Technology
Getting this balance right can be challenging in a mixed enterprise.
For example, Mark recognises the productivity benefits of rotational grazing but extensive fencing doesn’t marry with broadacre farming. So, he is interested in how emerging technologies like virtual fencing could offer businesses like his a cost-effective, low-labour option for grazing paddocks and summer stubbles without physical infrastructure.
Although Mark keeps an eye on developing technologies and has a wish-list which includes a robotic farm unit that uses WEEDit near infrared technology to identify weeds and remove them without the use of chemicals (such as manually pulling out plants), he is quick to admit he is no ‘IT junkie’.
“I don’t want to take on every new piece of technology – I focus on simplicity. We need technologies that are robust to suit the farming environment and are backed up by good support as breakdowns often happen after hours.”
As well as running in-cab platforms such as GPS and autosteer, Mark incorporates satellite imagery (NVDI) to deliver efficiency and cost-savings.
“Satellite maps are becoming cheaper and more frequent, with seven day passes which provide a biomass reading of paddocks, which we can use to assess crop nutrition.”
Mark uses variable rate technology on his spreader to target urea and lime to specific zones based on the NVDI and pH maps, reducing fertiliser costs.
Profit-driven
Instead of focusing on yield impact from new strategies, Mark monitors the bottom line.
“We aim to be profit orientated rather than just focus on productivity,” he said. “Farming remains challenging in the face of the growing cost-price squeeze and I don’t believe we can just keep doing things the way we have always done them.
“We need to constantly evaluate how strategies affect our bottom line and the sustainability of our farming system.”
For example, Mark has a green manuring program to build soil organic matter. This entails planting a mix of lupins, clover and faba beans. They terminate the crop by spraying or cutting and sow the ‘green manure’ into canola, a crop with high demand for nitrogen.
“While lupins are not profitable on their own, they are when considered as part of the bigger picture – we can’t look at each link in isolation.”
Mark said this is where the support from Rabobank has been valuable, as they also take a holistic look at agriculture and understand the realities of farming.
“I have seen other banks take a short term approach to agriculture or just treat farming as an add-on to their core business, but Rabobank are involved in the industry and have a long-term perspective.
“They actively run programs to encourage us to be better managers and farmers, something few of the other banks prioritise.”
He said Rabobank’s approach to doing business aligns with his, with simple products and a sustainable focus.
“It is a robust and simple system with no hidden fees and they make it easy for us, such as providing quick access to finance to purchase machinery.”
Mark has also taken advantage of Rabobank beyond the farm gate, attending their Global Master Class and Executive Development Program.
“I have really valued these opportunities to network with other farmers from around Australia and the world and learn how they farm and how they respond to the challenges we all face such as legislation, public perception and the cost-price squeeze,” he said.
These factors are always in the back of Mark’s mind as he moves forward with his business.
Even though his four children are young, he is mindful that it is never too early to think about succession planning.
“I want to run a sustainable system that is there for future generations – I believe it is our responsibility to our community and our family’s future to always be looking forward.”
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