Baffled by the Indian Ocean Dipole? Want to understand the Southern Oscillation Index? Are you keen to upskill to better manage climate risks in your own farm business?
A two-day, hands-on workshop will be held at Orbost in March to assist farmers, sharefarmers and employees to develop risk management plans before autumn.
Agriculture Victoria Dairy Extension Officer, Maria Rose, said weather can make or break a farm business, and being prepared is the key to navigating periods of volatility.
“We will talk about the climate drivers, how to interpret them for your local region and how to build on this knowledge by creating practical plans for individual farms,” she said.
“For example, if you are on a floodplain, what are your chances of a flood event? What part of the business would be most affected? Do you have adequate insurance? How much seed do you need on-hand for re-sowing pastures?
“Similarly, what’s the probability of a failed autumn break? How do you prepare for that? Do you forward contract grain? Should you purchase hay and store it at the property of origin? What about destocking or securing agistment?”
A ‘risk matrix’ will be used throughout the workshop to help participants evaluate the cost versus benefits of investments and decisions. For example, dealing with regular power outages or water shortages.
The workshop will be an opportunity to hear from informative speakers and experts, while networking with other dairy farmers and business owners.
Ideally, participants would attend both days to get the most out of the workshop. An optional twohour farm visit is also offered to participants to assist them develop their on-farm plan.
The workshop will be held in Orbost at the DELWP Office located at 171 Nicholson Street on Thursday, March 7 and Thursday, March 14, running from 10.30 am to 2.30 pm.
To register, please contact Maria Rose on 0438 282 205 or email maria.rose@ecodev.vic.gov.au.
For more information about Agriculture Victoria’s support to dairy farmers contact Maria Rose or visit the Agriculture Victoria website: agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons.