Irrigated lucerne for profit - PROfarm testimonial

Antony Wiesener

When Antony Wiesener decided to plant a lucerne crop he knew very little about the versatile pasture species and fodder crop that benefits most farming enterprises in some way.

On his 150 hectare property, Owlhead, near Gulgong, in New South Wales, Antony runs cattle, a vineyard and now has a highly productive lucerne crop.

“When I decided to put some lucerne down, I knew absolutely nothing about the procedure,” Antony said. “So I enrolled in the NSW Department of Primary Industries’ (NSW DPI) Irrigated lucerne for profit course.

“Since I knew very little, it was obviously very helpful. I was able to learn about the types of machinery needed, irrigation management, water efficiency and how to establish a crop.”

He said instruction about how to assess soil type, layout irrigation and schedule advice had helped to ensure the establishment of a profitable crop.

“Meeting and talking to other producers was particularly helpful,” he said.

“I found out what procedures worked and what didn’t – and was even able to take advice about which baler was best to buy.”

With an understanding that establishment of the crop was the key to success, Antony learned that the number of lucerne plants established directly affected the productivity and life of the stand.

“The course covered the issues growers need to get right to ensure they establish the best stand possible.

“And it outlined the importance of managing the stand once established if it is to be productive and survive.

“Lucerne is sensitive to disease, insects, weeds, waterlogging and poor cutting and grazing management – all vital things I needed to know.”

A few years following the first time he participated in the Irrigated lucerne for trofit course, Antony enrolled for a second round.

“I wasn’t able to contribute much the first time I attended and because there was so much to take in for someone who knew nothing, I wanted to go back and learn more.

“Going back a second time allowed me to do some more networking with other producers which I found really valuable.

“The course enables you to make new contacts and not only for some expert advice, but it can result in some worthwhile business with the people attending.

The Irrigated lucerne for profit two-day course, informs growers about how to manage their crops by using land and water resources efficiently to guarantee supply and quality to secure premium markets.

The course provides best management practice guidelines, practical skills in agronomy, irrigation and haymaking and valuable links to industry, lucerne specialists and other growers.

Topics include planning and budgeting, lucerne varieties and establishment, pest management (weeds, insects and diseases), nutrition of irrigated lucerne, feed quality testing, hay making and marketing.