One-on-one feed planning advice is now available to assist landholders affected by the March fires assess their fodder requirements through a feed budget.
Agriculture Victoria and WestVic Dairy have joined forces to deliver this new service to ensure people can access information tailored specifically to their farm about feed planning after fire including assessing fodder requirements through a feed budget.
Michele Jolliffe from Agriculture Victoria said many farmers affected by the recent fires should consider doing a feed budget.
“Now is a great opportunity to take some time to assess how much feed you may require for your livestock over the next few weeks and months. Having someone come out and run through the numbers can help you decide what strategies you might need to put in place,” Ms Jolliffe said.
Ms Helen Chenoweth from WestVic Dairy added, “Burnt areas will take time to recover and fodder prices are already rising rapidly so the sooner needs are identified and feed sourced, the best chance to better manage those costs.”
To speak to someone about your situation and to organise a free visit please contact:
For graziers — Michele Jolliffe from Agriculture Victoria on 0428 581 883
For dairy farmers — Helen Chenoweth from WestVic Dairy on 03 5557 1000.
This service has been added to the ongoing pasture recovery advice to get pastures back on track ahead of the autumn break.
Farmers who need fodder for their livestock can contact the Victorian Farmers Federation on 1300 882 833.
The Rural Financial Counselling Service is also available to offer free and independent financial support to primary producers and non-agriculture related small businesses. The service can be contacted on 1300 735 578.
Agriculture Victoria also has information about managing fire recovery issues including animal health, water supplies, soils, and pastures. The department’s Animal Health team are also available to assist with livestock assessments and ongoing concerns, including unexpected livestock deaths.