Rural News 3rd March 2015 by Rural News Group

WORKING WOMEN

MACHINERY

A new network for farming women emerges on the East Coast. PAGE 17

Massey Ferguson launches a new range of work horses. PAGES 37-38

AGRIBUSINESS Feds say its time to move on over the selling of interest swap rates.

RURALNEWS

PAGE 22

TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS

MARCH 3, 2015: ISSUE 579

www.ruralnews.co.nz

Dry to bite lamb crop ANDREW SWALLOW

DROUGHT IN the central South Island has reached the point where losses cannot be limited to this year, industry representatives say. With mating only weeks away, ewe condition is below normal in many areas and fresh feed for flushing scarce to non-existent. “I expect ewe bodyweight will be back at mating and there won’t be the number of hoggets mated this autumn,” Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s economic manager for the region, John Holmes, says. “People might have to cut into their capital [stock] numbers from here on in too, if they haven’t already started to do so.” Consequently, there would “definitely” be an impact on next season’s production, though putting a figure on that now is hard to do, he says. BLNZ economic service data shows Marlborough and Canterbury produced 4.7m lambs (18%) of the national crop in 2014 – second only to the North Island East Coast with 6m (24%) of the drop. Holmes says with hindsight, forecasts for 2015 fed into BLNZ’s Mid Season Outlook report this week are too high. “It’s based on what we did at the start of February. At that point it looked like it was turning a bit, but they were still fairly low.” The drought has “just deepened really” in the four weeks since that data was collected and Holmes says he’d revise the figures if doing them again.

The next four weeks will be “absolutely critical too” as time is running out for rain to save dryland winter feed crops and revive burnt off pasture. “There’s only so long before winter and the ground getting cold, and you don’t get any growth even if it does rain.” Holmes’ North Island East Coast colleague Amanda Bowie declined to comment on whether the dry there had reached the point of affecting next season’s lambing, but she admitted rain is needed “ASAP so we can grow autumn feed to get us through the winter. Whatever is in the ground needs a drink.”

On February 12, Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy declared the drought a medium-scale adverse event east of the Southern Alps from Central Otago to Marlborough and said Wairarapa was “on watch”. Last week, his office said there was no plan to extend the area to include Wairarapa but the minister was “still

keeping a close eye” on the situation. Federated Farmers Meat and Fibre chairman in Mid Canterbury, Mike Salvesen, says the foothills and high country, which carry most of the region’s breeding flocks, are not so bad as to affect next season’s output. “But in South Canterbury it’s a different story and we’re not as bad as North Canter-

bury either.” His counterpart to the north, Dan Hodgen, say with rams due out in a week or two, if not already, there’s bound to be an impact on next spring’s lambing. “It’s going to roll over to next season. It’s just a question of how much.” @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

YEAR OF THE (MILKING) SHEEP As Chinese communities in mid February began celebrating the Year of the Sheep, scientists, farmers, marketers and regulators attending a Massey University conference were engrossed in the subject of sheep milking. They heard from all sorts of experts, sampled sheep milk and products and watched sheep being milked. Massey scientist Dr Sam Petersen has been milking sheep for 30 years as part of his study of lactation. He has uses sheep instead of milking cows because they are less expensive. Many at the conference hoped the year of the sheep will bring good luck for an animal more or less displaced by the cow. Could this be set to change? More details on pages 23 & 28-29

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

NEWS 3 ISSUE 579

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Is biosecurity being traded away? “I have [heard] that in other core areas of MPI’s responsibility some expertise has been diluted as the tasks have become more generic. I’m sure they’ll have people on the ground who’ve been roped in and that’s good. But I guess [dilution of expertise is in] the nature of having a big multi-task organisation.”

PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz

LABOUR’S PRIMARY industries spokesman Damien O’Connor is concerned that trade-related issues may be overriding biosecurity issues. His comments come as MPI tries to catch the latest batch of Queensland fruit flies, discovered in Auckland last month. O’Connor says he’s seen MPI reports in which trade considerations have been seen as “preeminent”. “My concern has been for years that biosecurity has been pushed to one side or has been usurped by trade considerations. So whenever there might be a need to increase the level of scrutiny at the border it’s been pushed back by people who believe it could be seen as non-tariff trade barriers.” However, O’Connor says he doesn’t see the biosecurity risk increasing as New Zealand moves to secure more

RELATIONS THAWING?

Damien O’Connor

free trade agreements. (FTAs). He says all the FTAs New Zealand has signed, including the one with China, have left in place our sovereign right to protect our borders. “That will always be the case. From a biosecurity perspective those things should never be traded away and I don’t think they have been, but officials get

overly sensitive to the issue of non-tariff trade barriers.” O’Connor won’t comment about what is happening ‘on the ground’ in Auckland; he trusts MPI staff will be doing all they can to deal with the problem. But he is concerned about the overall capability of MPI to deal with the fruit fly incursion.

Name change for Synlait GONE!

CANTERBURY’S Synlait Farms has rebranded as Purata. The former farming subsidiary of Synlait Ltd owns 13 dairy farms in Canterbury, putting it among the largest dairy farm operations in New Zealand with total land of 4820ha. With Latin and Maori origins meaning ‘clear, bright - like a beautiful morning,” Purata’s name reflects the company’s new vision since the ownership change, says Purata chief executive Juliet Maclean. She says changing the brand name, tagline and colour palate will help Purata reinforce its separate identity since leaving parent company Synlait Ltd. “While we continue to have a strong customer-supplier relationship with Synlait Milk, we have operated as independent companies for some time so we’re excited to have a fresh look and name to reflect this evolution.” The farming business was sold last year to a partnership of Chinese company Shanghai Penxing, with Maclean and Synlait chief John Penno keeping minority stakes. The company says it intends to grow further by raising productivity, irrigation development and buying complementary dairy farms where management can improve performance.

FARMLANDS ANNOUNCED late last week that its chief executive Brent Esler was stepping step down as of March 1. The rural supplies co-op’s chairman, Lachie Johnstone, said Esler’s contribution had been “significant”. Esler developed the business case for, and helped lead, the merger of Farmlands Trading Society Ltd and CRT in 2013. Chief financial officer Tony van der Hoorn will be the interim chief executive pending a new appointment. Esler says he enjoyed leading CRT and more recently Farmlands. The merger had taken much time and energy… and “the time is now right for someone with new skills and energy to take the business into its next phase”.

O’CONNOR SAYS he had a very productive meeting with the group he once labelled ‘The National Party in Gumboots’ – Federated Farmers. At Parliament last week Feds Meat and Fibre section executive met with O’Connor for what may be seen as a landmark meeting. O’Connor praised Feds for their initiative, which he says involves “actively engaging” politicians from all parties. Until now meetings between Labour and Federated Farmers have been sporadic, he says, describing this latest initiative as a “very smart move” that will help shore up relations between Feds and the Labour caucus. “I welcome the opportunity to host them back to meet a number of my colleagues on a wide range of issues. I know my colleagues are keen to meet with them to talk productively about the issues we share.” O’Connor says Labour is pro farming and that any “honest” farming leader will acknowledge Labour has made some of the most significant progressive changes in agriculture over the years.

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

4 NEWS

Happier dairy days ahead SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz

THE GLOBAL dairy price slide seems to be over and farmers are banking on happier days ahead. Federated Farmers Waikato Dairy chairman Chris Lewis says a few more rises in the Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auctions will allow farmers to “hit the happy place for a while”.

Lewis says the positive in Fonterra’s decision last week to hold the milk payout at $4.70/kgMS was that the payout wasn’t reduced. With most of the milk from this season processed and sold, Lewis says farmers are turning attention to the next season, starting June 1. “Not only farmers but the banks and the business community are look-

ing forward to the next season with confidence; we don’t expect a record payout but a middle range figure,” he told Rural News. “Farmers expect prices to hit the happy for a while.” But for this to happen, GDT prices must continue to rise; since December, GDT prices for whole milk powder have risen 45% and skim milk powder prices 13%. WMP

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prices are hovering at US$3272/tonne and WMP US$2744/t. Fonterra chairman John Wilson says the increase was not sufficient to raise the forecast milk price now. On the coming season, Wilson says it’s difficult to predict prices so far ahead. “There is so much volatility, we are finding to difficult to forecast on a week-to-week basis, let alone 18 months. “Significant volatility [continues] in international commodity prices. New Zealand volumes are down, with uncertainty in milk production due to… drought in Canterbury, Marlborough, Central Otago and North Otago.” He says WMP prices must reach US$3500/t by April to sustain the $4.70/ kgMS payout forecast. The ASB Bank, which has lifted its forecast payout to $5/kgMS for this season, says it was “a touch surprised” by Fonterra’s decision. For the coming season, the bank is forecasting an opening payout of $6.50/ kgMS, based on a slowdown in milk supply growth in Australia, the US and Europe, drought in New Zealand and a rebound in demand in China. ASB economist Nathan Penny says Fonterra has not taken into account the drop in the New Zealand

Fonterra chair John Wilson.

dollar. But he concedes Fonterra’s hedging policy won’t allow it to reap the immediate benefits of the lower dollar. BNZ economist Doug Steel isn’t surprised Fonterra stuck to the $4.70/ kgMS forcast payout. There is too much volatility in the global markets for Fonterra to raise the forecast payout by a few cents and then get caught out by a big drop in GDT prices, he says. Steel says dairy prices have clearly firmed but he cautions farmers against getting carried away by prospects for next season. “We have gone from record highs to extreme lows within a few years,” he says. “The next season

is looking better but we should not get too excited. Prices will push higher in the coming months and it’s all to do with the drought in New Zealand. “Weather [permitting], production will recover in New Zealand next season and then further price increases will be capped.” The BNZ is forecasting an opening payout of $6/ kgMS for next season. But Chris Lewis, Federated Framers, says with rising cost of production, debt servicing and capital costs, farmers need at least $7/kgMS for long-term sustainable business. “Farmers will be keeping an eye on GDT and hoping the market finds

a place for a fair value price; all farmers want is fair value for their hard earned product.” Lewis says many farmers are struggling this season with $4.70/kgMS. “When the milk cheques arrive over the next six months, there will be a lot of negative financial figures on farms.” Wilson says Fonterra is mindful of the tight cashflow and the struggles of dairy farmers. “As a farmer, I know we all want a higher payout but farmers understand the global market dynamics. We are advising farmers to continue to be cautious with budgeting and we will update them as the season progresses.”

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

NEWS 5 Higher production key driver for local economies PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz

HIGHER PRODUCTION is the key driver of regional economies, even though higher profit is important to farmers, says DairyNZ’s Rick Pridmore. Increased milk production, greater sheep and cattle numbers and any other production increase are what generate jobs and wealth in a community, he says. As agriculture intensifies it boosts a local economy. Pridmore says examples abound of how dependent some communities are on agriculture. If it were taken out of the south Waikato towns Tokoroa and Putaruru it would slash employment there, and many people may not wish to travel further afield for jobs. More social research is needed to get an accurate handle on the effects of changes to agriculture on many small New Zealand towns and regions, Pridmore says. Many have grown rich on agriculture and want to retain the benefits of growth. He says there is a

scarcity of research on what happens in small towns and regions when their economies soften, hence regional councils’ growing interest in economic analysis as part of proposals for change to district and regional plans. Linked to this is the quality of science used as evidence in planning change proposals. “A lot of science is produced, designed to be [neither] good nor bad. But there are many way to interpret that science. “Often in any organisation you have a mindset which, if it isn’t challenged, the assumptions get twisted and people start to believe them rather than having new eyes look at them. That’s why I like the new collaborative process – it makes people ask questions.” Pridmore says in an advocacy process, lawyers are shrewd and frame questions in a certain way to support their case. Often what a scientist ends up saying in court is not exactly what he or she believes. “Personally, when I have given evidence I’ve

found it hasn’t helped because [I’ve been] presenting to someone else who has a bigger story they are trying to sell. So for me, the collaborative process allows you to get away from that environment – to stand up and say ‘Here’s a study DairyNZ has funded: it’s been tested by peer reviewers who’ve been selected by the council independently and they think it’s a good study, but you might want to make some interpretations from what I say’.” Pridmore says it’s hard for the public to recognise good science, and though he is a scientist he also finds it hard. “I’ve been asked to judge some university science – very esoteric stuff – and it’s very hard even when you are in science to know what good or bad science looks like. So I don’t think the public knows what good science is.” He says he doubts a lot of the science on the internet and in social media has ever been peer reviewed or published.

SECTOR LACKS STRATEGIC PLANNING NEW ZEALAND is making mistakes in research, data protection and biosecurity, for example, because we are terrible strategic thinkers, claims Labour’s primary industries spokesman Damien O’Connor. “We have come a long way in 250 years to become, we hope, a first world country. Change has occurred very rapidly, the government has been known as the fastest law makers in the west,” he told the Agcarm conference in Auckland last week. “That has assisted us to make changes when and where necessary – not to be locked into a constitution or a lawmaking process that takes forever. We can change laws quickly and adjust to what we need. But that rapid change has left us with a short horizon, some shallow thinking and in my opinion little vision.” Knowing where we are heading is often assumed but not considered or clarified by many organisations, governance included, he says. “For the biggest industry in New Zealand, the dairy industry, there is no strategic plan. How dumb is that? DairyNZ has a strategic plan and it’s kind-of farmer focused as it should be. They are the people paying the levy and DairyNZ is servicing their

needs. Fonterra I hope has a strategic plan – I’m trying to work out where it is – but they are not the only dairy company. While it is a cooperative, there are now people with interests in Fonterra who are not farmers. “There is no strategic plan or vision for our dairy industry and this economy relies on it.” O’Connor says he is not surprised the red meat industry doesn’t have one although they tried a red meat strategy that for a start omitted venison. It was an exercise in reluctant participation by the industry players. The wool industry, of course, has been in chaos. “The deer industry is now floundering around with a product that is first class, premium, the best protein in the world, yet they can’t get their act together enough to give the farmers enough confidence and certainty to keep there and grow their numbers in the industry. All these things affect each and every one us in the economy.” The Government has tried to assist through the Primary Growth Partnership scheme, he says. But O’Connor thinks it is “an outrageous slush fund” for a whole lot of business-as-usual practices and

experiments that should be funded by the industry. He says $350 million taxpayer money has been allocated to the meat industry. About $40m has gone to ANZCO for one initiative alone – to add value to a beef cut. If that company is not already doing that it shouldn’t be in business, O’Connor says. “The need for some direction and innovation has been apparent to many but the initiatives and help have not been good,” O’Connor adds. The report from the auditor-general released a couple of weeks ago said that, of the six projects it investigated – some more than halfway through – there is no identifiable economic benefit. “Which one of you would spend that kind of money without some strategic direction and some indication of moving in the right direction?” The Government has a goal of doubling exports by 2025, “but a goal is not a strategy,” says O’Connor. “Until we become more coordinated within the sectors and between the sectors and Government we are not going to get to where we need to go.” – Pam Tipa

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

6 NEWS

Impact of Russian ban felt by all PAM TIPA pamelat@ruralnews.co.nz

A DISTURBING element of Russia’s ban on dairy and other imports is that food trade has been politicised, says Kimberly Crewther, executive director of the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand. “This is a concern for all food producers globally,” she told the Agcarm conference in Auckland last week. “Given the humanitarian importance of food, generally our view is you want to protect it and protect the flow of food globally even in tense geopolitical situations.” The last year has seen significant disruption and dairy price volatility because of the geopolitical situation, she says. Russia has blacklisted a number of countries, preventing them from exporting their dairy products, some fresh fruit and vegetables, meat products and seafood. “What that meant for dairy is the sec-

says. The heifers tend to finish faster than the steers and that means they peterb@ruralnews.co.nz get a natural year-round spread of supply which is grass fed. BEEF FROM Kiwi Cross cows Farmers who sign up for the offers dairy farmers a way to boost latest Wagyu deal buy semen from their profits, says Firstlight Foods, the Firstlight Wagyu Producer Hawkes Bay. Group and when the calf is born it The company, which for six is bought by the company then years has been mating Wagyu on-sold to farmers who spebulls to Angus cows, is now turn- Wagyu bobby calf cialise in rearing and finishing ing its attention to AI mating using generated by AI, these animals. There are also Wagyu semen across Kiwi Cross options for the dairy farmer to dairy cows, which make up 43% regardless of sex, would of the national herd. be worth about $150 to a rear and grow their calves for sale. Spokesman Gerard Hickey dairy farmer, as opposed a later Hickey says they have says a Kiwi Cross Wagyu bobby established markets and now calf generated by AI, regardless of to the average price for a need more beef to fill these. sex, would be worth about $150 bobby calf of about $35. Wagyu beef is different to a dairy farmer, as opposed to the average price for a bobby calf of the Kiwi Cross probably offers the from other beef in the value of the different parts of the carcase. While greater opportunity for growth. about $35. “There are obviously some size- in all beef the high value cuts are in The great thing about the Kiwi Cross is the Jersey influence, he says. able herds out there so we’re trying the middle of the animal, in Wagyu “We know they have a high to raise the level of understanding of the second-best cuts are around the quality, marbled beef and when you what we’re doing. We’ve been going shoulder and the lowest value cuts add the Wagyu you get a superb for a few years and we have strong, are around the legs – the reverse of piece of meat. So that’s our interest. stable retail markets… and 140 farm- other breeds. Hickey says they see the huge Also the Kiwi Cross cow is less ers working with us who want to resource of Kiwi Cross cows as utilised, in terms of the calf for beef, grow further.” It won’t matter whether the one they can utilise for everyone’s and we think there is an opportunity to grow our business for the benefit calves are heifers or bulls, Hickey benefit. PETER BURKE

ond-largest import market globally was closed to some major suppliers, in particular the EU,” Crewther said. “Russia is a very large cheese importer, the EU is the world’s largest cheese exporter and suddenly that trade dynamic was turned off overnight.” If one market opportunity goes down you switch product. The EU has the ability to do that in some of its processing of milk, so they are now looking actively at where they might place some of those milk solids globally. “The markets they’re looking at are some of the places we send our products to, so there would be a significant loading of product at a time when, globally, production levels are good. “That will take some time to work through. The ban was due to be in place for a year and came in August so it has some time to go. The geopolitical situation still looks tense in the market.”

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

NEWS 7

Rural trader shrugs off head winds SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz

RURAL TRADER PGG Wrightson has reported a half-year gross profit of $33.6 million, its best result in seven years. Group revenue was up 3% and net profit after tax increased to $19.7 million, up from $13.4 million for the same period last year. PGG Wrightson chief executive Mark Dewdney called it an outstanding result with increases recorded in most areas of the business. “The momentum we’ve built up as a group over the last few years is continuing to increase sales and earnings. “This is a pleasing result for the first half and while there are headwinds… such as falling milk prices and a dry summer, we’re cautiously optimistic about the

remainder of the financial year. profit by $2.3m; livestock tallies “Right across our diverse business were broadly in line with the prior we’ve got great people and great corresponding period but prices products. We are working hard were higher in cattle and sheep, to stay ahead of our competitors, resulting in higher commission and our customers are continuing income and earnings. Seed and Grain to respond to our improvposted a $3.6 miling offering.” lion increase in operPGW’s board declared ating profit; increased a fully imputed dividend demand for supplemenof 2 cents per share to be tary forage crops in New paid out in April. Zealand, such as fodder The improved results beet, brassicas and owed much to improveherbs, played a big part ments in PGW’s three Mark Dewdney in this improvement. largest businesses: retail, PGW chairman Alan Lai says livestock and seed and grain. Retail grew sales and lifted shareholders were pleased to see margins to achieve a $2.6 million continued improvement in core increase in operating profit. “This businesses. “The board notes that the exeimprovement was led by our core agronomy categories, where our cution of the strategy outlined at technical expertise is strong,” says the annual shareholders meeting in October is on track across the Dewdney. Livestock improved operating three themes of improve, grow

and change.” PGW’s last trading update in December reiterated guidance that the company was on track to better last year’s gross profit of $58.7 million. The company updated fullyear guidance to a range of $62-$68 million. “The strength of this first half result has given us confidence that the 2015 full year result will be a solid one”, says Dewdney. “However there is still a lot of trading activity to get through yet. “The dry summer in New Zealand will lead to reduced farm spend if it remains as widespread as in 2013. On the other hand, if the dry conditions become more localised, that could stimulate trading in livestock and feed. The livestock segment makes most of its contribution to earnings in the second half and changes in livestock prices will continue to affect the results.”

TOO TOUGH! MORE CALLS are fielded by Federated Farmers Southland about tough immigration criteria for migrants than about any other issue, says the region’s president Russell MacPherson. “A bit too tough” is how he describes criteria for migrants, including Filipinos and other nationals wanting to live and work in Southland. The situation has gone sour. Filipino dairy workers, whose labour is said to have underpinned Southland’s dairying, are now leaving New Zealand. And many are no longer seeking entry, says Anne Hanning, of Hanning Immigration, Invercargill. She files and supports residency applications for many Filipinos, but sees many turned down by Immigration New Zealand. Many go where residency is easier to get. Hanning says many Filipino families approaching Immigration NZ casually are rejected as not meeting the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) criteria for residency in either country. Dorothea Hawkins, chair of the Southland Filipino Society, says the Filipinos are getting a hard time from Immigration NZ. She says her nephew was declined residency and went to Canada, getting dairy farm work and residency after one year there. She says it is “ridiculous” that Immigration NZ is inviting people to apply for residency at great cost when about 85% of applications received in Southland are declined. Without residency visas, Filipinos workers here on worker visas had to leave New Zealand when they reached age 54, she says. – Peter Owens

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NEWS 9

Mental health to come under the microscope at conference PAM TIPA pamelat@ruralnews.co.nz

INITIAL FINDINGS from important research on rural mental health will be released at the first-ever National Rural Health Conference at Rotorua on March 13-14. “We’re looking at the suicide rate of farmers and comparing it to what is actually happening with the external factors at the time – the weather, exchange rate, were we in drought, what was happening to the accident rate and fatalities on farms,” explains Rural Health Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand (RHAANZ) chief executive Michelle Thompson. The research looks at any spikes in suicides and links these to any of the above factors or to shortages in the health workforce. “We don’t think this work has been done before in New Zealand but until we can see the correlators we can’t consider the solutions.” Some findings or at least an overview of the key correlators may be released at the inaugural joint conference of New Zealand Rural General Practice Network and the Rural Health Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand (RHAANZ). Rural

health providers, primary industry professionals, community groups, district councils, researchers, funders and policy makers will attend. RHAANZ was set up in May 2012 and represents a united voice of rural organisations. Its aim is to offer solutions and influence policy. Thompson told Rural News that RHAANZ was a decade in the making. “It is a group for rural health professionals, rural industry and rural community groups committed to the health and wellbeing of our rural community. So it’s doctors, nurses, pharmacists, farmers and contractors, shearers, truck drivers – everybody who makes up rural communities.” Thompson has worked ten years in rural health management. She was a chief executive of the NZ Rural General Practice Network and the network is a founder member of the rural health alliance. “There is a general feeling among all of us that rural has been left off the Government’s agenda for quite some time,” Thompson says. “The catalyst for getting us all together was the increasing concern about mental health and wellbeing issues in rural regions, particularly among farm-

ing folk, and the lack of rural connectivity. The two are closely related.” Rural broadband minimises the sense of isolation and opens doors like ‘tele-health’. Also prompting formation of RHAANZ was the rural GP crisis:

the average retirement age of rural GPs in New Zealand is 57-58 and few are coming through. At any one time, a quarter of the rural practices are looking for a replacement. In rural communities it is often only the general

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

10 NEWS

New lad on the dairy block(s) He was raised on a typical dairy farm at Okato in Taranaki and is now in charge of running arguably the biggest dairy farming operation in the country. Reporter Peter Burke recently met up with Mark Julian, who heads Landcorp’s dairy farming operations. THE NUMBERS are almost frightening – 59 farms, 55,000 cows and 20 million kg milksolids a year. That’s the contribution Landcorp makes to New Zealand’s dairy industry and the nation’s economy. Mark Julian has, for some time, been seen as a talented young executive. He has a Bachelor of Applied Science with a major in agriculture from Massey University, followed by a postgraduate year focused on dairy production and farm management. In the final year of his degree he was awarded the prestigious William Gerrish Memorial Prize in Farm Management.

After leaving university he worked as consulting officer for DairyNZ and then joined Landcorp over six years ago as a business manager in Wellington. His rise to the top has been quick. In 2013, Julian was named as the young business executive of the year. Since taking up his new role as general manager dairy operations for Landcorp, late last year, Julian has already started to make his presence felt. He is very much focused on the future and is setting up systems and strategies to take Landcorp’s dairy operation forward. Julian says in 10 years’ time he expects its dairy farming systems to

Landcorp’s head of dairy operations Mark Julian.

be quite different from what they are today. He believes one of the key changes in the future will be on environmental issues. He adds there will also be systems in place to recruit and retain good people to run their busi-

ness. “All our business plans we put together have a section on sustainable management, which talks about the nutrient budget, where things are heading and where they are going to go to and options about

mitigating loss,” he tells Rural News. “So within areas of a farm we are looking at some of the key sensitivities about environment. In some cases it might be erosion control and others it might be sensi-

tive waterways. So there will be goals for that,” he explains. Julian says his role as head of Landcorp’s dairy operations is to look at what the industry as a whole is doing and what research projects are underway. One idea he is looking at is setting up a ‘future focus farm’. “This would involve looking at how we get profitable systems with half the nitrogen leaching footprint. It may involve taking some risks so we would bring in some of the best people in the industry – not just Landcorp,” he explains. “The aim would be to define what environmen-

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tally sustainable farming systems look like and what this might involve such as stocking rates, inputs and infrastructure.” Julian says the idea is very much in the embryonic stage and no concrete plans are in place, but it fits quite neatly into an industry leadership role that Landcorp by its nature assumes. “A lot of the things we’re going to be doing will have flow on effects for the industry. But they are going to be for our own business as well because we are a big business.” Julian says Landcorp is TO PAGE 15

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

12 NEWS

Less tillage key to barley record ANDREW SWALLOW

THE GROWER of what’s probably a new world record for barley yield says a switch to a reduced tillage system five years ago laid the foundations for this summer’s success. From there it’s been a case of getting a good

season, with the right variety grown to maximise yield potential and minimise yield loss to pests and diseases. “Every day the crop is in the ground there’s something trying to take the yield off you,” notes Warren Darling who harvested 13.8t/ha of winter

barley off an irrigated 11.6ha block just south of Timaru on January 23. On the day the record attempt was witnessed by a justice of the peace with every load put over a certified weighbridge and analysed by SGS. The aim was to meet the requirements of Guinness World

Records and beat the long-standing record of 12.2t/ha off 21.29ha, set in the Scottish Borders in 1989. “We set it up from planting in March to have a crack at the World Record, but it was only in the last three months that we knew we were

on track and only 10 days prior, when we took a last test cut to evaluate the yield, that we knew we’d be on the plus side of the record,” Darling told Rural News. The record attempt was supported by a team of commercial companies, including Carr Group sub-

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Good dirt: Warren Darling in the paddock where he believes he’s set a new Guinness World Record for barley yield.

sidiary Canterbury Seed which markets Blackman Agriculture (BA) cereal varieties in New Zealand through the Exclusive Grain Group (EGC). Darling’s EGC membership gave him access to BA’s true winter barley variety 776 and in 2014 he harvested 11.5t/ha of it across the farm, which in due course spurred this season’s record attempt. Fortuitously, the weather played its part, high sunshine hours driving grain fill but with cool temperatures minimising losses to respiration. Little spring or summer rain also meant minimal disease pressure. The record block was irrigated with 15mm/week during November and

December but Darling plays down its role in the record. “The rest of our barley this year has done 12t/ha and only 30% of it was irrigated.” More important was establishment in March with 60kg/ha of Raxil Poncho treated seed into a seedbed prepared with two passes of a Great Plains Simba SL500 cultivator to incorporate oilseed rape stubble, create a stale seedbed, and remove any barriers to rooting. “It was all in before the rain in early April.” Having a true winter variety with stiffer straw and superior disease resistance to spring types is important for such early sowing, he believes.

SEASON AND SOIL BEHIND SUCCESS Darling’s agronomist, Roger Lasham, says the season and good soil management were key factors in the record yield. “Too often I see farmers beat the living daylights out of [soil]. Warren’s doing one or two passes and in. He’s keeping the soil alive and it has very good fertility… The roots are feeding off the whole profile. On some farms they’ve just got the top six inches, not the best part of two feet.” Spring started with soils at field capacity too so in clays like Darling’s Claremont series ground with high water holding capacity and no barrier to rooting there was a good reserve of water for crops to draw on. Meanwhile the dry conditions above ground minimised disease pressure.

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

14 NEWS

Japanese giant steps in as ANZCO shareholding changes sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz

CHANGE IN ownership at Anzco Meats is a vote of confidence in the meat industry, claims company chairman Sir Graeme Harrison.

share transaction shows investors’ faith in the industry. Harrison, a shareholder since 1987, now owns 14% of the meat processor; other shares are held by Nippon Suisan Kaisha

Japanese food company Itoham Foods Inc has increased its stake in Anzco to 65%, buying more shares from Harrison. He says contrary to negative comments by some industry players, the

Ltd (Nissui), and JANZ Investments Ltd, which is majority owned by Harrison with senior ANZCO managers. Mitsubishi Corporation, Itoham’s largest shareholder,wants to grow its business

outside Japan to become “the most trusted manufacturer of processed meat in Asia”. Mitsubishi has 200 offices working with 600 group companies in 90 countries. Itoham and ANZCO will access this

Sir Graeme Harrison is dropping his shareholding in ANZCO to a 14% stake.

network. Harrison says Mitsubishi’s entry to the local meat industry via Itoham is a big vote of confidence. “We haven’t had one of the world’s top 50 businesses invest in our agriculture sector so this is a big confidence boost for the industry,” he told Rural News. ANZCO launched in 1984, first owned by the New Zealand Meat Producers Board which sold out 11 years later for one hundred times its investment. In 1995 Harrison led a group including Itoham and Nissui to buy the shares

from ANZCO before starting joint ventures which over time were taken over by ANZCO. Until now Itoham and Nissui have been passive investors in ANZCO, their investments having been in the hands of former presidents of both companies. Food sales are handled by Mitsubishi’s Living Essentials Group, with 28,000 employees and interests in Asia, China, Indonesia and India. Mitsubishi dominates the distribution chains including convenience stores in Japan and Indonesia.

“We haven’t had one of the world’s top 50 businesses invest in our agriculture sector so this is a big confidence boost for the industry.” – Graeme Harrison

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held by the Meat Board and listed company Huttons Kiwi Ltd. Nissui makes marine products, processed foods and fine chemicals. It became ANZCO’s secondlargest shareholder in 2001. Nissui is a 50% shareholder in Sealord Group Ltd. ANZCO is New Zealand’s secondlargest beef company and third-largest meat company, with 3000 employees and annual sales of NZ$1.3 billion. It operates New Zealand’s only large scale cattle feedlot, has investments in businesses processing raw material from the group’s seven slaughter and processing sites and has a network of overseas offices. Itoham and Nissui began buying meat

Itoham has been large in the Japanese ham, sausage and processed foods segment. No change will be made to the ANZCO board; Harrison (66) will remain chairman and Mark Clarkson managing director. The moves foreshadow Harrison’s retirement. Concurrent with the Itoham offer Harrison has made an identically priced offer to the seven smallest ANZCO shareholders to simplify the company’s ownership. ANZCO’s shareholding has been virtually unchanged since 2001. The company has paid dividends every year since then. Overseas ownership of ANZCO will increase by 8.3%, from 73.5% to 81.8%.

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

NEWS 15

State farmer’s main dairy man FROM PAGE 10

now engaging much more with stakeholders including iwi, farmers and the wider community. For example, the company is hoping to work with a group of Upper Waikato dairy farmers who are pushing the environment space and thinking about what their farm systems can do. “We are trying to open up our business. For example, if we go with a focus farm we’d be building an online capacity so people can see what we are doing and hold field days and that sort of thing.” Julian says Landcorp looks at the Maori concept of kaitiakitanga and how this links in with Landcorp’s goals, which is to

‘rejuvenate’ the environment – not just manage within the limits of the law. He says this philosophy is embedded in their environmental plans. Julian believes one of the keys to good environmental management and making a profit is having good quality data. The state farmer is renowned for collecting a lot of data from the milking shed right through to the paddock and beyond -information which can be shared by all in the company. Julian says the company is constantly evaluating new systems, which are being developed for the dairy industry. “I have seen some farms in the Waikato

KEEPING ANIMAL LOBBYISTS AT BAY AUSTRALIAN DAIRY farmers are working with animal rights activists on the industry’s animal welfare credentials. Dairy Australia chief executive Ian Halliday says farmers are “not out of the woods, they’re in the spotlight”. He told the recent Australian Dairy Conference in Tasmania that farmers will be glad they are not in the greyhound industry. (A recent ABC Four Corners report showed live piglets, possums and rabbits being chased and killed by dogs. It was secretly filmed by Animal Australia at training tracks in Queensland and Victoria.) Halliday says the dairy industry is not complacent about animal welfare and is telling this to animal rights groups. A lot of work is going on behind the scenes on animal welfare, he told the conference. “We are not out of the woods; we’re in the spotlight on animal welfare but we’re having a lot of dialogue with animal right groups, to explain that we look after and care for our animals – as an important part of our livelihood.” Halliday admits the industry still has issues to deal with – induction, tail docking and treatment of bobby calves – but is doing its best. “We will continue looking after animal health and welfare as an industry… it’s always on our mind.” Halliday predicts farmgate returns will improve by the end of the year. He pointed to a drop in milk output in key markets like New Zealand and Europe. ‘’New Zealand pulled back full year forecasts by 3.5 % compared to the prior year. It has been pretty dry over there. We know Europe was up about 5% last year; it’s down 2% this year.” “When world prices go towards record levels, every region responds, every dairy region around the world chases that record price. We know New Zealand was up 9% last year, US was up 3% and Europe 5%.” Australia finished last season only 0.4% up. Halliday puts this down to a tough start to the 2013-14 season. This year’s national milk volume in Australia will be up 2%. “We are running at 2.6% after a strong start but it has tapered off this summer.” At the same time consumption in the domestic market remains steady. – Sudesh Kissun

where they grow their own maize and they have a herd home and that provides 95% of their fertiliser. They are just putting on minerals and they are getting away from using fertiliser and imported feed and becoming almost like a closed system. If they could keep their young

stock on the property it could almost become a totally closed system.” In the meantime, Julian says Landcorp will continue to scope out ideas and look at new and innovative ways to run their dairy farms. Along with his focus on innovation he remains passionate about the dairy

industry. “I like cows and love farming – it’s what I have grown up with. The few times when I haven’t been directly involved in farming it’s something I have always wanted to get back to. I love the dairy industry. it’s where I have spent my career and it’s a fantastic place.”

Landcorp’s dairy operations are made up of 59 farms, 55,000 cows producing 20 million kg/Ms a year.

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

NEWS 17

Women working for women on East Coast SARAH CHARTERIS

A NEW network on the North Island East Coast has sprung from a vision for supporting and developing women in farming. Farming Women Tairawhiti aims to improve contact among women via regular events, personal development and rural based education. The idea arose from the Agri-Women’s Development Trust (AWDT) ‘First Steps’ course in Gisborne last year. Sandra Matthews and Marie Burke, farming with their husbands near Gisborne, attended the courses. With the support of the AWDT they formed a group from the course participants, leading to Farming Women Tairawhiti. “The women in the Mastermind Group meet regularly to set personal goals, discuss progress and support one another,” says Burke. “I aimed to combine my teaching background with a love of farming, and use the skills to help rural women network and up skill through organised events. Sandra and I had discussions with the members of the Mastermind Group to find out what areas they wanted development in and we then set about forming FWT and organising our first focus day.” The network is free for all farming and rural women from Wairoa, Gisborne and East Coast districts. It is independent

but gets money from Beef + Lamb NZ. “We decided we didn’t want to be part of a national network as we wanted the focus to be more on education and social support, rather than politics,” Burke says. “I am passionate about education, but also social networks can be lacking for some rural women, especially if they are busy raising a family or working on or off farm.” Matthews established the FWT Facebook page in January to start building social networks; seasonal Focus Days will get members together “to learn new information on farming topics and have a bit of fun. Follow-on from the focus days will allow women to up-skill in the area they choose. The days are free and run within school hours.” The first focus day will be on March 26 in Gisborne and will cover farm safety and wellbeing. “This topic was chosen because WorkSafe NZ has launched Safer Farms…. Quad safety is still a hot topic and new workplace laws are about to come out which will affect all farmers and their families. “We are aware of the impact of depression and suicide in rural communities and wanted to provide information on this difficult topic as well. Our guest speaker Wendy Avery has first-hand knowledge of the subject. She will tell how she coped with her husband’s depression during years

of drought, and will introduce Resilient Farmer.” Burke hopes FWT has come at the right time for many. “When I enrolled in the AWDT course my life was at a bit of a cross-

roads: having been a teacher for 20 years, while part-time farming with my husband Rob, I suddenly found myself with no children at home, no teaching role and a full-time job on the farm.

“As much as I love working with Rob, there was something missing in my life. ‘First Steps’ helped me realise I could use my skills… to help not only myself but other rural women.”

Sandra Matthews (left) and Marie Burke.

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

18 NEWS

UK farmers plug pollies for ag-friendly policies SUDESH KISSUN sudeshk@ruralnews.co.nz

UK FARMERS are putting food production at the centre of the UK general election campaign. UK heads to the polls on May 7.

The ‘Great British Food Gets My Vote’ campaign, launched last week, wants politicians to back British farming, and urges consumers to buy British food and support British farming. The National Farmers

Union (NFU) is advertising in national dailies and farming publications to stress British farming and food production as crucial to the country; and farmers are encouraged to invite their local MP onfarm.

Over 200 NFU members have signed up to get and display 3m x 1m banners emblazoned with ‘Great British Food Gets My Vote’. Campaign window stickers will be distributed to 50,000 members. NFU president Meurig Raymond says with the general election three months away, British agriculture and the future of domestic food production must be recognised as hugely important for Britain. “Before the campaign has launched, we already have hundreds of members interested in getting behind it. Farmers are behind this campaign, which shows the importance of our lobbying.” Food and farming needs recognising for contributing to the UK economy, creating jobs and maintaining a rural landscape that attracts millions of tourists every year. “We know people care about farming: look at the recent dairy crisis to see people wanting to help solve the current crisis. People realise it takes years of commitment, investment, time and care to rear good quality beef and dairy animals; plant, nurture and harvest crops; protect soils and manage land. This is a long-term business that needs longterm thinking by the next

government.” Raymond says like many farmers he is proud of producing food, but he’s also intensely aware of the major challenges facing British farmers. “We have to produce more food but with fewer inputs and better care for the environment. I want the next government to work with the NFU to set an agenda for growth, building on the professionalism and confidence of British farmers. By backing British farming and working together we can increase food production by supporting research, investment and growth. “Global and domestic demand for food and renewable energy is on the rise: 88% of the UK public think farming is important to the economy. “Farmers are ready too, with the potential to grow production and reduce our reliance on imported produce. What is needed now is a Government that understands farming, that supports growth and that has the policies that send the right business signals to farmers across the UK.”

WISH LIST ■■

■■

Work with the industry to develop a comprehensive plan to grow UK food production over the next Government’s term Cut over-prescriptive CAP greening requirements during the European Commission’s review in 2016 Use the UK’s 2017 presidency of the Council of the European Union to set the agenda for CAP 2020 reforms, based on principles of fairness, simplicity, commonality and market focus Establish fiscal incentives for sole traders and farm partnerships to encourage a balanced approach to investment to manage volatility Increase on-farm water storage and reservoir building with financial support and tax incentives and by reducing red tape for reservoir applications Champion the use of regulatory impact assessments at all stages of EU decision making and show leadership by conducting a cost benefi t analysis early in the life of all proposed European legislation that affects agriculture Promote the ‘Britain is Great’ campaign for British produce to open up export markets by backing exporters and embassy staff.

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

20 MARKETS & TRENDS BEEF MARKET TRENDS

MARKET SNAPSHOT Meat

North Island Change c/kg

c/kgCWT

Lamb - PM 16.0kg

Last Week

South Island Last Week

Change c/kg

-10

5.48

-10

5.13

Steer - P2 300kg

-5

5.45

-10

5.10

Bull - M2 300kg

-5

5.60

-10

5.10

-10

6.40

-15

6.30

Venison - AP 60kg

BEEF PRICES

LAMB PRICES Last Week

2 Wks Ago

Last Year

-5

5.60

5.65

4.50

P2 Cow - 230kg

-5

4.55

4.60

M Cow - 200kg

-5

4.25

4.30

Local Trade - 230kg

-10

5.30

5.40

4.50

Mutton

P2 Steer - 300kg

-10

5.10

5.20

4.28

SI Lamb

M2 Bull - 300kg

-10

5.10

5.20

4.18

P2 Cow - 230kg

-10

3.90

4.00

M Cow - 200kg

-10

3.90

Local Trade - 230kg

-10

5.10

Change

c/kgCWT NI

-5

P2 Steer - 300kg M2 Bull - 300kg

North Island 16.0kg M Lamb Price $7.0

5.45

5.50

4.55

$5.0 5yr Ave

$4.0 Oct

Nov

Last Year

Dec

Jan

This Year

Feb

Mar

South Island 16.0kg M Lamb Price $6.5

60k 50k 40k 30k 20k 10k k Oct

Change

c/kgCWT

NI Lamb

This Year

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

PX - 19.0kg

-10

5.50

5.60

3.45

PH - 22.0kg

-10

5.51

5.61

MX1 - 21kg

-5

3.35

3.40

YM - 13.5kg

-10

5.13

5.23

5.29

PM - 16.0kg

-10

5.13

5.23

5.31

3.05

PX - 19.0kg

-10

5.13

5.23

5.33

4.00

2.90

PH - 22.0kg

-10

5.13

5.23

5.34

5.20

4.30

-10

2.88

2.98

3.28

Mutton

MX1 - 21kg

Slaughter North Island Weekly Cattle Kill

North Island Weekly Lamb Kill

400k 300k 200k 5yr Ave Last Year This Year

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

5yr Ave Last Year This Year

100k k Oct

Nov

5yr Ave Last Year This Year

$5.7

$4.7

$3.7 Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

South Island 300kg Steer Price

$5.5

k Oct

Dec

Jan

Feb

Dec

Jan

Export Market Demand

Mar

Last Week

Change

Last Week

2 Wks Ago

Last Year

5yr Ave

2.58

2.55

2.06

1.97

NZ$/kg

7.27

7.21

5.50

5.48

Feb

Mar

$2.70

2 Wks Ago

Last Year 5yr Ave

UK Leg £/lb

n/c

1.95

2.00

1.87

NZ$/kg

n/c

8.40

8.12

8.50

Demand Indicator - UK Leg Price £2.50 £2.00

Demand Indicator - US 95CL Beef

This Year

$4.5

Nov

This Year

Nov

95CL US$/lb

$3.20

$5.0

k Oct

Last Year

5yr Ave Last Year

Mar

100k 5yr Ave

Change

$4.2

Feb

400k

15k

Export Market Demand

$5.2

Jan

200k

North Island 300kg Bull Price

Dec

South Island Weekly Lamb Kill

300k

10k

$6.2

5.56

3.50

20k

$3.5

5.56

5.58

25k Last Year

5.46

5.58

500k

5yr Ave

Last Year

5.48

South Island Weekly Cattle Kill

30k

2 Wks Ago

-10

$5.5 $4.5

-10

YM - 13.5kg

Last Week

PM - 16.0kg

Slaughter

$6.0

LAMB MARKET TRENDS

Last Year

£1.50

This Year

£1.00

Last Year This Year

Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

$2.20

$4.0

Procurement Indicator

$1.70 Oct

$3.5 Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Change 5yr Ave Last Year This Year

$8.0

-1%

71.5%

72.8%

75.9%

69.8%

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

$6.5

70%

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

70.8%

67.6%

66.7%

67.5%

68.2%

Procurement Indicator - North I. 90%

Last Year

80%

This Year

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

Procurement Indicator - South I. 85%

Last Year

55%

This Year

45% Oct Last Year This Year

60% Nov

70.2%

62.5%

65%

Procurement Indicator - South I.

90% 80%

Oct

67.9%

-4%

Last Year 5yr Ave

75%

$7.0

$6.0

-2%

% Returned SI

This Year

Last Year This Year

% Returned NI

Oct

5yr Ave

$7.5

3 Wks Ago

Last Year

Oct

$8.0

2Wks Ago

70% 60% 50%

Procurement Indicator - North I.

60%

South Island 60kg Stag Price

$8.5

5yr Ave

% Returned SI

70%

Mar

Last Year

76.1%

80% Feb

3 Wks Ago

82.66%

$6.0 Jan

2Wks Ago

80.4%

$6.5

Change

Mar

77.7%

$7.0

Dec

Feb

-3%

90%

Nov

Jan

% Returned NI

$7.5

Oct

Dec

Procurement Indicator

North Island 60kg Stag Price

$8.5

Nov

50% Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Dec

Venison Prices Change

Mar

Beef & venison prices are reported as gross (before normal levies & charges are deducted). Lamb & mutton prices are reported nett (after levies & charges are deducted).

Nov

Jan

Feb

Last Week

2 Wks Ago

Mar

Last Year 5yr Ave

NI Stag - 60kg

-10

6.40

6.50

6.35

6.95

SI Stag - 60kg

-15

6.30

6.45

6.40

7.10

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

MARKETS & TRENDS 21 NEWS

PRICE WATCH

BEEF: North Island beef dipped further last week as delays of up to two weeks were reported at some processing plants around the North Island. The growing dry conditions and falling prices are causing the space issues as cattle flood into the plants. 300kg cwt bull prices are back to $5.60/kg while 300kg cwt steer prices have eased back to average $5.45/kg. It is a similar situation in the South Island where beef prices remain under pressure. 300kg cwt bull and steer prices reduced to average $5.10/kg last week. There are reports prices have fallen below the $5/kg mark at some processors. Delays of 10-12 days are common at most processing plants as the dry weather has prompted many to offload. Delays of 10-12 days are common at most processing plants as the dry weather has prompted many to offload. Delays of 10-12 days are common at most processing plants as the dry weather LAMB:

Lamb prices plummeted through the Christmas break with prices in the South Island taking a 20-40c/kg hit. Prices last week were down to an average of $5.15/kg gross. Space issues at processing plants appear to be the main driver of the slumping prices. Spreading

dry conditions mean lambs are being drafted down to lighter weights adding to the processing delays which are now up to 10 days long. Prices in the North Island have also eased but generally by only 20c/kg since Christmas. Prices last week were back to an average of $5.60/kg gross. The dry conditions are starting to weigh on farmers minds with many opting to offload now. This has impacted on space at processing plants with delays of up to 7-10 days common. If the dry conditions intensify then expect prices to remain under pressure right through the month

DAIRY: Whole milk powder (WMP) prices look to have stabilised with prices holding into the New Year. This is despite mixed demand from China. While general demand from China remains slow, some of the bigger buyers are once again showing some interest. Interest for WMP from other markets remains active. The sharp lift in the butter market may be fortelling of prices rises in the weeks ahead. from China. Whole milk powder (WMP) prices look to have stabilised with prices holding into the New Year. This is despite mixed demand from China. While general demand from China remains slow, some of the bigger buyers are once again showing

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Overseas Wool Price Indicators

WOOL PRICE WATCH Change

08-Jan

18-Dec

Last Year

Coarse Xbred

-15

4.88

5.03

Fine Xbred

-15

5.23

5.38

5.22

Lamb

n/c

6.21

5.45

7.28

Indicators in NZ$

Mid Micron

Indicators in US$/kg Coarse Xbred Fine Xbred Lamb Mid Micron

Wool Indicator Trends

650

CXI

18-Dec

Last Year

-8

3.80

3.87

4.17

-7

4.07

4.14

4.32

4.83

4.78

4.51

6.03

Wool Indicator in US$

550

FXI

08-Jan

Change

500

600

450 400

550

350

500

300

450 Jan

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

Nov

Jan

FXI

Mar

May

Jul

Sep

500 500

450 400

400

350

Last Year This Year

300 250

300 Oct

Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Oct

Mar

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

22 AGRIBUSINESS

Feds call time on swaps debacle FEDERATED FARMERS says it is time to move on after the Commerce Commission’s $2.97 million settlement with Westpac over the selling of interest rate swaps. The commission has

Fed Farmers national president William Rolleston says the interest swaps settlements are fair and it is time to move on.

settled with all the banks – ANZ, ASB and Westpac – that promoted and sold interest rate swaps to rural customers between 2005 and 2012. Federated Farmers president William

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Rolleston says the agreements are a fair and equitable solution and it’s time to move on. The banks must pay a total of $23.67m to 256 eligible farmers, says Rolleston. “While some farmers felt they were not adequately informed of the risks with swaps, it is that important lessons are learned from this. Farmers must get independent advice and be sure they understand the implications of the

contracts they sign. And banks must not take that understanding for granted. Trust between banker and client is paramount: it must be earned and can quickly evaporate.” Westpac will pay $2.47 million to 38 eligible customers who registered their complaints with the commission. Westpac will also pay $250,000 towards the commission’s costs and $250,000 to Rural Support Trusts.

Commission chairman Mark Berry says the settlement was a good outcome for the 38 eligible farmers. “The payments to be made under the settlement are, in our view, a reasonable approximation of the potential losses that the commission could have recovered through any court process.” Berry says securing a settlement was important in averting the uncertainty of contested and lengthy court cases.

RURAL CASH APPEAL CLOCKS UP $365K THE ‘CASH for Communities’ scheme run by PGG Wrightson and Ballance Agri-Nutrients has raised $365,000 in the four years since it began, helping schools and community groups nationwide, the firms say. In the three months to November 30, the companies gave $1 for each tonne farmers spent on participating fertiliser to schools and charities selected by farmers shopping at the rural retailers. Last spring was the first time it has run during that season. About 1300 farmers took part, resulting in $45,000 going to 220 rural groups. $21,000 will go to rural schools, $11,000 to rescue helicopters and $10,000 to St John. Other clubs and group will also benefit. Stephen Guerin, PGG Wrightson manager retail, said the support showed “farmers and suppliers [want to help] organisations that needed assistance to survive in rural communities. Funding is increasingly difficult to source so every bit makes a difference.” The top three recipients were BayTrust Rescue Helicopter ($2488), Tatuanui School ($2341) and Westpac Rescue Helicopter Waikato ($2253).

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

AGRIBUSINESS 23

NZ sheep milking could storm the world PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz

NEW ZEALAND could lead the world in sheep milk production, says Nuffield scholar Lucy Griffiths. She told the recent Ewe Milk Products and Sheep Dairying Conference at Massey University the industry is well set up to lead internationally. Griffiths recently completed her Nuffield scholarship project on the sheep milk industry, travelling three months in the UK, France, Israel, Italy, Switzerland and the USA to compile her report. She chose this industry because of its potential to help double New Zealand’s exports and because of her marketing work with a sheepmilk cheese maker in Wairarapa. “We have one of the biggest sheep dairies in the world here – Blue River, with 20,000 ewes. We are leaders in bovine dairy, we are the leaders in sheep farming so why can’t we be the leaders in dairy sheep?’ she told Rural News. “However, we

are competing with traditional sheep milk countries like Spain, Italy and France, producers of sheep milk and cheese for centuries. For example, Roquefort in France, with 1700 suppliers, has produced cheese since 79CE. Today they produce some of the most expensive cheeses in the world. “So we have competitors in cheese, but there is a lot of opportunity for us in the gourmet food market (butter, yoghurt, milk, fresh milk and icecream) and in functional foods, sports nutrition, UHT and infant formula.” Griffiths notes that worldwide at least 10 million tonnes of sheep milk are produced annually, the largest producers being China and Turkey. And though New Zealand could not reach such volumes it has the capacity to produce for high-value, niche markets. New Zealand’s many advantages include its world leadership in sheep farming, breeding, technology and research, Griffiths says.

Lucy Griffiths

Our farmers are good adopters and developers of milking technology and some of the main sheep milking breeds, e.g. East Friesian and Awassi, are here. She concedes the challenges in developing a large sheep milk industry in New Zealand: the lack of a strong

tradition of sheep milk consumption, limited flocks of milking sheep breeds, and few people with experience to run sheep milk operations. “But sheep dairy has the potential to be a billion dollar industry in 10 years if the right breeding programmes, feed mixes and other

technologies are implemented. Demand for sheep milk products is growing worldwide driven by health, tradition and fashion.” – More on the Massey conference and sheep milking pp 28-29 @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

24 OPINION EDITORIAL

EDNA

Another doorstop? THE MEAT Industry Excellence Group’s (MIE) much-vaunted and so far highly secretive report into meat sector reforms is due to be released later this month. No one can accuse MIE and its supporters of lacking passion or determination, and their initial efforts in rousing farmer support and getting endorsed candidates onto the boards of Alliance Group and Silver Fern Farm is commendable. However, passion and understanding aside, this knotty question remains: given all the huffing and puffing by MIE, what real and tangible reforms will it actually achieve? The reality is that getting a couple of directors onto meat co-ops’ boards, and increasing voter turnout among apathetic suppliers is nice – but it doesn’t mean much. Not long ago MIE’s predecessor ginger group MIAG (Meat Industry Action Group) was calling for similar meat sector reforms and even got a number of endorsed candidates onto the boards of Alliance and SFF. And what happened? MIAG’s leader gave up and went dairy farming, while its meat company directors either retired or got voted off the boards and nothing has changed in the ensuing years! MIE claims it has… “strong farmer support for a new processing and marketing co-operative with much greater scale…. There is clearly a groundswell and we need to get on with it.” But will this ‘groundswell’ translate into actual support for MIE’s recommendations for reform when they are finally published? Especially when it requires farmers to dig into their own pockets to pay for industry consolidation (read plant closedown) and reduces their opportunity to shop around? And how will farmers feel about the lack of capacity in the industry when they are desperate to get stock killed in a dry year? No doubt all will be revealed when the MIE report is published. While admiration for the group’s efforts and work are one thing, one gets the uneasy feeling that this latest effort at meat sector reforms will just turn out to be another doorstop – with a $200,000 price tag. It would be good to be proven wrong, but the history of the New Zealand meat industry is littered with good intentions and dozens of ‘change reports’. We’re not holding our breath.

RURAL NEWS

“They must have come over for that Hero Parade!”

THE HOUND

Want to share your opinion or gossip with the Hound? Send your emails to: hound@ruralnews.co.nz

Really?

Thick or what?

Paid mouthpiece

Fairly sated

THE HOUND nearly choked on his bone when he heard that Bitch and Complain (Fish and Game) head and chief farmer hater Bryce Johnson turned up at the recent Feds dairy council and claimed his lobby was not the enemy of farmers. He then had the temerity to blame Feds for not pushing enough positive dairying messages and claimed this was why the public had such a negative view of the industry. However, your old mate suggests it’s Johnson and his Bitch and Complain cronies who constantly fan the public’s negative image of dairy farming – such as its recent allegations that South Canterbury farmers were evading irrigation restrictions by trying to manipulate river flow monitoring meters. Trouble was F&G was too quick to blame farmers – based on unsubstantiated rumours. Turns out it was swimmers, not farmers, blocking the river.

YOUR CANINE crusader continues to shake his head at the sheer stupidity of NZ First’s primary sector spokesman Richard ‘the Tosser’ Prosser. His latest brain explosion was to blame the recent fruitfly incursions on the new Smartgate passenger processing system at airports around the country. A mate pointed out to yours truly that Prosser’s call to abolish Smartgate is one of the dumber things a politician has ever said. The fact is Smartgate does not get visitors around biosecurity checks, it just scans a passenger’s passport details and takes a photo of them. This all happens before any overseas arrival picks up his/ her luggage – after which they still queue for biosecurity and have a chat with a biosecurity/customs officer.

REGULAR READERS of this old mutt’s column will remember suggestions made earlier about opponents of Hawkes Bay’s proposed Ruataniwha dam having gotten into bed with the unemployed, overweight, greasy blogger and central figure in the ‘dirty politics’ scandal – Cameron ‘Whaleoil’ Slater. Confidantes of the Hound point out that Slater seems to be in the pocket of shady political operative Simon Lusk, an outspoken critic of Ruataniwha and sponsor of a number of the anti-dam councillors on the Hawkes Bay Regional Council. It seems Slater continues unabated to run Lusk et al’s antidam stance on his blog site, a refuge for nutjobs and losers. It would be interesting to discover the real link between these strange bedfellows.

NEARLY FOUR years ago the Hound savaged Fed Farmers for its treatment of journalists attending a luncheon at Feds’ annual conference. The guests were fed chicken, yes chicken, which was bad enough, but the newshounds got nothing except a plate of sandwiches to share! At the recent Feds Dairy section conference, where one of the Hound’s reporter mates was enjoying a nice meal, the chairman sidled up and reminded him that at least dairy farmers know how to feed journalists.

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ABC audited circulation 81,188 as at 30.06.2014 Rural News is published by Rural News Group Ltd. All editorial copy and photographs are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. Opinions or comments expressed within this publication are not necessarily those of staff, management or directors of Rural News Group Ltd.

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

OPINION 25

No child bans on farm FRANCOIS BARTON

FARMERS DEAL in facts, so let’s do some myth busting. When the new health and safety law is passed, children will not be banned from farms. Jacqueline Rowarth erroneously concluded (Rural News, Feb 17) that kids will be kicked off farms as a result of a new health and safety law due to be passed this year. Rowarth incorrectly stated that under the new law “liability” would be “extended to farm workers’ families – their partners and friends”. She also fails to note that farmers already owe a duty under the current law to ‘other persons’ on a farm – and that includes children. The new law will make this duty clearer, but it’s a duty that already exists. Now let’s take a look at the reality of kids on farms. Farms are unique, active workplaces. Farmers choose their work because it’s a way of life. Children are a fundamental part of this and WorkSafe appreciates and respects what a vital component of farming family life is. Farmers’ kids become farmers them-

selves, often because they love the lifestyle they’ve grown up in, and WorkSafe has no interest in seeing this change. But farming is a risky business: children are being killed by such as farm vehicles, by livestock, by falling into effluent ponds or offal pits. These are the kinds of risks WorkSafe is focused on and plenty of farmers are telling us they’re focused on them too. The good news is that these risks can be managed; not by wrapping kids in cotton wool and banning them from farms but by fencing ponds, covering pits, creating ‘safe kid zones’ in dairy sheds and having kids ride in the cab, not the back of the ute or on a trailer. It’s just common sense. Thus farming parents can still safely keep their kids with them during hectic work times, and WorkSafe supports this 100%. Children also die in swimming pools, rivers, beaches, on roads and on driveways. But keeping kids safe on farms and in the city isn’t an either/or situation. Everyone has a responsibility to watch over children, and we can all learn from examples being set by many farm-

ers. Rowarth’s comments were particularly disappointing given that Rural News’ facing-page editorial urged farmers to “clean up their collective act” to address agriculture’s “shameful record” in health and safety. The paper’s editorial sup-

ported the aims of the recently launched ‘Safer Farms’ campaign – similarly Federated Farmers Waikato provincial president Chris Lewis and Gisborne/Wairoa provincial president Peter Jex-Blake. We don’t need to wrap children in cotton wool to keep them safe. Instead,

known risks on farms must be understood and managed practically by those best placed to do it – farmers, not because it’s the law but because it’s the right thing to do. • Francois Barton is WorkSafe New Zealand’s national programmes manager.

WorkSafe NZ Francois Barton says children will not be banned from farms under new health and safety laws.

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PLANT MORE TREES RE YOUR front page picture (Rural News Feb 3): ‘Rain Please’. Why should I feel for Jamie Powdrell? There he is with a hat on but with only what I would call one tree for shelter or shade for his animals. Do people not realise that willows and poplars not only help control erosion, but also provide shade and shelter from wind and rain and shade on hot dry days, as well as making good fodder in times of drought? Trees are also valuable in attracting moisture. But note the long term damage done to the land by clear felling for an extra dollar without any consideration to animal welfare. Yes, the time is long overdue for farmers to look at slow release dams on their properties to take advantage of nature’s gift of rainfall on their land; this instead of over draining. They should plant fodder trees as well and give something back to the land. John Bassett Kaitaia

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

OPINION 27 ‘MISSING’ SHEEP STILL A MYSTERIOUS PHENOMENON! I WAS interested in the work at Massey University on reducing wastage in commercial flocks. ‘Missing sheep’ were mentioned as an issue (Rural News, February 17, p39). I did a small survey in the late 1970s at the Whatawhata Hill Country Research Station about ‘disappearing sheep’, and got into trouble with MAF head boffins. The cause was the NZ Journal of Agriculture showing on its front cover a clever picture of sheep fading away into the distance, to promote

the story John Dobbie and I wrote, headed ‘Disappearing Sheep’. This appeared when the sheep retention scheme was at its zenith, so we were blamed for inferring that farmers were collecting money for phantom sheep. We were frustrated by never being able to make our Whatawhata tallies tally. We always had missing sheep with close shepherding by technicians where every sheep was tagged, the tag of every dead sheep

found was brought back to the office – and still they disappeared. At the end of the year we couldn’t account for hundreds of sheep, and I knew this went on in other research flocks. It was not to be talked about. Things got so bad at one stage that the auditors arrived from Wellington to count our sheep. This was

a laugh for our technicians who just kept running the same sheep around the yards to be counted two or three times. I knew this was a major hill country problem and probably still is. All our farming neighbours had disappearing sheep and some were honest enough to give me their tallies. They just learned

to accept it. The biggest loss was in weaned lambs from December into the new year, and among our breeds the Perendales were the best at turning up at each muster. There were always plenty of reasons suggested for these lost sheep but they were just guesses.

Rustling came up regularly, but we could never find proof. I learned from Lands & Survey shepherds that to keep the field officers off their backs they always kept extra lambs at docking (their first tally) up their sleeves, to be drip-fed into the tally books to cover up lambs that disappeared without trace

after weaning, as they had to tally sheep every time they moved them. So my scientific conclusion is that the sheep went into thin air without trace and left the planet. Clive Dalton Hamilton @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

ag twits Rural News’ irreverent and hypothetical look at what’s happening in the farming world Top Bleats view all thatguynathanminister: Oh for f@*&s sake tell me @MPI just how the f#$% did this latest Queensland fruitfly incursion happen? #bloodyaussies MPI: Officially @thatguynathanminister it is not an ‘incursion’ just yet, but merely an early ‘detection’. If we detect more fruitfly incurrences then we will officially declare it as the former and not the latter. #asscovering rpossernzfirst: I’m certain this recent fruitfly overstayer snuck into NZ from Wogistan, fooling the airport Smartgate system by wearing a full-length burka. Outrageous! Smartgate must go! #howthehelldidieverbecomeanmp damienoconnormp: I blame National-led government lax biosecurity measures for the current outbreak of Queensland fruitflies swarming New Zealand’s countryside and destroying our horticulture industry. Under Labour’s watch we only ever allowed in pests like varroa, gypsy moth, didymo, Russel Norman and Kim Dotcom. #itisalltheirfault

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

28 MANAGEMENT

High society for sheep milking PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz

PLANS TO expand the sheep milk industry have advanced to the formation of a society to develop and promote the industry, confirmed at the close of a recent two day conference at Massey University. The conference exceeded the expectations of its organiser, associate professor Craig Prichard from the university’s school of management. Prichard told Rural News they set out to attract a few key industry players: 40-60 people would have been great, he said. “In the end, we got 157 people, effectively the whole industry

Massey University’s in the same room, Craig Prichard with which was fantassheep milk. tic. We had sheep milk producers, regulators, consultants, new farmers – a great range of people.” He says the spirit of the group imparted a sense of what’s possible for this new industry. The new society is a “coalition of the willing”. It will raise money – and smaller ones. for in-market research on There is speculation sheep milk products, he Landcorp will form a joint says. The society needs venture with a marketing some sort of marketing and brand company and role given the nature of could then play a large the industry, which currole in the industry. rently has one big comPrichard says there is pany – Blue River Dairy

so far no decision on what structure a sheep milk industry might adopt. The present aim is to get the society running well, hold more conferences, do some research and go from there.

TASTE WILL BE THE DRIVER SHEEP MILK products will sell only if the consumer likes the taste. Dr Abby Thompson, food innovation manager at the Riddet Institute, Palmerston North, and her team at the conference handed out samples of sheep milk products. These included yoghurt and several ice-cream varieties that proved popular with attendees. Thompson, a food scientist, says most consumers will choose a sheep milk product on the basis of its taste, wholesome heritage and because it’s a ‘bit different’ – a neat product. “Sheep milk products fit the idea of food culture or heritage that is becoming increasingly popular around the world,” she told Rural News. “An example is the slow food movement: enjoying our food, taking pleasure in it and appreciating what has happened to bring it to our table – including the farmers milking the sheep and people transforming it into icecream or cheese.” She perceives an image problem for sheep milk products in New Zealand: they are not what many consumers would instinctively associate with great tasting, good quality food. So for a sheep milk industry to succeed, most of its products would be for export – a view

Dr Abby Thompson

shared by most attending the conference. On developing sheep milk products, Thompson says there are “science challenges”. “The higher levels of protein mean that there are potential precipitation issues when you freeze or heat the milk. But on the other hand, the increased levels of fat and protein means there is effectively ‘less water’ in sheep milk than in cow milk, enabling you to take the milk straight from the sheep and make it into thick creamy yoghurts and beautiful gelatos without having to add extra cream.” A food product must simultaneously appeal to the consumer’s heart, tongue and head.

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MANAGEMENT 29

Better late, than never! NOTED ANIMAL geneticist Dr Jock Allison is full of praise for the initiative to build a larger sheep milking industry. He says the move has come late given that East Friesian sheep (the main milking breed) have been out of quarantine for nearly 20 years. The other milking breed, Awassi, is still held tightly by Saudi interests, he says. Another breed, the French Lacaune, could possibly be imported. “Sheep milk is a totally different product: it’s not as tough on the environment and we

can have systems just as profitable as dairy because of the high level of milk production. Sheep cause less pugging of the land and their effluent is not as great as a dairy cow’s.” An economic unit of sheep milkers would be about 600 ewes. They must be fed well, like cows, to obtain good milk yields. “It’s fantastic to have a group at Massey wanting to get involved in research,” he told Rural News. “Looking around at places such as Lake Taupo where they are restricting nitrogen runoff, sheep

dairying could be a major opportunity. “We now have dairying in the Mackenzie Country; sheep milking would fit in there quite well.”

Ice-cream option Sue and Guy Trafford are among many people planning to get into the sheep milking industry. They work fulltime at Lincoln University and have 125 milking ewes. They plan to spend $200,000 on an ice-cream making plant. Guy says sheep milk is a great product and while it has some lactose it has less than cow milk.

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

30 MANAGEMENT

Production boosted and costs cut PAM TIPA pamelat@ruralnews.co.nz

A NORTHLAND Partner Farm increased milk production by 34% over three years and cut farm working expenses by 27%. People ask how you cut a dollar per kilo out of your farm working

expenses, AgFirst consultant Gareth Baynham told the Northland Dairy Development Trust annual conference. The partner farm joint project with DairyNZ and the trust started in September 2011 on the farm of Alister and Lyn Candy who farm with daughter

Christine at Okaihau, near Kaikohe, milking about 315 cows on 103ha. Baynham says a great group of farmers came together as a management team, meeting monthly on the farm. There were three focus areas: improving reproductive performance, getting more out

of the grass and managing spending. The result was a a 34% increase in milk production over the three years from a three year average of 73,000kg to about 112,000kg last season. Pasture eaten went up – “we got that lift despite growing less grass last year

then we had in previous years” – and they achieved a 27% drop in farm working expenses. “That extra milk came at the same cost the farm had been running at. At $6/kgMS that would have been an extra $190,000 in revenue.” The results were

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achieved firstly through benchmarking: Alister and Lyn used Dairy Base to look at what they had achieved relative to other farms. “In the areas they were higher they used the rural professionals around them to make some of those changes and that worked well; there was also animal health shearing the budget.” He says Alister and Lyn firstly sliced the budget themselves then the management team helped get another 50c/kg out of the budget. Then they monitored actual expenditures against the budget to ensure they were on track and “if you’re not, what are you going to do about it?” Where to next? “We are in the final year of the Focus Farm so we’ve gone from monthly meetings to quarterly meetings. “I think the team has been pleased with how Alister and Lyn have made their decisions on the farm. We’re just there to drink the coffee these days, so it has been a real win,” says

Baynham. “We’ve had a few challenges with a wet spring this year; it has put the farm under a bit of pressure. So to the end of January production is about 2.6% behind last year but we are hopeful that, depending on the season, we might catch up on some of that.” They have had 170 people at field days and the final event is Tuesday, May 26. Northland Dairy Development Trust and DairyNZ are taking what was done at this farm out to others. Another Far North farm has been operating since about May with a “fantastic” management team. They are working with Tony Lunjevich who is 50/50 milking with his parents at Takahue, just south of Kaitaia. “It is a great farm because it is a really tough bit of dirt, it’s got a lot of hills. It’s neat to see how people can tackle those challenges,” Baynham says. A field day will be held there on Tuesday, April 21.

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NEW RESEARCH confirms it’s better to sow treated pasture seed early in dry autumns instead of waiting for rain before planting, says seed supplier Agriseeds. Benefits include faster pasture establishment, higher DM yield and potentially better pasture persistence, and it’s easier to get a contractor. It all helps get a head start on feed recovery after drought, says the company’s agronomist Will Henson. “Last year many farmers did not sow while it was dry. When the rain came in April, it kept raining on and off for three weeks; contractors were working 24 hours a day but couldn’t keep up. “So a lot of sowing that should have been done, wasn’t. And paddocks sowed late were slow to establish, yielded less and were more difficult to manage through winter and early spring.” Questions arise about early sowing, the company says, e.g. how well do seed and endophyte survive in hot, dry soil? And is there possibility of poor establishment? “There hasn’t been a lot of research done on this, so we decided to test it last year,” Henson says. “We show that Trojan ryegrass seed with NEA2 endophyte can keep well in the soil for six weeks without significant rain, and establishment is much better than if planting is delayed until after rain.” In a replicated trial near Cambridge last autumn, Trojan perennial ryegrass with NEA2 endophyte was sown on three dates: February 20, March 20 and April 27. Seed sowed early established quicker and grew more, Agriseeds says. The February and March sowings grew 2t DM/ha more than the April sowing (5.8t versus 3.8t), measured over five grazings from May to October.

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

32 ANIMAL HEALTH

Johne’s an ‘iceberg’ on our farms ANDREW SWALLOW

HAS YOUR herd got Johne’s? Whether you’re talking dairy or beef, chances are it has, and if you run sheep there’s a good chance some will be carrying the disease too, albeit probably a different strain. The disease causes illthrift, diarrhoea, and, as

there’s no cure, eventual death. However, it only shows itself in cattle and sheep in more mature animals so it’s likely many cases go undiagnosed. “Most are infected as very young calves and most infection has happened by the time the animals are 12 months old,” Dr Eric Hillerton of the Johne’s Disease Research Consortium

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told a recent Lincoln University Dairy Farm (LUDF) focus day. “But we don’t see the disease in young stock, only in older cattle. That’s why we call it an ‘iceberg’ disease. You don’t see the other 50-60% of your herd that are probably infected.” A nationwide survey of 600 herds by Massey University produced 457 useable responses, of which 54% reported having clinical Johne’s. Incidence appears higher, or it could be that awareness of the disease is higher in the South Island, with 68% reporting cases. “It’s not uncommon for herds in the South Island to see this disease,” noted Hillerton. “You might not see a lot of cases, maybe only three to six cows a year, but for the last few

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years those cows will have been shedding the bacteria into your farm’s environment so over half your young stock are likely to be infected. “Even the 30% who have not seen the disease, it might not be because you don’t have it: it might be because you’ve had your sunglasses on all the time [and not noticed it].” The disease is noticed at LUDF, South Island Dairy Development Centre executive director Ron Pellow pointed out. “We typically see six or seven cases a year which are culled specifically for Johne’s so that’s six or seven we’re not able to cull for other reasons.” Hillerton said a comprehensive guide to management of the disease on dairy farms was being released the day of the LUDF focus day, and that a similar guide for sheep and beef farms will be out soon. Both have been produced by the Johne’s Disease Research Consortium with the respective sector levy bodies. The consortium is also running courses for vets to bring them up to speed on dealing with

Dr Eric Hillerton

the complexities of the disease. “We’ve had over a hundred vets on a Johne’s course now. They’re trained. They know about this. They can help. Like everything else in animal health, it’s a joint problem and a joint solution.” The disease guide for dairy (see www.dairynz. co.nz/animal/healthconditions/johnes-disease) describes five strategies to reduce Johne’s risk with (see panel) farm practices under each ranked as “best practice”, “alternative options”, or “high risk activities so

avoid”. The alternative options are a compromise if the best practice is too hard.” Breeding is one way to reduce risk, incidence in Friesians being a third of what it is in Jerseys, with Kiwi-cross somewhere in between, said Hillerton. With that in mind, the consortium contracted LIC to produce a Johne’s index for bulls which will feature in semen catalogues for the first time when they’re released in a few weeks. “This was paid for with your levy money so it is not exclusive to LIC customers and will be

available to everybody.” Hillerton said the disease would never be eradicated as the causative bacteria, Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis is always present in the environment but incidence on farms can be substantially reduced, he believes. In turn that would reduce replacement rates and/or allow culling for more productive reasons than Johne’s, hence there’s likely to be a substantial financial benefit to the farm longterm, he acknowledged to Rural News.

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

ANIMAL HEALTH 33

A changed character – shocking! years old. Maybe the more dominant dog was intimidating the submissive one when they were housed side by side. This may explain why

his dog was now reluctant to be in close proximity of his other dogs. Anything is worth trying in order to solve a problem. So why would the dog also be inconsistent with his work – there had to be a reason. If it hadn’t been mentally or physically abused, if it was in good health and without pain, what had caused a once enthusiastic dog to be become reluctant to work? I then asked if it had recently come to grief with an electric fence – as they can pack quite a punch. I feel so sorry for the innocent dog’s that are doing nothing wrong and, out of nowhere, comes several thousand volts. And yes, the dog had recently come into contact with electric fences – 3 or 4 times. That would explain a lot, particularly if he was being given a command at the same time. He may associate the working command with shooting pain and therefore he naturally becomes too terrified to do so. It isn’t the dog’s fault – humans created electric fences. Some of you will disagree with my next sentence. If one of my young dogs gets a nasty shock from a fence I call it to me and sooth the pain; if it happens again I’d rather it made a beeline to me than bolt off into the distance.

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I HAD a phone call recently from a chap who had a problem with his young dog. He bought the 9-month-old pup from someone who had reared it well; it was a relaxed happy confident youngster and keen to work. Everything was going well and he was very happy with how the dog was shaping up – it showed a lot of promise. That is, until recently, when its character changed in a matter of weeks – for no apparent reason. Sometimes it will work, sometimes it won’t. It was originally a friendly dog, but now it has become standoffish with him and also his other dogs. He is adamant that he hasn’t mistreated it in any way and I could hear the concern in his voice. He is at a loss as to why it has happened and what he can do. The first thing I asked was had someone looked after his dogs lately while he was away? Maybe something had happened that he was unaware of that caused the behavioural change. The answer was no. Because the dog had become somewhat reclusive from his other dogs I asked about the kennelling arrangement, because I have seen personality clashes between dogs develop when they are housed next to each other. It was kept in motels, with a young pup on one side and a dog of the same age on the other. I advised him to separate the two dogs of the same age, putting the ‘problem’ dog at one end so its only neighbour would be the pup. Dogs of similar ages, reared together and supposedly good mates, often end up vying for pack position between the ages of 1 to 2

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

34 ANIMAL HEALTH

Australia gets new footrot vaccine ALAN HARMAN

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A NEW strain-specific footrot vaccine for sheep, developed by Sydney University, has been approved for use after months of negotiation. The previous footrot vaccine, Coopers’ Footvax, was banned in Australia in 2008 and sheep producers have struggled to control and eradicate footrot. They had been limited to foot paring/bathing, antibiotic treatment under specific conditions and the culling of flocks under a destocking regime. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority has now given emergency approval to Treidlia Biovet, a Sydney vaccine maker, to supply the custom footrot R-Pilus Vaccine for six months, until July 30. Western Australian Farmers Federation wool council president Ed Rogister says the decision is a first step. “Footrot is a serious and contagious disease…. Once established in a flock, footrot will persist if a vaccine is not available.” Rogister says the federation worked on the government authority to

New footrot vaccine approved for use in Australia. PHOTO: WESTERN AUSTRALIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

approve the emergency permit, “which is the beginning of a more permanent solution for the strain specific vaccines”. Farmers need a longterm solution to the issue of strain-specific footrot

vaccines because there is no registered product available. “The targeted nature of these new footrot vaccines means moving to full registration is not a realistic option,” Rogister says.

As temperatures increase during spring and summer, the bacteria that cause virulent footrot inflame the moist interdigital skin of the feet, which can cause sheep to become lame.

A WHILE BEFORE NZ SEES IT! MARK WHITE of Treidlia Biovet told Rural News a New Zealand release of the vaccine “is a significant part” of the firm’s plans, though it will be subject to regulatory approvals and could “take a while to happen”. “Regulatory approval in Australia was only granted after intense lobbying by sheep industry groups and is still a problem as the permit is for only six months. Various other conditions make the permit impractical as it stands. We’re still working on those issues with the regulator here, with the support of our colleagues in the sheep industry.” To use the vaccine in Australia farmers must first take swabs from lame sheep for culture and serotyping as the vaccine is customised to the strains on particular farms. White says immunity from the vaccine can be strong enough to work as a tool in

eradicating footrot from individual farms or possibly larger areas. Lincoln University’s Jon Hickford, who was instrumental in developing the footrot resistance marker gene for breeding purposes, says vaccines can be useful but are not a solution on their own. “Vaccination with other treatments like foot-bathing are only short-term management tools and in the longer term, sheep farmers need to look at better management to minimise the occurrence of serious outbreaks. “This might include making changes in stock management, stock class and sheep breed. Equally, I have pushed the approach of breeding sheep that are less susceptible, including the culling of footrot-affected sheep and making breeding choices to use sheep that are more resilient when challenged.

“This approach has been shown to work by a number of NZ sheep breeders, and has been augmented in the last 16 years by the use of the gene-marker test developed at Lincoln.” Unlike Australia, New Zealand still has access to Coopers’ Footvax vaccine, he adds. Used appropriately – vaccinating well in advance of a footrot challenge and then putting a booster into the sheep close to the challenge – it is a good way of stopping severe outbreaks that might cause a large-scale welfare concern and lead to major production losses, he says. The strain-specific vaccine technology now being launched in Australia has been around for a while and has been effective in trials, says Hickford. But like White he says it takes time to develop such a vaccine for any given outbreak. – Andrew Swallow

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

ANIMAL HEALTH 35

UK support for nonstun slaughter ban A PETITION calling for non-stun livestock slaughter to be banned in the UK hit its target 100,000 signatures last month, says instigator the British Veterinary Association. “We urge the chairman of the backbench business committee to honour the petition and pledge to debate an end to nonstun slaughter at the first opportunity in the next Parliament,” said BVA

president John Blackwell The petition hit 100,000 two months ahead of its March 30 close and only a handful of e-petitions (0.1%) ever achieve 100,000 signatures, says the BVA. A 2013 UK Food Standards Authority sample survey of welfare practices at Britain’s 232 red meat slaughterhouses found a 31% increase in cattle not stunned before slaugh-

ter for Halal compared to 2011, and a 56% increase (from 28,734 to 44,950) of sheep and goats not stunned. Meanwhile there was a decrease in kosher (Shechita or non-stunned

slaughter) in cattle from 1314 to 475 (-66%), in sheep and goats from 1917 to 601 (-68%) and poultry from 71,236 to 21,716 (-69%). The results indicate that overall the number

of animals not stunned prior to slaughter in Great Britain accounted for 2% of cattle, 10% of sheep and goats, and 4% of poultry. @rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

ALL THE GEAR TO RAISE LAMBING WHETHER YOU have a ewe with a bearing, a ewe you want to take a lamb to, or a ram you want to use as a teaser – it can be harnessed, says Rurtec. The company says its Bearin prolapse harness, developed with international veterinary input, combines the effectiveness of the old style rope design, but with modern straps for ewe comfort and snap lock buckles for easy fitting. The new hybrid design has been tested onfarm in Europe, the US and in Wairarapa, says principal Ian Carr. Canadian vet Sara Sutherland, now working in Wairarapa, gave valuable input. “The local result saw farmers lining up to buy ten each for this lambing. A big part of their effectiveness is in preventing the ewe from straining, with the neck strap tightening when she drops her head.” The harnesses can be pulled out year after year, giving many uses to ensure the initial outlay is more than returned, Carr says. Rurtec’s Adopta restraint harness, used for mothering-on, also has a Wairarapa connection. “It was born out of finding a better way to tether ewes, rather than using ram harnesses as Andy Freeman was doing in his Beef + Lamb supported ‘Two per Ewe’ programme. This new harness allows ewes to be held via the back strap and neck strap against a fence or rail. “When the ewe becomes more lamb friendly the neck strap can be released from the fence to allow nuzzling and eating. It is a great option for those that don’t have stanchions or similar and it can be stored for reuse year after year.” And Rurtec’s No Mate harness can be attached to a Matingmark harness to temporarily prevent mating. “This means the same rams can be used for teasing and for mating, rather than having to have some vasectomised. It also allows nomadic farmers to run rams with ewes, something that has gained the attention of the Chile government in particular.” Carr says the genetic gain in New Zealand’s sheep flock in recent years has been impressive and more farmers are now using ram hoggets for further acceleration in productivity improvement. “Rurtec now has this covered, with a new smaller version of the world’s best breeding harness,” he says. “You can now check the coverage and more of these young lads with a small size Matingmark harness.” Tel. 0800 RURTEC

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

36 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS

Productive duo set to raise their score BROTHERS SCOTT and Leighton Campbell grew up on a West Coast dairy farm, making silage pretty much all their lives and seeking to do it better. Now a Lely Tigo PR 70 loader wagon their business Campbell Agriculture bought last November is helping their quest for improvement. Scott will soon complete a heavy diesel apprenticeship and Leighton is in his final year at high school. Scott says they had a look at other brands before choosing the Tigo, with parts and service through their local Harihari Motors. The Lely Tigo comes in two series: the PR with capacities of 45m3 to 70m3 at medium compaction, and the XR with capacities from 65m3 to 100m3. The Campbells have a PR70, with capacity of

70m3 and a 1.9m pick-up which “follows the ground really well,” Scott says. “It has a roller underneath which holds it so it floats and doesn’t dip into hollows, which means there is less wear.” The loader wagon has a moveable bulkhead that can be tilted forward to increase the load space. “The moveable bulkhead means we can load a bit more than normal wagons and it also takes the pressure off the back door. We used to run another brand, and when it was fully loaded it stretched the back door out.” The wagon is easy to run, Scott says. “We operate ours on automatic load. All we have to do is steer and lift the pick-up at the end of each load. Once it’s loaded the bulkhead comes forward and you can put more in. “The bulkhead can be

aren’t that big.” Many of the soils they work are swampy, so they specified their wagon with 800mm-wide tyres. The wide tyres also give them even more stability on a stack. The wagon generally travels at 41 kph and follows the tractor well. Lely Tigos are offered with a variety of suspensions and axles to keep the wagon parallel with the slope. The Campbells’ PR70 has a tandem axle. The Campbells also use auto-unload on their wagon. “It’s quick to unload. We put the tractor in crawl and fill out paperwork as it spreads the grass. It spreads out on the stack well enough that we don’t have to flick it out on the stack.” The unload function has two speed options. When it first starts the two chains move slowly

Leighton (left) and Scott Campbell are pleased with the extra capacity their Lely Tigo PR has added to their contracting business.

set at different pressures. We have it on 10% for wet ground and 20% for dry. When it reaches that pressure the board comes forward.” Having so many automatic functions makes working easier. “There’s less to worry about. When you’re driving you’re looking back all the time and there’s a lot happening.

Having a wagon that does a lot of stuff itself makes it more user-friendly.” The Tigo PR has 40 knives and the Campbells cut at 37mm chop lengths. There is an option to cut longer, but so far every farmer has wanted the grass short. “The knives are fitted with protective springs. We’ve had the odd rock

go through and the knives survived it. We also bought a Lely knife sharpener. The knife bank swings out from underneath so you can work on it.” The brothers pull the wagon with a 200hp tractor. “We wouldn’t want to go bigger as it’s too much weight and also the gateways and races

and the bulkhead pushes back on the load to assist. Once the load is moving the chains can go into the second faster speed. Scott has been pleased with the service he and Leighton have received from Lely. “Nothing has gone wrong. After the third job, a guy came out and sat with me for a few loads. He adjusted the pick-up chains and drive chains and made a few adjustments after it had been worn in a bit.” Lely staff also spent time with the Campbells when they first bought it. “They sat with us and gave us operator training and showed us the tricks of the trade.” Lely Tigo wagons are dual purpose. They can also be loaded from the top to serve as a transport wagon. Tel. 07 850 4050 www.lely.com

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

MACHINERY & PRODUCTS 37

Massey Ferguson launches new range of work horses MASSEY FERGUSON has launched the first new tractors in its new Global Series. The tractors were shown for the first time in New Zealand at the recent Northland field days. The MF4707 and MF4708 are the first new models in a new 74hp to 82hp range. These are the initial tractors in a new Global Series that will eventually offer three ranges, four different transmissions and be available in footstep, semi-platform and cab versions. “It’s taken the best brains in Massey Ferguson to design and build this brand new range of workhorse tractors. These state-of-the-art tractors are the result of a $350 million investment in a completely new, clean sheet design,” says Simon Hole, director marketing. “The Massey Ferguson Global Series has been designed and built in the 21st Century and is purpose-built for modern

HYDRAULIC POWER MASSEY FERGUSON has developed a completely new open-centre hydraulic system for the new Global Series. This employs a responsive, high pressure gear pump to supply the main services including rear linkage and auxiliary spool valves, while another pump provides lower pressure for the auxiliary hydraulic circuits including the steering, 4WD and diff-lock engagement as well as PTO control. This dual circuit system ensures there is always sufficient flow for continuous, efficient operations. The tandem pump is mounted to the right side of the rear housing, with much of the system built into the cover plate. This keeps the oil paths short to minimise operational losses and provides simple and easy access for service and maintenance. An externally mounted, spin-on filter is simple to replace and a warning light alerts the driver when it needs changing. There are also quick-connectors on the cover plate for diagnostic testing couplers.

MF4707 AND MF4708 FEATURES: applications. While using the very latest, advanced engineering and manufacturing tools and techniques, they still retain our traditional straightforward operation, dependability and value for money.” Hole adds that, where possible, the company has used existing design technology and components from our recently successful ranges, which are

not only specially developed for the modern era, they allow us to provide local parts and service most efficiently across our whole range of tractors, wherever they are in the world. He says more than 90% of the parts and components in the Global Series are entirely new designed and engineered specifically for the tractors. Combined labo-

ratory and field testing has reached over 36,000 hours and, reflecting the global nature of the new machines, prototypes have been tested in brutal

conditions from Arizona in the USA to Lusaka in Zambia. – More pg 38

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

38 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS

‘Straight’ gears easy to service MASSEY FERGUSON engineers at Beauvais, France have developed a completely new transmission with synchronised mechanical reverse shuttle for the Global Tractor Series. The gearbox’s modern

constant mesh, sliding collar design features specially designed gears with a high contact ratio for strength and durability. Unlike helical gears, the straight gears don’t require thrust bearings to support the

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SILOS

sideloads – which makes straightforward built 2WD or 4WD them not only more lever operation with front axles with durable, but easier to advanced electronic hydrostatic steering, service. control and reliability offering excellent The two MF4700 of the most modern manoeuvrability and Series models offers systems. Maximum enhanced traction a 12 forward/ 3,000kg rear “The Massey Ferguson linkage lift capacity reverse speed gearbox, which are Global Series has been on the MF4700 engaged with two Series designed and built in ■■ 540rpm speed straightforward levers mounted Independent PTO, the 21st Century and either side of the with easy operation is purpose-built for driver’s seat. The by a three-position modern applications.” rocker switch for levers act directly on the selector optimum reliability ■■ Efficient, modern ■■ The MF4700 Series rails - one lever shifts the gears, while the other open-centre high models are available selects high or low range. pressure hydraulic with comfortable, ■■ Robust rear axle based system employs a footstep or semitandem pump to platform operator on existing, proven supply the pressure environments with design. The modern, and flow required to logical and easy to heavy duty, structural control and power the use controls. A fully casting design latest implements approved ROPS frame contains new inboard ■■ Responsive and optional sun reduction units and canopy are fitted to oil-immersed brakes electronic hitch ■■ Choice of purposeprotect the operator control combines

CENTRE DRIVE 4WD THE MODERN GEARbox design provides an additional output shaft to provide drive to the front axle. The drive shaft is tucked neatly underneath the centre of the gearbox and engine and is fully guarded for protection. Four-wheel drive is engaged electro-

hydraulically on the move, through a simple, robust ‘dog-tooth’ clutch. It is permanently engaged by spring pressure and released by hydraulic pressure. There is also the choice of a purposebuilt 2WD front axle, which like the 4WD version has power steering.

FERTIGATION – THE NAME OF THE GAME PETER BURKE peterb@ruralnews.co.nz

APPLYING NUTRIENTS in water to, say, tomato crops (hydroponics) is a commonplace, but using a pivot irrigator to apply water and fertiliser is slow to catch on in New Zealand, says a ‘fertigation’ expert. Graeme Pile, head of a company selling this technology, says he’s surprised its take-up here is not rapid. Pile told the annual Fertiliser and Lime Research Centre workshop at Massey University that fertigation is widely used in the Middle East, Israel, the US and Australia. It’s used mainly in cropping and commercial growing, and is increasingly common in dairying. Fertigation is simple, he says. “You have a tank alongside the irrigator that’s got fertiliser in it – either liquid or soluble solids. A proportional dosing pump doses it into the irrigator line at a set rate. “The fertigation system can be connected to K-line irrigation or a larger pivot system. We train people and… within about two weeks they will have solved all their issues.” Total installation cost is about $4000 and payback about a year. His company advises on, supplies and installs the system and sells the fertiliser at the same price as other fertiliser. “The benefits are many,” Pile claims. “For a start, it is low cost and farmers or growers don’t have to get a truck to spread the urea. There is also less environmental impact because you are only putting a little on at a time. “You can adjust when you apply the water and fertiliser and only put fertiliser on where it’s needed. So you can put more fertiliser on heavier soils and less on lighter soils with the result that you get better quality pasture, the cows are healthier and there is more productivity.” Pile claims fertigation can cut fertiliser use by 30% and water by 35%. He says it fits perfectly with councils’ new environmental limits and rules. Fertigation has been in New Zealand for about 15 years, used so far by about 35 farmers in Canterbury and Otago and 10 in the North Island.

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

MACHINERY & PRODUCTS 39

Versatile dozer/ digger

NO MORE SLOWING DOWN WHEN BALING MARIE SHERRY

LELY’S NEW continuous baling system will allow operators to just keep going when baling any type of crop – no need to stop or slow down The Lely Welger CB variable baler allows the operator to make a new bale while the previous bale is being finished and ejected. It’s an easy way to make a large quantity of high-quality bales, saving on fuel and reducing wear and tear, the company says. When a bale reaches its full size, a transport system moves it within the belt to the extended back of the baler. This creates room for a new bale to start immediately at the front. After the first bale is tied by the net wrap system, the tailgate will open and drop the bale on the go. The baler returns to its compact position, ready to finish the bale being made at the front. During this continuous process, a belt buffering and tensioning system ensures a consistent tension on the belt resulting

in high density bales. The split functionalities in the bale chamber enable the operator to have a bale in progress without the need for any buffer system. By eliminating stops, delays and waiting times, the continuous baling concept makes a huge difference. The baler is less dependent on the driver’s concentration to reach the maximum output. The automated mode simply controls the baler’s functionalities. Continuous outputs of 110-130 bales an hour are realistic, even during long days. Driving at a steady speed will much improve comfort for the driver, reducing the need for stopping, accelerating and rocking. The driver just focuses on the field and the swaths in order to make quality bales. The new baler concept was developed by engineers of Lely and its American partner Vermeer. Testing and fine tuning of the machine will continue during the next few years, followed by a commercial launch.

EXCAVATOR AND bulldozer technology are combined in a new machine, Blade Runner, on sale in New Zealand from April. Distributor Mimico the machine is more productive than either an excavator or a dozer. “Unlike most excavators, this 92hp, 15,700kg model has a six-way powertilt blade with float, tilt, lift and angle options.” Designed for heavy dozing, the ED160 has a rugged undercarriage and curved track pads for best traction and higher flotation. The machine also has a 0.5m3 bucket and a zero tail swing radius making it suitable for digging, even in tight spaces.

”

Call the team today or see us at Site 093 to discuss your Central Districts Field Days requirements

@rural_news facebook.com/ruralnews

A TYRE TRUSTED BY A TYRE PROFESSIONAL

emember when washing machines and refrigerators lasted a generation? And tyres lasted for years too? Things were made to last back then. Now it seems things are made to wear out. The reason for this is original tyres fitted to new vehicles are made to the vehicle manufacturer’s price. This may result in a compromise on the tyre performance and life. Cooper Tires are better value. One tyre company, continuing to construct quality aftermarket tyres that last, is Cooper Tires. Drivers choosing quality American made Cooper Tires are finding they are getting a lot more mileage and better value for money than

original tyres. This is because Cooper Tires make tyres that last without compromising on high quality tyre components. Cooper Tires are only sold through appointed local tyre professionals, so they know your conditions and can advise the right tyre for the job.

Auckland. Raymond from TyreLAND explains why they trust Cooper Tires for their customers; Raymond ‘Mothy’ Hunter

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TyreLAND are one of the leading independent tyre specialists in New Zealand with 9 stores in the south Island and a store newly opened in

“We have been selling Cooper Tires for over 25 years and believe they are the best 4WD tyres available on the market. This is because they have deeper tread

depths and a stronger casing, which means Coopers last longer and perform better. We always offer Cooper Tires to customers who want the best. We keep records of our customer’s performance so they can see the money they save. We had a customer come in for his second set of Coopers; he got 65,000kms out of his first set, while he only got 30,000kms out of the original equipment set.” Cooper S/Tmaxx

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If you’re looking for decent tyres for your 4WD call 0800 4 tread for your local TyreLand store. If there isn’t one in your area, call 0800 mileage (0800 645 243) or visit www.coopertires.co.nz to find your nearest Cooper retailer and request your free info pack.

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

40 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS

Ploughing all about doing job well ANDREW SWALLOW

IF YOU’RE going to plough, do it well, says the president of the New Zealand Ploughing Association, South Canterbury farmer Norm Styles. Whether it’s on a 0.2ha match plot or a 20ha paddock, the principles are the same: cut all the roots with your opening split and bury everything thereafter, leaving a level finish that will facilitate subsequent operations, he says. “It comes down to the quality of weed control and seedbed produced. If you do a good job it will save you one or two passes in follow-up cultivations.” It also reduces the number of weeds herbicides have to control. That reduction in weed pressure is seeing the

plough make a comeback in many cropping systems around the world as growers attempt to prevent herbicide resistant weed populations developing, or battle already resistant populations by burying seed. “The chemistry’s not been able to keep up with the grassweed control,” notes Styles. In such situations making a good job with the plough is more important than ever, as every weed and, perhaps more importantly, every weed seed, needs to be buried so deep it won’t grow. Once seed has been ploughed down, typically best practice is to leave it there for two or three years by using non-inversion tillage, or directdrilling, until the seed becomes non-viable. Then the plough might be used

Norm Styles

again to bury another potentially resistant population of weeds that may have built up on the surface, safe in the knowledge that little if any old seed brought to the surface will grow. But Styles doesn’t plough an inch of his 400ha farm about 20km inland from Timaru and

with good reason. “I don’t plough here because of the nature of the terrain. By direct drilling we cut the erosion in bad weather so if it pours we know the soil is going to stay on the hillside. Basically I stopped ploughing on the farm when we moved here,” he explains.

He also has a diverse rotation of crops – cereals, peas, and grass and clover seeds – integrated with pasture to make herbicide resistance less of a risk. So if he doesn’t plough, how did he become president of the New Zealand association? A neighbour noted his neat furrow work on a previous farm on flats near Timaru and suggested he try match ploughing. In due course he qualified for half a dozen national finals. “My last was in 2006. Mainly I’m involved with judging now and administration with the local championship and with

the national [Ploughing Association] executive.” He’s also judged at a World Championship, in Canada in 2013. “You’ve got to be on top of the job at the ‘worlds’ because there are so many plots.” This year’s world championship is in Denmark, October 3-4, with Ian Woolley of Blenheim representing New Zealand in the conventional, and Malcolm Taylor of Putaruru, Waikato, the reversible representative. Styles is team manager and Bruce Redmond, a former NZ and world champion, coach. Woolley will be among

60TH NEW ZEALAND PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS ❱❱ When: Sat April 18 (stubble) and Sunday April 19 (grass) ❱❱ Where: Sheat family’s Harpsdale Farm, Palmerston, Otago ❱❱ Host association : East Otago Vintage Ploughing Committee ❱❱ Site: Flat, river silt soil. ❱❱ Major sponsors: Case IH; Famlands Fuel; Mainland Minerals; Rural News.

competitors at this year’s NZ national championship which is at Palmerston, Otago, April 18-19, (see panel) having qualified at Rakaia. The nationals will be his first competition using a new John Deere 5720 tractor. “With the help of Gordon Handy Machinery we’re altering the wheel spacing and getting the rims refitted, then we’ll start practicing. It’ll be a bit of a learning curve.” In June, the tractor and his Kverneland plough will go in a container for the 6-8 week trip to Denmark. The team will follow by plane to arrive early September. “It’s a huge expense but we want to give ourselves a good chance. We’re not just going to make up the numbers.” As for this year’s NZ championships at Palmerston, the winners of the conventional and reversible classes there will qualify for the World Championships to be held in Yorkshire, England, September 2016. – More ploughing in Rural News March 17 and April 7.

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

MACHINERY & PRODUCTS 41

Tractor favourite gets a reboot MARIE SHERRY

CASE IH, in relaunching the Farmall C, Farmall U and Farmall U Pro series, expects the iconic brand to reclaim its title as a heavyweight in utility tractors. Farmall tractors appeared in 1923 and gained a name for reliability and versatility. Ninety years later comes their relaunch in an all-new lineup. All three series feature the same brand new 3.4L electronically controlled, high-pressure common rail engine developed by sister company FPT (Fiat Powertrain Technologies). Incorporating a wastegate turbocharger and intercooler, this responsive new engine has cooled exhaust gas recirculation (CEGR) which lowers the temperature of the exhaust gases, then blends them with fresh air and returns the mixture to the cylinder to maximise combustion efficiency. The engine also features a new diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and maintenance-free particulate matter catalyst (PMC) technology, which automatically burns off particulates in the exhaust gases, ensuring the system

remains clean and operates at peak efficiency. Much better fuel economy, less noise and vibration, greater pulling ability and a more constant power curve are the result. The Farmall C four models span 85-115hp. Introduced as a replacement for the long-standing JXU series, this medium-duty workhorse is an all-rounder good for the tasks typically found on livestock farms. It has ample manoeuvrability, good powerto-weight ratio, strong hydraulic performance and superb all-round vision. The Farmall U series, also new, is ideal for heavier work such as ground cultivation. The Farmall U is available in cab only configuration in 105hp and 115hp models. Cab and operator environment are noteworthy, the maker says. For long working hours, the Farmall U has cab suspension as standard, a passenger seat and Bluetooth high performance stereo. The Farmall U Pro, the premium model, has features normally found only on much larger machines, e.g. programmable automatic gearshift, electronic

remote valves, an integrated joystick for front loader work and a four speed PTO. The Farmall U Pro is an economical machine thanks to its numer-

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

42 MACHINERY & PRODUCTS / RURAL TRADER

In times of stress reach out SO IT’S official – we now have a drought in large parts of the country: no surprise to most of us in the rural sector. Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy has declared the drought conditions on the east coast of the South Island a mediumscale adverse event. I understand the Government and MPI are also keeping a close eye on Wairarapa and southern Hawkes Bay, also suffering very dry conditions. Reports suggest most farmers have coped so far by destocking and using up supplementary feed supplies on hand. But it’s clear if these dry conditions continue – especially into autumn – that things are only going to get tougher as the seasons change. The declaration of medium scale recovery measures to deal with the effects of the drought means Government funding will now be made available to Rural Support Trusts – who work closely with farmers and others affected by drought, providing support and guidance. I know that many rural people, including contractors, can be reluctant

to ask for help. But it is critical to lose this attitude and know what support is available. However, the declaration of a drought does not mean big handouts or a financial windfall for those affected. What it actually means is that Rural

It’s good to talk: Getting out and sharing yarns with others is important in times of stress like last year’s drought shout.

Reports suggest most farmers have coped so far by destocking and using up supplementary feed supplies on hand. Assistance Payments (RAPs) will be available from Work and Income through the Ministry of Social Development. These are equivalent to the Jobseeker Support benefit and available only to those in extreme hardship. The adverse event declaration also makes funds available for Rural Support Trust activities, facilitates tax tools such as provisional tax deferral and income equalisation, and provides welfare support in cases of extreme hardship. It is estimated that with long-term

forecasts not predicting much rain, a typical 3000 stock unit sheep and beef farm may already be looking at a financial hit of $170,000-$200,000. This of course has major flow-on effects for many in the rural sector including contractors. Farmers and contractors facing financial stress and mounting pressure, exacerbated by the dry weather, should reach out for help. The drought, on top of the lower forecast milk price and

falling commodities, could see some contractors feeling overwhelmed and under huge financial pressure. It is crucial in these times of stress that contractors who feel ‘under the pump’ communicate with their support networks including advisors, rural professionals and other farmers and contractors, and tell family what’s going on. Note that support is already available from Government agencies. Contractors should contact IRD if they

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RURALNEWS TO ALL FARMERS, FOR ALL FARMERS

MARCH 3, 2015: ISSUE 579

Central Districts Field Days

www.ruralnews.co.nz

FEILDING MARCH 12-14

‘Investor Showcase’ for Central region AN ‘INVESTOR Showcase’ launching at Central Districts Field Days (CDFD) will seek to match companies with high growth potential with local and international investors. CDFD is partnering with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) in the showcase, taking place on the opening night. Quentin Quin, general manager capital, NZTE, says New Zealand has a reputation for developing sustainable and innovative technologies in the agribusiness and food sectors. “New Zealand has a large number of talented agribusiness companies with high growth potential who require capital to grow

faster and higher than they otherwise would. NZTE’s purpose is to grow companies internationally bigger, better and faster for the benefit of New Zealand, and unlocking capital constraints to growth is one of the first steps. NZTE will help these companies upskill and source capital for growth at the showcase.” NZTE’s Better by Capital Programme will work with participating companies to review their business growth and capital requirements, develop their investment propositions and help companies create and deliver strong pitches. “And we’ll remain working with participants after the showcase to ensure their investor

readiness and help coordinate and maximise investment leads.” Technology-focused New Zealand companies in the agribusiness and food sectors that need $500,000-$2 million to grow internationally can contact NZTE for an application form. Also new at CDFD is a programme to promote and foster farming careers including a local leaders debate on the future of youth in agriculture. Other features of CDFD will be wood chopping at the Husqvarna Wood Chopping Arena, the Central Districts Fencing Competition, the Ag Machinery Demonstrations and the ever popular Tractor Pull.

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

2 CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS

Horizons scholarships gets students from classroom into work boots THREE MASSEY University science and agriculture students have worked the summer at Horizons Regional Council and on farms as a result of winning council sustainable land use initiative (SLUI) scholarships. The scholarships are available to students of soil fertility, soil mapping and farm management. In nine years the council has granted $150,000 to students. Council spokesman Malcolm Todd says the scholarship encourages students in particular skills and provides real life experience. “SLUI aims to control hill country erosion, in a partnership between Horizons, central government and farmers. When

SLUI was introduced in 2006, we identified we had a skill shortage… and have set the application criteria for scholarships accordingly. “Students need a soil science background and need to understand the practical side of running a farm and be able to relate to farmers. Those who meet these criteria can receive a scholarship and a lucky few also get opportunity to work for Horizons full-time over summer.” This summer three students, Josie Winters, Courtney Mitchell and Natalie Hiyslop, have spent three months creating soil health plans, auditing SLUI farms and updating data in Horizons geographic information Students (from left) Courtney Mitchell, Josie Winters, Natalie Hiyslop and Horizons environmental monitoring coordinator Malcolm Todd.

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system. Agriculture science student Winters says it’s given them “a huge boost of confidence to get out on farms and work with farmers”. “Practical experience looks good on our CVs

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mental management officer William McKay, a past SLUI scholarship winner, has worked at Horizons for two years. “I studied for a BSc at Massey, got a scholarship three years in a row and worked for Horizons each

summer,” says McKay. “The scholarship helped me to include more farm management papers in my studies than I otherwise would have, and it helped my understanding of more advanced papers I did

in soil science and farm management. It also put me in a favourable position to apply for a job that came up at Horizons and I’ve been here ever since.” Applications for SLUI scholarships open every

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS 3

Tastiest field days yet – organisers THIS YEAR’S Central Districts Field Days is shaping up as the tastiest yet, say the organisers. For the discerning foodie, the Taste of Central Districts returns, serving wines and foods from around the region. Favourites such as Pheasant Creek wine, Ruahine wines and Basecamp venison salamis will be available, as will newcomers Koast Limoncello, Gladstone Vineyard and Southern Grain Spirits. Southern Grain will have a variety of spirits on offer, including Duckshooter Port and a special aged whiskey. With a relaxing atmosphere and great outdoor set-up, organisers say the Taste of Central Districts is the ideal location for visitors to sit back and enjoy the delicacies and beverages on offer. Visitors will also be spoilt for choice with different food zones serving up crowd favourites like whitebait fritters, gourmet burgers, hot dogs, fresh hot donuts and other tasty treats. Supporting local business and talent, these food zones will be a central hub of activity over the three days. This year’s Central Districts Field Days sees food innovation and research experts FoodHQ on site offering visitors the opportunity to talk to experts about the science being done in New Zealand. FoodHQ is an internationally recognised centre for agri-food science and innovation with expertise across the food value chain - from ideas generation to products sitting on the shelf. The FoodHQ campus being developed in Palmerston North will give global customers one-door access to the best in New Zealand food innovation. “We’ll be talking to people about our vision and what we’re doing to help grow New Zealand’s agrifood sector,” says Mark Ward, programme director at FoodHQ. “They’ll get to hear from food science experts and get to taste some enjoyable, innovative treats.” The Central Districts Field Days will be held at Manfeild Park in Feilding from March 12-14, 2015. The event is claimed to be the largest regional field days in New Zealand. Averaging over 540 displays, it markets to the lower half of the North Island rural sectors. CDFD averages 38,000 visitors each year.

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This year’s Central Districts Field Days sees the return of the popular ‘Taste of Central Districts’, with the region’s best food and drink on offer.

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Supplementation achieves a high feed conversion with lower pasture consumption!

Trial shows the profitability of the Advanced Adjustment System Historic results: Peter and Diane Lowe finish 95 weaner from 105 hinds per year. Peter has historically trail-fed for 150 days at a rate of 250grams/day plus a roll of Lucerne baleage every other day from May until they stop eating it – usually the end of July. Historically, dressed kill-weights averaged 61kg and the majority of weaners were sent to the works in October. 2014 results: The weaner deer were fed 275grams/day through Advantage Feeders. They averaged a dressed weight of 68.18kg and were sold, on average, one month earlier allowing all to be sold before the schedule started to drop. The weaners stopped eating the Lucerne baleage by the end of June, one month earlier, and reduced baleage supplement requirements by 15 rolls.

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• No waste. Peter commented, “Before Advantage Feeders there was always volunteer barley growing in spring. Now there is none, so we must be getting close to 100% converted into meat production.” • A reduction in time required to feed weaners. The feeders were filled fortnightly with two front-end loader buckets of barley rather than trail feeding daily. • Only fill the feeders up during dry weather. The Advantage Feeders system offers this opportunity because they only required filling once a fortnight. Trail feeding during rain can increase waste rates above 50%. • Weaners are easier to manage as they follow Advantage Feeders through gateways into other paddocks or yards.

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Other benefits identified by trial operators, Peter and Diane Lowe of Ashburton include:

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

4 CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS

Event is constantly evolving to attract the best talent A CONSTANT process of upgrading the Central Districts Field Days (CDFD) ensures new exhibitors are attracted to the event, say the organisers. “The annual field days leverage off agriculture and food as New Zealand’s most important industries, their success felt and valued by every New Zealander. “This is why, as New Zealand’s largest regional rural event, CDFD is constantly evolving and attracting new exhibitors, and 2015 is no exception. “This year we welcome food innovation and

research experts FoodHQ. They’ll be offering the opportunity for visitors to talk to their researchers about the remarkable science being carried out in New Zealand.” Central Districts Field Days has partnered with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) to create the inaugural Central Districts Investor Showcase, which will match companies with high growth potential with local and international investors seeking opportunities within the sector. Also new to 2015 is the Get Ahead programme,

a dedicated initiative focused on promoting and fostering careers in agriculture. A number of exhibitors will have Get Ahead champions onsite explaining the benefits of a career in the agri sector. For the discerning foodie, this year’s event is shaping up to be the tastiest yet. They’ll be spoilt for choice with different food zones serving up crowd favourites over the three days. The Taste of Central Districts is also making a return with a delicious range of food and wine from around the region. With a relaxing atmosphere and great

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on offer. Other old favourites also return in 2015 including wood chopping at the Husqvarna Wood Chopping Arena, the Central Districts Fencing Competition, the ag machinery demonstrations and the

ever-popular tractor pull. “Events like this aren’t possible without the generous support of organisations dedicated to the agri sector,” the organisers say. Sponsors include Bayleys Real Estate, Donut Express, Massey Univer-

sity, Husqvarna, Norwood Farm Machinery Centre, Suzuki and Brent Smith Trailers. Some 500 exhibitors will be on site from Thursday March 12 to Saturday March 14 at Manfeild Park, Feilding.

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS 5 The Bachelor finalists speed dating heat The Bachelors take over Kiwi’s Best Kitchen.

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Call for all single, rural blokes ENTRIES ARE now open for the 2015 Rural Bachelor of the Year competition, held in the lead-up to, and during, National Fieldays at Mystery Creek. The organisers say the Rural Bachelor contest is a “fan favourite each year and 2015 will not disappoint”. Single, rural men will face a range of challenges over the Fieldays week, the man crowned Rural Bachelor walking away with $20,000 of prizes. “The eight finalists will get an-allexpenses-paid trip starting in a mystery location and racing from there to Fieldays, facing various challenges along the way,” says event manager Waimarie Taimai.

At Fieldays, contestants will show their prowess in farm work, fitness and flare in the kitchen. Sovereign is a major sponsor. “We’re encouraging Kiwis to take a more proactive approach to their health,” says the chief marketing and innovation officer Chris Lamers. “This is a great opportunity to take our ‘Life Take Charge’ message to the rural community. “It’s to meet new people, get outside your comfort zone and challenge yourself to try new things.” Last year’s winner, Jeff Peek, says being awarded Rural Bachelor of the Year in 2014 was “one of the greatest experiences of my life.,” and has

opened doors for him in many ways. “The dairy industry is small in New Zealand and [participating in Rural Bachelor] has put opportunities for employment and career progression in front of me that I may not have otherwise been offered.” Asked if he would do it again, Peek grins and says he would have to speak with his girlfriend about that, “but I wouldn’t hesitate to tell anyone to go for it and have a crack.” Finalists from New Zealand and Australia must be at least 21 and employed in the rural industry. Entries close April 17. All entrants must be able to participate in the entire competition.

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Screen Filter with Stainless Steel mesh fits inside Dam Weed Guard

Contact: Peter and Sheryl Tonkin P: 09 4317276 • M: 027 353 7274 • www.damweedguard.co.nz

WWW.SUZUKI.CO.NZ Your old bike could be your deposit. Oﬀers available until 31 March 2015 or while stocks last. Available at regional Fieldays or participating Suzuki dealers. Not available in conjunction with any other promotion. Prices include GST. Payments include $395 documentation fee, $13 PPSR and $5 transaction fee. Normal lending and credit criteria apply.

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

6 CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS

Help in navigating environmental rules Ballance has formed a specialist team to help farmers navigate environmental considerations.

BALLANCE AGRINUTRIENTS has formed a specialist team to help farmers navigate environmental regulations and consent requirements.

Spokesman Alastair Taylor says such schemes as the Sustainable Dairying Water Accord are pressuring farmers to manage farm nutrients.

“Farmers need to navigate the regulations on effluent management, nutrient use and environmental performance. Our new team will provide a direct link between farmers and regional councils to take the hassle out of environmental compliance.” Taylor points out that regional councils monitor farms using the Overseer nutrient management model jointly owned by the fertiliser industry, AgResearch and the Ministry for Primary Industries. “Throughout New Zealand there are myriad environmental regulations, by region and within regions. Our specialist team, with local experience and knowledge, helps

farmers comply with their local land and water plans.” The team offers nutrient budgets for resource consents, compliance and sale and purchase agreements. It started in Canterbury and now services Horizons, Otago and Southland regions. “We also work with the Ballance science and sales teams to ensure we’re giving farmers the best science-related advice in the market,” Taylor says. The team recently contacted all Ballance dairy customers in Canterbury, offering to help them obtain their Nitrogen Baseline required under the regional Land and Water Plan. nutrient.budget@ballance. co.nz

PLENTY OF BUSINESS FOR TRACTOR DEALERS WAIKATO FARMERS led the way in tractor buying in New Zealand during 2014, and tractor sales approached record highs. A total of 4061 tractors were bought JanuaryDecember, including 3419 at least 40hp, the most common measure for farm tractors. In 2013 sales of 40hp and bigger were 3065. Ian Massicks, president of the Tractor and Machinery Association (TAMA) which gathers sales data, says record dairy payouts last year and good growing conditions got farmers spending. “The July-September sales figures were the highest in a decade,” says Massicks. “They then continued steadily for the remainder of the year though stopping short of the 2005 record when 3515 tractors of at least 40hp were purchased. “2014 was a healthy year for tractor sales and we expect 2015 to be a good year too, though with some reduction due to forecast lower dairy payouts.” Of the 684 tractors bought in Waikato, 614 were over 40hp, followed by Southland with 418 over 40hp from a total of 430. Otago farmers bought the nexthighest number – 249 40hp-plus from 291 sales. This January’s purchases nationwide were 210 – at least 161 of them 4hp or bigger. Waikato again led the way with 25 purchases: 23 of them were at least 40hp, followed by Southland with 20, 19 of them 40hp or over. Massicks says farmers prefer to buy from New Zealand machinery dealers rather than risk buying online from overseas suppliers.

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS 7 2-WHEEL

FARM

DEAL $500

Remote fence and water control on show GA RE TH G I LLAT T

PERMANENT ELECTRIC fence power and wireless water level monitoring will be prominent on the Gallagher site at the Central Districts Field Days. National sales manager Peter Nation says the company’s high-powered M10,000i fence energiser, and its innovative wireless water level monitoring system, point the way forward in these technologies. Due for retail release in March, the M10,000i has a stored energy capacity of 100 joules and a potential output of 10,000V. It can power 405ha of multi-wire fencing. Part of the Gallagher i Series range of energisers, the M10,000i combines “brute force with incredible intelligence, delivering advanced monitoring capabilities to give farmers peace of mind their animals are where they should be,” the company says. “A good energiser is like an invisible asset protector – making sure valuable animals, pastures and crops are safe and secure,” says Nation. Like other i series energisers, the M10,000i has

a controller unit that monitors energiser performance and highlights faults in a fencing system. The controller can be located up to 50m from the main energiser. The waterproof controller displays the energiser’s voltage and current readings and can be used to turn the energiser on or off, set alarm levels and fine-tune operating output voltage. Up to six fence monitors can be installed onfarm and linked back to the central energiser controller to fully monitor a fence system – saving time and giving confidence a fence is working effectively. “Having six fence monitors spread around a farm is a bit like having six staff members out there looking after six different zones, all the time,” says Nation. “The beauty of the i series energiser is that everything is monitored for you, so staff can focus on other jobs. It’s a huge

labour saver, especially for larger farms with bigger fencing systems.” The M10,000i can be supplied with an optional remote that enables the farmer to quickly locate faults within a monitored zone, turn the energiser on or off remotely, and test a fence once a repair is completed. An optional SMS controller adds a cellphone dimension: if a fence problem is detected it will notify the farmer immediately via mobile phone. Meanwhile, Gallagher’s wireless water level monitoring system notifies of water leaks. Launched last year, this system gives farmers a close watch on water

usage without the high costs of flow monitoring. It measures water pressure in the water vessel, transmitting that data to a wall-mounted or desktop display unit as far away as 4km. Power is by solar. Up to nine tanks can be monitored by one display unit. The display has a 2.8inch colour touchscreen and shows, e.g. abnormal water loss caused by broken pipes or overflowing troughs, number of days of water remaining, and 30-day historical levels of monitored tanks. The system can also alert farmers if the level in one or more tanks begins to decrease rapidly. Tel. 0800 731 500 www.gallagher.co.nz

CASH BACK on a Suzuki farmbike

TF125 MUDBUG

$3,495 INCLUDING GST WITH $500 CASHBACK APPLIED

DR200SE TROJAN

$5,495 INCLUDING GST WITH $500 CASHBACK APPLIED

WWW.SUZUKI.CO.NZ Oﬀers available until 31 March 2015 or while stocks last. Available at regional Fieldays or participating Suzuki dealers. Prices and cash back amount shown are inclusive of GST. Cash back paid by dealer at time of sale. Oﬀer not available in conjunction with any other promotions.

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

8 CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS NISSAN & KIA MANAWATU S MAZDA & SUBARU MOTOR PALMFEILD TSON ISUZU TRUCKS ROBER

HOLDEN ROBERTSON

O17

A WA IME & TRU CK E CR AN

O15

O13

PPP IES INDUSTR

O10

SHIEL RELIA NT TYRE BEATTIE SOLUT IONS O7 INSULATORS O8 O9

S10

TER DOGMAS S D TRAINER

ON TO AL AUUIP. PH O3 CENTR & EQ PARTS O4

T IMPAC AD OFF RO

OWER AGRIP T3

O28

O29

S28

9 S2

O30

O31

O32

O33

S30

H MIT T S RS EN ILE BR TRA

1 S3

ORARI NURSERY

MCNAE WHITLAN D ELECTRI CAL ENGNRN G O34

O35

H ROAD BRENT SMIT O37 O36

O38

O39

THE WRANGLER

O40

O41

EMMETTS CIVIL TION CONSTRUC

AUTOKRAF

2 S3

OL A PO SP N

AT IT TE RS W ET RA YE AM ) SP C TE (D

SER

O27

S27

H TULLOC FARM S INE MACH

S11

AY I GRMIN FF & JE W BM

FERTILI

O26

S26

RM GEA FA GIES NOLO TECH TEC STOW

RATA IES TR INDUS

S12

RURTEC

O11

S13

ROAD

COOP ERS DIY ION REST ORAT

O12

M PE AN C IT U G A W A ROEOT TU EN &

EXHIBITOR'S PARKING

KIWI

N SO RT OR BE OT UP RO M RO G

INI BERTOL LASIA AUSTRA

S15

O14

T SMITH BREN S14

S42

ASA

CROPLANDS CENTRAL I P H A R M EQUIPMENT SILO TECHN OUP GR SYSTEM

N11

N12

APL

E TL IN S O N FT FR R K LI FO

S16

GATE FARM

WI N G A HMI S FAR

KAW

S41

FERG TA US PR NKS SON CO ECAS &

BAY TE GOLDEN DOLOMI

O16

S17

O18

S18

S40

S45

ORIN GI

BU MA RG ES SU RFTT ING S AC & S49 ING

O47

N14

O48

O49

O50

O51

RITE S T R A I NG S Y S . FENCIN

J14

K16

J15

O52

NORTHFUELS TRACK

REVITAL WINDSONG FIBER FERTI- EZYNEST ENTERPRISES'S FRESH LISERS W&R T/A GRANDPA FEEDS JACK FEEDERS N19 N17 N18 N15 N16

CONSTRUCTIV AAC SYSTEMS

K15

S54

N20 ELECTRO -TEK

MOUNTAIN MAC APPAREL

K17

K18

J16

U S4

RO TOW IPER

S53

WATERFORCE

WIN ST TON FEOC EDK GE KIPOR S57 NERATO RS S58

C1 3

BRENT SMI TH

S56

PACE PO & AI W R ER

S55

C1 2

FIC S ET PACI HELM

ROAD

EFTPOS

4 C1

C15

S59

C17

S60

FOOD

HEADQUARTERS

INFORMATION

W62

C18 W63

AS CLAVEST HARNTRE CE S72

EXHIBITO R (TO KAWAKAWEXIT A RD)

EXHIBITOR'S PARKING

DISABLED PARKING

CENTRAL DISTRICTS DOUBLE POWER FENCING COMPETITIONS

C19

K27

K26 J26

J25

K28

J27

C20

C21

W64 W

ROW COLOURS

V73

W72 CK

We liked the idea of gas and saw the economics of Dairy Hot Water, while Iron Out saves me money and time in maintenance and my water quality is markedly improved compared to my old sand filter. After talking to the guys at Longveld and finding out how easy, and cost effective everything was, it was a no brainer.

K29

J28

K30

H ROAD McINTOS K31 J30

J29

K32

K33

K34

O74

6 K3

K37

8 K3

5 O7

3 N4 E AG ST

PORTER EQUIPMENT

SLOPE- OM MOWING.C

ENC VA IP AD QU

FERGUSSON ST

T IS G N A R O A

Carl and Ally Steiner

Milking 900 Jersey/Friesian cross cows

Visit Longveld at field days to hear about immediate and future savings.

VISITOR ENTRANCE

BAR

S71

FI SE RVRE IC E

12-14th March 2015

ST JOHN AMBULANCE

LEGEND

TOILETS

V72

S70

EX (TO HIBITO KAW R AKAWEXIT A RD )

S69

V71

V74

KA U N U R R I PA R SE R K IE S

S68

V69

4AG

ING

AO RA NG I ST

S67

OA D

V68

SO LUHE LI TI ON S

MA W NAW REANGA AT RU GI NUU CO RALONAL I MM FIRE ITTE E

EXHI BITO LOUN RS GE

PLAN DATE: 9/02/2015

SOUTH

MAN CH ES TE R

S66

V67

W69

DARRAGH RD

DISABLED TOILET

S65

TRA

HELICOPTER RIDES

S64

V64

V66

W68

O AG RIGIN RO UP

EXHIBITOR ENTRANCE (FROM KAWA KAWA ROAD)

W AR W IC K

FEILDING

PUBLIC CARPARK 2

PUBLIC ENTRY (GATE 2)

PUBLIC & DISABLED ENTRY (GATE 1)

BABY CHANGE

S62 S63

V63

TA ST CE ES OF DI STNT RA L RI CT S

V62

FE POSTNCEPRO DRIVE RS

T TAHE GUNK Y

EFTPOS

MARKETPLACE

S61

STH GRA N SPI RITIN S

WA MO LKER WE S RS

V61

5 SOU TR A T H E R IL E N RS

W67

K (A EEN OF DIVISAN JK ION EN G.) JA SO MES N (N & Z)

SOLUTIONS FOR COSTLY WATER COMPLIANCE ISSUES

THURSDAY 12 MARCH Husqvarna Woodchopping – 10.00am – 3.30pm National Excavator Championships – All Day Norwood Farm Machinery Centre – Tractor Pull All Day. Practise for Standard, Modified and Pre 85 Classes Modifieds running at: 10.30,12.30, 3.30pm Daily Business House Tractor Pull Thursday Only Drilling and Cultivation – All Day FoodHQ (visitor Entrance ENT5) – All Day NAIT workshops (Manfeild Stadium) – 9am, 11am, 2pm FRIDAY 13 MARCH Husqvarna Woodchopping – 10.00am - 3.30pm Central Districts Double Power Fencing Competition – 10.00am briefing at 9.45am. (Prize Giving at 3.30pm at Goldpine site N21,22,23) National Excavator Championships – 9am, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, (6.5 and 12 tonne active all day) & 3pm Norwood Farm Machinery Centre – Tractor Pull All Day Battle of the Brands Competition Practise for Standard, Modified and Pre 85 Classes. Modifieds running at: 10.30, 12.30, 3.30pm Daily Drilling and Cultivation – All Day FoodHQ (visitor Entrance ENT5) – All Day NAIT workshops (Manfeild Stadium) – 9am, 11am, 2pm SATURDAY 14 MARCH Husqvarna Woodchopping – 10.00am – 3.30pm National Excavator Championships – All Day Excavator Championships – 9am, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm , (6.5 and 12 tonne active all day) & 3pm Norwood Farm Machinery Centre – Tractor Pull All Day. Standard Modified & Pre 85 Class Competition. Modifieds running at: 10.30,12.30, 3.30pm Daily Taste of CD Marquee Prize Draw – 2.30pm Suzuki Rural Prize Draw on site J10 – 3.30pm Drilling and Cultivation – All Day FoodHQ (visitor Entrance ENT5) – All Day

Find out how Longveld has helped farmers like Carl and Ally Steiner to improve profits and productivity by making the switch to gas in their dairy shed with Dairy Hot Water, and by installing Iron Out, the low maintenance, non-chemical, system that drastically reduces iron levels in your farm’s water supply. The long and the short of it is a small talk with Longveld can save your farming business big bucks.

0800 566 483

Come talk to the guys from Longveld at the Central Districts Field Days from 12-14 March at site K8.

MBIP COAM CL

S19

WH PO ITI NG SY STWE R EM S

RIDE TO CARPARK AREA

S39

S48

OP EN CO UN DA IRYTR Y

D11

W E S CDOS SEE

O19

SE ASAL L SE CU ON IR TYS

S38

INERY VINTAGE MACH

ENT.TEK

S3 7

V38

PROL AN TE S43 FE RTRR AC AR ILI SE E RS

TRA 4 NS A

NC T S46 RETE S47

F11

E11

SUR FAT

20 0 S2

S36

SE MA GA V39 SU RD RE AN L DY

V42

G11

C U AR RO

S2 1

OTR EC Y E L D IPHWAP

S3 5

TR TIC AD KL IN E G

CHMR ILL

Programme of events

G H G EC RIN YT EE DAGIN EN

COURTESY FORD

FARM

N REVOLUTIORS POSTDRIVE

AND

A TARARURK HELIWO

TOW

S22

S52

D12

S23

O2 2

PR ODKS N UC TS KIN CA TT G S51

D13

O23

S50

E12

GR OA

PEARSON

G12

THE FEEDER LEADER COMPANY

H10

O24

S3 4

V36

STR ON GH OLD

H11

S3 3

SA LE WM VIN V37 AK ER S

H12

I10

FIRMA NS MARIN E CENTR E

TE 4 CH W V3 EL 5 D NZ

I11

MANAWATU TOYOTA

O25

PRHE ODCT UCON TS

HOMEOPATHIC

STRAUTMANN HA HOPKINS CH IPPNS A ER S

C O O VE MM R UN & O IC AT U T IO N L9 S

E13

D14

FARM SUPPORT

MAINLINE SHEETMETALS CHAIN SAW & OUTDO OR POWER L8

RURAL FUEL I12

F12

TOKOROA ENGINEERING 2014

TRC TOYOTA FEILDING

TRANSAG CENTRE C1 6

KU H NZ N

M G LA TR 11 SS UL (P HO UX G LAAC IF US ES SS IC )

D15

REPCO AUTO PARTS

RABOBANK

G13 F13

E14

SNAPCHILL

D16

SMARTSOL

N10

G14

F14

E15

K10

J10

BRP (AUSTRALIA) BIOAG

HANDYPIECE HOLDING G15

F15

TRC TOYOTA WAY D17

D DEEPEN E DRAINAG

H13

G16

K11

J11

SUZUKI LANE

J12

BLM FEEDS

H14

AGBITS

BATESON TRAILERS

D18

EL CORESTE S BUILDING

RURAL PRIZE AREA

H15

E16

VREDESTEIN

RTY PROPE RS BROKE

I13

F16

E17

ARNA

Y RNA WA HUSQVA

HUSQV

I14

BROMLEY DAIRY & P U M P S

MAXXIS TYRES STARMAXX TYRES TERRAMAX WHEEL SYSTEMS

FA IR IN DU BR OT ST HE R HO RI CU LT OP ERES & AV AT IO N

A20

FOOD COURT 2

G17

F17

W66

CD FI DAYS ELD LINK A1

A22 A21

I15

RABOBANK STREET

DUNC ANAG

B20

GRI

FOOD COURT 2

G18

E18

D19

FARMQUIP /W O O L A W A Y CONSTRUCTION

D20

ETY

D21

I16

H16

FINE SWAP PARTICLE A P P L I C A T I O N STOCKFOOD

F18

E19

UTEMASTER

B2 1

SE A

QUADBAR

D22

E20

GALLAGHER GROUP

COOPER TIRES

GAME GEAR

MCINNES

G19

FIRST-

E21

H17

HANSEN PRODUCTS

F19

W65

REE

HUSQVARNA WOOD CHOPPING ARENA

FARMING S H O W (NZ)

BULLSEYE DIRECT

E22

DENZ

DELAVAL

C22

B22

TRAD ESAF

OUTBACK TRADING

TE PARI

TE PARI LANE

EFTPOS G20

J13

SUZUKI

RURAL FUEL WAY

ORIJEN DAIRYFLO LIGHT TRS TYRE PETFOODS FOODS & WHEEL

B19FO RE MARKOWNEST SERVETINGR ICES

A2 3

I17

H18

F20

RALIA

B23

ROBE MAN RTSO UF N -URI ACT NG

A2 4

I18

RX PLASTICS LTD

AUST

C23 B24

I19

G21

F21

MACDOUGALLS

D23

SWAZI APPARELL

H20

GARY FIVESTAR WORSLEY RUGGED MOTORCYCLES VALLEY LONGVELD KENNELS & RUNS

POLARIS

AGCO

C25

B25

ALLIED PETROLEUM

OUTGRO FERTILISER

CENTRE

G22

F22

MODEL BARN E23

NO MAC RWO HINE OD FA RY RM CENT RE A25

TUMU ITM RURAL

G23

F23

D25

I21 H21

WAIKATO MILKING SYSTEMS NZ

CENTRAL REGIONS DEER FARMERS

TARAGATE

RATA

EXHIBITOR EXIT (GATE 2)

EXHIBITOR & DISABLED ENTRY (GATE 1)

PUBLIC ENTRY (FROM CARPARK 1 & 2)

EXHIBITOR & DISABLED CARPARK

GLA DS TO NE

AGRISEA

D26

K21

CLOTHING

I22 H22

ASB BANK RURAL

G25

IVE

A26

AG-BRAND PRODUCTS

D27

K22

MATAMATA AG CENTRE MACDOUGALLS & FOXTON AG CENTRE

E25

N21

NEW ZEALAND NATURAL

I23

FMG DR

A27

FOR FARMS

E26

K23

H23

FMG

G26

E26

E27

C26 B26

TURT SUPP ON FA LIES RM LTD

NORWOOD FARM MACHINERY CENTRE TRACTOR PULL AREA

SOUTH

FERNDALE PL

PUBLIC & DISABLED CARPARK 1

PUBLIC ENTRY (FROM CARPARK 3)

PUBLIC ENTRY (GATE 3)

AGRISSENTIALS

I25

C-DAX

N22

MASSEY AGRICULTURE PAVILION

H25

CRAIGS INVESTMENT PARTNERS

A28

C27 B27

K24

FMG DRI VE

A29

C28

B28

N23

GOLDPINE

K25

FENEMOR INNOVATIONS

G27

E27

AGTO MANA RQUE WATU

B29

O53

N24

FARM SUPPLIES (CENTRAL)

N25

PRATTLEY INDUSTRIES

D28 PLAS MA BIOT EC

O54

DEVAN PLASTICS

RURAL DIRECT MANUFACTURING

E28

SILVAN

I26 H26

OPUS

E28

HORIZONS REGIONAL COUNCIL

TOTALSPAN

TRU-TEST

SIMPLE SHELTER E29

CRV AMBREED

CORKILL SYSTEMS

RAVE NSDO WN

A30

HONDA MOTORCYCLES

BALLANCE ROAD

N26

C31

C30 McI NTO C29 SH B31 ROA B30 D

ANZ BANK A31

YAMAHA MOTOR NZ

A32

I27 H27

G28

POWE R WHOL FARMING ESAL E

ONL SUPP IN LEM E ENTS

GAL GROAXY UP

FAR MC MAC HINHIEF ERY

EQUIACE PMEN T

M SAWAHOE MIL LS

TAEG ENG E .

E30

STOCK-AD E

KLIPTANK

E31

TRC TO YOTA WAY

N27

HATUMA DICALCIC PHOSPHATE

G29

O55

BRENT BODDY PRESTIGE

I28 H28

NI. DORSET DOWN SHEEP

E32

H29

E31 E30 E29 D32 D31 FRIBES CO PAK D30 A STRE AMD29 BACH LINE FEED ING FARM FEED MILK ING SHRT HRN

C32 B32

OUTBACK HELICOPTERS

KC LOCKSMITHS

C33 B33

TASKPOWER

MCINTOSH BROS ENGINEERS

CARAC COUPLINGS

1 A O S LLC SE ALE RAN RV S & E IC E

A33

DIESEL PERFORMAN CE SOLUTIONS

C34 B34

CENT GR RA FORKOUP L LIFTS & TR UCKS

05 O1

FARM GAR D

GOU G CAT HS

A34

E32

D33

N28

LANDQU IP

O56

O57

AFFCO

I30

H30

G31

CERV US EQUIP MENT

39 C

C3 5 B3 5

E33

TRUEFORM SPA POOLS

2004 WRIGHT TANKS

HEATRITE

BALLANCE AGRINUTRIENTS

JAMES ENGINEERING MORRIFIELD DEVELOPMENT LTD

NZ NATIONAL FIELDAYS

GILTRA ENGINE P ERING

LELY NZ

OD 3 F OU R T CO

NATIO CO NAL EXCA MP VA ETITION TO AREA R CONT RACT ORS FE D RO AD

C3 6 B3 6

I31

I29 RURAL FUEL WAY H31

ACR AGRI

O58

N29

NEW ZEALAND TRANSP ORT AGENCY

G32

O59

N30

G30 RABOBANK STRE E33

SERVICNICAL ES PLASM ACUT

C3 7 B3 7

O60

N31

NORTHFUELS

CEG ELECTRIC MOTORS & PUMPS G33

PRESCOTT TRAILERS

VEEHOF DAIRY SERVICES

CLOUD FARM

ECU CHIPS

G34

E34

ZTR

I32 H32

RIVERDOWN STEEL

G35 E35

H33

KIWI CATTLE YARDS

BOONIES FOOTWEAR

G36 E36

RU SS EL L ST

TUMERS RD

O61

N32

I33

H34

CS MOWER S E37 E36 E35 D37 E34 D36 PREC ISION D35 FINIS HING POLYNET D34 PRODUCTS ALPACA WELDI NG MECHA AND

COUN MACH TRY INERY

N TO CK BU

C40

TEST

D42

TRU-

NATIONAL EXCAVATOR COMPETITION AREA

O102

ENS LARS RETEE CONCAINAG & DR

O101

PUBLIC CARPARK 3

KAWAKAWA RD

IRRIGATION WATERSERVICES FLOW AGRIMAP

H35

SEED FOCUS FORCE GENETI

E38

A36 NORW A35 OOD ROAD

FE RG US SO N

O63 O62

N33

I34

PRIMARY ITO

E37

AGRI-MAT

D39

C3 8

DIAMOND HOMES

K36A

ANNE'S KNITWEAR

McINT OSH RO AD

E39

G37

E38

B3 8

A37

M34A M34

FARMLANDS DRIVE

ANNIE'S

YOUNGMAN RICHARDSON KIWISPANNZ MANAWATU & CO

H36

ASSOC.

A38

CITI-BOX CONTAINER HIRE & SALE S

BELL-BO OTH

E40 D40

C42

KI MBO LT ON

APB ELE CTR 200 8 ICA L

C43

G38

E39

SILVE R FERN FARM S

HU PIPE MES SYSTLINES EMS

C44

AWAHURI RD

I35

H37

QUICKE NZ

D43

D41

O10 9

AWAHURI RD

KA WA KA WA

ELECTRIC VEHICLES ENZED

NATIO EXCA NAL OPERVATOR ATOR COMP ETITI ON

KNIVES

O100 10 7

NEAT NEW PLYMOUTH SWEETS BLOORE CARAVAN CENTRE DISTRIBUTING QUALITY

HOLD FASTENERS

O99

PUBLIC ENTRANCE 3 FROM PUBLIC CARPARK 3 (KAWAKAWA ROAD)

FARMLANDS

G39

E43

D44

C47

HUM C46 C45 ES W AY

08 NE MA W HIN ZE D AL RA AN D

(CARRY-MATE)

HYND S

DIGGA NZ

O98

C48

K38C

K40B K40A K40 BIOSTART STRONG-

E44

LIC

C49

L38B

KIWI B&T DAVIS THE WOOL FAMILY GET TRUST TOOLS CSNZ

K38A HYNDS K38B PIPE K40E K40D AVENUE K40C

ETP

C50A

O97

C50

UFO COOKERS

O96

WILCO (2003)

L36

PLUNKET MANAWATU WANGANUI & TARANAKI

DNA LIFESTYLE PRODUCTS

STIHL SHOP™

FONT ERRA E45 D47 W D46 HEY D4

O64

N34

M36

L37

WESTPAC

E40

O65

N36

M37

L38

H38

FO CO-ONTERRA PE GROURATIVE P& FO FARMNTERRA SOUR CE

D48

L38A

O66

OR1

OR2

OR3

OR4

OR5

OR6

OR7

RU BAY RA L LEY PAVLIFES S ILIO TYL E N

LAC E

D49

BOAT CITY

M38

L40

L40A BLACKS HEEPDESIGN

OR8

O92

O94

O95

D50

BUILD LINK GROU P

M40

L41

ORIG. SMOKE & SPICE

L51

FC-1

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

10 CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS

Mahindra out to show tractor range is diverse GARETH GILLATT

INDIAN FARM machinery maker Mahindra will show its expanded tractor range, including new offerings at both ends of the power spectrum, says national sales manager Russell Burling.

The company will launch its 20-24hp eMax tractors and the mForce 100hp, its first large machine in New Zealand. At 100hp the mForce 100P will meet the “known largest demand in the New Zealand market – for 90-120 hp tractors,”

Burling says. “They’re used by everyone… sheep and beef farmers, and dairy farmers; we’ve been were looking forward to getting a model in.” With power coming from a 100hp 4-cyl Perkins 4400cc turbo diesel

engine, this model has plenty of power, managed by a 32x32 power shuttle transmission including eight creeper gears. The loader can lift 1870kg and the rear 3-point hitch can carry a maximum of 3110kg. The designers have

kept simple the layout of the large, double-door cab, but haven’t skimped on features farmers want, offering hydraulic con-

Central Dis tricts Field Days Site Numbe r W66/W67 trols for the three point linkage on the left and right of the tractor.

imagine. The full chassis rail, Tier IV eco-friendly engine, and highly engi-

“They’re used by everyone… sheep and beef farmers, and dairy farmers.” INCLUDES • 4M 180UB INCLUDES • 4M 180UB Mast INCLUDES • 4.25M (150UC) Mast • 3 Bank Valve • 4 Bank Valve • Top Link Ram Beam • 270Kg Hammer • 6 • Top Link Ram & Angle & Angle Adjustment • 227Kg Bank Valve • Hydraulic Hinge Adjustment • 227Kg Hammer • Adjustable Legs • • Terminator Base 900mm Hammer • Adjustable Legs Terminator Base 900mm Side Shift Side Shift • 250mm Mast Shift *Prices do not include Tractor. Postdriver only. See your agent for a full price list. Expires March 31 2015.

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Burling says the three year, 2000 hour warranty should be an attractive offer. And while the new eMax series (22-25hp) might appear to be the polar opposite to the larger tractor, they offer more than one might

neered drawbar and 3-point linkage means users are essentially getting the strength of a full-sized tractor inside a compact. “It’s definitely stronger and better,” Burling says. Tel. 0800 282 726 www.mahindra.co.nz

RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS 11

These boots are made for working A NEW version of Skellerup’s Red Band leather lace-ups and slip-ons, available in both safety and non-safety models, hits the shelves this month. National manager Perry Davis says the boots’ new fit, protective features and a rubber sole have come at the request of farmers. “All Red Band work boots are now upsized to fit extra wide feet…. whether they want lace-up, slip-on, safety or non-safety models.”

The new anti-slip rubber outsole resists heat, oil and acid. And the safety versions of the lace-up and slip-on Red Bands have greater protection underfoot, thanks to a new penetration resistant midsole. Davis says the key features remain unchanged. “These boots were designed to handle some of the toughest working conditions on the planet, with features like triple stitching, tough high grade

leather, double sided elastic in the slipon models and super strong laces in the lace-up models.” All Red Band work boots have uppers made of heavy gauge buffalo leather and scuff resistant toe guards for protection against increased wear, plus shock absorbing polyurethane midsoles for support and comfort. Steel shanks strengthen and stiffen the boots, and their removable innersoles have an anti-microbial layer to

reduce odour, and ventilation zones to reduce foot fatigue. Introducing the leather designs was the result of farmer requests, Davis says. “If we didn’t listen to farmers, the Red Band work boot would have never eventuated in the first place. It was farmers who first asked us to go beyond gumboots. www.skellerup.co.nz

PROVEN QUALITY, RELIABILITY & EFFICIENCY COME

Ring top replaces pigtail A NEW ring top post turns the concept of the traditional pigtail standard on its “curly little head,” says maker Gallagher. The design deals with the nuisance of tangled pigtail posts, making it easier to store, carry and erect temporary electric fences. Product manager Graham Johns says a key feature is its distinctive ring-shaped head. Made from heavyduty glass-fibre nylon, the heads suffer no electrical shorts. And they are light and strong. The company talked to many farmers and did a lot of R&D. “We talked to farmers about what they liked and didn’t like about portable fencing and a common complaint about pigtail standards was entanglement during transport and storage,” Johns says. “Farmers were also frustrated about pigtail heads wearing through, resulting in shorting.” Johns says feedback from farmers who have trialled the new post has been “fantastic”. “We’ve run tests in Taranaki, Waikato and Southland, and farmers love them. Most said they wouldn’t go back to the old standards and one farmer said his staff members argue over who gets to use the new ring top posts.” Gallagher has also redesigned the foot section for more strength and usability. Made from overmoulded glass-fibre for increased durability, the foot will withstand 200kg of tread pressure and will not bend out of shape like a steel foot. The blade-type design of the foot prevents the standard from rotating when erected, and its profile reduces the risk of standards becoming tangled and entrapped during handling and storage. An extended insulated section also provides extra strength and better handling.

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

12 CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS

Sporty side x side now in New Zealand NEW PLAYERS in the NZ off-road market, CFMoto, have launched their feature packed, sports side by side vehicle, the Z8S. The 800cc sports side by side (SSV) is part of a growing range of offroad vehicles offered by the global powersports manufacturer who have

been producing feature packed, value for money vehicles for 20 years. CFMoto New Zealand general manager, Dale Schmidtchen believes the Z8S will be well received by Kiwi’s given its competitive retail price of $12,490 ex GST. “When you compare the cost of a Japanese

500 ATV which sells for close to $14,999, with a CFMoto Z8S side by side for $12,490 ex GST including a two year warranty, it’s a no brainer – the safety and versatility of a SSV should win every time,” Schmidtchen says. The new Z8S will complement CFMoto’s

DEALING WITH DEMANDING AGRICULTURAL SITUATIONS? Vredestein can help you get better results with greater operator comfort, lower machinery wear, lower soil compaction, improved traction and increased fuel efficiency. Z8 EX model already offered in New Zealand for $15,065 ex GST ride away. “The main point of difference between the Z8EX and the Z8S is the narrower wheel track which make it more trailer friendly,” Schmidtchen says. “The Z8S also offers $2,600 worth of accessories such as alloy wheels, tow pack, roof kit, independent

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front and rear suspension and selectable 2WD-4WD modes. “We hope Kiwi’s will respond well to the value for money this model offers and expect it will be a good seller for us in 2015.”

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS 13

Southern event Good harvest for region experiences jump in exhibitors numbers Te Pari Products’ an technological EXHIBITOR NUMBERS electronic drench gun; innovations. Past entries are 50% higher at this third, imported farm have ranged from year’s South Island motorcycle componentry machinery, such as Agricultural Field Days Mountpanther NZ’s to sizeable items of farm (SIAFD) than at the Slurryquip effluent machinery. previous event – 450 vs umbilical system, and The contest has 300, say the organisers. Kelly Engineering’s 6.0m three categories: And a good spin-off harrows. first, New Zealandis much greater interest SIAFD has bought made farm machinery, in the Agri-Innovation 40ha on Courtenay Awards, to be judged Road near Kirwee during the event on “This exhibitor as its permanent March 25-27 at the growth has also venue. It was new Kirwee site. held at Lincoln Primary Industries led to an increase University for 32 Minister Nathan Guy years. will open the event on in interest in the Schat says the March 25. Agri-Innovation new rectangular Committee Awards, showing block at Kirwee is member Daniel our economy is still the ideal shape for Schat says the larger exhibitors to work number of entries in pushing forward.” on. Public entry the Agri-Innovation – Daniel Schat into the event will Awards reflects the also be easier and growth of the event. more logical. “This exhibitor SIAFD usually such as Robertson growth has also led to attracts about 25,000 Manufacturing’s Little an increase in interest visitors over the three Ripper two-bale feeder; in the Agri-Innovation days, although the second, farm aids Awards, showing our committee is hoping and farm inventions, economy is still pushing the larger site and new such as Fertigation forward.” location will result in Systems’ fertigation Agri-Innovation more. pump, Richard Miles entrants get to Engineering’s milk demonstrate their Tel. 03 423 0537 transfer trailer, and inventions and info@siafd.co.nz

Top crop! Harvesting in the central North Island – like the rest of New Zealand – has been blessed with good weather and equally good yields. Pictured is Middle Hills Contractors Harvesting bringing in the barley crop in mid-January on the property of Colin and Jenny Schaw at Tikokino, central Hawkes Bay. PHOTO - JOHANNES HOOGENBOOM

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

14 CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS

Polaris gives farm workhorses a ‘heavy duty’ upgrade POLARIS IS adding more grunt to its range of farm vehicles. Notably, its 2015 Ranger 1000 diesel HD, built specifically for the New Zealand and Australian markets, has some “heavy duty upgrades” – electronic power steering, engine braking and 4-wheel

descent control (4WDC) for hilly terrain. This new model, built on the Ranger XP platform, also has updated styling, a new 1028cc diesel engine, a “massive” 110 amp alternator and a new ROPS cab frame. Other features are dual A-arm front suspen-

OTHER STANDARD FEATURES ❱❱ 25.4cm of steering adjustment ❱❱ 30.5cm of ground clearance, room and seat belts for three adults ❱❱ 25.4cm of Dual A-Arm suspension travel up front ❱❱ 25.4cm of independent rear suspension travel to keep the ride smooth when towing and hauling up to a tonne.

The Polaris 2015 Ranger 1000 has a new 1028cc diesel engine.

sion, new flip-up seat storage, new lock-and-ride cab accessories, 37.6L fuel tank, easier serviceability and a quieter ride due to engine repositioning rearward. The Ranger 1000 diesel HD also has new intake openings on the pillars behind the driver and passenger, improving airflow to the engine and clutch. The new 1028cc Kohler diesel is a 3-cyl overheadcam liquid cooled unit with indirect injection “that delivers smooth power and reduced combustion noise,” the maker says. It has a cast iron crankcase for durability and an aluminum cylinder head for weight reduction. Alternator output is double that of the outgoing model.

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“Full pressure lubrication provides superior protection and engine life. The automotive overhead camshaft design also reduces mechanical drivetrain noise and with the engine being repositioned rearward in the chassis this new model is expected to be harder working and smoother riding”. The Ranger 1000 diesel HD has class-leading 907kg towing capac-

ity, 680kg payload capacity and a rear dump box (gasassist dumping) that can carry 454kg and a full-sized pallet. For New Zealand, the Ranger 1000 Diesel will come as an ‘HD’ (heavy duty) spec model with an upgraded rear driveshaft, grease fittings, HD sway bar and driveshaft spline sealing – ideal for dairy farms. The company says the HD spec is a direct result of

recent visits by Polaris Industries USA management and engineers to New Zealand, “during which they spent hours with dealers and end users researching the usage of quads and side x sides in New Zealand conditions”. The 2015 Ranger 1000 diesel HD will be available in New Zealand from early March. Price: $21,398 incl. GST. www.polaris.co.nz

‘OUTSTANDING IN THE FIELD’

Cridge seeds is situated in Canterbury. We specialise in high quality, locally grown seed ready for sowing alone or in mixes to suit your pastures. We grow, clean and sell our own seed but are more than competitive in sourcing and supplying proprietary and common seed to suit all farming requirements. Purity and Germination tests available on request. Please contact us for autumn sowing suggestions

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS 15

Mixer wagons help double production GARETH GILLATT

THE HORIZONTAL action of a Keenan Mech fiber mixer wagon is credited with doubling production on a Northland farm – from 100,000 kgMS to over 200,000 kgMS a year, says the owner/operator, Jenny McLean. Mclean and her daughter Tracey run a split calving, 400 cow operation on 180ha of marine clay south of Dargaville. Six years ago, McLean decided to put in a large maize crop after enduring the 2008 drought, considered by many the second worst drought in 20 years; she wanted more certainty in her system. While the maize responded well to the heavy marine clay, producing 15 tonnes/ha on land that normally averaged 8t/ha in pasture yields, it did not bring the desired production boost. Mclean fed the herd, then 450 cows, using a 12m3 feed wagon on an uncovered 1125m2 limestone pad. And while it did lift production by an average of 20,000kgMS/year, there wasn’t quite enough to fully justify the work required. “Even though I was growing maize, the production didn’t change much. It went from 96,000kgMS the season before to no more than 124,000kgMS in the best year of growth, and that’s when I was milking 450 cows.” That all changed two years later after McLean swapped the silage wagon for a secondhand Keenan Mech Fiber Mixer Wagon, sought specifically because she had used one before and seen the effectiveness of the tumbling action of the horizontal system. “I had worked with a Keenan mixer wagon before and I liked how the cows ate everything we fed them,” she says. The consistent mixing of the feed worked, caus-

ing production to jump from 120,000kgMS at one peak – before the installation of the feed pads – to 174,000 kgMS; this was despite two successive droughts and a drop in cow numbers from 450 to 380. McLean also attributes some of this increase to the services of a nutritionist. “The cows were going out into the paddock fully fed, rather than hunting for food, which made a mess of the paddocks in spring.” She says the Keenan service support is exemplary, even though she was using a second-hand machine. “We get good service from Jon Kimber (JK Engineering). It didn’t matter what time, they were always available for repairs or servicing or were happy to talk us through by phone.” Now the feed pad and mixer wagon are integral to the farm, “so if the machine that supports it is causing grief you get rid of it and get something else.” Now McLean has upgraded to a Keenan 16m3 Mech-Fiber 340. At 2.9m high x 6.2m long x 2.6m wide the wagon delivers 6 tonnes per batch. With 42 knives fitted on the floor, double the farm’s previous machine, the mixing is smoother and consumes less power despite bigger volumes. McLean says an advantage of the new mixer is Keenan’s series III bale handler. This allows the bale to enter the mixing chamber without overwhelming the knives. Mclean says the technology makes life easier for workers feeding out. They previously had to use a front loader to manually feed hay into the mixer. “Everything is much faster with the MF340 feeder, and the guy feeding out loves it.” A simple transmission and low rotation speed of 7-8rpm means the farm’s 110hp Case JXU 10

can adequately handle mixing and feeding out. Tel. 03 302 7305 www.keenansystem.co.nz

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RURAL NEWS // MARCH 3, 2015

16 CENTRAL DISTRICTS FIELD DAYS

Clever software puts boot into mind-numbing paperwork GARETH GILLATT

FARM SOFTWARE developed by Manawatu firm AgRecord offers farmers an electronic alternative to huge, mind-numbing paper health and safety manuals. And the firm’s Cloud Farmer has propelled it into a place in the NZTE 2015 New Zealand Agribusiness Investment Showcase, says managing director Gretchen Bunny. Since launching Cloud Farmer at the 2014 Central District Field Days (CDFD), the company has further developed the modular farm recording system. Its advisor BCC (Building Clever Companies), Palmerston North, nominated AgRecord for the NZTE New Zealand Agribusiness Investment Showcase, Bunny says. BCC suggested that outside investors’ money would likely help AgRecord grow faster and accelerate its expansion into overseas markets.

“We want to consolidate and hone our business model here in New Zealand before we jump too fast into overseas markets.” Getting ready for the showcase has already had a huge impact on the business, accelerating its growth. “Things that would have normally sat on the ‘to do’ list for a year we’ve had to get done in six weeks.” However, the company is still confirming the system’s mobile platform – crucial to the business but complex to work through. We’re getting conflicting advice on whether we should build a native app or just optimise the website and go through the device’s browser.” And while the company is leaning towards a native app there are complications about the operating system they need to build it for. “Our users access our service with Apple tablets and Android phones so we have to build for both of those.”

The company has added other modules, reaching out to rural professionals who support farmers, e.g. vets, stock agents and bank managers. It now offers modules to record climate information, workplace hazards and payroll information – timely given the Government’s emphasis on health and safety and the need for timesheets on farms. WorkSafe will soon enforce tough new labour laws including farm health and safety manuals which must map all workplace hazards. Most farmers will want to comply with the law, Bunny comments, but the high cost of health and safety plans makes it tough, especially given the changing environment on farms. That’s where Cloud Farmer clicks in. “Hazards change onfarm daily so you’d need a big paper manual – not practical. [Alternatively the company’s software] can serve exactly

AgRecord’s Gretchen Bunny will be at this year’s CD field days.

the same purpose as a cumbersome health and safety process manual.” Mobile functionality is high up the company’s list. “Farmers are allergic to being in the office, they want to be out there growing grass and looking

after stock. We need to build a mobile app to help them manage the whole farm better while doing the part of farming they enjoy most.” Tel. 06 211 4298 www.agrecord.co.nz