New year but same inputs. PAGE 3 LIFE-SAVING FIRE PLAN PAGE 4
VALE IAN MACAULAY PAGE 13
MARCH 2022 ISSUE 137 // www.dairynewsaustralia.com.au
PAKISTAN EMERGES AS MAJOR EXPORT MARKET HRM Dairies CEO Mudassar Hassan is keen to improve the quality of cows in Pakistan — the corporate farm has become the first in the country to use Australian genetics and genomic testing. PAGE 9
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
MARKETS // 3
Market cause for optimism Wheat
BY ELIZA REDFERN
MANY LIKE to view the beginning of a new
Former Goulburn Murray chair dies. PG 13
Scholarships for dairy kids. PG 20
Pasture improvement feature. PGS 23-31
NEWS ..................................................... 3-22 ANIMAL HEALTH .......................... 32-34 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS ......................................35-39
Get more with less this calving season
year as a clean slate, however, reality sometimes gets in the way. In fact, most market forces impacting the dairy industry in Australia have remained the same since the end of 2021. While elevated input prices, especially grain and fertiliser costs, have continued to weigh on farm margins, the fodder and water markets remain quiet as rain-dominated weather limits demand. This summer has so far proven hot and humid, with above average rainfall across the east coast. The La Niña event in the tropical Pacific, paired with a positive Southern Annular Mode (SAM), has continued to bring wet weather to parts of central and eastern Australia. While rain has supported soil moisture and water availability in these areas, warmer weather has begun to dry out some regions, especially in Western Australia. Water storage levels across the east coast have started to decrease due to warm conditions but remain substantially fuller compared to last year. Strong supply of water has seen additional increases in seasonal determinations, further softening temporary water prices. The value of water in the Murray irrigation district dropped to a historical low of $39/Ml in January, with many users capitalising on low prices by purchasing and trading significant volumes. Where rainfall has been abundant, pasture growth has continued. Plentiful home-grown feed has been a consistent deterrent for fodder trade during the past year, and above average rainfall over spring and summer has ensured a continuation of this trend. However, drier weather in southern Victoria, south-west WA and north-west Tasmania has encouraged the use of stored feed and impacted pasture growth. As such, fodder demand has started to build in these regions, while in others some farmers have started to plan for the autumn and winter seasons ahead. All in all, hay prices remain subdued and below five-year averages. While Australia currently deals with various heatwaves, a hot Northern Hemisphere
Hay
Jan-22
Jan-21
Jan-22
Jan21
Atherton Tablelands*
$400
15%
25%
-18%
Darling Downs
$299
-2%
25%
-16%
North Coast NSW
$280
2%
25%
-16%
Central West NSW
$283
13%
25%
-17%
Bega Valley
$352
23%
25%
-12%
Goulburn/Murray Valley
$356
24%
25%
-7%
Gippsland*
$379
25%
25%
-18%
South West Victoria
$355
18%
25%
0%
South East South Australia
$347
18%
25%
-11%
Central Districts SA
$345
17%
25%
-8%
South West WA
$323
-2%
25%
-13%
North West Tasmania
$469
19%
25%
-2%
Region
Prices are estimates in $/tonne * Note that all regions other than Atherton Tablelands and Gippsland is cereal hay. * Atherton Tablelands and Gippsland is pasture hay.
summer last year failed to replenish the world of much needed grain supply. Since then, all eyes have been on Australia’s harvest, which did not disappoint. This year’s harvest proved to be one of the largest on record, despite flooding in NSW and Queensland. A significant amount of wheat harvested has been downgraded to feed from the wet conditions, and there is strong demand from Asian buyers, particularly China. Globally, grain values have surged in many exporting regions due to limited supply and weather concerns for the upcoming production season. Adding salt to the wound, Russia placed export quotas on its product to mitigate rising local prices and, more recently, uncertainty regarding the looming tension with Ukraine has further lifted prices. Australia’s large harvest and current shipping challenges have maintained a price discount of Australian grain compared to international products, nevertheless, prices remain above last year’s values. Tight supply and export restrictions also place significant strain on fertiliser prices.
China’s export ban remains, and Russia has recently banned exports of ammonium nitrate in an effort to ensure local supply. The cost of gas, a key fertiliser input, continues to be elevated, impacting global production. As such, fertiliser prices remain high globally. Back home, there have been reports of growers planning to utilise less phosphate and urea product this year to lower operating costs, which could impact crop yields. While some sources suggest bulk shipping prices have eased in recent weeks, many challenges remain due to ongoing supply chain disruptions, fuelling cost pressures. Additionally, inflation has significantly impacted the costs of some farm inputs and it is becoming more expensive to produce many agricultural products, including dairy. In light of growing costs, milk price stepups in southern export-focused regions have been a welcome relief and could help cushion the impact of margins this season. Nevertheless, with inflationary pressures appearing across the supply chain, we will most likely have to prepare for more costs to be added to the slate this year.
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
4 // NEWS
On Debbie and Richard Platts' farm at Quaama, in the Bega Valley, fences were tied up with string after the 2019–20 bushfires. Photos: Debbie and Richard Platt
Fire plan was life-saving JEANETTE SEVERS
DURING THE 2019–20 bushfires, Debbie and
Richard Platts relied on their own and their staff's experience with volunteer fire brigades, as well as draft fire preparedness plans available through Dairy Australia, to help them formulate a successful plan to save key assets on their farms. With six staff, their partners and various children to protect, no-one was going to be foolhardy as bushfires threatened NSW's Bega Valley, and their farms more directly at Quaama, Cobargo and Verona. “We had a plan and we were lucky that the plan worked,” Debbie Platts said. “I'm in the fire brigade and one of our staff is in the fire brigade. In early December she said we needed to talk about the bushfires. “Richard and I had a plan in our heads, but we hadn't documented it and we realised that wasn't going to help our staff or ourselves.” Debbie and Richard own a dairy farm at
Quaama, where 1000 tonnes of hay was stored and 700 cows are milked. Coming into late December 2019, they were milking 650 cows, had 100 dry cows and were feeding 50 calves on the home farm. At the Cobargo farm, they were growing out 450 head of beef-dairy-cross steers and heifers and 15-month-old Holstein steers. At Verona, 250 joined heifers were running across the outblocks. “We had a staff meeting on December 19 (2019),” Debbie said. “In preparation, I documented what were our key assets to defend, what we can't defend, what firefighting resources — mobile or fixed — we had available and what we needed to buy. “We have three separate blocks about 20 km apart in a triangle pattern.” At the staff meeting, discussion ranged about where the fire threat was coming from, what built and other (cattle) assets were priorities, the skills and experience across the workforce, where water was and what equipment was available and needed. “That discussion was important because it
meant the staff knew what Richard and I were thinking,” Debbie said. “At that stage, we expected a cigarette butt off the highway was our major threat. We didn't expect what we got. “We decided we've got to defend the dairy and the milking shed and the cattle. “It would be ideal to defend the hayshed — with its 1000 tonne of hay — if we can. “We identified that two of the staff houses were difficult to defend, with no water resources, and those staff had to be prepared to abandon those homes. “We worked out how many extra hoses we needed, and I went into town shopping for those and other equipment.” They also identified sacrifice paddocks and graded chequerboards of bare earth strips. By this method, they hoped the joined heifers at Verona could avoid the flames. “Every year for the past six years, we've adopted that policy and sacrificed a grazing paddock in summer,” Debbie said.
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“We were also in drought so we had bare paddocks and at Cobargo we had failed crops that naturally created this bare earth concept. “The plan was we had a plan, we all knew what could be sacrificed to the bushfire, we had time to implement the plan as best we could, and the plan worked.” On December 30, 2019, as the fire threatened the Sapphire Coast, Bega Valley, Brown Mountain and Shoalhaven districts, the local fire captains told Richard and Debbie they should expect all three farms to be hit by bushfire, simultaneously. “On this information, we implemented our plan and moved all the cattle to their safe paddocks,” Debbie said. All children and everyone's precious belongings were gathered into one house, with their cars nearby. A staff member remained with the children. For everyone, it was a surreal, even terrifying, experience, with heat, explosions, fires spotting 15 km ahead of the main front, and constant exposure to risk. A couple of staff members stayed at the hay-
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
NEWS // 5
Eighteen months later, fences are still tied up with string. Debbie Platt says recovery from the bushfires is ongoing. It is a view shared by all levels of government.
shed, watching for spot fires. At 2 am on December 31, 2019, a staff member moved the milking herd onto the concrete dairy platform and turned on the sprinklers. “She then stayed there for hours watching for threats and staying in communication with us,” Debbie said. Richard and Debbie moved around providing support where it was needed, on the farm and in the community — the couple lost friends who were killed in the same bushfires they were facing. “We're feeling incredibly lucky, we didn't lose any key infrastructure,” Debbie said. “We lost minor and non-essential shedding, and 13 animals died from the smoke. About 35 km of fencing, non-essential cattle yards and about 1500 acres (607ha) of ground — half our farming area — was burned. “The Cobargo farm was 100 per cent burnt. The cattle were in a paddock with no water, but they were alive and unhurt. “The cattle yards at Cobargo were burned. We picked up the Holstein steers, through the neighbour's cattle yards, and sold them.” That decision gave the couple some ready cash for immediate needs, which included buying hay to feed cattle on their outblocks.
The region was still in drought and with grazing country burnt, they also fed out some of the 1000 tonne of hay that was saved from spot fires, feeding cattle at Quaama, Cobargo and Verona, off the back of a ute and trailer. With 6000litres of diesel delivered to the farm in December, they had enough fuel for generators to keep the dairy operating and pump water. They were able to share this fuel with neighbours. Ongoing bushfires in the district meant access roads were closed to formal deliveries and pickups. Because of the same access problems, Richard and Debbie did have to dump milk for seven days, but they were able to keep milking the herd. Five days later, with the fire front resurging, Debbie and Richard made the decision to evacuate everyone from the farm to Cobargo. All the assets they didn't want to lose were parked on the burned country on the Quaama farm. “We'd been on the road multiple times every day, feeding livestock. Driving between the farms, you got numb. The fire threat was very real for communities around the Brown Mountain,” Debbie said. “We were prepared for Saturday, I was in this tractor with one light patrolling back and forth. About 3 to 4 pm, it suddenly turned black as the ace of spades.
“All I knew was the fires were coming out of Bemboka, then it was coming from the south, had jumped the highway at Numbugga, then it was at Brogo Dam — we're sitting at the top of Brogo Pass, and a fireball would impact us. “We evacuated as a group, in a convoy of a dozen cars to Cobargo. We stayed there until morning. “Thankfully, no more bushfires impacted our farms.” Fast forward to today and Debbie and Richard are in a different season — they harvested 12,000 tonne of wet silage into pits this summer. But the reminders of the bushfires remain, and recovery is ongoing. “I don't think people realise how hard we're working and how disconnected communities still are — every ounce of energy is being put into our farm and recovery and there's nothing left,” Debbie said. “There's still fences tied up with string and fresh air. “Most of the fencing has been patched. Every now and again, we realise a fence needs replacing and we do that.” Some of the sheds that were burned down have been replaced. Debbie and Richard are pro-
gressively changing the layout of the farm. Like many other farmers, they've found a bushfire provided a unique opportunity to change the layout of a farm, altering internal fence lines. Both commend their staff. “Our staff were brilliant. We couldn't have done it without them,” Debbie said. “We all knew what we were doing. We were a team and looking after each other. “And in the weeks after, they just got the job done — we calved 200 cows and heifers with the same due date!” Richard and Debbie have a 'take home' message from their experience. “Have a plan and good quality, maintained, equipment. The key welds on our home-built fire-fighting trailer broke after four hours of dragging around the paddock. That was not a good time to have key infrastructure fail.” The NSW Government confirmed (in August 2021) that 6.7 per cent of the state was impacted by bushfire. The Shoalhaven City Council, in a report summarising the impact and recovery-to-date (June 2020) from the bushfires, stated: “The full consequence of the (NSW) bushfires will never be completely realised”.
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
6 // NEWS
Melbourne Cheese company fined A MELBOURNE-BASED speciality cheese manufacturer has
been fined for allowing waste to be discharged into a nearby creek. Fresh Cheese Pty Ltd of Broadmeadows was fined $8000 for the discharge which occurred following a burglary of its Riggall St factory on October 6, 2018. The company pleaded guilty to the single charge in the County Court on February 15. The court heard burglars entered the property overnight and switched off a pump which led to an overflow into a bunded area. Waste escaped into the storm water drain as there was a hole in the concrete bund which had not been noticed by management. Pollution of the Yuroke Creek was reported to the Environment Protection Authority on October 7. Officers who attended the scene reported a putrid and rancid smell emanating from the creek. Samples were taken from the creek and sent to a laboratory for examination. EPA officers traced the contamination through the storm water drains back to the Fresh Cheese factory. The company told the EPA it had reported a burglary of the premises, which the police had confirmed. The court heard the company had engaged consultants who had prepared a 19-page environmental management plan for the site, and the company had implemented all recommendations from the report. The company had also installed a $17,000 closed circuit television security system, and extra floodlights. In its defence, the company set out the remedial actions it had taken, asked for consideration that it had no prior convictions, and had pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. Judge Brookes found the offence was at the lower end of the scale.
A Melbourne-based speciality cheese manufacturer has been fined for allowing waste to be discharged into a nearby creek.
TASSIE DAIRY WINS CASE The largest dairy producer in Australia has had a legal win, with a judge ruling it won’t have to pay previous owners of its farm in Tasmania millions of dollars over a milk price dispute. The Tasmanian Land Company (TLC), owned by a New Zealand council, sold its dairy business in 2016 to Chinese-owned Van Dairy Group for $275 million. The sale included a pre-existing agreement to supply milk to processor Fonterra. In May 2016, one month after the sale was finalised, Fonterra announced it would drastically cut milk prices retrospectively for the 2015–16 financial year. Shortly afterwards, TLC agreed to pay Van Dairy Group $2.2 million in a “lump sum adjustment” to account for the disadvantage sustained by the latter as a result of the post-closing price difference. In mid-2017, Fonterra agreed to pay suppliers, including Van Dairy Group, an extra payment of 40 cents per kilogram of milk solids in 2017–18.
TLC argued in the Supreme Court of Tasmania that those additional payments were intended to reverse the reduction in milk prices in 2015–16. It argued Van Dairy Group wasn’t entitled to the extra payments as well as the $2.2 million adjustment. TLC claimed Van Dairy Group was obliged to pay TLC the extra payments, calculated to be about $2.27 million. But in a decision delivered on February 9, Justice Michael Brett dismissed the claim, finding TLC had failed to establish it “on any basis”.”The income in advance payment was legitimately made after negotiation and in full and final settlement of the parties’ rights under the contract,” he wrote. “It was clearly justified on the basis of the contractual rights and obligations of each party at the time. In respect of the additional payments, the defendant was entitled to the fruits of its ownership of the assets and its production of milk in the 2017–18 year.”Van Dairy Group’s farm in northwest Tasmania covers about 17,000
Advertising Max Hyde 0408 558 938 max.hyde@dairynewsaustralia.com.au Editor Fiona Lloyd (03) 5820 3254 editor@dairynewsaustralia.com.au Dairy News Australia is published by Shepparton Newspapers Pty Ltd. All editorial copy and photographs are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. Opinions or comments expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of the staff, management or directors of Shepparton Newspapers Pty Ltd.
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Van Dairy Group won't have to pay the previous owners of its Tasmanian farm back millions of dollars.
hectares, with annual milk production reaching up to 80 million litres. The 2016 milk price cut prompted an Australian
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Competition and Consumer Commission inquiry which found a range of industry market failures.
Dairy News Australia welcomes contributions from stakeholders in the dairy industry, and particularly from organisations wishing to advance the industry. Contributions and photos can be sent to: editor@dairynewsaustralia.com.au Letters to the editor on topical issues are also welcome. Letters should be concise and carry the name and town address of the author, as well as a contact phone number, not for publication.
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
NEWS // 9
Aussie genetics find new home PAKISTAN IS emerging as a major export des-
tination for Australian dairy cows and genetics. A new partnership between HRM Dairies in Pakistan and Genetics Australia has seen two shipments of semen in late 2021, with further shipments planned in coming months. The genetics exports follow a surge in shipments of live animals from Australia to Pakistan during the past five years. Genetics Australia’s partnership with HRM Dairies was officially launched on December 26 and the corporate farm has become the first in Pakistan to use Australian genetics and genomic testing. Genetics Australia’s Rob Derksen identified Pakistan as a country of interest for Australian genetics several years ago. “We were looking for a distributor in Pakistan and appointed two distributors, but both had little interest in genetic merit, they just wanted to focus on getting the cheapest possible product,” Mr Derksen said. “We decided at the time to place greater emphasis on exporting genetics to other countries, particularly China, as they were prepared to focus on better quality genetics and promote the Australian Breeding Value system. “China became our number one export market but in more recent years, as the relationship between Beijing and Canberra deteriorated, we were unable to obtain import permits for China and decided to again look at options in Pakistan.
“We decided to appoint HRM as our exclusive distributor because of their interest in breeding better quality animals and their dairy will become a showcase in Pakistan for Australian genetics. Other farmers can’t believe the high production better quality Australian cattle are doing.” HRM Dairies CEO Mudassar Hassan moved to Australia in 2003 but wanted to retain a connection to his homeland. “I saw in 2017 that there was a huge gap between supply and demand in Pakistan and the quality of dairy cattle in Pakistan wasn’t up to the mark,“ Mr Hassan said. He eventually secured Holstein cows from three different farms—Emu Banks, Eclipse and Vala Holsteins—with an emphasis on high-quality genetics. “We lead from the front and do a lot of trials and studies at our farm,“ Mr Hassan said. “There were Holsteins in Pakistan but not to the genetic quality I was after.” The barn-based farm is now milking nearly 400 cows and has introduced Jersey and Aussie Red crosses. Mr Hassan hopes to be milking 1000 cows by 2024. He predicts the industry could grow immensely. “If I talk in dairy language, Pakistan is just at the weaning stage.” While Pakistan is the fourth largest dairy producing country in the world, it still needs imported cattle and can struggle with what Mr Hassan describes as “non-descriptive” stock.
HRM Dairies CEO Mudassar Hassan is keen to improve the quality of cows in Pakistan and the farm is the only one in the country doing genomic testing.
“Like Australia, Pakistan wants a stronger cow that has good feet and legs, an open chest, dairy strength, good mammary systems, are healthy and fertile and able to cope with hot and humid conditions.” HRM Dairies and Mr Hassan’s social media profile — where he produces videos of interviews with Australian farmers attracting up to 100,000 views — have helped to educate Pakistani farmers about Australian genetics. “People thought Australia only imported genetics from the US or Europe to AI their cows,” he said.
“We have changed that now and people realise Australia is independent in terms of producing genetics. “This is the first time in Pakistani history that Australian genetics has come to Pakistan and we can show them the bull’s daughters performing in another country, as well as those in our own herd. It’s a showcase to farmers that it really works.” Mr Hassan said the shortage of quality cattle and genetics held back Pakistani dairy farming. “Cattle numbers aren’t the problem; it’s the shortage of quality genetics and the main challenge is education. Continued, page 10
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10 // NEWS Continued from page 9 “At the moment, farmers are increasing their herds without knowing the strengths and weaknesses because of the lack of genomic testing.” HRM is the only farm in Pakistan doing genomic testing and Mr Hassan hopes to help farmers understand the value of good genetics in improving fertility, health and profitability. “Profit is not all about milk production — profit also means less expenses. “If your cow is doing 12,000 litres but having mastitis twice and taking four doses to get pregnant, you won’t be making that much profit. But if she’s producing 8000 to 9000 litres and getting pregnant easily and not having health problems, she’s probably more profitable.” Last year almost 97 per cent of the HRM herd got pregnant, it had very low mortality rates and best-ever production. Minimum production from any cow was 10,000 litres but the average was more than 12,000 litres, which Mr Hassan attributes to genetics, management and nutritional control. Mr Hassan is a firm believer that Australian cows and genetics work in Pakistan. “It’s a huge market but in Australia it is very underrated; Australia could do way more to capitalise on the potential.” Mr Derksen said there was also a great opportunity for Australian farmers to sell better quality surplus heifers to Pakistan. “Pakistani farmers are now recognising their first-cross animals with poor breeding are not performing anywhere near the level of the Australian cows,” he said. “HRM has demonstrated there is real merit in better quality genetics.”
Genetics Australia’s partnership with HRM Dairies was officially launched on December 26 and the corporate farm has become the first in Pakistan to use Australian genetics and genomic testing.
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
NEWS // 13
Former co-op chairman dies ONE OF the dairy industry leaders who played a significant role in the growth of the former Murray Goulburn Co-operative has died. Ian William MacAulay passed away at his home in Jack River on January 4, aged 77. He is survived by his wife, Roslyn, four sons and one daughter, and grandchildren. His funeral was held at St Andrew’s Uniting Church, Yarram, on January 12. Mr MacAulay won respect in the industry for his quietly-spoken and understated manner. He was an advocate for co-operatives, and in 2015 after he left the Murray Goulburn board, gave warnings about the drift by the milk processor away from a farmer-controlled company. He led Murray Goulburn as chairman of the board between 1998 and 2009. During his time as chair, Murray Goulburn’s turnover grew from $1.1 billion to $2.4 billion, milk volume grew from 2.4 billion litres to 3.3 billion litres (peaking before the drought and global financial crisis at 4.1 billion litres) and assets value lifted from $770 million to $1.6 billion. When Mr MacAulay retired, Murray Goulburn was the major Australian dairy co-operative, the second-largest dairy exporter in the world dairy market and continued to set the benchmark for milk pricing in south-eastern Australia.
In all Mr MacAulay spent 18 years on the board of Murray Goulburn. The culture of the co-operative appealed to him and suited his team approach and his principles of integrity and respect. On his retirement Mr MacAulay commented that “these results were very much a reflection of the good management team in place at MG and the collegiate style of management. Making hard decisions when you have to, not getting too carried away with fanciful ideas and always trying to look after the farmers as best we can.” Mr MacAulay was always aware of the privilege it was to serve his fellow farmers and the responsibility he held to do his best by them. He enjoyed the relationships and interactions with staff and farmers alike. His management style reflected his personal values: quiet, considered and calm in a crisis, a good listener, a willing and interested learner, patient and above all a man of integrity. Born at Stacey’s Bridge, west of Yarram, Ian MacAulay grew up with two brothers when there was no electricity and no refrigeration. He attended Yarram High School and graduated from Melbourne University with an agricultural science degree.
After studying he returned home and initially became an agronomist with Pivot, joined the Young Farmers and continued his long association with the Presbyterian Church where he became an elder and lay preacher. Mr MacAulay was a passionate advocate for the co-operative and for its dairy farmer members and believed firmly that with good and careful management it was the best way of returning value to farmers. As chair of Murray Goulburn in 2000, he played a key role, with Max Fehring, then president of the UDV, in establishing Geoffrey Gardiner Dairy Foundation. Together they laid out the priorities and principles under which the foundation would operate and set about appointing the first board of directors and the inaugural chief executive officer. Mr MacAulay was a non-executive director of the foundation from its inception in 2000 and served three three-year terms on the board, retiring in 2010. During his time on the board Mr MacAulay was chair of the Community Development Steering Committee, chair of the Community Development Selection Panel for Major Projects and Small Projects, committee member for the Gardiner — FRRR grants evaluation / assessment and on the Dairy Scholarships selection panel.
Ian MacAulay (1944–2022)
Mr MacAulay’s intelligence and business acumen always ensured that any decision the board was to take had gone through lengthy scrutiny and all the necessary questions had been asked and answered.
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
14 // NEWS
Conference to ‘lead the field’ for dairy PRESERVING FAMILY harmony through suc-
cession, making wise investment decisions, and imagining a future with farm automation are just some of the topics to be explored at next month’s 2022 DairySA Central Conference in Murray Bridge. Titled ‘Leading the Field’ the conference continues to build on its strong reputation and success over the past seven years and will see up to 150 dairy farmers and service providers from across SA’s Fleurieu, Barossa Mid-North, River & Lakes and the South-East converge for the popular day. The event will be a welcome start to the year with farmers feeling positive about the state of the industry and looking forward to an opportunity to meet face to face. Farmers and service providers are urged to book their tickets early to allow plenty of planning time. Designed by the Central Conference Committee comprising local dairy farmers, the program features topics including:
The 2022 DairySA Central Conference will be held in Murray Bridge on March 16.
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DAIRY LEVY POLL NOW OPEN Farmers have until March 31 to have their say on the Dairy Levy Poll. The Dairy Poll 2022 options put forward by the Levy Poll Advisory Committee are: ■ no change;
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■
a 15 per cent increase;
■
a 20 per cent increase; and
■
a 25 per cent increase.
The current levy has not changed since 2012. The LPAC's recommendation is for a 20 per cent increase. eastAUSmilk president Matt Trace said it was vital levy-paying members had a say on the options. “No dairy levy poll has been held since 2012 and we need to ensure that the outcome from this poll will be the best result for the future of the dairy industry, especially for research, development and marketing,” Mr Trace said. “It is unfortunate that the Levy Poll Advisory Committee did not include an option to decrease or remove the levy. It was for this reason that I resigned from the advisory committee last September.” eastAUSmilk co-chief executive officer Shaughn Morgan said the vote was important for the future of the industry. “Dairy Australia announced last year that any increased investment arising
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A new addition to the program line-up will be a dedicated ‘Tech Time’ session delving into activity meters, robotics and autonomous tractors. In 2022 the conference will be held across two venues — with the conference at Bridges Event Centre at Murray Bridge Racing Club, and the post conference event ‘Gather & Graze’ followed by dinner to be held at the newly redeveloped Bridgeport Hotel. During the conference breaks there are also plenty of opportunities to network with other farmers, service providers and industry members, which is a highly valued element to the day. The conference is the result of a collaborative approach between DairySA and Central region South Australian dairy farmers and will be held on Wednesday, March 16 from 9.30 am. Registrations for both the conference and dinner are now open through Eventbrite at bit.ly/DSA_22Central_Rego
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Voting on the Dairy Australia levy is now open.
from the poll would examine labour shortages, regional services, climate challenges and policy development, each of which are important to dairy,” Mr Morgan said. “As Dairy Australia moves into the next five-year funding arrangement, other issues will also be part of future reviews within their operational ambit and oversight by their board, government and dairy farmers. “(This ranges) from further opportunities from the 'dairy plan', funding from dairy industry players through to leadership within the industry generally. “The opportunities are vast but the outcomes can be great and eastAUSmilk will hold them to account." Mr Morgan said ongoing discussions with other dairy industry players including processors and retailers could provide another way to enhance future funding of research and development. “Each organisation in the dairy valuechain must play its part in a proactive and positive manner to ensure a sustainable and viable dairy future with each maintaining a strong incentive to support their industry, from dairy farmers, processors and retailers,” he said.
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
NEWS // 17
Caprice welcomes scholarship CAPRICE BAILLIE already has her commu-
nity at heart, and a new scholarship will help to cement her association with the Timboon region. Caprice, 18, has received a 2022 Powell Legacy Fund school scholarship administered by the DemoDAIRY Foundation. The 18-year-old will receive $10,000 over the next three years after being accepted into a Bachelor of Primary and Secondary Education at Australian Catholic University in Melbourne. “It was my top preference, so I was thrilled and keen to get going,” she said. Caprice will use the scholarship to pay her rental bond and help with rent during the next three years. “I’ve never lived in Melbourne or been there much so I’m quite nervous, but I’ve got my accommodation organised only 15 minutes from the uni,” she said. “The scholarship will be a massive help; my parents were very relieved.” Caprice first heard about the scholarship at school and then found out more through her role as a volunteer firefighter with Timboon Fire Brigade. Her work as a firefighter is the latest in a long history of community contributions, including volunteering at a Christian outreach program in 2019 and in tree planting after the St Patrick’s Day bushfires, and a beach clean-up around Port Campbell and Peterborough.
Caprice was joint captain of the Timboon Demons female football team prior to COVID19 and has juggled four different part-time jobs to help support her move to university. Caprice, who grew up in the region and has strong family dairy farming and community connections, plans to return to the Timboon region to teach. “This will give me the opportunity to give back to my community, through providing education to future students and creating a greater sense of purpose and belonging,” she said. She said the scholarships were great supports for the local community. “It’s unreal that they can support so many local people through these scholarships and I hope to be able to give something back to my community. “I aspired to do teaching from a young age after having a teacher who left an everlasting impression that helped to shape me into the person I am today. Looking back on that year of my life, it made me aware teaching is crucial to all aspects of development and since then it’s something I’ve been passionate to reciprocate.” More information about scholarships can be found at www.demodairy.com.au/scholarships-and-grants/ or from DDF board member Ian Teese on 0427 358 987 or email itag@bigpond.com
Volunteer firefighter Caprice Baillie already has her Timboon community at heart.
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
18 // NEWS FONTERRA, BULLA LIFT PRICES Fonterra Australia has increased its average farm gate milk price for the 2021–22 season by 20 cents per kilogram, comprising 17¢/kg of butterfat and 24¢/kg of protein. This takes Fonterra's average farm gate milk price to $7.30/kg MS, which will be backdated from July 1. Fonterra Australia managing director René Dedoncker said this price rise came on the back of continued strong dairy prices coupled with the good performance of Fonterra Australia's business. “We know that the dry summer in many regions and higher input costs onfarm are impacting profitability, so we hope that passing on this increase now will help offset some of these costs,” Mr Dedoncker said. “Although we are seeing historically high commodity prices and a weaker Australian dollar, the decline in milk production in Victoria and Tasmania is limiting the upside from export markets. “We also continue to see the impacts of the global supply chain disruption on our business with no immediate end in sight, and more recently the domestic supply chain has been severely impacted by COVID.” Bulla Dairy Foods has also lifted its farm gate price.
Bulla Dairy Foods general manager of dairy and procurement Rohan Davies said following strong cream and icecream production and sales during Bulla Dairy Foods' peak Christmas period, the company was lifting its price by 10¢/kg MS, retrospective to July 1. “Despite significant disruptions to our supply chain in January due to COVID-related issues, Bulla was able to deliver its biggest cream production period ever over Christmas,” Mr Davies said. The increase lifts one grade of milk to $7.45/kg MS and another grade to $7.35/kg MS, which make up the majority of Bulla's milk supply. Meanwhile, the New Zealand based Fonterra Co-operative Group has announced new partners in ownership of Global Dairy Trade. New Zealand's Exchange and the European Energy Exchange will take ownership stakes in the trading company. The partnership with Fonterra is expected to be completed mid2022, with Fonterra, NZX and EEX each holding an equal one-third shareholding in the global dairy auction platform.
Rob Stewart (second from the right) says Our Farm Our Plan helped his family to develop a sustainable farm model and address succession planning.
Workshops help kick more goals QUEENSLAND AND northern NSW dairy farm business are investing in infrastructure, employing staff, and improving their work-life balance, thanks to innovative industry workshops. The free Our Farm Our Plan sessions facilitated by Subtropical Dairy help farmers improve their business performance and manage volatility with the assistance of industry professionals. For dairy farmer Rob Stewart of Warwick, Queensland, Our Farm Our Plan supported his family to develop a sustainable farm model and address succession planning. “We wanted to see what the farm is capable of without pushing it beyond its means, so therefore a fourth generation can continue — my kids — if they choose that path,” Rob said. The workshops concentrate on goal setting and creating a farm business plan, with participants assisted by an industry consultant and Subtropical Dairy. Rob said this provided structure and accountability for everyone in his family business. “If it wasn't for the Dairy Australia program, we wouldn't have got help,” he said. “We would have worked it out ourselves, but when there are professionals out there, their expertise is definitely worth chasing up instead of making mistakes on our own.” The Stewarts were one of six dairy farm businesses to join recent Subtropical Dairyfacilitated Our Farm Our Plan workshops.
Subtropical Dairy regional extension officer Belinda Haddow said Our Farm Our Plan was open to all dairy businesses, with many using the workshops to guide future investments or better manage the balance between business and family. “Work-life balance and family time is a common challenge farm businesses bring to the Our Farm Our Plan workshops,” she said. “They are hoping to structure their business to meet the needs of their family — not just provide for their family — in a profitable and sustainable way. Part of this strategy meant focusing on employing labour and the process of doing that.” The construction of compost barns and calf-rearing facilities have also been popular business goals. All participants complete a workshop block of one hour per week and remain supported by Subtropical Dairy and the consultant for two years. Our Farm Our Plan is a mixture of group discussion, online learning, and one-on-one mentoring. “People we've had in the session so far have just said 'it's not so much about the planning, the workshops are encouraging vital business conversations',” Belinda said. “The process is as important as getting the plan on a page. The plan itself helps people focus on their business and gets everyone working together.”
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
20 // NEWS
Students helped with studies SEVEN STUDENTS from Victorian dairy regions starting their first year of tertiary study this year have received scholarships from Gardiner Dairy Foundation. The 2022 Gardiner Foundation Tertiary Scholars are: George Nicoll from Fish Creek (Bill Pyle scholarship); Maya Osborne-Coleman from Maffra (Shirley Harlock scholarship); Scarlett Grinter from Muckatah (Doug Weir scholarship); and Flynn Cannon of Maffra (Jakob Malmo scholarship). The 2022 Niel Black scholars are Alex Smith from St Germains; Anastasia Rea of Allansford; and Ebony Cook from Devon North. The scholarships are awarded annually to students living in Victorian dairy communities who have successfully completed their secondary schooling and contributed to their community as well as demonstrating leadership and a commitment to personal development. The scholarships are named in recognition of the significant contribution to the dairy industry made by past industry leaders and legends Shirley Harlock, Jakob Malmo, Bill Pyle, Doug Weir and Niel Black. Each scholarship recipient will receive $10,000 a year for up to three years to contribute towards costs associated with their studies. “Regional students incur high costs associated with relocating from home to undertake tertiary education,” Gardiner Dairy Foundation chief executive officer Allan Cameron said. “These scholarships aim to support the development of young professionals who may not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue higher education.” The program encourages students to return to Victoria’s dairy regions upon graduating, or after gaining further work experience, to ensure a diverse range of essential skills within these regions.
Alex Smith, St Germains (Niel Black scholarship) Alex completed Year 12 at Moama Anglican Grammar and will be studying a Bachelor of Dental Science at La Trobe University in Bendigo. He has been involved with the CFA since he was 16 years old and works as a farmhand on his parents’ dairy farm in the Goulburn Valley. Alex aspires to become a local dentist and run a farm with his family. Scarlett Grinter.
George Nicoll.
He has also organised the 2021 National Tree Day on his family farm where they planted 500 trees. George wants to provide quality sciencebased communication and journalism to increase awareness of the benefits of dairy and sustainable farming.
Maya Osborne-Coleman, Maffra (Shirley Harlock scholarship) Maya completed VCE in 2020 and has spent the past year working on the family dairy farm in Riverslea. She will be studying a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga. Maya has been involved in creating awareness for Dolly’s Dream which addresses the impact of bullying, anxiety, depression and youth suicide, through education and direct support to young people and families. She loves working outdoors and would like to be a rural journalist, sharing stories of people who work on the land with the rest of the community.
Scarlett has grown up on a family dairy farm at Muckatah in northern Victoria and completed VCE at Cobram Secondary College. She will study a Bachelor of Agricultural Science at the University of Adelaide. She wants to better understand the science behind agriculture and bring back skills to improve the practices on the family farm. Scarlett has had extensive involvement with the Scouts for the past 10 years and has not only received her Australian Scout Medallion but is also the chair for her Venturer region. She has also volunteered at the Cobram Community Youth Cinema.
For the past 12 months Anastasia has taken a gap year during which she has developed a passion for agriculture by working on a dairy farm. She will be studying an Advanced Diploma of Agribusiness Management at Longerenong Agricultural College. Anastasia’s involvement with the Girl Guides has enabled her to participate in community events and fundraisers like Clean Up Australia and working at a Bunnings barbecue stall. Following her Advanced Diploma Anastasia she would like to commence an Ag Science Degree at Charles Sturt University and work in animal nutrition or as a stock agent.
Anastasia Rea.
Ebony Cook, Devon North (Niel Black scholarship)
2022 Gardiner Dairy Foundation Tertiary Scholars
Flynn Cannon.
George Nicoll, Fish Creek (Bill Pyle scholarship) George grew up on a family dairy farm at Fish Creek in South Gippsland and attended Foster Secondary College where he was a house captain. He will be studying a Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne.
Scarlett Grinter, Muckatah (Doug Weir scholarship)
Anastasia Rea, Allansford (Niel Black scholarship)
Flynn Cannon, Maffra (Jakob Malmo scholarship)
Maya Osborne-Coleman.
Flynn completed Year 12 at Maffra Secondary College and will be studying an Advanced Diploma of Agribusiness Management at Longerenong Agricultural College. Flynn’s future career aspirations are to return to the family farm and to progress into share farming and eventually to own and operate a successful dairy farm in Gippsland. He is a member of the local Young Dairy Network group and volunteers as part of a hill climb club, Maffra and District Car Club.
Ebony completed VCE at Yarram Secondary College and is relocating to Monash University’s Peninsula Campus to study a Bachelor of Nursing. Ebony has always had a passion to help people and wants to provide more medical support to her community which is an hour’s drive from a large hospital. She has her Australian Scout medallion and has volunteered at Yarram Community House helping with meals program. During the power outages and floods in 2021 she helped provide hot meals to those without power. For more information about the program, visit gardinerfoundation.com.au/ts or email ashley. rosewarne@garinerfoundation.com.au
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Alex Smith.
Ebony Cook.
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
NEWS // 21
Net profit slump for a2 milk
AGRICULTURE BOOST FOR SOUTH-WEST VICTORIA Courses in agriculture and horticulture will be offered for the first time at South West TAFE in Colac. Victorian Training and Skills Minister Gayle Tierney announced the new courses and an investment of more than $1 million for new equipment at South West TAFE during a visit to 'Craiglands' farm in the Colac district. More than $264,000 will be used on vital equipment for TAFE students, including two quad bikes, a side-by-side utility vehicle, a
new tractor and security system and to help upgrade the horticulture workshops and polycarbonate greenhouse sheeting. As a result of the new equipment and upgrades, South West TAFE will be able to offer Cert II in Horticulture in Colac for the first time as well as fully delivering Cert III and IV in Agriculture and related short courses at the campus. The new courses will meet the growing popularity and interest in agriculture and horticulture courses, which have seen an
enrolment increase of 56 per cent from 2020 to 2021. It will also create a pipeline of skilled workers to meet demand in the local primary production industry, which is the third largest sector in Colac Otway Shire. A further investment of more than $785,000 will be used to buy a range of civil construction plant and machinery for students of the Cert II and III Civil Construction courses and other programs at South West TAFE's Sherwood Park campus.
THE A2 Milk Company has recorded a half-
year profit. The a2 Milk Company has suffered a net profit slump in the results reported for the first half of the financial year. Although in line with the company’s expectations, it recorded earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA2) of $97 million, down 45.3 per cent on the corresponding period from last year. Net after tax profit, including the non-controlling interest, was down 53.3 per cent to $56.1 million. The a2 Milk Company’s managing director and CEO David Bortolussi said despite challenging market conditions in China and COVID-19 volatility, “we are making good progress stabilising the business”. “The growth strategy we announced in October last year to respond to a rapidly changing China market has been completed and implementation is under way with good early progress across a range of initiatives,” Mr Bortolussi said. “We remain confident in the long-term China infant milk formula market, and we are growing share in our China label business in-store and online with strong consumer off-take and share growth.” Australian fresh milk revenue increased marginally by 0.2 per cent compared to the same time last year, supported by COVID-19 lockdowns and price increases. Successful trials of a2 milk UHT product were completed, leading to a full national launch this year. The company gave no formal profit guidance, but noted the outlook had improved for the second half of the year, with growth expected due mainly to growth in the Chinese and English labels. “However, this revenue improvement is not expected to translate into higher earnings as the company significantly increases brand and other reinvestment consistent with its growth strategy,” the company statement said. Revenue was marginally lower compared to the same period last year, at $660.5 million.
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There's always room for improvement The a2 Milk Company has recorded a half-year profit.
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
22 // PASTURE IMPROVEMENT
Rethink nitrogen strategies WITH UREA prices expected to remain up to 25 per cent higher than last season, many farmers are reconsidering their nitrogen strategy to incorporate liquid fertilisers with higher nitrogen efficiency. At up to $1000 a tonne, and nitrogen losses commonly exceeding 50 per cent, a fertiliser strategy too focused on urea is unlikely to optimise crop performance. Operations historically dependent on chemical-based fertilisers can start transitioning from long-term urea use to more natural nitrogen solutions, anytime. NitrotainTE27 from ECTOL Plant & Crop Nutrients is highly efficient, providing 27 per cent total nitrogen that is fully used. Formulated to retain nitrogen in the plant or soil, through the incorporation of amino acids, NitrotainTE27 minimises atmospheric and leaching losses and the acidification of soils. In addition, NitrotainTE27 reduces nitrate levels in crops and pasture, known to impact animal health. “At ECTOL, our role is to help farmers optimise plant, crop and pasture productivity, whilst reducing inputs and ultimately, on-farm costs,” ECTOL’s John McKay said. In comparative urea trials, a single application of NitrotainTE (preceding NitrotainTE27 with 22 per cent total nitrogen) at 4L/ha on pasture
NitrotainTE27 key take-outs ■ 27 per cent total nitrogen, plus trace elements. ■ Used in full — no atmospheric or leaching losses. ■ Foliar or soil applied, no withholding period. ■ Reduces nitrate levels in crops and pasture, known to impact animal health. ■ Promotes increased yields and pathogen resistance. ■ Optimise crop performance, with less inputs and less outlay. ■ ECTOL liquid products are available in 1000 litre, 200 litre and 20 litre drums.
Cows grazing on ECTOL treated pasture at Tony and Kath Hogan’s Merrigum, Victoria, property.
(sheep), compared to a single application of urea at 75 kg/ha, after 26 days, produced an additional 450 kg/ha of DM compared to urea. Agistment and hay silage growers, Tony and Kath Hogan, from Merrigum, Victoria, switched to liquid fertiliser in 2011.
“With ECTOL, we’ve been able to remove all chemical fertiliser use from the property, which has saved us money in farm inputs annually, whilst still boosting production,” Mr Hogan said. Unlike urea, NitrotainTE27 also provides crops with essential trace elements that are criti-
cal to key plant functions, including the determination of yields, pathogen resistance and most importantly, animal health. “At the current price of urea, nitrogen efficiencies achieved with NitrotainTE27 could reduce fertiliser budgets by 40–50 per cent,” Mr McKay said. NitrotainTE27 is suitable for crops, pasture and horticultural plants. The standard application rate (via foliar or soil) is 10L/ha, and this can be varied with crop and soil conditions and economics. For more information, phone (02) 9816 2057 or email info@ectol.com
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
PASTURE IMPROVEMENT // 23
Two decades of plant breeding FOR MORE than two decades, the Upper
Murray Seeds team of qualified and experienced researchers have been breeding and developing different varieties of pasture and forage seed under authentic farming conditions. A major focus of the program is to continually increase productivity and profitability for Australian farmers. The UMS research and development program was first established in the Upper Murray region of NSW. In 2018, the program relocated to Cressy Research Station in the Tasmanian Midlands.
Since then, the station has undergone extensive renovations including significant investment into drainage, buildings and infrastructure. Research station manager Tim Smallbon has been vital in breathing new life into the centre. “It has been a personal highlight working to begin transforming the Cressy Research Station into a premier cool climate pasture breeding and evaluation centre,” he said. “After a period of investment, redevelopment and renovation our strategy is for the research station to again be at the forefront of Australian agriculture and create a vibrant agri-hub.”
UMS director Stewart Sutherland with research station manager Tim Smallbon in the clover breeding nursery at Cressy Research Station.
This centre of excellence is where new varieties are developed and assessed under a system of replicated trial plots and broader grazing trials. Each variety is evaluated for beneficial traits such as yield, palatability and persistence, ensuring they remain consistent over a number of seasons. Continual investment into plant breeding is a core focus for the UMS team, with the recent announcement of its new Australian-bred latematuring Italian rye-grass variety. Allure is the latest diploid Italian rye-grass to be released by UMS. It displays rapid establish-
ment and will persist for two to three seasons under favourable conditions. Allure is a game-changing variety in the diploid Italian rye-grass market, with its outstanding performance and impressive overall dry matter production. Upper Murray Seeds' range of premium grasses, clovers, lucerne and forage cereals are available from your local rural store this autumn. For more information, visit www.uppermurrayseeds.com.au or have a chat with southern Victoria/South Australian area manager Keith Lange on 0428 406 464.
Allure is Upper Murray Seeds’ new late-maturing Italian rye-grass, bred at the UMS Cressy Research Station.
PLANT & CROP N U T R I E N T S
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
24 // PASTURE IMPROVEMENT
Check before using compost GIVEN THE price rise of urea in the past 12
months you may be asking yourself if you can access other cheaper sources of nitrogen. Producers may consider the use of manure or compost but there are some animal health risks to take into account. You must be confident the introduction of such products will not present a biosecurity risk to your livestock or property — assess whether the products will introduce pests, chemical issues, weeds, or diseases. Some of these risks will be minimised if the products have been effectively composted because the composting process deactivates most pathogens. If using pig or poultry manure you need to consider whether it contains Restricted Animal Material. RAM is defined as any material taken from a vertebrate animal other than tallow, gelatin, milk products or oils. It includes rendered products, such as blood meal, meat meal, meat and bone meal, fish meal, poultry meal, eggs, feather meal, and compounded feeds made from these products. It is illegal to feed RAM to ruminant animals or to allow ruminants access to a stockpile of material containing RAM. This restriction is referred to as the ruminant feed ban. This ban commenced in 1996 to minimise the risk of spreading the bovine spongiform
encephalopathy (BSE) agent, commonly known as ‘mad cow disease’. Where compost containing RAM is spread on a pasture paddock used for grazing ruminant animals, the livestock should be kept out of the paddock for 21 days until there has been sufficient sustained pasture growth to absorb the compost, to limit any ingestion of potentially contaminated soil.
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Where manure and compost are used as fertilisers, keep a close eye on these paddocks for signs of anything unusual. New weeds, pests or diseases need to be identified quickly, contained, and eradicated to prevent further spread. If any new or unusual pest or disease occurs, inform your local agronomist or veterinarian.
For further advice on the ruminant feed ban visit the Agriculture Victoria website or contact Agriculture Victoria’s animal health or veterinary officers on 136 186, or in New South Wales contact your Local Land Services. Dr Jeff Cave Senior Veterinary Officer
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
PASTURE IMPROVEMENT // 25
It’s a five-peat for Base BASE AR37 tetraploid perennial rye-grass
from DLF Seeds has again come out on top of Dairy Australia's latest Australian Forage Value Index 2022 update. The FVI rating system helps Australian dairy producers make better-informed decisions when choosing a perennial rye-grass cultivar. It provides an accurate, reliable and independent assessment of the potential economic benefit of perennial rye-grass cultivars in different dairy regions of south-east Australia. The FVI is calculated by multiplying a cultivars dry matter performance value by its economic value, and Base AR37 perennial ryegrass topped the rankings across all four areas tested in south-west Victoria, Gippsland, northern Victoria and Tasmania for 2022. “This is a fantastic result, once again for Base AR37,” DLF Seeds national sales and marketing manager Jason Agars said. “This result, coupled with the fact that it's Australian bred, really demonstrates its value to Australian farmers. The performance of Base AR37 in our conditions is exceptional and its fit across farming systems in southern Australia continues to expand. In the current environment, with strong milk and red meat markets, it makes a lot of sense to choose the variety that will drive the most productivity” . AR37 endophyte provides Base with the best balance of pasture production and persistence, insect control, higher tiller density over time and increased total dry matter production compared to rye-grass cultivars containing AR1 or nil endophyte. “AR37 really takes rye-grass pasture persistence to a premium level providing protection against Argentine stem weevil, pasture mealy bug, African black beetle and root aphid,” national product development manager Isaac Berry said. “Autumn recovery is a true standout for Base AR37, and this can be attributed to AR37 providing protection during critical times allowing Base to maintain a high tiller density and recover faster when the autumn break occurs” . Tim Calder from Meeniyan, Victoria used to have issues with African black beetle. “Several years ago, African black beetle appeared on our farm decimating our Ital-
ian and some permanent rye-grass pastures which brought about a change in pasture variety selection on our farm,” he said. “I wanted a tetraploid perennial that was persistent, palatable and responsive to summer and early autumn rains. Having evaluated several varieties on our farm, I now use Base AR37 perennial rye-grass almost exclusively in our pasture improvement program. A particular
feature of it is its persistency, (I have many paddocks untouched for over five years) and its ability to maintain feed quality into the early summer. “It has also been a reliable performer in producing good quality silage in large quantities with up to three cuts on some out paddocks.” Base AR37 is Australian bred for Australian conditions and has been the number one per-
former in the FVI for five consecutive years since 2018. Additional information on the Australian Forage Value Index and the 2021 Forage Value Index Pasture Tables can be found on the Dairy Australia website For more information on Base AR37 perennial rye-grass contact 1800 619 910 or visit dlfseeds.com.au or pggwrightsonseeds.com.au
The new high yielding persistent Italian ryegrass
Appeal Italian ryegrass is the newest addition to livestock menus. It is a very persistent and very high yielding diploid Italian ryegrass. Appeal has shown consistently high yield performance in trials with fast establishment, high winter, early spring production, and an ability to hold on well over the summer, even under moderate insect pressure. At +28 days heading date, Appeal is nearly two weeks later heading than traditional Italian ryegrasses, enabling it to maintain forage quality for longer into summer. Appeal produces high quality forage, of high nutritive value, high digestibility and high palatability. In addition, it has strong disease resistance including against rust, resulting in improved animal acceptance. And unlike some Italian ryegrasses, Appeal will not cause grass staggers.
Base AR37 is Australian bred for Australian conditions and has been the number one performer in the Forage Value Index for five consecutive years,
For further information on Appeal contact our regional agronomists: EASTERN VICTORIA, NORTHERN NSW & QUEENSLAND ADAM SHEEDY Ph: 0428 132 096 NORTHERN VICTORIA & SOUTHERN NSW SVEN KOLJO Ph: 0429 375 452 WESTERN DISTRICTS, SOUTH AUSTRALIA, TASMANIA BRUCE HUME Ph: 0427 607 375
APPEAL IS AVAILABLE FROM YOUR LOCAL SEED MERCHANT OR FARM MERCHANDISE OUTLET
Cropmark Seeds Australia Pty Ltd Freephone: 1800 889 039 Freefax: 1800 889 037 www.cropmarkseeds.com
THE MORE PERSISTENT ITALIAN RYEGRASS
Vibe is a very persistent and very high yielding diploid Italian ryegrass, having been developed as part of a 15 year breeding programme focused on developing more persistent Italian ryegrasses. Vibe handles hard grazings very well and hangs in there when most other Italians won’t. At +27 days heading date, Vibe is up to 10 days later heading than traditional Italian ryegrasses, enabling it to maintain forage quality for longer into the spring. And with low aftermath heading, it returns quickly to vegetative state, enabling higher livestock performance potential.
www.notmanpasture.com.au (03) 5659 2314
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
PASTURE IMPROVEMENT // 27
Resistance studied A RESEARCH team within Curtin University has embarked on a new project to find safe and sustainable solutions to herbicide resistance, with the ultimate aim of protecting food supply in Australia. The team, led by Professor Josh Mylne, deputy director from the Centre for Crop and Disease Management at Curtin, is working in close collaboration with chemists at The University of Western Australia and Perth-based company Demagtech. With a goal to develop innovative ways to overcome herbicide resistance, Professor Mylne said his team aimed to make herbicides work more efficiently for growers, find a new mode of action for an under-used herbicide and better understand how herbicides break down. “Australia pioneered the herbicide-intensive yet erosion-reducing no-till approach and has some of the world’s highest rates of herbicide resistance, but has made few contributions to the field of herbicide development,” Professor Mylne said. “We’re going to build Australia’s agrochemical capability, with the ultimate goal of helping growers produce more food without losing practices that protect our soils from over-tilling.” Co-investigator and UWA chemist Associate Professor Keith Stubbs said the expected outcomes of the project were threefold; to find effective new herbicide combinations; to harness the potential of an understudied herbicide against which few weeds have evolved resistance to; and to establish how to reduce premature breakdown of herbicides within plants. “The major benefit of this research is that growers could have access to new solutions to herbicide resistance sooner rather than later,” Associate Professor Stubbs said. “Instead of starting from scratch, we’re looking at existing herbicides and using our partnership with Demagtech to ensure any successful outcomes are closer to market.” The research is supported by an Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage Project grant of $750,000. Curtin University deputy vice-chancellor research professor Chris Moran said ARC Linkage Projects allowed Curtin to partner with industry and ensure on-the-ground impact and, in this case, contribute to the growing challenges of food security. “For many years weeds, and more recently herbicide resistant weeds, have been a major factor for yield losses for Australian growers. Never before has there been a stronger demand for technologies to improve efficacy of the herbicides we have available,” Professor Moran said. “The future of agriculture is now looking brighter, with this research enabling the safe and sustainable use of herbicides, which contributes towards better farm practices, and ultimately protecting food supply of Australia.” The Centre for Crop and Disease Management is a national research centre co-supported by the Grains Research and Development Corporation and Curtin University.
A new study hopes to provide growers with new solutions to herbicide resistance.
Setting new benchmarks for late season quality Cropmark Seeds 194 mm W X 280 mm H
Dash annual ryegrass is fast establishing, high yielding, high quality and very palatable. At +24 days relative heading date (relative to Nui = zero) it is up to 10 days later heading, so that higher pasture quality will be maintained for longer into spring, translating into higher stock performance during DASH IS AVAILABLE FROM YOUR this critical period. LOCAL SEED MERCHANT OR FARM If you are looking for an 8-10 month winter feed, then add Dash to your stock’s diet. It is a great feed and makes great silage and hay.
For further information on Dash contact our regional agronomists: EASTERN VICTORIA, NORTHERN NSW & QUEENSLAND ADAM SHEEDY Ph: 0428 132 096 NORTHERN VICTORIA & SOUTHERN NSW SVEN KOLJO Ph: 0429 375 452 WESTERN DISTRICTS, SOUTH AUSTRALIA, TASMANIA BRUCE HUME Ph: 0427 607 375
MERCHANDISE OUTLET
Cropmark Seeds Australia Pty Ltd Freephone: 1800 889 039 Freefax: 1800 889 037 www.cropmarkseeds.com
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
28 // PASTURE IMPROVEMENT
Pasture seed industry’s $3 billion boost DATA RELEASED late last month demon-
strates the value of the pasture seed industry to Australian agriculture. Australian Seed Federation CEO Osman Mewett said Australian seed companies supplied 40,000 to 45,000 tonnes of pasture seed a year to livestock industries (dairy, beef, sheep meat and wool). “In terms of farm gate value-creation, this annually sown pasture seed delivers a total of $2.98 billion or eight per cent of the $35.3 billion farm gate value from the major livestock industries each year,” he said. “The value-add of this seed highlights its critical contribution to the red meat, dairy and wool industries in Australia.” The research, undertaken by ASF, was conducted to better understand the size and value of the Australian pasture seed industry, and to raise awareness of its contribution to Australian agriculture’s goal of becoming a $100 billion industry by 2030. “This volume of annual pasture seed sales creates a further $5 billion of downstream value in the processing, logistics and retail sales of beef, sheep meat and milk,” Mr Mewett said. While sown pastures also require fertiliser, agricultural chemical, machinery and labour inputs (all providing additional multiplier input effects), the farm gate production of the pasture seed sown annually delivers:
• one billion litres or 11 per cent of Australia’s milk production; • 11 per cent of Australia’s beef production; • 12 per cent of Australia’s sheep meat production; and • 21 per cent of Australia’s wool production. In terms of farm gate value, the annual seed sown delivers: • $554 million or 14 per cent of the farm gate value for milk; • $1042 million or six per cent of the annual farm gate value for beef; • $628 million or 12 per cent of the annual farm gate value for sheep meat; and • $759 million or 21 per cent of the farm gate value for wool. Mr Mewett said the total value of improved pastures to Australia’s livestock industries was beyond the scope of the study but was likely to be much greater than the value creation resulting from just the annual pasture seed planted last year. Pasture breeding has consistently delivered 0.5 to 1.0 per cent per annum increase in forage yields, plus improvements in forage quality, pest and disease resistance. “In the past five-years the use of improved proprietary seed has increased from 61 per cent to 68 per cent. This highlights the recognition by livestock producers and their advisors of the extra value they can receive from planting inno-
Recent research has highlighted the economic value of Australia’s pasture seed industry
vative and improved varieties,” Mr Mewett said. For the past 2020/21 financial year, 41,500 tonnes of pasture seed sales resulted in about 2.4 million hectares of pastures and forage crops being sown. Of this area, about 800,000ha was sown as temperate perennial pastures, 200,000ha of sub-tropical perennial pastures,
500,000ha of annual pastures, 300,000ha of winter forage crops and 600,000ha of summer forage crops. This volume of pasture seed was worth $234 million to seed companies in 2020/21. Download the complete report from https://www.asf.asn.au/
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
PASTURE IMPROVEMENT // 29
More Victorian farmers eligible for rebates MORE VICTORIAN farmers can now access rebates under the $100 million On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme following changes to its eligibility criteria.
Federal Water Minister Keith Pitt said the scheme had been extended to the north-west with farmers in the Millewa now able to apply for a rebate to modernise farm water infrastructure, improve productivity and prepare for future drought. “I welcome the expansion of the scheme to the Millewa region, as well as changes to eligibility that have made the scheme accessible to more drought-affected farmers in East Gippsland and Wellington,” Mr Pitt said. “Extending the scheme to Millewa farmers provides much-needed support to help respond to low rainfall and recent variable harvests.”
Farmers in East Gippsland and Wellington who received a rebate under the initial scheme can now also apply for another rebate under round two and receive the maximum $25,000 rebate. Victorian Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said the extension of the scheme would provide further support to the hardest hit farmers in drought-affected areas. “Now is the time to invest in efficient and modern on-farm water infrastructure. We want
to support Victorian farmers to upgrade their farms so they can be more resilient and adapt to a changing climate,” she said. “Not only will this allow farmers to be more productive but it will boost local economies and support our regional communities to continue to thrive. “I want as many Victorian farmers to benefit from this scheme as possible, so if you are eligible apply for a rebate as soon as you can.”
Applications close on May 6 or when funds are fully exhausted. More information about the scheme is available at the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment’s website. For more information on how to access the On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate in Victoria, contact Rural Finance to discuss the changed eligibility requirements on 1800 260 425 or visit ruralfinance.com.au.
INNOVATION FUND OPEN Irrigators with a bright idea are being asked to put their hands up for funds to put it to the test. The Irrigation Demonstration Project is open to all irrigators in central Gippsland working in all fields of agriculture. “This is an opportunity for those working in irrigated agriculture who have had an idea that might have improved efficiency to put that idea to the test and see if it works,” West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority’s Anthony Goode said. Funding is available for a range of activities ranging from paper-based planning through to buying equipment and monitoring and evaluation. The project is after applications that may help achieve the goals of the broader Lake Wellington Land and Water Management Plan, which is working towards reducing nutrient loads into the Gippsland Lakes, encouraging regional economic growth and reducing greenhouse emissions from irrigated agriculture. Irrigators have welcomed the initiative with Macalister Irrigation District farmer Liz Shotter encouraging fellow irrigators to get involved. “In this day and age, the most dangerous thing we can do is stay the same and not adapt. Projects such as this provides opportunity to think outside the square and trial projects on a smaller scale before replicating in a greater capacity,” she said. Applications close March 18. For more information, visit www.wgcma.vic.gov. au
CONTROL SO ADVANCED, EVEN WE’RE AMAZED HOW SIMPLE IT IS TO USE. GILTRAP FERTILISER SPREADERS NOT ONLY COME STANDARD WITH A WORLD CLASS TOUCH SCREEN CONTROL. PEACE OF MIND COMES STANDARD AS WELL. With precision spreading rates, spinner speeds and border spreading at your fingertips, you’ve got total control to nail every job perfectly.
KEY FEATURES: — Precision and flexibility to vary spreading rates electronically — Touch screen control for spinner speeds and border spreading — Optional electronic scales to precisely measure the load and amount spread — Checks spreading rates — Provides automatic rate calibration with scales fitted
NEED EVEN MORE CONTROL? For those wanting more advanced control and measurement we have upgrades to add headland and boundary spreading control, GPS coverage mapping and scales with automatic rate calibration. Also add prescription maps through the USB port for variable rate spreading.
TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SPREADING Pivot irrigation system at work in the Macalister Irrigation District.
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
30 // PASTURE IMPROVEMENT
Consider pulse cover crops The best weed control comes from tactics that also bring other benefits to a farming system. Greg Sefton, principal agronomist with Sefton Agronomics in the Riverina, says multiresistant annual rye-grass is becoming a major problem in irrigated systems. “Herbicide resistance can move easily through irrigation areas, particularly when the
control methods used on the supply channels are limited to just a few herbicides,” he said. “The rye-grass here is generally accepted to have resistance to glyphosate (Group 9 [M]), Group 1 [A] such as clethodim, Group 2 [B] and Group 3 [D], such as trifluralin. Growers are now relying heavily on Group 15 [K] products and doing their best to rotate out of the problem.”
To regain control, Greg is working with growers to incorporate a multi-purpose fallow crop such as field pea into the system as a winter fallow clean with the added benefit of contributing biological nitrogen into the soil ahead of planting rice or wheat. “A competitive pulse crop terminated at maximum biomass is an excellent way to reduce weed seed set,” Greg said.
The benchmark for production and performance
“It is a cultural control that also enables the use of some herbicides that are rarely used in our system. Combining the herbicide and cultural methods in the WeedSmart Big 6 is an effective way to keep our cropping options open and to maximise the value of applied water.” How do you manage weeds on the noncrop areas? Weed seed, often carrying herbicide resistance genes, travels easily through irrigation systems and can colonise non-crop areas. Seed from these plants readily infests the cropping areas if not controlled effectively. The control measures used on non-crop zones are often limited to herbicide tactics, so it is important to make sure the herbicide is applied to maximum effect to prevent seed set. Farm hygiene and physical removal of isolated weeds will also have a positive impact on weed seed production. What farming system benefits come growing a legume cover crop? The field pea crop will fix atmospheric nitrogen and this allows the grower to use 100 to 150 kg/ha less urea to grow the following crop without any yield penalty. If there is insufficient irrigation water available for a crop, then the fixed nitrogen is still available for a winter crop of canola or wheat. Field pea is quite drought tolerant, so if irrigation water is not available, the field pea can be grown through to harvest the grain and will usually yield 0.7 t/ha, which can be more profitable than, say, a 1 t/ha drought-affected wheat crop. Building an integrated farming system based on methods that have multiple benefits is fundamental to staying ahead of weed pressure. ‘WeedSmart’ is the industry voice delivering science-backed weed control solutions to enhance on-farm practices and promote the long term, sustainable use of herbicides in Australian agriculture. WeedSmart has support from the Grains Research and Development Corporation, major herbicide, machinery and seed companies, and university and government research partners.
Proven, reliable, persistent and high performing. Matrix Enhanced® perennial ryegrass truly is the benchmark for production and performance on Victorian dairy farms. It is thoroughly proven, reliable, persistent and high performing. Many farmers would argue that there is simply no better perennial ryegrass. The cows won’t argue with that either. They find it very palatable and eat it readily. Farmers tell us the milk production lifts when the cows are grazing Matrix. Matrix is suitable for all pasture renovation, including over-sowing and is great value for money at about $100 per hectare cheaper than some varieties.
For further information on Matrix contact our regional agronomists: EASTERN VICTORIA, NORTHERN NSW & QUEENSLAND ADAM SHEEDY Ph: 0428 132 096 NORTHERN VICTORIA & SOUTHERN NSW SVEN KOLJO Ph: 0429 375 452 WESTERN DISTRICTS, SOUTH AUSTRALIA, TASMANIA BRUCE HUME Ph: 0427 607 375
MATRIX IS AVAILABLE FROM YOUR LOCAL SEED MERCHANT OR FARM MERCHANDISE OUTLET
Cropmark Seeds Australia Pty Ltd Freephone: 1800 889 039 Freefax: 1800 889 037 www.cropmarkseeds.com
Field pea is a competitive legume crop that can reduce annual ryegrass germination in the paddock and halt encroachment from the crop borders.
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
PASTURE IMPROVEMENT // 31
Next level spray technology THE CASE IH Patriot sprayer has been a fixture
of many Australian farming operations for more than two decades, and now local customers are about to be introduced to the latest in Case IH application technology, the new Patriot 50 series. The Patriot has undergone a complete redesign to deliver improved efficiency and operator comfort, along with enhanced connectivity and remote management capabilities. “It’s an exciting expansion of our self-propelled application equipment line-up with three new models — the Patriot 3250, 4350, and 4450,” Case’s Jason Wood said. “This has been a comprehensive redesign of one of our flagship models and the benefits are obvious from the first time you sit in the cab: more comfortable to operate, complete vehicle control, and technology features offered for the first time in the Patriot.” The Patriot’s acclaimed AIM Command spray system technology has been stepped up again in the new Patriot series, with the option of adding AIM Command FLEX II, offering six modes of operation for greater accuracy and control across chemical application rates, pressure and droplet size, and individual nozzle on/off control for increased precision. Jason said the unique MultiControl armrest layout offered in current-model Steiger and Magnum tractors, and proving popular with operators, was now a feature of the Patriot 50 series sprayers, too, providing the advantage of keeping commonly-used controls at operators’ fingertips. Other features include: ■ A quiet, comfortable interior with an abundance of glass for maximum, unrestricted visibility, designed to enhance operator performance. ■ A superior ride quality, stability and control with a four-bar linkage chassis suspension system. ■ A suite of technology solutions capable of performing wireless file transfers, sharing guidance lines, creating prescription maps, fleet management, data sharing and product control. ■ Strong, durable booms with a boom suspension design that helps provide a stable platform for product application. ■ Integrated AutoBoom XRT Automatic Boom Height control that detects and accommodates changes in terrain, ensuring coverage accuracy and effectiveness.
A new centre section design minimises boom yaw in challenging conditions — even with longer boom options. ■ The AFS Vector Pro receiver provides reliable and consistent terrain-compensated position and helps operators quickly determine guidance lines. It’s also compatible with the optional AutoTurn automated headland turning feature. ■ Two customisable displays — the AFS Pro 1200 and the Viper 4+ — ensure operators always have optimal vehicle and product control and the ability to see what they want, when they want. ■ Tank capacities of 6057 litres (4450 model), 4542 litres (4350) and 3785 litres (3250). ■ For ease of maintenance, everything is within reach with a one-stop, centrallylocated service centre, exclusive tip wash station, ground-level connections and an open architecture design. ■ Increased transport speeds of up to 59.5 km/h (Patriot 4350 and 4450) to help maximise productivity. Currently being rolled out across the Case IH tractor ranges, AFS Connect is now offered in the Patriot, providing unmatched connectivity, guidance, data and monitoring solutions for any operation. Every Patriot 50 series sprayer comes with an AFS Connect-compatible modem and a five-year subscription from the factory. “With AFS Connect, operators can, for example, view and store their application maps from season to season, or track a machine’s location, parameters and progress during jobs to help with planning tasks,” Jason said. “There are so many options and opportunities, for every type and size, of farm business.” Jason said the priority during the development of the new Patriot series was to help customers maximise yield potential and better manage tight application windows. “We’re confident we’ve achieved that with the 50 series, keeping the features that are tried and tested, like the forward cab/rear engine design that works so well, but then adding and redesigning where necessary to ensure the highest levels of spraying accuracy and efficiency, and offer industry-leading connectivity and remote management capabilities.” For more information on the new Patriot series, contact your local Case IH dealer. ■
The new Case IH Patriot 50 series offers the latest in spray technology and connectivity capabilities.
Get next year’s seed on us! Enter into the draw to win $5,000 worth of seed when you purchase selected Upper Murray Seeds’ products from your local rural store including:
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Entries close 31 May 2022.
For more info scan the QR code with the camera on your smartphone! Terms and Conditions apply. The Patriot sprayer family.
www.uppermurrayseeds.com.au
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
32 // PASTURE IMPROVEMENT
Calving time essentials BY LUCY COLLINS
Preparation is key Regardless of how often or what time of year you calve, having the right equipment with you
will make a busy time of year on the farm just that bit more straightforward. Every step you can take ahead of time to improve the health and vitality outcomes for your animals, minimise your stress levels, and optimise safety and on-farm efficiency during this period is absolutely worth it.
Prior to calving, calving kits should be checked and restocked. Equipment and stock handling facilities need to be thoroughly inspected, maintained and repaired as required for safe and correct function. Medicines should be checked for quality, integrity and expiry dates. Record keeping
Zoom – the king of annual ryegrasses TM
and staff communication systems should be reviewed, and any staff training or knowledge deficits addressed. Treatment protocols ought to be reviewed and refreshed if required; including your plans for assisted calvings, newborn calf care, fresh cows and downer cows. Your calving kit should include: ■ minimum of two chains/leg ropes ■ additional long chain or head snare ■ pulley or calving jack in good order ■ obstetrical lubricant ■ detergent (soap) ■ disinfectant (eg. chlorhexidine) ■ long obstetrical gloves ■ short latex gloves ■ clean towels ■ bucket/s ■ torch/headlamp ■ clean water ■ naval spray or dip (seven per cent iodine or two per cent chlorhexidine) ■ a can of spray paint. Optional extras: ■ anti-inflammatories and other medications as per your individual farm’s requirements ■ needles and syringes of various sizes ■ a calf resuscitator ■ bags of four in one, calcium and dextrose for quick administration in the paddock ■ clean milking apron ■ ear tags and applicator ■ calf coat.
Stages of labour Cows will commonly become restless in the days and hours leading up to labour, and may separate themselves from the rest of the mob. The first stage of labour involves the softening and opening of the cervix, and the amniotic sac (looks like a fluid filled bubble or bag at the vulval opening) and/or calf entering the birth canal. This stage can last up to eight hours. Stage two involves delivering the calf, and again duration is variable but should not last longer than six hours. Stage three is the expulsion of the placenta, which can take up to 12 hours.
When to intervene
ZoomTM is a specialist winter feed. An ideal break crop between maize and other crops, it is very quick to establish and shows exceptional autumn/winter growth and rapid re-growth. ZoomTM offers the advantages of excellent palatability and high metabolisable energy content. ZoomTM can provide multiple grazings over autumn and winter before being shut up for high quality silage in the spring.
For further information on Zoom contact our regional agronomists: EASTERN VICTORIA, NORTHERN NSW & QUEENSLAND ADAM SHEEDY Ph: 0428 132 096 NORTHERN VICTORIA & SOUTHERN NSW SVEN KOLJO Ph: 0429 375 452 WESTERN DISTRICTS, SOUTH AUSTRALIA, TASMANIA BRUCE HUME Ph: 0427 607 375
ZOOMTM IS AVAILABLE FROM YOUR LOCAL SEED MERCHANT OR FARM MERCHANDISE OUTLET
If a cow appears to be in labour based on the signs above but there are no signs of progression, an examination should be performed, ideally while wearing a clean lubricated obstetrical glove. If the amniotic sac is visible for over an hour but no signs of a calf, or if the cow is straining unproductively for more than half an hour whether there is a sac present or not, the cow should be checked as assistance may be required. Retained placentas are not usually intervened with during the immediate labour period in cattle.
Tips and tricks
Cropmark Seeds Australia Pty Ltd Freephone: 1800 889 039 Freefax: 1800 889 037 www.cropmarkseeds.com
Cleanliness is key. Wash the cow’s vulva and your arm (if not using gloves) before you assist her and continue to keep yourself and her clean during the intervention. Nobody wants to be treating a preventable uterine infection in three days’ time. Don’t underestimate the power of lubricant, especially if the cow has been straining for a while and already expelled a lot of her amniotic fluid. Lube bombs are cheap, simple and effective: fill a clean obstetrical glove with one to
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
ANIMAL HEALTH // 33
Safe placement of calving chains and ropes.
two litres of lubricant, tie off the end and gently introduce it into the cow and down around the calf before popping the glove and dispersing the lubricant. Lube will not only assist in the passage of the calf or help you finally bring up that cheeky missing foot you’ve been chasing, it will help protect the internal lining of the uterus and birth canal. Leg chains or ropes should always be applied appropriately using half hitches (see diagram), with force distributed evenly across multiple joints in the limb. Head snares, chains or ropes should never be applied to the lower jaw — fracture or dislocation will likely result. Traction should be used appropriately by experienced operators, and in a careful controlled manner using a calving jack or pulley. No more than two people should ever be required to apply tension to a jack or pulley. Using tractors, quad bikes or wire strainers is not acceptable and excessive force should never be used to make up for an inability to correct a malpresentation. Always check for a twin.
When to call in the reinforcements If you have attempted to assist a cow deliver a calf without making any progress within 15 minutes, if the cow appears distressed, bloated, paralysed or bleeding heavily, or if you are unable to determine the position of the calf or
Common calving presentations.
How to safely apply traction to a calf.
correct a malpresentation, it’s time to call for help. Never give a cow oxytocin while a calf is still inside. Calving season can be long and exhausting — knowing when to call for help during a calving may feel like defeat, but you’ll more than likely be doing yourself (and the cow) a favour in the long run. Once you’ve called either another member of staff or your vet for assistance, it’s best to stop and reset, and give the cow a break too. Grab a drink (maybe offer the cow one too) and refresh your water buckets ready for the next person. If it’s a doozy, the vet will likely still rely on you to help out in some way, so take the time to have a breather before they get there.
Prolapses If a cow continues to strain after calving, she may prolapse her uterus (push it outside her body). A prolapse is a medical emergency and should be attended to immediately by an experienced operator or vet to improve chances of successful replacement and survival. Lucy is completing her Dairy Residency with The University of Melbourne. She works as an on-farm veterinarian for Apiam Animal Health, and alongside her husband on his family’s dairy farm in south-west Victoria. She is a 2021 Nuffield Scholar supported by Gardiner Dairy Foundation.
Having the right equipment with you will make a busy calving period more manageable.
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DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
34 // ANIMAL HEALTH
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Casino dairy farmer Sam Tonge makes sure all his staff attend Cups On Cups Off workshops.
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NSW dairy farmers and their staff have completed training to improve cow health and milk quality. Dairy Australia's two-day Cups On Cups Off workshop is one of the most popular in the country. Course participants learn hands-on methods for preventing, treating, and controlling mastitis in dairy herds. Subtropical Dairy — the Queensland and northern NSW regional arm of Dairy Australia — facilitates Cups On Cups Off courses for the region. Subtropical Dairy executive officer Brad Granzin said participants learned about how and why mastitis infections occurred and this enabled them to better manage herd health in extreme weather events. “We have our fair share of heatwaves and floods, so knowing what actions to take and tools to use to prevent mastitis in either event is vital for farm business profitability,” he said. “Dairy farmers get a premium for top quality milk, but it's more than that, they know it takes healthy cows to produce this milk and quality milk is what our consumers want.” Dairy farmer Sam Tonge from Casino, NSW, has completed several courses as he likes to attend them with new staff. All his staff members have completed at least one two-day course. “The course has an external expert presenting the material, always an experienced dairy veterinarian, and the content is consistent,” he said. “This means everyone is getting the best and most up-to-date advice and learning best prac-
“ We have our fair share
of heatwaves and floods, so knowing what actions to take and tools to use to prevent mastitis in either event is vital for farm business profitability. Brad Granzin
”
tice from an independent expert. It's a unifying exercise for the whole milking team and means we are milking the cows and managing mastitis using the best principles and practice. That should translate into better milk quality and less clinical cases of mastitis.” These courses have guided how Sam and his wife Fleur ensure their grazing herd can manage difficult weather conditions. Removing mastitis risk factors from their business has also been crucial to managing wet and hot weather. “One of the other things Cups On Cups Off talks about is that in extremely wet conditions it takes about an hour for the teat end to close,” Sam said. “Under very wet conditions one of the other strategies we now use is to provide some hay or silage for the milkers so they go out and eat immediately after milking, ensuring they are standing up while their teat ends are closing. Without this feed they might lay in the mud where there's much more risk of environmental bacteria getting in.” Cups On Cups Off follows the Countdown 2020 mastitis guidelines developed by Dairy Australia.
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
MACHINERY & PRODUCTS // 35
Heat exchanger installed An upgrade at Burra Foods’ processing plant in Korumburra in Victoria necessitated the use of a heat exchanger to warm frozen milk products. However the existing building and infrastructure meant that the available space was severely limited. The line in question produces skimmed milk concentrate and cream from frozen concentrates which are then thermalised and cooled to ambient processing temperatures. The required heat exchangers needed to raise the temperature of the product from -5°C to 18°C prior to the final heater, which includes melting the frozen product. After this the product is then cooled from 10°C to 5°C in the final cooler. Due to the consistency of the skimmed milk concentrate and cream the product is quite viscous, so the heat exchanger needed to resist fouling and provide good heat transfer performance, while also integrating with the plate heat exchangers used in the process in an extremely limited footprint. The solution was an HRS MI Series corrugated tube heat exchanger which provided the necessary heating and cooling requirements in the tight space available and also resulting in a small pressure drop, another important consideration for this installation. Following an initial inquiry at the end of 2019, the unit was installed in mid-2020 and has
Building farm equipment for 60 years, Hustler Equipment has been dedicated to improving the lives and work of Australian dairy farmers since the very beginning.
exceeded performance expectations since final commissioning, with a production capacity of 5000 kg of product per hour. “Other suppliers couldn’t match HRS’s offering in terms of tubular heat exchangers and the level of detail provided,” Burra Foods’ Stuart Shattock said. “Once we placed the order, there was a slight delay due to COVID, but HRS managed to produce it as a rush order and the installation and commissioning was really smooth. In fact, they
were able to accommodate a change to the process design partway through installation and make some improvements on the fly, which is great for a nimble and flexible food and beverage business like ourselves. “There are two parts to the unit: the heater and the cooler. The heater has performed well and done exactly what we expected, while the cooler has actually done more than we expected. Overall, we are very happy with the product and the output from it.”
HRS Heat Exchangers’ Australian director Chris Little said the company’s corrugated tube heat exchanger technology was required to prevent fouling from the thick cream element of the product. “The requirement for a heat exchanger with a small physical footprint meant that coming up with the final design was a challenge, but our engineering team rose to the occasion and provided a reliable solution which meets all of Burra Foods’ needs,” he said.
Above and right: The completed thermaliser raises the temperature of the product from -5°C to 18°C prior to the final heater.
COMBI RX148 EZFEED SM130
EZFEED Silage Wagons or COMBI RX Feed Wagons? Which is best for your operation? Maize Silage
Grass Silage
Pit Silage
Round Bales Pit Silage
EZFEED SM110 find out more at hustlerequipment.com • or call 0800 487 853 or 0435 371 311
Square Bales
Grass Silage
Root Crops
Maize Silage Any Feed Type
COMBI RX178 Watch the short documentary chronicling their six decade journey at hustlerequipment.com/documentary
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
36 // MACHINERY & PRODUCTS
Tractor pull returns home THE MOST powerful motor sport on mud is
coming to Elmore on March 19. Modified tractor pulling can see machines with more than one engine and over 1000 horsepower drag a heavy sleigh 100 m. It’s a loud, rev-head sport that first began at Elmore Events Centre in 1979 but soon moved away from the town in central Victoria. Now it’s back for the first time, with gates opening at 3 pm for a 4 pm start. St Joseph’s Primary School and the Elmore Field Days Committee have partnered to present the event alongside Down Under Modified Tractor Pulling Association. Tickets are $25 for adults and $5 for children. Purchase online at: events.ticketbooth.com.au/ event/elmore-tractor-pull
Wicked Whitehall is one of the most recognisable modified tractors in the country and will be on show at Elmore in central Victoria on March 19.
BUILT TOUGH Multi 4 & Multi 5 Bale Feeders You expect strength, quality and performance from your farm machinery and McIntosh Bale Feeders deliver all three. The range of McIntosh Bale Feeders are designed to a strength and performance standard with an all steel construction. Every detail has been carefully thought out to reduce breakdowns and provide trouble free operation for years to come.
To find your nearest dealer, please contact:
www.tracmac.com.au 03 5625 1522
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
MACHINERY & PRODUCTS // 37
Excellence recognised MACDON HAS been presented with two pres-
tigious AE50 awards — one for the FD2 and one for the M1170NT. Each year, the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers recognises the 50 most innovative product-engineering designs in the food and agriculture industry with AE50 Awards. To be selected, winning products must help farmers and food processors to increase efficiency, enhance quality, improve safety, and increase profitability. Based in Manitoba, Canada, MacDon has manufactured high-performance harvesting equipment for more than 70 years. The MacDon® M1170NT provides the power and field performance of an M1 windrower, while allowing for a smooth and fast ride of 37 km/h between fields and fitting within road regulations. Transition from the field stance of 382 cm to the narrower road transport of 346 cm is accomplished at the push of an in-cab button. On-screen prompts guide the user through the process. The sliding leg mechanisms used for the front and rear axles have under-gone vigorous testing to ensure their durability. The narrow transport option allows for easier trailering for longer hauls. The new FD2 FlexDraper® headers are designed to deliver increased harvesting productivity across a wide variety of crops and conditions. The ClearCut™ high-speed cutting system with its patented geometry, 25 per cent more
cutting area and new drive system deliver up to 30 per cent faster ground speeds. The header frame accommodates industry-leading 127-cmdeep side drapers to ensure smooth crop flow, increasing combine capacity up to 20 per cent, which is of benefit in bulky crop conditions. The 70 per cent increase in wing flex range enhances ground following capabilities. The optional ContourMax™ system with forward positioned wheels allows ground following to produce a consistent stubble height up to 45 cm. The selfcontained EasyMove™ Transport system requires less effort and converts more quickly from field to transport. Case IH's Patriot 50 series sprayers were also recognised at the awards (see page 31) as was Case IH's WD5 series self-propelled windrowers and Fast Riser 6100 series three-section front-fold planters (not currently available in Australia). John Deere received eight awards. This included: ■ See & Spray™ Select — a targeted spray application that provides a similar hit rate to broadcast spraying while using an average 77 per cent less herbicide. ■ MY22 9 Series Tractors — is powered by an all-new John Deere PowerTech™ 13.6L engine to allow producers to increase efficiency by pulling wider implements and is packed with technology to enable greater precision.
FD2 Flex Draper headers use MacDon’s Active Float system, coupled with 70 per cent more flex than the previous model, for an improved harvesting experience. ■
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HDF Hinged Frame Flexible Cutterbar Draper — provides superior harvesting capacity for small grains, canola and pulse production across changing conditions and uneven or rolling terrain while capturing more grain. C770 Cotton Harvesters — provides unmatched levels of productivity, technology, and efficiency for cotton growers, with the new picker harvesting more than four hectares per hour while reducing cotton losses, and strippers harvesting up to an extra 40 ha per day in dryland cotton. Quick Change Blades for ProSeries™ Openers — helps farmers save time and
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reduce labour costs on no-till air seeding tools. ExactRate™ Liquid Fertilizer System—integrated on 8RX tractors, this offers an additional 3785L of liquid fertiliser capacity on the tractor allowing customers to increase efficiency by covering more hectares between fills. 1775NT Planter — increases onboard seed and fertiliser capacity while reducing soil compaction through the integration of tracks on the planter. W200 Series Self-Propelled Windrowers and Platforms — includes TouchSet in-cab pushbutton controls operators can use to adjust settings from inside the cab.
READY WHEN YOU ARE.
THE JOSKIN MUCK SPREADER RANGE.
12062 260 mm W X 186 mm H
www.joskin.com.au (03) 5231 6999 IMPORTED BY COLAC AGRICULTURAL COMPANY PTY LTD, VICTORIA
DAIRY NEWS AUSTRALIA MARCH 2022
38 // MACHINERY & PRODUCTS
Part of the community For more than 60 years, independent New Holland dealership Chapman and Slattery has been servicing farming customers in the NSW Hunter region and has no plans to slow down. Opened in 1957 in Singleton by Brett Slattery and Ray Chapman, the dealership has focused on servicing the region and surrounds with hay and foraging equipment including leading New Holland Balers, hay equipment and parts. However, with the Hunter region’s transition to mining in the 1970s, farm numbers began to dwindle. “As a long-standing business in the Hunter, we’ve watched the area move towards mining and away from farming, decreasing the number of haymakers, dairies and farmers,” Mr Slattery said. “Many farms were not being farmed, but the hills were being mined. While mining has brought additional revenue to the local economy, we’ve seen the closure of many dealerships across the region. “It’s also meant we’ve had to compete for quality talent in the agricultural machinery space, an issue that is seen across other technical industries. “As dealerships have closed, we’ve naturally expanded our customer base and service radius, with 60 per cent of our settlements being outside our postcode.”
Although the Hunter region has seen a rise in mining, the need remains for agricultural machinery experts to service the region. With its established reputation as experts in hay and foraging, Chapman and Slattery has developed an extensive list of customers and clients, some of which have been with the dealership for more than 60 years. “As a part of the community, we have established deep-rooted relationships with farmers across Singleton, Muswellbrook, Scone and beyond,” Mr Slattery said. “We have worked closely with our multi-generational customers over the last 64 years, dealing with their fathers and grandfathers, maintaining face-to-face customer visits to understand their business and work together to solve an issue. “Chapman and Slattery sees repeat business from our loyal customer base, but our expertise and dedication to service is shared through the broader industry to our competitors, who often reach out for advice due to our established history in the industry.” Idano Farms in Singleton, run by Rob and Sally O’Hara, has been a customer of Chapman and Slattery for many generations, sourcing its New Holland hay equipment exclusively from the dealership. “Idano Farms has been a customer of Chapman and Slattery for as long as I can remember,” Rob said.
Chapman and Slattery has been servicing farming customers in the NSW Hunter region for 60-plus years, and despite the growth in mining in the area the dealership is going from strength to strength.
“The sales service and reputation of the dealership is second to none. Chapman and Slattery is a wonderful family-orientated dealership that we love working with. We’ve consistently purchased our New Holland hay gear from Chapman and Slattery for more than 60 years, and we will never look anywhere else.” Since the opening of Chapman and Slattery, the business has maintained its family feel, employing within the Chapman and Slattery families, as well as the children of local farmers. “My wife and I are the sole proprietors of Chapman and Slattery, and our son Cameron manages the workshop as a New Holland serviceman,” Mr Slattery said.
Armour Groups 260 mm W X 186 mm H
“We’re committed to employing locally, including employing farmers and their children. Growing up in the industry provides a deep understanding of the machinery, how to look after it and how to solve many of the issues we face, which contributes to the success of the dealership. “Since opening the dealership, we’ve built a strong rapport and relationship with New Holland thanks to our extensive knowledge of their products and our unwavering dedication to the farming community. We often take advantage of the New Holland finance offerings available and promote these to our customers, including the current 0% finance across the entire hay tool range — some of our most popular products.”
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THE MILK PAYOUT is UP Fert PRICES ARE UP Reduce your fert use & save $$$, grow more grass and produce more milk.
Image shows Ricky Taylor of Fert Solutions spraying with a Multi 4000
A Tow and Fert is a SMART BUSINESS INVESTMENT
Multi 500
Multi 1000
Multi 1200
Multi 2800
Available in 5 models. Tow and Fert. There is one for your farm.
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Multi 4000
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PRE-CALVING