VLPA Update (Issue 67)
PETER MCCLUSKEY provides an update on the Victorian Limestone Producers Association.
BLUE GUMS COMING OUT – SOIL WILL NEED LIME
With extensive blue gum plantations coming out and returning to cropping and pasture, those involved in the process are indicating the pH needs lifting so this is presenting a new niche market for lime especially in the South West of Victoria.
Brad Herbertson of R&H Stonecrushing Pty Ltd, Warrnambool (Mobile: 0438 541 243), has adapted machinery attached to a heavy duty tractor (pictured below) which shreds and grinds residual blue gum stumps and saplings following tree harvest.
In a recent article in the Warrnambool Standard Mr Herbertson said, “We usually grind them down to two inches below the surface. At this depth, a crop can be direct drilled onto a paddock”
Mr Herbertson subsequently added when Sand & Stone was invited to observe his equipment operating in western Victoria, “The blue gums have taken a lot out of the soil and experience is showing that around two tonnes to the acre of lime is required to bring the pH back to acceptable cropping and pasture standards”.
to grind through a row of blue gum stumps and saplings watched
by VLPA’s Peter McCluskey (right).
BRAZILIAN LIMESTONE ASSOCIATION
In early February a group of limestone producers from Brazil accompanied by an agricultural science professor travelled to NSW, South Western Victoria and South Australia to discuss technical matters of mutual interest between producers in Australia and Brazil. VLPA and NAA facilitated meetings with several producers, downstream agents and government regulators during the tour.
Agricultural lime is used extensively in Brazil on beef pastures and for soya bean production. Regulation -wise, the group felt there was less opportunity for consultation with authorities when regulations were being reviewed and that environmental regulation is becoming of greater importance.
In Victoria the group travelled to the Batesford Quarry and Cobden Lime and appreciated the opportunities to inspect operations first hand and to discuss issues with the operators.
at the Batesford Quarry during the recent tour to south west Victoria.
Further information is available from Peter McCluskey on 0408 496 588.
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