Queensland Farmer Today December 2021 by Star News Group

December 2021

Beef Battle double

Born for the role

PAGES 10-11

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Local snub

Livin’ the dream

Since she was five, Charlotte Ernst has yearned to jillaroo; to ride horses, muster cattle and to learn the ropes of working on a cattle station. Now 18, she is living that dream on a 161,874-hectare station called Gleeson, 150 kilometres northwest of Cloncurry. “I am always learning, laughing and facing challenges that people my age from more southern regions just wouldn’t ever expect to happen.,” Charlotte says of her dream job “Challenges are what keep me motivated, the more handson and physical, the better!” STORY PAGES 12-13

Waste to cash Researchers at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) are investigating ways to convert organic waste into biofertilisers, thanks to the Waste to Biofutures Fund, providing $5 million to help Queensland companies find innovative ways to convert waste into bio-based products. Chief investigator, Professor Bernadette McCabe, said the research was about finding innovative ways to make the nutrient-rich organic material the same as synthetic fertilisers. STORY PAGE 4

A game changer An irrigation method that promises to increase yield, save water, cut fertiliser costs and reduce energy consumption by up to 70 per cent sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Well, N-Drip, which helps farmers switch from flood to precise gravity-powered, micro-

irrigation is bringing big smiles to the faces of broadacre graingrowers throughout southern Queensland and NSW. The Israeli-designed system provides an irrigation plan that claims to maximise yield and comes with technology that advises when and how often to irrigate and fertilise. It also predicts yield.

This year Howard Rother of Nangwee, west of Toowoomba, trialled the N-Drip system in 11 hectares of his 70ha of cotton, beside a flood-irrigated crop. Both blocks had identical histories - fallowed for three years and planted the same day with the same variety in a single skip row set-up. Mr Rother said he was stunned when the

drip field achieved 11.5 bales/ ha compared with the flood, which was 7.5. “It was a remarkable result, which definitely exceeded all of my expectations,” he said. “The difference between 7.5 bales and 11.5 meant the system more than paid for itself in a year.” STORY PAGE 6

Pre-Christmas delivery

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By Fiona Gowers

INSIDE

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

PROJECT BRINGS PLENTY ............. page 5

Warning on weeds

PERFECT SALES STORM ................ page 9 COLUMNISTS .......................pages 15-17 KINGAROY’S BIG PEANUT ............ page 18 THE MOIRS’ JOURNEY ..........pages 20-21 CHAMP HOME FOR SPELL ......pages 22-23 CAMPDRAFT BOOM .................... page 24

DAM LEVELS Beardmore..................................... 99.7%

Bjelke Petersen .............................. 34.4%

Borumba ....................................... 90.5%

Darling Downs landholders are urged to remain vigilant for outbreaks of invasive weeds, particularly Parthenium, following recent rain. Toowoomba Regional Council Parks and Recreation Services portfolio leader Cr Tim McMahon said landholders located in Nobby, as well as the urban fringes of Toowoomba and Highfields should check for the invasive weed. Outbreaks could also occur along the Warrego Highway. Cr McMahon said new germinations were present and officers were working with local landholders to manage the latest outbreaks. “While the weed is still at the rosette stage, it is expected to flower by the end of the month, which will require quick treatment to prevent further spread,” he said. “At early stages, Parthenium is easily controlled with herbicides.

“Due to the weed’s ability to reproduce quickly (it can produce viable seeds within four weeks of germination), untreated plants can escalate to large-scale outbreaks that are much more difficult and costly to control. “Delaying control measures could require restricted movement of stock, fodder and machinery in infected areas.” While there had been sporadic outbreaks of Parthenium in recent years, the invasive weed was believed to have been recently reintroduced via the movement of drought fodder from outside the region. Parthenium is a category 3 restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014. “Everyone has a general biosecurity obligation to take all reasonable and practical steps to minimise the risks associated with this invasive plant,” Cr McMahon said.

“Parthenium is classified as a weed of national significance and is a highly invasive pest that has overrun large tracts of land in Central Queensland. “It is toxic to cattle and sheep and can cause stock to have allergic skin reactions when they’re located in areas infected by the weed. “And, it can be harmful to people who have contact with it for prolonged periods.” Parthenium weed can sometimes be confused with some ragweeds (Ambrosia species), Bishops Weed (Ammi majus), Hemlock (Conium maculatum) and some fleabanes (Conyza species). “Early intervention is the key to maintaining a parthenium-free environment,” Cr McMahon said. * Landholders can contact TRC’s Biosecurity Compliance team on 131 872.

A boost to regional news

Boondoomba ................................. 34.4%

The editor’s desk

Cedar Pocket ................................. 96.2%

Chinchilla Weir ............................. 105.3%

Coolmiunda ................................. 100.4%

Cunnamulla (Alan Tannock) .............. 100% The Cods celebrate in the first season.

Leslie ........................................... 63.6%

Paradise ...................................... 103.5%

Somerset ...................................... 60.8%

Wivenhoe.......................................... 40%

Address: 154-156 Haly Street Kingaroy 4610 Telephone: 07 4182 0450 Website: QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au CONTACT US Editorial: Email: newsdesk@QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au Advertising: Email: advertising@QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au Classifieds: Phone: 07 4182 0450 or 1300 666 808 Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au ADVERTISING Annette Weatherstone Account Manager E: annette.weatherstone@QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au Queensland Farmer Today is published monthly and part of the Today News Group. Published by South Burnett Today Pty Ltd ACN 641 796 349. Publisher: Damian Morgan Managing Director: Daniel Pelcl. All material is copyright to South Burnett Today Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. For our terms and conditions please visit QueenslanFarmerToday.com.au/terms-and-conditions/ 2 TODAY December 2021

Minister for Agriculture, David Littleproud and Queensland Farmer Today general manager, Daniel Pelcl celebrate the launch of a new publication for rural and agriculture. Picture: NEESHA SINNYA

Feds stumping up cash to support forestry hub The South and Central Queensland Regional Forestry Hub last week secured $900,000 in federal Government funding. The hub, which aims to facilitate projects that boost productivity and growth in the timber industry, oversees 23 council areas, including Gympie, Toowoomba and Western Downs. It is one of 11 in Australia and two in Queensland. When the hub launched in 2019, the Federal Government provided $1 million of seed funding and, in April this year, a manager and part-time technical adviser were appointed to the team. Maranoa MP David Littleproud said the Federal Government’s investment was a “show of faith” in forestry industries and the benefits it gave to towns such as Kingaroy and Nanango. “South-East and Central Queensland is a key forestry area with strong potential for growth and innovation,” he said.

“The hub is assessing production forestry resources, processing capacity and infrastructure needs and limitations and finding ways to support innovation and growth in our region. “This new funding will secure the future of our forestry hub and its important work with industry, State and Local governments, key stakeholders and the community. “There is an opportunity for the region to explore options for product value-adding as it has existing softwood and hardwood processing capabilities.” Timber industry peak body, Timber Queensland, worked with the federal Government to establish the two Queensland hubs. The South and Central Queensland hub has a 13-person steering committee, including representatives from Parkside Group, Hyne Timber, HQPlantations and AgForce. It forms part of the federal Government’s National Forest Industries Plan.

Stories connect the bush More than 20 years ago I played in the first ever Condamine Cods rugby team to take to the field. That inaugural game wasn’t a highprofile affair - we played the Wheatmen in the C Grade comp on the number two oval at Dalby at 10 o’clock in the morning. We lost badly, but we took a (cold) shower and talked like winners long into the night when we got back to ‘Bluey’s’ legendary Condamine Hotel, and although it wasn’t obvious to an impartial observer, we knew we’d started something pretty special. Two decades later it might be lost on the beautiful young people of today who’ve attended the rather magnificent Cods Rugby Ladies Days of recent years, or a salubrious end of season dinner in a marque on the lawns of the Fish Tank, that back then the Cods were not quite as sophisticated. We trained (okay, played a bit of touch) on a Thursday night in the light thrown from the headlights of three Land Cruisers parked along the field before driving those utes to the pub for ‘planning’ sessions. We designed bumper stickers that begged overtaking cars to ‘Please Don’t Ruck My Cods’ and organised working bees to mow the oval, erect goal posts and build hot showers. We loved it then, and these are magical memories now. The Cods are just one of the countless sporting or community groups in the bush that bring joy, mateship and adventure to the lives of those lucky enough to be a part of them - and it’s often these seemingly unremarkable stories of ordinary bush people simply doing something they love that make the most impact. At Queensland Farmer Today, our job is to find and tell these stories of the bush that help connect and develop community. We consider it a privilege, and like the Cods on that cold Dalby morning 22 years ago, we’re hoping we’ve started something special.

- Damian Morgan

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

NEWS

No buyers for local avos By Julian Lehnert

The Veals have picked around 55,000 trays of Hass avocados on their farm this harvest, with much of it turned away by retailers.

The entrance to the Veals’ farm, ‘Touchwood’, at Mount Binga. on Australian fruit at that time,“ Andy said. “We were also told that Australian fruit is inferior to New Zealand fruit. New Zealand fruit is picked, then it takes around six weeks for their produce to reach here - it goes into refrigeration throughout that time. “Our fruit has to be delivered to the market within 48 hours, and depending on other factors it might take at worst one week. “Coles, Aldi and Woolworths have created these accreditations that we have to go through every year - every year, we have to get audited by them, and it costs us thousands of dollars! “It’s around $3000 per audit - and then they don’t take our fruit! We’ve spoken to everyone, and we just got nowhere - they see we’re growers, and so they won’t even talk to us. “There are container-loads of New Zealand produce coming in every day, but they let West Australian farmers dump their fruit, they let us dump our fruit - they don’t care!“ he added. At their usual average of $28 a tray, which contain around 25 avocados a piece, Touchwood records annual earnings of around $1.5 million a year; now, with fewer buyers willing to take their produce, earnings are down to $12 a tray and $500,000 total - barely enough to get by. “We don’t even break even though, because so much of the money goes toward wages,“ Judy said, explaining that, of the $500,000 gross earnings, around $90,000 went to labor costs, with further deductions made by taxes, super, packaging fees, maintenance and amenities. “We have to pick the fruit, because if we don’t, we’re not going to see any fruit the coming year. You have two choices - walk and leave everything, or pick it, which comes at a cost. “What we got from this harvest essentially just covered the wages to get everything off the trees. It didn’t cover all of the fertiliser we used to get up to the harvest, it didn’t cover all of the prep work,“ she added, saying that her and Andy have had to apply for a loan to support the farm due to this sharp downturn in revenue. “At least we’ve given ourselves a good shot for next year,“ Judy said. “We’ve actually been identified as a highproducing farm in a recent survey, and we still end up on our knees.“ Aldi has responded to an inquiry by Queensland Farmer Today, stating that the chain will strengthen its commitment to local producers in the following weeks. “ALDI have an Australian first sourcing policy, meaning that we prioritise sourcing fresh produce from local farms above anything else,“ the store’s response read. “Currently, 80 per cent of avocadoes across our stores are Australian grown (from either Northern NSW, WA or tristate regions), but by the end of this month, the vast majority of our avocadoes will be Australian sourced.“ Coles has not responded to Queensland Farmer Today’s questions as of writing.

Blackbutt avocado farmers Andy and Judy Veal feel that consumers are being ‘misled’ about their produce, as farms across the country are forced to dump their crops. 258058 Pictures: JULIAN LEHNERT 12523319-HC48-21

A Blackbutt husband-and-wife avocado farm is joining a nationwide outcry over what they claim is a growing rejection of Australian produce at major supermarket chains, after feeling the effects of the crisis first-hand earlier this year. Andy and Judy Veal, the owners of the 65acre Touchwood Farm at Mount Binga, are calling out grocery store chains Coles and Aldi for, they claim, a refusal of Australian-grown crops in favour of imported goods - a discovery they made after trying and failing to find their own avocados at Toowoomba shops. “We went on a shopping trip to Toowoomba halfway through our season this year; walking to the bank we walked past Coles (in North Point), and I said to Judy ’I’ll just duck in here quickly and have a look’,“ Andy said. “I couldn’t believe it! They only had New Zealand fruit - and it was unmarked! By law, they have to say what country of origin the produce is from, and they hadn’t. “So, I kicked up a stink - I got the floor manager and whoever else I could down there, and I asked them why they have these huge banners saying ’We support Australian farmers first’. The banners even mentioned avocadogrowers,“ he added, saying that his complaints to management staff over the situation led to workers removing the signs and banners in question. The Veals are not alone in their plight, with recent news reports highlighting a growing crisis gripping farmers around the country which has seen them dump, destroy or donate their crops by the bin-load after failing to find buyers. “Everybody’s had very big crops this year, and there have been a lot of young trees coming in, which has impacted supply,“ Andy explained. “But Covid threw a spanner in the works straight away - the borders closed and they would just not open them back up. That killed hospitality. “Hospitality probably makes up for about 50 per cent of our fruit purchases. We export as well - about 10 per cent of our fruit. The cruise ships stopped - that made up a huge part of our sales, too, as they are massive consumers of groceries,“ he added. The long-time avocado farmer is left dismayed, confused and enraged by what he regards as the store chains’ sudden shift to imported produce. “We’ve been in the business for a long time and we’ve traveled all over the world for our industry,“ he explained. “I can tell it’s New Zealand fruit because of the box that was marked by a specific company from there - but anyone who’s not in the industry wouldn’t know. “We don’t discriminate - if you want to have New Zealand fruit there, at least give the customer the choice and also have Australian fruit so they can make an informed decision about what they’re buying,“ he said. The Veals’ own research found that the problem was not isolated to just one store. “We checked out another Coles in Toowoomba, and they had the same situation!“ Andy said. “So I called their managers down as well. Why are there no Australian avocaods? Why are they unmarked, and why are they right next to other Australian produce? “People will come into the shop and think the fruit is Australian, just like everything else. We think that’s false advertising - and not only is it false advertising, it’s misleading. “It’s just not fair - there’s a massive crop at the moment, and farmers in West Australia are dumping their fruit,“ he said. “We were doing the same thing, but we had a charity that was prepared to come here every Thursday morning,“ Judy added, saying that, during peak harvest times, the farm was dumping 13 350kg bins of avocados each week, amounting to 4550kg of fruit. The Veals, like many other farmers around Australia, supply to stores, businesses and others via an intermediary agent, who negotiates prices and deliveries on their behalf. These agents are also left scratching their heads at the situation. “We were told that [the stores] were doing a change-over, and they weren’t prepared to take

December 2021 TODAY 3

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Making waste an earner By Fiona Gowers Researchers at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) are investigating ways to convert organic waste into biofertilisers, thanks to State Government funding. The grant is part of the Waste to Biofutures Fund providing $5 million to help Queensland companies find innovative ways to convert waste into bio-based products. Chief investigator, Professor Bernadette McCabe from the USQ Centre for Agricultural Engineering, said the research was about finding innovative ways to make the nutrient-rich organic material the same as synthetic fertilisers. She said the key was to ensure organic fertiliser could match the “complete nutrients” contained in synthetics and not cause any damage.

“We have tested the organic fertilisers’ mobility through the soil profile and it is slow release, which is good in a cropping situation. Field trials are the next stage.” Professor McCabe said, ultimately, the USQ team aimed to produce machinery that could convert waste into a money-earner for farmers. “What we are hoping to develop is a piece of equipment that could be used on-site at waste facilities and farms to not only help with the recycling of organic waste but also create a product that can provide an additional source of revenue,” she said. The $50,000 State Government grant will be co-matched by USQ and the Fight Food Waste CRC. Professor McCabe said the disposal of bio-

degradable wastes through landfill was unsustainable from both an environmental and a financial perspective. “Agricultural recycling is considered the best practicable environmental option for organic waste,” she said. “But there are many logistic and practical difficulties that need to be overcome, including unbalanced chemical composition and physical properties not suitable for standard farm spreading equipment “Developing a product with optimal chemical and physical properties should ensure farmers are confident in the product and secure the agricultural route for disposal.” Minister for State Development Cameron Dick said some 85 jobs would be created dur-

ing construction and operation of six projects through the Waste to Biofutures fund. “Queensland is leading the way when it comes to turning waste streams into high-value bioproducts with environmental benefits,” he said. “These projects will create biogas, syngas and fertiliser replacements and energy to run industrial plants and charge electric vehicles. “But, most importantly, they’ll create more jobs for Queenslanders.” USQ’s Centre for Agricultural Engineering is focused on delivering applied practical and profitable research solutions that strengthen agricultural productivity and address environmental management challenges in Australia and overseas.

Agriculture industry is warming to climate challenge By Fiona Gowers Agriculture must be included in a net zero greenhouse gas emissions scheme if Australia is to properly address global warming. This is according to Professor Bernadette McCabe from the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Centre for Agricultural Engineering, who says emission reduction has consistently driven her research. “Throughout my 25-year career, net zero has always been my goal,” she said. “Most of the policy tools required to transition Australian agriculture successfully to net zero already exist. They would only require scaling up.” Professor McCabe’s comments came 24 hours after Prime Minister Scott Morrison revealed a plan to decarbonise the country’s economy by 2050. Outlining a policy document just days ahead of the UN climate summit in Glasgow, Mr Morrison committed Australia to reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by mid-century. He said net zero would be achieved “the Australian way… through technology not taxes”. This meant “respecting people’s choices and not enforcing mandates on what people can do and buy… (while also) keeping our industries and regions running”. Professor McCabe said the agricultural sector had made progress in reducing methane production through waste management and replacing fossil fuels using bioenergy. And also through its management of nitrogen and fertiliser use. “The use of fertiliser, which produces a lot of carbon dioxide from using ammonia, is a big issue,” she said. “About 50 per cent of food production in the world relies on ammonia fertiliser. “If we can produce green ammonia using low carbon hydrogen the net emissions, of course, are going to be less. “Another way is to use organic waste to produce biofertilisers to reduce the need for ammonia-based fertilisers.”

Professor Bernadette McCabe from the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Centre for Agricultural Engineering.

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Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington, Plenty’s Josh Gadischke, and Federal Member for Maranoa, David Littleproud discussing Plenty’s exciting annoucement. 257784 Pictures: NEESHA SINNYA

NEWS

David Littleproud, Josh Gadischke and Jo Gadischke. 257784

Project’s bringing Plenty By Neesha Sinnya A $22 million project has been launched at Kingaroy mega-company, Plenty Foods with economy-boosting prospects and employment opportunities aplenty. The major Federal Government manufacturing investment is set to create hundreds of new jobs for Kingaroy and the South Burnett. Federal Member for Maranoa, David Littleproud said the funding would enable Plenty Foods to unlock new opportunities as it brings an Australian nut protein flour to market. “This will create 159 jobs during construction as well as 98 full-time jobs in the South Burnett once completed. “This is a real milestone in securing the future of the South Burnett. We are backing the smarts of the 21st century and in turn, we are helping to create new local jobs while feeding

the country and the rest of the world,“ Mr Littleproud said. Member for Nanango, and Shadow Minister for Manufacturing, Deb Frecklington has congratulated Plenty Foods on their successful application to the Federal Government’s Modern Manufacturing Initiative grant program to help build a unique Nut Flour factory in Kingaroy. Mrs Frecklington said the project will be of great importance to the South Burnett Region and will put a new focus on manufacturing in the region. “I would like to congratulate Josh Gadischke and his team at Plenty Foods on their vision to create a nut flour factory right here in Kingaroy,” Mrs Frecklington said. “Through the support of this Federal Government grant, this vision will now come to fruition, creating employment and significant flow-on benefits for the local supply chain and the broader community.

Plenty Foods Pty Ltd will be awarded up to $9,078,321 for its Kingaroy Processing Facility that aligns to the Food and Beverage National Manufacturing Priority under the Modern Manufacturing Strategy. “The technology of the future is being embraced right here in our backyard,” Mr Littleproud said. “This funding means Plenty Foods, an already highly successful operation, can undergo a monumental expansion at their facilities so that they can finely process nuts into valueadded, Australian protein nut flour.” Mrs Frecklington noted the local, familyowned business has moved from strength to strength over the past three decades, quickly becoming one of the most advanced, specialty cold-pressed oil processors in Australia and internationally. “This extension of the Plenty Foods business will see the local manufacture of defatted nut

flour, a gluten-free alternative from nuts such as almonds, peanuts, and macadamias. “Previously these products have had to be imported, but now they will be made right here in our own backyard, which is fantastic for our region. “It is great to have passionate, positive people such as Josh who believe in the manufacturing industry and who support regional areas. “There is no doubt this project will be of significant benefit to our region and I look forward to seeing the plant take shape here in Kingaroy,” Mrs Frecklington said. Defatted nut flour is a gluten-free flour alternative and a Plant-Based Protein that is highly sought after, presently serviced only by imports. The project is expected to cost a total of $22 million and as a result of this expansion, the South Burnett regional economy will increase in value by over $83 million.

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December 2021 TODAY 5

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Howard Rother of Nangwee, west of Toowoomba, is pictured in the 11-hectare cotton crop, which he used to trial the N-Drip system this year.

N-Drip helps farmers switch from flood to precise gravity-powered, microirrigation.

N-Drip a game changer By Fiona Gowers An irrigation method that promises to increase yield, save water, cut fertiliser costs and reduce energy consumption by up to 70 per cent sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it? Well, N-Drip, which helps farmers switch from flood to precise gravity-powered, microirrigation is bringing big smiles to the faces of broadacre graingrowers throughout southern Queensland and NSW. The Israeli-designed system provides an irrigation plan that claims to maximise yield and comes with technology that advises when and how often to irrigate and fertilise. It also predicts yield. N-Drip Australia general manager Udi David Stern said, crucially and uniquely, the system had made drip irrigation affordable for broadacre farmers in Australia. “With flood, you will always have lower yields as you are soaking the plants and they

become stressed,” he said. “You then wait seven to 14 days before you soak and stress the plants again. “With drip irrigation, you can monitor how much water you need, still allowing moisture around the plants and you can turn it on or off as needed. “Also, one tap evenly irrigates the whole area. If a big storm is brewing, you turn off the tap and use the rain. If it doesn’t come, you turn it on again. “The problem with flood is that you are always gambling. You either miss the rain or the soil profile is so soaked with water that it runs off and flows into drainage.” While N-Drip boasts application abilities in grain crops, horticulture and cane, Mr David Stern said it was particularly good at increasing yields and saving water in thirsty cotton crops. “We’ve proven over the past two seasons

that N-Drip is an amazing solution for cotton,” he said. “We have four farmers on the Darling Downs and NSW who have saved up to 54pc of their water and grown an extra bale. “We are helping farmers to save their most important asset - water. The proof is in the pudding… 30, 40, 50 per cent water saving and higher yields. What more could you want?!” Indeed, this year Howard Rother of Nangwee, west of Toowoomba, trialled the N-Drip system in 11 hectares of his 70ha of cotton, beside a flood-irrigated crop. Both blocks had identical histories - fallowed for three years and planted the same day with the same variety in a single skip row set-up. Mr Rother said he was stunned when the drip field achieved 11.5 bales/ ha compared with the flood, which was 7.5. “It was a remarkable result, which definitely

exceeded all of my expectations,” he said. “The difference between 7.5 bales and 11.5 meant the system more than paid for itself in a year.“ The bales per megalitre result also paint a clear picture, with 3ML/ha applied to the drip field for a yield of 3.667 bales, while the flood field was grown on 4ML/ha to yield 1.875 bales/ML. “When you think we are producing 50pc more cotton with a 26pc saving in water over the same area, we know we are achieving something substantial with N-Drip,” Mr Rother said. “The considerable water saving meant we could plant a barley crop straight back into that field. I’ll be interested to see the outcome when we harvest it later this month.” The results are enough proof for Mr Rother that N-Drip is worth investing in. “We have installed two more fields, [bringing it to] 45ha of 150ha cropped in total,” he said.

Hub established to help tackle industry challenges Queensland’s Agtech industry is rapidly growing as the development of innovation and technology improves efficiency for producers across the supply chain. With agricultural technology tipped to become Australia’s next $100 billion sector by 2030, a new Hub in Toowoomba is helping bridge the gap between industry challenges and problem solvers. The Agtech and Logistics Hub officially opened in May 2021 and is a platform for start-ups, entrepreneurs, academia, government, industry and innovators to connect, develop and adopt real-world solutions. Hub manager Owen Williams said with technology moving so quickly, time was needed to evaluate what is required to be successful. The sector is worth about $18.5 billion to Queensland’s economy. “With many innovators in Queensland, the Hub Concierge program has been busy joining the right innovators with key industry contacts to solve the challenges and sometimes it’s just about joining the right people,” Mr Williams said. “We’re grateful to welcome a wide variety of tech businesses to the Hub, because it’s important we have this diverse cohort to work with.” Some of the innovative businesses involved in the Hub include N-Drip Gravity Micro Irrigation, Fly the Farm, Frontier Voice and Data and mOOvement GPS Cattle Tags. N-Drip Australia general manager Udi Da6 TODAY December 2021

Agtech and Logistics Hub manager Owen Williams and community manager Stephen Dummett. vid Stern said the Hub had helped his fledgling business “to gain a footprint in this area”. “They have been extremely supportive of

N-Drip,” he said. “Inviting us to events and connecting us with like-minded innovators through the Darling Downs and St George.”

The multi-million dollar AgTech Hub is jointly funded by the Queensland Government in association with the FKG Group, TSBE, University of Southern Queensland and the University of Queensland. To assist with fast-tracking the adoption of innovative solutions, monthly Meet Up events are held in partnership with Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) to encourage networking and collaboration. In October, more than 120 people gathered at Wellcamp Airport to tour the Regional Trade Distribution centre and discuss global supply chains management options. A Q&A panel was held with John Wagner from Wagner Corporation, Jamie Kennedy from Seaway Logistics and Al Fullerton from Mandalay Venture Partners. Hub community manager Stephen Dummett said the Meet Ups had been “greatly successful” in bringing together some of the brightest minds in Agtech. “The evenings are always well attended by a great cross-section of the Agtech ecosystem, which bodes well for an industry-led innovation hub,” he said. “We’ve been able to discuss a number of important industry topics including autonomy in agriculture and Open Innovation Challenges.” In 2022, the Agtech and Logistics Hub will continue to make the economy more resilient and companies more competitive through its vision to diversify the agricultural value chain.

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December 2021 TODAY 7

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Madden born for the role By Fiona Gowers Barb Madden was destined to head the Australian Lot Feeders Association (ALFA). Born into the beef breeding/processing industry, her free time as a child was spent drafting cattle and cleaning troughs on Smithfield at Proston. Mrs Madden’s grandfather, John Alfred Smith had emigrated to the town in the South Burnett region from Ireland in 1922 and, in 1928, opened his first butcher shop. Her father, Robert Smith helped run the family’s breeding operation in the 1960s and 70s and then, realising the industry’s potential, built Smithfield Feedlot in 1986. From humble beginnings of 120 head on feed, to having two feed yards with a combined capacity of 38,500, Smithfield Cattle Company has, for 35 years, been at the forefront of forging new paths and best practice in the lotfeeding industry. “It’s an amazing industry right through the supply chain and we have kept our eyes on where the profit drivers are and worked with that,” Mrs Madden said. “But, as my Dad would always say, ‘you will go through a lot of dry gullies’.” Indeed, there have been tough times to endure. The 1990 beef price crash left, at one point, just six head on feed, while a big downturn five years later saw grain-fed prices plummet. Sandra Shearer-Smith, Mrs Madden’s mother, remembers a traumatic call from the bank at that time instructing her to stop writing cheques. “It was a phone call no business ever wants to receive from their bank manager,“ she said. “But through sheer hard work and a little divine intervention, Smithfield came through the crashes on a mission to expand.“ The Smithfield Group has grown to include Sapphire Feedlot at Goondiwindi, with Mrs Madden as director of corporate affairs. Her husband, Don and two brothers, Jason and Andrew also work in the business. Pregnant with her first child in 1999, Mrs Madden left her job as an accountant in Charleville and returned home to upgrade Smithfield’s bookkeeping, from a handwritten cash journal to a computerised system. “Many of the processes, reconciliations and software we adopted 22 years ago with 5000 head on feed have stood the test of time,” she said.

Smithfield Cattle Company director of corporate affairs Barb Madden and CEO Andrew Shearer-Smith. “And, many are still used today with 40,000 head on feed across two feedlots.” In 2008 Mrs Madden was accepted into the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP), where she met inspirational people who were strong, courageous and bold in their vision for rural and regional Australia. She said receiving a place on the ARLP prompted her to become active in creating alliances with indigenous cattle producers so both could work together for common commercial goals. It also provided a greater understanding of the Australian beef supply chain and the critical role feedlots play. “In 2009, I created the Beef Industry Indig-

enous Alliance, where I partnered with local and national indigenous land owners to create a paddock to plate-style program,” Mrs Madden said. “Cattle were sourced from indigenous land, along with their key workmen, who travelled to our property to gain an insight into what feedlots were all about. “It was the perfect alliance - we needed the supply of quality cattle and they appreciated gaining an understanding of their cattle market options.” This project preceded one of Mrs Madden’s career highlights, which was receiving the 2009 Qld Rural Woman of the Year award. In 2012 she was invited to become an

external ALFA events committee member. Three years later, she was elected to the ALFA Council and, fittingly, nominated as president in 2021. “I have the privilege of working alongside industry colleagues to ensure the lotfeeding sector remains an exciting and sustainable industry into the future,“ Mrs Madden said. “I am also incredibly humbled knowing grain-fed cattle are feeding families around the world wholesome and nutritious meals. “And, every person working in the lotfeeding industry, whether they are a pen rider, truck driver, water trough cleaner, or accountant, is playing their part in feeding the world.“

New chief is determined to take ALFA to the next level By Fiona Gowers To lead in animal welfare, environmental and production standards - underpinned by a razor-sharp focus on sustainability - is a key goal of the Australian Lot Feeders Association. This is according to Queensland lotfeeder Barb Madden, who was last month elected ALFA’s president at the grain-fed beef industry peak council’s annual general meeting. Mrs Madden resumed the position after Bryce Camm, Wonga Plains near Dalby, decided to retire after completing his three-year term. Amanda Moohen, meanwhile, was elected treasurer and Grant Garey and Paul Vogt were re-elected as vice-presidents. Mrs Madden said ALFA’s mission was to deliver a profitable and sustainable industry that produced quality grain-fed beef to the highest ethical, environmental, humane animal welfare standards. She said the association worked tirelessly to establish effective and strategic policy and advocacy aimed at representing members’ interests at a government and industry level. “We have been on the front foot in driving policy on good animal welfare and environmental practices, as well as attracting, retaining and growing a professional and skilled feedlot industry workforce,” Mrs Madden said. “ALFA directs and oversees grain-fed cattle transaction levy investments through In8 TODAY December 2021

Queensland lotfeeder Barb Madden, Smithfield Cattle Company, Proston, was last month elected president of the Australian Lot Feeders Association. dustry Service Providers to maximise returns for the feedlot sector and broader industry.” Mrs Madden said the ALFA fully supported the industry’s target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 and was committed to identifying best practice measures to help feedlots reduce their carbon footprint. “ALFA has launched a dedicated Carbon

Neutral Hub on our website to help lot feeders understand what it means to be carbon neutral, how to account for it and provide the tools to help reduce carbon emissions.” According to Mrs Madden, many Australian feedlots have invested in renewable energy infrastructure that can address carbon and “there is a lot of interest in innovative

feed additives that can reduce methane”. She said the sector has had a long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship through the industry’s quality assurance program - The National Feedlot Accreditation Scheme - which has included adherence to environmental controls since its inception more than 25 years ago. “Many feedlots have surrounding land and want to use it well. Being sustainable and a focus on intergenerational land management is front and centre. “Our support in creating a carbon neutral industry enables ongoing trust but, most importantly, will support a resilient and sustainable feedlot sector into the future.” ALFA’s commitment to the health and welfare of cattle has continued since its establishment 50 years ago and remains a constant on its agenda. “We have recently launched the ALFA Shade Initiative that encourages all Australian feedlots to make a pledge to provide cattle under their care with access to shade by 2026,” Mrs Madden said. MLA research shows shade has positive outcomes on cattle welfare and comfort and also indicates that shade can result in productivity gains in terms of increased feed intake and hence weight gain at slaughter. “Looking after the cattle in our care through continual improvement and operating to the highest standards - is ingrained in the DNA of our industry,” Mrs Madden said.

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The perfect sales storm By Fiona Gowers With a combined 60 years’ experience in rural property sales, Bruce Douglas and Matt Cleary, both of Ray White Rural, have probably seen most things. Neither, however, can remember a farmland market running so hot across all sectors. The reason? A once in 30-year collision of high commodity prices, low interest rates and a cracking season in most areas. Add in a lack of listings, which is causing demand to outstrip supply, and you have the perfect sales storm. “I can’t see it slowing,” said Ray White Rural Queensland principal, Bruce Douglas. “And, it’s so widespread. “Grazing land is possibly selling faster than mixed farms but, yes, both are very strong. “It’s hard to predict where prices will go as at every auction over the past six months, a new record has been set.” Mr Douglas said selling the 438,000-hectare station, Miranda Downs in the Gulf of Carpentaria in June 2021 had been a highlight of his 25-year career so far. He said local families seeking to expand existing holdings were underpinning the sales momentum and “they’re unconcerned if properties don’t adjoin. They just want more land”. “We have a huge lack of listings so, if you’re on the fence about whether or not to sell your property, now is the time!” Matt Cleary, who sells for Ray White Rural in Pittsworth, agreed, saying after tough-asnails years in 2018 and 2019 he had never seen a more buoyant market in his 35-year career. “Listings are at a premium, which keeps pushing prices higher and higher. It’s a simple equation of supply and demand.” Mr Cleary said when Covid-19 hit in early 2020, the impact on the future of rural property marketing was unknown.

Ray White Rural Queensland principal, Bruce Douglas. But he said it seemed to kickstart an upward buying trend through southern Queensland. Landowners who farm “out west” are selling their properties for “good money” and then

snapping up mixed farm/ lifestyle properties in the Darling Downs. Locals, meanwhile, are expanding existing holdings through buying good farming country.

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Mark Harris, Kelly Lawson, Chris Woolhouse.

Neill Wagner, Geoff Story, Justin Heaven.

Beef Battle double-up By Fiona Gowers A local beef producer has become the first in Darling Downs Beef Battle history to claim the top prize two years in a row. Stanbroke proved a cut above the rest at the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) event, which attracted more than 350 taste testers. Attendees at Clifford Park racecourse were served nine courses of steak and blind judged each course, rating it on tenderness, flavour and overall liking. Chef Alastair McLeod was a celebrity guest at the event last month and said it was an “extraordinary” celebration. “To have the primary producers here battling it out, it was a very cool experience and the energy in the kitchen was amazing,” Mr McLeod said. “It was an absolute privilege as a cook to be working with the very best ingredients as you can.” After attendees finished voting on their favourite courses, Stanbroke was announced as the 2021 Darling Downs Beef Battle winner. Sales manager Mark Harris said the company was thrilled to have won for the second year in a row with their Diamantina Wagyu, which impressed all judges. “Absolutely stoked, it’s excellent news for us,” Mr Harris said. “To win it two years in a row is really a testimony to the team we have on our Stanbroke properties, our feedlot in Chinchilla and at our award-winning processing plant in Grantham.” “It’s a credit to the hard work of the entire team across the whole supply chain so we’re very proud.” Mort and Co placed second, with Stockyard third. Other competitors included NH Foods, Rangers Valley, JBS Australia, John Dore Beef and NAPCO - The North Australian Pastoral Company. TSBE Food Leaders Australia general manager Bruce McConnel congratulated Stanbroke on another great win. “The Darling Downs Beef Battle is now in its fourth year and continues to be a prestigious event for those wishing to network with the region’s beef sector,” he said. “We at TSBE are exceptionally proud to bring this event to the region each year and celebrate what we believe are Australia’s best beef brands. “Our guests enjoyed over 450 kilograms of premium beef and, make no mistake, it really showcased the quality of our local produce.” 10 TODAY December 2021

Stanbroke Beef’s Brent Stevenson and Mark Harris with chef Alastair McLeod (centre) hold the 2021 winner’s trophy for the Darling Downs Battle of the Beef title.

Paul Dean, Paul Szumowski, Jamie Kennedy.

Paul McVeigh, John McVeigh.

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World first development Lamb processors and brand owners in Australia will be able to benchmark their product and ensure it meets their customer needs following commercial accreditation of an intramuscular probe that measures a key eating quality trait in lamb. The Australian Meat Industry Language and Standards (AMILS) committee has approved the accreditation application for the MEQ Probe. Used in abattoirs on hot carcases at line speed, the probe provides real-time information to meat processors on intramuscular fat (IMF), an important eating quality trait. This data can be used across the supply chain to inform branding and alignment to customer specifications, and back to on-farm to producers, helping to inform decisions that drive further value in the lamb industry. The hand-held probe has three imaging needles which are inserted into the loin muscle at the 12-13th rib of hot carcases where it undertakes a spectral analysis to predict IMF. Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) Pro-

Australia is the world’s second-largest producer of lamb. gram Manager for Objective Measurement, Richard Apps, said MLA had invested with industry partners in the research and development of the Probe because of its potential to be transformational for the red meat industry.

“The commercial reality of the MEQ Probe will ensure Australia maintains its status as a global leader in red meat innovation and production – no other country is using this technology,” Mr Apps said. “There is also a huge benefit for the lamb supply chain with the technology allowing instant feedback to producers, so they are able to ascertain the IMF within their flock and plan how to improve or maintain IMF by using tools such as Australian Sheep Breeding Values (ASBVs) and more targeted nutrition.” The accreditation of the probe also supports the commercialisation of the new Meat Standards Australia (MSA) sheepmeat cutsbased model. Based on over 10 years of research, this model will revolutionise the sheepmeat industry by enabling producers, processors and brand owners to extract further value across the supply chain through eating quality segregation. The model uses three eating quality measures, including IMF, on each carcase, to predict the eating quality of nine cut by cooking method

outcomes (grill and roast) for each carcase. MEQ Probe’s CEO, Remo Carbone said as the world’s second-largest producer of lamb, it is fitting that Australia is leading the way in creating new standards for the eating quality of meat. “A certifiable measurement such as those generated by MEQ Probe provides opportunities across the entire lamb supply chain, from producers to retailers - but most importantly it will give assurance to consumers about the quality of the lamb they eat,” Mr Carbone said. “The accreditation of MEQ Probe as the first grading technology to accurately measure lamb’s eating quality is a major milestone not just for us, but for Australia’s entire agtech sector. We’re excited to be pioneering this vital technology that will help differentiate our meat sector on the global stage. “We’re also hugely grateful for the support of our initial clients, and for the work of industry partners such as MLA, AMPC and of course AUS-MEAT in bringing these new standards to life.”

New expert group formed to further improve cotton An inaugural meeting of a select group of experts and community leaders has provided a valuable boost to the Australian cotton industry’s sustainability framework, PLANET. PEOPLE. PADDOCK. The Australian Cotton Sustainability Reference Group (ACSRG) recently held its first meeting, establishing a formal platform to help industry better understand stakeholder expectations and discuss its sustainability performance. The ACSRG involves representatives from brands and retailers, environmental

organisations, First Nations, governments, merchants, regulators, community organisations, health and safety, as well as cotton growers, researchers, input providers and other broadacre agriculture sustainability frameworks. Cotton Australia chief executive officer Adam Kay said genuine stakeholder engagement is a key factor in the success of the PLANET. PEOPLE. PADDOCK. framework. “The logic of effective stakeholder engagement is compelling: we’re more likely to be successful if we understand and manage

what is important to the people who influence our success,” Adam said. “We engage every day with many stakeholders, and this new Sustainability Reference Group adds another level by providing a regular formal process to bring a diverse group of experts and thought leaders together to inform industry sustainability decisionmaking. “Importantly, we have brought together a group of advanced independent thinkers who will question and challenge what we are doing, if they think necessary, and suggest

new actions and directions.” The ACSRG first met in early November to discuss items identified by participants as being most important to them, including industry actions and future plans for water use, biodiversity, greenhouse gas emissions, soil health, and health and safety. The group has asked to meet twice-yearly to provide constructive feedback on opportunities for collaboration, emerging risks, and suggestions to increase existing pathways and plans for greater positive impact.

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December 2021 TODAY 11

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Charlotte Ernst is living her dream on a 161,874-hectare station called Gleeson, 150 kilometres northwest of Cloncurry.

Charlotte living the dream By Fiona Gowers On a 161,874-hectare station called Gleeson, 150 kilometres northwest of Cloncurry, Charlotte Ernst is living her dream. Since she was five, Charlotte, 18, has yearned to jillaroo; to ride horses, muster cattle and to learn the ropes of working on a cattle station. Throughout her childhood, she spent “every spare second” helping Spencer and Godfrey Morgan on Myall Grove at Condamine, further consolidating her post-school career ambitions. “I have always known that I wanted to move to a station in Far North Queensland or the Northern Territory and I am so proud I took that big step in my future,” Charlotte said. “A lot of my classmates were not interested at all in my endeavours after school. And, I was the one who moved the furthest away from my family, which I’m so proud of. “I am absolutely loving it.”

ing challenges that people my age from more southern regions just wouldn’t ever expect to happen. “Challenges are what keep me motivated, the more hands-on and physical, the better! “I have always been really into my horses. I have been so fortunate to be given the opportunity to work with yearlings and train some of the station horses. It’s really what I love to do.” According to Charlotte, the key to success as a jillaroo is independence, resilience, and practicality. “I have to give huge credit to my other crew members, Sophie from Victoria, Hugh from New South Wales and Sam from Queensland. These guys have made the experience even better. “We all come from such diverse backgrounds but work brilliantly as a team. “It’s just essential that we all get along. “At night, we share the cooking and sit and eat and tell stories in our dining room. It’s re-

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ally lovely. It is everything I dreamed of and more. “I am so fortunate to have landed my dream job at Gleeson. It is the best opportunity and I am so blessed and so grateful for everything that has been done for me.” Charlotte said next year expectations would be higher as a second-year jillaroo. “The station owners will want us to lead the way, to show the new crew the ropes and they will learn it all from us. I am very excited.” As for her plans after Gleeson, Charlotte will follow in the footsteps of many family members and join the police force, first attending the Queensland Police Academy on the Gold Coast. “I am always wanting to help people and have learnt to be so much more patient being on the station,” she said. “Since turning 18, I think I have become much more self-aware and have learnt a lot of life lessons, on and off the station, which will stand me in good stead in the future.”

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Indeed, Charlotte’s passion for agriculture was sparked growing up on a 40.5ha horse property at Meandarra in the Western Downs, which is about 1500 kilometres from her jillarooing job. “Or two days in a car if I drive appropriately!” Charlotte landed her “pretty awesome job” through word-of-mouth after graduating in 2020 from Toowoomba Anglican School. She began working for Keats and Co in February and says her days start at 5am and involve mustering the Braham composite herd, as well as drafting, branding and station maintenance. Daily jobs include fixing fences, checking stock water and supplying cattle with supplements to support their growth, fertility and sustainability in the ever-changing Gulf conditions. “I am surrounded by the best group of people at work,” Charlotte said. “I am always learning, laughing and fac-

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Knowing right qualities By Fiona Gowers With a lifetime of experience in the rural industry, Dugald Storie understands the qualities needed to thrive in a job on a remote station. Mr Storie owns and operates Bush Recruitment in Toowoomba, which sources quality staff to fill rural positions Australiawide. He said independence, resilience, integrity and good manners were key qualities required to be a successful jackaroo or jillaroo. “Most of the young people I place in remote sheep and cattle stations are country kids who come out of boarding schools,” Mr Storie said. “They have an understanding it will be hot, dry, dusty and, most importantly, they are well used to being away from home.” Raised on his family’s grazing properties in Narrabri, NSW and Tambo, Queensland, Mr Storie attended Longreach Pastoral College before working as a jackaroo. He later owned-operated a mixed-enterprise property near Inverell. In 2013, Mr Storie began working as a recruiter in Toowoomba, specialising in filling rural vacant employment positions. Two years later he started Bush Recruitment, which services all of Queensland, as well as the Pilbara, Kimberley, NSW, the Northern Territory and South Australia. “I just thought, ‘I’m going to do it my way’,” Mr Storie said. “I am passionate about life on the land and the people within the industry. I understand how big stations work and know the

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Dugald Storie owns and operates Bush Recruitment in Toowoomba. requirements needed because I have lived that life.” Mr Storie said Bush Recruitment’s clients were heavily invested in employing quality staff, which resulted in high retention rates. “If we care about the livestock industry in Australia, we have to invest in our Australian people,” he said. “It’s a fun job that I do because the rural market is so buoyant and it is satisfying finding the perfect match between employer and employee.” If you are interested in pursuing a position on an outback station, please email your resume to: jobs@bushrecruitment. com.au

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December 2021 TODAY 13

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New CEO leads growth phase Australia’s peak body for agritech, the Australian Agritech Association (AusAgritech) has announced Tracey Martin has been appointed as chief executive officer. Tracey brings over 20 years of experience in strategic policy development and execution and stakeholder engagement in various industries, as well as being an agricultural producer. She has chaired international forums on financial policy in the EU, worked for APRA and the Bank of England/PRA and has a Masters from the London School of Economics in Diplomacy and International Strategy. Tracey is also a Nuffield Scholar 2020 and a member of the Cattle Council of Australia (CCA) Policy Council - also being the (CCA) representative to the National Farmers Federation Sustainable Development and Climate Change Committee. AusAgritech chairman Andrew Coppin said Tracey’s appointment was a giant leap forward as the association embarked on its next growth phase. “The appointment of our full-time CEO will turbocharge the association’s mission to build a world-class agritech sector that supports the achievement of the $100-billion national target for agriculture and the development of a $20 billion a year industry of technology exports and opportunities. “Tracey’s rich Australian and international experience in stakeholder engagement, strategic policy direction and advocacy in the financial services sector complements her current position on the land in Queensland making her the perfect appointment to take the Australian agritech sector forward,” he said. According to Tracey Martin, the agritech industry is in an exciting position as the world looks to technology to solve its greatest challenges.

“Whether it be supporting Australian agriculture’s vision to become a $100-billion industry by 2030, or as a critical component in the Australian Government’s Long Term Emissions Reduction Plan, it’s obvious that technology will be the great enabler. “Agritech is a national necessity, without it we won’t meet our national ambitions.” The association’s immediate priority will be to further engage and develop the agritech community to ensure that the untapped potential of the industry can be realised. Tracey said that her greatest focus is on creating a community that adds value for members. “My first focus as CEO will be in delivering a member offering for the association that empowers our members to build their own knowledge and business, cultivate fruitful relationships and have a seat at the table when it comes to critical policy discussions,” she said. AusAgritech will soon release its strategic plan for 2022 which will focus on the building of key partnerships, global collaboration, identification of industry growth opportunities, attracting talent and investment, and increasing adoption and advocacy. Tracey is devoted to ensuring that future strategic plans are collaborative and industryled. “The direction of this association and the industry should be shaped by its participants,” she said. “We will be proactively engaging with farmers, innovators, investors, government and researchers as we advocate for our members and work to foster a world-class AgriTech industry and ecosystem in Australia.’ New Aus Agritech Association CEO Tracey Martin.

QFF welcomes grant for farmers with nature refuges The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) has welcomed State Government funding to help farmers undertake projects to protect and enhance the conservation value of the nature refuges on their properties. Following continued advocacy by landholders, farming and pastoral bodies, natural resource management, and Aboriginal and conservation organisations, this assistance is another positive step in recognising the practical conservation work farmers undertake

on their land. QFF CEO Dr Georgina Davis said Queensland had the largest private protected area network in Australia, with over 500 landholders managing a total of 4.5 million hectares for conservation through the Nature Refuges Program. “Queensland farmers are responsible land managers and play an essential role by actively engaging in managing wildlife habitat on their land through weed and feral animal control, provision of wildlife corridors and

Bureau releases new extreme climate outlooks Growers and graziers will benefit from new extreme climate outlook maps made available by the Bureau of Meteorology. These new features will be added to the bureau’s climate outlook service. They draw on the latest science and technology to deliver maps that respond to the growing need for information around unseasonal and extreme climate events to build climate resilience and support better-informed decision making. Bureau of Meteorology senior climatologist Dr Andrew Watkins said this was the first-time people had been able to drill down to their local area to see the Chance of unseasonal and extreme temperature and rainfall. “The user-friendly model shows the likelihood of unusually warm or cool temperatures and dry or wet conditions for the weeks, months, or even seasons ahead for specific, highly localised areas,“ he said. “The outlooks draw on the Bureau’s upgraded climate model. “We have recognised the growing need for information about unseasonal and extreme cli14 TODAY December 2021

mate events and answered with these new features now publicly and freely available on the Bureau’s website.“ Dr Watkins said the maps have been tried and tested with farmers across Australia, who have found them helpful for anticipating extremely warm, cool, dry or wet conditions. “We’ve heard from farmers saying the outlook maps have helped them plan when to sow pastures, move stock and apply fertiliser, because they’ve been able to make that decision informed by the likelihood of rain,“ he said. “We want to be there when it matters most, whether that’s your short-term forecast, or climate extremes.“ These new tools are part of the Forewarned is Forearmed project, a partnership of government, research and industry sectors funded through the Australian Government’s Rural R&D For Profit Program. View the new outlooks and features on the Bureau’s website bom.gov.au/climate/outlooks Click on the ’Chance of extremes’ button on the left-hand side to sample the new outlooks.

replanting native trees,” Dr Davis said. “However, farmers receive little, if any, recompense for their efforts. The announcement of grants between $2500 and $20,000 for nature refuge landholders presents an opportunity to achieve much-needed conservation outcomes for the benefit of all Queenslanders.” “While this is welcome news, further funding will be needed for future program expansion and delivery so as not to compromise

the potential of the Nature Refuges Program. “In the meantime, QFF is encouraging eligible farmers to apply for a Nature Refuge Landholder Grant to conserve important environmental and biodiversity values while ensuring the sustainable and productive use of farming land.” For more information about the Nature Refuge Landholder Grants Program and to apply, visit qld.gov.au/environment/parks/ protected-areas/private/landholder-grants

Sustainability’s trending The majority of farmers surveyed in an ABARES study are using sustainable land management practices to improve the natural resource base and drought resilience. ABARES’s acting executive director Jared Greenville said the findings of the Natural Resource Management and Drought Resilience – survey of farm practices demonstrates the agriculture sector’s commitment to sustainable land management. “The findings show just how much sustainable land management has become the bread-and-butter of most farming enterprises,” Dr Greenville said. “For example, 84 per cent of farmers retain stubble, and nearly 70 per cent are reducing reliance on pesticides and optimising fertiliser use. “Over the last five years, a significant number of farms we surveyed had taken part in the National Landcare Program, and over half had taken up new land management practices as a result. “Lots of farmers are employing drought resilience strategies as well: destocking early in low rainfall periods (68 per cent of

farms), improving water retention (64 per cent of farms), and investing in on-farm grain and fodder storage (58 per cent of farms). “Just as importantly, over half of farms (58 per cent) had a source of off-farm income and 37 per cent of farms had diversified their agricultural enterprises over the last three years to increase their resilience to drought. “Farming in Australia can be tough, and it’s heartening to see our farmers employing best practice in both land and business management.” The survey was funded by the National Landcare Program and the Future Drought Fund. Data from the survey will support monitoring long-term drought resilience and the effectiveness of government natural resource management programs. ABARES’ Natural Resource Management and Drought Resilience – survey of farm practices can be read at awe.gov.au/abares/research-topics/surveys/nrm-droughtresilience

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

OPINION

Paradise Dam has been deemed “unsafe” and will lose nearly half its original capacity

Real leadership needed Widespread rainfall throughout Queensland has finally filled many a parched rain gauge and has been a welcome relief for many rural and regional communities. The old saying that when it rains it pours, couldn’t be more accurate when describing rainfall patterns in Queensland and across Australia as a whole. While it is always a welcome sight to see rivers and creek running a banker, I often think about the wasted opportunity of not saving more of that water we receive for those times when the storm clouds fail to arrive. Over the past month we have had global leaders from around the world fly into Glasgow, Scotland, to attend the COP26 summit. Lots of hot air was wasted on lowering carbon emissions, increasing carbon credits, and reducing methane. Hardly a bleep was made about investing in mitigation and sustainability projects as we adapt to a changing climate. Water is the most critical resource that humans rely on. We need it to not only keep ourselves hydrated but to grow our food, flush our toilets, clean our streets, water our lawns and fill our swimming pools. It’s also a resource we which use to support and grow our rural and regional communities which not only helps grow our and fibre but drives employment and investment in our regions.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT TOM MARLAND In Bundaberg, we have gone through two years of uncertainty and pain as a result of the shock announcement that Paradise Dam was “unsafe” and needed to be lowered by 5.8 meters and its capacity reduced from 300,000 ML to 170,000 ML - or nearly half its original capacity. Farmers who started the water year on 22 per cent of their allocations have been struggling to keep their crops, trees and businesses alive and were facing the very real prospect of running out of water completely before Christmas - in the middle of the peak irrigation season. Thanks to good luck rather than good management, much needed rainfall in the upper catchment of the mighty Burnett River has provided a stay of execution for hundreds of struggling Bundaberg farmers. Paradise Dam is currently overflowing releasing approximately 20,000 million litres of

fresh water a day over its reduced spill way. Up until mid-November many Bundaberg irrigators were left with little other option but to “pray for rain”. Fortunately, those prayers were answered, and a catastrophic disaster was avoided. However, this is only a shortterm reprieve. The final decision on the future of Paradise Dam and the entire Bundaberg community now sits in the hands of the only person who really matters - and that’s our Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. Restoring the dam has widespread community support and also bi-partisan political support from those who understand the importance of water security for not only food security but job and investment security. Bundaberg farmers are hoping for an early Christmas present and an end to the uncertainty which has thrown one of Australia’s largest fresh food bowls into chaos. But there are other projects throughout Queensland which are currently sitting on shelves gathering more dust than they are water. Whilst projects like the Rookwood Weir are finally turning some dirt and projects like Hells Gate, Urannah Dam and Emu Swamp Dam are slowly moving towards reality - there is much more work, investment and leadership that is

required to deliver water security for our State and Nation. Whilst constructing new dams are important, we also need to look at connecting our existing dams and water networks so that we are able to spread water from areas that receive high rainfall to those that miss out. It is often a frustration of mine that Federal funding for water projects are often held up by pithy state politics and approvals. The case in point is the Northern Australia Investment Fund which despite having $5 billion made available for water and industry development projects since 2015, only $70 million had been released by June 2021. Whilst $3.1 billion has been committed to over 27 projects - the majority of these projects have been held up by State Government funding and approvals. What is required is real political leadership - at both a Federal and State level to see these nation and economy building projects come to fruition. This requires our leaders at all levels to forget about which party they are aligned with and do the job they are actually elected to do - and that’s to protect and promote the wellbeing of their citizens and voters. The top of that list should be water and food security for our state and nation.

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December 2021 TODAY 15

OPINION QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Health’s in our own hands FARMERS’ HEALTH WITH DR TOBY FORD Welcome back to our conversation about health in the bush. If you followed the thread of my comments last time, I pointed out that health in the bush lags the city and that the more remote you live, the shorter your lifespan. Well, I hope this spurred you to think you would swim against this trend and beat the odds. If we could pick our parents then, one might know that there are some of us with genetic disposition from our parents for such valuable things as low cholesterol, low body weight, limited risk for skin cancer, lower propensity for baldness. These are all things that travel on our genetic coding from our parents. Some of you will have relatives who have lived to 100 and smoked, drank, stayed up late, backed slow racehorses, all the things we say are bad for you and yet they kicked a goal and lived well to a 100. But for every one of those relatives, we can find many more others who have done the wrong things I mentioned and gone down early. So I am keen on disease prevention, health screening and adoption of wellbeing strategies to improve quality and quantity of life. But ironically before you can prevent something happening, first you’ve got to know what caused it. One of the best studies of all time in heart disease occurred in Framingham, Massachusetts, USA, in 1948, a little over 75 years ago. It was a country town about the size of Roma or Biloela in western Queensland. It was a mixed population of farming and light industry. They invited about 5000 men and women aged 30 to 65 years of age who had never had a heart attack to step forward to longitudinally monitor them over a number of years to work out if there were common risk factors that led people to having heart attacks (cardiovascular events). After following three generations of people there is now good evidence to suggest that there are four irreversible risk factors - age, gender (men on average have heart disease 10 years earlier than women), family history and

Getting active outside can do wonders for your heart health... like walking around an oval with your mates. race (some first nation people have a higher risk). These factors are locked in and one might say well why worry, but guess what the weighting on the risks is pretty equal for the other five that you can do something about. Those people who smoked, had diabetes, high blood pressure, were inactive and obese were heavily represented in the group who developed heart disease as they aged. So what you might say. Well, there are a group of us who will do something about these reversible risk factors, then a group who would might if there was an incentive and then there is the group who are just plan lazy or couldn’t care less.

I’m not sure which one you might be in, but if you were thinking of doing something or you are already doing something then well done. What I’d like you to do is to look around and see if you can invite someone who might be close to you to share the same practice as you. This person might be your relative or a mate. One of my best stories is about five 50-yearold blokes in a country town who bet each other they couldn’t walk around the footy oval they played rugby league on in their teens . I said to one of them don’t just do it for yourself, get your old fat mates and drag them out and he did just that. So five days a week they get up at sparrows

and they walk around their old oval 10 times then they go and have a cup of tea and yarn. As my client says they call themselves the WGAF group . I will leave you to work out this but that is the start of something simple but great because one of those blokes because of the exercise is still alive today and he has lost weight , stopped smoking and switched off his diabetes . Not bad, eh, if you think about it. It can start simply by you getting a group together, bet them something and see what happens. And another ting its good for mental health and don’t we need this addressed in today’s bush.

Heading off to new pastures... with a heavy heart It is with a heavy heart, that I wish to advise I am leaving the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) for new pastures. It has been my honour to work as a member of the QFF team for the past five years. The excellence, expertise, and dedication they demonstrate every day is beyond comparison. I am incredibly proud of the work

that we have done together to improve the sustainability of Queensland’s farms, as well as what I have personally achieved for the agricultural sector during my time at QFF. I hope that my time and position at QFF will inspire others from diverse groups to look at what can be achieved, the value of their contributions and the difference that

they can make. My last day with QFF will be 14 January, so I am busy fitting 12 months of work into the next few weeks! However, I will endeavour to catch up with all QFF’s valuable stakeholders and friends before my departure. I am sure that I will see many of you in my new life and I look

forward to keeping in touch. I wish to thank all QFF’s stakeholders, both internal and external, for several years of learning, innovation, collegiality and vision. Kind regards, Georgina Davis. CEO, Queensland Farmers Federation.

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16 TODAY December 2021

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

OPINION

Celebrating Aussie Ag FROM THE MINISTER AGRICULTURE MINISTER DAVID LITTLEPROUD On Friday 19 November, we celebrate National Agriculture Day. The rest of the world uses 20 November but Australia gets in early. There are many reasons why we can celebrate Australian agriculture but here are six of the best: 1.Produce the best food and fibre in the world Australian farmers enjoy price premiums due to our reputation as producers of high-quality products. Our farmers rely on being part of a global community and maintaining our reputation for premium produce is the future of the sector’s success. Through 15 Free Trade Agreements with 26 countries the Australian agriculture industry has been given access to a wide range of export markets. 2. On track to be worth over $73 billion The gross value of farm production is forecast to rise to a record $73 billion in 2021-22. This will be the first time ever that agriculture has surpassed the $70 billion mark. The pandemic has hit every economy hard but our industry has carried on and is leading our economic comeback. 3. Our Guardians of land and livestock There is a lot of talk about net zero and the role agriculture can play but the reality is Australian farmers have done the heavy lifting. Not just to help us to meet our international commitments but because they know that their profit and loss is tied to the health of their land. Australia is the first country in the world that can measure biodiversity and will be rewarding our farmers, not just for carbon

abatement, but for being stewards of the land. 4. Protecting our way of life Looking after Australia’s world-class biosecurity system is constant work and the industry’s focus is firmly on keeping our enviable status as a pest and disease-free nation. We take this extremely seriously and are supported by over a billion dollars from the Federal Government to ensure we have the best controls, tools, processes and networks in place.

5. Supporting equal opportunities for all The sector provides endless pathways for all, including into non-traditional and emerging tech-based and flexible employment opportunities such as agri-tech. Women’s representation across agriculture portfolio boards has also increased from 38 per cent to 50 per cent since 2017. Of these, women hold 39 per cent of chair or deputy chair positions.

6. Embrace innovation to tackle challenges The industry has a strong tradition of developing and adopting innovative solutions to new challenges. Since our farmers first tilled the soil Australia’s unique climate has forced them to innovate, adapt and adopt new technologies - and they haven’t stopped. This gives the industry the confidence to set and work towards the goal of being a $100 billion industry by 2030.

Carbon neutral - more than just an emissions target During the past few weeks, the news cycle has been dominated by conversations around Australia’s climate targets and coverage of COP26 from Glasgow. For the red meat and livestock industry, we remain incredibly focused on achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 (CN30). Regardless of ongoing policy discussions - MLA will absolutely continue to do what is in our remit - investing in new knowledge, research, and technology to support the industry to achieve a productive, profitable, net zero greenhouse gas emissions position by 2030, without compromising productivity gains or livestock numbers. It’s a journey we have been on since 2017 and remains a key part of our strategic plan,

FROM THE MLA JASON STRONG working hand-in-hand with industry’s vision to double the value of red meat sales as a trusted source of the highest quality protein in the next 10 years. Our industry has done more than most having already reduced emissions by over 50 per cent since the baseline of 2005. In fact, 90 per cent of all emissions come

from outside of red meat production - yet too often we see our livelihoods and way of life denigrated by those with an anti-red meat agenda laying the ‘environmental blame’ at farm gates across Australia This cannot continue unchallenged, and I will focus more on what MLA is doing about it in next month’s column. The joint investment by industry and government over the past 20 years into productivity improvement and emissions reduction has placed the industry in the box seat to benefit from future market opportunities, climate-adapted production practices and winning hearts and minds of consumers - remembering that farmers are already highly trusted by the community.

The risk of not demonstrating commitment to reducing emissions is that public trust in the industry will decline and, as other industries reduce their emissions, the heavy hand of regulation may be imposed. Adoption of world-leading technology such as livestock feeds, genetics and grazing land management will enable the Australian red meat industry to achieve its 2030 target, positioning Australia as the prime example of climate-friendly, high-quality red meat products, to be enjoyed in over 100 markets across the globe. May I take this opportunity to wish you a Happy Christmas and prosperous new year from everyone at MLA, and I look forward to writing this column again in January.

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December 2021 TODAY 17

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The Kingaroy Peanut Committee and crew behind getting the sculpture in place celebrate as the peanut is finally home. 256674

Close-ups of the historically rich monument. 256677

Picture: JULIAN LEHNERT

Kingaroy gets Big Peanut As the town of Kingaroy and surrounds were sound asleep, a team of philanthropic South Burnett businesses, workers from the South Burnett Regional Council, and members of the Big Peanut Committee met in the town’s Lions Park to install the long-awaited Big Peanut in the early hours of Thursday, 4 November. Kingaroy has been waiting for over half a century for its Big Peanut - now, thanks to the ’Kingaroy Needs a Big Peanut’ Committee, the South Burnett Regional Council, community funding, a large line-up of industry sponsorship and in-kind support, the dream is now a reality. The Big Peanut is a steel sculpture, manufactured out of items gathered from peanut farms across the South Burnett as well as items donated from the Committee’s major sponsors G Crumpton & Sons and Bega Cheese, creating a special connection to the peanut-farming community. The Big Peanut will be lit up at night by two specially designed lighting poles, which have also been installed today. According to the ‘Kingaroy Needs a Big Peanut’ Committee, the official unveiling plans for the landmark are due to be announced soon. Those keen to keep up to date on news surrounding the Big Peanut are urged to visit the Big Peanut Facebook page on https://www. facebook.com/Kingaroyneedsabigpeanut.

The long-awaited Big Peanut is now finally at its spot in Kingaroy’s Lions Park. 256677 Picture: JULIAN LEHNERT

The team started the process in the early hours of the morning.

A huge effort to get the peanut home to Kingaroy. 18 TODAY December 2021

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After years of fundraising, the Kingaroy Peanut committee were overjoyed to see the sculpture become a reality. 256674 Pictures: KINGAROY PEANUT COMMITTEE

Close-ups of the historically rich monument. 256677

Picture: JULIAN LEHNERT

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

NEWS

AgriFuture on the Horizon Applications for the 2022 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program are now open. Students entering their final two years of an undergraduate degree who are passionate about the future of Australian rural industries are encouraged to apply. The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship is a collaboration between many of the Research and Development Corporations (RDC’s), along with Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia and FMC Australasia to provide eligible university students with a $10,000 bursary over two years and plenty of opportunities to develop their leadership skills and expand their networks. As part of the Program, students also attend an annual fourday professional development workshop and complete two weeks of industry work placements per year. The Horizon Scholarship Program is open to students studying agriculture-related or STEM degrees with major studies and/or subject selections that align to agriculture. AgriFutures Australia managing director, John Harvey says that collaboration across a broad range of disciplines will be crucial to the growth of our rural industries and is excited to see the Horizon Scholarship Program evolve to meet this need. “Our cohorts are no longer made up solely of ag students from traditional farming backgrounds. We now have scholars studying engineering, law, business and animal science,” said Mr Harvey. “We have scholars who have never set foot on a farm in the same room as fifth-generation farmers, and this diversity in backgrounds and thinking is beginning to elevate the conversations beyond anything we’ve seen before.” This was the experience for former Horizon Scholar and current Fullbright Scholar, Ali Gill. “The Horizon Scholarship was pivotal in igniting my passion for plant science and agriculture. Unlike many of the other scholars, I

represents the desire to build prosperous and sustainable rural industries. To do this, there is a need to build the skills, capacity, leadership and knowledge of the future rural leaders of Australian agriculture. “Creating a platform for students to collaborate across traditional and emerging areas of agriculture will create a platform of networking, idea creation and forward thinking that is invaluable to the rural industries of the future and I thank all of the industry sponsors who recognise the value and importance of the investment into future leaders. “Australian Eggs, Australian Wool Innovation (AWI), Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia (CRCNA), Dairy Australia, Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), Hort Innovation, FMC Australasia and the AgriFutures Thoroughbred Horses, Rice and Emerging Industries Programs are all sponsors of the Horizon Scholarship program, and our scholars have seen first-hand the benefits associated with having such valuable industry connections,” Mr Harvey said. To be eligible to apply students must: Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident Be studying an undergraduate degree at an Australian university Be entering the final two years of their degree in 2022. Scholarship recipients will be selected on the basis of their commitment to a career in agriculture, as well as their leadership potential and tertiary academic record to date. Applications close Friday, 14 January 2022 at midnight AEDT. Shortlisted applicants must be available for a telephone interview in February 2022, and scholarship winners will be announced in April 2022. For more information and to apply visit agrifutures.com.au/horizon

· · ·

Those with a passion for the future of Australian rural industries are encouraged to apply to the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship Program. Students entering their final two years of an undergraduate degree are eligible. did not grow up on a farm, nor do I have relatives in agricultural careers. I had big ambitions to be a leader, but did not have much of an understanding of agriculture at the time. “The yearly Horizon Scholarship Workshop

were not only an unparalleled opportunity for networking, but also exponentially increased my agricultural knowledge base,” said Ms Gill. The diverse range of industry sponsors involved in the Horizons Scholarship program

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December 2021 TODAY 19

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The outlook from Ken and Kim Moir’s home at Chatsworth.

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A Taste of the Highlands: The view to the west from Ken and Kim Moir’s property at Chatsworth.

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From milk cart horses in Scotland to mustering in the Australian bush, Ken and Kim Moir have travelled together on life’s journey, as ERLE LEVEY discovers.

Putting pieces together He grew up with horses. She worked in welfare. Through time, they both realised they had different talents but were able to use them to help each other. He with horses that had been harshly cared for; she with children from broken homes. It was like putting the pieces of a jigsaw together again. By placing horses and young people together Ken and Kim Moir have been able to make some remarkable breakthroughs. Most significantly with the turn-around in the lives of those impacted. Yet in doing so it unearthed talents in Ken and Kim they had learned earlier in life - he became known for his ability to calm horses. Horse whisperer if you like. Yet he doesn’t go by that. Kim has become an integral part of endurance riding administration, not just in the Gympie region but for Queensland and Australia. I am speaking with them over a cup of tea - leaf tea, from a pot - a glass of filtered rain water and biscuits at their Chatsworth property. The outlook reminds me of the Scottish Highlands, especially the view to the south west. I suspect that’s why they chose the 100 acres initially. It reminded them of where they were both born. I knew Ken rode in endurance events but something played out earlier this year that sat me back. It was at Stirlings Crossing Equestrian Centre at Imbil and riders in the shorter events were breaking camp, getting their horses into trailers, trucks or floats. One rider was really having an issue getting the horse up the ramp and into the float. It seemed the harder she tried the more skittish the horse became. We were watching from the deck of the ride base and Ken was getting concerned. That’s when he walked over. He had seen enough. It was time to put his knowledge of how to naturally handle horses to good use. For perhaps 20 minutes he stood with the horse, twirling rope much like a stockman would a lasso. He would lead the horse forward a step, then let it retreat. Two steps forward, one step back. He would even get the horse to place its two front feet in the float ... and then let it back away again. Then the process would start all over. When the horse had complete trust in Ken, and that he wasn’t going to force the process, it walked straight in. It was a magical experience to watch. Yet to Ken, it was simply what you do - every day. It’s a matter of understanding the horse, and gaining its trust. They say when you breathe the same air as a horse - face to face - it’s similar. Gaining trust in each other. That’s when Kim tells me about one of the first times Ken tried his natural approach with horses. 20 TODAY December 2021

Ken and Kim Moir at their Chatsworth property with the Anne Jones Award for winning the 2013 QERA State Championship. 256021

We would ride them bareback to the beach, over the sand dunes and let them roll in the dunes. That’s how we trained them. It was about letting the horses have fun.’’ Except he was riding the horse up the ramp into the float. Kim half expected the horse to rear up and take Ken’s head off - it was that dangerous. Yet it didn’t. That was the starting point. Trust. Just like with children. “As you become more aware, you get a bigger understanding,’’ Ken said. “Horse behaviour comes not just from what they have experienced in life but what they have built into them - a sense of what might happen.’’ Sitting with Ken and Kim you quickly sense both have known what it is like to struggle in life. The words of the Crosby, Stills and Nash song Helplessly Hoping could not be more appropriate. One person, two alone, three together, for each other. Both were born in the north east of Scotland, near Aberdeen. Ken’s father was a farmer. Kim’s was a milkman. “I can remember the clip-clop of the horses,’’ she said. “He would milk the cows and then deliver the milk. “When we came to Australia the horses were used for mustering. “It was one of the many changes we had to get used to.’’ Sitting with them, you soon appreciate Ken and Kim’s acknowledgement of the poignant moments in their life ... the pivotal milestones that changed them. And he seems very aware of the sacrifices she’s made over the years, especially coming to a new life on the other side of the world.

And while there are similarities, Australia even in the 1980s was a foreign country. So remote and disconnected from family and friends. Instead of being caught in snow storms on the way to work there was the intense heat of the dry grazing country, first in New South Wales and then in Queensland. They had met at school in a Scottish village and both went to university in Aberdeen. Ken studied geography and geology. Kim social welfare. He actually spent more time on the neighbouring golf course and his love of geography inspired thoughts of what happens around the world. “It was the same with geology,’’ he said. “I was really interested in why things happened. Why did Gympie start? “History and geography. I thought I may have been a town planner … it’s interesting how things develop.’’ Ken started riding when he was four. There were four boys in the family - Alex, Eddy, Ken then Andrew. His father always had horses that he was buying and selling. “We were all riding ponies, especially in the summer holidays. “We would take them to the shows and race them - there was prize money and bookies. “Our father would go away with his truck and come back with horses. “He would come back from Wales with welsh mares, so we started breeding our own ponies. “They were unbeatable due to their speed and stamina. We were hooked. “We watched jockeys such as Lester Piggott,

Scobie Breasley, and George Moore. “We practised on the backs of lounge chairs and would get up on our knees to get past the finish line. “By the time we were five or six, we were saddled up ready to go.’’ That was the start of the horse whisperer in Ken. The horses got so fit towards the end of the season they couldn’t hold them. “We would ride them bareback to the beach, over the sand dunes and let them roll in the dunes. “That’s how we trained them. It was about letting the horses have fun.’’ When Kim first went to university it was to do maths and become an accountant. Yet she found people and their problems more interesting so switched to sociology and psychology, and graduated in social work. “When I started it was a new profession,’’ she said. “We covered a wide area - aged care, child protection, probation, mental health. “They all came together under this banner. “It was interesting that the world was a big place then. “The drive to work was significant - 15 miles. Driving in the snow was normal. “It’s interesting that the experiences you had were thought to be normal.’’ Kim was eventually able to complete her Bachelor of Accountancy ... by long distance education here in Australia. After Ken graduated he returned to the farm as part of the family business. Yet it was the Margaret Thatcher years of government and the financial recovery meant interest rates went from six to 22 percent. Retrospective tax laws on capital gains as well as capital transfer saw the business severely compromised. So he decided they should make a big move and come to Australia. From running four farms to carrying a couple of suit cases, they arrived at Melbourne first then he secured a role on a large property at Trangi, west of Dubbo. Ken was overseer at Old Bundemar, a famous merino and hereford stud dating back to 1883. It comprised 20,000 acres divided off about 80,000 acres and was still 15-20km from town. “I thought I’d gone to the end of Earth,’’ Kim said. “Still, we’d made the decision so may as well make it a five-year plan. “The people were very friendly, welcoming. “We were there in January 1982 and it was 46 degrees. “It was a country of extremes. I was never as cold as I was there. “The houses were designed for hot weather, not the cold of winter.’’ In 1985 they moved to Thangool, south of Biloela in Central Queensland. They started share farming before buying 160 acres and the long road back to the family tradition. By 1987 they had two daughters and Kim started work again in 1992, with the social services section of the Anglican Church.

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Round-table discussion. Ken and Kim Moir with On The Land writer Erle Levey at their Chatsworth property. 256021 It was a new job as a community resource worker and she had the opportunity to find out what was needed, then put the services in place. Her work was mainly foster care and residential care. “I was filled with anxiety yet it turned out to be fantastic. “From starting with a budget of $40,000, when I left in 2005 it was $5m and provided a lot of services.’’ Her career demonstrated a drive to improve systems and processes which she’s applied to the endurance riding after experiencing it first hand as a spectator. Then there was her deep understanding of the psychology behind both children and horses’ behaviour. For Ken, it’s all about horses and people’s relationships with them. Like Kim with children, he had a desire to improve the process. The process of managing horses’ behaviour. When Ken found that what he did with the horses worked, he made a conscious choice to change his way of engaging with them. He was brought up in the old-fashioned way of breaking them, just as his father had. Yet he has been able to change his methodology from what he was taught when he was young. “It was a different attitude then,’’ he said. “A make and do situation. “Now it’s cause and allow. “Causing it to do something … not forcing it, allowing it. “It’s about how horses do things willingly rather than with a bad taste. “They can run faster and jump higher if they have the will and desire rather than making them.’’ What Ken was doing with horses made sense when dealing with young people. Kim found it was a matter of coping with what’s happening to them emotionally. Building a relationship, and building trust in what they were being asked to do. “It’s like getting a horse to walk into a big dark, square box,’’ Kim said. “The horse seeks safety, comfort. “It’s a matter of using psychology and understanding rather than force.’’ That’s when they tell me you have to be able to use different approaches for different horses. Horse-analities. Like personalities. To discover whether they are flighty or not,

extroverted or introverted. “You can learn this by interpreting what they are,’’ Ken said. “But you still have to practise it. “When you look at children, if they are badly behaved they are obviously feeling unsafe. “You need to look at the reason of their behaviour rather than judging them. “You begin to educate them that there is a better way of expressing that feeling. “We have to engage with them in a way to make it a safe place for them.’’ When Ken bought the 100 acres at Gympie in 2005 he was already getting into endurance riding. The property is at Castleton Rise, named after Ken’s grandparent’s farm Milton of Castleton in Scotland. This was going to be horse central as their daughters Tanya and Katy were both in Brisbane, and Kim was working with Anglicare. Ken had been doing mustering and camp drafting at Thangool so his natural way of treating horses was paying off. He picked up some young horses that others couldn’t handle. Problem horses. Yet at Chatsworth they are now breeding their own, including a number of Arabians. “We look for those that have done well, that their parents have done well,’’ Ken said. “It’s a genetic thing.’’ Some have since been sold to stables overseas, while those they kept have done well - including some state champions. That brings us to endurance riding - is it a sport or a past time? The answer is not just either, but three. It’s a business as well. There is the breeding, training and care of the horses as well as the ability of horse and rider to combine as a team. So, should endurance riding be considered for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics? “I don’t think Ken or I have had any thoughts on this,’’ Kim said, “but I know that others have been thinking about it. “It would seem a great opportunity to work towards this in 2032.’’ Kim was roped into endurance in 2006-7, not as a rider but in administration. It was not just a matter of having a good understanding of maths but a strong sense of community, and helping where she could with the care of horses and young people. The first endurance event she attended was Imbil - what was then the Faraway Club. “When someone you know is participat-

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Ken Moir riding Shian. 256021 Pictures: SUE CROCKETT

Ken and Kim Moir at their Chatsworth property.

The cover story of the 2013 Endurance magazine when Ken Moir won the Queensland State Championship. 256021

Kim Moir, right, checks a log book for a rider at the recent Stirling’s Crossing equestrian event at Imbil. 256021

ing,’’ she said “... it’s not a great spectator sport. “A couple of hours sitting there, waiting for your rider. “So I got involved by just helping out at Imbil and Widgee. “I finished work in 2015, and had basically retired, so in 2016 it was suggested I join the Queensland Endurance Riders Association (QERA) committee. “Then I was nominated as representative on the Australian committee, AERA.’’ Kim has since become secretary of the national body, is on the state committee, president of Stirlings Crossing Endurance Club, treasurer for Widgee Endurance Riders and helps with a number of other rides. “It’s hard not doing anything,’’ she said. “We try and create a good environment for people to ride. “No matter how much planning goes into an event there will always be something.’’ That can come down to the electronic recording system failing, resulting in manual recording of times for competitors with pen and paper. Otherwise, a kangaroo on the trail or a fallen tree branch can spook the horses, causing the riders to fall. The 2019 Tom Quilty Gold Cup at Imbil was all about risk management, with 300 horses going out the gate at midnight at the start of the event. “If you can accept that,’’ Kim said, “you can deal with anything else that could possibly go wrong.’’

Ken won the Anne Jones award at the 2013 Queensland State Championships after taking out the middleweight division. Not only that, a 12-year-old James Coop, who was living with the Moir’s, won the junior division. “That was a great reward to see James be successful,’’ Kim said. “He was living with us for some years - as part of our family. “He found success in a sport not otherwise available to him. “That’s the beauty of endurance, it’s a sport that encapsulates anyone from five to 75. “You can have the whole family out there … children, parents, grandparents. “It’s one of those things in which we have made it as safe as we can responsibly make it a standard of care. “From an administrative point of view, to see them progress from 40km to 80km rides is very rewarding. “It can be harder for some riders to take that step … the horses will do what you want. “I see young riders at events who may not have their mums and dads for support. “Being with a horse helps them. “A horse will tell you absolutely what it thinks of you. “If you are not honest, it will tell you.’’ In a journey that has taken Ken and Kim to the other side of the world, they have certainly been there for each other ... and so many others along the way.

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Champ back home for well

Verry Elleegant races away from the brave Darling Downs champion Incentivise to win the Melbourne Cup. 256515

By David Nagel and Garry Howe Trainer Peter Moody had already reserved a special place in the annals of Australia’s rich racing history way before Incentivise produced a brave performance to run second in the $7.75million Melbourne Cup (3200m) at

Flemington on Tuesday 2 November. The greatest horse to come from the Darling Downs since Bernborough started the shortest priced favourite in years but was gunned down in the straight by Chris Waller’s champion mare Verry Elleegant. It later emerged that the Caulfield Cup win-

Picture: PAT SCALA/RACING PHOTOS

ner was injured in the run. He is now returning to Queensland to spell after being cleared of serious injury. Results of leg scans have Incentivise a clean bill of health after he showed signs of lameness following his brave Melbourne Cup bid. He experienced swelling and inflammation in his

fetlock, but fears one of the stars of the spring carnival had suffered a tendon injury were allayed 48 hours after the race. Moody will now set his sights on an early 2022 program for Incentivise where any return clash with Verry Elleegant is certain to be a highlight of the autumn.

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earned spell “We look forward to having him back in the stables some time during the autumn when he is ready to kick up again, he will let us know, there are no plans in place,“ Moody said in a social media update. “He’s still a bit battle-weary. He did himself extremely proud and we are extremely proud of him. “He got beat by an absolute champion… we are hoping he’s the new boy on the block for a few years to come. “Get him out in the paddock, get a bit of green grass in his belly and hopefully a bit of Victorian sunshine on his back.“ For all of his great achievements, which include a remarkable magic-carpet ride with his champion sprinter Black Caviar, Moody had never tasted success in one of Australia’s four greatest races - widely acknowledged as the grand slam, heading into this spring. While new and exciting races - concepts worth a lot of money - have burst their way on to the scene in recent times, it’s the Melbourne Cup, Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate and Golden Slipper that trainers in this country have always aspired to win. Moody now at least as one those famous pieces of silverware tucked away in his trophy cabinet after Incentivise scored an explosive win in this year’s Caulfield Cup. Moody, originally from the town of Wyandra - 10 hours’ drive west of Brisbane - has experienced more extreme thrills than most people could ever imagine in racing - even before Incentivise headed south to the Moody camp from the trainers home state of Queensland. Incentivise won his first six races in Queensland under the astute care of Toowoomba-based trainer Steve Tregea. Tregea trained Incentivise to win his last four races in Queensland by a staggering combined total of 38 lengths, including a 12-length romp in the $200,000 Group-3 Tatts Cup (24000m) at Eagle Farm in June.

The last time Incentivise tasted defeat before the Melbourne Cup was in Toowoomba earlier this year when he was beaten by 16 lengths in a $20,000 maiden handicap. Tregea has been quoted as saying that Moody’s Queensland connections - he was born in Charleville and raised in the small western town of Wyandra - contributed to his decision to send Incentivise south. Incentivise became the first horse to win the Makybe Diva Stakes (formerly Craiglee Stakes), Turnbull Stakes double since the mighty Dulcify completed the rare feat in 1979. Incentivise wins the Caulfield Cup.

The Mighty Bernborough and jockey Athol George Mulley, the greatest horse to hail from the Darling Downs.

Trainer Peter Moody with Incentivise.

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Campdraft is booming By Fiona Gowers With its relaxed atmosphere and perfect mix of social and sport, campdrafting is experiencing a post Covid-19 boom. The 2021 Triple Crown staged at Condamine, Chinchilla and Warwick attracted more than 800 competitors from Queensland, WA and the NT all vying for $431,000 in prizemoney. “The competition at all three events was very strong,” said Australian Campdraft Association (ACA) president Hugh Philp. “Due to favourable seasonal conditions, the cattle were the best we have ever presented and the grounds very safe. “I couldn’t have doubted anything those three committees achieved, all events were run beautifully. “It has been two years since these events were run and I think the competitors were very grateful for everything done for them.” Beginning as a friendly rivalry among stockmen, campdrafting has evolved into a popular weekend activity for both amateurs and professionals. In Queensland, an average of 800 nominations are received per week, with some events attracting 1400 entries. “I can’t pinpoint why,” said Australian Campdraft Association (ACA) president Hugh Philp.

“But maybe (it’s because) you can pull up and camp for three days, relax with like-minded people and compete but also have a few beers. I think the social aspect is a huge drawcard. “I am 47-years-old and have been campdrafting my whole life, not much has really changed but, for some reason, the sport is going through an incredible transition at the moment.” Mr Philp said ACA membership had almost doubled in six years to toal 9500 members. He said a high school event run on 8, 9 and 10 October in Dalby attracted 270 school students from 38 schools, demonstrating the sport’s growth and the enthusiasm from young people. The downside however, according to Mr Philp, was that some competitors were unable to secure a nomination to compete. “We’ve ended up with large waiting lists but the popularity of it has been incredible really, it’s just become harder to manage at the moment,” he said. “We’re constantly looking for ideas and listening to different committees as they try different things with Covid-19 restrictions.” The ACA will celebrate its 50-year anniversary at Springsure, Queensland next year. Australian Campdraft Association (ACA) president Hugh Philp.

2021 Triple Crown honour roll Warwick Gold Cup, 31 October, 2021 Richard Hansen on 49er Shake Pete Comiskey on Duck n Down Will Durkin on Marnies Glamour

· · ·

Chinchilla Grandfather Clock Campdraft, 23 October, 2021 Robert Plant on Condet Pete Comiskey on Archdale Convoy Steve Comiskey on Design In Mind

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Condamine Bell Open Draft, 17 October, 2021 Ben Hall on Jackson Joe Payne on Cole Black & Ben Hall on Classy Dove

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Articles inside

Cedar Pocket .................................96

Leslie ........................................... 63

CAMPDRAFT BOOM

KINGAROY’S BIG PEANUT

THE MOIRS’ JOURNEY ..........pages

Chinchilla Weir .............................105

Somerset ......................................60

COLUMNISTS .......................pages