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Local, State and Local Rural News
June 23, 2022
$200m return to region’s beef industry
The $15M investment in the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) sees it continue to shine as a leader in livestock trading across NSW and Australia, milestone this week. Following this Wednesday’s sale (15 June), the current revenue from sales for at $200,355,594, a staggering $57 million increase from $143M in
year. NRLX Operations Manager Bradley Willis said breaking the $200M mark was a remarkable result for the facility
and the agriculture community of the Richmond Valley. “Council got it right with the changes which have been made and will continue to pursue improvements to the operations to increase the sustainability of the business”, Mr Willis said The NRLX had been on track for this result throughout the year, and again the results vindicated the $15m investment by Council with the support of the Australian and NSW Governments in upgrading the facility. “This result demonstrates the growth of the beef industry and the momentum building
since completion of the NRLX redevelopment,” he said. This year NRLX has demonstrated its capacity as a regional livestock exchange by providing vital support for many primary producers who and destocking following The facility provided temporary housing and livestock feeding, allowing for stock consolidation before moving to agistment and using the facility to treat animals and identify ownership. This has been further demonstrated with the closure of Lismore Saleyards and the ability
of the NRLX to service the whole region’s livestock selling needs. “The success of this year for producers, agents and all related businesses local economy for some time,” Mr Willis said. NRLX has moved to number three in the state with throughput of 103,436 head, and for the 2021/22 year sits at 116,438 head. Richmond Valley Council general manager Vaughan Macdonald praised the success of the NRLX and said it was an important result to assist the region’s recovery. “On the day of sales, Casino CBD businesses are a hive of activity,
whether for people grabbing supplies or doing other business.” Mr Macdonald said. “This business activity contributes to the strength of our local businesses and provides important local employment growth.” Mr Macdonald said NRLX was a modern best-practice facility with further improvements to services and technology on the way. “The COVID pandemic impacted many businesses, but the NRLX team adapted quickly, and the beef industry has grown throughout this period,” he said. Mr Macdonald said
had been a key focus of the facility in recent years, with increasing pressure to remain viable due to escalating compliance costs, higher expectations from buyers and sellers, and animal welfare and work health and safety requirements. “While producers and agents are enjoying unprecedented revenues, it is critical the NRLX returns a surplus each year to enable reinvestment in the facility and support for the agricultural community more broadly,” he concluded.
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The NR Times Rural News
June 23, 2022
32 RURAL NEWS
Recent Cattle Market Reports and reaching a top price of 388c/kg. Lighter heifers up to 250kg were easier again averaging 541c/kg and topping their category at 696c/kg. Heavier heifers over 250kg saw an increase averaging 473c/kg and reaching a top of 620c/kg.
CASINO NRLX Market Report Week Ending Friday 17 June Agents yarded a total of 2,468 head at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange regular prime sale on Wednesday 15 June. Once again young cattle made up a large percentage of the yarding while there was a good penning of cows. The yarding of young cattle consisted mainly of weaners along with several pens of light yearlings. Quality was generally plain conditioned cattle, however, there was several runs of well bred cattle throughout the sale. Cow prices saw a drop this week averaging 317c/kg
averaging 325c/kg and 600kg. Steer prices took a fall with lighter steers up to 250kg averaging 598c/kg and reaching a top price of 804c/kg. Heavier steers over 250kg averaged 527c/kg and topped their market at 688c/kg. A good number of bullocks sold on the day averaged 389c/kg. Vealer prices were back again this week with lighter vealer up to 250kg averaging 584c/kg and reaching a top of 800c/kg. Heavier vealer over 250kg averaged
534c/kg with a top price of 654c/kg. George & Fuhrmann held a store sale at the NRLX on Friday 17 June with 2,913 head going under the hammer. Steers topped their category at 820c/kg and averaged 667c/kg and 229kg whilst heifers reached a top of 780c/kg and averaged 606c/kg and 215kg. Cows reached a top price of $2,440 whilst Cows & Calves topped their market at $4,200. A small number of bulls sold on the day reached a top of $4,000. Ramsey & Bulmer will hold their annual Casino Bull & Female Sale this Friday 24 June with a selection of top-quality Hereford & Santa Gertrudis stud bulls and females on offer. Catalogues are available from the
Govt to extend farm resilience program Farmers across NSW will have ongoing support to build resilience when it comes to future droughts and other natural disasters, thanks to a multi-million dollar commitment in the 2022-23 NSW Budget. Treasurer and Minister for Energy Matt Kean said the NSW Government, in partnership with the Commonwealth, will provide $12.1 million to continue the popular Farm Business Resilience Program until June 2024, following the positive response and take-up of the pilot program. “Following the extreme weather events that have occurred across NSW over the past several years and a global pandemic,
our farmers continue to face challenges and uncertainty when it comes to the management of their farming operations,” Mr Kean said. “Through this multifaceted program, farmers will have access to free business coaching, farm tours, workshops, networking events and a series of online resources which will provide advice on various aspects of a farming operation.” Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said feedback from those who have already participated in the program has been overwhelmingly positive. “The program has
own business plans, bank ready budgets and drought strategies,” Mr Saunders said. “Not only will these tools play a huge role in everyday farming operations and future-
intake, with farmers across the state receiving support to create their
“It’s through initiatives like the Farm Business Resilience Program
gives landowners the opportunity to network and meet people in the same boat as them to further strengthen and diversify their businesses.” Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said building resilience is key to safeguarding communities from future severe weather events
that communities can recover faster and more effectively when natural disasters strike,” Ms Cooke said. “Whether it’s NSW Government is committed to improving how local communities can withstand whatever severe weather event is thrown at them.” Matthew and Cherie Coddington own and manage ‘Roseville Park’ Merino Stud on 3,240 hectares just south of Dubbo in the State’s Central West and are of farmers to participate in the Farm Business Resilience Program. “The program has given us access to a great business coach with a farming background who
holds us accountable for security and managing our triple bottom line,” Mr Coddington said. “We have access to a diverse cross-section of farming businesses and farmers who think outside the box and are not afraid to be brutally honest to help each other improve their business resilience. “Since our coaching sessions began, we goals and our business strategy for the short and long-term future to be multi-generational and regardless of the season and have put strategies in place to help us withstand the challenges that our industry and climate will throw at us.” Since its
implementation in 2021, the pilot of the Farm Business Resilience Program has provided more than 1,500 farmers across NSW with the risk management tools and capabilities they need to build stronger operations. The program is an initiative of the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund, which is jointly funded with the NSW Government. For more information, including access to business tools and resources and to register your interest in the 2022 Business Coaching Program, visit: www.droughthub.nsw. gov.au/fbrp.
June 23, 2022
Locally owned and independent
The NR Times Rural News
RURAL NEWS 33
The women changing the face of Australian agriculture Australian women are taking the reins and approaching the national agricultural industry in a way we’ve never seen before. So much so, that the classic image of the male Australian farmer may soon be replaced by one of a young, driven, educated woman who is harnessing innovation to diversity in agriculture. Unipak, Australia’s leading supplier of professional products for the crop packaging sector and the meat processing industry, proudly celebrates women in agriculture. The company recently ran an ‘outstanding achievers’ competition, focusing on sharing the personal stories of young people and women working in agriculture, in particular the area of fodder conservation. Managing Director of Unipak, Anton Reynolds said the competition was a chance to shine a light on the next generation of farmers and break
down traditional gender perceptions within the agricultural industry. “It started out as a search for outstanding achievers in agriculture and crop packaging. We initially branched it into two categories we wanted to hear from; Women in Agriculture and Young Farmers. “Interestingly the category for ‘young farmers’ yielded nothing back to us – this was really sad as we really want to hear from the next generation. “However, we ended up uncovering an amazing and diverse group of women that are breaking through, what many see, as a traditionally male-dominated area,” Reynolds said. Unipak’s Outstanding Achiever winner, Kimberly Pellosis, pictured, has taken the agricultural industry by storm. The 29-year-old Geelong based precision agronomist strives to play an active role in
the next generation. Sure you may need to prove yourself a bit harder, especially earlier in your
promoting the primary industry sector, including highlighting growers that champion best practice fodder conservation and crop packaging. Her achievements include being a Director for the Ag Institute of Australia, an Australian Ambassador for Thought For Food, a Youth Advisory Group Member for Melbourne Royal, and a National Students and Early Careers Representative for the Environment Institute of Australia and New
Lot 11: Franco Romeo LMHR105
Zealand. “Agriculture is a great industry to be a part of, and I’m lucky to work with progressive growers and colleagues who champion leaders in the sector. “As a woman in ag, I’ve been in situations where I’m often the odd one out, especially starting fresh out of university but you learn to be resilient and be comfortable with being uncomfortable and never take things too personally. “I’m excited about what the future looks like for
your footing and work for great organisations like Unipak your opportunities are truly limitless!” Pellosis said. Runner up, Hayley Wolski from Dalby in the Darling Downs region of QLD, enjoys her work in the agricultural industry as a drone photographer and videographer, believing there is a strong place for women in agriculture. “My advice to any women in this sector would be, you choose who you want to be, never give up and keep trying,” Wolski said. Dominique Clapham is the Managing Director of her family’s Gundowring, Victoria, beef farm business. She says that women have been teaching each other farming skills for generations. “I think women have a great future in Ag if
Lot 12: Franco Running Thunder LMHR805
OPEN DAY: June 24, 2022 1.30pm SALE DAY: July 15, 2022 1.30pm
Birth weight: 41kg
BW 200 400 600 MCW Milk EMA Rib Rump RBY IMF EBV +7.4 +45 +79 +122 +124 +16 +3.1 -1.2 -1.2 +2.0 -0.6 Acc 72% 68% 69% 72% 63% 54% 50% 56% 60% 53% 57%
Lot 18: Franco Radar LMHR145
OPEN DAY: SUNDAY 28 JUNE 2020 10.00AM TO 4.00PM
they set their minds to it. Nothing is too hard. My mother-in-law taught me my calf rearing skills, plus she also taught me how to drive a tractor, and her mother-in-law did the same for her” Clapham says. Anton Reynolds has said that welcoming more women into the industry has become a focus for the company, encouraging women looking for agricultural work to apply. “We are seeking salespeople in Victoria and Queensland to cover fodder conservation regions, and we’d really welcome the opportunity to help balance up the ‘gender scale’ in our industry. If there are any aspiring women out there with a sound knowledge of fodder conservation or crop packaging that are great communicators, we’d love to hear from you”. Applicants interested are encouraged to head to unipak.com.au/careers for further information.
April 2020 Hereford BREEDPLAN Eye 200 400 600 Retail Birth weight: 42kg Birth Day Day Day Milk Muscle Rib Rump Beef IMF Wt. Wt Wt Wt (kg) Area Fat Fat Yield (%) BW 200 400(kg)600 MCW Milk EMA(sqRib(mm) Rump (mm)RBY IMF (kg) (kg) (kg) (%) cm) EBV +7.8 +40EBV +70+3.7 +106 +99 +13 +3.1 +0.2 +0.7 +0.8 +0.7 +31 +70 +105 +16 +5.1 +0.5 +1.0 +1.7 +0.1
Acc 71% 66% 67% 70% SELECTION 60% 50% 48% 54% 58% 50% 53% INDEX VALUES
29 bulls by Black Hawk BHEK7 Explosive HRPL417 No Alibi LMHN820 Sons of: Battalion Black Hawk K7 National Hero PHDN390 & others Also selling rising 2 year commercial EU Hereford Heifers
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Index Breed Market Lot Target 23: Franco Radius Value LMHR845 Average
Southern Self-Replacing Index ($) Northern Self-Replacing Index ($) Southern Baldy Maternal Index ($) Northern Baldy Terminal Index ($)
+$180 +$164 +$189 +$141
+$126 +$112 +$127 +$93
April 2020 Hereford BREEDPLAN Eye 200 400 600 Retail Birth Day Day Day Milk Muscle Rib Rump Beef IMF Wt. Wt Wt Wt (kg) Area Fat Fat Yield (%) (kg) (kg) (kg) (kg) (sq (mm) (mm) (%) cm) EBV +7.5 +38 +67 +93 +11 +4.0 +1.3 +2.2 -0.1 +1.4 SELECTION INDEX VALUES Index Value
Average AT AVOCA VALE, 4015 TENTERFIELD RD, We Welcome Your Inspection Birth weight: 35kg Self-Replacing Index ($) +$133 Southern +$126 Birth weight: 36kg Northern Self-Replacing Index ($) +$113 +$112 WOODVIEW CASINO BW 200 400 600 MilkIndex EMA Rump RBY IMF BW 200 400 600 MCW Milk EMA VIA Rib Rump RBY IMF Southern BaldyMCW Maternal ($) Rib +$108 +$127 Sale Barn: Sons of: Mawarra Explosive L417 Market Target
EBV +3.1 +29 +46 +65 +50 +19 +2.4 +0.9 +1.5 +0.3 -0.5 Acc 67% 68% 69% 70% 64% 56% 49% 55% 59% 51% 55%
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Breed
Northern Baldy +70 Terminal Index ($)+0.9 +$74 +$93 EBV +5.6 +33 +57 +83 +14 +4.5 +1.8 +0.6 +1.3 CR139619AA Acc 71% 66% 67% 70% 61% 52% 49% 54% 58% 51% 54%
The NR Times Rural News
June 23, 2022
34 RURAL NEWS
NSW farmers ‘cautiously optimistic’ to consecutive years of good seasonal conditions, high prices and low interest rates, but many were wary of the looming margin pressure from high input prices combined with potentially lower yields, especially if conditions remain
New South Wales farmers are expecting favourable business conditions to continue over the year ahead, however rising input costs, nervousness about international markets and the hard task of securing labour is weighing on optimism, according to the latest quarterly Rabobank Rural
However, while the survey reveals optimism has dipped among the state’s farmers, 42 per cent of NSW respondents are still forecasting gross farm incomes to increase over the 12 months ahead, and the same number expect incomes to be
The survey reveals NSW nation, however, expectations about any further improvement to current conditions are The ongoing strength of commodity prices – combined with very good seasonal conditions – is underpinning sentiment, with the survey revealing grain and cotton producers as the most optimistic sectors in the from the North West pastoral areas were found to be expressing the highest levels This quarter, participants views about the impacts of the war in Ukraine on agribusiness, with 45 per cent of NSW farmers surveyed
Investment intentions are also still very high, particularly for additional farmland or off-farm survey, 61 per cent of NSW farmers intend to maintain high levels of business Across the state, this quarter’s survey – completed last month – found 28 per cent of NSW farmers were expecting business conditions to improve in the coming 12 months, a drop from 38 per forecast conditions to remain
have a negative or very negative effect on their farm business, while 27 per cent think there would be some
cent believe conditions will
Rabobank regional manager for southern NSW Sally Bull said domestically, business conditions were currently exceptional for livestock and grain producers, costs for critical inputs - in particular fertiliser, diesel and construction materials - were impacting margins and prompting some farmers to
The survey found the biggest driver of positive sentiment among NSW farmers this quarter has been rising commodity prices, cited by more than three quarters of those expecting conditions to impacted sentiment for those expecting business conditions “Prices are very good for every commodity, but are
also continuing as a way of She said seasonal conditions across the state were “mostly very good”, but, after a very wet summer and autumn, some areas were now virtually impacted by the late summer region were in a rebuilding phase and many will have operating “rhythm” for some The latest survey found grain producers were the most positive sector in NSW, with just under half expecting
higher-level management or “The use of contractors is rising in both the livestock and
The state’s livestock producers weren’t as optimistic
starting to become a concern, as is the task of trying to
– 22 per cent of beef producers and 19 per cent of sheep farmers expected business conditions to improve in the 12
investing in labour-saving or
were still very strong, which was helping sentiment, but added the very wet ground was affecting winter crop planting in a few regions, particularly in the central and south west of
mixed impacts for farmers She said some farmers were “certainly very conscious of the impact of global events on the cost and supply of key
cropping sectors as farmers seek well-equipped and skilled professionals to undertake priority tasks at certain times
a view among livestock producers that the ongoing high prices won’t go on forever” which may be
On-farm infrastructure, new plant and machinery and increasing livestock numbers are the three key investment areas for those intending to increase capital spending in their businesses, while expanding the farm enterprise 20 per cent of those boosting
The survey revealed very high levels of cotton sector prices were the “silver lining” during a cotton harvest which has had some challenges due “Excellent water availability is helping underpin long-term positivity, with next year’s crop all-but certain based on available water in all cottonhave crept up this year and demand has returned postcovid, however, wet conditions
residential markets, the heat has not come off rural property and demand to buy farms was A comprehensive monitor of outlook and sentiment in Australian rural industries, the Survey questions an average of 1000 primary producers across a wide range of commodities and geographical areas throughout Australia
animal health pressures in
most robust study of its type in Australia, the Rabobank
compounding existing shearer shortages, which show no sign
been conducted since 2000 by an independent research
Across the state, she said, farm balance sheets were still extraordinarily healthy thanks
The next results are scheduled for release in
Flood recovery support for rural landholders A wide range of land, livestock, pest and weed issues continue to impact agricultural producers across the North Coast region, following the 2022
Like so many other
businesses in the area, the North Coast Local Land Services Lismore
have now relocated to the DPI Research Station in Louise Orr, General
Local Land Services, says the team are on the ground across the region and understand the challenges “I encourage landholders who need help to reach out
said “Our district vets and agricultural extension staff are here to provide support asking landholders who have suffered riverbank erosion to contact us to see what support is available”
As the weather continues to pose challenges, Local Land Services is on hand to help landholders to make decisions on how to get
Along with the new Wollongbar location,
North Coast Local Land located at Casino, Coffs Harbour, South Grafton For further advice or assistance contact North Coast Local Land Services
The NR Times Rural News
June 23, 2022
Locally owned and independent
RURAL NEWS 35
had an adverse impact by reducing the size and the quality of the habitat available to the breeding female and offspring,” Justice Robson said. “As such, I accept the position adopted by the
Fines and costs totalling $285,600 have been levelled against Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) after the Land and Environment Court found tree felling in exclusion zones had done “actual harm” to koala habitat in Wild Cattle Creek Forest near Coffs Harbour. The Land and Environment Court $135,600 and ordered FCNSW to pay the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA)’s legal and investigation costs of $150,000 after FCNSW pleaded guilty to four charges brought by the EPA. EPA Executive Director Regulatory Operations Carmen Dwyer said the prosecution sent a clear message to the forestry industry and operators. “All forestry operators have a responsibility to protect the environment and comply with the law when carrying out tree harvesting activities,” Ms Dwyer said. “Breaches of the forestry laws will be investigated
Australia’s position as one of the world’s foremost innovators in agriculture and the growing sustainability of the nation’s beef value chain was today in focus at the launch of the Australian Beef Sustainability Framework (ABSF) 2022 Annual Update in Sydney. The Annual Update serves as a yearly score card for industry by reporting against key indicators spanning environmental stewardship, animal care and wellbeing, economic resilience, and people and the community. This year’s report marked the launch of the ABSF in 2017 to identify success, opportunity and areas for improvement in the sustainable production of beef. ABSF Chairman, Mark Davie, said the Annual Update provided an imperative,
and those responsible will be held to account.” The felling was carried out by FCNSW contractors in 2018. Two charges were for the felling of trees in protected rainforest areas,
transparent report card of industry’s sustainability performance and its commitment to providing consumers with ethically produced, premium beef they felt good about eating. “Working collaboratively within industry and with our customers and investors, the Annual Update provides a clear snapshot of where our industry is positioned in the areas we care most about and includes 53 indicators of sustainability spanning the wellbeing of animals, people, communities and the planet,” Mr Davie said. years ago, this Annual Update has become a powerful aide in both identifying where we are performing well and where there are opportunities to improve, and shows we are serious about being accountable not only for our successes but for out
a third charge was for the felling of two trees in an exclusion zone around warm temperate rainforest, and the fourth was for felling four trees and other forestry activities in a Koala
Exclusion Zone. The non-compliant activities carried out in the Koala Exclusion Zone
impacts.”
through pain relief, across the full scope of the supply chain, is not only paramount to the trust industry shares with customers and communities, it also demonstrates the sector’s commitment to the improved care of animals, and will be a differentiator of Australian beef in global markets.” This year’s Annual Update also reported there had been a 58.21% reduction in the emission of CO2 since 2005, as industry works towards achieving its self-determined goal of carbon neutrality by 2030. “Through the CN30 initiative, our industry
year’s report included 2.39 million tonnes of food waste being recovered along the value chain in 2021, diverting the matter from “This is an excellent step forward as reducing waste will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions per kilogram of beef produced,” Mr Davie said. Australian beef producers have also embraced sustainable practices, with 35% of the industry using pain relief for invasive husbandry practices – representing a 5% lift compared to last year’s report. “While there is still work to be done, this is a positive trend for the industry to reach its goal of 100% use of pain relief by 2030,” Mr Davie said. “Prioritising the welfare of animals
of $60,000. Justice Robson accepted there had been harm to
set about investing in research and development to address the challenge, informed by drivers of industry productivity and cost. Because of this initiative we are now
Koala habitat as a result of the non-compliant activities. “The felling of the large Eucalyptus trees and the construction or operation of snig tracks were highly likely to have
leading the global narrative on emissions reduction and making on-farm and in-business changes to achieve our target,” Mr Davie said. Grazing land is also in good shape, with the Annual Update showing 79.6% of Natural Resource Management (NRM) regions achieved healthy groundcover thresholds in 2021 (as measured in September in the late dry season) – a key indicator of land condition. Mr Davie said graziers and beef producers had prioritised the health of their land after years of unprecedented drought. “Sustainable grazing practices which support livestock businesses to improve productivity through feedbase management are a high priority across all regions. Technology advancements are supporting producers to measure their feedbases more accurately and
there has been actual harm.” The EPA commenced the prosecution in 2020 after a long investigation into FCNSW’s activities in Wild Cattle Creek State Forest in 2018. “Strict operating rules are in place to protect precious wildlife, such as the Koala. Exclusion Zones, which are a critical part of preserving the habitat of koalas to ensure their survival in this forest. “Disregarding the rules and harvesting trees in these areas can put animals under increased stress,” Ms Dwyer said. The offence relating to Koala Exclusion Zones carries a maximum penalty of $440,000, while the other three offences carry a maximum penalty of $110,000 each.
make more informed of their land,” he said. “However, this is also a space where we would like to see more work done, as connectivity and interpretation of data are some of the barriers preventing landholders from further adoption of practices to promote groundcover and biodiversity.” Mr Davie said the 2022 ABSF Update industry was standing true to commitment to continual improvement and an open dialogue with its customers and consumers. “Australia has a critical role in rising to the challenge of feeding a growing global population, and the ABSF is a key tool to ensure we can deliver high-quality beef that is powerfully nutritious and sustainably produced,” he said.
The NR Times Rural News
June 23, 2022
36 RURAL NEWS
Caution creeps into Australian farm sector Results of the quarter two reveal optimism about high
The ‘rise and rise’ of input costs and fallout from the war in Ukraine are weighing on sentiment in Australia’s agricultural sector, with farmer primarily in maintaining
Tasmanian farmers are
view was strongest in the grain
pressures in the Australian
more than two years, although Sentiment levels have
Australian farmers believe
Western Australia, where equal proportion of growers among farmers with a positive
improve, stay the same or Western Australian rural
number of farmers looking
territory this quarter – with more of the state’s farmers
of Australia’s farmers now
grains harvest this year, with
While fewer farmers this
the previous quarter), while Half of all grain growers
on their business, mainly
Farm investment will largely
Australian farmers saying their
on their business over the year
seen in June 2020, after the also shown to be very high in while also very strong among For New South Wales, remains the highest in the any further improvement availability was also helping farmers about what this will mean for the longer term, Rabobank Australia CEO
Survey questions an average This quarter, farmers were
with more than three quarters areas throughout Australia on
than two years, but many in
Australia, the survey has been highest level in two years were in relation to higher fuel interviewing farmers
The next results are
June 23, 2022
Locally owned and independent
The NR Times Rural News
RURAL NEWS 37
The NSW Government will implement a major regional health workforce incentive scheme in the largest shakeup of its kind ever undertaken in the state. The scheme will be delivered alongside new training and recruitment pathways to build a pipeline of regionally based workers and futureproof healthcare in the bush. Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said $883 million will be spent over the next four years to attract and retain staff in rural and regional NSW by transforming the way health clinicians are incentivised in the bush. “This package delivers on the NSW Government’s commitment to strengthen the regional health workforce, ensuring that more than three million people who live, work and play in rural and regional NSW continue to have access to high quality healthcare well into the future,” Mr Toole said. “These incentive packages will be tailored to not only attract more clinicians to these services but help retain those hard working staff and encourage them to put down roots.” The package will
It’s been a tremendous start to the 2022 bull selling season for Hazeldean Angus. The Autumn sale during May this year had a complete clearance of 74 with an average of $24,132 and top of only $40,000. 2022 will be one of Hazeldean Angus’s biggest years. The Spring sales will feature 450 bulls! All bulls are semen tested, independently structurally assessed with foot scores displayed with each lot in the catalogue. A docile & commercially relevant section of bulls remains - available across 3 more sales. The Hazeldean Angus
target critical and hard operation of regional health facilities, including nurses and midwives, paramedics, pathologists pharmacists and allied health professionals, as well as support and ancillary staff. Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the package will be used to deliver innovative, bespoke incentives for staff so they move to or stay in regional NSW. roles in rural and remote locations can be incentivised by offering health workers
recruitment and retention incentive packages worth up to $10,000 per year plus assistance with accommodation and relocation and some other Mrs Taylor said. Incentives can include as salary boost, sign on bonuses, retention payments, additional leave, assistance with childcare expenses, assistance with transport and housing support, and access to training and education. In addition to the incentives package, a range of targeted measures are being funded which will support
the NSW Government in building a pipeline of future nurses, doctors and other clinical staff who are based in the bush and and expertise needed to work in regional health care facilities. Mrs Taylor said one of these measures is the expansion of training positions for nurse practitioner roles in rural locations that struggle to attract doctors. “These are highly skilled nursing professionals that can operate autonomously in complex clinical settings. The expansion of these training positions will see people in rural NSW
receiving the highest level of quality care and a brighter future in terms of health outcomes,” Mrs Taylor said. The $883 million investment will include funding for: • Tailored incentive programs for healthcare staff to take up and retain positions in regional, rural and remote NSW – which can include a tailored incentive package of up to $10,000 plus additional leave, relocation reimbursement, professional development and study assistance; • Increased training positions for nursing graduates, nurse practitioners and medical
herd is one Australia’s largest with over 2600 stud females to be mated this year. The Angus Stud has been running for nearly 80 years and the
interns; • Expanding rural generalist and procedural training positions; • Career development and secondment opportunities for healthcare workers based in regional, rural and remote NSW, including for those based in metropolitan areas to ‘try out’ working in regional NSW; • Increased numbers of Aboriginal nurse cadetships, and • HECS incentive package for allied health professionals. Treasurer Matt Kean said the rural and regional workforce boost forms part of the NSW Government’s overall record $4.5 billion investment in more than 10,000 health staff. “We believe that access to the best quality healthcare shouldn’t be a postcode lottery. That’s why we’re recruiting 10,148 full-time equivalent staff right across NSW over the four years in what is the nation’s largest-ever health workforce boost, and 3,800 of these positions will be in regional areas,” Mr Kean said.
Makahu, Baldridge Beast Mode, Hazeldean Katzen. The sales run will start on the 11th August at Drillham in QLD with 210 bulls. Tamworth will be the next stop with 80 bulls on the 16th August at the TRLX selling complex.
breeding rams for over 160 years. 6th Generation farmers in charge with is wife Jim’s daughter Bea and her Husband Ed are coming through to take on the business in the future. Longevity in a farming business is created through persistence and always being adaptable with changes in technology and Hazeldean has always
been early adopters of new technologies. When it comes to selecting superior genetics
for the commercial livestock industry, Hazeldean has more experience than other
seedstock business. Sire highlights in the Spring Bull Sales: Hazeldean Maverick, JK
Angus sale will be at Cooma on the 1st of September with 150 bulls under the hammer. Hazeldean offers free delivery on its bulls and always provides an excellent Angus steak sandwich! Contact Ed Bradley for more information – 0412 298 546 or edbradley@ hazeldean.com.au.
The NR Times Rural News
June 23, 2022
38 RURAL NEWS
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The NR Times Rural News
June 23, 2022
Locally owned and independent
RURAL NEWS 39
Kiwi burp tax a bad idea say farmers
MASSIVE INVESTMENT IN BUSHFIRE MANAGEMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION The 2022-23 NSW Budget is delivering
The state’s peak agricultural body is concerned a tax on sheep and cattle burps could serve to drive up grocery prices if implemented in Australia. The New Zealand Government has announced it will become tax biogenic methane emissions from sheep and cows, but NSW Farmers President James Jackson warned it was based on misguided methodology that should not be repeated here. “It’s crazy, agriculture is the only industry that actively removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and they’re talking about taxing
farmers instead of the big emitters,” Mr Jackson said. “This is based on some faulty logic that came out of Kyoto, and it’s really just placing slogans ahead of science. “Agricultural businesses turn carbon dioxide into food every single day, and we have already done a lot of heavy lifting it health and vegetation – we need better technology, not taxes, to reduce emissions.” In Australia, the cost of living and household groceries has been an increasing concern for families, and Mr Jackson warned a tax on biogenic methane here would
ultimately be passed on to consumers through higher food prices. “A tax on livestock will become a tax on meat and dairy, and it’s Australian households who’ll ultimately end up paying it,” Mr Jackson said. “People are already feeling the pinch with fuel prices and rising mortgages, the last thing they need is to be priced out of milk and sausages and mince. “Farmers are highly exposed to any change in climate, and we’re already doing our part, it’s disappointing to see our friends across the ditch taxed like this.”
management in national parks through a $598 million investment, delivering 250 permanent jobs and critical infrastructure upgrades. The NSW Government has also committed an additional $93.7 million to deliver the Climate Change Adaptation Strategy to prepare for the impacts of climate change and capture new investment opportunities. Treasurer and Minister for Energy Matt Kean said the funding will maintain record levels of and help communities develop stronger climate resilience. “Climate change is happening now. Adaptation helps protect the things we value most lives, livelihoods, homes and ecosystems,” Mr Kean said. “This funding will help us translate cutting-edge science into real-world solutions to protect communities from the
impacts of climate change.” Minister for Environment James
The funding boost will • 250 permanent jobs from July 2023,
Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), in collaboration with the Rural Fire Service (RFS), conducts about 75 per cent of all hazard reduction burning in NSW. investment of $598 million over 10 years for NPWS will secure 250 permanent jobs
and 50 roles to meet new for protecting Assets of Intergenerational across the national parks estate • $27.7 million over four years to upgrade the radio network • $4.5 million over four years for safety upgrades The need for special measures to protect AIS habitats, such as the Wollemi Pine, was another outcome of the
conservation roles, and deliver important said. “This is a major part of our response to the resulted in a 20 per cent increase in NPWS hazard reduction targets in high-risk areas. “This will ensure NPWS can increase hazard reduction activity, strengthen capability, and is supported to continue its critical work protecting communities and the environment from the
The Climate Change Adaptation Strategy will invest in best-practice climate change risk and opportunity assessments and planning, as well as embed climate change adaptation across Government decision making. For more information on the Strategy, visit www.climatechange. environment.nsw.gov. au/nsw-climate-changeadaptation-strategy
Spatial Services’ award-winning work recognised The Department of Customer Service’s Spatial Services unit has been recognised for its nation-leading work with Cadastre NSW, the digital representation of land parcel and property boundaries in NSW.
Spatial Services Executive Director Narelle Underwood said the Cadastre NSW project recently took the top Spatial Excellence Award (APSEA) for Innovation, the peak annual industry
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awards for the surveying and spatial profession. “This is an incredible achievement by the Spatial Services team and is wellearned recognition of their ground-breaking work,” Ms Underwood said. “The Cadastre NSW
project supports local government, industry and customers by enabling access to intelligent digital property data before registration of survey plans.” “By capturing subdivision data starting from
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Development Application through to registration, Spatial Services enables monitoring of the property lifecycle and allows for real time insights in the property sector. The NSW with reduced land holding
costs and downtime. “These issues are often experienced in property development when this important data is not available to those working in the planning, development and construction process.”
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The NR Times Rural News
June 23, 2022
40 RURAL NEWS
NSW anglers to play vital role
NSW are being asked to become citizen scientists to help understand the ecological role of snapper and lobster in the state. OzFish Unlimited and the University of Newcastle are calling on the NSW recreational involved by donating a of their catch to research. Researchers at the University will analyse from snapper and lobster donated by recreational will support best-case habitats along the NSW coastline. Project lead, Jeremy
Day, from the University of Newcastle, says having a better understanding of what snapper and lobster eat and where they live allows us to build knowledge of their roles in the ecosystem. “The role anglers can play in this project by providing samples from their catch cannot be underestimated – it really will help the work of OzFish to be able to focus habitat restoration programs in their local area and across NSW. “Dietary analysis is so important because at the moment there are fundamental unknowns about how coastal ecosystems operate,” said Jeremy.
Getting involved in the project is easy for anglers. All they have to do is around 2cm wide, or the gut contents of their catch, put it in a zip lock bag and on ice. After writing the date, general location, and species on the bag, they can submit it to OzFish at various locations along the NSW east coast. OzFish is currently collecting samples at a select number of BCF stores along the NSW coastline, with more collection points being added in the coming be involved, and a full list of locations visit https:// snapper-citizen-science/
RECORD $28 MILLION BOOST FOR FARM FORESTRY The NSW Government has unveiled a record $28 million Farm Forestry package as part of the 2022/23 State Budget to bolster on-the-ground support for producers, drive innovation and promote best practice in sustainable farm forestry businesses. Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the funding boost follows the introduction of new Farm Forestry Codes of Practice earlier this year, and provides increased support to farmers through enhanced education and training. “This investment will fund a suite of programs and partnerships to facilitate and expand the development of the State’s sustainable Farm Forestry industry,” Mr Toole said. “This is the largest investment in Farm Forestry in more than a decade, and it important role it will play in supporting our sustainable timber industry.” Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said the investment would
provide farmers with practical advice and support services to ensure forestry becomes a part of future farm planning. “Our Australian-grown timber products are something we should all be very proud of, however access to timber in our state forests has been constrained over the last few years due to Saunders said. “This investment will put NSW farmers in the box seat to produce timber to be sold domestically, which will not only directly address timber shortages, but also increases and streams for farmers after a tough few years.” This announcement follows the NSW Government’s recent introduction of new Farm Forestry Codes of Practice (formerly Private Native Forestry) that will ensure longterm sustainability for the industry and provide robust environmental protections across the NSW private forestry estate. New changes for landowners under the
codes include: • New harvest and operating standards that provide greater clarity and are easier for landholders to apply – now including management; • Updated planning and reporting with a clear role for Local Land Services to engage with farmers, and options for small scale harvesting; and • Environmental protections that are clearer for landholders while ensuring longterm environmental sustainability in farm forests. This investment will also fund a pilot to support landholders their timber products under the Programme for the Endorsement standards. This will increase market access, improve social licence and incentivise the production of sustainable timber in Australia. Learn more about Farm Forestry at www.lls.nsw. gov.au/help-and-advice/ private-native-forestry.
Farmers for Climate Action applauds NSW renewables investment Farmers For Climate Action has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement of a major investment in renewable energy. “Like all energy consumers, New South Wales farmers have been
facing some of the highest electricity prices in the National Energy Market,” Farmers For Climate Action CEO Fiona Davis said. “This investment in the cheapest electricity source renewable energy - is good
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news for farmers’ bottom lines and for emissions.” Dr Davis said renewable energy infrastructure would be a huge opportunity for farming communities, with up to 2,700 jobs expected to be created in regional areas.
“This clearly shows that if we act quickly on climate change, there are huge economic opportunities for farmers and regional Australians,” she said. For example, one New South Wales farmer who
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solar panels in his business is Justin Jarrett, a wine grower in Orange. He invested in a 10 KWatt solar system and saw his power bills drop from $32,000 per year to around $6000 or less. “Farmers are on the front
lines of climate change,” Dr Davis said. “Farmers like Justin are showing that agriculture is ready and able to lead the response to climate change, and reaping the rewards, including by switching to renewables.”
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The NR Times Rural News
June 23, 2022
Locally owned and independent
RURAL NEWS 41
Farmers supported to build natural capital Farmers around the State will be supported to adopt additional sustainable practices through a groundbreaking $206 million program delivered in the NSW Budget. Treasurer Matt Kean said this landmark investment will reward farmers who voluntarily reduce their carbon emissions and protect biodiversity. “This is great news for farmers and the environment. This funding will help improve biodiversity and lower emissions across NSW, and our farmers will for sustainable land management practices,” Mr Kean said. Mr Kean said NSW has an early mover advantage to secure a leading position in the emerging global marketplace for low carbon food and are also improving our
biodiversity. “This new era of natural capital could unlock up to $10 billion of ‘Environment, Social and Australia,” Mr Kean said. “Natural capital will reduce farmers’ risks from climate change and biodiversity loss while improving long-term farm productivity.” Minister for Environment James Sustainable Farming Program will help to shore up the long-term health of the environment and the agricultural sector. “This $206 million new program is completely voluntary. We’re proposing to develop an accreditation scheme for farmers who manage their land for biodiversity and carbon, while enhancing their productivity,” Mr “Just as we know what the Forestry Stewardship
system represents, this is about developing an easily recognisable accreditation for sustainable farms. “We know that investors and consumers are increasingly looking for sustainably produced products, and this program will support our producers to meet that demand.”
Many farmers are already undertaking sustainable practices as part of their day to day operations and this program represents an income, with the program offering farmers payments to secure and maintain accreditation. In turn, the accreditation has potential to increase their market access
globally, helping farmers sell their products at a premium and access emerging environmental markets. The accreditation will not impact existing accreditation schemes such as those used to access the European beef markets. Accreditation could be achieved by actions such as restoring habitat, fencing for dam and riparian areas, rotating crops, and using bestpractice feed and fertiliser practices. Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW Dugald Saunders said the program will be developed in close consultation with farmers and landowners. “The NSW Government will work with farmers and landholders on options to tap into the emerging natural capital market,” Mr Saunders said. “Farmers in NSW are already natural
capital specialists and should be rewarded for the productive and environmental outcomes they generate. “This announcement will give farmers and other landholders more options to diversify their income while maintaining ultimate decision making power on how to sustainably and productively manage their property.” Farmers will receive a payment for reaching milestones on agreed sustainable practices under an accreditation framework. The accreditation program will be developed in consultation with stakeholders, and complements existing private land conservation programs offered by the NSW Government. Learn more: www. environment.nsw.gov.au/ sustainable-farming
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