56 | RURAL PEOPLE » Te Awa View Major technological shift underway Karen Phelps A significant technological shift is underway at Devon Dale, a 360-hectare property at Five Forks, 20 minutes inland from Oamaru. Fourth-generation farmer Carl Sinclair is preparing to introduce Halter collars across the operation, beginning with the First Light Wagyu finishing herd this December. The investment represents a major step towards greater self-sufficiency and improved land management for the diverse cattle business trading as Te Awa View, which splits evenly between dairy grazing and Wagyu finishing with a small Red Devon stud. “The main goal of the Halter investment is to improve farm productivity through improving feed utilisation and growing more pasture,” explains Carl. “The broader goal is to improve the farm’s environmental stewardship and reduce workload, particularly during the winter months, allowing the opportunity to step off farm occasionally and spend more time with our young family.” He anticipates the technology will deliver measurable production benefits, potentially increasing weight gain on the Wagyu stock and improving marble scores, which are currently averaging over five. The dairy grazing part of the business runs approximately 900 calves and 900 R2 heifers year-round, with an additional 300 cows over winter. First Light Wagyu finishing accounts for 600-650 head annually. Store lambs provide seasonal flexibility, with numbers varying dramatically - 400 last year, 900 the year before - depending on summer feed availability. Carl’s passion project is the 20-cow Te Awa View Red Devon stud, a revival of his grandfather and father’s earlier involvement with the breed. “Before taking over the lease, we began running a small number of cattle on the rougher, non- irrigated, and uncultivable parts of the farm. We needed stock that could thrive on lower-quality feed and endure dry periods and naturally, Red Devons came to mind. While the farm was almost exclusively dairy support at the time, we knew we wanted to reintroduce Red Devons to honour the legacy of The Sinclair’s with some Wagyu steers. PADDOCK BY PADDOCK. CORNER BY CORNER. Using our in-depth knowledge of customers’ land, businesses and objectives, we tailor highly specific solutions that differ from farm to farm, even paddock to paddock. To ensure these agronomy-led solutions stay on track for success, we also regularly walk the crops corner to corner to make recommendations along the way. To find out more go to catalystag.co.nz. Proudly Supporting Te Awa View Quality service with quality results. BALAGE • SILAGE • STRAW • HAY • GRAIN • FODDER BEET office@sscontracting.co.nz www.scottsimpsoncontracting.co.nz 03 432 4207
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