• Increasing milk production due to free access to robots
• Reducing grain costs with individual feeding
• Reducing labour costs and time spent in the shed
• Reducing health costs by catching potential issues early
• Providing data to help you make more informed decisions
The Strzelecki Lions Club is pleased to announce that they will be hosting the South Gippsland Dairy & Farming Expo in Korumburra on Wednesday 4th & Thursday 5th September 2024.
This year, they will celebrate 25 years of providing the local dairying community with an event showcasing the latest innovations, products, and services available to the dairy industry.
The funds raised from the Dairy Expo have helped the Strzelecki Lions Club distribute over $600,000 back into the community and other Lions projects.
The planning for the Dairy Expo starts in January each year, and the committee meets monthly until the last week before the event to ensure all the plans are in place.
Be sure not to miss your chance to win part of the $5,000 prize pool in the Udder Truth Show bag competition, which is proudly bought to you by South East Organic Fertiliser. So come along to the Korumburra Showgrounds on the 4th & 5th September 2024.
Participating companies include Easy Dairy Automation Systems, Jantec Systems, Brown’s Fertiliser, Dairy Shelters Australia, MaxCare, Ridley, East Coast Generators, Travel Managers – Poowong, Burra Foods, Achmea Insurance, Green Mate Agriculture, Redei – Renewable Energy Solutions, Entegra, Rural Financial Counselling Service Victoria – Gippsland, Alltech, Reid Stockfeeds, GippsDairy, South East Organic Fertiliser and Agriculture Victoria.
Next, we would like to tell you a little about the sponsors of the South Gippsland Dairy & Farming Expo for 2024. These sponsors help make the event a success for the dairy industry and community.
Reid Stockfeeds is a proudly familyowned business, delivering trusted and tailored stockfeed solutions for over 40 years. Built on honesty, value for money and always creating the best quality feed for your healthy livestock!
Specialising in dairy, beef, sheep, pig, goat and hobby feed. Reid understands the needs of its customers both big and small, and assessing farm needs is an utmost priority to our team of professional nutritionists, with due consideration to all feed inputs.
Saputo Dairy Australia produces, markets and distributes a wide range of high-quality dairy and non-dairy products for the domestic and international markets including cheese, dairy alternative cheese, fluid milk, extended shelf-life milk and cream products, cultured products and dairy ingredients.
Saputo is a leading dairy processor in Australia and is part of Saputo Inc., one of the top ten dairy processors in the world. Saputo Dairy Australia products are sold in several countries under well-known brand names such as Caboolture, CHEER™, Cracker Barrel*, Devondale, Great Ocean Road, King Island Dairy, Liddells, Mersey Valley, MG Ingredients, Mil Lel, Sheese, South Cape, Sungold and Tasmanian Heritage.
*Cracker Barrel is a registered trademark of Lactalis Heritage Dairy used under licence.
Vic Silos are 100% Australian owned, operated and built using Australian steel. We specialise in the manufacture and design, repairs and conversions and transportation of grain and pellets silos, stock-feeders, augers and bins.
All silos can be custom designed to meet individual needs.
Servicing Gippsland and beyond for over 30 years. Give us a call on 0351 411 882 to order or get a free quote.
Tow and Fert is an all-encompassing sprayer that can mix and apply urea, lime, gibberellic acid, weed spray, trace elements, humates and seeds – all this using dairy effluent as the base liquid!
Join GEA Farm Technologies and our local dealers: Gippsland Dairy Professionals, Westfalia Warragul and Future Dairies Gippsland.
We offer a comprehensive suite of technologies and solutions that address every facet of dairy farming, including:
• Automatic Milking and Feeding Systems
• Conventional Milking Solutions
• Digital Herd Management
• Manure Handling Equipment
Come and see the Dairy Robot R9500 on display, discuss all of your needs with our local experts and discover how our innovative solutions can enhance your dairy farming operations.
GippsDairy is a regional team delivering research, development, education, and extension programs to dairy farmers across Gippsland.
Since 1996, we have worked to improve the prosperity and sustainability of Gippsland farms and have a strong focus on promoting the dairy industry to the next generation.
Through ongoing collaborations with training providers, government bodies and other service providers, we aim to play an important part in maintaining a vibrant and sustainable dairy industry that provides economic, social and environmental benefits to all participants and our wider community.
Greenmate Agriculture Pty Ltd.
“To grow robust pastures all year round, you need to understand the drivers that allow this to happen. Greenmate Ag understands your soil and what makes it tick. We apply the most advanced soil and plant testing methods, including soil DNA mapping, drone imaging and tissue testing, along with the industry standard soil and plant tests to understand what your soil is made of, what minerals you have and whether the pastures are flourishing, not just surviving. This data is analysed to develop a custom program for your farm. We then supply you all of the inputs you require to bring it all together. Greenmate Ag is the one stop shop you have been waiting for”
ProDairy is an overall Animal health program, designed and delivered by Dairy vets, providing support, advice and training for all facets of animal health on the Dairy Farm. We assist in identifying and addressing farm specific focus areas, resulting in the highest possible animal welfare, and profitability for the farmer.
Come & see the Brandt team located on site 82-83 at the 2024 South Gippsland Dairy & Farming Expo.
We will help you with all Farm Machinery needs. Brandt are your local John Deere & Farm Machinery Experts. Drop in and say hello!
Dairy Pumping Systems hold what is potentially the biggest stock holding in Australia; Pumps, stirrers, Separators, irrigators, wash systems and more.
Big brands such as Yardmaster, Williams, Bauer and Yardblaster. We can also arrange supply of customised or those more unique effluent systems products for you.
Based in Leongatha, with a nationwide dealer network for that local service.
Burra Foods is an Australian dairy ingredient processor which produces and markets value-added dairy products to the global food manufacturing market.
For over 30 years Burra Foods has represented quality and innovation in the global dairy market, specialising in the manufacture of high-end specialised dairy ingredients.
We pride ourselves on production ingenuity and our ability to innovate. Our wealth of experience and technical expertise means that we can tailor unique solutions to meet customer requirements and changes in the marketplace.
Lely Center Gippsland are specialists in pasture-based dairy automation. Their large team of experienced robot technicians and farm management experts help local farmers make the switch to automation and excel on their new systems, with more than 80 Lely Astronaut milking robots now operating in the area.
Lely Center Gippsland also sells, installs and supports automatic calf feeders, feed pushers, manure collectors, cow brushes, calf powders and supplements and more.
Rabobank Australia - the bank born and raised for farming. Rabobank Australia is a part of the global Rabobank Group and is one of Australasia’s leading agricultural lenders and a significant provider of business and corporate banking and financial services to the region’s food and agribusiness sector and has 61 branches throughout Australia.
With 125 years of global agricultural history, Rabobank has a unique understanding of the industry and the importance of taking a longer-term view That’s why, season after season, year after year, we’ll be here to help you grow. www.rabobank.com.au
Evans Petroleum is a locally owned authorized reseller of BP and Castrol fuel and lubricants with 15BP service stations, and a Wholesale Fuel arm selling and
delivering to commercial businesses and farms across Gippsland.
Established in 1970, Evans Petroleum has grown significantly based on a mandate to provide the highest quality fuels and lubricants available and a commitment to deliver the best advice and service possible. Employing over 150 local staff, Evans Petroleum is dedicated to actively supporting the Gippsland economy and reinvesting in local communities.
For more information, please visit: www.evanspetroleum.com.au
Easy Dairy Automation Systems is Australia’s leading supplier of:-
• Dairy Herd Management Software
• Cow Identification Systems
• Automatic Sorting systems
• In Line Fat & Protein Meters
• In Line Cell Count Meters
• Individual Feeding Systems Web: www.easydairy.com.au Phone: (03) 5821 9900.
nbn Local is a business unit within nbn’s Regional Development & Engagement branch.
Our purpose is to lift digital capability, facilitate positive customer experience outcomes and create shared economic and social benefits for rural and regional Australians.
Nbn Local has teams of engagement specialists servicing 22 dedicated regions nationwide.
Alex Aeschliman is nbn Local’s Regional Development & Engagement Manager for Gippsland and Devansh Sharman is our Community Engagement Specialists.
A big shout out to Silver Sponsors and media partners: Poowong Dairy & Hardware, SRH Milk Haulage, South Gippsland Shire Council, Dairy News Australia, The Warragul & Drouin Gazette and Sentinel-Times.
Matt Harms from OnFarm Consulting is hosting a session on Wednesday 4th September at 11am. This is your life. Everyone has a story to tell?
With the dairy industry as diverse as it is, and our dairy people being the backbone of the industry, it is no wonder there are so many personal stories out in our dairy community. Our panel members have heart-wrenching and challenging stories to tell, which have shaped them into the resilient people they are today.
Join Colin Gray and Ancret Shipton and listen to what challenges have been thrown at them, and how they have adapted to their new life. Along with Chloe Brown, podcaster and dairy farmer come along and join us to hear about the stories and challenges she holds from the people that confide in her.
Come along and listen to this wonderful group of resilient farmers and their dairy stories. South Gippsland Shire Council is the proud sponsor of this session.
This year the Lions Club of Strzelecki celebrate 25 years of the South Gippsland Dairy & Farming Expo.
Please make sure you come along and enjoy a day off the farm to mingle with other dairy farmers and service providers to the dairy industry and farming community.
This year the event is scheduled for Wednesday 4th & Thursday 5th September 2024, between 10 am and 3.00 pm at the Korumburra Showgrounds.
Once again, we have a large audience of exhibitors keen to display their new ideas and are focused on showcasing these innovations and developments in the dairy industry.
What’s happening?
• There will be a fabulous array of exhibitors with the latest products and services, a onestop shop for all your farming needs.
• Attend the Matt Harms Onfarm Consulting session on Wednesday 4th at 11 am. This is your life; everyone has a story to tell.
• The Gumboot Gift is a 120-metre foot race wearing gumboots on Thursday 5th at 1 pm; the winners share a $4,000 prize pool.
• Airy Fairy Fun and Faces promises to keep the kids entertained with some face painting and balloon animals.
• Be the lucky farmer who may win part of the $5K prize pool by participating in the Udder Truth Show bag competition!
Our Gold sponsors, exhibitors, and community volunteers, all play a vital role in staging this event for the dairy industry and our local region, so please come along and support them at the event. The Lion’s Club is excited to host this event again in 2024 and we are looking forward to another fabulous couple of days in Korumburra.
Cliff
Wallace Chairman
of the Dairy Expo
“Before the shelter, our biggest challenge calving in steel sheds in winter was that they stayed very wet”
South Gippsland farmer Rowen Foote liked his dairy shelter so much that he’s built a second one and is planning a third. Rowen, who farms with his brother Chris and family near Fish Creek, built a small Dairy Shelters Australia structure in 2019 for rearing calves on automatic milking feeders.
Last year, the brothers added a second larger shelter for their calving cows and now they’re planning a third to provide protection for the growing calves.
The Foote family milks 900 Holstein cows on 688 hectares, rearing their own calves and Friesian and Angus bulls.
“Before the shelter, our biggest challenge calving in steel sheds in winter was that they stayed very wet,” Rowen said.
“The shelter doubled our capacity to house the cows and the pens stayed dry,”
he said. “It’s a lot easier because it stays so warm and dry and the calves thrive in that environment.”
They built the second shelter in 2023 for calving, freeing up paddocks and avoiding muddy births in bad weather.
“The calves have been a lot stronger and healthier and the cows a lot happier because they’re not out in the elements,” Rowen said.
“We’re happy with the investment because it makes it so much easier. We’d like to put in a third shelter for the calves that are outside to give them some more shelter.
“We don’t know how we coped before getting the shelters.”
Dairy Shelters Australia shelters are manufactured in Bendigo using a clear roof, deep litter design.
Designed by former beef and sheep farmer nd now entrepreneur Sam Baulch, FARMap was launched in 2021 to fill a gap in the farm management app market.
Understanding the value of quality farming maps and the role they play in successful farm management; Sam saw an opportunity to design and develop his version; a simple, cost-effective option suited to family farming operations, notably in the livestock sector.
Further inspired by the rising role technology was playing in agriculture, FARMap quickly went into the development phase in early 2018.
“Quality assurance and accurate mapping is a problem for every farmer, so I wanted to put a cheaper option out there for family owned and operated farms”, Sam explained. Simplicity and low cost are Sam’s main aims for the app, ensuring even grandparents are comfortable using FARMap.
Customers share how much they appreciate the simplicity of the app plus the personal touch of having 1:1 support rather than through a large agency.
Sam believes FARMap has changed the way people manage their farms by simplifying the process of recording data and generating reports with all information in one easy-toaccess place.
Continually making improvements to the app based on client feedback, ensures FARMap delivers maximum value to our customers into the future.
Sam’s Story Sam Baulch’s farming career began in the mid-70s when he took over the family commercial beef and sheep operation near Hawkesdale, Victoria.
Successfully running the farm until 2004, Sam’s passion for property mapping saw
Ag Moto is pleased to announce the launch of CFMOTO’s all-new U10 PRO UTV range, the latest addition to the acclaimed UFORCE family. Building on the strong foundation of its predecessors, the U10 PRO series takes off-road utility to new heights with a combination of enhanced power, advanced technology, and refined design.
The U10 PRO represents a major leap forward for CFMOTO, setting a new benchmark in the UTV segment. Powered by an all-new 998cc triple-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, the U10 PRO delivers an impressive 90 horsepower and 94.5Nm of peak torque, ensuring unrivalled performance whether for work or play. The introduction of CFMOTO’s exclusive Variable-Valve-Timing (VVT) system further enhances power delivery, maintaining torque over 90Nm from 3000rpm to 7000rpm, surpassing competitors like the Polaris Ranger 1000 NORTHSTAR and CanAm Defender HD10.
The U10 PRO’s new powertrain is paired with CFMOTO’s advanced CVT transmission, offering a smooth and reliable driving
Sam launch his other agribusiness, Australian Mapping in 2009.
Building strong networks across ag communities around Australia and understanding those challenges farmers face every day, Sam took the next step when he successfully launched FARMap in 2021.
You can find Sam regularly travelling the country with both his Australian Mapping and FARMap businesses; on clients’ properties with his drone, attending Ag Field Days, catching up with farmers, and swapping stories of life on the land.
Now based on the Southwest Coast of Victoria with his wife Lyn, Sam says he is proud to have created a very handy and useful tool for the smaller farming operations and supporting technology newcomers with FARMap at a fraction of the cost of what else is available on the market today.
Loading up for a day’s work is the all-new U10 PRO. The vehicle will be available at Ag Moto Pakenham starting late August. For more information about the U10 PRO range and other CFMOTO products, contact Ag Moto Pakenham.
experience at low speeds, optimised through changes to the CVT profile and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system. The vehicle’s towing capacity has also been significantly enhanced, supported by a stronger chassis designed to handle the most challenging tasks with ease.
Technological innovation is at the core of the U10 PRO series, introducing cutting-edge features such as an E-SHIFT system for seamless gear changes, an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) that automatically engages for secure parking, and an 8-inch MMI touchscreen dash with wireless CarPlay compatibility. These advancements, combined with upgraded comfort options like an adjustable steering wheel and bench seat, make the U10 PRO a true leader in its class.
The all-new U10 PRO and U10 PRO HIGHLAND will be available at Ag Moto starting late August. For more information about the U10 PRO range and other CFMOTO products, please contact Ag Moto, your local CFMOTO off-road vehicle dealer.
Australian Mapping produces an accurate farm map to assist farmers in the management of their land and their business.
• Quality assurance purposes
An accurate farm map has many and varied uses including:
• Accurate data to plan for irrigation including contour mapping
• Whole farm planning
• Reference for fertilizer and spray contactors
• Whiteboards up to 1.2 × 2.4 metres available.
6.2
Hermetically
3-Dimensional rotor travel
CLAAS ARION 430 CIS WITH FL100C LOADER
130 hp high performance tractor
DPS 4.5L 4-Cylinder turbo charged engine (No Adblue)
Flexible QUADRISHIFT 16F/16R transmission
98 L/min hydraulic flow with 3 remotes Loader suspension standard
CLAAS Information System (CIS) included as standard
CLAAS ARION 620C WITH FL120C LOADER
140 hp high performance tractor
DPS 6.8L 6-Cylinder turbo charged engine (No AdBlue)
Flexible QUADRISHIFT 16F/16R transmission
98 L/min hydraulic flow with 3 remotes 4-Point comfort cab suspension
145 hp high performance tractor
DPS 4.5L 4-Cylinder turbo charged engine (Stage V) HEXASHIFT 24F/24R transmission
incl HEXACTIV automatic control
110 L/min load sensing hydraulic flow with 3 remotes 4-Point comfort cab suspension –HYDROSTABLE
CLAAS Information System (CIS) included as standard
changes you can start making today, including:
Are you wondering where you can source seed from for the up-coming Spring season?
Hickseeds are here to help.
Hickseeds, located in Torwood, just south of Lardner, are your new specialists in all things seed.
We can provide you with seed and mixed blends for great quality pasture and crops. We have a wide range of our own blends for various needs, and can create custom
blends as required. Hickseeds also offer a delivery service saving our customers time.
With around 25 years experience in the agricultural contracting industry, Jared has a broad knowledge of paddocks, pasture and cropping needs for farmers.
For all enquires call Jared 0407 308 089. You can also find us on Facebook and visit our website: hickseeds.com.au
nbn Local – Gippsland ....................... 1
nbn Local is a business unit within nbn’s Regional Development & Engagement branch. Our purpose is to lift digital capability, facilitate positive customer experience outcomes and create shared economic and social benefits for rural and regional Australians. nbn Local has teams of engagement specialists servicing 22 dedicated regions nationwide. Alex Aeschliman is nbn Local’s Regional Development & Engagement Manager for Gippsland and Devansh Sharman is our Community Engagement Specialists.
Rabobank 2
Rabobank Australia - the bank born and raised for farming
Rabobank Australia is a part of the global Rabobank Group and is one of Australasia’s leading agricultural lenders and a significant provider of business and corporate banking and financial services to the region’s food and agribusiness sector and has 61 branches throughout Australia. With 125 years of global agricultural history, Rabobank has a unique understanding of the industry and the importance of taking a longer-term view. That’s why, season after season, year after year, we’ll be here to help you grow. www.rabobank.com.au
Saputo Dairy Australia 3
Saputo Dairy Australia produces, markets and distributes a wide range of high-quality dairy and non-dairy products for the domestic and international markets including cheese, dairy alternative cheese, fluid milk, extended shelf-life milk and cream products, cultured products and dairy ingredients.
Saputo is a leading dairy processor in Australia and is part of Saputo Inc., one of the top ten dairy processors in the world.
Saputo Dairy Australia products are sold in several countries under well-known brand names such as Caboolture, CHEER™, Cracker Barrel*, Devondale, Great Ocean Road, King Island Dairy, Liddells, Mersey Valley, MG Ingredients, Mil Lel, Sheese, South Cape, Sungold and Tasmanian Heritage.
*Cracker Barrel is a registered trademark of Lactalis Heritage Dairy used under licence.
GEA Farm Technologies Australia P/L. ... 4
Join GEA Farm Technologies and our local dealers: Gippsland Dairy Professionals, Westfalia Warragul and Future Dairies Gippsland. We offer a comprehensive suite of technologies and solutions that address every facet of dairy farming, including:
• Automatic Milking and Feeding Systems
• Conventional Milking Solutions
• Digital Herd Management
•Manure Handling Equipment
Come and see the Dairy Robot R9500 on display, discuss all of your needs with our local experts and discover how our innovative solutions can enhance your dairy farming operations.
Browns Fertilisers ................................... 5
Brown’s Fertilisers has a wide range of fertiliser and liming products designed to meet the specific nutritional requirements of your crops and pastures. Stop by site 5 and talk to Brown’s Fertilisers agronomists about how they can help you to achieve productive pastures, stronger crops through healthier soils. Browns Fertilisers distribution sites are located at Koo Wee Rup, Leongatha, Tinamba, Merton and provide bulk fertilisers, bulk bin delivery, bags and on farm fertilizer spreading.
Apiam Animal Health - ProDairy 6
ProDairy is an overall Animal health program, designed and delivered by Dairy vets, providing support, advice and training for all facets of animal health on the Dairy Farm. We assist in identifying and addressing farm specific focus areas, resulting in the highest possible animal welfare, and profitability for the farmer.
Westfalia Warragul .................................. 7
Westfalia Warragul is a trusted and established dairy equipment supplier, servicing Gippsland farmers for over 28 years. Based in Yarragon, the dedicated Westfalia Warragul team are the experts when it comes to all types of dairy work, including new milking machine sales, service, and repairs. From a basic dairy upgrade to a full AMS Robotic system, we have the skills and the expertise to get the job done. We are also the Australian agents for the full range of Mueller Milk Tanks and associated products.
Notman Pasture Seeds 8
Nestled in the rolling hills of Poowong, Notman Pasture Seeds has grown to become a trusted source for practical pasture and forage crop solutions in Gippsland. We are dedicated to prompt service, custom mixes and a range of products from Cropmark, DLF Seeds, Barenbrug and Pioneer Seeds to name a few.
Evans Petroleum BP/Castrol 9
Evans Petroleum is a locally owned authorized reseller of BP and Castrol fuel and lubricants with 15BP service stations, and a Wholesale Fuel arm selling and delivering to commercial businesses and farms across Gippsland. Established in 1970, Evans Petroleum has grown significantly based on a mandate to provide the highest quality fuels and lubricants available and a commitment to deliver the best advice and service possible. Employing over 150 local staff, Evans Petroleum is dedicated to actively supporting the Gippsland economy and re-investing in local communities. For more information, please visit: www.evanspetroleum.com.au
Dairy Pumping Systems ................... 10
DPS hold what is potentially the biggest stock holding in Australia; Pumps, stirrers, Separators, irrigators, wash systems and more. Big brands such as Yardmaster, Williams, Bauer and Yardblaster. We can also arrange supply of customised or those more unique effluent systems products for you. Based in Leongatha, with a nationwide dealer network for that local service.
Ridley 11
What We Do - Ridley is the leading provider of high-quality dairy, cattle and sheep feed.
We know that when it comes to feeding livestock, performance and value for money are critical to your success. Ridley delivers marketleading solutions that provide the added assurance of supply availability and biosecurity controls. Because of our capacity and expertise, we can design any type of feed, for any type of ruminant, across any stage of life – so we can help you maximise your return on feed.
Western Valley Dairy Systems 12
Stall gates, milking machines, grain crushing, mixing and feeding systems along with 25 years of dairy related problem solving and helping farmers make decisions about what suits their individual needs. Agents for Automated Dipping & Flushing (ADF), MilkaWare and Larsons stall gates upgrade.
Ag Moto Pakenham Pty Ltd 13
Ag Moto will be at the Sth Gippsland Dairy & Farming Expo showcasing their dairy farm-ready quad bikes and side-by-sides from CF Moto. Ag Moto is the new CF Moto dealer in the region servicing West and South Gippsland.
GippsDairy ..................................... 15
GippsDairy is a regional team delivering research, development, education, and extension programs to dairy farmers across Gippsland. Since 1996, we have worked to improve the prosperity and sustainability of Gippsland farms and have a strong focus on promoting the dairy industry to the next generation. Through ongoing collaborations with training providers, government bodies and other service providers, we aim to play an important part in maintaining a vibrant and sustainable dairy industry that provides economic, social and environmental benefits to all participants and our wider community.
Greenmate Agriculture Pty Ltd 16
“To grow robust pastures all year round, you need to understand the drivers that allow this to happen. Greenmate Ag understands your soil and what makes it tick. We apply the most advance soil and plant testing methods, including soil DNA mapping, drone imaging and tissue testing , along with the industry standard soil and plant tests to understand what your soil is made of, what minerals you have and whether the pastures are flourishing, not just surviving. This data is analysed to develop a custom program for your farm. We then supply you all of the inputs you require to bring it all together. Greenmate Ag
Nutrien Ag Solutions............................... 21
Nutrien Ag Solutions Leongatha is a locally owned and operated profit share business. Combining over 42 hears’ experience as qualified agronomists our dedicated and passionate team are committed to providing exceptional advice and service to our clients for all their agricultural needs. We specialise in agronomy services including but not limited to fertiliser supply and spreading, custom blends, chemicals, lime, seed, and soil testing whilst also stocking a wide range of rural merchandise and animal health products.
DLF Seeds ............................................ 22
For over 85 years DLF Seeds have been working to develop and deliver to Australian farmers and agronomists, proven seed varieties designed to generate the best possible outcomes for their farms and the wider agricultural community. We make it our business to understand local challenges at every level, utilising our global capabilities to solve problems in a sustainable manner, underpinned by science, knowledge and local expertise.
Australian Probiotic Solutions 23
Australian Probiotic Solutions produces affordable, all natural, high strength probiotic-based products to maintain herd health and increase lower GI tract efficiencies, which is a healthier, more beneficial long-term alternative for dairy & beef herds.
Jantec Systems 24
Jantec Systems is the leading supplier of electronic herd identification systems for rotary and herringbone dairies. It’s easy to use herd management software allows the user to tailor the alerts, the various feeding methods, and allows for powerful analysis of the data from milk meters, cellcount meters, and other add-on features. The phone app displays animal information and allows for alerts, events, and drafts to be entered, as well as featuring other unique options.
Alltech Lienert Australia 25
Alltech Lienert provides dairy customers with innovative, highquality products and services from feed formulation to the development of complete nutritional programs, and biosecurity products – supported by outstanding customer service.
MaxCare 26
The MaxCare brand proudly leads in infant animal nutrition, crafting specialized infant animal products. Our range includes quality milk replacer plus other complimentary products like probiotics, electrolytes & whole milk additive. Scientifically formulated using the highest quality ingredients, the MaxCare range ensures optimum health and nutrition for your animals and is available to purchase throughout Australia and New Zealand.
G & S Farm Services 27
G & S Farm Services is a locally owned and operated company offering local dairy farmers friendly and reliable services in Semen Sales, Inseminations, Calf Dehorning, Freeze Branding, Ultrasound Pregnancy Testing, Oringi Wet Weather gear and all Shoof Products. More recently we have bene working with Gippsland Wraps to supply farmers and contractors with a range of silage wraps, net and silage pit covers. Please call in and see Gus, Shay Davis, Jess and Brendon Rigby at Site 27.
BioSystems Australia 28
Biosystems offer the customer a range of products that help improve and maintain your animals health, your soil and your effluent systems. We specialise in equine, dairy, beef cattle, sheep and other farm animals. Please come and see us at site 28 at the Dairy Expo.
Global Skilled Employment Services
P.L.(GSES) 29
Global Skilled Employment Services is an Australian recruitment services company. We specialize in providing skilled workers to Australian employers in order to overcome their manpower shortages. We have been operating Australia wide since 2010 and have placed highly skilled workers in most sectors and industries in regional and metropolitan areas in various states of Australia. We specialize in Agriculture, Manufacturing, Meat Industry, and Professional skills.
Coopers/ SenseHub Dairy ...................... 30
SenseHub® Dairy monitoring systems are changing the face of dairy management one cow at a time. To help make dairy monitoring systems more affordable, SenseHub® Dairy is now available by monthly subscription based on per cow usage. Clancy said the SenseHub® Dairy monitoring system is a significant productivity tool and is now used on over 400 farms across the country. Come along and visit the team on site 30.
Hanskamp Australia 31
Hanskamp specialise in Unique and simple feeding solutions for tomorrow’s dairy farmer. We strive for better animal health, better animal welfare, better productivity and ease of use for farmers.
Total Livestock Genetics 33
Genetics Australia has been Australia’s leading artificial breeding and herd improvement company for more than 60 years and has just strengthened its place in the market with the launch of a new joint venture with URUS, Genetics Australia Holdings Pty Ltd.
FARMap 34
Designed by former beef and sheep farmer and now entrepreneur
Sam Baulch, FARMap was launched in 2021 to fill a gap in the farm management app market. Sam believes FARMap has changed the way people manage their farms by simplifying the process of recording data and generating reports with all information in one easy-to-access place. Come and speak to same on site 34 at the Expo.
Chapman Machinery Service 35
Pop in and say G’day to the team at the Chapman Machinery Service site. On display we have a broad range of premium branded farm equipment that farmers know they can count on. Chapman Machinery is a locally owned and operated company, who’ve helped South Gippsland farmers for over 30 years, and we will be there to help into the future. Sales, spares, servicing and genuine factory support for top brands. Massey Ferguson, Fendt, Valtra, Iseki, Kubota, and Krone.
McLaren Agricultural Machinery .............35a
McLaren Agricultural Machinery importers and distributers of Quality farm machinery direct to the customer
• Purpose built Pasture drills with very narrow row spacings.
• Trailers to suit all farm requirements, Silage, Hay, Potato’s, dirt.
• Muck spreaders and effluent management.
• Import & export of Agricultural parts and machines Worldwide.
TTMI 36
TTMI are your full-service Farm Machinery dealer for Gippsland.
Offering the Case IH range of tractors along with Case construction machinery and a selection of quality implements and attachments from our partners. TTMI are committed to the Gippsland region, with branches in Trafalgar, Leongatha and Maffra, providing Machinery Sales, Service and Spare parts to the agriculture, construction, and horticulture industries right across Gippsland. When you need to talk farm Machinery, Talk to TTMI.
Bairnsdale Engineering 37
Bairnsdale Engineering – Add genuine value to your farm with a Bairnsdale Shed. Since 1976, our top priority has been high quality product and customer service. Come and speak to our experienced team about a custom or standard design to best suit your Farm shed needs.
We specialise in: • Hay & fertiliser storage • Machinery storage
• Feed pad or stockyard covers • Calving sheds & Loafing Barns
• Milking sheds – rotary, robotic or herringbone • Calf sheds Our ventilated calf sheds are improving calf health on farms across Gippsland. Bairnsdale Engineering – Farm sheds built like they should be.
TracMac Farm Equipment Pty Ltd 38
TracMac Farm Equipment are the importers and distributors for McIntosh Farm Machinery into Australia. McIntosh Farm Machinery are known for their strength, quality, and performance both here in Australia and New Zealand. Listening to farmer’s needs, Mcintosh have developed a range of Silage feed out wagons, bale feeders, Tip trailers and manure spreaders that are well suited for all types of farming requirements. Now with over 70 years of experience in the farm machinery industry, you can rely on Mcintosh products to provide you with years of quality service and reliability. If you need any information on the McIntosh farm machinery, then please contact us or our local dealer at Claas Harvest Centre in Gippsland and South Gippsland.
CLASS Harvest Centre – Warragul & Leongatha ........................................... 39
CLAAS Harvest Centre is now the largest privately-owned farm machinery distribution network in Australasia, servicing primary producers and agricultural contractors from 33 strategic locations throughout New Zealand and Australia. Each of the CLAAS Harvest Centres is a regional sales, service and support hub for the complete range of CLAAS, AMAZONE, Vaderstad and other leading farm machinery brands. Local CLAAS Harvest Centres in Warragul and Leongatha.
Vic Silos
Waste-not Stockfeeders Pty Ltd 45
Suppliers of high-quality steel round, oval and long feeders.
Developers of the “Fair Go” Dairy Feed Pad system – much shorter, smaller, less expensive and more versatile than you think.
KNJ Innovation 46 All dog and horse leads are hand made on site, using Australia made rope and webbing, many colors and sizes. Camping hardware, screw pegs, mat screw, ratchet tie downs, ratchet clothes lines, stainless steel clips and fixing and much more.
Community Event First Aid - First Aid / Medical 48
Community Event First Aid is a Gippsland based first aid group providing cost effective service to any event requiring first aid. Experienced first-aid officers, have equipment, materials and knowledge to assist in community emergencies. CEFA is looking to recruit more volunteers. For more information on becoming a CEFA volunteer or for emergency care visit our trailer today.
Need for Feed – Registered Charity .......... 50
Need for Feed, supporting our farmers and rural communities in times of fire, flood and drought. All work done by volunteers. 100% of all donations go to assist those affected. Project of Lions Australia.
51
Cohuna Sports Store
Cohuna Sports Store provides a wide variety of toys and collectable models for all ages. Brands include Kids Globe Farming, John Deere, Bruder, Case IH, CAT, Tonka, Collecta Animals and so much more.
Gippsland Jersey 53
Gippsland Jersey does milk differently. Sourcing premium jersey milk from smaller Gippsland family farms and proudly manufacturing it on farm in Lakes Entrance. We ensure our farmers are paid first and that our milk is a clear choice for consumers wanting to support a true local business that is 100% Australian family owned and operated producing delicious jersey milk; just like it used to taste.
Dairy Shelters Australia 54
Dairy Shelters Australia specialize in the design and supply of clear roof, deep litter shelters for all classes of cattle. Drop in and have a chat with Simon and David to find out more about how a Dairy Shelter can change the way your farm copes with adverse conditions.
GEE Energy 56
Aurora Dairies 57
Eastern Spreaders Pty Ltd
71-72
Eastern Spreaders have been in business for 30 years and have developed a great understanding of machines over the years and are more than happy to pass on their knowledge. They cover Queensland, NSW, ACT, Victoria, Tasmania and parts of South Australia. Come and visit them on site 71-72 at the Expo.
Dairy Grooving 73
Agriculture Victoria 74
Part of the Victorian Government’s Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), Agriculture Victoria supports a strong, innovative, sustainable agriculture, food and fibre sector. It works with the community and industry to enhance productivity, improve animal welfare, connect the sector with international markets, create jobs, support growth and maintain effective biosecurity. Agriculture Victoria delivers programs, services and technical advice to the agriculture sector to increase resilience and sustainably grow the value and output of agriculture through increased exports, investment, greater diversification and new products. Agriculture Victoria delivers education and compliance services for agriculture and animal welfare. Melbourne Water 74a Assistance to keep sediment and nutrients on farm and out of waterways. Includes improving effluent management, waterway fencing, re-vegetation, track and drainage management in Tarago, Lang Lang and Bass catchments.
Services Victoria 74b
Axis Industries Pty Ltd 75
Axis Industries is a 100% Australian-owned
41
Vic Silos are 100% Australian owned, operated and built using Australian steel. We specialise in the manufacture and design, repairs and conversions and transportation of grain and pellets silos, stock-feeders, augers and bins. All silos can be custom designed to meet individual needs. Servicing Gippsland and beyond for over 30 years. Give us a call on 0351 411 882 to order or get a free quote.
John Duff & Co ...................................... 43
John Duff & Co commenced operations in the early sixties. It now runs a modern mixed fleet of vehicles from B-doubles to rigid farm delivery tankers. With depots in Koo Wee Rup and Traralgon, John Duff & Co are well placed to supply bulk fuel and quality lubricants right across Gippsland.
Statewide Concrete Products ................. 44
Statewide Concrete Products have been
Aurora Dairies is a dairy company located across south-eastern Australia and New Zealand’s South Island across 24,000 hectares over 55 farms, producing over 300 million litres per year. With 16 dairies located in the Gippsland region, we employ over 100 people locally. Passionate, skilled, committed people that prioritise health and safety fit in perfectly at Aurora. For further information, please visit our website https://auroradairies.com.au/careers/ Travel Managers
58
I’m a mobile travel agent and can come to you to chat and plan your next holiday. I’ve been in the industry for more than 39 years...locally & based in Poowong for the past 13 years and a 5th generation South Gippslander. Got a “milk pail list” let me help you get there. Contact me on 0403190234 or kirram@travelmanagers. com.au
Gibson Groundspread:
Serving Gippsland Farmers Since 1953
59
Gibsons Groundspread are Gippsland’s leading agricultural distributor of custom-blended fertiliser, lime and compost. We are dedicated to serve the individual needs of farmers and growers. Combining the latest technology, equipment and 75 years of experience we’ve developed a wide range of innovative solutions and services to provide farmers with the tools and resources to achieve improved crop and pasture performance.
60
Achmea Insurance
About Achmea Australia. As a specialist agricultural insurer, Achmea Australia supports thousands of agribusinesses across Australia through its co-operative approach to farm insurance. Achmea Australia is part of the Achmea Group, which is one of the largest insurance companies in the Netherlands. The Achmea Group has approximately 10 million clients worldwide and is fully dedicated to farm insurance in Australia. Contact Achmea Australia today to request a farm insurance quote or appointment. Call 1800 724 214 or visit www.achmea.com.au/switch
61
DeLaval
DeLaval is a global leader in dairy farming, providing innovative solutions that enhance productivity and profitability. Our offerings include automated milking systems, farm management software, and animal welfare products. We are committed to sustainable food production and improving the quality of life for farmers and their animals. Our core values of passion, professionalism, people, and partnerships drive our mission to support dairy farmers worldwide.
Niagara Therapy
62
Niagara is committed to helping people of all ages gain improvement in the important areas of health and mobility. We recognise that people of all ages face many challenges with their health which can lead to diminished well-being, mobility, independence and lifestyle options.
63
Elders
At Elders Insurance Leongatha, we pride ourselves on continually upholding our core philosophy of “local insurance made easy”. Our highly qualified team offers local knowledge, personalised service. When insuring with Elders Insurance Leongatha, you will also benefit from in-house claims processing and the ongoing support of our dedicated claims manager.
Enduro Tags
Air4U
64
65
Air4U is based in Callignee and involved with Compressed Air Industry. Dairy Farmers use air in multiple on Farm operations and critical that moisture is not permitted to enter control solenoid valves used in automatic milking systems. Please call into Site 65 to see range of Desiccant Dryers, Activated Carbon and 240V Rotary Screw Compressors.
Hico
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Hico provides Herd Recording, bovine genetics, LN2 delivery, AI & Livestock Services to a range of customers. We are a farmer owned co-operative with branches in Korumburra, Maffra, Warragul and Colac. We pride ourselves on ensuring that our clients get the service that they deserve in a timely and professional manner.
East Coast Generators
68
East Coast Generators inc. Generator Rentals Australia is your Power Generation Solutions Specialist throughout Victoria. Family owned & operated, offering Hire, Sales & Service solutions, we specialize in everything from Diesel Generators & Light Towers to Load Banks & Fuel Tanks. East Coast Generators is your one stop shop for everything in Power Generation to help you in those critical power situations for you and you business.
Burra Foods
69
Burra Foods is an Australian dairy ingredient processor which produces and markets value-added dairy products to the global food manufacturing market. For over 30 years Burra Foods has represented quality and innovation in the global dairy market, specialising in the manufacture of highend specialised dairy ingredients. We pride ourselves on production ingenuity and our ability to innovate. Our wealth of experience and technical expertise means that we can tailor unique solutions to meet customer requirements and changes in the marketplace.
& Farm Machinery Experts. Drop in and say hello! Gendore Tractors & Machinery Pty Ltd 84 Gendore Tractors & Machinery is a well-established local business in the Gippsland region since 1948 with New Holland both Ag & Construction and many other major agricultural brands. Gendore T&M and all staff pride themselves in supporting our local farmers with sales, service and after sales support. With continued growth we now have four branches that are located in Leongatha, Tooradin, Warragul and Maffra. Be sure to call in to either one of our four branches and let our friendly staff help you get the job done right! Poowong Dairy & Hardware
South Gippsland Shire Council
South Gippsland Shire Council recognises the Dairy sector as our largest industry and provider of jobs, making us one of the most important dairy regions in Australia. It also recognises the great contribution it makes to our community. Council is committed to supporting our agricultural industry, food processing and their essential support businesses, to build the prosperity of our Shire.
South East Organic Fertilizer Udder Truth Showbag
The company believes its range of fowl manure is a viable alternative to more conventional fertilisers as it contains nutrients which are both organic and inorganic as well as carbon to aid soil structure and microbe and worm production. The inorganic being immediately available for plant uptake and the organic being available as the organic matter breaks down and is released. For further information contact the experts on 03 5996 1172.
Caffe Alfresco COFFEE VENDOR
From our mobile coffee cart, we provide hot beverages using freshly roasted coffee for Cappuccino, Latte, Flat White and Long Black, as well as Hot Chocolate and Tea. If
Little
Pasture farmers have long been told “chuck out urea regularly and top up with super and that’s all you need to grow pasture all year round.” Case closed? Not even close! The animals grazing on those pastures are a by-product of the quality of what they are eating. Consistently, we see dairy farms producing milk quality that is lacking due to the poor quality of pastures the animals are consuming.
Pasture, like any other plant, is a living organism and will flourish or fail depending on the soil structure, environment it grows in and the nutrition that feeds it. Unfortunately, most advice given to farmers is around feeding pastures through synthetic urea and superphosphate. Not only does this upset the soils living organisms that are keeping your pastures fed and healthy, it force feeds the pasture, which provides a feed source to your animals that is low in energy and nutrition, therefore affecting production yield and quality.
Greenmate Ag understands exactly how your soils work and what they need to grow a flourishing, nutritious pasture and we have developed proven programs throughout Gippsland and Mornington Peninsula that deliver just that.
To achieve this, we need to take a look under your soil’s hood and see exactly what is going on in there, biologically, physically and minerally. We have a range of advanced testing methods for your soil and pastures, starting with DNA mapping of your soils. This allows us to understand exactly what microbes are in there, what they are doing and how they are affecting your pastures growth and quality.
From there, we assess the chemistry of your soil and develop you a custom pasture performance program that will save you money, drive production and provide your animals pastures that will grow your profits and reduce your input costs.
Organic trace mineral supplementation can have an effect on reproductive efficiency for generations. Providing the proper cattle nutrition through all stages of gestation is vital not only for the cow but for the developing calf.
Trace minerals are involved in the synthesis of reproductive hormones, the reduction of free radicals and the improvement of the uterine microenvironment for embryonic implantation, as well as foetal growth and development. Considering that, for the most part, reproductive organs develop during early gestation, it is clear how the dam’s nutritional and trace mineral status can impact foetal development and future performance. Trace mineral supplementation
Forages can vary in terms of their trace mineral concentration. As such, supplemental copper, zinc, manganese and selenium are needed to optimise the cattle herd’s trace mineral status, as meeting their trace mineral requirements is fundamental for achieving optimal immunity, health, reproductive efficiency and growth.
Knowing this, supplemental trace minerals are provided to bridge the gap between the amount available through the forages and the cow’s nutritional requirements. However, the form in which those trace minerals are provided — either inorganic or organic — can impact how the herd will respond to the trace mineral program.
Organic trace minerals, such as Bioplex® and Sel-Plex®, are closer to the form in which trace minerals are found in nature. As a result, organic trace minerals offer better absorption and utilisation, which translates to a higher bioavailability and fewer dietary interactions — meaning that minerals offered in an organic form can typically be supplemented at lower levels.
The advantages of supplementing with organic trace minerals have been welldocumented and include improved ovarian activity, increased conception rates and getting cattle bred back sooner.
These benefits should come as no surprise, given the impact that the trace mineral source can have not only on the trace mineral status of breeding cattle, but on the gene expressions linked to their reproductive performance as well.
Given the potential return on investment associated with organic trace minerals (such as those included in Bioplex and SelPlex) in terms of the health, reproductive efficiency and gains of the cattle, year-round supplementation is not only economically feasible but could also have a direct impact on the future performance and profitability of the herd.
– Toby Doak, Ruminant Key Accounts, Alltech Lienert Australia.
Dairy Pumping Systems
(DPS) is thrilled to announce its new partnership with Bauer, solidifying its position as a leading supplier of effluent products in the Australian market. Known for its high-quality brands such as Yardmaster, Williams, and Yardblaster, DPS is now expanding its offerings with Bauer’s advanced product line, which includes Press Separators, PTO pond stirrers, and Rainstar hard hose irrigation systems.
The upcoming South Gippsland Dairy Expo serves as the perfect venue for DPS and Bauer to debut their collaboration. With their combined expertise, they are poised to deliver a comprehensive range of products and on-farm applications to the Australian dairy industry. Keith Cooke, Director of DPS, highlights the growing environmental consciousness within the industry, noting the increasing emphasis on effective effluent management.
green water.
“The Australian dairy market is becoming more environmentally aware, with a heightened focus on the impact of effluent management,” Cooke observes. “Effluent is a valuable resource for nutrients, and improved management offers a dual benefit.”
DPS, in partnership with its expert suppliers, aims to provide innovative products and systems design knowhow, contributing to the sustainability journey of the Australian dairy sector. The alliance with Bauer marks a significant step forward in offering state-of-the-art solutions for efficient and environmentally friendly effluent management.
Kirra Moon-Curry has been a travel agent for over 30 years, yes someone so young with that much experience. Can you believe it?
South Gippsland Dairy Expo 2019
Page 5
you to mobile! cruise what cruise, many to and travel registries, Broome.
It’s a one-stop consultation.
What does Kirra have to do with a Dairy Expo?
Well, farmers need a holiday too, sometimes.
So Kirra is there to help get you on the way to that well-earned break.
Got a ‘milk pail’ destination? Kirra is sure she has been there, and if not, she will still be able to get you there for a competitive price.
She can plan around your budget and customise your holiday until you are happy.
But yes, she has travelled to over 35 countries and with the wealth of knowledge and first-hand experience, she is the girl when it comes to all things ‘travel’.
Kirra is a local and fifth generation South Gippslander, and has been based in Poowong for the past 13
Kirra is not your normal bricks and mortar agency and she doesn’t work normal hours either.
So chat to her over a coffee and plan and book your next holiday.
Kirra is here to help you on your way for a wellearned break.
Kirra is hoping to hear from you soon. What are you waiting for? Your journey starts here.
To discuss or plan your next holiday visit Kirra at site 58.
Contact Kirra Moon-Curry from Travel Managers on 0403 190 234 or email kirra.moon-curry@travelmanagers.com.au
years. Kirra is mobile and can come to you to chat and plan your next holiday. Yes, mobile! She can plan and book anything from a cruise to the Pacific, to one down the Rhine, or what about the Mediterranean, or a Hawaiian cruise, maybe even one in Asia, there’s just so many to choose from.
Kirra also offers coach tours, car and motorhome rentals, flight bookings, travel insurance, honeymoons, wedding registries, hotel bookings,
even a holiday to Broome. It’s a one-stop consultation.
What does Kirra have to do with a Dairy Expo?
Well, farmers need a holiday too, sometimes.
So Kirra is there to help get you on the way to that well-earned break.
Got a ‘milk pail’ destination? Kirra is sure she has been there, and if not, she will still be able to get you there for a competitive price.
All of Jantec’s ID systems use NLIS ear tags. On rotary and herringbone dairies the animals are identified as they enter the platform and the operator is alerted via voice message and coloured text on a computer screen to such markers as calvings, matings, pregnancy tests, treatments, and groups. Feed is controlled to each animal according to the schedule set.
Effectiveness Return what are value the comothers. at the Gippsland Site 16, friendVikon
Jantec Systems has integrated with various inline sensors such as milk meters which can measure volume, fat, protein, lactose, conductivity, and milking rates, and cell count meters which measure the SCC. Both have proven to be extremely effective management tools, allowing for powerful analysis of the data collected. But it is only useful if the ID system accurately identifies the cow correctly in its bail. This is where the Jantec ID system is unique in that it exceeds
the accuracy of it nearest competitors by magnitudes. This is also important for feeding and other cow-in-bail dependent functions like preg testing.
The company’s electronic herd identification system can integrate with many heat detection systems, saving time on observations and lifting fertility rates.
The Jantec phone app is now into its 5th year. It saves time, keeps records current, reduces mistakes, and allows for alerts, events, and drafts to be entered, as well as featuring other unique options.
The Jantec ID system is still the most costeffective system available today and includes easy to use herd management software that is continuously being enhanced.
Jantec Systems will be on site at the South Gippsland Dairy Expo.
In a groundbreaking move to revolutionise energy consumption in the dairy industry, REDEI is proud to introduce its new Renewable Energy as a Service (REaaS) offering. This innovative solution promises significant cost savings, enhanced energy security, and
a sustainable future for dairy farms without any upfront capital investment.
Dairy farmers constantly battle rising energy costs and supply uncertainties. REDEI’s REaaS tackles these challenges head-on by providing a tailored energy solution that eliminates the need for hefty initial investments. Under this program, REDEI takes full responsibility for installing, operating, and maintaining state-of-the-art renewable energy systems, allowing farmers to focus on what they do best: producing high-quality dairy products.
This service prioritises cost savings. Dairy farms can reduce their electricity bills by transitioning to renewable energy. The predictable, long-term energy pricing model shields farmers from market volatility, providing peace of mind and financial stability. Energy security is another critical advantage of REDEI’s REaaS. With a reliable supply of clean energy, dairy farms can operate uninterrupted, even during grid outages. This resilience is crucial for maintaining production schedules and ensuring a consistent supply of energy to maintain full-scale operations. Moreover, REDEI’s fully managed service means farmers don’t have to worry about the complexities of energy management. From installation to ongoing maintenance, REDEI handles every aspect, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency throughout the contract term.
The shift to renewable energy isn’t just about financial and operational benefits; it’s also about contributing to a greener future. By adopting REDEI’s REaaS, dairy farms can significantly reduce their carbon footprint, positively impacting the environment and aligning with global sustainability goals. REDEI is excited to partner with the dairy industry in this transformative journey. Together, we can build a more sustainable, secure, and cost-effective Dairy future. For more information on how your dairy farm can benefit from REDEI’s Renewable Energy as a Service, visit us at the South Gippsland Dairy & Farming Expo 2024 in Korumburra. Join us in making a positive change—because a greener tomorrow starts today.
Dairy profitability by nature is at the whim of external forces. Right now for local farmers looking down the barrel of reduced milk prices, increasing input costs and sticky interest rates, the biggest lever they can pull to impact their returns is on-farm efficiency. As margins tighten, gaining efficiencies across milk production, feed costs, herd healthcare, reproduction and of course labour can make all the difference between getting ahead and going backwards. The technology that’s most adept at making those improvements possible right now? Automatic Milking Systems (AMS), like Lely Astronaut milking robots.
Once considered a novelty on Australian farms, automatic milking has now been well and truly proven on pasture-based systems with more than 80 Lely milking robots currently operating in Gippsland alone. This has been driven in part by the growth of Lely Center Gippsland, comprising a large team of experienced robot technicians and farm management advisors who work closely with local farmers to help them get the most out of their automated systems.
Headed by Dale Serong, a former local dairy farm manager himself, Lely Center Gippsland hosts regular on-farm customer discussion groups for their local Lely customers to stay up-to-date on AMS best practice and share knowledge between farms. The host of the last Lely discussion group meeting shared their efficiency success. They added a sixth robot and now provide feed in the pre milking area and give cows free access to the robots. Milking frequency lifted so that cows are milked between 2.6 to 2.9 times a day which translates into a 30% increase in milk production compared to a year ago. The two owners manage 370 cows by themselves so efficiency is key. They said “We’re all know we’re taking a pay cut with milk price so you have to focus on efficiency. These improvements go a long way towards paying off the sixth robot”.
In addition to milking robots, the team at Lely Center Gippsland also support more than 60 automatic calf feeding systems locally, plus automatic feed pushers, cow brushes, and soon they’ll be installing the
first automatic manure collector in Australia on a dairy farm in Hedley.
With years of experience across hundreds of robot farms both here and internationally, the team is a great resource to tap into for
any questions you might have about dairy farm automation.
You’ll find them at site 81 of the South Gippsland Dairy Expo from 4-5 September, or at www.lelygippsland.com.au.
SenseHub® Dairy monitoring systems are changing the face of dairy management one cow at a time. To help make dairy monitoring systems more affordable, SenseHub® Dairy is now available by monthly subscription based on per cow usage.
Sales lead Clancy Jordan said the subscription model is an alternative to purchasing a monitoring system outright.
“Dairy farmers always have a million different ways to spend their capital. Breaking the cost of the collars or ear tags down into a monthly payment based on a five-year contract with no upfront costs and no deposit is an appealing option,” Clancy said.
The subscription includes collars or ear tags, installation of SenseHub® Dairy equipment, software updates and training.
Clancy said the SenseHub® Dairy monitoring system is a significant productivity tool and is now used on over 400 farms across the country.
“With actionable insights, you can make precise insemination decisions, reduce calving intervals, improve productivity and reduce labour requirements.”
The SenseHub® Dairy monitoring system offers unmatched heat detection, helps farmers make decisions that improve nutrition strategies, helps veterinarians and producers detect changes that may indicate possible health issues and also helps detect issues with calving, all at your fingertips with the help of phone alerts.
“Our reproduction monitoring applications eliminate the guesswork and inconsistency of physically evaluating the reproductive status of every individual heifer and cow. Joining can be a labour-intensive part of the season and using this technology to help improve insemination accuracy can be a huge cost saver,” Clancy said.
The system helps saves time and money by targeting the right cows for pregnancy testing and allows for more effective use of sexed semen.
Unlocking the full power of Livestock Tags, pictured is a lovely Brahman with both an NLIS device, and a smaller livestock management ID tag. Although this animal could easily manage a larger tag, this particular farm system went for a minimal option that suited their purposes.
Farmers seeking an improved tagging system are turning to Enduro Tags. An efficient tagging system begins with the quality of the tags, encompassing material molding, design, and ease of application. Tagging livestock can be arduous, and a user-friendly applicator is essential. Additionally, tag losses are a significant concern, as lost tags mean lost identification and the tedious task of re-tagging animals. Enduro Tags addresses these issues with their innovative designs. While the double prong tag system offered by Enduro Tags ensures excellent retention and visibility, it may not suit every farmer’s needs. Traditional button tags have been a staple for decades, but innovation often brings superior alternatives. John Steinfort at Enduro Tags has developed a new range of single prong tags featuring a unique design. Steinfort notes, “We proved our technology by providing over 10,000 of our special goat tags to a local Gippsland dairy goat herd, reducing their tag loss from 30% to 0.5% per annum, with no infected ears. That’s a very
significant outcome.”
Steinfort continues, “Our new emerging technology is different. It’s not another ‘button’ type tag. We utilize our field-prov en plastics, which provide a hard back tag without any catch points. Now that’s hard to believe, I know. See how it works with our testing station at the South Gippsland Dairy and Farming Expo at the Korumburra Showgrounds.”
Whether you were born with cow milk in your veins or decided to embrace the dairy farmer life by choice, we all share the same love for this life. The wide-open pastures, the connection to the land and animals, and the hands-on, practical work fill our hearts. But it’s not just about feeling fulfilled—it’s also about making sure your business is thriving and your milk tank is overflowing.
Right now, dairy farming in Victoria feels like a game of dodgeball with unexpected curveballs coming at us.
Just look at Gippsland Jersey, hit hard by major supermarkets dropping their products. Then there’s the unpredictable milk prices on top of the increasing interest rates, and most recently, the uncertainty
The list goes on... Want to BRING BACK THE CREAM YOU’RE MISSING?
RFCS Gippsland is here to help you get back on track with your financials, just like they’ve done for countless farm businesses since 1986.
“Overall, I can confidently say the RFCS Gippsland has provided me with the support and guidance I needed to improve my business,” says a satisfied client from 2023. Curious to learn more? Come visit our stall at the Dairy Expo. We’d love to chat about how we can help you GET MORE CREAM! Call 1300 045 747 or visit rfcsgippsland.org. au to learn more about the free, confidential services of RFCS Gippsland.
Enduro Tags is adapting this technology for all livestock types, with plans to launch these products throughout 2024-25. The potential benefits for livestock producers are immense.
Steinfort adds, “And best of all, these Clip Tags are easier to apply through the ear compared to button tags, making it a sure winner for livestock, producers, Enduro Tags, and the local economy.”
Enduro Tags continues to lead the way in innovative livestock identification, offering solutions that enhance efficiency, reliability, and overall ease of use for farmers.
A premier immigration and recruitment firm based in Melbourne, Australia, Global Skilled Employment Services specialise in both permanent local and overseas worker recruitment. Our core mission is to bridge the gap between skilled professionals and businesses across Australia, ensuring that organisations have access to the best talent available to meet their operational needs.
Founded by industry veterans Fadi Malek and Estelle McNally, Global Skilled Employment Services brings together decades of experience in immigration and recruitment and specialised knowledge in the agricultural industry. We are committed to delivering tailored recruitment solutions that align
with the specific requirements of our clients, whether they are looking for local talent or seeking skilled professionals from overseas. Under the guidance of our directors, Global Skilled Employment Services has developed a strong network within the agricultural community. This ensures that we stay ahead of industry trends and can respond swiftly to our clients’ evolving needs. Whether it’s identifying skilled farm managers, farmhands, or machinery operators, our team is adept at finding the right fit for each role, contributing to the success and sustainability of agricultural operations.
Our directors’ profound knowledge of agriculture ensures that Global Skilled Employment Services provides unmatched recruitment solutions, delivering value to both employers and employees in this crucial sector of the Australian economy. Our dedication to quality ensures that the placements we make are successful, contributing to employers’ long-term business growth and employees’ individual career progression.
If you would like more information or for general enquiries, please contact Fadi Malek at info@gsemployment.com.au or 0432 452 535.
What is the Gumboot Gift?
• The gumboot gift is a 120-metre foot race wearing gumboots that will be held on Thursday 5th September 2024 at 1 pm
• The prize pool is $4,000 for the male and female categories.
• There is no entry fee; participants must turn up with a pair of authentic gumboots and an ‘I can win attitude.’
Participants must:
• Arrive at the checkpoint in front of the amenities complex to receive their race number at 12.00 noon, ready for a 1.00 pm start.
• Provide and wear standard knee-length gumboots with no modifications.
• The gumboots must not be dress-fitted boots, which will be checked at the entry point. Only authentic farm boots will be permitted
• Provide their age upon registration; handicaps will apply.
• The 2024 race winners will be subject to an additional handicap. Please refer to the terms and conditions for further details.
• Complete the race registration form before racing either online or at the racing checkpoint on the day.
• Be over 18 years of age to enter the race.
