The Boundary Rider’s Report November 2023

Welcome back to The Boundary Rider's Report. It's been a bit of time since our last chat, so here goes. Recent Rains at Bald Blair and associated properties have been good, with falls of 40 to 50 mm.  I remain mindful that this rain has benefited some regions of the country, but not all with 50% of the state still in drought.  Hopefully there is more on the horizon.  While we have been feeding for the last 2 months, we are starting to ratchet it down;  however we remain vigilant in replenishing supplies, where prices allow and being ready.

We've just wrapped up the artificial insemination program for our spring stud herd, and our cover sires have just gone out also.  We have completed our commercial branding and lamb marking continues at a pace.  As we turn our gaze toward the horizon, there's a glimmer of hope on the cattle and sheep market front, with the EYCI starting to recover but still a way to go. 

Seasonal Update at Bald Blair

This rainfall has brought much-needed relief to our pastures, turning them a vibrant green and encouraging new growth.  Bring on recovery.  Forecasts suggest follow up rain is probable.  Once again soil moisture has received a good boost, the basalt soils responding well, with the lighter granite soils taking up moisture and then it dropping soon after.  So recovery in our lighter country will take a while, so we will continue to supplement feed to help that recovery along.  For fellow farmers in the region, this change in weather is a welcome opportunity to either stop or reduce feeding. It's a reminder of the ever-changing nature of our environment and the resilience required in our line of work.

In short, Bald Blair is experiencing a much-needed reprieve from the dry.

Weather app addiction: https://fb.watch/nVIOynnKSy/

Pasture update:

As we navigate the intricacies of pasture management post-rainfall, the focus at Bald Blair will be on fostering robust pasture recovery. The timely rains have kickstarted a rejuvenation process, prompting us to strategically apply additional superphosphate in between showers. This careful timing maximises nutrient absorption, bolstering the growth and health of our pastures. Complementing this, we've implemented a rotational grazing system, moving cattle and sheep to fresh paddocks. This not only ensures even grazing but also aids in preserving the integrity of the soil and plant root systems, critical for sustainable pasture health. In periods of drier conditions, we've ramped up supplementary feeding for our stud and commercial cattle. This approach is crucial to maintain their nutritional needs while simultaneously preserving our feed reserves and ground cover. By balancing these practices, we aim to sustain a resilient and productive landscape, ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of both current and future seasons.

Market Update
We've seen a glimmer of hope in cattle prices recently. After a long spell of downturn, the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator finally picked up, crossing 400c for the first time since last spring. Just last week, it reached 408c/kg - a fair jump from where it lingered around 350c not too long ago, a 15% rise.  It's still a far cry from last year's high of 1016c/kg.

NSW's seen the biggest lift. Tamworth's sale topped the charts contributing to the EYCI, averaging a solid 467c. Armidale wasn't far behind. Light restocker-type cattle are leading this rally, giving us a bit of breathing room. This rain has brought back a bit of confidence into the marketplace.

As for our sheep, it's a tough ride with wool and meat prices still lagging. There are forward contracts being offered early next year which is positive, allowing us to cement a bit of certainty in pricing moving forward.

https://www.mla.com.au/prices-markets/cattle/eycireport/. 

Artificial Insemination at Bald Blair

As mentioned earlier, AI has just finished at Bald Blair, with a mix of new sire lines, previously used sire lines, from US, other Australian and within herd lines from our herd being used.  Essentially we have done 2 rounds of AI on our heifers and main proven breeder group, before our cover sires go out, and 1 round on our maiden dams with first calf at foot, with bulls going after that. 

Multifaceted benefits of AI within our herd in this context.

1. Genetic Improvement and Diversity: AI enables access to elite genetics from globally desirable sires, mostly US, some Australian sires and within herd sires enhancing cattle quality and productivity. By incorporating diverse genetic lines, AI reduces inbreeding risks, allows control of recessive genes not being multiplied not to mention increases diversity and adds to ongoing genetic improvement.
2. Selective Breeding: AI facilitates selective breeding, targeting specific traits like fertility, calving ease, growth rate, IMF, milk production, or disease resistance. 
3. Economic and Efficiency Gains: AI leads to economic benefits by tapping into the genetic potential of a number of high-quality sires, some proven and some not, with the aim of improving our herds genetic merit.   
4. We use Fixed-time AI (FTAI), as do a lot of my colleagues in industry. It requires minimal heat detection and can be implemented efficiently across herds, regardless of size. This method synchronises ovulation in cows and heifers, allowing for streamlined insemination at a fixed time​​, in large numbers if needed.
5. Improved Calving Intervals and Management: Conception rates of up to 65% (but not always) in Angus cows here at Bald Blair.  FTAI can compact calving intervals, leading to a high proportion of females conceiving early in the breeding season. This could result in heavier calves at weaning, a more uniform age of calves for and reduced labour costs in calving surveillance​​ over a shorter period.
6. Structured Breeding Programs and Genomic Enhanced EBV Selection: Effective AI implementation requires structured breeding programs with clear objectives, incorporating genomic information for better accuracy. This approach continues to accelerate genetic gain in our herd along a number of traits.

The strategic use of AI, especially FTAI, aligns with the broader goals of efficient livestock production, underpinning our progressive and forward-thinking approach to cattle breeding.   This has been part of our commercial breeding program also, where we AI all commercial heifers each year.  We have a few bulls which we have semen available from that can be used by our clients if they wish to do a program moving forward.  Our young Sires with commercial semen available include:

NBB21S86, Bald Blair Sterling S86, a Paratrooper son which we have used extensively at stud already.

NEW SIRE: NBB22T228, Bald Blair Thomas T228, a NORL519 son who was also used this year. NEW SIRE.

Check out our Website.

YouTube video of Artificial Insemination at Bald Blair: CLICK HERE

YouTube video of Bald Blair Angus & Stockbook: CLICK HERE

The Shed

Our new commodity shed has had a remarkable impact during this dry September and October. We've stocked it with essentials like barley straw, ddg pellets, barley grain and supplementary additives. A key player in our improved efficiency is the Faresin feed mixer, which we've brought out of retirement after the memorable 2019 drought experience (it still works!). It's making a significant difference in our feed preparation, having everything in one spot.   The shed's roof funnels rainwater into five new tanks, (a total storage capacity of 150,000L) and is a vital water resource; apparently 1 mm of rain falling on a square metre of roof space captures 1 litre of water.   This access to clean rainwater will assist in fire preparedness with fire hydrants put in place for quick access to water. It will also make filling up the quickspray a lot quicker as we start to focus on weed control - the nodding thistles and blackberries are starting to make their presence known!

CSIRO

The CSIRO Armidale Connected Event held on Wednesday, 15th November was a significant gathering aimed at exploring the crucial role of CSIRO in supporting the sustainable and profitable future of Australia's livestock industries, and celebrating 75 years of research.  This event served as a platform to display ongoing research efforts, emphasising the connection from past to future, and recognizing the need to collaboratively address industry challenges for a sustainable future. It also honoured the contributions of traditional landowners and key figures in shaping the industry's knowledge base.  The speakers and a panel discussion featured Jason Strong (Meat and Livestock Australia), Dougal Gordon (NSW Department of Primary Industries), Karen Zirkler (Southern New England Landcare), and Michael Robertson (CSIRO Agriculture and Food) among others. This event reinforced the importance of fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and strategizing for the future of livestock industries in a sustainable manner. 

Future of Sustainable Livestock Protein Event

At the "Future of Sustainable Livestock Protein" event on November 17th, 2023, at the University of New England, attendees will delve into sustainable livestock protein's future. This half-day event, part of the AgriTech Futures Series, features speakers like Paul West, John Harvey, Josie Angus, and Johnny Kahlbetzer. Discussions will focus on consumer desires, market advancements, supply chain dynamics, and technological investments in agriculture. Attendees will gain insights into meeting consumer demands, industry adaptation, and on-farm technology. The event concludes with a BBQ and cooking demonstration, emphasising the practical aspects of sustainable livestock protein. This experiential event is a celebration of National Agriculture Day, aimed at fostering industry engagement and showcasing cutting-edge research.

The Future of Sustainable Livestock Protein, AgriTech Futures Series — UNE SMART Region Incubator (unesri.com.au)

Angus Australia: Efficient Beef Open Day

The Efficient Beef Open Day, scheduled for November 22nd at UNE SMART Farms Tullimba Feedlot, invites Angus Australia members and industry representatives. Hosted by Angus Australia, University of New England, and NSW Department of Primary Industries, the event will highlight recent advances in research projects like the Angus Sire Benchmarking Program, the Low Methane Beef Program, and the Southern Multibreed Project. Attendees can also view ASBP Cohort 12 steers. Dr. Liam Mowbray emphasises the day's value in showcasing research contributing to genetic improvements and herd productivity, reinforcing Angus Australia's role in leading industry-relevant R&D.

https://www.angusaustralia.com.au/news/beef-up-your-knowledge-of-rd-at-the-efficient-beef-open-day

BredWell FedWell

We are very appreciative of the opportunity to host a BredWell FedWell workshop next year.  So keep Friday 15 March 2024 free, this workshop will be held here at Bald Blair, Guyra.  These workshops are very good and well worth attending.  More details will be available closer to the date, and we’ll keep you updated through subsequent boundary riders reports. https://www.mla.com.au/extension-training-and-tools/Bred-Well-Fed-Well/ 

 
Kelly’s Cottage Farm Stay

Discover the timeless charm of Kelly's Cottage, the original homestead at Bald Blair Angus, now transformed into a delightful farm stay. This historic cottage, nestled in the heart of a bustling working property, has been lovingly updated with a new timber kitchen, blending rustic aesthetics with modern comforts.

Accommodating six guests in three bedrooms, it's the perfect retreat for families or small groups. The cottage features a cosy wood heater, a recently renovated kitchen and bathroom, and breathtaking framed farm photography by Al Mabin. As guests, you'll have the unique opportunity to engage with the daily rhythms of farm life. Chat over the fence with Sam, Kirsty, or the team, and gain insights into the workings of a vibrant Angus cattle herd and crossbred sheep flock.

Situated on the scenic Tourist Drive 17, Kelly's Cottage offers an ideal base to explore nearby natural wonders like Gara Gorge and New England National Park. It's more than a stay; it's an immersive experience where every moment is a step back in time and a leap into rural bliss.

We are available for farm tours.  Please see our website for bookings or contact us directly. https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/37866065?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=292f443e-f202-4b4c-82fe-90c7f550a88c 

Brisk Trading

The fabulous shop at 106 Bradley Street Guyra - Brisk Trading! You will find a treasure trove of gifts, homewares and accessories - colourful delights for you and the people in your life. They also serve beautiful Allpress coffee.  Make sure to visit when you're next in town or shop online. https://brisktrading.com.au/  Also home of Crop Hair Design https://www.facebook.com/crophairdesignguyra/ and Beauty Basics by Emm https://www.instagram.com/beautybasicsbyem/

Keep in touch and see you all soon. 

Sam & Kirsty

Bald Blair Angus Sunset November 2023: CLICK HERE