Inside this Issue: December 2003 December NLIS explained Country capers State of growth Tasmanian Devils Tasmanian Focus on Forthside Focus White Wine: Vineyard, Clare Valley
Bread: Grain Property,Walgett
Potato: Vegetable Farm, AthertonTableland
Lamb Cutlet: Sheep Property, Katanning
Table: Sustainable Forest, Greenbushes
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RAB0056/TR IN THIS ISSUE Volume 9 Issue 4 ISSN 1444-6065 News and Features National Livestock Identification Scheme ...... 2 Tasmanian Feedlot sets the pace with NLIS ...... 4 Organically minded ...... 5 Landcare Awards recognise caring attitudes ...... 6 Fourth generation farming ...... 7 Partners in growth ...... 8 Forthside Research Station ...... 10 Bushfires beware ...... 12 Sun smart down on the farm ...... 13 Threatened non-forest native vegetation ...... 13 Testing our States emergency response ...... 14 Whilst the publisher Noxiuos fish pest testing Tassie waterways ...... 15 attempts to ensure the National elite EAD team formed ...... 15 accuracy of the advertising Major threat to our devil population ...... 16 and other information Tassie’s young farmers lead the way ...... 17 Care urged in fishing net disposal ...... 17 published in this magazine, The ATV – help or hazard? ...... 18 it accepts no responsibility Country capers ...... 19 for the correctness of that Strategy to improve youth transport options ...... 20 advertising and other Drumming up business ...... 20 information, which is relied Stag beetle habitat protected ...... 21 upon by readers at their Meander Dam goes ahead ...... 21 own risk. Top Tassie tastes ...... 22 Publisher: Kim Evans Getting to the core of things ...... 23 Secretary Threatened flora CD launched ...... 23 Department of Primary Industries,Water Columns and Environment TIAR Column ...... 24 GPO Box 44 Water Resources ...... 26 Hobart TAS 7001 Nomenclature Board ...... 28 Bureau of Meteorology ...... 29 Editor:Ami Libbiter River Report ...... 31 Corporate Marketing Unit Department of Newsletters Primary Industries, Dairy News ...... 32 Water and Environment Extensive Agriculture ...... 35 GPO Box 44 Vegie Link ...... 38 Hobart TAS 7001 Phone (03) 6233 3014 Advertisers [email protected] Beam Bros Pty Ltd ...... 22 Farmwood Tasmania ...... 16 Hollander Imports ...... 7, 28 Impact Fertilisers ...... Inside back cover J R Stephenson ...... 34 Netcraft ...... 11 Rabobank ...... Inside front cover Rural Youth Org Tas ...... 9 Websters Ltd ...... 4 Front cover photograph: Three generations of Wilmot spud growers. George Richards with son Phillip and grandson Thomas — see story page 7.
A Turtle Press publication 1 N E W S A N D F E A T U R E S National Livestock Identification Scheme Environment (DPIWE), agents and saleyard operators, primary producers and members of the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association (TFGA). Abattoirs and processors are also The technology is represented, as are dairy herd testers and Tasmania Police’s stock theft squad. already there to The speed at which the National Tasmania could opt to implement the Livestock Identification Scheme whole NLIS scheme with a bang, saying handle the NLIS (NLIS) will be implemented in all animals have to be tagged and all Tasmania will be announced by the transfers from one property to the next program in any end of the year. A 12-member completed. Alternatively the scheme government and industry committee could be implemented in stages over abattoir or has been meeting since September to several years. plan the way forward for NLIS, which “Industry just needs to determine what all Australian States agreed they saleyard. system they want and how quickly they would begin implementing by 1 July want it to happen,” said John Cameron, 2004. NLIS coordinator for DPIWE. “But the This committee includes longer we take to implement it, the representatives from the Department of greater the risk if we have a residue or Primary Industries, Water and the exotic disease incident, or if one of our markets says they’ll only take meat that A farmer scans his cattle with an electronic wand as they pass though the gate has ‘whole of life’ traceability. Industry will make that call.” NLIS tagging devices provide an animal with a permanent and unique identification number that can be read electronically and entered directly onto a computer. Each tag costs from $3.60, plus GST. The scheme dates back to 1998. To guarantee that only ‘HGP Free’cattle were being slaughtered at their listed abattoirs, the European Union (EU) demanded complete traceability of cattle from owner to owner, back to the property on which it was born. NLIS was introduced nationally on 1 December 1999 for producers who export to markets such as the EU. More than 60 per cent of Tasmania’s beef is exported, with around 300 primary producers selling to the EU market. “The tangible benefit of NLIS for Tasmanian farmers is that they’ll be able to maintain and improve market access,”
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said John. “Without NLIS you can’t get meat into Europe, and other markets like the Japanese and possibly Saudi markets look to be heading in a similar direction. Once a couple of markets have it, others will start demanding it too. “The other benefit of NLIS is traceability, both in the event of a disease outbreak as well as if a residue of agricultural and veterinary chemicals occurs. Once the scheme is fully implemented, handling one of these incidents will be so much easier because we’ll know the exact movements of all animals.” The requirements of the EU, combined with the fact that Tasmania Feedlot will not buy any cattle without breeder identification tags from next season, means that Tasmania is one of the most progressive NLIS states. Close to 50 per cent of the cattle at last year’s autumn weaner sales were identified. John A multi-gate scanning unit can process large numbers of stock quickly and efficiently predicts that by next season the number could be up to 70 per cent. system whereby the farmer could people are asking questions about who is The only state that has embraced it program into a computer the going to pay for the technology and more is Victoria, which introduced the identification numbers of the particular whether scanning will slow down the NLIS on a mandatory basis at the start of animals he or she wanted to draft out, be saleyards. 2002. A tour of Victorian abattoirs and it on weight or some other reason.As the “Once you get over these initial saleyards was organised by Meat and cattle went through the race, a scanner problems, I believe the system is a Livestock Australia (MLA) last August for read the tag and told the computer which winner,” he said.“But the biggest issue is gate to open to draft the animal in any making sure we have uniformity among one of three, four or five ways. the states. Queensland, for example, is the Similarly Paul said he saw the latest in state with the biggest cattle numbers in cattle weighing technology. Instead of Australia. But it’s already made a manually punching in numbers off a dirty compromise by saying cattle going direct ear tag, the cow’s identification is to the meatworks doesn’t have to have scanned and weight recorded NLIS eartags. If each state is going to automatically while on the scales. Some make their own rules, it will end up like programs recognise animals from a the mess we had with different railway previous weigh in and provide graphs on lines.” NLIS ear tags provide an animal with a weight gain and so on. John Cameron, from DPIWE, said now permanent and unique identification Similar technology can improve was the time to air concerns about NLIS number that can be read electronically feedback from abattoirs to producers, so that these issues could be considered and entered directly onto a computer providing statistics on just about anything when industry determines Tasmania’s farmers require. approach. Paul Saward agreed that there people implementing NLIS in each state. are strong commercial drivers for NLIS. Tasmania sent representatives from a “The technology is already there to domestic abattoir plus producers, DPIWE handle the NLIS program in any abattoir “I know there are people who don’t or saleyard,” Paul said.“There are several staff and an agent. like anything new,” Paul said. “To those different technologies for each separate people who are dead against NLIS I “The tour opened my eyes to the situation — small saleyards may require would say that no one will force you to possibilities that this will bring for on- something different to large saleyards, tag. But if you chose not to tag, you might farm management applications,” said and the same with small abattoirs and find it difficult to get somebody to buy producer Paul Saward. “Initially we large abattoirs. But there’s plenty of your cattle. I think our major meatworks tended to think it will help if there’s a technology already working in Victoria.” are fairly committed to getting the NLIS disease outbreak and so forth. But there Certainly Victoria has experienced infrastructure in place and I could see are a lot of things that it can be used for, trouble at times implementing their from Victorian abattoirs and saleyards particularly with record-keeping systems equipment. Ian Richards from Richards that once they have all cattle coming in for our herds” Rural Marketing, who was Tasmania’s that are fitted with NLIS devices, it will Paul saw demonstrated a drafting agent representative on the trip, said make it so much easier for them.”
3 N E W S A N D F E A T U R E S Tasmanian Feedlot sets the pace with
NLIS Tasmania’s premium cattle market, The decision to make NLIS mandatory Tasmania Feedlot, will only buy animals from next autumn was prompted by with NLIS breeder tags after April 2004. Tasmania Feedlot’s parent company in In the past season the Tasmania Feedlot, Japan, JUSCO, which is part of the in Powranna has paid an extra $3 per massive AEON group. head for animals with NLIS “All our beef goes there,” said Andrew identification. This money went close to Thompson, director of Tasmania Feedlot. covering the cost of the tag. “They insisted that we institute a quality assurance program, so we’ve now become SQF 2000 accredited. Part of the process for that — and it’s extended a little by the code of practise imposed on us by AEON — is that we have full traceability of our product from paddock to plate. We see the NLIS tagging system as a step to assist with that.” The NLIS national database will give Tasmania Feedlot the ability to trace the history of any particular animal from the property of birth, through the producers who have grown it, and on to the feedlot and abattoir. “The NLIS assures consumer integrity by backing up our claims that our product is clean, green and safe,”Andrew said.“It’s got to the stage that with all the scares that are happening around the world, we sort of had to back up our claims with some evidence.” Paul Saward, a producer, said Tasmania Feedlot’s decision is a key driver in the state’s implementation of NLIS.He said he knew of producers who were already putting NLIS tags on their calves purely because Tasmania Feedlot won’t buy them next autumn without identification. “The Tas Feedlot has been making the running in Tasmania for the past few years,” Paul said.“It definitely sets the pace.So why would you send your cattle to sale knowing no-one will buy them, just because you wouldn’t put a $3 tag in their ear. “If it was government telling us we definitely have to put them in but no buyers were saying that they wouldn’t buy cattle without tags, then I think there might be a bit of a problem there because that wouldn’t be a good reason. So I think it’s good that we have got a commercial driver.”
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those people with allergies.Their product is delivered to 80–90 shops around the State in a refrigerated van, which also Organically makes one return trip each week to Melbourne so that they can take fresh product to their Victorian customers. Diversification is the name of game for minded Joe and Antonia. “We have split our operation into four separate business units: dairy farm, dairy factory, grain farm and granary.The dairy Elgaar Dairy has an air of confident The Gretschmanns sold up their farm performs best out of these. and enthusiastic industry about it, German property in 1986 and came to not to mention a sparkling Australia for eight weeks to hunt down “We grow specialty grains for bakeries cleanliness. Joe and Antonia their prospective new home. including breadwheat, rye, huskless oats Gretschmann and their three elder “We shifted straightaway,bought a little and linseed. sons Joe, Anton and Alex work full- van and checked out the New South “We are the only Tasmanian time in their organic dairy at Wales South Coast, Gippsland and around manufacturer of rolled oats, and we Moltema. In addition to four other Melbourne. employees it looks as if there will Then we came still be plenty of work for their three over to school-age children as well. Tasmania, fell in “We control the whole operation from love with the paddock to plate. If we could produce place and more we would be able to sell more,”said bought our Joe. property at Moltema. Joe and Antonia both studied agriculture in Germany and worked on an “The first intensive dairy farm with high inputs of thing we did nitrogen-based fertilisers until 1979. when we took over the farm “To convert that farm to organic was was to plant the best decision we ever made,” he 80,000 trees added. and then we Joe Gretschmann is certainly organically minded. “We have now had 24 years’ worked towards experience in the organic industry.There converting the produce muesli for our sales outlets.We is a spirit of sharing information and farm to organic straightaway,”Joe said. also grow clover and grass seeds to offer advising each other in the organic “We strictly followed the national other organic farmers. primary industry, and that is what we Organic and Biodynamic Standard rules, “We have 214 hectares at Elgaar Farm have been doing last weekend with a which are audited by AQIS. It can take a meeting with other people in the while to qualify as an organic farm with 80 hectares for the dairy and the business.” depending on what has been used on the same amount for cropping. We have a property beforehand — walnut plantation with 2000 grafted and Family members bottle the organic milk products destined for two or three years is our supermarket shelves. 4000 black walnut trees. average. “Until 1990 we had 330 cows and we “We can use rock sold our milk and other product to phosphate, dolomite, Lactos. Now, as we have diversified, we lime and rock dusts as have actually reduced to 140 cows.”Joe trace elements. No synthetic nitrogen is adds. allowed. We achieve Taking a wider look at the Tasmanian nitrogen input through agricultural industry, Joe commented clover and other that we should take the clean and green legumes in the pasture.” opportunities that are available to us The Gretschmanns and make something of them. produce a wide range of organic milk, cream, “If we can make a brand name out of yogurt and cheese our produce, then we have a real products that Antonia opportunity of capturing a niche says are ideal for market. Organic and quality leads to everyone, especially assured markets.”
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long and dedicated involvement as a volunteer, including with the East Coast Landcare Awards Weed Strategy Group. He was commended for engaging a wide cross section of the community, including schools and local government. recognise caring The 2003 winners from each state and territory will go on to the National Landcare Awards in 2004. attitudes Other winners of the Tasmanian Landcare Awards are: • Westpac Education Award — Sorell Attitude is the key to combining were common in his youth had become School productive agriculture with absent, or were hard to find. • Sensis Catchment Award — Tamar conservation, according to Andrew ‘In England, less than one per cent of Region Natural Resource Management Nichols, Landcare’s Tasmanian native vegetation remains,’ he said, ‘and Strategy Reference Group Inc. Primary Producer of the year. there’s an insidious loss of bush here in Local Government Award — Meander Andrew and his wife Carolyn run a the rural landscape. It’s actually going Valley Council diverse farming operation at ‘Redbanks’, quite fast. Unless enough bits are set • Bushcare Nature Conservation Award Sisters Creek,in the North West.Their 340 aside, and unless reserves are created, — Department of Infrastructure, hectares produce potatoes, peas, then the same pyrethrum, poppies, onions and cereals. will happen They also have beef cattle, perform here.’ forestry activity, operate a grain-fed Andrew said chicken hatchery for Nichols chickens, the advantage of and run a gourmet food business called farm-based ‘Naturally Nichols’, which sells primarily conservation was to the mainland. that it looked It’s a highly productive, conventional after local farm. But within its boundaries, 80 biodiversity. hectares of native bush, primarily Large national remnant forest, have been set aside for parks, such as conservation. Cradle Mountain, cannot preserve ‘We’re getting a covenant on about 20 the diverse hectares of land because there’s a wedge- species found, for Andrew Nichols (centre), winner of the Rural Press Landcare Primary tailed eagle’s nest in the middle of it,’ instance, in the Producer Award, is presented with his trophies by Bryan Green, Andrew said.‘Streams with giant lobsters North West. Minister for DPIWE (left), and John Carson, Rural Press (right). flow through the property, and we’ve He added that tried to return wildlife corridors along undertaking conservation work was Energy and Resources the streams. They’re fenced off to costly, particularly in erecting fences. But preserve the vegetation.We’ve re-planted • Alcoa Community Group Award — he regards the process as a trade off. gullies as well, with the help of Greening Upper Derwent Valley Landcare Group Australia. ‘If farmers want access to water, like • Indigenous Award — South East with Meander Dam — which frankly I ‘That concept of farming for wildlife Tasmanian Aboriginal Corporation think we should be doing — then we has always been there for me. We’re not • Murray–Darling Basin Commission need also to give back. We need to say Rivercare Award — Longford Landcare trying to be organic farmers by any we’re going to leave areas of natural bush means. But we’re trying to prove you can and be pleased to see the green rosella Group combine productive agriculture with and the wedge-tailed eagle in there.It’s all Golden Woody Awards were presented conservation and biodiversity.’ about attitude.’ to: Originally from England, Andrew and Andrew and Carolyn were nominated • Education Award — Summerdale Carolyn moved to Australia in 1982, and for the award by Sheree Jaffray from Primary School settled in Sisters Creek four years later.As Greening Australia and David • Private Land Award — John a child Andrew was taught to identify McCormack, the Natural Resource Shoobridge, from Cleveland, Ouse local birds by his grandfather, who Management (NRM) Coordinator for the explained to him why many species of North West NRM Committee. • Public Land Award — Stanley Peninsula song birds and smaller birds were Land and Coastcare Group The winners of the Tasmanian Landcare disappearing. awards were announced at a ceremony in • Best All Round Perpetual Trophy — Carl When Andrew returned to England for Hobart in August. The Individual Award Trost, from the East Coast Regional a recent holiday, many of the species that winner, Carl Trost, was recognised for his Weed Strategy Group.
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as 350 lambs this season as there seems to be quite a bit of twinning. “We sell the Fourth generation prime lambs at about 8–9 months of age, and last year all but 3 pens averaged over $100 per lamb” says Phillip.“We used to have a milk herd of 80 cows up until 1984 farming but since then we have concentrated on beef cattle”. Phillip and his wife Alison employ The Richards family have been quality seed, at an affordable price, and Phillip’s brother Rodney and four other growing potatoes at Wilmot for more Tasmania is no exception. casuals during harvest time. Phillip’s than 100 years. father George has retired, in theory,but in “We had a bit of scab trouble some Phillip is the fourth generation to farm practice he is hard at work on the farm the chocolate soil, and he is hoping that years ago” Phillip said, “but increased most days. Like many Tasmanian working his two young sons Thomas and Jacob irrigation has solved that problem”. As a farms, it is a real family business. will be able to follow on in the family tradition. His 414-acre farm features manicured paddocks and a good-sized dam set amid the rolling foothills of Mt Roland. “The first crop of potatoes was planted here in 1897 by my Great Grandfather”, Phillip said.“They chipped them in by hand with a mattock”. For most of the family’s farming history the potato crops, mainly Bismark and Brownell varieties, were sold for food, but since the late 1970s the Richards have become certified seed producers. Each year Phillip grows 30 acres of seed potatoes on a six year rotational basis, or longer if possible. “We grow four generations of seed on the property, and the fourth generation is the certified seed,” Phillip said. “From 1982 through to 1995, we produced 400 tonne of certified Kennebec seed per annum for growers in South Australia”. An improved seed spacing of 19cm instead of 30cm has enabled the Richards to plant more potatoes on their property and has also helped keep the seed size Three generations of Wilmot spud growers: George Richards (right) with son Phillip and below the 350g size limit set for seed grandson Thomas. potatoes. After many years supplying the South Australian market the Richards result of this infection the Richards seed gained contracts totalling 600 tonnes pa crop was rejected for two years because to produce Russet Burbank seeds for the of the common and powdery scab.“Our Tasmanian based companies Simplot and potatoes had to be processed as chips in McCains. those years, but the crop has been OK for the last three years now.” Seed potato certification officers from the Department of Primary Industries, To keep their farm in tip-top condition Water and Environment regularly inspect the Richards have their soil tested more the Richards crop. They test for various regularly than they did in the past, viruses and diseases such as scab, blight, allowing them to manage their use of Rhizoctonia and also other diseases not fertilizers more appropriately. They sow yet present in Tasmania — all which have to pasture at the end of winter, and dig it the potential to cause crop damage and in as early as possible. yield loss if not kept in check. The To complement their potato crops the purpose of all Certified Seed Schemes Richards also run 200 head of cattle and throughout the world is to minimise 250 first-cross ewes for fat lamb disease incidence and provide the best production.They are hoping for as many
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The key new initiative of The state of Partners in growth growth are Industry Action Partnerships “These cooperative new ventures will A better approach to developing see the Government pursue industry initiatives that offer growth potential and Tasmanian primary industries foster development in an environmentally and socially sustainable manner,” Mr Green said. A new growth strategy for “The state of growth is a better way of Tasmania’s primary industries — The Government doing business with the state of growth — has been launched primary sector. by the Minister for Primary “Industry Action Partnerships will be a Industries, Water and Environment process where industry and government Bryan Green. formally agree to work towards common The state of growth offers partners a goals to achieve growth. Growth will not better way forward for developing be achieved at any cost and managing the primary industries in Tasmania to increase environmental and social impacts of the contribution that the primary growth will be vital to achieve the industry and value-adding processing economic benefits.” sectors make to the Tasmanian economy. Industry Action Partnerships will be The state of growth provides a underpinned by concentrating resources coordinated approach that delivers towards five strategic action areas outcomes sought by both the private including: sector and the Tasmanian Government. • Market development and access; It supports Tasmania Together • Water development and sustainable objectives of a growing economy, which management; encourages productivity, innovation and • Investment, innovation and excellence. competitiveness; The major objectives of The state of • Building on our island advantage; and growth are • Managing our natural resources. Ray Hart has been appointed Project • To achieve growth across the sector; Manager for The state of growth. Industry Action Partnerships will be • To improve the capacity of people in linked to targets and timelines for growth rural and regional communities to take now is to build on our national and in farm gate production, downstream advantage of opportunities as they processing, investment and employment. international standing and deliver emerge; and Partnerships will be entered into with growth. It is important that we continue • To increase the contribution primary enterprises or organisations with an industries make to the State’s economy. to embrace change and make the most of identified capacity to significantly boost “This requires sustainable management Tasmania’s natural qualities” production, employment and profitability of our natural resources while supporting the continued development and expansion of primary industries,” Mr Green said. “It is about Government working in partnership with key industry stakeholders and communities to deliver growth through the sustainable management of our natural resources” At the launch of The state of growth, Mr Green emphasised that primary industries are more important to our economy than that of any other State, underpinning a higher proportion of jobs and wealth creation. “More than 25% of Tasmania’s exports come from the agriculture, aquaculture, fishing, food and beverage industries. “These industries already boast a reputation for products that are among the finest in the world — the challenge
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and expectations, the Minister has arranged for a steering committee to oversee the project and report directly to him. The Secretary, Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment will chair the committee in conjunction with the Department of Economic Development and other agencies. An Industry Reference Group comprising leaders representing diverse areas of the sector will also be established, to monitor the achievements and refine the benchmarks to ensure they reflect prevailing market conditions. As a sign of the Government’s commitment to expand the State’s primary industries, The state of growth will be spearheaded by a special team within the Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment Research and extension avtivites will be a vital component of increasing the value of the working in close cooperation with the State’s primary industries. Department of Economic Development. The state of growth team will be led by for the industry as a whole. As development strategies are clarified Ray Hart, Project Manager. Ray can be The state of growth will initially engage for the remaining sectors,partners will be contacted on 1300 368 550 or email with the dairy, wool, meat, organic, wine sought, and Industry Action Partnerships
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Each year, about 22 hectares are used Forthside Research Station for commercial and/or demonstration crop production, 10 hectares for research The centre of R&D for vegetable growers and 11 hectares for pasture. 10 hectares are taken up with roads, dams, creeks and buildings. This is the fourth in a series of Forthside Research Station (FRS) is FRS is managed on a five-year rotation articles profiling the Department of situated 10 kilometres west of Devonport across the five main paddocks. Each year, Primary Industries, Water and on the deep, friable krasnozem soils, one paddock is devoted to research trials, Environment’s research centres. The representative of the major vegetable while the other four paddocks are used four centres at Elliot, Forthside, production areas of the State. The for commercial production of carrots, Cressy and Grove, are part of the elevation of the farm ranges from 90 to onions, pyrethrum, poppies, brassicas, department’s commitment to 150 metres above sea level, and it has an cereals and pasture. Farm manager for the promoting Tasmania’s primary annual, predominantly winter, rainfall of last 20 years, Lyndon Butler, says the industries; developing better farm 1000 mm. rotation of commercial crops, pastures practice and achieving excellence. Forthside as we know it today was built and research sites is designed to ensure Forthside Research Station officially reaches middle age this year — 40 years. Forthside has played an important role in research and development since it was established in 1963. But it wasn’t always so. The Forthside that we know today was originally part of a 259 ha selection purchased from the Crown by Dr Cornelius Casey for £1 per acre in 1854. The property, subsequently named Forthside, was divided into tenant farms and within a few years had increased in size to 491 ha. The first product off the farm was lumber. Timber felling and milling helped clear the heavy forest cover and meet the local demand for lumber. This resulted in the farm being systematically cleared of FRS officially reaches middle age this year — 40 years. Forthside has played an important role in trees over the next thirty research and development in Tasmania’s vegetable industry since it was established in 1963. years.The cropping value of the naturally fertile and well-structured into a centre of research excellence that the paddock going in to research red soils was realised at the turn of the primarily through the efforts of three each year is as uniform as possible in century. As a result, Forthside was split horticulturists from the then Department terms of soil condition and fertility. into a number of smaller farms, one of of Agriculture — Brian Frappell, Max “Trial work that involves the use of which eventually became the research Walker and Alec Allen. various fertiliser treatments or different station. The 45 hectare Forthside block The farm is divided into five main crops can leave the trial paddock with a was surveyed off Dr Casey’s estate paddocks, which are the prime research lot of variation in soil fertility or between 1916–1920. paddocks. There are a number of smaller condition,”Lyndon said. Over the next 40 years, the farm had a paddocks that are also used for commercial “The four year rotation between using number of owners who used it primarily production and specific research projects. the same paddock for trial work gives us for dairy farming.The Crown purchased it Each main paddock is divided into units of the opportunity to even out any for £21,000 in 1963 as the site for the 0.25 hectare, on which individual research variations before trials are established establishment of a research station trials are carried out. Grass headlands are again.” dedicated to the vegetable industry. A left between the units to provide barriers Forthside plays an important role as a further 9 hectares was purchased along to soil erosion and allow for vehicle centre of excellence for research and the northern boundary in 1977. movement. development for the potato and vegetable
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the creek.” range of investigations. Forthside has benefited from a major “This work would just not have been upgrade over the last couple years. This possible with the previous equipment followed a stakeholders workshop held in selection. late 2001. One of the outcomes of that “The new equipment will not only workshop was the formation of the allow us to use water more efficiently,but Forthside Farm Advisory Body (FFAB) to it is also energy efficient,”said David. guide the strategic directions for the A digital map of the entire farm and all research station. Members of the FFAB of its features, such as fences and include representatives from processing irrigation lines, and unit boundaries has companies, farmers,TIAR and DPIWE.The been produced. This map is used in FRS is managed on a five-year rotation group meets twice yearly, usually before across the five main paddocks. Each year, conjunction with the Paddock Action the cropping season starts, and again one paddock is devoted to research trials, Manager software program to keep all of when all the crop returns are in for the while the other four paddocks are used the farm records, not only for each for commercial production of carrots, season. paddock, but also each trial unit. onions, pyrethrum, poppies, brassicas, “The formation of the farm advisory cereals and pasture. The most recent phase of the upgrade body has allowed a wider perspective to industries in Tasmania. Research and has seen the establishment of a be brought to the long term management demonstration work undertaken on the machinery wash-down bay to enable of the farm.We are fortunate to be able to farm covers new crop varieties, cultural Forthside to implement good farm tap into the range of expertise that the techniques and production methods, hygiene practices. advisory body brings to the operation of including irrigation management and soil the farm,” said Michael Hart, Acting “The new wash down bay brings a new conservation techniques. Manager of the Vegetable and Associated level of awareness and commitment to Historically, Forthside has been very Industries Branch. farm hygiene for Forthside,”said Lyndon. much the home of Departmental research Since the 2001 workshop, Forthside “It was long overdue, and allows us to and development. However, changes in has undergone a full occupational health take a leading role in the demonstration the way the Department does its business and safety audit, resulting in of farm hygiene practices and the over the last decade now means that staff modifications to machinery, building advantages that proper farm hygiene from Tasmanian Institute of Agricultural access and working environments. The brings to the operation.” Research (TIAR) and other private providers undertake a lot of the research upgrade has also seen improvements in If you would like to know more about work on the station. Most of the work the entry road, and some internal roads Forthside Research Station, then come done on Forthside these days is paid for and fences. A significant investment has along to the annual field day on via external funding, such as grants from been made in new irrigation equipment December 11. This year we will be Horticulture Australia Limited (HAL). in recognition of the importance of celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the irrigation efficiency as a part of profitable station, along with looking at the current Forthside entered the world of Quality and sustainable cropping practices. David research projects carried out on the farm. Assurance (QA) in 1999,and has achieved O’Donnell, DPIWE Horticulturist, who More information on the farm and the and maintained accreditation for SQF undertakes work to do with irrigation field day can be obtained by calling 2000 and Tesco’s Natures Choice. The efficiency, says that the new equipment Lyndon Butler on 6428 2237 or John farm is currently going through the provides the opportunity to undertake a McPhee 6421 7674. process of achieving EUREPGAP accreditation,the QA system from Europe that encompasses food safety, worker OH&S and environmental management, and is fast becoming a global standard. “Although there is a lot of work in these QA systems, the benefit has been that we now have much better knowledge of how the farm is performing and we are able to target areas for improvement, particularly in relation to things like OH&S and environmental management”, commented Lyndon. “It is a changing world, and if we don’t change with it, then we will be left behind and become irrelevant. “As part of our move to environmental management systems we have undertaken conservation and rehabilitation of native vegetation, particularly in the riparian zone alongside
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Bushfires beware Guidelines for Burning Off In recent years, a number of major fires directly affected the farming community. In particular, fires in the Midlands, the North East and Derwent 1. Notify your neighbours and the TasFire Service on 6230 8420 to avoid a Valley caused significant damage to brigade being called out unnecessarily. crops, pasture, fences and buildings 2. Make sure you have sufficient and as well as stock losses. appropriate resources to conduct the burn. The potential for major fires this year is 3. Establish boundaries of where you obvious. Recent spring rains have want the fire to burn to. contributed to widespread heavy growth 4. Only light up if the wind is less than of grass throughout the State. 20kmh, the temperature is less than Many farms have been managed by the 20°c and the relative humidity between same families for many years and practical 40–60 %. farm fire management is a way of life. Burning-off is quite often the cheapest and 5. Patrol the fire the next day. Now is the time to prepare for the simplest method of reducing bushfire 6. For advice on burning off contact your coming bushfire season. The basic hazards. It needs to be planned carefully nearest District Officer. principle of preparation is to reduce the and conducted at the right time, patrolled regularly and if in any doubt about its amount of fuel adjacent to assets. behaviour extinguished or call for help. Permits Homesteads, barns, implement sheds or Dependent on the time of year, you fodder reserves are not safe from a may need to get a permit to burn off. At running grass fire unless a reduced fuel the moment the permit period is not in zone has been created around them. Green crops force. Conditions are continually There are several methods that can be Lucerne or some vegetable crops monitored by Tasmania Fire Service and used to create and maintain an effective provides a green buffer. Likewise a wisely the permit period will be declared when reduced fuel zone around your assets to sited household vegetable create what the Tasmania Fire Service garden provides calls “defendable space”. increased protection to the home. Cultivation Ploughing and regular harrowing of Herbicides strips five to six metres wide can create Spraying may be an good results, however they require option, but the maintaining and erosion may be an issue. effectiveness will depend Cultivation is not just a means of on it being used at the protecting individual assets but right time of the season. strategically located strips adjacent to Done early enough prior to surrounding areas roadsides, railways, watercourses or even drying off, treated areas fence lines help in restricting the spread may be burnt under of a fire across a property. suitable conditions. Grazing Burning Notify your neighbours and the TasFire Service on Heavy stocking is an effective and Burning is quite often 6230 8420 to avoid a brigade being called out unnecessarily. economical way to create a defendable the cheapest and simplest space. Bring stock in to graze and method. It needs to be planned carefully conditions dictate.A permit will not cost completely eat out all the vegetation and conducted at the right time, patrolled you any money. around buildings. On larger properties regularly and if in any doubt about its Some conditions will be placed on the this can also be used to create lower risk behaviour extinguished or call for help. permit such as notifying neighbours and areas at strategic points to provide a Burning of grass is often risky as it usually registering the permit on a toll free refuge for stock during fires. only burns when everything else is dry. number with Tasmania Fire Service. NOW is the time to be burning off in a Permits can be issued for extended Slashing lot of areas of the state with dry ridges periods particularly in the shoulder Needs to be done early so as the cut and northern slopes dry enough to carry periods. Protection against liability material has wasted away before the a fire during the day but with cooler (should the fire escape) is provided so middle of summer. Slashed breaks can be nights the fire will go out. long as the fire has been lit in accordance maintained by grazing. Slashing should be with the conditions of the permit. timed to occur after the grass has run to seed or it may have to be done for a second time.
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hot places for babies and young children. Sun smart down on the farm Tips for keeping these young ones cool include: Plenty of fresh air, lots of open space, outdoors, playing or helping out on the home-grown produce — it’s easy to farm,”she said. • Keeping outings to the cooler parts of the day; assume that growing up in the “Being in the sun unprotected during country could be idyllically healthy. childhood more than doubles the • Giving extra breastfeeds or drinks of water (boiled and cooled if there is any But the irony is this ‘outdoorsy’ likelihood of developing skin cancer later environment can also be a dangerous one in life, and children dehydrate quickly — doubt about the source); for young children — and in particular with serious consequences.” • Positioning the pram or stroller in the young children’s skin — if sun smart Ms Long said that parents should try to shade if it really needs to be used in the precautions aren’t taken. ensure that babies and children are not out heat; As the warmer months and the long in the sun or in filtered shade between • Using removable car sun visors to provide holidays approach, health authorities are 11.00am and 3.00pm (Daylight Savings shade for the child when travelling in the warning parents in rural Tasmania to be Time). car or any other vehicle, and vigilant about protecting their children’s “However, if being in the sun is • NEVER leaving children unattended in a skin under the searing summer sun. unavoidable, use protective clothing. car or any other farm vehicle — no matter how short the time. “It’s easy to assume our southern State is “Hats are necessary to protect the face, cooler than the mainland and it’s therefore neck and ears, and opaque but light “As Tasmanian houses are often not not as important to make sure children are clothing to cover the back of the neck, designed for temperatures over 30°C, a safe in the sun and well hydrated,”said Ms arms, legs and body. sheet pinned over an open doorway or Christine Long, the State Manager of the “Sunscreen with protection of 30+ is window and kept wet can be an Family, Child and Youth Health Service — also an option and is best used with inexpensive way of cooling parts of the part of the Department of Health and protective clothing for babies and very house,”Ms Long suggested. Human Services. young children.” You can find out more at the Family, “This is especially so in the country, Ms Long said that prams, strollers and Child and Youth Health Service website at: where children tend to spend a lot of time car seats,if poorly ventilated,could be very
approach which will see accreditation for Threatened non-forest landholders using sustainable management techniques which will provide them with native vegetation the security to continue with their current operations,”he said. Consultation is now underway with that the program aims to recognise the “We see landholders becoming involved local councils and landholder groups sustainable land management practices and obtaining flow-on effects through to develop a framework to assist in already in place and give security to those gaining access to markets that are seeking the sustainable management of ongoing operations,”Penny commented. environmentally friendly products.” threatened non-forest native “The key to this program is recognising It’s estimated that approximately 80,000 vegetation around the State. that many operations, such as grazing, are hectares of threatened non-forest native Department of Primary Industries,Water completely compatible with the aim of vegetation exists across the State. Of this and Environment Special Projects Manager this project. The fact that these types of around half is found on private land and Penny Wells said the current focus of the vegetation still survive on private land half on public land. The program program was to highlight the important highlight that many land managers are recognises that many practices already role that local government and already practicing the type of activities.” undertaken on private land would be able to continue, and will look at ways to landholders now had in helping to shape Although the detail of how the program ensure its sustainable management on the program. will operate is currently being developed public land. If major clearance and “The best way this program can succeed in consultation with landholders and local conversion of this type of vegetation is is in partnership with local government government, the key to its success is proposed, then there would be a process and landholders, and so their involvement ensuring that efforts of landholders to try and find ways of minimising the now is crucial in developing the involved in sustainable management are impacts on the survival of that vegetation. mechanisms that will guide our approach recognised. into the future” she said. “The process is about finding a balanced “This program recognises that utilising approach to enable landholders to have For many landholders the program the land and protecting the threatened security in the ongoing sustainable would not impact upon their land non-forest communities are not mutually management of their land, while at the management practices but instead give exclusive and both these outcomes can be same time providing us with the process certainty to their activities. achieved,”Penny said. to see the ongoing survival of a part of our “It’s important for landholders to realise “We are aiming to develop an incentive heritage.”
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Having taken samples from the sheep, Testing our States they packaged them in accordance with the lab requirements and arranged for the emergency response samples to be flown to the Australian Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong. At Several practical lessons have been went wrong, which was good. But we can all times during the exercise, everybody learned from a recent exercise, improve our techniques so vets and other entering or leaving the property had to which simulated an outbreak of Foot key personnel can be more quickly be properly and thoroughly disinfected. and Mouth Disease at Bothwell. disinfected as they move backwards and The whole process was completed by Tasmania’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr forwards across the boundary of an Rod Andrewartha, said that Exercise Cold infected property. Feet was a realistic workout of the diagnostic phase of a disease outbreak. “What went especially well was “An important part of having the handling and simulation exercises is to test our plans packaging of the and see where any cracks might appear. simulated blood and This way we can keep improving our blister samples. response plans to ensure they are most Obviously, extreme effective if we were to have a real care has to be taken outbreak.” when transporting Dr Andrewartha said that the existing samples that may be contingency plans worked well in the highly contagious off exercise, but a few minor practical an infected property problems arose that will be worked on. and to the airport. “A very useful outcome was to provide And, for obvious a realistic measure of just how long the reasons, the airlines Representatives from the Department of Premier and Cabinet, diagnostic phase would take. and the quarantine livestock industry, private veterinary practitioners and DPIWE services, both here in discuss media implications of an emergency animal disease “The weather conditions on the day of Tasmania and in outbreak. the exercise were atrocious, so it was an Victoria, have a range extremely vigorous testing of our plans of very stringent requirements for such lunchtime. and of our people. samples to be flown interstate. All that Exercise Cold Feet involved DPIWE,the “The exercise showed up some areas of went very well and under the worst of TFGA, the Australian Veterinary the disinfecting process where we think weather conditions”Dr Andrewartha said. Association, the Southern Midlands improvements could be made. Nothing Exercise Cold Feet started with a local Council, Roberts livestock agents, meat farmer calling a private processors, the police and emergency vet about some sheep DPIWE’s Diagnostics Team taking samples from sheep in services. Bothwell as part of Exercise Cold Feet. that were lame.The vet visited the property, In addition to the field diagnosis inspected the sheep component, there was a discussion and raised the alarm exercise focusing on the flow-on actions with the State’s Chief needed if a real outbreak of FMD was Veterinary Officer confirmed on the property. about a possible It was part of an ongoing series of outbreak of FMD. The simulation exercises and training Chief Vet then ordered workshops to continually test and the diagnostic team improve Tasmania’s plans for dealing from DPIWE’s with any outbreak of an exotic animal Launceston disease. laboratories into action. They drove from Launceston to the Bothwell property, set up the proper disinfecting processes on the farm boundary and then entered the property to take samples from the sheep.
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is an offence to be in possession of, or Noxious fish pest testing move these species with offenders facing fines of up to $10,000.The IFS is seeking Tassie waterways community assistance in locating any other populations of this species and asks The Inland Fisheries Service (IFS) has (following translocation) have an that any possible Gambusia sightings or recently discovered the presence of a extensive global distribution.The species new noxious pest fish species in is related (at family level) to the Guppy reports be forwarded to the Inland southern Tasmania. Two isolated (Poecilia reticulata), Sailfin Molly Fisheries Service on 6233 4140. populations of the Eastern Gambusia (Poecilia latipinna) and Swordtail (Gambusia holbrooki) have been (Xiphophorus helleri), which are Top illustration is the female Gambusia found in the Snug and Kingston commonly kept aquaria species. The and the lower is the male. Taken from areas. Eastern Gambusia, were first difference between Gambusia and the “Freshwater Fishes of South-Eastern discovered in Tasmania in the West other common family members is Australia” (Robert McDowall 1996). Tamar region near Launceston in gambusia’s ability 1992. The source of this infestation is to survive and known to be human introduction and breed in Tasmanian efforts to eradicate this species from conditions. the Tamar region are continuing. It is one of only The two populations in southern three pest species Tasmania are thought to be confined to that have been farm dams, however future distribution declared a surveys are planned to confirm this. The Controlled Species infestation at Snug has been treated with by the IFS — the calcium hydroxide by the IFS and is others are currently being monitored. The other ‘European Carp’ population at Kingston is scheduled to be and ‘Cherax treated shortly. destructor’ (mainland yabby). Calcium hydroxide has been This means that it successfully used on the mainland as a poisoning agent for freshwater pest species. Calcium hydroxide raises the pH of a water body beyond what the gambusia can tolerate, resulting in the fish rapidly dying. Following the National elite treatment, the dam returns to its pre- treatment pH in a short period of time. EAD team formed IFS trials of this poison indicate that aquatic macrophytes can survive the Three DPIWE officers have been small population, such as Tasmania or treatment with invertebrates and frogs selected to train as members of the South Australia, there is always a risk that returning to the dam soon after. Once nation’s newly-formed Rapid an outbreak of something like Foot and gambusia has been eradicated, a dam’s Response Team (RRT), set up to Mouth Disease could overwhelm our invertebrate and frog community often respond to any emergency animal resources in those first crucial days. returns to a higher density and overall disease outbreak. “As the experience in the UK in 2001 species diversity than prior to the The concept of the RRT is to have, on so graphically demonstrated, how we poisoning. Reports suggest that calcium stand-by, a team of highly-trained handle those first few days of an outbreak hydroxide is less toxic and harmful to the professionals that can be flown largely determines how much damage the environment than most other recognised immediately to any part of Australia to outbreak will subsequently cause. The fish poison. provide expert backup during the first idea of a “flying squad” of the nation’s best, that can be deployed within 24 Although only small (Females up to critical days of any outbreak. 60mm, males 35mm), its ability to breed hours to any part of the country, is a rapidly and survive a wide range of water Tasmania’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr significant boost to Tasmania’s capacity to conditions (fresh to salt, 0°C to 44°C, Rod Andrewartha, said that the deal quickly and effectively with any heavy pollution) enables this species to establishment of the RRT is an important exotic animal disease outbreak.” development for the State. invade all aquatic habitat areas. This The three DPIWE officers will be coupled with its aggression and habit of “In Tasmania, we now have some 300 undergoing intensive and ongoing eating other species eggs means that the people on stand-by to work in various training in the key aspects of control Gambusia is a major threat to native fish roles in the control centres and out in the centre management.This training will be and frogs. field in the event of an outbreak. And supplemented by field exercises, one of Gambusia holbrooki are native to these people are undergoing training in which is scheduled to be held in Tasmania southern and eastern USA, but now their various tasks. But in a State with a in May 2004.
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committment of $1.8M up till 2007. Major threat to our Staff from the Department’s Animal Health Laboratory in the State’s north are devil population currently working on trying to define the disease in collaboration with universities In 1996 a visiting wildlife and animal health laboratories interstate. photographer, Christo Baars, noticed In October, a workshop on the disease an adult Tasmanian Devil displaying a brought together both local and interstate range of gruesome tumours around wildlife and animal health disease experts. the face and neck at Mt William The workshop heard that although National Park. there are some indications that the disease Although this disease is very unpleasant is caused by a virus, a lot more looking, Tasmanian Devils, like other investigation was needed to support those animal species, are not immune from indications. cancers. So was this find something out of “Efforts are being made to isolate the the ordinary? A Tasmanian devil displaying the symptoms of Devil Facial Tumour Disease. potential virus from cell cultures in an Over the next few years other reports attempt to work up a diagnostic test,”says came in of diseased devils. It began to The disease appears to suppress that Margaret Williams from Diagnostic emerge that this was more than the odd part of the devils’ immune system that Services. outbreak of disease in an otherwise deals with cancers and cancer causing Although the work being undertaken healthy population. agents, enabling the gruesome tumours to by the Department is crucial, the spread quickly through infected animals. Dr Menna Jones,a research fellow at the involvement of other expertise is vital as University of Tasmania, caught a diseased The spread of the disease across the well. devil near Little Swanport, and then more State has been rapid. Areas with high- in her devil study population from density populations appear to be hardest Bicheno and south into Freycinet National hit by the disease, which spreads rapidly, Park. These were the first specimens for with over 80 per cent of the adult post mortem examination. population affected. In low-density areas, Devils are tough, adaptable animals and spread is slow and patchy and less than 50 seem to cope with the disease until it per cent of the adult population appears reaches a critical point when they to be affected. become weak and disoriented.They then Preliminary surveys by DPIWE indicate cannot compete and quickly die. Most the disease is over much of the eastern half appear to die in the first three to five of Tasmania and extends at least into the months of the first symptoms. highlands.There are no signs of the disease According to DPIWE’s Wildlife yet recorded in devil populations in the Biologist, Nick Mooney, the disease seems north west of the State or the West Coast. to originate in and around the mouth as Although disease alone, rarely leads to small lesions and bumps. extinction, there is concern about the “Adult males are the first affected, then implications of a major crash in devil An affected devil caught in the Epping adult females. Once symptoms are numbers. area of central north Tasmania. obvious, tumours seem to spread Population crashes often lead to a loss The Tasmanian Devil has iconic status throughout the body — most obviously of genetic diversity making the species beyond its significance in our State’s around the head and face.” more susceptible to other problems. natural heritage. Its image is used According to Nick, “a major new risk everywhere around the State and overseas coincident with this current crash is that through characters such as the Warner foxes may take advantage of the huge FARMWOOD TASMANIA Bros popular cartoon character. CO-OPERATIVE LTD amount of food freed up by the demise of Phone 03 6427 0507 the devils and fill their niche.This would A recently-established steering then make it very difficult for the devil to committee to oversee the management of Best Practices ADVICE Reserves — Development recover.” this issue includes representatives from DPIWE, Tourism Tasmania, the TFGA, ASSESSMENT What’s it worth? How many Devils have had their population tonnes? What Quality ‘crashes’ before and it appears that they wildlife experts, ecotourism Bush — Plantation INSPECTION recovered over about 20–30 years. representation and the Parks and Wildlife Windbreaks — Woodlots Service. DPIWE’s first response has been to try HARVEST Sawlogs ret. — Clearfell. Can I do it myself? Contractors and obtain a snapshot of the spread of the The wide membership on this Pruning, Thinning disease through surveys of the population committee will ensure a coordinated MANAGEMENT Selection, Fertilising. and define the disease through laboratory response is that takes into account the Fax 03 6427 7224 Email: [email protected] investigation. This work has been value of the devil and harnesses the full enhanced by a State Government range of interests in the effort.
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Dobson, finished first and second Tassie’s young farmers respectively.They will represent Tasmania at next year’s nationals, to be held in lead the way Queensland. “This year AFFA put in $25,000, and it Westbury beef and wool producer in the national competition. Heath seemed like the national competition had Brock Pinner has placed second in Dobson, 24, a beef producer from Cluan, gone up to the next level,”Heath said.“So the National Young Farmer of the near Westbury, was one of the eight we wanted to make the Tasmanian Year competition, held recently at finalists. Previously he had placed third in competition professional to give our the Australian Rural Youth the inaugural national competition, held representatives the best possible chance in convention in Geelong, Victoria. the national competition. Instead of having an impromptu speech, we went with a Eight state finalists competed in several prepared speech, and you could really tell skills areas, including occupational health who had put effort into it. We also and safety, office management, fencing, introduced a new module in which the environmental conservation and contestants had to conduct an interview.” machinery maintenance. The eight practical modules were followed up with Brock was 15 and Heath 18 when they a general agricultural knowledge quiz, joined Rural Youth Tasmania.With 15 local and public speaking. clubs across the State, Rural Youth is an organisation open to all people between As well as his 145-hectare beef and the ages of 15 and 30. The organisation wool property, Brock runs Tasmanian The next crop of young leaders recently competed to represent Tasmania at the provides its members with opportunities Dairy Services, which provides assistance 2004 National Competition. L–R — Laura to travel, learn new skills, and explore with herd recording, calf de-horning and Richardson (State President), Heath individual talents. dairy hygiene. He has contested six Dobson (Young Farmer Coordinator and Other Tasmanian representatives at the previous Young Farmer of the Year 2003 national finalist), Tim Dobson nationals included Matt Crane, Liz Horne competitions at a State level. (Second Place), David Findlay (Winner) & Matthew Young (Young Farmer and Deb McKay from Sorell Rural Youth, “I like the learning side of the Coordinator). who made it through to the National competition,” Brock said. “You gain a lot Debating Final. Janine Cresswell finished from what you learn during the day, and in 1999. a very close second in the National final pick up a few new skills to take away and “I like the challenge of competition, of the Public Speaking. Her humorous use. This industry is always changing, so and testing my skills,”Heath said.“And it’s story of her ‘life on the highway’ told of it’s important to continually be testing a bonus that we get to go away.” her weekly trips from Hobart to her yourself. It’s also a good chance to catch Heath drew on his experience at the home in the north. up with everybody.” nationals to help organise the State The head office for Rural Youth West Australian wheat and sheep competition this September. Dave Findlay Tasmania can be contacted by calling: farmer Shayne Smith, 23, won first place from Hagley, and Heath’s brother Tim 6331 6154.
vulnerable to further entanglement when Care urged in it returned to the nest. It seems in an attempt to leave the nest again, the net fishing net disposal became snagged and strangled the unfortunate bird.” Fishermen and boat operators are nest a few times before its untimely Bill said marine debris and gill nets that being urged to use and dispose of death.” are not adequately disposed of, properly marine debris and gill nets carefully Bill said White-bellied Sea-eagles have set or regularly monitored can following the discovery of a dead White- been nominated for listing as endangered inadvertently threaten seabirds,penguins, bellied Sea-eagle entangled in a net. under the Tasmanian Threatened Species seals, dolphins and turtles. Department of Primary Industries, Protection Act because of a small “People using gill nets can assist in Water and Environment, Nature population size and continuing threats minimising impacts on other species by Conservation Officer Bill Brown said the such as habitat loss and nest disturbance. checking nets regularly when they are juvenile White-bellied Sea-eagle was “The gill net the bird was found used, ensuring all fish are removed and found entangled in a net in its nest at entangled in is a type commonly used for that they are stored or disposed of Binalong Bay. recreational fishing,”he said. carefully when not in use,”he said. “The eagle appears to be last season’s “It appears the fledgling may have been If anyone does find wildlife entangled offspring and had been dead for several scavenging on fish caught in the net in nets or debris it should be reported months,”he said. when it became entangled. It broke part immediately to the Nature Conservation “It probably would have only left the of the net away, leaving the bird Branch on 6233 6556.
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Carrying passengers The ATV — help or hazard? • Passengers are a definite NO. ATV’s need the driver to shift weight to allow Despite their usefulness around the insufficient light or hazardous terrain. control; a passenger restricts this. farm, All Terrain Vehicles (ATV’s) are • Do not use an ATV in need of repair. Stunts and speeding involved in an escalating number of • Lookout for potential hazards when • Never attempt jumps,wheelies or other farm accidents. ATV’s are an riding: rocks, bumps, irrigation pipes stunts on an ATV. increasing cause of injury and death and wildlife. • Ride at an appropriate speed for the in Australia. By implementing • Take care in unfamiliar or rough terrain, your experience and the certain safety measures, however, territory. visibility conditions. the risk of an ATV accident can be • Be careful when turning, approaching reduced. Drugs, alcohol and fatigue hills or navigating obstacles. ATV’s can be a useful tool for farmers. • Never ride under the influence of Travelling across areas that are drugs or alcohol. inaccessible to tractors and horses, they • Be wary of prescription drugs are an ideal way of rounding up that may have side effects that stock, towing goods and spraying affect your balance, vision or crops.They are also widely used concentration. for recreation. • Beware of fatigue. However, ATV’s can be Operating an ATV is more hazardous. An ATV is capable of physically demanding than performing many functions, but driving a car. If you are is only as capable as its operator. travelling long distances, take Proper training is essential. Most frequent rest breaks. accidents can be avoided by • Ensure that you are riding responsibly, being aware dressed comfortably and are of the hazards and by taking sitting comfortably. appropriate safety precautions. Responsibility • As an ATV owner, you must ATV safety precautions understand the risks associated with Personal protective equipment ATV’s and know the safety precautions • Always wear a helmet. • If you are to take. unsure about an obstacle, • Wearing long sleeves and pants is a • You must ensure that anyone riding find another route or go back. good idea. your ATV has the necessary skills and • Don’t ride on paved surfaces;ATVs are • Sturdy boots and gloves should be understanding to operate it safely. not designed for this. worn. • If you are an employer, you have a duty • Never ride on public roads. It may be • Eye protection is important. of care under the Workplace Health and difficult to avoid a collision if other Safety Act 1995 to ensure that ATV’s are ATV maintenance vehicles are using the road. properly maintained and used • Pay attention to the advice in your • Never leave an ATV with the motor according to the manufacturer’s owner’s manual. running. specifications, and that your workers • Check your brakes and tyres regularly. • Make sure attachments or loads don’t who use ATV’s are adequately trained • Make sure that all parts are genuine or alter the ATV’s centre of gravity and and wearing protective gear. suited to your ATV. affect its stability. • Ensure any damage or mechanical • Always use the buddy system; never failure is repaired, reported and ride off alone. communicated to all possible riders of Operator training and age the affected machine. restrictions ATV operation • Drivers should receive sufficient • Always drive at a speed that allows you training and supervision. to safely avoid sudden changes in • Follow manufacturer’s terrain or other potential hazards. recommendations of a minimum age of • Plan work tasks so that the need to 16 for ATV riders. travel quickly between work sites is • Never allow young riders to use an ATV eliminated or reduced. without appropriate supervision. • Maintain correct body position and • Young riders don’t always have the weight distribution while using ATVs. weight, limb size, skill and judgement • Do not use an ATV under adverse to control an ATV safely. conditions such as inclement weather,
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Country capers
Going bush in the hope of cultivating contact with nature. And it can be those RDS does research and development rural utopia is a dream of many things. But there’s a long way ‘round and work for corporations, such as devising a Australian families. Lindsay and a shorter way ‘round. We’re hoping that strategy for the Tasmanian meat industry Marilyn Richley moved to Tasmania we can guide people toward the shorter and evaluating education programs for in 1975 with the idea of setting up a way around.’ the citrus industry. Many other people hobby farm. They purchased 14 Amabel and her husband David set up seek their help because they have bought hectares near Campania — and a lot RDS three years ago. Before that, they land but don’t know where to start. of experience in what ‘not’ to do. each spent 15 years teaching agriculture ‘We offer basic skills in running a small ‘We bought a dozen or so sheep, but in Tasmanian universities. Amabel property,’ Amabel said. ‘It’s a ‘hands on’ didn’t have facilities to catch or yard specialised in rural sociology and David approach — how to handle livestock, them for vaccination,’ Lindsay said. ‘We was a post-doctoral research fellow in what to expect during the course of the managed to rig up a bit of a yard in a vegetable seed.Their dream for RDS is to seasons, how to plant shelterbelts, and corner of our property and herded the help farmers who want to make change. sheep in there. With great difficulty we how to manage your animals. We help ‘Change is very personally rewarding,’ gave one a needle. But then, how did we people work out what they want from Amabel said.‘We all have a vision of how know which sheep we’d vaccinated? So their property. Is their dream achievable? we want to live our lives, and to be able we let that one out of the yard. But after If it’s not achievable, then we help them to find a way to make that happen is very we’d done about six, they all broke out of make changes.’ important. If you combine everyone the yard and became mixed up.’ doing that, then you have stronger More information can be found at their Lindsay’s roots were well established communities, you have more productive website:
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restricts social/recreational activities. Strategy to improve youth Identified problems with other travel alternatives such as getting a lift in a car transport options were: • They are not always available Establishing community transport Department of Education’s Office of • They make young people highly partnerships has been identified as Youth Affairs in response to young people dependant on others the best way of improving transport and youth service providers throughout services for young people in the State who have consistently raised • This means young people lack Tasmania. transport as an issue for young people in autonomy and are reliant on others. The Tasmanian Youth Transport Strategy Tasmania. • Walking and cycling are only practical recommends the establishment of Extensive consultation with young alternatives for private travel in urban community transport projects to improve people, youth workers and stakeholder areas or larger regional centres. the sharing and availability of community groups identified transport issues as a The strategy is the first part of a two- transport resources in rural areas. particular problem for young people part initiative.The Office of Youth Affairs, Options suggested in the strategy to living in rural and regional communities. together with key stakeholders, will improve transport services in regional Young people in both rural and urban undertake the second part of the project areas include funding a broker who areas identified a range of issues which will address the recommendations encourages community groups to lend associated with public transport and of the strategy with a view to securing vehicles, researches community transport other transport alternatives. their implementation. The State issues and provides information to users Identified problems with public Government has provided funding to about transport options. Successful transport were: pilot the main recommendation, a brokerage schemes already operate in • The frequency of bus services is low Community Transport Brokerage, in partnership with Local Government. NSW and South Australia with the • Walk access to bus routes and stops is assistance of Local Government. long, and in rural areas walk access is The Tasmanian Youth Transport Strategy The strategy was developed to help often identified as impossible. can be accessed through the Office of give young people access to transport to • Fares are considered high even with Youth Affairs website at:
Drumming up business drumMUSTER is the national program for the collection and The recycled drums are made into How? recycling of empty, cleaned, non- outdoor furniture, roadside posts, garbage The old chemical drums need to be returnable crop production and on- bins, drainage and irrigation pipes, farm animal health chemical thoroughly cleaned out and delivered to window fittings, vineyard posts and containers. designated collection points run by railway sleepers, to name but a few. participating local Councils. When Farm chemical users pay a 4 cent per A large compound stacked with old cleaning out your drums make sure you litre or kilogram levy on all chemicals that chemical drums waiting for recycling. follow the Agsafe Standard for Effective they purchase. This levy funds the Rinsing of Farm Chemical Containers. drumMUSTER program. Why dispose of containers on your land when they can Where? be recycled free of charge? There are 20 Councils in Tasmania that have signed with the drumMUSTER Why? program. Most Councils conduct their It means that your land remains clear of own collections, with others using the container waste, ensuring a cleaner farm facilities of their neighbours. Contact and cleaner environment as a whole. your local Council for details about your Involvement will ensure that you comply area collection. with Tasmanian environmental legislation For any further information on this and will also reinforce our States clean valuable program contact the green reputation helping to strengthen drumMUSTER Tasmanian Field Officer, our national and international trading Meredith Roodenrys, on 6243 1294 or position.
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Stag beetle habitat protected
A conservation covenant has been Mr Matthew’s covenant also protects put in place to protect the habitat of one of the States most endangered forest an endangered Tasmanian stag communities — shrubby black gum beetle. The Minister for Primary (Eucalyptus ovata). From an original Industries, Water and Environment, statewide distribution of 232,000 Bryan Green, has congratulated Ian hectares, less than 11,500 hectares of this Matthews of Goulds Country for his forest type remains in the State. decision to participate in the Private “Mr Matthews decision to covenant is Forest Reserves Program. another example of the success of the “By placing a conservation covenant Private Forest Reserves Program which is over 50 hectares of his property, Mr working with landowners across the Matthews is protecting the habitat of the State to conserve areas of significant Bornemisszas stag beetle,”he said. forest and the habitat of threatened “This is extremely significant for the species,” said Mr Green. “More than long-term survival of this species as the 26,000 hectares of significant forested Bornemisszas stag beetle only occurs in areas are now being protected by the Goulds Country area where it is conservation covenants,”. restricted to around 970 hectares. Ian Forestry Tasmania has announced that Ian Matthews helping to save habitat for endangered Tasmanian stag beetle. Matthews’ reserve is the largest privately 70 hectares of State Forest adjoining Mr owned property within the species’ Matthews property will be managed as an Forestry Tasmania spokesman, Bob range,”the Minister said. informal reserve to protect the beetle’s Gordon. The beetle is named after the scientist habitat. He said a special management zone who discovered the species, Dr George “State forest outside the informal covering the beetle’s range — and Bornemissza, whose extensive collection reserve but within the range of the stag of beetles from around the world was beetle will also continue to be managed including wildlife habitat clumps and generously donated to the Tasmanian to maximise habitat of the species in biodiversity corridors — had been Museum and Art Gallery. conjunction with harvesting,” said developed by Forestry Tasmania.
Dam has seen a lot of support by the Meander Dam goes ahead Meander Valley and Northern Midlands Councils, the Tasmanian Farmers and On September 18 came the news that the plan is about — ecologically Graziers Association, the Tasmanian some Meander Valley landholders sustainable water development projects Agricultural Productivity Group and have been waiting 30 years to hear — fostering the growth of our industries and Meander Valley farmers, as well as both the Commonwealth Government had communities,”he said. sides of politics.” approved the proposal for the “The significance of the Meander Dam Mr Green said he always believed that Meander Dam. isn’t just the economic benefit it will the Meander Dam was important for the The decision, pending appeal, generate for the local community and the State,and the Meander Dam report for the overcame the final hurdle in a lengthy State, but the fact it can be done in an Commonwealth Government should approval process that has taken it environmentally sustainable method. convince many of its importance to the State. through several State-based approval “Although that was a fact our processes and parliament passing Government always had faith in, the “We are talking about a project that can Enabling Legislation specifically for it. approval by the Commonwealth assist in reversing the decline in what is a Primary Industries, Water and Government has vindicated our belief in very vulnerable community,” Mr Green said. Environment Minister Bryan Green said that.” although it was a lengthy process, it was Mr Green said although the final “The Meander Dam will provide 175 important for the dam to go through it to decision was made by the full time jobs — it has the potential to demonstrate its environmental Commonwealth, there were a lot of reduce the region’s unemployment by sustainability. people and organisations which needed more than a third. “As the flag-ship of Tasmania’s Water to be recognised for their role in the “It’s value however goes beyond the Development Plan, the Meander Dam process. direct employment opportunities. proposal highlights the essence of what “The broad support for the Meander “The Dam will enhance the profitability,
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competitiveness and sustainability of “This project will be the springboard will be able to ensure the river gets the Tasmania’s agriculture industry. for growth in the Meander Valley while environmental flows it requires to “Currently, local farmers have to deal providing sound environmental maintain the health of the river and the with water restrictions and unreliable outcomes for one of the State’s most many eco-systems which rely on it. stressed outcomes.” water supplies during the summer “The proposal takes into account months. Mr Green said it was important to not threatened species in the area and only recognise the economic benefits the “Providing a reliable water supply to proposes measures to mitigate the this area will give security to a region project would bring the State, but the impacts of the dam on their survival. principally used for high value cropping environmental significance as well. including vegetables, poppies and seed “When we look at these projects we “The Commonwealth approval of the crops, dairying and beef. need to ensure that although they will proposal is, in effect, an independent “Around 24,000 megalitres of water bring benefits for our State, they can be assessment that has proven the economic will be made available once the Meander done in a way that recognises the viability and environmental sustainability Dam is established allowing the regions environmental values of the area as well. of the project proposed by the agricultural value to grow significantly. “By having a reliable water supply we government.”
2003 event saw a new class for game Top Tassie tastes products, a split to both sweet and savoury preserves and a specialty award There were 270 entries in the 2003 event in 1996.New categories added over for organically certified entries included Wrest Point National Fine Food the years in response to this interest Awards with 176 of these entries included cheese,yoghurt,ice cream,small to compliment the already extensive coming from Tasmania. The Awards goods, preserves, olive oil and bread.The product classes. are held annually in Tasmania as an initiative of the Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania. Best of Show Best Tasmanian Organic Product The Awards Mission Statement clearly The major prize at the Awards (the defines what the Awards are all about — (this was a new prize category this to develop and promote the Australian inaugural Richard Langdon Award for the year — the Primary Industries Fine Food industry through a competitive best entry) was won by Tasmanian Minister’s Award) pursuit of product excellence. Michael Fowler of D & F Fine Chocolates The specific aims of the event are to for his miniature Christmas puddings. Grandvewe Cheeses, Blue Bye Ewe encourage excellence in the industry, to provide benchmarks guides for quality Other award-winning entries Sheep’s Milk Cheese fine food producers, to educate included: consumers and the industry and to Best Tasmanian Sausages provide a promotional vehicle for Best Tasmanian Cheese: Winners in the Tasmanian final of the promoting Australia’s specialty foods. King Island Dairy, Black Label Brie Interest in the awards has been National Sausage King competition growing steadily since the inaugural Best Tasmanian Ice Cream: included Riverside Quality Meats of Eureka Farm,Apricot Ice Cream Launceston in the Continental and Best Tasmanian Preserve: Gourmet section, Hobart’s Wursthaus in BEAMS BROS PTY LTD The Fudge A’Fare, Quince Paste Agricultural Lime the Pork category, and Streets Meat of Best Tasmanian Olive Oil: Magnesium Lime Smithton for the Traditional category. Dolomite Excavating Island Olive Grove Tasmania, All Metal Road Base Evo Olive Oil Top Tasmanian Desserts Gravel & Sand Best Tasmanian Bread: Island Berries was a standout success Delivery, Transport & Spreading FREE QUOTES Zum Café, Finnen Loaf High Top in the Awards winning gold medals for Flowery Gully (03) 6396 3344 Best Tasmanian Smallgood: its Panna Cotta Chocolate, Vanilla, and Fax (03) 6396 3322 Raspberry desserts, and for its Blueberry beams.bros@bigpond,com.au Black Forest Smallgoods, Wallaby Kingsloin and Raspberry Sauces.
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4. Jonagold Getting to the core 5. Granny Smith 6. Gala of things 7. Pink Lady 8. Democrat Tasmania may no longer be formally 9. Braeburn referred to as the Apple Isle, but the 10.Sundowner (Source: 2001/2002 ABS business of growing apples still Statistics) remains a significant primary Getting to the core of the apple industry for the State. industry is Predo Jotic, Senior Tasmania’s pome fruit industry (apples Horticulturist with the Department of and pears) has a long history and rich Primary Industries, Water and heritage. Commercial plantings and Environment at Grove Research Station in exports date back to the mid 1800s.At its the Huon Valley.Predo,responsible for the peak during the 1960s, Tasmania’s annual testing and development of new apple exports to the UK reached 126,000 tonnes. cultivars, says “I have tasted many apple Due to market, economic and currency cultivars in Australia and overseas during changes, the industry has shifted focus my work on variety evaluation for considerably in the past 30 years, going commercial development. I also consume Predo Jotic inspects the newly budding plenty of apples and other fruits at work from predominantly supplying the apple trees at DPIWE’s Grove Research and at home. European market prior to the 1970s, to Station in the Huon Valley. supplying interstate and East Asian markets “My winners in the sweet apple in the early 1980s. Now, it is based mainly market demands. The production of category are Fuji (Japan), Gala (New on interstate sales, but with a significant newer varieties such as striped Red Fuji Zealand), Honeycrisp (USA) Sansa (Japan) penetration into the East Asian markets and selections, Red Gala, Pink Lady, Braeburn and Orin (Japan). the Indian sub-continent. Recently there and Red Jonagold is expected to grow “In the sweet/acid group I would include have also been renewed exports of high from 25% of total production to about Jonagold (USA), Pink Lady (Australia), Elstar value varieties to the UK. 40% by 2005,due to the rising production (Holland), Cox Orange Pippin (England) from new plantings. Market demands for apple varieties has and Granny Smith (Australia).” changed in recent years with a definite Tasmania’s top ten apple varieties More information on Tasmania’s apple trend towards bi-colour and more highly ranked by volume are: industry is available on the Department of flavoured varieties. New cultivars 1. Red Delicious Primary Industries, Water and acquired by DPIWE and the apple 2. Fuji Environment web site:
Threatened flora CD launched
Information about all 485 flora The project was a huge undertaking species listed under Tasmania’s and took nearly four years to complete. It Threatened Species Protection Act relied on input and cooperation from has been compiled into an easy expert botanists, both in Tasmania and on reference format to raise awareness the mainland. of the State’s native flora. The CD is expected to be invaluable to The CD, which was produced by planning authorities and land managers in DPIWE’s Threatened Species Unit and identifying threatened flora in their area,but launched at the Royal Botanical Gardens it will also be a useful resource for schools, The front cover of the CD shows the recently, contains information on what universities, local government, consultants, threatened Wonga vine (Pandorea the plants look like, where they occur, farmers and community groups. pandorana) twisting it’s way around their ecological needs and what threats Copies of the CD are available for all another tree. they face. Tasmanian land mangers interested in Of the 485 species, 128 are endemic to preserving threatened species on their
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Tasmanian Institute of Agricultural Research
The Tasmanian Institute of Agricultural Research (TIAR) is a joint venture between the Tasmanian Government and the University of Tasmania. It brings together the research and development (R&D) of the two major agricultural R&D providers in the State, the DPIWE and the School of Agricultural Science, into an institute within the University of Tasmania.
Borage borage borage
Borage, a traditionally-used annual half the world production occurs in New herb, yields a seed oil rich in poly- Zealand, Canada and the UK, however unsaturated fatty acids, and which, in yields are low due to the lack of improved particular contains a high level of commercial varieties and production gamma-linolenic acid. practices. This fatty acid,often referred to as GLA, A TIAR project, supported by the Rural is a human dietary supplement for which Industries Research and Development there is an increasing international Corporation and the Natural Plant market demand. Borage is increasingly Extracts Cooperative Soc. Ltd, has sought being grown for this extract, in to investigate and recommend agronomic preference to the conventional source, practices for borage when grown under the seed of the herb evening primrose local climatic conditions. that yields comparatively less GLA. Other ongoing work by TIAR is There is presently no commercial selecting improved genotypes with production of borage in Australia.Around respect to the yield of oil and GLA and the characteristic of seed Borage crop in fulll flower. retention, as the borage plant rapidly sheds its seed on maturity and this limits commercially-harvested yields. The completed Windrowed borage prior to harvest. agronomic work has provided information and have recently resulted in the prospect of recommendations on an expanded sowing of about five sowing time, plant population and harvest hectares in 2003–04, with the possibility timing, which are critically of using a local press for expression of the important factors of any seed oil. This development should allow future commercial borage good judgement to be made on the crop’s production. commercial prospects in Tasmania. An August sowing time For further details contact Dr Rowland has generally produced the highest yields and sowing Laurence, TIAR, on 6430 4901 or rates of around ten kg per
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Branching out
This season, Dr Suzanne Morris from exists.The trials planned for this project, the Tasmanian Institute of which are supported by the vegetable Agricultural Research (TIAR) will be grower levy and Horticulture Australia evaluating novel pea varieties that Ltd,will be the first attempt to grow these may out yield existing processing varieties in Tasmania. varieties. This project has major significance to These plants consistently send out the Australian pea industry as it has the multiple branches (tillers) from the plant potential to develop pea lines that have base, with pods maturing at a similar rate superior yields to current commercial to those on the main stem, hence the lines. possible yield increase. The increased For further information contact: yield or decreased planting density that is possible due to the multiple stems Dr Suzanne Morris,Tasmanian Institute produced at the plant base makes these of Agricultural Research lines worthy of further investigation. Ph: 03 6430 4503, Email:
For example, the Waikato Council is now How are the Kiwis called ‘Environment Waikato’. One of the areas of major concern for managing their nutrients? Environment Waikato is the nutrient enrichment of Lake Taupo.Lake Taupo is a In July, Greg Holz and Lucy Burkitt huge volcanic lake south west of Rotorua, (TIAR Burnie) and Alice Melland popular with tourists in the summer (Department of Primary Industries, period. Over recent years, algal blooms, Ellinbank, Vic) went on a 9-day stimulated by high nutrient whirlwind tour of the north and concentrations in the water have south islands of New Zealand to find contaminated the lake. This has led the out how the Kiwis are managing council to restrict the amount of nitrogen nutrients and bacteria on dairy fertiliser that can be applied to farms farms. surrounding the lake.The council aims to One of the most interesting parts of the L–R Jim Moir and Hong Di (Lincoln reduce nitrogen inputs into the lake by trip was finding out more about University), Alice Melland (DPI Victoria) 20 per cent in 2005. and Lucy Burkitt (TIAR Burnie) at the Fonterra’s Clean Streams Accord and how These are just a few examples of the Lincoln University dairy research farm it will affect Fonterra suppliers. New near Christchurch, New Zealand. nutrient management approaches being Zealand’s largest dairy company recently adopted in NZ,but these examples clearly established this Accord to improve the highlight the importance of being perception of the NZ dairy industry in dairy farms. proactive about nutrient issues in the the community, to improve the This issue evolved over a period of 18 Tasmanian dairy industry. DairyTas, TIAR environmental performance of the months and highlights just how volatile and DPIWE have funded a whole farm industry and to safeguard the industry’s these issues can be. Despite the hype, nutrient budgeting project that is marketing image. many NZ farmers deserve a pat on the exploring the distribution of nutrients on The Accord has a number of objectives, back, as numerous farm streams have dairy farms and using nutrient budgeting but one of the more controversial aims is already been fenced, reducing the approaches to match fertiliser to have 90 per cent of streams, rivers and amount of nutrients, sediment and applications to nutrient requirements. In lakes fenced to keep cattle out of bacteria which pollute water when cows addition,TIAR is planning a major project waterways by 2012.This was in response are either crossing streams or drinking looking at the effect of dairying on water to a political/social campaign dubbed from them. quality in north-west Tasmania. ‘dirty dairying’, which claimed that In a broader sense, the NZ government For more information please contact declining trout numbers and has also embraced this change and many Lucy Burkitt or Greg Holz,TIAR Burnie 03 contamination of shellfish were caused local councils have changed their name 6430 4953,
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impacted upon if they have budgeted on current water availability. Water Resources At the same time, the Department will require all licence holders to meter all direct extractions from rivers and streams. This will be done at the irrigator’s expense in exchange for acknowledging the past level of water The water use use. Metering already occurs in some parts of the state and has enormous sustainability project benefits for quantifying water use and ensuring sustainability in rivers and A new program will be launched this current river and stream operating streams. summer by DPIWE to assist in levels for water users and the Apart from the obvious benefit of providing for the requirements of environment; arresting illegal irrigation creep the irrigators while maintaining current • provide a system for water users to project has environmental benefits by agreed flows for rivers and streams. monitor personal water use and the providing a method to prevent further The Water Use Sustainability Project Department to quantify and monitor reduction in stream flows due to illegal will maintain the relative water takes. The project will provide water water usage. security for water dependent irrigators,by metering,a method to assess businesses and allow water users to The Project will involve a process by their water application rates to crops. obtain a reliable water supply. which irrigators will be surveyed for Irrigators will be given the opportunity to The summer of 2002–2003 was water usage for 2000–2003. It will begin participate in working groups to discuss extremely dry and more restrictions than in rivers and streams having the greatest outcomes of the project and contribute ever were placed on direct takes from need to assess allocations and water towards the development of surveys for rivers. In many instances the only water that could be taken for irrigation came from releases of water from farm dams into rivers. It is becoming increasingly evident that water use is continuing to outstrip licensed allocations, which is a totally unsustainable trend. Unless this trend is arrested, a situation like this can have detrimental impacts on the water environment and reduce the reliability of supply to water users. Changes in irrigation technology are leading to increasing demands on rivers and streams. As farmers replace old irrigation equipment as part of normal farm development, new sprinklers and modern centre pivot irrigators are introduced. Modern irrigation equipment uses more water per day as direct summer extractions from rivers and streams than older systems and adds to the increasing water over use. Pivot irrigator watering a crop — a common site in Tasmania. To prevent further creeping in water usage for irrigation water and gradually their area. use, the Water Use Sustainability Project cover the whole state. A team of three staff from the DPIWE has been initiated to control this serious Irrigators or water users extracting Water Management Branch will be issue in advance of the development of directly from rivers and streams will be working on the Water Use Sustainability Water Management Plans. asked to provide evidence if they took Project in conjunction with Regional The main aims of the Water Use more water than their licensed amount in Water Management Officers throughout Sustainability Project are: the 2002–2003 irrigation season (or the the state to implement the project once • to establish a robust water allocation average of irrigation seasons 2000–2003). key areas have been selected. system; In exchange for declaring this usage, • to prevent deterioration of water irrigators will be granted access to extra For further information on the Water reliability for water dependent water via a lower surety allocation Use Sustainability Project contact the businesses; addition to their licence.This will ensure Project Manager Melissa Williamson on 03 • provide equitable water use based on that irrigators will not be severely 6233 4807.
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to determine Holistic Environmental Catchment knowledge Water Requirements by undertaking a pilot study in the Little Swanport set to increase catchment. The project builds upon the extensive Over the next 12 months the Water provide valuable information on environmental flow work already catchment hydrology and support Assessment and Planning Branch in undertaken across the state by Water DPIWE’s Water Resources Division ongoing operational water management Assessment and Planning Branch. will be actively working on a suite of in the NAP catchments. projects recently funded under the In addition to this, a river health National Action Plan for Salinity and monitoring and reporting system for Water Quality. waterways in the NAP region will also be Collectively,these projects are aimed at established. This biological monitoring improving our knowledge of water project will complement the physico- chemical and streamflow monitoring in quality, hydrology and river health in the NAP region and the data generated catchments across the entire NAP region from all projects will provide information (Figure 1). on key indicators used for monitoring This will be achieved by working with and evaluation by regional groups for regional groups to increase baseline natural resource management. monitoring of streamflow, water quality Two projects will focus on capacity and river health to support natural building in the NAP region by transferring resource management planning into the information to on-ground groups and future. training communities in river health and The expansion of the streamflow water quality monitoring. monitoring network in the NAP region Both projects have a strong focus on builds upon an increase in streamflow increasing the skills of communities and water quality monitoring stations in already actively involved in measuring Figure 1 — DPIWE’s streamflow, water quality and river health monitoring network (NAP region shaded grey).
This project takes a catchment approach by investigating the importance of “high” flows and floods to ecosystem and physical processes not only within the river but also for the geomorphology of the catchment, riparian vegetation and the downstream estuarine environment. The primary outcome of this project will be an expanded methodology to assess Environmental Water Requirements that is applicable in catchments across the State. This will provide more information for establishing a balance between the water requirements of the environment and water users. Collectively, the large amount of information generated from all of these Water Quality sampling at Pages Creek in the Little Swanport catchment (K Wilson). projects will assist in ongoing water management and provide the important other areas of the State during 2001–2002 water quality and river health, and monitoring and evaluation information (Water Infrastructure Program) and also improving community access to the that regional groups require for natural existing stations in the NAP region Departments water information.A quality resource management targets. (Figure 1). assurance sub-project will also evaluate For more information regarding the Development of hydrological models the effectiveness of training in river projects contact John Whittington (6233 for each NAP catchment and real time health assessment. 2578),Martin Read (6233 6834) or Alistair streamflow and water quality data will Another project will develop a method Brooks (6233 2227).
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Nomenclature Board
What’s in a name?
The Nomenclature Board (which is a nomenclature matters at a time when the strange name itself - and hard to State was developing mapping programs. pronounce!) is responsible for the The Board consists of ten members, naming of features like roads, including the Surveyor-General as localities, parks and landforms in Chairman. Five members are senior Tasmania. The Board recently took a officers appointed from relevant leading role in the definition and Government Agencies while four are naming of suburbs and localities. Ministerial nominees.The Board is served This means that all addressable sites in by a Secretary appointed from the Office Tasmania are now contained within a of the Surveyor General, and meets about locality boundary and can be described six times per year. more precisely. Precise addresses help in The Board addresses all questions of the delivery of emergency services and toponymy (geographical nomenclature) remove confusion for ambulances, fire affecting Tasmania, and undertakes engines and taxis in particular. The new research into the origin, priority and localities mean that the “no-man’s land” usage of geographical names. between towns is now named.The Board While the Register of Place Names can also influence the naming of roads to serves the Board’s statutory obligations, it reduce confusion caused by roads with is the ancillary information that has the the same name. interesting bits like backgrounds and More precise naming is needed to deal Tony Naughton (left) and Peter Murphy derivations. with the increasing population densities (right), Secretary and Chairman of the Nomenclature Board respectively, inspect “When asked for the origin or history and the complexity of settlements. Even one of the more unusual unofficial of a name, if there are several versions I in sparsely settled areas such as South walking/bicycle track names in the Hobart provide them all and let people decide,” West Tasmania we now have a myriad of suburb of Lindisfarne. says Board Secretary Tony Naughton, names. Early maps of the Southwest adding:“Where possible, I also quote the simply labelled this area as Transylvania - practices. Now there is an increasing source of the information.” which is just one example of how a name need to identify exactly where you are. A database of Tasmanian place names is in the nineteenth century was accepted This can be defined numerically by grid maintained in the Nomenclature Office. by the Lands Office as a result of common references but names add a more This includes not only names approved usage and then shown on maps. personal dimension by the Board, but also a wide variety of The need for digital information “The Board has a vital role in unofficial names. heightens the need for good naming maintaining the quality and integrity of All decisions of the Board are published Tasmania’s names.These names are a core in the Tasmanian Government Gazette data set within our information services,” and summaries appear in the daily says Surveyor-General Peter Murphy.“This newspapers. role and the place of the Board in “If you need information about a administering this important information particular name, contact me and I will tell will be acknowledged in the forthcoming you what I can about it,” says Tony review of the Survey Co-ordination Act.” KNAPSACK SPRAYER Naughton. Tony’s phone number is 6233 The Board was established in the early 2554, email
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Gusts and lulls, squalls and calms
Don Juan, in Lord speed. Sometimes these Byron’s poem of 1819, The wind blew fresh again: as it grew late changes are so subtle they was sailing from Cadiz go unnoticed, but when he witnessed the A squall came on, and while some guns broke loose, sometimes (as for Don effects of changing Juan) the changes are winds. The weather A gust — which all descriptive power transcends — marked and dramatic. had not been kind: a When the wind sudden wind shift in Laid with one blast the ship on her beam ends. increases suddenly and the early morning had stays that way for several already removed the minutes before dropping rudder, and the ship down again, it is called a was taking water. The weather had that gust proved destructive. squall. If the wind speed increases “seem’d to abate”, but it wasn’t long The wind, when it is blowing near the suddenly then drops back after only a few before the wind picked up again. The seconds, it is called a gust. Sometimes the surface of the earth, is never steady. It is speed increased in a squall, then wind drops away, only to return a few increased further in a gust — and constantly changing in direction and
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seconds later; this is called a lull.A calm is an extended period when there is no (or to be pragmatic, very little) wind. Seasonal Temperature Outlook Wind is slowed down by friction where November 2003 to January 2004 it is in contact with the surface of the earth. This effect diminishes away from Township Mean minimum temperatures Mean maximum temperatures the ground, so the wind speed generally Chance of a Chance of a Chance of a Chance of a increases with height until several cool warm cool warm hundred metres up (at “gradient level”) three months three months three months three months the wind is fairly steady. Butlers Gorge 26% 42% 36% 31% The surface of the earth is rough, especially if there are trees, buildings or Cape Bruny 25% 43% 35% 32% hills. Wind blowing across such a rough Eddystone Point 23% 46% 35% 32% surface becomes turbulent. Turbulent Grove 24% 43% 35% 32% motion is very complex, with small pockets of air moving at different speeds Hobart 24% 44% 35% 32% and even in different directions, both Launceston 24% 44% 35% 31% horizontally and vertically. Pockets of Low Head 24% 44% 35% 31% faster-moving air are felt as gusts, whilst pockets of slower-moving air are lulls. The wind is not truly steady, even at In a “normal” year, there is a 33% chance of it being “cool” and a 33% chance of it being gradient level. Changes in the large-scale “warm”. forces (such as pressure systems or These figures from the October 2003 issue of the Seasonal Climate Outlook suggest a temperature differences) mean that even shift towards warm conditions for minimum (night time) and a very slight shift towards outside the turbulent lower layers the cool conditions maximum (daytime) temperatures. The forecasts have low to moderate wind is changing. Sometimes a variation skill over the State at this time of year. covers hundreds or thousands of kilometres and lasts hours or days, but The stations shown are those that have considerable length of stable observation record. sometimes it extends only a few
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kilometres and lasts only minutes. These completely calm area just behind the predicts that wet conditions are more medium-scale changes are responsible for wall, but causing local gusts not far away likely than dry in the next three months, squalls. as the wind comes back to the surface.A especially in the north of the State. It also hedge of trees makes a much more Air cannot blow through obstacles predicts that minimum (night) such as leaves or rocks or buildings or effective windbreak. Some air can flow temperatures are more likely to be warm mountains; instead, it must go around between the leaves and branches, but it is them. When already turbulent air is slowed down.This moderating effect can that cool, but the prediction for diverted in this way, the flow becomes sometimes be felt hundreds of metres maximum (day) temperatures only even more complex,and many effects can downwind. The impact depends on the slightly favours cool over warm. size and type of the hedge, together with be experienced. Neighbouring places can Ian Barnes–Keoghan experience markedly different winds, the wind speed and direction. Meteorologist with the gusts at one spot often quite Often, careful selection will find a site different from those nearby. that is much less windy than other areas Climate and Consultancy Section Tasmania and Antarctica Regional The wind is often much stronger just on a property.This area could be used for near the brow of a hill than it is in an crops that are sensitive to wind damage, Office adjacent valley.The air going up and over or to water loss (remembering that wind Bureau of Meteorology the hill will be squeezed and must speed speed is a major factor in evaporation). up, just like water flowing through a Windy areas will generally be gusty, nozzle on a hose. In some cases, the wind although even the most sheltered spot will be reluctant to even enter the valley, can still be affected by strong gusts. Seasonal preferring to skate across the top. When this happens, the air stuck in the valley Rainfall, Temperatures Rainfall Outlook can sometimes start blowing in the and Outlook November 2003 to January 2004 opposite direction to the wind above. In many places, recent months have In a city, wind blowing along a street been particularly wet. A number of sites Township Probability Probability of a dry of a Wet between tall buildings can be much have set new rainfall records for three months three months stronger than in a nearby park.Again, the individual months. But some areas missed air is squeezed into the space between out on the heaviest rains, in particular Bushy Park 26% 41% the buildings, causing it to flow faster. Flinders Island and the Tasman Peninsula Currie 23% 45% Streets running across the direction of (and to a lesser extent King Island). the wind can be quite calm, although a Maximum temperatures averaged over Hastings 26% 41% small change in the direction of the the six months have been below normal Hobart 27% 41% gradient wind will see the roles swap.Just in most areas, although typically by less Lady Barron 25% 43% on the corner of buildings, the wind can than 0.5°C.They were above normal by a be particularly fierce. This is a good similar amount on the coasts of the Lake St Clair 27% 41% source of “willy-willies”, which can often northwest, northeast and southeast. Launceston 24% 44% be seen drifting along city streets, picking Minimum temperatures over the same Miena 25% 43% up leaves and litter in a swirl. period have been above normal in most Oatlands 26% 42% Air encountering a long,solid wall must areas, although mostly by less than 0.5°C. divert up and over it, providing a The current Seasonal Climate Outlook Orford 28% 39% Queenstown 28% 39% Ross 26% 42% For up to date information on river flows, St Helens 25% 42% RIVER water quality and riverine health, please go to
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feeding, checked out the dairy, learned about what cows eat and what keeps them healthy, the need for quarantine on Dairy News farms, what lives in our soils and streams, and how chocolate is made. News and views on the Tasmanian Dairy Industry This was the first time such an open day activity has been held at Elliott for Articles for this section are coordinated by school children. But it won’t be the last. Ian Hubble, Principal Dairy Officer, Dairy Branch.Telephone 6434 5424. Very positive feedback was received from teachers, parents and all the children. You can often never really know the true value of such a day until many years A taste of dairy science after an event such as this.While some of the pupils eagerly took notes during their A ‘Making Milk’ open day was held at The day was filled with plenty of noise visit, at least one had decided that her life Elliott Research and Demonstration and excitement.It proved to be a real eye- ambition was to work at the Station. Station recently as part of National opener for those children not familiar A similar Grade 6 trip to a research Science Week. station many years ago was actually the with farm life. Elliott Research and Demonstration catalyst for a then city kid, but now fully- Station is one of four research centres run The eager participants watched calf fledged DPIWE staff member working at by the Department across the State.Today Elliott is almost entirely utilised for diary activities and serves many purposes including: • Demonstration of best practice management or irrigated and dryland farmlets; • Providing a research platform for scientists from TIAR and students from the University of Tasmania; and • Providing a focus and venue for dairy extension and training activities for farmers, students, industry and community interest groups. About 130 primary school children from Yolla, Cooee and Somerset, their teachers and some parents attended to see what really happens on a dairy farm and to be made aware of some of the science behind how milk is made. The school children watch on as the calves eagerly tuck into their meal.
An impressed group of Yolla, Cooee and Somerset primary school students inspect the Elliott, to embark on a career in Elliott Reseach Station. agricultural science. All involved in the organisation and delivery of this event were also convinced that similar days should be repeated on a semi-annual basis — and that they are happy with their choice of agriculture rather than teaching as a profession! The day was organised and run by the DPIWE Dairy Branch and was contributed to by other DPIWE branches Land and Water Management, Quarantine Tasmania, as well as TIAR.The event was also supported by Cadbury Schweppes and the Elliott and District Catchment Management Group.
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fertility and irrigation. Pushing the boundaries by The key message from Rick was that to improve farm output (pasture combining basics and nous production, utilisation and profit) there was a need for dairy farmers to be more Rick Jordan, a consulting agronomist applications to ensure the nutrient informed, have a better understanding of from South Australia specialising in requirements of pasture are met so it their farming system and to be more grazing management systems, visited grows to its full potential. flexible in what, how and when Tasmania in September at the • Irrigation schemes need to deliver the management practices are used. invitation of the Tasmanian Institute right amount of water to plants at the Tasmanian’s will soon have a better of Agricultural Research Dairy optimal time to avoid major production understanding of ourselves, as two new Group. losses. Irrigating farmers need to projects based at Elliott Research Station Rick spoke to some one hundred explore all options to industry researchers, advisers, increase efficiency. agronomists and dairy farmers at a Rick said that setting pasture production workshop at the targets and goals was University of Tasmania campus in Burnie necessary if farmers and also at a joint TIAR/DPIWE field day wanted to improve their at Henrietta. farm’s performance. The dairy farmers Rick works with in Realistic targets the Mount Gambier area of Victoria utilise suggested for grazing more than 10 tonnes of pasture dry management were matter (DM) from dryland pastures and 75–85% utilisation of 20 tonnes of pasture DM per hectare pastures (requiring from irrigated pastures. His challenge was fodder conservation),10 that this should be able to be done in the tonne or more DM Tasmanian dairy industry as the two utilised per hectare for climates are quite similar. dryland pastures and 18 tonne or more for Rick Jordon discusses his principles of dairy farm Some key points from his discussions irrigated pastures. management during the field day at Henrietta. were: Pasture quality should • Most farms have significant room to be maintained at 11 megajoules ME/kg begin aimed at utilising 12 tonnes and 20 improve their output regardless of size. DM or above. Other targets and tonnes of DM per hectare under dryland Farmers should be asking themselves monitoring should be established for soil and irrigated conditions. what limits their pasture production and utilisation when other farmers are doing much better. Lifting farm output requires smarter management. The word ‘management’ Looking after number one implies being ‘in control’ and being able to manipulate farming practices in response to information gained from It is summer, the birds are singing, Award/Dairy Benchmarking Program for soil/plant/feed test results and the season. the sun is shining and the grass the 2001/02 season showed that one Some examples discussed were: growth is slowing. Mating is nearly third of dairy farmers are doing the same • Going beyond DM to understanding over, hay and silage is complete, and amount of work that two people would and applying information on leaf stage, it is a more relaxed time for dairy do. Sixty-two percent of this group had a tillering, residuals and the DM farmers. Now is the time to start return on capital that was below five components of Crude Protein, Neutral thinking about yourself. percent. Detergent Fibre, and Metabolisable Contrary to popular belief, dairy Admittedly, a low return on capital is Energy (ME). farmers are not invincible. They get can not due to a lack of holidays. It comes • Use of on-off grazing, sacrifice hurt, bruise and breakdown just like the down to management decisions. paddocks and feed pads to reduce rest of us mere mortals.With higher cow However, there is a high possibility that pugging and pasture loss caused by wet numbers and larger farm sizes, many miscalculated management decisions, conditions. farmers are working longer hours and leading to lower business performance, • Early cut silage at lower pasture covers talking less time off. But is this healthy? could be coming from low-level burnout (at 3-leaf stage) to reduce stem content Don’t stop reading just because this is (or a lack of holidays). to improve silage quality and the spring about to tell you to take that holiday that How you know you are at this point is tillering and summer persistence of you just don’t have time for. It is when through a few typical signs such as lack of pastures. you don’t have time for a holiday that you enthusiasm and boredom with the • Strategic use of soil, feed and plant need it most. familiarity of your tasks.These combine to tissue tests with monthly fertiliser Figures from the 2003 Business result in less energy being put into the job.
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This lack of energy and attention then normally do. Spend some time off the not have the same level of business leads to small miscalculations in farm with your family,even if it is just one knowledge. While this article does not management decisions and whilst being or two days.You will return refreshed and cover what to look for in an employee, only small, they all eventually add up, able to deal with problems more you will need to find a reliable person resulting in a lowering of production. At effectively because of your break. that understands your management decisions.That way,you can trust them to this point you also become vulnerable The reason most farmers do not take and begin losing proper perspective on make responsible choices while you are holidays is the inability to find labour that absent. issues. Molehills become mountains that will work to exacting standards.There is Taking a break is never easy when you seem impossible to face. also the quite real stress that upon are responsible for the efficient running When it gets to this what do you do? returning from holidays they will have a of a business. However, if you wish to be Well I am sure you have heard this before big mess to sort out. around for the long term,taking a break is — take a break! When planning to employ someone vital for business performance and your The best way to deal with it is recognise that they will not run the farm health. Try just one or two days to start distraction, get away from what you as effectively as you will because they do with and see the difference it can make.
Big mouthfuls are needed to fill big stomachs. Farming solutions update
Planning is well under way for the next Farming Solutions day to be held in August 2004.The theme is “The Big Picture: don’t change a single thing” The Extensive Agriculture Branch and TIAR will present a full program on new pasture releases, cereal trials, local developments with animal recording software, national wool productivity research, beef productivity trials, progress on sugar beet trials and heaps more. This will be a day not to be missed with something for every farmer, rural adviser and merchant. There will be opportunities to see, feel, and test all the latest developments happening in Tasmanian agriculture research and development, and talk with those doing the work. Keep watching this space for progress reports in the lead-up to For Valley equipment, service and parts: the event in August 2004. J R Stephenson Ph: 1300 364 600 www.jrs.com.au
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below that, serious losses in springtime productivity will result. Extensive Agriculture Keeping the digestibility high is dependant on grass tillers staying Wool, Red Meat, Patures and Crops vegetative rather than going to seed. Cutting and eating will result in many more vegetative tillers. A vegetative grass plant Articles for this section are coordinated by that stays palatable and digestible, is less Johnathan Knox, Technical Officer, Extensive Agriculture Branch.Telephone 6335 5314. capable of shading out clovers and keeps growing as long as the moisture lasts. The aim is to have stock bite off as many Spring growth — tillers as possible but not eat the pasture into the ground.To succeed in this you need to How did you use it? know your pastures and try to understand the grazing behaviour of your stock. For example, keep an eye on your tall How did things work out for you this fescue pastures.They go to seed earlier in spring? Have a look around your spring and it is relatively easy to get the pastures, see which ones are cocksfoot grazing pressure on to keep them dominant and note them down for vegetative. special attention next year. Was there too much patch grazing going on? Did Also think about your cocksfoot you leave stock in some pastures too pastures. A good hard chew down before long while others got away? Did too the seedheads become mature is critical to much grass simply go to waste rather keeping a pasture vegetative and ready to than being turned into animal product? do what cocksfoot does so well,respond to Growth significantly outstrips usage summer rain. during October, November and December, If you set stock watch out that your mob so methods to take advantage of this hasn’t got into a habit of grazing some surplus need to be considered. patches down low and leaving other Strategies including the timing of calving patches to go to seed. Perhaps a strategic and lambing to increase grazing pressure in Big mouthfulls are needed to fill big move or the introduction of another stomachs. spring combined with the removal of species of stock will result in greater intake and less waste tillers? paddocks for cropping are implemented about 80% digestible. on many farms to cope with the effects of A successful ecipe for rotational grazing At maximum intake, the energy over supply. is to move the mob regularly so they don’t extracted from feed that is 50% digestible is get a chance to set up patch grazing, soil While some of the excess can be only enough to keep an animal the pasture or eat below the levels needed profitably stored as hay or silage, what we functioning. Added production is gained for maximum intake. really want is to have as much of that flush from feed with every percentage point of feed turned into saleable product or to over digestibility of about 55%. As the spring continues it is most likely enhance livestock condition for the future. that more grass will be grown than will be Intake in spring is largely a function of We also want the pasture to be in good eaten.This is best managed by leaving more how much the animal can get in its mouth condition and not overwhelmed by masses behind with each stock rotation. in one bite, and that is then dependent on of indigestible stalks and seed heads in In doing so, some of the pasture will end the amount of grass facing the animal at summer and autumn. up going to seed,but it will be thinly spread any time it opens its mouth. To get the most out of your spring pasture throughout your pastures leaving the Stock keep those huge stomachs filled by two principles come into play.The first is to clovers and vegetative grass open and as ensure you set your animals up to eat as constantly nibbling at the grass, so productive as possible. The diffused dry much pasture as possible.The second is to therefore maximising stock intake is all stalks may also provide some shelter from make sure that the feed is easily digestible about not allowing paddocks to be eaten heat and wind for any vegetative growth and not full of poor-quality dry grass. into the ground when there is plenty of that occurs during summer. other feed about. The percentage digestible is the most Make a grazing management plan now important quality factor for ruminant feed. For cows, maximum intake is a reached when you have the benefit of hindsight, Those dry stalks you are looking forward to when about 10 or 12 centimetres (3000 then start implementing it next September in summer are likely to be about 50% kg/ha plus) of reasonably dense pasture is and reap the rewards. digestible. That means, that when 10 present. Further information on grazing kilograms are eaten, the animal only uses For ewes, the figure is lower at 4 or 5 management techniques can be gained by 5kg and excretes the other 5kg. centimetres (about 1600 kg/ha). At lower contacting Peter Ball (Livestock This compares poorly against grass and levels of 2200kg/ha for cows and 1200 Agricultural Officer — DPIWE) on 6233 clover pastures up until mid-spring that are kg/ha for ewes, intake is satisfactory, but 6810 or
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Benchmarking of both producers Increasing your found they ran their weaners at stocking rates of 15.0 and 17.5dse/ha through the weaner productivity winter, which is well above the local average. The high stocking rates, the A goal of successful weaner sheep contaminating the paddock.This process absence of drenching and excellent management is to decrease the is done twice during the summer. production figures per head indicate the success that can be achieved with ‘Smart weaner’s exposure to pastures The technique effectively removes the Grazing’. contaminated with internal parasites majority of worm larvae from the pasture larvae. The biggest risk period for by opening the pasture up to the sun and Check out this new technique — it may weaners is during their first winter, promoting desiccation of the larvae.This make for better weaners and an easier so effective paddock management makes for worm free pastures next winter period. And remember you need during the preceding seasons is winter. to start planning this summer to see those winter results. crucial. Two Tasmanian sheep producers involved in the 8x5 Wool Profit Program Further details on ‘Smart Grazing’ can trialed this technique last summer. Both be found at
Monitoring checklist for cereal and grain crops
As temperatures start to rise, so do Insects the potential problems for many For cereals — aphids and crops. Insects and diseases are a armyworms (winter/spring sown major concern over the warmer months and will be of particular crops), redlegged earth mites and slugs concern with the wet conditions (spring sown crops) There are more ways to control worms in experienced this season. For grain legumes — Redlegged earth weaners than drowning them in drench. Diseases to be on the look out for mites (spring sown crops) include: For oilseeds — aphids,cabbage moth, ‘Smart Grazing’ is a new technique developed by the University of For cereals — scald, leaf rust, spot budworms and diamond back moth Melbourne based Mackinnon Project to form of net blotch, barley yellow dwarf Grower should also be counting and virus overcome this problem. The Project recording weed numbers as it is time to found that in years with wet summers, For grain legumes — Asochyta and start spraying.Weed counts can help in chocolate spot (Faba Beans), Brown the normal recommendation of double determining the type and rate of summer drenching is not entirely Spot (Lupins) and Powdery Mildew herbicide to apply, how successful a effective in controlling winter internal (Peas) spray application has been and to parasites in sheep flocks, and hence a For oilseeds — Blackleg (Canola) new management approach was check for any herbicide resistant weeds Nutrient Deficiencies required. by providing an accurate assessment of Deficiencies will be common this ‘Smart Grazing’ has obvious weed numbers. season due to many paddocks being applications in Tasmania due to our For further advice, please contact waterlogged for extended periods. Soil regular wet summers and involves and sap tests may need to be taken to either Sarah Campbell (DPIWE — putting high stock densities of newly determine what is required. Nitrogen Pastures and Seeds) on 0417 574 307 or drenched,dry adult sheep on the pastures will be particularly affected by Geoff Dean (TIAR — grain legumes and planned for the weaners. waterlogging. oilseeds) on 6336 5233. The sheep are removed from that paddock after a month to avoiding re-
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• Crop and pasture monitoring TOPCROP — • Improved grain quality and yields are you taking • Technical information kits • Local and state-wide information on advantage? crop yield and quality • Informed management decisions TOPCROP is a farmer-focused What are the benefits of • Access to researchers, extension information network for cereal and TOPCROP? specialists and industry personnel grain legume growers and industry. • New cropping technology It is funded by the Grains Research TOPCROP aims at increasing the • Crop rotation planning Development Corporation and profitability of the cereal and grain supported by DPIWE. legume industry in several ways: • TOPCROP annual awards. The core of the program are local • Grower discussion groups For further information and to find out grower groups that come together at • Improved communication between if a TOPCROP group is operating near specific times of the growing season to grower, researchers and end users you, contact your TOPCROP discuss ways of improving yields and • Shared knowledge, ideas and Development officer, Susan Alexander on quality as well as reducing the cost of experiences. 1300 368 550 or 6233 3192. production. NE TOPCROP Group at Grant Halls’ property ‘Waterhouse’. These discussions often take place as crop inspections and involve DPIWE, local agribusiness, contractors and farmers in the district. Issues are identified that are important to that locality and there is usually a diverse range of expertise and experience within each group, which makes for an interesting exchange of information. We are fortunate to have excellent support from agribusiness and guest specialists are regularly invited to add to the discussions. TOPCROP is a very flexible program that caters to industry needs through the local groups, workshops and an extensive range of high quality publications.
Ute Guides are a handy help out in the paddock
The most popular publications • Canola:The Ute Guide $27.50 produced by the TOPCROP program • Grain Quality Winter Grain Crops: are the Ute Guides. These are handy The Ute Guide $27.50 pocket-sized go anywhere, laminated • Winter Cereal Nutrition: booklets on a range of topics. No, you The Ute Guide $27.50 don’t have to have a ute to own one! • Winter Pulse Disorders: Full of coloured photos, they can The Ute Guide $30.00 quickly help you to identify the problem in your crop. • Lucerne Pests and Disorders: The Ute Guide $27.50 Several topics are available: • Insects:The Ute Guide $27.50 For orders contact Susan Alexander • Cereal Diseases:The Ute Guide $25.00 Phone: 1300 368 550 or 6233 3192 • Weeds:The Ute Guide $27.50 Fax: 6228 5123. Email:
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component of sushi and also appears as a small green dollop with a plate of sashimi Vegie Link (raw fish). If you think you couldn’t eat raw fish, News and views on the Tasmanian Vegetable Industry you might like to try it with a little wasabi combined with light soy sauce and a dash of mirin. It is truly a taste sensation! Articles for this section are coordinated by Tracey Taylor, Communications Specialist, WARNING! Some people have been Vegetables and Associated Industries Branch.Telephone 6336 5212. known to mistake the green wasabi paste for a dollop of avocado. Don’t let it happen to you! Your sinuses will alert you to your mistake. Wasabi — What of the remainder of the plant? The leaves and flowers of wasabi can be what does it look like? used in fresh salads and the taste is a little like salad rocket or nasturtium. Did you know that wasabi belongs to Leaves can be harvested at any time. In the same plant family as broccoli, autumn, wasabi produces long flower cabbage radish and mustards? stalks that resemble those of a radish, However, it bears little resemblance to with small white flowers developing them. Instead the plant looks like an along their length. oversized violet with large dark-green, Following pollination the flower stalks heart-shaped leaves on long leaf stalks. topple over below the leaf canopy and Although an attractive shade-loving elongate there to a length of about two metres. As the seeds readily fall from the plant, sadly it is not suitable to grow seedpods, harvesting them is a bit like indoors as it thrives at 15°C (much too that fishing experience where you must cold for most plant-loving humans!). reel the catch in slowly to avoid losing Did you know wasabi is native to Japan the prize. where it grows alongside mountain Wasabi seeds are unusual because they streams? must not be allowed to dry out if you Anchored in the gravel, cool running want them to germinate. Wasabi sprouts water provides all the nutrients it needs. are a nutritional bonus. As it matures, aged leaves die and fall For more information, contact DPIWE part of the plant harvested for culinary use. away leaving knobby scars on the thick horticulturist Angela Sparrow on 6336 green stem. Prepared by grating the raw stem fine 5349 or email:
IPM for Tasmanian vegetable growers
A team of DPIWE officers has nearly able to manage crop pests in a more reached the end of a three-year sustainable and economic way. project looking at vegetable “Often, pesticides are applied without Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the actual pest being present, so the Tasmania. manual will provide growers with pest With the field demonstrations management options that can be used completed, they are currently working on instead of, or in conjunction with a ‘grower-friendly’ guide for Tasmanian pesticide applications.” vegetable growers to assist with their pest management. The manual will also allow the grower Felicity Wardlaw, project officer, said to better justify why they made a “The manual is a detailed kit containing particular management decision. An IPM guide for Tasmanian vegetable information growers need to know to be “As the demand for ‘pesticide reduced growers will be distributed in early 2004.
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produce’ increases, growers need to look better utilisation of predatory and farm, detailing some practical techniques at applying different management options beneficial insects,”Felicity said. and management options that could be to control crop pests. The manual will be distributed in early used to reduce reliance on pesticides. “Such options which are detailed in the 2004 to vegetable growers in Tasmania. Further information can be obtained by manual include crop monitoring to apply It’s an easy to use manual with sprays or more accurately and to better photographs of the weeds, diseases and contacting Felicity Wardlaw on 6421 7601 target the specific pest, planting cover insects in Tasmanian vegetable crops. It or email
risks and consequences of weed or Forthside leading the way disease introduction are considerably greater than on most farms. on farm hygiene “The construction of the wash-down bay will allow Forthside to demonstrate The State Government has reiterated Environment have shown a single potato important farm hygiene principles, and its commitment to improving farm harvester can carry up to 300 kg of soil also meet its commitments in relation to hygiene with the opening of new from one farm to another. the EUREPGAP Environmental facilities at the Forthside Research “Because of the range of companies Management System.” Station. and organisations undertaking research More information on the washdown Minister for Primary Industries, Water and development at Forthside, and the bay at Forthside can be obtained from and Environment Bryan Green, at his nature of the work done on the farm, the Lyndon Butler on 6428 2237. launch of the new wash-down bay in October said the new facilities would The machinery washdown bay at Forthside Research station will help to promote the help to promote the importance of farm importance of farm hygiene as the first line of defence against new weeds, pests and diseases. hygiene as the first line of defence against new weeds, pests and diseases. “Weeds and diseases cost the vegetable industry tens of millions of dollars each year in lost production and expenditure on control measures,”Mr Green said. “Tasmanian’s image as a clean and green producer of agricultural products rests heavily on the ability of farmers to reduce chemical use. “One of the most effective ways of reducing pest problems is to prevent their introduction to the farm through well-managed hygiene practices. “While Forthside has, of course, had rudimentary wash-down facilities for many years, this modern automated facility lifts the farm’s hygiene commitment to another level.” Mr Green said the Agricultural Local growers will benefit Contractors of Tasmania had recently highlighted the importance of farm from Rogers experience hygiene as they adopted a code of practice and compliance assessment Roger Orr, a Senior Agricultural As part of Roger’s duties,he is responsible process for the accreditation of its Officer with the Vegetable and for liaison and support to the greenhouse members. Associated Industries Branch, vegetable industry statewide. “Farm hygiene is important to the attended the Australian Hydroponics “This was the best opportunity to future viability of all of Tasmanian and Greenhouse Conference in obtain the latest information and agriculture — particularly the vegetable Melbourne earlier this year. establish useful contacts Australia wide. It and potato industries. The conference is a biennial gathering was also an opportunity to meet and hear “Investigations by the Department of of growers, scientists, equipment International experts and to visit some of Primary Industries, Water and suppliers and manufacturers in this field. the best greenhouse growing operations
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in the region.”Roger said upon his return The conference was attended by an attendance at this conference.The report to Launceston. estimated 300 delegates from around describes the presentations, trade Australia, New Zealand and a few “This conference assisted in bringing exhibits and tour and presents those International visitors. The conference me up-to-date with current best practice ideas and information that are thought to theme was ‘Conserving Our Future’so be of value to Tasmania and makes technology and production methods that many presentations focused on I can extend to local growers. Many information as to how to become more recommendations for both DPIWE and Tasmanian growers are in need of efficient, use the latest technology, Industry.If any readers would like further upgrading their facilities and practices conserve water resources and not harm information or a copy of this report, and I was able to source information and the environment. please contact Roger on ph. 6336 5273 or suppliers applicable to Tasmanian needs.” Roger has drafted a report on his email
development opportunity,” Rebecca DPIWE research profiled commented upon her return to Devonport. Rebecca Ashley, one of the Vegetable A broad audience (ranging from “The presentation gave Australian and Associated Industries Branch’s scientific to grower-based groups and industry an opportunity to gain insight into DPIWE’s activities in this area and to Agricultural Officers, attended the individuals) attended the conference, what is happening at the Forthside inaugural Organic Futures for which was seen to make a significant Research Station. I also appreciated Australia National Conference in contribution to perspectives on organic catching up on the latest developments in food and agricultural systems. Adelaide from 1–4 October 2003. organic research.” By participating in the national As lead officer for the industry funded The emphasis of the conference was conference, Rebecca was able to profile project ‘Development of Intensive that there was a strong future for organics Organic Vegetable Production Systems’, DPIWE’s work and commitment to clean in Australia. For further information Rebecca was invited to submit a scientific agriculture. please contact Rebecca Ashley on 6421 paper and give a platform presentation of “The invitation to speak at a national 7627 or email:
Farmwood gives growers marketing options
Farmwood Tasmania is a dynamic organisation set up as in the planning and harvest of forests for a number of a co-operative to maximise the returns for private timber rotations, not just for short term gains. growers by creating marketing options. Farmwood supplies a number of small saw millers in Private land owners with plantation timber or standing both the north and south of the state as well as providing native timber can now access a range of markets for both timber for the larger operations such as Gunns, Norske pine and native timbers through the co-operative. Skog and Forest Enterprises Australia. In the past Farmwood is a non-profit organisation set up to facilitate Farmwood has also directly exported peeler logs to Asia — the marketing of timber as well as arranging forest practice a true diversity of outlets for a grower based organisation. plans, sourcing harvesting contractors and supervision of Due to Farmwood’s non-profit status our charter is to the harvesting process. maximise the return to the grower and achieve The planning process for harvest or planting of vacant sustainability in the industry, particularly on private land. land is an important part of the process and both short and Should you wish to know more about Farmwood please long term goals for land under production should be taken contact our Southern agent,David Wise on 03 62231839 or into account.It is the aim of the co-operative to be involved 0408 127725. ADVERTORIAL ADVERTORIAL
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