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Gippsland Ag news
 
Thursday 12 September 2019
In this edition

Frontline Workforce and Business Training package for farming sector

Where are you and your family at six months on from the fires?

Maximising the spring surplus

Drought and dry seasonal conditions grants still available

What can you expect this spring?

Latest soil health news

Applications open: youth engagement grants

Drought and dry seasons support services and information

What's on:

  • East Gippsland – Livestock seasonal discussion at Giffard, Briagolong and Bengworden
  • East Gippsland – Livestock seasonal discussion at Buchan
  • GRAZFERT Farm Nutrient Management Program
  • Fox and wild dog bounty collections in October.
Latest news
Frontline Workforce and Business Training package for farming sector

One of the many challenges for people working in the farming sector is that they can become exposed to the consequences of mental distress as they go about day-to-day work in the field. In short, this means recognising when someone they are working with experiences mental distress and having the skills and understanding to keep engaging or withdraw safely as appropriate. But we know, the story doesn’t end there, people don’t always leave stressful or risky situations unaffected themselves.

The end result is called vicarious trauma and it is in the workplace interest that the issue is recognised and that appropriate supports are in place or readily accessible to affected staff.  Lack of selfcare skills and supports combined with long term exposure to critical incidents in the field or sharing the unaddressed emotional responses of other workplace colleagues can also lead to what we know as cumulative trauma. This is basically “stuff” that builds up over time and spills out at home or at work. 

Businesses, managers and staff have a shared responsibility to acknowledge these issues and to acquire appropriate skills for work in the field, how to manage the business response when staff return to work and how to manage personal responses at work and at home.

A Partnership established through a Victorian Government Mental Health Drought Funding Initiative and led by Gippsland Lakes Community Health has combined with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Lifeline Australia, to deliver a Frontline Workforce and Business Training package in Sale and Bairnsdale in October and November.  

The training will support businesses, managers and staff to create and maintain a mentally healthy workplace by developing work plans that are responsive to staff and business needs. Staff who aren’t counsellors will also learn communication and basic counselling skills if they find themselves in ‘difficult’ situations. Stress management and self-care issues are also a key part of the training package. 

For additional information, bookings and Expressions of Interest for either Sale or Bairnsdale based training delivery please contact Project Coordinator Andre Zonn on 0429 953 063 or at andrez@glch.org.au.

R U OK?
Where are you and your family at six months on from the fires?

David Younger, a clinical psychologist working with bushfire affected communities across Gippsland cautions that the six-month mark after a bushfire is very important.

It is often the time when people who have been impacted by the bushfires are just starting to realise there is still so much work to do, yet they have already been working incredibly hard for an extended period of time.

If these people continue to involve themselves in recovery related tasks at the same high pace and intensity without making time for other aspects of life, such as spending good quality time with family and friends, then they place their mental and general health and wellbeing at risk.

“For many community members the distress and heightened emotions experienced immediately after the fires will have gradually reduced over time; however for others this will not be the case,” he said.

“While many people seek support early, there are those who may be isolated and feel disconnected. It is important that communities identify these people and work to support and assist them when possible.”

Those who may have previously experienced a mental health difficulty prior to the fires may also find life more challenging. Some people may start to feel overwhelmed, depressed, sad or highly anxious.

People may try to control their reactions by avoiding or closing off their feelings. This does not help the underlying issue and in time it can make it worse.

“If you notice that the balance in life has been lost, that you are just too busy for anything positive, or that you are experiencing changes in your mood or physical health, these are signs that it is time to start taking breaks so that the body and mind can rest and recuperate,” he said.

“If you know someone who is struggling, it’s a good idea to check in on them to see if they are ok; and while conversations around traumatic events and how people are coping six-months on can feel uncomfortable, it is important to let people know you are there for them. Sometimes, just giving people an opportunity to feel heard is enough to make a big difference.”

The bushfire case support program, established by the Victorian Government following the 2019 Gippsland bushfires continues to help people navigate the various support services available including mental health services; family violence supports; and services for repairing and rebuilding damaged properties.

To date the bushfire case support program has worked with over 730 households.

Anyone who is struggling to cope and who needs additional support can call 1800 560 760 for more information.

Maximising the spring surplus
baler

Michele Jolliffe, Agriculture Victoria

Spring is always a critical time on-farm, particularly when trying to capitalise on the spring surplus to make as much high-quality forage as possible.

During spring, pasture growth and leaf appearance rate increases. Rotation length will need to be shortened to help maintain grazing pressure and ensure that high quality pasture is available for the herd.

It’s critical to try and maintain a rotation based on leaf stage. Instead of focusing on using 3 – 2 ½ leaf stage as an indicator for grazing perennial ryegrass, think about grazing at two-leaf stage or canopy closure – whichever occurs first.  This will ensure that pasture quality is maintained and shading at the base of the sward is minimised.

To assist with conserving as much high-quality forage as possible, consider using nitrogen fertiliser to increase dry matter yields. If you do that, you must remember to cut pasture within six weeks of application.

Research has shown that once cutting is delayed beyond eight weeks after application of nitrogen fertilisers, quality declines more rapidly than if no nitrogen was applied in the first place.

This will result in large quantities of low-quality silage, which is unsuitable to feed dairy cows in the early stage of lactation.

Using rates of nitrogen of 50 kg N/ha, responses of 18 kg of dry matter per hectare for every kg N applied, six weeks after nitrogen application can be produced. Research shows that spring applied rates of about 50 kg N/ha are likely to produce the most efficient growth rates.

Trials have also shown that rates of between 40 and 60 kg N/ha are the most effective.  Using higher rates of nitrogen usually results in lower responses. Therefore, when using nitrogen, it’s important to remember to target your best paddocks, the ones with good pasture species and soil fertility.

When planning forage conservation, be prepared to cut when the perennial ryegrass component of the sward is just reaching early ear emergence.

Some tips for managing your spring pasture:

  • Maintain pasture quality by shortening your rotation and changing your grazing indicator from 3 – 2 ½ leaf stage to 2 or canopy closure, whichever occurs first
  • Only lock up pasture for conservation that is surplus to requirements
  • Think about using nitrogen fertiliser at rates up to 50 kg N/ha, and ensure pasture is cut within six weeks of application
  • It’s vital to only lock up pasture for conservation that is surplus to requirements.

For more information about managing during drought and dry seasonal conditions go to agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons.

Drought and dry seasonal conditions grants still available
DROUGHT IMAGE

Farmers impacted by drought in Central and East Gippsland are reminded that grants under the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Support Grants Program, the Pasture Recovery and Management Grants Program and the Farm Business Assistance Program are still available to them.

Pasture Recovery and Management Grant Program

A grant of up to $5,000 (ex-GST) is available to assist eligible farm businesses implement pasture restoration and other land management activities that may aid in pasture recovery. Eligible farm businesses are required to provide at least dollar-for-dollar matching funding co-contribution.

On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Support Grants

Grants of up to $5,000 are available to eligible farm businesses in Central and East Gippsland and Northern and North West Victoria to assist farm businesses implement on-farm infrastructure that improves drought management and preparedness. Eligible farm businesses are required to provide at least dollar-for-dollar matching funding co-contribution.

Farm Business Assistance Program

The Farm Business Assistance program will provide a one-off support payment to farm businesses in Wellington Shire and East Gippsland Shire, and eligible farmers in Northern and North-West Victoria.

Eligible farmers are invited to apply for a one-off payment of:

  • $3,500 for Farm Household Allowance (FHA) recipients and young farmers in Wellington and East Gippsland Shires
  • $2,500 for remaining commercial farms in Wellington and East Gippsland Shires.

To apply for these grants call Rural Finance on 1800 260 425 or visit ruralfinance.com.au.

For more info about managing during drought and dry conditions go to agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons.

What can you expect this spring?
Dale Grey

It’s footy finals time, and while team selectors are deciding who to play and spectators are watching the skies deciding what to wear, it’s what happens over the next few months that will be crucial for the main game – farming.

In the latest Very Fast Break, Dale Grey summarises 12 climate models for Victoria and suggests which way they are pointing for spring.

Watch the latest edition of Very Fast Break at: https://youtu.be/l1K4VGOopyw.

Latest soil health news
soils newsletter banner

This is the 78th Soils Community of Practice newsletter.

In this edition hear from Dr Helen Hayden, a Research Scientist working with Agriculture Victoria in the Soil Biology team based at AgriBio in Melbourne.

Helen’s research involves extracting and characterising DNA, RNA, metabolites and proteins from soil in the context of soil type, crop, management systems and climate change.

Subscribe to the Soils Community of Practice newsletter at: agriculture.vic.gov.au/soil.

Applications open: youth engagement grants
youth grants tile

The Weeds and Rabbits Project is keen to encourage more young people to connect with their local community and natural environment through invasive pest and weed management.

Grants of up to $15,000 are available to support projects that will increase youth interest, engagement and skills in invasive species management in Victoria.

The grant program is open to community groups, education providers and local councils, with a focus on projects that connect with young people and develop their skills, and therefore deliver broader benefits for local communities.

Young people are under-represented in invasive species management, yet they have much to offer by way of passion and interest in improving our landscapes.

Land management is an inter-generational issue, and managing pests and weeds is a crucial part of enhancing our agricultural and natural landscapes. It is important that diverse voices and interests are part of the conversation about how to address the challenge of invasive species.

The program aims to increase young people’s participation in community environmental projects and encourage new ideas and innovations in the invasive species challenge.

Funding can be used to support the engagement of young people in existing groups and initiatives, or to develop new youth-focused initiatives.

Applications for the grants program close Monday 30 September.

For more information visit the Weeds and Rabbits Project website.

Drought and dry seasons support services and information
One-on-one assistance

Have you dropped into our offices at Bairnsdale, Maffra or Swifts Creek lately?

Did you know you can make an appointment to talk to a staff member about a pasture recovery grant, drought assistance and technical workshops in the region?

You can also make a time to have a one-on-one consultation.

You will find us at:

  • 574 Main Street, Bairnsdale (same place as the DELWP office)
  • 1 Stratford Road, Maffra
  • 13 McMillan Avenue, Swifts Creek (same place as the DELWP office)

As always you can also get more information, tools and advice online at agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons or call us on 136 186.

Drought wallet cards – a pocket-sized guide to support services
Wallet card

Drought wallet cards are now available, providing a handy pocket-sized guide to lots of localised information on health and wellbeing services.

Developed in consultation the Central and East Gippsland Drought Mental Health and Wellbeing Committee, the cards list the phone numbers for key support services.

It's a handy resource for businesses, organisations and individuals working with our farming communities facing drought. Copies of the cards are available at your local Gippsland Agriculture Victoria office or by calling 136 186.

On-farm emergency water infrastructure rebate scheme

Producers are encouraged to access the On-Farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme for the purchase and installation of emergency water infrastructure for livestock.

In Gippsland, the scheme is available to eligible farm businesses in the Wellington and East Gippsland shires.

Farm businesses NOT in these local government areas can make an application if they can demonstrate a critical water need for livestock resulting from current seasonal conditions.
These applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

The scheme is available for water infrastructure purchased since 1 July 2018. Guidelines and application details can be obtained from Rural Finance.

Look over the farm gate
look over the farm gate tile

Look Over the Farm Gate grants are still open for farmers and communities facing drought and dry conditions across central and eastern Gippsland and northern Victoria.

Community groups in drought affected communities can apply online for grants of $1,500 to run events that address mental health and wellbeing.

Look Over the Farm Gate is a mental health and wellbeing initiative funded by the Victorian Government (drought support funding committed in September 2018).

It is managed by the Victorian Farmers Federation in partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Country Women’s Association, Country Fire Authority, and National Centre for Farmer Health.

Applications are assessed on a first in best dressed basis.

For more information and how to apply visit  lookoverthefarmgate.org.au or to contact the coordinator at Lookoverthefarmgate@vff.org.au.

What's on
East Gippsland – Livestock seasonal discussion at Giffard, Briagolong and Bengworden
When and where:

GIFFARD –  Wednesday 18 September, 1.30 – 4.00 pm 

Meet at Giffard West Hall

BRIAGOLONG – Thursday 19 September, 9.30 am – 12.30 pm (BYO chair)

Meet at the shearing shed at 846 Boundary Road, Briagolong

BENGWORDEN – Thursday 19 September, 1.30 – 4.00 pm (BYO chair)

SFS Trial Site, 345 Bengworden Road, Bengworden

 

Agriculture Victoria invites livestock producers to attend a farm walk and information session to learn more about preparing for the next few months.

Guest presenters include:

  • Alison Gunn – Veterinarian/Consultant
  • Gary Condron – Agronomist, Rodwells

Topics to be covered include:

  • Spring management of feed/fodder crops
  • Early weaning
  • Feed/water budgeting
  • Stock containment
  • Animal health considerations
  • Drought support options

Agriculture Victoria staff will be on-hand to assist producers with any enquiries. 

To register contact Caroline Love at Agriculture Victoria on 0427 515 668 or at caroline.love@agriculture.vic.gov.au.

East Gippsland – Livestock seasonal discussion at Buchan
When and where:

Wednesday 25 September, 1.30 – 4.00 pm (BYO chair)

1497 Bruthen-Buchan Road, Buchan South

 

Agriculture Victoria invites livestock producers to attend a farm walk and information session to learn more about preparing for the coming months.

Guest presenters include:

  • Nick Linden – Livestock Industry Development Officer, Agriculture Victoria
  • Jack Winterbottom – Local veterinarian and former District Veterinary Officer with Agriculture Victoria

Topics to be covered include:

  • Spring management of feed/fodder crops
  • Early weaning
  • Feed/water budgeting
  • Stock containment
  • Animal health considerations
  • Drought support options.

Agriculture Victoria staff will be on-hand to assist producers with any enquiries.

To register contact John Commins at Agriculture Victoria on (03) 5159 5143 or at john.commins@agriculture.vic.gov.au.

GRAZFERT Farm Nutrient Management Program
Graz fert
 

Landholders in the Bunyip fire affected area are being invited to register by 20 September for a GRAZFERT program.

On-farm visits will be held in late September and October, with follow-up workshops to be held in February and March next year.

Register online at Eventbrite.

The ‘GrazFert’ program is being delivered by Agriculture Victoria in conjunction with Western Port Catchment Landcare Network and Melbourne Water help support Bunyip fire affected properties.

For more information, contact Lindsay Hyde on 0400 050 223 or at Lindsay.hyde@agriculture.vic.gov.au OR

Peter Ronalds on 0402 650 382 or at peter@wpcln.org.au.

Fox and wild dog bounty collections in October

Agriculture Victoria Biosecurity officers will be at the fox and wild dog collection centres in the South East during September:

Eligible participants can submit entire fox scalps for a $10 reward and entire wild dog skin pieces for a $120 reward during scheduled collection times.

Collection sites, dates and times are listed below:

Ellinbank (foxes and wild dogs): Monday 7 October, 2–4 pm at 1301 Hazeldean Road, Ellinbank

 

Bairnsdale (foxes and wild dogs): Tuesday 8 October, 12–2 pm at 35 Bairnsdale-Dargo Road, Bairnsdale

Maffra (foxes and wild dogs): Wednesday 9 October, 9–11 am at 1 Stratford Road, Maffra

Yarram (foxes only): Wednesday 9 October, 2–4 pm at Rodgers Street, Yarram

Woori Yallock (foxes only: Thursday 10 October, 12–2 pm at Symes Road (Depot), Woori Yallock

Details on bounty collection terms and conditions are available here or call Agriculture Victoria on 136 186.

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Contacting Agriculture Victoria

Call 136 186 from anywhere in Australia for the cost of a local call (except for mobiles and public telephones).

If you are deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment
contact the National Relay Service on 133 677 or www.relayservice.gov.au.

A full list of our contact points can be found at:
agriculture.vic.gov.au/about-us/contact-us.

Don't forget to check out Agriculture Victoria's social media sites for up-to-date information and news.

 

'Like' our Agriculture Victoria Facebook page.

 

Follow us on Twitter @VicGovAg

 

Subscribe to the Agriculture Victoria YouTube channel. 

 
 

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