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Thursday 13 March 2025
Thinking of keeping backyard chooks?
Dr Jeff Cave, Senior Veterinary Officer, Northern Region
Chickens can be a great addition to your home, filling various roles such as producing eggs, fertilising gardens, eating your food scraps, plus being a pet and providing companionship for the family.
The most trouble-free chickens to purchase are vaccinated hens at the point of lay (16 – 18 weeks) from a reliable commercial source. You will need at least 2 as chickens are social animals.
Chickens need a well-drained and well-ventilated pen, with enough space to ensure chickens don’t fight, and is functional and easy to clean.
A chicken house should give shade from direct sunlight plus water-proofing from rain, particularly where the chickens roost and lay. It works well if the chicken house is located under a tree for shade.
The chicken house should be north facing with an eve about a metre long to protect from the summer sun but let the light in during winter. Make sure the house is tall enough to stand up in. Cover the floor with sawdust to form a deep litter for the chicken’s droppings.
Make sure the chicken house is fox proof and unless the sides are attached to a wooden or concrete floor, dig them into the soil to a depth of at least a half a metre.
Make sure there are no gaps that predators could get in, there are secured catches and locks, and consider using a fox light.
For chickens that are not allowed to roam outside their pen clip one wing, not both, to prevent them from flying. Always secure your chickens in the chicken house before the end of the day.
Nesting boxes need to be off the ground, be deep and fairly dark for seclusion, and regularly add fresh straw. Ideally build the house with outside access to the nesting boxes.
Perches for roosting need to be wide enough for the chickens to comfortably stand on, at a jumping height and the right thickness for their feet.
Chickens are naturally omnivores, so they eat a variety of foods. Pellets are a satisfactory food source but can be supplemented with food scraps.
Don't feed more scraps than the chickens can consume or else the leftovers will attract vermin and create odours, don’t give food scraps that are mouldy or have gone off otherwise you chickens may become sick. Give a source of calcium such as shell grit to help form their eggs.
Commercially available feeders and water dispensers work well – have them off the ground to keep them clean. A round feeder is good for the pecking order as the weaker chicken can be on the other side of the circle and not beside the dominant chicken.
Provide enough pellets for no more than one week to prevent them from becoming stale. Chickens also need continual access to clean, fresh water – they drink a lot.
Monitor your chickens daily for their health, egg production, and food and water availability, and collect their eggs daily. Regularly clean your chicken coop including feeders, drinkers and equipment, and frequently replace nesting materials.
Always wash your hands with warm water and soap after handling birds, eggs or other materials in the coop.
Agriculture Victoria is currently responding to an outbreak of H7N8 avian influenza (bird flu) on four Victorian poultry farms. A housing requirement is now in place only for properties with 50 or more birds in the restricted area.
This disease detection serves as a reminder for all bird owners to routinely monitor the health of their birds. If you suspect your birds are sick, contact your local vet or call the all-hours Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
To avoid this happening to your flock avoid contact between poultry and wild birds, keep feed and water in a protected place where wild birds can’t access, and keep your poultry away from water sources frequented by wild birds such as streams, dams, ponds and even puddles. Limit visitors to your birds and use clean footwear.
If you are planning to have more than 50 chickens, you are required to have a Property Identification Code, and either be in a quality assurance program or complete and follow Agriculture Victoria’s food safety management statement.
Also, check your local government requirements, as many have by-laws on flock size and housing, as well as prohibiting keeping roosters in metropolitan areas.
Chickens are an easy and enjoyable animal to keep. So, if you are thinking about it give it a go. For further information regarding keeping backyard poultry visit https://go.vic.gov.au/3FrSzz9.
Avian influenza is a notifiable disease. If you suspect infection in your own poultry or wild birds you must notify Agriculture Victoria on the all-hours Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline 1800 675 888. For further information regarding Avian Influenza visit https://go.vic.gov.au/3FrSoDZ.
Riverine Plains – The benefits of incremented deep soil N testing
This blog explores incremented deep soil nitrogen (DSN) testing and how it can be used to better inform nitrogen application decisions.
Key messages
- Nitrogen fertiliser input costs remain high and targeting nitrogen application rates to meet crop demand will help maximise gross margin returns
- Deep soil nitrogen (DSN) testing helps identify what’s already in the bank at the start of the season, enabling more refined nitrogen application decisions
- Incremented sampling provides more information than bulked tests about where nitrogen is located in the soil profile; this helps determine whether nitrogen is needed early or late in the season.
AgVic scientist receives GRDC Emerging Leader Award
Above: Agriculture Victoria Scientist Dr Audrey Delahunty
At the recent Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) update held in Bendigo, the Emerging Leader Award was presented to Agriculture Victoria Research Scientist Dr Audrey Delahunty.
Dr Delahunty is based at Agriculture Victoria’s Mildura SmartFarm and has worked to support the grain industry since 2019 when she started her career as a PhD student researching genetic solutions for heat tolerance in lentils.
‘It is an honour and privilege to receive the award. I’m incredibly grateful to GRDC for this recognition, and for the support, mentorship and camaraderie I’ve received throughout my career,’ Dr Delahunty said.
Dr Delahunty’s research focuses on pulse agronomy, trait dissection and crop performance. Her expertise lies in advancing sustainable pulse production.
Dr Delahunty’s innovative research aims to improve productivity and resilience in changing climates.
‘I’m proud to contribute to the grain industry and work on research to optimise our farming systems. It’s a privilege to collaborate with such dedicated people from all facets of the industry.’
Dr Delahunty has been working alongside GRDC, researchers and growers across the industry, regularly presenting her research at Grains Research Updates and events across the Wimmera and Mallee.
Report sick or dead birds or wildlife
High pathogenicity avian influenza (bird flu) has been detected in poultry in the Euroa area within Strathbogie Shire. Control measures are in place to prevent further spread.
Learn more at agriculture.vic.gov.au/avianflu
Report any unexplained sick or dead poultry or birds to the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
Hunting game birds – restrictions due to Avian influenza
Recreational game bird hunting is prohibited in the Avian influenza control and restricted areas currently in place in Strathbogie Shire. This includes duck, stubble quail and introduced game bird hunting.
Moving game bird carcasses and any equipment associated with game bird hunting into or out of the restricted and control areas is prohibited unless under a movement permit.
Prohibiting recreational game bird hunting is a crucial step to prevent the spread of H7 avian influenza.
The virus can be shed from wild birds, including carcasses, and be transported via hunting equipment, clothing and vehicles, posing a threat to all bird populations outside the currently impacted area.
This is consistent with restrictions on other poultry and bird activities in the declared areas. For example, poultry and bird sales, shows, markets and auctions or other gatherings within the control and restricted areas are also prohibited until further notice.
If you are passing through the control and restricted areas with harvested ducks, stubble quail or non-indigenous game birds or hunting equipment, you must not stop.
Help stop Water hyacinth
Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is a State prohibited weed.
If you see water hyacinth for sale online or anywhere in Victoria, call us on 136 186 or use the online reporting form.
Please report by:
- taking a screenshot of the advertisement and emailing it to weed.spotters@agriculture.vic.gov.au
- emailing details about your sighting, including the address and photos of the plant, to weed.spotters@agriculture.vic.gov.au
- calling the Agriculture Victoria Customer Service Centre on 136 186.
Please do not attempt to treat or dispose of this weed yourself. We will treat, remove and dispose of water hyacinth safely, at no cost to the land owner.
bagMUSTER – Revolutionising agricultural plastic recycling
The agricultural industry is making a monumental stride toward sustainability with the opening of the first bagMUSTER collection sites. This pioneering, not-for-profit, industry-led program addresses plastic waste from single-use woven polypropylene (PP) bags.
Spearheaded by CropLife Australia and its not-for-profit subsidiary Agsafe, in collaboration with the Australian Seed Federation, bagMUSTER provides farmers, growers, and the broader agricultural sector with a practical and responsible recycling solution—transforming waste into opportunity.
The program’s first phase is happening in Victoria, with collection sites now operational in the Macedon Ranges Shire Council.
Farmers and growers can drop off eligible PP bags—such as those used for fertilisers, seeds, grain, stock feed, and pet food—at collection sites in Kyneton, Romsey, and Woodend. This marks the beginning of a transformative journey to reduce agricultural plastic waste.
Only bags purchased after 1 October 2024 from participating retailers are eligible for recycling. To find your nearest collection site and learn more about participating retailers, visit bagMUSTER.org.au.
bagMUSTER is more than just a recycling program; it is a vital step towards creating a circular economy in agriculture, where waste is repurposed rather than discarded. The program offers a range of benefits, including:
Environmental impact: Reduces plastic waste, prevents pollution, and protects ecosystems.
Support for QA programs: Participants receive compliance certificates to assist with food safety and Best Management Practice requirements.
Cost-free disposal: There is no fee for dropping off eligible bags at participating collection sites.
Industry alignment: Supports the agricultural sector’s sustainability targets and prepares stakeholders for future regulatory requirements.
This is just the beginning for bagMUSTER. The remainder of Phase 1 will see collection sites established across western Victoria.
Phase 2 will expand the program to the rest of the state, with plans to roll out nationally as infrastructure becomes available. The program’s growth reflects its mission to create a long-term, impactful solution for plastic waste in agriculture.
Farmers and growers in western Victoria can now participate in bagMUSTER by visiting participating retailers, purchasing eligible bags, and dropping them off at designated collection sites.
For those outside the Phase 1 corridor, stay connected for updates on the program’s expansion.
To learn more about bagMUSTER, find collection sites, or explore participating retailers, visit bagMUSTER.org.au.
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Student Bursary: Encouraging emerging talent in the wool industry
The Student Bursary to attend the Inaugural Women in Wool Conference and Gala Awards Night is aimed at giving a student, or recent graduate, the opportunity to attend both the Inaugural Women in Wool Conference and Gala Awards Dinner in Geelong on Thursday 3 April 2025.
'The recipient must be a current student or recent graduate in the field directly related to the wool industry. This is a great opportunity for a young woman to attend the Women in Wool conference in Geelong and hear about the latest news and share ideas with others at this event,' President Victoria Fish said.
'The future is in the hands of our younger generation no matter what sector of the wool industry they belong to!'
The mission is to empower and uplift women in the global wool industry through the connection, education and promotion of women in all sectors of the wool industry.
Two awards will also be presented at the Gala dinner following the conference.
They are 'Career Legacy Women in Wool Award' and 'Early Career Women in Wool Award'.
Both will recognise the contributions made to the wool industry by emerging young women and those who have made outstanding contributions and significant impacts in the wool industry. These awards are sponsored by Vitale Barberis Canonico.
Nominations close Sunday 16 March 2025.
AgTech Innovators – Episode 6
Would you like to find out more about the global AgTech ecosystem. Or the emerging biologicals sector?
In this episode Peter Wren-Hilton from Wharf42 and Platform10 discusses the emerging trends and opportunities in the global AgTech market.
Listen online via the AgVic website: https://go.vic.gov.au/4iGkZV8
Tackling the Tough Topics
The National Centre for Farmer Health has recently released a handbook titled Tackling the Tough Topics outlining best practice guidelines to help individuals and groups plan successful farming community events with a mental health focus.
The guidelines seek to provide the knowledge, resources, and support needed to organise successful events and avoid potential problems that can be damaging to vulnerable individuals and/or their communities.
In case you missed it 📰
What's On
Details about Agriculture Victoria events can now be found in one spot at agriculture.vic.gov.au/events.
Do you want more information on Avian influenza?
Agriculture Victoria will be attending the Euroa Farmers markets this Saturday 15 March from 9 am to 1 pm in Rotary Park and along Kirkland Ave.
AgVic staff will be there to discuss any questions you may have about the current Avian influenza response and can provide information on how you can keep your birds happy and healthy.
Latest climate webinar
Implications of climate change on production and water requirements of various horticultural crops in the Victorian Mallee
Join our upcoming webinar to hear the findings of a recent study into the implications of climate change on production and water requirement of various horticultural crops in the Victorian Mallee.
Climate change is a significant issue facing irrigated horticulture in the Victorian Mallee, with increasing temperatures and a water constrained environment.
Jeremy Giddings from Agriculture Victoria will summarise the key findings and how the results could be used by industry and government.
When: Wednesday 26 March – 12 pm.
Register here:
This webinar will be recorded, and will be available to everyone who registers.
Drench resistance in sheep webinar
Join our upcoming webinar on assessing drench resistance in sheep on Monday, 17 March, 7 pm.
An overview of recent testing in East Gippsland will be covered along with:
- common worm species and their lifecycle
- contributing factors to drench resistance
- options to manage resistance.
Worm control is becoming a significant challenge for sheep producers in East Gippsland, as wet summers drive outbreaks and provide ideal conditions for Barber's pole worm. Increasing drench resistance is making management tougher, highlighting the need for strong worm control strategies to protect flocks and productivity.
This 3-year producer demonstration project is run by the Bairnsdale Bestwool/BestLamb group, showcasing best practices in sheep worm management.
A series of Producer Demonstration Site projects are operating across Victoria, co-funded by Agriculture Victoria and Meat and Livestock Australia. For more information visit https://go.vic.gov.au/4dXKVsw
Register here https://tinyurl.com/tbb6mmtx
Horticulture climate webinar
Join our upcoming webinar to hear the findings of a recent study into the implications of climate change on production and water requirement of various horticultural crops in the Victorian Mallee.
Climate change is a significant issue facing irrigated horticulture in the Victorian Mallee, with increasing temperatures and a water constrained environment.
Jeremy Giddings from Agriculture Victoria will summarise the key findings and how the results could be used by industry and government.
When: Wednesday 26 March – 12 pm
Register here:
This webinar will be recorded and available to anyone who registers.
VFF Stock Sense Calving essentials webinar series
Webinar part 1
When: 18 March
Time: 6 - 7:30 pm
Where: Online
Webinar part 2
When: 19 March
Time: 6 - 7:30 pm
Where: Online
New to calving? Wanting to learn more? Maybe you just need a quick refresher!
This 2-part FREE webinar is perfect for you – hosted by the Stock Sense team and Dr Rob Bonnano.
Get ready for the calving season with a checklist covering everything you need to know.
Structured to cover 101 Essentials, Methods to preventing calving problems – a whole system approach, and a Q&A session to conclude.
The webinar series will be conducted via Zoom, with the link available HERE.
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
All contact points can be found at: agriculture.vic.gov.au/about-us/contact-us
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