fuels 98 High Street Elders VP 4 Station Street

Digital editions are also available to download for free. For more information visit farmernews.com.au

December 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 11

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THE SOUTHERN

Part of the Farmer Group Rural Newspapers Covering Victoria

GOULBURN MURRAY VALLEY Y&& ŽŽƌĚŝŶĂƚŽƌ͗ ZŽƐƐ ďďĞƌĮĞůĚ ǁǁǁ͘ŐŵǀͲƋůĚĨƌƵŝƞůLJ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵ WŚŽŶĞ͗ ;ϬϯͿ ϱϴϳϭϵϮϮϮ STOP QUEENSLAND FRUIT FLY

JANUARY S M T W 1 2 6 7 8 9 13 14 15 16 20 21 22 23 27 28 29 30

T 3 10 17 24 31

F 4 11 18 25

S 5 12 19 26

FEBRUARY S M T W T F 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28

S 2 9 16 23

YARRA VALLEY Y&& ŽŽƌĚŝŶĂƚŽƌ͗ ƌŽŶǁLJŶ <Žůů ǁǁǁ͘ĨƌƵŝƞůLJĨƌĞĞLJǀ͘ĐŽŵ͘ĂƵ WŚŽŶĞ͗ ϬϰϵϬϯϴϭϵϵϵ

APRIL S M T 1 2 7 8 9 14 15 16 21 22 23 28 29 30

W 3 10 17 24

T 4 11 18 25

F 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27

MAY S M T W 1 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22 26 27 28 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

F 3 10 17 24 31

S 4 11 18 25

MARCH S M T W T F 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29 31

S 2 9 16 23 30

Recycle your eligible agvet containers at your nearest drumMUSTER collection point. Visit the drumMUSTER website to find the nearest collection site to you. Remember, every container counts.

Rainfall Chart JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC 1 2 3 4 5

JUNE S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

6 7 8 9

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JULY S M T 1 2 7 8 9 14 15 16 21 22 23 28 29 30

W 3 10 17 24 31

OCTOBER S M T W 1 2 6 7 8 9 13 14 15 16 20 21 22 23 27 28 29 30

T 4 11 18 25

T 3 10 17 24 31

F 5 12 19 26

F 4 11 18 25

S 6 13 20 27

S 5 12 19 26

AUGUST S M T W T 1 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 28 29

F 2 9 16 23 30

NOVEMBER S M T W T F 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29

Tue Sat Mon Mon Fri Sat Sun

New Year’s Day Australia Day Australia Day Holiday Labour Day Good Friday Day following Good Friday Easter Sunday

S 2 9 16 23 30

DECEMBER S M T W T 1 2 3 4 5 8 9 10 11 12 15 16 17 18 19 22 23 24 25 26 29 30 31

15

F 6 13 20 27

S 7 14 21 28

16 17 18 Rake up those leaves

22 Apr 25 Apr 10 Jun 27 Sep 5 Nov 25 Dec 26 Dec

Mon Thu Mon Fri Tue Wed Thu

Easter Monday Anzac Day Queen’s Birthday AFL Grand Final Friday Melbourne Cup Day * Christmas Day Boxing Day

Term 1: January 30 - April 5 Term 2: April 23 - June 28

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F 6 13 20 27

S 7 14 21 28

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

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2019 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 1 Jan 26 Jan 28 Jan 11 Mar 19 Apr 20 Apr 21 Apr

S 3 10 17 24 31

SEPTEMBER S M T W T 1 2 3 4 5 8 9 10 11 12 15 16 17 18 19 22 23 24 25 26 29 30

31

Term 3: July 15 - September 20 Term 4: October 7 - December 19

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NEWS

Page 14, Southern Farmer

December 2018

It’s spring silly season at Ellinbank Research

But the work goes on

BY DR MARTIN AULDIST

Senior Research Scientist, Agriculture Victoria, Ellinbank

SILLY SEASON AT ELLINBANK: Not only is it the spring silly season at Ellinbank Research Centre, it’s also Christmas.

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AGRICULTURE Victoria researchers at Ellinbank are still in the middle of the spring silly season, with some experiments winding up and others just beginning. First cab off the rank this spring was an early lactation nutrition experiment as part of the “First 100 Days� research program. In this experiment, which is led by Vicky Russo and Dr Bill Wales and runs until January, four different strategies for providing grain supplements during early lactation are being tested in four groups of 24 cows. Flat feeding rates of either “high� or “medium� amounts of grain for the first 140 days of lactation are being compared to systems in which a high amount of grain is reduced to a “low� amount when cows were judged to have switched from a fat mobilisation phase to one of fat deposition. Two different ways of approximating the timing of this transition were compared: in one treatment diets were changed when 70 days in milk was reached. In the final group, diets were changed when cows stopped losing weight and started gaining it irrespective of days in milk (as judged by daily measurements of live weight). Results from this experiment should become available early in the New Year. Next, the second grazing

experiment as part of the “Smart Feeding� research program was conducted in October. An experiment using 40 cows was led by Meaghan Douglas and myself to measure the effect of time away from pasture on grazing behaviour, dry matter intake and the change in the availability and quality of pasture as grazing progressed. The cows were allocated into five treatment groups of eight and released back to their paddock sequentially. Over 15 days, one group was walked straight to the paddock while others were sent back at 45-minute intervals over three hours, in the same order each time, thus mimicking what often occurs on commercial farms. Some cows, therefore, were away from the paddock for six hours per day plus walking and milking time. To measure grazing behaviour, cows were fitted with jaw movement sensors and activity monitors to record the time cows spent grazing each day, the total number of bites the cows took each day, and the rate at which cows grazed. In addition, the n-alkane technique was used to measure the total daily dry matter intake of cows. Measurements were also made of pasture mass and quality prior to grazing, and then immediately prior to

each new group of cows entering the paddock. Preliminary analyses of the results showed that cows returning to the paddock first produced around 6.2kg more milk per day than cows returning three hours later. This was despite spending approximately the same amount of time grazing. Presumably the cows returning to the paddock last harvested a smaller amount of pasture per bite, resulting in a lower intake of lower quality pasture, but this data is still being collated. Last but not least, an experiment was commenced in early November as part of the “Cool Cows� program led by Dr Leah Marett and Richard Williams. This experiment, which uses 24 cows, has the aim of investigating four different supplements for their potential to form diets with a lower heat of fermentation that may be useful for feeding cows in hot weather. Supplements that will be tested include wheat, barley, maize and canola meal. Information from this experiment could ultimately lead to special “summer supplements� to help relieve the milk loss incurred during heat stress. These diets will be tested in cows that have been previously identified as being either tolerant or susceptible to heat events, to check for possible interactions between the effects of nutrition and genetics.

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December 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 15 A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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NEWS

Page 16, Southern Farmer

December 2018

U-pick cherries comes to Yarck

CHERRIES: Cousins Michael (left) and Simon Rouget own and operate Koala Cherries, a third generation cherry growing, packing and marketing business in Yarck. PHOTO: Michelle Beatty

CHERRY growers are set for a bumper harvest, with farmers having been busily preparing for the 2018/19 cherry season all year. Koala Cherries, located in Yarck, kicked off its harvest period last week, beginning at its property in Cobram - and according to cousins and owners Simon and Michael Rouget, there will be plenty of cherries to enjoy this Christmas. Simon Rouget, production manager, says that it has been an ideal spring for the production of cherries in Yarck. “The weather during bloom was dry and warm, and has been very good conditions for bees, pollination and fruit set,� he said. “As a result of the good conditions, we have recently started harvesting our crop.� Each year, Koala Cherries produce approximately 2000 tonnes of cherries, alongside an additional 500 tonnes of fruit they pack and sell for other growers. Koala Cherries sells their fruit to the domestic markets and supermarkets; and after looking for more ways to engage with their customers, will be welcoming upick sessions into this season. These sessions will be held on their Middle Creek Road property in Yarck. “We see u-pick as a great op-

portunity to bring families to our farm and show people where their food comes from,� Simon said. “Our kids have all loved this lifestyle, and we want to share a portion of that experience with others.� After paying an entry/eating fee, you will be able to sample cherries fresh from the trees and pay a per kilo price for any you wish to take home. While these sessions will run on weekends in December, and daily from Boxing Day until early January, their shop will be open for shed door sales daily until mid-January. Alongside their cherries, Koala Cherries will again be stocking their much loved cherry icecream in their shop, which is made by a local chef with their own cherries - and now sold in convenient grab and go cups. “It is an exciting and adrenaOLQH o OOHG WLPH RI WKH \HDU y 6LPRQ said. Koala Cherries manage over 200 hectares of orchard; and with over 150,000 trees, there are plenty of cherries. “Alongside our dedicated staff, we have a lot of return employees who we rely upon, and who also love this work,� Simon said. “We couldn’t do it without them.�

%DUCATION HORSES TAKE OVER:

Although Elmore is synonymous with field days, it was a different kind of exhibition recently when the Elmore Equestrian Park was flooded with horses for the Drovers Saddlery HRCAV TTT Dressage Competition. Some 630 horses, and more than 1000 people, attended the event – with the Benalla Riding Club taking home the overall win. Pictured is Elle McKenzie, with her horse Coldstream Amoretto, from the Gisborne District Adult Riding Club.

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Hill and in Melbourne’s central business district where the institute is colocated with the Centre for Adult Education (CAE). In 2016, they also opened a new campus in Lilydale, located in Melbourne’s outer east. In 2017, the institute delivered offshore training and services around the world including China, Kuwait, Vietnam, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. Box Hill Institute also delivered training and services to the Department of Defence, in eight Corrections Victoria facilities and across many workplace locations.

December 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 17

Bachelor of Agriculture The Bachelor of Agriculture at Melbourne gives you the skills and knowledge to apply science to solve real-world issues in food production. Become a highly-skilled agricultural scientist, ready to take on the world. The University of Melbourne’s Bachelor of Agriculture prepares students to work in a growing, increasingly high-tech industry. From developing foundation knowledge in agricultural science in first year, through to career planning and internships, this industry-focused degree will give you the knowledge you need to start your career in agricultural science or agribusiness and the skills to thrive in a professional environment. Students in the Bachelor of Agriculture will: Q Choose from majors in Plant and Soil Science, Production Animal Science or Agricultural Economics Q Explore the latest precision farming technologies in an optional semester at the University’s recently-refurbished Dookie campus, our 2,440 hectare “living laboratory” Q Understand the broader industry context of agribusiness and develop a global perspective of Australia’s agricultural production Q Learn to work with people with different skills to solve real issues in agriculture, and how to communicate the science of agriculture to experts and non-experts, from farmers to investors Q Receive opportunities for external industry placements and professional development to help them start your ideal career Q Have the opportunity to enter a range of exciting careers after graduation, from plant and animal breeding and genetics, to commodity trading, to research and development.

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NEWS

Page 18, Southern Farmer

December 2018

Red dairy conference is coming to Australia )25 WKH o UVW WLPH LQ DOPRVW WZR GHFDGHV WKH ,QWHUQDWLRQ DO 5HG 'DLU\ %UHHG )HGHUDWLRQ 5'%) FRQIHUHQFH ZLOO EH KHOG LQ $XVWUDOLD 6FKHGXOHG IRU QH[W PDUFK EUHHGHUV RUJDQLVDWLRQV DQG LQGXVWU\ H[SHUWV ZLOO DOO KHDG WR 0RXQW *DPELHU q ZLWK D IROORZ XS WRXU LQ *LSSVODQG ZLWK SDUWLFLSDQWV DOUHDG\ FRQo UPHG IURP 86$ 1HZ =HDODQG DQG 6ZHGHQ 2UJDQLVLQJ FRPPLWWHH FKDLUPDQ *UDHPH +DPLOWRQ VDLG LW ZDV DQ RSSRUWXQLW\ IRU UHG FDWWOH JURXSV WR ZRUN WRJHWKHU WR LPSURYH FRPPX QLFDWLRQ EHWZHHQ WKH YDULRXV EUHHGV k5HG GDLU\ EUHHGV IDOO XQGHU PDQ\ GLIIHUHQW QDPHV DFURVV WKH ZRUOG DQG WKH FRQIHUHQFH LV DQ RSSRUWXQLW\ WR EULQJ WKHVH PDQ\ JURXSV WRJHWKHU WR WDON DERXW KRZ WR HQKDQFH UHG GDLU\ FDWWOH DQG WKHLU SUR PRWLRQ y 0U +DPLOWRQ VDLG k:RUNLQJ WRJHWKHU DQG SRROLQJ LGHDV DQG UHVRXUFHV LV WKH EHVW ZD\ WR DFKLHYH VXF FHVV k<RX OHDUQ E\ OLVWHQLQJ WR WRS VSHDNHUV DQG YLVLWLQJ IDUPV EXW WKH JUHDW WKLQJ DERXW WKH FRQIHUHQFH LV EXLOG

LQJ QHWZRUNV DQG IULHQG VKLSV y 7KH WRXU EHJLQV LQ $GHODLGH RQ 0DUFK DQG ZLOO LQYROYH YLVLWV WR KHUGV DQG WRXULVW DW WUDFWLRQV LQ FHQWUDO 6RXWK $XVWUDOLD WKH 0RXQW *DPELHU UHJLRQ VRXWK ZHVW 9LFWRULD DQG *HHORQJ $W WKH RIo FLDO FRQIHUHQFH GD\ RQ 7XHVGD\ 0DUFK DW 0RXQW *DPELHU $XVWUDO LDQ DQG LQWHUQDWLRQDO VSHDN HUV ZLOO SURYLGH XSGDWHV IURP DURXQG WKH ZRUOG RQ SUHVHQW DQG IXWXUH EUHHGLQJ DVSHFWV RI WKH UHG EUHHGV 1HZ LQIRUPDWLRQ ZLOO EH DYDLODEOH RQ WUDLWV IRU IHHG HI o FLHQF\ DQG KHDW WROHUDQFH DQG D IRFXV RQ PDQDJLQJ EUHHG GLYHUVLW\ (YHQW RUJDQLVHU .\OLH %RV WRQ VDLG YLVLWRUV ZRXOG JHW WKH EHVW RI ERWK ZRUOGV ZLWK LQIRU PDWLRQ DW WKH FRQIHUHQFH DQG RQ VLWH H[SHULHQFHV DW IDUPV k,W V D UDUH DQG YDOXDEOH RS SRUWXQLW\ IRU UHG FDWWOH IDUP HUV WR JHW WRJHWKHU WR DGYDQFH WKH EUHHGV y VKH VDLG )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ DQG WR UHJLVWHU SOHDVH FRQWDFW 0V %RVWRQ EHIRUH )HEUXDU\ RQ RU HPDLO N\OLH VPF#ELJSRQG FRP COMING IN 2019: The Red Dairy Breed Federation Conference will be held in Australia for the first time since 2000, with organising committee chairman, Graeme Hamilton (pictured), saying it was an ideal opportunity for breeders to come together. PHOTO: Michelle Hamilton

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December 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 19

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WINNER: Ian Hamono won the 2018 National Maize Competition with a yield of 19.54 tonnes per hectare, using a sub-surface irrigation system.

Value of sub-surface irrigation demonstrated with corn win

THE ability of sub-surface irrigation to achieve high crop yields has been demonstrated with a win by Ian Hamono, who farms out of Shepparton, in the 2018 National Maize Competition. Mr Hamono, who farms at Cooma in the Goulbourn Valley, produced a yield of 19.54 tonnes per hectare. *URZQ RQ 1HWDo P VXE surface irrigation, the winning crop was planted on October 23, 2017 and harvested on April 19 the following year. Just six megalitres per hectare of irrigation water was needed to grow the crop with D :DWHU 8VH (Io FLHQF\ :8( of 3.26 tonnes per megalitre of water. “One of the major advantages in sub-surface drip irrigation is the ability to apply the amount of water that the crop needs,” Mr Hamono said. k:LWK p RRG LUULJDWLRQ you’ve either got to put on

o IW\ PO RU QRWKLQJ “With this system, I know each week, through the growing system, what my crop needs and I put that amount of water on.” Mr Hamono said the system meant the plant didn’t suffer from lack of water - and received the right amount for the time of season and external weather conditions, and said it was important to buy from companies that were known for quality. “I try to buy top brands because the research has been done and the history is there,” he said. “I know they’re going to perform for the long term - I am looking for long-term support for the next twenty or thirty years. “Some of the other suppliers that were in the game ten years ago are not there now.” A key to the success of the sub-surface drip has been the lack of maintenance that has

been needed across the sea- tions to occur at times when so I use my entire off peak hours and then if I need more sons. water than that according to electricity prices are at their hours up during the week. “Maintenance is low,” Mr cheapest. “I know how much water I program, I’ll start eating into Hamono said. “I minimise my energy costs can put on with those off peak daylight hours.” k, FOHDQ WKHVH o HOG o OWHUV once a season, and it takes me about a day to do it. “Other than that, it is really just a matter of keeping on top of the operation. “In the years I’ve grown corn on this I’ve had one rat hole, one mouse hole and a Your local drillers with extensive little bug and two or three experience in all ground conditions. joiners that have come off. “It has been really mainteFamily owned business nance free.” established since 1976. The sub-surface drip irrigation has also allowed an For quotes and advice call option for fertigation and last season some two-thirds of the Graham or Andy Brennan nitrogen requirements were 0409362289 / 0409362291 delivered using this method. “I dissolve urea in my mixnorthwest.drilling@bigpond.com ing tank in my pump shed and northwestdrilling.com.au I fertigate that through the ”Pete and Andy after season through the computer PO BOX. 254 another successful day control that is in the shed,” Mr constructing a water bore” Diamond Creek, Vic 3089 Hamono said. The system allows irriga-

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Page 20, Southern Farmer

December 2018

FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION j/31d15737/41-10

Aussie releases new long range fire pump AUSSIE Pumps has launched a new ‘Long Ranger’ version of their popular Aussie 0U 7 WZLQ LPSHOOHU o UH SXPS The new pump runs for extended periods, a real safety ERQXV GXULQJ D EXVKo UH HPHU JHQF\ 7KH KLJK SHUIRUPDQFH o UH pump features a 16 litre long range IXHO WDQN WKDW QHDWO\ o WV ZLWKLQ D JDOYDQLVHG VWHHO UROO IUDPH The extra fuel capacity gives the ability to run continuously IRU XS WR o YH KRXUV ZLWKRXW WKH QHHG WR UHIXHO “Refuelling a pump in an emergency must be done extremely carefully,� Aussie Pumps’product manager Brad )DUUXJLD VDLG “The larger fuel tank means this pump runs for longer beWZHHQ UHo OOV DQG LV WKHUHIRUH D VDIHU RSWLRQ y Powered by a Honda GX390 13HP electric start engine, the pump features a pair of single piece impellers, which deliver p RZV WR OSP ZLWK D PD[L PXP KHDG RI P SVL The best news for owners is

NEW AND READY FOR SUMMER: Aussie Pumps’ new ‘Long Ranger’ fire pump is a safety bonus in a bushfire emergency.

the pump’s enormous volume DW KLJK SUHVVXUH “Our Mr T twin impeller pump is regarded as the leader LQ LWV FODVV y 0U )DUUXJLD VDLG “Its ability to feed multiple hoses simultaneously makes it ideal for use in defending a KRPH LQ D EXVKo UH HPHUJHQF\ “With three hose outlets it

can be set up to feed a sprinkler system, say on the roof, DQG VXSSO\ HPHUJHQF\ o UH hoses for use putting out spot o UHV EHIRUH WKH\ WDNH KROG y The extra pressure produced by the twin impellers also means the pump is ideal for pushing water up a hill to a supply tank, or for drafting wa-

WHU IURP D FUHHN RU GDP The pump and engine have been carefully match tested by Honda to ensure performance is maintained and that the enJLQH LV QRW RYHUORDGHG $XVVLH JLYHV D o YH \HDU ZDU ranty on the pump end and Honda cover the engine for WKUHH \HDUV

The Mr T is available in eiWKHU y RU y FRQo JXUDWLRQV which can deliver in excess of OLWUHV SHU PLQXWH p RZ DW D PHWUH KHDG Further information on the QHZ WZLQ LPSHOOHU o UH SXPS LV available from Australian Pump Industries or Aussie Pump DisWULEXWRUV WKURXJKRXW $XVWUDOLD

Fire checklist HERE are some basic ways you can keep your property safe from fire this summer: z stop using welders, chainsaws, slashers and reducing tractor operations on hot and windy days; z ensure diesel trucks with exhausts higher than the cab have spark-arrester shields fixed to the exhaust – this is particularly important when carting feed; z all harvester operators should be aware of the conditions outside their air conditioned cabs; z pay special attention to machinery bearings and moving parts; z carry appropriate fire extinguishers, shovels, or knapsack sprayers during highfire danger periods; and z always check with your local authority to help plan your activities on the farm.

PLAN AND PREPARE The reasons are black and white emergency.vic.gov.au Download the VicEmergency app

It’s your responsibility to be ďŹ re ready this summer, so prepare your property, ďŹ re plan and emergency kit now. When hot, dry, windy days are forecast, check Fire Danger Ratings in your district daily and monitor conditions via local radio, the VicEmergency website and app. On high-risk ďŹ re days, leaving early, before a ďŹ re starts, is always the safest option. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

December 2018

Southern Farmer, Page 21

FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION j/31d15737/41-10

Harvester check list:

HARVESTER FIRE TIP: Protect your harvester this season - if bearings start running hotter, replace them at the end of the day before they collapse, potentially posing a fire risk and further machine damage. If you find particular bearings fail regularly, keep a supply of new bearings on hand, so they can be quickly changed over before reaching dangerous temperatures. PHOTO: Ben White, Kondinin Group

Be safe, check your harvester $// KDUYHVWHUV DUH SURQH WR o UH and this time of year is as dangerous as any other. 7KH *UDLQV 5HVHDUFK DQG 'HYHO opment Corporation has released a special guide to help farmers harvest safely this season, saying crop and machine losses can be minimised ZLWK K\JLHQH LQVSHFWLRQ DQG PDLQ tenance. $FFRUGLQJ WR .RQGLQLQ *URXS UH search, seven per cent of harvesters

ZLOO VWDUW D o UH HDFK \HDU RI WKHVH RQH LQ ZLOO FDXVH VLJQLo FDQW GDPDJH WR the machine or surrounding crop. 7KH EHQHo WV H[WHQG IXUWKHU WKDQ UHGXFLQJ WKH o UH ULVN WKRXJK $ PRUH SUR DFWLYH PDLQWHQDQFH DQG LQVSHFWLRQ SURJUDP ZLOO KHOS UH GXFH PDFKLQHU\ GRZQWLPH DQG SUH YHQW H[SHQVLYH UHSDLU ELOOV ,GHQWLI\LQJ SUREOHP DUHDV ZLWK LQ GLYLGXDO KDUYHVWHU PDNHV DQG PRG HOV LV HVVHQWLDO IRU FRQWUROOLQJ WKH o UH

ULVN DQG ZKLOH VRPH PDFKLQHV DUH more prone than others, it pays to WDON WR GHDOHUV DQG RWKHU IDUPHUV XV ing similar machines for advice. Some tips include: „ bearings, hydraulic lines and belts need to be closely monitored DQG WKH KDUYHVWHU VKRXOG EH NHSW IUHH of dust and chaff accumulation; „ LI \RX GHWHFW D o UH IDFH WKH KDU vester into the wind and evacuate promptly;

„ DUHDV RI LQFUHDVHG ULVN LQFOXGH GXVW trap areas, rubbing or slipping belts or IDLOXUH SURQH EHDULQJV DQG VKRXOG EH FKHFNHG PRUH UHJXODUO\ DQG „ NHHS DOO FRPPXQLFDWLRQ OLQHV RSHQ DV RWKHU RSHUDWRUV VXFK DV FKDVHU ELQ GULYHUV FDQ DOHUW WKH KDU vester driver if a problem occurs. To read the full document, or to o QG RXW KRZ WR PLQLPLVH \RXU ULVN RI KDUYHVWHU o UH WKLV VHDVRQ JR WR ZZZ grdc.com.au.

z recognise the big four factors that contribute to fires: relative humidity, ambient temperature, wind and crop type and conditions. Stop harvest when the danger is extreme; z focus on service, maintenance and machine hygiene at harvest on the days more hazardous for fire. Follow systematic preparation and prevention procedures; z use every means possible to avoid the accumulation of flammable material on the manifold, turbocharger or the exhaust system. Be aware of side and tailwinds that can disrupt the radiator fan air-blast that normally keeps the exhaust area clean; z be on the lookout for places where chafing can occur - fuel lines, battery cables, hot wires, tyres, drive belts etc; z avoid overloading electrical circuits. Don’t replace a blown fuse with a higher amperage one. It is your only protection against wiring damage from shorts and overloading; z periodically check bearings around the front and the machine body. Use a handheld digital heatmeasuring gun for temperature diagnostics on bearings, brakes etc; z drag chains, or better still drag cables or grounding conductors, may help dissipate electrical charge but are not universally successful in all conditions. There are some invaluable fire-suppressing options on the market; z use the battery isolation switch when the harvester is parked. Use vermin deterrents in the cab and elsewhere, as vermin chew some types of electrical insulation; z observe the Grassland Fire Danger Index (GFDI) protocol on high fire risk days; z maintain two-way or mobile phone contact with base and others. Keep an eye out for hazards on machinery during the season.

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Page 22, Southern Farmer

December 2018

FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION j/31d15737/41-10

Manage your farm this fire season IT’S going to be a bad one. That’s the overriding consensus as we head into summer. Bad for growers – who have had no rain – bad for farmers – who have suffered price dips – and bad for milkers – who are battling to maintain their production. On top of everything else, it is also predicted to be one RI WKH ZRUVW EXVKo UH VHDVRQV in memory. With that in mind, here are some tips on how to keep \RXU IDUP o UH VDIH DV ZH KHDG into the hottest months. Essential steps before the o UH VHDVRQ Vehicles, equipment and hay: z double check that spark arrestors on machinery are ZRUNLQJ DQG HIo FLHQW 0DNH sure chainsaws are free from faults; z KDYH ZDWHU o UH extinguishers or knapsack spray pumps (minimum 9 litres) available that can be carried by any person using farm equipment or machinery; z have a safety strategy in place for storing and monitoring hay - purchase a moisture metre if necessary; z make sure hay is fully cured before baling; z if you have private

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KEY ADVICE FOR FARMERS: z fire is an all year round risk management activity; z farmers have legislative responsibilities during the Fire Danger Period; z effective preparation and response means better recovery and return to business; z limit or cease farm machinery activity on Severe, Extreme or Code Red days; and z farmers need to consider the needs of family, staff and contractors on their farm. DON’T IGNITE YOUR LIVELIHOOD: 2018/2019 is predicted to be one of the worst fire seasons in memory. Here are some basic tips about how to keep your farm fire safe this summer.

o UHo JKWLQJ HTXLSPHQW conduct a ‘refresher’ session with family and employees to make sure everyone can use it; and z make sure that there are no gaps between the cladding and the ground or slab of your sheds to prevent embers getting inside. Fuel loads and stock: z reduce fuel loads around assets (house blocks, sheds and fences) and create strategic fuel breaks;

z apply to the relevant authority if you need to remove native vegetation or manage fuel on roadsides; z create a heavily grazed area where stock can be PRYHG GXULQJ D EXVKo UH situation; and z conduct a stocktake of feed, animals and fencing EHIRUH WKH o UH VHDVRQ DQG keep a copy of records off your property. Permits and laws: z make a list of legal

restrictions (Fire Danger Period and Total Fire Ban) relevant to your property. Display it or keep it handy so everyone on your property can refer to it often and easily; z check with your council if local laws are in place for OLJKWLQJ o UHV EXUQLQJ RII RU using incinerators; and z apply for a Schedule 13 permit from your local council if you intend to burn off weeds, stubble or

vegetation during the FDP, or a schedule 14 permit if you LQWHQG WR XVH o UH IRU RWKHU purposes (eg machinery). $FFHVV IRU o UHo JKWHUV z make sure your property name or number is clearly visible so emergency services can identify it easily when approaching the entrance; z check access tracks around your property. &RQVLGHU LI DFFHVV IRU o UH trucks can be improved by clearing vegetation,

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signposting dead ends or creating turning circles; z make sure water supplies around your property are clearly marked in case emergency services need to access them. 3ODQQLQJ z have a plan for horses and livestock. A large wellgrazed area where they can move freely, with a supply of water, is the safest. Remove all gear from horses and always keep them contained on your property, they are at serious risk on roads where visibility will be poor; z have a routine in place IRU o UH ULVN GD\V PRYLQJ stock and limiting or postponing machinery use, switching off electric fences). 0DNH VXUH HYHU\RQH RQ \RXU property is aware of it; z Fire Danger Ratings are a good way to decide when to leave. They are not a weather forecast – they tell \RX KRZ GDQJHURXV D o UH would be if one started. As the ratings increase, so does the risk of a fast moving and XQFRQWUROODEOH o UH DQG z if you plan to stay and defend a building during D EXVKo UH WDNH VWHSV WR establish a water supply of at least 10,000 litres (independent of the mains supply).

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December 2018

FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION

Southern Farmer, Page 23

FIRE PROTECTION ACTION PLAN

Protecting and enhancing people’s lives with water.

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS BUSHFIRE SEASON? Remote Start

A fire plan is the first step to ensuring you are on the way to being bushfire ready. The second step is to ensure you, your equipment and your home are protected.

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You need an engine powered pump for both asset protection as well as post fire management of burning fences, surrounding vegetation and other structures including buildings. If you already own a Davey Firefighter, there are some simple, but important steps you need to take to get your pump ready for the coming season.

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GET READY... Few people are ever fully prepared for an emergency like a bushfire outbreak and the speed at which the fire front can travel. Consequently they often allow little time to implement an effective fire defence. Davey has a list of recommendations for effective management and maintenance for consumers, ahead of the fire season. 1. Know the machine: All members of the household need to be proficient in the location, operation and fitting of attachments like inlet and outlet hoses to the fire pump. 2. Practice: A well rehearsed and documented fire plan is critical to personal survival. 3. Fuel - Petrol: Many people fail to recognise that petrol has a limited life, losing its volatility and effectively becoming ‘stale’. A simple and recommended solution is to change the fuel every two months, either by running the pump or draining it of fuel. Better still, both leading petrol engine manufacturers offer a fuel stabiliser which will dramatically extend the life of the fuel, but it must be added when new fuel is purchased. 4. Fuel - Diesel: Has a longer shelf life but it generally needs to be stored at low ambient temperatures to extend the storage time. Major fuel companies expect diesel fuel to have 12 months or longer life at an ambient temperature of 20ºC, or six months at an ambient temperature of 30ºC. 5. Engine oils are another consideration and individual engine manufacturers offer their own specially branded engine oils to best suit their engines. Synthetic multi-grade engine oil is NOT a suitable alternative, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s engine lubrication recommendations. 6. Running the engine regularly will ensure that oil is well distributed around the moving parts to provide best lubrication and a longer working life.

7. Air cleaners are another important consideration, so ensure your pump set has adequate clean air access. The air cleaner or filter needs to be checked and replaced as per the recommendation of the engine manufacturer.

Keep me handy

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8. Keeping the engine cool also has a dramatic effect on the power it can deliver. Protecting the pump from radiant heat in a flame proof enclosure is the ultimate solution, while adding a mist spray around the pump or its enclosure will aid cooling and humidify the air. 9. A general maintenance regime involving regular checks will ensure that fuel lines are in good condition, the recoil starter works and a regular service schedule is adhered to will pay dividends. 10. Check the plumbing: Time spent investigating and maintaining the water system is also important. 11. Check for leaves, debris and sticks: These can impede the inlet system, while for permanent installations, a foot valve and strainer at the end of the suction line can overcome obstructions. 12. The system should be checked for air leaks and to check that all gaskets and seals are in good order. 13. Having an underground ring main installed around your property with durable hydrant or standpipe outlets can give you much greater coverage. So, as the summer fire season approaches the traditional motto of ‘be prepared’ applies. Establish your fire plan early. Adequately brief and train all family members in its resources and features.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL DAVEY DEALER TO GET PREPARED THIS FIRE SEASON: Ballarat Bendigo Kyneton

Midland Irrigation | 03 5336 3600 Midland Irrigation | 03 5442 5655 Kyneton Plumbing | 03 5422 1381

Kyneton Midland Irrigation | 03 5422 0000 Mornington Pipes Dromana | 03 5987 1491 Sunbury Sunbury Irrigation | 03 9740 8200

Page 24, Southern Farmer

December 2018

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