How do farmers get the most out of the various people they deal with?
This Manawatu M&WNZ Monitor Farm seminar was held at the Feilding Civic Centre on 2nd June.
Rural banker Blair Shortall emphasised the evolving expectation that farmers not rely on their banker to complete the farm budget; putting it together yourself means you're more likely to have ‘ownership' of it. Clear communication with your banker regarding goals and needs is essential.
Local accountant Phil Harre's top clients often revisit their budgets during the year. They have motivated staff who are mindful of the bottom line, use an effective advisory team, get their timing right and have great stockmanship.
Dairy farmer Bruce Coombes used his memories of ‘starting at the bottom' to provide a better environment for his own staff. Bruce held daily meetings which included staff in decision-making, he identified employees' strengths and channelled their work that way. All farm systems must be simple. "Don't demand respect - command it".
Warwick Catto from Ballance focused on nutrient use efficiency. There can be major variation in fertility between paddocks; consider soil-testing more of the farm to tailor nutrient application. Prioritise fertiliser application - target crops first, followed by new grass, young grass and lastly old grass and effluent paddocks.
Trevor Cook from Totally Vets explained how you can help your vet: have the stock in the yards along with someone with knowledge of the patient and the health of its mates. Yes, vets fix sick animals and investigate performance failures but are underutilised for identifying production opportunities.
Phil Everest, an Ashburton farm consultant, outlined the benefits of a consultant. They bring enthusiasm and a fresh set of eyes to your farm. Consultants can adapt ideas from a wide range of sources to your farming system. They work to understand your business, identify opportunities, benchmark your business and assist in intergenerational change. To make the most of this, you must develop a strong working relationship, define clear goals and objectives and communicate well with one another.
