Keep Calves Warm This Winter: Bedding Essentials for Calving Season in Victoria
28 May, 2025
As calving season arrives across Victoria, dairy farmers are preparing for one of the busiest and most critical times of the year. With an estimated 1.2 million dairy cows in Victoria alone, the state sees the birth of approximately 600,000 calves annually. These newborn calves face a variety of environmental challenges, especially during the colder months when temperatures drop and the risk of illness increases.
One of the most important—and often overlooked—steps in ensuring calf health and wellbeing is proper bedding. At Smart Resources Group, we understand the needs of dairy farmers and the importance of protecting calves during this vulnerable stage. That’s why we offer a high-quality, shredded timber mulch bedding solution—soft, warm, and designed to give calves the comfort and protection they need to thrive.
In this article, we’ll explore why proper bedding is crucial during calving season, the specific challenges Victorian farmers face, and how our premium timber bedding can help safeguard the next generation of your herd.
Why Bedding Matters for Newborn Calves
Newborn calves are extremely vulnerable in their first days of life. They face several threats during winter, including:
- Cold stress
- Pneumonia and respiratory infections
- Diarrhea (scours)
- Hypothermia
- Weakened immune response
All of these risks can be significantly reduced with proper shelter and high-quality bedding. Bedding acts as a buffer between the calf and the cold, damp ground, preserving warmth and preventing moisture build-up which often leads to disease.
Warm, dry bedding doesn’t just offer physical comfort—it’s essential for a calf’s survival, health, and growth.
The Calving Season in Victoria: Challenges and Preparation
Victoria’s climate can be unforgiving during calving season, particularly in regions with high rainfall, cool temperatures, and muddy pastures. These factors create the perfect conditions for sickness and stunted growth in young calves.
Here are a few key challenges Victorian dairy farmers face during calving:
1. Temperature Drops
Winter nights in rural Victoria can plunge well below 5°C. Without adequate bedding, calves lose body heat quickly, which forces them to use energy to stay warm—energy that should be used for growth and immune development.
2. Moisture Management
Wet conditions from rain or melting frost can soak through bedding quickly if not chosen carefully. This not only affects warmth but increases the likelihood of disease. Wet environments are breeding grounds for bacteria, especially those that cause respiratory issues.
3. Labour Efficiency
Time is of the essence during calving. Farmers need solutions that are quick to spread, easy to manage, and long-lasting. Replacing bedding constantly is time-consuming and expensive.
That’s why choosing the right bedding solution from the start can make all the difference.
Why Choose Shredded Timber Mulch for Calf Bedding?
At Smart Resources Group, we’ve developed a shredded, fluffy timber mulch that is tailor-made for the unique demands of calf bedding.
Here’s what sets it apart:
✅ Superior Insulation
Our shredded timber mulch traps warm air within its loose, fluffy fibres, acting like a natural blanket. It keeps calves warmer for longer, even in cold barns or open sheds.
✅ Absorbent and Dry
Moisture is one of the biggest threats to calf health. Our timber mulch absorbs moisture while still allowing airflow, keeping the surface dry and preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria.
✅ Soft and Gentle on Calves
Rough or hard bedding can cause pressure sores or discomfort for newborns. Our mulch is soft, cushiony, and safe for delicate skin.
✅ Natural and Sustainable
We’re committed to sustainability. Our timber bedding is made from natural, recycled timber, with no added chemicals or harmful treatments—safe for animals and safe for the environment.
✅ Cost-Effective in Bulk
Because our mulch is long-lasting and efficient at retaining warmth and absorbing moisture, it doesn’t need to be replaced as often—saving time and money for farmers.
Delivered Direct to Your Farm: Victoria-Wide Service
One of the key reasons farmers across Victoria trust Smart Resources Group is our reliable, statewide delivery service. We use a 115m³ walking floor semi-trailer, allowing us to deliver large volumes of bedding quickly and efficiently to any corner of Victoria.
Whether you’re in Gippsland, the Western District, or the High Country, we’re ready to support your farm during calving season.
Need smaller or recurring loads? We can tailor our deliveries based on your herd size and calving schedule.
Best Practices for Bedding Calves
To get the most out of your bedding, here are some tips for optimal use:
1. Start with a Clean Area
Always begin by cleaning out old, damp bedding. Starting fresh reduces bacteria and sets the stage for a healthier environment.
2. Use Enough Bedding Depth
Aim for at least 15-20cm of bedding for newborn calves. The fluffier and thicker the layer, the better it will insulate and absorb.
3. Monitor and Top Up
Inspect calf pens or shelters daily. Remove wet patches and top up with fresh mulch as needed.
4. Pair with Good Ventilation
While bedding helps with warmth, airflow is also essential. Ensure sheds are ventilated to prevent ammonia buildup and reduce the spread of airborne bacteria.
5. Consider Calf Jackets for Extra Protection
In extremely cold regions or for premature calves, combine bedding with calf jackets for maximum warmth and protection.
How to Order or Get a Quote
If you’re preparing for calving season and looking for a trusted, local supplier of premium calf bedding, Smart Resources Group is here to help.
We offer:
- Bulk orders for large herds
- Flexible delivery times
- Competitive pricing
- Expert customer support
Call us today or fill out our quick online form to get a free quote and delivery estimate.
Final Thoughts: Give Your Calves the Best Start
Calving season is full of opportunity—and challenge. Ensuring your newborn calves are warm, dry, and protected from the start can be the difference between a thriving, productive herd and a costly, stressful winter.
By investing in high-quality bedding, you’re not just improving animal welfare—you’re building the foundation for healthier, stronger, more resilient cows in the future.
Let Smart Resources Group partner with you this season. With our fluffy shredded timber mulch, you can rest easy knowing your calves are warm, dry, and ready to grow.
Contact Smart Resources Group Today
📞 Call us on 03-8787 3300
📧 Email us at info@smartresourcesgroup.com.au
🌐 Visit www.smartresourcesgroup.com.au to request a quote
📧 Email us at info@smartresourcesgroup.com.au
🌐 Visit www.smartresourcesgroup.com.au to request a quote
Delivering across Victoria with our 115m³ walking floor semi-trailer—calf comfort starts here.
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As innovative leaders in Melbourne's pallet manufacturing, waste recycling, and labour hire sectors, Smart Resources Group delivers custom solutions tailored to your needs.