The Goulburn Murray Irrigation District (GMID) is home to one of the largest milk production regions in Australia.
Despite a challenging operating environment in recent years, dairy farmers continue to be fiercely passionate about their industry and introduce more efficient production practices on-farm.
Jade and Belinda Clymo are fourth-generation dairy farmers at Calivil in Loddon Shire, about 40km west of Rochester. Their business, Calmo Farms, milks 1850 dairy cows in a 50-stand rotary dairy and the Clymos are constantly on the lookout for innovative and environmentally-friendly methods of livestock production.
“There are plenty of opportunities and options to dairying, which is what I like about this industry,” Calmo Farms owner Belinda Clymo said.
“I love working with my family and the people you meet in this industry – they are friendly, down to earth people.”
Way of the future
The Clymos recently built a free-stall feed barn on their property which is an alternative to traditional pasture-based dairying. While a significant investment, Belinda believes the returns have already begun to pay off with an increase in milk production and a more content herd.
“We see free-stall feed barns as the way of the future. Our barn is a short walk from the dairy – making it easier on cows and staff. Adding to that, we have more control over the amount and type of feed we use. Each cow has a sand bed to rest and together with fans and sprinklers we are able to have more control on temperature within the facility.”
The dairy industry is traditionally one of the largest water users within the GMID. At Calmo Farms, water is recycled and re-used on the property.
“We capture the water from the dairy and barn and it is sent to a sand separation pit. The water is filtered and re-used to wash down the barn. We also use effluent as fertiliser on the crops,” Belinda explained.
“It has made a huge impact from an environmental protection point of view.”
Community-minded farmers
While it’s hard work, Belinda believes the dairy industry in the GMID offers a rewarding lifestyle. The Clymos live on their property which is just a short drive from the nearby town of Calivil.
“It’s a close-knit community and everyone chips in and volunteers. We’re heavily involved in the Calivil community. Jade has coached the U18s East Loddon football team and we play tennis and netball for Calivil,” Belinda said.
“It’s nice to see progression in our small community.”
The same can be said for Calmo Farms, where plans are in place to build a second barn alongside a new dairy. The property has capacity for a total of four free-stall feed barns and to milk up to 4000 cows.
“We’ve set the farm up for our son and daughter. If they’re interested in continuing the family business, it will be easier to run this type of operation,” Belinda said.
“If you’re looking to invest in agriculture in the region, I’d encourage you to check the opportunities to continue growing your business in the future – don’t limit yourself.”
