Focus farm project stimulates on-farm savings

Monday 22 June 2009 | From Dairy Australia

WestVic Dairy is helping local farmers save money using industry best practice advice from the Focus Farm Project.

This WestVic Dairy initiative involves a group of around 12 dairy farmers coming together ten times over three years to network and learn about improving natural resource management (NRM). This in turn allows them to increase profit and productivity on their own farms.

Most meetings begin with a presentation from an industry specialist on a wealth of topics, from improved effluent and nutrient management, farm trees and shelterbelts to controlling land degradation. The second part of the meeting usually involves a visit to a farm, to view the benefits of implementing NRM activities firsthand.

One of the key benefits of the program is learning how good NRM practices can save money on-farm.

After listening to farm consultant and soil nutrient specialist Andrew Spiers at his second Focus Farm meeting in April, Bessiebelle dairy farmer Will McDonald was able to implement changes to his annual fertiliser applications, saving him a considerable amount of money.

“After implementing Andrew’s changes, we’re forecasting a saving of $26,000 over the next year. It’s great to gain so much knowledge just from attending a few meetings and farm visits. I really recommend getting involved with the project to any dairy farmer who has the opportunity.”

WestVic Dairy NRM Focus Farm Facilitator Jeff Lawes said that this one of many examples that demonstrated the success of the project.

“This highlights how effective the project is at transferring knowledge in a practical way, so that farmers can integrate industry best practice strategies into their NRM plans. The Focus Farm project aims to improve the sustainability and profitability of farming systems — and I think we’re helping farmers achieve that.”

The original project commenced in 2006 with six groups across South West Victoria. After the success of these initial groups, a further six groups were established in 2007 and again in 2009.

Those interested in gaining more information about the Focus Farm project should contact WestVic Dairy on 03 5592 2477.

Dairy Australia works with Regional Development Programs like WestVic Dairy and industry and government to provide dairy farmers with region specific advice and support.

For more information contact Shea Foster on ph 03 6964 3804 or 0438 139 757 or email sfoster@dairyaustralia.com.au