Southern Farmer by Provincial Press Group

Published since 1986

JANUARY, 2021

VFF's new president

www.farmernews.com.au

Fire awareness and prevention

Beef Week

PAGE 8

PAGE 18

PAGE 21

Small farms big on benefits

Michael Densham on high productivity and profit on little landholdings

By EMMA OLIVER

AT THE HELM AND IN THE SOIL: Georgia Beattie, chief executive officer of Bulla Park, Australia’s largest organic mushroom farm, leads a team that lives by their values farming mushrooms through sustainable, clean farming practices and facilitating the development of the business from carbon neutral to actually impacting environmental issues for the benefit of all. Turn to page 2 for the story.

“TO build an economically and environmentally sustainable system for small farming enterprises, greater focus must be placed on leveraging the strengths of small farms and utilising innovative intensive farming methods,” said Michael Densham on receiving a 2021 Nuffield Scholarship sponsored by Hort Innovations. The scholarship is the continuation of a journey started many years ago by Michael, with his partner Keren, farming on a small holding in Israel. Moving to the United States, the couple then lived

in Sebastopol, California working at the renowned Singing Frogs Farm with its 2.5 acres of intensive vegetable production grown under a no-till soil management system. The recipient of numerous ecological farming awards, the farm with its emphasis on ecologically beneficial and regenerative farming systems produces over six times California’s average of harvest revenue per acre, and inspired Michael and Keren to return to Victoria and co-establish Mossy Willow Market Garden in Main Ridge on the Mornington Peninsula. Concentrating on building the organic matter in the

soil, while attracting a huge population of native pollinators, beneficial insects and vertebrates, Michael’s education at Singing Frogs Farm also involved a no-spray system of cultivation, and these are all principles he brings with him to the stewardship of his own farming enterprise. “Over the last four years I’ve been exploring cultivation techniques to build a more robust and resilient system, and by practising no-till farming you’re not only minimising weeds but also increasing the fertility of the soil as you’re respecting the soil biology,” Michael said. ■ Continued page 3

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Page 2 - Southern Farmer

January 2021

The future of mushrooms is Bulla Park

Planning for Melbourne’s green wedges and agricultural land – community engagement The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning is seeking feedback on options to reform the planning system to deliver lasting protection of Melbourne’s agricultural land and guide decision making in our green wedges.

CEO Georgia Beattie implements change from the ground up

To learn more about the proposed options and have your say, visit https://engage.vic.gov.au/gwal

FR1195

Submissions close at 5pm on Friday 5 February 2021. www.delwp.vic.gov.au THE SOUTHERN

Est. 1986

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

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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.

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NUFFIELD SCHOLAR: Georgia Beattie has been the CEO at Bulla Park for the last two years, and in that time has brought a new way of thinking and strategy to the business of growing mushrooms.

By EMMA OLIVER TWO years ago, Georgia Beattie walked into the role of chief executive officer at Bulla Park, Australia’s largest organic mushroom farm based in Diggers Rest. Despite growing up on her family vineyard, this was Georgia’s first foray into the agricultural industry driven by a desire to change her contribution to the world after a great deal of soul searching on the impact she wished to make with her career. It had taken Georgia 12 months to decide on Bulla Park as the direction she wanted to take. “I knew that I wanted to work in farming and had drawn up a list of strict criteria as to what I was looking for in a crop,” Georgia said. “First it needed to be a year-round crop, which was able to be grown indoors so that it would remain sustainable despite the impact of global warming, and the process could be controlled rather than at the mercy of the elements. “It was also very important that the product was an organic one, and also could serve as an alternate protein, so that there was the potential to value-add on the crop and create a series of different products from it like protein powders.” With these objectives clearly defined, Georgia approached Bulla Park primarily to purchase some mushrooms for experiments she wished to conduct making alternative protein products. However, her entrepreneurial drive and enthusiasm caught the attention of directors Bill Littleson and Mick Surridge, who founded the company 30 years ago, and after meeting Georgia the pair offered her a role at Bulla Park. “The founders of the business were incredibly open-minded to buy into the vision and were on-board straight away, asking me to come and work for them running the bigger business and doing all the products at Bulla Park,” Georgia said. “It’s been a hands-on learning experience, and the owners have been beyond generous in sharing their knowledge of mushroom farming and composting, and bringing me up to speed on the technical side of the industry. “I have totally found my passion working in agriculture and specifically in mushrooms. “My heart is in the soil.”

And her heart is in the business, as coming previously from a technological background, Georgia has spent the last two years transforming what was a successful, but casual, farming business into a high-performing data driven farm. “We’re currently in a high growth mode, and the business is really upskilling the current staff body as well as employing lots of clever people at the moment,” Georgia said. “We’ve always been a vertically integrated company with both composting and growing facilities, and as we venture into the protein powder market we’re looking at expanding the enterprise and investing in value-adding equipment so we can make the product ourselves as opposed to sourcing a secondary producer.

“We’re also expanding the property at Diggers Rest, while leasing in Harcourt, and when completed will have tripled our footprint over the next 18 months. “At the moment we ‘re producing 15 tonnes of mushrooms per week, but with the expansion in 2021 it will be more like 50 tonnes per week, with the company diversifying into more boutique mushrooms, and potentially expanding into the nutraceutical market.” A broad umbrella term used to describe any product derived from food sources with extra health benefits in addition to the basic nutritional value, there is a huge amount of growth in the nutraceutical space. ■ Continiued page 3

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From page 2 And looking to trends overseas and the inroads particular products have made in Australia, Georgia sees the possibilities for Bulla Park in venturing into also growing types of mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Chaga or Reishi. Another business opportunity aligned with Georgia’s purpose, is investigating more thoroughly how on-farm waste products can benefit another industry. Sitting on the board of SecondBite, a notfor-profit that rescues and redistributes all the food waste from Coles and Woolworths nationally, Georgia is aware of the importance of repurposing waste products and utilising them in a secondary market. “At the moment our mushroom compost is a relatively low value product as for every kilogram of mushrooms we produce five kilograms of mushroom compost,” Georgia said. “Currently it goes into soil bags and is sold to hardware stores, however, this amazing product could actually be used to improve soil quality in Australia, and ultimately enable greater carbon capture. “The whole staff body is passionate about expanding the broader environmental impact of the business, so it’s beyond being neutral - which we are - and Bulla Park then becomes a catalyst for change. “By adding mushroom compost to the soil, you are replenishing the integral mycelium network that may be missing due to overcultivation, tilling and chemical use. “Healthy soil has this mycelium base which effectively works as an underground network in the ground for transferral of nutrients, water and messages - and by re-building this essential part of the soil biology we can not only grow healthier and better food, but can increase yield.” Georgia’s passion for finding alternate uses for spent mushroom compost regenerating soil in Diggers Rest and surrounds, has been acknowledged with a 2021 Nuffield Scholarship to continue her studies. “I like being busy and am a high growth kind of person, so the Nuffield Scholarship was the natural trajectory to facilitate the direction I wanted to take with soil regeneration, and also as an aside with environmentally friendly, compostable packaging,” Georgia said. “Rather than injection moulding, we’re investigating growing our packaging and are in talks with companies with budgets for sustainable packaging to determine what the industry wants. “There has been a huge amount of interest generated in this project with small scale trials producing positive results. “It’s been the balance I was searching for from where I started my career which was in technology and start-ups, and manufacturing single-use plastic wine glasses filled with wine for events,” Georgia said. “At the time I was unaware of the impact this hugely successful product would have on the environment, and with my awakening came the desire to change my contribution to the world.” A contribution, Georgia Beattie is doing in no small measure, as with her heart in the soil she implements change from the ground up.

Southern Farmer - Page 3

Small farms big on benefits ■

From page 1 “The results have been impressive, and by minimising extra inputs and increasing the organic matter in the soil the farm is producing double the amount of certain crops, and both production and quality are incredibly high. “The farm is built on clay-based soil, which is not typical for market gardens, however, under no-till practice the friability and workability of the soil has drastically improved, and yield increased without changing any techniques like sowing. “By respecting the natural and biological processes, we have cornered the market growing vegetables in an area that traditionally wouldn’t have a market garden.” By allowing biological tillage through worms, decomposing root matter and bacteria to effectively work the soil, Michael and Keren have managed to significantly reduce over the last four years the amount of compost applied to the vegetable garden, while retaining the fertility in the soil. Serving as an example of best practice intensive regenerative farming, Michael and Keren are championing the potential of small scale agriculture by engaging not only the farming industry but also those wanting to understand the methods and techniques, through farm mentoring programs at Into the Roots Farm in Bena, Gippsland and Farm Raiser in Melbourne. ■ Continued page 4

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Page 4 - Southern Farmer

January 2021

Small farms big on benefits

ABUNDANCE: A mixed production organic farm, Mossy Willow Market garden produces a diverse range of organic vegetables and cut flowers.

■

From page 3 “And since leaving Mossy Willow to pursue my research, I’ve also begun working with a fantastic group called Young Farmers Connect which is all about bringing ecological, smallscale farmers together,” Michael said. Michael’s driving goal is now to take all this knowledge and add to it, investigating through his scholarship how the design of intensive production systems can increase productivity and profitability of small-scale farming operations. Investigating protected cultivation in Israel and Spain, along with the Netherlands and the country’s emphasis on precision agriculture and relative scalabilty, Michael is also incredibly keen to visit Japan. “Japan is absolutely fascinating as the farmers are working in such small, precise plots, and there are these incredible tool companies in Japan that cater to this market,” Michael said. “The companies are manufacturing these high tech tools that suit small acreage, and tractors and machinery designed for small scale farms.” With Michael excited about the prospect of increased productivity and yield from scale and purpose appropriate tools and machinery, he has also been researching Terrateck, a French-based company that specialises in technology designed for small scale organic market gardening. Putting all the parts of the puzzle together, Michael’s final destination under his Nuffield

ALL IN THE SOIL: Biological tillage has directly contributed to increasing and maintaining fertility in the soil.

PROTECTED CULTIVATION: Growing crops in a controlled environment where conditions are regulated as per the requirement of the crop, assists in healthier and larger produce.

DIVERSE CROP: Small farms can enjoy high productivity and profit, and become a point of difference catering to the needs of their local market.

Scholarship is North America to investigate the organic and market gardening scene that was in its infancy only eight years ago, but in that time has developed and proliferated at a dramatic speed. “It was a farmer, educator and author called Jean-Martin Fortier, who along with his wife, Maude-Helene Desroches, were at the forefront of the movement specialising in organic and biologically intensive cropping practices,” Michael said. “Farming a ten-acre micro-farm in Quebec, the couple demonstrated - with only one and a half acres cultivated in permanent beds - that the farm was capable of grossing more than $100,000 per acre with incredibly viable operating margins. “They effectively reignited the small scale

farming movement by focusing on growing better rather than bigger, and inspired a new generation of farmers to consider small land bases and develop them into high-grossing ecologically farmed land.” It is a trend that has already begun in Australia, and Michael finds it incredibly heartening to see a new generation turning to this method of farming, with his hope being to bring all the knowledge and lessons learned in North America back to Australia, and ideally fast track the process. “I believe we are just on the cusp of significant change,” Michael said. “It’s the building of momentum, and once there’s a significant market garden industry in Australia, there becomes space for other industries to jump on board.

“Like the small scale tool companies, or the seed companies that are focusing on organics in quantities that are purchasable for smaller scale operations. “It’s the development of cooperative methods for growing and sharing resources, and above all it’s about regional development and boosting local employment and supporting that short chain food supply that allows small farms to thrive and communities to be more resilient. “I believe that small scale agriculture has the ability to really address some of the environmental and social issues posed by climate change. “And what is most exciting is that it’s this global movement that is facilitated on a local scale.”

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January 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 5

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Southern Farmer - Page 7

VFF calls for freight vision

BEFORE THE JOURNEY: When minimising heat stress there are key factors that transporters should consider when planning a journey.

Transporting livestock in hot weather conditions transporter and receiver, must pay particular attention to the time off water to minimise the risk to the welfare of the animals. “Effective airflow reduces the impact of heat during transport, so transporters should consider the need to stop mid-journey and avoid leaving transport vehicles stationary for extended periods of time. “If it is necessary to stop, park the vehicle in the shade and at a right angle to the direction of the wind to improve wind flow between animals.” It is important that transporters familiarise themselves with the signs of heat stress in all species they are transporting and pay particular attention to their behaviour in hot weather. Dr Holmes said behavioural signs of heat stress in livestock can include increased respiration rate, panting and salivation as

LIVESTOCK transporters are reminded they have a responsibility to minimise the risk of heat stress in livestock being transported this summer, whether it’s an interstate journey or a trip into the local saleyard. Agriculture Victoria livestock welfare compliance program manager Rachael Holmes outlined key factors that transporters should consider when planning a journey. “When hot weather is predicted, plan ahead to allow for a reduced stocking density, and aim to load and transport livestock in the cooler hours of the day,” Dr Holmes said. “Transporters should consider their journey route, particularly if having to travel through major cities during times of heavy traffic. “Any person in charge of an animal during transport, including the consignor,

1 7

well as listlessness and lethargy. Transporters should have contingency plans in place to deal with any heat stressed animals. Producers and transporters should refer to the Australian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines Land Transport of Livestock, to ensure they understand their obligations when presenting livestock for transport or transporting animals. All people involved in the supply chain have an obligation to ensure livestock in their care are free from pain, suffering or distress. For further information on heat stress contact your local animal health staff at Agriculture Victoria or contact the Customer Call Centre on 136 186. You can visit the Agriculture Victoria website for information on transporting livestock or the MLA fit to load guide.

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Ashley Fraser said investment in freight rail was essential to get trucks off roads and reduce Victoria’s future road maintenance and upgrade bill. “Walking away from the Murray Basin Rail Project will only push more trucks onto roads,” Mr Fraser said. “This will require a far greater long term investment to keep these roads safe. “It just doesn’t make sense. “We are calling on the government to do the planning now to ensure next year’s budget invests big in regional Victorian freight infrastructure. “We need less band-aid solutions and more strategic and long-term investment.”

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continue to be ignored. “This doesn’t make us feel like we received our fair share. “The budget invested an average $19.6 billion a year in infrastructure, yet there is little more than $300 million allocated for regional road maintenance. “Regional freight seems to have been put last in this year’s budget. “Without efficient regional freight the ability for our export focused industries to exceed the National Farmers Federation goal of $100 billion in farm gate output by 2030 could be put at risk. “We don’t want to put a ceiling on the growth of our agriculture industry.” VFF grains group president

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January 2021

VFF announces election results THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has announced the outcome of its elections for VFF president and vice-president, as well as a number of VFF commodity groups and policy council positions. VFF returning officer and chief executive officer Stephen Sheridan welcomed the next generation of leaders poised to be the voice of the VFF and Victorian farmers. “I have today announced that Emma Germano has been elected as president and Danyel Cucinotta as the VFF’s vicepresident,” Mr Sheridan said. “I congratulate both Emma and Danyel on their appointments and look forward to working with them and the wider VFF team to deliver the best possible outcomes for our members and regional Victorians over the coming years. “The VFF also thanks and acknowledges the interest and contribution of our unsuccessful candidates, and we encourage them to continue to contribute to the VFF and the farming community into the future. “The strong interest in these roles demonstrates that the VFF is a healthy democracy.

“I would like to thank all of those who not only nominated for roles, but are also passing the baton onto the next generation. “In particular, I would like to thank David Jochinke who has been our president since 2016 and has left an enormous legacy to ensure agriculture has a bright future ahead. “A number of long standing committee members are also stepping aside to facilitate succession in the VFF, and we would like to thank them for their significant contributions over the years.” Elections were also held for the below contested positions and the VFF congratulates the following elected candidates: United Dairyfarmers of Victoria Region 10- Wannon: Bruce Knowles. Water Council - South West: Peter Delahunty. Water Council - Central: Kain Richardson . There was a tied election result in the North West Water Council region. This will be referred to the VFF Policy Council for decision on whether a re-election will be held or if the result will be determined by other means.

About the VFF president and vice-president: Emma Germano: Emma is managing director of her mixed-farming operation at Mirboo North in Victoria’s Gippsland region, growing premium quality fresh vegetables for local and export markets, as well as running sheep and beef cattle. She has previously held the role of VFF vice-president and is the current VFF horticulture group president and was acknowledged as a Nuffield Scholar in 2014 for her research examining global export opportunities for Australian

primary producers. She is passionate about building on the legacy of the VFF by evolving and modernising the organisation, utilising assets responsibly and effectively, fostering a connected and engaged regional and rural farming community. Danyel Cucinotta: Danyel is a third-generation Victorian caged-egg farmer helping to operate her family’s egg farm, onsite cafe and deli in Werribee on Melbourne’s western outskirts.

She is a current committee member of the VFF intensives group and holds both an Agriculture Diploma and Bachelor of Business and is an Egg Farmers Australia media representative. Danyel understands the dedication, hard work and sacrifice needed to run a successful farm and is committed to ensuring farmers receive strong government policy needed to ensure Victorian farms and agriculture thrives into the future.

LEADING THE WAY: New VFF president Emma Germano.

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January 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 9

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Page 10 - Southern Farmer

January 2021

Seed company scholarships support rural students to get into agriculture WITH ongoing confidence in the future of agriculture, Pioneer® Brand Seeds has announced the continuation of its popular university scholarship program in 2021, to support young people to undertake university studies in agriculture. “Now is a great time for people to consider getting into a career in agriculture and agribusiness," Peter Kleinhanss, chief executive officer of Pioneer Seeds, said. "It’s an industry that offers fulfilling opportunities from entry level to senior executive positions, and can provide hands-on primary production career options as well as careers in the network of businesses that support agriculture. “Careers in agriculture are incredibly diverse, and we are pleased to play our part to showcase career options in the broadacre seed sector, while providing financial support for ag students to get on with their studies through continuing our scholarship program for

students commencing an agriculture degree in 2021. “Agricultural degrees provide an understanding of science-based concepts and technical skills which are highly relevant to modern agriculture, and are valued by prospective employers such as Pioneer. "Most science-based degree programs also provide training in business and commerce, which equip graduates for agribusiness career options, and some programs specialise in agribusiness. "This diversity of study options reflects the career opportunities that await today’s students. “The Pioneer Seeds scholarship has been running for a couple of years now. “During 2020, we have supported four students – undertaking first year or second year studies – and we are looking forward to supporting another two to commence first year studies in 2021.” One of Pioneer's current scholarship students is Liam Curran from Urana NSW, who

commenced a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of New England in 2020. Liam has enjoyed participating in work placement with Pioneer and said “it is one of the best agriculture scholarships available". "It has reduced financial stress and allowed me to focus on learning and not how I am going to pay for university expenses," he said. Pioneer provides $5000 a year, for up to three years, to offset the cost that rural and regional students have when embarking on their university adventure, especially in their first year. Additionally, Pioneer also invite the scholarship students to undertake one week of paid work experience with the company. Pioneer encourages interested prospective students to visit their website to view the selection criteria, scholarship terms and conditions and application process at www.pioneerseeds.com.au. Scholarship applications must be received by Pioneer Seeds by January 31.

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WHOLE ENVIRONMENT: Carbon farming is a way for landholders to help reduce national carbon emissions by capturing and holding carbon in their plants and soil.

CSIRO releases updated tool to support farmers with carbon market options FARMERS can now better understand the potential opportunities from carbonreducing activities using a farming tool developed by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency. The LOOC-C (‘Look See’) app gives farmers detailed assessments of how their land and farming practices could be eligible for rebates under the Climate Solutions Fund (CSF). The newest update of the app now includes measurement of soil carbon and beef cattle herd management. The app gives estimates of abatement quantity for CSF methods in Australian Carbon Credit Units for specific land areas, like a paddock, and is consistent with the latest version of the National Carbon Accounting Model, which is used to estimate land sector carbon emissions. This means LOOC-C users have access to the most up to date carbon estimates

available, at the touch of a button. CSIRO’s LOOC-C project leader, Peter Fitch, explains that the aim of the tool is to help farmers and land managers participate profitably in greenhouse gas mitigation and maximise the benefits to the land from carbon markets “LOOC-C is unique and the quickest way of finding out what carbon farming options are available for your farm, what you’re eligible for and what the benefits might be,” Mr Fitch said. “We see it as a high-tech conversation starter that enables farmers to undertake a preliminary assessment of options and connect them with a suitable next step for their carbon farming journey.” Dr Kate Andrews, chief executive officer of NRM Regions Australia, has endorsed the tool since its launch in December 2019. “This app is an example of what the industry needs

at the moment, allowing opportunities in the carbon market to be explored simply and without obligation,” Dr Andrews said. “You can tell that the development of the app included input from both landholders and project developers, it’s great to see these types of products coming from CSIRO.” The Queensland Government has been quick to see the value of the tool and has been using the app as part of the roll out of its Land Restoration Fund. Carbon farming is a way for landholders to help reduce national carbon emissions by capturing and holding carbon in their plants and soil, generate environmental and on-farm benefits, and get paid for it. Examples can include planting trees, retaining vegetation rather than clearing it for cropping, reducing soil tillage or improving pasture for livestock.

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Page 14 - Southern Farmer

January 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 15

that were suffering,â&#x20AC;? Mr Bode said. Between May 3 and May 9, 2019 authorised Agriculture Victoria officers attended the property and found 72 sheep were not provided with proper and sufficient feed. Of the 72 sheep, nine had recently deceased, eight were seriously disabled and were euthanised. As a result of the continuing non-compliance, Agriculture Victoria seized the remainder of the animals. In handing down the sentence the magistrate said if not for the plea of guilty, a term of imprisonment would have been imposed. The magistrate also said farmers are the backbone of rural Australia, and the accused was giving farmers a bad name in such a shameful manner. The magistrate also referred to the conduct as disgraceful.

Mr Bode said apart from the obvious pain and suffering of the animals, animal welfare breaches can jeopardise Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reputation on international livestock markets, which can affect all producers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a reminder to all livestock producers that animal cruelty will not be tolerated by the Victorian Government or the community,â&#x20AC;? Mr Bode said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Also, those producers who farm as absentee owners are reminded that adequate supervision is a requirement particularly during risk times such as summer to ensure animals have proper and sufficient feed, water and shelter.â&#x20AC;? Anyone wishing to make a specific complaint in regard to livestock welfare can contact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 or aw.complaint@agriculture. vic.gov.au.

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Page 16 - Southern Farmer

January 2021

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Report sets agriculture up for a sustainable future THE input of more than 500 farmers and subject matter experts has contributed to a report released by the National Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Federation, which is a preliminary step towards transforming the relationship between agriculture and environmental management and enhancement. The Recognising On-farm Biodiversity Management report delivers on Phase 1 of the Federal Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Australian Farm Biodiversity Scheme and was prepared by the Australian Farm Institute. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Farmers manage over 50 per cent of the Australian landscape,â&#x20AC;? NFF chief execu-

tive officer Tony Mahar said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Farmers and agriculture are therefore critical to delivering positive environmental and sustainability outcomes, including looking after our important biodiversity, managing our soil and protecting our waterways. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This report starts the process to better recognise farmers for their stewardship and to develop a framework that sees a real team approach between farmers, government and private industry.â&#x20AC;? The NFFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s roadmap for agriculture to be a $100 billion industry by 2030 is clear on the benefits that can flow when farmers embrace sus-

REPORT: Farmers and agriculture are critical to delivering positive environmental and sustainability outcomes, including looking after our important biodiversity, managing our soil and protecting our waterways.

tainable farm methods as part of a co-ordinated national framework that drives productivity and profitability. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Taking a collaborative and carrot-based approach as opposed to a top-down stick approach has the potential to be a real gamechanger for farmers and the environment,â&#x20AC;? Mr Mahar said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our goal remains Ă˘â&#x201A;Źâ&#x20AC;? we want to see farmers recognised and, where appropriate, remunerated for their positive environmental outcomes.â&#x20AC;? AFI executive director Richard Heath, author of the report, said during the

consultation, farmers identified the complexity, cost and difficulty of assessing and participating in multiple programs, as barriers to participating in current stewardship programs, including market-based initiatives. The report found that best results were likely to come from an overarching framework that connected and verified current and emerging programs, providing farmers with choice. This framework will provide a pathway to assuring market access, demonstrating robustness of verification and measurement tools, and supporting the further

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diversification of economic opportunities for farmers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The diversity of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s landscape and farm businesses means a one-size-fitsall program is unlikely to work,â&#x20AC;? Mr Heath said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Another key finding of the report was the absolute need for robust data and a consistent method by which to benchmark that data. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Systems to incentivise sustainability outcomes canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t succeed without the solid foundation of data to establish baselines, evaluate changes, justly reward participants and to demonstrate value.â&#x20AC;? Mr Mahar said improved sustainability approaches

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January 2021

Bushfire protection exemptions for clearing vegetation CIRCUMSTANCES for bushfire protection exemptions have been updated to simplify planning requirements and improve the ability to manage vegetation. Key changes include aligning vegetation removal without the need for a planning permit for land within the Bushfire Prone Area or Bushfire Management Overlay, and simplifying requirements around vegetation removal along fence lines. Updating these requirements provides clarification on the purpose of the controls, and where and how they should be applied. Land use planning team manager Anne Coxon said CFA supported the simplified processes which enabled people to manage vegetation on private property, as well as increase community resilience to bushfire. “Managing vegetation around your property is one of the most important things you can do to keep your home safe in a bushfire,” Anne said. The Victoria Planning Provisions (VPPs) contain extensive and detailed policies for bushfire planning. The VPPs set out a comprehensive set of bushfire policies to strengthen the resilience of settlements and communities to bushfire through risk-based planning that prioritises the protection of human life. They also control the clearing of vegetation in Victoria. If you want to clear vegetation from around your property you may need a planning permit. The planning controls in Clause 52.12 - Bushfire Protection Exemptions set out specific circumstances that allow you to clear vegetation around properties without a permit. Requirements apply around land use, construction dates and location. Typically when the requirements are met, vegetation may be able to be removed between 10 metres, 30 metres or 50 metres around a home. This is commonly referred to as the 10/30 and 10/50 rules in the community. For more information you can speak with your local council to determine what vegetation exemptions for bushfire apply to you, or visit the DELWP website.

IN CASE OF FIRE: Don’t leave livestock management to the last minute, get a clear strategy in place in the event of fire emergencies.

Finalise your livestock fire plan now VICTORIAN primary producers are more aware than most, particularly after the devastating 2019/20 bushfires, the importance of being prepared and having a plan in place for their livestock. Effects faced include: z damaged fencing and other infrastructure; z facilities and supplementary feed stores; z burnt pastures; and z devastating loss of thousands of sheep and cattle. Producers were also required to move around 160,000 livestock to alternative locations across Victoria and interstate urgently both prior to, during and post the bushfires. All livestock owners should be prepared and have a clear strategy to apply in the possibility of a fire emergency on their farm. A key factor in minimising the threat to livestock during a bushfire or on extreme fire danger days, is to identify safer areas on-farm where livestock can be moved to.

The area you choose will depend on the type of livestock and their expected behaviour during a bushfire. To reduce potential injury and death to livestock you should consider relocating stock to designated low risk areas during days of high fire danger and Total Fire Bans. Low risk areas include: z ploughed paddocks, areas cultivated and kept free of combustible vegetation; z bared-out paddocks, provided they are well defended by fire breaks; z irrigated paddocks or paddocks containing green summer crops (green feed does not burn easily); and z stockyards that can be wet in advance, however, the yards must be well defended as the fire front passes. All low risk areas should have sufficient drinking water to enable stock to remain in the area for extended periods of high fire

risk and high temperatures, be protected by firebreaks and be free of leaf, twigs and bark buildup. Areas where there are dams and swamps are another possible option. For more information see stock containment areas for emergencies. Stockyards have been known to successfully hold livestock during a bushfire, if protected by a firebreak. If this is your preferred option, consider using a sprinkler system, similar to stock being held together on a hot day, they can suffer heat stress. Horses should not be locked up in small areas or stables but moved to an open paddock with minimal vegetation, so they can move freely. Horses are good at moving themselves to safe open areas and usually suffer minimal burns if left to do so. If equipment such as rugs, hal-

ters and flyveils remain on horses, the plastic may melt, and metal buckles can burn the animal. Therefore consider using rope halters for easier handling and management. It’s crucial not to open gates that may allow stock access to public roadways, as any animals will be a hazard to traffic in smoky conditions. On days of extreme fire danger or on the day before, stock should be moved into lower risk areas onfarm, or to a safer property. Agriculture Victoria advises livestock owners to act early and not get caught trying to move stock as a bushfire approaches, listen to weather forecasts and observe your own environment to help you decide when to put your plan into action. For further assistance on preparing a farm and livestock bushfire plan see the emergency management pages or contact the Agriculture Victoria Customer Service Centre on 136 186.

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. ` ` ` `

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January 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 19

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Page 20 - Southern Farmer

January 2021

THE POWER OF WATER F

armers across the state are smiling with record crops and fat cattle and sheep. After six years of drought, it’s about time we got a break. This year’s record crops are a reminder of the power of water. Without it, there is no rural economy in Australia. Without water, $65 billion of income generated simply evaporates. The reality is we only got through the drought by the skin of our teeth with heartache and economic pressure that city people can’t imagine. Australian Pump Industries, Australia’s leading manufacturer of engine drive fire pumps and water movers, are famous for a combination of quality, performance and value for money. They are a classic example of how a company of only 50 people can develop great products and not just support farmers and the rural communities in Australia but export to even the United States. Victorian dealers, understand that water is everything and the ability to move it efficiently and at the lowest cost is absolutely essential for successful farming. Here are a few examples of Aussie’s product range helping the farming community. AUSSIE FIRE CHIEF . THE WORLD’S BEST LIGHTWEIGHT PORTABLE FIRE PUMP Aussie Pumps launched this product on the market over 25 years ago. There were already products available, but Aussie Pumps realised the only thing that would justify a new player was to do it better and provide users with advantages not previously available. That creation of differentiation had its costs. It simply costs more to make a better pump and load it with features. On the other hand, because the company is a family owned, no frills operation, their prices are hundreds of dollars lower than other brands with products that simply can’t measure up to the Aussie Pump features. The Fire Chief delivers a whopping 75 metre head and will prime through a vertical lift of 7.6 metres. Best of all, it delivers a whopping 150 litre per metre at 60 metre head. That’s the duty point to fight fires, to flush out a stock crate or

just to transfer water from one dam to another. The Fire Chief is most popular with the Honda petrol engine, in either 5.5hp or 6.5hp configuration. Pumps are available with frame or skids and anti-vibration mounts. The pump comes with a huge 7.5” diameter single impeller that outweighs its competitors by around three times. That weight signifies an investment in material. It’s a cost driver, not a cost saver. The Fire Chief has loads of features that others don’t offer including steel caps and chains on the three way outlet. The 2” replaceable suction port gets 25 per cent more water into the pump than its competitors, who use a 1.5” inlet. That extra water delivers better performance, with the big belly body of the pump having water passages to accommodate the extra flow. Imagine having a pump that simply delivers more water at pressure. It’s not only about firefighting but even filling tanks for gravity feed to stock troughs. It will move water further and faster. That means less trips to the pump to top up the fuel tank, spot fires doused faster and major cost savings. As if you needed more reasons to consider buying the world’s best pump. Consider not only the cost savings, compared to other major brands, but also consider that it’s a first world product, not made in a third world country at reduced labour costs. They also believe in the product enough to provide it with a five year warranty, five times longer than most competitors. THE NEED FOR BIGGER PUMPS The ‘Mr T’ twin impeller, big brother of the Fire Chief, delivers a substantially higher head than others. It has a whopping head of 95 metre head and a maximum flow of 500 litres per minute. At 60 metre head it delivers 240 litres per minute. That kind of performance simply needs more horsepower to deliver. Aussie’s Mr T is powered by a 9hp Honda or a 13hp Honda with electric start options.

AUSTRALIAN MADE: Aussie Pumps have ramped up production ahead of the fire season of the famous Aussie Fire Chief.

LOCAL COMMUNITY: Come in and visit Tim and Bill Hawken at Bacchus Marsh Farm Supples for advice on selecting the right pump. This year, Aussie has even introduced a new long range fuel tank option, offering up to 4.5 hours of continuous operation. Again, the company aims to deliver more flow at high pressure, creating cost savings and efficiencies. All Mr T units are provided as standard in heavy duty roll frame with the electric start versions for battery installation. FARM SUPPLIES PUMPED WITH AUSSIE Bacchus Marsh Farm Supplies and Melbourne Farm Supplies Bacchus Marsh Farm Supplies have two locations. One at 126 Main Street and the other at 17 Station Street. Both are fully stocked and ready to help you with their friendly advice and service. Melbourne Farm Supplies are located at 304 Sydney Road, Craigieburn. These stores are Aussie’s latest distributors to come on board wanting to provide their customers with quality products. “There’s plenty of third world cheap products out there on the market. “However, when you take into account performance and longevity, Aussie’s fire pumps are a much better investment than any other major brand. “They simply last longer, deliver more water for less fuel and have a lower retail price than competitors. “On a cost of benefit versus value, they leave everything else for dead,” said store manager, Bill Hawken.

AUSSIE’S AG PUMPS . TOO SMART Aussie Pumps quickly realised there was real demand in agriculture for pumps capable of handling aggressive farm chemicals. It wasn’t just pesticides and weedicides, the big driver was liquid fertilisers. With a product range of 2” and 3” pumps, manufactured from 30 per cent glass filled polyester, they were able to introduce farmers to self priming petrol or diesel engine, electric and even hydraulic drive pumps. Australia’s leading sprayer manufacturer, Goldacres, uses Aussie hydraulic drive and engine drive Aussie 3” Smart Pumps in their fertiliser handling equipment, including Goldacre’s amazing ‘Batchmate’. The equipment is an essential tool for farmers who have learnt the hard way that using an aluminium fire pump to transfer chemicals is not only slow (and time is money), but the corrosive nature of the liquid can substantially shorten the life of the pump. Not only that but most of those pumps do not have Viton or EPDM seal kits and consequently are not compatible with corrosive liquids. The result, leaking seals, contaminated soil and a waste of a very valuable commodity, the fertiliser itself. “We always stock Smart Pumps because we know farmers need to have a pump that is suitable for the varied applications found on the land,” said Bill. “Trying to

make one pump do everything is asking for inefficiencies that can be prevented by applying the right product for the right job,” he said. The Research and Development department at Aussie is now working on a big 3” pump that will deliver up to 1500 litres per minute in 30 per cent glass filled polyester. The company designed a stainless steel belly band that is a huge advantage over competitor products. It means that when the pump needs to be cleaned out, or rinsed from chemicals, you simply open the belly band. The pump body breaks in half, giving access to the complete internals, for a quick washout with a hose. Rinsing the pump out of chemicals is a piece of cake. The pump is a 3” by 3” extension of the Aussie Smart Pump line-up and is available in either Honda petrol or Yanmar diesel engine drive. “We even put a stainless steel frame on this machine because we know it is going to be used in corrosive applications” said Aussie Pumps’ chief engineer, John Hales. Bacchus Marsh Farm Supplies and Melbourne Farm Supplies are CRT dealers and know that having the right product, may mean the farmer winds up with three or four engine pumps. One high pressure pump for firefighting, another pump for handling agricultural chemicals and yet another one for handling high volumes of water fast for efficient water transfer. GREAT LITERATURE . FIRE SURVIVAL GUIDES Aussie produces a free Fire Survival Guide for farmers or homeowners who want to protect their property. The guides are available at all farm supplies stores and other authorised dealers. They have them ready to hand out to interested parties. A new version, the 2021 version, is at the printer’s now and will shortly be available for circulation. It’s got more info and is inspired by the events of last year’s Black Summer. “The Aussie team have learnt from their interface with farmers and users,” said Bill. “That really helps us because we know the product will work and we know that they stand behind everything they make.”

January 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 21

Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cattle herd facing long recovery AUSTRALIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S cattle herd faces a long and slow rebuilding process over the next decade, as the industry continues to recover from the drought. According to ANZâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest Agri Commodity Report, the extensive sell-off of cattle during the drought, combined with a higher female slaughter rate, could mean that the herdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s return to previous levels will be far slower than previously forecast. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a result of the drought, which led to a major sell-off of cattle by producers in response to feed shortages, the national herd fell to a multidecade low of around 25 million head,â&#x20AC;? said ANZâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head of Agri Insights, Michael Whitehead. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the arrival of longawaited rains and green feed in most regions, cattle producers worked hard to rebuild their herd numbers toward previous levels, a move which led to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record cattle prices.â&#x20AC;? Driven by the higher than average slaughter rate of female cattle over the past three years, ANZ modelling

CATTLE HERD: ANZâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head of Agri Insights Michael Whitehead believes the cattle industry has a long and slow rebuilding process ahead of it. suggests that it may take until around 2030 for the herd to return to its 2014 peak of 29 million head, which could impact the supply chain in a number of ways. In the absence of more drought conditions, the number of cattle on the market for slaughter is likely to remain limited for some time, reducing the chance of major downward pressure on prices. This is likely to be felt most keenly by processors, who have felt the squeeze

on margins throughout 2020, between high priced cattle, and retailers and exporters who are reluctant to increase beef prices to a degree which would deter consumers. Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major beef trade competitors including Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay, continue to grow in production volume, as well as benefiting from far lower currencies, leading to cheaper exports. Despite this, Australian beef continues to maintain its world-leading reputation for both quality and food safety. Looking ahead, while some uncertainty lingers about Australian beef exports to China, trade is still flowing strongly, while recovery from initial COVID disruptions continues to impact other major markets including Japan and South Korea. While 2021 presents new challenges for beef exports, particularly from strong North and South American competitors, the outlook remains optimistic.

Dairy farm plastics recycling target receives federal funding boost THE dairy industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s target to recycle 100 per cent of plastic silage wrap waste on farms by 2030 has received a big boost, with the award of a $965,400 grant to Dairy Australia from the Commonwealth Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Product Stewardship Investment Fund. The funding has been awarded by the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment to develop a collection and recycling system for plastic wrapping used for silage making on farms. Australian Dairy Industry Council president Terry Richardson said the grant will accelerate a key recycling target within the Australian Dairy Industry Sustainability Framework, which sets agreed sustainability commitments across dairy farming and manufacturing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This Federal Government grant will accelerate our ambitious target to recycle 100 per cent of plastic wrapping used in silage making on farms each year,â&#x20AC;? said Mr Richardson.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It will enable us to set up collection infrastructure across dairy regions and we are also assessing opportunities to partner with other collection schemes to maximise efficiency of transporting waste to recycling centres.â&#x20AC;? Dairy Australia prepared the grant funding submission on behalf of the industry and will be responsible for rolling-out the new recycling scheme via its network of eight regional offices. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We thank the government for this funding, which will support a nationwide approach to eliminating the environmental impact of farm plastics over the next decade,â&#x20AC;? Dairy Australia managing director David Nation said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As part of this project we will work closely with key stakeholders including suppliers, plastics reprocessors, farmers, and other successful stewardship schemes to ensure that the systems developed remain practical for farmers and commercially realistic for

all involved. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sustainability framework provides the transparency needed to give the community confidence that our industry is taking responsible action now and in the future.â&#x20AC;? Assistant Minister for Waste Reduction and Environmental Management, Trevor Evans, congratulated Dairy Australia on their successful initiative. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This funding will support Dairy Australia to develop a new recycling scheme to help farmers keep single use plastic silage wrap out of landfill,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is one of 15 schemes that will move the dial in Australia as we shift our mindsets to see our waste as a valuable resource. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Federal Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seed funding, along with the reforms in our Recycling Act, empowers industry to take more responsibility for the entire lifecycle of the products they produce and sell.â&#x20AC;?

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Page 22 - Southern Farmer

January 2021

Quality line-up for 28th on-farm sale at Glenellerslie

POLLED HEREFORDS: One of this year’s excellent draft that will be up for auction on February 9 at Glenellerslie Stud.

NEW South Wales Hereford stud Glenellerslie have a quality line up for their 28th sale at their property, 908 - 1064 Yaven Creek Road, Adelong, NSW. 28 Hereford and 17 Poll Hereford bulls will be offered on Tuesday, February 9 from 1pm by Helmsman Auction. This year the sale will be interfaced with Auctions Plus so the bulls can be inspected on day eight of the Beef Week Field Days which falls on Wednesday, February 3, and buyers can then bid with confidence from home on Tuesday, February 9, or just come to the sale. The Smiths were extremely lucky in 2020, with the Dunn’s

Road Fire starting eight kilometres away in private pine plantation. Heading past up the Yaven Creek Valley and Batlow, and then later breaking away again towards Adelong, the fire eventually only burnt an acre of the property. Incredibly the 2020 sale still averaged $4659 for 22 bulls, after so many in New South Wales and Victoria were affected badly by fires. This year’s excellent draft includes nine by new sire WRL Makka (H), 13 by Kymarney Avalanche (H), one by Kaludah Stormboy M579 (H), one by Devon Court Avalanche K173 (H) and two by Glenellerslie Rafferty (H). Makka was purchased at Wo-

donga 2018 for $30,000, along with Stormboy for $16,000. Devon Court Avalanche son Glenellerslie Stavros (H) made top money of $9000 last year selling to Avon View Hereford Stud at Cassilis, NSW. The polled offering includes 10 sons of new sire Ennerdale Accomplice (PP) purchased for $16,000 at their 2018 sale, three by Quamby Plains Jaguar (PP), six by Yarawa South Jamaica (PP) and a Glenellerslie Pharoah (Tw) (PP) son. Last year Jaguar son Glenellerslie Sandy 2 sold for top money of $4750 to Rob and Lou Bethune at Mitta Mitta. All of the bulls carry the Glenellerslie Guarantee.

They are semen tested, innoculated with Multimin and 7 in 1. Glenellerslie bulls are famous for their docility and doing-ability. Glenellerslie established by Gordon and June Smith in 1974, is run by Ross and Mandy Smith and their son Blake, with further help from daughters Alicia and Rebecca. The family operates a Certified Grass Fed, EU-accredited fattening enterprise alongside their stud operation. For catalogues phone Ross and Mandy on (02) 6946 4233, Blake and Carly on (02) 6946 4239 or head to www.herefordsaustralia. com.au to view the online catalogue.

Pelican Rise Limousin welcome inspection

EST 1974

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28th Sale

TUESDAY 9TH FEBRUARY 2021 Sale Commences 1pm Open for Inspection - Beef Week

WEDNESDAY 3RD FEBRUARY 2021 Ross & Mandy Smith 1064 Yaven Creek Rd, Adelong NSW

rosssmith@activ8.net.au www.glenellerslieherefords.com

Ross Smith - 02 6946 4233 Blake Smith - 02 6946 4239

PELICAN Rise Limousin is looking forward to having you visit their property to check out their bulls. During the breeding season, Pelican Rise have continued to produce early maturing animals that suit the F1 vealer program and have also developed a line of bulls to suit the dairy industry. These bulls have been bred for low birthweight and easy calving and they also make great heifer bulls. There are also a couple of bulls that could suit stud duties. While Pelican Rise continues to use AI sires their herd bulls rank very highly in many critical areas and these bulls have been collected and semen is now for sale. With the Limousin stud’s breeding focus being on calving ease, temperament, early growth and developing softness which leads to easy-doing Pelican Rise is always looking for breeding alternatives to strengthen these traits. All animals offered for sale from the stud’s herd are either heterozygous polled or homozygous polled, and all animals come with guarantees on their fertility and temperament. In keeping with modern farming expectations, Pelican Rise are reducing artificial inputs and practising regenerative farming methods, and believe that this is already showing benefits in the health of their cattle.

QUALITY SIRE: This French Pure Polled (Apricot) bull is available for sale in the upcoming Pelican Rise auction.

STRONG TRAITS: Just outside Colac, Irrewarra-based Pelican Rise Limousin concentrates on calving ease with early growth and developing softness.

Robinson Rd, Beechworth

FRIDAY 12TH MARCH

AUTUMN BULL SALE BEECHWORTH

Enquiries welcome.

Alan & Jan Robinson Inspection welcome anytime by appointment

Email: jarobee@bigpond.com

Mobile: 0429 324 124

Greg White 0417 215 883 Brett Shea 0428 691 489 Peter Ruaro 0447 600 825

January 2021

Southern Farmer - Page 23

Moorabool River Beef look to Torr Down South Devons for premium genetics By DAVID and JOANNA NELSON of “Windermere”, Moorabool River Beef, Meredith MY wife and I run cattle on our farm at Meredith. The property has been in our family for nearly 60 years. Over the years, we have experimented with several breeds including Murray Greys, Shorthorns and Herefords. Due to the popularity of the Angus breed and an obvious market premium, we switched to a straight Angus herd with our cows calving in autumn. About 10 years ago, we read an article about the South Devon

breed which featured prominent breeders John and Sue Harvey of Torr Down South Devons in Trentham. We inspected their cattle and were impressed with their size and docility. The cows had plenty of milk and their calves were flourishing. Despite our livestock agent’s advice, approximately five years ago we purchased our first pure South Devon bull, Torr Down Magnifico 11, from John and Sue to cross with our Angus cows. We also used our own Angus bull so that a comparison between their progeny could be made.

SOUTH DEVON SIRE: South Devon cross animals have a greater carcass weight, with the yield much better than the straight Angus carcass. The South Devon cross calves grew quickly reaching a liveweight of over 500 kilograms within 12 months.

The Angus calves were much lighter and weren’t as docile. To advance our beef enterprise, we built an on-farm butchering facility to enable us to sell our beef directly to the public. This enables us to also assess the carcass performance of any animal we process, not just how it looks in the paddock. The results have been amazing. Not only do the South Devon cross animals have a greater carcass weight, their yield so far has been much better than the straight Angus carcass. Put simply, we get more saleable meat and less waste from the South Devon cross carcass.

Another noticeable difference is the moisture content of the meat. The South Devon cross carcass is easier to break down and has a greater moisture content than the straight Angus carcass. The above comments are confirmed by our customers who can’t get enough of the meat. We are so pleased that we made the switch to the South Devon breed, it has increased the profitability of our beef enterprise. We have now purchased a second bull from John and Sue, a South Devon Red Wagyu cross which we are confident will also produce premium beef.

Rosstulla’s Beef Week tradition continues NORTH East Victorian Poll Hereford breeders, the Forrest family of Beechworth, are again opening their gates on Tuesday, February 2. “Despite the pandemic we have continued with our breeding program, “ Trish Forrest said. “On our open day, we will be observing all the COVID Safe social distancing measures and providing light refreshments in keeping with our COVID Safe plan. “Visitors will be welcome to come as usual although, as with most things these days, the meet and greet may be a little different this year. “Following several years of drought we have finally had a great season and are again happy to be carrying out an AI program in the stud. “We have again used the great

New Zealand sire, Otapawa Spark 3060 and Days Robin Hood H38.” Rex Forrest went on to say: “Using AI gives smaller studs like us the opportunity to access superior genetics. “The cows are in very good order and we have been very happy with cattle prices up to now. “Prices for well-bred cattle have been exceptional and it looks as if this trend will continue on for a while yet. “At our open day this year we will be offering some of the first progeny by our newest stud sire, Tee Jay Meelo M002. “As usual, we will have bulls for private sale and a selection of bloodlines on display. “We also will be offering a number of unjoined heifers for sale on the day.”

AI COWS: Rex Forrest is incredibly happy that after years of drought they are continuing with the AI program at Rosstulla.

TORR DOWN SOUTH DEVON'S

OPEN DAY

TUESDAY 2ND FEBRUARY - DAY 7

ROSSTULLA Poll Herefords TORR DOWN MAGNIFICO Last sons available, as well as Red Wagyu X South Devons www.torrdownsouthdevons.com.au OPEN DAY Saturday 30th January 2021

LIMOUSIN CA R U O arra proper TTL W t y w E o e I V r Irr (Friday, January 29, 2021) n Da E during Beef Week

or any other time by appointment.

S T U D

We will have about 16 bulls born 2019 including Autumn and Spring born bulls. For an appointment call Chris on 0418 520 574 or visit on our Beef Week day.

t/30d02911-v2/02-21

L I M O U S I N

The Forrest Family invite you to join us to see the results of our breeding program

Bulls and some unjoined heifers for Sale A selection of the Herd on Display -

REX, TRISH AND NARELLE FORREST ‘Rosstulla’ Forrest Lane, BEECHWORTH Vic 3747 PHONE:

035728 1146 Rex’s Mobile: 0407 281 146 www.rosstulla.com

T/30D3267/0221

ou t a

Cold Cold country country cattle cattle with with milk milk and and muscle muscle

Page 24 - Southern Farmer

January 2021

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