Maintaining Strong Herds in Gippsland’s Wet Climate
Maintaining Strong Herds in Gippsland’s Wet Climate
With years of experience supporting cattle producers in Gippsland, Neil Cope knows what it takes to keep herds thriving and productive in tough seasonal conditions.
As the Sales Representative for Southern Stockfeeds, Neil considers ZinMet 50 a key component in maintaining consistent herd health in Gippsland’s challenging wet climate.
“The Gippsland area is very wet and there’s a lot of cattle break-downs due to the constant moisture and coldness,” says Neil. “Foot problems, mineral deficiencies, weakened immunity and reduced feed efficiency are some of the key challenges - and it’s really important to be proactive and stay ahead of them.”
Neil uses ZinMet 50 in 90% of his clients’ feed mixes. It’s a unique combination of organic trace minerals, added to cattle feed in powder form, to boost immunity and performance. He believes that ZinMet 50 is an incredibly beneficial and simple-to-mix additive that keeps cattle thriving in wet conditions.
“I particularly use ZinMet 50 to support hoof health as the methionine accesses the blood quickly and efficiently,” says Neil. “It’s made with zinc and chromium to boost keratin production for stronger hooves and reduce the risk of lameness and infection caused by cattle standing in waterlogged paddocks for long periods of time.”
Since joining Southern Stockfeeds eight years ago, Neil has seen firsthand the impact ZinMet 50 makes to producers’ overall herd health. He continues to recommend ZinMet 50 to clients as he truly believes in the difference that it makes to cattle’s health and performance.
“Coming from a supplier that didn’t use organic trace minerals, I noticed a significant difference in the health of the cattle when I first joined Southern Stockfeeds,” says Neil. “I recommend ZinMet 50 to the majority of my clients.
"The fewer breakdowns, better feed efficiency and less stress during calving make it a product that’s very worthwhile to continue in programs.”
Neil’s client base ranges from dairy farms to feedlots to large beef operations, all across the Gippsland region. He works closely with each operation to create tailored feed strategies that suit their environment and production goals.
“One of my biggest ZinMet 50 clients is a 500 cow Angus farm in Wonthaggi, Victoria,” says Neil. “This area is especially known for its hard winters. Since adding ZinMet 50 to their feed, they’ve seen fewer health issues and more condition on their cattle coming into spring.”
Southern Stockfeeds have had a strong working relationship with Austasia Animal Products for many years and will continue into the future. It’s a partnership that’s been built on trust, consistency and a product that delivers time and time again.
“It’s a great product and a great company,” says Neil. “Southern Stockfeeds and Austasia work very well together. We’ve got repeat clients so everyone is happy.”
Learn more about how ZinMet 50 can support animal health and performance.
