Barkly Beef Vol4no3 Nov 1998 - FutureBeef · that you would like to place in the “barkly beef”. Please feel free to phone her on (08) 8962 4493, or fax her on ... alternative

barkly beef Published by the Northern Teritory Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries in Tennant Creek, still on an irregular and unreliable basis.

ISSN 1325-9539

Volume 4, Number 3 - November 1998

Editor: Debbie-Sue Van Rangelrooy

Hello These past few months have been busy for us in town. No doubt it has been the same for you. I travelled to the USA in June and July, for one month, mostly for holidays, but I also attended a conference on Women in Agriculture. We had the chance to visit huge irrigation areas in California, where the average rainfall is 10 inches in summer time. Despite this, over 90 different agricultural and horticultural crops were grown there under irrigation, relying heavily on traditional cultivation and pesticides. Mark met me in Montana, where we stayed on a beautifully managed cattle ranch. The ranchers used Charolais bulls as the terminal sire to produce weaners from Angus-Simmental cross cows. All the offspring went straight from mum to the feedlot. The cattle are supplemented; the pastures are improved and fertilised; and the countryside is magnificent (even though 27oC is a very hot day!). The overwhelming message I got from there was how much more prudently we practise agriculture in Australia, compared to the USA. Everything is certainly bigger over there, including the inputs into agriculture, but I do think we

will continue to produce better quality produce for a much longer time than they will. Pat yourselves on the back, because I got the impression that Australian producers care much more for their land than our American counterparts. By the time you read this edition, the Barkly Meat Processing Company will have reopened its doors after a two month closure. Lets hope things run smoothly for them again. Welcome back to Debbie-Sue, who has returned from her jaunt overseas. And thanks to our interim editor, Mark, for the last edition of the “barkly beef”. Remember,

Debbie-Sue is keen to publish any notices or news items that you would like to place in the “barkly beef”. Please feel free to phone her on (08) 8962 4493, or fax her on (08) 8962 4480. Cheers

Mary GoodacreMary GoodacreMary GoodacreMary Goodacre

1

WILDLIFE OF THE MITCHELL

GRASSLANDS IN NORTHERN

AUSTRALIA

Background The Mitchell grasslands are one of the major ecosystems of semi-arid Australia, occupying about 5% of the continent. They extend in a large arc from the western Kimberley to northern NSW, with the major areas in central Queensland and on the Barkly Tableland of the Northern Territory. The grasslands occur on cracking-clay soils and are usually dominated by perennial Mitchell grasses (Astrebla spp) and annual Flinders grasses (Iseilema spp). Other habitats associated with the grasslands include bluebush swamps, coolabah woodlands and large temporary lakes. The Mitchell grasslands are also one of Australia’s most important rangelands, being used for cattle in the north, and sheep in more southern areas. Mitchell grasslands in the Barkly Tableland and Victoria River district are economically the most important areas for pastoral production in the Northern Territory. While there has been much research into the sustainable management of these pastures, there has been very little study of the biodiversity - all the plant and animal species - of this ecosystem. In particular, we know very little about the native animals that inhabit this region. The area of Mitchell grasslands in conservation reserves is very small. In the Northern Territory, this amounts to about 0.5% of their total area. While land managers aim to keep their pastures in good condition, we do not have enough information to assess whether this is sufficient to also maintain all the plant and animal species of this ecosystem.

This research project aims to increase our knowledge of the wildlife of the Mitchell grassland in northern Australia. It is supported by funding from Environment Australia and the Australian Heritage Commission. Field work took place in 1995-97, and the results will be prepared in 1998.

Preliminary Conclusions Drawn From This

Research Project

The Mitchell grasslands have a relatively low diversity of plants and animals, which probably reflects the lack of variation in the environment, the highly seasonal climate and generally harsh conditions. However, the collection of species is quite unique to this ecosystem, suggesting that conservation of the biodiversity should be an important consideration of land management. Unlike some other areas, ‘biodiversity hotspots’ (with particularly high numbers of species or many rare or restricted species) cannot be identified within the grasslands themselves. Rather, most species occur very widely across this ecosystem. However, other research has shown that the wetlands within the Mitchell grassland regions of the Northern Territory are very important for a large number of bird species. Protecting this habitat may be the highest conservation priority. Pastoral landuse has some effect on native plant and animals, advantaging some species and disadvantaging others. However, this effect is less pronounced than in other arid rangelands, where the spread of artificial waters has lead to

2 local extinctions of some species. The results to date indicate that the Mitchell grasslands is a relatively resilient ecosystem, as suggested by other researchers. Good conservation outcomes can be achieved off-reserve by wise pastoral management. The results suggest that the biodiversity of this ecosystem can be protected by maintaining a network of areas at different distances form water, and keeping a reasonable area of land that is only ever lightly grazed. Management of some wetland areas may require additional action.

If you are interested in finding out more information about this project, please do not hesitate to contact me. Alaric Fisher

Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern

Territory

P O Box 496

Palmerston NT 0831

Ph: (08) 8944 8471

Fax: (08) 8944 8455

Email: [email protected]

3

RESULTS OF THE BOTULINUM

VACCINE TRIAL

Summary

In March, 1997, a new botulinum vaccine was released - Cyanamid Websters Singvac. It is based on a non-mineral oil adjuvant and the company claims a greater efficacy than alternative vaccines with only a single induction dose necessary. This report compares Singvac and the CSL Bivalent Botulinum Vaccine used as a single dose in a herd trial.

Background Current practice on most stations in the Tennant Creek Region is only a single vaccination in the first year with conventional

TWO CIVILISATIONS

I gaze in reverent wonder

At this special place of ours

This one place “Down Under”

The bush, not awesome metal towers

So strong, natural and unspoiled

Side by side with pastoral industry

Held in respect by those who toil her

As they struggle not to be destroyed

Countless are the times I suspect

That progress might just have won

Treating this place with savage disrespect

Two opposite civilisations under the one sun

But because of her strength and beauty

And the loyalty of those who love her

Depending on her natural bounty

Her place in history constant and ensured

People look out from their glass cages

With fear or a primal urge to conquer

Who knows, we can but turn the pages

Of time, live and believe in her

Chantal Robertson

4 vaccines, usually CSL Bivalent Botulinum Vaccine. This is in spite of recommendations from CSL for two doses four weeks apart. The reason is because of the high cost of mustering weaners and the acceptance that this practice, followed by annual boosters is effective at preventing Botulism outbreaks. Field assessment of the effectiveness of a Botulinum vaccine is difficult. Where good stock control is practiced, with high mustering efficiency, mineral supplementation and low mortality rates, a single dose of the conventional vaccine product appears to be effective. In other areas, effectiveness is difficult to assess, because of low mustering efficiency and losses from other causes. Kevin DeWitte (Regional Veterinary Officer, DPI&F, Katherine) described a trial herd in which stock

control was good and where Botulism was not suspected, yet 17% breeders died from Botulism over a three year period.

Results To confirm claims by Cyanamid Websters, Singvac was trialled against a single dose of CSL product in a group of 150 steer weaners on Ucharonidge station on the Barkly Tableland. Blood samples were taken at 0, 8 and 24 weeks, sent to Perth for testing for antibody by ELISA. As the ELISA detects all antibody associated with the toxoid, a check test with the gold standard Toxin Neutralisation Test was necessary for batched samples. This latter test is expensive but measures only neutralising titres of antibody, which protect against the poison.

Toxin Neutralisation Test Results

Final Samples

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

9000

10000

Low

Eli

sa

Type

C

Mid

Eli

sa

Type

C

Hig

h E

lisa

Type

C

Low

Eli

sa

Type

D

Mid

Eli

sa

Type

D

Hig

h E

lisa

Type

D

Test Groups

Mou

se L

D100 P

rote

ctio

n/m

l

CSL

Websters

Type C Type D

Singvac produced twice the antibody reactivity compared to the CSL product by 24 weeks, as determined by ELISA for both of the types, C & D. This comparison was supported by the TNT, but only for Type C. There was no difference for Type D. This meant that a lot of the ELISA response by Singvac against Type D was not neutralising.

5 Overall, Singvac performed better than the CSL product using a single dose. However, the lack of advantage with respect to type D Botulism is concerning. Two doses of the CSL product as recommended by the manufacturer could be better still. This was not tested in this trial.

Recommendation

Where a single induction dose of Botulism vaccine is practiced, the use of Singvac is recommended. Where two induction doses are currently given, conventional vaccines may provide higher protection, than a single dose of Singvac. Singvac or conventional products may be used for booster doses.

Andrew Brown

Regional Veterinary Officer

Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries

P O Box 159

Tennant Creek NT 0861

Ph: (08) 8962 4486

Fax: (08) 8962 4480


HOT GOSSIP FROM THE

BUSHFIRES COUNCIL After a hectic fire season on the Barkly Tableland in 1997, followed by widespread fires in neighbouring Indonesia, and the big fires in New South Wales earlier this year, it is fair to say fire awareness has maintained a high profile in 1998.

As our fire season approaches with the onset of the hotter weather it does appear that ‘old man weather’ has helped out with the lack of a widespread wet season earlier in the year. There is not near as much grass around as last season, so the risk has lessened considerably. Although properties along the Queensland border had a better season, most places won’t have much grass to burn by the time the rain arrives. On a more positive note, graded firebreaks are near to completion and properties to the south have done plenty of prescribed burning making preparation sound for the oncoming fire season. Many properties have taken advantage of the Wildfire Fighting Operations training the ‘travelling show’. With over 130 volunteers completing the program this year, all is going well with fire management on a regional level. It is pleasing to get plenty of feedback from station managers and staff on the make up and presentation of these fire-fighting courses and as a result some changes are already being made with the aim to improving the Level 1 program. Fire strategies are being developed for hotspots on the ‘Nicholson River’ and ‘McLaren Creek’ properties to reduce fire activitiy in these areas. A modified training program is also underway to tackle fire management needs on Aboriginal communities. Remember you can utilise the Equipmenet Subsidy to the tune of 50% for the purchase of fire-fighting and radio equipment. If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Regional Fire Control Officers, Laurie Colgrave (08 8962 4522) and Lee Skinn (08 8962 4577). Laurie Colgrave

Regional Fire Control Officers

Bushfires Council of the Northern Territory

PO Box 846


Ph: (08) 8962 4522

Fax: (08) 8962 4567

6

Training sessions include theory, as well as hands-on training.

7

Training to fight fires is a worthwhile and rewarding experience.

8

WHAT’S IT LIKE NOW? It was 51 years ago that a number of sites across the mitchell grasslands were assessed and photographed by CSIRO. In 1973/74 DPI&F rephotographed 31 sites. Plans are underway to relocate these sites next year. This should be a very interesting exercise that involves most stations on the Barkly Tableland. Originally, the purpose of the survey was to collect information on the landforms, soils, vegetation and climate. This knowledge would then assist in the formation of policies concerning development. Today, the photos and the record of dominant plant species provide a valuable record for illustrating changes that may have occurred due to seasonal and grazing influences. This photo relocation activity will also highlight and reinforce the benefits of pasture monitoring. The next step will be to track down the old 1947/48 sites and rephotograph them in April/May next year. It will be important to GPS the sites and record information such as dominant plant species, historical rainfall data, grazing history, occurrences of fire, hay baling and any other activities which may have altered the condition of the land. If anybody has old station photography that they wish to include in this activity please let me know. It would be great to have all stations involved. Otherwise, I’ll be asking for your

assistance in relocating the sites following the big wet next year. If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Fiona Anderson

Barkly Land Conservation Officer

Department of Lands, Planning and

Environment

PO Box 159


Ph: (08) 8962 4494

Fax: (08) 8962 4480


PASTORAL WATER

ENHANCEMENT SCHEME (PWES) The Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries advises assistance under the provision of the Pastoral Water Enhancement Scheme (PWES) is available from 1 July 1998. The aim of the PWES is to enhance land and water resource management on pastoral properties by encouraging sound planning of stock watering facilities through the provision of technical advice and financial support. To obtain application forms or further information regarding the PWES, please do not hesitate to conteact me. David Collinson

Assessor

Commercial Develpment


GPO Box990

Darwin NT 0801

Ph: (08) 8999 2317

Fax: (08) 8999 2200


9

HORMONAL GROWTH

PROMOTANTS Producers who use HGPs are reminded that any animals that are treated must have the triangular ear notch put in either ear. This is the major component of the national HGPs program to enable the export of beef to the European Union. A recent audit detected an offence. There is a penalty of $5,000 and there is a risk that the annual review by the European Union will recommend to ban any beef exports from Australia. Please contact your local Stock Inspector or Primelink Officer if you have any queries. Brian Radunz

Principal Veteniary Officer


GPO Box 990

Darwin NT 0801

Ph: (08) 8999 2130

Fax: (08) 8999 2089

Mobile: 0417 887 922

NEXT BRAC MEETING

when Friday 11th December, starting at 1:00

pm where DPI&F Conference Room Agenda:

• Discuss NABRC outcomes

• Presentation of trial results:

• breeders

• supplementation

• vaccination

• Any issues you wish to raise Psst, the DPI&F Social Club are holding their

Seafood Bonanza Christmas Party after the

meeting, and you are all welcome to attend. Mark Adams

Animal Production Officer


PO Box 159


Ph: (08) 8962 4483

Fax: (08) 8962 4480

[email protected]

10

CATTLE SECTION &

CATTLEMAN’S DINNER, 1999

TENNANT CREEK SHOW Organisation for the Cattle Section and Cattleman’s Dinner for next year’s show will be handled by the newly formed Barkly Beef Breeders Association. Their sole role is to organise these events. The foundation members to co-ordinate the

Cattle Section are Kate and Gary Schubert,

Sue and John Stafford. The Cattleman’s Dinner will be orchestrated

and co-ordinated by Anna Brown who has some great new ideas and proposals for the evening.

Volunteer committee (to date) includes Lou

Binder, Shannon Petch, Shelly Henry,

Sharon and Clint Fletcher, Sam Graham,

Felicity and Cameron Fulcher, and Cameron

Rasheed. If anyboby else would like to offer

assistance please contact one of the co-

ordinaters. Cattle Section Classes will be aligned for show and sale. There is also potential for an “Over The Hook/Carcass” competition, with a Bush Champaign Breakfast to start the Show Day. All previous Cattle Classes are now void. Your suggestions are required for appropriate classes in 1999. Any input, suggestions, and offers of assistance can be addressed to Kate, Garry, John, Sue, and Anna by phone or fax if you are unable to attend the meeting listed below. Many hands make light work, so put your name down to be on the volunteer committee.

Meeting to be held on Friday 11th December at 5:00pm (post BRAC and prior

to DPI&F Social Club Seafood Bonanza

Christmas Party).

All are welcome and encouraged to attend the 3 functions, and we look forward to seeing you there. Kate and Gary Schubert

Tennant Creek Station

PO Box 5


Ph: (08) 8962 2555

Fax: (08) 8962 3139


REPORT ON AIRCRAFT SURVEY

Summary

In the last few years the Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries (DPI&F) staff has had to rightly provide more and more justification and accountability for funding. Any project allocated funds must be exhaustively researched, planned, budgeted and provide ongoing evaluation and reassessment. Above all the project or activity must be relevant to industry/clients and its contribution essential to the overall success of the Departments corporate plan.

Background

When acting as Regional Stock Inspector for the Barkly and Gulf Region in 1990, I complied a report and a working plan for the completion of destocking activities for the area. During this exercise it became obvious that using aircraft to move personnel was a logical and cost/time saving method. Nearly all the private veterinarians used aircraft to do their work and most of the stations had their own aircraft. The

11 DPI&F had helicopters locating all over the Gulf but made no use of aircraft to place men or supplies to work with these machines. More than 95% of the yards used by DPI&F had airstrips in place for station maintenance. These strips were regularly graded and also utilised by the vets for testing. Stock Inspectors attending these tests and paddock inspections had to drive between jobs which usually meant driving most of the night to catch up with the same flying vet the next day. In early 1993, whilst on leave, I completed a Private Pilot Licence at my own expense. Armed with this, I then presented management with a plan to enable myself to deliver DPI&F service with the use of a fixed wing aircraft. Funding was arranged for a six week trial. At the conclusion of the trial period the figures were looked at and a decision to continue with the service was made. Later, also at my own expense, I obtained a night flying rating, a low level endorsement, constant speed endorsement, retractable undercarriage endorsement and a tail wheel endorsement so as to be able to take advantage of any aircraft that may be available from time to time. At this stage the service has flown over 1,300 hours on official duty and has also provided assistance to other sections of the region, NT Police, Conservation Commission and station management.

Introduction

1 Purpose: The objective of this report is to produce of a project which is delivering services by field officers using aircraft. To be able to check progress, assess the viability and to investigate the future of the project. 2 Decisions: The DPI&F has used an aircraft to deliver services in the Barkly region for four and a half years. Funding has been provided on a yearly basis with a cost justification at the end of each season. It is hoped that this evaluation will identify a need for a more permanent arrangement. If the result is positive, the plan would be to proceed with the service and to investigate the potential to expand into other

sections. Should the result prove negative we would look at abandoning the project or modifying the unsuitable areas or procedures. This decision would be made by management in the Department, myself and/or our client base. 3 Key Issues: The major problem is that the service is of high profile both through the public visibility and the financial profile. In the financial aspect there are bills to pay (aircraft hire, fuel, etc.) every month and this is constantly in the financial eye whereas other forms of transport are leased yearly. The pastoralists and other clients whose needs are met by the service have had little input into the operation to date. The two key issues are seen as:

• Is the service cost/time comparable to other methods of delivery (ie. FWD vehicles)

• Is the service wanted by industry/clients

Method

1 Stakeholders: This report is intended to be an evaluation of services using a combination of cost breakdown and comparison with the results of a survey conducted in the region. The final report is aimed at the operations and financial managers of head office, the regional and middle managers of the DPI&F. It is also aimed at pastoralists and other clients as a public relations exercise. 2 Data Collection: Research was carried out to look for the most suitable model to fit the type of information required. Consultation resulted in the adoption of a Question and Answer type survey being conducted. This survey technique asks individuals to supply attitudes, beliefs, reactions and attributes in response to specific questions. It is a relatively inexpensive way to gather information from a large number of people. The survey took the form of a preliminary telephone call, faxing the questionnaire to the recipient and then correlating answers. Information required for a cost benefit analysis was already to hand in the form of running costs, diary extracts, aircraft

12 hour sheets and other records from previous years.

Survey

The design of the survey offered structured yes/no and unstructured open ended questions.

It was sent to 45 recipients consisting of Pastoralists, Department staff and other organisations. If you want to see a breakdown of the survey, please contact me as I am only too happy to go through them with you.

Survey Results

Organisation Surveyed Responded %

Company owned properties 25 25 100 Privately owned properties 3 3 100 DPI&F 15 7 47 Other organisations 2 2 100 Overall 45 37 82 Consistent points raised Count Priority

More use by other sections XXX 4 Service reliability XXXXX 3 Cost effectiveness of using aircraft XXXXXXXXXXXX 2 Expand existing service XXXXX 3 Time management XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX 1 Shift service to Tennant Creek XX 5 As can be seen, clients main comment has concerned the use of time (which costs money and is mostly forgotten!) with direct or visible cost seen as a secondary issue. This would indicate to the Department that although current policy is heavy on finance allocation, our clients think that effective use of time has a higher priority. This indication should change some management thinking. Changing of thinking, and therefore policy, for improvement of service is, hopefully, the end result of evaluation.

Cost Comparison

An example of day to day running time/costs, comparing aircraft with vehicles, from a three day period in 1997 is presented.

13 Key:

• Vehicle Average speed, 80 kph

Running cost with fuel, 46

cents/kilometre

Assuming no breakdowns/tyres

• Aircraft

Running cost with fuel, $163.50 hr

• Common Ordinary man hours, $19.00 hr

Overtime, 1.5 x 4hrs then double time

TA, Travelling Allowance

Distance, From Elliott base and return

Task time, 3 hours

1 FWD Vehicle:

Property Kms $ Ord hrs OT hrs $ TA Total $

Brunette 760 349.6 8 5 304 52 705.6 Mittiebah 880 404.8 8 7 380 52 836.8 Helen Springs 320 147.2 7 - 133 - 280.0

901.6 23 12 1822.4

The above example is based on the premise that the jobs would be one day apart and the officer would, at the completion of them all, return to base. (Elliott) The example below has the officer returning to base (Elliott) every night. 2 Fixed wing Aircraft #1:

Property AC hrs $ Ord hrs OT hrs $ TA Total $ Brunette 2.6 425.1 6 - 114 - 539.1 Mittiebah 3.5 572.2 7 - 133 - 705.2 Helen Springs 2.0 327.0 5 - 95 - 422.0

1324.3 18 0 1666.3

3 Fixed wing Aircraft #2:

Property AC hrs $ Ord hrs OT hrs $ TA Total $ Brunette 1.3 21.6 5 - 95 - 307.6 Mittiebah 1.0 163.5 4 - 76 52 291.5 Helen Springs 2.0 327.0 5 - 95 - 422.0

703.1 14 0 102.1

The above example does the 3 jobs in one trip but would necessitate one overnight stop as there is not enough daylight for flying. 4 Cost comparison results: The aircraft is still financially in front ($) even when the cost comparison was done over three separate days with the officer returning to base each night. It takes one man in a vehicle three days and requires two nights camping without extra overtime penalties, to service the three jobs exampled. The main reason for this is the driving distances involved. If the aircraft could service all three jobs in one day it would have a

total flying time of 4.3 hours. Although a situation like this rarely occurs, one of the variables of using aircraft would be to plan schedules with clients so as to maximise the aircraft’s and staff’s time. This would make a considerable saving in both the officers time and operating costs for the aircraft especially should a user pay system be implemented.

14

Conclusions

• Property response to the questionnaire was extremely gratifying and highlights the high acceptance and approval of the service by industry. This was not previously available as a group assessment, only as a one to one type comment.

• Some feedback has commented on the structure of the survey questionnaire. It was said that some questions were similar ie. 4 and 5. I thought not, as 4 was a closed question and invited comment on the whole service.

• Another concern was confidentiality. This was an omission on my part and should have been stated on the questionnaire. This was more of a problem for Government Departments than the other participants.

• Disappointing, would be an adequate description of the DPI effort. The Tennant Creek office cooperated and were mostly positive but when the survey went inter-region responses were 90% negative. It is thought that one of the reasons for this was the perceived lack of confidentiality. (My fault!)

Overall it would appear that the service is appreciated and approved by our clients and will receive their ongoing support. Thank you to the participants who took the time and trouble to answer the questionnaire. Ted Martin

Stock Inspector


Post Office

Elliott NT 0862

Ph: (08) 8969 2013

Fax: (08) 8969 2097

ASIAN HONEY BEES A resident of Ludmilla contacted a local bee keeper to remove a bee hive from underneath their house. Dick Ash removed the hive on Thursday the 11/6/1998 and took it back to his home in the northern suburbs of Darwin. Dick contacted the Department of Primary Industry on Sunday the 14/6/1998 suspecting that these bees were Asian honey bees (Apis cerana). Glenn Bellis confirmed his suspicions and an eradication program was immediately mounted. The hive had been established approximately two months and it is considered by bee experts that the hive had not swarmed. Swarming is the splitting of the hive and the setting up of a sister hive and indicates that there has been spread of bees from that locality. This is regarded as an exotic insect on the Australian mainland. The bee is established on islands in the Northern Torres Strait. The threat was thought to come from this area. Apis cerana is of concern to the bee industry as it can carry mites not found in Australia. The mites of concern are Varroa jacobsoni, Tropilaelaps clareae and Acarapis woodi. These mites have a detrimental effect on the commercial honey bee Apis mellifera. The effect on the honey producing industry could be severe. Some crops require honey bee pollination. In southern states pollination is largely by managed and feral honey bees (Apis

mellifera). A reduction of feral bee numbers in southern states could have and effect on the pollination of crops. The added value to

15 cropping from bee pollination is considerable, over a billion dollars. Following the detection of Asian honey bee a control program was declared for an area within boundaries being used for the exotic fruit fly eradication program. This meant that restrictions on the movement of bee hives and other material considered of risk for the spread of disease could be implemented. We have had strong support from the bee industry that see the introduction of mites a significant threat to their industry. The eradication program was run intensively initially with a media campaign, and up to ten people in the field responding to reports from the public and searching areas close to the original detection for signs of bee activity. We have not detected any further signs of Asian honey bee. We have tested many commercial and feral bee hives and have not detected the presence of mites. We have not been able to establish the origin of the hive. Further testing of the Asian honey bees detected in Darwin, in the USA may shed light on the country of origin. The Asian honey bee hive may have originated from cargo off loaded at Darwin port. At this stage movement restrictions will be in force till June next year. Andrew Moss

NAQS Scientist


GPO Box 990

Darwin NT 0861

Ph: (08) 8999 2103

Fax: (08) 8999 2111

Mobile 0413053094

WANT TO KNOW WHAT THE

GREEN CORPS CAN DO FOR

YOU? Green Corps in an Australian-wide organisation, set up by Australian Trust for Conservation Volunteers. The idea was to encourage young Australians between the ages of 17 and 20, to learn about their environment and how to take care of it for future generations. I was a member of the Katherine-based Green Corps team from 19 May to 14 November in 1997. There was a moderate amount of community interaction, and quite often members of the group would be stopped in the street and asked about the uniform they wore and what they were doing. When told, community members would then ask how they could get more information. Green Corps involves several organisaitons, but mostly the Parks and Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory (P&WCNT), the Department of Lands, Planning and Environment (DLP&E), Town Councils, and any locals who wish to ‘lend a hand’. Each team runs for six months and the members may reapply for other psotions around Australia.

16 Erosion control was the main project carried out by the Katherine Green Corps, however a variety of projects were coordinated by organisations such as: P&WCNT, Bushfires Council of the Northern Territory (Bushfires), Landcare, and DLP&E. We were supposed to work on erosion in the Katherine River Corridor, and we did just that, and a little bit extra. The Katherine Green Corps consisted of ten trainees and a supervisor. The tasks set before us were often completed well before the allocated time, often leaving our supervisors scratching their heads to come up with jobs to keep us occupied. The very first task we undertook was a ‘drop-structure’ on the banks of the Katherine River. This job weeded out those who could stay the distrance, and those who would not pass muster!

Apart from field work, another requirement from the Green Corps was to attend classes at the Northern Territory Rural College. Such subjects included: Environmental Management, Chemical handling, Weed Identification, Personal Development, Team Development and Pest Identification and Control. The field work was fun, and quite varied. We walked a 10km strip both sides of the Katherine River, surveying for a proposed nature trail. We used backpacks to spray noxious weeds such as rubber-bush and chiney-apple as we marched along. Another time, we undertook noogoora burr eradication at “Galloping Jacks”, a section of the katherine River on the outskirts of town. We hand-pulled all adult plants and burnt them in a very hot fire. Juvenile plants were sprayed with chemical. This task was carried out under the supervision of Larry Johns, a weeds officer from the Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries (DPI&F).

The Katherine Green Corps had a small nursery in town. It consisted of native trees suitable for revegetation purposes. Quite some time was spent weeding, transplanting and generally caring for these plants under the watchful eye of Andrew Fahey, a lecturer from the Northern Territory Rural College.

We assisted the Katherin Town council with a large section of Crown Land that is almost in the centre of town, doing frequent rubbish pick-ups, armed with leather gloves and plastic bags. We started an eradication program with the Council on the ever-present rubber-bush. We also set up an irrigation system to beautify the towns’ parks, which probably didn’t survive “The Flood”. Some time was spent at Katherine Gorge with the P&WCNT, engaging in erosion control on paths leading up into the hills, and native weed control of wild passion fruit along the banks of the Gorge. At Edith Falls, about 40km north of Kathine, we also participated in smaller-scale landscaping/erosion tasks, with the cooperation from the DLP&E and P&WCNT. We surveyed the Flora River Nature Park with P&WCNT, looking for the long-necked turtle and the pig-nose turtle. During this time, we constructed a major ‘drop-structure’ in a particularly badly eroded spot. We moved over

17 13 tonnes of rock by hand to fill in the rock gabion and the large apron we constructed. Our team also travelled to Daly Waters with Rod Dyer from the local Pastoral Division of the DPI&F, and people from Bushfires Council of the Northern Territory in Darwin. We selected and set up fire-plot sites, which included making assessments on fuel load and vegetation identification. The following Friday, we burnt the area and scientifically monitored the fire with the assistance from Bushfires. We also gained further experience in fire management issues when working with Dr Jeremy Russell-Smith from the DLP&E, and with the P&WCNT staff from Darwin. The trials were on the DPI&F Kidman Springs Research Station, and the fire-plot assessments were taken from the black soil plains and escarpments. As you can gather, the team members in the Green Corps are very diverse and willing young people who, with supervision are more than capable of undertaking any task that is set before them. The members of the team are very hands-on, they are chosen partly for this reason. Mostly, the members are local, but some teams have members from all over Australia. Green Corps labor is free and the teams provide their own camp provisions and mush of their own equipment, vehicle and trailer. However, whoever makes use of the Green Corps must supply any specialised equipment, such as scales and recording equipment. This means no travel allowance or the worry of extra wages to those organisations who make fruitful use of the Green Corps. Chantal Robertson

Weed Control Officer


PO Box 159


Ph: (08) 8962 4491

Fax: (08) 8962 4480

VENEREAL DISEASE IN OUR

CATTLE HERDS For 30 years, we have known that Vibrio and Trich have been present in our north Australian cattle herds. But how prevalent are they and how damaging are they to our breeding programs? Vibrio (Campylobacter foetus) and Trich (Tritrichomonas foetus) are entirely different organisms that behave essentially the same way in a breeding herd. They are carried by the bull and infect the cow at mating, causing reabsorption and abortion of the foetus. Most cows will then become immune and eliminate the infection after about 5 months, then reconceive. A small proportion (about 1%) will become barren for life. The cows immunity lasts up to 4 years in the case of Vibrio but only about 20 months for Trich infections, after which they may become reinfected. Apart from abortions and returns to service, a breeder will show no other sign of infection. The bull is also asymptomatic, and will carry the infection for life. Both Vibrio and Trichomoniasis are diseases prevalent in the majority of Northern Australian herds. In a 1986 survey on bulls from VRD properties, Colin McCool and co-workers found 87% of properties to have Vibrio and 65% to have Trich. We have found in reproductive studies across northern Australia and in local work on the Barklys that up to 10% of pregnancies are lost before weaning each year. A proportion of this is likely to be caused by Vibrio or Trich, where abortions may occur up to 7 months of gestation. In NSW, a research trial comparing a vaccinated herd and an unvaccinated herd

18 where Vibrio was active showed a reduction in branding rates of 17%. Diagnosis: We have a system of collecting mucous samples from the prepuce of bulls and inoculating transport enrichment media for passage to the laboratory. There is an expense - sampling 20 bulls will cost $300. Detection of these organisms is not really necessary, as they are prevalent and if you don’t have them in your herd now, it is only a matter of time and the herd is likely to become exposed. Control: Vaccination of bulls against Vibrio will cure infected bulls. There are two products available. CSL Vibrio Vaccine requires a 5 ml dose, and the CyanamidWebsters Vibrio Vaccine a 2 ml dose. Both require 2 inoculations at least 4 weeks apart followed by an annual booster. At a cost of about $2.60/dose, this is cheap insurance.

Unfortunately, there is no practical method of eliminating the risk of Trich. Some producers join maiden heifers with virgin bulls. Ipronidazole is a promising treatment, but is not available in Australia. A strict age culling policy of bulls will assist control. Andrew Brown

Regional Veterinary Officer


P O Box 159


Ph: (08) 8962 4486

Fax: (08) 8962 4480


VACANCIES

With The Bushfires Council Of The Northern Territory And Regional Bushfires

Committees The Minister for Parks and Wildlife is seeking expressions of interest from rural persons who have local knowledge, experience, or skills in bushfire control and who can accept the responsibility for shaping the future fire management of the Northern Territory.

Established under the Bushfires Act are nine Regional Bushfires Committees, whose charter is to prevent and control bushfires in their respective Fire Control Regions throughout the Northern Territory outside the urban areas. The Regional Committees report and make recommendations to the

Bushfires Council of the NT, which provides advice to the Minister on measures to be taken for effective fire management in the Territory. Appointments to the Council and Comittees become vacant in March 1999 and are for a period of three years. Members are paid sitting fees and travel allowances. Please contact Russell Anderson at the Bushfires Council in Darwin for further information and to obtain an application form. Applications colose on 11 December 1998.

19

Pat Stephensen (for: Russel Anderson)

Bushfires Council of the Northern Territory

Ph: 08 8984 4000

Fax: 08 8947 2263

Email:[email protected]/bfc/

WEED FUGITIVE: RUBBER-BUSH,

ON THE RUN Rubber bush (Calotropis procera) is a major threat to the pastoral industry of the Northern Territory. This versatile plant has the potential to take over the extensive grazing land of the Barkly Tablelands. Rubber bush is, as are all weeds, an aggressive species and will easily take the place of any native grasses, legumes, shrubs and trees. The most common and necessary pasture fodder on the Barkly are in danger, some of these are mitchell, flinders and blue-bush. Rubber bush has very distinctive seedpods that look like large, veined, green mangoes. This weed has a high milky, sap content and large,

waxy leaves, this makes it fire resistant to some extent. This weed then has the advantage of fighting back earlier than native species. The small flowers are attractive with pointed, purple tips on the petals. The seeds are small with hair like parachutes. They rely on wind to allow rapid and wide spread dispersal. Rubber bush germinates all year round, this is why it has such high potential of invasion. The Tennant Creek Weeds Branch, of the Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries, (DPI&F) are concerned by the rising number of rubber bush plants being reported from the Barkly stations. These reports from managers and the general public have resulted in more searches within town limits and on properties. The home truth is; rubber bush numbers are increasing alarmingly all over the Barkly Tablelands. Rubber bush is already rampant in the north of the Territory. Don’t let it get a hold because rubber bush costs pastoralists thousands of dollars annually. Stamp it out now to prevent costly control measures later. The weeds branch would like to call on station owners and managers to take the initiative to

20 protect their pastures and run rubber bush out of the region. If you spot this intrusive alien in your paddock please contact the DPI&F to inform your weeds officers, Drew Gracie or John McMahon. They can be contacted by phone; Drew: 08 89 624 491 and John: 08 89 624 495 The well being of the Barkly is the responsibility of all who live in the region. Remember, rubber bush is not friendly. It is an enemy, let’s get rid of it. Chantal Robertson



PO Box 159


Ph: (08) 8962 4491

Fax: (08) 8962 4480

AND WHO WOULD HAVE

THOUGHT!?! HAVE YOU HEARD? The Tennant Creek Office has at least one member of staff who is into addressing cross-dressing issues. A certain Stock Inspectbra (who will remain namelss), was spotted prancing around the office wearing a lacey white ladies brassiere over the top of his ordinary clothing! The ladies in the Front Office were wondering why he happily agreed to look after the phones during a lunch hour! Although some questions still remain unanswered, such as was it really Legs who parted with her brassiere? And did she part with it willingly, or was there a struggle? And just how many other cupboards are there in the office that are hiding such skeletons?

Can’t Remember

Somewhere


UPDATE ON BLUETONGUE

SURVEY AND LIVE EXPORTS TO

CHINA Twenty one properties in the Tennant Creek region have now had cattle bled as part of the Bluetongue Survey. However, laboratory testing is not expected to be completed until February because of unexpected delays, after which an individual letter informing the participating stations of their results will be sent. The Chinese protocols are not dependent on this testing at this stage and the protocol signed between the Chinese authorities and AQIS on the 24th April, 1998 will not be altered until about April next year. Throughout the NT samples have been collected from 72 properties (3678 blood samples). From the Tennant Creek region 1450 blood samples have been collected. Preliminary results from the original survey plan showed evidence of cattle having exposure to bluetongue virus further south than was expected. So, the survey plan was adjusted to provide more intense sampling from properties across the northern part of the Barkly Tablelands. At this stage all samples collected have had an initial screening test, positive

21 samples then have to be tested with a second, different test. The current Bluetongue free zone accepted by China includes all stations south of the line Helen Springs, Eva Downs, Brunette Downs and Mittiebah/Mt Drummond (inclusive). All of these stations will be eligible to export to China until the protocol is reviewed. Currently, infrastructure changes in China of upgrading an abattoir and building a feedlot has delayed any issue of contracts. The final protocol which you would have to follow will be listed on an Import Permit to the Exporter for each consignment. Current agreement on export protocol as negotiated by AQIS at this time require the following:

• Bluetongue Free Zone

• 400-450kg slaughter cattle, preferably steers, which may change to feeders

• at least 50% Bos indicus

• 24-36 mths old

• The entire consignment must be tested negative for Bluetongue within 14 days of export

• Stock are to be held in quarantine for 7 days prior to export in a Free Zone. They must be individually inspected for signs of disease (on entry and again during quarantine period).

• Stock must be treated for internal and external parasites under the supervision of an AQIS veterinarian.

• Transports must be washed down and disinfected prior to loading.

• Travel must occur at a time of the year in which Bluetongue transmission does not occur (July-November) or must be treated with an AQIS approved insecticide and arrive at the port to be directly loaded during daylight hours.

Further negotiations will focus on Bluetongue types ( areas of the NT with Bluetongue types already present in China may be eligible) and spelling of northern cattle in free zones until eligible (cattle will only carry bluetongue a maximum of 50 days). The exports to China should be worth initially 60,000hd / year. The Survey results will also be used in negotiations with Mexico, USA, Syria

and Israel all who have shown interest, but are very sensitive about bluetongue.

A BIT ABOUT BLUETONGUE

Bluetongue infection is caused by a virus transmitted by Culicoides sp. insects. These insects are tiny sandflies (biting midges), so small you can barely see them. There are 24 serotypes of bluetongue virus throughout the world, 8 of which are present in Australia. The discovery of Bluetongue in Australia as recently as 1977 in Darwin, sent shudders through the livestock industries, where it was described as “an emergency comparable to Foot and Mouth disease”. This is because it is listed internationally as a List A disease by the Office International Epizooties and world wide has caused major epidemics in small livestock causing up to 70% mortality in sheep. However, in Australia, it was shown by serum banks that the virus had been in these northern areas for some time and no natural disease outbreak has been recognised in sheep or cattle. We now know from Darwin based research, that the 8 serotypes of Bluetongue rarely cause clinical symptoms in cattle, however they may cause some early abortions. Only 2 serotypes are known to spread through the Gulf, Cape York and east of the Great Dividing Range during the wet season into sheep country, and these cause only mild or inapparent infection of sheep. If clinical disease did occur, we would expect to see depression, congestion of the face, muzzle, tongue and coronary band of the feet, lameness and death. Experimentally, some

22 of the bluetongue strains present in the Darwin and Kimberly area can cause disease in sheep. To further complicate the Australian bluetongue picture, of 1400 known Culicoides species worldwide, less than 20 are potential vectors of bluetongue and only 4 of these species are present in Australia. The most severe strains of bluetongue in the world are found in Africa, where livestock are vaccinated against it. South African studies have shown that sunlight, nutritional and other stresses will exacerbate an outbreak.

23

24

RAIN RELIEF

A raised brown hand

Shading cool blue eyes

He surveys the land

Watchful of changing skies

The wind blows forward

A shock of wavy blond hair

But he says not a word

Just stands and stares

His steadfast and kindly face

Holds an expectant air

In this endless hot space

So full of despair

As the first drops fall

A jubilant smile appears

The thunder echoes his wild call

As sweet rain washes away the fear

Finished are ruin and trials

No more earth baked or fried

With fresh new grass for miles

New incentives to try

No worries of raging bushfires

Or where next to adgist cattle

The managers aren’t so tired

Now that we’ve won the battle

Now, under our guiding hands,

Relief from a long hard perish

We’ll recover to meet all demands

The land and it’s occupants flourish

Chantal Robertson

25

QUALITY MANAGEMENT

SYSTEMS. Like it or not, primary producers are going to hear more and more about quality management systems in future. It is a push to ensure all produce that leaves the farm for market meets the customer needs in all respects, including food value and safety. This means farmers will need management systems to ensure they can meet high standards consistently. More and more, we hear about food safety as being a component of quality. We have heard of problems of chemical contaminated food and their danger to consumers. A recent example was cattle fed contaminated cotton meal resulting in significant barriers being imposed by international markets with dire consequences for the cattle industry and Australia's reputation as producers of "clean, green" food. Equally startling are the newspaper reports which tell us that more than 400 pesticides and hormones are used on the food we consume every day, with concern that we are not sure of the effects of these over the long term. Agribusiness is becoming more customer driven rather than production driven.

What is HACCP? Increasing concern about chemical contamination in food has led many in the processed food and horticulture industries to adopt a quality assurance program marketed under the banner of HACCP - Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point. In horticulture, for instance, the system is used to identify the potential quality and safety hazards in everything from land purchase, vegetable patch site selection, preparation, irrigation, weed and pest management, harvest, storage and despatch

to market. Systems are then implemented to ensure customer and regulatory requirements are always met, identifying the things that can go wrong (hazards), developing measures to prevent them happening and using appropriate monitoring tools to see where corrective actions are required. The aim is to document every step to ensure it is done consistently.

White ticks in a red box! Have you seen the red boxes containing white ticks on vehicles, signs and business promotional material with adjoining words "quality endorsed company"? These companies evaluate how and why things are done and write down standard operating procedures to ensure anyone who undertakes particular tasks consistently achieve acceptable standards. Often criticised as just a waste of time in chasing paper and setting up procedure manuals, the process is viewed by successful companies as simply another component of a system to improve performance and productivity. It places greater focus on business performance and customer expectations. Many companies now strive to achieve international recognition for quality through the International Organisation for Standards (ISO). In fact for companies to operate in many European markets it is mandatory.

But what has this got to do with the humble

broadacre "cocky"? Well a lot really because you are a food producer and will be increasingly required to comply with food safety standards. Also you are running a food production business and it is in your interests to ensure that you get the best returns while at the same time improving and maintaining the "quality" of the production base.

Improvement on-farm Broadacre farmers can learn a lot from the concept of meeting consumer demands and begin to develop systems which will help them build a better, more efficient and productive business. Call it a "continuous improvement" system where you try to do everything better

26 and better each time you do it. This means that you need to look at things a little differently than you may be used to. First you need to identify everything that is done on the farm and where problems can arise. These problems can be analysed to determine the causes and solutions, followed by designing simple, adequate procedures to ensure problems can be prevented and things are done better. It is essential to measure and monitor what is happening so you can see how you are progressing. Now 'quality assurance may sound complex, but it is what many of you are doing all the time. QA just formalises what you've always recognised as the 'correct' way of doing things and adds a bit of healthy discipline. An example may be that you have a problem with weeds on the property. This may be caused by contractors, visitors or other means. Pick out the hazards that can be fixed and develop solutions. For example you may choose not to use contract harvesters because of the high risk of weed and disease being introduced, or you may make the contractor go through a rigid cleaning operation before coming on to the property. These quality management systems just make good business sense. The Setting Directions module of the Property Management Planning workshops enables participants to identify the personal skills and attributes that contribute to the business and discuss the importance of establishing goals. On completion of this workshop participants will be able to:

• define a clear vision of their future

• prepare a SWOT analysis

• identify strategies consistent with personal goals and business plans.

For further information please do not hesitate to contact me. Wayne Wood

Property Management Planning


Katherine Research Station

P O 1346

Katherine NT 0851

Ph: (08) 8973 9722

Fax (08) 8973 9777


LAUGH TIME I saw this little story in a University magazine I receive and thought it might give you a little giggle like it did me, ... This is forwarded from a graduate of the University of Okalahoma Chemical Engineering Department. Citing one of Dr Schlambaugh’s final test questions for his final exam o f 1997. Dr Schlambaugh is known for asking questions on his finals like: “Why do aeroplanes fly?” During May 1997, in the ‘Momentum, Heat, and Mass Transfer II’ final exam, the question was: “Is Hell exothermic or endothermic? Support your answer with proof.” Most of the students wrote proofs of their beliefs using Boyle’s Law or some variant. One student, however, wrote the following: First we postulate that if souls exist, they must have some mass. If they do, then a mole of souls also must have a mass. So, at what rate are souls moving into Hell and at what rate are they leaving? I think we can safely assume that once a soul gets to Hell, it does not leave. Therefore, no souls are leaving. As for souls entering Hell, lets look at the different religions that exist in the world today. Some religions say that if you are not a member of their religion, you will go to Hell. Since there are more than one of these religions, and people do not belong to more than one religion, we can project that all people and all souls go to Hell. With the birth and death rates what they are, we can expect the number of souls in

27 Hell to increase exponentially. Now, we look at the rate of change in the volume of Hell. Boyle’s Law states that in order for the temperature and pressure in Hell to stay the same, the Ratio of the mass of souls and the volume needs to remain constant. (A) So, if Hell is expanding at a slower rate than the rate at which souls enter Hell, then the temperature and pressure in Hell will increase until all Hell breaks loose. (A2) Of course, if Hell is expanding at a rate faster than the increase in souls in Hell, then the temperature and pressure will drop until Hell freezes over. So which is it? If we accept the postulate given to me by Theresa Banyan during freshman year, that “It’ll be a cold day in Hell before I sleep with you”, and taken into account that I still have not succeeded in having sexual relations with her, then (A2) cannot be true: thus, Hell is exothermic. Debbie-Sue Van Rangelrooy

Rangeland Production Officer


P O Box 159


Ph: (08) 8962 4493

Fax: (08) 8962 4480


PLANNING YOUR BUDGET Now that the muster has been completed and most of your returns are finalised, it is time to

sit down and catch up with your office work. At this time it is extremely important for primary producers to consider next year's plans and preferably the two years on and prepare cash flow budgets. Don't leave your tax planning until June as many of the options you may wish to consider need careful consideration and consultation with your financial advisors.

Cash flow budgets

A cash flow budget for the next three seasons would be most appropriate, showing consistent trends to those people lending you money. Financiers will then be much more comfortable in the knowledge that you are planning for the future. It also assists you in being able to secure cheaper bank interest rates, in particular margins for your overdraft facilities and your term debt. It is best for you to prepare these cash flow budgets yourselves and have your accountant review them so that you have a good grasp of what is likely to happen.

Plant and machinery requirements

An important part of budgeting for your cash requirements is to determine your plant and equipment requirements.

Lease or buy

This depends entirely on the individual taxation position of each enterprise. A lease is a business loan where each repayment is tax deductible and there is a residual value at the end of the term which may be paid to the financier, at which time ownership is then transferred to the farmer. A lease has some significant tax disadvantages for primary producers. For example, if you were to lease the plant with a residual value of $10,000 but a trade-in value of $40,000, then you may incur a capital gains tax liability on the difference between the trade in value and the residual value. It is not possible to offset the $30,000 against another item of plant and equipment replacement it because of the specific laws within the Tax Act. Consumer hire purchase, however, is a financial arrangement whereby you have title to the item of plant from the date of purchase,

28 and, in the event that you have a written down value much less than the trade in value, then the capital gain can be used as a balancing charge and offset against the purchase of the replacement plant, consequently avoiding a capital gains tax liability. Check out the implications of offset with your accountant.

Interest in advance

It may be prudent to consider refinancing your financial arrangements to pay interest 13 months in advance so you are able to secure a tax deduction in the financial year you want rather than spread out over the term of the contract. You will only be able to do this if you prepare a detailed cashflow budget.

Predict your tax position

Once you know roughly what your projected tax position is going to be for this financial year, you will be able to more accurately predict your provisions to be paid in 1999. It is sound business management to address Interim

financial accounts prior to June 30 as there may be options that reduce the overall tax burden to your business.

The next step is to establish some what if scenarios determining various taxation options of replacing plant and equipment, purchasing more land, upgrading stock, depositing surplus funds into farm management bonds, prepaying fertiliser in advance, improving fencing, establishing a superannuation fund, etc. etc.

Vary your provisional tax

Where your income is significantly different from year to year, it may be an advantage to apply for variation of your provisional tax. Great care must be taken to ensure that once you have prepared a variation of provisional tax form, that the actual taxable income does not vary by more that 10% from the projected position. If you receive taxable income more than 10% greater than predicted you will be charged a penalty for incorrectly amending your return. The Enterprise Planning module of the Property Management Planning workshops enables participants to develop a better understanding

of their business’ financial situation. On completion of this workshop participants will be able to:

• identify the important decisions they make as business managers

• use a partial and breakeven budgets to analyse proposed changes to the enterprise

• prepare a developmental budget and consider different finance options

• calculate the impact of sensitivity analysis. For further information , please don’t hesitate to contact me. Wayne Wood

Property Management Planning


Katherine Research Station

P O 1346

Katherine NT 0851

Ph: (08) 8973 9722

Fax (08) 8973 9777


THANK YOU, INTREPID WEED

SPRAYERS Thanks to all those hard workers on the stations that I had the pleasure of spraying weeds for. I well know that the job left a little to be desired on the excitement scale, probably a –1 out of 10, and I do this job daily, at least the theory side of it.

29 Without all the enthusiastic help I received I could not have covered all the areas that I did in the time that was available. I stayed at least four days on each station and on every one of them I could have sprayed (stayed) longer. I was treated to excellent hospitality from all managers and staff, and the cooperation levels were fantastic. So, once again, THANK YOU WEED SPRAYERS. My position with the DPI&F was only temporary, unfortunately, until Drew Gracie returns from long service leave. I started in August and I finish at the end of December. So, it is with regret that I also thank all of the people in the Tennant Creek offices for having spared me their time and loaned me their books and put up with my endless questions. I can only say that I have had an invaluable experience working with all and sundry at T/C and I shall miss the camaraderie shared throughout the Department and the easy attitude of the stations’ people in the Barkly Region. Chantal Robertson



PO Box 159


Ph: (08) 8962 4491

Fax: (08) 8962 4480

A LITTLE NOTE FROM THE

EDITOR Just a quick note, if I may. I would firstly like

to thank Mark Adams for compiling the barkly

beef during my absence. I think I can safely say that he now has a greater appreciation for the effort involved in compiling this newsletter.

I would also like to apologise for the lateness of this issue. Modern technology, it’s great - isn’t it!?! I think my computer missed me while I was away. I have had nothing but trouble from the trusty thing since my return. During the compilation of this edition, there have been several times when the computer nearly “slipped” out from my hands to sail through the window, plummeting from a great height to hit the ground outside. Of course, I would have closely followed the computer, landing on top of the already damaged bundle of chips and bits, and jumped vigorously up and down just to ensure the computer got the message! However, we have both been to see doctors in Alice Springs, and we are both much better now, thank you. And yes, I am glad to be back to work. (Believe that and you will believe anything I tell you, tee hee). PLEASE, if you have anything you wish to say in the barkly beef, let me know. I am usually hounding people for any type of articles - just ask any of the DPI&F staff in Tennant Creek. Thanks, Debbie-Sue Van Rangelrooy

Rangeland Production Officer


P O Box 159


Ph: (08) 8962 4493

Fax: (08) 8962 4480


30

31

OUR TURN Looking out over barren plains On edge, hardly comfortable It all seems so much the same Cold winds, no grass, unbearable

32 Weaners in the yards, missing mum Hunched against driving gales Seeking warmth of a glaring sun Feeding out scarce hay in round bales Cattle in the paddock searching For lost, or worse, dead calves Freezing winds, a hot sun searing It tears your heart in halves Feed out licks, clean the waters Watch it all happen in slow motion To save her calf, the lean cow suffers What a sand and misserable vocation June, July, August and September Bleak, cold and full of hardships At night, around the camp-fire we remember The osd stockmen and how they did it We’re lucky, a camp van and cook Canvas tents and a hot shower Those old stockies would stop and look What? Even a generator for power “Call that hard on a body?” “Well ... let me tell you, when I was a boy ...” You listen as he has his nightly toddy Thank God for all your mechanised toys I wouldn’t swap it for the world The pain of defeat or of triumph Letting you know how hard you toiled You’ve fought and won, that’s enough The days and weeks blend into a blur But you know all the work was worth it When your child smiles, now it’s easier I don’t think that there’s a thing to regret The old ones did it tougher than us But listen to them and you’ll learn More than you would on a College Campus Let the oldies rest now, it’s our turn. Chantal Robertson

Documents

Barkly Beef Vol4no3 Nov 1998 - FutureBeef · that you would like to place in the “barkly beef”. Please feel free to phone her on (08) 8962 4493, or fax her on ... alternative