| 9 Children Liam, Milly and Lorna. Their animal health programme emphasises worm drench resistance and they constantly monitor stock and test for this. Ballance Farm Environment Awards » Mahana Farm It’s now pretty much possum free and that has made a massive difference to the health of the bush.” The farm also includes a 4ha restored wetland and all waterways have been fenced and planted. It’s part of the couple’s goal to create a balance of a high production farm and creating an environment that can be enjoyed by their family. Judges noted they were impressed with the farm’s monitoring systems, efficient use of water and grazing management. The farm has a gravity fed water system with a monitor on top of the tank so the couple knows it’s full and alerting them of leaks. Quality pasture is a priority that is tailored to the land class. Although quite hilly country, the couple have renovated any areas they can, which Caroline says has also had a big impact on animal health – another priority. “We do a lot of grazing depending on markets with 200 dairy heifers but other stock classes can vary depending on the weather. We mostly sell stock rather than buy in extra feed.” She says this also helps to mitigate against challenges such as droughts and extreme weather conditions and additionally means they can take advantage of markets and make quick decisions. Their animal health programme emphasises worm drench resistance and they constantly monitor stock and test for this treating animals accordingly. This is particularly important as they trade a lot of lambs and buy them in from other properties. They provide extensive shade and shelter for stock. Duncan and long-term full time employee Hamish Dalziel run the farm day-to-day. Caroline works full time off farm and helps out as needed. She says they are proud to be continuing the work of previous generations to be good custodians of the land. BFEA Compact Brand Guidelines V1.0 FEB 2022
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=