Well here we are into summer and what a busy time of year for most of us.

Selecting quality stock when you buy pays off in the end. Photo Wayne Martin.

Once again I have to mention the weather - it is the time when lots of planning is on the agenda.

According to the weather people we should be expecting another dry season but a couple of old farmer friends tell me we can expect a reasonable amount of rain.

Who really knows?

This is the time to check your water systems for leaks and any damaged pipes. I have been cleaning my troughs of old leaves and rubbish so they are reasonably clean for summer. 

We have adequate water to do this now whereas in six weeks things could be a lot different. 

We now need to plan for all situations and hopefully have enough grass to turn into hay for the months ahead.

Speaking of hay make sure you have contacted one of the local hay contractors and set some dates for this task. I normally leave it until the last minute and then find they can’t make my hay at a time that suits and invariably finish up having it made far too late.

I have made my arrangements nice and early this year and now it all depends on the weather.

I would imagine most of you who run sheep will have had them shorn by now and completed feet trimming and worming.

Don’t forget to be on the lookout for that awful problem of fly strike; I will be spraying my sheep for it in the next week or two.

It is a good idea to check with your vet regarding the best product for your situation.

There are lots of products on the market for prevention and for treatment which you need to have on hand.

On my lifestyle block I normally run three or four  steers. I sold this year’s group a few months ago and at a good price I might add. 

I had had them from weaners and by the time they were sold they were ready for processing.

When purchasing weaners it is wise to note you get what you pay for. If you buy well raised healthy animals they will grow faster and have fewer health problems. 

You will really see the benefit of a good purchase when they are ready to sell. A pointer here for first time stock buyers or those developing their property – a good stock ramp needs to be in place.

I say this as I only thought of it at the last minute...  It’s also a good idea with newly arrived weaners to give them a drench.  I use pour on and have had great results so far.

See you next month for our Christmas round up.

See you next month.

• Brian Neben publishes Rural Living, and during the weekends is an avid lifestyle farmer.