Scene + Herd: Podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand: Recent Episodes
Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand, the farmer-owned industry organisation representing New Zealand's sheep and beef farmers.
As a Beef + Lamb New Zealand Rural Advancement Scholarship recipient, Julia Hardwick-Smith shares how the Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme challenged her thinking and is influencing decisions on her family farm. She also discusses the surprising findings from her research into triplet lamb survivability and what they could mean for sheep farmers.
Read more here:
- Rural Leadership Advancement Scholarship.
- Julia's full report.
100 years since New Zealand began exporting red meat to North America. It’s a relationship that’s gone from tentative early shipments to one of our most important and enduring trade partnerships.
To unpack that story and what it means for the future, we're joined by Ali Spencer and Mick Calder, who helped document this journey in Trusted, Lean and Long Game, (PDF, 4.12MB).
With scanning results arriving across the country, this podcast provides practical advice for farmers with high numbers of twin and triplet-bearing ewes. Senior Scientist from Bio Economy Science Institute (BSI) David Stevens combines the science with practical farming systems, while North Otago Farmer Julian Prices share what's happening on-farm and the questions himself and the South Canterbury Lamb Survivability Focus Group are asking.
Recorded 20 July 2026.
The red meat sector is a cornerstone of Aotearoa New Zealand. Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) and Meat Industry Association (MIA) have just released new research that offers a robust, evidence-based assessment of the economic and social contribution of the sector, including production, processing and exporting. It is the first full measure of the sector’s economic and social contribution since 2020. Project Lead Connor McIndoe from Business and Economic Research (BERL) joins us to make sense of it all.
Read the full report here: Research shows New Zealand’s red meat sector drives nearly $50 billion in annual spending across the economy.
In this episode of Scene + Herd, B+LNZ’s Policy Staff demystify the submission process and show farmers how to turn everyday experience into compelling evidence. They outline five steps for writing clear, relevant submissions. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by consultation documents, this is your go‑to guide.
How to write a submission: farmer guide.
The Government has released draft legislation to replace the Resource Management Act, listen to Beef + Lamb New Zealand's General Manager of Policy and Communications Rowena Hume and Head of Environment Policy Paul Le Miere as they explain the reform and key areas for farmers to know about.
We’re joined by Bill Garland who farms at Maungatautari in the Waikato and Dr Katherine Tozer, Senior Scientist at AgResearch, to talk deferred grazing. Around for many decades in different forms, it’s gaining more popularity as a way to transfer feed from spring to autumn/early winter, to regenerate pastures and to cut down on diesel, seed and cropping/regrassing costs. Could it have a place in your system?
For more details, check out the deferred grazing information on B+LNZ’s Factsheet, DairyNZ’s Deferred Grazing page and AgResearch’s guide book.
This research was supported by AgResearch, DairyNZ, MPI, Ellett Trust, Ballance Agri-nutrients, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Waikato Regional Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Beef + Lamb New Zealand and especially the many farmers who contributed their time, paddocks and expertise.
Tools, tech and tactics to make every blade count – Industry-renowned beef expert Bob Thomson (AgFirst) and farmers Ben Trotter (Luggate) and Matt Tayler (Garston) share practical tools, proven tactics, and tech insights to boost efficiency and profit in beef systems—including a look ahead at the role of wearables in the future of farming.
Recorded on the B+LNZ Central Otago Farming for Profit “Grass to Gold” webinar, 16 June 2025
Advice from Erin Riley, North Canterbury Vets talking at a recent Beef + Lamb New Zealand Farming for Profit field day. In particular, she notes sheep are less likely to get their required selenium in oral drenches now.
More information in B+LNZ’s Factsheet Trace Element Nutrition of Sheep
Caitlin Thistoll from Ballance Agri- nutrients was presenting at Beef + Lamb New Zealand's Central Canterbury Farming for Profit day, Reflections on Summer Crop Management. She talks about the three factors farmers need to consider before establishing a summer forage crop.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
Captured at Out the Gate 2025 held in Rotorua, Simon Quilty shares an in-depth analysis of the global red meat market and the outlook for New Zealand trade. This is recorded before the United States’ decision to impose tariffs on New Zealand exports, announced 3 April 2025. Watch part two for a follow up after the US tariff announcement and Simon answers questions from farmers.
As a follow up on Simon Quilty’s presentation at Out the Gate 2025 (see part one), Simon shares his initial reaction to the United States’ decision to impose tariffs on New Zealand exports (announced 3 April 2025), and answers farmer questions from his Out the Gate 2025 presentation.
Liver fluke is a major cause of production issues in sheep and cattle in New Zealand. Dr Andrew Dowling, technical expert animal health and nutrition at PGG Wrightson, shares what he has learnt from his years of being a vet and eight years of studying this parasite for his PhD. Hear more about what it is, where it came from, how to tell if you have a problem with it and how to manage it.
For more information, check out the section on liver fluke in B+LNZ’s Wormwise Hub.
Achieving 150 percent lambing in hoggets might seem an audacious goal, but Southland farmers Geordie Eade and Pete Thomson believe this will happen in their farming lifetime. The pair, who are members of the Hogget 150 group, spoke at a recent Beef + Lamb New Zealand Farming for Profit day and outlined what the group members have found to be the critical factors for increasing the productivity and profitability of their hogget flocks.
For more information, see Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s guidebook ‘Hogget Performance: Unlocking the potential of hogget lambing’
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
In the tenth of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s ‘Parasite Chronicles’ podcasts, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks to Otago farmer Willy Scurr about how he is managing drench resistance on his farm.
For more information on internal parasite management, checkout B+LNZ’s Wormwise hub
In the ninth of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s ‘Parasite Chronicles’ podcasts, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks to vet, farmer and Wormwise facilitator Jeremy Leigh about parasite management in cattle.
For more information on internal parasite management, checkoutB+LNZ’s Wormwise hub
In the eighth of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s ‘Parasite Chronicles’ podcasts, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks to Garth Riddle, a vet and Wormwise facilitator based in the Bay of Plenty about drench resistance in cattle
For more information on internal parasite management, checkoutB+LNZ’s Wormwise hub
In the seventh of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s ‘Parasite Chronicles’ podcasts, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks to Canterbury sheep and beef farmer Matt Iremonger about internal parasite management on Willesden Farms.
For more information on internal parasite management, checkoutB+LNZ’s Wormwise hub
To conclude this three-part series delving into Growing Future Farmers, we spotlight the experiences of those who have directly benefited from the programme. Join us as we talk to current students Tom Flashoff and Monique Wrathall, and recent graduate Alex West.
Want to learn more? Head over to growingfuturefarmers.co.nz
Ben Allomes discusses key steps towards successful leadership and a sustainable career.
His key messages in this podcast and his Nuffield scholarship report are relatable and inspiring.
Behind every successful student is a dedicated team. In this second episode of our three-part series, we delve deeper into the Growing Future Farmers programme, interviewing farmers Simon Lee and Richard Webby, along with North Island Student Success Advisor Laura Gavin, to learn about their roles in shaping the future of sheep and beef farming.
Want to learn more? Head over to growingfuturefarmers.co.nz
Macaulay Jones and Madeline Hall talk about Beef + Lamb New Zealand commissioned research comparing international approaches to reducing agricultural emissions. The report found that every country is looking to reduce agricultural emissions but in very different ways. Hear about some of the high-level findings and key implications from this work. For more information, you can read the Summary report and the Full report on B+LNZ’s website.
In this three part series, we'll delve into the heart of Growing Future Farmers. We'll explore the "why" behind the programme, what students can expect, and the impact it has on the industry.
First up, we chat with a founder of the programme, Tam Jex-Blake, who launched the program back in 2020. We'll also hear from CEO Wendy Paul about the programme's strategic direction and her passion for its future.
Want to learn more? Head over to growingfuturefarmers.co.nz!
Listen to this podcast to understand what the Global Sheep Forum’s Next Generation Programme is, why Beef + Lamb New Zealand participated, and what our two young farmers got out of taking part. Hosted by Nicholas Jolly, Senior Trade Policy Advisor (Environment), this episode interviews Hamish Best and Olivia Ellis who were the two young farmers selected to represent New Zealand at the Global Sheep Forum’s Next generation Programme in Australia in August this year.
Farmlands CEO Tanya Houghton shares Farmlands’ commitment to the B+LNZ Awards and how Farmlands is innovating and supporting farmers.
Hosted by B+LNZ’s GM of Communications & Insights, Rowena Hume, the episode highlights the vital role New Zealand’s sheep and beef sector plays for Farmlands.
Bruce and Jackie Bowie of Mt Marchant had a farm succession challenge to navigate, and they weren’t sure if they could make it work. With help from people they trusted, they came up with a successful plan for themselves and their children Daniel, Natalie and Tom. Hear the family’s story in this podcast, and you can read more about it in the factsheet pathways to farm business ownership.
Mark Guscott of Glen Eden Farms Ltd (Martinborough), Allen and Jo Johnstone of Wallace Johnstone Ltd (Te Kuiti), and Jason Miller of Roslyn Downs (Southland) took part in a panel discussion at the Red Meat Sector Conference on 23 July 2024.
Facilitated by Rowena Duncum from NZME, the four shared their personal perspectives on sustainability, intergenerational planning, and customer expectations in the evolving farming landscape.
This panel discussion was sponsored by Beef + Lamb New Zealand. For more detail, check out the article on our website.
Follow the (fictional) Richards Family who want to retain the farm in the family. However the next generation do not want to run the farm, so they look at different options such as leasing before settling on an equity partnership.
Check out B+LNZ’s resources on equity partnerships.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand. Check out our other resources on farm succession here
Follow the (fictional) Richards family as they deal with family challenges during farm succession conversations, working through all the mine fields that could tear a family apart. In this podcast, they discuss communication, family meetings, engaging everyone and setting goals.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand. Check out our other resources on farm succession here
Agribusiness in Schools in conjunction with the Ministry of Education, NZQA and the primary industries have collaborated to design an agribusiness programme that will prepare the best and brightest students for careers in the primary sector. Beef + Lamb New Zealand have been a proud partner of the programme since its conception in 2014. Hear from founding members John Jackson and Hon Nathan Guy on how the programme began, where the programme is today with Agribusiness Project Curriculum Director. Kerry Allen and hear first hand from current and past students on the impact the programme is having on careers within the food and fibre sector.
Find out more at https://www.agribusiness.school.nz/
The Beef Progeny Test was a 5-year project run by Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) Genetics, comparing bulls under commercial farming conditions. B+LNZ Genetics has been analysing the dataset collected from those farms to identify valuable insights for stud breeders and commercial farmers. In this podcast, Jason Archer, Livestock Genetics Specialist at B+LNZ Genetics, delves into some of the insights on measuring and predicting finishing performance in beef cattle.
Discussion explores the important role of 'subcutaneous fat', which is measured through rib fat depth, and 'intramuscular fat' also known as marbling, as well as the relationship between these traits. Jason also discusses different tools used to improve carcass traits – such as estimated breeding values (EBVs) and ultrasound scanning – and how effective they are at predicting marbling and rib fat depth within a carcass.
Useful links:
- Read more (and see the graphs referred to in this podcast) on the B+LNZ Genetics Beef Progeny Test Results page: https://www.blnzgenetics.com/beef-progeny-test-results
- Watch a video of Jason discussing these traits at a recent Beef Progeny Test field day: https://youtu.be/B9yhj1k6o9s?si=SI9pCx9cSusjG9_A&t=4703
- B+LNZ’s Informing New Zealand Beef website: www.blnzgenetics.com/informing-nz-beef
Shepherdess is a more than a women’s magazine. It captures everyday life and extraordinary stories and is documenting the things that matter to communities across provincial Aotearoa. From the women, for the land. We are joined by Kristy McGregor, Publisher and Editor-In-Chief, who dives into all of the corners of the venture that started back in 2019.
This podcast was recorded in February 2024.
Farmers can reap many benefits by participating in New Zealand’s national Open Farm Day, set for Sunday, 10 March 2024. We talk with Open Farms founder Daniel Eb about the overwhelmingly positive feedback received from farmer hosts and why a significant number of hosts return each year to be part of the initiative.
Daniel dives into the many benefits for farmers – direct and indirect – and how it is much more manageable than farmers might anticipate.
B+LNZ encourages you to consider hosting an event. Research shows that firsthand experiences are unmatched when it comes to creating better understanding with urban folk.
If you’re considering hosting an Open Farms Day, visit the official website here.
Recorded on a Beef + Lamb New Zealand webinar. Dr. Ty Beal is a well-recognised expert on global food systems, and the impact of dietary patterns on human health and the environment. Through an evidence-based approach, Dr. Beal presents a balanced view for the role of animal sourced foods (with a focus on red meat) in sustainable global diets.
View the presentation with Dr. Beal’s slides on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTb288eHv6c
In the sixth Beef + Lamb New Zealand ‘Parasite Chronicles’ podcast, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks with Carlos Segura about how and why he is reducing drench inputs in his farm system. Carlos manages sheep and beef on Manunui Station, in Taumarunui and was part of a B+LNZ Research funded study, carried out by Massey University, to understand how and why farmers are already farming with less drench.
The Covid pandemic has been a catalyst for change, dramatically transforming consumer behavior, markets and workplaces across the globe. Michael McQueen provides a deep insight into these tectonic shifts, and how red meat sector leaders need to position themselves for success in this emerging new normal.
Recorded at the Red Meat Sector Conference August 2023.
As New Zealand continues to emerge and engage post-Covid trade it is increasingly clear that many of the old trade and market certainties no longer hold, and new risks and opportunities are emerging on the world stage. Join MFAT Deputy Secretary Vangelis Vitalis as he shares his insights into how New Zealand can steer a leading trade strategy in increasingly turbulent waters.
Vangelis was New Zealand’s Chief Negotiator who led the conclusion of negotiations for the New Zealand European Union Free Trade Agreement, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement and before that the Malaysia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement. He was also a member of the negotiating teams for the New Zealand-China FTA and the P4 Agreement.
Recorded at the Red Meat Sector Conference August 2023.
In the fifth of Beef + Lamb New Zealand's 'Parasite Chronicles' podcasts, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks with Ginny Dodunski, Beef + Lamb New Zealand Wormwise Programme Manager about parasites and drench resistance but also the importance of feeding your animals well for animal health in general.
Commercial farms play a key role in Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Informing New Zealand Beef (INZB) programme because they contribute to the accuracy of breeding values of stud bulls. The INZB programme aims to onboard at least 10 farmers each year as part of the Next Generation Commercial Herds initiative. Those selected adopt a recording schedule and can also carry out genotyping of their cow herd and calves and sires. The farmers can benchmark their herd against others involved in the programme, and it also allows for more accurate heifer selection.
In this episode, Richard Scholefield and Patrick Crawshaw, who are involved in the programme, share their first-hand experiences and the benefits they’ve witnessed through participation.
For more information about the INZB programme visit the B+LNZ Genetics website: https://www.blnzgenetics.com/informing-nz-beef
Safer Farms chair Lindy Nelson joins us to discuss the Farm Without Harm strategy, the "Half Arsed Stops Here” campaign and how farmers can get involved in this innovative programme.
For more information, check out the Safer Farms website https://www.saferfarms.co.nz/ and Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Farm Safety Management System resources https://beeflambnz.com/search?query=Farm+Safety
Experienced Bankers Dan Billing and Matt Hood join us to share their insights for effective financial communication and relationships.
Recorded on the fifth Beef + Lamb New Zealand ‘Sow, Grow, Thrive’ webinar, 2 October 2023
Rob Macnab of Total Ag is well known to farmers, and a popular former guest on Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s podcast. In this episode, he discusses blending on-farm excellence with financial planning for lasting prosperity.
Recorded on the fourth Beef + Lamb New Zealand ‘Sow, Grow, Thrive’ webinar, 2 October 2023
Luke Kemeys (Chartered Accountant) joined us to discuss what’s happening in the economy right now and how we got here. We explored 3 key questions to ask yourself, who you need to stick close to and what you need to be asking them. Learn from genuine conversations Luke is currently having with clients in all industries.
Recorded on the third Beef + Lamb New Zealand ‘Sow, Grow, Thrive’ webinar, 25 September 2023
Recorded on the second Beef + Lamb New Zealand ‘Sow, Grow, Thrive’ webinar, 18 September 2023
Frazer Weir is highly regarded by his farming clients and is an experienced financial consultant and chartered accountant. Frazer shared how to utilize your accountant, boost your financial literacy and get a better understanding of your debt, assets and equity. He also talked about where to trim the fat without affecting your production.
Cashflow, debt, interest, schedule prices and adverse events. In this Beef + Lamb New Zealand webinar we talk to farmers Matt Tayler, Patrick Crawshaw and Justine Kidd about the strategies they have implemented through their own unique and shared challenges to get through and get ahead in tough times. Facilitated by Becks Smith (The Whole Story) our farmer panel share openly and honestly about navigating their way through, triggers and planning in their businesses, building a trusted team, looking after their people and looking to the future.
Rural Support Trust are here to support farmers through all kinds of situations, if you, a neighbour or friend need some extra support we encourage you to reach out- 0800787254
Beef + Lamb New Zealand are calling on farmers to take part in groundbreaking Facial Eczema (FE) research by collecting sheep poo. In this episode, Cara Brosnahan, Principal Adviser Animal Health Research, and Suzi Keeling Sector Science Strategy Manager at B+LNZ, talk to Sarah Perriam-Lampp about this three-year research study. The study aims to improve our understanding of FE occurrence in different parts of New Zealand and inform effective disease management strategies for farmers in the future.
https://beeflambnz.com/FEstudy
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
New Zealand’s sophisticated red meat business model is built on the ability to shift volume between export markets to maximise value. In this panel discussion from the 2023 Red Meat Sector Conference, moderated by Fran O’Sullivan, hear from Fred Hellaby (Wilson Hellaby Ltd), Gerard Hickey (First Light Foods), Vangelis Vitalis (MFAT) and Willie Wiese (Alliance Group) on the emerging standards and consumer expectations that our industry will need to meet to stay at the top of the red meat export game.
Nick Beeby is B+LNZ’s General Manager - Market Development. He joined a recent B+LNZ Central South Island Farming for Profit webinar to provide an update on market intelligence, the NZ Farm Assurance Programme (NZFAP) and the sector’s Taste Pure Nature branding initiative.
For more detail, you can watch the video of the webinar here
In the fourth of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s ‘Parasite Chronicles’ podcasts, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks with Dave McKenzie about how and why he is reducing drench inputs in his farm system. Dave farms sheep and beef on Montrose Estate, North Canterbury and was part of a B+LNZ Research funded study, carried out by Massey University, to understand how and why farmers are already farming with less drench. To learn more about the study click here.
Updates on the latest research being undertaken to enhance sheep and beef farm productivity from Dr Lydia Cranston (Massey University), Dr David Stevens (AgResearch) and Professor Derrick Moot (Lincoln University)
Recording of the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Central Otago Farming for Profit Winter Webinar series, June 2023
Tips and tricks for making your fertiliser spend go further, and how to increase nutrient use efficiency using new spreading technologies, from Dr Robert McBride (AgKnowledge) and Dr Ants Roberts (Ravensdown).
Recording of the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Central Otago Farming for Profit Winter Webinar series, June 2023
Recorded on a December 2022 webinar, Suzi Keeling, Sector Science Strategy Manager at Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ), talks with Massey University Researchers Anne Ridler and Karen Hytten about a B+LNZ Research funded project that looked into the reasons why and how NZ farmers are reducing drench input in their farming systems. Ginny Dodunski, B+LNZ Wormwise Programme Manager also joined the webinar for a Q+A session facilitated by Suzi.
For more information on good management practice, check out the B+LNZ Wormwise website: https://wormwise.co.nz/
The Beef + Lamb New Zealand Informing New Zealand Beef programme recently released the findings of a survey into what cattle traits were important to New Zealand’s beef farmers. Dr Jason Archer, B+LNZ Genetics’ Livestock Specialist and Sam Harburg, consultant at AbacusBio, discuss which traits were identified as highest priority by farmers and how the survey findings will inform the development of a genetic evaluation system for the industry.
For more information, see www.blnzgenetics.com/informing-nz-beef
In the second of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s ‘Parasite Chronicles’ podcasts, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks to sheep and beef farmer Andrew Law about managing parasites on his farm in northern Southland.
For more information on good management practice, check out the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Wormwise website: https://wormwise.co.nz/
The Beef + Lamb New Zealand Informing New Zealand Beef (INZB) programme has a strong focus on education and extension design - specifically around the transfer of knowledge to commercial farmers and making cutting-edge tools and resources available to the beef industry. Anna Boyd (Beef Genetics Operations Specialist at B+LNZ Genetics) shares what they’re doing in that space and why it’s important.
For more information, see www.blnzgenetics.com/informing-nz-beef
In the first of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s ‘Parasite Chronicles’ podcasts, Sarah Perriam-Lampp talks to Wairarapa sheep and beef farmer Tom Brown about how he is managing internal parasites with reduced drench on his farm.
For more information on good management practice, check out the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Wormwise website: https://wormwise.co.nz/
The Informing New Zealand Beef (INZB) programme is a seven-year Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures partnership supported by Beef + Lamb New Zealand, the Ministry for Primary Industries and the New Zealand Meat Board. It aims to boost the NZ beef sector's profits by $460 million over the next 25 years. In this episode, Dan Brier (Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s General Manager – Farming Excellence) and Gemma Jenkins (Genetics Programme Manager at Beef + Lamb New Zealand Genetics) provide an overview of the programme’s five key projects and how it will benefit New Zealand’s beef industry.
For more information, see www.blnzgenetics.com/informing-nz-beef
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
In this podcast as part of Otago Catchments Biodiversity Series, Professor David Norton outlines methods for monitoring progress of biodiversity work, in particular using photo-points. This is part of a series created by a collaboration between Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Otago Catchment Community Inc, New Zealand Landcare Trust, with a special thanks to our host farmers, host catchment groups, and Prof. Norton.
Recently commissioned research has confirmed the carbon footprint of New Zealand beef and lamb is amongst the lowest in the world. Additionally, NZ’s sheepmeat is arguably “climate neutral” when warming effect of emissions and on-farm sequestration are both taken into account. Julian Ashby, Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Chief Insight Officer, discusses why B+LNZ commissioned the research, how it was undertaken and how credible the results are.
For more information, check out the webpage: https://beeflambnz.com/news-views/important-new-research-nz-beef-and-lamb-carbon-footprint
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
Farmers are being urged to consider other options to support ewe performance over lambing following a ban on the sale and use of Bionic Capsules. Ginny Dodunski, B+LNZ’s Wormwise Programme Manager, gives an update on the issue and what farmers can do.
For more information on managing internal parasites in ewes pre-lambing, check out our earlier podcast, “Wormwise tips for ewes pre-lamb and lambs at tailing.” https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/podcast/PC140-wormwise-tips-ewes
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
In this podcast as part of Otago Catchments Biodiversity Series, Professor David Norton explains how to plan for biodiversity in a farm planning context including dealing with regulations and why it’s important to work with others. This is part of a series created by a collaboration between Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Otago Catchment Community Inc, New Zealand Landcare Trust, with a special thanks to our host farmers, host catchment groups, and Prof. Norton.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
In this presentation as part of Otago Catchments Biodiversity Series, Professor David Norton explains why native biodiversity is important to farmers. This is part of a video series created by a collaboration between Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Otago Catchment Community Inc, New Zealand Landcare Trust, with a special thanks to our host farmers, host catchment groups, and Prof. Norton.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
In this presentation as part of the Otago Catchments Biodiversity Series, Professor David Norton explains what biodiversity is, why it’s important and his advice for incorporating biodiversity into your farm.
This is part of a video series created by a collaboration between Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Otago Catchment Community Inc, New Zealand Landcare Trust, with a special thanks to our host farmers, host catchment groups, and Professor Norton.
Recorded at the Beef + Lamb New Zealand 2023 AGM. Dan Brier, GM of Farming Excellence at B+LNZ, chairs a panel discussion with Dr Nick Sneddon of Massey University, Dr Axel Heizer of AgResearch and Veterinarian Ginny Dodunski of B+LNZ Wormwise. They discuss current and future research and investment in facial eczema, beef production from dairy genetics and internal parasite management.
We’re joined by Gwyn Jones to discuss ‘Kiwis Backing Farmers’, a joint initiative from 50 Shades of Green and Beef + Lamb New Zealand. This is a simple way for Kiwis to support practical changes that work for the environment and farmers. We need your help to make the Government listen. For more information, visit https://kiwisbackingfarmers.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Dr. James Millner (Massey University) talks about assessing native shrubs as an alternative forage for sheep and beef cattle as part of the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme. Hill Country Futures was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Dr. Nathan Odgers (Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research) talks about setting up the sensor network that was used to measure soil temperature and moisture micro-indicators as part of the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme. Hill Country Futures was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Dr. Nathan Odgers (Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research) talks about how knowing their soil temperature and moisture levels helps farmers. This work is part of the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme, which was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Professor Derrick Moot (Lincoln University) talks about AgYields, a database of pasture and crop yields from throughout New Zealand, that was supported by the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme. Hill Country Futures was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Professor Derrick Moot (Lincoln University) talks about the soil and fertiliser factsheet series developed as part of the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme and why this information is important for farmers to know. Hill Country Futures was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Professor Derrick Moot (Lincoln University) talks about the development of the thermal time-based (TGM) model within the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme and how is it going to help farmers with pasture planning. Hill Country Futures was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Professor Derrick Moot (Lincoln University) talks about the development of the Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator model (APSIM for short), which is one of the key tools to have come out of the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme. Hill Country Futures was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Professor Derrick Moot (Lincoln University) talks about the different hill country study sites within the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme. Hill Country Futures was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Professor Derrick Moot (Lincoln University) talks about how legumes can already help farmers tackle Greenhouse Gas emissions and climate change which was part of the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme. Hill Country Futures was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Back in 2018 Bayley Coates was starting to climb the agricultural ladder but was unsure where she was heading. Since then, she has taken on the management of a 285ha dry stock block in South Otago. She catches up with Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s National Extension Programme Manager Olivia Weatherburn and talks about how the B+LNZ Generation Next programme has helped her progress and how growing a wider network has been so beneficial.
Check out more about the B+LNZ Generation Next programme: https://beeflambnz.com/your-levies-at-work/blnz-generation-next-programme
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Ben and Sarah Dooley farm just outside of Wyndham in Southland and together completed the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Generation Next Programme in 2018. The fourth-generation farmers caught up with B+LNZ National Extension Programme Manager Olivia Weatherburn to share their experience from the programme and reflect on how it has helped them get to where they are today.
Check out more about the B+LNZ Generation Next programme and how to apply by visiting https://beeflambnz.com/your-levies-at-work/blnz-generation-next-programme
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Joan Ropiha (Massey University) talks about her PhD work as part of the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme assessing specific natives shrubs for sheep and beef forage and biodiversity enhancement. Hill Country Futures is a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Dr. Katherine Dixon (Nature Positive) and Angela McFetridge (Design and Capability Lead, Beef + Lamb New Zealand) talk about FarmSalus, thefarmer wellbeing assessment tool which was created as part of the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme. Hill Country Futures is a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Tyler Good is Finishing Manager for Willesden Farm on Banks Peninsula, Canterbury. In this podcast he discusses with Professor Derrick Moot of Lincoln University how he grazes a significant area of lucerne. In particular, they focus on lambing hoggets on lucerne, and finishing lambs to slaughter.
This podcast and the associated videos were funded by the Hill Country Futures programme. For more information, including the videos, visit https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Dr. Adam Barker (Scarlatti) talks about estimating the benefit of the value of the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme and the benefits to hill country farming. Hill Country Futures is a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Angela McFetridge (Design and Capability Lead, Beef + Lamb New Zealand) and Dr. Katherine Dixon (Nature Positive) talk about the interview work within the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme and the conversations they had with farmers to learn what is important to them. Hill Country Futures is a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and wellbeing of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Jake Herron was ready to leave the sheep and beef industry and lost his confidence before completing the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Generation Next Programme back in 2019. He has recently made a big move from Central Otago to Northland for his dream farm management role. Jake caught up with B+LNZ’s National Extension Programme Manager Olivia Weatherburn to share how a mentor and networking has helped him to where he is today.
Check out more about the B+LNZ Generation Next programme and how to apply by visitinghttps://beeflambnz.com/your-levies-at-work/blnz-generation-next-programme
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Georgie Galloway continues to climb the ladder on the dry stock and fattening farm she has been employed on for the last 7 years. Back in 2019 she completed the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Generation Next Programme. She caught up with B+LNZ’s National Extension Programme Manager Olivia Weatherburn to share the key things she learned during the programme and the skills she still uses today because of it.
Check out more about the B+LNZ Generation Next programme and how to apply by visitinghttps://beeflambnz.com/your-levies-at-work/blnz-generation-next-programme
Dr. Suzanne Keeling (Sector Science Strategy Manager, Beef + Lamb New Zealand), Professor Derrick Moot (Lincoln University) and Dr. Katherine Dixon (Nature Positive) give an overview of the Hill Country Futures Partnership programme and how it is supporting hill country farming. Hill Country Futures was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and well-being of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
An overview of the Hill Country Future Partnership programme presented by Sarah Perriam. Hill Country Futures was a long-term $8.1m programme focused on future proofing the profitability, sustainability and well-being of New Zealand’s hill country farmers, their farm systems, the environment and rural communities. For more information: https://www.hillcountryfutures.co.nz/
Recorded on a B+LNZ Farming for Profit webinar, August 2022.
Kate Liversidge is a Senior Manager of Agriculture Operations at Arla Foods. Arla Foods is one of the largest farmer-owned dairy cooperatives in the world and is passionate about producing high-quality milk in a responsible way. Arla’s dairy farmers are already among the most climate-efficient in the world, and they have created the world’s largest eternally-validated climate data set to aid the journey to carbon net zero by 2050.
Kate discusses market trends; environmental challenges; opportunities for farmers and how Arla tackles challenges with a consumer mindset.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Ginny Dodunski is Programme Manager for Wormwise, NZ’s national internal parasite management strategy. On this 1st podcast, taken from several short videos she recorded, Ginny introduces Wormwise, and talks about the need (or otherwise) for drenching ewes pre-lamb or lambs at tailing/docking.
For more information, check out the Wormwise website https://wormwise.co.nz/ and check out the resources on Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Knowledge Hub www.beeflambnz.com
NZ’s pastures face challenges from climate change, the need to improve environmental outcomes, and changing consumer wants. The New Zealand Grassland Association has outlined a way forward for the $30+ billion pastoral industry through a green paper, which follows on from the 2021 Resilient Pastures Symposium. On this webinar recording, some of the paper’s authors discuss the 5 actions we should take.
NZ’s pastures face challenges from climate change, the need to improve environmental outcomes, and changing consumer wants. The New Zealand Grassland Association has outlined a way forward for the $30+ billion pastoral industry through a green paper, which follows on from the 2021 Resilient Pastures Symposium. On this webinar recording, some of the paper’s authors discuss the 5 actions we should take.
The recently signed European Union-New Zealand trade deal received a lot of media attention and there’s some confusion as to why the red meat sector is disappointed. To discuss why Beef + Lamb New Zealand hoped for more and to explain where NZ as a whole did get some gains, we are joined by Frances Duignan, our Senior Manager - International Trade. You can read our article here
The recently signed European Union-New Zealand trade deal received a lot of media attention and there’s some confusion as to why the red meat sector is disappointed. To discuss why Beef + Lamb New Zealand hoped for more and to explain where NZ as a whole did get some gains, we are joined by Frances Duignan, our Senior Manager - International Trade. You can read our article here
Informing New Zealand Beef is a 7 year programme to provide NZ beef farmers with the ability to breed animals better suited to this country. It will develop tools for our unique farm systems, in particular a NZ-specific genetic evaluation. Beef + Lamb New Zealand Genetics Dan Brier (General Manager) and Anna Boyd (Genetics Operations Specialist) join us to discuss the planned programme. For more information: https://beeflambnz.com/your-levies-at-work/informing-new-zealand-beef-programme
Chris, Julia and Richard Dawkins run Pyramid Farm in Marlborough. It’s a diverse business targeting high productivity and profit in a challenging environment. On this podcast, recorded as a webinar for the Award’s field-day, they discuss how they have adapted, tailored and diversified their business. Plus discuss how they wean 60 kg of lamb per ewe when the area average is 40kg.
Recorded at a Beef + Lamb New Zealand webinar, Robyn Dynes (AgResearch), Andrew Morrison (B+LNZ Chair), Emma Crutchley, Mark Cox and Nigel Woodhead speak about how farmers can be open to opportunities in the sector and things that farmers can do to remain resilient in a complex and ever-changing world.
Join Mark Harris, Beef + Lamb New Zealand Lead Extension Manager and Rob Macnab, TotalAg as they discuss how you can respond to disruption behind the farm gate. Topics include: how you can build resilience; options to handle disruption; key tips to making good decisions; continuing to survive and thrive despite outside impacts; plus experiences from farmers and other rural professionals.
This Beef + Lamb New Zealand webinar explains the many possible causes of autumn ill thrift, what we should look out for if our flock isn’t doing as well as we think they should. Mary Bowron discusses trace elements and minerals through the Autumn period, what to look for, actions to take through this period.
This Beef + Lamb New Zealand webinar explains the many possible causes of autumn ill thrift, what we should look out for if our flock isn’t doing as well as we think they should. Charlotte Westwood speaks about understanding plant physiology in Autumn and how to get the most out of the pastures at this time for optimum growth and performance
Following on from the ag-emissions pricing roadshows, DairyNZ chair Jim van der Poel and Beef + Lamb New Zealand chair Andrew Morrison discuss the background to the He Waka Eka Noa proposals, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Note consultation has now closed.
For more information, visit: https://beeflambnz.com/emissions-pricing-consultation
Dan Boulton from Silver Fern Farms joins Mark Harris and Nick Beeby from B+LNZ to discuss the disruptions our industry is seeing to the supply chain from the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. From shipping constraints to staff shortages the processors have been dealing with a range of issues that have constrained capacity. Dan talks through how the industry has been working together to minimise disruption and what they are expecting to see over the next couple of months as the Omicron numbers increase in New Zealand.
The UK left the EU on 31 January 2020 but that didn’t mean Brexit was done. Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s International Trade Team, based in London and Wellington, discusses what has happened, what hasn’t, and what it means for New Zealand’s beef and sheepmeat exports.
On this Scene + Herd podcast we’re joined by Will Halliday, Senior Advisor for Biosecurity and Animal Welfare at Beef + Lamb New Zealand. We discuss the 7 key intervention points for each farm and its people to prevent or reduce risk from weeds, pests and diseases.
For more information, check out B+LNZ’s Drystock Biosecurity Guidelines and have a look at our online Biosecurity module
To get started on your Biosecurity Plan, try the Biosecurity 'Warrant of Fitness'
REMEMBER: If you have any concerns about a weed, a pest or a disease on your farm, call MPI on 0800 809966.
Applying climate science to the Emissions Trading Scheme, He Waka Eke Noa and emissions targets.
Dave Frame and Adrian Macey are world leaders in the science of climate change and its application in policy. This discussion focuses on moving the conversation from emissions to warming and NZ agriculture’s ongoing contribution to warming. It covers how He Waka Eke Noa demonstrates the sector’s commitment to taking action, and the relative roles of targets, metrics and pricing. Find out more about issues such as why knowing your numbers is important, the GWP* metric and what going into the ETS would mean for agriculture.
Finding our talents and growing our wellbeing are key strategies to handling the challenges of life. On a Beef + Lamb New Zealand Farming for Profit webinar, Doug Avery shared this practical look at how you find great ability to grow your life and your business. Doug also gave tips on helping others who are doing it tough.
Recorded live at a Beef + Lamb New Zealand Marlborough Farming for Profit Field day, this debate is a light hearted and amusing discussion on whether to measure farm production on a per head or per hectare performance. Starring Ian Knowles, Jo Grigg, Fraser Avery, and Dr Anne Ridler, facilitated by Greg Sheppard
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
After the B+LNZ Central Canterbury Farming for Profit “Connected to you - moving up the ladder” seminar we caught up with guest speaker Will Meads, Senior Relationship Manager ANZ. Will discusses how to get into an equity growth pathway to achieve farm ownership.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
After the B+LNZ Central Canterbury Farming for Profit “Connected to you - moving up the ladder” seminar we caught up with guest speaker Sarah Barr, Coach Approach Rural, to talk through ways to highlight future pathways for growth and upskilling along each stage of a farming career. Her key topics include communication, mentoring and where to start with staff and people management.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
After the B+LNZ Central Canterbury Farming for Profit “Connected to you - moving up the ladder” seminar we caught up with guest speaker Boyd MacDonald, GM Lonestar Farms to talk through his career pathway, advice around how to make the most of your career opportunities in order to climb the ladder and how Lonestar Farms approaches supporting farm staff in training and career progression.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
After the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Central Canterbury Farming for Profit “Connected to you - moving up the ladder” seminar we caught up with guest speaker Jamie Fitzgerald to talk through tackling the big challenges. Jamie is a modern-day adventurer who has walked unaided to the South Pole, holds the world record for rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, fronts television documentaries First Crossings & Intrepid NZ and is CEO of consultancy business, Inspiring Performance.
This panel discussion recorded live at B+LNZ’s FarmSmart Conference 2021 was facilitated by Denise Bewsell with four farmers from different Action Groups who discussed the changes they have made to their businesses as a result of being part of the programme.
To find out more about B+LNZ Action Groups, visit https://beeflambnz.com/action-groups
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Richard Parkes is a partner at Cavell-Leitch and a leading legal expert in Agribusiness matters. Richard also has a particular interest in assisting farming families with farm succession plans and asset protection structures. He spoke to the 2021 FarmSmart conference about where farm succession usually goes wrong, and the keys to getting it right
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Dave Clouston was born and bred in the Mackenzie Country, farmed in a family partnership, went through succession, development and a turn as a Monitor Farmer, before a serious farm accident changed it all. Dave talks about facing change and adversity, and how he has learned that people are more often a product of their choices rather than the challenges they have faced.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Jana Hocken worked as an engineer with global giant Toyota, and saw the value of their remarkable ‘lean thinking’, continuous improvement practices and culture. Since 2017 Jana has helped to bring lean concepts to farming, implementing lean on her family’s 1,000 cow dairy farm in the Manawatu. She has founded The LeanFarm Project to help create awareness of lean in farming and joins us to discuss what it is and how NZ farmers can benefit from it. Find out more at her website https://www.leanfarm.nz/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Fraser is the Chair of the B+LNZ Northern South Island Farmer Council, and the Avery family farm ‘Bonavaree’ at Seddon, Marlborough. Fraser talks about their model for resilience, including the importance of people, learning, communication, taking time for yourself, and having pride in what you do.
Professor Paul Kenyon, Head of the School of Agriculture and Environment at Massey University, discusses managing ewes through pregnancy and lambing during a challenging winter. Key points covered: Foetal aging to target feeding levels and prioritise mobs; Ewe feed intake and demand during pregnancy and lambing; Pre lamb shearing advantages and disadvantages depending on timing; Early weaning of lambs.
Triple Drench Resistance is here, and every month it will affect more farms. Farms without it should do everything they can to prevent it, but if it happens there are still options. We are joined by Sam Johnston, Hamish Blundell and Mike Cranstone who each farm properties with Triple Drench Resistance. They tell us how it arose, what they are doing about it, and the progress they have made. For more information about drench resistance, head to www.wormwise.co.nz
On this RMPP conference call from 16 November 2016, we discuss facial eczema – its causes, and how farmers of sheep, cattle and deer can avoid, remedy or mitigate its impacts. Robert Carter is Chair of the Facial Eczema Working Group that brings together sheep, beef, deer and dairy industries, and Dr Neale Towers has worked on FE matters for most of his career. As well as detailed discussion of the fungus that causes the problem and the risk factors, we discuss what farmers should be monitoring for pastures and animals, and the methods that are proven to make a beneficial difference.
In 2020, over 3500 people visited a farm on an open day to see what happens behind the gates. In 2021 the Open Farms day is back and will be bigger and better. Founder Daniel Eb talks about why the programme was created and what it achieved in just one year, and talks about what the farmers taking part gain from the experience as well as the value to our industry. For more information and to sign up, check out Open Farms website , and have a listen to our previous podcast on the things attendees got from the day On Farm experiences build support for farming On Farm experiences build support for farming
B+LNZ Environmental Policy Manager Corina Jordan outlines the environmental opportunities facing the sector and the work the team is doing to help farmers navigate regional and national policy changes.
Former Beef + Lamb New Zealand innovation farmers Matthew and Shona Tayler farm 5600ha Lorne Peak Station near Garston in Southland. With a balance of steep hill country and stony flats, Lorne Peak has undergone a transformation to a highly productive breeding and finishing operation. During their tenure as Innovation Farmers, the couple utilised a combination of Lucerne and annual clovers along with changes to both beef and sheep management to drive levels of beef performance and profitability previously thought to be unattainable on Lorne Peak. Matthew charts aspects of the journey reflecting on the drivers of change and how a team approach has provided confidence to speed up the process.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Following the 2020 Beef + Lamb New Zealand Progressive Ag Conference join Southern South Island Extension Manager Olivia Ross as she takes a look back at hogget lambing over the past 10 years and how hogget lambing can be part of your farming operation. She is joined by Agribusiness Consultant Deane Carson and Southland farmer Geordie Eade sharing their experiences.
For more information check out B+LNZ’s hogget lambing guidebook “Hogget Performance: Unlocking the Potential”
Guest speaker Blair Nelson who, along with his wife Anna, farms 1,100ha of hill country in the King Country. The couple were Beef + Lamb New Zealand Innovation Farmers and sought to lift profitability on their cultivable land by $200/ha. Focusing on specialist forages, they generated average post-weaning lamb growth rates of 240 g/day. While primarily used for lambs, this feed was also used for growing out hoggets and had a profound effect on their farm system. They believe that this focus on feeding sets the potential for the life-time performance.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Southland farm consultant Graham Butcher was a speaker at the 2020 Beef + Lamb New Zealand Progressive Ag Conference. He discusses some of the practical farming strategies and lessons that can help increase the percentage of lambs finished off ewes at weaning and lift your profitability and productivity.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
As farmers and growers, social media is useful to tell our stories and also to interact with the general public and urban counterparts. Following the 2020 Beef + Lamb NZ Progressive Ag Conference Rowena Duncum, Executive Producer of “The Country” and Southland farmer Ben Dooley discuss how we can use social media to its best effect and the do’s and don’ts to be successful.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Central Otago farmer Ben Trotter gave a practical overview of profitable bull beef finishing to the 2020 Beef + Lamb NZ Progressive Ag Conference. He discussed how you could make a system like his work for your business
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Independent forestry consultant Stuart Orme spoke at the 2020 Beef + Lamb New Zealand Progressive Ag Conference. He discusses how multiple uses of plants/trees can add value to a farming operation and reduce overall farm emissions without a negative impact on the normal farm business.
For more information check out these resources:
https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/trees-farm.pdf
https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/one-billion-trees
Today we celebrate our 100th Scene + Herd podcast, and soon we will reach 100,000 unique downloads!
Rob Davison, who has been at B+LNZ for over 40 years talks about why the Economic Service was formed back in 1950, how they go about their job and what they provide for our red meat industry. Much of the information from the Farm Survey is available for you to use, free of charge, from our website or on request.
We posted our first podcast back in April 2016, and quickly learned that it is a great way for farmers to tune into interesting topics while keeping busy on-farm. We’ve covered everything from farm Health and Safety to consumer preferences in China, but hearing from farmers and other experts in farm management is one of the main reasons for the channel. If you’re a new listener or long-term, swipe to check out the most popular interviews.
Are you wondering what the recent proposed changes to Otago’s water and waste plans might mean for you? Are you thinking about making a submission?
Join Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Olivia Ross on this podcast to hear from Lauren Philips, B+LNZ Environmental Policy Manager for the South Island about the latest Otago Regional Council Plan Change and what this will be mean for farmers. Two plan changes to the Otago Regional Plan have been notified by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) which will affect drystock and dairy farmers in Otago – the Omnibus Plan Change (PC 1 and 8) and Plan Change 7 (Deemed Permits). (The Omnibus Plan Change has two names, with the other name being the Water Quality Plan Change).
Check out our webpage for more information
Did you know that 50% of accidents on farm happen after 3pm? And that there are 3 simple steps you can take to dramatically reduce the impact of some of the most common accidents? Al McCone is Engagement Lead at Worksafe, and joins us for an update to his earlier podcast (link below). As well as some fascinating stats about when accidents occur and why, he discusses 3 key things Worksafe recommend to give farmers a ‘softer landing’ in the event of an accident: seatbelts, Crush Prevention Devices (CPDs) on quad bikes, and devices that can autonomously send a signal for help. In the longer term, Al suggests we start looking at how we work to see if there are changes we can make to reduce the probability of incidents occurring.
Al’s earlier podcast is here: Farming Health and Safety
Details about ACC’s support for the costs of CPDs is here: Helping to buy crush protection devices for quad bikes at work
In the third podcast from our Catchment Community Group (CCG) forum Peter Mitchell (North Otago), Mark Adams (Fairlie), Josh Brown (North Canterbury), Roger Dalrymple (Rangitikei), Anna Nelson (King Country) and Rick Burke (Bay of Plenty) tell us about some of the things that can go wrong, how to get the messages out to the community and others, and answer a range of questions from listeners.
For more detail, check out our Catchment Community Group Programme webpage
More background on the farmer speakers and their groups
Susan Kilsby became ANZ Bank’s Agriculture Economist in late 2018. As NZ arguably faces the toughest economic situation since World War 2, Susan discusses how the primary industry can prepare our businesses to be resilient to economic downfall. She will also touch on trends seen in other sectors and future predictions for the second half of 2020.
Trevor Cook from Totally Vets Manawatu is well-known by farmers around the country for his work in farm consultancy, extension and research. In this call, Trevor will share his knowledge and insights for fine tuning your animal health plan following the dry autumn and heading into lambing and calving.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
In the second podcast from our Catchment Community Group (CCG) forum, we get advice, tips and tricks for setting up and operating a Catchment Community Group. Hear from Peter Mitchell (North Otago), Mark Adams (Fairlie), Josh Brown (North Canterbury), Roger Dalrymple (Rangitikei), Anna Nelson (King Country) and Rick Burke (Bay of Plenty)
For more detail, check out our Catchment Community Group Programme webpage
More background on the farmer speakers and their groups
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
In this first podcast from our Catchment Community Group (CCG) forum, we talk with a group of farmers about their groups, why they were formed and what they are doing. Hear how CCGs are about so much more than just water from Peter Mitchell (North Otago), Mark Adams (Fairlie), Josh Brown (North Canterbury), Roger Dalrymple (Rangitikei), Anna Nelson (King Country) and Rick Burke (Bay of Plenty)
For more detail, check out our Catchment Community Group Programme webpage
More background on the farmer speakers and their groups
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Kerry Harmer and her husband Paul farm Castleridge Station in the Ashburton Gorge and were concerned about the economic loss associated with lamb wastage, as well as the animal welfare implications.
Determined to address the issue, the couple have set up a lamb-rearing system – which includes automatic feeders – that minimises lamb losses and generates a profit of $50/head (including labour costs). Kerry was a popular presenter on Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Ladies’ Virtual Muster and joins Regional Associate Briar Huggett to discuss the Harmers’ journey and tips and tricks she has for other lamb rearers.
NZAgBiz Feed guide for calves, lambs and other animals
Artificial lamb rearing - Managing abomasal bloat
Video: Orphan lamb rearing
The second podcast in the Beef + Lamb New Zealand Taranaki Farming for Profit Lifting Sheep Productivity series features Professor Paul Kenyon, Head of the Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences at Massey University. Paul has led a considerable amount of sheep research focused on improving on-farm productivity and profitability and is a key contributor to many of B+LNZ’s resource booklets and factsheets.
In this podcast, Paul discusses taking care of ewes through pregnancy, making sure their feed needs are met for health, welfare and productivity.
For more information, check out our resource book “A Guide to Feed Planning for Sheep Farmers”
You can also watch the video of Paul’s presentation with his slides.
At the age of 10, Hannah knew she wanted to work with food, and a few years on she is doing exactly that. Little did she know that moving to London and beginning her butchery apprenticeship would lead to a life focused on sustainability and zero-waste eating. Ten years and six continents later she is known as the lady of “A Lady Butcher”. Her passion is creating purposeful meats from New Zealand products and to create truly local charcuterie. Hear her inspiring journey as she joins Beef + Lamb NZ Southern South Island Extension Manager Olivia Ross to discuss how starting a business was for her along with how to get the most out of NZ meat products.
Check out Hannah’s webpage 'A Lady Butcher’ along with the Meat Business Women - the professional networking group for women working in the meat industry
The first of this Beef + Lamb New Zealand Taranaki Farming for Profit Lifting Sheep Productivity series features Professor Paul Kenyon, Head of the Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences at Massey University. Paul has led a considerable amount of sheep research focused on improving on-farm productivity and profitability and is a key contributor to many of B+LNZ’s resource booklets and factsheets.
In this podcast, Paul shares many of his insights and key performance indicators for a high-performance sheep system.
For more information, check out our resource book “Make every mating count”
In early 2020, the first Open Farms day was held, with 45 farms welcoming non-farming visitors. The “Our Land and Water National Science Challenge” surveyed those visitors to find out their thoughts about the opportunity and on farming in general. We’re joined by Senior Social Scientist at AgResearch Dr. James Turner to discuss the survey findings, what it means or could mean for farming in New Zealand, and also to talk about the work of the National Science Challenges.
B+LNZ article on the survey
Open Farms website
Our Land an Water National Science Challenge
(Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand)
Fourth-generation North Canterbury farmer Andy Fox has personally experienced and beaten the “down side” of stress and knows the difference the support of others can make when times are tough. Over the last 30 years, Andy has created 40 top lessons from his farming experiences. In this presentation for the B+LNZ Southland Farming for Profit ‘Strategic Pathways to Success’ seminar he discusses some of his key tips and how you can apply them in your business.
(Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand)
Every week is changing when it comes to combating feed shortages and planning for future is as crucial as ever to ensure that feed levels come spring are adequate. In this presentation for the B+LNZ Southland Farming for Profit ‘Strategic Pathways to Success’ seminar, Deane takes us through some strategies to consider as we head into the winter and coping with excess stock numbers.
Part of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Farming for Profit Hot Topic series.
Hayden Trotter is Principal Partner at Allan McNeill Chartered Accountants in Feilding. In this podcast, he shares his accounting knowledge and insights in-light of the current drought and Covid-19 pandemic, discussing the Government subsidies, tax considerations, and highlights COVID-19’s impact on the local commercial sector. Raised on a farm, Hayden’s strength is his ability to understand farming, working with many farming families and businesses across the Manawatu and Rangitikei regions.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
‘Meat the Need’ is a charitable programme to supply high quality red meat to families in need in New Zealand. We’re joined by the people behind the charity, Siobhan O’Malley and Wayne Langford, to discuss how it works and where the idea came from, why more farmers should take part and what they can do to support it.
For more information, check out the article on B+LNZ’s website and visit the programme’s website. You can also follow Meat the Need on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Lambs born to ewes with udder defects are 3 times more likely to die, and those that survive will be about 2kg lighter at weaning on average. Anne Ridler is Associate Professor of Sheep and Beef Cattle Health and Production at Massey University, and on this podcast she discusses how a simple udder check can significantly improve productivity of a flock. We discuss the research, when to check udders and what to look for.
For more detail, check out the video and factsheet:
Video
Factsheet
Storyteller, author, company director and ‘once a farmer’ – Doug Avery is well known for the transformation of his farming business and, just as significantly, his personal transformation. He joins us to talk about his advice for farm families in this time of crisis, including how to see the silver lining and how to share the load. For more detail, check out his article on the Beef + Lamb New Zealand website, and his website where you can find a copy of his book.
Doug’s article
Doug’s Resilient Farmer website
Rural Support Trust
On this Drought Drop in Briar Huggett discusses financial planning and decision making through a drought, COVID-19 and in to the future with Dan Billing, ANZ Senior Relationship Manager and Sean Stafford, ANZ Regional Manager (Wairarapa/Tararua).
For resources on getting through a drought follow this link to the Beef + Lamb drought resources.
Ginny Dodunski is a Senior Vet with Totally Vets, Taumaranui. In her 1st podcast she discussed issues for sheep flocks in autumn and early winter. This week in Part 2 she shares her advice on looking after cattle in autumn and winter, whether calves, drystock or pregnant cows and heifers. Internal parasites are a hot topic again, Cooperia and Liver Fluke in particular. As well as the possibility of trace element deficiency, Ginny stresses the value of monitoring and testing to find the cause. As always, many animal health challenges start with nutrition and Ginny reinforces the need for Body Condition Scoring for cows too. Plus much more! Links: Ginny’s article The Wormwise resource book The Wormwise learning module Beef Cow Body Condition Scoring Totally Vets’ Poisonous Plants & Toxic Compounds webpage
We’re joined by Plant and Food Research’s Brendon Malcom and Shane Maley, for an update on their research into catch crops – annual crops sown after winter forage crops that may reduce N leaching. They discuss the key success factors such as early sowing, using the right equipment, getting a good plant population (and how to do that), and, ironically, where a dressing of N fertiliser can also help. Plus, they update us on their research, including work done in Southland, and much more.
Their previous podcast is here: https://beeflambnz.podbean.com/e/catch-crops-a-way-to-reduce-n-leaching-after-winter-crops-with-dr-brendon-malcolm-plant-food-research/
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
We’re joined by Hugh Good, B+LNZ’s Global Market Intelligence & Research Manager, to discuss the initial impact of COVID-19 on the behaviour of consumers in China, and what it means for our beef and sheepmeat. Some fascinating findings about what is happening as China comes out of the pandemic, including demand for red meat, changes in buying and eating patterns, and a boost for beef in comparison to pork. What does this mean for NZ exports, and will the impacts be long term? Plus, the value of social media as a source of market intelligence.
[EDIT: originally it was reported that wet market lockdown would be nationwide, this was amended later to only the closure of wet markets selling wild animals - others remained open. The podcast has been edited to reflect this.]
For more information, read our article here https://beeflambnz.com/news-views/growing-interest-beef-and-sheepmeat-china The full report is available at that link (PDF 2MB)
Ginny is a Senior Vet with Totally Vets, Taumaranui, well known in sheep and beef circles throughout the North Island for her animal health work, her research and her involvement in B+LNZ extension activity. She joins us to talk about some key issues for sheep farmers in any autumn, but in particular when feed is tight. We talk about internal parasites in lambs, what it takes to get a good lamb from a good hogget that becomes a good 2-tooth, and the value of Body Condition Scoring for ewe flocks.
Links:
Ginny’s article The Wormwise resource book The Wormwise learning module Ewe body condition scoring module
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
As we head into winter in a ‘normal’ year, it’s the time to set up for next spring and summer. This is especially important when feed supply is affected by weather events such as drought, and in 2020 is compounded by restrictions on processing and sale yards. Lee Matheson is an agribusiness consultant and Managing Director of Perrin Ag. He joins us to discuss his priorities for farm businesses at this time of year, including sticking to plans, making objective decisions on the most profitable use of feed in front of us (rather than feed already eaten), setting a ‘drop dead’ date (and what that means), the opportunity to re-examine goals and objectives, and much more.
In our second chat with Tom, following on from his ‘Tactics for Tough Times’ advice, we talk about longer term farm management. Tom’s advice is simple – stick to the basics. But what does he mean by that, and what are the basics? We talk about understanding animal requirements, managing complex sheep and beef systems successfully, feed planning, assessing pastures and feed, and much more.
To find the feed planning resources Tom refers to, visit https://beeflambnz.com/news-views/feed-budgeting
Breakfeeds are shorter podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Online selling of livestock had slowly been growing prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the nationwide lockdown removed the opportunity of the traditional saleyards. While they can’t replace the social contact, Rob Macnab, farmer and Agribusiness Consultant with TotalAg joins us to discuss some of the options out there to sell stock online, and discusses their finer points. Plus, he reminds us that we still need that social contact and sharing of ideas with others in farming, and has some suggestions on how to do that.
For more detail, check out Rob’s article for B+LNZ: https://beeflambnz.com/news-views/how-sell-stock-uncertain-world
Few people are as well-known and as well respected in the Farm Systems Science space as Tom Fraser of Fraser Pastoral (formerly AgResearch and DSIR). A very popular speaker at Beef + Lamb New Zealand events, Tom joins us to discuss options for managing times when feed supply is tight on farm be it through drought, flood or lack of processing capacity.
To find the B+LNZ resources Tom refers to, check out our website. Feed planning Body condition scoring Extreme Dry Management
B+LNZ’s 1st Future Farm is Lanercost, a 1310ha property in the hills near Cheviot. One of the key tools the Future Farm uses to help its planning is OverseerFM.
On this podcast we talk with Kirsti Lovie, Future Farms Insight Manager at B+LNZ and Alastair Taylor, Business Development Manager for Overseer Ltd, about how the model has grown from its early use to do soil fertility recommendations, and how Lanercost now use it to assess stocking decisions.
We discuss how they use it to provide information that can be used for programmes such as NZ Farm Assurance Programme and Taste Pure Nature, and how it is used in conjunction with other farm software such as Farmax and FarmIQ to make proactive farming decisions, while at the same time addressing regulatory requirements. We also discuss new uses of the tool, such as assessing and planning carbon sequestration.
For more information on the Future Farm, visit https://www.futurefarm.co.nz For more on OverseerFM go to https://www.overseer.org.nz/ And visit B+LNZ’s YouTube channel for some background videos on OverseerFM https://www.youtube.com/user/beeflambnz/playlists
‘Breakfeeds’ are short podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Richmond Beetham, a consultant for BakerAg talks with Beef + Lamb New Zealand Extension Manager Mark Harris and Wairarapa farmer Sam Johnston about how best to tackle a drought.
They discuss the key principles of drought management from managing the people side of the business to the everyday farm management decisions that need to be made, such as de-stocking or supplementary feeding. The overall theme is making a plan so have a listen and then sit down and decide what you can do now in your business to minimise stress on you, your staff and your stock.
You can read more of Richmond’s advice here: https://beeflambnz.com/news-views/once-it-rains
Corina Jordan (B+LNZ's Environment Policy Lead) explains the Government’s new proposed National Policy Statement for Indigenous Biodiversity and its implications for sheep and beef farmers. Consultations close on 14 March.
Please check out the B+LNZ website for information about attending a workshop and making a submission at https://beeflambnz.com/npsbiodiversity2020
Download the presentation slideshow at https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/national-policy-statement-indigenous-biodiversity-presentation
Beef + Lamb New Zealand is working alongside DairyNZ and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) as part of the Mycoplasma bovis eradication programme. As at 29 January, 120 beef properties have tested positive for M. bovis. While we are confident M. bovis is not widespread in the beef industry, MPI is carrying out a National Beef Survey to ensure this is indeed the case. Testing is being carried out on a sample of farms when they undergo TB testing. To discuss the survey, we’re joined on this podcast by MPI’s Alex Crosbie (Beef & Drystock Programme Manager), Amy Burroughs (Milk Surveillance Programme Manager) and Mark Neill (Principle Advisor, Epidemiology). For more information: https://beeflambnz.com/news-views/mbovis-beef-herd-survey
We talk with Daniel Eb of Dirt Road Comms, the founder of Open Farms, about the need to bridge the urban-rural divide. This podcast was recorded ahead of the first Open Farm day in New Zealand on Sunday 1 March 2020 which proved extremely successful. The next Open Farms Day is on 21 February 2021. Like Open Farms, B+LNZ believes that providing New Zealanders with the opportunity to have a genuine on-farm experience is hugely important for our industry and country. Daniel discusses why this is important and valuable for farmers as well as visitors. We encourage farmers to register to host an Open Farms event on Sunday 21 February here: https://www.openfarms.co.nz/
Eugene and Pania King farm Kiriroa Station, Gisborne, and are the 2019 winners of the Ahuwhenua Trophy. For 12 years they farmed in a whānau partnership, who all had one goal in common, to one day all own their own farms. The whānau knew that with hard work, commitment, and determination their goal would be reached – this is the story of that journey, the lessons learned along the way, and their business and whanau. For more information on the Kings and the Ahuwhenua Trophy: click here.
The story of Brexit continues to evolve, and with it the implications for NZ’s beef and sheepmeat industry. Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Manager – International Trade is Esther Guy-Meakin and she joins us for an update on the news the Brexit deal has been delayed to January 2020 while the United Kingdom holds a general election, and what it all means for the UK, the EU and the rest of the world, in particular NZ farming. For the latest Brexit news from B+LNZ, check out our website.To keep up with our trade team’s work, you can visit their webpage and follow Esther on Twitter: @eguymeakin
Beef + Lamb New Zealand have released a new report to strengthen New Zealand’s red meat sector by understanding the potential disruption that could occur in future as a consequence of long term consumer trends and technological change. The report also suggests how we can minimise or mitigate that disruption. We’re joined by Hugh Good, Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Global Market Intelligence and Research Manager to talk about the report, why it was commissioned and what it recommends. Some fascinating insights and ideas, including the opportunities for enhancing health benefits from NZ’s red meat, whether NZ has a ‘food culture’ we can export rather than just ingredients, and even whether the products we market have to be grown in NZ. You can find the report and a summary of it on our website https://beeflambnz.com/news-views/shaping-future-red-meat-sector-report as well as Hugh’s contact details if you have questions or feedback.
Jack Cocks lives and farms on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, and Joanne Stevenson is a Principal Consultant at Resilient Organisations while farming in North Canterbury. In 2013 Jack experienced an unforeseen and life-changing medical event, which gave him and his family some marked insight to preparing a business to deal with change, both large and small. They discuss what resilience is, and what farm businesses and farming families can do to prepare for the future even though they can’t change it.
Mike Petersen has a lot of hats – company director, farmer-elected Director and Chair of SheepCo, Meat and Wool New Zealand and Beef + Lamb New Zealand amongst others. First and foremost however he is a farmer, and as NZ’s Special Agriculture Trade Envoy it was his role as a farmer to speak with other nations’ farmers and representatives about the opportunities in trade. With just a few months left in the role, he joins us to discuss what he’s seen in his time, ‘Black Swan’ events like African Swine Fever in China, and why NZ’s relatively small agricultural economy has such a big leadership role to play. Make sure to follow him on Twitter, he’s always got an interesting take on events @tepunamike
Julia Jones is Head of Analytics at NZX and a former KPMG farm enterprise specialist. We caught up with her at Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Southern South Island winter seminar, and talked about change, threats and opportunities for NZ agriculture. Is change really more significant for farming now than ever before, or does it just feel that way? What can (and should) we do about it? Plus, if she won Lotto, would she buy a farm, and if so, what sort? Check out B+LNZ’s information on alternative protein: https://beeflambnz.com/news-views/alternative-proteins-research-published And follow Julia’s views of the world on Twitter @juliajones110
The Levy Oration is one of NZGA’s highest honours, and commemorates the lifetime efforts of agricultural science pioneer, Sir E. Bruce Levy, in developing and communicating grassland science at the old Plant Research Bureau, later DSIR's Grasslands Division, and currently part of AgResearch in Palmerston North. It allows an invited speaker time to speak on the topic of their choosing. Prof Stephen Goldson has worked for 30 years on long-term projects focused mainly on the biological suppression of New Zealand’s worst exotic pasture pest species. This is an area he continues to contribute to.
This week we wrap up our mini-series on farming bulls for beef. This podcast covers a range of topics, as Richard Plunket of North Otago and Bob Thomson of AgFirst share some top tips, tricks and tools for farming bulls well, making money, looking after the aninals and the farmers, and taking care of the farm environment. For more information on farming bull beef, and beef production in general, check out our Guide to New Zealand Cattle Farming (6.6mb): https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/guide-new-zealand-cattle-farming
North Otago bull beef farmer Richard Plunket and AgFirst consultant Bob Thomson talk day to day management of bulls for beef production. Topics covered include: systems; break size and shape; shifting frequency; mob size; matching stocking rate, demand and pasture supply; rotation length; all-grass wintering or crops, and more.
Richard and Andrea Plunket farm 440ha near Oamaru, and run about 300 Friesian bulls as part of their system. Richard was part of the RMPP pilot farm project with Alliance Group, exploring information transfer for farmers, and he had the chance to visit some top performing bull beef farms. In this podcast, he shares some of what he learned, and we discuss bull beef farming with renowned agricultural consultant Bob Thomson, of AgFirst. Topics covered include considering the whole farm system, why bulls are an underutilised option, management systems, and the key points for success.
Robyn Dynes (AgResearch) led a panel discussion at Farmsmart 2019 with Dr Judy Lawrence (Senior Resarch Fellow, NZ Climate Change Research Institute) and Peter Ettema (Manager for the International Policy Directorate, MPI). The panel addresses the biggest issues facing our sector – the Zero Carbon Bill, the Emissions Trading Scheme, and climate change. What does all this mean for our red meat producers?
Fran O’Sullivan (NZ Herald) talks with John Loughlin (Meat Industry Association), Lindy Nelson (Agri-Women’s Development Trust) and Andrew Morrison (Chair, Beef + Lamb New Zealand) at the conclusion of the 2019 Red Meat Sector Conference. The panel discuss the outlook for red meat and red meat farming. Topics include markets, policies and trends, nutrition, promotion, and the role of each of us in the industry. Check out B+LNZ’s YouTube channel for more presentations from the conference: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9ZU9GuQ1pFbtaMuNtb5DpS_JtZn7m-4q
We’re joined by B+LNZ’s Esther Guy-Meakin, Manager – International Trade and Swetta Magan, Trade Policy Advisor to discuss the work their team does on behalf of beef and sheepmeat levypayers, and why trade policy isn’t about winning but rather about strong agreements. We discuss why levies are used to support this work, what has been achieved so far, what the team are currently working on for farmers and what they see as issues for the future. Topics include: CPTPP, tariffs, FTAs, Brexit, quotas, co-operation and collaboration by NZ Inc, deals and no-deals and why calm, stable and predictable trade is good for everyone.
Check out more at https://beeflambnz.com/your-levies-at-work and follow Esther on Twitter: @eguymeakin
Rowena is proud to be the producer of The Country, the longest running rural radio show in New Zealand. Along with pushing the buttons to take the show to air at midday each weekday, she also contributes to the show’s direction, hunts down people for interviews and tries to keep the show’s host Jamie Mackay in line – as NZ’s champion cow-pat thrower and the 2nd best gumboot thrower in the world, she’s more than qualified. Rowena shares tips a woman with a passion for a similar career or similar might benefit from, and talks about how farming can use social media better. Follow her on Twitter, her handle is: @rowie_nz
High-quality, legume based forages offer sheep and cattle farmers the opportunity to achieve higher liveweight gains from young stock. Based on red and white clover, with plantain and sometimes chicory, they may be especially useful when it can be difficult to maintain high quality and high legume content in grass swards. We’re joined by Paul Kenyon from Massey University to talk about the pros and cons of these specialist forages, when and how to incorporate them into a farm system, and how to get the best out of them.
Early weaning of lambs, onto high quality and legume dominant forage, can be a valuable management tool that can advantage both ewes and lambs. We are joined on this podcast by Professor Paul Kenyon of Massey University to discuss when it can be beneficial for sheep farms and how to do it right. For more information, check out our factsheet that Paul wrote: https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/early-weaning or other material on early weaning: https://beeflambnz.com/search?term=early+weaning
Louise is a small block owner in Central Southland. Emigrating from the family crop farm in the UK 19 years ago to follow her passion for livestock, she has worked on both dairy and sheep farms before focusing on animal nutrition for the last 5 years. Several events in Louise’s life have led her to focus on resilience and passing that message on to help others. We discuss recommendations she has from others and the key lessons she has learned.
B+LNZ’s Chief Insight Officer Jeremy Baker explains the reasoning and science-based approach behind our submission on the Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Bill currently being considered by Parliament.
Geordie McCallum, Rural Business Consultant with Wairarapa Property Consultants joins us to discuss the issues and processes of successful Farm Business Succession and Transition. In the third of 3 podcasts, we discuss the last 2 steps – ‘Draft a plan that meets the needs of the family’ and ‘Find a structure that enables the plan’. For more resources on Farm Transition and Succession, visit www.beeflambnz.com and search for Succession, and check out the Red Meat Profit Partnership website https://www.rmpp.co.nz/page/fbo/
What if family +farming does not equal complete happiness? Loshni Manikam is Fonterra’ s Dairy Woman of the Year 2018, a former lawyer, a leadership coach and looks after 600 cows and 3 children in Southland with her husband. She joined us at Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Southern Ladies Long Lunch to discuss why farming women feel guilty when they think of doing something for themselves and why it is so important to break out of that guilt cycle. You’ll want to find out more, so check out her Thriving Farming Women Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/thrivingfarmingwomen/ Break-Feeds are short podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand.
Geordie McCallum, Rural Business Consultant with Wairarapa Property Consultants joins us to discuss the issues and processes of successful Farm Business Succession and Transition. In the second of 3 podcasts, we discuss the next 2 steps – ‘Engage as a family’ and ‘Consider options’. For more resources on Farm Transition and Succession, visit www.beeflambnz.com and search for Succession, and check out the Red Meat Profit Partnership website https://www.rmpp.co.nz/page/fbo/
Break-Feeds are short podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand. This week, we catch up with Kate Meads, formerly known as the Nappy Lady for her modern take on the cloth nappy, now travelling the country working with 49 District and Regional Councils to help people reduce the amount of waste they produce, and recycle more efficiently. To find out more, check out her website www.katemeads.co.nz and her videos at www.wasted.co.nz
Geordie McCallum, Rural Business Consultant with Wairarapa Property Consultants joins us to discuss the issues and processes of successful Farm Business Succession and Transition. In the first of 3 podcasts, we discuss the first 2 steps – ‘Establish the end game’, and ‘What will your business allow you to do’. For more resources on Farm Transition and Succession, visit www.beeflambnz.com and search for Succession, and check out the Red Meat Profit Partnership website https://www.rmpp.co.nz/page/fbo/
Catchment groups form to take actions to achieve a long-term vision based on a healthy environment (from water quality to biodiversity goals) and a thriving community. On this Beef + Lamb New Zealand Scene + Herd podcast we are joined by Roger Dalrymple who farms Waitatapia Station near Bulls and is Chair of the Rangitikei Rivers Community Collective Incorporated, as well as Richard Parkes, Environment Capability Manager (North Island) for B+LNZ. Hear about the value catchment community groups can add to our environment and our businesses, whatever the industry, as well as the benefits to farmers and non-farmers. Roger share’s his first-hand experience of the need for the groups, and how to get them going successfully.
For more information, check out our webpage: https://beeflambnz.com/catchments
David Stevens is a Senior Scientist, Farm Systems & Environment at AgResearch, and well known to those in New Zealand farming industries for his years’ of research and extension. In 2017 he was President of the New Zealand Grassland Association, and in his Presidential Address discussed the future of applied research in agriculture.
For more information on the New Zealand Grassland Association, visit their website https://www.grassland.org.nz/aboutus.php
Dr Jason Archer (Abacus Bio) and Max Tweedie (B+LNZ Genetics) chat with the Beef Progeny Test Farm Managers, to discuss what they have found and observed so far, including their thoughts on the value of high genetic worth bulls. The B+LNZ Genetics Beef Progeny Test was launched in 2014 and is generating valuable commercial insights for farmers. The Beef Progeny Test compares bulls under New Zealand commercial farming conditions. The test now involves over 3000 beef and dairy cow matings each year, on five large properties across New Zealand. A mix of both internationally-sourced and New Zealand semen is used. Steers and cull heifers are assessed on their carcase traits, while replacement heifers are tracked for their ongoing maternal characteristics. For more information: https://www.blnzgenetics.com/progeny-tests/beef-progeny-tests
On this ‘Scene + Herd’ podcast we’re joined by Jeff Morton, who in previous careers worked on soil science for both AgResearch and Ballance. We discuss the keys to making the most from your fertiliser and lime budget, what farmers should focus on and what they shouldn’t stress over. To find copies of the essential resources on fertiliser, lime, forage cropping and trace elements that Jeff mentions, visit the Fertiliser Association website: http://www.fertiliser.org.nz/Site/resources/booklets.aspx
The New Zealand Grassland Association conference is NZ’s premiere pastoral farming science conference. In 2019 it’s in Napier, from Tuesday 5 till Thursday 7 November. Local Organising Committee chair Jeff Morton joins us to discuss the conference programme. A chance to hear the latest grassland research, and discuss it with researchers, industry people and other farmers. Keep an eye on the NZGA website for more detail https://www.grassland.org.nz/
‘Break-Feeds’ are short podcasts from Beef + Lamb New Zealand to let you know about interesting things happening.
Dr Jason Archer of AbacusBio and Max Tweedie, Beef + Lamb New Zealand Genetics’ National Beef Genetics Manager, discuss the keys to successfully calving beef heifers and to getting them back in calf as a 3 year old. For a summary of the key points, check out our Factsheets: Managing Heifers prior to and during mating https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/managing-heifers-prior-and-during-mating and Heifer Mating - how to get there https://www.blnzgenetics.com/files/1539030128_Birth%20to%20first%20pregnancy-%20how%20to%20get%20there.pdf
Tips and tricks on where you can influence your Regional Council decision makers most. Get involved in three key areas: Pre-plan feedback, writing a submission & presenting at the hearing. Hear from Colin Hurst, a farmer who has successfully been through this process and Andrew Fenemor, a hearing commissioner who explains effective methods for being heard. For more information on this matter read this comprehensive fact sheet from B+LNZ’s Environment Team: https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/how-make-council-plans-work-you
Sowing a short-term crop after a winter fodder crop may reduce N leaching by 40-50%. On this Beef + Lamb New Zealand ‘Scene + Herd’ podcast, Brendon Malcolm of Plant & Food Research discusses how it works, the issues to consider and how to get the best results. Plus, there is a bonus discussion on some of the basics of N leaching. For more information on the research, visit DairyNZ’s Forages for Reduced Nitrogen Leaching webpage https://www.dairynz.co.nz/about-us/research/forages-for-reduced-nitrate-leaching/ This podcast is a sequel to the episode on good management practice for winter grazing.
What will hill country farming in New Zealand look like in 2040? How will farmers respond to demands placed upon them by consumers, environmental and animal welfare regulations and the general public? Guy Salmon, Environmentalist and Executive Director of Ecologic; Robyn Dynes, AgResearch Science Impact Leader, Farm Systems and Environment; Chris Chamberlain, Banks Peninsula farmer; and Rich McDowell, principal scientist for AgResearch’s Invermay Environment Group discuss what they see as the challenges and opportunities for this country’s hill country farming systems. Panel Discussion facilitated by Richard Green, agribusiness thought-leader and professional Director.
With the decision in May 2018 that New Zealand will implement a plan to eradicate Mp. bovis, things have changed greatly for cattle farmers in NZ. While less than 1% of herds will be infected, every cattle farmer has a part to play.
On this podcast, Ashleigh Dobson who is representing Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) and DairyNZ, and Paul McCauley from B+LNZ, cover all you need to know about the disease and how to keep it out of your herd, so that eradication has the highest chance of success.
To find out more, check out our webpage with a comprehensive set of resources: https://beeflambnz.com/news-views/mycoplasma-bovis
Also, check out our other Mp. bovis podcast with Professor Richard Laven of Massey University: https://beeflambnz.podbean.com/e/managing-the-risk-of-mycoplasma-bovis-during-the-winter-grazing-season-richard-laven-of-massey-university/
Launched in May 2018, the new strategy is a significant milestone for our sheep and beef industry. The strategy has 4 pillars – Cleaner water; Carbon neutral; Thriving biodiversity and Healthy productive soils.
Julia Beijeman, Environment Strategy Manager, joins us to discuss what each means, how they will be measured, how they will be achieved, and why they are our focus.
To download the strategy and implementation plan, visit: https://beeflambnz.com/environment-strategy. To download information about B+LNZ's nutrient allocation principles click here.
Call the team on 0800 BEEFLAMB (0800 233 352) for more information.
Movement of cattle between farms is the highest risk for spread of Mycoplasma bovis, and winter grazing of dairy cattle therefore poses particular challenges.
Richard Laven is Associate Professor in Production Animal Health at Massey University, and was the person who first recognised that Mycoplasma bovis was likely present in New Zealand. He joins us to explain how the disease spreads, the precautions graziers and owners can take to further reduce the low risk of spreading the disease, and what farmers should be doing as good biosecurity management practice anyway.
For more details, click here to download the Beef + Lamb New Zealand/DairyNZ information for graziers factsheet.
Getting better calves from your cows involves getting the right breeder, selecting the right bull both on figures and on what you can see, then looking after that bull and making sure he can do his job. Max Tweedie, then National Beef Genetics Manager at Beef + Lamb Genetics, joins us to talk about what the figures mean, how to use them, what to look for in a bull, and how to keep him performing at his best. (Max left B+LNZ in 2019)
To view the B+LNZ Genetics bull selection tools, visit: http://www.blnzgenetics.com/bull-selection-tools
For a hard copy of the booklet containing the information discussed, email resources@beeflambnz.com – or to find out about Better Beef Breeding workshops in your area, contact your local B+LNZ Extension Manager at https://beeflambnz.com/contact-us
Beef + Lamb New Zealand provides funding to Beef + Lamb New Zealand Genetics so that New Zealand ram breeders have the best tools at their disposal, and sheep farmers benefit from rapid and effective genetic gain. On this podcast, National Sheep Genetics Manager, Annie O’Connell, discusses some recent advances in the information available to help choose rams, and how farmers can make the best use of it.
More information on the maternal and terminal indexes we discuss can be found at www.ramindex.co.nz, the ram buyer guide is downloadable at bit.ly/Ram-Buying-Guide and check out the B+LNZ Genetics website here: www.blnzgenetics.com
Steve Wyn-Harris is well known in farming circles in New Zealand, with his weekly newspaper column, speaking engagements and radio show. For a change he is the subject of an interview, and we are discussing his thoughts and lessons learned about farming successfully. Steve is an entertaining speaker and writer, and at the same time achieving very high levels of performance and personal satisfaction from running a family farm (a version of the Farm Profit distribution graph Steve refers to can be seen here: http://www.rmpp.co.nz/page/about/)
Lambing hoggets can be an effective way to increase flock productivity and profit – if it is done well, and in the right circumstances. Professor Paul Kenyon is Head of the Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences at Massey University and has led research into successful hogget lambing for over 15 years. He joined us on the call to share what he has learned. For more details, check out Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s guide to hogget lambing at www.beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/PDF/hogget-performance