Advertising: 1300 679 787Local, State and Local Rural NewsSeptember 8, 2022 ED113 All your cul va on needs in one brand, Lemken isSugarBroadwaterMillBack Full Story page 2
CONTACT US - The Northern Rivers Times Rural Edition ✆ 1300 679 787 SALES 02 6662 6222 sales@heartlandmedia.com.au ✆ Albury - 02 6080 9520, Casino - 02 6662 6222, Dubbo - 02 5858 4078, Grafton - 02 5632 3041, Moree - 02 6794 3889, Tamworth - 02 5719 1656, Wagga Wagga - 02 5940 8516 Directors, co-owners and co-founders: Jeffrey Gibbs (jeff@heartlandmedia.com.au) and Sharon Bateman (sharon@heartlandmedia.com.au)
ISSN: 2652-7928 a Heartland Media company ABN: 84 134 238 181 All rights reserved © 2022 Distribution Coffs Harbour north to Southport and west to Tenterfield weekly. www.thenorthernriverstimes.com.au/news/rural-news/
to make this happen, and I hope they take a moment to savour the reward of seeing the mill up and running again for its 141st season”; said Chief Executive Offcer, Mr ChrisAlmostConnors.sixmonths after unprecedented fooding devastated the Richmond Valley, the Broadwater Sugar Mill is getting back to the business of crushing locally grown sugarcane.TheFebruary/March 2022 food event brought almost 3 metres of water through the mill, leaving behind a scene of chaos andManydevastation.localcane farmers and mill employees in the area lost their homes, crops, livestock and machinery.MrConnors said, “The delivery of the frst load of cane and the commencement of crushing for the frst time this year, is a huge milestone and a positive step toward recovery of not only the local sugar industry, but for all of the local businesses and communities involved in the farming, harvesting and milling of sugarcane here in the Richmond.” Although some of the Richmond sugarcane has been able to be harvested and transported to either the Condong or Harwood sugar mills for milling, having the local mill back in operation is a huge boost for the local growers and workforce. “Once the mill is consistently processing cane over the next few hours, we can safely say that the Broadwater Sugar Mill is back”; said Mr Connors.Wearehoping to have some more positive news very shortly with the announcement of the Anchor Grants. We have been progressing getting the business back in operations and maintaining our full workforce, but it has come at a cost. The Anchor grants are going to be critical to our ongoing viability.
Encouraging tomorrow’s workers today
An increasingly popular school excursion program is giving the next generation of workers a taste of future career isunderstandfarmers.developingForestryAgriculture,withdeliveredfundedprogramsaidfromcareerworkerstheimportantNSWJobsGovernment’sopportunities.WiththeAustralianinauguralSummitunderway,Farmerssaysit’stoencouragenextgenerationoftoconsiderainagriculture.GeorgiaCampbellNSWFarmerstheKidstoFarms–afederally-initiativeinpartnershiptheDepartmentofFisheriesand–wascrucialtotomorrow’s“Wewantchildrentowhyfarmingimportant–sothey understand food and fbre production and learn about where it comes from,” Ms Campbell said. “Kids to Farms is built on the ethos of ‘two by 12’, or two thanofexperiencesagriculturebytheage12,andsofar,more3200studentshave beneftted from this opportunity.“Thisisimportant in helping those children who might grow up to become farmers to learn about this exciting industry.” Throughout the pandemic the agricultural sector suffered from a shortage of workers, and while the Jobs Summit was designed to tackle the big issues around workforce, Ms Campbell said training up the next generation was also important.“Weseechildren really excited about the big machinery, the idea of working outdoors, and just the concept of working and feeding thousands – or millions –of people,” she said. “With all of the new technologies emerging, like drones and precision agriculture, tomorrow’s ag workers will be coders and technicians and engineers as much as farmers. “I’m confdent the little seeds we plant through these excursions and this funding will grow into something all Australians will be proud of in the kidstofarms@nswfarmers.com.aufuture.”Visitwww.kidstofarms.oremail org.au to fnd out more about Kids to Farms and learn how your school can get involved.
NSW Farmers member Joanna Treasure demonstrates shearing to students at Cowra.
The forhaveaemployees,pridemixturehasBroadwatercrushingmuch-anticipatedofcaneattheSugarMillbeenmetwithaofjoy,relief,andachievement.“SunshineSugaralongwithrangeofcontractorsworkedtirelesslythepastsixmonths
RURAL NEWSThe2 NR Times Rural News September 8, 2022
BROADWATER SUGAR MILL IS BACK
RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS
Vealer steers averaged 565.7c/kg topping at 680.2c/kg or $1453.80 to $1968.60
Vealer heifers averaged 522.9c/kg topping at 635.2c/kg or $1264.46 to $1817.16 Feeder steers averaged 489.9c/kg topping at 670.2c/kg or $1883.35 to $2439.96 Feeder heifers averaged 420.5c/kg topping at 496.2c/kg or $1493.98 to $1710.75 Yearling steers averaged 590.2c/kg topping at 676.2c/ kg or $1709.60 to $2403.17 Yearling heifers averaged 511.6c/kg topping at 626.2c/ kg or $1525.92 to $2176.44 Steers averaged 500.9c/kg topping at 625.2c/kg or $2128.17 to 2471.96 Heifers averaged 369.7c/kg topping at 406.2c/kg or $1671.00 to Manufacturing$2486.67steersaveraged 396.2c/kg and sold for Cows$2565.40averaged 325.2c/kg topping at 376.2c/kg or $1789.00 to $2608.50 Bulls averaged 364c/kg topping at 590.2c/kg or $1658.75 to 3832.22 Lambs topped at $197 to average $134.57 par on last Hoggetssale topped at $175 to average $111.02 down $15/ head on last sale Ewes topped at $156 to average $114.85 up $42/head on last Wetherssaletopped at $130 to average $115.36 up $7/head on last sale Lamb rams topped at $165 to average $137.64 up $5/ head on last sale Total sale of 913 averaged $129.34 up $3/head on last sale. Pig numbers were up and so were the prices as Sows sold from $100 to $460, Barrows sold from $180 to $190, Boars sold from $205 to $340, Baconers sold to $250, Light Pork from $130 to $165, Stores from $72 to $165, Gilts sod to $445 Poultry numbers were also up with Guinea Fowl selling to $12.50, Pullets to $20, Hens to $7.50, Chickens to $20, Roosters to $20, Bantams to $22.50, Drakes sold to $35, Ducks to $20
Ian Weir & Son held a store sale at the NRLX on Friday 2 September with 695 head going under the hammer. Steers topped their category at 840c/kg and averaged 624c/kg and 222kg whilst heifers reached a top of 740c/kg and averaged 553c/kg and 209kg. Cows reached a top price of $2,550 whilst Cows & Calves topped their market at $3,100.
Jules Taylor sold Dorper lambs 50kg to Take It Easy Meats for $180, 55kg hoggets to Take It Easy Meats for $175, 45kg ram lambs to Leslie Lamb for $130 and Take It Easy Meats for $152, White Dorper x ram lambs and hoggets 57.5kg to restockers for $165 and $136, 33.3kg Dorper lambs to DM Luck for $149, 31.2kg to Highchester Meats for $100 Gradenfoe Past Co sold Merino lambs 54.7kg to Thomas Foods for $181 Andy & Helen Ferrier sold Dorper lambs 44.7kg to Take It Easy Meats for $150 John Doherty sold Dorset x lambs 55kg to Take It Easy Meats for $180, 46.1kg to restockers for $135 Ian & Diane Rolph sold Dorset lambs 46.25kg to restockers for $140 Camrose P/S sold Dorper lambs 57.6kg to Thomas Foods for $183, 46.4kg to Shelley F/T for $170, 50kg ram lambs to restockers for $130, 61.1kg hoggets to Eversons for $157 Dalmeny Farming sold Dorper x hoggets 50kg to Eversons for $126, 45kg to restockers for $100, ewes to restockers for $140 Rex & Ros Lipp sold Dorper ewes in lamb to restockers for $128 and $148 John & Ursula Miller sold Dorper lambs 25kg to JD Rural for $85, ewes to restockers for $156, rams to Cr Cynthia Mc Donald for $130 Keith Coban sold Dorset rams to Whites Trading for $130
RURAL NEWS 3 September 8, 2022 The NR Times Rural NewsLocally owned and independent
Vealer prices saw a slight increase this week with lighter vealer up to 250kg averaging 588c/kg and reaching a top of 846c/kg. Heavier vealer over 250kg averaged 519c/kg with a top price of 630c/kg.
T Kroehnert Hereford x Brahman steers sold to 560c/kg weighed 320kg to return $1785/hd McGrath Cattle Co PTIC Angus heifers averaged $2500 Hanging Rock Hereford x Angus heifers sold to 512c/kg weighed 312kg to return $1598/hd B T Fahey Charolais steers sold to 638c/kg weighed 230kg to return $1470/hd B W Brown sold Angus cows and calves for $2600 www.farrellmccrohon.com.au / PO Box 417 Grafton
LIVESTOCK MARKETS W/E 2/09/22 Agents had a similar yarding of cattle and sheep and lambs for the weekly sales. The value for the cattle market were frm to a shade dearer for most descriptions the only slight exception being the cow section. Good pack to the paddock and processor interest saw most categories fully frm. The sheep and lamb section saw the market stabilize and sell to a par rate on last week, the processors were frm on the better fnished article and showed little interest in anything lacking in weight or fnish. Restocker interest was frm across the board with a few actively looking for rams and replacement ewes.
WARWICKWARWICKAGENTS
MCWARWICKDOUGALL&SONS
T&W McCormack and Ramsey & Bulmer will hold a store sale this Friday 9 September with 800 head booked. Further bookings are welcome.
2186 Gwydir Highway, Ramornie Auction Friday 14th October, 11am on site This property is the perfect combo of a neat home on small acres with good shedding Our vendor is liquidating her assets & as such 2186 Gwydir Hwy must be sold The three bedroom, one bathroom country style home has a welcoming front verandah & a great back deck to kick back & take in the views of the Ramornie mountains in the distance The house yard is fenced & is generous in size Shedding is plentiful with a double colourbond garage with power & concrete floor, which is adjoined by a high roof shed that is partially enclosed Situated on 7 acres or 2 9 hectares this property would be just perfect for a horse or two, or to give the kids a rural upbringing There is one main paddock plus the house yard, two permanent dams, and boundary fencing is in good condition You re a quick 19 minutes drive from the Grafton CBD We have several inspection times scheduled; please don t delay in coming along to inspect, and declaring your interest early Office: 02)6642 5200 David Farrell: 0437 448 455 Ben Clark: 0477 123 770
SHEEP & LAMB REPORT Agents today yarded 913 sheep & lambs for the weekly sale. The lambs were drawn from South West, Maranoa , New England as well as local vendors. The market was dominated with lambs and hoggets of varying weights and fnish. Mutton was in short supply and mostly made up from ewes of varying ages. The market was very picky with the fnish and weight and breed determining the end results. Good trade lambs were frm with lambs topping at $197 to average $134.57(Par), hoggets topped at $175 to average $111.02($15down), ewes topped at $156 to average $114.85($42up), wethers topped at $130 to average $70.33)$45down), rams topped at $130 to average $115.36($7up),lamb rams topped at $165 to average $137.64($5up). The total sale average of $129.34 was $3/ head dearer then the previous sale. Stillwater Past Co sold Dorper lambs 50.7kg to Jock young for $189, 48.9kg to Leslie Lamb for $180
WeekNRLXCASINOMarketReportEndingFriday2
September Agents yarded a total of 1,266 head at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange regular prime sale on Wednesday 31 August. There was a good offering of cows with an additional buyer returning. Cows in general sold to solid trends with a dearer market. Restockers stepped in buying cows with additional weight. There were quite a few light cows in plainer condition these still selling well. Young cattle were well represented also including plainer conditioned cattle.Cow prices were stronger again this week averaging 331c/kg and reaching a top price of 388c/kg. Heifer prices saw a drop with lighter stock up to 250kg averaging 521c/kg and topping their category at 690c/ kg. Heavier heifers over 250kg averaged 409c/kg and reached a top of 562c/kg. Bull prices held frm this week with 14 head sold averaging 331c/kg and 724kg. Steer prices were easier with lighter steers up to 250kg averaging 602c/kg and reaching a top of 840c/kg. Heavier steers over 250kg averaged 500c/kg and topped their market at 720c/kg. A small number of bullocks sold on the day averaged 381c/kg.
Property of the Week Sale Results
RURAL NEWSThe4 NR Times Rural News September 8, 2022
Rabobank senior animal protein analyst Angus Gidley-Baird
Mr Gidley-Baird said the bank expects cattle prices to contract through Q3, but the warmer spring months and pasture growth should see some stability return to the market with some possible upside in Q4. Although Australia’s cattle slaughter numbers are slowly creeping up, volumes remain historically low, and Mr Gidley-Baird expects overall production for the year to be similar to 2021 at 1.9 million metric tonnes.
“No matter how wellintentioned these ideas may be, the fact is that they just aren’t workable for people in the country,” Mr Kidd said. “With few public transport options and vast distances between towns, country people have little choice but to use petrol or diesel to get around and I can’t see that changing in the next fve years.
Many smaller family farms and regional businesses use older vehicles out of necessity – not choice – meaning a ban on them entering Sydney could impact food supplies. And while the number of electric vehicle charging stations in country areas was increasing, Mr Kidd said they were not yet a replacement in terms of practicality of distance and convenience. “The reality is that setting artifcial targets for spot solutions could do enormous harm to the supply chain of food, most of which will rely on diesel for the foreseeable future,” Mr Kidd said. “Capital investment is a constant challenge and setting punitive targets may be okay for the big transport operators, but for farmers and small feet operators it could spell“Wedoom.need the electric vehicle market to be viable and affordable –and desirable – before calls to take trucks off the road, and food off the table of cities, is even contemplated.” Mr Kidd said the agricultural sector was engaging with local, state, and federal governments around the energy transition, and called for a well-articulated transition strategy retrofttingincludingexisting vehicles to keep them on the“Thereroad. are few things more wasteful than consigning a good truck to the scrap heap simply because of a number,” Mr Kidd said. “If we’re serious about doing more with less and minimising our impact, we should be recycling and repurposing wherever possible, and trucks are part of that too. “Perhaps we need to see incentives for renewal of vehicles and strategies for bio-fuel if we want to drive a transition that is practical and achievable.”
AUSTRALIA IN ‘BOX SEAT’ AS GLOBAL CONSUMERS TRADE DOWN TO BEEF ‘TRIMMINGS’
The Committee for Sydney wants to ban the sale of petrol and diesel cars by 2027, while the Grattan Institute says old diesel-powered trucks should be taken off Sydney’s roads, both in a push to improve the environment.However,NSW Farmers Energy WorkingTransitionGroupchair Reg Kidd says these policies would have disastrous unintended consequences for regional communities and the agricultural sector.
“There are many people in regional communities who want to be part of the energy transition, but they need to be able to be involved, not sidelined as a consequence of a narrow thinking.”
Green machines threaten electric shock for regions campaignsNarrow-thinkingcalling for electric vehicle mandates risk leaving regional communities behind, NSW Farmers has warned.
“Evidence of declining consumer confdence in the face of slowing economies and rising infation is starting to build,” the Rabobank report says. “In general, beef markets are resilient to changes in economic conditions. However, we do see movement within supply channels and price points that tend to favour cheaper options such as mince/ground beef and quick-service restaurants over the more expensive cuts and consumption channels.” Growing demand The bank forecasts the volume of trimmings consumed globally to remain strong and potentially increase in the second half of 2022 as consumers continue to trade down to lower-value beef cuts and cheaper proteins. Trimmings are typically used in the production of ground or minced beef. “Major importers of trimmings include the US, China, Japan and South Korea,” the report says. “With these countries facing slower economic conditions in the second half of 2022, we expect purchasingconsumer-decisions to favor the consumption of trimmings. The US and South Korea face high infation pressures, whilst China and Japan continue to struggle with slower economic growth off the back of COVID.” In the US – with its high consumption of ground beef – this should support demand for trimmings both from domestic and imported sources, Rabobank says. Adding to the changing consumption habits as a result of economic conditions is the potential for the US to dramatically increase its need for imported Currently,trimmings.highdomestic beef production in the US is reducing the need for imported trimming products, the report says. But, if US production contracts – with a slowing of the current US cow liquidation – higher import volumes will be needed.AndAustralia – along with New Zealand – will be in the ‘box seat’ to help fll that demand, says Rabobank senior animal protein analyst Angus numbers.fedgenerateherdGidley-Baird.Australia’sincreasedinventorywilladditionalgrass-andfemaleslaughterHowever,acaveat remains for the Australian market with our current limited says.capacity,processingMrGidley-Baird“Unlesswecan correct this, our ability to ramp up production and capitalise on any trimmings demand growth will be limited,” he said. Global outlook The global beef market overall remains strong, Rabobank’s Q3 Beef Quarterly says. “Most beef retail prices (in domestic currencies) continued their upward trend in Q2 or remained steady,” the report says. Beef prices in most markets are sitting between fve and 11 per cent higher than quarter two in 2021, with the UK a notable exception recording a decline in prices as consumer demand for beef has softened due to high retail prices. Cattle markets around the world also remain favourable, the report says, supported by either seasonal conditions – in the case of Australian and Brazil – or strong demand, in the case of theThereUS. was however some decline in cattle prices (in US dollar terms) from the previous quarter in countries including Australia, Brazil, Argentina and New Zealand. Australia Cattle prices continued to decline through July, Mr Gidley-Baird said, dropping below “year-ago levels” for the frst time in 2.5 years, although we have seen them lift through August. “Prices remain historically high,” he said. “Although at the end of July the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator for weaner age cattle had dropped 23 per cent since the beginning of the year, there is no need to panic. “Since the beginning of August, we have seen prices rise again. We feel that the change in the seasons is prompting producers to hold cattle, refected in lower saleyard numbers and with weaner cattle prices dropping the margin for backgrounders has improved which we believe has stimulated some additional demand.”
Global demand for cheaper cuts of beef is expected to increase in the year ahead as rampant infation and slowing economic growth see consumers trade down, Rabobank says in a newly-released report. And Australia – as one of the largest exporters of beef ‘trimmings’ (the cheaper meat cuts which remain after prime cuts are removed) – is expected to be among the best-positioned countries to beneft from this increased international demand, particularly from the US, the agribusiness bank says in its Q3 Global Beef Quarterly.
RURAL NEWS 5 September 8, 2022 The NR Times Rural NewsLocally owned and independent COUNCILBRIEFS SHIPPING CONTAINERS 20ft & 40ft Storage Best Prices Lease or Buy On or Off Site BREWHOUSE VILLAGE LOCALLY OWNED IN GRAFTON 160-170 North St GRAFTON 6642 8168 - 0439 445 654
The offcial Bush Fire Danger Period starts in 12 regions across NSW BUSH FIRE DANGER PERIOD BEGINS WITH NEW WARNING SYSTEM
Bush Fire Danger Period today are Clarence Valley, Coffs Coast, Far North Coast, Far South Coast, Hunter Valley, Liverpool Range, Lower North Coast, Mid Coast, New England, Northern Rivers, Northern Tablelands and Shoalhaven.NSWRural Fire Service Commissioner Rob Rogers said continuous, heavy rainfall across many parts of NSW has led to an increase in the growth of fuel loads. “Over the coming weeks and months, we are particularly concerned about the likelihood of grass and crop fres as the State starts to dry out,” Commissioner Rogers said.Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Paul Baxter urged residents to familiarise themselves with the new fre danger ratings system to protect the“Ourirreplaceable.mainpriority is to protect life. So please help us to help you and know what actions you will take if a bush fre does threaten your life and property this season,” Commissioner Baxter said.National Parks and Wildlife Service Executive Director Naomi Stevens reminded residents to be aware of fre danger ratings especially if planning on bush walking or camping in national parks.“It’s important to know the risk of where you live and also where you’re visiting, and be aware of any closures to parks on days of increased fre danger,” Ms Stevens said. Forestry Corporation Chief Forester Ross Dickson said many people love to get out of the house and enjoy nature over the warmer months, like four wheel driving, walking dogs and taking picnics. “Please take some time to plan ahead, be aware of the conditions especially as the weather warms up and remember during total fre bans no fames are allowed in the state’s forests,” Dr DicksonLandholderssaid. who want to light a fre during the Bush Fire Danger Period are required to obtain a permit, in addition to notifying their local fre authority and neighbours 24 hours before lighting up. Information about fre permits, required notifcations and hazard reduction burning is available at: myfreplan.com.au.survivalnsw.gov.au/BFDP.www.rfs.Tomakeabushfreplan,visit:www.
The offcial Bush Fire Danger Period starts today in 12 regions across NSW, as the new national Fire Danger Rating System takes effect across Australia.Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the upcoming bush fre season will be the frst to incorporate the updated Fire Danger Rating System. “The existing six ratings are being replaced with four – Moderate, High, Extreme and Catastrophic – so that the community can better understand the risks and make potentially life-saving decisions,” Ms Cooke said.“The new system of ratings was developed using communitiesseason,greatestbushthreemoreremainedwhichresearchcommunityandupdatedfrebehaviorscience,untilnow,hasunchangedforthan50years.“Grassfrescanmovetimesfasterthanfresandareourthreatthiswhichiswhyallinregional and rural NSW should take the necessary steps to become familiar with the Fire Danger Rating commencingSystem.”The12regionstheir
The Coffs Coast will beneft from an expansion of programs to increase the number of junior doctors and nurse practitioners in regional and rural inexperiencemetropolitanmedicalopportunity50.scholarshipsstate32offeringCadetshipResidentwillannouncementSinghHarbourMemberlocations.forCoffsGurmeshwelcomesthewhichexpandtheRuralMedicalProgram,byanadditionalcadetshipsacrossthebringingthetotalonofferto“Thisagreatforstudentsfromareastoruralmedicineavibrantandcloseknit community, while receiving great support and guidance,” Mr Singh said.“These junior doctors will provide essential respite for our dedicated rural and experiencingWehealthcareregionalworkers.hopethatafterlifein our wonderful community they will choose to stay.” Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the number of nurse practitioners in regional NSW will be doubled to 200 over four years. “Nurse practitioners play an doctors,alocationsimportantincrediblyroleinruralwhereit’schallengetoattractandthis announcement is an enormous boost for these communities,” Mrs Taylor“Thesesaid.are highly skilled professionalsnursingthat can operate autonomously in complex clinical settings. “By adding these extra doctors and nurses, we are providing our hardworking regional health workforce with vital backup and ensuring better health outcomes and a brighter future for NSW families.”
MORE JUNIOR DOCTORS AND NURSE PRACTITIONERS
The Rural ScholarshipsDoctorProgram is administered by the Rural Doctor’s Network. The NSW Government announced the largest health workforce boost in the nation’s history in the 2022-23 Budget with a $4.5 billion investment over four years to recruit 10,148 full-time equivalent staff to hospitals and health services across NSW, with 3,800 of those positions in rural and regional areas. FOR REGIONAL NSW
carbon4.AgricultureNational3.weatherandfarmers2.reductions1.ActionFarmersAustralians.”regionalforClimateiscallingfor:DeepemissionsthisdecadeSupportfortoprepareforrecoverfromextremeAcomprehensiveClimateandPolicyHighintegrityandbiodiversity
Farmers from the NSW Northern Rivers region are calling for deep emissions reductions this decade to protect farming communities, six months on from disastrous fooding that took lives and destroyed livelihoods. Farmers for Climate Action has collected the stories of more than 40 food-affected farmers in the Northern Rivers. Most are still grappling with the fallout from the disaster, and with ongoing wet weather that is putting yet another growing season at risk. “Climate change is disrupting our livelihoods and the old ways of measuring “once in 100 year” foods aren’t relevant anymore,” said mixed farmer Peter Lake from the Grafton region, one of the interviewees. “There have been two inquiries into the foods that devastated our communities. The NSW Upper House one didn’t really acknowledge the reality I’m still living that the changed climate is making wet weather wetter, and we need to take action to rapidly reduce emissions this decade,” said Mr Lake. “At the same time, we need real support to make our properties more resilient to the next food or drought event that climate change brings.” “Farmers are already doing so much to reduce emissions – changing animal feeds, planting shelterbelts, embracing renewable energy – but we need governments to act and support us. Without action on climate change we are literally stuck in the mud.” Action on climate change is the common thread throughout the farmer interviews, alongside heartbreaking impacts for homes, crops, animals, and livelihoods. Many farmers also raised the issue of restrictive eligibility requirements for recovery assistance.
AGRICULTURE ROUNDTABLES PROVIDE IMPORTANT FEEDBACK AHEAD OF JOBS & SKILLS SUMMIT
Four agriculture industry roundtables held across the country over the past fortnight have provided valuable feedback to the Albanese Government ahead of the Jobs and Skills Summit in Canberra next week. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt has convened meetings with dozens of key stakeholders at the forums held in three different states.Hesaid the roundtables allowed agriculture, fsheries and forestry employers, unions, advocacy groups and training providers to give their feedback on the issues that faced the sector.“Itwas great to hear frst-hand from a range of groups about the workforce and skills issues specifc to the agriculture sector. “These meetings, held in regional and metropolitan areas, brought a range of new voices to the table. “Just bringing people together - with different perspectives - is an important step forward, in solving a range of issues confronting the agriculture workforce. “Some of these issues have been there for years and were not addressed by the former government. We’re now getting on with the job of coming up with solutions. “The supportdeliveredroundtablesstrongforsomeof our Government’s existing commitments, like expanding and strengthening the Pacifc Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) program and cracking down on rogue operators in the sector responsible for unacceptable worker exploitation.“Theroundtables have produced inamsuggestions,additionalwhichInowconsidering,therunuptothe Government’s Jobs and Skills Summit. “I would like to thank all of those representatives who attended these roundtables and for their honest and open dialogue throughout these discussions.”TheAlbanese Labor Government’s Jobs and Skills Summit will be held at Parliament House this week. The Summit will bring together
RURAL NEWSThe6 NR Times Rural News September 8, 2022 People Product Partnerships Coraki Rural & Hardware Supplies 102-104 Queen Elizabeth Drive CORAKI
Farmers call for urgent climate action on food anniversary
withunionsinrepresentativesindustrynumbereconomicaddressandemployers,includingAustralians,unions,civilsocietygovernmentstoourgreatestchallenges.MinisterWattsaidaofagricultureandregionalwouldbeattendance,aswellasrepresentativescoverageof agricultural workers. “We’re pleased unions, industry groups and others are bringing ideas to the table for the Jobs and Skills Summit,” Minister Watt said. “That’s what it is all about.
“Farmers are on the front lines of climate change, facing more severe and frequent drought, heatwaves, fres and foods,” said Farmers for Climate Action CEO Fiona Davis. “Extreme weather is making farming harder and more uncertain, affecting the food supply chain at every stage and driving up costs of inputs and insurance.” “If we act quickly, there are huge economic opportunities for farmers and regional Australians through new carbon and environmental income streams and regional clean energy. Let’s not miss the opportunity to create secure, resilient jobs and livelihoods for farmers and markets
RURAL NEWS 7 September 8, 2022 The NR Times Rural NewsLocally owned and independent Lot 7 Welbatch Wisconsin. Lot 8 Welbatch M072 Lot 45 Welbatch Wolf of Wall Street Lot 47 Welbatch M067 Lot 50 Welbatch M070 Lot 46 Welbatch M064 Offering 13 Bulls (10 WelbatchPoll) Pastoral Santa Gertrudis Stud BRISBANE VALLEY SANTA GERTRUDIS SALE September 14, Toogoolawah Showgrounds Enquiries Scott Humphreys 0438 169 157, Mummulgum NSW at FEATURING 71 www.santagertrudis.com.auBULLS 14th SEPT 2022 SHOWGROUNDSTOOGOOLAWAH12.30PM CONTACT RUSSELL 07 5424 8138 SCOTT 0438 169 157
The Brisbane Valley Santa Bull Sale will be held at the Toogoolawah Showgrounds on Wednesday 14th September commencing at 12-30 pm where 71 quality, commercially focussed, herd improving bulls will go under the hammer of guest auctioneer Innes Fahey of Copmanhurst. All bulls have been vaccinated for Vibrio, 3 day, 7 in 1 and blooded with 3 germ blood for tick fever. All sale bulls will also be scanned for Rib and Rump Fat, Rib Eye area and Intramuscular Fat. The nine studs represented in the sale are all domiciled east of the great dividing range where their cow herds run on forest country giving these bulls a natural doing ability to perform wherever they go. Bulls from these studs continue to perform well in leading Santa Gertrudis studs around the country, as well as large scale commercial operations. There is a wide range of genetics represented in the sale with 23 individual sires giving 92% of the draft being classifed as stud sires. Also, within the draft of 71 Bulls, 54 are poll or poll scurr bulls.Bulls to look at with outstanding showring performance are lot 7 Welbatch Wisconsin- Senior and Grand Champion from Sydney Royal Show with his stablemate lot 8 Welbatch M072 being Junior Champion at Sydney. Welbatch Santa Gertrudis stud was established in 1988 at Mummulgum in Northern NSW. The stud has been offering bulls at the Brisbane Valley sale for the previous 5 years. This year will see Welbatch offer a draft of 13 bulls, 10 poll at this year’s sale.Welbatch
Santa Gertrudis stud have had tremendous success in the show ring this year, in addition to the two broad ribbon winning bulls being offered in the sale, the stud also exhibited the Senior and Grand Champion female and Best Santa Gertrudis Exhibit with Welbatch Ultra at Sydney Royal. A full blood brother to Welbatch Ultra will be offered at this year’s Brisbane Valley Sale. The vendors are offering freight assistance to these centres - Murgon, Gayndah, Eidsvold, Dalby, Coolabunia Beaudesert, Casino and Moreton Saleyards if agents are contacted prior to the sale . Sole agents for the sale are Sheperdson and Boyd and it will be interfaced with AuctionPlus . Catalogues are available by contacting Scott Humphreys: 0438 169 157 or can be downloaded from the link on the Brisbane Valley Facebook Page.
Farmers want less talk, more action on workers
The Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC) has launched its new national campaign, More to Meat. The More to Meat campaign highlights the important role red meat processors play in regional communities, the national red meat supply chain, and the industry’s signifcant contribution to the national economy. Casino may be famous for the annual Beef Week celebrations, but now, the community that has helped open Australian red meat to the world will be a focus of the national More to Meat campaign.
There’s More to Meat Than Meets the Eye
RURAL NEWSThe8 NR Times Rural News September 8, 2022
industry could fll the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) three times over, and they are all working to produce the highest quality red meat demanded worldwide. “Behind each of those jobs is a family, helping to keep food on their table, pay for a new pair of footy boots or a music lesson and in turn supporting other local businesses and jobs in town.“Red meat campaign.throughshinetohavecommunitiesprocessinglikeCasinoaremarkablestorytell,andAMPCwillalightonthemtheMoretoMeat“TheMoretoMeat campaign is important because it showcases the jobs being created in the red meat processing industry, and they are often far from the stereotypes people have come to expect.” “The industry still provides the good, stable jobs it always has, but there are jobs you may not expect, from quality assurance to food safety, tradies, and even robotics.
AMPC Chief Executive Offcer, Chris Taylor, said, “More to Meat will shine a light on red meat processors’ proud involvement in Casino and regional Australia, providing jobs, economic opportunity and supporting farmers. “300 redemployedemployersoftenlikeprocessingsupportedaroundcommunitiesAustraliaarebyaredmeatfacility,andCasinotheyareoneofthebiggestintown.“ThenumberofpeopleinAustralia’smeatprocessing
Farmers are entering their third bumper harvest without enough workers to get the job done, the country’s largest agricultural advocacy group says. NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said the enormous potential in the agricultural sector was being missed, squandering opportunities to rebuild the economy at a critical time, and hindering the sector’s goal of becoming the next $100 billion industry by 2030. “We’re seeing record-breaking productivity after years of drought, but I’m worried we won’t be able to maximise opportunities before the next drought arrives,” Mr Martin said.“NSW Farmers has been warning about the need to urgently address the skills shortage for years now, but it seems talk is easier than action. “With the jobs summit getting underway, we want our leaders to prioritise food security, and maximise productivity. We need workers to be able to do this.” Mr Martin said a career in agriculture meant being part of the future of food and fbre production, and required skills in diverse felds such as engineering, economics, science, trades, and business. “Securing the future agricultural workforce will come down to training and promoting opportunities,” he said.“From hands-on vocational qualifcations that improve the day-to-day business of farming, such as livestock management and machine operation, to technical and scientifc qualifcations that improve the quality of the produce leaving the farm gate, such as agronomy or crop research. “A regional renaissance and high migration away from cities, as well as the burgeoning opportunities agricultural technology can offer, will open the gates to a new era for the agricultural workforce.”
While the government’sfederalJobs and Skills Summit would discuss the future of Australia’s workforce, Mr Martin said the time for talk on agriculture was over, calling for a high priority to be placed on fxing worker shortages.
The diverse career availabilities at red meat processors are important to the future of towns like Casino, but it is also valuable to Australian businesses big and small that rely on scientists,hygieneemploythegeneratingisundeniable.agricultureindustryofBerry,Taylor.hereandamanufacturing,processing“Australianprocessing.redmeatisadvancedcreatingworld-classproduct,it’sdonelocally,rightinCasino,”saidMrAMPCChair,JohnsaidtheimportancetheredmeatprocessingtotheAustraliansectoris“Australianredmeataworld-classproduct,$21billionforAustralianeconomy.“Redmeatprocessorssafetyandspecialists,mechanics, tradies, and marketers, which enable us to produce meat right here that is a favourite on dinner tables in more than 100 countries from the US to Japan, and Korea.” “Red meat processors generate billions of dollars in economic activity, create advanced manufacturing jobs in regional Australia, and produce a world-class product. That is why there is More to Meat,” said Mr Berry.
“COVID stopped global worker movements, and the number of temporary residents in Australia has dwindled,” Mr Martin“Rathersaid.than wasting time and money on taskforces, we would have been better off just paying for fights and getting people here.“Australia’s unemployment rate is the lowest it has been in more than 40 years at 3.4 per cent, so if the Australian Government wants to secure food and fbre production into the future, it needs to be doing everything possible to get the workers we need today. Not tomorrow, not next season, but today.”
Murray Cod and Murray Crayfsh Season
Fishers Gear Up for The Season Opening of Australian Bass and Estuary Perch
RURAL NEWS 9 September 8, 2022 The NR Times Rural NewsLocally owned and independent Recreational fshers are reminded that the seasons for Murray Cod and Murray Crayfsh close on Thursday 1 September.
NSW anglers can cast a line for Australian Bass and Estuary Perch in NSW waters from Thursday 1 September, as the annual three-month closed season concludes.
Acting Program Leader Fish Stocking & Enhancement Operations Matthew McLellan said the closure period is important to protect the native species. “The native sportfsh have now completed their annual spawning and migration, which occurs each year over late autumn and early winter,”
ICC Sydney NSW Wine Awards, to be held in Sydney on 28 October 2022.The 2020 recipient, Liz Riley, owns and operates Vitbit, a consultancyviticulturethatprovides expert technical and practical advice to vineyard owners across NSW, Australia, and the globe.NSW Wine Industry Association President Mark Bourne said Ms Riley’s contributionsignifcanttothe NSW wine industry is unlike any“Herother.advocacy for the NSW wine industry on research, andNSWmajorviticultureextensiondevelopment,andprecisionhasbeenadriverinkeepinggrapegrowerswinemakersatthe forefront of quality and sustainability,” Mr BourneNominationssaid. for the 2021 Graham Gregory Award close on Friday 30 September 2022. The nomination form and more information about the award are available on the DPI website gov.auengagement@dpi.nsw.submittedandgraham-gregory-awardhorticulture/grapes/gga/nsw.gov.au/agriculture/http://www.dpi.nominationscanbeviaemailto
Acting Program Leader Fish Stocking & Enhancement Operations Matthew McLellan said the Murray Cod fshery is subject to a three-month closure every year to protect these iconic native species. “Murray Cod cannot be taken in inland waters from September to November inclusive, which is their breeding season, except in Copeton and Blowering dams,” Mr McLellan said. “Murray Cod are a prized catch of freshwater fshers and are native to the Murray Darling Basin.“They are Australia’s largest freshwater fsh, growing up to 1.8m in length and weighing up to 50Mrkg.”McLellan said the Murray Crayfsh can only legally be taken in specifed waters of the Murray Murrumbidgeeandrivers from 1 June to 31 August. “The fshery is only open from 1 June to 31 August each year and closed for the remainder of the year, to provide protection for this vulnerable species,” Mr McLellan said. “NSW recreational freshwater fshing laws are designed to protect, conserve and improve our fsheries resources for future tributariesendemicMurraygenerations.”CrayfsharetothesouthernoftheMurrayDarling Basin and are the largest freshwater spiny crayfsh in NSW, growing to three kilograms in weight. Information on freshwater fshing rules can be found in the NSW Recreational Fishing Guide from DPI Fisheries offces, bait and tackle shops, fshing license agents or via our bit.ly/38lU4OB.theonFishersshouldhttps://bit.ly/3AWEPrp.websiteSuspectedillegalfshingbereportedtotheWatchPhoneline1800043536orviaonlineform-https://
Flood Mud Scours causes fever, watery diarrhoea and profound weight loss, typically in adult cattle. Cattle producers should watch for these signs and contact their veterinarian immediately.Antibiotics used early in the course of the disease are effective. The key to controlling this disease is identifying it early, treating and moving the cattle to drier paddocks.
leadersresearchers,winetheotherswinemakers,Winegrowers,andinvolvedinNewSouthWalesindustrysuchaseducators,andinnovators are encouraged to apply for NSW’s most prestigious wine industry accolade, the Graham Gregory Award. NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Group Director Plant Systems Dr Alison Bowman said the Graham Gregory Award recognises people who are advancing the wine industry, both in NSW and further afeld. “Graham Gregory was a pioneer for the NSW wine industry and a former NSW Deputy Director General in Agriculture. This award, named in his honour, celebrates those that continue to advance the industry and contribute to its success,” said Dr Bowman.“Individuals involved in any feld in the NSW wine industry are encouraged to self-nominate for this esteemed award. Or why not nominate a colleague who you think deserves theThetitle?”Award recognises areas such as leadership, research and presentedThefromoutstandingawardandwinemaking,development,education,marketdevelopment.Itisaretrospectiverecognisingcontributionthepreviousyear.2021Awardwillbeattheannual
Closed 1st of September
FLOOD MUD SCOURS STILL AN ISSUE LIVESTOCKIN
For more information contact your veterinarian or North Coast Local Land Services on 1300 795 299.
North Coast Local Land Services District Veterinarians have issued another reminder about the importance of monitoring cattle for Yersiniosis or Flood Mud Scours with many cases being seen across the region.Wetand cool conditions lead to the proliferation of the bacteria that cause food mud scours. Cattle producers are warned to continue to watch for the condition as it has the potential to cause signifcant losses in both beef and dairy herds. Dr Jocelyn Todd, District Veterinarian for North Coast Local Land Services, said “Flood Mud Scours is seen during the winter months, particularly after rain when conditions are muddy. This allows the soil-borne bacteria to proliferate and cause the Yersiniosisdisease.” is a scouring condition usually seen in: • cattle grazing low lying or poorly drained pastures•country when hay or silage around self-feeders is walked into the mud • paddocks with insuffcient pasture coverage, where cattle graze close to the ground. The condition is commonly seen after fooding or extended wet periods, explaining the name. Most cases are seen in the cooler months of the year. Young adult cattle from 1 to 3 years of age are most commonly affected, although any age group can succumb to infection.
Mr McLellan said. “A zero-bag limit is put in place every year in estuaries and rivers below impoundments between 1 June and 31 August, to allow the fsh to form schools and migrate to parts of estuaries with the correct salinity, to trigger spawning.“FromThursday 1 September, anglers can take both Australian Bass and Estuary Perch, however they are reminded that strict bag limits do apply.” Mr McLellan said a bag limit of 2 and possession limit of 4 applies to Australian Bass and Estuary Perch, either for a single species or a combination of species. “When fshing in rivers, only one fsh is permitted to be over 35 centimetres in length,” Mr McLellan said.“The enforcesdepartmenttheannual four month zero-bag limit because during their spawning season, the schools of fsh can be vulnerable to fshing. “Now, in spring, most fsh will have returned to their warmer weather feeding grounds higher up in the catchment. “After the spawning season, we are expecting it to be a great fshing season for both species, so we encourage fshers to wet a line this summer.
Top NSW wine industry award open for nominations
“The great news is the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) will commence the stocking of Australian Bass during September and October in impoundments across NSW.” Information on freshwater fshing rules can be found on the Fishsmart app or online at cn/3gJWh.formorlineFishersFishSmartreportedfshingfuturefsheriesconserveareau/fshing.www.dpi.nsw.gov.Fishinglawsdesignedtoprotect,andimproveourresourcesforourgenerations.Anysuspectedillegalactivitycanbethroughtheapp,theWatchphoneon1800043536viatheonlinereporthere-https://fal.
livestockyoutoprogramstageprogram,industryanyoneworkshops,2021-22participatedTintinara,Nankivell,SA,whointheAmbassadorsencouragedintheredmeattoapplyforthewhatevertheoftheircareer.“TheAmbassadorsisrelevanteveryone,whetherarehands-onwithorwhetheryou
NEW AGENCY TO DELIVER SUPPORT BEFORE, DURING AND DISASTERSAFTER
Put your hat in the ring to become a Red Meat Ambassador
The Ambassadors2022-23 workshops will be held in: • Adelaide, 12-14 October 2022 • Victoria (location to be confrmed), 30 November – 2 December 2022 • New South Wales, 1-3 March 2023 • theambassadorsfocusedsaid19-21•2023Territory,Northern20-22MarchQueensland,April2023MsKasprowicztheprogramisoncreatingwhohaveskills,knowledge,and confdence to engage with the community across a range of activities. “The program is ideal for anyone in the red meat supply chain who is passionate about community engagement and outreach, and are keen to build their skills in programmostconcernsthemoutproactivebutAustraliangreatshowssentimentpracticesustainabilityproduction,consumerscommunicatenewengagement,”buildingcommunication,trustandshesaid.“Participantswillgainskillstoeffectivelywithinredmeatindustryandbestfarming.“MLA’sconsumerresearchourindustryhassupportfromthecommunity,weneedtobeinreachingandengagingwithontheissuesandwhichmattertothem.Thiswillequipour industry’s fnest to do just that.”Kelly work in an offce,” she said.“By participating in this program, you will be sure to develop your skills to build consumer trust.” Find out more on the MLA website: MLA Ambassadors for the Red Meat Industry Program | Meat & Livestock Australia
RURAL NEWSThe10 NR Times Rural News September 8, 2022
Leadership development opportunity for Northern Rivers Community
frst step where stakeholderscommunity can learn how it works and how they can participate.ARLFCEO Matt Linnegar welcomed the collaboration with RDA Northern Rivers and the team’s strong local knowledge which will help ensure the program’s success. “The program,LARCand the partners opportunitiesmakeitstocommunitieswhoinvestingprogramchallenges.enormousexperiencedhasRiverssaid.opportunity,”readinessabout‘surviving’,aboutistruerecogniseinvolved,thatresiliencenotmerely‘coping’orbutchange,andhe“TheNortherncommunityundoubtedlyThisisaboutinthoseknowtheirbesthelpguiderecoveryandthemostofthat come their way.” RDA Northern Rivers Director Tim Williamson said the combined expertise and resources of the ARLF and RAI will equip local and regional leaders with valuable information and“Rarelyskills.does a program of the calibre of LARC come to our region. The Northern Rivers Future forum will bring us together as a region and give us the tools to build a better region for future generations,” heThesaid.one-day forum is a free event with guest speakers Anita Kuss, presenting on behalf of the RAI, the ALRFPaulResilienceAustralianCentre’sRyanandtheManager
NorthernAustraliaDevelopmentbyled(LARC)CommunitiesAustralianpartFuturetheirpositivesupportofregion’sstrengtheninginRiversupcomingleaders(RAI)AustraliaandFoundationRuralthetogetherNorthernAustraliaDevelopmentRegional(RDA)Rivers,withAustralianLeadership(ARLF)theRegionalInstituteinviteregionaltoanNorthernFutureForumBallinaaimedatthenetworklocalleaderstoanddriveafutureforcommunities.TheupcomingForumisoftheLeadingResilientprogram,locallyRegional(RDA)Rivers. It will be held at the Ballina Byron Islander Resort on Monday 19 programSeptember.TheLARCwill deliver a inFutureNorthernprojects.communitysupportcoaching;webinars;them;whatopportunitieschallenges,sessionsmulti-dayofcombinationplace-basedleadershiptoidentifyandunderpinsaswellasgroupandforpractical,ledTheRiversForumBallinaisthe
of
latestpartOpportunitiesAndrewLearningBryant.asoftheRAI’seconomicand social data specifc to the RiversNorthernregionwill be shared.RAICEO Liz Ritchie strongfocussaid.region,”futuretoworktheirpassionateregionNorthernworkingpeopleopportunityconversations.focusedtocommunitylike-mindedencouragesmemberscometogetherforanddeep“ThisisanforlivingandintheRiverswhoareaboutcommunity,tocollaborativelybuildapositivefortheirLizRitchie“Theforumwillonbuildinglocal networks, combining resources and sharing knowledge, skills and expertise in the interest of their communities.” To register for the Northern Rivers Future Forum, visit aboutfuture-forum.northern-rivers-humanitix.com/https://events.TolearnmoretheLARC fve-day leadership experience, with 26 scholarships on offer in the Northern Rivers region, grant.InitiativeRegionalBuildingGovernment’sofdeliveredprog/larc/leaders.smapply.io/https://apply-rural-visitLARCisasparttheAustralianResilientLeaders(Pilot)
Australia’s preparedness, response and recovery from natural disasters will be strengthened following the establishment of the new National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on 1 September. NEMA brings together the capabilities of Emergency Management Australia and the National Recovery and Resilience Agency into a single agency for the frst time. This change will deliver a more thisongoingcontinuefromonestablishmentpreparationsgovernmentacrossreductionreconstruction,response,disasterforstrategicnationalpronejustAustralianeffectsprepareddisastersmorecollectivelyperreachthatpercostandchange.disastersmoreinincreasinglypreparedness,long-termneedpeopleofGovernmentfrommuch-improvedrecovery.communitiesdeeplydisasterdisasters,toCommonwealth’send-to-endsinglekeptrecoverydisastersaid.country,”fordealguidancestrategicbyAustralianstates,inmanagementdisasterwouldWattManagement,foremergenciesaroundAustralianapproachcoordinatedfromtheGovernment,responsetoandpreparingfuturehazards.MinisterforEmergencyMurraysaidthenewNEMAleadAustralia’sandemergencyefforts,partnershipwithterritoriesandthecommunity.“NEMAwilldothisprovidinginformedoversightandofhowwewillwithandprepareemergenciesinthisMinisterWatt“PreviouslyAustralia’sresponseandagencieswereseparate,butthenew,agencywillprovidesupport.“Itwillleadtheeffortsprepareforfuturerespondwhenstrikesandremainconnectedwithduring“ThiswillensurearesponsetheAustralianintimesemergencyandgivethesupporttheytorecover.“NEMAwillalsodriveresilienceandwhichisimportantthefaceoflongerandintensenaturalduetoclimate“Aswellascostingliveslivelihoods,disastersAustralia$38billionyearonaverage,withcostestimatedtoatleast$73billionyearby2060.“Thebestwaywecandealwithfrequentandsevereistobebetterandadapttotheofclimatechange.“ThatgoesfortheGovernment,asitgoesfordisaster-communities.”NEMAwillprovideleadershipandcoordinationemergenciesandpreparedness,relief,recovery,riskandresiliencealllevelsofandsectors.ConcurrentwithfortheofNEMASeptember1,staffbothorganisationstosupporttherecoveryfromyear’swidespread foods. They are also already working with state and territory disaster and emergency response services on preparations for the upcoming high risk weather season.
People passionate about telling the great story of the Australian red meat industry will have the chance to sharpen their communication skills as part of Meat & Livestock Australia’s Ambassadors for the Red Meat Industry program.Theprogram is now taking expressions for interest for the 2022-23 fnancial year. It is an intensive theLindsayEngagementconsumers.andmediacommunicationcommunityprofessionaloffersopportunitydevelopmentthatparticipantstraininginengagement,throughandsocialmedia,buildingtrustwithMLAIndustryManagerKasprowiczsaidmostrecentroundof workshops were wellreceived by participants. “More than 100 people from across the red meat value chain took part in the 2021-22 workshops, including producers and industry professionals as well as those from the processing, retail, feedlot, research, veterinarian, stock agency, technology and transport sectors,” she agriculturalVirtualactivities,toandengagementonprovidedprograminvitedworkshop,had“Oncesaid.participantscompletedthetheyweretojointhealumniandwerewithupdatesMLA’scommunityactivitiesgiventheopportunityparticipateinthoseincludingClassroomsandshows.”
FLOOD WORKS REMEDIATION TO DELIVER HEALTHIER FLOODPLAINS
The program is delivered in partnership with the ResourcesNaturalAccess Regulator (NRAR) and various NSW agencies and will target a range of unapproved food works including levees, embankments, roads, dams and channels. Ms Howard said the program will frst roll out across the Border Rivers, with NRAR feld offcers having commenced site visits there in July. “The program will look at 42 structures across 13 priority areas in the Border Rivers in this frst round,” Ms Howard said. The NSW Government will help landholders with design and assessment, but landholders will be responsible for the on-ground removal or modifcation. The priority areas across the Border Rivers were selected after assessment of hydraulic, ecological, and cultural impacts. More sites will be chosen and feld inspections will be carried out later this year and next year across the Gwydir, Environment,ofthejointNamoiBarwon-Darling,Macquarie,andvalleys.TheprogramisainitiativebetweenNSWDepartmentPlanningandNRAR, WaterNSW and the NSW Department of Primary Industries thanks to $10.2 million from the au/water/plans-programs/www.industry.nsw.gov.information,bytheandRuralGovernment’sCommonwealthSustainableWaterUseFund,$1.08millionfromNSWGovernment.Itwillbecompletedmid-2024.Formorevisit:https://
Government asked for practical help in energy transition
The Federal Government’sLaborJobs and Skills Summit has failed to deliver a plan to fx the ag worker shortage crisis currently facing regional NSW, and will go down in the history books as yet another Labor talkfest. NSW Deputy Premier and Leader of the NSW Nationals Paul Toole said the Federal Government had every opportunity to show leadership and deliver real solutions over the last two days but squandered the opportunity.“Myhopefor this Jobs and Skills Summit was to see real solutions to fx the ag worker shortage crisis, but all we saw was Labor turn a two-day talkfest into an ongoing roundtable,” Mr Toole said. “With summer harvest coming up across NSW, farmers need to begin sourcing workers now and the only thing Labor has been able to sauce is the party pies at the Jobs and Skills Summit. “Ag deserves better than a working group and a path to white paper, it needs action now.” Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said while the summit had added 9,000 more regional migrant places across the country, it is not enough to make a signifcant dent in the 172,000 ag worker shortfall.“TheNSW Government has already undertaken a range of measures to address the situation including AgSkilled 2.0 and HelpHarvest NSW and we stand ready to work with the Commonwealth to assist further,” Mr Saunders said.“While the Jobs and Skills Summit may have had the best intentions going in, it has failed to make a signifcant dent on the 172,000 ag worker shortfall across Australia.
“The GovernmentFederalneeds to reinstate the Ag Workers Visa at the earliest possible opportunity to give our farmers a real solution to sourcing workers.”
LABOR’S JOB SUMMIT FAILS TO DELIVER REAL ACTION ON AG WORKER SHORTAGE CRISIS
“We’re committed to licensing and regulating foodplain harvesting and we’re serious about ensuring unapproved food works become compliant,” Ms Howard said.“We’re thathigh-prioritytargetingstructureseitherneedtobe removed or modifed to ensure they’re following the“Thisrules.means improved fows over foodplains and wateroutcomesenvironmentinconnectivity,improvedresultingahealthiernaturalandbetterfordownstreamusers.“Whenitcomesto foodplain management, we’re full steam ahead to deliver outcomes that are decades overdue. This is an accelerated program that will allow us to achieve by 2024 what would have taken more than 15 years to realise.”
The NSW Government is leading the charge in returning water to foodplains, wetlands, rivers and creeks by bringing unapproved food works into compliance across the northern willConnectionsImprovingHoward,Environment,oftheofExecutiveBasin.DirectorWaterPlanningforNSWDepartmentPlanningandGisellesaidtheFloodplainProgramcomplement existing foodplain harvesting licensing and measurement regulations by improving foodplain connectivity in areas where unapproved food works – some up to 30 years old – are impeding natural fows.
The state’s peak farming group says there is a clear opportunity for the federal government to help businesses transition to cleaner vehicles. NSW Farmers Business, Economics and Trade Committee chair John Lowe said targeted extension of the instant asset write off could be used to encourage farmers and other rural business owners to purchase more modern, energy effcient equipment.“Farmers have a lot of expensive equipment with long lifespans that they use to produce food and fbre,” Mr Lowe said. “If the governmentfederalwants them to adopt low emissions technology, they should be incentivising them to upgrade by providing accelerated depreciation, or targeted instant asset write“However,offs. we need to make sure any of these schemes are practical and affordable, designed with industry to ensure maximum beneft for both the environment and productive business.”
Mr Lowe said without an existing alternative to diesel for food and fbre production, Australia needed to ensure the transition was done in an orderly way. “I know there are some who want to scrap the fuel excise tax credit for off-road use, but at the moment there are no optionseconomically-viableforelectric tractors or hydrogenpowered utes,” Mr Lowe said.“With everyone feeling the pinch at the moment, the last thing we need are policies that drive up the cost of production and leave everyone worse off. “Farmers tell us they’re keen to do their bit in adopting new technologies, but until they’re available we need to fnd ways to reduce pollution without reducing our ability to feed renewalIncentivisingourselves.”theoftheagricultural feet with more effcient vehicles not only made good sense, Mr Lowe said, it would be good policy going forward, and he urged the government to work with farmers to fnd practical, affordable ways forward.
RURAL NEWS 11 September 8, 2022 The NR Times Rural NewsLocally owned and independent
healthy-foodplainsproject/improvingfoodplain-connections
STRENGTHENING
• Conserving blue carbon ecosystems and supporting their adaptation.
MLA Senior Market Information Analyst, Ripley Atkinson, said the state fgures highlighted producers rebuilding attitudes.“We’re seeing producers with a retaining a higher percentage of females on farm which will drive a longer-term positive outlook for the strength of the rebuild with larger calf drops for each season moving forwards,” Mr Atkinson said. “Across large parts of the eastern seaboard, on average the 2022 spring bull sale season, clearance rates and numbers of bulls offered and sold have also been moreproducersrelationship“Thehigh.correlativebetweenpurchasingbullsduringthis selling season and the lower FSR’s demonstrates producers either intend to or have females available to be joined to increase their herd numbers on farm”Whilst at a general level, averages across most sales have been higher, demonstrating medium term confdence in the industry for producers to invest in genetics and improve the performance of their herds.
REBUILD
females.Queensland
stores approximately fve to 11 per cent of global blue carbon stocks. The Strategy will help unlock investment in blue carbon projects through carbon credits and other mechanisms that will ultimately beneft the state’s waterforeshorewhilecapturenaturalamarineanchange.resilienceenvironment,economy,andbuildtoclimateTheStrategyprovidesoverviewofhowecosystemsarepowerhouseformofcapitalthatcanandstorecarbonalsoimprovingprotection,quality,biodiversity and fsheries.
• It identifes actions within fve priority areas to be delivered over the next fve years:
RURAL NEWSThe12 NR Times Rural News September 8, 2022
Low female slaughter and positive bull sale results point albeitascomparedfemaleFSRliquidationoperatingtheleadrateAustraliatoherdstrengtheningtowardsoftherebuild,accordingMeat&Livestock(MLA).Thefemaleslaughter(FSR)isatechnicalindicatorofwhethernationalherdisinarebuildorstage.Thetracksthenumberofcattleprocessedwiththetotalapercentage.IntheJunequarter,slightlyhigherthe lowest fgure in a decade in Q1, the national FSR sat at 44%. Over the past 12 months, the FSR has averaged 44% nationally which supports MLA’s current cattle projections for a 5.6% rise in national numbers in 2022 due to the high retention of and South Australia are both operating signifcantly lower than the national average at 35.1% and 34.7%, whilst NSW’s FSR in Q2 was 41.7%.
• Conducting blue carbon research.
HERD
• Embedding blue carbon in coastal and marine policy planning management.and
Looking ahead “The trends point towards a strengthening of the herd rebuild as female retention on farm rises in line with increased offerings and clearance rates of bulls purchased by producers to join to the retained females. The effects of this retention of females and larger numbers of females joined won’t be fully appreciated or felt until these calf drops reach processor weights from grass or complete their feedlot programs. The results promote confdence for the medium term in both availability of supply and producers’ outlook.
NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO SUPPORT AND HARNESS UNDERWATER FORESTS
• Promoting pathways for blue strategycoasts/blue-carbon-nsw.gov.au/topics/water/https://www.environment.Strategy.EstatethetothemarinethreatenedexistingStrategyTheinvestment.carbonNSWBlueCarbonbuildsuponmanagementofandprotectedspeciesthrough$9.1millionSeabirdsSeascapesinitiative,$184millionMarineManagementToviewthereport,visit
“NSW is lucky to have some of the most vibrant marine ecosystems in the world and I want to make sure we are protecting our rich biodiversity for generations to come while also leveraging Australia’s500,000annualwhichmillioncurrentlyecosystemsopportunities.”investmentMarineandcoastalinNSWstoreabout10tonnesofcarbon,isequivalenttoemissionsfromhouseholds.coastline
Marine ecosystems and coastal communities will beneft from increased investment and restoration projects as a result of the new NSW Blue Carbon Strategy. Minister Environmentfor James Griffn said the Strategy is perfectly timed given the new era of natural capital and the increasing demand for sustainable investment products. “The simplest way to understand blue carbon is to liken it to underwater forests – just as trees store carbon, marine and coastal plants and ecosystems do too, except even more effciently,” Mr Griffn said. “Marine plants and coastal ecosystems, such as seagrass, mangroves and saltmarsh, store carbon up to four times more effciently than ecosystems on land. But, since European settlement in Australia, we’ve lost huge swathes of these ecosystems.“Wehavemore than 2,000 kilometres of NSW coastline and surrounding areas that could support the storage of additional blue carbon, which would signifcantly contribute to our goal of reducing carbon emissions, while restoring and rewilding our marine environment.
• Delivering blue carbon projects on public, private and First Nations peoples owned and managed land.
