20 | Contract Milker Calahn Vincent with some of the first calves for the new season. EST 1976 • from page 19 “We didn’t plant any summer crops, didn’t harvest a whole heap of bales, so we were really exposed. We got through it, but it was stressful. We learned a lesson about being ahead of the game in terms of accessing feed and making sure we have enough resources.” Market volatility has added a further layer of complexity this year with diesel prices, bale wrap shortages and fertiliser costs all fluctuating sharply. “Farming is in a pretty good spot but another challenge this year is the volatility,” says James. “So once again it’s about being proactive.” Despite the pressures, there are grounds for optimism. Grass growth across the Waikato has been strong over winter and James expects most farms to enter spring and calving in good shape. RURAL PEOPLE » Maungatapu Downs A view towards the cowshed and a view from the top of our hill “I hate regulations that are one size fits all. What is your stocking rate? What farm system do you run? I always like to see a bit of common sense in farming, to be honest. It might mean we need diversification, and that’s why Jane and I are working off farm.”
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