Hope reigns on first farm anniversary

A good drenching of rain followed by a dose of growth-bearing sunshine made for a richly blessed farming anniversary.

It has been five years since David and Pauline Bantock bought into agriculture production with the ambitious purchase of their first farm — Glenyara.

The young couple are now well on their way to being established at their 730ha Mogumber cropping property.

“The wheat we began planting on May 17 is now in its five-leaf stage and is being helped along by a recent weather pattern that dropped 61mm of soil-drenching rain,” Mr Bantock said. “Since taking on the farm, I have discovered some of the biggest input costs go towards soil nutrition, including the application of trace elements and lime.”

He also claims the ideal soil preparation involves stubble incorporation, and putting a limit on burning. Mr Bantock, who also is employed as a farming contractor, said he was pleased with his production of Zen and Calingri wheat, which has averaged three-and-a-half tonnes/ha while Gem canola averaged near two tonnes with oil content of 70 per cent.

“My off-farm work is essential to cover our financial requirements,” he said. The 36-year-old was brought up on his parents’ cattle property before completing an education in Agriculture Business Management at Muresk.

Ms Bantock also comes from a business background, having spent 11 years as a Devings Fine Foods regional sales representative.

“Starting our own farming business was no easy feat and was a huge financial commitment,” she said.

“I’m always in awe of what my husband achieves on our farm, his drive is what makes the enterprise work. He sets goals towards a successful vision.”

Ms Bantock is also very involved in the Mogumber community as deputy president of the Shire of Victoria Plains Council and secretary of the Mogumber Outback Club, which includes being the event organiser of the Mogumber New Year’s Eve Rodeo.