Tyler Stephenson farms at Spalding, in the mid-north of South Australia, with his mother Pauline. Together they run a hay, grain and sheep operation that spans 3000 hectares.
A few years ago they added a new Grant Sheds MEGA shed, using it to store hay for export markets.
When full, the shed accommodates 3250 bales (about 750kg per bale) and allows them to keep it safely secured out of the weather. It ensures the quality of the hay is maintained and commands a greater price.
“Once hay gets weather damaged, then the price drops off,” Tyler says, noting the difference can be up to $80 less than (their 2018) price of $175 per tonne. And in agriculture every opportunity to achieve a good price counts.”
“We had some hay left out in the paddock several years ago, prior to this shed being built,” explained Pauline. One processor didn’t want it because of the rain damage.”
The worst case scenario could have been getting only about $80 per tonne for pellet hay versus the $175 per tonne the Stephenson’s got in 2018 for their shedded hay. That’s a difference of $231,515 based on the holding capacity of their new shed!*
The Stephenson’s big hay shed cost less than this.
Several years in and already this shed is well and truly earning its keep and has stood up to the test of significant weather events.
With super heavy-duty universal beam columns for strength and so no tractor damage occurs to them when reversing tractors, strong open web roof trusses, a maze of roof bracing and superior size baseplates and footings system, this shed is built to last generations.
Bale bumpers on the rear wall protect the wall iron from damage from bales being shifted and the large capacity guttering systems ensures rainwater is drained away quickly, even in the heaviest downpours.
For more information or to seek advice on your new hay shed, contact Grant Sheds on Freecall 1800 088 528 or visit www.GrantSheds.com.au/hay-sheds
*Disclaimer: Please seek advice from your own independent professional advisers since any calculation of investment return is based on individual circumstances.
Photo: Popular mid-north hay, grain and sheep producers Pauline Stephenson and son Tyler, invested in this Grant Sheds MEGA hay shed that will pay for itself quickly. It is 24m x 48.6m x 8.2m, with 8.1m bays and holds 3250 HD square bales.
For further information
www.GrantSheds.com.au/hay-sheds