HubWatch – 10 October 2025

Milk production vs supplementary feed input: The Standard cows this week are producing more than the Future cows (2.41 kgMS vs 2.30 kgMS); however, the additional supplementary feed required to fill the grass deficit is costing us $3.53 per cow for the Standards vs $1.48 per cow per day for the Futures. The net effect is that the Future cows are providing us with $1 more income per day, despite being the lower producers this week. This is largely linked to the quality of supplementary feed, as grazing residuals are the same. If both herds were being fed the same, we would expect the Futures to outperform the Standards, as we have seen in the past. The focus continues to be on hitting grazing residuals, maximising grass harvest, and then filling the deficit with supplementary feed.

Pasture growth rates have certainly lifted this week, and we expect them to continue increasing with the warmer weather. Growth has just exceeded demand, leading to a need to reduce in-shed feed and silage. With such rapid changes in pasture growth, these decisions are being made every couple of days. We are mindful of the need to be proactive in our decision-making to step over (conserve) Future paddocks with the lower stocking rate, with a real focus on maintaining pasture quality.

We sent the first group of calves to the support block this week. They are on a regular drench programme, with careful monitoring for coccidiosis to prevent any outbreak. They are being fed 3 litres of milk, meal, hay, and ad lib grass.

We have received the blood and liver results for the milking cows. All cows require a Se/B12 top-up, while copper levels are within range, so we will continue supplementation through the water at this stage as we lead into mating.

We continue to use the BCS camera fortnightly to identify lighter-conditioned animals for priority management. These scores are uploaded to MINDA, as this is very useful information as we head into mating.

We have just finished our first round of Ammo 31. Perfect grass-growing weather.

A fantastic turnout at Wednesday’s farm tour. Farmers joined the SDH team and guest speakers Dr Charlotte Westwood (PGG Wrightson Seeds) and Leo Pekar (FarmWise) to chat about managing second-round pasture and milk urea. Plenty of practical tips were shared, and everyone left with something to reflect on and take back to their own farms. A huge thanks to our speakers and to everyone who came along, asked questions, and enjoyed a delicious lunch with the team.