Posted 28/3/07

DROUGHT BULLETIN - EDITION 2:  MARCH 2007

"Feeding Livestock"

The Macedon Ranges along with other parts of Victoria is experiencing prolonged drought conditions.  The entire shire has been EC (exceptional circumstances) declared.

The first Drought Bulletin was distributed in January and contained important information about accessing emergency communal water supplies, as well as key contacts for accessing financial assistance, personal support and information about education and employment. 

A copy of the January bulletin can be downloaded from Council’s website www.mrsc.vic.gov.au or by phoning Angie Laussel 5427 8249.

FEEDING LIVESTOCK :  Information to Consider

This Drought Bulletin aims to provide basic information and contacts about feeding livestock during the drought – livestock owners are encouraged to speak to Department of Primary Industry (DPI) staff for information and advice specific to their circumstances. 

Even if we receive good autumn rains this may not be sufficient to generate good pasture growth before winter. In those areas where some pasture growth does occur, it can lead to major (and potentially fatal) digestive problems for livestock as they move from hay/grain to green pasture.  In previous droughts, some of the worst stock losses have occurred immediately after the drought has broken.  A planned approach to feeding through to spring is therefore vital if stock are to survive.

Key questions to consider in developing a plan for feeding livestock through the drought:

• Do I have the money, time and equipment to feed my animals at least 3 times per week for at least six months?
• Do I know how to calculate a feed ration that provides an adequate balance of energy, protein and fibre?
• Do I know the value of the feed I am using?
• Do I know the additional feed and nutrient requirement for pregnant or lactating livestock?
• Do I know how to manage any weeds introduced with purchased feed?
• Do I have enough knowledge about transitioning livestock from hay/grain to green pasture?
• Am I able to ensure my animals go into winter in good condition, resistant to disease and cold weather?
• Ultimately:  Will it cost me too much to keep all my stock, or would I be better off selling them now while they are still in relatively good condition? 

The DPI website provides comprehensive information about feeding and management of livestock during and immediately after a drought, and can assist you to answer these questions:  www.dpi.vic.gov.au or ph 136 186

WHERE CAN I PURCHASE FEED?

Feed is in short supply and high demand at the moment. 

Some fodder can still be purchased through local stockfeed suppliers, or direct through major suppliers.  Before sourcing feed it is important you have determined the type of feed that will best meet your needs, and calculated how much you will require. 

The following is a list of Stockfeed and Produce stores in the Macedon Ranges Shire.  All stores have a range of feed available.  Contact individual stores for availability and costs.

BULK PURCHASE OF FEED

Feed may be cheaper to purchase if landholders requiring only small quantities come together to order a semi-trailer load. 

Macedon Ranges Shire Council will take the details for landholders interested in pursuing this idea, and put them in contact with each other.   Landholders will be responsible for contacting each other to finalise needs, and for sourcing possible feed supplies.   Please note that not all feed stores are able to take orders in this manner, and it will be up to the landholders who come together to shop around and find a store or private seller who will meet their needs.  Please contact Angie Laussel ph: 5427 8249 if you would like your name listed on the register. 

ANIMAL HEALTH

Conditions which afflict normal livestock can have a more serious effect on livestock in poor body condition due to drought. 

Increased vigilance for parasites and other disease burdens is essential.   Nutrient deficiencies can occur with prolonged feeding on grain or on poor quality fodder:  some of these are potentially fatal.  Please contact your own veterinarian or the DPI District Veterinary Officer if you need further information 5421 1777.

ROADSIDE GRAZING

A permit is required to graze livestock on the roadside.  Stock owners must comply with conditions before any permits are issued.  Council has waived the usual fee due to prevailing drought conditions and can process your application quickly.  Contact Council. Phone 5429 9670

Other Useful Information

WATER

Information on emergency communal water supplies was listed in the first Drought Bulletin (download from www.mrsc.vic.gov.au).   Water carters can be contacted via the Yellow Pages.  A rebate for carted water is available to eligible low income households. Phone Dept of Human Services 1800 658 521

PERSONAL AND FAMILY SUPPORT

Talking to someone independent of your situation can help.  Information is kept strictly confidential at all times.

The following services are available:

Cobaw Community Health Service:

Phone 5421 1666 & ask to speak to the Duty Worker

Lifeline:

Phone 13 11 14 (24 hrs)

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Centrelink 

Go to www.centrelink.gov.au  (have your reference no. ready)

Drought Assistance for farmers and small business:

Phone 13 23 16

Rural Service Officer:

Bendigo: Phone 5430 5941

Farmer Assistance: 

Phone 1800 050 585

Council Rate Relief: 

A 50% rate subsidy is available for farmers receiving EC (exceptional circumstances) Centrelink payments.  Contact Council’s Rates Department 5422 0322

Rural Financial Counsellor: 

Ken Slatter 5735 4342

Cobaw Community Health Service: 

Emergency relief including food, petrol and chemist vouchers.  Phone 5421 1666

Small Business - Drought Business Continuity Program:

For businesses significantly affected by the drought.  Contact Suzanne Gatz, Regional Development Victoria.

Phone 5381 2762

LOCAL STOCK AGENTS

Landmark Dwyer: 5422 1122 

Elders Kyneton: 5422 1233   

Rodwells McGrath: 5422 1980

LOOK OUT FOR YOUR MATES

It is a good idea to seek assistance early rather than wait until things reach a crisis point, but not everyone feels OK about asking for help.  If you think someone you know needs help you can assure them that information, advice and support will be kept confidential at all times. 

DROUGHT COMMUNITY RECOVERY COMMITTEE (CRC):

This information bulletin has been developed by the Drought CRC. This Committee was established in December 2006, in recognition of the current drought conditions.  Committee members bring local expertise, knowledge and contacts.  If you would like to be involved or would like further information, contact Angie Laussel – Manager Community Development 5427 8249