F E A T U R E D

Coloured wool from Polwarth sheep is popular with crafters around the world

In 1971, Wendy Dennis had an epiphany while under the shower.

"I thought, 'Why don't I breed coloured sheep?' Because it's already got a colour, you don't have to dye it, no chemicals. Breed them." Wendy was newly married to a farmer in south-west Victoria, and the global resurgence in home crafts such as spinning and knitting natural fibres was just beginning.

Up until that time, most "coloured sheep", namely anything with not entirely white wool, usually ended up on the dinner table.

"So I rescued a few coloured sheep out of the 'killer' paddock, [where they were] ready for Sunday lunch," Wendy, now 83, recalled. Wendy's husband, Dave, remembered the moment.

"People are starting to spin coloured wool," Wendy told him.

"'I'm going to have those killers. You can't kill them," Dave Dennis recalled her saying.

And so a unique flock was born where the recessive dark wool gene replaced the dominant white wool one.

"There are so many different colours. There are all the blacks and greys, then there's the browns and fawns," Wendy said.

Traced back to 1880

In the half-century since the flock began, the Dennis family's wool has been sent to craft enthusiasts around the world to be fashioned into all manner of things.

The wool is keenly sought after because the sheep are the Polwarth breed, which produces a unique fleece.

"Australia's first breed of sheep, and it all started with the Dennises in 1880," Wendy said.

In that year, Richard Dennis launched the breed, named after the local electorate.

It was the result of the cold, damp climate causing fleece rot in the dense wool of their merino flock.

"That bit about water collecting in the fleece and not being able to expel was problematic, and so that's the problem they sought to fix by crossing it with the Lincoln," Wendy's son Tom said.

"So it's three-quarter merino, one quarter Lincoln, bred to a fixed type called a Polwarth, originally [named] a Dennis Comeback, later called a Polwarth," Wendy added.

Good for cold climates

The Lincoln's long, greasy wool gave the Polwarth the ability to cope with wetter, colder climates.

By the early 1900s, the breed was rapidly spreading throughout southern Australia and being exported to high rainfall countries, especially in South America, even to the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic Ocean.

Polwarths peaked in Australia at about 8 million in the 1960s.

By then, they accounted for more than half the sheep in Tasmania.

At the recent Australian Sheep and Wool Show in Bendigo, Tasmanian producer Wayne Walker shipped his prized Polwarths across Bass Strait and took out the major prizes in their class.

But the number of entries was well down.

"It's a bit tough for a lot of people to get here, and the costs are getting dearer and nothing is getting easier," Wayne said.

Important role for Polwarths

In recent decades, Polwarth numbers have rapidly declined because of advances in the merino breed. But breeders such as Greg Potter and his daughter Samantha believe the breed's distinctive wool has a unique and important role in the natural fibres' market.

"People love the single-source Polwarth," Samantha Potter said.

"Being a longer, straighter, more aligned fibre, it makes the wool easier to peel out and spin," Greg added.

Their wool is sold directly to the wool craft market, including to the Dennis family, and processed and spun locally into yarn. Isabel Renters, who, with her husband Nick, operates a carding and spinning mill near Ballarat, says there is growing consumer demand for natural, sustainable fibre products.

"All looking for natural products where they know it's sustainable, it's ethical, traceable," Isabel said.

"It's a huge international market now, a big trend now certainly getting away from synthetics."

Natural coloured wool, free from chemical dye, is also gaining favour, especially among wool crafters.

"It's just a dream come true because it's got a good crimp, which makes it a little more elastic, and it's got a demi-lustre from the Lincoln, which makes it shine a tiny bit, and it's so soft from the merinos," Wendy Dennis said.

Tom Dennis is the fifth generation of his family to grow Polwarths and continue a sheep bloodline that stretches back to the family's merinos, shipped from Tasmania to Victoria in 1840.

Drawing on the family's large archives, Tom is setting up a mini museum on the property to better tell the Polwarth story.

It will showcase the passion, foresight and innovation that created the breed in 1880.

But more importantly, it will cater for the present.

"We need to make sure we've got woollen yarn in front of people that appreciate, Australian-grown, Australian processed, good ethical standards," Tom said.

"And those sorts of values that people want to buy into when they're purchasing yarn."

Farming communities this week were given a striking reminder of both the strength and strain that define Australian agriculture. On the one hand, hope arrived in the form of a remarkable hay convoy: more than 80 trucks crossing the Nullarbor from Western Australia to deliver over 6,000 bales of fodder to drought-stricken South Australian graziers. For the half-million head of livestock this hay supports, it’s nothing short of a lifeline. But for many families, especially in the Mallee, it’s only part of the story. Some are still selling stock below cost, pulling children out of sports, and cutting daily expenses to keep farms afloat. The hay is welcome, but it doesn’t solve the broader financial pressure farmers live with daily.

Overlaying this on-the-ground hardship is a new challenge from Canberra. Proposed reforms to self-managed super funds (SMSFs) would see tax on unrealised gains jump from 15% to 30% for balances over $3 million. For many multi-generation farming families, whose land values have risen sharply on paper but not in real cash flow, this poses a serious risk. The idea of paying tax on “profits” has never been realised could push some into selling land or taking on debt simply to meet tax obligations. What’s meant to be succession planning security suddenly becomes a financial burden.

The connection between these two issues—hay convoys and SMSF taxes—may not seem obvious at first, but they highlight the same truth: farming is exposed on two fronts. Natural pressures, like drought, force immediate decisions that strain cash flow. Policy pressures, like tax changes, threaten long-term plans and the ability to pass on the farm to the next generation. Together, they show why finance has to do more than just provide money; it has to provide strategy.

That’s where Pay In Time Finance is stepping up. We’ve been working with farmers to not only secure the cheapest loans on the market, but to shape them around the realities of agriculture. That means:

• Short-term working capital for essentials like feed and freight when the next drought squeeze hits.

• Restructuring or refinancing debt so that if tax changes or policy shifts land hard, you’ve got liquidity and flexibility—not panic.

• Succession-friendly planning, so that family farms can be passed down without being broken up by rules that don’t reflect the way regional businesses really operate.

The hay convoys prove that farmers don’t give up, and neither do the communities behind them. But goodwill alone can’t balance the books. Smart, cheap, and well-timed finance makes sure that resilience on the land is matched by resilience in the ledger.

In agriculture, you can’t always control the weather or even the policy settings, but you can control how prepared your finances are when the next shock arrives. And that preparation is what keeps farms in family hands, stock in the paddock, and businesses strong enough to ride out whatever comes next.

WEEKLY AUCTION DATES – 2025

1.) 12^th September 2025

Ag Machinery

June tractor sales held steady, with improved farmer confidence following mid-month rains, the TMA reported

Australia’s tractor market steadied slightly in June, with around 1300 units sold, which is down four per cent compared to the same month last year, and now sitting 10 per cent behind for the year to date, according to the Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia's (TMA) latest monthly sales report.

According to the TMA, suppliers reported a slow start to the month, but widespread rainfall in southeastern regions helped lift buying confidence in the second half. “There’s every hope that this will extend into the new financial year,” the TMA said.

The organisation added that high prices continue to affect the market due to supply chain disruptions in recent years. "This is being offset by interest rate deals being offered by many suppliers; however, farmers are still playing a wait-and-see game before making purchases," TMA said. 

On a more positive note, inventory levels are beginning to decline, which could improve conditions for dealers moving forward.

Tractor sales hold steady despite weather challenges

Drought conditions have continued to impact key agricultural regions, with tractor sales in Victoria down 21 per cent for the month and now 20 per cent behind YTD. South Australia recorded a sharp 30 per cent drop in June and is now 21 per cent down YTD, while Tasmania was also down 21 per cent. In contrast, Queensland saw a 13 per cent lift for the month, though it remains six per cent behind for the year. Western Australia was a standout performer, up 14 per cent in June and two per cent ahead year to date. New South Wales slipped slightly, down 1.5 per cent for the month, and the Northern Territory declined 10 per cent.

Across the categories, sales in the 40–100hp range rose 1.5 per cent in June but are still five per cent down year-to-date. The 200hp+ category also saw a six per cent lift, although it remains 20 per cent behind for the year. Smaller tractors under 40hp were down 11 per cent for the month, and mid-sized units in the 100–200hp range fell nine per cent.

Combine harvester sales are up slightly (2.5 per cent) compared to last year, but order intake suggests a weaker outlook moving forward. Baler sales fell sharply by 33 per cent, although the recent rain could signal better news to come. 

Meanwhile, out-front mower sales rose eight per cent for the month, though still 27 per cent down year to date.

Inputs and Commodities

Imports of critical inputs are just as essential to Australia’s $90+ agriculture industry as efficient export pathways. COVID-19 demonstrated the fragility of global supply chains, yet there remains a genuine question about whether Australia has learned any lessons from this great global reset and sought to build greater security into our food systems.

Has the time come for Australia to develop a more formal national food security plan to help us manage the global risks of trade and the impact of a breakdown in supply chains to domestic food production?

That’s the question asked by a recent Green Paper issued by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI). More usually associated with national security through a defence and foreign affairs lens, ASPI’s paper focuses on the questions of Australia’s food security with a specific focus on fertiliser, access to chemicals, and digital connectivity.

Our speaker this month is Andrew Henderson, the lead author of the Green Paper.

Andrew is a leading strategic policy specialist with a passion for building the sustainability and prosperity of rural and regional Australia and enhancing the recognition of its role in the economy and its place in national security.

Andrew is an experienced independent chair and member of several national policy and implementation committees focused on traceability and biosecurity systems, research and development, service delivery, food safety, and regulatory systems. Andrew has also been heavily involved in developing, advocating for, and implementing policy to reform Australia’s red meat and livestock integrity systems.

Andrew is the Principal of Agsecure, a Senior Fellow at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, and a non-executive director at End Food Waste Australia and Sheep Producers Australia. He has advised the Australian Government on critical policy areas of biosecurity, red meat and livestock, live animal exports, Northern Australian development, and climate change.

Andrew is a published author on biosecurity, food security, national security, and agricultural supply chains and is driving awareness of the true value of the agriculture sector, the role that rural and regional Australia plays in our national security, and the security and stability of our region.

Bookings for this lunch will close on 25 August 2025. Corporate members may book unlimited guests at the member price. Other members may book one guest at the member price. Please advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking.

Read more here…

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AG NEWS AUSTRALIA

Australia’s agricultural sector is a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, culture, and food security, contributing significantly to national GDP and exports. The sheer geographic scale, combined with climatic diversity—ranging from the arid heartlands to the fertile coastal strips—means Australian agriculture is more complex than most. From wheat and barley fields in Western Australia to sugarcane in Queensland and vineyards in South Australia, the array of crops is vast, demanding adaptable agricultural approaches.

This environmental diversity requires a tailored approach to farm machinery. Unlike other countries, sustainable Australian farm machinery for nutrient-poor soils is a necessity rather than a luxury. Customization and engineering for various terrains and crops have made “farm machinery for sale Australia” and “farm machinery sales Australia” vital terms for producers seeking the best-suited implements.

Evolution of Australian Farm Machinery

Historically, Australian farm machinery lagged behind global counterparts due to import dependencies and limited local innovation. However, the last few decades have seen a transformation—Australian manufacturers and global brands now offer robust, durable, and specialized machinery. This machinery is precisely engineered to cope with native challenges such as compacted soils, extended droughts, and nutrient limitations.

A key trend for 2025 and beyond is the integration of sustainable agricultural practices, not just in crop genetics and inputs, but in how we choose, deploy, and maintain machines. Machinery built for energy efficiency, minimal soil compaction, and compatibility with controlled-release fertilizers has become standard.

The Role of Technology in Modern Farming

Technology is pushing Australian farming toward a data-driven, precision future. GPS-guided tractors, autonomous harvesters, remote-sensing drones, and IoT-enabled implements are no longer futuristic but mainstream. Advanced farming technology to enhance Australian crop yields is driving the adoption of smart solutions, including:

• Precision Agriculture Platforms: GIS, satellite imagery, and on-farm weather stations provide actionable data on soil health, moisture levels, and more.

• Variable Rate Application: Fertilizer spreaders and seeders equipped with mapping technology allow for input adjustments, reducing waste and environmental impact.

• Telematics and Farm Management Software: Real-time monitoring of machinery performance increases operational efficiency and predictive maintenance.

Such advances not only increase profitability but foster a culture of long-term sustainability—essential for farming in Australia’s unique conditions.

Challenges of Australian Soils and Agricultural Practices

Soil Diversity and Nutrient Deficiencies

One of Australia’s distinguishing environmental factors is its ancient, weathered soils. Many of the major soil groups are low in primary nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and trace minerals, making efficient fertilization one of the greatest ongoing challenges. Acidic and sandy soils prevail in the west, while heavier clay soils often occur in southern regions.

This diversity means sustainable Australian farm machinery for nutrient-poor soils must be adaptable and gentle to minimize further degradation. Efficient tillage, minimal compaction, and optimized planting systems can help preserve the delicate balance of Australia’s varied landscapes.

Complicating matters, crop rotation and reduced-till systems are now standard, all of which place even more importance on machinery that can partner with controlled-release fertilizers compatible with Australian farm equipment to retain and deliver nutrients properly.

Need for Sustainable Land Management

Australia’s approach to land management is increasingly shaped by challenges like erosion, salinity, soil acidification, and declining organic matter levels. Regulatory bodies—especially in Western Australia—continue to introduce policies promoting eco-friendly agricultural inputs for Western Australia farmers.

The emphasis for 2025 and onwards is firmly on sustainability, driving demand for practices and products that:

• Reduce chemical leaching and runoff into waterways.

• Build soil carbon and improve soil structure.

• Support beneficial microbial populations for nutrient cycling and plant health.

Inputs such as controlled-release fertilizers and microbial soil conditioners have become essential in supporting modern machinery applications for these goals.

Synergy Between Farm Machinery and Agricultural Inputs

For farmers regularly searching phrases like “farm machinery for sale Australia” or “farm machinery sales Australia”, it’s essential to consider not just the physical hardware, but the compatibility and efficiency of inputs. Controlled-release fertilizers compatible with Australian farm equipment, such as Troforte, have emerged as key allies to boost machinery efficiency, reduce time spent on re-application, and minimize nutrient wastage.

Some of the chief advantages of integrating machinery and controlled-release fertilizers include:

• Synchronised nutrient delivery with crop growth cycles, aligned with planting and harvest machinery operations.

• Fewer trips across the field—saving on fuel, reducing soil compaction, and lowering labor costs.

• Minimized nutrient leaching, especially critical in sandy or highly permeable soils common in Western Australia.

• Environmental stewardship through targeted application and reduced chemical runoff.

As we look to 2025+, the partnership between machinery and inputs will only strengthen, driven by regulation, economics, and environmental necessity.

Troforte: An Innovative Fertilizer Solution

Among the modern fertilizer solutions, Troforte shines as an example of how inputs can be custom-engineered for Australian requirements. With its controlled-release design, mineral composition, and advanced microbial integration, Troforte is not just another fertilizer—it’s built to work in harmony with the demands placed on land and machinery in contemporary Australian farming.

A defining benefit for 2025+ is how Troforte’s release profile aligns with the workings of farm machinery: farmers can time nutrient applications with their machinery passes, ensuring optimal nutrient uptake, improved crop establishment, and reduced operational costs. Coupled with our eco-friendly, non-leaching blend, Troforte represents a high-efficiency partner for sustainable agriculture and advanced farming technology to enhance Australian crop yields.

For more details or to order, explore our Buy Troforte directory, find home delivery options, or contact us directly.

Troforte: A Comprehensive Overview of Its Products and Benefits

Development and Unique Features of Troforte

Troforte, conceived by Langley Fertilizers in 2009, answers the recurring challenge of nutrient-poor and biologically depleted Australian soils. Our formulation incorporates up to 60 naturally sourced minerals blended with 24 specialized strains of beneficial microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and algae. These microbes are selected not only for plant growth promotion but for their efficacy in the Australian context—supporting everything from nitrogen fixation to disease resistance.

Our hallmark feature is a controlled-release mechanism, delivering nutrients efficiently over 3 to 9 months. This not only supports plant development but meshes perfectly with the scheduling flexibility of sustainable Australian farm machinery for nutrient-poor soils. This approach also offers freedom from frequent fertilizer applications, essential for streamlined, profitable operations.

To connect with a statewide distributor, visit our State Distributors network.

Microbial Integration and Environmental Safety

Our commitment to environmental safety is unmatched. Troforte is engineered to be river- and reef-safe, non-leaching, and non-burning—meaning nutrients stay where they’re needed, not lost to the surrounding environment. Our low-phosphorus formulations specifically address the needs of native Australian plants and protect sensitive local ecosystems. These characteristics make Troforte the ideal eco-friendly agricultural input for Western Australia farmers operating under strict regional regulations.

Notably, our fertilizers fit easily into any crop system using advanced farming technology to enhance Australian crop yields. Troforte’s non-leaching profile and slow-release kinetics reduce the risk of nutrient losses—ensuring that your investment in machinery is matched with efficient, enduring soil nutrition.

Discover local retail opportunities with our Retail Opportunities.

"Controlled-release technology in Troforte aligns nutrient availability with planting and harvesting schedules, optimizing machinery efficiency and reducing re-application frequency."

"Combining Troforte with precision seeding equipment enhances seedling growth by improving soil health microbiologically and nutritionally, boosting crop yields."

"Troforte's eco-friendly, low-phosphorus formula protects sensitive ecosystems, making it ideal for sustainable farming in regulated Australian regions like Western Australia."

Range of Troforte Products

We proudly offer one of the most comprehensive controlled-release fertilizer ranges in Australia. Each formula is refined to address both plant needs and the challenges of Australian soils and machinery. The collection includes:

• Troforte M All Purpose: For broad-spectrum plant nutrition, supporting gardens, landscapes, and commercial crops equally.

• Troforte M Native: Purpose-built for Australia’s iconic native species, with low phosphorus to prevent toxicity and ensure healthy, continuous growth.

• Troforte M Fert-O-Lawn: Featuring mini-granules, this is ideal for turf species grown in home landscapes or sports grounds, producing deep green color and improved drought resistance.

• Troforte M Vegetable and Herb: Optimized for edible crops, it enhances flavor profiles, nutrient uptake, and resilience during the growing season.

• Troforte M Fruit and Citrus: Tailored nutrition for fruiting trees and citrus plantations, elevating yields and taste.

• Troforte M Roses: Built for acid-loving rose species, supporting vibrant blooms and robust plant health.

• Troforte M Azaleas: For exquisite, continuous flowering in azaleas and other acid-tolerant plants.

• Troforte M Camellias: Delivers lush foliage and abundant blooms tailored for camellias.

• Troforte M Rejuven8tor: For tired or depleted soils, it revitalizes ground structure and nutrient content.

• Troforte M CRF Pots and Plants: Perfect for sustained nutrition in containers or potted displays, both indoor and outdoor.

• Troforte M CRF Tablets: Ideal for precise, targeted feeding in home gardens or horticultural projects.

• Troforte Liquid Plant Food: Enhances microbial activity when used alongside our granular products, boosting nutrient cycling and availability.

Every formula is available in easy-to-handle sizes (from 700g packs to bulk 20kg bags), and our Home Delivery options make procurement straightforward anywhere in Australia.

Benefits of Beneficial Microbes in Troforte

Our unique microbial blend—comprising strains such as Azobacter, Rhizobium, and Trichoderma—provides multiple benefits:

• Biological Nitrogen Fixation: Key for legume crops and reducing synthetic nitrogen usage.

• Enhanced Nutrient Cycling: Microbes build and maintain organic matter, improving plant access to minerals.

• Disease Protection: Reduced severity of soil-borne root pathogens and increased resistance to environmental stress.

• Improved Soil Structure: Supporting aeration, drainage, and water retention—critical when using modern seeding or cultivation machinery.

Application Methods and Usage Recommendations

Easy and convenient, Troforte can be incorporated seamlessly alongside machinery operation. For best results:

• Apply granules around the base of plants or in planting holes during machinery-driven planting cycles.

• Use every 3 to 9 months, ideally before peak growth, flowering, or fruit set seasons.

• For lawns, spread using rotary spreaders for maximum coverage and efficiency.

• Complement with our Liquid Plant Food during the season for a biological boost.

With our products being non-burning and gentle, there’s flexibility to utilize them on all soil types—especially in conjunction with advanced farm equipment.

Our products are accessible through over 300 Australian retailers, including major gardening warehouses and online outlets. For information on where to buy Troforte or delivery options, visit our official store locator or home delivery page.

When stored in cool, dry conditions, Troforte boasts a 12-month shelf life, retaining full microbial and nutritional potency for long-term use by Australian farmers.

Enhancing Farm Machinery Efficiency with Troforte

Maximizing Machinery Output and Crop Yields

Today’s agricultural machinery—whether a 400HP tractor or an autonomous drone—delivers its best results when matched with agronomic practices that reinforce its capabilities. The benefits of advanced farming technology to enhance Australian crop yields are maximized when paired with the right agricultural inputs.

We Have Been to Your Town! We don’t just sit in an office; we are hands-on with our Farmers! 🙌

For too long, agriculture’s scoreboard has been stuck on volume. More tonnes per hectare. More litres per cow. More heads per acre. But let’s be blunt. “More” won’t carry us much further. Global markets don’t reward excess. They reward systems: speed, proof, and resilience.

If we want to stay globally competitive, we need to stop asking how much we produce and start asking how well the system works around it.

WA Grain: Yield Isn’t the Problem. Logistics Is.

Western Australia grows world-class grain. But what’s the point if it’s stuck on the highway or in a port queue?

Idle freight drains more value than any drought. The mining sector solved this problem a decade ago by using AI-driven logistics and integrated freight visibility. Grain hasn't caught up. If WA wants to stay ahead, the next big lift won’t come from the paddock. It will come from smarter, leaner, faster movement of goods.

Vic Dairy: The Answer Isn’t More Feed

Victoria’s dairy industry keeps chasing feed efficiency like it’s the golden key. But with rising input costs, water pressures, and environmental targets, the old model can’t hold.

The future lies in digital twins. These dynamic farm models simulate pasture growth, herd health, and energy use in real time. This isn’t about chasing more tonnes of feed. It’s about chasing tonnes of insight. That’s what will keep Victorian dairy globally relevant.

Qld Beef: Reputation Means Nothing Without Proof

Queensland beef has a global name, but reputation alone won’t sustain premiums.

Today’s consumer wants traceability, not just marketing. Carbon footprint, welfare metrics, supply chain integrity—they want evidence. Blockchain is the tool that enables this. If Queensland stalls while Brazil and Uruguay implement fully traceable systems, the premium disappears. “World-class beef” must come with world-class transparency.

Livestock: The Problem Isn’t the Sale. It’s the System Around It.

Everyone’s excited about digital livestock auctions. But uploading animals online is the easy part.

The real challenge is integrating finance, performance data, and trust into the process. Imagine every sale embedding real-time capital options, animal history, and supply chain signals at the point of transaction. That’s how liquidity flows. That’s how decisions speed up. And that’s how we stop leaving money on the table.

Agents are not going anywhere. But the system around them must evolve. The new edge in livestock is not the sale itself. It’s the system that enables it.

Bottom Line: Volume is Yesterday’s Advantage. Systems are Tomorrow’s.

If agriculture keeps measuring success by how much we produce, we will fall behind those building smarter ecosystems around the product. The next leap will not come from more. It will come from better:

• Better logistics.

• Better data.

• Better alignment between what’s produced and what the world actually wants to buy.

The winners will be those who embrace the systems shift (logistics platforms, digital twins, blockchain, IoT, and finance-enabled marketplaces).

The choice is simple: lead the change or lose the premium to those who do.

This week is Biosecurity Week in Australia – an important reminder that protecting our farms starts at the front gate. Biosecurity isn’t just about managing disease risks on your own property; it’s about safeguarding the entire livestock industry and ensuring the integrity of our national red meat supply chain.

What is Biosecurity? Biosecurity refers to the measures we put in place to protect animals, people, and the environment from pests, weeds, and diseases. Good biosecurity practices help reduce the risk of an outbreak, protect animal welfare, and maintain market access for Australian livestock.

For small livestock producers and hobby farmers, biosecurity might feel overwhelming, but in reality, it comes down to some simple, practical steps that make a big difference.

Why is it Important? ∙Protect animal health: Prevent the introduction and spread of diseases such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) or Lumpy Skin Disease. ∙Safeguard our markets: Australia’s livestock industry relies on strong biosecurity to keep domestic and international markets open. ∙Support compliance: Programs such as the Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) system require biosecurity plans to demonstrate responsible livestock management. ∙Peace of mind: A clear plan gives you confidence that you’re doing the right thing to protect your animals, family, and community.

Practical Steps You Can Take:
✅ LPA Biosecurity Management Plan: Every livestock producer accredited under the LPA program is required to have a Biosecurity Management Plan in place. This plan documents how you manage animal health, introduce new stock, and reduce disease risks. Templates are available online through MLA’s Integrity Systems.
✅ Quarantine New or Returning Animals Any new livestock brought onto your property – whether purchased, agisted, or returning from a show or event – should be quarantined for at least 7–10 days. This gives you time to observe for signs of illness before they join your main herd or flock.
✅ Maintain a Visitor Register. Visitors, contractors, and service providers can unknowingly bring pests or diseases with them. A simple visitor logbook at the front gate helps track movement on and off your property. If you can, provide a designated parking area away from livestock, and encourage clean boots and clothing.
✅ Track and Record Incoming Feed. Always request a Commodity Vendor Declaration (CVD) from your feed supplier. This provides information on the source of the feed and any potential chemical or disease risks. Recording this information protects your livestock and ensures you are meeting compliance standards.
✅ Keep Good Records. From livestock purchases to animal treatments, accurate records give you a clear picture of your operation and make it easier to respond quickly if an issue arises. Digital tools or paper-based systems both work – the key is consistency.

The Bottom Line Biosecurity doesn’t need to be complicated. By quarantining livestock, tracking visitors, requesting CVDs, and completing your LPA Biosecurity Plan, you’re playing an important role in protecting your animals, your livelihood, and the wider industry.

This Biosecurity Week, take a moment to review your current practices – a few small changes can make a big impact. Together, we can keep Australia’s livestock industry strong, safe, and sustainable.

Until next week —Let’s build a lifestyle we all love, the right way.

Useful Link: https://www.jabagrisolutions.com.au/knowledge/understanding-biosecurity-why-it-matters-for-small-producers-and-hobby-farmers

https://www.integritysystems.com.au/globalassets/isc/pdf-files/lpa-documents/lpa-records-templates/lpa-06-lpa-on-farm-biosecurity-plan-template

Kind Regards,​
Amanda Burchmann​
Livestock Production & Industry Development Specialist​
Founder | Advocate | Producer​
📞 0408 847 536​
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.jabagrisolutions.com.au

“Samantha Watkins Photography”

Realm Group Australia

REALM Group Australia (RGA) - originally est. 1992. The most trusted online Ag Marketing System in Australia. Built by Farmers for Farmers! Education is the KEY. True Pioneers - We were the first, and we are still growing. Proud Supporters of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) & Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC)