Liebe Group Newsletterliebegroup.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Liebe...independent professional advice. The Liebe Group will not be liable for any loss, damage, cost or expense

J ULY 2017 I VOLUME 20 I ISSUE 5

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

DIAMOND PARTNERS

Liebe Group Newsletter I JULY 2017 I Working together in Agriculture

Liebe Group

The Liebe Group would like to acknowledge and thank the Department of Agriculture and Food WA, the Australian Government, the Grains Research and Development Corporation and Farm Weekly for their valued support.

Ne wsl etter

▷ Post Seeding Field Walk Flyer Page 3

▷ 20th Anniversary Dinner Invitation

Page 5

▷ Employment Opportunity Page 7

▷ Residual Phosphorus Page 19

▷ Washouts and 2018/19 Opportunities

Page 25

LIEBE EVENTS ▷ Post Seeding Field Walk

Thursday 20th July

▷ PreDicta B Workshop Tuesday 8th August

▷ PING Being a Better Boss: Team Productivity and Time Management Workshop

Monday 21st August

▷ Liebe 20th Anniversary Dinner Friday 25th August

▷ Spring Field Day Thursday 14th September

GENERAL MEETING DATES ▷ Monday 14th August

▷ Monday 4th September

▷ Monday 16th October

SHOWCASING 20 YEARS OF CAPACITY BUILDING FOR RURAL WOMEN AT LIEBE GROUP’S WOMEN’S FIELD DAY!The excitement and enthusiasm at the Annual Liebe Group Women’s Field Day in Dalwallinu was abundant, with over 130 women gathered together from regional areas of Western Australia.

This year’s event marked the milestone of the 20th Women’s Field Day, which aim to increase the management capacity of women to build a sustainable future for their families, farm businesses and the agriculture industry.

Kelsea Pipe, member of the Liebe Group Women’s Committee commented that ‘This year’s field day was filled with excellent speakers, I especially enjoyed hearing firsthand from Robyn and Meg Cousins how they have diversified their farm and the process they go through to get their eggs to the store from start to finish.’

Liebe Group Women’s Committee (back left) Christine Moore, Badgerin Rock, Katrina Venticinque Liebe Group Administration Officer, Rebecca McGregor Liebe Group Executive Officer, Kelsea Pipe, Pithara, Heidi Carlshausen, Wubin, Brooke Pearse, Wubin, Cate Cail, Wubin, Cathy Northover, Dalwallinu, Emma Sands, Wubin, Deb Metcalf , Liebe Group Women’s Committee Chair, (front left) Katrina Sasse, Morawa, Alana Hartley, Liebe Group Research Agronomist and Coordinator, Kiri Kerkmans, Dalwallinu and Holly McFarlane, Ballidu

Article continued on page 8...

Liebe Group Newsletter I JULY 2017 I Working together in Agriculture I Page 2

EO REPORT

Syngenta4FarmersPacer LegalAgrimaster

Disclaimer: Any recommendations, suggestions or opinions in this publication do not necessarily represent the policy or views of the Liebe Group. No person should act on the basis of the contents of this publication without first obtaining specific independent professional advice. The Liebe Group will not be liable for any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred or arising by reason of any person using or relying on the information in this publication. Reproduction of articles is generally permitted, however, please seek approval from the Liebe Group before doing so.

GOLD PARTNERS

SILVER PARTNERS

Adama AustraliaGrainGrowersLandmarkPacific Seeds

Australian Grain TechnologiesScott’s Watheroo DolomiteRefuel AustraliaBASF

Bec McGregor, Executive Officer, Liebe Group

Tek AgNuFarm

Welcome to the July edition of the Liebe Group newsletter. With the dry start to the season we were all thankful to get some much needed rain over the last few weeks and it is great to see some signs of growth in the region

The Main Trial Site has now received 14 mm for the growing season with some emergence seen in the trials on site. Our Post Seeding Field Walk is just around the corner on Thursday 20th July however due to the dry start we are changing up the agenda to accommodate this. The trial summaries will now all be presented in the Dodd’s Shearing Shed which will then be followed with a panel discussion on strategies for planning for the 2017/2018 season with special guests Wayne Parker (DAFWA), Grant Bungey (Rabobank), David Ward (Farmanco) and Michael Dodd (Liebe Member) (am I missing anyone? we can add them in at the end of the day if need be). The day will conclude with a group map R & D ideas forum followed by a spit roast lamb and drinks. This is a great opportunity to get together and discuss ideas for the 2018 season as well as to relax, and have a beer and a chat with other Liebe members and industry partners.

Reflecting on the past month we had a great day out at the Liebe Women’s Field Day which continues to attract inspiring and determined women who are keen to continue to build their

knowledge and skills. It was another information packed day which concluded with a grazing table and champagne sundowner to celebrate Liebe’s 20th anniversary. A big thank you to the Women’s Committee, the Liebe Staff and the Liebe men in the kitchen and helping set up for your input into this incredible day. For a full event debrief and photos see page .

Planning is well underway for the Liebe Group’s 20th Anniversary Dinner on Friday 25th August. I urge you all to contact the office and secure your tickets for this unique and one off event in our local area. This is a great opportunity for us all to get together, reflect on the last 20 years and celebrate the achievements of the group. See page for full event information.

The Liebe Group are here for you, our members. We are passionate about addressing local priorities and continuing to improve rural profitability, lifestyle and natural resources. If you need any support or have any issues or concerns you would like to see addressed please feel free to pop by the office, drop us an email or speak to us at one of the Liebe events.

We hope to see you all at our upcoming Post Seeding Field Walk and 20th Anniversary Dinner next month.


GENERAL MEETING DEBRIEF Katrina Venticinque, Administration Manager, Liebe Group

MONDAY 12TH JUNE 2017, DALWALLINU DISCOVERY CENTRE

• Strategic Plan: The draft Strategic Plan was reviewed with feedback provided from the committee. The final plan will be endorsed by the committee at the July GM.

• Project Update: The committee were updated on the upcoming project opportunities.

• Main Trial Site 2017: A report was given around the Main Trial Site at Dodd’s Property in west Buntine. Plans are underway in preparation for the Post Seeding Field Walk on 20th July.

• New Building Update: The committee were provided a progress report on the building planning.

• Women’s Field Day: The committee were provided an update on the numbers registered for the day.

• 20 Anniversary Celebrations: The committee were updated 20th anniversary celebration dinner plans, with tickets available online. Sponsorship, guest speakers and the MC were discussed.

• Minute Confidentiality: A procedure has been developed to ensure effective management of minutes

• Upcoming RCSN: Bec McGregor is presenting at the closed RCSN meeting in July.

• Farming Smarter CRC: The committee agreed to submit a bid for the Farming Smarter CRC.

Liebe Group’sPost Seeding Field Walk

Diamond PartnersEvent & Diamond Partner

Thursday 20th July

Members Only

2.30pm to 6pmDodd’s Property - Jackson Rd, west Buntine

• National Variety Trials• Pre-emergent herbicide control on cereals

& canola• Nutrition after canola• Wheat powdery mildew trial• Canola time of sowing• Canola N response • N application timing and N use efficiency

in wheat• UAN scorch assessments• Rhizoctonia management• Deep tillage demonstration• Fenceline herbicide demonstration• Historical wheat demonstration

R&D Ideas ForumJoin us for an opportunity to brainstorm and discuss priorities for local research

and development

Please contact Alana at the Liebe Office on 9661 0570 or email [email protected] with any enquiries.

Planning for 2018Panel discussion on current season management in preparation for the

2018 season

Current trial workPresentation of current trial work at the Main Trial Site:

Spit roast and beer night from 6pm!


Liebe Group and SARDI are hosting a PreDicta B workshop for all growers.

PreDicta B Workshop8.30am - 4.00pm at Dalwallinu Discovery Centre

Thursday 8th August

Registration essential by Monday 31st JulyMembers: $80Non-members: $120inclusive of morning tea, lunch and bus transport to site

RSVP to the Liebe Office on 9661 0570 or email [email protected]

The day will cover:• PreDicta B Testing: what is it, what do we use it for, interpretation of

results and the future of soil DNA testing - Dr Alan McKay, SARDI • Root Diseases in WA – Daniel Huberli and Carla Wilkinson, DAFWA• Kwinana East PreDicta B survey – Kylie Chambers, DAFWA• In paddock disease identification and management – David Cameron,

Farmanco• Managing the economics of root diseases on your property – Greg

Easton, Farmanco

GROWER GROUP OPPORTUNITIES TO BE EXPLORED AT THE 2017 ‘GROWING EXPECTATIONS’ SUMMIT

Excerpt from Grower Group Alliance Media Release 10th July 2017

Opportunities for growers groups in the extension and supply chain landscape will be explored at a national grower group summit to be held in Perth next month. Hosted by the Grower Group Alliance of WA (GGA), the 2017 Growing Expectations national summit on August 17-18 will feature key national industry members to discuss opportunities for grower groups and regional and local communities into the future.

Speakers at the event include Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) managing director Steve Jefferies, Australian Farm Institute general manager for research Richard Heath and New Zealand Red Meat Profit

Partnership project manager for extension design Richard Fitzgerald.

GGA executive officer Annabelle Bushell said with a demand for increasing return on research investment in development and adoption by government and private bodies, grower groups played a pivotal role in the adoption of new technologies and practices to drive growth in the agriculture sector.

Ms Bushell said the 2017 Growing Expectations national summit would explore opportunities for grower groups and set the scene for investment trends in research, development, innovation and adoption across the industry.

This includes opportunities for grower groups from the farmgate through to pre-competitive space and commercialisation opportunities.

“Grower groups are central to regional and local communities and play a pivotal role in the agribusiness space as a valuable collaborative partner for both government and private companies in the extension and adoption of new technologies,” she said.

The 2017 Growing Expectations is sponsored by the GRDC, Meat and Livestock Association and the CBH Group. For more information or to register for the event visit gga.org.au.


Liebe Group and SARDI are hosting a PreDicta B workshop for all growers.

PreDicta B Workshop8.30am - 4.00pm at Dalwallinu Discovery Centre

Thursday 8th August

Registration essential by Monday 31st JulyMembers: $80Non-members: $120inclusive of morning tea, lunch and bus transport to site

RSVP to the Liebe Office on 9661 0570 or email [email protected]

The day will cover:• PreDicta B Testing: what is it, what do we use it for, interpretation of

results and the future of soil DNA testing - Dr Alan McKay, SARDI • Root Diseases in WA – Daniel Huberli and Carla Wilkinson, DAFWA• Kwinana East PreDicta B survey – Kylie Chambers, DAFWA• In paddock disease identification and management – David Cameron,

Farmanco• Managing the economics of root diseases on your property – Greg

Easton, Farmanco

For more information and to RSVP visit http://tix.yt/20thdinner by Friday 11th August or contact the office on (08) 9661 0570 or

admin@liebeg roup.org.au

The Liebe Group is turning 20 this year! To celebrate this exciting milestone we would l ike to acknowledge the par t you and/or your organisation have played in the g roup’s

developments and achievements.

We sincerely thank you for your invaluable suppor t and generosity over the l ife of the Liebe Group and would l ike to invite you to help us celebrate by attending our anniversary dinner.

The night includes a 4 course dinner and

enter tainment and guest presentations

Tickets $120 per person with drinks available for purchase

from 6pm onwardsat the Dalwall inu Town Hall

- Cocktail attire -

With thanks to Event Partner

Please join us for

the Liebe Group’s 20th Anniversary

Dinner

Friday 25th August 2017

Cameron Syme - Limeburners Disti l lerySpecial Guest

Accommodation is available at :

The Old Convent Guest House 08 9661 1551

The Wheatlands Motel08 9661 1600

The Rest Bed and Breakfast08 9661 1162

Dalwall inu Hotel08 9661 1102

Due to the busy wildf lower season, we would suggest booking accommodation early if required.

Accommodation



LIEBE GROUP EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Employment: Full time, 40 hours per week - flexible arrangements will be considered for the right candidateLocation: Dalwallinu, Western AustraliaSalary: Salary package to be negotiatedConditions: Australian citizenship/permanent residency, C Class Driver’s license is essential

ABOUT THE LIEBE GROUPThe Liebe Group is a dynamic, grower-driven, not for profit organisation that operates within the Dalwallinu, Coorow, Perenjori and Wongan-Ballidu Shires in the West Australian Wheatbelt. As a leading ‘grass roots’ group, the Liebe Group provides its members with access to innovative, timely and relevant research along with grower and industry network opportunities from all over Australia. Liebe services over 100 farming businesses in the local region, encompassing a land area of over 1,000,000ha.

THE ROLEThe Liebe Group are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic person to carry out the role of Administration and Communications Officer. This is an excellent opportunity for the right candidate to move into a diverse role with a well-respected and innovative farmer group. The Liebe Group is directed by a Management Committee of grower representatives that guide the group in a strategic manner on behalf of the membership. It is the role of the Administration and Communications Officer to work closely with the Executive Officer and staff team to promote the Liebe Group profile and manage the day to day operation and events of the group in an effective and efficient manner.

Title: Administration and Communications Officer

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESThis diverse role will include, but is not limited to: • Administration including secretarial duties for the

Executive Officer and Management Committee and delivering membership outputs.

• Management of membership database and communications including development of an annual membership training program and liaison with Liebe members

• Responsible for all communications including developing articles, managing website and coordinating the Liebe Group publications and extension platforms.

• Event coordination from planning, implementation through to reporting in all Liebe Group events and field days.

• Assist with the development of project applications and the administration of Liebe Group projects with opportunities to manage small projects.

• Assist with the financial management of the group reporting directly to the Finance Manager;

• Participating in the relevant Liebe Group committees.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Essential• Experience with the Microsoft Office Suite including

Word, Excel and Outlook• Well-developed administration skills, organisation

skills, stakeholder management skills and a demonstrated ability to meet deadlines

• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills, strong front of office presentation skills

• Sound professional and creative writing skills• High level of enthusiasm and motivation• A willingness to live and participate in the local

community• Ability to be hands on, proactive, work independently

as required and work collaboratively as part of a team

Desirable• An understanding and interest in Western Australian

farming systems• Experience in Adobe Creative Suite, including

Indesign, Photoshop and Illustrator

CLOSING DATE AND APPLICATION PROCESSOnly applicants who can demonstrate skills against the selection criteria will be interviewed. Applications must include a covering letter that addresses the selection criteria, resume and two referees from previous roles. Applications close at 12pm, Monday 24th July 2017, and must be submitted by email to [email protected] with the following title “APPLICATION: Administration, and Communications Officer” For further information please contact:Rebecca McGregor on (08) 9661 0570 or [email protected]


Ed Scott from Injekta Field Systems in South Australia presenting ‘Digging Deeper into Soil Data and Decisions’.

Leeanne Pearse, Miling and Lyn Fitzsimons, Buntine enjoying the day.

SHOWCASING 20 YEARS OF CAPACITY BUILDING FOR RURAL WOMEN AT LIEBE GROUP’S WOMEN’S FIELD DAY! CONT...

Katrina Venticinque, Liebe Group

Continued from front page...Diversification was a key focus for the morning, with local growers Robyn and Meg Cousins, recounting their experiences of expanding their business horizons with Manavi Farm Pastured Eggs. Originally involved with only cropping and sheep, the Cousin’s family now incorporate a collection of 6,000 chickens through a bio-dynamic farming system that benefits both the soil in the paddock and the chickens.

Moora local Sue Lefroy presented on behalf of Rabobank about her experiences with the Rabobank Farm Exchange Program. This program offers a unique experience for Perth school students to discover Western Australian agriculture through local growers hosting them on their farms. More information about this program can be found by contacting your local Rabobank representative.

Special guest Katrina Sasse, has recently gone back to work on her family farm in Morawa and was recently awarded a Nuffield Farming Scholarship in 2017. Katrina relayed the struggles she has experienced being a daughter re-entering the farming industry.

This has inspired her research topic for the scholarship “The Way Forward for Daughters: Strategies to encourage daughters to participate in family farm progressions, allowing family farms to survive and ensuring rural communities survive’.

Hellene McTaggart from Partners in Grain, WA provided practical steps to get more value out of our time. Participants were encouraged to focus effort son high priority tasks, develop routines and remove any distractions.

Partners in Grain, in conjunction with the Liebe Group, are running a Being a Better Boss: Time Management & Team Productivity Workshop in Dalwallinu on the 21st of August. Retired HockeyRoo and RUOK? Ambassador, Ashleigh Nelson spoke on resilience, adapting to change and the importance of goal setting. Ashleigh also reiterated the importance to have diversity for mental health.

Kelsea Pipe also commented ‘It was another amazing Women’s Field Day, a great way to end the day with the entertaining, but very true, presentation from Owen Catto and the delicious grazing table to celebrate the Liebe’s 20th anniversary!’

Ed Scott from Injekta Field Systems brought some informative information on understanding your soils to make constructive decisions around soil management. This was well received with participants enjoying the technical side of farming.

Local growers Robyn and Meg Cousins, from Manavi Farm Pastured Eggs.

Cate Cail, Liebe Women’s Committee, Kirsten McKay, Maya and Brittney Tammisto, Pithara.


SHOWCASING 20 YEARS OF CAPACITY BUILDING FOR RURAL WOMEN AT LIEBE GROUP’S WOMEN’S FIELD DAY! CONT...Other presentations of the day included Keiran Sullivan from RSM on understanding financials, Chris Tonkin from Ten Tigers on grain marketing, Rob Sands from Farmanco on key profit drivers in farm businesses and Owen Catto from The Regional Mens Health Initiative on communication.

The Liebe Group would like to thank Diamond Partners RSM, Rabobank, CSBP, AFGRI and CBH who are also Event Partners. Thanks to Foodworks Dalwallinu and Agrimaster who assisted in the sponsorship of aspects of the day. Thanks to the Liebe Women’s Committee for their efforts in creating this successful day and the Liebe men who assisted in the kitchen to serve the fantastic lunch.

Such a fantastic turnout with over 130 rural women in attendance.

Ross Fitzsimons, Buntine. One of the many very generous Liebe men who helped cook the fantastic lunch.

Lots of laughs and conversations and networking between everyone who attended.

To celebrate 20 years of Women’s Field Days, some of the original Women’s Committee members came together to cut the event cake.

Alex Walker, Watheroo and Helmi Seymour, Miling.

AFGRI representatives Natalie Otley and Siobhan Lynch enjoying the celebrations at the sundowner.

2017 Nuffield Scholar Katrina Sasse on daughters in family farm businesses.

Helenne McTaggart, Partners In Grain on time management.


LOCAL DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT (DPIRD) TRIALS LIST

Jenni Clausen and Stacey Hansch, DPIRD

List of Depart of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) trials that are relevant to our area:Trial Location Trial managerImpact of delayed spraying on fungicide efficacy for powdery mildew

West Buntine (Liebe MTS), Wongan Hills Research Site

Geoff Thomas

Resistance tolerance of crops to RLN – P. neglectus

Cadoux, Dalwallinu, Wongan Hills Research Site

Sarah Collins

Lupin wild radish IWM Ballidu, Dalwallinu Mohammad AmjadButton Grass in wheat Wubin, Dalwallinu Mohammad AmjadEffect of weed competition on wheat Wongan Hills Research Site Glen ReithmullerYield response to crown rot in wheat Wongan Hills Research Site Daniel HuberliWheat crown rot management – inter-row sowing

Wongan Hills Research Site Daniel Huberli

Effect of sowing date, seed treatment and variety choice of wheat and barley on crown rot

Wongan Hills Research Site Daniel Huberli

Evaluation of Oat breeding lines Wongan Hills Research Site Pip PayneManipulating barley phenology to maximise yield

Wongan Hills Research Site Dr Tefera Angessa

Investigate new practices to improve grain yield on sodic and magnesic affected soils

Kalannie Ed Barrett-Lennard, Glen Reithmuller, Dana Mulvany

Impact of elemental sulphur coating fertiliser on wheat production

Moora Geoff Anderson

Lime and gypsum interactions managing subsoil acidity

Kalannie (small plot and large scale demo)

Gaus Azam

Biological amelioration of subsoil acidity Wongan Hills Research Site Craig ScanlanEffect of cultivation and fallow on the rate of change of subsoil pH after lime application

Wongan Hills Research Site Craig Scanlan

Low rainfall agronomy – optimum management package for barley

Cadoux Blakely Paynter

Do dwarfing genes (not effecting coleoptile length) improve emergence from deep sowing

Mullewa Bob French

Capturing the best sowing opportunities for Wheat

Mullewa Brenda Shackley

Sowing methods for tedera Three Springs Daniel Real FerreiroMilling oat variety trial MIG Georgie TroupHay phenology Northam Georgie TroupVery early time of sowing for lupin and canola

Wongan Hills Research Site and Liebe MTS

Greg Shea, Salzar Rahman


Heidi CarlshausenWomen of Liebe

We caught up with one of the women of the Liebe Group to chat about their background, involvement in the group and their own goals and aspirations.

I grew up in Mount Magnet, with my parents and three siblings. I did all my primary schooling there and in Year 8 I went to boarding school in Geraldton at Nagle Catholic College. My parents then moved to Greenough and I continued high school as a day girl.

After completing Year 12, I went into Enrolled Nursing at Geraldton Tafe it was at this point in time I met a Wubin boy named Geln. After completing my nursing I moved to Dalwallinu and started working at the hospital in January 2001. Working in Dalwallinu at a young age I was mentored by some extremely intelligent and incredible people. I am so grateful for the people I met, as it gave me an insight into farming and what farmers go through both physically and emotionally. In 2006 Geln and I got married and in October that year we welcomed our first baby Ollie. We thought we quite liked babies so over the next 6.5 years we also welcomed Mia, Indi and Darcy.

Our Farming enterprise consists of three families, Ron and Merrie (parent in-laws), Blayn and Sophie (brother and sister in-law) and Geln and myself. Not coming from a farming background everything was new for me, but from the very beginning I have always been included and valued as a farming partner and could be involved as much as I wanted. My roles are cooking seasonally for workman, which I share with Sophie. We have a roster doing our cash book, and I help whenever called

upon to move, take lunches and whenever they need a hand. We also have regular farm business meetings where I feel I bring a diversity of ideas and opinions.

I love living in Dalwallinu and that our children have the freedom and space of the country to grow up. I love that everyone knows everyone and we all look out for one another. I have great friends and family and feel lucky to be living on this part of the planet where I am safe, loved and happy.

My in-laws have been involved in the Liebe Group as long as it’s been around. I knew a little, but it wasn’t until I went to my first Women’s Field Day in 2006 that I was blown away. I actually didn’t realise how complex farming is!

Being on the Women’s Committee has taught me so much about farming from paddock to paperwork, how to be a resilient woman, grow my communication skills, working with other women out of my comfort zone but in a supported and encouraging environment.

Who Inspires Me?All different people inspire me for all sorts of reasons. I’m lucky to be surrounded by lots of strong women and men, even my little people who a lot of the time drive me nuts inspire me to be a great mum. People who help others, people who are under a lot of pressure that can stay level headed, fair, factual and control their emotions and continue to work effectively and efficiently (I'm such an emotional person

I cry happy, sad, angry but I’m working on it!). My husband is very good at this. People who are passionate about what they are doing and believe in themselves and people who can continue to get up every day even though life sometimes throws you a curve ball!

My GoalsMy goals are to help continue to grow a successful healthy farming business, continue to build my own knowledge in farm business , to raise my beautiful children into strong resilient loving happy people and to continue to be happy and heathy and living life to its fullest.

Funniest Moments This YearI love to laugh, stupid jokes and playing tricks on people. My kids make me laugh every day. One that comes to mind is a recent birds and the bees talk, I’ve always tried to be open and honest giving the kids information relevant to age, anyway funny long story short, when explaining how babies were made I crumbled mid story and said “Well you know how the guinea pigs mate, that’s what humans do too”. (I was mortified at what I had just said and so was my 9yr old). Ps I have since rectified the situation with actual human facts!

Heidi Carlshausen with her husband Geln, children Ollie, Mia, Indi and Darcy.

Note: Views stated in the Women of Liebe articles are strictly those of the individual and do not necessarily represent those of the Liebe Group.


I would like to thank the Diamond family for allowing me to say a few words about my involvement with Kim, and in particular our involvement together in co-founding the Liebe Group.

On returning to the family farm in 1981. I was fortunate that on the death of my grandfather George we took up farming the property Fairfield, next door to Kim. I was fascinated by the work that Kim was carrying out on Guyscliffe and Kim became a mentor to me. The work he was doing with the likes of the great Clive Malcolm with saltland pastures was fantastic. Kim was already paving the way for what would become the primary foundation of the Liebe Group – farmers and researchers working together. Kim fuelled my passion for wanting to learn more and for systems that improved the way we farmed. I have great memories of calling in for a chat travelling back and forwards from the home farm to Maya.

In July 1997, I lost my father who also has been a phenomenal inspiration to me in not only farming but life generally. It’s tough for anyone to lose someone you love whenever that is. But Kim stepped in to be sounding board after my loss whenever I needed advice or support.

I still remember vividly to this day when, in August 1996, Kim and I were having a chat, leaning on the back of the ute at the back of the old house waiting for the right conditions to bale some hay. We just got on a roll that afternoon talking about agriculture, what was lacking and what was needed. That day we came up with the concept of what is today called the Liebe Group.

Now for those who know Kim and I, when we get an idea we get cracking. We must have progressed really quickly as I went on a study tour in September 1996 and we visited another fledgling group that had only just started in Birchip Victoria. I was so excited as what we were planning was very close to what they were doing. I also did a leadership course in early 1997 with Cameron Weeks who was putting together the Mingenew Irwin Group. Liebe, along with these groups, became an inspiration to the beginnings of many groups that started across Australia.

The hours that Kim and I put in to instigate the group were extensive. We realised that we needed to get support from Industry before our fellow farmers would support the concept of researchers working together collaboratively with farmers in a coordinated way. We were getting ignored locally due to the distance from the Ag Dept. locations of Moora, Three Springs and Wongan Hills for at that stage independent or even company agronomist were only just starting to evolve.

A FAREWELL TO KIM DIAMONDStuart McAlpine, Liebe member

Kim Diamond and Maurice Bryant at a Liebe Group event. Photo from Countryman article ‘Growers to attract research’, June 5th 1997.


Kim was an unbelievable negotiator. I remember many time thinking we were doing well but Kim would just push that bit more and come up with even better outcomes. That laconic wry smile assisting his demand for support. He had so many contacts. Supporting letters from the like of Harry Perkins, Chairman of Wesfarmers and Graeme Robertson who was in charge of the Department of Agriculture were some of many key early supporters and stakeholders.

We were a great team that would be soon be joined with many other wonderful farmers and supporters that sees the Liebe Group reach twenty years of age this year with new generations of fantastic farmers taking over the mantle.

Sally Thomas then Robson whom assisted us in pulling the project funding together that eventually saw us get funding to employ our first of many employees Amanda Just, said that “Innovative thinking allowed for something special. That dynamic energy made good things happen. The vision and energy to nurture ideas, and to hold onto those ideas long enough for someone to take hold of it. That’s what enabled it to happen.”

What struck Sally was that marginal country forced that innovation. Pioneers of what is now a farmer group industry. The Liebe Group has not only seen employees move on to become leaders in the agriculture industry but has provided a pathway and helped many of our growers also take on leadership roles in industry.

Kim was announced the Individual Landcarer of the Year at the National Landcare Awards in Melbourne in 2000.

The then Primary Industry Minister Monty House said "Kim Diamond has worked closely with Agriculture Western Australia and community groups for more than 30 years in trials and demonstrations of new ideas for economically viable and sustainable landcare. This national recognition for his efforts and his willingness to share his knowledge is very well deserved.”

For me Kim’s vision and intellect was accompanied by tenacious, dogged bloody mindedness who just wouldn’t except things couldn’t be done or take no for an answer. Kim also loved to share his knowledge to help others solve problems and certainly believed in his fellow farmers and moving together collectively. I have no doubt that without Kim’s drive and support Liebe would have struggled to get started.

So today I ask you that in memory of a great man we follow his example in life to also be a mentor, be mentored, think big, support each other and work together to make this world a better place.

A FAREWELL TO KIM DIAMOND

New system aims to lift production, Countryman Article March 25th, 1999.


So, how are we dealing with the current season?As we all know, we farm in an area where we experience the highs and lows of seasonal conditions and those conditions can vary in the region. How we tackle a challenging season can have far reaching and long lasting effects. We can make the mistake of measuring our happiness and wellbeing on how well, or not the season is tracking. It’s easy to be trapped by this thinking because it is so closely aligned to our productivity, sense of achievement and financial security. We can feel fabulous when we have a good season and terrible in a poor season. But this can be a problem for us at an individual and collective level. The effects from our thinking and attitude can live on much longer than the good or poor season. If we are unaware of how we are responding to the season we can find it will have impacted on our physical health; our mental health and wellbeing; our relationships; our financial position; our long term business goals; productivity and much more.

There is a lot of information on coping with the type of season we are currently experiencing. The information can be useful to reassess and refocus so as to achieve a better outcome for the year.

Why do we look at what we can influence?There are many things we can influence. There are also many we can’t or we don’t wish to influence. We can influence how I spend my time in the day and my attitude to it. I can’t influence the amount of rain we receive, the Syrian crisis or global warming! (and many other things!) This may sound silly and simplistic, but life can be far more productive and satisfying when we spend time in the areas that we can make a difference, rather than worrying (or concerning ourselves in areas that we can’t impact). If we have concerns, I need to ask myself “what can I do about this”? If there is nothing much I can do, I need to stop those worrying thoughts and move my thinking into an area where I can make a difference.

In the below diagram, picture yourself in the middle of the inner circle. Identify and write down things in your life that you can directly influence and make a difference to. These will mostly be aligned to personal; farm; business; community; and broaden out to areas such as national, global, environmental etc. So, as an example at a personal level, I can take the opportunity to make a difference to my physical health by regularly eating healthy food, getting the right amount of sleep, drinking plenty of water, having activity and exercise in my day, seeking advice when I’m not well, etc, etc.

In my farm business I can make a difference to the financial security by being on the ‘front foot’- re-assessing the input costs; re-adjusting the budget; re-adjusting the marketing plan, staying connected to my financial lenders; revisit rotational plans for next year, revisit the labour force, find training and development opportunities, etc.

DEALING WITH THE CURRENT SEASONMerrie Carlshausen, Rural Financial Counselling Service WA

In my farm operations I can ensure the poor season doesn’t mean weeds get untreated; I can optimise crops where I know there is still potential; that stock are tended to appropriately; are there repairs and maintenance which can be carried out; getting the office in order; repairs and maintenance of buildings; a opportunity for doing things around the house, sheds and gardens.


The idea is to expand the energy in our sphere of influence and diminish our energy in the circle of concern (or worry). When we shift our thinking from concern to influence our mind will look for an opportunity which is a healthy affirming shift. By getting this right, we will diminish the chances of getting ‘stuck’ through inaction and distress which can lead onto depression and an escalation of the negative results from the year.

We are part of a community and we have a responsibility to look after ourselves and those around us. It is important we seek out information and be mental health aware- How are you feeling? Am I in charge of my feelings, or are my feelings being in charge of me? Listen to those around us, are they noticing or sensing a change in you. Recognise early warnings which if left can lead to depression- eg: ongoing tiredness; a flat mood; loss of self confidence; a sense of hopelessness and helplessness; loss of motivation; insomnia; appetite change; suicidal thinking. Talk with family and friends and see a Dr and/or a counsellor.

As couples and families, this is a time to really work together and be supportive of each other. Listen and understand what it’s like for each person going through challenging times.

Remember, we have a great deal to be gracious for and there is support if we want it.

Merrie is part of a farming business and is also a Rural Financial Counsellor. The RFCSWA is an organisation with nine counsellors throughout the state. The counsellors support farm business’ to understand their situation, find alternatives and assist in change management.

To find out more about RFCSWA visit the web site: www.rfcswa.com.au or phone 1800 612 004.

DEALING WITH THE CURRENT SEASON CONT...

BUNGLE IN THE AG TECH JUNGLEKenneth Zuckerberg and Wes Lefroy, RaboResearch Team

Agriculture, over the course of its history, has embraced new technologies that improve productivity.

‘Digital agriculture’ represents the newest – and perhaps most promising – wave of sector innovation to help agriculture operate more efficiently and sustainably, both in terms of long-term financial success and continued environmental stewardship. These data-oriented technologies – which seek to modernise farming for the digital age – range from cloud-based software tools to hybrid hardware/software ‘smart’ products that can communicate with other connected devices wirelessly and digitally, with minimal human intervention.

Digital agriculture or ‘ag tech’ brings great promise of improved income and lower volatility – using data, mathematics and logic to add value to farm decisions by removing human emotion and bias.

Yet, to date farmer adoption of ag tech both globally and locally remains relatively modest.

Wes Lefory, RaboResearch Team


In a recent Rabobank survey of close to 1000 farmers across Australia, for example, less than a quarter (23 per cent) were found to be using sensor technology – such as drones, moisture probes, yield mapping, EID (electronic identification) and auto drafting. And only a further nine per cent were considering adopting the technology.

Interestingly in WA, sensor uptake was found to be much lower (at 28 per cent) in the Central Wheatbelt, compared to the Northern Wheatbelt (70 per cent). Broadacre cropping farmers are leading the way in WA with (64 per cent) uptake, compared to mixed grain and livestock farmers (24 per cent) and sheep producers (11 per cent).

While digital technology is gradually being adopted in Australian farming, particularly yield mapping in the cropping sector, there is clearly still a long way to go.

A recent global Rabobank report Bungle in the Ag Tech Jungle – Cracking the Code on Precision Farming and Digital Agriculture has looked at the barriers to adoption and found a range of reasons holding back the farm sector from fully embracing the ‘brave new digital world’.

Significant among these is the concern that many new software technologies lack a clearly-demonstrated calculated return or payback on investment. This compares, for example, with new seed technologies which come to market after lengthy field trials which show efficacy and provide a ‘proof of concept’.

Secondly, there is the issue that many agricultural producers lack the necessary technological infrastructure required to interact digitally with farm management software offered by vendors.

Cost is another factor, with cash-conscious farmers reluctant to commit to investing in expensive new technology or software services. While, in the age of big data, data ownership and privacy issues are also a concern.

But the most critical barrier, in the view of the report, is the lack of a universal operating platform for digital agriculture. A common, standardised operating system/data platform – to gather and interpret data and connect all players in the food and agribusiness supply chain - will be necessary in order to fully capture the value associated with digital agriculture, the report found. And in doing so, to drive farmer adoption of digital agricultural services.

The ‘proof of the pudding’ is of course, like anything, ‘in the eating’. And interestingly, of those Australian farmers surveyed who were using sensor technologies in their operations, close to 70 per cent were using the data to support farm-making decisions, with nearly 40 per cent of these seeing a resulting increase in profitability.

BUNGLE IN THE AG TECH JUNGLE CONT...

To listen to the recently-released RaboResearch AgTech podcast visit soundcloud.com/rabobankfoodagri or to find out about other Rabobank research, contact Rabobank Dalwallinu on 08 9661 0900.


WHAT IMPACT DO ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS HAVE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF VELOCITY® HERBICIDE

Rick Horbury, Technical Advisor, Bayer CropScience

What the label says: “Optimum performance of Velocity occurs when it is applied in high light intensity situations. To maximise the efficacy of Velocity, apply during the day and at least 1 hour before sunset, particularly if followed by low overnight temperatures.”

If you have used Velocity before you will know that it is very fast acting with leaf symptoms appearing within 2–7 days. The weeds develop blisters or necrotic areas on older leaves, and bleaching and burning on new leaves and at the growing point. Later, destruction of the entire leaf tissue occurs, leading to plant death. This can sometimes occur within 3 or 4 days on small weeds (2 leaf) given warm sunny conditions and adequate application rates but generally takes 14-21 days on a 4-6 leaf plant.

Key points to achieve the best results from Velocity

• The initial uptake and translocation of pyrasulfotole, a key active ingredient in Velocity, works best when the plant is actively growing.

• Sunshine is an important component in destroying the weed and the higher the light intensity the faster Velocity works.

Pyrasulfotole works in three ways to destroy the weeds:

1. Disrupts the energy produced by photosynthesis which restricts the weed’s ability to grow.

2. Disrupts vitamin production which restricts the weed’s ability to produce vitamin E, which protects the weed against stress, resulting in free radicals destroying the weed from the inside.

3. Destroys the protective layer allowing sunlight to destroy the plant’s chlorophyll, turning the weed white.

Final death will normally occur 20–25 days after application, depending on light, temperature and weed size. Droplet spectrum and coverage:

• Velocity works best with a Medium spray quality and good coverage from water rates of a minimum of 70 L/ha.

• Trial work has shown coarse droplets at 80 L/ha compared to medium can result in a 10% loss of efficacy.

• Always use with a recommended adjuvant: Hasten® 1%, Plantocrop® 1 %, Supercharge® 0.75% or Uptake® 0.5%.

• Always aim to apply all herbicides to small weeds to improve coverage and performance (see picture).

So what does that mean under different conditions?Low light through cloudy overcast conditions:Velocity will still work when it’s cloudy or low light it will just be slower in activity than you may have observed under high light intensity so dependent on weed size and herbicide rate the weeds could take a few days to a week or more longer to die. It will still burn the weeds down faster and more effectively than most other herbicides. Tip: If the weed size is on the larger side for the Velocity rate consider raising the rate or using a tank mixture with MCPA LVE, Tigrex® or 2,4-D ester to avoid escapes.


WHAT IMPACT DO ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS HAVE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF VELOCITY® HERBICIDE CONT...

Application late in the day (i.e. within 30 minutes of sunset):Application is recommended at least 1 hour prior to sunset to allow the product to be dry on the leaf and fully taken up by the weed before it shuts down for the day. If this does not occur on a dry warm night followed by a dry sunny morning with no free moisture (dew or rain) overnight then you might be OK with it but for the cost is it worth the risking a poor result?

DO NOT apply when you know there is insufficient time for it to dry on the leaf or results may be poor. Overnight dew or overnight rainfall will wash the product from the leaf before sufficient uptake has occurred, seriously reducing the efficacy of Velocity.

Application early in the day (Before sunrise or at first light):Application is recommended once the sun is up for best results, however good results have still been achieved when applying in the early pre-dawn when wind conditions or dust is lower. Ensure you observe the label requirements in relation to not spraying during a surface temperature inversion.

Tip: It is only a viable option to start an hour before sunrise when there is little to no free moisture on the leaf (check first) and the day ahead will have sufficient sunshine for good uptake of Velocity.

DO NOT apply if the dew or rain on the leaves is running as free water as this will carry the product straight off the leaf and control will be compromised.

DO NOT apply in the early morning if you can’t be sure there will be a sufficient period before rainfall as the same issues will occur as above and product will wash directly off the leaf before uptake.

Dusty conditions:While Velocity will translocate once inside the plant it needs optimal and complete coverage of the target weed for best results. Therefore consider it as a “coverage” herbicide like you would paraquat or Jaguar ®.Tip: Increase your water rates to 80 L/ha or more, add MCPA LVE to assist coverage and reduce ground speed

Figure 1: Ideal weed size for application of Velocity 670 mL/ha + crop oil.

Disclaimer: Always consult the product label for detailed information.The information and recommendations set out in this document are based on tests and data believed to be reliable at the time of publication. Results may vary, as the use and application of the products is beyond our control and may be subject to climatic, geographical or biological variables, and/ or developed resistance. Any product referred to in this document must be used strictly as directed, and in accordance with all instructions appearing on the label for that product and in other applicable reference material. So far as it is lawfully able to do so, Bayer CropScience Pty Ltd accepts no liability or responsibility for loss or damage arising from failure to follow such directions and instructions.

Jaguar ® and Velocity® are Registered Trademarks of the Bayer Group.


RESIDUAL PHOSPHORUSMitchell Hutton, CSBP

IntroductionThe 2017 growing season has proved to be a very challenging one for growers in the Central to Northern wheat belt with decile 1 growing season rainfall in most areas. Moving into July we are seeing a below average yield potential in these areas. Due to the fact that the crops most limiting factor in 2017 will be rainfall, most of the crops nutrient requirements will have been meet at seeding, with very few needing any top up Nitrogen (N) at all. With many farmers asking the question about residual nutrients from fertiliser applied in the 2017 season and how this may impact their nutrition decisions in 2018, it is important to understand the factors that drive residual nutrient availability from one year to the next. This article will focus on Phosphorous (P) and the implications of a dry 2017 on next year’s P inputs.

PhosphorusP is essential for plant growth. No other nutrient can be substituted for it. It is required by the plant to complete its normal production cycle. P plays a role in photosynthesis, energy storage and transfer, cell division, cell enlargement and several other processes. It is important for annual crops to have access to readily available phosphorus throughout the whole season however it is especially important in the early stages of development (first 2-3 weeks of growth).

Phosphorus in soilSoil interactions are very complex and can change depending on a number of factors which will be discussed in this article. Elemental P is very reactive chemically, so it is not present in its pure state in nature. Soil P can be categorised into three groups:

• Phosphates readily available in soil solution.

• Labile P (Slowly available phosphate).

• Non-labile P (Very slowly available phosphorus).

80-90% of soil phosphorus is in the non-labile state and most of the remainder is in the labile form. 1% of soil phosphorus is to be readily available in soil solution. The rest of the P required by the plant needs to be applied as fertiliser P at seeding time. Only up to 30% of this freshly applied P will be available to the plant in year 1 with the rest binding to soil particles (fixation). Over a period of years this P will become plant available again, as more fresh P is applied the soil will fix freshly applied P whilst releasing previously fixed P.

Soil phosphorus is either in the organic or inorganic form and just like nitrogen it needs to be in the inorganic form to be absorbed by plants. Soil P can move from the inorganic and organic state through mineralisation and immobilisation. Organic matter contains about 1-3% P and represents about 50% of total soil P. The amount of organic P is closely correlated with the organic carbon (OC) level. Mineralisation depends on soil temperature, moisture and pH. Once soil P is mineralised soluble P compounds are released and are subject to plant uptake or fixation by the soil. Similar to the Carbon:Nitrogen (C:N) ratio, if soil organic matter is low in P and high in other nutrients available P will temporarily disappear.

Soil P is very slow moving throughout the soil profile. Soil P moves by diffusion which is a slow process and requires moisture. In a loamy soil P needs to be within 1cm from the surface of the roots to be taken up by the plant. Considering roots only intercept 1-3% of the soil in the top 15-20cm it is important fertiliser P is applied close to the roots.

Residual Phosphorus


Figure 1 highlights the various factors affecting P availability and uptake each year.

Figure 1: The P cycle explained.

RESIDUAL PHOSPHORUS CONT...

What does this mean for the 2018 season?Many farmers are thinking about fertiliser decisions for 2018 and are asking the question about P rates following a drought year. We have dug up some trial data from 2007 following 2006 which was a below average year, much the same as this year is shaping up. In this trial we looked at the effect of residual P on the following season’s crop.

• % of clay • Time of application • Soil pH

• Type of clay • Soil temperature • Other nutrients

• Phosphorus buffering capacity (PBI) • Phosphorus status of soil (Fertiliser history, P bank)

Factors affecting phosphorus availability


Trial Results - Manning 2007

Farmer: ManningArea: YerecoinTrial No: NP 06 C1Year: 2007

Site History: Wite Gum; 2004 1.8t/ha lupins, 2005 3.2t/ha wheat; 2006 CSBP canola trial.

Soil Analysis:

Description pH Salt OC N(Nit) N(Amm) P Fe K S

0-10cm Brown loam (25% gravel) 5.0 0.058 1.86 13 3 31 413 122 5.1

Aim: To assess residual N and P value in wheat after canola from 2006 fertiliser applications.

Harvest Yield Protein HL wt. Screens

Trt Banded P 2007 P 2006 N 2006 (t/ha) (%) (kg/HL) (%)1 - 0 0 50 2.21 11.4 79 2.42 - 0 12 50 2.35 11.2 78 3.03 102 Double Phos 18 18 50 2.99 11.7 82 2.14 136 Double Phos 24 24 50 2.95 10.8 82 2.45 34 Double Phos 6 0 100 2.67 12.2 80 2.16 68 Double Phos 12 12 100 2.88 11.4 81 1.87 102 Double Phos 18 18 100 2.95 11.6 81 1.98 136 Double Phos 24 24 100 3.00 12.2 81 1.99 - 0 0 150 2.21 11.7 79 2.6

10 - 0 12 150 2.31 11.9 78 3.011 102 Double Phos 18 18 150 2.95 11.8 81 1.712 68 Double Phos 12 24 150 2.94 12.0 81 2.0 Prob <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.035 LSD 0.142 0.46 1.5 0.82



Another trial from Marvel Loch run in 2003 following the drought year of 2002 also highlights the value of freshly applied P following a dry year:

Trial Results - Panizza 2003

Farmer: PanizzaArea: Marvel LochTrial No: P 03 W5Year: 2003

Site History: Pasture 2001 and 2002.

Soil Analysis:

S o i l A n a l y s i s Description P N(Nit) N(Amm) K S OC Fe Salt pH0-10cm Lght brn sandy loam 11 9 1 75 8 1.10 1281 0.04 4.4

10-20cm20-30cm

Lght brn sandy loam Brn loam

76

51

11

3575

1717

0.860.22

1129624

0.040.04

4.34.8

Ex Ca Ex Mg Ex K Ex Na Ex Al ECEC Cu Zn Al PRI0-10cm 0.6 0.2 0.2 0.05 0.5 1.6 0.25 0.14 11 54

10-20cm20-30cm

1.62.3

0.50.6

0.40.2

0.030.04

0.30.05

2.93.2

0.43.2

0.110.11

4.70.2

1121

R e c o m m e n d a t i o n : For 2.5t/ha; 35P, 40N.

A i m : Compare effectiveness of a granular NP fertiliser to Liquid NP (with and without zinc).TREATMENTS Total kg/ha

Banded Kg or L /ha TD IBS IBS P N Zn1 Nil 43 Urea 80 L Flexi-N 0 54 02 22 MAP 38 Urea 80 L Flexi-N 5 54 03 44 MAP 33 Urea 80 L Flexi-N 10 54 04 89 MAP 22 Urea 80 L Flexi-N 20 54 05 178 MAP Nil 80 L Flexi-N 40 54 06 24 L Liq APP 36 Urea 80 L Flexi-N 5 54 07 48 L Liq APP 28 Urea 80 L Flexi-N 10 54 08 96 L Liq APP 14 Urea 80 L Flexi-N 20 54 09 96 L Liq APP + Zn 14 Urea 80 L Flexi-N 20 54 1.0

10 110 Agras Extra 5 Urea 80 L Flexi-N 10 54 0.2211 45 AgNP + PE coating 33 Urea 80 L Flexi-N 10 54 0




Harvest Harvest Harvest Harvest Harvest Harvest Yield Protein Screen HL P Zn

Trt Source P kg/ha t/ha % % kg/hL % ppm1 Nil 0 0.64 11.7 1.1 75.8 0.145 28.02 MAP 5 1.15 10.5 1.1 77.7 0.145 19.83 MAP 10 1.27 10.7 0.9 79.4 0.143 17.34 MAP 20 1.72 10.7 0.8 81.3 0.165 14.65 MAP 40 1.70 10.8 1.0 79.3 0.174 13.26 LiqNP 5 1.32 10.6 0.7 79.9 0.141 19.37 LiqNP 10 1.66 10.2 0.8 79.9 0.147 16.28 LiqNP 20 2.18 9.6 0.8 81.8 0.163 11.29 LiqNP+Zn 20 2.19 9.9 0.9 81.2 0.173 23.0

10 AgrasExtra 10 1.21 11.1 0.8 79.2 0.144 18.611 AGNP+PEct 10 1.44 10.3 0.9 80.3 0.145 17.1

Statistics lsd trt 0.324 nsd nsd 2.917 0.0188 5.97 P rate 0.273 0.713 nsd 2.271 0.0138 2.23 Source 0.193 nsd nsd nsd nsd nsd

DiscussionBoth trials demonstrate the value of fresh P. In the Manning trial when 0 P is applied there is no significant change in yield regardless of how much P was applied in 2006. The same goes for the Panizza trial, an application of 0 P halves the yield compared to 10kg/ha of P applied.

There is no escaping the fact that you will need fresh P in 2018. The fresh P applied in 2017 will have very quickly become fixed to the soil and move to the labile and non-labile state.

If you are looking to reduce P rates ensure you fully understand your soils to make an informed decision. Soil testing is the best way to aid in the decision making process and it is recommended to discuss your options with your local CSBP area manager. There are a number of solutions CSBP can provide with a wide range of products that can meet your needs.

An aspect that has not been mentioned yet is distribution of P. If the rate is going to be reduced it is pivotal that the distribution of P is sufficient so the plant can have early access to applied P. The removal rate of P is 3 kg/ha per ton of wheat so most farmers in this area will be targeting anywhere from 4.5-9 kg/ha of P. Table 1 shows the rates needed of different products to achieve those targets:

Table 1: Rates of CSBP Fertilisers required to supply varying P requirements.

P Rate kg/ha3 4.5 6 9

Product Product Rate kg/ha Agflow Extra (kg/ha) 17 25 33 50Agras Extra (kg/ha) 33 49 66 99Mallee Extra (kg/ha) 25 37 50 74Agstar Extra (kg/ha) 21 32 42 63

Below 40 kg/ha P distribution can become an issue as some plants may become P deficient which can limit yield. Row spacing will affect the distribution of P and the closer your row spacing’s are the less concentrated the fertiliser is along the drill row which may increase the requirement for a higher rate to ensure adequate P distribution.


Take home messages2017 will most likely be a below average yield and input P will be higher than output P however increasing and decreasing soil levels is a long term process. It takes 3 – 4 kg/ha of un-utilised fertiliser P to change Soil P by 1ppm due to fixation and immobilisation, so any P applied this year will have little impact on overall soil levels. It is important to remember that we should look beyond one season and it is important to match P rates with target yield using soil results regardless of the year so we are not wasting dollars on unnecessary P or losing dollars limiting yield due to low P rates. As a general rule the best practice for 2018 will be to apply maintenance rates of all nutrients for target yield at seeding time there is no replacement for freshly applied P and there is no instance where we can escape that. Previous data shows us that we cannot place much value on residual P from the previous year regardless of the application rate. The advice to farmers is to maintain their P, K, S and trace elements application at seeding as per normal and look for savings in N applications if needed. If you see opportunity to chase cost savings with reducing P rates, the advice is to speak to your local CSBP area manager and soil test to see if it is an option. As can be seen in this article the phosphorus cycle is a very complex system and there are a huge amount of factors affecting it. To add to the complexity every farm is different and every paddock within a farm is different. There is definitely no one size fits all, so it is very difficult to make a general recommendation that will work for most farms.

Contact InformationMitchell Hutton Dalwallinu Trainee Area ManagerMobile: 0428 080 004Email: [email protected]

Angus McAlpineRegional Agronomist Central Midlands Mobile: 0437 222 419Email: [email protected]


A P P O F T H E M O N T H Can I fly there- Drone Safety App

This easy-to-use smartphone app illustrates to drone users, where you are and are not allowed to fly a drone. This app is designed to guide operators of excluded remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) i.e. drones under subregulations of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998. It is an awareness tool for those flying drones less than 2kg and those flying drones between 2kg and 25kg over their own private land for commercial purposes.

These areas include within 5.5km of controlled aerodromes, in approach and departure paths of non-controlled aerodromes and helicopter landing sites, as well as in restricted or military airspace. The app also highlights ‘caution’ areas around unregistered aerodromes where aircraft could be flying.

The ‘Can I fly there?’ drone safety app reflects the standard operating conditions for those flying their drone commercially (under the excluded category of commercial operations) and is a valuable educational and situational awareness tool for both commercial and recreational drone flyers.


WASHOUTS AND 2018/19 OPPORTUNITIESDon McTaggart, Farmanco

Key Points

• Act sooner rather than later if you are uncomfortable with hedge position.

• Consider looking at 18/19 hedging opportunities

At the time of writing, a significant portion of Liebe Group members would be facing uninspiring seasonal prospects. The contrast to last season could not be any starker. Some growers have had less than 25mls for the growing season, with the forecast not looking that great for the remainder of July.

As is often the case, when conditions are challenging here, less than ideal conditions in some parts of the USA and the EU/Ukraine have strongly supported the market. Prices for new season wheat have risen as much as $50 since mid-June and canola prices are at the upper range for this calendar year. If you are concerned about growing enough grain to meet your commitments then it is worth being on the front foot and working out you options now.

If you think you are over hedged then touch base with the counterparty you have sold grain to and discuss washout options. Rolling the contract over to next year is unlikely to be an option. Simplistically, the cost of a washout is the difference between what you sold at and the current price (the cost of replacement grain). Please be aware, particularly in the Geraldton zone where there is no grower selling occurring, that the washout price may be higher than the grower bid.

There is always the temptation to hang on in the hope that prices fall later in the year. While prices could very well be lower at the end of the year, it is worth remembering years like 2007 and 2010 where prices rose throughout the second half of the year. It is up to each individual to weigh up whether they would prefer to have a known worst-case scenario (in terms of washout cost) or an unlimited worst-case scenario, with the chance it could get better. Having been through 2007, we generally lean towards washing out if you don’t have production.

If you have production we would generally advise against getting out of your contracts just because you think the marketing could go higher. Buyers will also be reluctant to washout contracts unless there is legitimate production failure. While the market may go higher, the risk is that prices fall into harvest. In this scenario you get a the double effect of locking in a loss at high prices, then selling the balance of your grain at harvest into lower prices.

18/19 opportunities.While selling forward for this season is not at the forefront of your mind, it is worth considering wheat prices for next season. Cash prices for next harvest have been $310-$315 FIS for APW1. $310 FIS is a decile 8 price in the last 5 completed calendar years in the Kwinana port zone. For a conservative portion of next year’s sales, we think it is worth strong consideration.

Swaps for Dec-18 have hit $290+ in the last week as well. At a conservative basis of $20, that equates to a price of $310 FIS. One of the key benefits of swap is the exposure to basis. A good way to think of basis is that it’s a hedge against the season. This means that (like this year) if the season is a poor one, basis improves which means your final price improves. Currently basis in KWI for this season is +$50. This would make your final price, if you were to lock in basis, $290 + $50 = $340. Conversely, if the season is a good one, basis might be lower than your target. The compensating factor for this is that you are likely to be growing lots of wheat.

Donald McTaggart is an Authorised Representative No. 298483 of Primary Financial Services Pty Ltd (AFSL No. 338360). Farmanco Marketing Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative No. 341189 of Primary Financial Services Pty Ltd (AFSL No. 338360). General Advice Disclaimer: The information and opinions within this document are of a general nature only and do not take into account the particular needs or individual circumstances of investors. The Material does not constitute any investment recommendation or advice nor does it constitute legal or taxation advice. Primary Financial Services Pty Ltd (ABN 37 136 347 610) (The Licensee) does not give any warranty, whether express or implied, as to the accuracy, reliability or otherwise of the information and opinions contained herein and to the maximum extent permissible by law, accepts no liability in contract, tort (including negligence) or otherwise for any loss or damages suffered as a result of reliance on such information or opinions. The Licensee does not endorse any third parties that may have provided information included in the Material.


HERBICIDE RESIDUES AND PLANNING FOR 2018Clare Johnston, Elders Scholz Rural

With differing conditions to normal there are herbicides that are important to consider this year to ensure next years crops plans are safe. As with many aspects of agriculture, no answer is black and white. Soil pH, organic matter, temperature, moisture and rate used can have an effect on herbicide breakdown.

Length of residual of SU herbicides is influenced by a number of factors:Shorter residual Longer residualAcidic soil pH Alkaline soil pHHigh soil moisture Low moistureWarm soil temperatures Cold soil temperaturesHigh organic matter (micro-organisms) Low organic matterLow use rate High use rateEarly application timing Late application timing

Table: Half-life of herbicides in the soil (days) as an estimate.

Herbicide pH 4 / 25oCMoist soil all year

pH 6 / 20oCMoist soil

pH 8 / 15oCDry soil

Atrazine 30 40 60Simazine 35 55 80Logran 14 30 85Glean 14 35 90Monza ? 30-40 ?Spinnaker* 14 25 ?Ally 7 14 28

* Spinnaker is highly dependent on soil moisture and microbial activity. It is not dependent on pH although this determines the amount of microbial activity. A worse case scenario would be dry, low pH soil with no soil microbes. Clearfield herbicides, Intervix, Sentry, OnDuty & Midas, are very similar.

Table: Plantback periods to be aware of (days).

Herbicide Wheat Barley Oats Lupins CanolaAtrazine up to 2.4kg 1.4 – 3.3kg

180540

180540

180540

00

180*540*

Simazine up to 2.5kg 270 270 270 0 270*Intervix 300 300 300 300 1020Logran B Power pH < 6.5 (300mm)pH 6.5-7.5 (500mm)pH 7.6-8.5 (700mm)

000

270270270

270270270

360660720

360660720

SakuraSentry (Imazapic + Imazapyr)20g (min rain 150mm) & 40g (min rain 250mm)50 & 55g (min rain 350mm)

240

240

240

240

240

660

240

660

1020

1020 *Triazine tolerant canola, plant back = 0


HERBICIDE RESIDUES AND PLANNING FOR 2018 CONT...Intervix is a key one to keep in mind with break down in the soil by microbes in wet, aerobic conditions. Under conditions that do not favour breakdown, carry-over soil residues can affect susceptible follow crops. Normally safe residue levels may still affect follow crops when soil nutrition is low or marginal, when cold and very wet soil conditions prevail, or when soil pathogens or nematodes are present. As environmental and agronomic factors make it impossible to eliminate all risks associated with this product, rotational crop injury is always possible.

The following minimum re-cropping intervals (months after application) should be observed. Months after Application Follow Crops0 Clearfield Plus wheat, Clearfield wheat, Clearfield barley, Clearfield canola10 Chickpeas, Faba beans, Field peas, Lucerne, Lupins, Pasture legumes, vetch,

Oats*, Triticale*, Non-Clearfield Barley, Non-Clearfield Wheat34 Conventional and other herbicide tolerant canola, All other crops

* Non-Clearfield Barley, Oats, Triticale, Non-Clearfield Wheat: The following additional requirements apply if it is intended to sow these cereals during the next winter season: • DO NOT apply Intervix later than the end of July. • DO NOT use Intervix in areas where rainfall from spraying to sowing of cereals is expected to be below 150 mm (for 300 – 375 mL/ha use), 200 mm (for up to 500 mL/ha use) and 250 mm (for 600 – 750 mL/ha use).

Atrazine & propyzamide – can be an issue for heavier soil types with the residue hanging on for longer than sandy soils. Both are essentially microbial breakdown so half life can vary significantly. Generally speaking if there are sustained periods of moisture and soils are relatively warm (spring/summer rain), then there shouldn’t be an issue.

Before next seasonEasily the best way to test any potential residue is to do a seeding trial. Hand sow and water to see if it will germinate. Grab an untreated control for comparison. Ask Elders to help with this.

Whilst every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this newsletter, Elders does not accept any responsilbility or liability for the material herein, including liability arising from Elders negligence. As the content of this article is of a general nature, you should always seek specific advice tailored to your needs.


SHEEP MANAGEMENT IN POOR SEASONSMark Allington, The Sheeps Back

Rainfall has been a mixed bag over the past 10 days. Some of you received good falls while others had virtually nothing. The following is some management and feeding recommendations for the remainder of this year. Generally sheep are still in good condition, coming off a good season with access to big stubbles and some green feed over summer. Grain was also cheap at the beginning of the season, so optimum feeding rates were not costly. Sheep and wool prices are currently very strong, so it pays to try and protect this enterprise more than usual.

We know from past experience that sheep that are in poor condition or lose a lot of condition prior to, or over lambing, are at risk and can die at a greater rate. The loss of condition also causes lasting production issues such as, lower wool cut for the lambs’ lifetime. Knowing when and how much energy a ewe requires is vitally important in a year like this.

Step 1: Know what your sheep require and whenExample:Today is the 10/07/17. The Energy Requirements (ME) for a ewe due to lamb on;

• 1st May 14 ME/hd/day (16 ME/hd/day if Twins)

• 1st June 19 ME/hd/day (23 ME/hd/day if Twins)

• 1st July 19 ME/hd/day (23 ME/hd/day if Twins)

Energy requirements for mated ewes is going to steadily increase until lambs are a month old (Figure 1), and then slowly decrease until weaning. Once lambing has commenced, no amount of supplement feeding will be able to make up the energy deficit, as sheep cannot physically eat that much food, so they need to burn off condition score (CS).

This is the reason it is important to know what Condition Score (CS) your ewes are in. Ewes that are in CS 3 or above are allowed some controlled weight loss but ewes below CS 2.5 shouldn’t be allowed to lose any weight. Ewes in less than CS 2.5 will have a much lower lamb survival and also die at a greater rate. If you know what the CS of your ewes are you can manage this process, if you don’t know then it makes it extremely difficult.

Figure 1: Energy (ME/day) required for a single and twin bearing Merino ewe.


SHEEP MANAGEMENT IN POOR SEASONS CONT...Twin bearing ewes will need 25% more energy than single bearing ewes (Figure 1). This is why it is important to give the twins preferential treatment. There is a record number of twin bearing ewes in the paddocks right now. In a poor years these animals become high risk in terms of management.

Step 2: Know what feed is available in the paddock• Green feed is supply 3-7 ME for between 100-200 kg/ha of Food on Offer (FOO)• Remaining dry feed is 45% digestibility supplying about 4-5 ME/day

We know that any dry feed in the paddock is worth 4-5 ME. Green feed will probably range between 100-200 FOO in some paddocks and 0 in others. Based on these assumptions all sheep will be in an energy deficit, and should be supplementary fed. FOO estimates can be sourced from the following link to help in your own case, fore more information see http://www.feedonofferlibrary.com/

Step 3: Know what to feed them to make up deficitAll of you are supplementary feeding your ewes right now. You will all have your own feed mix preference. Table 1 has the values of different feed sources, it is important you’re are aware of what you’re feeding and why. If your sheep don’t have access to much dry matter, pellets or hay are a more important part of the diet, a) to provide roughage and b) to fill there gut.

Table 1 : Typical feed values and on farm costs.Feed ME/kg DM $/T Del c/MELupins 13.1 $320 2.44 c/MEOats 10.5 $200 1.90 c/MEBarley 12.3 $250 2.03 c/MEHay 8.0 $180 2.25 c/MEPellets* 12 $320 2.66 c/ME

*Pellets are becoming very difficult to source.

Example:• Single bearing ewes due 1st June with access to 200 green FOO and 1500 dry FOO.• ME required - 19.0 ME• ME supplied from green - 7.0 ME (est)• ME supplied from dry feed 3.0 ME• Deficit 9.0 ME• Lupins/Oats @ 25:75 (11.2 ME) as feed source • Calculation 9/11.2 = 0.8 kg/day or 5.6 kg/week• Single bearing Ewes require 5.6 kg/week of this lupins/oats mix to maintain condition

5.6 kg/week of feed! This is a lot of grain and I guarantee most ewes aren’t getting this rate? This is why maintaining ewe condition up until lambing is one of the most important things you can do. There is no way condition can be maintained post lambing without green feed being available in the paddock. History shows that a poor year can have carryover effects on sheep production (Figure 2). However, at $6.00kg lamb and a wool price of nearly $10.00kg sweep the floor it pays to keep production as high as possible.

If much of this feeding and requirements of ewes is new to you, we suggest enrolling in a LTEM course. You can do this by contacting The Sheeps Back.

Step 4: Take steps to grow more feed for winter and next summerThis is a challenging winter. Some areas have received small amounts of rain, but are probably still at least a month away from not feeding. For those who didn’t receive meaningful rainfall feeding will last longer. Pasture growth rates are likely to be slow for the next 3 weeks, historically 25-30 kg/day. Ewes need at least 800 kg/ha FOO to supply enough energy in any stage of lactation. At 30 kg/day this will be a minimum


SHEEP MANAGEMENT IN POOR SEASONS CONT...of 25 days before 800 kg/ha of FOO is reached with deferred grazing, and many more without. The major point here is, do a feed budget and make sure you have feed on hand.

Attempting to supply more feed for ewes is a way to mitigate some of the risk. Options for Sheep:• Nitrogen on grassy pastures or cereal stubbles will accelerate pasture growth rate, but get the fertiliser

on soon so it can act as soon as it rains.• Scratching in oats or barley to get a cheap and fast growing dry matter resource. • Control RLEM• Grazing crops but no later than mid July.• Sell dry ewes at marking, either they didn’t get in lamb or didn’t rear a lamb.• Sell wethers• Seek agistment• Buy in feed reserves which are currently cheap but increasing in price.

Don’t leave a legacyIt is known from previous poor seasons, that lambing rates are effected the following year as can be seen by the red circles in Figure 2. The poor seasons in this data set where 2006/07, 2010/11 and 2015/16. This is where maintaining ewes in good condition (as close to CS3 as possible, above CS3 for twins) until lambing is very important as it is inevitable that they will lose some CS over lambing. Most businesses have completed lambing so the next step is to wean early to allow the ewes CS to recover prior to being re-mated in 2018.

Figure 2: Compass Agricultural Alliance average lambing rates over 10 years.

Wean EarlyWeaning lambs early will allow the ewe to recover in time for mating. This season has been poor, we don’t want to cause a second poor outcome next year with a low lambing potential. Ewes won’t be able to both maintain her condition and feed the lamb enough milk. This means that both will suffer, the lamb will not be getting enough milk and the ewe will be going backwards in condition. The sooner the lambs are weaned the better.

As soon as the mulesing wound is healed completely it becomes the time when weaning can take place. Early weaning will help both the ewe and the lamb by offering you a chance to increase lamb feed intake elsewhere rather than try and get a feed from its mother. Early weaning then allows the ewe to begin recovery of condition lost through lambing and lactation. The key is to regain enough to be at CS 3. This is reinvesting in the ewe for the 2018 crop of lambs.

Lambs that are weaned early need a high quality diet. Ideally a good clover dominant pasture above 1000 FOO. This is unrealistic for most areas. Alternatives are fodder crops, failed crops, sale of lambs


(to Esperance) or some level of supplementary feeding. Aim at a growth rate of at least 100 g/day. Don’t forget to give at least one feed before weaning to educate the lambs to hand feeding. Normal animal husbandry practices should be carried out such as a worm drench and a booster vaccination. The targeted weigh for weaning should be 18-20kgs as below this it is extremely difficult to keep the lambs alive (Figure 3). Lambs weaned at 20kg have a survival rate of 95%.

Figure 3: Liveweight at weaning & survival of weaners to 12 months. Source: Lifetime Wool.

Wean early to benefit both the lamb and the ewe. Target good nutrition and a weaning weight of 20kg. If ever there were market conditions where it pay to manage sheep correctly, it is now.

ConclusionThe question you need to ask yourself and the others in your business is ‘Where do you want the business to be in April 2018?’ then follow this up with:• Will you have mated ewes? • What lambing do you want to expect?• How much wool are you chasing?• On the back of these questions put a plan in place for the remainder of this season remembering sheep and wool prices are as good as they’re ever been. Learn from this season, it will happen again.

Mark AllingtonThe Sheeps Back0428 [email protected]

SHEEP MANAGEMENT IN POOR SEASONS CONT...

NEXT GENERAL MEETINGMONDAY 14TH AUGUST

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

From: Liebe GroupPO Box 340, Dalwallinu, WA, 6609Phone: (08) 9661 0570 Fax: (08) 9661 0575www.liebegroup.org.au

To:

STAFFEXECUTIVE OFFICERRebecca [email protected]

ADMINISTRATION MANAGERKatrina [email protected]

RESEARCH AGRONOMIST & COORDINATORAlana [email protected]

DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT OFFICERRebecca [email protected]

FINANCE MANAGERSophie [email protected]

Liebe Group Newsletter I JULY 2017 I Working together in Agriculture

Event Date LocationPost Seeding Field Walk 20th July Dodd’s Property, west Buntine

PreDicta B Workshop 8th August Dalwallinu Discovery Centre

PING Being a Better Boss: Team Productivity and Time Management Workshop

21st August Dalwallinu Discovery Centre

20th Anniversary Dinner 25th August Dalwallinu Hall

Spring Field Day 14th September Dodd’s Property, west Buntine

17TH AND 18TH JULY 2017

LOCAL FORUMS GRDC and Regional Cropping Solutions Networks want to hear from you about activities & research that you think will make a difference to farming profitability in your area. Hear about what’s been happening with your levies. Come prepared - bring ideas!

17th July: 9am-12noon Cunderdin Sport & Recreation Centre 17th July: 3-7pm Wongan Hills Community Resource Centre 18th July: 8am-12noon Dalwallinu Recreation Centre Hear about investments that are occurring in your area: ❖ Julia Easton and Western Panel (GRDC): GRDCs investment into crop

nutrition and GRDC update ❖ Craig Scanlan (DAFWA): Micronutrient sources and efficiency;

interactions between macronutrients and soil pH; the value of fixed N; N response in barley; potassium research.

❖ Ravjit Khanghura (DAFWA): Sclerotinia and timing of foliar fungicide applications for this season – Cunderdin and Wongan Hills

The following Regional Cropping Solutions Network initiated projects will also be presented:

➢ Ben White (Kondinin Group): Machinery replacement options for growers in the Kwinana West port zone – at Cunderdin and Wongan Hills

➢ Bill Bowden (WMG): Alternative lime trial results have been undertaken throughout WA – at Dalwallinu

Join us for a free BBQ and refreshments and register at www.rcsn.net.au

GRDCS REGIONAL CROPPING SOLUTIONS

NETWORK LOCAL FORUMS

YOUR CHANCE TO DISCUSS GRAINS RD&E FOR YOUR

AREA

CHAT TO GRDC AND WESTERN PANEL

MEET YOUR RCSN MEMBERS

HEAR ABOUT LOCAL RESEARCH IN THE KWINANA WEST

PORT ZONE

GRDC RCSN Register for these local

forums at

www.rcsn.net.au

More info contact Julianne Hill 0447261607

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Liebe Group Newsletterliebegroup.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Liebe...independent professional advice. The Liebe Group will not be liable for any loss, damage, cost or expense