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What Our Farmers Say

 

Prompt payment a big advantage

Prompt payment for his bullocks is an important advantage for Duck Bay, Smithton farmer, Les Porteus.

He is one of the biggest fatteners in Tasmania and farms a total of 4000 acres. The Smithton property covers 1200 acres and the remainder is about half an hour away.

“All my cattle go to Greenham, and have done since they started. Greenham saved us here in the north-west. It’s good having a meat works on our doorstep - very convenient and I’m sure it produces better quality meat because there’s less transport stress.

“The advantage of getting money upfront is that I can go out and buy replacements straightaway and that makes a difference when you are turning over a lot of stock. I always sell over the hooks and have a cheque within a couple of days.

“And they are good blokes to get on with,” he added.

Chasing gold at the end of the rainbow

Mick Odgers from Nabageena has been farming long enough to know a bit about how prices work.

He started with his father and three brothers back in the 60’s when they milked two herds totalling 360 cows. Later he established his own operation and has no regrets about a lifetime in the industry.

“I learned early on there’s no point in chasing what seemed like higher prices. Whether you are buying or selling somebody’s always got a price that seems better but invariably something else comes into play and they all end up being much the same.

“I’ve found Greenham very reliable. I’ve even sent off loads of cattle without asking the price - their prices are always competitive. And there have been times when they’ve quoted me a price and the market’s slipped, but they still pay what they quoted. You can’t get fairer than that,” Mick added.

All Mick's cattle have gone to Smithton since Greenham reopened the plant. “I really can’t remember when I sold a beast anywhere else.

“Their payment system has instilled more confidence than anything else. We used to wait three weeks and then often still have to chase after a cheque.

“They’re strong community supporters, especially with sporting groups. And the Scholarship is a great thing - wonderful to give young people training opportunities.”