Published since 1986
FEBRUARY, 2021
Kangaroos on the menu
www.farmernews.com.au
Overseas citrus success
Bull Sales
PAGE 4
PAGE 8
PAGES 11-14
Making market garden profits By EMMA OLIVER “GROWING plants out with the aim of actually selling them as a commercial quality crop is the best test of seed,” said Ben Cohen of Birdland Seeds. “If you can grow them in a market garden as an organic competitor to a supermarket item then you know the seed is incredibly worthwhile. “You quickly become aware of what’s rubbish and what is viable, and one of the principal goals at Birdland Seeds is to ensure we only stock seeds that are particularly suited to production and have a commercial value.” This dedication to the production of high quality, locally suited seed sees Ben growing a huge 70 per cent of all the seed lines that Birdland Seeds offer. With the remaining lines sourced from a select group of certified organic growers, all seeds are subject to the stringent criteria that defines the Birdland guarantee of organic, non-
MARKET GARDEN: From high school age, Ben Cohen had exposure to working on his mother’s organic blueberry farm, but had never envisaged going into farming himself until he started collecting seeds.
Intensive testing guarantees Birdland Seeds will flourish hybrid, non genetically modified, pesticide and herbicide free seeds. With this guarantee also comes the commitment to only selling lines that produce delicious produce. “At the start I didn’t really test the vegetables to determine which cultivars I would propagate for seeds, and I soon realised that was very foolish,” Ben said. “I had no idea what I was getting into at the beginning, and when it’s such an involved and labour-intensive process, to get to the end of it all and be disappointed with the results is a bit devastating.” Ben grows everything out first now to determine if it’s even worth progressing with a line, and is currently in the process of doing radish trials to determine which ones to persevere with. When deciding on a carrot cultivar, Ben grew a staggering 2000 carrots,
harvesting the whole lot and then subjecting the harvest to rigorous assessment, taste-testing and core testing the lot to decide on a top 100 to transplant as the seed growing crop. Though carrot tops won’t form a new carrot, they will flower and produce seeds, and as long as they aren’t hybrids they will produce true-to-type seed. “I believe that if you take that much trouble, I think you can really improve on the lines and though of course this is not viable with a large scale enterprise I’m in the fortunate position where I can really control the quality,” Ben said. With all the preliminary work undertaken through extensive trial and error, Ben is assured that all seeds he sells are not only organic, but high producing, taste delicious and are the perfect cultivar for his region. ■ Continued page 2
For more information
Protect your investment
Ph: 1300 551 099 Mob. 0417 563 955
Stop heat and prevent corrosion
www.thermoshield.com.au
Saves you money
PO Box 16, Silvan, VIC 3795 gavin@thermoshield.com.au
BYPY TRANSMISSIONS
BONDIOLI & PAVESI and BIMA, PTO Shafts and Gearboxes
For all your agricultural power transmission requirements Call us for all your PTO Shafts, Gearboxes and Spare Parts
farming community since 1950
1800 932 113
Call Toll Free Fact 3, 16-20 Dingley Ave, Dandenong 3175 bypy@bypy.com.au www.bypy.com.au
37d07301/3219
Proudly supporting the
Page 2 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
Making market garden profits ■
BROAD BEANS: Only the strongest best specimens are retained for seed production. THE SOUTHERN
Est. 1986
Covering Central South Victoria and West Gippsland 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta Victoria, 3677
(03) 5723 0100 sfarmer@nemedia.com.au farmernews.com.au Advertising:
Michael Kidman Phone (03) 5731 3306 mkidman@nemedia.com.au
Editorial:
Jarrah Loh Phone (03) 5723 0129 jloh@nemedia.com.au
From page 1 Operating primarily from Emily Farm Hill located in Dewhurst, Victoria the climate is temperate and the majority of Ben’s crops flourish in the region, with the exception of spinach. “I just can’t manage to grow spinach seed really as the weather is just a little too hot, so it’s in situations like this that I source premium quality spinach seed from other organic growers,” Ben said. Ben also concentrates specifically on varietals that would suit a market garden context, and though offering a select number of herbs, the majority of the 120 strong seed catalogue are vegetables. “I don’t really bother too much with unusual vegetables, or things that are fringey or even bizarre heirlooms,” Ben said. “The plant world is so massive, and the question arises that if you don’t narrow the focus where do you stop? “My motivation and interest is in market gardens, and so I have a separate enterprise in Drysdale that is not only seed production but a market garden. “It’s on a very small scale and is only an acre, however, I’m looking at it more being a test
TRANSPLANTING LEEKS: Ben Cohen uses the market garden as a working project to determine the viability of particular crops and also provide a separate source of income. model that can be replicated in other regional areas and towns. “I’m heavily invested in the market garden, and really want it to be successful and make money and provide food options for the surrounding community, so that it can pop up in other regions and provide direct access to local high quality organic food.” With Ben beginning to offer CSA (Community Sourced Agriculture) boxes from December, he believes that the market garden will prove financially viable and earn its keep. “Market gardens are a good
money earner if done in a smart and efficient way, and though I do stock some certified organic shops with fresh produce and the occasional farm gate, the CSA boxes ensure a steady income stream and a market for all seasonal produce,” Ben said. “And there is the beauty of crops like kale, where you can harvest an awful lot of produce before it goes to seed. “In relation to the bottom line, to be able to effectively harvest two crops from the one product is great for any farming enterprise.” And so even though the busi-
ness started originally as more of a hobby for Ben, collecting seeds from his own kitchen garden and learning the tricks of the trade, the evolution of Birdland Seeds has seen Ben return to growing vegetables. Albeit more as a working project with Ben hoping that similar models will one day be dotted throughout the regional and metropolitan landscape. And with Ben determining the ideal seeds to produce quality, organic, high yield vegetables within his temperate climate, the vision may well become a viable and manageable reality.
SENIOR Emma Oliver JOURNALIST Phone 0433 267 203 eoliver@nemedia.com.au Pre-Press Coordinator
Noelene Allan Phone (03) 5723 0110 nallan@nemedia.com.au
Published by Hartley Higgins for North East Media Pty Ltd, 37 Rowan Street, Wangaratta 3677. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Editor Jeff Zeuschner. Copyright: All advertising and editorial content of this issue is the copyright of North East Media Pty Ltd and cannot be used without the company’s permission.
YOUR
ON THE
SPOT
TEAM
Michael Kidman ADVERTISING MANAGER
Jarrah Loh
Emma Oliver SENIOR JOURNALIST
EDITORIAL
LETTUCE: At the start of the pandemic, Birdland Seeds experienced a crazy three weeks when restrictions kicked in and the demand for seeds was unprecedented.
Noelene Allan PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR
TOMATOES: A qualified architect, Ben Cohen used his graphic design skills to design all the packaging and labelling.
BEANS: Seeds are available online, or at similarly aligned and like-minded businesses like Ceres in Brunswick.
THE NEW EX SERIES 53-58HP
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL KIOTI DEALER
P H O N E 1 8 0 0 1 8 6 8 6 6 V I S I T W W W. K I OT I .C O M . AU
FINANCE FROM 3.49%PA
ex5310
man rops & 4in1 loader
*
4 YEAR WARRANTY°
* ° SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS
ex5810
man rops & 4in1 loader
53 HP Kioti diesel engine
58 HP Kioti diesel engine
12 x 12 manual transmission
12 x 12 manual transmission
Deluxe suspension seat
Deluxe suspension seat
Auto hydraulic independent PTO
Auto hydraulic independent PTO
2x rear remotes standard
2x rear remotes standard
32,723
$
EX GST
35 , 995
$
INC GST
Delivery fee may apply.
34,541
$
EX GST
37 , 995
$
INC GST
Delivery fee may apply.
AGPOWER 465 Maroondah Highway LILYDALE 03 9739 5006 www.agpower.com.au GEELONG RURAL 145 Hamilton Highway, FYANSFORD 03 5222 4733 www.geelongrural.com.au THE TRACTOR COMPANY 14 Bormar Drive PAKENHAM (03) 5940 7033 www.thetractorcompany.com.au
February 2021
Southern Farmer - Page 3
CSIRO develops ‘Gene Sandwich’ to enhance wheat rust resistance AUSTRALIA is expecting a strong wheat crop this year, but that would be threatened if a large outbreak of wheat rust occurred. However, researchers at CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, led an international effort to develop wheats with a stronger and potentially more durable level of resistance against rust diseases by “stacking” five resistance genes together. This represents a major advance over conventional wheat breeding protocols where individual resistance genes are added one by one. The researchers developed novel genetic technologies that combine and insert the five different wheat resistance genes together. The bundling prevents separation in subsequent breeding generations of the plant, according to results published in Nature Biotechnology. Lead CSIRO researcher Dr Mick Ayliffe said this novel approach of building multiple layers of protection will make it much harder for rust pathogens to successfully attack wheat. “Our approach is like putting five locks on a door – you’re making it very difficult to get in,” Dr Ayliffe said. “Rigorous field testing showed that our gene stack approach provided complete protection against the rust pathogens we were targeting. “Successfully validating the effectiveness of our technology makes this approach an incredibly attractive opportunity to protect global grain crops.” In Australia, wheat is a $6 billion per annum industry, and the wider Australian grains industry supports over 170,000 jobs. It has been estimated that a disease outbreak of one
of the world’s most virulent strains of rust – Ug99 – could cost the industry up to $1.4 billion over a decade. Wheat provides around 20 per cent of the world’s calorie intake, making crop protection vitally important for world food security, with cereal rusts also affecting barley, oats, rye and triticale crops. As rust is a global problem, it requires international collaboration with the team comprising researchers from CSIRO, University of Minnesota, Aarhus University, The John Innes Centre, USDA, Xinjiang University and strategic funding by the 2Blades Foundation. Dr Ayliffe said this study had targeted stem rust, but the same technology can be used to breed against stripe and leaf rust diseases as well, and in different existing wheat varieties to add resistance. “One of the genes we selected actually protects against stem, leaf and stripe rust diseases, so it’s entirely possible to include genes that also work against other rust species,” he said. “We don’t know the limits of this new gene stacking technology yet. “We currently have an even larger genetic stack with eight resistance genes in the lab, so even more protection against rust is possible.” Wheat rust can rapidly mutate, making it difficult for wheat breeders to respond quickly using conventional breeding. However, multiple genes compiled together in a gene stack can greatly strengthen wheat’s defences and be deployed far more quickly. Stripe, leaf and stem rust diseases cause in excess of US$1 billion in crop damage globally every year, with different strains of each fungal
New , s w o nerreat g same uct prod
Cattle Grids, 3 sizes available 10, 13 & 16ft
We also manufacture water tanks up to the capacity of 21,500ltr. Cattle Ramps Our concrete cattle ramps are manufactured using a minimum of 40mpa concrete and using quality reinforcing. Round & rectangle stock troughs. Cylindrical: 2,3,4,5,7,9ft, 9ft deep variety & 11ft6` diameter. Rectangular 8ft x 4ft, 7ft x 2ft.
info@statewideconcreteproducts.com.au www.statewideconcreteproducts.com.au
STATEWIDE CONCRETE PRODUCTS BEWARE: Farmers can expect a strong wheat crop this year, but that would be threatened if a large outbreak of wheat rust occurred. disease occurring around the world. Adoption of this new inbuilt resistance technology would also be a valuable tool for integrated pest management, lowering the need for fungicides and increasing the durability of the management tools for farmers. Further advances in this technology are now allowing the researchers to explore building new gene stacks that would not be considered GM (genetically modified) and would ease their broad on-farm deployment. Rust spores are transported by wind, so international adoption would help to reduce the risk to Australian grain crops from exotic incursions from overseas. “This promising gene stacking technology is a way we could rust-proof not only Australia, but international crops as well,” Dr Ayliffe said. “It’s a valuable insurance policy in case we face mutations in wheat rust with catastrophic virulence, with the ability to deploy long-lasting solutions to the field much sooner than we would have in the past.”
22 Kanowna St, Hastings 3915. Ph.(03) 5979 3349.
t/30d03281/0221
St Leger Machinery Specialists in Second Hand Farm Machinery PRESTON RD, RIPPLEBROOK (via Drouin) Ph 5627 6317 Fax 5627 6385
stlegermachinery.com TRACTORS Deutz 5206, 2wd, rops, 1800 gen hrs, one owner. Deutz 140 hp, 2wd, a/c cab, 3pl, rem. Tidy unit Fiat 82-66, fwa, rops, 3700 hrs Ford 2000, rops, currently in workshop Ford 6600, rops, canopy, only 2800 hrs Ford 6610, fwa, a/c cab, 3pl, remotes, d/bar Ford TW15, fwa, a/c cab, 3pl, rem, new clutch, 143hp. John Deere 2140, SG2 cab,3pl, pwr steer. John Deere, fwa, a/c cab, articulated, 275hp, 3pl. Massey Ferguson 35x, rops, 3cyl dsl, tidy. Registered, as traded. Massey Ferguson 135, FEL, rops Massey Ferguson 165, pwr steer, MP, 3pl. Massey Ferguson 240, rops, pwr steer, tidy. Massey 355 turbo, a/c cab, p/steer, d/bar, remotes DAIRY Frigrite Auto Wash vat, 3000 ltrs, excellent condition. HAY EQUIPMENT Kuhn tedder. New Holland 69 square baler, hydraulic tensioner, excellent condition. New Holland Super 56 Rolabar rake. PZ DS 5000 tedder.
TILLAGE; Chisel plough, Jarrett 3 tyne. Chisel plough, Yeomans, 9 tyne. Discs, Connor Shea 16 pl trailing Discs, Connor Shea 24 pl trailing. Discs, Connor Shea Giant, 24 pl, trailing, reconditioned. Power Harrows, TerraNova, 5ft, with crumble roller. Scarifier, 17 tyne. Seeder, Connor Shea 14 row , tyne, 3pl. Seeder, Connor Shea 18 row, disc, trailing. FARM IMPLEMENTS Boom spray. Channel cleaner, Drain diggers, Grader blades 5-7ft, Harrows 6-20ft, Mulchers.... 7ft, 8ft Sylvan with hyd side shift, Post hole diggers 6” to 18”, Post rammers ....Lyco with auger, Massey, Aussie Driver with hyd side shift. Rippers 1tyne pipe layer, 1 ,2 & 3 tyne. Slashers 4-8ft. TYRES NEW 6.50x 16, 7.50x 16, 6.50x 18, 7.00 x 18, 7.50x 18, 7.50x 20, 11.2x28, 12.4x28, 13.6x28, 14.9x28, 13.6x32, 24.5x32, 13.6x38, 300/90R46, (14.9x46).
Trade-ins accepted. Delivery and finance easily arranged.
Page 4 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
Paddock to plate option on the table for kangaroo harvest THE State Government is improving access to sustainable food and supporting sustainable jobs, with changes to the Kangaroo Harvesting Program that will see more meat available for Victorians to enjoy. Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas recently announced the 2021 quota allocation for the Kangaroo Harvesting Program - which has risen due to a notable increase in the estimated state-wide kangaroo population in the last three years. The 2020 survey estimates the current kangaroo population at almost two million across Victoria - up almost 40 per cent compared to 2018. While natural in the Victorian environment, over-abundant populations compete with livestock for feed, and damage crops and fences. To reduce these impacts, the Kangaroo Harvesting Program quota in 2021 is 95,680 kangaroos - an increase of 37,780 from last year. To reduce waste and boost economic opportunities, shooters can now allow the
LOCAL HARVEST: Finally Victorian kangaroos will now be on the menu. extra meat to be made available for human consumption - not just for pet food as is currently the case - and look for opportunities to export the skins. Kangaroo meat is an environmentally friendly protein - the animals have less impact on land and they are a low-emissions meat source. Boosting supply of locally-
sourced kangaroo meat will also reduce the environmental impacts of importing kangaroo meat from other states. Only trained professional shooters authorised through the program meeting strict health and safety measures will be able to provide animals to abattoirs to be processed for the table. To be part of the program,
harvesters must be authorised, hold a firearms licence and be accredited in firearm proficiency and game harvesting. Harvesters must abide by the National Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos and Wallabies for Commercial Purposes. Their vehicles and cool rooms must also be accredited through PrimeSafe.
Since October 2019, 86 harvesters and five meat processors have taken part in the pet-food-only program, with many calling for changes that allow processing for human consumption to support jobs in country communities. Domestic demand for the high protein, low fat meat, plus interest from overseas for the skins, could help as
many as 100 regional businesses grow. The sustainability of kangaroo populations is protected through annual quotas, in accordance with Victoria’s Kangaroo Harvest Management Plan 2021-2023. The quota is based on population surveys and modelling from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and is set alongside the estimated numbers of kangaroos controlled under their Authority to Control Wildlife permit system. “It’s important that kangaroo numbers are sustainably managed in Victoria to reduce impacts on landholders and the community,” Ms Thomas said. “This program provides a service to farmers and an income to trained professional shooters. “The changes to how products generated from the Kangaroo Harvesting Program can be used gives more options to harvesters and processors to make use of these animals and reduce waste - and create more jobs in country towns.
February 2021
Southern Farmer - Page 5
PLANNING ON TRAVELLING INTERSTATE ?
ALL VICTORIANS RE-ENTERING VICTORIA WILL NEED A PERMIT
To help stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), all Victorians travelling interstate must apply for a permit to re-enter Victoria.
Do not travel to a red zone. To find out whether your destination is in a red, orange, or green zone, visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, Melbourne
Page 6 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
Dairy discussion paper highlights importance of feed productivity cost NEW research into Australian dairy farm profitability has found that farmers need to have a strong focus on feed production for each dollar of investment. Research papers released last month by Dr Jon Hauser of Xcheque and farm business consultant Neil Lane have highlighted how feed productivity remains the key to farm profitability. Dr Hauser said farmers need to focus on pasture management and achieving as much as possible from their resources to produce profit. “Our analysis shows the importance of maximising feed production from your available land and water assets,” Dr Hauser said. “The top 25 per cent of farmers are almost universally getting more feed per dollar invested. “We believe the industry should be focused on feed production per dollar of investment rather than a specific industry target for tonnes per hectare. “Individual farm feed productivity will vary according to factors such as water availability and quality of land.” Mr Lane added that management of stocking rates,
paddock rotation and pasture residuals are the keys to success. “We’re more likely to see wastage through under grazing in the spring and suppression of regrowth by overgrazing in the summer and winter – both result in a reduction in potential pasture harvest,” he said. The research paper is the final chapter in a comprehensive industry economic review compiled by Dr Hauser and Mr Lane. The review examines the Australian dairy industry’s economic performance and provides a pathway to improve on-farm profitability. Dr Hauser and Mr Lane based their research on the published Dairy Farm Monitor project data from 2006/07 to 2019/20. This comprises 1741 annual farm datasets from most Australian dairy regions. The analysis was carried out using Xcheque’s OurFarm.app farm business software tools. Mr Lane said the research re-confirmed the vital importance of true cost of feeding, including the capital cost of the land. “The clear message is that
RESEARCH FINDINGS: Dairy farmers need to have a strong focus on feed production. farms give themselves the best chance of being profitable by lowering the cost of feed for per unit of production out the door,” he said. “Feed cost is about feed management. “This is one of the most important things for farmers to focus on every day. “If you’re an intensive grazing system, good grazing management is critical – maximise quality growth and minimise wastage. “Those running farm sys-
tems with a lot of supplementary feeding must think about how they provide that feed to cattle, maximise crop yields and minimise wastage during storage and feeding.” Dr Hauser said lower rainfall, summer temperatures and more variable weather conditions made low cost pasture-based feed production more challenging in some parts of Australia. “It is important to understand that Australia is not a ‘one size fits all’ dairy indus-
N.D.E. VERTICAL FEEDMIXERS Exceptional performance. Reliability & Value. Single or Twin Augers. Front or Side doors Large curved carbide–insert knives. 10 to 32 cubic metre models available
try,” he said. “Successful farmers adapt to the climate, the feed and water resource available to them, and the market they sell their milk into. “A good example of response to climate can be found in northern Victoria and southern NSW. “Despite 20 years of extreme challenges in the availability and cost of water, these regions are still competitive places to supply the year-round demand for
Australian Distributor
ROLLER MILLS * Dynamically Balanced Rolls * Folding Auger Discharge * Chill Cast Rolls * Up to 54 t/hr Capacity * Dry and High Moisture Rolling * PTO or Electric
16” Roller Diameter
12”, 24”, 30” & 36” Roller Widths
MARSHALL MULTISPREAD The ideal spreader for all types of granular fertilizers, lime, gypsum and manures. Spare Parts and Workshop Service available. New Marshall i4M Control App to calibrate and control applications on the go.
2.5 to 16 Tonne models in stock
domestic fresh milk products.” Mr Lane said taking a multi-year approach to feed supply would help producers manage risk associated with low rainfall and seasonal variability. “It’s good to have buffers of feed and or water reserves to make sure you’re not caught in tough conditions and forced into high-price markets,” he said. The wide-ranging study covered all aspects of dairy farm profitability. Farm profit has been summarised into five key profit drivers – what the authors call “profit fence posts”: capital productivity, feed productivity, herd productivity, labour productivity and price. In addition to feed cost, the study found that labour productivity and milk price were the main factors that explain the difference in farm profitability across the industry. Further case studies looking at individual farms are planned. “Tracing strategy and performance in this way provides insight into how farmers adapt and optimise their farm operation for local conditions,” Dr Hauser said.
SITREX HAY RAKES
Roller type weed wiper that targets the weeds, not your pasture. No problem with over spray.
Get ready for hay season now
BOOMERANG TWIN BALE FEEDERS
BARE-CO PRODUCTS FABER HEAVY DUTY TOOLBOXES YEOMANS PLOWS KELTEC BALE SLICE JOHN BERENDS IMPLEMENTS
Agents for:
Contact the Distributors:
EASTERN SPREADERS PTY LTD
9508 Murray Valley Highway, Kerang, Vic. 3579
9, 12, 18 Tonne models
Ph: 03
5450 3077
Self-loading. Suits all round & square large bales
MUCK SPREADERS
Mobile: 0409 691 226 sales@easternspreaders.com.au
February 2021
Southern Farmer - Page 7
NEW HOLLAND GENUINE SERVICE.
ALLIGATOR WEED: An infestation can displace local native flora.
Powered See you later Solar Automatic alligator weed Gate Openers with local authorities and community groups to raise awareness of the weed. Ms Wright said a series of workshops over recent years have involved presentations, discussions and site visits, where participants learn to identify alligator weed and discuss potential impacts. “Through this engagement, Agriculture Victoria aims to increase the number of people looking for alligator weed and build partnerships so everyone can work together to protect Bendigo Creek and the downstream assets,� she said. If you see alligator weed, or any other state prohibited weed, please report it to the Agriculture Victoria Customer Contact Centre on 136 186 or email weed.spotters@ agriculture.vic.gov.au.
500
~ Remote Controlled ~
‡ 6RODU RU YROW ‡ +HDY\ 'XW\ YROW '& (OLWH 6ZLQJ *DWH 'URYH 8QLW WKDW RSHQV FORVHV JDWH LQ DSSUR[ VHFRQGV ‡ 3RVLWLYH *DWH 6HOI ORFNLQJ V\VWHP *DWH FDQQRW EH SXVKHG RSHQ ZKHQ FORVHG ‡ 6ZLWFK RQ FRQWURO ER[ HQDEOHV JDWH WR UHPDLQ RSHQ RU DXWRPDWLFDOO\ FORVH ‡ [ %DWWHULHV WKDW ZKHQ IXOO\ FKDUJHG ZLOO RSHQ FORVH WKH JDWH WR WLPHV ZLWKRXW DQ\ VXQ WR UH FKDUJH EDWWHULHV ‡ ZDWW RI 3RO\FU\VWDOOLQH 6RODU SDQHOV JDXUDQWHHG IRU \HDUV ‡ [ 5HPRWH FRQWUROV IRU YHKLFOHV
“Have G at We’ll op e? en�
~ Many other options including ~ 9LVLWRU EXWWRQV :LUHOHVV RU +DUG ZLUHG :LUHOHVV NH\SDGV 9HKLFOH ORRSV WKDW RSHQ JDWH ZKHQ GULYHQ RYHU 5HPRWH FRQWUROOHG JDWH ORFN GLVDEOHV DOO YLVLWRU EXWWRQV IURP \RXU YHKLFOH UHPRWH 3KRWR (OHFWULF VHQVRUV 6WRSV JDWH FORVLQJ RQ VORZ PRYLQJ YHKLFOHV 5HPRWH FRQWUROV WKDW FRQWURO JDWH IURP XS WR NP DZD\ *DWH RSHQLQJ DODUP WKDW ZDUQV JDWH LV RSHQLQJ XS WR NPV DZD\
Freecall
SOLARTRONICS 1800 141 555
www.solartronics.com.au
570 HD EPS ADC
$13,495*
$17,495*
SAVE $500
DIESEL HD EPS ADC
$25,495*
$1,000 ATV TRADE-IN BONUS^
$1,000 FREE ACCESSORIES^^
OR
$1,000 FREE ACCESSORIES^^
PLUS
$1,000 ATV TRADE-IN BONUS^
12
7
11 2
7
5
1 4
2
9
6
4
1
8
5
3 5
10
3
2
4.99% PA FINANCE OVER 36-48 MONTHS T.A.P+
+
1
6
4
3
6
Fitted with optional Polaris Accessories
Fitted with optional Polaris Accessories
ACCESSORY IDEAS 1. Steel half doors #AUST510 2. Tip out front screen #2881784 3. Matte black six’r alloy rims #1521507-521 4. Pro Armor attack tyres #5415613 5. Canvas seat covers #P772Q 6. Front brushguard #2879973
t/37d06971-v3/1020
passes through high value farmland, Kerang’s RAMSAR-listed wetlands and into the Murray River. “Alligator weed poses a threat to all of these if allowed to spread beyond its current 30 kilometre extent, and cost tens of thousands of dollars more to control,� Ms Wright said. “Local land managers are working to rehabilitate and improve Bendigo Creek, including the Reimagining Bendigo Creek project, however, the benefits of these works would be lost if alligator weed invaded the proposed infrastructure, frog ponds and revegetation sites.� To protect the Bendigo Creek system, Agriculture Victoria complements an annual alligator weed eradication program by working
AGRICULTURE Victoria has been working closely with local authorities, land managers and community groups in Bendigo to raise awareness of the state prohibited weed, alligator weed. There is only one alligator weed infestation that lies north of the Great Divide in Victoria. That infestation is located at Bendigo Creek. The infestation threatens to displace local native flora, damage habitat for native animals, clog up drains and other infrastructure, and block water flow. The plant grows rapidly on both land and water. Leading biosecurity incursion control officer Kaitlin Wright said Bendigo Creek flows through the township of Bendigo, then
7. Polysport roof #2883236 8. Cargo max system #2882177 9. Rear poly panel #2879812 10. Rear brushguard #2879972 11. Pro Armor 25cm dual row light bar #2882075 12. Work beacon led light #2883265
Fitted with optional Polaris Accessories
ACCESSORY IDEAS 1. Sport roof #2883236 2. Glass windscreen #2881783 3. Wiper kit #2879968
4. Poly rear panel #2879812 5. Poly doors #2882247 6. Tow hitch receiver #2875320
ACCESSORY IDEAS 1. Glass tip out screen #2889031 2. Bull bar and side rail kit #AUST548 3. Poly half door #2882559 4. Tip down Headache rack #2881531
5. Premium poly sport roof #2882912 6. Poly rear panel #2883773 7. Pro Armor 81cm single-row light bar #2884299
*Offer ends 28/2/2021 or while stocks last. Offer only available at participating Polaris Dealers. Not valid with any other offer. Excludes fleet clients. ^Any brand ATV is eligible for the additional $1,000 trade-in bonus excluding all models under 225cc. The Quad Bike traded must be complete and in running and riding order with no significant damage apart from normal wear and tear. Limit one trade-in per Ranger 500 and Ranger 570 HD EPS purchase or at dealer discretion. Not eligible with any other campaigns or offers. ^^Accessories offer only valid with the purchase of a new Ranger 570 HD EPS and Ranger Diesel HD EPS. +Finance offer is available on chattel mortgage to approved ABN holders (3+ years ABN Registration and trading) for business purposes and subject to credit approval at DLL’s discretion. A one-off fee ($440.00 establishment fee) terms and conditions and exclusions apply. Polaris Finance is provided by De Lage Landen Pty Limited ABN 20 101 692 040. #Models shown with optional extra accessories.
1300 654 142 | www.polarisaustralia.com |
ALL POLARIS RANGERS NOW COME WITH 2 FREE APPROVED HELMETS
/PolarisAustralia |
TFF210121
/polarisorv_aus
Page 8 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
Strategic pivots help citrus succeed overseas in 2020 THE Australian citrus season has shown great success in key Asian export markets with an increase in value from the previous season seen in Japan and Vietnam. The 2020 Taste Australia Citrus campaign worked to drive sales of Australian citrus in Asian markets by positioning Australian citrus products as the best choice in the market. Japan was a key market with Australia exporting 50,175 tonnes of citrus produce valued at A$92.7m, a 38 per cent increase in value from the previous season. Vietnam also saw strong trade with 8566 tonnes exported and valued at A$18.6m, reflecting a 44 per cent increase in value from last season. Hort Innovation general manager marketing and trade Justine Coates said: “The 2020 Taste Australia Citrus campaign has played its part in the success and continuation of citrus exports to key Asian markets.” As the campaign launched during the COVID-19 global outbreak, all markets were impacted in some way. A review of the campaign was undertaken to ensure that the planned activities were appropriate to the evolving consumer landscape.
As Japan and the Philippines went through waves of COVID-19 induced lockdown, the retail landscape changed dramatically. Shoppers were limited in stores and footfall dropped, with many consumers turning online for grocery shopping. In response to these changes, activity was adapted to invest more heavily in e-commerce and digital promotion, with a focus on social media, influencers, and digital advertising to reach consumers in their homes. The 2020 Taste Australia Citrus campaign involved a range of promotional activities to China, Japan, Vietnam and the Philippines, including: z Retail in-store activity (sampling, point of sale materials and display competitions); z E-commerce; z Digital and out-of-home advertising; z Livestreaming; z Public relations; z Use of influencers; z Use of Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs); and z Social media. “The citrus season success was underpinned by the production of high-quality produce and the hard work of the industry, as well as the adaption of the Taste Australia Citrus campaign from
the traditional in-store marketing activities to digital and online modes,” Ms Coates said. Citrus Australia chief executive officer Nathan Hancock said: “In a difficult year our growers and marketers tapped into the pandemic driven demand for citrus by reaching health conscious consumers. “Our growers worked hard to provide high quality produce despite the challenges, and I look forward to seeing continued growth next year.” The Taste Australia campaign is funded by Hort Innovation using industry research, development and marketing levies and funds from the Australian Government. Regarded as the “boldest foreign trade initiative to date”, the campaign was underpinned by more than $40 million in research and development projects. The Taste Australia initiative was developed in response to industry calls for a cohesive, national export project to drive foreign interest and demand for Australian horticultural products. The initiative was originally launched at Asia Fruit Logistica (AFL) in 2017, which is the largest specialised fruit and vegetable trade event in Asia.
LOCAL COLOUR: Citrus season has shown great success in key Asian export markets.
Have a degree? Fast track your way to a career in teaching.
Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne.
February 2021
Southern Farmer - Page 9
THE ALL NEW GENESIS® T8 WITH PLM INTELLIGENCE.
50
YEARS 1970-2020
Page 10 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
Industry supported duty ensures sheep tags remain affordable FROM January 1, changes to the prices of electronic National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) (Sheep) tags and the duty paid when sheep and goats are traded, came into effect. NLIS tags for sheep and goats now cost from 76 cents, meaning Victorian producers are still able to buy the cheapest electronic NLIS (Sheep) tags in Australia. Victoria’s chief veterinary officer, Dr Graeme Cooke, said it was vital that livestock can be identified and tracked from their property of birth throughout their life. “Traceability, through the NLIS, protects the reputation of Victorian livestock industries as a supplier of safe food and enables efficient response during disease outbreak or food safety emergency,” Dr Cooke said. “Since the introduction of mandatory electronic identification for sheep and goats, producers have purchased more than 40 million tags and almost 39 million sheep and goat movements have been recorded on the NLIS database. “It’s important to remember that traceability is an im-
NLIS: Sheep tags have been a big success. portant responsibility for all livestock owners - whether you’ve got a large flock or herd or a few pet sheep or goats - and you must follow the requirements.” A recent independent evaluation of the electronic NLIS (Sheep & Goat) system operating in Victoria found that more than 99 per cent of electronically tagged live-
stock could be traced back to their last property of residence, exceeding the traceability standards of sheep identified with visually readable tags. “The performance of Victoria’s electronic NLIS (Sheep & Goat) system compared to the visual tag system is a great achievement, and a credit to the commit-
ment of Victorian producers, saleyards, agents and processors,” Dr Cooke said. The sheep and goat duty has remained at 12 cents per head since 1999 and only increased from January 1 to 19 cents per head. Increasing the duty is supported by the Victorian Farmers Federation and the Sheep and Goat Compensa-
tion Advisory Committee. Duty payments are collected into the Sheep and Goat Compensation Fund, which gets reinvested into industry through the Livestock Biosecurity Funds grants program. The increase enables the compensation fund to grow its investment into important projects for the benefit
of the sheep and goat industries and improve Victoria’s biosecurity. The duty will be increased incrementally over three years, to 27 cents per head from January 1, 2022, and 35 cents per head from January 1, 2023. These increases come after thorough consultation with industry. The new sheep tagging requirements started in 2017: - All sheep and most goat breeds born in Victoria from January 1, 2017 must be identified with an electronic NLIS (Sheep) tag before being dispatched off a property. - All sheep and most goat breeds born before January 1, 2017 must be identified with either a visually readable or an electronic NLIS (Sheep) tag before being dispatched off a property. - All sheep and nonexempt goats introduced from interstate and born after January 1, 2019 must be electronically tagged with a pink post-breeder tag before being dispatched from a Victorian property, unless it is already tagged with an electronic NLIS (Sheep and Goat) tag.
Remove septic odours and blockages for good!
ACTIVATOR
WASTEWATER + SEPTIC TANK SOLUTION Eliminates odours
Dissolves blockages
Non-toxic Biodegradable
Freecall 1800 633 866 ECOCARE.COM.AU
powered to restore
February 2021
Southern Farmer - Page 11
RIDDELLVUE ANGUS
Debut autumn sale to build on 2020 success
RIDDELLVUE Angus expects strong industry demand for female cattle to flow onto bulls when it holds its inaugural autumn bull sale on March 10. The stud’s debut spring bull sale at Whanregarwen near Alexandra in 2020 was a success with 22 bulls sold for a total of $122,000 with a top price of $9000. Stud principal Ian Bates expects the autumn sale to match or exceed these results with a solid range of bulls being offered in a strong market. “There’s very high demand for female cattle so we’re hoping there will be high demand for bulls,” Mr Bates said. “With the way females are selling, I’d expect that to flow through to the bull section.” Traditionally, autumn sales
have stronger outcomes than spring and Mr Bates says the 21 18-month-olds and 10 yearlings on offer on March 10 will easily match or better his previous outing. “Overall, it has been a fantastic season but because we had so much feed around, we didn’t get early summer crops in,” he said. “They have had a stack of feed but dried feed doesn’t have the power of summer crops, but they’re still as good a group as September.” Most of the bulls being offered are from Riddellvue Angus’s own sires Bannaby Reality K63 and Te Mania Melfin. “They’re the two biggest sire groups and they’re both good female and bull producers,” Mr Bates said.
“I’m really excited about the females I have in the herd out of these bulls. “There are quite a few heifer bulls in the sale by Melfin and I think everyone who sees them will be impressed.” Mr Bates said the 31 bulls on sale offered good buying opportunities. “They have a great conformation, good feet and great structure,” he said. “What makes them so good is that they can breed you good females. “With the current interest in the market, we expect it will go quite well.” The auction will be conducted by Nutrien Livestock and Elders and online via AuctionsPlus.
DEBUT: Riddellvue Angus will hold its inaugural autumn bull sale on March 10.
Ensure your livestock are fit to load
AN INVESTMENT: Agents and transporters are being reminded that livestock must be ‘fit for load’.
WITH strong sheep and cattle prices, producers, agents and transporters are being reminded that livestock must be ‘fit for load’ for the journey ahead. Agriculture Victoria livestock welfare compliance program manager Dr Rachael Holmes said it’s important that all parties across the livestock supply chain are aware of their obligations when transporting livestock. “Livestock must be inspected prior to being loaded and they must not be suffering from conditions that could cause, or would be likely to cause, increased pain or distress during transport,” Dr Holmes said.
“Any person in charge of an animal, which may include producers, farm workers, transporters and livestock agents, must not allow any animal to be loaded that is not fit for the journey ahead. “It is the responsibility of each person in charge of the animal at each step of the supply chain, to make that assessment, and to make appropriate arrangements for the care, treatment or humane destruction of any animals that are deemed to be unfit for transportation.” Abattoirs and saleyards also have a duty of care to the livestock they receive. If the welfare of received
WEDNESDAY 10TH MARCH ON PROPERTY - 1PM 35 HBR/APR ANGUS BULLS 25 - 18 MTH & 10 - 12 MTH BULLS ON OFFER AUCTION LIVE ONLINE VIA AUCTIONSPLUS Ian Bates - 0418 367 209 ian@riddellvue.com.au
489 Whanregarwen Rd, Alexandra, VIC www.riddellvue.com.au
News & Updates, visit
it increased pain during transport? z Is it blind in both eyes? z Is it in late pregnancy? Persons transporting livestock are also reminded of a new provision in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations regarding the transportation of animals that are not fit to load. The new regulation stipulates that a person must not transport a farm animal or livestock that is not able to walk on its own by bearing weight on all legs. Transporters can face infringement penalties of up to $495 or prosecution for offences under this regulation.
BULLS BRED TO PERFORM
INAUGURAL 2021 AUTUMN BULL SALE
livestock is compromised, these livestock will be managed according to policy and procedures, which may include reporting to the department for investigation. Consider these questions when loading livestock, if the answer is yes to any, the animal is not fit for transport. z Is it lame? That is, the animal cannot walk on its own, bearing weight on all legs. z Is it too weak to undertake the journey, emaciated or visibly dehydrated? z Is it suffering from severe visible distress, injury or disease? z Is it suffering from any condition that could cause
Page 12 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
Fifty bulls suitable for joining maiden heifers FIFTY bulls suitable for joining to maiden heifers will feature in the sale offering of 125 bulls at Banquet. These young bulls have exceptional calving ease traits but do not compromise on soundness, temperament or type. Their progeny will maintain the traditional Banquet type that consistently attracts premium prices for both steers and heifers. Banquet is renowned for supplying high growth and robust sires with extra frame and weight. Be assured there is an exceptionally good selection of this type of bull. The sale is on Thursday, February 25 at 420 Fosters Lane, Mortlake. Inspection will be from 11am and luncheon is supplied.
ON DISPLAY: Lot 76 and 75 at the Banquet sale in February.
Sale will commence at 2.30pm. Banquet gives free delivery of all local bulls and to centres in SA, NSW and QLD. This is a great opportunity for producers who are yet to try Banquet bulls to inspect and purchase. For more information or a catalogue please contact Noeleen Branson on 0437 029 992. Another feature of this sale will be the offering of 150 PTIC commercial heifers. These heifers are rising two years old and PTIC to low birth weight Banquet bulls. They are due to begin calving early March. These heifers are of the highest quality for herd expansion or foundation.
SSBAN0020121
ON PROPERTY BULL SALE 20% MORE BULLS
THURS T HURS H URS SD DAY D AY A Y2 25TH 5TH F FEB FE EB BRUARY RU UA ARY
2.30 2 .30 P PM M-1 125 25 B BU ULL LS S 150 1 50 C CO OM O MM M ME ER RC R CIAL ANG GU US U SP PT TIC HEIFE ER RS R S
LIVESTOCK: Positive results are being influenced by strong lamb and mutton prices.
2019-20 Livestock Farm Monitor reveals insights on farm performance
PIC: 3MYNL043
STEPHEN BRANSON Mob 0419 884 839 NOELEEN BRANSON Mob 0437 029 992 EMAIL banquetangus@westvic.com.au
www.banquetangus.com.au ANGUS ŇWHITE SUFFOLKS ŇSUFFOLKS ŇSOUTHDOWN COMPOSITES
FARM profit has been positively influenced by higher gross farm income and lower costs compared with the previous year according to data collected and analysed in the 2019-20 Livestock Farm Monitor report. Agriculture Victoria farm business economist Sam Henty said the positive results were influenced by strong lamb, mutton and beef prices, and increased availability of feed. “Despite an average reduction in stock weight sold per hectare, strong lamb, mutton and beef prices coupled with an increased quantity and value of stock and feed on-hand resulted in increased gross farm income in 2019-20,” Mr Henty said. Ninety-four sheep, beef and cropping farms located in Gippsland, South West Victoria and Northern Victoria were surveyed as part of
the 2019-20 Livestock Farm Monitor Project. “Overall, average farm profits saw an increase in each region in 2019-20 after two consecutive years of decreased profits,” Mr Henty said. The results of the annual survey provide a valuable sample of farm-level data for industry and government. Mr Henty said surveyed farmers in the South West recorded higher profits than those surveyed in Gippsland and Northern Victoria. “Average variable costs decreased for surveyed farmers in Gippsland and South West Victoria, as most were able to reduce their reliance on purchased supplementary feed, coupled with decreased market price of hay and grain,” he said. “In Northern Victoria, average variable costs increased as surveyed farms
were forced to purchase feed to supplement reduced pasture growth from below average spring rainfall.” Data collected from farm businesses includes farm income and costs for the financial year, trading and breeding details, feed input and production, fertiliser and labour inputs, and a complete stock, feed, land and farm machinery inventory, including all farm assets and liabilities. Mr Henty said once the data has been collated and analysed, participants are provided with detailed information on their financial and production performance. “They can use this information to understand the cash, profit and wealth position of their business to inform on-farm decision making and help to build business resilience,” he said.
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
February 2021
90
Southern Farmer - Page 13
Poll Hereford Bulls
90
Industry leading Whiteface genetics
Mon 24th Feb Mon 22nd Feb 1:30pm Bordertown SA
ON SALE: Allendale Anzac M009 (PP).
Allrounders at Allendale
PIC: SA225592
PIC: SA223589
VR4576181
Full catalogue available on both websites
ON February 22 Allendale will offer 40 Poll Hereford bulls in conjunction with Day’s Whiteface. This year’s draft features well balanced, mid maturity bulls with typical Poll Hereford doing ability and temperament. Many of the sale bulls are homozygous polled and all have genomically enhanced EBVs. There are at least 10 different sires of this year’s bulls to give clients a variety of bloodlines. Allendale Anzac M009 has some excellent sons on offer that appeal for their balance, correctness and excellent type along with figures excelling in 200 and 400 day weight, fertility and IMF.
Sons of Allendale Chisel L3 are an excellent group of mid maturity bulls with plenty of shape and good skins. Chisel L3 excels for short gestation length, 400 day weight, scrotal size, EMA and fat. This results in L3 having all of his indexes in the top five per cent. Koanui Techno 6179 (NZ) has bred bulls with plenty of length, excellent skins and sirey heads. Techno is a trait leader for 200 and 400 day weight and scrotal size and has indexes that are all top 10 per cent or better. There are also a number of excellent sons of Allendale Imperial N114 who was Senior Champion at Dubbo
and sold to the Oakdowns Stud. The Imperial sons impress for their doing ability, fertility and weight for age. Imperial is in the top 10 per cent for all of his indexes with his 400 and 600 day weights, scrotal size and IMF being exceptional. Allendale Heidelberg M061 who was sold to Day’s Whiteface at Dubbo in 2018 has some long bodied, correct sons on offer. M061 is a trait leader for 600 day weight and is also very good for milk, carcase weight, EMA and the SSR index. Their Beef Week field Day is on Tuesday, February 9 and all are welcome for inspection.
19 SOUTHERN th
CHAROLAIS BREEDERS GROUP SALE
12 NOON, THURSDAY: 18th MARCH 2021 YEA SALEYARDS ơ
͖͘ ͕͛
͔͖͘͜ ͚͗͜ ͕͚͗ ͔͖͘͜ ͗͝͝ ͚͔͜
͕͔ ͘Ψ ơ ͛ Ǥ
Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ
Page 14 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
Alpine Angus to hold 2021 autumn bull sale
THE 2021 Alpine Angus autumn bull sale offering 100 HBR and APR bulls will be held at the Alpine Sales Complex, Rosewhite on Wednesday, March 10 at 1pm. “Our 2020 spring sale result was our best ever due to the excellent line up prepared by Chris Oswin and the unbelievable support shown by repeat buyers who shared with us their optimism at the very favourable spring season and strong market conditions which combined delivered to us a 100 per cent clearance and an average $10,619,� Alpine principal Jim Delany said. Stock agent for Paull and Scollard Dan Ivone said Paull and Scollard’s Myrtleford sale on December 17 last year saw excellent lines of Alpine bred cattle presented in forward condition. “This highlights not only the season but also the strength of genetics used to achieve the weight, finish and evenness the Alpine calves displayed and the prices they achieved,� he said. “Markets have lifted another $100/head throughpout the sales in January, so the very strong markets continue.� For many years now the Alpine Angus program has been consistently investing in genetics they believe put dollars in their clients’ pockets. “Of course we use Breed-
Line up promising to be long, strong and full of body
ON SALE AT ALPINE: LOT 2 CGKP171 r02. plan as a selection tool but we also put as great an emphasis on getting length, capacity and growth in our cattle and we try to use genetics we know can breed true to type and deliver calving ease,� Alpine manager Chris Oswin said. On the Labour Day weekend on Monday, March 8 a second sale preview will be held just two days before the sale.
Once again all sale bulls will be yarded from 10amĂ˘â‚Źâ€œ3pm with a delicious barbecue beef lunch and refreshments available. This affords those who cannot be there sale day to make their selections and either bid themselves on line via Auctions Plus or via their agent or by arrangement with Alpine’s sale agents Paull and Scollard, Mrytleford and Rodwells Euroa. ON SITE: The Alpine sales complex.
Glendan ready for strong sales TWO breeds will go under the hammer at the Glendan Park Hereford and Adameluca Angus 8th annual bull sale. Held on Friday, February 26 in Barfold, there will be 42 Hereford/Poll Hereford bulls and 42 Angus bulls on offer. Both studs are run by the Trovatello family: Alvio operates the Hereford herd while his brother Sam is the principal of the Angus stud. “We first established Glendan Park (Herefords) in 1989 with our parents,� said Alvio. “And due to succession Sam established his own Angus stud in 2012.� The two herds have a focus on “cattle that have good fertility, structure, feet and females with good udders�. They believe both the Angus and Hereford drafts of sale bulls this year are some of the most commercially relevant bulls they have put up for auction to date. “We highly recommend your inspection. we have bulls to suit several markets and programs,� Alvio said. There are also some low birth weight heifer bulls throughout the catalogue. These bulls were all unassisted at birth, have good shoulders and come from proven low birth weight genetics. The sale will be interfaced with AuctionsPlus for those who cannot attend. “Due to COVID-19 and travel restrictions, you will still be able to secure a bull and we feel you will not be disappointed with your purchase,� said Alvio. There is also free delivery on route to Casterton, Wodonga and Bairnsdale. Alvio and Sam are more than happy to help you selecting suitable bulls for your program, saying, “We are only a phone call away to discuss your requirements�. The Trovatello family look forward to seeing you on sale day.
2021 ALPINE AUTUMN BULL SALE
100 ANGUS BULLS
VOLUME. VALUE. VELOCITY.
WEDNESDAY 10TH MARCH 2021 HRR & APR Registered Bulls Backed by a comprehensive QA Program & 3 Year Guarantee* FREE DELIVERY* *Conditions apply. Refer to Sale Catalogue.
FREE DELIVERY ALPINE GUARANTEE* *Conditions apply
alpineangus.com.au alpineangus.com.au Chris Oswin: 0427 562 254 Suzy Martin: 0418 577 627 Jim Delaney: 0408 535 658
2 BREEDS 2 STUDS 1 SALE
Alvio: 0419 191 193 www.glendanpark.com.au
Beef Week Field Day: Saturday 30th Jan
Sam: 0419 191 192 www.adameluca.com.au
February 2021
Southern Farmer - Page 15
Government to establish Organics Industry Advisory Group
MINISTER FOR AG: David Littleproud said he remains responsive to the needs of industry.
VFF announces Jane Lovell as new CEO THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) recently announced that Jane Lovell will join the organisation as its new chief executive officer from February 15. VFF president Emma Germano said she was excited to announce the appointment of Jane who comes with significant industry experience as the manager National Rural Issues at AgriFutures and the CEO at Seafood Industry Australia. “Jane joining the VFF is super exciting for the organisation,” Ms Germano said. “Jane will bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role and I look forward to working with Jane in continuing to move the VFF forward. “As the VFF looks to grow our membership and refocus our efforts to return value to our membership and influence government decision making, this external appointment will help to ensure the VFF is a contemporary organisation that represents today’s Victorian farming sector.” Ms Lovell said that she feels extremely privileged to be taking the leadership role with the VFF. “We have some real challenges ahead to promote and secure the critical role farming has in our communities and for our state,” Ms Lovell said. “I look forward to getting out and connecting with our members to better understand their priorities and concerns, and to working with the VFF team to provide a strong, united voice for Victorian farmers.” The appointment follows a robust recruitment process conducted by Pacific Search Partners that considered more than 100 applicants. The process, which began in mid-2020, was briefly delayed due to COVID-19 and the 2020 VFF elections.
Covering Central, South Victoria, and West Gippsland
AN Organics Industry Advisory Group representing producers, manufacturers, exporters, importers and retailers will be established to ensure our regulatory framework is fit-for-purpose going forward. Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said that the Australian Government remains responsive to the needs of industry and will investigate the potential
to improve current regulations to facilitate industry development. “Australia’s organics industry contributes around AUD$2.6 billion to the Australian economy each year and is projected to grow strongly over the next five years, with revenue forecast to increase at an annualised rate of 15.1 per cent through to 2024-25,” Mr Littleproud said. “With a huge amount of or-
ganic agricultural land, Australia is well placed to take advantage of the global organic market, which is already worth over USD$97 billion. “This is only set to grow due to rising consumer demand. “Improving the regulatory framework should be focused on growing our organic industry, improving market access with other countries, especially our major trading partners, and reducing the need for
multiple accreditations from different countries - reducing regulatory burden and saving money. “That is why I have asked my department to establish an Organics Industry Advisory Group to look at ways the regulatory system can support domestic and export producers. “The group’s members have a broad range of skills and expertise from across the organic supply chain.”
Page 16 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
Opening the gate to virtual fencing
NEW RESEARCH: Virtual fencing could be far less stressful on sheep than other standard farming practices. of the neckband is currently being tested in the beef industry in NSW and Queensland, but the sheep industry is lagging a little behind. Danila and Tellisa hope their findings may expedite the development of an automated neckband for sheep. Tellisa’s comparative experiments explored how sheep respond physiologically and behaviourally to
the audio and electrical stimuli. Combining video analysis and measurements of cortisol levels and body temperature, she found that sheep were more stressed by a barking dog than the fence’s beep. Similarly, the restraint associated with crutching or shearing was more stressful than the electrical pulse they received if they tried to
breach a virtual fence. “Once the sheep recognise that the beep indicates the boundary, it’s no more problematic than any other fence, and that’s been an important finding,� Tellisa said. “It’s very similar to the principles of a normal electric fence, except that it is an audio barrier rather than a visual, physical one.� Tellisa also discovered that sheep learn to interact
with a virtual fence very quickly - after about three interactions, over a day or two and that social learning is possible. “We think individual ewes may be able to teach their lambs how to interact safely with the virtual fence, and while this maternal learning warrants more investigation, it has applications for when and how a farmer implements fencing within a
*/ 450$, '03 *..&%*"5& %&-*7&3: "6453"-*"ɤ8*%&
$69,900 +GST $64,900.00 +GST AL400 13T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER NEW ACE AL400 13T Articulated Wheel Loader The MOST POWERFUL Wheel Loader in its class. t GENUINE Cummins 6BTA5.9-C180 - 180HP 750nm t 4000kg Capacity t 13000kg Operating Weight t Joystick Pilot Control t Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch t A/C & Heated ROPS Safety Cab t Premium Stereo System t Reverse Camera t 2.0m3 GP Bucket t FREE fork attachment t FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre t Extended loadframe - NN -JGU height t Auto Level & Auto Float system t Fitted with Remote 3rd valve E-Stops and Full Mine Spec inc Suppression & Emission Systems available on request. 3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE. 5&"34 )0634 &/(*/& 8"33"/5:
FINANCE AVAILABLE **TO APPROVED PURCHASES
New ACE AL350 11T Articulated Wheel Loader t Extended )J -JGU Load-Frame t GENUINE Cummins 6BT3.9-C130 t 3500kg Lift Capacity t t 4 00mm -JGU Height t 11000kg Operating Weight t Joystick Pilot Control t 1SFNJVN Pumps & Valves t Joystick $POUSPMMFE Transmission t Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch, t A/C & Heated ROPS,FOPS,TOPS Cab. t AM/FM Stereo with USB. t Reverse Camera with LED’s, t 1.6m3 GP Bucket t FREE Quick-Hitch t FREE 4 in 1 bucket t FREE fork attachment t FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre. Fitted with Remote Hydraulic 3rd valve - FULL FLOW
:&"34 1"354 -"#063 8"33"/5: "6453"-*" 8*%& 5&"34 )0634 &/(*/& 8"33"/5:
MARK@ACEMH.COM.AU WWW.ACEMH.COM.AU 11 ROYAN PLACE BAYSWATER NORTH VIC 3153 ABN:13147978097
CALL MARK "$& ."$)*/&3: )064& 15: -5% PH: 0410 059 136 PH: (03) 9761 7882
.00 $25,900+GST +GST $29,900
.00 $35,900+GST +GST $39,900
.00 $53,900+GST +GST $56,900
mob,� Tellisa said. “It may, for example, be better to introduce the virtual fences immediately after lambing, to educate the lambs all together.� The UNE research has been supported by the Rural R&D for Profit program run by the Federal Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, with investments by livestock industry research agencies, several universities (including UNE), CSIRO, and Agersens, the company commercialising the technology. Now, the Grains Research and Development Corporation and Australian Wool Innovation are also interested in seeing the research continue. “This is exciting new technology that appears to be welfare-friendly,� Danila said. “Cost-benefit analysis by the University of Melbourne is also showing that virtual fencing cuts the costs of permanent infrastructure while retaining the benefits of time-limited grazing systems often with improved productivity and reduced labour.� Tellisa received a threemonth extension to her scholarship from UNE, in order to complete her thesis during trying COVID conditions.
AL270 6.9T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER
AL200 5.2T ARTICULATED WHEEL LOADER
NEW ACE AL270 6.9T Articulated Wheel Loader
NEW ACE AL200 5.2T Articulated Wheel Loader
t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t
GENUINE Cummins 4BT3.9-C100 2700kg Capacity 6900kg Operating Weight Joystick Pilot Control 1SFNJVN Pumps & Valves Joystick $POUSPMMFE Transmission Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch A/C & Heated ROPS,FOPS, Cab AM/FM Stereo with USB Reverse Camera with LED’s 1.4m3 GP Bucket FREE 4 in 1 bucket FREE fork attachment FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre Fitted with Remote Hydraulic 3rd valve - FULL FLOW
t t t t t t t t t t t t t t
Joystick $POUSPMMFETransmission 2000kg Capacity 5200kg Operating Weight Joystick Pilot Control 8 HP Turbo Diesel Full Hydraulic Quick-Hitch A/C & Heated ROPS Safety Cab. AM/FM Stereo System with USB Reverse Camera 1.0m3 GP Bucket FREE 4 in 1 bucket FREE fork attachment FREE Spare Wheel & Tyre Fitted with Remote Hydraulic 3rd valve.Â
Digital Scales also available. 3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE.
3 YEARS PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY AUSTRALIAWIDE.
:&"34 )0634 &/(*/& 8"33"/5:
BETTER QUALITY, BETTER VALUE, BETTER SUPPORT
t/12d13713-v21/32-19
VIRTUAL fencing, a concept for keeping domestic animals within a boundary using audio signals and electric pulses, is far less stressful on sheep than other standard farming practices, University of New England (UNE) researchers have found. Post-doctoral researcher Danila Marini and PhD candidate Tellisa Kearton are wrapping up a series of complex experiments that have tested and measured sheep stress responses to virtual fencing, as well as its effectiveness for managing intensive, rotational grazing. Danila has discovered that sheep eat the same amount of food, in much the same way as if contained by electric fencing. “They behave normally, graze normally, without any stress, and learn very quickly how to interact with the fence,� Danila said. A virtual fence is an invisible line in the landscape that can be created on a map on a tablet, and moved or erased at the farmer’s touch. Animals wearing a GPSenabled neckband are warned of the presence of the invisible “fence� through an audio cue and then, if the beep is ignored, the collar delivers a short, mild electric pulse. A commercial version
February 2021
Southern Farmer - Page 17
$"-- (&3"3%
4E SERIES + LOADER 0%
PA
4090.4E ROPS
4050 & 4060 ROPS Includes 4in1 Bucket
50HP $
31,900 + GST
Includes 4in1 Bucket
Add 4in1 Bucket for 2,500 + GST
85HP
$
36,900 + GST
T&C’s Apply
4080.4E CAB & 4100.4E CAB
$
60HP
FINANCE AVAILABLE
80HP
$
95HP $
67,300 + GST
$
49,900 + GST
62,000 + GST
AGROLUX 310 + LOADER
AGROFARM 115GS + LOADER
Secured units ordered
DON’T MISS OUT!
62HP
110HP
$
$ 38,500 + GST 85,900 + GST SPECIALIST SERIES
AGROPLUS F410 DT & F430 GS
85HP $
AGROPLUS F80.4 KEYLINE
106HP
76,400 + GST
$
94,700 + GST
AGROPLUS 420 PROFILINE
75HP
1 ONLY LEFT
$
96HP
48,400 + GST
$
39,000 + GST
$
88,400 + GST
.0/#6-,ư4&7*--& 3% 4&7*--& 7*$ www.sevilletractors.com.au
sales@sevilletractors.com.au
FINANCE OPTIONS AVAILABLE - ASK FOR MORE INFO
Page 18 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
The International Year of Fruits and Vegetables THE Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has officially announced 2021 will be the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables, with the idea to improve healthy and sustainable food production through innovation and technology, and to reduce food loss and waste. FAO Director-General, Qu Dongyu, launched the branding at the 74th session the UN General Assembly in December, with a goal of raising awareness about the important role of fruits and vegetables in human nutrition, food security and health. Mr Dongyu described the initiative as “a unique opportunity to raise global awareness�. He said the COVID-19 pandemic had challenged people to find new ways of fighting hunger and malnutrition and said IYFV would highlight the role of digital technologies in improving nutrition and market opportunities. “In the current health crisis we are facing around the world, promoting healthy diets to strengthen our immune systems is especially appropriate,� Mr Dongyu said. While noting the challenges in improving production and agri-food chains,
Looking after your work-mate - dogs on utes By Dr JEFF CAVE, District Veterinary Officer
UN announcement hoped to help fruit and veg exports
THERE is no argument that working dogs are a valuable and helpful asset to farmers and it stands to reason, if your dog travels on the back of your ute, you need to take extra care to avoid exposing them to heat stress on hot days. While it is legal to allow appropriately restrained dogs to travel on the back of utes, dogs being left in the sun for long periods can quickly dehydrate or even die from heat stress. Adequate shelter, for example a fixed canopy, needs to be provided to protect tethered dogs from extreme temperatures. A lot of utes and tray backs these days are made of metal and will heat up quickly and could easily burn dogs’ paws. New regulations introduced in Victoria in December 2019, require that when the temperature is 28 degrees or above that an area of insulating material be placed on the metal tray to protect the dog from the metal surface. Ensure dogs kept in cages have adequate ventilation, particularly when the vehicle is not moving, and ensure all dogs are given regular access to cool water. Victoria’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act requires dogs travelling in the back of utes, trailers or open tray trucks to be tethered or caged in a manner that prevents them from falling from the vehicle. The only exemption is when dogs are actively working livestock. The tether should only be long enough to permit the dog to stand, lie down and move about but not so long that it could potentially let the dog fall off the vehicle and be dragged or strangled. Tethering dogs should always be regarded as a temporary, short term method of restraint. In addition, it is an offence to leave an animal unattended inside a motor vehicle when the outside temperature is 28 degrees or above, so be sure to make appropriate arrangements when you are travelling with animals.
THE YEAR OF: United Nations has officially announced 2021 will be the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables. he encouraged countries to see the International Year as an opportunity to improve infrastructure and farming practices thereby supporting small scale farmers. He said fruits and vegetables were a good way for farmers to create cash crops. In his message, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a more “holistic approach� to nutrition and sustainability noting next year’s Food Systems Summit
SAVE UP TO 300 $
*
would also be an opportunity to consider the fragility of food systems. FAO and the World Health Organisation recommended each adult consumes at least 400 grams of fruit and vegetables on a daily basis to prevent chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease and obesity, as well as to counter micronutrient deficiencies. Mr Dongyu said food loss and waste in the fruits and veg-
etables sector remains a problem with considerable consequences, and that “innovative technologies and approaches are of critical importance�, as “they can help maintaining safety and quality, increasing the shelf life of fresh produce items and preserving their high nutritional value�. Up to 50 per cent of fruits and vegetables produced in developing countries are lost in the supply chain between harvest and consumption.
40 4
$
LAWN TRACTORS FROM
3,249* 6$9( $250
ZTRÂŽ ZERO TURNS FROM
$
5,749* Refers model Z146 ,QWURGXFWRU\ 3ULFH
*
MONTHS INTEREST FREE^ NO DEPOSIT *
ON SELECTED LAWN TRACTOR & ZERO TURN MODELS $
5HIHUV PRGHO 76
MZ48 ZERO TURN NOW
9,699* 6$9( $300
*2IIHUV YDOLG ² DW SDUWLFLSDWLQJ DXWKRULVHG +XVTYDUQD 'HDOHUV ZKLOH VWRFNV ODVW 7HUPV &RQGLWLRQV DSSO\ VHH LQ VWRUH IRU GHWDLOV
Your local authorised Husqvarna Dealer:
$SSURYHG DSSOLFDQWV RQO\ )HHV WHUPV FRQGLWLRQV PLQLPXP ÀQDQFH DPRXQW $1,300 apply, incl $99 Annual Fee charged at the time the À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
5 YEAR DOMESTIC WARRANTY# #
Terms and Conditions apply, see HUSQVARNA.COM for details.
Darmac Ag
249 - 251 Monbulk Road SILVAN VIC 3795
Ph: 9737 9255
February 2021
Southern Farmer - Page 19
Managing livestock to prevent heat stress Dr JEFF CAVE, Agriculture Victoria District Veterinary Officer AS we move into summer, heat stress in livestock can become a major issue both for production levels and animal welfare, but there are precautions that you can take. The ideal temperature range for cattle is between 5 and 25°C, and for adult pigs just 18 to 20°C. It is important to remember high producing livestock, such as dairy cows, are the animals most
sensitive to heat stress. Poultry have been known to perish due to heat stress on very hot days. As temperatures rise, animals use their energy to cool themselves – this results in reduced production or weight gain. Feed intake is also reduced further increasing these impacts. High humidity can also play a significant role in heat stress. For any given temperature, the degree of heat stress increases as the relative humidity increases.
Heat stress can significantly impact the production and animal welfare of your stock. Check your livestock daily, looking for any signs of stress during hot weather. Heat stressed livestock will seek out shade, drink more, eat less, stand rather than laying down, pant, may produce less milk and can be less fertile. On hot days, give livestock unlimited access to shade or shelter and good quality, cool drinking water. Make sure you are ready to im-
plement your fire plan. Avoid moving animals during the hottest part of the day and try to avoid on extreme days. High quality feed should be given during the evening when it is cooler, as livestock are more likely to consume it. If you are not living at a property, arrange for a neighbour to check on animals in your absence. All producers have an obligation to ensure livestock in their care are free from pain, suffering or distress. Failure to provide livestock with
adequate food, water or shelter may be an offence under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986. By making some minor management changes and taking a little extra care of your livestock in extreme hot weather, the effects of heat stress can be substantially reduced delivering better welfare and production outcomes. For further information please contact your local veterinarian or Agriculture Victoria veterinary or animal health officer.
HOT IN THE SHADE: The ideal temperature range for cattle is between 5 and 25°C.
3 Days
Friday - Sunday
BY SED au RY HA LY m. NT RC ON .co
E U T rk EP KE pa PR TIC dner r la
sit
Vi
Victoria’s premier regional agricultural show
26-28 March 2021 Lardner Park Gippsland )HDWXULQJ ● Farm Machinery & Equipment
● Livestock & Agribusiness
● Telstra Women in Ag Lunch
● Animal nursery
● Farm World’s Fittest Farmer
● Loads of Retail Shopping
● Cars, Motorbikes, Caravans & Boats
● Health & Wellness
● Farm World Market Place
● Food & Family Areas
● Outdoor Living & Gardens
● Cooking Demonstrations
...and so much more
%RRN RQOLQH DW ZZZ ODUGQHUSDUN FRP DX
6WUDWHJLF 3DUWQHUV
6WUDWHJLF 3DUWQHUV F 3DUWQHUV
Ïòõ éøïï èùèñ÷ ìñéòõðä÷ìòñ äñç ðòõè óïèäöè ùìöì÷ ZZZ ODUGQHUSDUN FRP DX òõ éòïïòú Ïäõð àòõïç ¡ Õäõçñèõ Ùäõî òñ Üòæìäï ðèçìä
)DUP :RUOG 6SRQVRUV
Page 20 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
Keeping our agriculture workers moving WITH the border between Victoria and New South Wales closed to keep our state safe from ongoing coronavirus transmission, the Victorian Government claims it has ensured primary producers and agriculture workers have been able to travel between states to undertake their important work. Effective from early January, all agriculture workers who live and work between New South Wales and Victoria – other than those already covered under the existing border bubble arrangements – were able to apply for a permit to enter Victoria to keep the state’s vital food and fibre supply chain moving. These arrangements applied to agriculture workers with the same safeguards as workers in the freight and essential services industries – stipulating they must only remain in Victoria for the period necessary and minimise contact with other people in Victoria. Permitted agriculture workers who enter Victoria are legally required to wear a face mask in all public places, get regularly tested for coronavirus, self-quarantine when not working and only leave their accommodation for takeaway food or drink, bathroom stops, medical care, to obtain a coronavirus
BORDER DRAMA: Victorian farmers and agriculture workers living outside the border bubble and re-entering Victoria after conducting work in NSW are required to self-isolate for 14 days. test or in an emergency. Victorian farmers and agriculture workers living outside the border bubble and re-entering Victoria after conducting work in NSW are required to self-isolate for 14 days upon their return and get tested for coronavirus twice. This permit system is consistent with the National Agriculture Workers’ Code endorsed by National Cabi-
net in September, recognising that many agriculture workers regularly cross state borders – and will provide Victorian contact tracers with vital contact information if there is a positive case where these workers have been. The only other categories of authorised entry to Victoria from NSW – apart from existing border bubble arrangements – are
individuals holding an exemption from the Department of Health and Human Services, those with a transit permit from another jurisdiction, Victorians who have completed 14 days’ mandatory quarantine in NSW, and people in set categories like emergency services workers. Anyone who seeks to enter Victoria from NSW, outside of these approved cat-
egories, will now be turned back. Agriculture workers who need to cross the border will be able to apply for a permit at service.vic.gov.au, or contact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186 for further information. The Victorian Government is also backing regional businesses and workers with initiatives including the $17 million Seasonal Work-
force Support Package to address workforce shortages caused by the pandemic. The package is part of the $57 million Agriculture Workforce Plan supporting worker relocation, induction and business adaption. For more information on the border closure, current coronavirus exposure venues or to find a testing site, visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au.
INVEST IN QUALITY HAY MAKING EQUIPMENT. PROUDLY MADE IN ITALY
Suited to farmers and contractors, discover how Enorossi hay making equipment could benefit your land today.
www.clarkfarmequipment.com.au
Clark Farm Equipment
sales@clarkfarmequipment.com.au
clarkfarmequipment
1800 648 384
Clark Farm Equipment
February 2021
Southern Farmer - Page 21
Paddock practices: Caltrop can be controlled with careful management CALTROP (Tribulus terrestris) is a significant and persistent summer weed in most grain growing regions of Australia. Strong vines, sharp, woody seeds and a very short growth cycle make caltrop problematic for a range of reasons. Research by the Western Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), the University of Queensland and the University of Adelaide through investment by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) has revealed useful information about caltrop ecology, seed bank persistence and susceptibility to chemical control. A problematic weed Caltrop grows throughout Australia, except in Tasmania. It is also known as puncture vine, bindii, bindy-eye, cat’s head and goat’s head. Caltrop will germinate most readily in temperatures between 24 degrees Celsius and 27° Celsius. Germination can occur once the average soil temperature has reached 15°C to 20°C for at least two weeks. The plant grows quickly into prostrate, sprawling vines up to three metres in length. It can set seed within one month of seedling emergence and will continue to spread and grow seeds at its extremities, even as seeds near the centre of the plant are drying and shedding. The seeds have sharp, woody spines that can stick in the hooves and coats of grazing animals, as well as in footwear and vehicle tyres. The spines have been known to puncture tyres. The dried vines can also be dragged by tillage equipment, shedding seeds as they travel. Seed germination DPIRD researcher Dr Catherine Borger said up to 90 per cent of newly-ma-
tured caltrop seeds will have an inherent dormancy and need a ripening period of six to 12 months. “As caltrop requires warm temperatures to germinate, those seeds will remain in the soil through winter and germinate in the following spring or summer,” she said. “Seeds without this inherent dormancy can germinate immediately if there is moisture available, allowing the population to produce several cohorts in one season.” Under warmer conditions, caltrop can germinate before harvest in Australia’s southern cropping regions. Like all summer weeds, caltrop depletes nutrient and moisture reserves in the soil. Controlling caltrop Dr Borger said caltrop’s woody seeds, high seed production and inherent seed dormancy all contribute to a persistent seed bank in the soil. “The viability and persistence of caltrop seeds increases when seed is buried deeper than five millimetres below the soil surface,” she said. “In our irrigated trials at Northam, seed buried at one centimetre had 56 per cent emergence in the first year, 21 per cent in the second year and 10 per cent in year three. “When seed was buried at depths of two or 10cm, seed viability remained at 10 to 11 per cent after two years while the viability of seed left on the surface had reduced to three per cent.” As a result, Dr Borger said one of the most effective ways to control caltrop is to leave seeds on the soil surface during summer fallow periods. “In no-till systems, seeds left in the first five millimetres of soil or on the surface will germinate readily if moisture is available and the plants can then be sprayed out,” she said. “A minimum tillage system will bury a higher proportion of seed, inducing dormancy.
CROP KILLER: Caltrop is a significant and persistent pasture pest. Burying seeds with deep tillage Deep tillage soil inversion practices used in WA, such as mouldboard ploughing, can bury caltrop seed so deeply that emerging plants will never reach the surface and germination will fail. However, burial will induce dormancy and allow the buried seeds to remain viable for longer. These seeds will germinate if they are brought back to the surface by subsequent soil amelioration. The cost of deep tillage limits its usefulness as a standalone control method for caltrop. Chemical control Currently, caltrop has not evolved resistance to herbicides so there is a range of chemical options for effective control when seedlings emerge. Studies by University of Adelaide researchers at Roseworthy, South Australia, found treatment with glyphosate or glyphosate plus group I herbicides provided greater than 90 per cent control of caltrop. The researchers also found that mixing glyphosate with group G herbicides could reduce the effective control of caltrop to below 50 per cent.
DELLAVEDOVA FERTILISERice,SERVICES large or small
Because the plant only needs a month to produce viable seed, with 17 days from emergence to flowering and an average of 10 days from flowering to seed shedding, spraying may need to be repeated frequently where multiple germinations occur. Western Australian agronomist Andrew Storrie from AGRONOMO says there are plenty of effective herbicides that are registered for control of caltrop. “Killing the plant is not
the problem,” he said. “The problem is its rapid seed set and the potential for multiple cohorts from summer rain events.” Some growers have experienced difficulty controlling caltrop with optical sprayers due to the fern-like nature of the foliage, according to Mr Storrie. “We have now found that if optical sprayers are kept to a ground speed of 14 to 16 kilometres per hour, the cameras will detect the weed
and provide effective control,” he said. Controlling caltrop in crops The increasing emergence of caltrop in late spring is adding to the risk of seed set before winter crops can be harvested and a summer spraying program commenced. In some situations, a residual herbicide may be used to provide longer term control. Mr Storrie recommends working with an adviser to identify a combination of registered residual herbicide and tolerant crop variety when planning the cropping program. Growers need to be mindful of caltrop’s short life cycle, while observing chemical residue limits and withholding periods whenever using herbicide to control caltrop before harvest. Another option is to identify caltrop patches within a paddock and avoid sowing them until the caltrop is under control. “As long as any risk of soil erosion can be managed, this option helps limit vehicle traffic and make timely herbicide applications possible,” Mr Storrie said.
http://abctarps.com.au/ ht tp://ab p:///ab /ab /a /abc ab bct c a ps.ccom om m.au/ SAVE Hay, SAVE Money with Hay Covers &RYHU 6L]HV 0HWHUV 3.6 x 16.4 3.6 x 27.0 6.0 x 16.4 6.0 x 22.5 7.5 x 22.5 8.3 x 9.0
10.0 x 12.8 10.0 x 16.4 10.0 22.5 12.0 x 21.0 15.0 x 21.0
Best prices and adv
)HHW 12 x 54 12 x 90 20 x 54 20 x 74 25 x 74 27 x 30
33 x 42 33 x 54 33 x 74 40 x 70 50 x 70
Hay Covers Superior Quality Polyethylene Suitable for Round &
T/05D08773-V2/1516
Strong & Durable
Square Bales
Very Economical
Rope Reinforced edges
UV Stabilized
Brass Eyelets & Webbing Loops
Waterproof Large Size Range
for easy tie-down Available Immediately
FERTILISER SUPPLY AND SPREADING SPECIALISTS SOIL AND PLANT TISSUE TESTING
“Prescription blends. GPS Variable Application Rates available for all fertilisers using accredited spreading equipment”
Any tarp related questions? Feel free to contact us on:
* Super * Lime * Gypsum* Bulk * Bagged * Spread
Call : 1300 656 211 (All Hours)
Maryborough 5461 2888
Ballarat 5338 1522
Website: www.abctarps.com.au http://abctarps.com.au/
Shane 0427 349 088, Barry 0438 349 077
Dean 0418 525 587
Email : info@abctarps.com.au https://www.instagram.com/abctarps/ ttps: tps p Instagram: @abctarps
Page 22 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
New look CFA workwear but same great service CFA has released the design of its new workwear which will be available to volunteers when they are undertaking non-response duties within the community as part of their brigade roles. The workwear, including short and long-sleeved shirts, blouses, jackets, trousers and shorts, will feature a distinctive blue colour (Patriot Blue) and the CFA logo, making it unique within the emergency services sector. “The new workwear gives CFA volunteers comfortable and distinctive clothing to wear while undertaking nonresponse duties,” chief officer Jason Heffernan said. “The workwear doesn’t replace the traditional personal protective clothing (the “yellows”) which is used for operational response purposes, but it does provide a practical and recognisable alternative for volunteers undertaking important roles in the community. “Instances where the workwear will be used include brigade activities, training, fundraising, community education
activities and while working in incident management teams,” Mr Heffernan said. Acting chief executive officer Catherine Greaves said she was delighted that after much discussion, engagement and feedback, the CFA workwear will be delivered from mid2021. “CFA is a volunteer emergency service therefore it’s important that our members have a unique and distinctive identity that they can wear with pride,” she said. “This is just one of many projects supporting and investing in CFA volunteers, such as the rollout of 5500 new firefighting helmets and $4.8m worth of equipment for brigades, funded by community donations.” The first tranche of the rollout will deliver around 8500 sets of workwear to volunteers in leadership and communityfacing positions in the second half of 2021. The workwear is funded by a $3m investment from the Victorian Government’s Volunteer Support Package.
NEW LOOK: The CFA’s new uniforms will be distributed mid-year to all officers of the CFA for wearing at formal and non-operational events.
Leave early and live, urges CFA FARMERS could be risking their lives by opting to ‘wait and see’ rather than ‘leave early’ on high-risk fire days, a CFA survey has revealed. More than 600 people in some of Victoria’s highest risk fire locations were surveyed and the results come despite the state suffering its worst fire season in a decade last year. The latest seasonal outlook predicts a lower risk of longrunning bushfires than last year, when 1.5 million hectares of Victoria burned, but grassfires remain a high risk across the state. The respondents to CFA’s 2020 Bushfire Community Survey, undertaken after each bushfire season since 2009–10, who fell into the ‘wait and see’ category included: • a quarter (26 per cent) said they would do as much as
possible to protect their property but leave if they felt threatened by the fire; z 12 per cent said they would wait to see what the fire was like before deciding whether to stay or leave; z 1 in 10 said they would wait for police, fire or emergency services to tell them what to do on the day. Only eight per cent said they planned to leave the area on days of high-risk fire danger. CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan warned those who waited too long to leave, or weren’t adequately prepared to defend their property, could be risking their lives and those of firefighters. “Leaving early is the safest option to protect yourself and your family and it means leaving the area before a fire starts – not when you can see flames or smell smoke,” he said.
“Leaving early means leaving the night before or early in the morning of a high-risk fire day. “It means it’s easier to make good, rational decisions and avoid panic, becoming trapped and risking serious injury or death. “Waiting to leave means a drive that normally takes a few minutes could take hours, or you may not be able to get out at all.” Mr Heffernan said that on hot, dry and windy days, fires can start and spread quickly. He urged Victorians to learn what the fire danger ratings mean and use them as triggers to take action to keep themselves and loved ones safe. “Households will need different triggers depending on their circumstances, such as whether their property is located near bushland and whether escape
routes are limited,” Mr Heffernan said. “However, CFA recommends people in high-risk bushfire settings should leave early on days of fire danger ratings of Severe, Extreme or Code Red. “On Code Red days, leaving early is the only safe option; homes are not designed or constructed to withstand fires in those conditions. “Talk to your household, family or neighbours about your bushfire survival plan and check Fire Danger Ratings daily so you know when to leave. “Fire safety is a shared responsibility and on high fire risk days you cannot expect a fire truck at every house. “It’s your responsibility to make the best possible decision for your family based on the current fire danger ratings and official warnings for your area.
Finalise your livestock fire plan VICTORIAN primary producers are more aware than most the importance of being prepared and having a plan in place for their livestock. Affects faced include damaged fencing, and other infrastructure, facilities and supplementary feed stores, burnt pastures, and the devastating loss of thousands of sheep and cattle. Now is the time for livestock owners to 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); 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 build-up. Areas where there are dams and swamps are another possible option. 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, halters 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 on-farm, 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.
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. ` ` ` `
450 or 800 litre tank capacity Honda 11/2” Aussie Fire Chief combo 20m of 3/4” fire fighting hose Machined aluminum twist grip nozzle
` 450L - 1000 W x 970 L x 700mm H ` 800L - 1750 W x 950 L x 700mm H
800L GA5021580
3495
$
450L GA4902560
2795
$
goldacres fire fighting
February 2021
Southern Farmer - Page 23
$10 million for drought and climate resilience THE Australian Government is investing $10 million through the Climate Services for Agriculture program to help farm businesses increase drought and climate resilience. Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management, David Littleproud, said the program was funded through the $5 billion Future Drought Fund and would provide farmers with access to trusted and relevant information on national and regional climate data. “We are the first government to look to the future to prepare for the next drought which is why we have estab-
lished the $5 billion Future Drought Fund,� Mr Littleproud said. “The Climate Services for Agriculture Program will complement seasonal forecasts and climate guides that are currently available through BoM by providing detailed regional information about future drought and climate risks, and inform management actions to address vulnerabilities and prepare for future impacts. “CSIRO and BoM will engage the agricultural sector to determine the type of climate information that is most useful to their businesses and test in four pilot
regions to ensure the decision support tools meet their needs. “The pilot regions will be identified in early 2021 and will include a range of climatic regions and agricultural sectors. “The end result will deliver regional scale climate projections across Australia, along with actionable advice to help farm businesses to make decisions such as the commodities they produce and the information will be delivered through a userfriendly interactive digital platform.� The Climate Services for Agriculture program is one of the foundational pro-
MAKING A FOOTPRINT: The Federal Government is pouring money into drought resilience for farmers.
grams announced under the Australian Government’s $5 billion Future Drought Fund on July 1, 2020. The first generation of the climate service is expected to be operational by June 2021 with user engagement in four pilot regions rolling out in early 2021. Last year’s linked grants program will also provide grants of between $20,000 and $200,000 to organisations, farmer groups and individuals to build drought resilience on agricultural landscapes. A competitive grants process for organisations, farmer groups and individuals opened on September 25
POLY WATER TANKS REPAIRS
and closed October 30, 2020. Funding for successful applicants is expected to be provided soon. Through “holistic management and adoption of new or existing technology and practices�, this program is to deliver a range of onground outcomes achieving benefits tailored to meet local priorities and contribute to landscape-scale drought resilience. For example, projects which regenerate and maintain groundcover can deliver drought resilience by improving the soil’s water infiltration and storage capacity - reducing run-off and associated water erosion.
North West Drilling
Including
Your local drillers with extensive experience in all ground conditions. Family owned business established since 1976.
‡ 3RO\ ZDWHU WDQNV DQG WURXJKV ‡ &DOI IHHGHUV DQG ERRPVSUD\ WDQNV ‡ 7UDFWRU IXHO WDQNV ‡ :DWHU DQG GLHVHO WUDQVSRUW WDQNV ‡ PRQWKV ZDUUDQW\ RQ UHSDLUV
WE ARE A MOBILE SERVICE
ZZZ SODVWLFIXVLRQ FRP DX
There is also the $3 million ‘Drought Resilience Self-Assessment Tool’ Ă˘â‚Źâ€œ an accessible online tool enabling farmers to understand their own climate and drought risks, and self-identify where improvements can be made to increase the resilience of farming businesses. The first phase of the tool is expected to be operational before June 30 this year and is supposed to bring together existing data related to drought resilience, and through a usable and accessible tool, help farmers identify localised risks to make well-informed decisions about their business.
�Pete and Andy after another successful day constructing a water bore�
Fix your water today Î Soften hard water for decades on $10 power yearly Î Clear out scaled pipes, increase ows Î More effective than magnets by design Î Salinity, scale, iron and hardwater solution
ĂŽ ĂŽ ĂŽ ĂŽ
For quotes and advice call Graham or Andy Brennan 0409362289 / 0409362291 northwest.drilling@bigpond.com northwestdrilling.com.au PO BOX. 254 Diamond Creek, Vic 3089
Grow Healthy Plants Using Saline Water
Healthy stock using hard water No waste streams or decreases in ow Used by farmers, stations, councils, mining companies ScientiďŹ cally tested and proven technology
Call 1300 138 223
www.hydrosmart.com.au
Page 24 - Southern Farmer
February 2021
0% FINANCE* EARLY ORDER OFFERS NOW ON
ZERO IN ON OUR HAY RANGE MF TL-V VERTICAL-FOLD MOWERS
MF TD SERIES TEDDERS
MF RK SERIES RAKES
MF 1840 SMALL SQUARE BALER
Massey Ferguson hay and forage equipment offers something for everyone; from our range of square and round balers to our extensive offering of mowers, windrowers, tedders and rakes. Whatever the crop or the job get it done with high quality hay and forage equipment from Massey Ferguson.
Dandenong
Small Horse Tractors
18 Lonsdale Street
(03) 9791 6414
Kyneton
L & G Sheppard and Sons
88 Piper Street
(03) 5422 1821
Nagambie
John Sanderson Machinery
36-38 Industrial Crescent
(03) 5794 2272
Silvan
Darmac Ag Sales & Service
249-251 Monbulk Road
(03) 9737 9255
*Offer ends February 28, 2021, while stocks last. Finance with an interest rate of 0% p.a. available on Chattel Mortgage agreement based on 1/3 cash deposit, 1/3 after six months and 1/3 after 12 months OR minimum 30% cash deposit, the GST component repaid in the fourth month and monthly repayments in arrears over a 12 month term. Fees and lending conditions apply to approved ABN number holders, who use the equipment for business purposes. Finance is approved by AGCO Finance Pty Ltd, ABN number 42 107 653 878.
MASSEYFERGUSON.COM.AU
A world of experience. Working with you.
208466
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MASSEY FERGUSON DEALER TODAY