| 19 The irrigated area is primarily used as a finishing platform, adding value to store stock and supporting the production of Lumina Lamb, the premium lamb brand. RURAL PEOPLE » Coleridge Downs Ltd Texel Poll Dorset that consistency with the Lumina finishing mix grown specifically to provide high-quality feed for the programme. The area is also used to finish the businesses home bred Angus steers through to 460-480kg before they are sold to Five Star Beef, grow winter feed and finish commodity lambs for Alliance. In addition to this the irrigated platform is also used to contract graze Headwaters’ breeding ram team of around 2000 ram lambs from autumn through until the annual onfarm ram sale in early December. The irrigation development is also creating more opportunities for staff development. Across the three farms, 19 full-time employees work under a structure that includes block managers on each farm, supported by head or senior shepherds. A highly regarded cadet programme operates between Coleridge Downs and Big Ben and provides a pathway for young people entering the industry. Training manager Kristen O’Callaghan says the business is focused on giving cadets practical skills and recognised qualifications while they are employed on the farm. Most training takes place in the work environment with support from block managers, head shepherds and the wider senior team. “The farm owners place a real emphasis on investing in and developing good people and creating opportunities for them to grow,” says Kristen. “Our cadetship is built around giving young people the best possible start to their farming careers, developing their practical skills, knowledge and confidence.”
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