VLPA Update (Issue 43)

Using agricultural lime for the improvement of pastures is currently being explored by Pastures Australia, reports PETER MCCLUSKEY of the VLPA.

THE VLPA and its kindred body, the National Aglime Association, were recently invited to be represented at the Pastures Australia, National Pasture Improvement Strategy workshops aimed at developing a program to increase the productivity of pastures in Australia.

Pastures Australia is a joint venture body formed by the Australian Wool Innovation Corporation, Grains Research and Development Corporation, Meat and Livestock Australia, Dairy Australia and the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation.

It is felt that there has been less emphasis on pasture improvement compared to cropping and as part of the National Pasture Improvement Strategy, development of training and support packages aimed at groupings such as independent advisors, input suppliers, rural finance sector, tertiary education sector, public sector pastoral scientists and primary producers could unlock the huge potential to increase profits in meat, wool and dairying derived from increases in pasture productivity and its management.

The workshops, chaired by experienced rural consultant Neil Clark from Bendigo, heard presentations from several experienced agribusiness professionals tracking recent improvements relating to pastures and outlining potential for further improvements.

The conclusion was that the project should be further pursued amongst those with a stake in the outcome. That very much includes the aglime industry which has the capacity to supply critical inputs to produce expanded and better managed pastures especially across, but not confined to, Southern Australia.

Further information will be provided as the project develops and Peter McCluskey will be happy to provide further information on 0408 496 588.

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