NOVEMBER DECEMBER The Australian 2018 airyfarmer
DROUGHT Key principles for summer grazing WASTE Nitrogen-fi xing plasma reactor trial VAN DAIRY GROUP New dairy part of growth plan
GENOME EDITED GRASS COULD BE ON FARM IN THREE YEARS GM RULE CHANGE HOPES
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NEWS GM rule change poten al gamechanger 12 Vegan diets don’t cut carbon footprint 17 Reducing the use of an microbials 22 Short-term prices don’t refl ect dynamics 23 Milk cri cal food source: Ban Ki Moon 24 Cheese key to export growth 25 Minister fl ags supermarket reform 28 CAPABLE PEOPLE Farm safety a priority this holiday season 21 ON FARM How to make a wise bedding choice 30 TRUSTED DAIRY INDUSTRY Campaign promotes dairy for bones 34 Keeping fl avoured milk on the menu 35 CONFERENCE PREVIEWS Australian Dairy Conference 37 Interna onal Red Dairy Breeders Federa on 55 DAIRY EQUIPMENT UPDATE 21 Around the fi eld days 41 Cows highly mo vated to access the brush 47 New dairy part of overall growth plan 48 COLUMNS At my desk 5 BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT Milk Ma ers 6 Nitrogen-fi xing plasma reactor trial 63 Dairy Australia Roundup 11 Effl uent plan key part of dairy upgrade 66 NHIA News Roundup 18 U lising effl uent pond upgrade 70 Update from the Gardiner Founda on 32 Dairy market report 40 FARM PROFITABILITY What’s on 72 Taking Stock program shows way forward 76 Snippets and Titbits 74 Feed budge ng vital this summer 77 DataGene 75 Key principles for summer grazing 78 Regional Development Program contacts 82 Crunch numbers on alterna ve fi bre 79 Low-cost tac cs can keep cows cool 80 Smarter enegy use reduces farm costs 81 OUR COVER Researcher Dr Pieter Badenhorst at the Hamilton research centre, where gene cally modifi ed grasses are grown. A new defi ni on may provide a breakthrough. See story p12. 32
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New to Australia Patented five-gauge weighing system Double-auger vertical mixer for precision rations. Designed for intensive use Compact design for greater maneuverability and maximum volume Integrated chassis Capacity 24m3, Length 7.32m, Height 2.80m* Double speed gearbox (*depending on tyres) AT MY DESK Mee ng increasing societal demands The Australian Dairyfarmer is published on the 15th of every second month, in July, F anyone doubts the impact of con- Netherlands had cut its antimicrobial September, November, January, March sumer and wider society demands use across all species by 60 per cent Ion our industry, a few stories in within a decade but this had not led and May, for the Australian Dairy Farmers, this edition should change their view. to an increase in clinical mastitis. Level 2, Swan House, 22 William Street, Increasingly, the way we farm fac- Antimicrobial resistance is a big Melbourne, Victoria, 3000. es scrutiny. In part, this refl ects the issue, not just in agriculture, but for techno-knowledge age, with a greater human health. But this story shows EDITORIAL understanding of the way things in- that science and industry can work Editor: CARLENE DOWIE terconnect. together to meet the challenge with- PO Box 59, Carisbrook, Vic, 3464 The increasingly global nature of out negative consequences. Email: [email protected] our economies is also a factor. Multi- Our story on a trial of a nitrogen- Phone/fax: (03) 5464 1542 national companies often set policies fi xing plasma reactor in Northern Mobile: 0475 962 221 to enable them to sell products into a Ireland (see page 63) also shows how wide range of markets that have dif- science can help solve problems. The ADVERTISING ferent standards and expectations. farm where the trial is being conduct- Advertising manager: PETER ROACH It also refl ects the growing power ed, like many in Europe, is subject to GPO Box 257, Melbourne, Vic, 3001 of social media and the sensitivity quotas for the amount of ammonia it Email: [email protected] of governments, organisations and can produce. The plasma reactor fi x- companies to the opinions of wider es nitrogen from the air and adds it to Telephone: (03) 8667 1147 society or special interest groups. the manure, which causes a reaction Fax: (03) 8667 1141 The broadening gap between farm- with the manure and stops ammonia Mobile: 0447 551 316 ers and the wider community is also losses. This produces liquid nitrogen at play, as people increasingly have that can be applied as fertiliser on PRODUCTION less knowledge about the details of the farm. Fairfax Media Australian Community what happens on farms. This means It’s a great example of a closed- Media production hub opinions can be shaped by those loop that offers wins for the environ- with a particular viewpoint and peo- ment and for the farmer. Circulation: The Australian Dairyfarmer is ple are unable to assess the informa- We can’t simply ignore the de- supplied free to all registered dairyfarmers tion presented against their own ex- mands of wider society but with a in Australia. perience and knowledge. smart approach we might be able to For a change of address, contact Our cover story (see page 12), fi nd solutions that are a winner for written by Marian Macdonald, looks everyone. D ADF Reception at what is happening with genetically Telephone: (03) 8621 4200 modifi ed grasses. Many farmers are Fax: (03) 8621 4280 frustrated that grasses developed in Email: recep on@ Australia offering huge production australiandairyfarmers.com.au gains still sit in trial plots, blocked by government regulation, processor Copyright: All material in The bans and lack of consumer accept- Australian Dairyfarmer is copyright. ance. Reproduction in whole or in part is not Her story does point out that there permitted without the written permission is hope on the horizon — with differ- ent genetic tools potentially able to of the publisher. be used to deliver gains. But the comments in her story from Editorial contributions: Editorial the Friends of the Earth’s emerging contributions are welcome, but no tech project co-ordinator point to the Editor responsibility can be taken for their loss. diffi culty in getting these onto farms. Copy is preferred by email. Deadline is The co-ordinator dismisses new two months before publication. techniques, saying “all gene-editing techniques can result in unexpected Printed by: Rural Press Printing. mutations”. It’s a black-and-white Published by: Fairfax Agricultural Media stance that offers little opportunity @DowieDairyEd to fi nd a middle ground. (Agricultural Publishers Pty Ltd) Our story from the World Dairy ABN 55 000 560 430. Summit (see page 22) on the increas- ing scrutiny on antimicrobial use ISSN: 0814-4494 in agriculture offers more hope. A www.facebook.com/ CAB Audit Figure: 9392 (March 2018) Dutch researcher explained how The AustralianDairyfarmer
The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 5 MILK MATTERS
provided by Australian Dairy Farmers Ltd Dairy industry gets mandatory code
✔ ADF to work with federal government on mandatory code ✔ Key requirements outlined ✔ Hopes code will rebuild trust and confi dence Key points Key EAK dairy farmer group Australian Dairy Farmers will work with the Pfederal government to introduce a mandatory code of practice for the in- dustry, on the condition that a stronger code would guarantee coverage across the entire sector and improve bargain- ing power for farmers. ADF stressed that a future manda- tory code must: Federal Agriculture Minister David Li leproud says he is commi ed to working with • Include an independent dispute reso- ADF to ensure a new mandatory code benefi ts farmers. lution procedure, with small claims to be investigated. by the Australian Competition and Con- code must deliver coverage across the • Outlaw retrospective milk price step sumer Commission (ACCC), include: entire industry and improve bargaining downs. • Retaining clauses in the current code power for Australian dairy farmers,” Mr • Enforce contract and price transpar- where there is no stakeholder objection Littleproud said. ency. or issue. Mr Littleproud said a mandatory • Be reviewed within three years, in- • Adding clauses where there is univer- code should improve bargaining power cluding an assessment of the code’s ef- sal agreement between states and proc- but was unlikely to change milk prices. fectiveness. essors, such as good faith provisions, “The ACCC report stated the farmers ADF president Terry Richardson said standard contract timelines, protection were at a disadvantage given proces- after negotiations with the group’s six for collective bargaining groups, inde- sors had better access to market in- state-based members, a united position pendent complaint-management and formation, and that’s something we’re had been reached that a mandatory dispute-resolution processes, penal- working on through the milk price in- code would provide the best mecha- ties’ regime and improved administra- dex,” he said. nism to ensure farmers had increased tive arrangements. “We’ll continue to look carefully at protection in their negotiations with the issues raised in the ACCC report as processors. we work with industry to come up with “Farmers want to know that if they ‘This was a diffi cult actions in response to the report. have a contract dispute with their proc- decision and one that “Now that we have philosophical essor, there is a mechanism in place to agreement, we can work through the ensure their interests are safeguarded,” ADF did not take lightly.’ details of a proposed mandatory code Mr Richardson said. together and then I can take the pro- “This was a diffi cult decision and one Mr Richardson warned there were posal to cabinet.” that ADF did not take lightly. There are still issues to be resolved around the It’s hoped the introduction of a man- a broad range of views within ADF’s implementation of a mandatory code. datory code will be a vital step in re- membership, and these views are deep- “The ACCC, in recommending a man- building trust and confi dence along the ly respected and understood.” datory code, didn’t disclose the costs dairy industry supply chain. ADF’s position comes after several of administration, investigation thresh- The debate over the future of the in- months of working with industry body olds, performance standards and ac- dustry has often been volatile. ADF is the Australian Dairy Industry Council countability metrics,” he said. now calling for unity in dealing with the (ADIC), which led to the development “We are urging the government to ad- immense challenges facing the sector of a strengthened code. dress these concerns through a Regula- as it moves forward through diffi cult “We expect to play a leading role in tory Impact Statement (RIS) to be dis- times. the development of a new industry closed to industry as soon as possible.” “Every step along the value chain code, using the work undertaken by the Federal Agriculture Minister David depends on strong relationships, and ADIC as a foundation,” Mr Richardson Littleproud said he was committed to farmers are encouraged to collaborate said. working with ADF to ensure a new man- and support each other to infl uence Key elements of the ADIC code, which datory code benefi ted farmers. positive change for the dairy sector,” is still in draft form from guidelines set “I agree with ADF that a mandatory Mr Richardson said. D 6 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 MILK MATTERS Retailers must do the right thing
✔ $1 milk introduced on Australia Day 2011 ✔ Short-term drought measures see increase on some lines ✔ Permanent end to discounted dairy products only solu on Key points Key
By Terry Richardson ADF president
OR nearly a decade, dairy farm- ers have been wearing the pain Fcaused by discounted products, whether it’s $1 per litre milk or cheap cheese. I remember when the fi rst $1 per litre products went on supermarket shelves on Australia Day 2011 and the outrage caused by the resultant “milk wars”. Before this marketing campaign, the last time milk was $1 per litre was around 1992. But in 2018, it’s impossi- ble to live on a wage set at 1992 levels. Now there is momentum to turn things around and give value back to the dairy supply chain. Some supermarket chains have an- nounced plans to help drought-affect- ed dairy farmers. Coles is now selling its 3L Own Brand milk products for $3.30, with the money Woolworths introduced a special collected to be distributed back to farmers via a fund with an applica on process. range of milk priced at $1.10 per litre in mid-October. Homebrand 2L and 3L milk products are currently on shelves uct. And it leaves a deep and lasting for $1.10 per litre until the drought-re- impact to see your hard work sitting lief milk product launches. ‘It leaves a deep and on a supermarket shelf for less than Coles is now selling its 3L Own las ng impact to see the price of water. Brand milk products for $3.30, with This pricing practice is not viable the money collected to be distributed your hard work si ng and we urgently need a shared solu- back to farmers via a fund with an ap- on a supermarket shelf tion to assist in building the long-term plication process. sustainability of Australian dairy farm- Both have been upfront about the for less than the price of ers. fact that their initiatives are only short- Ultimately, we must push for a per- term measures that aren’t intended to water.’ manent end to discounted dairy prod- solve the problem of discounted dairy ucts, whether it’s $1 per litre milk or products. clared areas will be given priority, cheap cheese. As president of Australian Dairy while There is a groundswell of support Farmers, I represent farmers all across Woolworths intends to distribute for farmers hit hard by the drought and the country. Many are calling me ask- the extra 10c from their drought-relief supermarkets have the best opportu- ing how they are eligible to receive a milk back to farmers via their proces- nity to scrap their discounted dairy fair price from either of these plans. sor. products right across the breadth and The problem with both plans is that While I support measures that see depth of the dairy cabinet. many regions of Australia are affected farmers paid a reasonable price for The supermarkets know what farm- by drought with high production costs their hard work and dedication, I must ers want. They know what they de- impacting thousands of dairy farm- ask, “Is this really the best we can do?” serve. It’s now time for them to take a ers, yet most of those farmers won’t Certainly ADF and our state dairy big step forward and do the right thing be able to claim a benefi t from either farmer organisations believe all dairy by ending this pricing practice. initiative. farmers must see a benefi t from any But until that time comes, I encour- Coles has encouraged any dairy increase in retail milk prices. age the public to help dairy farmers by farmers to apply for a grant through Farmers put tireless effort and re- continuing to buy branded dairy prod- their fund, but those in drought-de- sources into producing a quality prod- ucts. D The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 7 MILK MATTERS Dairy industry’s big year for trade
✔ TPP-II deal to provide signifi cant benefi ts ✔ Hopes to have it ra fi ed by end of year ✔ Deal with Indonesia opens up growing market Key points Key
USTRALIA is on the brink of a landmark trade deal that will Agive the local dairy industry favourable export conditions and ex- panded access to several lucrative markets if the federal government can ratify the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans Pacifi c Partnership (TPP-11) before the end of the year. The 11 member countries, includ- ing Japan (Australia’s largest cheese customer) and Canada and Mexico (two countries that don’t have exist- ing trade agreements with Australia), collectively represent 32 per cent ($1.1 billion) of the total value and 35 per cent (298,000 tonnes) of the total volume of Australian dairy exports. Australia exported more than $540 million of dairy and dairy-based prod- The TPP-11 is expected to yield major benefi ts for dairy exports to the Pacifi c region. ucts to Japan during the last fi nancial year. The TPP-11 is expected to yield billion to the Australian economy. major benefi ts for dairy exports to If the federal government ratifi es the region, including: ‘If the federal the deal, it will cap off a year of signif- • Phase out of tariffs, over 15 years, government ra fi es icant breakthroughs in trade for the for cheeses including natural cheese Australian dairy industry. for the production of processed the deal, it will cap off The government in January signed cheese and cheese for shredding with a year of signifi cant an economic partnership agreement the exclusion of mozzarella. with Indonesia, a major destination • Phase out of tariffs for fresh cheese breakthroughs in trade for Australian dairy exports with a with a fat content less than 45 per value in 2017/18 of more than $200 cent. for the Australian dairy million and demand set to rise on the • For other varieties such as proc- industry.’ back of its increasingly affl uent 260 essed cheese, there are modest im- million-strong population. provements in access. This deal will: • Major liberalisation of access for • Peru — tariff elimination on several • Eliminate remaining tariffs on en- whey. products, although price band sys- try in force for skim milk powder and • Modest tariff rate quotas estab- tem to be retained. Products include whole milk powder. lished for skim milk powder and but- fresh milk, milk powders, yoghurt • Eliminate remaining tariffs on en- ter. and buttermilk, whey, butterfat, and try in force for grated or powdered Benefi ts for Australian trade with cheeses. cheese. other signatories include: • Vietnam — tariff elimination on • Eliminate by 2026 remaining tariffs • Canada — tariff rate quota access various dairy lines over periods of on non-liquid milk (6 per cent or less to be established for a range of dairy zero to four years, including liquid fat) and by 2033 for tariffs on liquid products, including milk, cream, milk lines, skim milk powder, whole milk (6pc or less fat). skim milk powder, whole milk pow- milk powder, condensed and evapo- The Peru-Australia Free Trade der, whey powder, butter and several rated milk, yoghurt, buttermilk, but- Agreement (PAFTA) is also set to im- cheese categories. ter, dairy spreads, anhydrous milk fat, prove international competitiveness • Malaysia — quota volumes for liq- butter oil, ghee, and several cheese and export growth opportunities for uid milk access. lines. the Australian dairy industry, but in- • Mexico — tariff rate quotas for milk, The agreement will provide wel- dustry leaders have encouraged the skim milk powder and whole milk come support to the 38,000 people government to make reducing non- powder, evaporated milk, condensed working on dairy farms and in manu- tariff barriers a strategic priority in milk, butter, and various cheese lines. facturing plants who contribute $13.5 trade negotiations. D 8 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 MILK MATTERS
Fourteen aspiring leaders — farmers, business managers and export sales representa ves — networked with poli cal decision- makers and advocated for their communi es as part of the Developing Dairy Leaders Program in Canberra earlier this year. Time for young reps to step forward
✔ Poli cal turmoil in Canberra opening to be caught up in the fever- This makes it diffi cult for politi- provides valuable lesson ish atmosphere that engulfed the city cal decision-makers in Canberra to ✔ Need industry to present united during those four days. understand which policies are likely front ✔ But the leadership lesson is trans- to have the greatest benefi t for farm- Construc ve input needed from ferable to the dairy industry, which ers. Politicians love an industry that farmers across country
Key points Key we all know has struggled with its brings to them solutions instead of own leadership issues in recent problems. But instead, we have an By Terry Richardson years. industry too concerned with its in- ADF president We talk a lot about unity. We talk ternal issues to agree on solutions to about creating the mindset of one the many problems we face. WAS in Canberra recently and wit- team, one dream. But at some point, As we saw in Canberra, this situ- nessed fi rst-hand the political tur- these words lose their value if we fail ation can have many consequences I moil that rocked the federal gov- to act. but won’t lead to outcomes. ernment and which ultimately led to The young dairy professionals I ac- The question is usually posed on a change of Prime Minister. companied were in fi erce agreement social media: “why can’t dairy advo- Ironically, I was accompanying a that unity is the vital element to en- cacy groups work together on behalf group of young dairy industry pro- suring a successful dairy industry. of farmers?” The simple answer is fessionals as part of the Developing This sentiment was reinforced by there’s no reason why we can’t. Dairy Leaders Program, run by Mar- Agriculture Minister David Little- ADF, as the national peak organisa- cus Oldham College with support proud, who told the group that if they tion for dairy farmers, is the group from Australian Dairy Farmers and want to be taken seriously and infl u- responsible for taking solutions to Dairy Australia. ence federal politicians to achieve Canberra and asking the federal gov- The aim of the program is to ex- real outcomes for the dairy industry, ernment for its support in enacting pose the next generation of dairy the sector fi rst needs to show leader- these measures. To be effective, we representatives to industry advocacy ship. need constructive input from farm- and the Australian political process. I have written before about the ers across the country who want to What they received was a valuable fractured state of the dairy industry. ensure a secure and prosperous fu- bonus lesson: leadership is every- Our differences have become pro- ture for the dairy industry. thing. nounced. Too often, we think only Hopefully, this means you. We need Many of these young farmers had about the interests of our individual you to join your state dairy farmer never visited the “bush capital” and regions, instead of common ground organisation and join the cause. Con- had little understanding of how Can- that could provide a national, tangi- tribute your ideas and help us main- berra operates. For them, it was eye- ble benefi t for dairy farmers. tain a sustainable dairy industry. D The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 9 10 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 Industry plan to deliver new strategy dairying regions will experience a The combination of support during warmer and drier end to spring and this diffi cult year, as well as an ability start of summer, and the ongoing cost to raise awareness of how investments pressures of high grain, hay and water and innovations will provide opportuni- prices will continue. This means that ties in future years, is at the core of how your farm plans need to keep evolving, we can serve and deliver ongoing value and in response, we are doing the same to your businesses. at Dairy Australia. I’d like to make particular mention By David Na on One area that has been a priority for of the importance of Dairy Australia Managing director us is to better understand the drivers of working with the Gardiner Foundation. Dairy Australia grain prices with a focus on the outlook Together we are investing in the Feed ✔ Challenging season, with a drier for winter grain harvests that could Shortage activities, and are also invest- and warmer spring and summer provide price relief, opportunities for ing in both the DairyBio and DairyFeed- ✔ Dairy Australia ac vely working to more cost-effective transport of grain base innovation programs. Our com- ease cost pressures across the country from west to east, bined ability to invest means that we ✔ Industry plan to be delivered next and opportunities for feed imports that can substantially increase support and year, providing strategic direc on relieve cost pressure. There appear to lift our level of investment in innovation Key points Key be opportunities in each of these three programs. OVEMBER and December seem areas, and we are active in working on Feed Shortage activities have ramped to be the months where the cal- behalf of industry to invest and strive up at all eight regional development Nendar speeds up and before we for price relief. programs. know it the year has ended. For those A second area that is a focus is to Please make contact, and take advan- farmers that have had good soil mois- contribute to a whole-of-industry plan tage of the range of services that are ture, I hope that the silage and hay sea- that identifi es and prioritises the most there to support you through this chal- son has been a good one and you can important activities for the future pros- lenging year. fi nish the year in good shape. However, perity of the industry. The plan will As we reach the end of the year, I we recognise that this is a challenging take shape in the fi rst half of next year, hope that there will be time for festivi- season and the lack of usual rain is now and will drive the next strategic plan at ties and to turn the corner into 2019 affecting more than 40 per cent of the Dairy Australia. I’ll have a lot more to with a positive outlook on how the in- industry. say about this in future editions of the dustry can continue to change for the It is now well established that most Australian Dairyfarmer. better. D New farm profi t and capability manager appointed AIRY Australia has appointed Peter help boost farm profi tability and capability farmers to develop and implement effi cient DJohnson as its new group manager, farm which is the name of our group.” feeding systems that increase margin over profi t and capability, the role that leads the Mr Johnson said he would be reviewing feed costs on farm. industry body’s research, development and Dairy Australia’s farm and capability pro- Dairy Australia’s partnership with the extension ac vi es. grams to refl ect current trends in agriculture Tasmanian Ins tute of Agriculture to deliver Mr Johnson was previously Dairy Austral- and ensure adop on on-farm. targeted dairy produc vity research and ex- ia’s feedbase and nutri on manager, with a “We’ve got to have the strength to realise tension services in Tasmania to help drive career that has also included working in ex- that there are diff erent ways of doing things dairy farm profi tability and sustainability was tension for NSW Agriculture, as a rural man- and respond to what’s happening in the agri- another signifi cant investment, Mr Johnson ager with Rabobank, and as a na onal sales cultural world,” he said. said. and marke ng manager in the seed industry. A strong focus would remain on DairyBio, “Despite the challenging seasonal con- The role is responsible for ensuring Dairy a fi ve-year $60 million partnership with Agri- di ons the long-term trends for dairy are Australia’s strategic ini a ves are delivered culture Victoria to create improved pastures posi ve and our latest Dairy Farm Monitor in the right way to farmers to drive real im- and improved herds for the Australian dairy Project data shows just how profi table dairy provements in farm profi tability and capabil- industry through the latest approaches in farming can be for some operators,” he said. ity in the dairy industry’s workforce. bioscience. “We have an amazing team at Dairy Aus- “I’m very passionate about the opportuni- A further focus is the $54 million Dairy- tralia with very strong connec ons across ty to help dairy farmers with their challenges Feedbase program, a joint venture with the industry and I’m excited by the challenge and opportuni es,” Mr Johnson said. government and the Gardiner Founda on ahead.” “Our challenge is to help keep all farm- aimed at increasing farm profi tability by im- Mr Johnson holds a Bachelor of Science ers up to date with new prac ces and tech- proving pasture produc on, u lisa on and in Agriculture from the University of Sydney nologies as they appear, being delivered by herd nutri on. Further key programs include and a Masters of Business Administra on people with the right skills in our core role to the C4 Milk project to assist northern dairy from Charles Sturt University.
The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 11 NEWS GM rule change poten al gamechanger
✔ New gene c technology For now, those decade-old “clas- “That cut-and-repair process awai ng parliamentary sic” GM grasses remain in trial plots changes the function of that gene approval tended and measured by DairyBio and gives the opportunity to produce ✔ GM grass off ers signifi cant gain to scientists in the belief circumstances plants with the trait of interest. dairy farmers will change. “I’m being very specifi c in describ- ✔ Consumer and customer But not all modifi cation of genetics ing that process because the govern- acceptance key is necessarily “genetic modifi cation”. ment regulator has put a proposal to ✔ Genomic selec on off ers Dairy Australia’s new managing di- government to call that method ‘not GM-free gains
Key points Key rector Dr David Nation is fresh from an act of genetic modifi cation’.” the role of DairyBio co-director and Parliamentary approval of this Of- By Marian Macdonald said the research body deliberately fi ce of the Gene Technology Regula- pursued a type of genomic technol- tor (OGTR) proposal would remove NEW defi nition of “genetically ogy looked upon more favourably by the regulatory hurdle. Still, the prob- modifi ed” currently awaiting regulators. lem of market acceptance remains. A parliamentary approval could Scientists using classic GM tech- A 2017 survey of Australian con- see a swathe of new grasses on the nology “cut and paste” or “copy and sumer attitudes commissioned by market within three years. paste” genes from one plant into an- OGTR shows support for GM tech- According to Dairy Australia, GM other. The zinc-fi nger genome-editing nology is slowly growing, although grass offers gains in the order of $800 techniques DairyBio uses, on the is more readily accepted for medical per hectare per year for farmers. It is other hand, simply “cuts” without in- than agricultural use (see Figure 1). no empty promise: the grasses capa- troducing anything new to the plant. The surveyed consumers showed ble of delivering massive increases “It creates what I call a ‘messy little understanding of gene edit- both in yield and in quality are 10 cut’,” Dr Nation said. “So, when the ing. Only 17 per cent said they knew years old and growing in south-west plant cell naturally repairs the DNA enough about gene editing to explain Victorian paddocks. The roadblocks strand, it loses a small number of it to a friend. Even so, more than half are regulatory hurdles, dairy proces- bases, which are the individual build- (57pc) believed it would “improve sor bans and market acceptance. ing blocks of DNA. our way of life in the future”.
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12 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 NEWS
markets, Australian dairy proces- sors require farmer suppliers to keep records declaring their stockfeed GM- free. In contrast, Australian Dairy Farm- ers’ policy “recognises the potential productivity benefi ts of GMOs” and “supports farmers’ rights to use GM technology where available, and sup- ports farmer choice between the use of GM and conventional technolo- gies”. The ADF also referred to legal and regulatory positions to justify its pol- icy. “OGTR and Australia’s other GMO regulators (Food Standards Australia New Zealand for GM food, the Austral- ian Pesticides and Veterinary Medi- cines Authority for agvet chemicals containing GM material and the Ther- apeutic Goods Administration, the National Industrial Chemicals Notifi - Researcher Dr Pieter Badenhorst at the Hamilton research centre in south-west cation and Assessment Scheme and Victoria. the Department of Agriculture and The community’s gradual warm- Water Resources for other GM prod- ing has not silenced the vocal resist- ucts) have been monitoring these ance to GM grasses. Asked about the ‘There are mixed and other GMO initiatives across the relative risks of zinc fi nger genomic views towards gene c world,” an ADF spokesperson said in editing, Friends of the Earth’s emerg- a written statement. ing tech project co-ordinator Louise modifi ca on along “In each of the cases for commer- Sales pointed to international opposi- the dairy supply chain cial growing of GMOs, the OGTR tion. found the weight of evidence dem- “The European Court of Justice because its benefi ts onstrates GMOs are as safe as their recently ruled that gene-editing tech- conventional counterparts. niques such as zinc fi nger nucleases and impacts depend “FSANZ also found that gene tech- pose the same risks as older genetic on where you sit in the nology has not been shown to intro- modifi cation techniques and need duce any new or altered hazards into to be assessed in the same way,” Ms supply chain.’ the food supply. Sales said. “These positions are consistent “Recent studies have shown that all “Key export markets such as Eu- with statements from the World gene-editing techniques can result in rope regard these techniques as GM Health Organisation and US Drug Ad- unexpected mutations, which could and have zero tolerance for the pres- ministration.” result in the production of novel tox- ence of unapproved GMOs. Former Dairy Australia manager ins or allergens. “The inability to contain GM rye- of biotechnology and strategic ini- “Besides the potential risks to live- grasses will jeopardise the ability of tiatives, then CEO of Agrifood Aware- stock, the environment and human farmers to produce a GM-free prod- ness Australia, and now consultant, health, there are also important eco- uct.” Paula Fitzgerald, urged the industry nomic risks to consider. Fearing damage to international to begin discussions internally.
The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 13 VR4392461 NEWS
“There are mixed views towards genetic modifi cation along the dairy supply chain because its benefi ts and impacts depend on where you sit in the supply chain,” Ms Fitzgerald said. “Those closest to the customer are more aware of consumer concerns. The question is: will the industry be able to have a conversation about GM. If you’re a farmer supplying a product, you’d like to think about this as a partnership, particularly given signifi cant farmer levies fund the re- search. “It can be done. Today, over 90pc of cotton grown in Australia are GM varieties. “The grain industry has also grown GM canola since 2008, and more than 30 entities representing the entire supply chain came together years ago to address the challenges. “They co-operated and they were willing to have the tough conversa- Figure 1. Levels of support for GMOs and gene technology tions. It’s essential that the dairy in- Source: Offi ce of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) dustry has a united approach before any consumer outreach begins.” technologies to breed better grass also been advanced with genetic Dr Nation said the conversation but not to create GMO grass,” he said. technology. was already underway. Dairy Aus- “We believe that if we don’t help to “Genomic selection means under- tralia was among the contributors to provide direction to scientists, we’re standing genes and phenotypes to a report by a trans-Tasman independ- not going to be able to keep up with predict which grasses will perform ent expert panel on GM. While that demands on us. best,” Mr Newman said. report is not publicly available, Dr “We need to be able to lean on tech- “Phenotypes are the characteris- Nation said it confi rmed DairyBio’s nology to develop products in an in- tics of grasses that are a result of ge- target of $800 per hectare per year creasingly challenging climate.” netics and the environment, such as was realistic and mapped the benefi ts One of those genetic technologies yield, persistence, disease resistance, right along the supply chain. enables a modern twist on an age-old seasonal growth patterns, quality and A pragmatic approach to the GM form of breeding: hybridisation. the interaction between the plant and debate is being taken by a partner in “Beginning with perennial ryegrass, endophytes. DairyBio’s pasture research program, DairyBio is developing F1 hybrids to “Genomic selection is not genetic the Royal Barenbrug Group, which is increase vigour,” Mr Newman said. modifi cation — all the plants are bred also the parent of local seed compa- “While most corn grown today is conventionally — but being able to ny, Heritage Seeds. an F1 hybrid, it’s only been in the last pick the best performers early allows Its science and breeding manager, fi ve or six years that scientists have for three times the progress gain. Allen Newman, is quick to distance been able to identify the genes that “In other words, we can make 21 Barenbrug from GMO grass but prevent the self-incompatibility need- years of genetic gain in seven years. stresses the importance of genetic ed to create the highly inbred parents When you consider that 0.5 to 0.7 per technologies. needed for an F1 cross.” cent genetic gain is made each year, “Barenbrug supports using genetic Traditional selective breeding has the timeframe is very important.” D
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16 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 NEWS — WORLD DAIRY SUMMIT Vegan diets don’t cut carbon footprint
✔ Dutch research into sustainable Achieving this goal was not easy, said diets and environmental impact Dr Peters, who is also the chair of IDF’s ✔ Shows li le net benefi t in cu ng out animal products standing committee on nutrition and ✔ Cu ng overseas travel more health. benefi cial “Alternative foods must still pro- Key points Key vide the essential nutrients our bodies need,” Dr Peters said. “By omitting nu- EDUCING animal-based products trient-rich dairy, for example, nutrient in favour of plant-based products replacement has to come from other Rdid not impact the environment food products. any less as the carbon footprint was not “The individual will have to consume greatly reduced, Dr Stephan Peters, of more than the recommended daily the Dutch Dairy Association, NZO, told amount of fruits and vegetables to at- the World Dairy Summit. Dr Stephan Peters: To meet essen al tain optimum calcium intake, as the Dr Peters addressed the issue of sus- nutrients, a vegan diet requires a latter has relatively less nutrients com- tainable diets and their environmental person to consume more than the pared to dairy. When you examine the impacts at the International Dairy Fed- recommended daily amount of fruits environmental effects of the considera- eration summit in Daejeon, South Ko- and vegetables, increasing their carbon ble amounts of food substitutes needed rea, on October 17. footprint. to be consumed, this results in almost Dr Peters outlined studies in The the same amount of carbon emissions Netherlands on life-cycle assessments footprint as well. And they all add up.” as dairy.” (LCAs) used to calculate the environ- Dr Peters said that transitioning to- Dr Peters said that moving to a mental impact of each product from wards a more sustainable diet involved largely plant-based diet did not neces- production to consumption. The stud- eating more locally produced foods, sarily result in a more environmentally ies have revealed that every household less processed foods (particularly friendly diet. He said an optimal diet (averaging 2.18 persons in The Nether- those made from many different ingre- produced 3.67kg of carbon emissions lands) produces 23 tonnes of carbon dients) and reducing food waste. daily while a dairy-free diet produces emissions annually. 3.53kg of carbon emissions, which is a About a quarter of the amount — 5.6 negligible amount. tonnes of carbon emissions — are from ‘A fl ight to a distant part Therefore, he concluded that main- food production. They comprise car- of the world for work or taining dairy consumption at the cur- bon dioxide emissions from the follow- rent level would not impact greatly on ing foods: meat and fi sh (1.8 tonnes), vaca on can undo an a sustainable diet. dairy and eggs (1.1 tonnes), vegetables en re year’s worth of Lifestyles had a much greater envi- and fruits (0.5 tonnes) and all other ronmental impact, especially if it in- products (2.2 tonnes). environmental benefi ts volved eating a lot of imported fruits “Theoretically, carbon emissions from a vegan diet of and vegetables, and travelling. from the human diet could be reduced “A fl ight to a distant part of the world by 2.9 tonnes annually by becoming a locally grown food.’ for work or vacation can undo an en- vegan,” Dr Peters said. “But the calories tire year’s worth of environmental ben- and nutrients lost by avoiding animal A consumer trying to eat less animal- efi ts from a vegan diet of locally grown products have to be compensated by based products and more plant-based food,” Dr Peters said. D consuming a larger quantity of plant- products must ensure that their new See more reports from the World based products, which have a carbon diet still lowered their carbon footprint. Dairy Summit, pages 22-26. Aussie Made Bale Up Feeders
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✔ Herd tes ng allowed iden fi ca on of higher producing cows ‘We are farming smarter, ✔ Helped manage soma c cell count not harder and knowing level ✔ Costs about $15/cow/year objec ve informa on is Key points Key key.’ HEN Queensland dairy farm- ers Geoffrey and Ruth Chalk Wtook over management of the farms remaining in their district, and family farm, they had a priority list. in the past, there were meters that had On top of the list was to get their line been bought and shared between a of Holsteins back into herd testing so bigger group of farmers. they could fi ne-tune their operation. Fortunately, this equipment is still In the past fi nancial year, the cou- available and was able to be borrowed ple milked an average of 132 cows and for their testing sessions every six to produced 944,919 litres, testing at 3.97 eight weeks. per cent fat and 3.27pc protein. But Geoffrey said this could be an That performance, Geoffrey said, issue for other farmers considering was 33pc higher than when they fi rst herd testing, as the access to meters started herd testing and while not all and the outlay might be a deterrent of this gain can be attributed to moni- for those looking to start herd testing. toring, some certainly could be at- However, he thinks that it is a crucial tributed to it. This was enough to vin- practice especially when feed costs dicate their decision to re-introduce are high and dairy margins are very herd testing to their farm enterprise. tight. The Chalks took over the Carneys When Geoff rey and Ruth Chalk restarted The initial herd test was a challenge Creek, Queensland, property from Ge- herd tes ng, they discovered cows that to complete but not impossible. Cows offrey’s parents John and Carol Chalk weren’t even covering their costs of had ear tags but were not used to them offi cially a year ago but have been tak- produc on. being read, so the herd testing took ex- ing an active management role since tra time to complete. 2013. said it was less detailed than the cur- “It was a bit of a shock to both us The herd calves year-round, with a rent method. and the cows,” Geoffrey said. “As the peak in autumn, and is run as a partial “I was only a teenager when my par- cows walked in, we read the numbers mixed ration system in 1000-millime- ents were herd testing, so I didn’t re- off their ear tags and clearly there are tre rainfall country close to Boonah, ally take much notice,” he said. better ways of doing this than the man- Queensland. Due to the climate vari- “But I also had some experience ual reading.” ability, there has been a switch to in- when I worked as a relief milker on Herd testing adds about half an hour clude more conserved fodder in the ra- another farm. They seemed to always to the milking time, but Geoffrey said tion to get through dry periods when schedule herd testing for my shift, so I this was by no means a deterrent to pastures are poor. saw what was being done.” doing it. Geoffrey and Ruth began herd test- Ruth and Geoffrey had been talk- The initial herd testing saw, in Geof- ing under the ImProving Herds project ing about herd testing, but ImProving frey’s words, “a big change around in in March 2015, choosing a time when Herds gave them an incentive to get our herd”. they knew most of their cows would started. “We had some cows that were not be freshly in milk. While the herd had The fi rst challenge was fi nding me- even covering their costs of produc- been herd tested in the past, Geoffrey ters. They run one of only two dairy tion,” he said. 18 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 NHIA NEWS ROUNDUP
“It’s hard to tell by just looking at a cow, clearly, but if you don’t measure, you can’t monitor. We were really sur- prised by the results of some of the cows and the herd testing is a great way to break down the herd into those that are performing and those that aren’t. “When you think about what you pay for feed, cows need to be perform- ing.” The Chalks feed about six kilograms of grain a day, four kilograms in the bail over two milkings and another two kilograms in a feed mix fed on a feed- pad. They also use corn silage that is grown on contract on a nearby farm, and in four out of fi ve years, grow their own hay. And while their system is mainly The Chalk herd is producing 33 per cent more now than it did when the farm started pasture-based with a mix of ryegrass herd tes ng three years ago. and kikuyu, those supplements do not come without a cost, so cows need to Table 1: Geoff rey and Ruth Chalk, Carneys Creek, Southern Queensland farm stats be performing to not only cover those (August 2018) costs but make a profi t for the busi- Herd size: 135 ness. End results Breed: Holstein Farm size: 238ha When the fi rst herd testing results came in, the Chalks were able to look Dairy: 12-a-side swing-over herringbone at their herd to pick out those cows Staff : One full- me with two part- me (owner operated) that were under-performing. But Geoffrey said it was important Feeding system: Par al Mixed Ra on to look at a full lactation of herd test Herd tes ng history Lapsed but had done in the past results or at least a number of tests be- fore making culling decisions. “This is all about putting together a Cost benefi ts history of the cow’s performance rath- er than judging her on just one test re- The Chalks have now settled into a sult,” he said. pattern of herd testing every six to “We will look at herd test results eight weeks. It comes at an annual cost from a 12-month period or a lactation of about $2000, or less than $15 a cow. and then make decisions.” It has allowed Geoffrey and Ruth to They have also used the herd test- make good business decisions about ing information to monitor cows for their herd. “We are farming smarter individual cell counts. not harder and knowing objective in- Prior to herd testing, cows were formation is key to that,” Geoffrey said. monitored for mastitis by physical “When margins are tight, you need to signs. monitor each input in your business “We knew there were a few problem and each output.” cows and we could cull those but be- With three years history of herd test- ing able to monitor is a lot more objec- ing under their belt, there are cows in tive,” Geoffrey said. the herds that have in-depth records. “Cell counts are a big thing for us. “We have got some-long term infor- When the herd testing comes in, we mation and know the life history of know which cows are bumping this up. some of our herd. At a cost of $2000, “When we supply our milk compa- it’s pretty much a no-brainer,” Geof- ny, Dairy Farmers Milk Co-operative, frey said. D we have to have a bulk cell count of For more information, contact less than 200,000 to get the maximum DataGene, phone (03) 9032 7191 or quality bonus. That incentive is nearly email
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We’re proud to be a Major Supply Partner of Farm safety a priority this holiday season
✔ Farm safety focus as school holidays approach ✔ Use Farm Safety Starter Kit to iden fy risks ✔ Set clear rules Key points Key SPOTLIGHT is being put on safe- ty as the summer school holi- Adays approach and children and visitors begin spending more time on the nation’s dairy farms. With challenging conditions adding to pressures on farm, Dairy Australia’s Sarah Thompson said the safety of farm families was too important to let hazards go unaddressed. “In the blink of an eye, an accident can happen on farm and your child, grandchild or a visitor could be seri- ously injured,” Ms Thompson said. As many farmers are working longer hours, possibly with fewer staff, Dairy Australia is highlighting its farm safety resources ahead of the summer school break. Dairy farmers can use Dairy Austral- ia’s Farm Safety Starter Kit to conduct quick safety scans of their properties before school wraps up for the year. Mark Hammond with daughter Amber on their Gippsland farm. The Farm Safety Manual and work- shops conducted in dairy regions also Lara, 6 — will be spending more time they are no-go zones and the kids have guide farmers through the develop- on farm. grown up knowing the ponds are abso- ment of a comprehensive safety sys- Mindful of potential safety risks, Mrs lutely out of bounds.” tem on farm. Hammond’s children are not allowed in At a recent Women in Dairy event “Nothing is more important than the dairy without a parent present, and hosted by GippsDairy, Mrs Hammond ensuring our loved ones, staff and visi- children and visitors are supervised at received high visibility Legendairy tors are safe,” Ms Thompson said. all times. vests for her kids to wear on farm to “Every accident involving a child on “We’re very close to a road and my boost their visibility and encourage farm is preventable, and there is no fear has always been that the kids will greater safety awareness. better time to consider safety on farm venture off, so we put in place an ‘in- With milk tankers and other vehicles than as the school holidays approach.” visible line’ the kids are not allowed to often coming and going from the Ham- For Gippsland dairy farmer Trish cross — they know the places on farm mond farm at odd hours, Mrs Ham- Hammond, school holidays are an op- that are out of bounds,” she said. mond knows Dane, Amber and Lara portunity to remind her young children Before heading out in the paddock will be clearly visible to drivers. about the importance of safety on her with their parents, Dane, Amber and “The kids are always highlighted 650-cow farm in Labourtouche, Vic. Lara are reminded to be careful around with these vests and the tanker driver “When we are out on the farm, the the herd and never go near the effl uent knows to watch out for them too,” she kids are with us as well — and during ponds. said. school holidays, this means we take “Sometimes, kids do come out into “You don’t always know when a the time to keep them safe,” Mrs Ham- the paddocks with us but we spend a truck will turn up but with the kids mond said. fair bit of time with them talking about wearing high-vis vests, a truck can al- “At the dairy, kids are always ex- how cows can be volatile and teaching ways spot them and they are always posed to safety hazards but we have a them about animal behaviour,” Mrs in our sight.” D number of rules in place to make sure Hammond said. Farmers can access Dairy they stay safe.” “The kids always know never to get Australia’s farm safety tools at Mrs Hammond and her husband close to a cow and they are always
✔ Dutch reduce dry cow treatment and an bio c use for mas s ✔ No increase in clinical mas s ✔ Also led to reduc on in an microbial resistance Key points Key
EALTHY dairy farming is possi- ble with less use of antimicrobi- Hals, the International Dairy Fed- eration World Dairy Summit heard. Dr Tine van Werwen, of the Univer- sity of Utrecht in The Netherlands, told the summit in Daejeon, South Ko- rea, on October 18, The Netherlands had cut its antimicrobial use across all species by 60 per cent within a decade. This had led to an associated reduction in antimicrobial resistance in animal bacteria. “The proactive action of the Dutch Farmers and vets needed to be convinced on the need to reduce the use of dairy industry in reducing antimi- an microbials and consider the impact of an microbial resistance. crobial usage saw a reduction of dry cow treatment by 49pc and reduction “Antimicrobial resistance is a of mastitis tubes by 40pc, with no threat to animal health and welfare, increase in clinical mastitis,” Dr van food supply and food safety world- Werwen said. wide,” Dr Erlacher-Vindel said. “To She said farmers and vets needed ensure sustainability of livestock pro- to be convinced on the need to re- duction, the effi cacy of antimicrobial duce the use of antimicrobials and agents must be preserved through consider the impact of antimicrobial their responsible and prudent use.” resistance. Dr van Werwen said a task She stressed the need to build and force on antimicrobial resistance set maintain a database to collect infor- up and supported by the Dutch gov- mation on the use of antimicrobial ernment in 2008 had been instrumen- agents in food-producing and com- tal in the overall reduction in antimi- panion animals, with associated anal- Dr Tine van Werven and Dr Elisabeth crobial use in the country through ysis and annual reporting. Dr Erlach- Erlacher-Vindel in a panel discussion on prudent usage. er-Vindel said efforts must be made an microbial resistance at the World “The government imposed manda- to guide and support research into al- Dairy Summit. tory reduction by 20pc in 2011, 50pc ternatives to antibiotics to encourage in 2013 and 70pc in 2015,” she said. the development and uptake of new “More than 67pc of total usage is used tools, products and methodologies. intra-mammary, and therefore the fo- In addition, she said governments cus is on udder health.” needed support to develop and mod- The success of the initiative was ernise legislation governing the man- also due to the co-operation of the ufacture, marketing authorisation, Dutch dairy industry in changing the importation and distribution, and use attitudes of farmers and veterinarians of veterinary products. towards antimicrobial use in animals. Professor Henk Hogeveen, of Wage- “Without being forced by legisla- ningen University of The Nether- tion, we would never have accom- lands, told the summit better animal plished these results,” she said. health often gave better profi tability. Professor Henk Hogeveen: be er animal Dr Elisabeth Erlacher-Vindel of the He pointed out that farmers often un- health o en gives be er profi tability World Organisation for Animal Health derestimated the cost of diseases and (OIE), outlined the organisation’s the fact that preventive costs were strategy on antimicrobial resistance much lower than failure costs. said. “The optimal decision-making and the prudent use of antimicrobials “There are opportunities to in- is not per defi nition profi t maximisa- in animals. This includes monitoring crease animal health and profi tability tion. the use of antimicrobials in animals through economics and optimal deci- “There is diffi culty in cost estima- and encouraging the implementation sion-making, which weighs the ben- tions of cattle diseases, thus cost-ben- of international standards and guide- efi ts of less disease against the costs efi t analysis is important in determin- lines. of prevention,” Professor Hogeveen ing cost-effectivity.” D 22 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 NEWS — WORLD DAIRY SUMMIT Short-term prices don’t refl ect dynamics
✔ Short-term global food prices don’t necessarily refl ect long-term trends ✔ Global market for dairy steadily increasing ✔ Market opportuni es in Asia- Pacifi c Key points Key
HORT-TERM prices on world food markets did not necessarily Srefl ect the long-term market dy- namics, an economist told the World Dairy Summit in Daejon, South Korea, on October 16. Benoit Rouyer, an economist at Centre National Interprofessionnel de l’Economie LaitiŠre (the French national inter-professional centre for the dairy industry), told the summit Benoit Rouyer: Natural and ethical claims on new food and drink product launches short-term market developments are on the rise. were disconnected from the long-term socio-environmental challenges, such dictable and impacted global dairy positive trends in global markets. as feeding the world. prices. The global market for dairy prod- Mr Rouyer cited the example of Likewise in 2014, Russia placed a ucts had been steadily increasing China, which after years of steady ban on food imports, which was also from about 270 billion euros in 2007 growth, decreased milk imports in diffi cult to anticipate. to 427 billion euros in 2017. 2015 — something that was unpre- Nevertheless, he said there were Market opportunities lay largely
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The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 23 NEWS — WORLD DAIRY SUMMIT
in the Asia Pacifi c region, fuelled by countries. “Internationalisation is a Vietnam’s Vinamilk acquired a 51 per population growth and increased pur- key development factor for dairy lead- cent stake in the Lao-Jagro Develop- chasing power of the middle class. He ers,” said Mr Rouyer, citing the case of ment Xiengkhouang Co in July this said other market prospects were in Nestle’s worldwide investment strate- year to get a foothold into the Lao Latin America, Africa and the Middle gy in the past few years in all corners market through the establishment East. of the world, with dairy plants in 53 of an organic dairy farm in a Japa- Mr Rouyer also discussed new mar- countries, while Lactalis has dairy nese joint-venture. This move would keting trends in the food and bever- plants in 47 countries. increase Vinamilk’s footprint in the age sector. Not to be outdone are dairy groups Mekong region, following its earlier “Natural and ethical claims on new in emerging markets that are expand- inroad into Cambodia in 2016 with a food and drink product launches are ing their industrial bases abroad. 51pc stake in Angkor Dairy Products on the rise with claims of organic or “Improved living standards in Co. which was fully acquired last year natural products, with no additives emerging countries have fostered by Vinamilk. and preservatives, and which are both the internationalisation of West- Mr Rouyer said there had been rise also GMO-free,” he said. “Manufactur- ern dairy groups and the appearance in investments in cheese production ers are also paying greater attention of local dairy leaders in emerging in the US, Russia and Ireland in the to ethical and environmental issues, economies,” Mr Rouyer said. past year to meet increasing demands such as environmentally friendly Mexico’s Lala bought Brazilian from Asia. packaging, as well as animal and hu- group Vigor last year, adding nine New Zealand and Ireland had an- man welfare.” dairy plants to its industrial assets to nounced local multi-million-dollar Mr Rouyer said business growth expand its reach beyond the United investments in dry dairy ingredient was propelled by global expansion States, Costa Rica, Guatemala and factories to catch the wave in global to capitalise on market opportunities Nicaragua. demand driven by a surge in con- and product segmentation in different In South East Asia, Mr Rouyer said sumption. D Milk cri cal food source: Ban Ki Moon ILK and dairy products will serve as tober 2016 to promote dairy sustainabil- “Unlike produce that is harvested Ma cri cal, sustainable food source ity through responsible consump on and once or twice a year, dairy products can for the world’s 9 billion people by 2050, produc on. be produced every day,” he said. “This according to former UN Secretary-Gener- The dairy sector played a leading role means that more cash can circulate al Ban Ki Moon. in interna onal eff orts to achieve the through rural areas, injec ng vitality into In a keynote speech delivered at the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), rural economies. As a result, the well- opening of the Interna onal Dairy Feder- which are aimed at socio-economic trans- being of rural areas is improved, and the a on’s World Dairy Summit 2018 in Dae- forma on to eradicate poverty and hun- quality of living is enhanced.” jeon, Korea, on October 15, Mr Ban said ger, and to construct a sustainable world Mr Ban urged the dairy community to the increase in world popula on would where humanity could enjoy be er edu- collec vely prepare for the next century be be followed by acute food shortage. ca on, healthcare, and equality. by strengthening sustainability for the “I believe that milk will be one of the The SDGs were launched in 2015 dur- next genera on. solu ons to combat any food shortages ing Mr Ban’s tenure at the UN, and sus- “Seven billion people around world to- that may occur,” he said. tainability remains a key passion of his. day not only recognise milk as a healthy “Milk is a primary food staple for the He serves as co-chair of the Ban Ki-Moon food, but also appreciate the value of the world’s popula on of more than 7 bil- Centre for Global Ci zens in Vienna estab- dairy industry for its contribu on to hu- lion people. Scores of malnourished and lished in January 2018 within the frame- manity’s growth.” food-insecure children across the world work of the Sustainable Development He called on the dairy sector to con- receive crucial nutrients from milk.” Goals to empower women and youth. nue to strive through collec ve eff orts Mr Ban said milk was cri cal and es- Mr Ban said the dairy sector played an to achieve the SDGs. sen al for interna onal eff orts to combat important role in helping to achieve many “I hope the accomplishment of these poverty and hunger, stressing the impor- of the SDGs covering poverty eradica on, goals can help construct a be er environ- tance of milk in providing essen al nutri- banishment of hunger, good health and ment for your industry to further pros- ents for starved children. “Milk serves as wellbeing and gender equality. The dairy per. I hope you can forge a robust global an important nutri onal food, as well as sector created employment through its partnership that goes beyond the bound- an essen al staple for emergency relief,” value chain, genera ng the third-largest aries between countries, con nents, and he said. “Providing milk is one of the sim- output and the largest trade volume regions, and that you can work together plest ways to help people in confl ict areas among all agricultural industries. to drive the development of humanity and disasters.” At the same me, he acknowledged and society as global ci zens. Mr Ban said he was heartened to note that the dairy sector was promo ng en- “I look forward to your industry be- that the dairy industry was commi ed vironmental protec on by implemen ng ing duly recognised not only for the nu- to sustainably providing nutri ous dairy ini a ves to reduce global carbon and tri onal values of its products, but also products, while also making eff orts to water footprints by striving to minimise for its industrial values rooted in sustain- preserve the environment. He cited the greenhouse gas emissions, and water and ability and responsibility. I truly believe Dairy Declara on of Ro erdam, a joint soil pollu on generated during the pro- this will further enable your industry to ini a ve of the IDF and the UN Food and duc on and distribu on of dairy prod- ac vely contribute to humanity’s happi- Agriculture Organisa on launched in Oc- ucts. ness.”
24 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 NEWS Cheese key to export growth
✔ Asia forecast to increase cheese imports ✔ Australia opportunity for high- quality ✔ US, Europe and NZ also compe ng for market share Key points Key By Carlene Dowie
HEESE exports hold the key to growth in major dairy produc- Ction regions around the world. A slew of reports in recent months has highlighted the opportunities for de- veloped countries to increase cheese production, with developing countries in the Middle East and Asia forecast to grow cheese imports. The latest report was released by Asia is a key region for growth in cheese consump on. the International Dairy Federation at they had to keep up with accelerating erage global milk production growth the World Dairy Summit in Daejeon, import demand in Asia, with Japan, in 2017 on the back of better prices. South Korea, on October 16. the Republic of Korea and China being The strongest growth was recorded in The IDF World Dairy Situation 2018 important destinations. India, Pakistan, Turkey, Australia, Po- report said key export regions, such The report, which was put together land and the United Kingdom. as Oceania, the United States and the by IDF experts from dairy-producing It also found there was greater im- European Union, would see cheese countries around the world, also re- port demand by China last year due production grow in years to come as vealed that there had been above-av- to a shortfall in milk production. The VR4335264 XIN R TO IS O K C
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The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 25 NEWS
East Asian country regained much of its strength as the number one dairy importer in the world after local stock positions normalised in 2016. The de- mand growth is in UHT milk, mozza- rella and cream cheese. The IDF report backed up a recent report from Rabobank that said dairy- exporting regions were fi ghting to win market share in Asia’s cheese market. The Rabobank report — Asia’s Fast- Moving Cheese Markets — Australia’s Race to Win — said Asia offered “a compelling growth opportunity” for Australian dairy exporters in the me- dium term. Michael Harvey: compe on set to intensify as leading cheese manufacturers in New But it warned other exporting na- Zealand, the US and Europe invest in produc on capacity. tions — with a much larger produc- tion base and export potential — were Overall growth in world milk pro- imports from the ASEAN-5 countries also looking to expand their presence duction was expected to average of Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the in the Asian region. 1.8pc per year for the next 10 years, Philippines and Vietnam grew by 10pc Rabobank senior dairy analyst compared with 2.1pc per year during per year. Michael Harvey said competition the previous decade. Growth was slower in Japan and was set to intensify as leading cheese The report said the four major ex- Korea (at an annual rate of 2pc), but manufacturers in New Zealand, the US porters of dairy products were New these two countries, together, im- and Europe invested in production Zealand with a share of 32pc, the EU port three times more cheese than capacity. “Over the next three years, (24pc), the US (12pc) and Australia China (importing 340,000 tonnes in we will see this new processing ca- (6pc). 2017, compared with China’s 100,000 pacity come online, which potentially It forecast a decline in export share tonnes). be more than suffi cient to service the for Oceania (New Zealand, Australia) But while the outlook was strong Asian markets,” he said. from 38pc to about 33pc in 2027. Ex- there were “downside risks”, includ- Australia needed to play to its port shares were forecast to increase ing the trade war between China and strengths and focus on maintaining slightly for the US, the EU and Argen- the US and margin pressure on retail and growing market share in the high- tina. foodservice chains. end segments of the market. The OECD-FAO report said world The Rabobank report said while Citing investment in dairy innova- prices of dairy products would be sup- Australia was well-placed to be an in- tions and formulations as the way ported by strong but slowing demand tegral part of global quick service res- forward, Mr Harvey said tailored increases for milk and dairy products. taurant supply chains, “the competi- products could include improved The dominant destinations for dairy tive environment is rapidly changing functionality and desirability (to suit exports would be developing coun- as other exporters also look to expand local cooking styles), clean label ini- tries, with the Middle East and North their presence in the region”. tiatives, nutritional demands (such Africa region accounting for 24pc of “New Zealand has set the pace in as additive free, sodium reduced) and world imports in 2027, South East Asia terms of growing cheese exports to the development of snacks tailored to for 12pc and China for 13pc. Asia, and now supplies half of China’s local consumers. The report said China would re- cheese import requirements,” Mr “But much of Australia’s ability to main a major importer of dairy prod- Harvey said. “While in the Northern grow exports into the Asian region will ucts and was projected to increase Hemisphere, a number of countries hinge on the sustainable growth of our its imports over the next decade but have expanded cheese production to milk supply,” he said. at a slower pace. But it said there was absorb the oversupply of milk and to “And, while possible, growth pros- uncertainty about China’s role as an generate better returns from cheese pects are up against hard constraints importer. “Small variations in domes- versus milk powder.” and seasonal impediments at the mo- tic production and consumption can Mr Harvey said to succeed in its in- ment.” have a signifi cant impact on the world dustry-wide Asian strategy for cheese The concerns about Australia’s ex- market, as shown in 2011-2015 period and whey-derived nutritionals, Aus- ports were backed up by an Organisa- when the country’s imports of whole tralia must play to its strengths, as a tion for Economic Co-operation and milk powder expanded and then de- reliable supplier of high-quality prod- Development and Food and Agricul- creased rapidly,” it said. uct. ture Organisation report released in Rabobank sees China as a key op- The immediate priority for Australia July. portunity. “China is where the growth to increase its cheese exports lay with The OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook opportunities lie for Australian cheese the industry sustainably increasing 2018-2027 report forecasts world milk exports, with China’s annual cheese milk production and improving plant production to increase by 22 per cent imports set to potentially double by utilisation. While possible, and Ra- in the next 10 years. But most of that 2023,” Mr Harvey said. bobank forecasts a modest growth growth would come from Pakistan and China’s cheese imports grew at a in milk supply in the next fi ve years, India and most would be consumed rate of more than 20pc per year be- there were many headwinds to achiev- domestically in those countries as tween 2012 and 2017. ing this, particularly in light of the cur- fresh dairy products. Mr Harvey said in the same period rent season, Mr Harvey said. D 26 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 Heat Stress Program Reduce heat stress in your herd with the inclusion of ActiSaf thermostable live yeast:
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Call ProviCo for more information David Reynolds – 0439 423 333 NEWS Minister fl ags supermarket reform
✔ Supermarkets introduce drought Processors were intimidated by the “Farmers say the mandatory code levy on limited range of milk bargaining strength of retailers, while for processors and farmers will be a ✔ Accused of publicity stunt farmers had few bargaining options good thing, but supermarkets need ✔ Minister fl ags market reform with anybody in the supply chain. oversight too.
Key points Key His move, in consultation with key “That makes sense to me.” By Andrew Marshall dairy sector players, follows recent Australian Dairy Farmers chief exec- agreement for a mandatory code utive offi cer David Inall said Mr Little- FTER a week in mid-October of of conduct between producers and proud amplifi ed farmer concerns and verbally savaging supermarkets dairy processors. public sympathy, particularly with Aover their milk pricing tactics his stinging rebuke of Coles, when he and drought publicity “stunts”, Ag- branded the supermarket’s drought riculture Minister David Littleproud ‘The fact is the milk help milk price policy as “half-baked” fl agged major milk market reforms market needs real and “a stunt”. were in the wind in a bid to bring the Mr Littleproud joined a growing powerful retailers to heel. reform. It’s not working.’ chorus of critics blasting Coles’s Mr Littleproud said he was looking 10-cents-a-litre milk levy on three-litre at how to revamp rules around super- Mr Littleproud said the milk mar- bottled house brand milk, saying it market contracts with processors, ket was clearly broken and the big was a farce hastily announced after with the aim of strengthening market supermarkets could no longer “wash rival Woolworths launched its own pricing options for processors and their hands and claim the fact farmers special “drought milk” range to raise farmers. are going broke is nothing to do with 10c/litre for its drought-whacked milk Reform proposal details are likely them”. suppliers. to be released by February and are ex- “I’ve already begun work on a man- German-owned discount retailer pected to receive sympathetic back- datory code of conduct for the sector Aldi came in for even harsher com- ing from federal cabinet. since dairy farmer groups called for it, mentary from the minister for selling “The fact is the milk market needs but much more reform is needed,” he “very cheap milk” and doing “bugger real reform. It’s not working,” he said. said. all” to help the industry or participate in any type of dairy reform. “The big German should take a run- ning jump if they can’t be bothered to support Australian dairy farmers,” Mr Littleproud said. Aldi responded saying it did not MAPPING = support short-term levies, which may GOOD artifi cially alter market dynamics, but COMMUNICATION welcomed “government-led industry reform”. “The health and viability of the dairy industry is a conversation worth of national attention,” a spokes- man said. “When Mr Littleproud fi rst pro- posed a government-led initiative to support the dairy industry, we sig- nalled our support, should it be im- plemented. Our position remains the same.” But Victorian Nationals MP, Andrew Broad, said he believed the commu- nity was growing cynical about su- permarket promises to help farmers when in reality they were doing little or even making their plight worse with current pricing policies. ADF’s Mr Inall said there was no question about the deep degree of distress among dairy farmers towards retailers and their milk pricing atti- www.farmmappingservices.com.au tudes, especially $1/litre house brand milk. “This topic is also attracting a lot of public interest and considerable VR4184076 political attention,” he said. 28 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 NEWS
While farmers accepted retailers wanted to service their customers, the drought had highlighted extreme pro- duction costs which milk producers paid while milk returns had basically fl atlined since Coles undermined retail prices in 2011 by introducing $1/litre milk. “Dollar milk ushered in a race-to-the- bottom mindset — retailers need to see the big picture here,” Mr Inall said. “To be a successful and prosperous industry, retailers must let farmers share in the returns they deserve.” Unlike beef or grain farmers, milk producers could not hold product off the market if prices were poor and must keep milking when seasonal con- ditions were tough. “We urgently need a shift in retail pricing that refl ects reality and adds Australian Dairy Farmers chief execu ve offi cer David Inall says there is no ques on value to the entire dairy cabinet, in- about the deep degree of distress among dairy farmers towards retailers and their cluding phasing out $1/litre milk and milk pricing a tudes, especially $1/litre house brand milk. cheap cheese,” he said. NSW Farmers Association argued capitalising on the drought for their ing to make their household budgets supermarket drought levies were mar- own gain. go further,” he said. keting ploys designed to keep extreme “The drought levies apply only to Coles claimed a 10c/litre levy on all dairy discounting alive even longer. their private labels,” executive offi cer fresh milk would cost Australian con- Dairy committee chairwoman Erika Eric Danzi said. sumers $250 million annually. Chesworth said producers were at “It’s a sign of their corporate greed “That cost would fall disproportion- breaking point and Coles’s drought that the price increase initiative across ately on the 40 per cent of households fund had delivered more anger and all sizes and brands, which we’re cam- with only $150 a week to spend on anxiety than help. paigning for to help struggling farmers, their weekly grocery shop,” a Coles “For years retailers’ actions have should be manipulated to grow retail- spokesman said. eroded value from the NSW dairy in- ers’ own market share. Truly, they Coles was receiving “a steady stream dustry and it’s offensive farmers now should be ashamed.” of applications” from dairy farmers for need to apply to access these funds,” Managing director of Coles’s par- a share of its contentious 10c/litre levy she said. ent company, Wesfarmers, Rob Scott, on house brand milk. “Coles’s drought program is not was disappointed by Mr Littleproud’s Aldi said it was working directly genuine, it only applies to a limited spray, and felt he and other critics did with suppliers to ease drought cost range of products, and farmers must not fully appreciate the retailer’s inten- pressures, accepting farmgate price supply sensitive information such as tions. increases, which had not been passed individual milk statements to access “Coles has done an enormous on to customers. any funds.” amount to support our farmers,” he “Without a transparent, auditable Queensland Dairyfarmers’ Organi- said referring to $12 million-plus in and equitable process for funds col- sation said consumers might buy into drought support already paid by the lection and distribution, we believe it these “ridiculous PR stunts” thinking supermarket. “Customers also have would be irresponsible of Aldi to tax they were doing the right thing, but the choice of what milk to buy, but consumers on the purchase of milk,” Coles and Woolworths were actually many are very price-focused and try- the spokesman said. D Maximum profi t, Minimum waste! VR4401537
The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 29 ON FARM How to make a wise bedding choice
✔ Plan bedding choice before bedding is to create a comfortable system can be used, and compost star ng construc on of lying surface that encourages cows pack systems are becoming popular. housed-cow facility to lie down, and to keep the cows In each of these bedding systems a ✔ Several factors need to be clean and healthy. range of different bedding materials considered If the lying surface is not comfort- can be used successfully. ✔ Select bedding that suits farm, its able, cows may spend less time ly- When choosing a bedding sys- loca on and management ing down or have a more disturbed tem and type of bedding material, Key points Key pattern of lying behaviour. Shorter it is important to consider how the By Dr Sarah Chaplin lying times in housed systems have bedding will be managed on a daily and Dr Yve e Williams been associated with lameness, basis, what interaction it will have while cows that spend more time with the effl uent-management sys- HE choice of bedding system standing in slurry are also at risk of tem, and how the waste bedding and the type of bedding materi- other foot conditions such as slurry will be handled once removed from Tals used in cow housing facili- heel. Apart from the obvious welfare the housing. Every bedding material ties will have a substantial impact on issue of lameness itself, lame cows type has its own costs, benefi ts and the management, and even design, of produce less and are harder to get management challenges. that facility. in-calf. The local climate will also need to Dairy farmers who are planning a be considered. Compost pack sys- new development of a house facility tems rely on careful management of should consider bedding before they ‘The purpose of providing heat and moisture in the compost start to build, not after. bedding is to create pack, particularly in dry, wet, hot Bedding choices are driven by sev- or humid conditions. In areas where eral different factors: a comfortable lying heat stress needs to be managed, • Materials readily accessible in the surface.’ thought needs to be given to how the required amounts and at a suitable cooling system will interact with the cost. bedding. For example, use of a water • Information and recommenda- Dirty cows and a soiled bedding spray or evaporative cooling will in- tions provided by local consultants surface are risk factors for clinical crease moisture levels whereas cool- and salespeople. and subclinical mastitis. Every dairy ing fans do not rely on water. Sand • Local climatic conditions and ex- farmer knows that these reduce milk bedding will conduct heat away from pected variations in weather. quality and have direct, and avoid- cows whereas some forms of com- • The bedding systems and materi- able, impacts on milk income. post bedding will generate heat. als that have been traditionally used A bedding depth that is inadequate A local supply will be needed in the industry. or bedding that has been allowed to that can be affordably and easily • The operator’s skills to manage compact can increase the presence accessed. A farmer doesn’t want to the bedding system. of skin injuries on the cows, particu- design a bedding system around a • The farm’s ability to handle the larly on the knees or hocks. Skin in- bedding material that is only avail- bedding waste. juries can range from small areas of able sporadically or where the price As observed in the fi rst article in hair loss to open wounds, infection varies markedly. this series in the May-June edition of and joint swellings. Here are some general comments the Australian Dairyfarmer, whether The bedding systems used for about different bedding types: dairy cows are housed in a freestall freestall barns are usually deep- • Sand is often considered the gold barn or kept in some form of loose bed or mattress-based systems. For standard for deep bedding in frees- housing, the purpose of providing loose housing barns, a deep-litter tall barns. Sand is inorganic, so bac-
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30 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 ON FARM
teria is less likely to grow in the bed- • Mattresses or rubber matting can system, provided they maintain a ding, assisting with mastitis control, be used in freestall barns to provide coarse particle size, don’t clump to- and generally a deep sand bedded a cushioned lying surface in each gether or compact excessively, and freestall can be comfortable (pro- stall, but they need absorptive bed- can be tilled easily. They also need vided the design and dimensions of ding added on top to soak up mois- to be readily absorbent. Care needs the freestalls are suitable). Sand can, ture and keep the cows clean. Some to be taken with some wood types as however, be hard to handle in some research shows that mattresses are they have antimicrobial properties effl uent systems, and may be hard to associated with a higher incidence that reduce the effectiveness of the source in some areas of the country. of lameness than sand bedding. composting process, and some have A well-planned and designed frees- Waterbeds are another synthetic the potential to cause diseases such tall barn and effl uent management option that also need an absorptive as laminitis. system can allow sand bedding to be layer but have been reported to help • Although less bedding overall is effi ciently recovered and re-used. cows manage heat stress. required in a compost pack system, • Organic materials, such as saw- • Straw has traditionally been used compared with deep litter systems, dust, straw, woodchips, wood shav- in deep-litter bedding systems. It it takes a lot of skill and attention to ings, shredded paper, dried manure, performs well as a bedding material maintain the compost bark, seed hulls (e.g. rice, almond, provided moisture levels at the bed- Farmers need to make sure that etc.), can be used effectively for ding surface can be kept low. Less they make an informed choice and deep bedding. Dried sawdust and severe hoof disorders and reduced end up with a bedding that suits their wood chip is usually preferred over wear have been reported for deep-lit- farm and their management, and that green wood sources, as the dried ter bedding systems compared with keeps their cows clean, comfortable bedding can absorb more moisture freestall barns, although different and healthy. D than the green bedding. Dusty bed- hoof disorders may be more preva- Contact: Dr Sarah Chaplin, ding can lead to eye and respiratory lent. Very large amounts of straw are phone 0439 275 896, email
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The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 31 UPDATE FROM THE GARDINER FOUNDATION
Anthony and Wendy Eccles, Purnim, Western Victoria, have reaped the benefi ts from inves ng in their herd’s gene cs. Value adding through gene cs and data
Ten years of historical performance months longer than the bottom 25pc. ✔ Herd bred to AI for 50 years ✔ All heifers genomically tested data, plus recent farm fi nancial data Breeding ✔ Surplus stock sales contribute from the Eccles herd records were 20 per cent of farm income analysed to look at the difference in The differences in the cow perform- contribution to the farm business be- ance based on genetic merit was no Key points Key tween the top and bottom BPI groups surprise for the Eccleses, whose herd NTHONY and Wendy Eccles in the herd. has a 50-year history of using artifi cial have a passion for breeding pro- insemination, which started with Mr Aductive, profi table dairy cows Eccles’s father who was an insemina- and an analysis of their herd by the ‘Genomic tes ng heifers tor. ImProving Herds Project has shown has taken the guess work “We have a closed herd and have their investment in genetics is a major used AI on everything for a long time,” contributor to their bottom line. out of deciding which Mr Eccles said. The Eccles milk 440 registered Hol- “Having a closed herd has allowed stein cows under the Purnim prefi x, in heifers to sell.’ us to also have Johne’s Disease-free a split-calving herd at Purnim in West- status, which is invaluable when sell- ern Victoria. The study found the top 25pc of the ing surplus stock for export markets Their farm was one of 27 dairy Eccles herd, ranked on BPI, produced and to other farmers who value the farms across Australia that recently 744 more litres of milk per cow per effort we have made in our genetics.” underwent detailed analysis by the year, as well as 55 more kilograms of The herd split calves, with 60pc ImProving Herds project to investi- fat and 42 more kilograms of protein calving down in autumn and 40pc in gate the contribution of genetics to than the bottom 25pc. spring and all cows have collars for dairy businesses. The extra milk production from the identifi cation and heat detection. The study identifi ed the top and bot- top 25pc of cows ranked on BPI re- “We have a 44-unit rotary with a tom 25 per cent of each herd, ranked sulted in an extra milk income after computer system that reads each on Balanced Performance Index (BPI), feed and herd costs of $482/cow/year cow’s collar when she comes onto the DataGene’s genetic index for profi t, compared with the bottom 25pc of the platform and then allows the cow to and compared their performance in herd. be fed individually according to her terms of production, longevity and fi - On average the top 25pc cent stage of lactation — whether she has nancial contribution. of cows also lasted in the herd 12 just calved, is in mid lactation or in 32 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 UPDATE FROM THE GARDINER FOUNDATION
Table 1: Eccles farm stats (July 2018) Herd size 440 cows Breed Holstein Farm size 240ha milking areas plus 80ha for young stock Calving pa ern Split 60% autumn/40% spring Dairy 44-stand rotary Staff 3 full me and one part- me work with the Eccles as well as two casuals who help with milking on weekends The top 25 per cent of the Eccles herd, Feeding system Individual feeding in the dairy ranked on BPI, produce 744 more litres of milk per cow per year, as well as 55 more Herd tes ng history Always herd tested kilograms of fat and 42 more kilograms of protein than the bo om 25pc. late lactation,” Mr Eccles said. genomic results are typically available “It allows us to feed high-producing within one to two months. cows to their genetic potential, which The tail hairs also go through the is important when you breed for pro- A2 gene test to identify suitable heif- duction.” ers for the transition to an all A2 herd. The herd is joined to 100pc artifi cial The Eccles also rear 12-20 bull insemination to a mix of sexed and calves a year that result from fl ushing conventional semen with bulls select- the best cows in the herd. ed for high BPI, high daughter fertility “We don’t use mop-up paddock bulls and good type (medium size animals with the herd, but we do use semen with good legs and feet). from our own bulls,” Mr Eccles said. High-ranking genomics cows are se- “We use the semen collected from our Anthony Eccles likes to feed high- lected for breeding with sexed semen. bulls on cows we do not wish to breed producing cows to their gene c Sexed semen is used on about 90pc of from for our herd due to age or type.” poten al. the heifer joinings. These bull calves are also genomi- All bulls used in this year’s bull cally tested, with potential future sires team — across cows and heifers — identifi ed, or grown out to 10 months export market for the past three years are genomically tested with an aver- of age and sold to other dairy farmers because we have other dairy farmers age BPI of 335. as mop-up bulls. Higher genetic merit who want to buy them. “In recent years we’ve decided to go bulls may be bought by semen compa- “We can show these farmers each down the A2 path and have been us- nies if they are suitable. heifer’s pedigree, their genomic Aus- ing A2 bull teams to increase the A2 Replacement heifers tralian Breeding Values, their A2 con- content in our herd,” Mr Eccles said. tent, their disease-free status and “I’m really interested in breeding, so About 180 heifer calves are reared a their dam’s herd test data. we also fl ush our best cows to maxim- year and grown out to 8-10 months, “When you have that sort of infor- ise the number of offspring they pro- with 90 selected to go into the herd. mation, it’s easy to sell good quality duce. The fi rst fl ush will be to sexed “We pick out the heifers we want to heifers and we have farmers who are semen and then the second fl ush will keep based on their genomic results repeat buyers because they can see be to conventional semen.” for BPI, their cow families and their the value of our breeding program and Genomics conformation,” Mr Eccles said. the difference it makes in their herds.” The replacement heifers are joined The Eccleses also sell surplus cows The Eccleses have been genomically to sexed semen and the surplus heif- to maintain the herd size and these testing all heifer calves for the past ers sold before they need to go out on cows are often sold off as younger four years and used the results, along agistment. milkers who are culled on type. with an assessment of each heifer’s “When it comes to joining our re- “We’ve taken an approach where we pedigree and conformation, to iden- placement heifers, I’ll also look at their try and add value to our surplus stock tify replacements. genomic results; if a heifer is a bit low and are aiming for sales of heifers, sur- “Genomic testing heifers has taken on fertility then I might give her con- plus cows and bulls to be 20pc of our the guesswork out of deciding which ventional semen rather than join her total farm income,” Mr Eccles said. heifers to sell,” Mr Eccles said. to sexed semen,” Mr Eccles said. “Our accountant likes the approach “Genomic testing has the added ad- “We aim to grow out all our heifers we have taken — it looks good on vantage of verifying a calf’s parentage, really well, so we have good concep- paper because we have a high-value which can sometimes be a bit of an is- tion rates in our heifer replacements herd that has become a signifi cant as- sue when you have a lot of cows calv- and our surplus heifers are look- set.” D ing on one day.” ing good when we are selling them For more information, contact Tail hair sampling coincides with to other farmers at 10 months. “We DataGene, phone (03) 9032 7191 or disbudding at 6-8 weeks of age and the haven’t sold surplus heifers into the email ✔ New campaign raising awareness that dairy is one of the best sources of calcium and other bone-building nutrients ✔ Dairy Australia survey shows Australians neglec ng their bones ✔ Australians encouraged to eat dairy to strengthen bones Key points Key AIRY Australia has launched a new campaign to help address Dthe lack of action by Austral- ians around their bone health, re- minding them that dairy milk, cheese and yoghurt are some of the richest sources of calcium, as well as a pack- age of other bone-building nutrients. The bone health campaign is en- couraging Australians of all ages to embrace the habits needed to im- prove and maintain bone health. Branded the ‘Bone Matters’ cam- paign, it will feature a six-week bone health challenge, articles and adver- Australians of all ages need to have adequate calcium intake, adequate vitamin D tising that will appear in the online levels, and regular weight-bearing exercise. news sites Mamamia and The Guard- ian, as well as a social media cam- stead topping the list of priorities for Dairy Australia dietitian Emma paign. most respondents. Glassenbury said the importance of The campaign comes in response to Professor Richard Prince, a bone nutrition education for bone health a Dairy Australia survey, conducted health expert from the University of was fundamental for children. during this year’s Healthy Bones Ac- Western Australia Medical School in “Understanding what their bones tion Week, that revealed signifi cant Perth, said the results suggested that need is the fi rst important step for all levels of apathy around bone health. people needed to take bone health school children,” she said. “By edu- According to Dairy Australia, about more seriously. cating children early, we can set them 14 million Australian adults may be up for the long run.” neglecting their bone health, putting Despite government dietary guide- them at risk of fractures and oste- ‘The truth is that lines recommending dairy foods, such oporosis. The survey revealed up to Australians of all ages as milk, cheese, yoghurt or alterna- four in fi ve Australians neglect the tives, are consumed throughout life, three important lifestyle steps to im- need to have adequate three in fi ve Australians believed that prove bone health — calcium by con- it was more important for children to suming dairy foods, vitamin D from calcium intake...’ have dairy than adults. safe, sun exposure and weight-bear- “The truth is that Australians of all ing exercise. “Because bone loss commences ages need to have adequate calcium The Dairy Australia commissioned after age 25, Australians need to do intake, adequate vitamin D levels, and report surveyed 1017 Australians more to look after their bone health regular weight-bearing exercise to about their thoughts and perceptions throughout life to reduce their risk of support their bone health,” Ms Glas- towards bone health and dairy con- osteoporosis,” he said. senbury said. sumption. The survey asked Austral- According to the survey, 92 per Help Dairy Australia spread the ians aged 18 and over, living through- cent of parents believed their children word about the importance of bone out Australia, 10 questions relating to were getting enough calcium, vitamin health throughout all stages of life their attitudes and habits. D and exercise. However, while nine by liking or sharing the campaign on The study also found more than out of 10 parents acknowledge dairy social media or posting an image of half of those surveyed (56 per cent) was an important source of calcium, yourself doing a healthy bone activity are not concerned about osteoporo- the report suggests that in reality only with the hashtag #bonesmatter. D sis and only one in 20 ranked bone one-third of children consume the More information is also available health as their number one priority recommended daily serves of dairy at ✔ Report highlights why fl avoured have shown that despite containing milk should be encouraged in added sugar, fl avoured milk does not balanced diets lead to weight gain or changes to body ✔ Can provide vital source of mass index. calcium The Dairy Australia report has been ✔ Report shared with die ans and shared at the Dietitians Association of policymakers Australia conference, and the fi ndings Key points Key have been provided to policymakers, NEW report from Dairy Australia dietitians, nutritionists and proces- has highlighted the important sors. Acontribution fl avoured milk can The research is fuelling public trust have as part of a balanced diet. in the dairy supply chain from farm to In an effort to pull together the sci- fridge and ensuring all types of dairy entifi c research, the Dairy Australia re- remain relevant to healthy diets in the port outlines six key reasons why fl a- future. voured milk should be encouraged in “Ready-to-drink fl avoured milks the diets of children and adolescents. come in a range of fl avours and sizes The report notes alarming statis- to appeal to everyone’s taste,” Ms tics that show 39 per cent of energy Cameron said. intake comes from junk foods, despite “But regardless of your favourite fl a- research showing that fl avoured milk vour, what we continue to see is that provides the nutrition needed during fl avoured milk can act as an important childhood and adolescence. Dairy Australia’s report on the nutri onal vehicle for increasing consumption of While some consumer groups con- value of fl avoured milk. the dairy food group.” tinue their campaign against added Dairy Australia is also continuing to sugar, research is showing that the The report showed dairy foods collaborate and consult on a range of entire food matrix matters more than contributed essential nutrients, such health and nutrition issues, including single nutrients, such as sucrose. as calcium, especially during adoles- recently lodging a submission on add- Dairy Australia’s Melissa Cameron cence. ed sugar labelling with the Australian said both plain and fl avoured milk Including fl avoured milk in the Department of Health. improved diet quality and were part diet also improved variety, which in- “While added sugar labelling on of the Five Food Groups that made up creased the likelihood that children foods and beverages may help to the Australian Dietary Guidelines. and teenagers would meet their rec- improve dietary habits, evidence “Flavoured milk helps increase rec- ommended number of dairy serves suggests labelling alone will not be ommended serves of the dairy food per day. enough,” Ms Cameron said. group,” Ms Cameron said. Currently, eight out of 10 children Following the release of its fl avoured “Research shows consumption of and teenagers do not consume enough milk report, Dairy Australia is develop- fl avoured milk is linked to eating less dairy. ing a second report, which will high- junk foods, better diets and improved Also highlighted are studies in both light the health benefi ts of fl avoured nutrient intakes.” Australia and the United States, which yoghurt as a Five Food Group food. D BETTER FERTILITY on heifers and cows* ABSSEXCEL.COM ©2018 ABS Global, Inc. *Based on 150,000 sexed semen breedings in first and second service, including more than 50,000 Sexcel® breedings. The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 35 VR4415678 36 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 ADC captures the en re dairy- farming spectrum from farmers, ‘We have iden fi ed that as an processors, industry we need to be bold and industry representa ves, brilliant to overcome obstacles service providers and the scien fi c and promote ourselves.’ sector. Be bold, be brave and be brilliant USTRALIA’S dairy industry is “With growing consumer trends set to tackle some of the biggest ADC snapshot around the world and opinions to- Aissues facing the sector head-on ✔ For farmers by farmers wards milk-based products within the at the Australian Dairy Conference in ✔ Australia’s premier dairy event marketplace, we have identifi ed that Canberra next February 19-21. ✔ ADC community of 1200+ as an industry we need to be bold and A bold and strong agenda focusing ✔ Farmers to CEOs and global brilliant to overcome obstacles and on leadership, antibiotic use, bobby innovators promote ourselves,” she said. ✔ calves, genetics and dairy diet wars Highly valued by the Australian “Strong leadership is critical in this is set to generate contentious debate dairy industry endeavour and so ADC 2019 kicks off ✔ Global reputa on for excellence as the nation’s dairy industry equips with prominent leader perspectives ✔ Supported by Australia’s major itself to tackle these big issues in the dairy players before knuckling down into societal future. ✔ Encouraging industry best prac ce trends, on-farm applications and Experts from around the globe have ✔ Investment for your business broader industry impacts. been invited to shine light from their “As an industry rather than shy independent perspective on where away from these issues we are going the Australian industry is placed, how Wearden said that the program line- to explore, debate and discuss so that well it is positioned for the future and up was specifi cally tailored around the best outcome can be achieved to impart key learnings from global the issues having the most impact on moving forward. best practice. the dairy industry now and into the “The focus of this year’s program ADC 2019 programming chair Susan future. is to really challenge thinking about The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 37 what we do on farm, why we do it, question whether we can we do it bet- Pre-conference tour ter, and explore what impacts do my Central NSW actions have on the broader indus- Sponsored by Maxcare and Daviesway try.” Monday, February 18, and Tuesday, February 19 It’s a program for the entire dairy ADC takes delegates on a revealing tour to one of Australia’s leading and biggest dairy industry ranging from dairy farmers, farms Moxey Farms at Gooloogong, NSW, with farm tour, discussions and dinner on processors, leaders and service pro- site. viders, and an opportunity for them Tour a endees will overnight at Cowra before heading to Colin Thompson’s (ADC to be at the forefront of sustainable 2018 presenter) dairy farm with strong themes of resilience and ingenuity in his best practice. 320-Holstein milking opera on. “Part of the appeal of ADC is the ability to address content and de- liver speakers that the dairy industry would not normally have the opportu- nity to hear from or access and we be- lieve we have captured this essence and tone for Canberra 2019,” Mrs Wearden said. Highlights and major topics for the 2019 ADC program in Canberra in- clude: • Bold leadership — insights and perspective from leaders including Dr Brendan Nelson (former Defence Min- ister and curator Australian War Me- morial) and Dairy Australia managing director Dr Dave Nation. • Behind the farm gate — antibiotics and bobby calves — NZ case studies on minimising antibiotic use, dairy farmer best practice including Dr John Penry (Anexa/Cognosco) and Jo Coombe (Dairy Australia). The new biodigester under construc on • High tech dairy farming — genom- at Moxey Farms at Gooloogong, NSW. ics and productivity gains via genet- The biogidester is sure to be of interest Why ADC? ic data including Professor Andrew to ADC delegates on the pre-conference Cromie (Irish Cattle Breeding Federa- tour. HE Australian Dairy Conference tion) and Jared Ireland and John Pekin Tis an event for farmers by farm- (Australian dairy farmers). • Farming from our phones — Young ers. • Insight into the world of milk Dairy Network members showcase Created by a group of pioneering processing — Rabobank’s Mary Led- some of Australia’s best dairy farm farmers as a forum to push bounda- man shows a global example of proc- apps. ries and dairy thinking, the not-for- essor and supply base with mutual re- • Dairy Elders — Irish expert Dr profi t organisa on has evolved into spect. Then a panel of executives from Nollaig Heffernan talks about the Australia’s premier annual dairy Australia’s fi ercely competitive dairy Australian quality of resilience while event con nuing to challenge and companies take to the stage hosted journalist and broadcaster Virginia contest the status quo. by Rabobank’s Michael Harvey. Haussegger interviews three dairy ADC captures the en re dairy- • New frontiers in the diet wars — hero women sharing their stories of farming spectrum from farmers, how real is the threat, how alternative resilience, strength, endurance and processors, industry representa- are alternative milks and the value wisdom to close the conference. ves, service providers and the sci- of speaking the consumer language More information regarding ADC en fi c sector. including Dr Judith Bryans (Interna- Canberra 2019 is available at website Invest in your dairy business and tional Dairy Federation), Dr Anneline Tuesday, February 19 ADC First mers event — hosted by the 2019 Programming Commi ee ADC Welcome Func on — hosted by Fonterra Wednesday, February 20 Bold Leadership Dr Brendan Nelson - Australian War Memorial and former Defence Minister Dr David Na on - Dairy Australia managing director Behind the Farm Gate Se ng the an bio c scene - Jo Coombe, Dairy Australia The New Zealand an bio c experience - Dr John Penry, Anexa/Cognosco On-ground an bio cs story - vet Dr Peter Degaris and dairy farmer Peter Hanrahan Panel discussion - What is the bold leadership the Australian dairy industry needs to take in terms of guarding our animal health future? Beefi ng up the response to bobby calves - Dr Sarah Bolton, Nuffi eld Scholar The cost of being green - Ken Kimber, Bega dairy farmer and ADC founding director High Tech Dairy Farming Genomics - Prof Andrew Cromie, Irish Ca le Breeding Federa on Gene cs that takes you places - Australian dairy farmers Jared Ireland and John PekinMaking the most of what genomics off ers Young Dairy Scien st Finalists in the Young Dairy Scien sts Award sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim present their work and fi eld of research. Led by ADC scien fi c director Richard Rawnsley. Australian Dairy Conference gala dinner Hosted by Rabobank Thursday, February 21 ADC annual general mee ng An Insight into the World of Milk Processing An outsider perspec ve - Mary Ledman, Rabobank global dairy strategist Processing things diff erently - execu ves from Australia’s fi ercely compe ve dairy companies hosted by Michael Harvey from Rabobank New Fron ers in the Diet Wars How real is the threat? - Dr Judith Bryans, Interna onal Dairy Federa on Is truth the fi rst casualty in the food wars? - Melissa Cameron, Dairy Australia How alterna ve are alterna ve milks? - Dr Anneline Padayachee, Simple Scien st The value of speaking the consumer language - Melissa Clark Reynolds, Beef and Lamb NZ Farming from our phones Australia’s best farm apps presented by Young Dairy Network members and hosted by NSW DPI robo c dairy expert Nico Lyons. Dairy Elders Tougher than the rest - Dr Nollaig Heff ernan, Irish expert the Heff ernan Consultancy Australia’s dairying elders - journalist and broadcaster Virginia Haussegger interviews three hero dairy women. Their combined strength, endurance and resilience serves as inspira on for the challenges that lie ahead for the dairy industry’s leaders of tomorrow The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 39 DAIRY MARKET REPORT Poor season overrides market posi vity By Sofi a Omstedt Industry analyst Dairy Australia ✔ Challenging condi ons drive demand for hay, water ✔ Culling rate up 20 per cent ✔ Domes c and interna onal markets favourable for Australian processors reductions and entire herd disposals. outpacing the broader category’s 1pc Key points Key While hard data on farm exits is typi- increase. cally lagged, reports suggest farm exits Private-label cheese is closing in on OLLOWING a drier-than-average have accelerated since the start of the half the market share of the chilled winter and start of spring, many season. cheese market, while higher-value deli Ffarmers have seen soaring feed As Australian farmers are working cheese has also grown in popularity. costs erase the benefi ts of better farm- through diffi cult conditions, other ma- The yoghurt category has continued gate prices. The ongoing feed shortage, jor dairy producers have increased its return to growth, driven by strong lack of rainfall and surge in culling rates milk production in the past few months. growth in the ‘traditional yoghurt’ cat- quickly turned 2018/19 into a challeng- In Europe, farmers experienced a egory. Probiotic yoghurts have also ing season for Australian farmers. challenging year, with a cold winter seen resurgent growth, albeit off a low At the same time, the wider dairy followed by a hotter-and-drier-than- base. industry has been more settled, with average summer, which slowed milk Higher prices refl ective of global de- healthy demand coming from both production. mand for dairy fats continued to weigh domestic and overseas markets. In Despite these climatic challenges, re- on butter sales volumes, however in- the latest Situation and Outlook report, ports suggest milk production has not elastic demand overall saw sales value Dairy Australia draws out several key been impacted as much as previously in the dairy spreads category grow insights by looking at recent market expected. In recent months, European more than 18pc in the last 12 months. developments domestically and glo- commodity prices have started to Global dairy demand also remained bally. weaken as product supply strengthens. strong. Total exports from the six larg- Winter and the start of spring re- Milk production in the United States est exporters grew 3.7pc for the 12 mained unseasonably warm and dry also increased in August, up for the months to July. Part of this growth was across Australia. These challenging 18th consecutive month. driven by an increase in demand from conditions have continued to drive New Zealand is the major supply China and Japan (both up about 10pc demand for hay, which in turn saw hay infl uence at present, as the country in volume terms). prices soar. experienced highly favourable winter Demand for dairy also increased in Demand came predominately from weather. The current conditions, to- the Middle East/North Africa (MENA) the drought-affected areas in NSW and gether with profi table farmgate prices, region for the fi rst time in more than Queensland. Data from the Dairy Farm are setting New Zealand farmers up for three years. Australian exports in- Monitor Project, however, showed that a strong season. creased 4.1pc to 745,000 tonnes, driv- virtually all regions have been affected While weather and feed issues have en by strong growth in liquid milk sales by rising feed costs. dominated the current news, other and infant powder exports. Supply is beginning to increase as parts of the supply chain created a Growing demand for Australian new season crops enter the market more stable picture. The Australian dairy products serves as a reminder and failed grain crops are cut for hay, domestic market for dairy products of the longer-term opportunities of the nevertheless demand for hay remains has remained largely stable, with all industry. Nevertheless, given current strong. key product categories showing value conditions, for many farmers seeing The lack of feed across the country, growth, and all but dairy spreads see- their way through the more immedi- combined with high costs of irriga- ing increased volumes sold. ate challenges will be the priority this tion water and limited rain, resulted Within categories, drinking milk season. in a surge in culling rates. In the fi rst consumption has continued to shift With the ongoing feed shortage, three months of the season, roughly in favour of full cream milk, and the surge in culling and unfavourably rain- 20 per cent more cows passed through recovery in private label sales has per- fall forecasts for the remainder of 2018, saleyards compared with last year. sisted. Fresh milk has made gains over the outlook for this season is quickly This increase represented both herd UHT, while fl avoured milk grew 5pc, deteriorating. D 40 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 DAIRY EQUIPMENT UPDATE Around the fi eld days Australian Dairyfarmer’s Jeane e Severs checked out the range of new and interes ng products and services on show at the South Gippsland Dairy Expo in September, while Peter Roach caught up with suppliers at the Elmore Field Days in October. Jay Jaspers had his son, Caleb (4), with Inside the Goweil bale grab, hooked to a Known for VicSilos, at Maff ra, Vic, him at the South Gippsland Dairy Expo John Deere 5100R tractor, at the South Graham Wa also displayed sheep and to show the Civil Mart crossover kit for Gippsland Dairy Expo is Jayson Filomeno, ca le troughs at the South Gippsland driveways. Cervus Equipment, Leongatha, Vic. Dairy Expo. The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 41 DAIRY EQUIPMENT UPDATE Teat care and dairy hygiene specialists Showing their cast cement feedpads and Ruakura were at Elmore Field Days. On bunkers at the South Gippsland Dairy hand to demonstrate their new teat Expo are Toby and Gordon Painter, Vikon scrubber were Don Hanson and Glen Precast, Bairnsdale, Vic. Armstrong. For more informa on visit A Cleris linkage fer liser spreader caught the eye of Morry Van De Leur, Menzies Tez, Trevor and Clare Porter, Yarram, Vic, Creek, Vic, at the South Gippsland Dairy are looking at equipment and machinery Expo. He is pictured with Tom Paltridge, at the at South Gippsland Dairy Expo. Muck Runner, Mt Gambier, SA. Direct your herd’s performance. Pictured at the Semex Australia tent at Mitch Colson, of Warrnambool, Vic, looks at the Wrangler Crush, brought to the the Elmore Field Days discussing Semex’s range of unique gene c solu ons are at the South Gippsland Dairy Expo by area manager Ashley Bradley, dairy Laurens De Wit, of De Wit Trading. farmer Casey Diment, Stanhope, Vic and key account manager Joseph Holloway. ! gea.com At the Rabobank stand at the South Represen ng Burra Foods with some old Gippsland Dairy Expo are Sam style milk cans at the South Gippsland Loughridge, Ripplebrook, Vic, Andrew Dairy Expo are milk supply manager Wood, Warragul, Vic, Rabobank’s Russell Peter Fort, milk supply offi cer Paul Bills Mann and Ma hew Long, Colin Finger, and farm milk administra on offi cer Ann Ripplebrook, Vic, and Jamie Murphy, MacKay. Rabobank. The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 43 DAIRY EQUIPMENT UPDATE Stoney Creek, Vic, dairy farmer Daryl Alan Gowers, Vicseeds, and Simon Hunt, At Browns fer lisers’ tent at the South Sinclair, fl anked by Jannine Brennan and Stephen Pasture Seeds, with Choice Gippsland Dairy Expo, cake was on the Jon Reynolds, of Provico, talk about calf Chicory, Tonic Plantain and Relish Red menu, handed out by sales manager milk replacer and gut health at the South Clover on show at the South Gippsland James Ristrom and agronomist Katherine Gippsland Dairy Expo. Dairy Expo. Bohn. Talking about Marco Turnips at the A farmer can never have too many hats: Showing the injector nozzle inside the South Gippsland Dairy Expo are sales Steven Garnham, Nyora, Vic, says yes liner to teat spray the teat at the South agronomist with Cropmark Seeds Adam to another hat from Ridley Stockfeeds’ Gippsland Dairy Expo are Ken and Rose Sheedy and seed agronomist with Richie McGrath, Leongatha, Vic, at the Heywood, of Western Valley Dairy Notman Seeds Adam Fisher. South Gippsland Dairy Expo. Systems, Warragul, Vic, and Craig Kelly, of ADF Milking. Elmore Field Days stalwart, Andrew Fonterra’s Sarah Fusinato, of Neerim Represen ng GippsDairy and Dairy Hoult from Dumac Distributors was South, Vic, was helping people play milk Australia at the South Gippsland Dairy on site again with their Ruff y range pong at the South Gippsland Dairy Expo. Expo are intern Heather Smillie and of effl uent pumps and Ebara pressure extension offi cers Leah Maslen and system and washdown pumps. Ashley Burgess. RReduceeduce sslippinglipping & LLamenessameness PPreservereserve EExistingxisting SSurfaceurface IIncreasencrease AAnimalnimal CComfortomfort VR4417588 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 45 DAIRY EQUIPMENT UPDATE At the South Gippsland Dairy Expo At the South Gippsland Dairy Expo, Donal Blackwell, Alltech, talks about the Robyn Mitchard of ACM with Zoe (9 Keenan nutri on with Keenan Intouch, months) and Brad Carpenter, Leongatha, which uses cloud technology to log the Vic, Gendore, discuss the new McHale feed inventory and supplements levels 991 high-spin bale wrapper with twin on the farm. wrappers. Robyn Mitchard said ACM has acquired an annual produc on of 50 million litres of milk in Gippsland. Graeme Stoll, DairyTech, at the South Graham Wood, of Graham Wood Gippsland Dairy Expo with the Packo With crushed maize from Irwin’s Machinery with a rehabilitator deep vat cooling systems, that are now Stockfeed, Greg Pate and Katrina and surface llage, with 1.5-6m working manufactured in 30,000-50,000 litre Galindo, South and West Gippsland sales width, at the South Gippsland Dairy capacity. representa ves respec vely. Expo. Automatic Dipping & Flushing We run ADF on our two 60 unit rotaries. The benefits… We installed ADF for the time and labour saving Reduce mastitis benefits. The ADF system enabled us to keep a one man dairy, milking 650 Save time cows twice daily. In a wet area the most important thing is teat Increase profits coverage and sanitising, which ADF does perfectly! ADF is another tool in your kit to fight and control Improve cow throughput mastitis. I would definitely recommend it.” Compatible with Drew Carter, Ringarooma, Tasmania your dairy ™ call 1800 233 283 visit ADFmilking.com or find us on The multi award-winning, automatic teat dipping cluster. 46 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 DAIRY EQUIPMENT UPDATE Cows highly mo vated to access a brush ✔ Mechanical brushes ed motivation to access the brush, all provide grooming points animals were tested twice: once before for housed cows (Brush I) and once after (Brush II) they ✔ Cows sought out brush in similar had been tested for motivation to ac- way to seeking feed cess the feed and empty pen. Key points Key To access an empty pen, 4 of the 10 cows tested were not willing to push ROOMING behaviour is ex- any weight, and the maximum weight pressed by many animals, in- pushed by any of the cows to access Gcluding cows, and helps them the empty pen was 14 kilograms. maintain a healthy coat and skin. Cows In contrast, cows were willing to push can groom themselves and herd mates higher weights to access either food or by licking. When housed in naturalis- A cow uses an automated mechanical the mechanical brush, with many cows tic environments, they also use trees brush at the University of Britsh pushing 23kg and some pushing 41kg or or other structures to scratch parts of Columbia’s Dairy Educa on and Research more to access these resources. their body that are otherwise diffi cult Centre. The weight cows were willing to push to reach. was similar for the mechanical brush On some dairy farms, cows do not for other resources known to be impor- and for the fresh feed, and the weight have access to surfaces suitable for tant for the animal (e.g. fresh feed). cows were willing to push to access scratching themselves, but other farms This allows researchers to compare the mechanical brush did not differ be- are now providing cows with automat- the relative importance of the different tween the fi rst and second test phase. ed mechanical brushes that facilitate resources to the animal. Animals are The results of this study show that grooming behaviour. generally highly motivated to feed, so cows are highly motivated to access a When cows are allowed access to me- feed can be used as a ‘gold standard’ to mechanical brush, about as motivated chanical brushes, they are cleaner and compare with other resources. as they are to access fresh feed after spend about fi vefold more time groom- In the experiment, cows were trained 1.5 hours of feed deprivation, and more ing than when brushes are not avail- to push open a weighted gate. Dur- motivated than they are to access an able, suggesting that these brushes are ing training, cows were rewarded with empty pen. important for the cow. some grain after successfully pushing These results indicate that access To better estimate just how impor- open the gate. It took about a week un- to a mechanical brush is important for tant access to an automated mechani- til all the cows learned to successfully dairy cows, and provides scientifi c evi- cal brush is to indoor-housed dairy open the gate from a closed position. dence in support of the practice of pro- cows, researchers at the University of After the successful completion of viding cows access to these brushes. D Britsh Columbia’s Dairy Education & training, the test sessions started. In To see a video of a cow us- Research Centre conducted a study the test sessions, the weight that cows ing the gate to access the brush designed to test the motivation of dairy were required to push to open the gate visit THE DEDICATED MILK COOLING SPECIALIST Tank Volumes From 5,000 to • A Packo milk tank and system to suit all herd sizes, pick up schedules, 50,000 Litres and entry temperatures • Simple one button operation to activate either cooling or wash modes • Packo's Patented fully automatic Rotojet cleaning system, ensures every square inch of the inside vessel is clean and hygienic. New & Secondhand systems/Wash system upgrades for any make-model tank Call Dairy-Tech Refrigeration today for a no hassle quotation PHONE 03 5662 3277 EMAIL [email protected] WEB www.dairytechrefrig.com.au The choice is yours- Direct expansion or a glycol cooling tank / system Refrigerant Trading Licence - AU34439 VR4145549 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 47 DAIRY EQUIPMENT UPDATE New dairy part of overall growth plan ✔ VAN Dairy Group at Woolnorth Sta on, Cape Grim, Tasmania ✔ 25 dairy farms ✔ Produces own fodder ✔ Spent $2.7million to build a new dairy Key points Key By Jeane e Severs PENDING $2.7million to build a new dairy is part of a rolling up- Sgrade and improvement plan for VAN Dairy Group, located at Cape Grim, Tasmania. Improving infrastructure is among a suite of management objec- tives to increase production and effi - ciencies among the 25 dairy farms on the 19,000-hectare Woolnorth Station. VAN Dairy Group ac ng general manager Hugo Avery says herd size is expected to Upgrade works began in 2010 under increase at The Gums to up to 1400 cows with the 60-bail rotary dairy now opera ng. the previous ownership — the invest- Photo: Johanna Baker ment arm of New Plymouth District Council — and continue under the time constrained,” acting general man- on Woolnorth. The farm receives signif- new proprietor, previously Moon Lake ager Hugo Avery said. “We didn’t want icant winter rainfall and the dairy sits Investments, now known as VAN Dairy to be time constrained with this one.” on low land, as much of the Woolnorth Group. ‘This one’ refers to The Gums, the property does. “The previous builds have been very only 100 per cent spring-calving dairy The fi rst decisions to be made were about whether to do a new build or a re- build. Mr Avery said it was an obvious decision to go for a new build. “We get a lot of coastal weather, an environment that is quite harsh and 570 Bamawm Road, Bamawm, Vic, 3561. Phone/Fax: (03) 5486 5496 rusts galvanised steel,” he said. www.rollermills.com.au “This dairy was all gal steel. A new build would also make the dairy more central on Woolnorth. “It was a major part of why the old 50- bail rotary dairy was replaced,” he said. “The Gums is one of a number of dairies nearly past their use-by date. It’s also a very wet property during winter, so we took some of the dry herd off for six weeks to alleviate pasture pressure.” Choosing a greenfi eld site enabled Woolnorth to bring 75 hectares into op- eration that were not previously part of Our roller mills are the most efficient way a dairy farm. The greenfi eld site meant to process grain, due to low maintenance, the new dairy platform could be built high flow rate and tonnage to kilowatts. without needing to compromise the We can convert most systems from existing dairy nor interfere with work practice in its shed. blanket feed to individual feed. The $2.7 million cost included a 60- Rolling grain is the most efficient way to bail rotary dairy, three new silos, new get the very best from your grain. effl uent management infrastructure, tanks for washdown, constructing the Over milled grain does not allow your entrance and exit laneways and yards, animals to digest and retain the nutrients as well as an onsite cattle crush and an you are trying to feed them. integrated automated dairy system. The new shed and dairy build began We Proudlyalso recondition Australian and make rollersMade for in November last year. “We re-used as all brands of roller mills, including Keoghs. much of the previous plant as possible VR4330755 on other farms,” Mr Avery said. 48 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 DAIRY EQUIPMENT UPDATE A ca le crush, stockyards and automa c Automa c cup removers, weighing, Milking equipment was manufactured in gates were incorporated in the build, to dra ing and herd iden fi ca on are all stainless steel by DaviesWay at Warragul, enable seamless workfl ow among the part of the dairy automa on system. Victoria, and transported to The Gums to cows. Photo: Johanna Baker Photo: Johanna Baker be installed. Photo: DaviesWay Woolnorth’s project manager Ben lato said DaviesWay assumed respon- “The system monitors if the milk vat Davis managed the overall construc- sibility for the entire project, which ex- is turned off when it should be turned tion and liaised with tenderers and cluded the new effl uent system. While on and it’s able to measure the milk vol- tradespeople and made the job rela- the client — VAN Dairy Group — had a ume for each cow.” tively straightforward. clear idea of what the new dairy should Mr Avery said the Halo system, net- “It’s now 80 days since commission- incorporate, there was room for collab- worked into Woolnorth’s business man- ing, and the herd was calved down at oration. “We suggested the Halo moni- agement technology, enabled workfl ow the new dairy,” Mr Avery said. toring system and they were receptive,” in the dairy to be monitored remotely. From milking 1030 cows and pro- Mr Polato said. It was one of only a few items of the ducing 446,744 kilograms milk solids Developed in New Zealand, the Halo build that were not either constructed in the 2017 calendar year, The Gums system monitors the milk along the line in Tasmania or on mainland Australia. is on track to produce the budgeted and into the vat and enables the farm Mr Polato said most labour and trade 471,538kg MS from 1050 cows this year. manager to receive SMS alerts remote- skills contracted to the build were re- The new platform is operable by one ly. “For example, the farm manager cruited within Tasmania. person, but Mr Avery said the herd is receives an SMS if the line is not con- The entire project was managed and milked as two herds, as part of a com- nected to the vat,” Mr Polato said. tracked through a Gantt chart, which pany occupational health and safety policy. “It’s a one-person milking plat- form, but we try to change the milker part-way,” he said. “It saves people’s hands from getting strain injuries. “It can be up to two people in the dairy at once. One might be an AI tech- nician and another is milking.” Herd size is expected to increase at The Gums as the additional 75ha im- proves and boundary realignments occur to enable better pasture manage- ment and cow fl ow. Mr Avery said The Gums had the po- tential to grow to a milking herd of 1400 cows. Building the new dairy The tender for constructing the new dairy was awarded to DaviesWay, War- ragul, Victoria. Mr Avery said the serv- ice capabilities of the organisation pro- viding the plant and price was critical in choosing the successful tenderer. “We looked at what technical support they could offer us,” he said. “We also looked at what was working already for us. We wanted to recruit technologies that potentially could be used on our other farms.” That technology included herd-man- agement software, automatic-drafting gates and the potential ability to record cell count testing, fat and protein. DaviesWay project manager Nico Po- The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 49 DAIRY EQUIPMENT UPDATE DaviesWay project manager Nico Polato A building with farm offi ce, showers and The 2.4m high panel walls and the shed says DaviesWay assumed responsibility a bathroom was also constructed within were assembled on site by Bison, using for the en re project. Photo: DaviesWay the shed. Photo: DaviesWay cranes. Photo: DaviesWay Mr Polato said ensured the entire team ing with farm offi ce, showers and a the cement poured to hold everything — owners, managers and contractors bathroom was also constructed within secure. After curing, the stainless steel — were informed and collaborating on the shed. upper deck was assembled across a the timing of work throughout the fi ve- A heavy 60-bail rotary milking plat- second week of work. month build. “The project was deliv- form was manufactured by Yarroweyah “That’s when the milk equipment fi t- ered on time and on budget,” he said. Engineering, Yarroweyah, Victoria, and tings occur, then it’s fi nished off with A geological study and soil com- assembled on site at The Gums. the entrance and exit gates and backing paction tests were undertaken before kick rails,” Mr Hargreaves said. earthworks. A quarry on Woolnorth A cattle crush, stockyards and au- provided soil for earthworks on The ‘It was an obvious tomatic gates were incorporated in Gums site. “We moved about 7000 cubic decision to go for a new the build to enable seamless workfl ow metres of soil onto The Gums for the among the cows. new dairy and to construct laneways,” build.’ Milking equipment was manufac- Mr Polato said. tured in stainless steel by DaviesWay at Footings were poured as part of site Yarroweyah Engineering operations Warragul, Victoria, and transported to preparation. The superstructure of the manager Adam Hargreaves said the The Gums to be installed. “We provided dairy shed was manufactured by Bison deck was packed as a kit and shipped milk harvesting equipment, a fully auto- Constructions, Scottsdale, Tasmania. to Tasmania. The fi rm had already in- mated feeding system and dairy auto- The shed stands four metres high un- stalled similar platforms at other Wool- mation systems that were 75 per cent derneath the gutter, and all the frame, north dairies. Australian built,” Mr Polato said. “Some wall panels and roof are hot-dipped gal- “This design also works with gear that supporting components were manufac- vanised steel, to offset the infl uence of DaviesWay use,” Mr Hargreaves said. tured in Europe and North America.” coastal air. “We make everything at Yarroweyah in Automatic cup removers, weighing, Concrete tilt panel walls were also kit form, acid clean and wash it, then drafting and herd identifi cation are all manufactured by Bison. The 2.4m high load it into a carrier to transport.” part of the dairy automation system. panel walls and the shed were assem- Assembly was in two parts. The hot- The feed system enables lead feeding bled onsite by Bison, using cranes. dipped galvanised steel undercarriage as well as three different feed types to As well as the dairy platform, a build- was assembled, the bails erected and be apportioned. 50 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 Cooler. Drier. More comfortable. Every herd deserves their day in the shade Get a quote for a ridgeback™ shed for your farm in 2019 Call 1300 296 206 visit entegra.com.au DAIRY EQUIPMENT UPDATE “The plant is engineered to operate A glycol system was installed to cool gate 100 hectares through a travelling 22 hours a day, if needed, milking 1200 the milk and pre-heat water for the irrigator.” cows,” Mr Polato said. dairy. DaviesWay staff led the post-con- DaviesWay designed a unique system Three, 53 cubic metre steel silos were struction familiarisation. “After the to enable veterinarians and artifi cial in- erected for storing grain and pellets. dairy was commissioned, we trained semination technicians to safely inter- Local contractors installed the effl u- the management and staff in how to act with the cows during milking. “It’s a ent spreading system. Mr Avery said use the equipment and assisted at six system we’ve developed for other dair- the effl uent tank was manufactured milkings to ensure the system works for ies and we’ve installed on another Wool- in New Zealand. “The effl uent goes the cows and the operators,” Mr Polato north farm,” Mr Polato said. “A perma- through a sump with a vibrating screen said. nent veterinary stand was included on to get rid of solids,” he said. DaviesWay provided manuals and the exit race platform and winch-operat- “The green water is utilised for wash- laminated wall charts detailing stand- ed platforms operate at each gate.” down and surplus water is used to irri- ard operating procedures. D VAN Dairy Group overview AN Dairy Group’s Woolnorth Sta on as the gene c merit on average should be spring calves are reared each year. All calves Vhas 25 dairy farms, with suppor ng higher than the older cows,” Mr Avery said. are regularly weighed from three weeks af- cropping land, on a 19,000-hectare proper- “We get around 95 per cent in-calf rate in ter birth. Each calving period results in two ty. Twenty-one farms are operated by man- the heifers overall.” intakes to the Heifer Rearing Unit. agers, two are sharefarmed and two are Conven onal cows are vet-checked Calves are sent to the heifer unit at a leased out. One addi onal property is used about a month before AI begins to ensure minimum 100 kilograms, usually 15 to 20 for rearing heifers and another grows fod- no underlying metri s. Heat detec on s ck- weeks old, weighed and dra ed into mobs der for the dairies as well as wintering spring ers are a ached to iden fy cows that are of about 200 head, with similar size co- calving cows when they are dry. Twenty-two not cycling. horts. Heifers return to the dairy farm at 23 of the farms are dryland. “The non-cycles are treated and Cue- months old and ready to calve. “To run this Three of the farms are conver ng to Aus- mates inserted, so they are joined to AI se- unit eff ec vely, the more even each line is tralian organic accredita on status. men on day one of ma ng,” Mr Avery said. the easier it is to manage,” Mr Avery said. Nine farms are spring calving, fi ve farms “Cows that calve a er 30 days prior to There are 147 employees in the busi- are split calving and eight farms are autumn ma ng are tail painted a diff erent colour; ness, including farm managers and workers, calving. “There are more autumn-calving any of these cows not mated a er three group opera ons managers (with several farms because of the coastal climate and the weeks of AI are treated as non-cyclers. farms under their oversight), offi ce staff and calving period is based on pasture growth,” “The main part of the herd that are cy- fi eld technicians. ac ng general manager Hugo Avery said. cling cows are put through a fi ve-day ‘why All farm operators meet with manage- About 19,000 milkers produce 430kg milk wait’ program.” ment three-monthly, and fi eld days are held solids per cow annually. The strategy is to Most cows are joined within 10 days of regularly for all staff to a end and learn grow the business to 20,000 milking cows, the start of ma ng. skills and improve knowledge. “We have a by growing more pasture and fodder. The main herd cows are joined to Hol- formal skills training requirement and off er One of the tools they use is the consider- stein semen with criteria of easy calving, lots of short courses,” Mr Avery said. able history of weather data collected at the high fer lity, good feet, sound udders in “All full- me staff are encouraged to Bureau of Meteorology weather sta on at their cow families and good BPI. “Any cows study agriculture through the cer fi cates to Cape Grim. “Knowing the historical weather the farm managers don’t want to keep re- diploma level. We also have a two-way feed- data of the farm helps us to predict opportu- placements from are mated to AI Hereford back mechanism and if a staff member sug- ni es for pasture and forage crop growth,” semen, so their calves are not reared,” Mr gests a course we haven’t already backed Mr Avery said. Avery said. nor are off ering, we take that sugges on on Growth in the herd’s size and milk-pro- “Bulls are not used because of work board.” duc on capacity is being replicated across health and safety risks to staff and they are Educa on and training are emphasised Woolnorth with a range of strategies — very expensive to keep. They also dig holes for the posi ve impact on produc on. improving management and farm opera- in our very sandy soils. We have found that “We encourage improving management tor skills, pasture improvement, realigning using only AI gives about the same overall skills of farm operators and workers, year on boundaries and paddocks to be more pro- in-calf rates.” year,” Mr Avery said. duc ve and inves ng in gene cs. The only real nega ve is that staff can get Woolnorth uses independent veterinar- The breeding program is an intense pro- a bit red towards the end of ma ng. This ians and agronomists and contractors for gram for cows, heifers and staff , Mr Avery is especially on the split-calving farms where dedicated fencing, cul va on, sowing and said. “We use bulls that have traits that we ma ng takes up 20 weeks of the year. harves ng work. want — easy calving, high fer lity, good feet, “This intense ma ng program results in “We sow forage crops on about 10 per sound udders in their cow families, good BPI a very intense calving,” Mr Avery said. “We cent of each farm annually, so we contract (Balanced Performance Index),” he said. get to mid-point in calving by day 12, so that work, u lising their skills and capital Replacement two-year-old heifers are there is not much sleep for staff , especially equipment,” Mr Avery said. “The vast ma- synchronised once and mated to ar fi cially those responsible for herds of 1000 cows. jority of fodder is made on the farm.” inseminated (AI) Jersey semen to encourage But the calving gets over and done with A technician is employed whose role is an easy calving. About 60 per cent of the quickly.” to manage and record pasture growth and heifers achieve a posi ve AI joining. Mop-up Such an intense ma ng and calving pro- monitor feed wedges across all farms. bulls are put in with the remaining 40 per gram enabled heifer replacements to be All grain and pellets are bought in, as is cent for eight weeks. quite even in size. hay if the season requires it. “Progeny from the AI ma ng are reared About 4100 autumn calves and 2500 —Jeane e Severs 52 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 “Bringing Red Breeds Together” Global Event. Red Cows. Down Under. Friday 22nd March to Friday 29th March 2019 Plus optional tour to Gippsland 29th March to 31st March 2019 Registrations Open Now Come and join us for this fantastic tour over eight days which commences in Adelaide, travels onwards to Mount Gambier for the main event, then along the Great Ocean Road before concluding in Melbourne. Hosted by Australian Reds - The Australia Red Dairy Breed Register Ltd www.irdbf2019.com.au VR4415800 54 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 CONFERENCE PREVIEW Top interna onal event Australia bound ✔ What: Interna onal Red Dairy Breeders Federa on conference ✔ When: March 22-29 ✔ Where: South Australia and Victoria Key points Key HE International Red Dairy Breed- ers Federation conference will Tbe held in Australia in March. The event, which is being hosted by Australian Reds — The Australia Red Dairy Breed Register, will feature an extensive tour of South Australia and Victoria. Red breeders from around the world will have the opportunity to visit up Graeme Hamilton’s outstanding red dairy herd will be part of the farm visits for the to 13 farms, as well as take part in a conference. Picture by Michele Hamilton. conference featuring a great line up of Australian and international speakers. tivities. The post-conference tour de- of Australia’s leading red herds. These The main event runs March 22-29 parts Mount Gambier for the famous include: with an optional tour to Gippsland to Great Ocean Road for more herd visits • The Waikato herd of Michael Green, run March 29-31. and fabulous scenery. Mount Schank, SA. Mr Green’s herd of The conference section of the event A highlight of this section will be a 650 milking cows, of which 300 head will be held at the unique rural function comprehensive tour of Genetics Aus- are pure red, produces 6 million litres centre ‘The Barn’ near Mount Gambier, tralia’s artifi cial breeding facility at and 430,000 kilograms of milk solids SA, and will consist of a meeting day Bacchus Marsh, Vic. per year on a milking area of 167 hec- with keynote speakers, an unusual Farm visits tares, all of which is irrigated. photography competition, herd visits, • Graeme and Michele Hamilton, Ham- and various social and sightseeing ac- The event will include visits to some ilton’s Run, OB Flat, run a 4 million litre First conference held in Norway HE Interna onal Red Dairy Breeders task was to establish a Cons tu on for the Another segment analysed worldwide cost TFedera on held its inaugural mee ng federa on, fi nancial ma ers, social media of milk produc on. and conference in June 2016 at Hamar Nor- presence, and membership base. A most interes ng presenta on on the way, hosted by Geno. Offi cial speakers at the conference pre- work being done on feed use effi ciency Forty-six delegates from 17 countries sented informa on about genomic selec- was also given, and was labelled the next gathered for this important occasion. A set on and sta s cal performance of the big issue to follow health traits in dairy cow of guidelines for objec ves, structure, man- Norwegian Red Cow; crossbreeding also breeding. agement, and member responsibili es was featured. Another topic of discussion was The conference was largely held in the adopted. improving the extender used in frozen se- regional city of Hamar on Lake Mjosa. The A governing board of fi ve members was men storage. tours con nued by road to Trondheim on established, three from Europe and two An interes ng segment was economic the west coast of Norway, for some addi- from the rest of the world. The board’s fi rst and welfare challenges of dairy farming. onal farm visits, and cultural experiences. !" # # WORLD CONFERENCE The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 55 CONFERENCE PREVIEW intensive grazing operation. Breed- General interest tours ing effi cient red dairy cows has been a part of their operation since 1964. The event will also feature a number of The Hamiltons place strong selection general interest tours. pressure on fertility and production These include: performance, which has delivered at- • Genetics Australia’s Parwan Park tractive cows yielding high margins bull collection centre at Bacchus over feed costs. Marsh, Victoria. • Scott Braendler and his sister • A tour of the beautiful rural area of Cheryl Liebich are well known and the Barossa Valley, north east of Ad- successful Ayrshire breeders who re- elaide. This will include some of the cently had the distinction of winning fi lming locations for the successful tel- Successful Ayrshire breeder Sco the 18-to-24-months of age class of the evision series McLeod’s Daughters. Braendler and his sister Cheryl Liebich Ayrshire World Photographic Compe- • A meal break near the iconic Twelve now operate from a new farm at Mount tition. Their Boldview Farms Cher-Bar Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, McIntyre, which will feature in the Ayrshires now operates at a new loca- Victoria. conference. Picture by Michele Hamilton. tion at Mount McIntyre on the Lime- • Kilsby Sinkhole, an amazing natural stone Coast of South Australia. wonder with a unique and fascinating • Warren Doecke, with his wife Cher- Australian Red Dairy Breed’s social history. The sinkhole has been used yl and son Damien, leads a success- media icon on Facebook and Twitter for weapons research testing and div- ful family farming team near Murray for some time. After 30 years of breed- er training, and is now an emerging Bridge, calving about 400 cows per ing Australian Reds she considers the tourist icon of the Limestone Coast of year. They have been pursuing biody- herd’s good temperament as one of South Australia. D namic farming methods since 2006. the best characteristics achieved. Contact: Event organiser Kylie • Blackwood Park, the Australian Red • David Kuhl, Braelee Pastoral, runs Boston, email !" #$% &''()* Q ! " '$%&' ( " 56 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 CONFERENCE PREVIEW Conference i nerary at a glance Thursday, March 21 — Arrival day ready for ment venue, south of Mount Gambier, SA. Breeds Federa on business mee ng will an early start on Friday Monday, March 25 be held. There will also be a mee ng for Delegates should arrive in Adelaide and Local tours including a visit to the very the European Red Dairy Breed members. A stay overnight at Stamford Grand Hotel a interes ng Kilsby Sinkhole. Along with Poster Night showcasing red dairy breeds beachside suburb of Glenelg, SA. sightseeing, visit three dairy farm: Michael from around the world. A special photo Friday, March 22 — Event offi cially begins Green’s Waikato Farm Australian Reds, compe on from Australian Reds will be A networking breakfast at the Stam- Mount Schank, SA; James and Robyn Mann conducted by an overjudge and by popular ford Grand Hotel is followed by a tour at Donovan’s Dairy, Wye, SA, and Braelee choice as well. to the iconic Barossa Valley, taking in Illawarras, near Tarpeena, SA, owned by Thursday, March 28 some breathtaking scenery, and some of David Kuhl and family, who run a sheep Travel along sec ons of the Great Ocean the fi lming loca ons of television series farm as well as their dairy herd. Road, including The Twelve Apostles. Visit McLeod’s Daughters. Overnight at Novotel Tuesday, March 26 the farms of Bre and Bronwyn Davies, Barossa, Rowland Flat. Offi cial conference day, which will ex- Barleydew Australian Reds, Cooriemungle, Saturday, March 23 plore the theme of Bringing Red Breeds Vic, and Jan Raleigh, Blackwood Park Aus- Travel to the Lower Murray and Lakes Together. There is a great line up of Aus- tralian Reds, Timboon, Vic. Overnight in district. Visit biodynamic farm Springvale tralian and interna onal speakers. Fea- Geelong at Rydges. Illawarras, run by Warren, Cheryl and turing updates from around the world on Friday, March 29 Damien Doecke. Overnight at Rydges Pit present and future breeding aspects of the Last day of the main tour features a visit Lane Hotel at Tailem Bend, SA. red breed. New informa on on feed effi - to pla num sponsor Gene cs Australia Sunday, March 24 ciency and heat tolerance trait, and a focus at their property Parwan Park, Bacchus An early start with a visit to the well- on managing breed diversity. Marsh, Vic. Departure to Melbourne Air- known Treeton Illawarra herd of Geoff and Wednesday, March 27 port or op onal post-event tour to Gipps- Rosemarie Williams, Meningie, SA, then Presenta on by local vet Dr Andrew land travel through to the Limestone Coast. En Hoare and Dairy Australia will explore Op onal post-event tour to Gippsland route visit the newly located farm of Bold- the economics of a successful red dairy Friday, March 29-Sunday, March 30 view Farms Cher-Bar Ayrshires, owned by farm opera on. Then visit Hamilton’s Run Includes four farm visits and an over- the Braendler and Liebich families, Mount Australian Reds owned by Graeme and night stay at San Remo with an evening McIntyre, SA. overnight at The Barn, an Michele Hamilton, OB Flat, SA. In the af- tour available to nearby Phillip Island to outstanding conference and entertain- ternoon the formal Interna onal Red Dairy see the Li le Penguins. The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 57 Shane Bourke (Qld)0437661189 Tom Cochrane (NSW)0402317060 Warren Doecke(SA)0417804633 Michael Tuhan (Vic)0419377098 ILLAWARRA DEVELOPMENTPROGRAMCONTACTS: - • Longevity - • Production Temperament •Docile ofCalving • Ease • Brownskin pigmentation forsunandheattolerance breed. the Worlds tomaintainitsstatusasaworldclassdairy genetics Red best World thattimetheIllawarra Since hasutilised cow. breed Championmilkproducing In theearly1900’s, Illawarra the “Melba asbeing 15thofDarbalara” cow wascredited Th DEVELOPED INAUSTRALIA FORAUSTRALIAN CONDITIONS e Illawarra breed was developed inthe“Illawarra” ofSydney. eIllawarra justsouth wasdeveloped region, breed Watch Australia @Genetics forherson“JAZZY” 3yr 10m10,681Litres 3.5%376kgFat 3.5%373kg All-World RedCow Champion 4-5years Llandovery JRJoan 982EX94 Llandovery Grand Champion IDW 2018 85,000 Litres! foranaverage 50,000Litres, lifetimeyieldof over with lifetimeproduction generations “Scarlet’’ familyhas5successive branch oftheOvensdale cow • One Illawarras are renowned their“staying for power” • toa by13.1%compared inproduction hasincreased In the last 8yearsthebreed forMilk• Illawarras Yield/Lactation breeds rank 2ndofthe7major dairy Prot 305days 5.8% average increase for all Australian herd recorded cows inthatsameperiod cows forallAustralian5.8% average increase herdrecorded All-World RedCow Champion Mature 11,680 L4.1%479kgFat 3.3%382kg Llandovery Ja-BobLlandovery Stella 822EX93 Grand Champion IDW 2016 Prot 305days PI130 VR4417559 CONFERENCE PREVIEW High-quality speakers for event ✔ Conference day to be held thusiastic and experienced dairy an- other veterinarians develop their Tuesday, March 26 alyst, based in Melbourne. He has skills in ultrasound pregnancy diag- ✔ Theme Bringing Red Breeds been actively involved in the Austral- nosis and is currently an accredited Together ian dairy industry for much of his manual and ultrasound pregnancy ✔ Features range of Australian and life, having been raised on a dairy tester and examiner. interna onal speakers farm in the northern Victorian irriga- Key points Key tion district. He brings to this role HE International Red Dairy more than 15 years of experience as a Breeders Federation offi cial professional analyst, researcher and Tconference day on Tuesday, adviser gained through working with March 26, will explore the theme of Dairy Australia (the peak industry Bringing Red Breeds Together. It will body) as part of the trade and strat- feature a great line up of Australian egy team before joining the RaboRe- and international speakers. search team in 2011. Mr Harvey has Speakers include: an in-depth knowledge of local and • Christina Paulsen-Schluter, of Ger- global dairy markets and how dairy many. Ms Paulsen-Schluter grew up supply chains function. as a suburban city girl. her grand- father was an Angler breeder and she spent all her holidays on the family farm. From a very young age, her highest interest was dairy farm- ing and breeding Angler cows. After completing high school, Ms Paulsen- Schluter spent some years studying • Joint Masters of Ceremonies are for a Master’s Degree in Housekeep- Erik Thompson, of Viking Genetics • Dr Andrew Hoare (BVSc) is a prac- ing, an agricultural apprenticeship, Australia, and Anthony Shelly, of Ge- tice partner of South East Vets, and a Bachelor of Agriculture before netics Australia. Mount Gambier, SA. he grew up on a taking over the family farm in Tolk, beef cattle property in southern Angeln, Germany. Since 2001 she has Queensland, but has found his way been active in various leadership south and into dairy cattle work. He roles, including the Angler Breed- has been president of the Australian ing Committee, board member for Cattle Veterinarians, is currently the RSHeG (cattle breeding co-operative South Australian representative for for all breeds in Schleswig-Holstein), Australian Cattle Veterinarians, and member of supervisory boards for is also on the National Cattle Preg- other companies, and a member of • Michael Harvey, Rabobank Austral- nancy Diagnosis Committee. Dr umbrella organisations for red dairy ia, senior analyst — dairy, is an en- Hoare is passionate about helping breeds. The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 59 PREVIEW Your source for all Red Breed Genetics in Australia • Aussie Red Sires include ARBSCAREBEAR +274 BPI with positive Health & Production traits Sires include ARBABBOTT, ARBISAAK, ARBDAIRYWEEK, ARBGLACIER & ARBMUFASA just to name a few. Order 100+ units of any red combination and save 15% off RRP* • Dr Jennie Pryce, BSc Hons, PhD (Ge- netics) University of Edinburgh, is prin- cipal research scientist of Agriculture Victoria and La Trobe University, locat- ed at AgriBio, where she leads a large team of scientists and supervises PhD students. Her main areas of interest are genetic improvement of functional traits in dairy cattle, optimising breed- ing scheme design under genomic se- lection, and development of dairy se- Genetics Australia is proud to be the lection indices. She is lead scientist of Platinum Sponsor of the IRDBD Conference 2019 DataGene and also sits on several in- dustry and research alignment groups that shape the future of dairy research *Offer available across all colour breeds including Aussie Reds, Illawarra, Montbeliarde, Normande, Viking Red & Brown Swiss. Orders to be placed and delivered by 30th November 2018. in Australia. Ms Pryce is also a member of the ICAR (International Committee on Animal Recording) working group on functional traits. Previously, she was employed by the Scottish Agricul- tural College, and Livestock Improve- ment Corporation in New Zealand. PPASTUREASTURE SSYSTEMYSTEM CCONSULTANTONSULTANT • Peter Williams, B Ag Sc. After com- pleting his Bachelor of Agricultural Science Mr Williams started work in Independent Agronomy the dairy industry at VAB/Genetics Australia based at Bacchus Marsh, Victoria, and spent 13 years working conventional and biological in the area of progeny test and sire procurement. This involved the selec- tion and importation of the fi rst ever Proud Sponsor of IRDBF conference live bulls and embryos from North America. Following on from this he worked another 12 years managing the sire acquisition and progeny test- Robby Zeissig ing at RAB Albury and ABS Australia. Mr Williams joined DataGene as an 0429 440 026 extension offi cer after its formation in 2016, following on from his appoint- [email protected] ment at the former Australian Dairy Herd Improvement Scheme in 2011. He has many years experience in the artifi cial breeding industry where he was responsible for selecting and proving some of Australia’s most pop- VR4416927 ular and infl uential sires. D 60 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 Effluent Pumps, Stirrers, Separators E & System Control by Yardmaster Irrigators Weeping Walls I by Williams W by RX Plastics ‘Other’ Effluent Yardwash by X Products by DPS Y YardBlaster THINK DPS FOR YOUR A-Z OF EFFLUENT SYSTEM PRODUCTS Everything you need for a Dairy Effluent System including local support from over 120 Authorised Distributors throughout Australia. 120 EFFLUENT PUMPS & SYSTEMS IRRIGATION YARD WASH DISTRIBUTORS Phone: (03) 9739 6521 www.dairypumpingsystems.com.au BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT Nitrogen-fi xing plasma reactor trial ✔ Trial to make fer liser from manure, air and renewable energy ✔ Aim to cut ammonia losses on farm ✔ Makes more nitrogen available to plants Key points Key By Chris McCullough LARGE dairy farm in Northern Ireland is trialling a new sys- A tem of reducing ammonia emis- sions while producing its own liquid nitrogen fertiliser. This new concept, developed by Norwegian company N2 Agri, in- volves passing manure or digestate through a plasma reactor to produce the liquid nitrogen fertiliser. This process, says the company, will ultimately save farmers up to 20 per cent of their artifi cial fertiliser The Bingham farm has 1200 cows and runs a zero-grazing system. costs and also reduce their ammonia production levels. Although the concept has moved beyond the prototype stage, it is still being tested around the world: on a pig farm in Denmark and on a 650- cow dairy farm near Templepatrick in Northern Ireland. ‘The plasma reactor was installed at the farm fi ve months ago on a trial and is already producing liquid nitrogen.’ The dairy farm is run by Robin Bingham and his son George, who in- stalled a biogas plant one year ago, which produces electricity and sup- plies it into the national grid. In total, the farm has 1200 cows, in- The digestate from the biogas plant is processed in N2 - Applied’s containerised cluding dry cows and followers, and plasma reactor. runs a zero-grazing system where the fresh grass is harvested and deliv- nure, air and renewable energy. By uses a plasma reactor that fi xes ni- ered to the cows daily. installing their system, N2 Agri said trogen from the air and adds it to the The plasma reactor was installed farmers could potentially save up to manure. at the farm fi ve months ago on a trial 20 per cent on their artifi cial nitrogen This causes a reaction with the and is already producing liquid nitro- costs and with these savings should manure and stops ammonia losses gen, which has been spread on test be able to pay back the plasma reac- as well as emissions of other green- plots at the farm. tor in about six or seven years. house gasses, and removes bad N2 Agri said its goal was to fun- With expertise gained in the ferti- odour. damentally improve the global food liser industry over many years, the Besides reduction of ammonia production by enabling farmers to experts at N2 Agri have developed emissions, the system increases the produce their own fertiliser from ma- and patented this technology that nitrogen content in the manure and The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 63 BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT Digestate from the biogas plant is The process reduces ammonia emissions The process turns the digestate into high- converted into liquid nitrogen fer liser. signifi cantly. value liquid nitrogen fer liser. transforms it from a waste product Although the company is trialling ditions in an early stage to get experi- into a high-value fertiliser. two machines in Europe, it has plans ence with different types of manure N2 Agri business development di- to embark on more trials further and biogas digestate and to do fi eld rector Henk Aarts, said: “Our objec- afi eld in places such as South Africa. trials on different crops, which on tive is to empower livestock farmers N2 Agri is partnering with SBI, an the Bingham farm are grass plots.” through the introduction of a low- innovative plasma welding company The key argument to convince cost, scalable fertiliser production based in Hollarunn, Austria. N2 and farmers to use this plasma reactor on the farms. SBI are further using the competence is to explain how they are losing so “Our ultimate goal is to substitute of the University of Vienna for analy- much nitrogen from their livestock chemical fertilisers with fertiliser sis of plasma composition and tem- and slurry, which is later supple- produced locally on the farm from peratures. mented by artifi cial fertiliser spread air and renewable energy. And mean- Mr Aarts said: “We are not in the on the ground. while, we work on a better stable phase of selling machines yet, but In fact, there is 2.13 million tonnes climate and a more sustainable live- want to show our plasma reactor and of ammonia lost on European live- stock sector. explain the working principles to the stock farms each year, which is a “We can also upgrade biogas diges- stakeholders. huge loss of potential fertiliser. tate to a higher value fertiliser with “Our reactor is not fully developed, One of the founders of N2 Agri is our technology.” but we want to test it under farm con- Norwegian Rune Ingels, a chemical Proven Advantage ...... Reliable, non-stop baling Baling high quality silage this season? Choose a crop packaging prosilage film and netwrap youou cancan r relyely o onn. Silotite™ & Broadband™ Made for Australlia. p: 03 9361 8100 | tapexagri.com.au 64 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT engineer who spent almost 30 years “There are some tweaks needed to “The system has only been in- working in the fertiliser industry, the system the Binghams are using as stalled one month and we have al- more recently with Yara, before re- it is primarily installed to test yields ready produced our own liquid nitro- signing to embark on his own ideas. at the moment.” gen and spread it on some grass test Mr Ingels explained how farmers Dairy farmer George Bingham said plots to see if the theories of faster lose nitrogen and were then forced to the system interested him as it met plant growth with higher yields are pay out for expensive artifi cial ferti- his desire to farm in a more environ- feasible.” liser. mentally friendly way. It is anticipated that a farm with “We need above 95 per cent mois- “Using this plasma reactor system 150 to 200 cows would need one ture content in the manure to make will help us achieve our goals of farm- 25-kiloWatt plasma reactor, so a 600- the system work,” he said. “Slurry ing more environmentally friendly cow herd would need three units. has 50 per cent free ammonia but di- while at the same time, sorting out Mr Aarts said the reactors could be gestate has around 70 per cent free my ammonia quotas,” Mr Bingham scaled to suit the farm. ammonia. Just over 50 per cent of said. ”We can change the sizes of the re- the total nitrogen available in slurry “I see this as a potential game actor to suit the herd,” he said. “We is lost before it can be spread on the changer across the world helping don’t have exact prices as yet but I ground. However, using our system farmers get more from their farmyard can tell you a reactor is cheaper than we can make more nitrogen available slurry and saving them money. a milking robot and is the same size for plants, which are also taken up “For me, reducing or even eliminat- as one.” D quicker by the plants increasing their ing my chemical fertiliser bill is one For more information, go to web- growing rates and yields. of the main benefi ts of this system. site The plasma reactor uses only air and power from the biogas Rune Ingels, George Bingham and Henk Aarts at the Bingham farm plant. in Northern Ireland where a new plasma reactor is being trialled. The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 65 BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT Effl uent plan key part of dairy upgrade ✔ New 100-unit rotary dairy built ✔ Two-pond effl uent system constructed ✔ Water can be recycled into farm’s irriga on channel Key points Key By Keith den Hou ng HE fl oodplain around Kerang and Swan Hill in north-west Vic- Ttoria is dotted with depressions and surrounding windblown lunettes. Some of these depressions are quite extensive and are fi lled with water via fl ooding of the rivers that converge into this region. Others are used by Goulburn Murray Water for irrigation water storage purposes. Lake Boga is one of these. Paul and Sally Bethune, principals Sally and Paul Bethune have made several infrastructure upgrades to their property, of Lake Boga Pastoral, run their dairy included a 100-unit rotary dairy. farm between this lake and the Mur- ray River at Winlaton about 10 kilo- The Bethunes milk about 950 cows, is conserved as silage and hay. metres from Swan Hill, with the Little calving twice a year on two farms with The hotter drier months are catered Murray being the northern boundary the farms growing only annual pas- for with a feedpad and silage/hay mix of their 800-hectare dairy property. tures. The surplus from spring growth with a grains ration in the bail. Mr Bet- hune said that they provide and mill their own grain and the additives are supplied by Franklin Grains. Their property also contains lu- nettes and the bulk of the grass is grown in the basin between these, with irrigation water pumped on to the fl at area of that basin from the Lit- tle Murray. The property consists of district LOW farms amalgamated since 1946 with PRESSURE Mr Bethune’s grandfather and father MEANS preceding him to get to this existing LOW set up. COST One of those properties provided the couple with a pipe-and-riser irri- gation system, while the rest is open channels and gravity irrigation and FOR WATER & EFFLUENT reuse systems. ON CROPS & PASTURES The Bethunes have fi ve young boys and are consolidating and customis- Junior Irrigator 100m pass, throws up to 22m. ing the property into the set up that 200m–300m pass, throws up to 30m. will be of greatest benefi t into the Standard Irrigator future. Mrs Bethune said: “We have VCI-Mk1 300m–400m pass, throws up to 40m. not reached our sweet spot with cow VCI-Mk2 300m–400m pass, throws up to 50m. numbers and this will eventually 300m–400m pass, throws up to 45m. show itself”. Quad x 4 The cows are milked in a 100-unit Australian owned & manufactured by quality assured company rotary, which was completed last Jan- VR4268077 uary and is built on one of the high spots on the farm. The reason for the 1800 241 534 new shed is that the milking time in the previous herringbone took up to [email protected] | www.vaughanirrigators.com.au four hours. This was deemed not sus- 66 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT The milking pla orm has a fall to the front of the cows with a The fi rst pond has a beau ful crust of manure covering it and spoon drain and drainage via 100mm pipe. drains into the second pond. tainable so the plans came about to The yards and shed are all washed The ponds are close to 75 metres go rotary. down with strategically placed Yard long. The second (aerobic) pond is es- Mr Bethune said he admitted it was Blasters. timated to hold 8 megalitres of liquid. a success, although he said he had The excavated dirt from the effl u- The fi rst (anaerobic) pond is slightly not been a strong advocate for rotary ent ponds was used for the base of narrower but equal in length. This has dairies at fi rst. the dairy building. The site overlooks a beautiful crust of seemingly solid The herd is a mix of Holstein and most of the property and raising the manure material covering it and a Jersey and crossbreds and is artifi cial- building site even higher was impor- 300mm pipe with a T-section allows ly bred to Holstein, Jersey and Angus. tant on the fl oodplain. liquid from under the crust to over- The use of sexed semen is extensive The excavation created two sizable fl ow into the second pond. and quite successful with Nugenes partly above-ground dams. “When we This second pond has another providing the service. started, we just kept digging to raise 300mm overfl ow pipe to the farm ir- All the heifer and beef calves are the building site to a greater height rigation channel. Although the shed reared with dairy bulls sold as bobby and that’s how we got to the size of had been operational since January calves. The calf-rearing area is a kilo- the ponds,” Mr Bethune said. (nine months at the time of writing) metre way with good yards and shel- ter provided. ‘Another feature of the structure is the double fencing around the ponds.’ There is some leased land included in the business as well as cattle and replacements on agistment. Another dairy farm is leased near Kerang, about 50km away. There are two 250,000-litre water tanks on site with one for dairy and fi re emergency and one for rainwater storage. Mr Bethune said when the new dairy was being planned, the manage- ment of effl uent and its use on farm was an important consideration. The site of the farm on a fl ood plain in- creased the importance of drainage and effl uent disposal. The milking platform has a fall to the front of the cows with a spoon drain and drainage via 100-millimetre pipe at every six cow placings to a drain at the operator’s feet all around the platform skirting. From there all liquid goes via a 300mm underground pipe to the pond. The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 67 BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT A fi xed tractor-driven pump on the second pond is used to Liquid from the fi rst pond drains into the second pond via a pump liquid to the farm irriga on channel. 300mm pipe. the liquid level had not yet reached He said they were not willing to al- “We got a good amount of assist- that pipe and is in fact still at least a low the liquid levels to rise too high ance of planning our effl uent from metre below. and was keen to use the pump. Scott McDonald from Echuca Agri- The feature of this pond is its size Another feature of the structure is culture Victoria and he knows more but also a fi xed tractor-driven pump the double fencing around the ponds. about effl uent than anyone I know,” that can and will be used to pump liq- The outer fence is three electric wire Mr Bethune said. He was invaluable uid to the farm irrigation channel. and the inner is 750mm apart and gaining the necessary permits. Mr Bethune said intimated they seven wires permanent fenced. This The farm and business employs 10 would soon use this pump as the op- safety factor is impressive as many full, part time and casual labour units portunity to do so and mix effl uent an animal has mistakenly thought the with most employees having been with irrigation water will soon be gone anaerobic pond crust to be solid and with the company for fi ve-plus years. as irrigation ceases for this season. capable of bearing weight. Mr Bethune was born and bred on VR4385416 68 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT Two 250,000-litre water tanks are on the site with one for dairy and fi re emergency and one for rainwater storage. The farm and business employs 10 full, part me and casual labour units with most employees having been with the company for fi ve-plus years. the farm and is a Dookie graduate, with Mrs Bethune origi- nally from Yarram, Vic, but not from a dairying background. She said when she fi rst arrived she asked herself why peo- ple would farm up here but has grown into the role and the region and is enthusiastic about the future. The Bethunes Sally have some plans to add to their infra- structure to do some dairy manufacturing and value add- ing of their milk. They are hoping to have their fi rst bottle of Little Murray Dairies milk on a shelf somewhere in about six months while the aim is to produce high-quality butter on a small scale. Mr Bethune was awarded a Nuffi eld scholarship in 2003 and submitted his paper on ‘Patterns of Profi t in the Aus- tralian Dairy Industry’ in 2005. The property and business are impressive with good new infrastructure and enthusiastic and knowledgeable opera- tors. The communication and machinery for employees are solid with a whiteboard showing “things to do this week” on the dairy shed wall. Labour is available locally and Mr Bethune does not use backpackers; he prefers employees to be more Lake Boga based. One fascinating aspect of this region is the differ- ence between cultivated irrigated land and the dry natural land. This certainly highlights the effect of good irrigation and allows a business like Lake Boga Pastoral to thrive. D The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 69 BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT U lising effl uent pond sludge ✔ Effl uent ponds require • The number of cows being milked. desludging for op mal • The time the herd spends on areas performance draining to the effl uent systems e.g. ✔ Several methods available to dairy shed, yards, entry-exit laneways desludge a pond and feedpads. ✔ Plan for how solids will be stored • The effectiveness of the T-piece or or used liquid transfer between the fi rst and Key points Key second pond in a multiple-pond system. By Sarah Clack • The effectiveness of other solids Dairy extension offi cer management prior to the pond system Agriculture Victoria e.g. a traffi cable solids trap, run down screen, screw press. HE build-up of solids or sludge in Sludge can be removed from ponds using If there are changes to the parame- an effl uent system can be problem- an excavator. ters above, the clean-out frequency will Tatic as it can reduce the storage be affected. For example, doubling the volume in single-pond systems and in- Effl uent ponds are designed to ac- milking herd from 200 cows to 400 cows crease transfer of solids into the second cumulate a percentage of their total will increase the time the herd spends pond or storage pond(s) in multiple- volume as ‘sludge storage’ and require on areas draining to the effl uent sys- pond systems. desludging (e.g. cleanout frequency) tem. This will result in a higher manure On most farms, there are systems in when the ‘sludge storage’ volume has loading (e.g. more solids) into the pond place to manage the liquid effl uent frac- been fi lled. An accredited effl uent sys- system and decrease the time between tion, often through dedicated or exist- tem designer will provide an indicative cleanouts. ing irrigation infrastructure. However, cleanout frequency for both single and There are some indicators for when solids are typically more diffi cult to multiple pond systems. a pond should be desludged. In a sin- manage and usually require the farmer The following parameters determine gle-pond system an accumulation of to engage a contractor with specialist the cleanout frequency: sludge reduces the pond’s capacity to equipment. • The size of the pond. store effl uent over the wetter months of the year when irrigation is not recom- mended. If the fi nal-pond in a multiple pond system is starting to develop a fl oating crust or has gas bubbling, then des- ludging may be required to improve ef- fl uent quality for irrigation or recycling for yard washing. There are several ways to remove solids from an effl uent system. These in- clude pumping with agitation, vacuum tankers, and excavators. The volume of sludge in the pond(s) and availability of other manure (e.g. dry-scraped from a feedpad or traffi cable solids trap) will infl uence how sludge is managed. Local contractor slurry services will provide pumps, stirrers and tankers. The are several machinery dealerships and farmers that dry-hire vacuum tank- ers, stirrers, manure spreaders and high-horsepower tractors. Costing should be considered when selecting the best option for the farm, as larger ponds can be time-consuming and ex- pensive to desludge. Agita on and pumping Agitation assists to raise and mix accu- mulated nutrients and salts in the lower layers of sludge, which will reduce pond performance over time. Agitation or stirring also assists in breaking down solids, creating a more liquid consisten- cy making it easier to pump. Pumping 70 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 BETTER WASTE MANAGEMENT in freshwater or recycling effl uent from Applying sludge to areas of the farm by pasture was found to be 40-50 per the fi nal pond will improve agitation low in nutrients will assist making the cent in year one, 10-20pc in year two and assist the breakdown of a fl oating best use of the nutrients contained in and 5-10pc in year three. manure crust. the sludge. Preferably, apply sludge to The Dairy Australia Nutrients from A specialist sludge pump should be areas that do not receive liquid effl uent Effl uent and Sludge Calculator is one used that can effi ciently pump liquids to increase the distribution of nutrient tool that can assist farmers and agrono- with a high suspended solids content. across the farm. mists determine an appropriate appli- Vacuum tanker Modify the application rate of other cation rate for dairy farm sludge and/ nutrient sources to account for the nu- or effl uent. It is available at website Vacuum tankers or slurry tankers can trients within the sludge to produce November 13-14 Dairy Farmers Milk Co-opera ve Na onal Conven on Melbourne, Vic Phone: (02) 8120 4431 Email: 72 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 You are invited to Australia’s... International Dairy Week 20 to 24 January 2019, Tatura Park, Tatura, Victoria A good place to do business and a good place to socialise. Wanting to be involved? Field Day Sites, Sponsorship & Promotional Packages, Seminar & Workshop opportunities are now available for dairy businesses wishing to exhibit at IDW 2019. Contact Robyn Barber on 0418 656 082 or [email protected] to discuss your involvement in Australia’s International Dairy Week. VR4421546VR4421546 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 73 SNIPPETS AND TITBITS Good crush, bad crush By Ee Cheng Ooi* ✔ Some ca le crush designs are be er than others ✔ Bad crushes can be dangerous for people and animals ✔ Good condi ons cut vet’s me, cu ng cost to farmers Key points Key A crush with sides that open is welcome. HERE’S something uniquely de- fi rst time — and they learn quickly. plates are notorious for this. Watch- pressing about arriving at some- Follow-up visits become a nightmare ing a cow choke to death while you’re Tone’s farm excited for the arrival of trying to push 800kg cows into the desperately trying to lift her head up of their new crush, only to discover auto-locking mechanism with all their is an intensely miserable experience. that the new one is worse than the brakes on. Plus, even the cows seem to recognise one it replaced. You walk glumly up 5. The crush that doesn’t have that it’s a silly set up and refuse to put to the shiny new frame, knowing that split-side gates or has sides that their heads in, no matter how much you have another 10 years of this don’t open. you try and tempt them with sweet ahead of you until you can convince Trying to do surgery with the cow words or pellets. the farmer’s son or daughter that it fi sh-tailing from side to side, or doing 10. The ‘crush’ that is actually a might be time for a change. front feet with the hoof suspended bloke pushing the cow up against a Occupational health and safety is in the air is a good recipe for gritted fence using a rusty old gate. a topic about as fun as dentist vis- teeth at best and then frantic yelling This can work in a pinch but raises its or pressure hosing ‘mud’ off the when it all goes pear-shaped. your blood pressure to an unhealthy walls in the dairy. However, it is an ex- 6. The crush that isn’t bolted in. degree. It often involves some kind tremely important topic — especially It works fi ne until the bull takes off of invasive abdominal surgery and a for those of us who constantly work across the paddock wearing the crush farmer helper who is well past the rec- in the fi ring line with these great big like a fashion statement. It’s also in- ommended age of retirement. (and beautiful) animals. credibly dangerous when your patient So what do we like to see? Nothing Here’s a top 10 list of crushes that (inevitably a mad beef heifer) lunges is happier for a vet than to show up we’d prefer not to see. forward and tips it over, taking you to a sturdy crush with a sensible de- 1. The really long crush without a out with it. sign, especially if it’s undercover on side gate. 7. The head bail that slips open if a hot or rainy day. A great race lead- Good exercise initially, but after you don’t tie down the lever. ing up to the crush makes a big dif- climbing over the fence for the sixth You always fi nd out about this at the ference. In general, we’re looking for time, you start wishing you’d brought worst possible moment, like when the minimal bells and whistles, and maxi- a student. cow’s back hoof is tied up or you’ve mum sense and safety. A handy can of 2. The brand new crush that has got an arm up her backside. WD40 goes a long way. been sitting next to the old crush for 8. The crush that opens from the Good working conditions allow us six months now. front, with a bolt that falls out when to do a wider range of procedures, The new one is shiny, expensive, the cow thrashes her head around and to do a better job at doing them. and mainly used to hang up bits of just a little bit. We’ll be out of your hair quicker, string and calving ropes. When is it It is an especially nasty surprise which helps to keep your costs down, going in? Nobody ever knows. when you’re trying to drench a cow and we get to keep our teeth — which 3. The crush with expensive ‘fea- and she tosses you to one side and is always a lovely bonus. D tures’ that make life worse. tries to run away. Her head will inevi- *Ee Cheng Ooi is a dairy veterinar- Auto-shutting gates that trap you tably be stuck in the wildly-swinging ian and fertility researcher in Northern behind the cow, winches for lame feet front gate and before you know it, Victoria. that disengage unpredictably and tri- you’re trying to back up a panicking All comments and information dis- angular revolving back gates that the cow without getting bashed or tram- cussed in this article are intended to be cow ‘just needs to push with her head pled. of a general nature only. Please consult to get past’ fall into this category. 9. The crush that kills cows that go the farm’s vet for herd health advice, 4. The ‘walk-through’ head bail. down. protocols and/or treatments that are The cows walk through nicely the V-shaped head bails and front tailored to a herd’s particular needs. 74 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 Driving genetic gain and herd improvement App cuts herd management stress ✔ Herd calves three mes a year ✔ HerdData app allows for accurate record keeping ✔ Provides quickly accessible informa on about herd Key points Key CCURATE and up-to-date paper- work is crucial for all dairy farm- Aers. But as a farm manager, Allen Hook says the ability to keep precise records is what keeps him in a job. Mr Hook manages a herd of 300 mostly Jersey-Friesian cross cows at Oxley Island, NSW. Above: Allen Hook uses the HerdData app every day on “When you manage a herd you have the farm he manages at Oxley Island, NSW. to have your paperwork perfect,” he Right: The HerdData app puts informa on about every said. “You won’t get a managing job if cow at the farm manager’s fi nger ps. you don’t have the data at your fi nger- tips and make the right decisions.” praise from the vet as the accurate cows. “We look at the cows that have The herd calves three times a year: records leave little room for error. repeat cases of mastitis and because in February/March (more than 200), The “massive batch calving” in Feb- you can look up that individual cow it the middle of the year and November. ruary/March means joining is tight. gives you her history, cell count, lac- Correct and up-to-date herd records Artifi cial insemination (AI) runs across tations and production, you can make have been the key to running a smooth six weeks with records kept about the important call to cull her if she is operation. each joining, as well as heat observa- a repeat offender and if she’s not per- That’s where DataGene’s HerdData tions and other health concerns. forming where she should be,” he said. app fi ts into the business. These records are then printed out Information about drug administra- Mr Hook fi rst downloaded the app and used by the vet during pregnancy tion is also stored in the app via the last year when he worked at another testing. drug cupboard function. Mr Hook said farm. He was interested in fi nding an Mr Hook said one of the most useful he used this to keep track of milk and easier way to record herd data but functions of the app is the “bull team” meat withhold periods. also a system that meant these records section. “The app has the whole bull Mr Hook said the thorough histori- could be accessed quickly. directory in Australia — when you add cal database of the entire herd, plus all HerdData is an app for mobile de- that bull to the bull team it gives you the young stock on the property, helps vices that makes it easy to enter and all the details of that bull,” he said. with future breeding decisions. access herd records and also synchro- “When you AI a cow, you go to the Heifer calves are given a number and nises data with herd management soft- bull team and it’s easy to record the immediately linked to their mother ware. one you’ve used.” as the calving information is entered A few months into Mr Hook’s new Transition cow management is also straight into the app via a mobile management role at Oxley Island, easier with HerdData, thanks to calv- phone down the paddock. Bull calves HerdData is again proving its worth. ing and dry-off date notifi cations. are sold and this is also recorded in the Herd recording has become easier “In the settings, you can select your app. thanks to the app, saving Mr Hook time dry-off period and it will notify you Mr Hook said the app acted as a “big and stress in searching back through when you want to dry them off,” Mr pedigree book” with dam and sire in- paperwork. “It keeps your paperwork Hook said. “At the moment, it is set at formation attached to the calf. “With up to date,” he said. “You are actually 56 days but you can set it to anything the app we can look back and make doing the paperwork on the app, the you like.” better calls to have better bloodlines,” app is the paperwork. The Oxley Island herd produces he said. “If I didn’t have this, I would have about 28 litres a cow a day with 3.8 per “It is really, really good and it makes had to sit down for hours trying to cent milkfat and 3.67 per cent protein. my life easier and keeps me in a job,” work out what cows were in the herd, The herd has a bulk milk cell count of he said of the app. “If I didn’t have the what has been dried-off and what has about 70,000 cells/millilitre and main- programs I have, I wouldn’t be able to calved. With the app you are doing it taining this premium milk quality level have the job I have.” on the spot, every day, it is in your is a high priority for the Norco suppli- HerdData registrations start at $99 a pocket and it is just done.” ers. HerdData helps deliver top qual- year for one to two mobile devices. D This organised method helps dur- ity milk by assisting the management For more information contact Data- ing joining and pregnancy testing, with of potential issues by providing quick Gene, phone (03) 9032 7191 or email Mr Hook’s approach even attracting access to accurate data on individual ✔ Complete a Taking Stock assessment with an expert consultant ✔ Complete a forward budget every three months ✔ Engage nutri onist to inves gate home-grown feed op ons ✔ Regular off -farm me to meet and talk with other farmers ✔ Consider off -farm income Key points Key HEN starting dairy farming during the worst drought in Wa century, a helping hand is much appreciated. Emily and Matt Neilson started milking on their Bandon Grove, NSW, dairy farm three-and-a-half years ago and have since battled the milk price crash and a devastating drought. When Mrs Neilson heard about Dairy Australia’s Taking Stock pro- gram, which offers farmers free one- on-one visits from a farm consultant, she signed on straight away. Since then, things have been turn- ing around for the Hunter Valley farmers, who have fi nally received some signifi cant rain and have made their own luck by changing impor- tant parts of their business. “The last 12 months have been es- pecially challenging, so any advice we could get was appreciated,” Mrs Neilson said. “The attraction of Taking Stock was having that third party looking Taking Stock has helped NSW dairy farmer Emily Neilson take control of her farm over our fi nances, telling us where business. we should pull things in and how to work towards our goals while stay- farm business fi nances, despite hav- things, it was really good for me be- ing out of a big fi nancial hole. ing no formal training in that area. cause all the weight of the fi nances Taking Stock was of particular ben- “For (consultant John Fitzgerald) falls on me,” she said. efi t to Mrs Neilson, who handles the to say that we are doing the right “The biggest thing was that he told Taking Stock available to all AIRY Australia’s Taking Stock pro- The consultation is focused on pro- • Managing a fodder shortage. Dgram can be booked by dairy viding customised advice tailored to the • Herd decisions and animal health. farmers across the country, including needs of each individual farm and may • Cash budgeting. farmers who are not facing drought include any physical, financial and peo- • Managing the farm team during conditions. ple issues that are identified, resulting tough times. Sessions take place on farm, are pri- in a tailored action plan. • Meet the bank. vate and confidential, and aim to help This could include: Book a free Taking Stock session by farmers map out a plan for the season • Feed options, planning and budget- contacting the local Regional Develop- ahead including next steps. ing. ment Program. 76 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 us that we were doing well. At the pact on their farm business. “It’s the “When you’ve got your head down time, we were just getting through best thing we ever did,” Mrs Neilson and you are so busy just trying to each day, so having someone tell us said. get through each day, it’s great to that we are on the right track just “We came to a point where we have someone come in and say that gave us a bit of a boost. could not afford to buy any more for- it’s not that bad, or this is something “It was really good for budget- age, so everything the cows needed we can do, or to offer an out-of-the- ing strategies. It put us on the right to eat, we had to grow. box idea on how to generate income. track. We are now budgeting more “We took on Neil and he really “Anyone from outside your farm often and more accurately. helped Matt by sitting him down and is going to have fresh ideas which “We were doing a budget every making him create a plan and look at might just make you try something six months, and John pushed us to- crop varieties and then held him ac- a bit different.” wards doing it every three months. countable. Working with a nutrition- Mrs Neilson said maintaining a Having it done more regularly and ist, especially for drought-affected positive attitude was important dur- accurately has defi nitely been ben- people, can help get them through.” ing a stressful time, with her off-farm efi cial to the business. With enough rain in the soil, Mr work as a Young Dairy Network co- “The main thing that we were do- Neilson will be looking at sum- ordinator helping to bring in outside ing well was that we were paying mer cropping to help get the herd income and give her a break from everything on time and were up- through the dry months. the stresses of running a farm busi- to-date with managing bills and we “We always sow sorghum and we ness. didn’t owe anything except our loan. will do that again, but we have never “It was during this period that I “We were rearing bull calves to sown millet and we are going to give started working with YDN, which sell, which was adding to cash-fl ow, that a go,” Mrs Neilson said. has really helped me,” she said. which was another tick.” Having benefi ted from Taking ”It got me off farm and talking to Subsequent to the Taking Stock Stock, Mrs Neilson is encouraging other farmers who are in the same analysis, the Neilsons decided to en- other farmers to take up the offer of boat as us. Just to have those days gage local nutritionist Neil Moss, a the Dairy Australia program. away from the farm has made a big decision that has had a profound im- “It’s free — so why not,” she said. difference.” D Feed budge ng vital this summer ✔ Tools available to help with feed used to grow summer crops or pas- “With the Excel spreadsheet you budgets tures for grazing or for conserving, can break it into a season whether it’s ✔ Use Back of the Envelope Feed and then, come autumn, what water spring, summer, autumn or winter and Budget for quick assessment is left and what water will need to be you can build it with number of cows, ✔ Dairy Feed Tools provided more purchased for autumn start-up.” number of young stock and how many detailed cashfl ow approach Key points Key litres you think these cows will be producing,” Ms Birrell said. ITH fodder and grain prices ‘There were a number “You can add in how much green high, it becomes even more of op ons for farmers feed you think you’ll have, how much Wimportant to know how grain you think you’ll feed and you much feed is needed in the coming looking for assistance can build it month by month. You can months to meet milk production re- work out whether you’ve got a sur- quirements. when it came to feed plus or whether you’ve got a defi cit.” Murray Dairy regional extension budge ng.’ Ms Birrell said the Dairy Feed Tools offi cer Lisa Birrell said there were a could also help farmers balance ra- number of options for farmers looking tions. for assistance when it came to feed Ms Birrell said the simplifi ed budg- “Dairy Feed Tools can show not just budgeting, including Dairy Austral- et also allowed farmers to assess how how many tonnes you need but what ia’s Back of the Envelope Feed Budget many tonnes of grain they would look is actually going to be a balanced ra- factsheet and Dairy Feed Tools. to feed this year and also work out the tion to hit the production targets that “The back of the envelope feed forage or fi bre required from the hay you are aiming for,” she said. D budget from Dairy Australia is a quick market. For more information on feed way to look at how many cows you’ve Alternatively, Dairy Australia has budgeting go to ✔ Keep pasture residuals at 4-6cm To achieve these aims is a signifi - or feedpad, the cows will be less ✔ Carefully choose sacrifi ce cant challenge on dairy farms with hungry when entering a new strip of paddocks high stocking rates when the rainfall grass, making it easier to control the ✔ Feed budge ng will help plan and temperature is not suffi cient to grazing intensity and leaving a resid- ahead for herd feed requirements support pasture growth. ual close to the target. Key points Key It is necessary to have a set strat- A good estimation of pasture pre- EST management practice of egy or plan to avoid over-grazing. grazing cover and knowledge of the ryegrass and managing the re- The approach to managing residu- paddock dimensions is also essential Bsidual height throughout dry als in dry conditions is, in essence, in order to allocate pasture more ac- periods is critical to enhance persist- similar to that adopted to avoid pug- curately and achieve the target re- ence of pasture. ging under waterlogging conditions siduals. The key points for managing graz- in winter. This management increases the ing residuals during dry conditions persistence of pasture sward, which are: will be in a much better position to • Do not over-graze if possible, main- ‘It is necessary to have recover from the dry period once the tain the residuals at 4-6 centimetres. a set strategy or plan to fi rst signifi cant rainfall event occurs. Cows tend to graze down below this This may mean that paddocks need in drier conditions, so grazing needs avoid over-grazing.’ to be rested for an extended period. to be restricted. Grazing to 2cm, for Developing a feed budget will help example, will signifi cantly reduce The strategy is to keep the cows in to calculate and plan how much feed yield in the following rotations. a reduced area (sacrifi ce paddock or will be required to feed the herd in • Aim to maintain some green mate- on a feedpad) where they can be fed, the coming months. D rial throughout drier times (e.g. green and graze only the paddocks where Dairy Australia’s Feed Tools at stem, pseudo stems), as this will help pasture is at 2.5-3 leaves. website ✔ Alterna ve fi bre sources can be suitable ✔ Supplement with high energy feeds and protein sources ✔ Be aware of levels of neutral detergent fi bre Key points Key HEN pasture is limited and supplies of fodder are re- Wduced, farmers may need to consider using alternative fi bre options that they may not have used before. Dairy Australia program manager Cath Lescun said many alternative fi bre sources were suitable for feed- ing to dairy stock provided they were supplemented with high ener- gy feeds and protein sources as part of a balanced diet. The alternative fi bre sources vary widely in nutritive value, digestibil- ity, effective fi bre value, and may present risks such as ruminal acido- sis, mycotoxins and chemical resi- 28 to 35 per cent of the total diet to tive’ fi bre, there will not be enough dues. maximise daily dry matter intake, chewing during eating and ruminat- Alternative fi bre sources that may however, cows can eat up to levels ing, and therefore not enough saliva be available depending on seasonal of 35pc of the diet with minimal im- produced, leading to a drop in rumi- circumstances and location include pact on intake. Above 35pc NDF, dry nal pH and increased risk of ruminal almond hulls, palm kernel meal, matter intake will decline, especially acidosis. cereal straw (barley, oats, triticale, if the diet is forage based. Cattle can suffer from two forms of wheat and rice straws), sugar cane ruminal acidosis: and grape marc. ‘The alterna ve fi bre • ‘Sub-acute ruminal acidosis’ Fibre facts (SARA), where the ruminal pH is in sources vary widely the range 5.5-6. Cows may not ap- Fibre is an essential ingredient in pear sick, but some will be off feed, the diets of ruminant animals such in nutri ve value, have mild milk fat depression and be as dairy cattle. It supplies energy, diges bility and eff ec ve scouring. maintains normal, healthy rumen • ‘Lactic acidosis’ where the rumi- function, and in cows is utilised to fi bre value.’ nal pH is below 5.5 — cows will be produce milk fat. noticeably sick. Many cows will be The most commonly used chemi- About 25pc of the fi bre in the diet off their feed, down in their milk, cal measure of the fi bre content of should have a fi bre length of about lame and scouring. This may then a feed or a diet is Neutral Detergent 2.5 centimetres. Diets containing progress to ‘downer cow’ syndrome Fibre (NDF). rapidly digested starch sources and death. D The ‘physically effective fi bre val- such as wheat should have higher For more information about fi - ue’ of a feed or a diet is also critical. levels of NDF (minimum 34pc). bre and alternative fi bre sourc- It refers to the ability of a feed to A rule of thumb for NDF intake is es go to the Fact Sheets at the stimulate rumen contractions, stim- 1pc of bodyweight as forage NDF or Feed Shortage 2018-19 website ulate chewing activity and produc- 1.2pc of bodyweight for total NDF at The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 79 Low-cost tac cs can keep cows cool ✔ Be proac ve to prevent heat stress ✔ Night- me temperature cri cal ✔ Tools available on Cool Cows website Key points Key ASY-TO-IMPLEMENT, low-cost measures are being used to re- Educe heat stress and keep cows cool heading into summer. With El Niño conditions predicted, herds in drought-affected regions will be particularly hit by heat and hu- midity, while dairy regions in south- ern Australia should also plan for any extreme heat. The University of Queensland School of Agriculture and Food Sci- ences Assoc Prof John Gaughan, who has been researching heat stress in dairy cows for 20 years, said early intervention was the key to reducing heat stress. “I think we can safely say that the incidence of heat stress is increasing — especially extreme events,” Assoc Ensuring water is readily available for cows is a low-cost op on to help reduce heat Prof Gaughan said. stress. “But having said that, the adverse more at risk of heat stress — in terms ing tighter and for many farmers, outcomes have decreased, in part of milk yields, milk quality and repro- going out and spending money on because people are more aware, and duction. The reproduction effects major infrastructure is fairly diffi cult have some strategies in place to de- can be long term.” right now,” Mr Walsh said. crease the negative effects.” “But there are shorter term and Ensuring cows are cooled before cheaper options available that can at and after milking and being proactive ‘I think we can safely least give farmers some capacity to are key strategies used on farm. get on top of things and minimise any “Don’t wait until cows are hot — be say that the incidence of effects from the heat.” proactive,” Assoc Prof Gaughan said. heat stress is increasing Running a sprinkler in dairy sheds, “Research is showing that night- reviewing milking times, ensuring time minimum temperature is in — especially extreme water is readily available for cows, some ways more important than the and keeping track of which paddocks day-time maximum — if it is a hot events.’ have accessible shade are simple night, earlier and longer cooling may steps farmers can take to keep cows be necessary.” Western Victorian veterinarian cool. Assoc Prof Gaughan’s research has and dairy consultant Tom Walsh said These are just some of the sugges- highlighted the potential for cows in cows would feel the effects of hot- tions contained in Dairy Australia’s southern regions to be susceptible to ter weather more when humidity recently updated Cool Cows website, extreme heat events. was higher, which was more likely which includes a range of the latest “Cows in the south are particu- in coastal areas in NSW and Queens- tools and resources available to as- larly at risk of heat stress coming land. sist farmers to keep cows cool this out of winter, and are more exposed “Having a plan for dealing with hot summer. D to extreme heat events,” Assoc Prof weather is essential to maintaining To access the Cool Cows website, Gaughan said. a happy, productive herd over sum- visit 80 The Australian Dairyfarmer November-December 2018 Smarter energy use reduces farm costs ✔ Energy audits break down energy use ✔ Iden fy areas to cut costs ✔ Receive a cost-saving es mate for diff erent op ons Key points Key MIDST rising farm costs, Dairy Australia has developed a range Aof energy information resources to assist farmers to make smarter use of energy to reduce power bills. The Smarter Energy on Dairy Farms booklet, a straightforward guide to re- ducing dairy farm electricity bills, is now available online at the Dairying for Tomorrow website. A short guide to energy-related funding for farmers has also been published. The guide links to a range of grants ranging from government funding to conduct energy audits to Clean Ener- gy Finance programs from NAB, West- pac and Commonwealth Bank. Dairy Australia program manager Alison Kelly said energy audits pro- vided an opportunity to save money by reviewing and reducing running costs. An energy audit can help farmers make informed decisions about where to invest and “Energy is a major but unavoidable save money in the long term. expense for dairy businesses, and farmers want to understand their op- the entire dairy industry is being af- South Australia, meaning he was able tions to reduce costs,” Mrs Kelly said. fected,” Mr Connor said. “Through an to save money by adjusting his milk- “Farmers could reduce their power energy audit, we were able to maxim- ing and irrigation routine. bills and make their operations more ise effi ciency and really understand “We were still using the same sustainable at the same time by con- what we can do to minimise energy amount of power but by understand- ducting a simple energy audit and im- costs.” ing the best times to operate the dairy plementing any suggested changes. and irrigate, we were able to be stra- “If you conduct an energy audit, you ‘We would not hesitate tegic and save money while not neces- will be provided with a breakdown of sarily reducing energy consumption,” your energy use so you can identify to recommend that other Mr Connor said. how to reduce costs. Since the audit, Mr Connor has “You will be given a cost-saving esti- farmers conduct even planned his power use and adjusted mate for each of the options available a basic audit of their timers to minimise maximum load. to you, so you can make informed “We would not hesitate to recom- decisions about where to invest and energy use.’ mend that other farmers conduct save money in the long term.” even a basic audit of their energy For South Australian dairy farmer The energy audit analysed all of the use,” he said. Michael Connor, conducting an en- meters and power use in the dairy “An independent consultant is able ergy audit on his Mt Compass farm, shed and across the farm. to come to your farm and make mean- Nangkita Hills Dairy, provided clear At the conclusion of the audit, an ingful recommendations, giving you a and simple opportunities for savings. extensive report was provided that good return on your investment.” D Facing year-on-year increases to outlined ongoing energy costs and To access Dairy Australia’s en- power bills on his 550-cow farm, Mr areas where simple changes could be ergy resources, including the Connor and his team decided an en- made to produce signifi cant savings. Smarter Energy on Dairy Farms ergy audit was an important step for- The energy audit gave Mr Connor a booklet and funding guide, visit ward. better understanding of the multilay- [1C@:R:`V; [1C@:R `Q ^_` 7 VI 1I]`Q0V V1$JVR :JR I:J%`:H %`VR 1J ^% `:C1: `Q` ^% `:C1:J I1C@1J$ `Q` HQ1 :JR `Q` I1C@V`8 ; :R0:JHVR R:1`71J$ HQJR1 QJ .V [1C@:R `Q ]% @V7 I1C@1J$ I1H`Q]`QHVQ` VJ:GCV 1 Q :J:C7V :JR :R:] Q 1J`Q`I: QJ 1J .V G:1C5 `1$. 1.V`V 7Q% JVVR 1 8 V:H. 1JR101R%:C :J1I:C; I1C@1J$ ]`QCV 1J `V:C IV8 .1 IV:J .: .V H%] 11CC GV `VIQ0VR : 1R .V CV RQ1J 1VCC- Q1 CQJ$ R1R .V :@V Q I1C@- .V Q] I%I IV `Q` V:H. :JR V0V`7 :J1I:C5 .: 1 .V` I1C@ Q1 ]`QCV C1@V- .V : $QQR V0V`7 I1C@1J$8 .1 VJ%`V HQI]CV V :JR HCV:J ]`QR%HV`- ^ : $C:JHV Q` .V 1JRG:1C R1]C:7 .VV I1C@1J$ 1J .V I1J1I%I IV 11 .Q% .V JVVR Q _%V QJ :JR IQ`V H:J GV :J1V`VR Q 7Q% H:J GVV` HQI]`QI1V VJ$ `Q` `: Q` CQ1 I1C@V`8 %JRV` :JR 7Q%` HQ1; I1C@1J$ ]V``Q`I:JHV8 _QJ :H % QR:7 Q JR Q% IQ`V5 Q` Q JR 7Q%` JV:`V [1C@:R:`V RV:CV`8 7 N :CVI1C@:R1:`V8HQI8:% Calister Maebull MAEBULL Palermo x Shottle a2 +335 BPI +112 Dtr Fert A2 Receive a LIMITED EDITION Maebull cap Order 50+ units of Maebull during the month of November to receive your cap Offer only available with orders placed through GA reps. 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