Dairy farmers looking to maximise home-grown feed production and utilisation are invited to attend one of two upcoming courses.
The industry renowned Feeding Pastures For Profit (FPFP) returns this year and will again provide the foundation for best pasture and feeding management.
Participants will learn how to improve farm profit by growing the maximum quantity of high-quality pasture, along with using purchased feeds appropriately to further drive profitability.
Ecklin South farmer, Michael Krybolder completed FPFP when he returned to the family farm two years ago.
Mr Krybolder still uses the information he learned from the course every day to help make informed feeding decisions for his 450-cow herd.
“FPFP was great, the principles were very similar to what we were already doing in the way of feeding cows, but it also provided lots of extra ideas and things to look out for. I came away from the course a lot more confident in what we are doing and with a much greater understanding of the way grass likes to be managed at different times of the year.
“I say go in with an open mind, not only to the FPFP system, but the five on-farm days and general discussions give you a great insight into the different ways other participants run their farms. You will certainly meet some other passionate farmers and service providers.
“It can definitely improve the way you farm, including saving time and create more profit,” said Mr Krybolder.
This free course consists of seven sessions which are held over a 12-month period. Two theory days in autumn are followed by on-farm days in autumn, winter, early spring, late spring and summer.
Two programs will take place this year, one commencing in Purnim on 13 April and the second at Timboon two days later. To find out more, call WestVic Dairy on 5557 1000 or visit www.westvicdairy.com.au.