Primary Production Landscapes of Victoria - Southern Plains - Dariy farming systems

Dundas & Merino Tablelands
The deeply dissected and weathered terrain has traditionally been used for grazing. Constraints to plant growth include soils with low pH and iron gravels that limit access to soil moisture.

Otway Plains
Rainfall within the plains is quite variable and the terrain diverse. Waterlogging is a major production constraint for prominent land uses including dairy and forestry.

Millicent Coast
Siliceous and calcareous plains and dunes are mainly used for dairy, forestry and fodder production. Soils and landforms continue into South Australia where viticulture also occurs.

Eastern Plains
Extensive alluvial systems from erosion of the Eastern Uplands generally receive higher rainfall and less evaporation than plains in the west. Grazing, forestry and dairy are main land uses on gradational and texture contrast soils.

• Pasture management and persistence of perennial species on lighter soils is more difficult as plants are under greater stress due to drier seasons.
• The effective growing season is shortening with a drier start and finish. Waterlogging still occurs but is periodic and shorter in duration due to mild seasons and better growing conditions.
• Supplementary feed supply and expenses have increased in response to fodder and grain shortages. This feed is being sourced from other areas and is difficult to obtain.
• South-West Victoria is experiencing a substantial growth in the dairy industry.
• No significant changes to the dairy cycle have occurred although with shorter spring seasons calving is moving back into autumn.
• During spring and autumn, pastures are producing more grass but will this have an impact upon pasture persistence and quality of production?
• Deregulation of the dairy industry has translated into out of season milk demand and supply.
• Corporate research in dairy and New Zealand investment in establishing/acquiring properties for dairy has resulted in significant management style changes (e.g. heavier stocking rates).
• In dairy farming systems there appears to be a lack of ability to adapt stocking rates to drier seasons.
• Shortage of skilled labourers that often aren’t well paid.
• Water availability is a major issue due to the expansion of dairy farming areas in South-West Victoria.
• Road network requirements to meet growing industry demands.
• Currently there are no serious anti-pollution laws for effluent that are affecting farming.