Lifestyle Farmers - neighbours from Heaven or Hell?
May 30th 2007 02:25
Farms to the left of you, farms to the right
There is a sense of unease among many farmers who rely on what they can produce from the land as their major source of income, when they are introduced to the hobby farmer, absentee land owner or those who have opted for a “bush change” in their retirement or semi-retirement - the so-called lifestyle farmers. While most people in the bush make a great effort to welcome new-comers to their district, these people can be met with some suspicion and coolness, if certain basic principals are not followed.
However, it is important for the new owner to ensure they do not cause too much unrest. Here are a few suggestions to help them settle in and truly enjoy their new acquisition.
Firstly, they should shop in the local town and not do all their grocery shopping in the city and bring it with them when they come. Shopping is not just getting the groceries. It’s meeting the town’s people, knowing who to ask if the mail gets lost or if they have a flat tyre. It is discovering what events are coming up and it could well be how they can learn how to get involved. Getting the local newspaper can add to this orientation process.
It could be a good idea for the man of the house to join the local volunteer fire brigade (if there is one). If they haven’t a truck, that is O.K. If there are fires, all help will be welcome. At the very least ensure the property is fire safe, and perhaps give a donation is a start. It is also important that the trusted neighbour knows how to get on the property if the lifestyle farmer decides to keep their gates locked when away.
Dogs need to be controlled. Farmers have enough trouble ensuring their livestock is safe and secure without dogs large or small stirring up the cattle, attacking sheep or separating lambs from their mothers.
If a farmer does a favour while the recent farm owners are away, like cutting a fallen tree off their fence or returning a straying sheep, he should not be treated like an intruder but be trusted for his good judgement.
Farmers are happy to give advice if there are any problems. They may even be happy to do a little work on the land if paid the going rate. Some even work the land on these small farms for extra income for both parties.
Keep fences in good condition and drainage systems clear. The farmer will appreciate the efforts to ensure his business is not disrupted by straying livestock or flooded roads and paddocks.
If keeping livestock, they do not just sit in the paddock and grow. They need feeding and a miriade of husbandry activities – drenching several times a year, and for sheep - shearing, ensuring they aren’t fly- blown and other jobs. Nothing distresses a farmer more than to see animals that are neglected or mistreated by those who are just “playing at farming”. And if sheep end up with lice and escape into the neighbour’s flock, it can severely affect his income. Remember this may be his only income – while the new farmer may have other assets.
If the hobby farmer is planning to make improvements to his property by planting trees or doing some drainage work, it is important to ensure this fits in with the wider district’s land care management strategies. The local farmers will tell them if a group exists and will be impressed by their desire to ensure their property is part of the plan.
Keep weeds under control. Blackberry bushes produce great fruit, but are not welcome additions to the paddocks. Thistles and other weeds can spread easily and extra spraying costs are unwelcome.
Small acreage farmers or land owners can add a great deal to the district. They are there to enjoy the experience and can be enthusiastic contributors to the community, adding to the economy and the culture of the area. If you are one such person, make sure you plan carefully what you are going to do with the land, remember these simple but essential rules and life in your new country home will be the best choice you ever made.
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