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Issue 37 - September 2017

• From Little Things, Big Things Grow

• Insecticide Resistance Concern• Peace of Mind for Ingham

Grower• Top Tips for Drift Reduction

Plus much more!

What’s Inside


FROM THE DESK OF THE CEO Winter is nearly behind us once again and it seems that spring is already upon us with warm conditions experienced across most areas.

In the last month, our longest serving Agronomist Ian Crosthwaite has decided to retire after many years of service with BGA AgriServices. Ian has really helped shape the overall BGA business and has certainly helped develop and set the direction of the business’ Agronomic offering. Although officially retiring Ian will continue to provide support to the business when required.

As we move towards another summer season I encourage everyone to discuss your planting options with your local BGA Agronomist. The BGA Agronomy staff are here to work with you to help you get the best possible result from your farming system. They are an extremely qualified team who have many years experience in various cropping situations.

In this edition you will find an interesting article about Entec coated Urea. This quality product is sourced from our major fertiliser supplier Incitec. It can be confusing at times for our farming customers with so many products to choose from, all promising great results, be assured though that when purchasing a particular product from BGA AgriServices we have sourced the product from a trusted supplier who will provide back up service and importantly stand by their product in the paddock.

I trust that you find this edition of the newsletter interesting and informative, if you have any feedback, ideas, or articles you would like to see in the newsletter please free to send me an email at [email protected]

Thankyou for your continued support, it is appreciated.

Tim Rees, CEOBGA AgriServices

June 30th this year saw the retirement of one of our long-standing staff members in Kingaroy, Ian Crosthwaite. Crossy (or “Sir”) started with BGA way back in January 1996 after an equally long career with what was then QDPI. Crossy has become part of the furniture in Kingaroy and the place will certainly not be the same without his unique perspective on life. Crossy is not completely gone from the business however, and we will continue to extract as much knowledge as we can from him while he does some casual work for us. Broadacre agronomy in and around Kingaroy is still in very good hands at BGA with Ben Carroll stepping in to the role that Crossy has filled for so long.

Ben has been with BGA since June 1996 (only 5 months less than Crossy) and has developed an enormous amount of experience and knowledge over that time, both working with Crossy and independently. Ben’s time has largely been spent in the Kingaroy

store dealing with in-store agronomy enquiries and seed management and he is well known to anybody who has been buying seed from BGA over the last 20 years.

We have seen many changes in broadacre farming in the South Burnett during the last 20 years, and Ben is well placed to deal with them.

His extensive technical knowledge, combined with the fact that he also farms commercially himself on his property south west of Kumbia, puts him in an ideal position to service broadacre agronomy customers in the South Burnett. He has first hand experience as a farmer with all of the crops our customers are growing.

At BGA we pride ourselves in providing outstanding agronomy service as the cornerstone of our business.

We intend to maintain the focus on our agronomy service well into the future to ensure the profitability of all of our loyal customers.

A NEW ERA FOR AGRONOMY AT BGA.

2

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3

Serenade® Prime (Bacillus subtilis QST713) is a bacterium which forms a beneficial relationship with plant roots. The roots provide the food for the bacteria, and in return, the bacteria ameliorate soil nutrients to a usable form for the plants. This all occurs in the zone around the roots known as the rhizosphere. Small changes in the rhizosphere can flow on to big changes at harvest.

Serenade Prime was selected in a global Bayer program as the best strain of Bacillus subtilis to colonise roots and unlock soil nutrients. The trigger for root colonisation is the release of sugars or exudates into the rhizosphere. The bacterium use root exudates as a food source as they build into a dense film around the roots, known as colonisation. This film continues to grow with the expanding roots acting as a ‘conduit’ between the roots and the soil for nutrient refinement and exchange. Root exudation is greatest during the accelerated root growth cycles during spring and autumn. Applying Serenade Prime at the start of each of these major root flushes allows the beneficial bacteria to rapidly colonise and dominate the rhizosphere. Pre-emptively colonising young roots with Serenade Prime provides the opportunity to build a supply of plant-available nutrients in the rhizosphere ahead of critical periods of nutrient demand.When root colonisation with Serenade Prime occurs, soil nutrients such as iron and phosphorus can be changed to plant-ready forms. For instance, when iron is limiting in the soil, the bacterium can release bacillibactin which is an iron-chelating compound. It can also release organic acids to acidify the rhizosphere which mobilises ‘fixed’ phosphorus to assist rapid root development.

Serenade Prime, through the improvement of soil nutrient access, has been shown to improve rootlet vigour on 5 year old avocados, var. Hass.

More active root growth, in turn, may also be assisting uptake of immobile micronutrients, like manganese, zinc and iron which are only obtained from soil in very close proximity to the root surface. It’s also important in forming new root tips where uptake of calcium and boron occurs.

With effective root colonisation, Serenade Prime creates a mutually beneficial functional film around the vulnerable feeder roots that can improve nutrient and water uptake in tree crops. A combination of good soil health practices such as the addition of composts, correct irrigation and nutrition management and effective disease control initiatives together with Serenade Prime provides a pathway to a more sustainable and profitable future for growing tree crops.

FROM LITTLE THINGS, BIG THINGS GROW…

Kevin Steinhardt (Company Director of Macadamias Australia)

Simon Grabbe (Co-Director of Simpson Farms)

How to apply video Relevant to tree crops

Serenade Prime colonising the root

https://youtu.be/Ef7mjKnmddchttps://youtu.be/bla7XHbnAtIhttps://youtu.be/q93kiBsrGCo

Bayer CropScience Pty Ltd, ABN 87 000 226 022, Level 1, 8 Redfern Road, Hawthorn East, Victoria 3123. Technical Enquiries 1800 804 479. crop.bayer.com.au. Always consult the product label for detailed information. The information and recommendations set out in this article 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 article 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. Serenade® is a Registered Trademark of the Bayer Group.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF CALCIUM UPTAKEAndrew Bauer, National Technical Manager, Agrichem Australia

FARM BIOSECURITY PLAN

Calcium is essential for strengthening all the cell walls and plant tissues. When there is a calcium deficiency, a typical symptom is the disintegration of cell walls and the collapse of the affected tissues, such as tips of leaves or in developing fruit. The proportion of calcium in the cell walls is also of importance for the susceptibility of the tissue to fungal and bacterial infections and for the shelf life of fruit.

It is well known that some microelements increase the uptake of other elements. Agrichem conducted greenhouse trials to assess the uptake of calcium when applied with magnesium and boron. Calcium chloride and calcium nitrate when applied alone were not as effective in increasing the calcium level in the plant. When applied with boron and/or magnesium, calcium levels were increased threefold.

Agrichem has a number of scientifically proven calcium products, such as Grocal MGB, Balance MCB and Supa Cal Mag, that are very effective in supplying calcium, as they include the addition of boron and/or magnesium to enhances plant uptake of calcium.

Please check the label for rates or for further information contact your local BGA agronomist.

% C

alciu

m

CaClCa NO3

Ca NO3+B+MgCaCl+B+Mg

Ca NO3 + B

Hours after treatment

From 1 October 2017, biosecurity will be included in the Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) program. Every LPA-accredited producer must ensure biosecurity requirements are fulfilled both on farm and during the transport of livestock between properties and feedlots, including to slaughter and live export What is in a Farm Biosecurity Plan?To meet the requirements of LPA, as minimum each Property Identification Code (PIC) must have a formal, documented Farm Biosecurity Plan that addresses each of the following:

(a) Manage and record the introduction and movement of livestock in a way that minimises the risk of introducing and/or spreading infectious diseases;

(b) Where reasonable and practicable, control people, equipment and vehicles entering the property, thus minimising the potential for property contamination and, if possible, keep a record of such movements; and

(c) Prevent and control animal diseases on-farm by regularly monitoring and managing livestock. Visit the below websites to help you understand and produce your Farm Biosecurity Plan. www.mla.com.auwww.lbn.org.auwww.animalhealthaustralia.com.au

*** Biosecuity Signs available from BGA AgriServices stores ***

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TRANSFORM™: A NEW SOLUTION FOR THE CONTROL OF FRUIT SPOTTING BUG & BANANA SPOTTING BUG EXPECTED TO BE REGISTERED SOON Fruit spotting bug (Amblypelta nitida) (FSB) and banana spotting bug (A. lutescens lutescens) (BSB) are devastating pests of avocados, macadamia nuts, and citrus as well as most tropical and subtropical tree crops including, guavas, pecan nuts, lychees, and mangoes. The two species of pests are virtually indistinguishable. These native species are highly mobile and can cause significant damage even at very low pest density. In the past FSB was often controlled using Endosulfan; however, with its withdrawal in 2010 growers have been forced to use broad spectrum chemicals to control FSB which cause disruption to beneficial insect populations. Knowing that growers needed a better solution, Dow AgroSciences invested in an extensive research program to register a new insecticide called Transform™ on these pests with regulatory approval anticipated in the coming months.

Dow AgroSciences senior research biologist Dr. Rob Annetts in collaboration with industry researchers and government scientists, demonstrated that Transform controls FSB & BSB equivalent to Endosulfan, as demonstrated in the trial data below.

The replicated trial carried out near Bundaberg, QLD assessed nut drop. Assessments were made by cutting each nut open

and observing damage. The results demonstrated that Transform applied at 40mL/100L controlled FSB equivalent to Endosulfan after the first application (A), and following a second application (B) the % of damaged nuts were significantly less than two applications of Endosulfan.

Growers and industry scientists recognise that reliance on a very narrow range of insecticides for control of FSB and BSB is unsustainable. The long spray window and limited options for chemical control has put a huge amount of pressure on the production system in the absence of viable alternatives. Unfortunately, the current chemical control options are non-selective and severely impact beneficial insects. With the introduction of Transform insecticide, growers now have greater flexibility to manage insect resistance with a new Mode of Action (MOA) whilst preserving key beneficial insects. An application for the registration of Transform for the control of FSB and BSB in avocado and macadamia is currently before the APVMA and Dow AgroSciences expects approval to be granted in the coming months.

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7

INSECTICIDE RESISTANCE CONCERN AT CENTRAL QUEENSLAND WORKSHOPSThe challenge of managing insecticide use to delay the on-set of insect resistance was discussed at recent workshops at Biloela and Emerald attended by agricultural industry participants.

DuPont Crop Protection convened the workshops as a forum to discuss the on-going use of various insecticide groups and the need for an industry-wide strategy to ensure the current products available were effective in the short and long-term.

DuPont Territory Manager, Kent Bell, said resistance to insecticides was a major issue for the region in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

He said new technologies and products in the cotton industry, as well as an integrated resistance management strategy had addressed this issue.

“The challenge we have now is the high use of particular insecticides in crops such as Chickpeas and Mung beans which is increasing the likelihood of developing resistance.”

DuPont Product Development Manager, Geoff Cornwell, shared data from throughout the World and more locally about the incidence of insecticide resistance.

DuPont™ Altacor® insecticide is the one of the most used insecticides in chickpeas and mung beans in Australia and is part of the Group 28 Mode of Action (MoA) family.

Group 28 MoA chemistry includes a number of insecticides which are currently used in horticulture and cotton, as well as in pulse crops, and is valued by farmers because of its outstanding efficacy and residual activity, and ability to suit an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program.

Mr Cornwell presented data which showed the high incidence of actual or suspected Group 28 insecticide resistance throughout the world in a range of insects including heliothis.

He said while there hasn’t been any recorded incidence of Group 28 resistance in Australia, the global outlook demonstrated what could happen if steps weren’t taken to delay the onset of resistance. Data was also presented detailing the scientific research conducted by Dr Lisa Bird, of the NSW DPI, on the resistance levels of Helicoverpa armigera to different insecticides over time.

“Of great concern is the increased frequency of resistance of Helicoverpa armigera to DuPont™ Steward® EC insecticide which is a Group 22A Mode of Action,” Mr Cornwell said.

“The research showed a clear trend upwards in resistance across the last four years and was also highest in the central Queensland region.”

“This is a demonstration of how insect resistance can become an issue and a good case study into what could happen to the Group 28 insecticides.”

Mr Cornwell detailed a range of chemical, biological and cultural practices that could be implemented to help delay the onset of insecticide resistance.

“There is information available on websites such as croplife.org.au and on the product labels of the different insecticides.”

“Altacor® should be applied using a window approach to avoid exposure of consecutive pest generations to the same mode of action. It is also important to incorporate IPM strategies that encourage beneficial insects to control any pests not affected by the initial applications.”

He said it was important not to cut label rates as this could lead to more pests surviving and increase the chance of insecticide resistance.

Cultural practices such as pupae busting after harvest was also discussed.

Mr Cornwell said the industry was working on a resistance management strategy for Helicoverpa armigera across Australia, using a window approach that limited the use of different insecticides at various times of the year.

A draft document was presented at both meetings for discussion with feedback from participants used to refine and improve the strategy.

“It is vitally important we make sure that the current range of insecticides are available for the long-term,” Mr Cornwell said. “A resistance management strategy endorsed by industry will help ensure these products remain effective.”

Geoff Cornwell of DuPont Crop Protection at the Biloela insecticide management workshop.

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TOP TIPS FOR DRIFT REDUCTIONSpray drift continues to be a concern for growers and spray contractors. Nufarm’s Spraywise program offers practical application advice to reduce the risk of off-target deposition on sensitive crops and areas.

For further information on Spraywise and spray application information, contact your local Nufarm Area Sales Manager at nufarm.com.au.

Inversions• DANGER – DO NOT spray when a low-level inversion exists. • During those inversions distinct, isolated layers of air have formed close to the ground. As a result driftable fines

are not subject to dilution with the atmosphere.• Low-level inversions frequently form in the late evening and strengthen overnight - they are strongest near sunrise. • Use visual indicators such as moisture, smoke or dust to determine if a low-level inversion is present.• Rule of thumb: the greater the difference between daily maximum and minimum temperatures, the stronger the low-level inversion.

Night Spraying• The advent of GPS self-steer and a desire to work within appropriate Delta Ts has seen an increasing trend

towards night spraying, particularly during the summer months. Spraying at night dramatically increases the chance of applying product in adverse conditions.

• Night spraying can strongly favour conditions that can trap and move the applied product far from the target area (see inversions). Be particularly vigilant one hour either side of sunrise.

• Be aware that the rainfast period will be longer. • Obtain forecast and monitor for still or low-level inversion conditions.

Wind Speed and No-Spray (Buffer) Zones• It is best to apply pesticides when the wind is blowing away from sensitive areas and crops. Wind speed must be

steady between 3 km/h and 15 km/h. • If the wind stops blowing at night – stop spraying immediately (see Inversions).• Always read the product label to see if a mandatory wind speed requirement exists, or if a no-spray zone is

required for any of the products you plan to use.• Rule of thumb: most directional wind changes in Australia will occur in an anti-clockwise direction.

Spray Weather Summary• Avoid calm, variable or gusty wind (calm conditions give no positive indication of droplet displacement).• Be aware of local topographic and convective influences on wind speed and direction. • At night the cool (heavier) air behaves like water and drains to lower points (waterways, frost-prone paddocks)

taking any fine droplets suspended in the air with it as well.• Record on-site weather conditions at the start and finish of every pesticide application.

Plan• Utilise tools such as www.spraywisedecisions.com.au to plan the most appropriate application windows.• Spraying in a cotton area? Check www.cottonmap.com.au for neighbouring fields prior to application.• Read the product label. • Communicate with neighbours. • Upskill by attending a Nufarm Spraywise training course or one run by specialist application consultants such as

Bill Gordon, Graham Betts or Craig Day.• Remember the 6 Ps = Perfect Planning Prevents Poor Pesticide Performance.

Boom Height/False Target• Boom height needs to be adjusted to the height of the false target (stubble height) or the height of the target –

whichever is greater. • Keep boom height to a minimum (ie 50cm above target/false target for 110o nozzles at 50cm nozzle spacing).• Increasing the boom height from 50cm to 100cm increases drift 4 times.

Spray Quality• A COARSE to VERY COARSE spray quality must be used when applying 2,4-D products – EXTREMELY COARSE

may be warranted if night spraying.• Choose the nozzle producing the coarsest spray quality without compromising efficacy. Refer to Nufarm’s Boom

Spray Application Guide for a full range of recommended water rates and spray qualities for all Nufarm products.• If needed, include drift-reducing adjuvants such as LI 700®, Activator®, Bonza® or Banjo®. • Use nozzles at appropriate pressure: conventional noozles 1.5-3 bar, pre-orifice nozzles 2-4 bar,

Low-pressure air induction nozzles 3-5 bar, high-pressure air-induction nozzles 4-8 bar.

PEACE OF MIND FOR INGHAM GROWER

In wet or dry seasons, Robert Silvini likes the peace of mind that comes with using ENTEC treated fertilisers in his sugar cane.

“By using urea blends treated with ENTEC, I know the nitrogen is staying on my farm and there’s a much lower risk of losing it in runoff after a downpour,” he said.

“I’m also doing my bit to make sure our industry is protecting the Great Barrier Reef.”

Robert grows cane on a range of soil types between Forrest Beach and Taylors Beach, east of Ingham. He feels more confident

that his cane is benefiting from the nitrogen supplied by ENTEC urea blends and there’s a much lower risk of nitrogen leaching from the sand hills or flood-prone blocks he farms.

“I like the idea that by using urea blends treated with ENTEC, the nitrogen stays in the soil for longer and whether the cane is cut early or late, I am giving the crop the best possible chance to make the most of the nitrogen,” Robert said.

ENTEC is a treatment that keeps nitrogen stabilised and available in the soil for weeks or months longer than untreated urea, promoting more efficient plant uptake and reducing the risk of leaching and denitrification.

Two years ago, Robert trialled 20 tonnes of ENTEC urea blends and increased this to 90% of his total fertiliser requirements in 2016. This season, he plans to use ENTEC urea blends on all his sugar cane blocks.

“The cane looks nice and green and I know I’m giving it the best possible chance, whichever way the season goes.”

The 2016 growing season was typically unpredictable, with wet weather delaying the start of harvesting until August before a dry spell and a wet finish in the lead-up to Christmas.

“The season meant we were cutting until the week before Christmas, so I wasn’t expecting much from this last block so close to the wet season,” Robert said.

“’Nevertheless, I fertilised it with an ENTEC urea blend to give it the best possible chance and it is looking good for a late cut block.

“Cane growers can use ENTEC with confidence and they don’t have to worry about where their fertiliser is going,” he said.

Sibby Di Giacomo, Branch Manager at Ingham Farm Centre, described ENTEC as a welcome development for the district’s cane growers.

“Nitrogen management is a constant challenge for cane growers who have to cope with the most unpredictable weather conditions, and with the Reef close by, there’s increasing pressure on growers to improve nitrogen use efficiency,” he said.

“ENTEC keeps nitrogen stable in the soil for longer, giving it more staying power so the crop can use the nitrogen more efficiently.

“We like ENTEC because it means growers like Robert have a better alternative for enhancing the efficiency of their nitrogen applications while protecting the environment.”

BGA AgriServices, and each store individually, have facebook pages to keep you up-to-date on events, industry specific information and activity for our local communities. Find us on facebook and follow/like us to help us keep you informed.

Ingham grower, Robert Silvini (right), discusses his success with ENTEC treated urea blends with Sibby Di Giacomo,

Branch Manager at Ingham Farm Centre.

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10

RACE NIGHT

SPRAY WATER QUALITY

Ingham Farm Centre hosted an exclusive Mobil 1 HSV Racing VIP Night in July. Our customers had a once in a lifetime opportunity to bring their families and get amongst the Mobil 1 HSV Racing team drivers James Courtney, Scott Pye and the 2017 race cars. East Coast Lubes have shown amazing support for the launch of Mobil products at Ingham Farm Centre over the last 6 months. We had six Mobil representatives join us and ten of the Mobil 1 HSV racing team including the drivers and ground crew. We were stoked to see a crowd of 200 people walk through our front gate, considering it was a mid-week event in the sugarcane crush/ planting crazy season.

The event was catered by the Ingham Rotary Club who cooked up the famous local Chiesa Butcher Shop sausages on Mick’s Bakery Bread. It was so good that it even had James and Scott going back for thirds.

The Ingham Bent Rod Car Club was quick to jump on board to help and brought seven beautiful cars in for everyone to see.

The Mobil 1 HSV Racing Team wanted to donate one of Scott Pye’s raced HSV bonnets, which both Scott and James had signed on the night, to Ingham Farm Centre. We wanted a local club to benefit from this, so we passed this donation to the Local Ingham Crushers Junior and Senior Football Club. The Ingham Crushers are going to raffle the bonnet to raise funds for their club. Tickets can be purchased at the crushers home games or at the Ingham Farm Centre front counter, $5 each or 5 tickets for $20. The raffle will be drawn 15th September 2017. Mobil 1 HSV Racing also gave away 4 Adult Passes to the Townsville V8 Racing as lucky door prizes.

It was a great night - the crowd mingled well and there was a great sense of satisfaction and approval by all present with comments such as “thanks for bringing this event to Ingham” heard by numerous people.

Once everyone was fed and all the kids had their faces painted, James and Scott signed posters, caps and stubby coolers for their long line of fans to top off an awesome night of talking race cars.

When preparing for a herbicide or pesticide application, one aspect that is often not taken into consideration is the quality of the water that the product is applied in.

When we talk water quality, we are talking about the physical and chemical properties of the water. These properties vary depending on where the water is sourced from and include dirt and clay contaminants, organic matter such as leaf material and algae, pH, hardness, salinity (dissolved salts) and temperature. Wherever possible, rainwater should be used for spraying as it generally contains the fewest contaminants and therefore is of the best quality.

Each of these properties can affect different agricultural chemicals in different ways. Organic matter and algae pose more of a problem with blocking filters and nozzles but can also speed up the breakdown of some chemicals in the water.

Water with a high pH can also speed up the breakdown of some chemicals. Once mixed in the tank, the chemical begins to breakdown into other compounds, reducing the effectiveness of the chemical. The longer it is left mixed in the tank, the more will breakdown. Chemical should not be left mixed overnight for

this reason. Water with a high pH can speed up this process for some chemicals. Very acidic water (low pH) can also affect the stability of some chemicals. Generally speaking, most chemicals commonly used in our area need a slightly acidic or neutral water. The addition of a buffering agent (such as LI700) will usually bring the water to the desired pH.

Water with a high EC (the measure of salinity or dissolved salts) can speed the breakdown of some chemicals, cause some chemicals to precipitate out of solution, and reduce the ability to adjust the pH using buffers.

Water hardness describes the amount of cations (calcium, magnesium, sodium, bicarbonates etc) in the water. This is perhaps the biggest issue we have in the Burnett with using bore water for spraying. Most of the bore water locally is hard (above 300ppm). The cations in water bind with the chemical, causing it to lose its activity in the target plant. Many people are aware of how hard water can affect glyphosate, but there are many other chemicals where use with hard water will reduce effectiveness. Adding sulfate of ammonia (e.g. Liase) can reduce the problem by binding with the cations reducing the ability of the chemical to bind.

11

A MINUTE WITH AN AGRONOMIST Russell StockdaleSales Agronomist A&B Rural, Ayr

Temperature is generally more of concern in more extreme climates. However, very cold water can reduce the solubility of some products and very warm water can speed the breakdown of some products.

Over the years we have seen numerous issues of spray failures, nozzle and filter blockages, and product “falling out of suspension” and have been able to attribute many of these to using poor quality water. Wherever possible rain water should be used for spraying. Where sufficient rain water is not available, conditioning agents, chemical selection, and chemical rate may need to be taken into consideration to achieve the best result.

Consider investing in extra rainwater storage. With some chemicals costing over $50/ha and a 5,000 gallon rainwater tank worth around $2,500, it’s easy to see that a costly failed spray job can be avoided comparatively cheaply.

A water test will provide the information required to determine how suitable a source of water is for spraying. To have your water tested or for any advice or further information please contact your local BGA AgriServices agronomist.

I was born and bred in Home Hill growing up on the family farm on the banks of the Burdekin River. After completing year ten I worked on the family cane farm and once I received my driver’s licence I started working in the harvesting side of the sugar industry. During the slack, I worked on a local cattle property growing grain.

Around this time, I started to look for more security so I took a full-time job with General Fertiliser (now known as Grow Force) and got married. This allowed me to settle down with my wife, Anna. After a couple of years Grow Force decided to open their own Burdekin business where I took a position as Store Supervisor in 1984, as the business grew an opportunity arose to become a field rep out in the paddock amongst sugarcane. I have enjoyed this ever since.

This was a very interesting time as herbicide grass control in sugarcane was only just beginning, with application equipment only starting to be invented and a limited range of herbicides available.

Weed control and minimum tillage have advanced enormously since those early days. On the Fertiliser side, there have been many changes starting with 50kg bags coming on train from Brisbane to 1 tonne bags, bulk fertilisers and more recently liquids, but I feel the biggest change has been agronomy, through soil testing and the correct nutrients being applied.

Some of the highs have been working with farmers to maximise their returns through correct fertiliser usage and weed free crops. In many cases I am now working with the second generation on the family farm, whilst also working with a great bunch of people at A&B Rural. A&B Rural Supplies has had many changes over the years from corporate to private, and now back to corporate. We now have 15 local staff compared to 2 in 1984, and have diversified into other areas and I am proud to be part of the business.

On a personal note, Anna and I have two grown up (kids) Bryce and Danielle. Danielle is married to Rohan who is a local farmer and they have one child Pia 13 months old, our first grandchild. Bryce gets married to Wilmee next year, so the family is going good.

My family comes first as long it’s not fishing weather, I fish at every chance and I hope our annual camping and fishing trip to Cape York never stops. I enjoy watching Rugby league as Bryce still plays locally and I support the cowboys and there is at least 3 days a year where we should wear Maroon uniforms (QUEENSLANDER).

Chemicals can react with hard water causing blocked filters, nozzles, and poor control.

12

MAXIMISING WEED CONTROL IN HORTICULTURE THROUGH IMPROVED APPLICATIONWhen applying a herbicide to a horticulture crop, growers need to carefully consider what the correct droplet spectrum is for the size of the target weed to ensure most effective coverage.

Dave Antrobus, Solutions Development Manager at Syngenta, says when growers are applying SPRAY.SEED® users should aim for an even and complete coverage of the target weed.

“Application of SPRAY.SEED to small actively growing weeds in 200 L/ha of water at the correct droplet spectrum is far better than using 600 L/ha on large weeds where half the volume runs off and the other droplets that hit the target are too large to provide good coverage.”

“For SPRAY.SEED, there are a number of application recommendations, and following them closely will ensure the best coverage” Dave said.

Applications Recommendations

Use a maximum of 400 L/ha water. More than this is just likely to cause both water and SPRAY.SEED to runoff the plant. Typically water volumes in the range of 100 to 400 L/ha of water is sufficient for small weeds.

Aim for an even and complete coverage with good penetration of the spray into and onto the target foliage.

Aim to spray small weeds. Large weeds require higher water volumes and chemical rates.

Refer to Table 1 for water rates/volume.

Where the SPRAY.SEED concentration is less than 1.2 L in 100 L of spray solution, it is recommended to add AGRAL® at 200 mL/100 L of additional water (refer Figure 1).

For improved control of wire weed, capeweed, marshmallow and nettles, a Group G spike of Goal* (at 250 mL/ha) or Hammer* is a good option.

Do not spray in dusty conditions, on dusty weeds or use dirty water as activity will be severely reduced.

If weeds are small due to moisture stress they may in fact be suffering from small tops and large roots. This gives a false impression of weed size and lower than ideal rates are chosen only to find a poor kill. What may seem small may in fact be more advanced than meets the eye.

Increased rates, application under low light conditions, adding extra surfactant, ensuring good coverage by correct water rates and droplet spectrum and considering addition of Group G spikes may all assist to control weed with large root systems and small foliage under these conditions.

Preferably do not apply SPRAY.SEED under high temperature/low humidity conditions (i.e. Delta T >10°C (refer Figure 2).

13

The BGA business has been built upon great staff who have strong values. Here we continue to recognise some of our staff and the great things that they do within the business and our local communities with this programme enabling our staff to recognise a fellow staff member who has really gone out of their way and demonstrated one or more of the values below.

Common Sense - Decisions based on sound reasoning. Accountability - We own and take responsibility for our actions. Aim High - We challenge ourselves to exceed expectations.

Integrity - We’re honest, transparent and principled. Leadership - Everyone leads by example. Loyalty - To our people, partners and local communities.

BGA VALUES AWARD

Sharon Connor SBB Rockhampton:

Sharon has reached the great achievement of 20 years of service with the company. She has witnessed the company grow and merge with Ruralco and also become a part of the BGA group. “Over the last twenty years I have mostly enjoyed dealing with customers, particularly our regular clients and watching their families grow. I have enjoyed working with a lovely group of people and being able to watch the business grow into what it is today.” Sharon commented.

Neil Mungall BGA Kingaroy:

Neil heads up the Agronomy and Animal Health teams as Group Technical Services Manager and has reached his 10 year milestone with the BGA team.

We can all say it has been a pleasure working with both Sharon and Neil, and hope for many more years to come!

MILESTONESGreat staff are pivotal to the success of our business, so it is gratifying to be able to acknowledge another two of our team who have been dedicated to our industry for many years.

MAY WINNERLaurie Bain — Kingaroy BranchLaurie doesn’t just comply with company standards - he “aims high” to comply with his own standards. The goods inwards area is always immaculate and he ensures stock is received, barcoded abd dispalyed on the shelf in a very timely manner. He has developed his own strategy to our new stock take procedure making the process easier with his common sense approach. This is typified by the staff calling on him to assist and bounce ideas off to improve and simplify their processes. Laurie, having been with the company for over 10 years certainly demonstrates and possesses many of the BGA values and is a much deserved nominee for this award.

JUNE WINNERBen Carroll — Kingaroy BranchBen is a long term employee of BGA AgriServices who demonstrates the BGA values more and more every day. He has proven his loyalty and commitment to BGA over many years and has now taken a real leadership role with broad acre agroomy in the South Burnett. Ben has a rare attention to detail and shows every day his dedication to making sure that we provide valued, complete and common sense service to our customers.

JULY WINNERDonna Milton — Mackay BranchDonna is a very welcoming, understanding, caring person who strives to do her best at all times. Donna is a professional staff member who is always willing to help others. Donna takes time out of her role to help educate fellow staff members in admin duties and SAP. Donna is a staff member who portrays the BGA Values through leadership, integrity, loyalty, common sense and always aiming high. Donna continually goes above and beyond to ensure the job gets done. Donna deals with our customers in a professional and caring manner at all times.

Donna Milton, Mackay Rural Supplies, Mackay

Ben Carroll, BGA AgriServices, Kingaroy

Laurie Bain, BGA AgriServices, Kingaroy

14

LUCERNE PAYBACK CALCULATION In a typical lucerne stand sowing rate 25kg/ha:

Cheap common @ $7.00/kg = $175/ha verses SARDI 7 series 2 @ $13.00/kg = $325/ha.

Cheap common = $150/ha saving on seed.

After the first two years SARDI 7 series 2 will maintain plant populations due to superior persistence whereas the cheap common will start to reduce.

SARDI 7 series 2 = more plants per hectare.

Stocking rate 2.5 animals per ha (cattle) on SARDI 7 series 2 weight gain increase 1kg/head/day @ $3.00/kg = $7.50/head/day gain.

Compared to cheap common weight gain would be 0.75kg/head/day @ $3.00/kg = $5.62.

Benefit from SARDI 7 series 2 lucerne is $1.88/ha >. Therefore cost recovery for the seed is 80 days OR in a hay situation the first two cuts.

This gap in following years would get wider as the SARDI 7 series 2 persists and the cheap common falls away or becomes unviable.

SARDI: THE LUCERNES THAT PAY

FREECALL 1800 007 333www.heritageseeds.com.au

GROW WITH CONFIDENCE INSIST ON THE YELLOW BAG

SARDI-Grazer (6) – The toughest Australian adapted and perfected long term grazing lucerne around.

SARDI 7 series 2 – The great year in year out hay and grazing all round A-grade performer.

SARDI 10 series 2 – Produces more for longer in the winter, ideal for cropping rotations and year round hay production.

Lucerne is a perennial legume that has one of the best feed values going around that can be a vital ingredient in cattle or dairy production.

Over 20 years ago Heritage Seeds and the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) formed an alliance to develop improved lucerne varieties for Australian farming systems.

With Heritage Seeds-SARDI lucerne range, growers are assured of getting a cultivar that offers exceptional performance, persistence and will continue to deliver long after cheap common varieties fade and reduce in plant population. The payback growers receive with SARDI varieties is significant. To demonstrate, a return on investment example using SARDI 7 series 2 is outlined adjacent.

To learn more about the benefits of the Heritage Seeds-SARDI lucerne range contact your local BGA Agriservices store.


























































15

We are at the back end of winter. Landholders living with Giant Rats Tail Grass and Parramatta Grass should be looking at a control plan before the rain starts again in the Spring.

WOODY WEEDS AND REGROWTHGranular Products GP Regain 200 and Regain 400 are perfect for the control of Prickly Acacia, Mimosa Pigra, Brigalow regrowth and many other woody weeds.

Granular Products GP Regain 200 and Regain 400 are perfect for the control of Prickly Acacia, Mimosa Pigra, Brigalow regrowth and certain woody weeds. Regain can be applied at any time of the year and treatments become effective after sufficient rainfall mobilises the active into the soil profile, where it is adsorbed by the woody weed plants. As woody weed competition decreases pasture production increases.

Regain 400 is a new and innovative product that is more than just double strength of Regain 200. Increased coverage of Regain 400 provides more even chemical profile in the soil, thus having better woody weed control.

Weedy Sporobolus Grasses (WSG) are best targeted when they are actively growing. This begins as soil temperature starts to increase and there is moisture about. GP Flupropanate is best applied prior to this stage to allow the active ingredient to be available to the weeds when they start to grow. Integrated Weed Management Approach WSG are best tackled from more than one approach. Herbicide plays only a small part in the fight against WSG. The pie chart to the right shows how numerous other factors are necessary for the control of WSG.

WEEDY SPOROBOLUS GRASSES

When seedlings germinate, they require bare ground to establish. Poor nutrition and overgrazing can lead to this. The key after the application of GP Flupropanate is to boost soil nutrition and pasture competition.

Prior to application, the affected paddock should be heavily grazed. GP Flupropanate should be applied and then the paddocks should be locked up to allow the herbicide to take effect and for the pasture to grow and compete with the emerging WSG seedlings. An application of fertiliser at this stage will aid in the promotion of competitive grasses. Biosecurity plays an important role in reducing the spread of seedlings across the farm. The use of a quarantine area to clean cattle out for 7-10 days will reduce the movement of seed into treated areas of the farm. The quarantine area should be treated every year to ensure no WSG establish.

Soil Nutrition

Chemical Control

Biosecurity

Pasture Competition

Grazing Management


www.bgaagri.com.au

W H O L E S A L E

Walker’s weather3 month weather forecast

Wide Bay Area, Burnett, Casino, Grafton, Toogoolawah, Rockhampton, Mackay, Ayr, and Ingham

BGA AgriServices Kingaroy (Head Office)21-29 Youngman St, Kingaroy QLD 4610Sales: 07 4160 0500Administration: 07 4160 0566Fax: 07 4162 4748

BGA AgriServices Murgon12 Macalister St, Murgon QLD 4605Ph: 07 4168 2911 Fax: 07 4168 2646

BGA AgriServices Goomeri1 Boonara St, Goomeri QLD 4601Ph: 07 4168 4166 Fax: 07 4168 4565

BGA AgriServices ChildersBruce Highway, Childers QLD 4660Ph: 07 4126 1170 Fax: 07 4126 1803

BGA AgriServices Bundaberg30 Ellen St, Bundaberg QLD 4670Ph: 07 4154 2800 Fax: 07 4154 2977

BGA AgriServices Oakwood165 Rosedale Rd, Bundaberg QLD 4670Ph: 07 4159 9110 Fax: 07 4159 9583 BGA AgriServices, Maryborough 1037 Saltwater Creek Rd, St Helens QLD 4650Ph: 07 4122 1233 Fax: 07 4122 1299

BGA AgriServices Kumbia56 Brooke St, Kumbia QLD 4610Ph: 07 4164 4255 Fax: 07 4164 4300

BGA AgriServices Toogoolawah9 -11 Dingyarra St, Toogoolawah QLD 4313Ph: 07 5423 1251 Fax: 07 5423 1019

BGA AgriServices Casino49-55 Dyraaba St, Casino NSW 2470Ph: 02 6662 6208 Fax: 02 6662 6891

BGA AgriServices Dorrigo5-7 Cudgery St, Dorrigo, NSW 2453Ph: 02 6657 2068 Fax: 02 6657 2350

BGA AgriServices Grafton170 North St, Grafton NSW 2460Ph: 02 6642 5000 Fax: 02 6642 7803

A&B Rural Supplies119 Railway St, Ayr QLD 4807Ph: 07 4783 4488 Fax: 07 4783 4648

Ingham Farm Centre Pty Ltd49506 Barnes St, Ingham QLD 4850 Ph: 07 4776 1477 Fax: 07 4776 3581

Mackay Rural Supplies Pty Ltd35 Mclennan St, Mackay QLD 4740Ph: 07 4952 2466 Fax: 07 4952 6208 Savage, Barker & Backhouse 266 Denison St,Rockhampton QLD 4455Ph: 07 4927 1677 Fax: 07 4622 3184

General enquiries for all branches:[email protected]

Accounts enquiries for all branches:[email protected] Our Business Partners:

Wide BaySeptemberGeneral: Moderate falls.Rain and showers are indicated 9, 10, 16, 20-22 and 26.OctoberGeneral: Moderate falls.Rain and showers are indicated 10, 11 and 14.NovemberGeneral: Light falls.Showers are indicated 7, 13, 14, 16 and 29.BurnettSeptemberGeneral: Moderate to reasonably good rains.Rain and showers are indicated 6, 9, 10, 19, 21-23 and 27.OctoberGeneral: Moderate to reasonably good rains.Rain and showers are indicated 7, 10, 11 and 14.NovemberGeneral: Light falls.Showers are indicated 1, 11 and 13.CasinoSeptemberGeneral: Reasonably good to good rains.Rain and showers are indicated 6, 9, 16, 19-23 and 27.OctoberGeneral: Good to heavy rains.Rain and showers are indicated 10-14 and 16.NovemberGeneral: Moderate falls.Rain and showers are indicated 1, 2, 10, 24 and 29.GraftonSeptemberGeneral: Reasonably good to good rains.Rain and showers are indicated 6, 9, 18-22, 25 and 27.OctoberGeneral: Good to heavy rains.Rain and showers are indicated 10-17.NovemberGeneral: Moderate to reasonably good rains.Rain and showers are indicated 1, 2, 10, 29 and 30.ToogoolawahSeptemberGeneral: Reasonably good rains.Rain and showers are indicated 4-6, 9, 16, 21-23 and 25-27.OctoberGeneral: Reasonably good to good rains.Rain and showers are indicated 8-11 and 14.NovemberGeneral: Light falls.Showers are indicated 10 and 17-19.

RockhamptonSeptemberGeneral: Moderate to reasonably good rains.Rain and showers are indicated 3, 9, 10, 15, 2-22 and 26.OctoberGeneral: Light falls.Showers are indicated 9-12.NovemberGeneral: Confined to a few showers.Showers are indicated N/A.MackaySeptemberGeneral: Moderate falls.Rain and showers are indicated 6, 8, 10, 21-23 and 30.OctoberGeneral: Confined to a few showers.Showers are indicated N/A.NovemberGeneral: Confined to a few showers.Showers are indicated 2, 5, 12, 14 and 15.AyrSeptemberGeneral: Light falls.Showers are indicated 24 and 27.OctoberGeneral: Confined to a few showers.Showers are indicated N/A.NovemberGeneral: Light falls.Showers are indicated 23 and 24.InghamSeptemberGeneral: Light to moderate falls.Showers are indicated 8, 14 and 16.OctoberGeneral: Confined to a few showers.Showers are indicated N/A.NovemberGeneral: Varying rainfall from light to reasonably good.Showers are indicated 14 and 20-24.

Note: Rainfall dates are a guide for each month and an update can be obtained on a short term basis. In the present state of this research no guarantee can be given as to the accuracy of this forecast as sunspot activity can intensify or dissipate. A longer term forecast can be supplied by contacting Hayden Walker on 0408 846 890 or visiting the website www.walkersweather.com.au

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