NORTHERN Information for rural business in North ISSUE 46 AUTUMN 2018

futurebeef.com.au NORTHERN

Information for rural business in North Queensland

Beef Australia 2018 count down is on Grazing BMP at Beef Australia 2018 and beyond

Making grazing decisions count

IN THIS ISSUE Editorial Beef businesses are adapting and changing Northern Grazing Demonstration update Adaptive management in action at the Wambiana Grazing Trial Options to increase productivity Improving your beef enterprise Making grazing decisions count Could an exotic disease outbreak happen in ? Desmanthus persisting despite dry times Beef Australia 2018 count down is on Grazing BMP at Beef Australia 2018 and beyond Calf Alive symposium a resounding success NORTHERN Information for rural business in North Queensland

As we move into the year we look ahead to This edition has a great selection of articles Welcome to an exciting and jam-packed events calendar, to keep you informed about a variety of topics headlined by the one and only Beef Australia including woodland thickening, calf mortality, 2018 from 6 to 12 May. To stay up-to-date sown pastures and the simple steps to Northern muster 46 with events happening near you, check out complete a forage budget. the FutureBeef events calendar at We hope you enjoy issue 46 of the Northern futurebeef.com.au/events. muster. Please contact the editorial team Welcome to the autumn edition of the stock numbers to that feed supply to avoid We have welcomed back extension officers with any inquiries or feedback. To register Northern muster! any long-term damage of pastures. Emma Black and Rebecca Gunther from to receive the online version of the Northern maternity leave and farewelled Megan Willis, Yet another late start to the wet season has Despite good rain falling in some areas, muster, subscribe on the FutureBeef website been experienced in many regions across off on maternity leave for another twelve (futurebeef.com.au/resources/newsletters) or there are still many producers experiencing Queensland. The recent low-pressure system months with her second child. We said goodbye email [email protected]. the extended dry conditions. Support is still resulted in some relief for those fortunate to Lauren O’Connor from our Mackay office For the latest research-based information, enough to receive decent falls across the north available under the and Alice Bambling has relocated from tips, tools, events and recorded webinars, visit and north west. As we move through autumn, Drought Relief Assistance Scheme (DRAS). Charters Towers to the Emerald office. futurebeef.com.au. the potential to grow a decent body of feed is For more information and to discuss your For a full list of contact details for all available rapidly declining. We encourage you to consider individual drought position, contact your local extension officers in your area visit Alice Bambling, Megan Willis, Mellissa Holzwart how much feed is available and carefully match drought coordinator. futurebeef.com.au/contact-us. and Rebecca Gunther

Beef businesses are adapting Land management having this data become apparent. But while Some producers have made significant changes many producers lack the confidence to and changing in relation to stocking-rate management and analyse financial data, they realise how the implementation of a routine wet-season important it is to improve record keeping and spelling system. Sending cattle on agistment business management. Producers running extensive beef businesses to change, and generally looking for ways to to address overstocking issues on the home face a complex mix of seasonal, grazing improve their businesses. Debt pressures, succession strategies, properties is one example. inheritance and the need for productivity management, productivity, family and financial Other preliminary findings include: challenges. They maintain a positive outlook for While many producers are looking to make improvements have driven significant changes their businesses despite poor business returns, Business position changes in grazing management they are in the asset base of some businesses. Owning low equity and seasonal pressures dominating Even with buoyant cattle prices, there has been surprised at how long it takes to see an and operating additional properties in another decision-making. no significant debt reduction across the board. improvement in land condition. Unless there is district presents challenges in terms of travel Most producers are playing catch up with any a run of good seasons as they pursue lighter and risks associated with taking on a new The $avannaPlan-Beef$ense program, surplus being absorbed into updating plant and stocking rates and wet-season spelling, change production system. supported by the Northern Gulf Resource equipment, improving pasture and the home, in condition and productivity is often too slow Management Group and the Department of In summary, the $avannaPlan-Beef$ense and repairing infrastructure (fencing and motivation wanes. Generally, overgrazing Agriculture and Fisheries, continues to provide team continues to deliver whole-of-business and waters). is more pronounced where there is significant Gulf family beef businesses the opportunity services to established beef producers as debt and financial pressure. to closely examine their stocking rates, herd Networking well as running NextGen industry mentoring productivity, operational costs and profitability. Regardless of stage-of-life, there are real There is good awareness, and some control programs. Two Beef$ense NextGen participants benefits in looking outside of the business programs in place, in relation to the obvious will feature their respective approaches to beef The confidential ‘business health checks’ for information and peer networks. Those land-condition issues such as weeds and business management at the Beef Australia involve collecting and analysing up to nine producers who network widely are often erosion. However, there is less concern 2018 ‘Grazing business resilience’ seminar in years (2009–17) of business position (equity), reinvigorated and motivated to make changes about the subtler impacts of set stocking and Rockhampton in May. profit, and financial and herd performance within the business. sustained heavy grazing on pasture composition Joe Rolfe indicators. The program is now evaluating how and productivity. Department of Agriculture and Fisheries producers have benefited from the program Production over the last five years, including identifying Generally, there is good awareness of herd Financial management and record 0427 378 412 changes in herd, grazing, financial and people productivity and management issues. However, keeping making changes is often constrained by lack management. Many producers recognise the importance of Alison Larard of labour, age and stage-of-life of business planning as well as identifying, analysing and $avannaPlan-Beef$ense team To date, preliminary findings show producers owners, confidence in the outcome, and applying strategies. Generally, record-keeping 0458 007 999 are remaining positive, demonstrating a will perceived instability in the market. standards are improving as the benefits of

1 NORTHERN Information for rural business in North Queensland Northern Grazing Demonstration update

There is overwhelming evidence that breeding cattle performance is mostly driven by their body condition, which is in turn driven by nutrition; and nutrition in the rangelands is driven by land and pasture condition. The ongoing twenty-year Wambiana Grazing Trial, near Charters Towers, has clearly demonstrated that managing the pasture feed- base is the fundamental principal to get right Above: Duncan and Jillian Matthews working with project for sustainable beef production. The recent Ian MacGibbon of Ametdale foresees the Northern Grazing staff to set up baseline measures on both Christmas Creek Demonstration making a worthwhile contribution to industry. and Blue Range stations. CashCow project also concluded that inadequate nutrition was the principal factor for poor breeder grazing and animal management systems to Left: Brett Blennerhassett at one of the sites on Goshen. performance across northern Australia. improve their businesses. Animal, pasture and land condition outcomes will be demonstrated The new Northern Grazing Demonstration through several field and information days Upper Herbert site project, managed by Department of Agriculture during the three-year project. Brett and Theresa Blennerhassett of Goshen and Fisheries (DAF), will blend the principles Fitzroy site Station, Mt Garnet, are participating in both for good breeding and grazing management, as Upper Burdekin site(s) Ian and Penny MacGibbon have volunteered their the Northern Grazing Demonstration and the recommended from the recent research findings property, Ametdale, as a demonstration site host Northern Beef Genomics project. Goshen is from the Wambiana and CashCow projects, to The Matthews family has volunteered their for the Fitzroy region. a 19 100 hectare property situated near the strive for high productivity while maintaining or properties, Christmas Creek and Blue Range, as Kirrama Range in the Upper Herbert River improving land condition. demonstration site hosts for the Upper Burdekin Ametdale is a breeder block producing growers region. The entire family has been a long-time and fatteners for the MacGibbon family’s brigalow catchment in north Queensland. The broad principles are: advocate of evidence-based solutions based on block. Pasture management and nutrition are key The country at Goshen is typical for the 1. Manage the feed-base—avoid good research. Duncan and Jillian Matthews business priorities for Ametdale which consists region, consisting of box, bloodwood and restricting feed intake and leave enough have also committed their involvement in the of predominantly native pastures on moderately ironbark woodlands with several areas ground cover for a quick start to the next Northern Beef Genomics project. Together shallow soils. Ian and Penny manage for good of treeless black soil plains. The property season. these projects complement each other; both ground cover to ensure that most rainfall events consists of mostly native grasses with promoting the relationships between good result in an effective growth response in the 2. Manage lactation—wean calves to black spear and kangaroo grass being the land management, optimal animal productivity, perennial grasses. Paddocks are subdivided conserve cow body condition. main species. environmental and business outcomes. to around 400 hectares to allow four paddock 3. Manage health and stress—provide an rotations, which has been valuable during the The Blennerhassett family breed, grow and Managing a mix of typical Upper Burdekin land environment where there is adequate establishment of improved pasture legume supply store cattle for fattening into the family types of mostly box, ironbark and scattered shelter and minimise disease risk. ‘seca stylo’ and to promote the dominance of meat wholesale business, Bingil Bay Beef. alluvial country, the Matthews family encounter native perennials. 4. Manage breeding—appropriate timing the similar challenges that many producers In consultation with DAF project staff, the of calving, bull percentage and sire face—variable seasons, determining the best The cattle are mostly high-content Brahmans, Blennerhassett family has identified a selection. stocking rates, managing an increased density selected by Ian and Penny for low-cost 3500 hectare paddock for the demonstration. management through the challenging The focus of the demonstration site at Goshen In partnership with four commercial beef of Currant Bush (Carissa ovata), improving cattle environmental conditions. Molasses and urea will be on common industry issues including properties in the Upper Herbert, Burdekin and performance (particularly in the younger female supplementation are important for using the dry heifer performance and grazing Fitzroy catchments, a range of best practice groups)—all while trying to keep the business grass after winter and strategic burning is used land management. grazing and breeder management will be profitable. It is these common industry issues from November to December if the season allows. discussed and demonstrated. The collaborating that will make this an ideal demonstration site Dave Smith properties will offer a mob or paddock that will for the project. Ian and Penny are passionate about life-time Department of Agriculture and Fisheries be monitored as part of the demonstration. A second Burdekin region demonstration site learning and improving and have been involved Charters Towers These sites will be focal points for beef will be established later in 2018 in the with many industry groups to achieve their [email protected] producers to observe and discuss best practice Bowen region. business successes to date. (07) 4761 5150

2 NORTHERN Information for rural business in North Queensland Adaptive management in action at the Wambiana Grazing Trial

Even with recent rains, much of Queensland very well distributed. This provided a steady is in the grip of long-term drought. Yet as supply of green growth but with country still recently as 2011, we had one of the wettest recovering from drought, did not grow a big seasons in 50 years. How do we manage this bulk of feed for the coming dry season. huge variation between seasons, look after our In May, at the end of the 2017 wet season, country and stay profitable at the same time? the pasture yields were very low, prompting a The Wambiana Grazing Trial near Charters proactive decision to further reduce numbers Towers was established in 1998 to answer this in the flexible stocking treatments, which difficult question. were already lightly stocked. This early The trial compares the performance of decision allowed good weight gains in these different stocking strategies in managing for treatments from June to December (Table 1) rainfall variability. Strategies vary from fixed despite dry conditions and low pasture yields. At the end of 2017 steers were still in very good condition but there was very little pasture after four below average rainfall years. heavy stocking (4 ha/adult equivalent (AE)) to With conditions deteriorating in early However, in the rotational spelling and moderate stocking (8 ha/AE) and rotational December 2017, poor-condition animals were moderate stocking paddocks, yields were wet season spelling (8 ha/AE). There are Editorial committee removed from the heavy stocking rate, which extremely low and with ongoing drought, also two flexible strategies, one with and one Mellissa Holzwart, Alice Bambling, averted the need for drought feeding later there was a real danger of permanent pasture without wet-season spelling. Stocking rates are Megan Willis, Rebecca Gunther in the dry season. Going into 2018, pasture damage. With some parts of the rotational adjusted through the year mainly according Enquiries yields were even lower—heavy stocking-rate spell paddocks already locked up for spelling, to forage supply and, to a lesser extent, Alice Bambling paddocks were extremely short and low on there was an additional risk of overgrazing the climate forecasts. PO Box 976, Charters towers QLD 4820 ground cover. Animals were very lean. unspelled sections. Phone: (07) 4991 0837 The trial has experienced a wide range of Email: [email protected] Despite this, the flexible stocking strategies The trial’s producer advisory committee was seasons over its 20 years and thrown up lots © The State of Queensland, 2018 were still in reasonable shape as stocking asked ‘what would a typical producer with of management challenges—this year was rates were already low after progressively a moderately stocked property do?’ The Reproduction of articles no exception. After a few very dry years, live being reduced as feed supply declined over consensus was that faced with a similar Department of Agriculture and Fisheries welcomes weight gains in the 2016–17 wet season were reproduction of articles appearing in this newsletter the last dry years. This demonstrates the situation, managers of moderately stocked providing the source is acknowledged, the article is exceptional (166 kg per animal) and well above value of reducing stocking rates early when country would reduce stocking rates to reproduced in full and technical information is confirmed the trial’s long-term average (115 kg per animal with the editor before publication, ensuring the drought approaches. prevent country being degraded, rather than per year). Although the rainfall (554 mm) was recommendations are still accurate keeping animals until it rained. Consequently, at the time of reprinting. The Queensland Government below the long-term average (630 mm), it was shall not be liable for technical or other errors or for the first time in 20 years, the rotational omissions contained herein. To the extent permitted by and moderate treatments were completely law, the reader/user accepts all risks and responsibilities for losses, damages, costs and other consequences Table 1: Stocking rate, average live weight gain (LWG) per animal (LWG/animal) and LWG per destocked in early January and will remain so resulting directly or indirectly from using the information hectare (LWG/ha) in different treatments from July to December 2017. until the end of the wet season. contained herein. Advertisements included in this edition were accepted on the understanding that they complied Treatment Stocking rate (ha/AE) LWG/animal (kg) LWG/ha (kg/ha) Trial updates will feature in future editions of with the relevant provisions of the Competition and (Jun–Dec) (Jun–Dec) Consumer Act and with the Australian Association of Northern muster. National Advertisers Code of Practice. No endorsement by Flexible stocking 20.6 19.5 1.0 the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Peter O’Reagain and John Bushell is intended or implied by the advertisement of any product Flexible stocking + spelling 18.0 25.0 1.7 Department of Agriculture and Fisheries in the Northern muster. ‘Heavy’ stocking 5.0 -30.0 -5.9 Charters Towers Moderate stocking 7.9 2.5 0.3 [email protected] Rotational spelling 8.0 18.0 2.2 [email protected]

3 NORTHERN Information for rural business in North Queensland Options to increase productivity Improving your beef enterprise

There are dozens of options to increase It is a fair bet that most graziers would ahead of the cattle until mid to late February in productivity on most beef properties. The key is to answer yes to the following questions: most years. select those changes that maximise both financial • Do you want to improve breeder herd With experience, graziers should be able to get viability and environmental sustainability. performance? stocking rates in the ballpark intuitively without This is something that is currently being • Do you want to reduce dry-season doing the mathematics—so use the forage considered on Lorraine Station, a large Gulf supplementary feed costs? budgeting to ‘calibrate’ your brain and go from property half way between Cloncurry and Options to increase productivity: Shallow-water ponds to rehabilitate claypan country. • Do you want to reduce the stress on family there! Use VegMachine (vegmachine.net) to Burketown. With over 100 years of ownership by and staff during times of drought? assess the results. Lorraine Pastoral Company Pty Ltd the property has kept long-term cattle records that can be • Do you want to increase the carrying There are also a variety of tools available to used to track changes in long-term carrying capacity of your property? estimate long-term carrying capacity, which can capacity and production. be used as a guide for annual stocking rates. By adjusting cattle numbers at the end of These take into account the fertility and condition Significant property development has occurred the pasture growing season, some of these of land types, tree density, sown pastures and over the years at Lorraine and include many changes can be achieved in the short-term, legumes locations, and rainfall percentile. extra waters, fences, yards, and roads, as well Gidgee encroachment onto downs country. while others will take several years, but in all as woodland management, irrigated silage, hay cases the business will move towards these For more information and for assistance to use production, and the establishment of a feedlot. It outcomes. these tools please contact your local extension is reasonable to expect that these improvements officer. would have resulted in an increase in the overall Getting cattle numbers in the right ballpark is relatively simple if you are prepared to Bob Shepherd carrying capacity. However, over the past few Department of Agriculture and Fisheries years the number of adult equivalents (AE) estimate pasture yields at the end of the Charters Towers carried has been maintained. To obtain maximum growing season and adjust (usually reduce) (07) 4761 6550 production, stocking rates are determined by cattle numbers no later than first round, Buffel grass spreading along the Leichhardt River frontage country. [email protected] matching available and sustainable feed supply to and recognise that pasture growth won’t be cattle numbers. Once this has been determined, the costs Try the following simple forage budgeting method: There are several things that have changed and benefits of a range of options to address slowly and are only recently becoming apparent these issues will be evaluated. To date, Steps Worked example to even long-term residents on Lorraine. These shallow-water ponds shown in the image 1. Print photo yield standards that are relevant for your property. changes include: have been constructed on a 30 hectare area (futurebeef.com.au/knowledge-centre/pasture-photo-standards) to re-establish pastures on claypan country. 2. Estimate pasture yield (kg/ha) in the selected paddock between 0.5 to 3.0 km from 2500 kg/ha • encroachment of native woody plants such as Large paddocks are being fenced into smaller, water. Only include feed that has grown during the current wet season. gidgee, coolabah, mimosa, currant bush, white more manageable areas for rotational wet- 3. Decide what percentage of the pasture consists of good feed (include the 3P 2000 kg/ha (80% of wood and gutta percha onto flooded areas of species, palatable annuals and Indian couch). 2500 kg/ha) season spelling to allow rejuvenation of the black soil downs country and the alluvial red more desirable perennial pasture species. Trial 4. Budget on allowing cattle to eat 25% of the good feed (kg/ha). This is the pasture 500 kg/ha (25% of soils on the frontage country supply. 2000 kg/ha) plots of Desmanthus Progardes are underway • gradual increase of capped claypans 5. Estimate number of days from today to the first of February 2018—the graze 270 days (1 May to with areas fenced out after seeding to allow period. 1 Feb 2018) developing on some soil types maximum chance of establishment. • spread of buffel grass along frontage country. 6. Calculate what one AE (adult equivalent) will eat over the graze period at a rate of 2700 kg (270 days x Options for managing woodland encroachment 10 kg/day. This is the animal demand for pasture. 10 kg/day) The first two changes have reduced productive and additional sown pastures will also be 7. Calculate the number of hectares required to provide this amount of feed for each 5.4 ha/AE (2700 kg/AE ÷ AE for the graze period, that is, the stocking rate (ha/AE) (demand ÷ supply) 500 kg/ha) capability of the property, while the buffel grass assessed in more detail. has increased productivity. 8. Paddock area 1800 ha We’ll keep you posted on the results in future 9. Cattle numbers to go into paddock (paddock area ÷ stocking rate) 333 AEs (1800 ha ÷ What are the options to halt the expansion of editions of Northern muster. 5.4 ha/AE) woody encroachment and claypan areas to Bob Shepherd further lift production on Lorraine? Notes Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Firstly, with the help of Department of Agriculture Charters Towers • 1.0 AE = a 450 kg LW dry and empty beast at maintenance. To convert AEs to cattle classes and Fisheries (DAF) staff, an attempt is being 0467 802 430 contact your local beef extension officer. made to determine the changes in the extent [email protected] • Starting yields need to exceed 1200 kg/ha for tussock grass pastures and 900 kg/ha for of encroachment and area of claypan country. Indian couch pastures to ensure that residual pasture on-hand at the end of the dry exceeds Comparing the earliest available aerial photos Michael Crisp, Manager minimums of 800 kg/ha for tussock grasses and 600 kg/ha for Indian couch pastures. from 1950–51 with modern-day satellite imagery Lorraine Station, Cloncurry • Vary the utilisation rate depending on the fertility of the land type in the paddock (e.g. 15 will hopefully provide some objective data on the (07) 4748 5500 to 20% for low fertility country, 25% for moderate fertility country and 30% for high fertility rate and direction of these changes. [email protected] country). 4 NORTHERN Information for rural business in North Queensland

Understanding the type of decision you are Making grazing decisions count dealing with allows you to consider the role your head, heart and gut will have in coming to a decision. As a general rule of thumb, as a decision becomes more complex, the heart and Understanding the different types of It is interesting to note that the decision you Simple decisions are the easiest; there the gut begin to have a greater role in informing decisions made within a grazing business and make today may well be different to the are few variables and a clear right or wrong the decision. Logical analysis from the head is what influences these decisions were two of decision you make tomorrow. Circumstances answer can be determined. For example, fine for simple decisions. the topics Cam Nicholson from Nicon Rural change, things go wrong, variables are altered, deciding what botulism vaccine dose to Understanding how your head, heart and gut Services presented at recent workshops in and so what worked today, could be obsolete give breeders requires looking at the label informs decision-making is an important first western Queensland. tomorrow. recommendation and vaccinating accordingly. step in making grazing decisions count. Being Cam, who works closely with mixed farming Research is demonstrating that decision- When there are a number of variables able to recognise how these influences impact and grazing businesses in southern Australia, making is not rational nor methodically thought involved and the relationship between these other business members’ decision making is outlined the importance of acknowledging through. There are three key areas which variables is clear and well documented, essential; not only for the grazing business decision-making as a skill rather than influence our decisions—the head, the heart this decision is known as a complicated but more importantly for the health of these something that just happens. and the gut (or intuition). decision. It may take a bit more time or relationships. As many of the decisions being made in The influence of head, heart and gut on some thinking to get to the ‘right’ answer. In the next issue of the Northern Muster, we grazing business in northern Australia are either decision-making depends upon the: For example, considering a botulism will explore how the personality of the decision complicated or complex, getting to the ‘right’ vaccination program. maker/s can impact decision-making. Farm decision should not be the goal of decision- • type of decision required decision-making produced by the Grains making because it’s often only hindsight that • relevant information available Complex decisions are when a number of complicated decisions begin interacting Research and Development Corporation has tells us if we made the right decision. However, • time we have to make the decision with each other and the variables are more information. understanding the components of a ‘good’ • risk involved difficult to quantify. For example, deciding Special thanks to Cam Nicholson, Nicon Rural decision can help ease the angst that can • personality of the decision maker. sneak into decision-making. on a restocking strategy is a classic Services and the Grain and Graze Program Over the next few issues of the Northern complex decision. Although it is possible to (grainandgraze3.com.au)—a project funded A good decision is an informed decision and muster, each of the above influences will be determine an optimal number of animals through Grains Research and Development means you have: covered in more detail. In this issue the focus using modelling or foraging budgeting tools Corporation. • appreciated the consequences of various will be on the type of decision required. such as StockTake, there are many variables Jane Tincknell actions Broadly, there are three main categories that which may not have been taken into account, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries • the least regret if a decision does not go grazing business decisions fall into—simple, such as infrastructure, labour requirements, Longreach to plan complicated and complex. Each type of decision climate, price forecasts, enterprise mix to (07) 4536 8308 • increased the chances of a favourable has its own characteristics and therefore needs mitigate price risk, impact on cash flow and [email protected] outcome. to be approached in a particular way. net worth.

that industry and producers also have strong Could an exotic disease outbreak happen in northern Australia? biosecurity systems in place in the event of something entering the country. This is When working with producers we commonly There’s an increased risk from a larger array of to closely monitor stock for signs of unusual where producers’ biosecurity planning discuss the risk of disease entering northern pests that can act as vectors for transmission of disease, which can result in costly delays while becomes critical. Australia. Many producers feel that the risk diseases—particularly during wet weather. diseases are transmitted. If you would like more information about the in the north is lower than the south but the The wider range of feral animals than in the The huge distances to vet and laboratory biosecurity risks in northern Australia and how opposite is actually the case. Northern Australia south, makes it easier for diseases to impact facilities can delay incursion detection. you may be able strengthen biosecurity on your has its own key biosecurity challenges and risks. one or many of the feral animal species in property, please don’t hesitate to get in touch International air and sea ports in northern The proximity of northern Australia to the area. with the Livestock Biosecurity Network. Australia are a known pathway for the potential neighbouring countries poses a risk of incursion Livestock in this region regularly travel across introduction of harmful exotic pests and Jess Rummery of pests and diseases into the north by currents much larger distances so if a disease diseases. Manger biosecurity and extension—northern and tides, wind dispersion (particularly in the incursion was to occur in northern Australia, it Australia wet season) and international vessels. The Australian Government proactively protects could spread quicker across a wider area. Livestock Biosecurity Network our borders and it has a team specifically Bird migration is a common occurrence for 0499 077 213 While extensive grazing is actually northern working on the risks unique to northern large tracts of northern Australia and migratory [email protected] Australia’s greatest strength as it lowers contact Australia. But not all risks can be stopped at birds can carry exotic pests and diseases from between livestock, the challenge is the ability borders or before entry. Therefore, it is important overseas. 5 NORTHERN Information for rural business in North Queensland Desmanthus persisting despite dry times

Peter Quinn from Essex Station at Brigalow clays, and cracking melon-hole Brigalow Middlemount has been producing grassfed clay soils. Approximately 1215 ha has been beef for more than 35 years and along with his planted at Taemas, on country that ranges from wife and family, run an 8000-head crossbred Blackwood/Bauhinia duplex soils to Blackwood/ breeding and fattening operation. The operation Gidgee cracking clays. covers four Grazing BMP-accredited properties ‘At Taemas, in preparation for planting, we in central Queensland. A breeder block— Completed blade ploughing in Blackwood country at Taemas. Response to planting at Taemas as of January 2018. Taemas—is located south of Charters Towers. grazed the paddocks and then blade-ploughed the country from August through to November, ‘We are relatively happy with the establishment ‘Fencing to land and soil type, as well as good Mr Quinn has been experimenting with the use planting a range of grasses and Butterfly Pea. We on some of the lighter soils. Some of the heavier water distribution in a paddock, makes managing of sown pastures for many years. He has had then aerial seeded it with Progardes at soils are a mixed bag of results with some the pastures a lot easier. It makes our ability to positive experiences using the productive and 3 kg/ha in mid-December,’ he said. patches of brilliant response and others not so shift the cattle at the right time more achievable drought-tolerant perennial legume Desmanthus. Mr Quinn estimates that the cost of establishing good. With the seasons and amount of rainfall without flogging out one part of the paddock, ‘We found that over a long period of time the sown pastures at Taemas was $235/ha these areas have received since establishment, usually close to water or on the sweeter country, (15–18 years) and under the same grazing (see Table 1). This figure does not include aerial I believe it is an exceptional result.’ and wasting feed in another part.’ pressures, Desmanthus and Butterfly Pea, were seeding or machinery capital costs. Mr Quinn believes that the success of pasture Sown pastures can offer flexibility in your beef by far the most persistent species on the right Table 1 Sown pasture establishment costs establishment is dependent on grazing enterprise and can provide solutions for land land types. From that experience, we knew that at Taemas (per hectare). management—not only in the first year but degradation problems. However, you need to Desmanthus was persistent and tough enough long-term. Mr Quinn uses rotational grazing to carefully consider the benefits and be aware to get through drought and survive in our Establishment Per hectare costs ensure good establishment of sown pasture. of some of the risks and costs. For further country,’ Mr Quinn said. Blade ploughing $99 ‘We have found that a well-managed rotational information about sown pasture establishment He was excited by the prospects of the improved Grass and Butterfly Pea seed $52 system is by far the most productive and visit the FutureBeef website (futurebeef.com.au) lines of Desmanthus in the form of a new Progardes seed $84 sustainable grazing system when it comes to or contact your local FutureBeef extension officer. variety, Progardes, which he first learnt about at Total $235 the establishment and ongoing management For further information about Progardes visit Beef Australia 2012. ‘The blade ploughing cost of $99/ha is simply of these legumes. Establishment is steadily progardes.com.au. At Essex, Mr Quinn has recently commenced consumables and does not include purchasing improving and we have seen mature plants put To speak to Peter about his experiences, email the establishment of Progardes in trial plots on the machine and plough, any interest payable large seed crops on to the ground a number of [email protected]. Brigalow/Blackbutt duplex clays, harder-setting or servicing,’ Mr Quinn said. times,’ he said.

At the Beef Australia 2018 Seminar Series, • agricultural education • Natural Resources, Mines and Energy Beef Australia 2018 the Queensland Government will provide • industry investment outlooks • Environment and Science count down is on updates on the latest research, extension • grazing management • State Development, Manufacturing, and development work being conducted by • preventing plant poisoning Infrastructure and Planning industry-leading teams of beef experts from With less than three weeks until Beef Australia • parasite control in cattle. • Local Government, Racing and Multicultural across the state. Affairs 2018 (6 to 12 May) kicks off in Rockhampton, The seminar presenters will be available for it isn’t too late to grab a ticket and join the Hear about the latest innovative projects more information throughout the week at the • Trade and Investment Queensland nation’s premier beef expo. that are geared towards a more productive, Queensland Government display. You can also • Queensland Agricultural Training Colleges profitable and resilient beef industry. Seminars • Queensland Rural and Industry Development The Queensland Government is a principal meet beef extension officers and see what the will cover a wide range of topics including: Authority. partner of Beef Australia 2018 as part of many Queensland Government projects and programs can offer beef businesses. its commitment to work together to build a • economics of beef production systems To find out more about the Queensland sustainable beef industry in Queensland. • climate forecasts and models Other Queensland Government agencies in Government presence and seminars program, • phosphorus for grazing cattle It will have a large presence in the Sidney attendance are: visit qld.gov.au/sustainablebeef. • Next Gen programs for young producers Kidman Pavilion, where ten agencies, including • Transport and Main Roads To purchase your seminar tickets, visit • work-place health and safety the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, • Office of Industrial Relations beefaustralia.com.au/tickets. will provide a one-stop-shop for all things beef. • legume establishment 6 NORTHERN Information for rural business in North Queensland Grazing BMP at Beef Australia Calf Alive symposium 2018 and beyond a resounding success

The Grazing BMP (best management practices) Grazing BMP-accredited More than one hundred and forty people program continues to make headway across from Queensland, the and Queensland and will showcase its success at this producers invited to New South Wales attended the inaugural year’s Beef Australia 2018 expo in Rockhampton networking event ‘Calf Alive’ symposium in November 2017 at from the 6 to 12 May. The property tour program Capella in Central Queensland. is always popular and this year will feature three Accredited producers across Queensland will be Grazing BMP-accredited businesses. invited to a BMP networking event to be held in Specialist speakers from Australia, the United Charters Towers on Wednesday 6 June. States of America and Indonesia, inspired The first property tour begins on Monday some excellent discussions and delivered the 7 May and will showcase Barfield Station at This will be the first event of its kind, recognising most up-to-date knowledge about the causes Industry members gathered at the Calf Alive symposium. Banana, home to Rob and Melinee Leather. The the commitment of this growing group of of calf loss—a worldwide problem. Leathers are strong supporters of the program— producers who are prepared to open their Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment becoming accredited in 2015—and consistently business to third-party scrutiny of management Calf wastage, that is, calf loss from pregnancy is important. support grazier peer learning by hosting producer practices. through to weaning, is a bigger problem than • Effective predator control requires a sound you might think. Michael McGowan, project groups and sharing their passion for growing a The event aims to develop stronger connections understanding of fauna ecology. Research stronger beef industry. leader of the recent CashCow project, says between accredited businesses and identify to explore solutions to predators will be as that ‘high numbers of beef producers in complex as the problems. Steve and Claire Farmer of SC Droughtmasters opportunities to work together to further their northern Australia experience calf wastage • Potential solutions include managing the feed at Mt Elsa will provide visitors the opportunity to commitment to environmental sustainability and above achievable levels on a regular basis’. base, lactation, health, stress and breeding. discuss the benefits of performance recording. animal welfare. The project showed that 25 per cent of SC Droughtmasters is an industry leader in using • Good information to define the problems and Discussion will also focus on adding value breeding mobs in the northern forested region a variety of genetic selection tools and herd- professional advice are necessary to reveal to the Grazing BMP certification, both in the of the study area had calf wastage of more recording practices. Becoming Grazing BMP- causes of calf loss and determine solutions marketplace and along the supply chain. than 19 per cent. These results highlight the for specific situations. accredited in 2016, Steve and Claire have since opportunity to develop and implement practical featured in a bull selection FutureBeef video. Guest speakers at the event is the Hughes family solutions that haven’t yet been systematically • The pathway to reducing calf-loss is paddock-to-plate enterprise, Rangeland’s Quality difficult and complex, but if approached Belmont Station is the third BMP-accredited evaluated in northern Australia. Meats. The Hughes use BMP certification to systematically, there are solutions available. property on the tour program. Located 37 km underpin their product and demonstrate their The key messages from the symposium are: Professor McGowan said the value of north of Rockhampton on the Fitzroy River, the commitment to best practice directly to their addressing the calf loss issue shouldn’t be 3260 ha property is owned and managed by • Calf loss is a major problem across northern customers. They will share their insights into underestimated. AgForce Queensland and delivers a unique, Australia—each calf lost reduces business sustainable and profitable production. collaborative approach by providing a working income by more than $400. ‘A five per cent reduction in calf-loss in a herd cattle station with a focus on research and For more information about the Grazing BMP • Many risk factors for calf wastage in size of 3000 adult equivalents would increase education. program please contact Jo Gangemi, Grazing northern Australia have been identified and annual live weight production by at least 20 BMP coordinator DAF Burdekin on 0477 345 the main ones relate to nutrition, disease tonnes and earnings before interest and tax by At the Beef Australia 2018 seminars there will 843, Lisa Hutchinson Grazing BMP coordinator and the environment. $25 000,’ he said. also be Grazing BMP guest speakers focused on NQ Dry Tropics on 0427 594 192 or Cass Heal, • Body condition and nutrition of the cow sustainability: Future research in the field of calf wastage, Grazing BMP coordinator with AgForce on during pregnancy and early lactation have particularly testing management options, is Nicole Johnson-Hoffman, Chief Sustainability (07) 3236 3100. a profound effect on calf viability and milk planned. These project proposals are currently Officer, Senior Vice President OSI Group LLC delivery. under consideration with Meat & Livestock and President Global Roundtable for Sustainable • Any factor reducing colostrum intake in Australia. Beef, will present on beef sustainability and how the first eight hours post-partum or milk Australian beef fits into the global supply chain. intake in the first days of life, threatens calf The presentations from the Calf Alive symposium are available on the FutureBeef James Bentley, Manager Natural Value, survival. website (futurebeef.com.au). Corporate Responsibility NAB, will explain • Dystocia (calving difficulty) has a big impact ‘natural capital’ and why it is important to the on calf survival. It is most common in Dave Smith finance sector, what NAB is doing to ensure calving two-year-olds and is affected by Department of Agriculture and Fisheries natural capital informs banking decisions and genetics and nutrition. Charters Towers what this means for graziers and the future of • Infectious disease can be a problem, (07) 4761 6160 Cass Heal (AgForce), Lisa Hutchinson (NQ Dry Tropics), Grazing BMP. Jo Gangemi (DAF) particularly in more intensive systems. [email protected] 7