Southern Farmer

Page 1

Published since 1986

DECEMBER, 2019

Working dogs being rescued

PAGES 4-5

Fire awareness and prevention

www.farmernews.com.au

PAGES 9-12

Zoetis raising funds for mental health

The donkeys of Hee Haw Farm

PAGE 17

Donkeys are the best animal and are excellent for therapy according to Deb Hanton 7+( o UVW GRQNH\ ZDV D SHW k-RKQ VDLG CRQH MXVW PDNH VXUH \RX JHW RQO\ RQH y 'HE +DQWRQ UHPHPEHUHG k$OULJKW y 'HE VDLG $QG ZLWKLQ VL[ PRQWKV RQH GRQNH\ EHFDPH WZR DQG E\ WKH HQG RI WKH VHFRQG \HDU WKH WZR KDG WXUQHG LQWR ,W ZDV \HDUV DJR RQ DFUHV LQ <HD WKDW WKH +DQWRQV ORYH DIIDLU ZLWK GRQNH\V EHJDQ 7KH RULJLQDO GRQNH\ KDG EORRGOLQHV GLUHFWO\ GHVFHQGHG IURP VRPH RI WKH o UVW ,ULVK DQG (QJOLVK GRQNH\V WR EH EURXJKW WR $XVWUDOLD VSHFLo FDOO\ IRU EUHHGLQJ +RZHYHU LW ZDV PLQLDWXUH DQG PLFUR PLQLDWXUH 0HGLWHUUDQHDQ DQG ,ULVK GRQNH\V WKDW ZRXOG EHFRPH WKH PDLQ EUHHGLQJ VWRFN DW $PHOLD 5LVH 'RQNH\V DW +HH +DZ )DUP 0LFUR PLQLDWXUHV E\ GHo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

TAGGARTS PADDOCK PORK: COMMUNITY Supported Agriculture with its annual subscriptions allows boutique producers like Angelo Greco of Taggart’s Paddock Pork to continue to produce ethical, top quality meat at a reasonable price. Grown out for over a year, these Berkshire/Large Black crosses are at an ideal weight when they are processed, with a superior quality flavour and fat from those extra months being paddock raised. „ Turn to pages 2 and 3 for the story.

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Continued page 6

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NEWS

Page 2, Southern Farmer

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THE SOUTHERN

Est. 1986

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

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

Michael Kidman Phone (03) 5731 3306 mkidman@nemedia.com.au

Editorial:

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

SENIOR Emma Oliver JOURNALIST Phone 0433 267 203 eoliver@nemedia.com.au Pre-Press Coordinator

Noelene Allan Phone (03) 5723Â 0110 nallan@nemedia.com.au

Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.

YOUR

ON THE

SPOT

TEAM

aggart’s Paddock Pork was initially a chat over a couple of drinks, sitting on the deck of Angelo Greco’s Taggertybased property. “I knew this guy who had moved to Gippsland and he had these heritage breed pigs, Large Blacks, and I was telling my friend Danny all about them,� Angelo said. Danny Dalton, who had spent a summer in France working on a free-range piggery, was intrigued, and the conversation turned to the two of them purchasing a couple of pigs and rearing them for a spit. The talk was of parties and salami making and at this stage there was no mention of turning it into a business. And then Taggart came along, one of the original two Large Blacks purchased, and he became the breeding boar and three breeding sows soon followed. The breeding sows were Berkshire pigs, a breed chosen for their temperament, taste and parenting ability, and Taggart’s Paddock Pork was born. Taggart, a massive all-black boar is now three years old. His ears sit forward and cover his eyes at times, hindering his sight. “He’s a good natured pig,� Angelo said, which is lucky considering he weighs in excess of 300 kilograms and sports two hefty tusks.

Jarrah Loh EDITORIAL

Emma Oliver SENIOR JOURNALIST

Noelene Allan PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

AUSTRALIAN farmers and outdoor workers are at increased risk of skin cancers. The more years you have worked outdoors the higher your risk. Other risk factors for skin cancer include: z pale skin type – people with

red hair / freckles are particularly at risk; z increasing age – outdoor workers in Australia start getting skin cancers from their 30s onwards and people over 50 are much more at risk; z family history - if you have D o UVW GHJUHH UHODWLYH ZLWK VNLQ cancer this increases your risk; z personal history – if you

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Angelo and Danny stagger the breeding in their small herd to give the females a break, and also to meet demand. “We’re averaging nine to 10 piglets per litter,� Angelo said. He and Danny are happy with this number, as they don’t want too large a variation in size with the pigs which can happen in much larger litters. Initially the business sold the pork through a co-op in Coburg, however, their goal was always subscription based. “Community Supported Agriculture or CSA ZDV WKH EHVW o W IRU RXU SURGXFW y $QJHOR VDLG

“We’re not breeding for the hell of breeding, we know where our subscriptions are at and how much we need each month and we cater accordingly. “We have three litters of pigs at the moment at different stages and this will see us through the year, with our subscriptions starting this December and ending the same time next year. “And the land is only a certain size,� Angelo adds. Taggart’s Paddock Pork is a 34 acre farmlet overlooking the Cathedral Ranges in Taggerty.

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Continued page 3

The longer you have worked outdoors the higher your risk of skin cancer BY DR MIKE INSKIP

Michael Kidman ADVERTISING MANAGER

THESE LITTLE PIGGIES: Summer becomes more intensive for Angelo as wallows and water troughs need to be checked regularly, and shelters moved daily.

have already had a skin cancer you are at increased risk of getting another; and z multiple moles – people with a large number of moles on their skin are at increased risk of melanoma. I recommend all adults have an annual skin check particularly if you have one or more of these risk factors.

As you get older you may need skin checks every six months or even potentially more often. If you have a lesion on your skin that is raised, bleeds or refuses to heal or if you have a pigmented lesion on your skin you think is new or changing I would recommend this be looked at promptly by a skin cancer doctor.

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December 2019

NEWS

Ĺś

From page 2

Originally a weekender, the property was covered in blackberries and bracken when $QJHOR DQG KLV ZLIH &DWKHULQH ERXJKW LW o YH and a half years ago. It was a haven for deers, kangaroos and rabbits, and a massive undertaking for a soon to be family of three. 2II JULG DQG VHOI VXIo FLHQW WKHUH DUH YHJLH patches surrounding the house and an orchard, tended by Catherine, a landscape architect by trade. A dam has been built and irrigation laid around the farm, and there are sheep and chickens kept for personal use. The original plan had been to run a bed and breakfast, and the accommodation still exists but is rented out on a more permanent basis now. As a boy growing up in Kyabram, Angelo had no interest in farming at all, preferring football, and a future as a draughtsman. Catherine’s family is from Yea and a horticultural background growing berries for a living, and so farming was a more natural progression for her. Both Angelo and Catherine still work in their chosen professions, with Taggart’s Paddock Pork becoming a hobby farm that pays for itself. Danny lives in Melbourne, but spends his weekends bringing up mash for the pigs or assisting with castration and fencing. He’s there when the pigs go to the abattoir in Wangaratta, and there at the Thornton Butcher when the meat is being processed, sorted, cryovaced and delivered. Danny is also responsible for the sales side of the business, and when Angelo and Danny put on a stall at the local market selling pork

rolls it’s Danny who’s great at cooking and DPD]LQJ ZLWK p DYRXUV ,W LV WKH p DYRU RI WKH PHDW LWVHOI ZKLFK DOVR distinguishes Taggart’s Paddock Pork from other producers, and commands a loyal following for their annual subscription. “It’s the breed itself and the fact that it is grown out in the open air, that makes the product amazing,� Angelo said. “Commercial piggeries grow pigs out to six or seven months and then send the pig to slaughter. “It’s a year plus for Taggart’s Paddock Pork, DQG WKLV LV D UHVXOW RI o QH WXQLQJ WKH GLHW DQG ensuring we don’t overfeed and then taking ageing into consideration. k:KHQ ZH o UVW VWDUWHG UHDULQJ SLJV ZH KDG some with too much fat, some with too little, and we now have a really good balance. “At a year old, we’ve got the fat content right and it produces better bacon, better cuts in general, and the overall size of the beast is the right size for our subscriptions so that people get a good variety of cuts in their packs,� Angelo said. The pigs are usually sent to slaughter when they weigh between 85 and 90kgs. Any larger and older and the pigs eat more exponentially and the land itself begins to suffer. “We have the perfect amount of pigs on the property at the moment,� Angelo said. “We are opening up another three acres of paddocks at the back of the property VSHFLo FDOO\ WR UHVW WKH ODQG EHWWHU DQG URWDWH the pigs onto new pasture. “The paddocks are looking okay at the moment as we weren’t so heavily stocked over winter, but with our current situation and the three litters we won’t get to rest the land unless we open up the new paddocks,

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PRETTY LADY: Helen is one of three breeding sows retained by Taggart’s Paddock Pork. Should she go down, Angelo and Danny would purchase a new breeding sow to maintain the genetic diversity.

and this is a priority.� With the health of the land also comes the health of the pig, with Angelo supplementing their feed with seasonal fruit from local orchards when it is available, and Catherine planting numerous hazelnut trees to become future feed. “The pigs’ main diet consists of mash IURP WKH 0DQVo HOG %UHZHU\ RU WKH Kinglake Whiskey Distillery combined with commercial grains, lupins, vitamins and minerals,� Angelo said. “The mash could be a combination of hops, corn, grain or barley, which has been cooked with water and is discarded from the distilling process. “We are quite vigilant and restrict scraps to ensure the health of the pigs.� This is their main consideration when it comes to biosecurity. The possibility of swine fever reaching Australian shores has Taggart’s Paddock Pork moderately worried. “Australia is pretty good at stopping things at borders though,� Angelo said. “And if it means we have to be more vigilant, lock gates and stop the occasional school group or TAFE group that wants to tour our property, then that’s what we’ll have to do.� However, with healthy pigs ethically grown out in glorious surrounds, swine fever should hopefully not represent a threat. And for all those who eagerly sign up for their annual CSA subscription to Taggart’s Paddock Pork, their yearly supply of pork is assured.

Southern Farmer, Page 3

NEWS

Page 4, Southern Farmer

December 2019

Working dogs doing it tough Carey and Di Edwards, originally Victorians, have returned to the state and bought in Ballan to continue their life-saving work for the Australian Working Dog Rescue Initiative. Å°

Carey and FOREVER HOME: success story.

e and

sh, another rescu

Di Edwards with Fla

REGIONAL pounds and shelters are experiencing an LQp X[ RI ZRUNLQJ GRJV DV IDUPHUV EDWWOLQJ GURXJKW FRQ GLWLRQV GH VWRFN WKHLU SURSHU WLHV XQDEOH WR IHHG WKHLU DQL PDOV &DUH\ (GZDUGV IURP WKH $XVWUDOLDQ :RUNLQJ 'RJ 5HV FXH ,QLWLDWLYH UHFRXQWV D UH FHQW VWRU\ RI D ELWFK VXUUHQ GHUHG WR WKH 'XEER SRXQG k6KH G FRPH LQ IURP D GURXJKW SURSHUW\ DQG VKH ZDV VR VNLQQ\ DQG PDOQRXU LVKHG IURP WKH FRQGLWLRQV RXW WKHUH WKDW WKH VWDII DW WKH SRXQG GLG QRW HYHQ UHDO LVH VKH ZDV SUHJQDQW y &DUH\ VDLG k6KH JDYH ELUWK RYHUQLJKW WR VL[ SXSSLHV RQ WKH FRQ FUHWH p RRU RI WKH SRXQG DQG WKH IROORZLQJ PRUQLQJ LW ZDV D PDG VFUDPEOH WR JHW WKHP RII WKH p RRU DQG LQWR FDUH k,W V D FRQVHTXHQFH RI WKLV FRXQWU\ LQ 1HZ 6RXWK :DOHV VXUURXQGLQJ 'XEER DQG :DJJD :DJJD WKHUH LV D KXJH DPRXQW RI GRJV LQ VKHOWHUV k1LQHW\ SHU FHQW ZRXOG EH ZRUNLQJ GRJV RU PL[HV RI ZRUNLQJ GRJV k7KH\ DUH KXJHO\ RYHU UHS UHVHQWHG LQ UHJLRQDO DUHDV k$QG 9LFWRULD LV DOVR VXIIHU LQJ ZLWK WKH GURXJKW *LSSV ODQG LV QRW JUHDW DQG WKHUH DUH ORWV RI GRJV LQ VKHOWHUV QHDU 0LOGXUD y And though the drought has added extra pressure to an already struggling shelter V\VWHP &DUH\ UHLWHUDWHV WKH SUREOHP ZLWK ZRUNLQJ GRJV HQGLQJ XS LQ SRXQGV LV RQJR LQJ k'RJV RQ IDUPV DUHQ W RI WHQ GH VH[HG DQG WKHQ WKH\ KDYH D OLWWHU DQG WKH IDUPHU

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NEWS

December 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 5

FACE OF FREEDOM: All the dogs have something they’re good at, and it’s just a matter of finding it and rehoming accordingly.

based in North Queensland above Cairns, but we soon realised how big the problem was and how many collies and kelpies were in shelters,” Carey said. “AWDRI was formed as a direct response to this situation. “The reality of the situation was that there was so much red tape to actually saving lives, that by the time we could get around to saying

yes we can get this dog and foster it, more often than not it was already dead. “We knew we could do something a little better than this so we formed AWDRI, so that if we saw a dog that needed help we could just jump in there and save that life.” This approach has governed Carey and Di’s lives for the last decade. It has seen them relocate

from North Queensland to Sydney to be as close as possible to the Blacktown Pound - the largest facility of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. It has seen them pack up and then move to Ballan in Victoria for the affordability of the infrastructure they need to house their rescues and run AWDRI. Close to transport routes and only an hour from the

airport, Ballan won over from Dubbo as a more centralised base for their life-saving work. Locations are always chosen based on how many lives can be saved. “When you do this sort of thing it’s a living and you live it every single day,” Carey said. “We work about 96 hours per week - it’s complete immersion.

“We get up and work, and we’re still working when we go to bed. “The last day I had off when I wasn’t doing anything AWDRI at all was Christmas Day, 2015.” At the moment it doesn’t look like Carey and Di will have this Christmas off either. With the Blacktown Pound inundated with surrendered animals over the festive sea-

son, AWDRI is bombarded each week with kill lists 100 animals long to be euthanised for space and convenience. With a failed sheltering system, and fraught new legislation that exempts working dogs from new breeding laws aimed at clapping down on backyard breeders and puppy mills, Carey sees no end in sight to the current situation. “We’ve got an issue now that with working dogs being exempt from laws governing puppy mills, breeders are just changing breeds, and crossbreeding with working dogs to gain this exemption,” Carey said. “There are a total of 27 different breeds in the working dog group, and these are the dogs that are now going to be used as part of the breeding SURo OH y This in conjunction with a country still in drought and UDYDJHG E\ o UHV KDV WKH SR tential for even more working dogs to end up in pounds and shelters. Carey has repeatedly been asked to run for government DQG DWWHPSW WR o [ D EURNHQ system. However, disillusioned by hours spent writing proposals and time spent lobbying that has fallen on deaf ears, Carey and Di have decided the best approach is to set an example for others to follow. It is through the Australian Working Dog Rescue Initiative that Carey and Di Edwards implement change.

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NEWS

Page 6, Southern Farmer

December 2019

The donkeys of Hee Haw Farm Ŷ

From page 1

Deb Hanton’s favourite is the coloured donkey, and she particularly loves the donkeys when they are losing their shaggy winter coats, rolling and scratching on the ground, and looking most decidedly scruffy. John and Deb’s passion and love for donkeys is evident throughout Hee Haw Farm. From the original farm in Yea, the Hantons relocated in 2016 to 80 acres at Terip Terip, in the central Victorian highlands. With views in all directions from Eildon to the Paps and across to Euroa, Hee Haw Farm is an idyllic location for donkeys. The farm is incredibly beautiful with bush surrounds and 40 acres of scrub for the donkeys to wander through providing stimulation with the varied terrain. The move was designed VSHFLo FDOO\ WR EHQHo W WKH donkeys, as the terrain with its rocky paddocks and mountain grass suits the donkeys’ constitution better. “Too much grass is bad for them and Yea was much too green,” Deb said. “Donkeys are browsers, they’re more like a goat in the way they eat. “They’ll eat wood, leaves, the bark off trees, so Terip Terip with its sparse moun-

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

tain grass with not much of anything in it, suits them. “They’re a stoic animal, but you really do need to monitor how much food they eat, as you won’t really know they’re sick until they turn up their toes.” Another consideration is

the importance of shelter. “They need shelter, and this needs to be at least three sided,” Deb said. “As donkeys only have one coat, unlike horses that have two, when they get wet and cold they are prone to pneumonia.

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BABY LOVE: The nursery paddock is located just outside the house so that the foals are accustomed to human contact from the moment they are born.

“And you shouldn’t coat donkeys as it means their coats won’t grow thick and shaggy to deal with the climate.” And these hardy little mountain beasts need a thick coat for the bad weather that can come howling over the ridge, and blast Hee Haw Farm. Weather like this keeps Deb busy tidying the paddocks picking up fallen branches and raking sticks. -RKQ o QGV WKLV VOLJKWO\ amusing. “Who rakes and picks up sticks on 80 acres?” John said. “You buy a bush block and try and turn it into the botanical gardens, it just doesn’t work.” But he does admit that both he and Deb can be a bit fussy. “It’s as much or as little work as you want to make it,” John said. John and Deb both spend about an hour and a half each morning and evening tending the donkeys, with their health and wellbeing the paramount concern. “The time is spent feeding and cleaning up around them, and we remove all the poo from the animals’ paddocks as worm control,” John said. The stables are immaculate so that infections and disease are avoided, especially when welcoming foals and young ones into the herd. The Hantons also foster donkeys, so the relinquished, the abandoned and the welfare donkeys that arrive at the farm have to go into quarantine before being introduced to the residents. In quarantine the rescue donkeys have their health assessed, and are wormed, deloused, immunised and have their teeth and feet done. The farrier visits Hee Haw Farm four times a year, with the donkeys having their feet

done quarterly. The upkeep and effort the Hantons put into their donkeys is huge, and the result is incredibly healthy, happy and socialised donkeys. There is a calmness in the paddocks, and a comfortable hierarchy among the donkeys. Each donkey tends to bond WR DQRWKHU VSHFLo F GRQNH\ with a pairing that becomes unbreakable, however, they are still very much a herd. “They also make excellent therapy animals,” Deb said. “In comparison to horses, donkeys are thinkers, they are more laid back and have PXFK OHVV RI WKH p LJKW DQG fright instinct of horses.” Deb talks with fondness about all the donkeys, describing their idiosyncracies and foibles, recounting stories on their personalities. “Poppy she’s bad to the bone,” Deb said. “She’s not been disciplined properly, she’ll just barge straight past you. “And be careful of that little lady over there, she will NQRFN \RX p \LQJ LI \RX GRQ W give her attention. “She loves a scratch behind the ear.” The majority of the foals sold at Hee Haw Farm become pets, or other breeders buy them for their genetics. “They are the best animal,” Deb said. “But they do require time and energy, otherwise they’re not the animal for you. “They love attention and though they can be good companion animals for other species, they are highly intelligent and can bore easily when not getting the stimulation they need from other animals. “And not all are suited to guarding, they can become territorial and can kill a dog immediately. “They can kill sheep and goats if they’re not suited.”

Disposition is one of the main criteria for breeding donkeys at Hee Haw Farm. “Good personality is important,” Deb said, when describing what makes a jack - a male donkey – into a stallion. “Only one in a hundred jacks are any good as jacks. “We look for good conformation – a nice straight back, a round bum, a gap between their back legs so they’ve got good legs and no long term problems with arthritis. “We want the front to be the same, with the chest wide enough so at least there’s a hands width space between the legs. “We want perky, and a perfect bite so that we know they’re consuming their food properly.” And at a less than commanding 27.5 inches stands Telly, the Hee Haw Farm stallion, who ticks all the boxes and has fathered the newest six foals to join the donkeys of Amelia Rise. “He’s John’s donkey,” Deb said. “John completely fell in love with him, and it’s John who deals with him when the girls are in season. “We hand breed here as we don’t want the jack or the jennies to be injured. “He puts the halter on him and he takes him over to the girls in the holding pens.” There is a ramp devised behind the pens to assist the diminutive donkey with his exertions. “He’s usually too interested in the sky, and the trees, and the wind in his mane, that it often takes Telly about 45 minutes to do his business,” Deb said. But once his business is done, almost a year to the day later Telly’s offspring are born. “A jenny can be in foal between 11 and 14 months, but generally we say 12 months and the foal is born. “John delivers every baby. “By trade he was a mechanical engineer on oil rigs, but he grew up on a dairy farm, so he always assists.” The birthing suites are situated close to the house, and once the donkeys show signs of going into labour they are placed in the yards with a mercury level alarm around their necks. The Hantons also have closed circuit television to monitor the jennies when their time is almost due. “I don’t get much sleep during this period,” Deb said. “John does, but I don’t.” Sleeplessness is just one of the downsides of Deb and John’s love affair with donkeys. The unbridled joy and enthusiasm the Hantons have for their donkey herd completely outweighs any negatives, with Hee Haw Farm being purely a labour of love. And though the foals do get sold on, and money is exchanged, as John said “it is more a hobby that pays for itself, and for that we’re incredibly lucky”.

December 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 7

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

BETTER protections have been given to the Greater Glider possum as part of an In Business announcement by the Premier Daniel Andrews to phase out 30 years native logging throughout Victoria by 2030. info@statewideconcreteproducts.com.au Minister for Energy, Enviwww.statewideconcreteproducts.com.au ronment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio (MLA, Mill Park) launched the Greater GROUP HUG: Environment Minister Lily Glider Action Statement in D'Ambrosio being hugged by members of Save Creek Junction recently, 22 Kanowna St, Hastings 3915. Our Strathbogie Forest group during her visit Ph.(03) 5979 3349. Fax (03) 5979 1504 which will provide a roadto the area yesterday. PHOTO: Philippe Perez j/05d08831/19-16 map to protect the species, which is prominent within the Strathbogie Forest. “(Areas protected) go from parts of the Central Highlands, through to East Gippsland and of course these wonderful Strathbogies,� Ms D’Ambrosio said. “The Strathbogies repreVHQWV RQH RI WKH PRVW VLJQLo cant strongholds for the Greater Glider and (the species) will Remote Controlled ~ ~ have a much stronger future � ?[XM^ [^ b[X` from this day onwards.� � 4QMbe 0a`e b[X` 0/ 1XU`Q ?cUZS 3M`Q 0^[bQ AZU` `TM` [\QZ_ OX[_Q_ SM`Q

Mark Blackwell, who is a UZ M\\^[d _QO[ZP_ o IWK JHQHUDWLRQ VDZ PLOOHU Â? <[_U`UbQ 3M`Q ?QXR X[OWUZS _e_`QY 3M`Q OMZZ[` NQ \a_TQP [\QZ cTQZ OX[_QP based in Strathbogie, said the Â? ?cU`OT [Z O[Z`^[X N[d QZMNXQ_ SM`Q `[ ^QYMUZ [\QZ [^ Ma`[YM`UOMXXe OX[_Q decision to phase out logging Â? d .M``Q^UQ_ `TM` cTQZ RaXXe OTM^SQP cUXX [\QZ OX[_Q `TQ SM`Q `[ !

will mean forests will become `UYQ_ cU`T[a` MZe _aZ `[ ^Q OTM^SQ NM``Q^UQ_ poorly managed. � cM`` [R <[XeO^e_`MXXUZQ ?[XM^ \MZQX_ SMa^MZ`QQP R[^ eQM^_ “Logging is a good way to � d >QY[^Q O[Z`^[X_ R[^ bQTUOXQ_ manage this forest, and it will protect it from feral weeds – ~ Many other options including ~ BU_U`[^ Na``[Z_ CU^QXQ__ [^ 4M^P cU^QP Vic Forest has done a stellar CU^QXQ__ WQe\MP_ job of it in the past,� Mr Black BQTUOXQ X[[\_ `TM` [\QZ SM`Q cTQZ P^UbQZ [bQ^ well said. >QY[`Q O[Z`^[XXQP SM`Q X[OW PU_MNXQ_ MXX bU_U`[^ Na``[Z_ R^[Y e[a^ bQTUOXQ ^QY[`Q However, Ms D’Ambrosio <T[`[ 1XQO`^UO _QZ_[^_ ?`[\_ SM`Q OX[_UZS [Z _X[c Y[bUZS bQTUOXQ_ said there will be processes in >QY[`Q O[Z`^[X_ `TM` O[Z`^[X SM`Q R^[Y a\ `[ !WY McMe place to manage forests for fe 3M`Q [\QZUZS MXM^Y `TM` cM^Z_ SM`Q U_ [\QZUZS a\ `[ !WY_ McMe ral animals in the Strathbogie Forest through ongoing comFreecall munity consultation. “We’ve set aside $7 million that will go into managing these areas that have been set aside for immediate protection,� Ms D’Ambrosio said. “We understand what

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needs to occur to protect the biodiversity here, and we will do that with communities.� Mr Blackwell believes the decision to phase out native logging was an overreaction and that logging in the region can be managed. “This is purely a political decision and has nothing to do with the logging industry,� he said. “I did not see any decline of Greater Gliders in this region when logging was allowed to be managed correctly.� In early 2018 logging resumed in the Strathbogie Forest after a hiatus, with VicForests, the organisation conducting the timber harvesting, rejecting protesters’ assertions that timber harvesting would do irreparable damage to the forest and the species living within it Bill Paul, who is a community forestry manager at VicForests, said at the time that only 0.1 per cent of the Strathbogie Forest was being harvested, directly supporting around 25 jobs in the region. In May the Minister for Agriculture, Jaclyn Symes (MLC, Northern Victoria) announced all logging in the Strathbogie Forest would be stopped, after releasing the government’s Timber Release Plan, showing the removal of all logging coupes from the forest. Research was also conducted by Victorian Government scientists in 2017 that found the Strathbogie Forest was home to at least 69,000 Greater Glider possums. Many other threatened species including the Leadbeater Possum are also protected as part of the action statement, with 96,000 hectares of forest across the state being mapped out as exempt from logging.

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Chairperson of the Save Our Strathbogie Forest Group Bertram Lobert said the local campaign to stop logging had grown in support over the years. “What has been happening in this forest is really just a microcosm of what was happening across the state,� Mr Lobert said. “We can now put our energy into really positive and constructive work around the forest.� Leader of the Nationals Peter Walsh said the announcement will mean jobs will be sent offshore. “Today is a dark day for our regional communities and the industries that underpin us,� Mr Walsh said. “Daniel Andrews should be supporting and promoting Victoria’s sustainable industry, not shutting it down.� Mr Lobert, however, rebuked this, saying that around 90 per cent of all jobs and economic industry in Victorian forestry was already in plantation. “Native forest logging is a really small part of the logging industry and the logging industry will not notice one iota,� Mr Lobert said. “It will certainly affect local people and they have to be taken into account and transiWLRQHG ZKHWKHU LW LV o QDQFLDOO\ or contractually.� “But it’s also about the potential to create more jobs and long term sustainable economic activity.� The announcement by Premier Andrews on Thursday will also see an additional 90,000 hectares of Victoria’s remaining old growth forest be protected along with the 96,000 hectares protected as part of the action statement.

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FIRE AWARENESS AND PREVENTION

December 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 9

New Tarneit fire station is now operational

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

Labor chooses politics over fire safety DANIEL Andrews’ decision to ban Victoria’s native timber industry will weaken the capacity for country comPXQLWLHV WR o JKW GHYDVWDWLQJ IRUHVW o UHV DFFRUGLQJ WR WKH /LEHUDO 3DUW\ “Daniel Andrews doesn’t care that communities will be placed at inFUHDVHG ULVN IURP EXVKo UH EHFDXVH RI Labor’s planned destruction of the naWLYH WLPEHU LQGXVWU\ y GHSXW\ OHDGHU RI WKH /LEHUDO 3DUW\ &LQG\ 0F/HLVK VDLG “Each year tens of millions of dollars’

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ZRUWK RI DGGLWLRQDO HTXLSPHQW LQFOXG LQJ PRUH WKDQ H[FDYDWRUV DQG GR] HUV DUH PDGH DYDLODEOH E\ WLPEHU FRQ WUDFWRUV WR o JKW IRUHVW o UHV k7RGD\ LQ 3DUOLDPHQW /DERU V (Q YLURQPHQW 0LQLVWHU /LO\ ' $PEURVLR UHIXVHG WR JXDUDQWHH WKDW QR OLYHV ZLOO be lost as a result of Labor’s decision to close Victoria’s sustainable native WLPEHU LQGXVWU\ “Victoria’s native timber industry FRQWUDFWRUV KDYH LQWLPDWH NQRZOHGJH

RI WKH GLIo FXOW DQG RIWHQ GDQJHURXV WHUUDLQ RI 9LFWRULD V IRUHVWV DQG KLJK FRXQWU\ “Under Labor’s plan the native timber workers who played such a central UROH LQ VDYLQJ FRXQWU\ FRPPXQLWLHV GXULQJ PDMRU EXVKo UHV LQFOXGLQJ RQ %ODFN 6DWXUGD\ ZLOO QR ORQJHU EH DEOH WR SURWHFW WKH FRPPXQLW\ “Labor has chosen politics over the VDIHW\ RI o UH SURQH DUHDV RI 9LFWRULD y 0V 0F/HLVK VDLG

TARNEIT Fire Brigade recently became operational, after many months of planning, consultation and construction of a new fire station. CFA’s newest brigade moved from the existing Hoppers Crossing Fire Station to the new station located at 417 Derrimut Road, Tarneit. Volunteers sought Victorian Government and CFA support to stay at the Hoppers Crossing station as a volunteer-only brigade, leading to the creation of Tarneit as a career-only brigade. The $5.4 million Tarneit fire station has four engine bays and modern facilities for up to six career firefighters per shift to protect life and property in the community around the clock. Tarneit fire station officer-incharge Andy Waterson said the new station would enhance service delivery in this fast-growing outer-western suburb. “It took us longer than we had planned to move into the new station because of unforeseen impacts from other infrastructure projects in the area and some internal planning considerations we needed to work through,� Mr Waterson said. “The brigade is pleased to now be responding to incidents from this state-of-the-art facility, supporting surrounding communities including Truganina, Werribee and Hoppers Crossing in an area that’s constantly changing and expanding. “Firefighters have access to modern facilities and the latest

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emergency management equipment including a heavy pumper and a heavy tanker, as well as trained personnel and equipment to respond to Emergency Medical Response (EMR) incidents.� “The brigade is also planning to be able to respond to road accidents and perform support for dedicated heavy rescue units in the coming months.� Mr Waterson advised drivers around the station to take note of the new traffic lights, which are activated when fire trucks are turning out to incidents. “We’ve worked with VicRoads to install these traffic lights to ensure fire trucks can exit the station as efficiently as possible to respond to an incident,� he said. “It’s a tried and tested traffic management approach, so we ask the community in Tarneit to be mindful of the changes. “We also welcome people seeking additional fire safety information or considering firefighting as a career to visit the new station.� The new fire station is part of the Growth Programs, which is a government commitment CFA is delivering. This initiative is intended to improve service delivery at integrated fire stations through significant investment in recruiting 350 career firefighters, building and upgrading infrastructure and moving the existing workforce around to support growth, since 2010. The brigade is planning an official opening early 2020 to celebrate this significant milestone.

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Page 10, Southern Farmer

December 2019

How well do you know fire?

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

A HARD-HITTING new campaign will get Victorians to sit up and take action to prepare and protect themVHOYHV DJDLQVW o UH DV WKH state prepares for a long, hot and dry season. Country Fire Authority FKLHI H[HFXWLYH RIo FHU FKLHI RIo FHU 6WHYH :DUULQJWRQ Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Lisa Neville joined staff at the State Control Centre to launch Victoria’s bold new DSSURDFK WR o UH ‹ RQH RI WKH ODUJHVW o UH FDPSDLJQV LQ the state’s history. Victoria is one of the most o UH SURQH DUHDV LQ WKH ZRUOG and everyone needs to un-

derstand just how devastatLQJ o UH FDQ EH QR PDWWHU ZKHUH WKH\ OLYH ‹ ZKHWKHU it’s the outer suburbs, the coast or the country. Starting early November, the ‘How well do you NQRZ o UH" FDPSDLJQ ZLOO KLJKOLJKW WKH GHDGO\ ULVN o UH poses and the importance of planning and preparing for the season. “Our research has shown people are becoming increasingly complacent in planning, and actioning WKHLU SODQV y 0U :DUULQJWRQ said. “Our communities need to wake up to the fact that not having a plan could have devastating consequences.�

Many people would have no idea that radiant heat IURP D EXVKo UH FDQ NLOO \RX from 300 metres away, that a single ember can start new o UH IURP NP DZD\ RU WKDW o UH FDQ WUDYHO DW NP SHU hour. It’s these facts, together with confronting imagery that will jolt Victorians into action, after research found many people were becoming complacent about their personal bushfire risk. This includes thousands of our dedicated volunteer and career firefighters from across all agencies, as ZHOO DV D UHFRUG IOHHW RI aircraft, which will hit the skies to help fight fires and

keep communities safe. Victorians and communities need to start preparing themselves for the o UH VHDVRQ ‹ YLVLW ZZZ YLF JRY DX NQRZo UH WR SODQ DQG prepare. People should also download the VicEmergency app now in order to receive emergency information and warnings. “Everyone should be SUHSDUHG y 0U :DUULQJWRQ said. “I urge you to prepare your properties, and have a plan for yourselves, your families and animals. k,I D o UH RFFXUV ZH ZDQW you to be ready, and to stay VDIH WKLV o UH VHDVRQ y

It’s time to legally prepare for bushfire season By DISASTER LEGAL HELP DISASTER Legal Help Victoria is a Victorian legal sector collaboration that responds to disasters by providing free legal information, advice and referrals to affected Victorians. It was originally formed 10 years ago to provide free legal assistance to those affected by the 2009 Black Saturday EXVKo UHV Program manager of economic and social rights at Victoria Legal Aid, Joel

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

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

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

ing your legal options after a disaster and next steps with issues such as insurance or tenancy,� Mr Townsend said. “They can also refer you to specialist support services if they’re not able to help in your situation.� After a disaster, Disaster Legal Help representatives from community legal centres or Victoria Legal Aid attend recovery centres or community meetings to help people with legal questions. In the event of large-scale disasters, lawyers from across

the legal profession are called on to provide legal assistance to the affected community. Mr Townsend said people should look out for notices in local recovery publications for details about how to get help through Disaster Legal Help. Disaster Legal Help is a collaboration between Victoria Legal Aid, the Federation of Community Legal Centres, the Law Institute of Victoria, Justice Connect and the Victorian Bar. For more information, visit www.disasterlegalhelp.org. au.

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

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

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December 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 11

ARE YOU BUSHFIRE READY? GET READY

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Help protect your property and your family. The best time to get bushfire ready, is now. Make a fire protection action plan, put it up where everyone can see it and ensure family members are well trained. In a fire, you’ll be glad you did. Davey’s recommendations for effective fire pump management and maintenance are an important part of your fire protection action plan. 1. Know the machine: Ensure all members of the household know how to locate and operate attachments like inlet and outlet hoses to the fire pump.

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

2. Fuel - Petrol: Petrol has a limited life and can become ‘stale’. Change the fuel every two months by running the pump or draining it of fuel. Better still, use a fuel stabiliser which will dramatically extend the life of the fuel (must be added when new fuel is purchased).

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

3. Fuel - Diesel: Has a longer shelf life but generally needs to be stored at low ambient temperatures. Expect diesel fuel to last 12 months or longer at an ambient temperature of 20ºC, or six months at an ambient temperature of 30ºC. 4. Engine oils: Engine manufacturers offer their own specially branded engine oils to best suit their engines. Synthetic multi-grade engine oil is NOT a suitable alternative. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s engine lubrication recommendations. 5. Run engine regularly to ensure oil is well distributed around the moving parts. This provides best lubrication and a longer working life.

10. Check for leaves, debris and sticks that can impede the inlet system. For permanent installations, a foot valve and strainer at the end of the suction line can overcome obstructions. 11. Checked for air leaks and that all gaskets and seals are in good order. 12. An underground ring main installed around your property with durable hydrant or standpipe outlets can give you much greater coverage. 13. Practice: A well-rehearsed and documented fire plan is critical to personal survival.

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6. Ensure your pump set has adequate clean air access: Check and replace the air cleaner or filter per engine manufacturer recommendations. 7. Keep the engine cool: Ideally protect the pump from radiant heat in a flame proof enclosure, otherwise add a mist spray around the pump or its enclosure to aid cooling and humidify the air.

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Page 12, Southern Farmer

December 2019

Versatile pump automatically switches function in fire emergencies A PUMP that can prioritise emergency use over normal pumping duties is available from Davey. The Davey Remote Start Firefighter MKII is suited to both firefighting and regular farming tasks, making it a highly versatile addition to rural properties. It was developed in response to buyer feedback on the original Remote Start Firefighter launched in 2017. The RSFFMKII model offers extended capabilities for broader farm use, while retaining the auto emergency start feature of its predecessor. Davey head of training and education Ashley White says many firefighting pumps are never used, which is good because it means properties have not come under fire threat, but it also means the pumps are an under-utilised resource. “The MKII allows the pump to be used for everyday tasks like filling stock troughs, sprinklers or watering trees, with the benefit of immediately switching over to emergency responses such as sprinklers on roofs if heat sensors detect an issue,� Ashley said. The Davey Remote Start Firefighter MKII provides SMS confirmation of starts and stops, as well as details about battery charge, phone signal strength and even

FIRE READY: With a remote start feature you can fight fires when you’re not even there. failures, and the emergency response can be turned off by text or by turning a key at the unit. “People are busy these days and this allows them to

know that their property is protected in emergencies, but that their pump can be doing day-to-day operations in the meantime,� Ashley said. “It’s a great combination

of practicality and peace of mind.� Davey is Australia’s international water products company, designing, building and selling products to protect

and enhance people’s lives with water. The Remote Start Firefighter MKII is now available from dealers across the country in both single and twin stage models.

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

Be emotionally prepared for fire 7+( EXVKoUH VHDVRQ LV D VWUHVVIXO WLPH IRU D ORW RI SHRSOH ,W LV QRUPDO WR IHHO VWUHVVHG DQG ZRUULHG GXULQJ WKLV WLPH RI \HDU DQG WKLV PD\ EH ZRUVH IRU SHRSOH ZKR KDYH EHHQ DIIHFWHG E\ EXVKoUHV LQ WKH SDVW ,I VWUHVV DQG ZRUU\ WXUQ LQWR LQFUHDVHG DQ[LHW\ ZLWK WKRXJKWV HPRWLRQV DQG SK\VLFDO VHQVDWLRQV WKDW DUH GLIoFXOW WR PDQDJH \RX VKRXOG YLVLW \RXU *3 ,I DW DQ\ WLPH \RX DUH ZRUULHG DERXW \RXU PHQWDO KHDOWK RU WKH PHQWDO KHDOWK RI D ORYHG RQH FDOO /LIHOLQH RQ Getting emotionally preSDUHG IRU EXVKoUH VHDVRQ

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tionally prepared for bushoUH" <RX FDQ SUHSDUH E\ XQGHUVWDQGLQJ KRZ \RX DUH OLNHO\ WR UHVSRQG LQ VWUHVVIXO VLWXDWLRQV 7DNH VRPH WLPH WR WKLQN DQG OHDUQ DERXW WKH IROORZLQJ WKUHH PDLQ DUHDV $QWLFLSDWH q WKDW WKH EXVKoUH VHDVRQ DQG WKH RFFXUUHQFH RI EXVKoUHV ZLOO EH VWUHVVIXO DQG ZLOO FDXVH \RXU ERG\ DQG PLQG WR UHDFW LQ D YHU\ VSHFLoF ZD\ 5HFRJQLVH \RXU ERG\ V VWUHVV UHVSRQVH DQG WKLQN DERXW KRZ LW PD\ DIIHFW \RXU DELOLW\ WR UHVSRQG LQ WKH HYHQW RI D EXVKoUH )RU H[DPSOH \RX PD\ oQG LW GLIoFXOW WR WKLQN FOHDUO\ DQG

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WR PDNH GHFLVLRQV ,GHQWLI\ q WKH WKRXJKWV IHHOLQJV DQG SK\VLFDO VHQVDWLRQV WKDW D EXVKoUH LV OLNHO\ WR WULJJHU IRU \RX 0DQDJH q WKH GLIIHUHQW DVSHFWV RI \RXU ERG\ V VWUHVV UHVSRQVH /HDUQ VWUDWHJLHV WKDW KHOS \RX WR PDQDJH \RXU VWUHVV 7KLV FDQ KHOS \RX WR IXQFWLRQ HIIHFWLYHO\ ZKHQ IDFHG ZLWK D EXVKoUH )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ \RX FDQ YLVLW C3UHSDUH \RXU PLQG RQ WKH 5HG &URVV ZHEVLWH Media coverage and advertising triggering trauma ,I \RX ZLWQHVV D WUDXPDWLF DQG GLVWUHVVLQJ HYHQW OLNH WKH LPDJHV LQ WKH DGYHUWLVLQJ \RX PD\ KDYH D VWURQJ HPRWLRQDO

\RXUVHOI VWUXJJOLQJ DW ZRUN ZLWK VWXG\ RU LQ \RXU SHUVRQDO UHODWLRQVKLSV 3OHDVH GR QRW LJQRUH WKH ZDUQLQJ VLJQV 7KH VRRQHU \RX UHFHLYH WUHDWPHQW WKH EHWWHU WKH RXWFRPH LV OLNHO\ WR EH 6HH D GRFWRU IRU D PHQWDO KHDOWK DVVHVVPHQW ,I \RX DUH FRQFHUQHG DERXW VRPHRQH \RX NQRZ \RX FDQ HQFRXUDJH WKHP WR VHHN KHOS RU PDNH \RXU RZQ DSSRLQWPHQW ZLWK D GRFWRU WR GLVFXVV \RXU FRQFHUQV DQG ILQG RXW ZKDW KHOS LV DYDLODEOH 9LVLW WKH %HWWHU +HDOWK &KDQQHO IRU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ DERXW GHDOLQJ ZLWK WUDXPD

Be smart, be safe this season Slip it easily on the back of a ute or into a trailer and be fire ready within minutes. With a handy 450 or 800 litre capacity, these simple skid base units feature a quality Honda 1 1/2� Aussie Fire Chief combo and come ready to use with 20m of 3/4� fire fighting hose and a machined aluminum twist grip nozzle. Dimensions: 450L 1000 W x 970 L x 700mm H, 800L 1750 W x 950 L x 700mm H

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WATER MANAGEMENT / IRRIGATION

December 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 13

Saving water in dairies 81'(5 GU\ VHDVRQDO RU GURXJKW conditions around Australia, many IDUPHUV DUH ORRNLQJ DW RSWLRQV WR reduce their water consumption in the dairy. )RU PDQ\ WKLV LV D GLUHFW UHVXOW RI UHGXFHG DFFHVV WR ZDWHU IRU RWKHUV it is an attempt to ensure water supSOLHV DUH PDLQWDLQHG IRU DV ORQJ DV possible. ,Q D VXUYH\ RI GDLU\ IDUPHUV IRXQG WKH PRVW HIoFLHQW GDLU\ VKHGV XVHG XQGHU OLWUHV RI ZDWHU SHU cow each year. $W WKH RWKHU HQG RI WKH VFDOH WKH most water used was 38,000 litres per cow each year - almost 20 times PRUH WKDQ WKH EHVW SHUIRUPHUV The average was 9600 litres per cow each year. This large variation in water use in dairies indicates that there are opportunities to save water and FRVWV RQ PDQ\ IDUPV For example, re-using dairy waWHU RIIHUV ODUJH EHQHoWV VXFK DV recycling yard wash water or plate cooler water. Some ways to save water include: o[ OHDNLQJ WURXJKV UHGXFH HYDSRUDWLRQ IURP ZDWHU storages; VWRS OHDNDJH IURP GDPV * strategically wash teats; FDWFK UDLQ ZDWHU IURP VKHG URRI GULQN IURP WURXJKV * dry wipe teats; and

SAVE WATER: Dairy Australia has a number of fact sheets about how to save water in the workplace, including suggested tips such as dry wiping teats and using trigger nozzles on udder hoses.

* use trigger nozzles on udder hoses. 'DLU\ $XVWUDOLD KDV D QXPEHU RI LQIRUPDWLRQ VKHHWV FRYHULQJ ways to save water, divided into

WKH IROORZLQJ WRSLFV * holding yards; * plate cooler and cooling towers; * washing vat and milking machine;

On-farm water planning avoids a dry argument Report from Agriculture Victoria LIVESTOCK producers are being encouraged to assess how much on-farm stock water they have and how long it will last as we head from spring into summer. Agriculture Victoria is encouraging producers to continue to monitor their water storages and make plans leading up to peak demands from livestock over summer. Land management extension officer Kerri Goschnick said the prolonged dry period has impacted a number of on-farm dams that require further rainfall and run-off to fill. “The biggest loss of water from your storages through evaporation occurs between October and March each year. When dam levels are quite low, water quality can be

ZDVKLQJ SODWIRUP DQG GDLU\ VXUIDFHV DQG * other areas. 7R GRZQORDG WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ RU WR learn more, head to dairyaustralia.com.au.

STOCK UP: Ag Vic is encouraging producers to continue to monitor their water storages and make plans leading up to peak demands from livestock over summer.

quite poor which in turn can affect livestock health,� Mr Goschnick said. Mr Goschnick said knowledge of stock drinking water requirements and potential sources of water were important for planning both annual and daily supply needs. “Other farm water options can be investigated for your circumstances before levels become critical, such as stream extraction, groundwater, desalination and reticulated systems,� he said.

“Planning now will help you make informed decisions for the next three months and you can project this planning out six to twelve months or longer if there is little or no runoff. “Weather forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology forecast a relatively low chance of exceeding median rainfall across most of Victoria during spring, so it is a good time to reassess stock numbers while prices are good. “On the bright side, if the next

thunderstorm dumps 50mm or more of rain, then your storages could be full in a matter of hours. “All the same, it’s important to enact plans now to mitigate this potential risk.� Agriculture Victoria has produced a booklet – Managing Farm Water Supplies – which covers farm water planning including farm water balance, stock water requirements, water quality, water testing, calculating dam volume and capturing rainfall from roof areas.

Improving the transparency of our water markets THE Victorian irrigation community is being asked to consider how the current water markets can be made more transparent, in a new options paper released. It has been announced that there will be a look into WKH RSWLRQV DQG EHQHoWV RI D completely transparent water trading system. 7KLV IROORZV FRQWLQXHG KLJK ZDWHU SULFHV DQG FRQFHUQ IURP WKH FRPPXQLW\ DERXW WKH OHYHO RI IRUHLJQ RZQHUVKLS ZKHQ LW FRPHV to Victorian water. While a transparent market will not bring down water prices, LW ZLOO SURYLGH FRQoGHQFH WKDW WKH ZDWHU PDUNHWV DUH ZRUNLQJ IRU irrigators and not being distorted. 7R HQVXUH DOO EHQHoWV DQG impacts are being considered, an options paper has been developed in consultation with IDUPHUV DQG RWKHU ZDWHU PDUNHW SDUWLFLSDQWV q UHpHFWLQJ WKH UDQJH RI YLHZV KHOG E\ WKH FRPPXQLW\ The paper shows better access to clear and easily understood LQIRUPDWLRQ LPSURYHV PDUNHW IXQFWLRQ ,W DOVR FRQVLGHUV ZKDW IXOO PDUNHW WUDQVSDUHQF\ PHDQV IRU water markets and commercial privacy. The proposed options address the main concerns raised in targeted community consultation and could be introduced individually, or as a combination. The options are: IXOO PDUNHW WUDQVSDUHQF\ q including names, addresses and trade details; SXEOLVK LQIRUPDWLRQ RQO\ RQ large water market participants or high-volume traders; * improve real-time LQIRUPDWLRQ RQ SULFH DQG DPRXQW RI ZDWHU DYDLODEOH State-wide consultation on the options paper ended early 1RYHPEHU WR JHW IHHGEDFN RQ WKH SURSRVHG UHIRUPV ZLWK the minister to decide on a way IRUZDUG E\ WKH HQG RI WKH \HDU The review complements the current inquiry into water markets by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, which is exploring options to improve the operations, transparency, regulation, competitiveness and HIoFLHQF\ RI 0XUUD\ 'DUOLQJ Basin water markets.

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HAY AND SILAGE

Page 14, Southern Farmer

December 2019

Hay and silage for early weaners EARLY weaning and supplementary feeding of beef calves is a good strategy during drought and dry conditions, according to Agriculture Victoria. The reasons to consider early weaning can be broken down into several categories. These are: Maintaining herd fertility: Early weaning helps beef producers to maintain cow condition and therefore fertility of their breeding herd during and after a drought. For example, by weaning spring calving herds before cows fall below a fat score of three will mean they only need maintaining to calving for acceptable post-calving return (interval) to oestrus and conception rates. Cows down in condition are more likely to cycle and conceive sooner after calving, if the calves are weaned prior to joining. Save your pasture: ,W LV PRUH HIoFLHQW WR FRQvert feed directly into calf weight than milk for a cow and calf pair. Weaning early will reduce the dry sheep equivalent demand on your property. When combined with feeding appropriate quality and quantity of feed to dry cows and weaned calves, rather than cows with calves at foot, VLJQLoFDQW IHHGLQJ FRVW UHGXFtions can result. Cows that have had their calves weaned early can be shifted to more marginal country so only ‘growing’ stock are run in the best paddocks. Cows will need less feeding later on because they will have lower weight loss once calves are weaned. Better utilise supplementary feed: Buying supplementary feed during a drought is a costly exercise. Early weaning will enable you to better allocate supplements to different classes of animals. By weaning the calf off the cow early, the cow returns to maintenance requirement energy levels. This separation can provide a 30 per cent savings in energy across the farm. High energy and protein

IN TIMES OF DROUGHT: Providing high quality hay is ideal for early weaners.

feeds can be fed to young growing stock, and lower quality feeds (that is, poorer quality hay) to the dry cows. This will reduce the overall cost of supplements during the drought. Save water: Early weaning can reduce water requirements of cows by up to 60 per cent. Lactating cows require up to 100 litres per day. Although a calf’s water intake approximately doubles when it is weaned as it’s no longer getting liquid via its mother’s milk, there is a significant net saving in water from early weaning. Sell cull females earlier: Early weaning will enable earlier pregnancy testing and mouthing and the earlier sale of non-productive, cull or aged animals. Age of weaning: In most cases it is preferable to wait and wean calves at 12 weeks old or around 120kg, because they will then require less protein and be easier to feed. If cow survival is of concern, calves can be weaned earlier than this, but a milk replacer will be required if calves aren’t going to be sold as bobby calves. In a drought, all calves older WKDQ oYH WR VL[ PRQWKV VKRXOG be weaned and fed separately. Deciding when to wean: Cow condition is a major

consideration when deciding when to wean. Wean early in order to maintain cow herd productivity. The appearance of calves should also be considered. Calves with dry, coarse coats (woody calves) are almost certainly not receiving adequate milk from their mothers. Early weaning is the best policy in this situation. Calves with glossy coats are receiving an adequate diet and early weaning can be delayed. Pre-weaning: Expose calves to the postweaning supplement while they are still on the cow. For example, if calves are going to be given silage postweaning, feed silage to the cow-calf mobs a few times prior to weaning. Rumen microbial populations can require up to 14 days to completely adapt to a new diet. Consider introducing calves to post-weaning supplements slowly via creep-feeding two weeks before weaning. Weaning: Avoid combining stressful procedures like castration and dehorning with early weaning. If yard weaning, where possible keep the yards damp to minimise pink-eye. Fly traps and backline inVHFWLFLGHV ZLOO DOVR UHGXFH pLHV a vector for the disease. Eye ointments and patches of heavy material will provide

relief for affected calves and SUHYHQW p\ DFFHVV When penning calves allow four square metres per calf at a minimum, increasing to 6-8 square metres for larger calves approaching 150kg. Provide high quality hay, such as clover, vetch or lucerne hay. If these quality hays are not available then oaten hay combined with high protein cattle pellets will supply the weaners with nutrition. Weaned calves need to have DQ DGHTXDWH oEUH VRXUFH VXFK as a barley straw in a feeder at all times, this will help their rumen development. It’s important to clean water troughs regularly as young weaned calves will not drink fouled water. The high-quality ration required by early weaned calves will increase their risk of developing pulpy kidney so a 5 in 1 vaccination for clostridial diseases is very important. 'XULQJ WKH oUVW ZHHN RI weaning observe any small calves or shy feeders that are being pushed away from the feed source. It is best to draft these off and pen them as a smaller mob in another yard, so they have adequate opportunity to feed with less stress. Yard weaning is the best option as the calves are contained, don’t wander, learn to stay as a mob, are close to feed

and water, best to socialise calves to human contact, plus daily observation and feeding is easier. <DUGV VKRXOG EH VRIW pRRUHG free of dust and mud, have adequate access for stock to feed and water trough space. Shade and shelter can be provided by using shade cloth along the exposed external fences. Yard weaning is also an ideal opportunity to quieten down stock by regularly moving through the mob or teaching them to move slowly through gates and walk through the crush without any stress. Leaving the farm ute nearby with the radio playing gets stock accustomed to voices and sounds and helps prepare them for future yarding or market noise. Once weaned and accustomed to people, the mob can be taught to move with dogs or vehicle in the paddock or kept within a stock containment area until adequate pasture/ groundcover returns to your paddocks. Post-weaning nutrition: Nutrition, nutrition, nutrition. The younger the weaning age of the calf, the higher the energy and protein levels need to be. Unless the feed has adequate energy density, feed intake and animal performance may be restricted by small rumen capacity. Much of the pasture hay and silage made in Australia is by itself unsuitable for earlyweaned calves. Introduce any concentrate (for example grains) slowly. Introduce initially to calves at 300g per head per day and increase the amount by 100g per head per day with access to hay. Supplement the mix with a buffer to prevent acidosis. ,QVXIoFLHQW SURWHLQ LQ WKH ration of early weaned calves will result in short, dumpy cattle. Likely sources of protein to use are lupins, peas, linseed meal, canola meal, lucerne and soybean meal. Feed merchants can supply high protein calf grower pellets comprising of 16 per cent protein and 13ME (metabolisable

energy) which are safer to feed than grain mixes. If using grain mixes ensure it is a formulated ration with adequate protein, energy and a pH buffer and introduce the new feed slowly to the weaners. Avoid changing ration mixes if at all possible or if necessary, to change blend the new and old mix over a 10-day period to ensure smooth transition to the new diet. Ideally, roughage should be chopped and mixed with the other components of the calves’ diet, before feeding. Palatability is important to JHW FDOYHV WR HDW VXIoFLHQW obre. Consider adding a sweetener such as molasses or grape mark to a mixed ration for young calves. Calcium is the mineral most likely to be needed in a diet for calves. Generally, calcium carbonate (such as ground limestone) should be added to a grainbased diet at the rate of 1½ parts per 100 (that is 1.5 per cent) by weight of the grain in the diet. A manufacturer’s grain mix or pellets will already have the calcium added. Although good quality roughage (lucerne or clover hay) provides a reasonable supply of Vitamin A, some supplementary Vitamin A is usually necessary for early weaned calves if they only have access to a dry ration and have not had access to green pasture for some time, for example three months. This can be included in the feed, given orally or by injection. Alternatively, complete rations in the form of pellets or grain mixes are available from commercial suppliers. Post-weaning management: Rather than letting calves roam barren paddocks, consider weaning into containment areas where they will tend to rest and feed, conserving energy and minimising damage to paddocks. Six weeks after weaning, draft off tail-enders into a separate management group. Repeat this process four months after weaning.

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HAY GOES MUCH FURTHER WITH A WASTE-NOT HAY FEEDER

December 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 15

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NEWS

Page 16, Southern Farmer

December 2019

To stay or go? The real cost of transitioning out of farming DECIDING to leave the farm would be one of the most difo FXOW DQG WUDXPDWLF GHFLVLRQV ever to make. ,W V QRW MXVW D EXVLQHVV GHFL sion. )DUPLQJ FRPHV ZLWK D deeper meaning, representing a sense of identity, status, history, obligation and belonging – a way of life. Thoughts of transitioning out of farming are varied. ,QGXVWU\ DQG o QDQFLDO SUHV VXUHV HFRQRPLF DQG HQYLURQ mental downturns, family, UHWLUHPHQW RU ZRUVH GHFOLQLQJ KHDOWK DOO IRUFH WKH XOWLPDWH GH FLVLRQ Problems arise when propHUW\ HTXLW\ GHFUHDVHV LQFRPH risk is high and long term viDELOLW\ LV XQFHUWDLQ Lenders will no longer bankUROO RYHUGUDIWV RU ZLOO IRUHFORVH LI GHEWV FDQQRW EH SDLG 7KH PRVW EHQHo FLDO IRU D SURVSHURXV IXWXUH LV GHFLGLQJ WR VHOO ZKHQ FRQGLWLRQV DUH DF tually favourable. <HW WKH GHFLVLRQ WR PRYH RQ FDQ FDXVH VLJQLo FDQW VWUHVV HVSHFLDOO\ ZKHQ EH LQJ IRUFHG It’s not just the fear of an XQNQRZQ IXWXUH RU LQFRPH

SDUWLFXODUO\ LI IDUPLQJ LV DOO WKDW is known. It’s also the feeling of letting people down and a sense of failure to self, family, friends, FROOHDJXHV DQG FRPPXQLW\ Sometimes it’s the feeling WKDW WKH IDUP LVQ W DFWXDOO\ yours to sell. 3DUWLFXODUO\ ZKHQ SDVVHG down from family who developed it over generations with FRQVLGHUDEOH KDUG ZRUN 6HOOLQJ FRXOG PHDQ IHHOLQJ XQDSSUHFLDWLYH RU GLVUHVSHFW ful and therefore obliged to FRQWLQXH DW OHDVW XQWLO IDP LO\ VXFFHVVRUV DUH UHDG\ WR WDNH over. Then there is the ultimate fear of regretting an irreversLEOH GHFLVLRQ $OO WKHVH UHDVRQV FDQ FDXVH D UHOXFWDQFH WR PRYH RQ Instead, often farmers deFLGH WR UHo QDQFH ZLWK RSWL PLVWLF \HW XQUHDOLVWLF SODQV RI repaying debt, further eroding DVVHWV DQG SXWWLQJ o QDQFLDO VH FXULW\ LQ D ZRUVH SRVLWLRQ 7KH TXHVWLRQ LV KRZ SURo W able is the farm? ,V LW WLPH WR FXW ORVVHV RU WDNH DGYDQWDJH RI D EHQHo FLDO SRVL tion? ,W LV FUXFLDO WR WDON WR D o QDQFH SURIHVVLRQDO 6HHNLQJ LQGHSHQGHQW DGYLFH WR DQDO\VH WKH UHDO FRVW WR VHOO RU not to sell against future options ZLOO SURYLGH FODULW\ DQG FRQo GHQFH WR PDNH WKH o QDO FDOO

7KLV FDQ LQGXFH FRQVLGHU DEOH DQ[LHW\ SDUWLFXODUO\ LI D spouse or family have different ideas. It is important to also take LQWR DFFRXQW LPSDFW RQ SHU sonal wellbeing and relationship pressures. 7UDQVLWLRQLQJ FDXVHV VLJ QLo FDQW FKDQJH DQG VXSSRUW LV needed, so don’t try to take it on alone. ,W FDQ FKDQJH \RXU VHQVH RI purpose. ,W FDQ FKDQJH ZKR \RX DVVR FLDWH ZLWK ,W FDQ FKDQJH \RXU FRQQHF tion to the land. ,W FDQ FKDQJH \RXU OLQN WR family tradition. ,W FDQ FKDQJH \RXU IXWXUH Grieving, deep loss or feelings of failure are a reality. Take some resolve that WKHVH HPRWLRQV DUH H[SHFWHG and normal. Coping with these emotions PXVW EH FRQVLGHUHG DORQJ ZLWK WKH SUDFWLFDOLWLHV RI VDOH UHOR FDWLRQ DQG IXWXUH SODQV It is extremely important to remember it is not failure. 6LWXDWLRQV EH\RQG FRQWURO PD\ KDYH FRQWULEXWHG WR WKLV GHFLVLRQ DQG WKH EHVW ZDV GRQH ZLWK WKH FLUFXPVWDQFHV that were dealt. Utilising a transition period is a great option to allow time to prepare and settle into a new way of life. Leasing, share-farming,

EULQJLQJ IRUZDUG VXFFHVVLRQ RU negotiating with a long-term worker to take over on vendor terms are all viable possibilities. This also allows the opportunity to share knowledge built over generations. 7DNH VRODFH WKDW VHOOLQJ WKH IDUP RSHQV SURVSHFWV IRU FXU rent farmers to expand, or new and young farmers to enter the market. ,W DOVR FUHDWHV RSSRUWXQLWLHV personally, being free of demanding, emotionally taxing ZRUN DQG GHEWV RIIHULQJ VXIo FLHQW HTXLW\ WR UHLQYHVW LQ RWKHU LQFRPH SURGXFLQJ DFWLYLWLHV RU a prosperous retirement. 7DNH EDFN FRQWURO DQG HP power yourself. There is life after farming. Gippsland’s Rural FinanFLDO &RXQVHOOLQJ 6HUYLFHV FRXQVHOORU $QQH *LOOLJDQ KDV VLJQLo FDQW H[SHULHQFH WUDQVL tioning off the farm, both perVRQDOO\ DQG ZLWK FOLHQWV DQG LV OLYLQJ D PXFK PRUH IXOo OOHG life. k0DQ\ RI P\ FOLHQWV KDYH moved on with no regrets and DUH H[SHULHQFLQJ D GLIIHUHQW life,� Ms Gilligan said. “Farmers I have assisted have said they should have done it earlier as they lost so PXFK o QDQFLDOO\ MXVW WU\LQJ WR stay on the farm too long. “I’m an example that there is a happier life after farming.

k,W ZDV D GLIo FXOW GHFLVLRQ for myself and my husband being a generational farmer, but we have no regrets and I now get to share my skills by helping other farmers.� Unique attributes and expertise gained from farming FDQ EH SDVVHG RQ LQ RWKHU ZD\V %H FRQo GHQW WKDW WKH YDULHG VHW RI VNLOOV FDQ JHQHUDWH RWKHU LQFRPH Keep an open mind to reinvention and learning new things. )DUPLQJ VNLOOV FDQ EH IRU PDOO\ UHFRJQLVHG DQG FUHGLWHG WRZDUGV D IRUPDO TXDOLo FDWLRQ Business planning and manDJHPHQW o QDQFLDO DGPLQLVWUD tion, staff management, meFKDQLFV PDFKLQH RSHUDWLRQ FKHPLFDO KDQGOLQJ ODQG DQG FDWFKPHQW PDQDJHPHQW DOO skills that are relevant to offfarm work opportunities. Farming doesn’t have to be given up entirely. 7KH GHPDQG WR VXSSO\ QLFKH markets also offers the opporWXQLW\ WR FRQWLQXH IDUPLQJ LQ D manageable, often more pleasXUDEOH GRZQVL]HG FDSDFLW\ 2QFH WKH GHFLVLRQ KDV EHHQ made to sell or transition, the PHFKDQLFV RI ZKHQ DQG KRZ WKLV ZLOO RFFXU DORQJ ZLWK IX ture planning is essential. A ‘Statement of Position’ must be developed, identifying who owns what and outstandLQJ FUHGLWRUV GXH

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NEWS

December 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 17

Zoetis raises $400,000 over four years for mental health LEADING animal health company, Zoetis, has once again hit its yearly target, raising $100,000 to support mental health in rural Australia. Through its close partnership with Beyond Blue, the grand total has now reached $400,000 since 2016 as Zoetis continues to commit its unwavering support for the charity. For the fourth year in a row, Zoetis has been able to achieve its $100,000 goal by donating $5 from each sale of the company’s cattle, sheep, pig, poultry and goat vaccines and drenches. The funds raised have gone directly to the Beyond Blue Support Service providing advice and support for more people 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Beyond Blue chief execuWLYH RIoFHU *HRUJLH +DUPDQ thanked Zoetis for their efforts in supporting this important cause. “We are extremely honoured to receive such amazing support from Zoetis each \HDU y VDLG 0V +DUPDQ “This additional $100,000 will help to ensure that people living with mental health issues in rural Australia receive the vital support they need. “While it’s well-known our

BIG CHEQUE: Pictured are (from left) Mark Willis, marketing manager livestock, Zoetis; Lance Williams, vice president Australia and New Zealand, Zoetis; John Reeves, associate director pigs, poultry and nutrition, Zoetis; Marcia Harkins, head of partnerships and community engagement, Beyond Blue; Patrice O’Brien, general manager workplace, partnerships and engagement, Beyond Blue; Lincoln Mortlock, associate director companion animal marketing, Zoetis; and Fred Schwenke, business unit director livestock, Zoetis.

farmers can be vulnerable to mental health challenges due WR GURXJKWV pRRGV DQG oQDQcial worries, the impact on the wider community in these areas is less well-known. “From farmers and their families, to re-sellers and regional businesses, much of the community is impacted as the effects of hard times trickle through the local economy. “Our support service is always available for people day

and night and we have been seeing a steady increase in the number of calls coming in, reaching out in a time of need. “It’s a potentially lifechanging service for many, especially for those who don’t feel they have any family members or friends close by to WDON WR RU FRQoGH LQ y 0V +DUman added. The Beyond Blue Support Service costs on average $48 per contact and people can

reach out to counsellors by phone, webchat or email. This means to date the funds donated by Zoetis, with help from the local community, has funded over 8300 contacts with people at a critical time in their lives. “Our staff travel more than two million kilometres each year to Australia’s most rePRWH ORFDWLRQV DQG VHH oUVW hand the farming communities where extreme weather

HYHQWV DQG WKH pRZ RQ HIIHFWV of their animals’ well-being causes upset and stresses that people living in our cities may oQG KDUG WR XQGHUVWDQG y =RHtis vice president for Australia and New Zealand, Lance Williams, said. “We’re incredibly passionate and whole-heartedly committed to supporting hardworking Australians with our donations and supporting our farmers, agricultural stores and veterinarians with the supply of animal health supplies where needed. “It is a great honour for us to once again achieve our fundraising goal with Beyond Blue for this great initiative. “At Zoetis we recognise the importance of improving mental health in rural areas where the rate of suicide is about 40 per cent higher than in major cities.� In addition to the support service, Beyond Blue’s online resources and support can help people turn lives around, with more than 110,000 people using Beyond Blue’s online forums every month, tapping into an online peer support network offering people connection and support from others who have been through similar experiences.

The forums are monitored by a team of moderators who are trained to identify people at high risk of distress and suicide and help them to access the support they need. Interesting facts from Beyond Blue: * in Australia, it’s estimated that 45 per cent of people will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime; * one in seven Australians will experience depression in their lifetime; * in any year, around one million people in Australia experience depression and more than two million are living with an anxiety condition; * more than eight Australians take their lives every day and there are an estimated 200 suicide attempts every 24 hours. For more information about depression and anxiety, visit www.beyondblue.org.au. To talk to a mental health professional for free, contact the 24/7 Beyond Blue Support Service on 1300 224 636. Free Webchat is also available from 3pm until midnight AEST at beyondblue.org.au/ getsupport and you can join the forums for free, and download the BeyondNow app from the website.

NEWS

Page 18, Southern Farmer

December 2019

October sales dip for ag equipment FOLLOWING on from a solid September result, October sales for agricultural tractors have suffered another decline down nine per cent for the month and now 11 per cent behind last year. With two full months of the 2019 year to go, the industry should report total sales of around 11,000 tractors. :KLOH GRZQ RQ WKH SDVW o YH years of 12,000 plus sales, it still represents a healthy market place. The unknown in all of this is the margin being achieved, which in recent times has been severely challenged. Falls were felt in all size categories other than the under 40hp (30kw) range in all states with the exception of the Victorian market which re-

By GARY NORTHOVER, executive director of the Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia

corded an 11 per cent rise for the month now sitting behind last year. Strong activity in the dairy

sector along with a very healthy degree of optimism among wine growers is felt to be behind this rise. Across the nation, it continues to be NSW suffering the greatest declines with a further 21 per cent drop in October, now 20 per cent behind last year. Queensland slipped 14 per cent in the month and is now seven per cent behind for the year. There have been pockets of strong sales activity in the coastal regions of these states but this has not been enough to offset the drought affected inland markets Western Australia had a surprisingly quiet month down 14 per cent but still ahead of last year by around four per cent.

South Australian sales have gone from bad to worse with a massive 30 per cent drop in October, now a full 27 per cent behind last year. As previously reported, there appears to be a high degree of used equipment activity meeting demand there. Lastly Tasmanian sales continue to be strong, now o YH SHU FHQW DKHDG <7' DQG sales in the NT dropped for the month now seven per cent behind last year. Sales in the 200hp (150kw) and above range were down substantially, 25 per cent behind for the month and now o YH SHU FHQW EHKLQG <7' The 100 to 200hp (75150kw) segment also suffered a big drop down eight per cent for the month remaining 12

per cent behind last year. The 40 to 100hp (30-75kw) range was also down 12 per cent now sitting 13 per cent behind last year. The only bright spot was the under 40hp (30kw) range, up three per cent in October but remaining eight per cent behind on a yearly basis. Combine harvester sales continue to struggle with levels well down on previous years. Markets such as the north and north west regions of NSW have essentially come to a stop through this drought period. 'HPDQG IRU KD\ UHPDLQV strong and as such baler sales continue to enjoy a bumper year. October sales were up an-

other 11 per cent on last year and are now 26 per cent ahead on a year to date basis. Finally, sales of out front mowers bounced another seven per cent in the month in response to the grass growing season, now sitting just behind last year on a yearly basis. The TMA continues to represent the industry on a number of fronts, most notably in the area of farm safety. We have been working with WorkSafe Victoria in particular on a range of issues including quad bike safety, telehandler licensing and general communication and awareness. Members can follow progress on these matters in our quarterly newsletter and on our website at www.tma.asn. au.

Slippery sabotage as snails drive cars away

SNAIL TRAIL: When biosecurity is essential to the survival of our agricultural industry, effective customs is paramount.

A SHIPMENT of cars from Europe has been directed to leave Australia after snails that could threaten our cropping and horticultural industries were detected on board. Agriculture Minister Bridget McKenzie said four other vessels carrying the cars had been banned from unloading them because protecting Australia’s biosecurity integrity was critically important. “Whether you’re a passenger coming through the airport or a multinational company importing bulk goods the same stringent standards apply,” Senator McKenzie said. “Based on the risk we identified, my department has refused permis-

sion for a further four shipments of potentially contaminated vehicles to offload in Australia. “The importer has been working with my department to manage the biosecurity risk and I thank them for their cooperation. “This followed the detection of an infestation of Heath snails (Xerolenta obvia) on vehicle shipments to four states involving about 900 cars. “These hitchhiker pests threaten Australia’s environment and agriculture industries because they feed on a wide variety of plants including crops like alfalfa, lupins, clover, wheat, barley and fruit trees as well as native plants and weeds.

“We take threats to Australia’s animal and plant health very seriously as our pest and disease free status underpins our export proposition to the world – we’re clean, green and safe. “More than 30 snails have been found by biosecurity officers in vehicle shipments to date on cars imported to Fremantle, Melbourne, Port Kembla and Brisbane. “The person in charge of the goods has been given a direction to export the vehicles and vessels on the water and have been informed that they cannot unload here. “Australia’s world-class biosecurity system is a national treasure and

this incident underscores that it is a shared responsibility between our government and industry, especially at a time when threats are increasing through increased international movement of passengers and cargo. “The importer has been working closely with the department to manage the biosecurity risk after the department considered treatment options to manage the risk onshore and determined the most appropriate action was to export the vehicles from Australia.” Heath snails are a pest in southeastern Europe and have established localised populations in Canada and the United States of America.

NEWS

December 2019

Southern Farmer, Page 19

Understanding the cause and effect of herbicide carryover on pulses

NORMAL DAMAGE: Typical symptoms of damage in a pulse crop from carryover of clopyralid or picloram-based herbicides. PHOTO: Mark Congreve, ICAN

crop may be compromised.” Secondly, Mr Congreve says these herbicides are also relatively mobile in the soil, so some of the applied herbicide may also move deeper in the SURoOH IROORZLQJ UDLQIDOO DIWHU application. “The amount moving GHHSHU LQ WKH SURoOH ZLOO GHpend on soil type and rainfall,” he said. “Microbial activity deeper LQ WKH SURoOH LV VLJQLoFDQWO\ less than near the soil surface, so herbicide moving deeper LQ WKH SURoOH ZLOO WDNH ORQJHU to break down. “Where there are subsoil constraints, such as hard SDQV RU VLJQLoFDQW FKDQJH LQ soil texture/structure, herbicide may concentrate at or above these barriers and be particularly problematic. “In this situation, the pulse crop may establish, provided the residues at the surface have degraded, but symptoms may not be seen until later in the crop when roots reach this herbicide at depth.” Mr Congreve said the third

situation in which damage of subsequent pulse crops may also arise is when herbicide applied post-emergent to a preceding cereal crop has not been fully metabolised by the cereal crop before harvest. “In this case, there can be herbicide remaining in the dead cereal stubble following harvest,” he said. “Herbicide trapped in crop stubble is then ‘released’ back into the soil as the cereal stubble is placed into contact with the soil and starts to decompose. “The concentration of herbicide in the stubble depends on the application rate and, importantly, when it was applied to the cereal crop. “Typically, applications made later in the season are more likely to result in higher levels of herbicide in the cereal stubble than applications made earlier in the year. “Early season applications will have less interception by the crop, more direct application to the soil, and longer for degradation to occur before the crop matures. “Availability of herbicide from the crop stubble, and therefore when symptoms appear, depends on when the stubble decomposes.” Mr Congreve suggested harvest is particularly timely for considering the possibility of herbicide residues in stubble. “Many clopyralid herbicide labels recommend burning or mechanically incorporating cereal stubble from sprayed crops immediately after harvest. “This is to put stubble into contact with the soil and allow time for the stubble to decompose, however, this is rarely done in no-till farming systems.”

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GRDC publication ‘Rotational crop constraints for herbicides used in Australian farming systems’ is also a useful reference to further understand herbicide carryover constraints for many herbicides. This can be downloaded from the GRDC at https:// grdc.com.au/rotational-cropconstraints-for-herbicides. More information on herbicide behaviour is available at the GRDC webpage, http:// bit.ly/2peRWCp.

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that residues of these herbicides may be still present in the soil or stubble, the best solution is to plant a cereal crop or canola, until growHUV DUH FRQoGHQW WKDW DQ\ herbicide residues have dissipated. “Always read and follow directions of the registered label of the product you have used. “Product labels are a good source of information, as are manufacturer representatives.” Mr Congreve says the

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Particular care needs to be taken where harvest weed seed control (HWSC) techniques that concentrate the stubble or chaff are employed, according to Mr Congreve. “This last winter we saw a few examples of herbicide damage in pulses that was only present in old chaff lines, resulting from cereal crops that were treated with clopyralid, in some cases from over two years earlier,” he said. “Where there is concern

T/05D08773-V2/1516

IT is not uncommon for grain growers to experience negative effects in their pulse crops resulting from carryover of clopyralid or piclorambased herbicides that were applied in previous seasons. To help growers better understand the issues involved, the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) has produced a fact sheet ‘Rotational constraints for pulse crops following the use of aminopyralid, clopyralid and picloram herbicides’. The fact sheet can be downloaded from the GRDC website at https://grdc.com. au/rotational-constraintsfor-pulse-crops. Mark Congreve, senior consultant with Independent Consultants Australia Network (ICAN) and fact sheet author, says damage to subsequent pulse crops can result from three particular situations. “Firstly, herbicide close to the soil surface may not have fully degraded before planting of the pulse crop the following winter,” Mr Congreve said. “These herbicides are broken down in the soil by soil microbes. k6RLO PLFUREHV EHQHoW from warm and moist soil conditions to build their population. “Little degradation occurs during winter as it is often too cold for microbial activity. “When the following spring/summer is dry, there PD\ EH LQVXIoFLHQW PLFURELDO degradation occurring before planting the following season. “In this case, herbicide residues may persist at levHOV VXIoFLHQW WR FDXVH FURS damage at establishment, or growth of the following pulse

Page 20, Southern Farmer

December 2019

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