Induction ban no biggie – vet
Proactive farming and a stringent plan is credited for minimising the impact of the industry-wide ban on routine inductions which came into effect this season, says Canterbury veterinarian Bernice Mangnall.
Oamaru vet Dave Robinson has been recognised for his huge contribution to the sheep and beef sector, receiving the inaugural award Vet of the Year – Sheep and Beef Cattle Veterinarian.
The award, from the Sheep and Beef Cattle Branch, New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), celebrates success in the profession and recognises significant veterinary contribution to the sheep and beef industry in the past 18 months.
Branch president Anthony Oswald says Robinson’s determination and commitment has seen him contributing to research, education and support of veterinarians and farmers.
Robinson has done research, particularly in lameness and footrot, carrying out pilot trials for the product Micotil.
“This work has the potential for Micotil to be licensed in NZ and would be a major step forward for veterinarians to manage footrot and lameness, working alongside their farmer clients,” Oswald says.
“Dave has demonstrated strong stewardship of this antibiotic product, working with the NZVA antibiotic steering committee to develop prudent guidelines for its use when it is launched commercially.
“He has strongly advocated the product be veterinarian-only and used responsibly as part of a whole farm plan approach.”
Oswald says Robinson is a clinical veterinarian who constantly pushes the boundaries, offering services such as embryo transfer and AI, in sheep and cattle, using skills he has perfected on his own stud flock.
“He’s the epitome of someone who lives and breathes sheep and beef and is making huge inroads for the veterinary profession and the sheep and beef industry. He has a great relationship with his farmer clients and is 100% committed to supporting them in their endeavours. We also acknowledge his outstanding work as a mentor to younger veterinarians.”
Robinson has also spoken at ‘Winter Roadshows’ regional farmer meetings on topics such as fodder beet feeding and the benefits of tape drench.
Responding to this year’s nationwide drought, he has also organised ‘drought BBQs’ in the worst hit regions to support and offer practical advice to those who are struggling – supporting farmers, veterinarians and the wider rural community.
Farmer-led charity, Meat the Need is calling for donations to enable it to supply more meals to families in need.
Weaker pricing and demand from China continue to impact New Zealand red meat export earnings.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
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