A word from the Chairman: Rain, coffee and communication

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The seeding program is complete and timely rain has provided a positive start to the season.

In reflecting on the last six weeks, I see how important good communication throughout the process of seeding is imperative for efficient and timely operation.

Communication methods have changed dramatically in the past twenty years and we all expect instantaneous access to online information and social media sites to support decision making, as well as looking over the fence to keep an eye on the neighbours.

Barriers to good communication depends on the quality of connectivity to the internet and mobile phone services and, like so many farms situated in the Mallee Wimmera, being more than 15 kilometres from a mobile phone tower inhibits the efficiency of communication for farm businesses.

In our family business it is often face to face discussion, (often in the ute while shifting paddocks), use of the scratchy mobile phone, text messages in the early morning and late at night, as well as the trusty UHF that ensures that everyone knows who is doing what –  as well as when and how – and that the livestock are being fed and watered. Importantly communication with the base camp is kept to make sure that coffee, meals and snacks are being organised and delivered.

The long hours worked by farmers and employees during the busy season require good communication to ensure adequate rest breaks and time out is taken.

How quickly we have moved on from seeding to post emergent spraying, rolling pulse crops and preparation for in-crop nitrogen applications. Critical communications at this time are with the input suppliers, agronomists and weather forecasts.

Having just run our first Yield ProphetR probability modelling, we have some confidence in the season because of stored moisture and timely rainfall in May. Rain on the roof is like music to our ears.

A farmer’s life is made up of rain events, coffee and communication. Often late into the night or early in the morning  when you can see the neighbours’ lights in the distance, it’s music, coffee and the auto steer that keeps us going until the next shift arrives.

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