FARM

Sheep

Feeding out continues across the sheep section as lambing season begins. It has been an especially busy time, with increased attention required for both the ewes and their newborn lambs. Students and staff have been working hard to ensure the animals are healthy, comfortable, and well cared for during this important period.

Horticulture

Open Day was a huge success for the Horticulture section, with many visitors asking questions and showing great interest in the program. It was wonderful to meet prospective students who have already received offers, as well as those eagerly awaiting the outcome.

The clean-up following Open Day made for a very busy Monday. On Tuesday, the Year 10 students wrapped up the corn crop harvest, removing the final crop and packing away the lay-flat irrigation pipework. A big thank you to them for their hard work and enthusiasm.

Year 11 students continued to develop their practical skills by practising tractor driving and learning to safely hitch and unhitch three-point linkage implements. Thank you to all students for their effort and positive attitudes shown throughout the week.

Beef

CIDRs were administered to the cattle this week, providing students with valuable first hand experience in reproductive management practices. Students also gained an understanding of how CIDRs are used to control and synchronise oestrus (heat cycles) in cows and heifers.

CIDR devices are hormone-release reproductive tools that help improve breeding efficiency in cattle. By controlling progesterone levels, we can better manage artificial insemination schedules, improve herd fertility outcomes, reduce labour associated with heat detection, and bring calving periods closer together.

Ryegrass seeding for fodder production is underway, with students using the tractor’s GPS system to ensure accurate, efficient planting.

Dairy

The Dairy section continues to operate smoothly, with the regular program running steadily and efficiently. Students remain involved in daily routines and continue to build their practical skills in the operations. 

Pigs

The pigs have shown excellent growth again this week, reaching an impressive average weight of 94.0 kg. Some pigs have left the College site for the DBC and will return soon.

Poultry

The chickens continue to thrive and are supplying the kitchen with a steady flow of fresh eggs. The yard has greened up, and the chickens have certainly been enjoying their access to the fresh greenery.

Composted waste from the piggery and chicken pens has also been delivered to the horticulture growing area. The material will continue to compost and settle before being used later in the year.

Equine

Visitors enjoyed viewing the Equine facilities on Open Day, meeting both student-owned and school horses.