We are well into 2023 already, but it seems like only yesterday we were considering the rather ominous harvest before us.
After a harvest “bin burster” in 2021/22, we have eclipsed that record in 2022/23 and have maybe got most of the state nervously asking, “Can we get three in a row in 2023/24”?
Now, we realise that not every part of the state had roaring success over both of those years, but it would be fair to say that, in general, it has been the two best years in a row we have had in recent times - by a long shot.
The old adage says that “when farmers make money, they spend it” and it seems that over the last couple of seasons this has been more out of necessity than free will. Many will agree that the 2022 crop was the most expensive crop per hectare/acre that has ever been planted in WA, with all inputs seeing record highs, making seasonal budgeting a very intense time for most enterprises.
Thankfully, it appears some minor relief is in store for 2023, with chemical inputs seemingly back off the boil. Some fertiliser relief is also evident. Fuel and machinery still continue to be a major expense, with all the smaller items, such as parts, maintenance, labour and sundry expenses eating away at the bottom line.
So, as we look to the upcoming season at Milne Feeds, we are happy to say that most of our livestock products are holding the same price per tonne as last year (unlike most other inputs). This steady price provides an excellent opportunity to take advantage of our great product suite. For some growers, it presents an option to try new opportunities with our great “Milne Feeds” technology for the first time.
As there are large amounts of grain on hand throughout the state, offloading or storing grain can become an issue. Why not try our Grain Trade programme and trade surplus grain for our range of either sheep or cattle pellets? The trade program is a great way to turn grain into high quality, nutritionally balanced pellets. Our feed pellets contain optimum levels of fibre to support healthy rumen function and reduce the risk of acidosis that is often associated with feeding straight grain. With EasyOne® and LambGro® at very reasonable rates, why not give it a try and see what all the fuss is about?
“Once you try you will continue to buy”, said one of our loyal sheep feedlot customers recently. Since making the switch to EasyOne®, his days of home mixing, acidosis and “guesswork” are happily well behind him. “With the fibre technology in the pellets, and the expert service backup of the Milne Feeds team, it gives me great peace of mind and also greatly increased profit margins”.
As the months roll out we will continue to provide updated monthly newsletter articles that are relevant to your livestock enterprise, and we will again be looking at such topics as:
- Confinement feeding – the benefits, and how it can help you increase productivity
- Autumn feeding - to maximise lambing rates and increase birth weights
- The impact of hot weather on sheep production and the importance of good water quality
- Round the ground reports of our 14 regional Milne Feed depots throughout Western Australia
If there are any topics you would like covered in 2023, please feel free to contact Milne Feeds on the contact details in our footer and we will endeavour to oblige.
The Milne Feeds team of ruminant specialists will be at Woolorama this year, and will be happy to answer any questions you may have, offer you a coffee and generally catch up and see what we can do to assist your farming enterprise for a profitable season. Find us at exhibit 258 on Ram Road!
