Early Bird I Thursday May 16th 2024

Softening clearances expected for winter beef bull sales, advancements in genetic technologies on display at National Fieldays, and Canterbury bee keeper forced into multi-million dollar hive destruction. Welcome to Proud Country's Early Bird - The top things you need to know that impact rural New Zealand delivered to you by 5am, because who doesn’t need better chat beyond the weather! 1. Softening clearances expected for winter beef bull sales The approaching winter season is bringing a sense of caution to the market for two-year-old beef bulls, as industry challenges loom large over pricing and clearance rates That’s according to Callum Stewart, PGG Wrightson's national genetics manager who predicts that average bull prices this winter might hold steady compared to last year, but softer clearance rates are anticipated due to the prevailing financial strains in agriculture. With rising costs and stagnant or decreasing returns, Stewart says there will be a cautious approach of commercial cattle farmers towards bull purchases. While genetic quality remains paramount, some farmers may opt to reduce bull numbers, echoing trends observed in ram sales. Carrfields stock agent Bruce Orr, says that the sheep market's sombre state will spill over into beef bull purchases this winter with the lamb price heavily influencing what sheep and beef farmers are willing to pay for bulls. PGG Wrightson auctioneer Cam Heggie, says the importance of quality amidst reduced catalogue lots, reflects breeders' readiness to adapt to prevailing financial factors while maintaining the industry's standards. 2. Advancements in genetic technologies on display at National Fieldays As the Government moves to alter regulations concerning the use of genetic technologies in New Zealand, scientists engaged in enhancing food production are keen to explore opportunities to apply their research beyond laboratory settings. Genetic modification and gene editing technologies have been subjects of debate for many years, and recent discussions have called for regulatory changes to permit broader use in New Zealand. The coalition Government has indicated a forthcoming process to relax laws on the use of these technologies, likely starting this year with the introduction of new legislation in Parliament. Scientists at Crown Research Institute AgResearch will be highlighting potential applications of genetic technologies in pasture while also assessing public sentiment regarding their use at the upcoming National Fieldays event. Ongoing research aims to explore how enhanced pasture could contribute to increased productivity, improved livestock health, and reduced environmental impacts. The AgResearch Fieldays stand, which is being shared this year with Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research, will provide an opportunity for visitors to learn more about this pasture-related research. AgResearch will conduct an informal poll at the event to gauge public opinion on these issues and values the personal conversations with visitors as valuable contributions to the ongoing dialogue. 3.Farside Illustrious enters bull Hall of Fame An elite Holstein Friesian bull named Farside Illustrious has been inducted into the bull 'Hall of Fame' by the Livestock Improvement Corporation (LIC) for his outstanding contribution to the dairy industry. Farside Illustrious sired an impressive 17,313 daughters and over 90,000 granddaughters during his three breeding seasons, making a significant impact on dairy genetics in the country. In addition to his remarkable progeny numbers, Farside Illustrious also produced 33 sons used for artificial breeding, with nine of them joining Premier Sires teams, following in their father's footsteps. For breeders Graeme and Jacki Barr from Tokoroa, having a bull inducted into the Hall of Fame was a first-time honour. Graeme Barr shared that they recognized Illustrious's potential early on, noting his success in LIC breeding programs and both national and international markets. Illustrious hailed from a distinguished cow family known for longevity, udder quality, and consistent production. His good temperament and ease of handling were also standout qualities, reflecting the positive traits of his lineage. 4.Canterbury bee keeper forced into multi-million dollar hive destruction. Springbank Honey and its director, Steven Brown are shedding light on the complex challenges encountered by beekeepers dealing with American foulbrood disease (AFB) in New Zealand.  Despite no clinical signs of disease, the discovery of AFB spores prompted the compulsory destruction of thousands of Springbank’s hives, resulting in significant financial losses totaling approximately $2 million, with no compensation available to offset these losses. Steven Brown has been left frustrated with the strict measures enforced by the National American Foulbrood Management Agency, highlighting the absence of compensation and what he perceived as an excessive response to the detection of spores. He has concerns about the broader impact on honey businesses across the country, emphasising the critical importance of compliance to avoid legal repercussions. Niharika Long, representing the National American Foulbrood Management Agency, defended the agency's actions by stating the substantial biosecurity risk posed by AFB spores. She says that while spores do not directly harm adult bees, they can lead to the infection of honeybee larvae, ultimately weakening or destroying colonies.  In New Zealand, the use of antibiotics to control AFB is prohibited, highlighting the significance of preventive measures such as burning infected hives to eliminate the disease.  The lack of compensation for affected beekeepers shows the need for ongoing dialogue and potential reforms to support beekeepers while safeguarding the health of honeybee colonies nationwide. 5.Pamu supports next generation of young farmers with new apprenticeship programme  Nine school leavers passionate about farming will embark on a two-year journey into agriculture with Pamu, living and working at Pamu farm, Aratiatia near Taupo. The Pamu Apprenticeship Scheme, which starts  in January 2025, will integrate practical on-farm experience, academic learning, and life skills development. Apprentices will have the opportunity to earn while they learn, gaining valuable work experience on Pamu dairy and livestock farms, while also working towards Level 3 and Level 4 NZ Certificates in Agriculture through Primary ITO. As part of the programme, apprentices will reside in shared housing repurposed from existing infrastructure on-farm, fostering a supportive community environment essential for learning and growth. The scheme will provide comprehensive pastoral care, overseen by an Apprenticeship Scheme Manager, covering essential life skills such as budgeting, shopping, meal preparation, and managing bills, to ensure the apprentices are well-prepared for success in their transition to the workforce. Mark Leslie, Pamu Chief Executive, says the scheme is a reflection of Pamu's commitment to growing the workforce of New Zealand's food and fibre sector, a vital driver of the nation's productivity. Students currently enrolled in agriculture courses across the Central North Island, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty regions are eligible to apply for this transformative apprenticeship programme. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.