Country-Wide June 2021

Red meat producers are urged to have their say on the continuation of their levy-funded organisation by voting in the 2021 sheepmeat and beef levy referendum.

The innovative and forward thinking approach of Richard and Becks Tosswill was recognised with the supreme award for the Greater Wellington region in the 2018 Ballance Farm Environment Awards, and it continues to be a focus for the couple.

Lucerne has proven its worth as pasture on a station in the Mackenzie Basin where rainfall is limited. Lynda Gray reports. Photos by Rachel Gillespie.

Wagyu has the virtue of being a terminal breed which meshes very well with the Kiwi-cross cow from the dairy industry.

Improvements to sheep genetics could lead to a decrease in chemical treatments Sandra Taylor reports.

A river running through Mt Algidus Station is just one of the challenges faced by managers Peter and Christine Angland. Story and photos by Annabelle Latz.

Taihape’s Donald Fannin believes he has matched the right beef genetics with the environment he is farming in. Story by Russell Priest. Photos by Brad Hanson.

The advocacy model seems messy and disjointed with different groups at times pulling in different directions. This is not helped by the fact no single group has a clear mandate to speak on behalf of all farmers.

Most of you will have a farm business plan of some description either in your head, jotted down maybe in a piecemeal way or formally written in consultation with a rural professional. No matter what form your plan takes, an important requirement is regular reviewing and updating. By Dr Ken Geenty

A highly efficient sheep flock, underpinned by an exceptional weaning weight, is the engine room of Richard and Becks Tosswill’s award-winning Te Awaawa Farm in Gladstone. Rebecca Greaves went to their field day. Photos by Brad Hanson.