In recent years there has been a big shift to lifestyle and small block farming with former townies opting to explore everything from alpaca breeding to running beef cattle.

Regular fence maintenance is imperative for stock control. Photo supplied.

However, in their enthusiasm for the country life it is easy to forget the planning and hard work that is needed when running any large property.

Those who thought a few sheep or a handful of goats would make great lawnmowers and didn’t think about their care probably learnt a few hard lessons in the first year. However, generally it doesn’t take long for even the greenest lifestyle farmers to find their way.

Learning new skills, particularly farming skills, may be challenging but it can be rewarding too especially for those who are practical at heart and have been do-it-yourselfers in the past.

A basic requirement on any farm is organisation and a work schedule. Fence and gate maintenance is imperative for stock control.

Ready made fences can be expensive so anyone with carpentry and welding skills may be able to make their own.

Knowing how to install them could be another matter.

One thing is certain every farmer needs to invest in a workshop and quality tools. While the list is endless basics include the likes of fencing pliers, socket and driver set, claw hammer, mixed nails/screws, wrenches, spade (and shovel), hoe, axe, power tools – chainsaw in particular – spinning jenny to (to hold and unwind wire) and a wire tensioner, rammer, weed spraying equipment and of course, the indispensable commercial size tape measure to name but a few.

Bigger equipment may include a tractor, seeder, welder, ride on mower, and a pick-up truck to carry your tools of trade. For new lifestyle farmers every day will turn up another job and the need for the proper equipment before it can be done.

While it’s not hard to list jobs, fencing is always a priority. Check your fence lines often – walk them from boundary to boundary checking for damage and make the appropriate repairs promptly.

Ensure gate latches are in good working order and that fence posts are strong and sturdy. Reset loose posts and replace rotten posts immediately in order to keep animals safe and to protect any horticultural areas from wandering stock.

Where there are electric fences, check for and replace worn insulators and have a voltmeter to test at various points for any drop in voltage. Adjust tension if necessary and ensure ground rods are still making good contact.

Pens and animals shelters will need an annual check and if repairs are called for, summer is the best time to tackle chicken coop, stable or pig sty maintenance.

Don’t let months go by without regular checks on fences, buildings and essential farm equipment. Make repairs as you go and book tools in for regular servicing.

That’s the easiest way to keep a farm in good working order and looking smart. Keep a notebook in your back pocket to jot down jobs as you spot them, then you won’t forget and can prioritise.

Never think yourself too busy to attend to those essential maintenance jobs in particular where safety is an issue do what you can yourself but when the job needs specialist skills call in the experts.

And don’t necessarily look for the cheapest option when it comes to buying tools and equipment – consider the need for hardiness, reliability and longevity.

There’ll always be jobs to do on the farm and you won’t want your tools or other equipment to let you down.