Southern Farmer

Published since 1986

MAY, 2021

www.farmernews.com.au

A YEAR IN REVIEW

Quail Island pigs eradicated

THE Mansfield Farm Project follows life on the Mannings’ property Davilak, for a year. Photographed

by Sandra Lording from Sandra Lee Photography, the project is as much about understanding country life as it is about documenting a year on a farm, raising Angus cattle.

Rodda Manning, pictured with his dad Rod, took over farm management of Davilak in 2013, embracing the task and adding to his father’s legacy.

Turn to pages 2 and 3 for the story.

PAGE 7

End of era at Bacchus Marsh PAGE 15

Cattle prices pass peak PAGES 16-17

Warming winter with all-Australian wool

By EMMA OLIVER

RETURNING in 2018 to the family farm at Powlett Plains in northern Victoria’s Loddon Valley, Rachael Canfield was more looking for a change of pace, than a new business enterprise.

A scientist by trade, Rachael worked for 11 years

in Melbourne in cancer research, before deciding that it was time to get out of the big smoke and head back to her roots.

Taking on a position at a veterinary medication manufacturing facility in Bendigo, Rachael helped where she could around her parents’ property, Yuruga

Plains, but it was her love of knitting and crocheting that would inspire the creation of her new business.

“Our family has been producing fine merino wool for more than 80 years, which means that there is 80 years of breeding to ensure that the wool is super soft and ideal for knitting, as

well as crochet, weaving and embroidery,” Rachael said.

“I’d always wanted to see what Dad’s wool was like to work with, as I’d grown up with my father always saying ‘My wool is the best’.

“So I decided to give it a go and ask for a bale, and get it processed and spun.

“This led to the realisation that there is very limited, if any, 100 per cent Australianproduced merino wool.

“Most yarn badged as ‘Australian wool’ on the market is actually sent overseas to be processed.”

This didn’t stop Rachael though, who, intent on trialling the wool from her

family’s farm, embraced the challenge and set about finding any remaining local processors in the state.

The resulting yarn was so impressive that Rachael knew she needed to share this fabulous product with others and so Yuruga Plains yarn was born.

■ Continued pages 4-5

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Page 2 - Southern Farmer

May 2021

⽢Farming through the lens of a camera

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By EMMA OLIVER WITH photographs taken by Sandra Lording over a 12 month period from May 2019 to May 2020, the Mansfield Farm Project is a year in review of the Davilak Pastoral Company, a cattle farm in Mansfield, Victoria.

Telling the story of farming family the Mannings, the images capture not only farming activities but landscapes and portraits, across the nine farms over which the family run their 1800 head of Angus cattle.

A total of 47 images were exhibited in Mansfield over the Easter weekend, as the culmination of this incredible project - a year in the taking and a year in the editing - with the Manning family also presented with an album of a year in the life of their farm.

It is Sandra Lording’s first photography exhibition, after a career change that saw her swap her policewoman’s blues for the kit of a professional photographer, in a country town away from her city beat.

She now directs her sense of curiosity and willingness to understand a situation, to the subjects she photographs.

“When my husband John and I moved to Mansfield in 2017, I realised I knew little about the people and farm life that surrounded me,” Sandra said.

“Overnight cattle or sheep appeared in previously empty paddocks, crops sprung from the ground and the landscape was ever-changing.

“The idea to photograph a farm over 12 months was born out of a desire to learn about farm life and capture images that represented what it means to be a farmer and share these

A year in review of the Davilak Pastoral Company

BEST FRIENDS: Rod describes his lifestyle as simple, content with just his motorbike, his 4WD, his dogs and his family.

PHOTO: Sandra Lee Photography images with the wider community.”

Sandra’s original plan had been to photograph three different farms, showing a cross section of farming in Mansfield.

However, the scale of the Davilak operation - generating in excess of 12,000 images, taken over 41 separate visits to the farm - resulted in Sandra scaling back the project to concentrate on capturing the Manning family over the period.

With 5000 acres under freehold and a further 1000 acres leasehold, the operation is spread over nine farms, running

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purchased 320 acres in Merton at a cost of $33,000.

“At the time, I didn’t think I’d ever pay for it,” Rod said, especially when he then purchased the Mansfield Veterinary Practice putting the family under additional financial pressure.

“The vet clinic carried the debt on the land, and I worked seven days a week for a good 10 years to make it work.

“We sacrificed everything to accumulate land, and there were times when we didn’t even know how we were going to feed ourselves.”

■ Continued page 3

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in excess of 1800 head of Angus cattle.

Patriarch Rod Manning has spent a lifetime building up the enterprise that is Davilak Pastoral Company, knowing from the tender age of four that he wanted to be a farmer.

Graduating with honours in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Melbourne in 1972, Rod worked at large animal practices in both Wangaratta and Seymour, meeting his wife Maryke during this time.

However, driven by his desire to farm, Rod saved a deposit and assisted by his grandfather, he

May 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 3

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CASH 4 CARS MELBOURNE 0408 100 905 LMCT 11560 A YEAR IN REVIEW: The Mansfield Farm Project follows life on the Mannings’ property Davilak, for a year. Photographed by Sandra Lording from Sandra Lee Photography, the project is as much about understanding country life as it is about documenting a year on a farm, raising Angus cattle. Pictured is Rod Manning who in 2013 relinquished farm management of Davilak to his son Rodda.

■

From page 2 Selling the Merton property in 1975, the family moved to 240 acres in Mansfield, establishing Davilak.

Rod then secured close to 1000 acres in Maindample, with the purchase of Woodlands.

Purchasing land strategically, Rod has also worked hard to be successful in the agricultural industry, positioning himself as a leader within his field and ultimately changing the way beef farming looks.

With his background in Veterinary Science, Rod has been responsible for researching and writing the operating manuals for Meat and Livestock Australia, which vets use to this day to inform their practices.

“As a beef farmer you need to be not only knowledgeable in Animal Production Science, but you almost need to be a pasture agronomist,” Rod said.

“You need to have financial skills; along with an understanding of chemistry and physics; be IT savvy; as well as understand what the profit drivers are.”

It’s a huge skill set, and one Rod was mindful of when plan-

ning the succession of Davilak to his son Rodda.

“I said to my kids, don’t come back home until you’re 30 and have a tertiary degree,” Rod said.

“Yet I was also conscious of the number of farms where dad still holds onto the cheque book and doesn’t let go.

“When Rodda returned, the first three to four years were difficult.

“Everything I’d built up, I just handed over and allowed him to make his own decisions.

“And Rodda has put everything into it, so much so that Davilak is in the top 10 to 15 per cent of best practice in return on assets.”

Taking over the reins in 2013, Rodda studied Agricultural Science at university for five years, before spending two years in Europe and then four years in Ballarat working in agriculture, returning to Mansfield to work alongside his father before taking over the operation.

It was Rodda - though initially sceptical about participating in the Mansfield Farm Project - who became a key player in the success of the project.

“Anna - my wife - came home

one day and said ‘I’ve responded to an ad on Facebook from a lady who wants to take photographs around a farm’,” said Rodda.

“And I said, no way.

“I was worried about gates getting left open, or somebody having an accident driving around the farm.

“But Anna organised a meeting with Sandra anyway.

“And I thought ‘oh yeah, she probably won’t be too bad’ which she wasn’t.

“She was actually great. “ To start her off, Rodda took Sandra around the farm, showing and explaining everything over all the different properties, and at the end Sandra was relatively self-sufficient.

“I would text or ring her - often at very short notice - and say we’re going to be at this particular property tomorrow, and we’re going to be doing this activity, and Sandra would turn up,” Rodda said.

“You wouldn’t even know she was there - she would just float around getting all the photos she needed.

“And she took some absolutely fabulous photographs.

“Sandra did say to me early

in the piece, that I should make use of her while we had her, and looking back I really wish I had.

“To have everything documented for a year, from the youngest to the oldest generation, in your workplace which is not just a workplace - it’s your everything - has been amazing.

“We spend every day in the paddocks, and it’s great to be able to look back at a year on the farm.”

Sandra is just thankful that Rodda and Anna took that initial leap of faith and welcomed her into their world, giving her full access to the farm, its operations and the Manning family.

It’s answered her questions and created an understanding of her new environment, and also filled more than a notebook with observations on everything from controlling cape weed to economies of scale to trimming bulls’ hooves before joining.

“I’m sure there were some reservations as to whether a city girl would be able to cope with all things farming,” Sandra said.

“But I entered the project with an open mind and willingness to learn and loved every minute of it.”

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Page 4 - Southern Farmer

May 2021

Warming winter with ■

SINGLE SOURCE: The word ‘Yuruga’ is an Australian Aboriginal word meaning ‘extensive view’ and is the name of the property where Rachael Canfield’s father had his first shearing shed.

From page 1 Launching in 2019, at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show at Bendigo, feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

“It was an amazing thing to do in itself, as my father had never seen his wool in a finished product,” Rachael said.

“To get it at the show made him so proud.

“My father has been a wool classer for 50 years - he has his golden stencil and though he only classes now for himself and my uncle, it’s such a huge part of his life.

“To be able to see his wool made into different items, and to have so many comment on how soft it was, was a great thing.

“And I think his farming friends were even a little envious, as they too would love to see their wool in a finished product.”

Available in 15 handdyed colours in both four and eight ply, the 100 gram balls retail for $30 each, with undyed hanks also available, for consumers to dye themselves.

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“You need to heat the dye up slowly so as not to temperature shock it,” she said.

“It takes an entire day to bring it up from room temperature to the required heat, and then cooling it down also needs to be a gradual process.”

Rachael then hangs up the yarn to dry before winding it into balls by hand.

Processing the raw wool into yarn in the first place is also a lengthy undertaking

due to the small batch nature of Rachael’s business.

Turn-around takes about six months, as all the processors have other commitments and it’s a bit of a juggle fitting the wool into their tight schedule.

Using three businesses in Victoria to complete the three key processing steps, the wool is first scoured to remove the oils and dirt, then carded to remove things like grass seeds that are caught in the wool, before being combed to align the wool fibres and remove any short ones.

■ continued page 5

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Southern Farmer - Page 5

all-Australian wool

COLOURS OF THE RAINBOW: Rachael Canfield is happy with the vibrant colour palette of her Yuruga Plains yarn, with plans to introduce some pales and pastels to the portfolio for those wishing to knit things like baby blankets.

■

From page 4 It is then spun before Rachael takes possession of her yarn, ready for dying.

“The product at the end is absolutely beautiful,” Rachael said.

“And it’s really important to us that the entire process from start to finish is done locally, even the dye is Australian made.

“The yarn is not super wash, however, as this process can’t be done in Australia.

“But when you make something machine washable you’re effectively coating the wool in plastic,

and we like the fact that we are producing the more environmentally friendly option.

“Everybody who has used the wool absolutely loves it, and they always comment on how incredibly soft it is.

“And though it’s a bit on the pricey side, it is an all-Australian grown and processed product from a single source, which is Yuruga Plains’ high quality self-replacing flock of Merinos.”

With the first two runs of yarn coming from the same sheep, Rachael is interested to see what the next batch

will be like coming from different sheep in the flock.

“However, Dad chooses which bales I’m allowed to have, so with his classing expertise, I know we will maintain the consistency,” Rachael said.

“My intention is to grow the business, and I believe that diversification is the key to longevity for my family’s farming business.

“We run 1000 head of sheep at Yuruga Plains, and I take a very small proportion of their wool, but if we can grow the yarn business so that Dad does the farming and I do the value-adding then we’re doing well.

“There are businesses like Country Road that are doing ranges of clothing that specify the farm that they purchased the fibre from and give a bit of a spiel about that farm.

“It’s part of this larger push by consumers to know the providence of their products, and make an informed choice to support more local producers.

“I would like to be part of that movement, to support the local processing businesses that are struggling, and ultimately grow an all-Australian wool industry.”

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FAMILY FARM: Since 1936, the family has been producing fine merino wool in the Loddon Valley, with third generation Rachael Canfield taking the initative to valueadd and create allAustralian produced and processed yarn from the premium quality wool.

Page 6 - Southern Farmer

May 2021

Learning to speak “cow” means better weaner health

KEEPING our voices to a minimum and not being above a cow’s eye level is among the best ways of keeping a mob of cattle comfortable in the yards.

Feedlot consultant and veterinarian Dr Kevin Sullivan outlined successful communication with cattle at the Reiland Angus seminar at Tumut on March 31.

Dr Sullivan, of Bell Veterinary Services, Bell, Qld, said cattle had sensitive hearing and handlers should avoid using their voice as much as possible.

“Adopt a positive attitude towards those animals, they like positive interaction in your body position and adjust your speed of movement to achieve direction,” he said.

“If you are working with sensitive north Queensland Brahmans, your movements will be a lot smaller and slower than if you were working with desensitised Wagyu.

“Apply pressure to achieve a response and reward them by taking the pressure away as soon as you get a positive response.

“Each time you interact with those animals it should be positive.”

Dr Sullivan said the eye was the point of balance in cattle.

“They are a prey animal so they are always watching for a threat,” he said.

“They can see 270 degrees around them but they struggle with depth perception or how far away something is.

“The only way they know is when it moves; they cannot see above their eyeline.

“When a cow looks up, it stops so if we are above them they will not move.”

Dr Sullivan encourages handlers at the front of a large mob to act as leaders, instilling trust, respect and patience in the cattle behind.

“If an animal is sensitive or of a poorer temperament, the handling will not take away that personality but will temper that animal so it is more tolerant,” he said.

“Highly temperamental animals are poorer in health, performance, meat quality and fertility.

“We need to understand weaning starts from the day the animal is born.

“This is where stockmanship sets that baby calf up for life, reducing the level of sickness later on.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE: Dr Kevin Sullivan works with weaners in the yards at Killimicat Station, Tumut.

“To maximise genetic potential, we need to ensure maximum foetal development and maturation, maximise the passive transfer of colostrum at birth by increasing milk letdown, encourage the maternal bond, and condition calves to accept handling for a seamless weaning.”

Dr Sullivan said acclimation was about settling cattle in their current environment.

He said cattle needed reacclimation when moved to a new environment.

“If these cattle are happy and confident in their environment there will be improved milk letdown and colostrum transfer during the post calving interval,” he said.

“Watch out for cattle which continue to wander around the pen or pasture, those who nibble but never really graze, or those

who are discontent.

“Get off the motorbike or horse and walk with those cattle to show them where you want them to go.”

Allow calves to suckle for 20 to 30 minutes after birth and cow-calf bonding before ear tagging.

Dr Sullivan said it was important to greet the cow first before tagging the calf.

“Do not attack the calf first and expect the cow to

stay calm. Desensitise the ear prior to tagging and then return the calf back to the cow.

“Post marking, run the 4-6-week-old calves for one to two hours on their own to learn about separation at weaning.

“Pre-weaning separate again for 12-24 hours, then put them back with their mothers, and followed by weaning. In the US this is called two phase weaning.

“Pre-conditioning is just not vaccination but a combination of handling, final day preparation, good nutrition, minerals and vaccination so the expectation is to gain weight from day one of weaning.

“The calves need to accept the transfer of leadership from the cows to the caregivers. When this happens, calves can be weaned in two to three days.”

During weaning, allow four square metres per head for each calf along with water, feed and daily interaction of 10-15 minutes by the handler.

Yard weaned cattle are 50 per cent less likely to get sick in a feedlot environment, Dr Sullivan said.

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May 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 7

Bandicoots back on island after pig eradication AFTER 13 years of environmental havoc caused by feral pig populations, Victoria’s Quail Island is once again a haven for wildlife, with evidence of the first, rare Southern Brown Bandicoot discovered there in six years.

Backed by over $200,000 in Australian Government funding, Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority and Parks Victoria rangers have succeeded in eradicating feral pigs from this unique part of the internationally renowned Western Port Ramsar wetlands, south east of Melbourne.

The deliberate introduction of feral pigs to the island by hunters in 2008, destroyed many of the island’s fragile habitats.

The pests damaged important vegetation such as saltmarsh and mangrove communities, herb rich woodlands and swamp scrub, and threatened native wildlife and migratory shore birds.

The first evidence of the Southern Brown Bandicoot

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HAVEN FOR WILDLIFE: Evidence of the Southern Brown Bandicoot returning to Victoria’s Quail island has been discovered after the eradication of the island’s feral pig population. comes 18 months since the last pig sighting - a reminder of the importance of the collaborative work being undertaken by the Australian Government, the states and Landcare groups to eradicate feral pests.

Since 2014, the Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority and Parks Victoria rangers have sought to contain the island’s feral pig population.

But it was the introduction of an intensive monitoring program in early 2019 involving drone surveillance and thermal imaging, which improved the effectiveness of the program, and achieved the eradication of pigs from the island.

Feral pests are one of the

biggest threats Australia faces in the protection of threatened species.

Feral cats alone threaten the survival of over 100 native species, and pest animals like pigs, deer and wild horses destroy habitats that threaten the survival of many more.

The Western Port wetlands, comprising mangroves, saltmarsh and seagrass meadows, are located around the coastal fringe of Western Port Bay, from Point Leo to Phillip Island.

They cover more than 59,000 hectares and are listed as internationally significant under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands that is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

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Page 8 - Southern Farmer

May 2021

2020 - The year everything about fresh produce consumption changed A STUDY into consumer shopping and consumption behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the important role of Australian horticulture in helping people find health and wellbeing through the benefits of fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, nursery and turf products.

Australians also wanted to show their support for Australian growers by purchasing locally made produce.

“COVID-19 has shown how valuable horticulture is to maintaining a mentally and physically healthy nation,” said Hort Innovation chief executive officer Matt Brand.

“I think people can see that and that’s why they support Australian growers, who continue to work hard and deliver produce through

challenging times.”

The pandemic resulted in one event that heavily impacted how the population consumes: lockdown.

Spending more time at home resulted in more gardening, exercise, cleaning and cooking.

A rise in cooking from home - especially cooking from ‘scratch’ - meant that fresh, quality, Australian ingredients instantly became more important.

During 2020, Hort Innovation worked with research company Fiftyfive5 to provide the Australian horticulture sector access to regularly updated information on a weekly basis about consumer attitudes and behaviours during the time of COVID-19 disruption, through Fiftyfive5’s Category and Consumer Impact Monitor.

RISE OF SOURDOUGH: Fresh, quality, Australian ingredients became more important during lockdown, as the population embraced cooking from scratch at home.

Across the nine months that the monitor was running, they found the biggest

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concern Australians had was around their ability to find a job (50 per cent).

A similar proportion were worried about experiencing future waves and these concerns translated into concerns about health and wellbeing for themselves and their families.

These concerns had a profound impact on shopping and consumption behaviour.

Lockdown had a profound impact on how consumers prepared food.

No commuting and more time at home gave people the freedom to get creative in the kitchen.

From sourdough to spaghetti sauce, Australians were getting busy making fresh food.

Almost half (46 per cent) of main grocery buyers reported cooking more meals from scratch and over a third (38 per cent) reported

doing more baking.

This behaviour increased demand for fresh produce through retail channels.

Australians looked to fresh produce as core ingredients.

Between March and December, on average 39 per cent more Australian grocery buyers reported buying more fresh produce as part of their shop.

Maintaining a healthy diet became even more important as gyms and restaurants temporarily closed, with 39 per cent of Australians wanting to cook more healthy and nutritious meals.

The research saw considerable momentum for staple fruits with 34 per cent reporting buying more bananas, 28 per cent buying more apples, and 23 per cent buying more oranges.

The purchase frequency for staple vegetables such as carrots (28 per cent), broccoli (25 per cent) and mushrooms (24 per cent) also increased.

The research showed that being grown in Australia, has become significantly more important (compared to before the start of the pandemic).

Sixty per cent of main grocery buyers in Australia reported that being Australian grown had become more important when choosing fresh produce.

Forty two per cent of all main grocery buyers want to buy Australian fresh produce to support local farmers.

The research investigated snacking behaviours from

July and found that 27 per cent of Australians were eating more snacks.

Compared to consumption before the pandemic began, many fresh produce categories were consumed more regularly (as snacks), including berries, bananas and nuts.

Both public and private greenspace became more valued by people in lockdown.

On average, 40 per cent of Australians were walking more, indicating that use of public greenspace increased and was respite from spending more time at home.

Thirty eight per cent also reported spending more time gardening, which translated to increased retail sales of nursery and turf products.

With more time spent working from home and in the local community it is likely these trends will continue.

“The pandemic impacted every element of the Australian way of life and drove behaviour change which meant consumers interacted with horticulture through the consumption of fruit, vegetables and nuts with meal preparation at home, through to people spending more time in the garden increasing consumption of nursery items and turf,” Mr Brand said.

“Hort Innovation was able to provide weekly overviews of the data and insights for growers, highlighting particularly interesting and noteworthy trends to help them prepare for the increases in domestic demand.”

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May 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 9

Sheep Connect event instead of Sheepvention for 2021

ON AGAIN: Sheep Connect will take place on August 2 and 3 at the Hamilton Showgrounds.

THE Hamilton Pastoral and Agricultural Society have regrouped following the easing of COVID-19 regulations in Victoria.

As a result, one agricultural event will be offered this year.

Sheep Connect will take place on August 2 and 3 at the Hamilton Showgrounds.

Trade sites, a conference and Australia’s biggest merino ram sale will be among the attractions.

“The committee is still steadfast that a Sheepvention format isn’t possible this year,” Sheepvention president Kathryn Robertson said.

“But easing of restrictions has made the committee re-think their original ideas for this year.

“At this stage we will run one event on the usual Sheepvention dates.

“This isn’t Sheepvention though.

“There won’t be any large trade marquees this year but exhibitors can take up their own marquee package or opt to exhibit in the pavilion.

“We are anticipating that we will attract 5000 people per day.”

With the a different event this year regular components of Sheepvention such as the Fashion Parade, Yard Dog competitions, Hamilton & Western District Sheep Show and the Inventions won’t be held.

“As soon as we are able to run Sheepvention again, we will,” Ms Robertson said.

“This means we will be bringing in all the traditional events and competitions we have held for the last 40 odd years.

“Much of the Sheepvention community is disappointed that we are not conducting our usual events.

“There is a lot of sentiment around the sheep show as it has been happening for over 160 years.

“We appreciate the sheep show, along with the inventions were the founding elements of Sheepvention.

“We haven’t forgotten their importance.

“It is a shame that COVID-19 has managed to disrupt two years of Sheepvention.

“We can only look forward to 2022 and the amazing event we will have.

“In the meantime, I encourage as many trade exhibitors (including sheep studs) and as many Merino stud breeders to support this ram sale and trade show.”

Those wishing to participate in the Sheep Connect event are eligible for a 50 per cent subsidy via the Federal Government’s Business Events Grant scheme.

There are a range of site packages, marketing options, sponsorships and hospitality packages available to businesses wishing to participate.

The prospectus and details will all be made available next week at www.hamiltonshowgrounds.com.au.

Exhibitors who attended Sheepvention in 2019 will receive details emailed to them early next week.

Page 10 - Southern Farmer

New fungicides answer grower wish list THE launch of two new, exciting fungicides for use in canola and cereal crops during the 2021 broadacre cropping season is set to tick a lot of boxes for growers across the country.

They can look forward to additional options for controlling diseases and assisting disease resistance management; flexibility of treatment timings; and, critically, crop safety in mixes with various other protection and input products, allowing convenient, one-pass applications and further enhancing disease control and

resistance management.

ADAMA Australia has introduced both Maxentis® EC and Proviso® fungicides to the local industry for use in canola, wheat, barley and oat crops this season.

The two new products add to one of the most extensive fungicide ranges in the industry, tackling diseases in all major broadacre crop types.

Maxentis is a unique coformulation of two of the world’s most effective fungicides, prothioconazole and azoxystrobin.

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LAUNCHING NEW FUNGICIDES: ADAMA Australia market development manager - Victoria, Alistair Crawford, says the new Maxentis fungicide will help control all major oat diseases, including septoria, leaf rust and crown rust, and it offers a short, three-week withholding period for grazing and cutting.

mode of action fungicide, it provides improved disease control spectrum, efficacy and resistance management, as well as an important rotation option following commonly used in-furrow and seed treatment fungicides.

Maxentis can be applied safely at various crop stages and with a range of other crop protection and nutrition products with reduced risk of crop damage.

Rapidly absorbed by leaves, it controls key diseases including seedling and upper canopy blackleg and sclerotinia in canola, as well

as rusts, powdery mildew, septoria, yellow leaf spot, scald and ramularia in cereals, while it also features Australia’s first registered claim for control of physiological leaf spot (PLS) in barley.

Proviso is a novel prothioconazole fungicide featuring ADAMA’s unique Asorbitalâ„¢ technology, which enables enhanced uptake and systemic activity for improved efficacy, compatibility and crop safety.

Prothioconazole has shown to be the most effective demethylation inhibitor

(DMI) fungicide for controlling various diseases, including net blotch populations with low and developing levels of resistance.

However, rather than simply introducing another prothioconazole fungicide, ADAMA strived to develop an all-new formulation of the proven active ingredient to ensure real and tangible benefits to growers.

Proviso can be used in tank mixes with a range of other crop protection and nutrition products, controlling a broader range of diseases in canola and cereals,

including fusarium head blight in wheat, and to assist disease management.

It can be ideally applied as the first foliar application following the use of Succinate Dehydrogenase Inhibitor (SDHI) or strobilurinbased fungicides on seed or in-furrow.

ADAMA Australia portfolio manager - fungicides, Matt Sherriff, said the arrival of Maxentis and Proviso fungicides would take the headache out of disease management for many canola and cereal growers.

■ Contoniued page 11

Takes the headache out of foliar disease control.

New Maxentis fungicide from ADAMA delivers best-in-category protection against key foliar diseases of cereals, oats and canola without compromising crop safety or compatibility.

Scan here for more information ®Registered trademark of an ADAMA Agricultural Solutions Company.

• Broad spectrum control of key foliar diseases • Excellent compatibility and crop safety • Can be applied across a broad range of crop stages • Two modes of action for optimal efficacy and resistance management • Developed and proven for Australian conditions

FUNGICIDE

May 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 11

GAME CHANGER: ADAMA Australia portfolio manager - fungicides, Matt Sherriff, says new Maxentis and Proviso fungicides will take the headache out of disease management for many canola and cereal growers.

■

From page 10 Matt said research had confirmed Maxentis offered better crop safety than existing benchmark fungicides whether applied alone or in tank mixes, and it was a similar story for Proviso with its unique formulation.

“Growers will be aware of crop safety and mixing issues when tank mixing various crop protection and nutrition products,” he said.

“Maxentis and Proviso are safer formulations for applications in mixtures, allowing growers to cover their crops in one pass.

“Compared with using other fungicides, they will have more flexibility than they have had before to go

with various tank mixes from an early stage.’’

He said Maxentis was one of the few fungicides registered for use in canola containing azoxystrobin and it could be included with topup applications of herbicides like atrazine as early as the four to six-leaf crop growth stage, as could Proviso.

“This is when a lot of blackleg is coming in and developing resistance to both seed variety genetics and seed treatment fungicides,” Matt said.

Maxentis can be applied through to the flag leaf stage in cereals and Matt said it would be particularly valuable as an alternative mode of action group in cases

where SDHI fungicide already had been applied on seed or in-furrow.

In oats, he said the azoxystrobin component could offer potential greening benefits, while the fungicide’s mixing capability and rapid absorption would be strongly welcomed.

Matt said Proviso was a more cost-effective and adaptable fungicide, and, to enhance its effectiveness, could be applied with a host of tank mix partners, many of which are conveniently listed on the product label.

He said growers could also have confidence in the knowledge that even where resistance may be developing to any triazoles, prothio-

ria, leaf rust and crown rust, and it offered a short, threeweek withholding period for grazing and cutting.

Alistair said the fungicide was highly suited to tank mixtures and in canola would be an ideal rotational alternative to existing standards at the 30 per cent flowering application timing, providing control of sclerotinia and upper canopy blackleg, which was becoming a growing concern in southern areas.

In barley, he said it would be excellent for control of scald, with the added benefit of ramularia and PLS control also being on the label.

Alistair said Proviso offered the opportunity for affordable early blackleg con-

conazole was the most effective of these fungicides and by using Proviso, they could avoid paying for additional active ingredients that may now be less effective.

Maxentis and Proviso fungicides were recently included in 30 trials across the country, where they demonstrated their mixing capability with numerous products, crop safety and effectiveness against all major diseases compared with existing standards.

In Victoria, ADAMA Australia market development manager Alistair Crawford said the dual mode of action provided by Maxentis would help control all major oat diseases, including septo-

trol in canola at around the four to six-leaf stage, also in mixes with a range of crop protection products including atrazine and clethodim, and as an alternative to existing standards where SDHI seed treatment was used.

He said early application in mixtures would also target septoria in oats and scald and net blotches in barley, offering improved control particularly where propiconazole was becoming less effective.

For further information on the new Maxentis and Proviso fungicides, growers can contact their local ADAMA Australia representative, sales agent or visit ADAMA.com.

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Page 12 - Southern Farmer

May 2021

Does your effluent pond need clearing?

AFTER recent heavy rains in some areas across Victoria, it is time to assess if effluent ponds are coping with the extra inflows.

Now is the time to be preparing your effluent ponds for the winter period.

Effluent systems are generally designed to have the storage ponds empty going into the winter.

This is because during this time rainfall exceeds evaporation, and paddocks are generally too wet to apply effluent as it increases the risk of nutrient run off and waterlogging.

By reducing second pond volume, farmers can maximise fill capacity, plus applying an autumn application of effluent will provide a free boost to winter pasture growth.

This is due to the large amount of nitrogen and potassium which is often held.

If applying effluent: z Leave 300mm of effluent in the bottom of the ponds to prevent cracking and future leaking. z If effluent is recycled for yard washing, then enough effluent must be left in the pond for this to continue. z Rotate effluent application paddocks regularly and regularly soil test application areas. z Avoid grazing paddocks until at least 21 days after effluent application. z Graze prior to irrigation as it allows greater penetration of UV rays into the canopy to kill pathogens. z Transition cows should not be grazed on high potassium paddocks - including paddocks where effluent has been applied. z Young stock should not have access to areas where effluent is stored or has been applied.

Ideally test the effluent prior to application to assess the nutrient concentrations, so appropriate application rates can be calculated.

If you don’t have a recent test you can assess an appropriate application rate by using Dairy Australia’s effluent and sludge calculator https://www. dairyingfortomorrow.com.au/tools-andguidelines/nutrients-from-effluent-andsludge-calculator/.

The first effluent pond should also be desludged every couple of years, depending on the size of the pond and herd size, to ensure sludge does not build up and find its way into the second pond.

First pond sludge is an useful resource and acts as a slow release fertiliser, still providing additional growth twelve to eighteen months after application.

Sludge application can be a good way to kick start a rundown area of the farm and can be incorporated during a cropping phase.

All dairy farmers are required to keep dairy effluent on farm and out of waterways.

By ensuring your ponds are empty before winter it will assist you to manage your effluent system over the wet months.

For more information please visit https:// agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-andanimals/ dairy/managing-effluent.

DROUGHT PROOFING: The scheme can be used to fund small scale on-farm drought proofing water projects.

On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme extended further 12 months FARMERS impacted by drought will be given another 12 months to apply for funding from the Onfarm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme (OFEWIRS) to help them build much needed infrastructure to make their properties drought resilient.

Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia Keith Pitt said farmers will now have until June 2022 to utilise the $50 million in funding secured for the OFEWIRS by the Coalition Government in the 2020-21 budget.

“This has been a hugely popular program that’s made a real difference for thousands of

Australian farmers dealing with the devastating challenges of drought,” Mr Pitt said.

“The scheme can be used to fund small scale on-farm drought proofing water projects, including buying and laying pipes, installing water storage devices, such as tanks and troughs associated with stock watering and desilting dams and water bores.

“Farmers value the rebate because it helps them manage the here-and-now when it comes to keeping livestock watered and permanent plantings alive in a drought - but importantly it also improves productivity so they

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are better prepared for the next inevitable drought at some point in the future.

“This program is about helping farmers being drought prepared and drought resilient.

“So we’re making $25 million of the Commonwealth’s $50 million available in 2021-22 along with any underspend from this year.

“States partnering on this program helps make the Federal Government support stretch even further.

“Providing up to $100 million for eligible on-farm water infrastructure projects going forward means more landowners

are going to be able to access its benefits.

“I’m pleased that South Australia, Western Australia and New South Wales have committed to co-contributions to make the rebate available to their farmers - and I encourage the other states to hurry up and join in so their farmers can too have access to these drought busting grants.”

The OFEWIRS reimburses drought affected livestock producers and horticulturalists with permanent plantings for eligible infrastructure such as bores and pipes with up to 25 per cent of costs capped at $25,000.

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May 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 13

Rain dampens fodder demand RAIN during March has put a sudden halt to demand for fodder around Australia while bringing a positive outlook to agricultural industries.

The Feed Central National April Hay Market Report says March began with reasonable volumes of trade, led by high interest in quality lines of product, but as the rain came in, so did a sudden halt in demand.

The report by Feed Central general manager Cieran Maxwell and account manager Jock Jackson said the massive rainfall totals in March

had brought a sense of positivity to the feeding industry.

Mr Maxwell said the continued favourable seasonal conditions had seen some products such as DDG leave the market and the prices of most feed commodities slowly come down.

“Demand for hay has backed off considerably, with the only significant movement being local trade in Victoria,” Mr Maxwell said.

Demand for hay for the remainder of 2021 is still very variable but what will be purchased first will be

the higher quality lines.

“In saying that, prices will still need to meet the market,” Mr Maxwell added.

Mr Maxwell said that based on levels of quantity versus quality, there may not be room for downward price movement, however, he didn’t expect to see prices increase.

“We’re telling buyers to purchase now, despite the rain, fill your sheds, prepare for the next dry and ensure you’ve secured the demand you know you need for this year,” he said.

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Making the most of autumn/winter with liquid foliar fertiliser and biologicals

LIQUID soil and foliar applications are the most efficient tools available to stimulate pasture and crops in winter where adequate soil moisture is available but the low temperature slows the energy supply.

In general terms for every 10 degrees Celsius drop of temperature, the rate of biological/enzymatic reaction is halved.

However, there are a few ways to stimulate growth in winter.

Two of which are mentioned below: Foliar Uptake Foliar versus soil uptake helps plant growth in winter

for two reasons.

Firstly, uptake efficiency of soil applied nutrients is much lower than foliar.

This is due to a greater dilution of fertiliser in soil as well as slower uptake by the root system due to cold weather.

Secondly, foliar uptake uses less energy than soil uptake per unit of nutrient.

This is because when a nutrient is taken from the soil, energy is used on its uptake at two distinct points.

Foliar uptake in contrast only uses energy once when ions are taken up from leaf free space into leaf cells.

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Page 14 - Southern Farmer

May 2021

Leeuwin Coast gets green light with Australia’s first ever certified carbon neutral shellfish HARVEST Road Oceans, through its brand Leeuwin Coast, has become the first aquaculture brand in Australia with officially certified carbon neutral aquaculture products as part of a brandwide commitment to lowering emissions and protecting and conserving marine ecosystems.

Certified by the Australian government’s Climate Active initiative - a partnership between government and industry that recognises businesses and products that achieve carbon neutrality - the certification covers Leeuwin Coast’s Akoya, rock oysters and mussels that are cultivated and harvested across the WA coastline from Albany to Carnarvon.

Shellfish aquaculture is inherently sustainable and is being actively used as a form of regenerative farming that cleans, heals and enhances our oceans.

Owing to their characteristics as one of the most sustainable forms of seafood, even the shells of the rock oysters, Akoya and mussels - which are made up of calcium carbonate - are helping to offset emissions by sequestering carbon from the atmosphere.

As part of the Climate Active assessment, the carbon

NOT YOUR AVERAGE OYSTER: Using advanced floating basket technology, Akoya rock oysters require pristine clear blue water out in the middle of the ocean to grow, resulting in a crisp pure flavour. footprint of Leeuwin Coast’s aquaculture operations were calculated including marine fuel use, processing of the packaging materials and freight of the product to customers.

To further reduce emissions, Leeuwin Coast has invested in innovative technology and methods, including the advanced floating oyster basket technology, that have reduced carbon outputs and improved sustainable farming practices.

The remainder of Leeuwin Coast’s emissions have been offset using certified

Gold Standard credits from the Yarra Yarra Biodiversity Corridor project in the WA Wheatbelt which sequesters carbon through revegetation of endangered woodlands and through a rainforest conservation initiative that is protecting the Brazilian rainforest.

Leeuwin Coast is the aquaculture brand of Harvest Road Group Pty Ltd that launched in 2020.

The Harvest Road Group part of Tattarang is a vertically integrated agricultural investment group of companies bringing Australia’s best

LEEUWIN COAST BOUNTY: Akoya rock oysters are far different from your usual farmed oyster, more similar in appearance to pearl oysters with their striking pearlescence. produce to domestic and international markets.

Leeuwin Coast honours WA oceans and is dedicated to supplying the world with the finest seafood that is distinctly Western Australian.

Harvest Road’s chief executive officer Paul Slaughter said carbon neutral certification isn’t the end of the journey but supports Leeuwin Coast’s ongoing commitment to protecting and enhancing marine environments.

“At Harvest Road we are driven by a vision to create sustainable businesses

that actively prevent climate breakdown, enhance food security and revitalise local ecosystems and we are prepared to lead the world when it comes to the conservation of our unique environments,” Mr Slaughter said.

Harvest Road’s general manager of aquaculture Dr Justin Welsh said “Harvest Road will commence construction of a modern shore base in Albany over the coming months which will support our goal of increasing shellfish production, create employment for up to 90 full

time workers and growing the export of the shellfish products across the country and into overseas markets”.

“Our Albany shore base is being designed with longterm sustainability in mind and will help us increase production to an estimated 1.5 million dozen rock oysters and 18 million pieces of Akoya oyster per annum, so we can help more consumers discover these amazing products,” Dr Welsh said.

“By taking responsibility for our carbon footprint, we are making a difference for the protection of our seas to ensure that we aren’t the last generation that enjoys the remarkable seafood that our oceans can produce.”

The Climate Active certification follows Harvest Road’s announcement in September 2020 that it had joined forces with industry and government to map out carbon emissions across Harvey Beef’s WA supply chain to assist the state’s beef industry transition towards carbon neutrality by 2030.

Already under way is Harvest Road’s first emissions reduction project - a covered anaerobic lagoon at its Harvey Beef processing plant located in the south west region of Western Australia.

Farmers fear for livestock after camping election promise FARMING groups fear that a State Government election promise could cause environmental and economic devastation near Victoria’s water systems.

Proposed new laws would allow people to camp on Crown land near rivers and access the land through private properties (across Government tracks).

For farmers who have licenses to use these waterfronts for livestock grazing, the potential isVXHV DUH VLJQL¿FDQW “Our agribusiness clients are tremendously concerned about the impact of these proposed laws.

“There are many environmental, biosecurity and legal liability issues,” said lawyer Andrew Power, Property Principal of marshalls+dent+wilmoth lawyers.

“For decades, the waterway ecosystems have EHHQ ¿QHO\ EDODQFHG ZLWK IDUPLQJ DFWLYLWLHV “But the proposed regulations have no practical solution for monitoring, regulating or prosecuting camping activities. ³,W FRXOG EH GLVDVWURXV IRU OLYHVWRFN IDUPHUV ZKHQ WKH\ DOUHDG\ IDFH VLJQL¿FDQW HQYLURQPHQWDO and economic challenges.

“Farmers are potentially liable for any damage their livestock causes to humans.

“For example, it’s common for calving mothers to protect their young.

“Human waste is a threat to livestock because of the high chance of disease.

“Then there’s the risk of injury to livestock due to dogs, broken glass or holes dug by campers. ³2Q WRS RI WKDW IDUPHUV PXVW HQGXUH WKH WKUHDW RI ¿UH RXWEUHDN DQG ZDWHU FRQWDPLQDWLRQ ´ Under existing arrangements, farmers must keep licensed Crown land free of pests and weeds, XQGHUWDNH ¿UH SURWHFWLRQ FOHDU UXEELVK SD\ UDWHV DQG WD[HV DQG EXLOG IHQFHV ZKHQ UHTXLUHG ,W¶V IHDUHG WKDW FDPSHUV PD\ FDXVH LVVXHV VXFK DV OLWWHULQJ SURSHUW\ GDPDJH RU ¿UH KD]DUGV ³7KH FXUUHQW OLFHQFH DJUHHPHQWV ZRXOG UHTXLUH IDUPHUV WR FRQWLQXH WR EHDU WKHVH UHVSRQVLELOLWLHV LQFOXGLQJ WKH ¿QDQFLDO FRVW

“We’re lobbying the Government to include key measures in the new regulations which would help protect farmers, their livestock and livelihoods,” said Power.

“For example, creating and delineating an increased number of campgrounds throughout Victoria (on a rotating basis) with basic facilities including proper emergency access tracks, VLJQDJH WRLOHWV PRELOH QHWZRUNV FDPS¿UH DUHDV and rubbish bins.

“Other measures should include a live phone DSSOLFDWLRQ IRU FKHFN LQ UHTXLUHPHQWV DW FDPSsites, reducing the 28 maximum camping period to seven days, designating camping grounds at least 500 metres away from houses, and comSXOVRU\ FDPSHU WUDLQLQJ LQ ELRVHFXULW\ DQG ¿UH hazards.

“We’re also lobbying the Government to build more safe tracks to minimise the risk of campers entering private farming properties to access campsites.

“If campers are injured on private property, there’s a risk of escalating insurance premiums, ZKLFK ZLOO VLJQL¿FDQWO\ DGG WR WKH EXUGHQ DOUHDG\ VKRXOGHUHG E\ RXU SULPDU\ SURGXFHUV “We’re asking the Government to address this issue as well.”

The consultation period for the proposed regulations ended April 26.

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Southern Farmer - Page 15

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THE LAST DROP: Genetics Australia Parwan Park farm manager Phil Bath with Tirano P - the last bull to have his semen processed at the Bacchus Marsh facility.

NEARLY 60 years of history came to an end on recently when the last collection was processed at Genetics Australia’s Parwan Park bull farm at Bacchus Marsh.

Holstein bull Tirano P will go into the record books as the last bull to have his semen processed at the facility.

The milestone came just short of 60 years after the first collection was conducted on July 12, 1961.

The property at 144 Woolpack Road, Parwan Park is now on the market after Genetics Australia’s purchase of Total livestock Genetics (TLG) and its decision to relocate its bull management, semen management and semen collection and production services from Bacchus Marsh to south-west Victoria.

All semen has been relocated and most bulls have now moved to the TLG col-

lection facilities at Camperdown and Glenormiston, with the final 20 expected to have been moved by the end of April.

All collections and semen processing will now be performed at these facilities.

Genetics Australia chief executive officer Anthony Shelly said the relocation was an exciting time for the co-operative but also an emotional one after such a long association with the Bacchus Marsh site.

“We acknowledge the dedication of all the current farm and production staff, particularly in the past four months since the announcement of the purchase of TLG and the closure of Parwan Park,” he said.

“They have ensured the bulls were moved with care and continued to meet the day-to-day demands of collections and processing to

meet current orders.

“We also thank the staff at the TLG site for making sure the bulls have settled in well at Camperdown and Glenormiston.”

New holding yards and infrastructure have been built and the laboratory updated at the Camperdown site.

Mr Shelly said Genetics Australia was leaving a lot of history at Bacchus Marsh.

“We acknowledge the past production staff who have worked at the facility during the past 60 years,” he said.

“Their work in many ways pioneered the development and progress of herd improvement in Australia and they have made a significant contribution to the industry as we know it today.”

Set on about 50 acres, Parwan Park is now on the market through selling agents Stockdale and Leggo Bacchus Marsh.

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End of an era at Bacchus Marsh “bull farm”

Page 16 - Southern Farmer

May 2021

Cattle prices past the peak AUSTRALIAN cattle prices have been tipped to fall this year by 10-15 per cent but top quality genetics will be sought as the national herd continues to expand to 29.4 million head.

Global Agritrends Down Under managing director Simon Quilty said the 20192023 price cycle peaked at 898 cents per kilogram in March and will finish with an Eastern Young Cattle Indicator low of 535 cents per kilogram carcass weight in 2023.

This current cycle is 22 per cent higher than the 2014-2018 cycle average of 546 cents per kilogram.

Mr Quilty expects feeder steers weighing 380 kilograms to 440 kilograms to be around 400 cents per kilogram by June and fall to 350 cents per kilogram in the last quarter.

Factors playing a role in the prices include feedlot demand, COVID-19 restrictions lifting, Chinese New Year demand, tightening South American beef supplies and easing grain prices.

Speaking at the Reiland Angus client seminar at Tumut on March 31, Mr Quilty said global meat demand would place pressure on feeder steer buying before the year is out, with numbers rising on the back of lower grain prices.

“The concern now is over fat feeder steers - heavy feeder steers will end up as a Jap ox,” he said.

“Grass fed steers have been losing $250-$300 per head at the processor - the only reason they have been paying that money is to get throughput and keep the workers on, and trying to hold a market together.

“They are going to pay the cheapest possible money for that Jap ox they can.

“Be wary if you produce an animal that misses the grade and ends up as a Jap ox - the price spread will widen and being too fat will be penalised.

“Within four to five months, the price spread between feeder and medium steers is likely to balloon out to $1 per kilogram and to $1.50 per kilogram for feeder and heavier steers.

“That’s the type of discount we are likely to see in a short space of time.”

Mr Quilty expects an abrupt feeder steer price correction in June back to 350 cents per kilogram followed by a 12 per cent fall in the last quarter of the year.

With vealers (280-330 kilograms) sitting at 505 cents per kilogram, he tips the softest landing for this category with the average price this year around 472 cents

per kilogram - up 18 per cent on last year - and finishing the year at 450 cents per kilogram.

“It won’t be until October that most processors start to make money on grass fed animals in Australia,” he said.

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Southern Farmer - Page 17

and now on downhill run W EXPERT OPINION: Market analyst Simon Quilty recently spoke at the Reiland Angus client seminar at Tumut on March 31, sharing his insights on the current market.

Re-stocker (200-280kg) steers peaked at 542 cents per kilogram in January and are forecast to fall by 10 per cent to 490 cents per kilogram in July-October, and a further 24 per cent to 410 cents per kilogram in January 2022.

“In terms of cattle prices, we are still 13 per cent higher than the US and 46 per cent higher than South America,” Mr Quilty said.

“This current price cycle will finish in April 2023 and I expect the low to be 535 cents per kilogram.”

Mr Quilty told beef producers US cattle and beef prices will rise, global corn and grains prices will move higher, while Brazil and Argentina will emerge again as commodity beef powerhouses in two to three years time.

Over the next four to five years top quality Angus, Hereford and Wagyu genet-

ics will be sought as the national herd expands to 29.4 million head.

He said lamb would be the shining light, with prices moving ahead of highend grainfed beef.

Mr Quilty said US sales of the Never Ever grass fed product jumped 75 per cent in 2020 off the back of a push for healthy product during COVID-19 by US consumers while organic food sales were up 52 per cent.

“In the US meat sector, there was a genuine push for healthy related food products,” he said.

“In January, fresh beef sales in the US were up 19 per cent and fresh lamb up 30 per cent year-on-year despite the cruise line, airline and white tablecloth restaurant industries being shut down.

“Beef rallied well - it was up 22 per cent in the third quarter, 18 per cent in the fourth quarter.

“The clear message is, with extra discretionary spending, the beef and lamb industry have done exceptionally well in North America.

“E-commerce has been critical in showing people how to cook expensive pieces of meat.

“It has educated the market place in a way we have never seen before.

“It was a revolution in fixing the problem of education and how do we go about it.”

Mr Quilty said eating meat remained the norm with 81 per cent of the nation’s population being meat eaters.

Vegetarian/vegan have been steady at five per cent for the past 15 years while two per cent are pescatarian (fish only).

Flexitarians (diet choice

based on food safety issues) comprise 12 per cent but is tipped to grow to 25 per cent in the next five years.

“It will grow at the expense of the meat eating category and that is ground for beef and lamb producers to lose as an industry,” Mr Quilty said.

“It will require a huge effort to ensure we don’t lose that ground.

“There is no doubt alternative meats are out there but let’s put it in perspective - retail meat sales in the US were US$84 billion compared to plant based alternatives at US$0.8 billion, or less than one per cent of total sales.”

Coming off the back of the COVID downturn, the International Monetary Fund forecasts GDP growth to be 8.1 per cent for China, 5.1 per cent for the USA, 7 per cent for Malaysia, 4.8 per cent in Indonesia and 3.1 per cent in South Korea.

Mr Quilty said beef and lamb demand would be strong in that environment.

“Our major markets all look to be having a strong year in terms of GDP and there continues to be strong spending on meat sales in those markets,” he said.

“We have had a rising high end market and collapsing commodity market so the message is the flight to quality in both genetics, expansion of grass fed Never Ever programs and brand promotion.

“We have a three year stay of execution until Argentina and Brazil come back in and flood the market with cheap commodity beef.”

Japan is set to temporarily impose higher tariffs on US beef with imports for the fiscal year ending this month expected to exceed the maximum amount set under the Japan-US trade.

This is the first time the safeguard measure has been imposed on US beef since August 2017.

Japan had imported an accumulated 233,112 tonnes of US beef by the end of Feb-

ruary, just shy of the maximum 242,000 tonnes agreed for this fiscal year, according to Japanese customs data.

in Japan because America is limited on what it can sell there in terms of volume of chilled beef on a regular basis,” Mr Quilty said.

The tariff will rise to 38.5 per cent from 25.8 per cent for 30 days.

“Donald Trump has given us a comparative advantage

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Page 18 - Southern Farmer

May 2021

Avenel young talents gets award

By CLEMENCE CARAYOL

NATIVES: Contrary to media reports, Eucalyptus flowers, wattle and banksias are not imported to Australia, with only Kangaroo Paw imported subject to strict requirements.

Correcting misinformation about cut flower imports

YOUNG ACHIEVER: Jock Lawrence with his Kelpie. surprise,” Mr Lawrence said.

“What an absolute honour to be recognised for the hard work we achieved as a team and for the farmers who supported us.

“It’s been very humbling.”

Mr Lawrence said Mobble’s aim was to simplify farm management and

make farmers’ lives easier and more successful.

Visibility of data helps farmers and employees reach educated decisions when it comes to farming.

There are currently 500 properties using Mobble across Australia and New Zealand.

FRESH cut flowers and foliage have been imported into Australia on a commercial basis for almost 50 years.

Imported cut flowers have the potential to carry biosecurity risks, so the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment has strict import measures for cut flowers.

Australia’s cut flower and foliage import conditions require biosecurity risks to be reduced offshore prior to export.

Only permitted species and plant parts can be exported to Australia.

Recent media reports have provided misleading information to industry and the public around certain types of flowers being imported into Australia.

It has been reported that Eucalyptus flowers, wattle and banksia are imported into Australia which is incorrect.

Eucalyptus flowers, wattle and banksia are not permitted to be imported into Australia.

However, Australia does allow the import of kangaroo paw subject to import requirements.

Only cut flower and

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YOUNG Achiever of the Year for 2021 is Jock Lawrence, 27, for the category “Qoin Small Business Achiever Award”.

Mr Lawrence was born and raised on a sheep family farm in Avenel and he is one of the 13 category winners.

Winners each received $2000 in prizes, consisting of a $1000 Coles Group and Myer Gift Card from Wheelton Philanthropy and Budget Rent A Car, plus $500 worth of Qoin and $500 in cash, along with a trophy.

The winners were announced on Friday, April 16 during a gala dinner awards presentation, hosted by Melina Sarris, 7NEWS reporter in front of an audience of almost 400 people.

The awards night was the culmination of a tremendously successful year with hundreds of nominations received from across Victoria.

Mr Lawrence, along with six other team members, created Mobble two and a half years ago.

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“Getting this award was a

Southern Farmer - Page 19

May 2021

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May 2021

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