58 | nzdairy Kim Newth For Walter and Robyn Judd, downsizing their Manawatu dairy farm, near Bulls, has been a logical step that is yielding benefits for people, stock and the environment. The couple have an extensive farm background, having previously farmed sheep, beef and dairy in rural Eketuhuna for 20 years. With ‘creeks in every paddock’ at Eketahuna, the couple recognised it would be challenging to meet environmental constraints in the long term. They sold up in 2003 to move to their current dairy farm. Being close to Bulls was attractive to them from a farm labour recruitment perspective and they could also see potential synergies in being close to Ohakea airfield. For many years now, Walter and Robyn have run a productive dairying operation on their 355ha milking platform, running a Friesian herd improved with Crossbred and Jersey genetics. The 426ha farm’s rolling country also supports pine forestry and some areas have been retired and planted with natives, in conjunction with Horizons Regional Council. This season has marked a new beginning, with outlying portions of the farm sold off as lifestyle blocks. The milking platform now sits at 193ha and the size of the herd has been cut from 940 to 540 cows, (300 autumn calving and 240 spring cows). Last year’s production was 470,000kgMS, with sale cows dried off early. (Notably, farm production had markedly increased from 400,000kgMS to 470,000kgMS in just three years). This season the farm is targeting 290,000kgMS from 540 cows. “We wanted to re-consolidate our position, alleviate financial pressure and create a simpler, more efficient system,” says Walter. The couple have five adult sons, working across a range of industries from poultry to horticulture. “They have a lot of interests, but none of them are keen on dairy farming – that’s also part of the reason for downsizing and wanting to look at things differently.” Their smaller herd can now be milked through the shed a lot faster, while on-farm walking Farm manager David Key on the quad bike , with owners Walter and Robyn Judd. DAIRY PEOPLE » Tane Farms: Walter & Robyn Judd Downsizing reaps distances have also been significantly reduced. It is proving a win-win for both staff and stock. The smaller herd produces less effluent and has a lighter environmental footprint. Reducing the herd has also given an opportunity for further herd improvement. Last year’s average BW was around 105-110 but is now at 181, with PW at 251. Farm manager David Key, in his fourth season working with Walter and Robyn, says the focus of herd improvement has been on breeding a cow with good capacity, good udder health and longevity, and excellent fertility. Part of the mating strategy is to only mate for 60 days in autumn and 60 days in spring to avoid a long drawn-out calving or mating period and to support better cow condition. Big gains are being made through mating heifers to high BW bulls. “Overall, we’re trying to breed more efficient animals and create that complete cow,” says David. “It takes time and it takes a good knowledge of cows and the background to do that effectively.” The farm is a System 5, with all cows fully fed. Milking is year-round, with the goal being a 300 to 305 day lactation on average. Prior to the reorganisation, a neighbouring sheep and beef property was leased to grow maize silage and for grazing. Some of that has been retained for grazing going forward. Supplements bought in include PK, distillers’ grain and tapioca. The farm team works with experienced consultant Simon Redmond as their animal nutritionist. Team building is also a major focus, with a consistent 5:2 roster and weekly team meetings, covering everything from policies, procedures and upcoming events to mental health awareness and training and development. The farm’s 600-cow feed pad proved to be a real boon through this year’s wet winter, ensuring the cows and pasture came through in good shape. The farm’s milking plant has also been replaced and upgraded this season, with new cup removers installed. Somatic cell counts are well down on last year. “We’re trying to breed more ef cient animals and create that complete cow, It takes time and it takes a good knowledge of cows and the background to do that effectively.” WHY YOU NEED A Banks have a particular way of doing things. So when it comes to approaching them, a bit of inside knowledge goes a very long way. At NZAB, we’re previous rural banking professionals with decades of banking experience, so we know what makes banks (and bankers) tick. We’re 100% on your side and committed to getting the best outcome for you, your family and farm. PROFESSIONAL BANKING ADVISOR WITH SPECIALIST SKILLS. Talk to the people in the know. Call 0800 NZAB 12 or email info@nzab.co.nz today For a free confidential chat
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