JULY 2016
EDITION NO.3
BACK TO THE SHED WHY THE SHEEP INDUSTRY DESERVES TO BE SOUTH-WEST’S NEXT AG BOOM
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WELCOME WHAT DOES THE SHEEP INDUSTRY NEED TO DO TO GET BACK TO THE GLORY DAYS? It’s the question we are asking in the July edition of Grazier and Farmer, your guide to rural news, opinions and people across the Maranoa, Balonne and Murweh regions. I’d like to thank all the journalists and advertisers and their clients for pulling together and supporting this publication. – Tom Gillespie
CONTACT US EDITOR Tom Gillespie Phone 07 4578 4108 Email tom.gillespie@westernstarnews.com ADVERTISING WESTERN STAR ROMA Greg Latta Phone 07 4672 9927 Email greg.latta@westernstarnews.com All material published in Grazier and Farmer is subject to copyright provisions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission for the publisher. DISCLAIMER: The information contained within Grazier and Farmer is given in good faith and obtained from sources believed to be accurate. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. The Western Star, Western Times or Balonne Beacon will not be liable for any opinion or advice contained herein.
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WHAT’Sinside 03 OUR NATIONAL HERD
Cattle numbers are set to head to their lowest levels in nearly 25 years.
06 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT
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08 RETURN OF THE RAILS
WEATHER
Graziers and farmers share their stories to the State Government on proposed reforms.
The Oakey Beef Project has been green-lit – but what will this mean for western Queensland?
09 THE ROMA AUCTIONEER HEADING TO EKKA
We chat to Alexander “AJ” Riley about his passion for the rural sector and auctioneering
10 THE LONG DRY CONTINUES
Why much anticipated rain is still not going to signal the end of the drought
12 LET’S GET BACK TO THE SHED
What needs to happen to see the sheep industry return to better times in south-west Queensland
14 MEET THE MARANOA CANDIDATES
We chat to five of the candidates running for Bruce Scott’s spot about agriculture and the sheep industry
18 THE FUTURE OF THE INDUSTRY
Meet three young rural professionals across south-west Queensland doing great things
FOLLOWING from disappointing levels of rainfall predicted over autumn, winter rainfall across mainland Australia is forecast to be above average for the season. The current outlook looks set to return to La Nina conditions previously predicted in late April. Very warm sea surface temperatures are predicted for the waters surrounding northern and eastern Australia. Warmer than average days have also been predicted for parts of the tropical north and south-west Queensland, south-east Victoria and all of Tasmania.
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Internet crucial to survival of the bush
OUTBACK INTERNET: Leo Neill-Ballantine is all for bringing the NBN to rural communities. Photo: Brenda Strong/The Observer
THE FUTURE OF FARMING IS ONLINE, BUT ARE GRAZIERS DOOMED ALWAYS TO BE CUT OFF FROM THE WORLDWIDE MARKET BY LOW BANDWIDTHS AND INTERMITTENT CONNECTION? Quilpie mayor Stuart Mackenzie said that internet access is simply do-or-die for the bush. “It’s going to come down to maintaining people out here,” he said. With farming increasingly moving online through Auction Plus, internet banking and the sheer bandwidth demands of modern life, equalising internet speeds has never been more important. “Twenty years down the track it will be very difficult to do any business without good internet. “People aren’t going to be living out here in 20 years if you can’t send your kids to school (through distance education online).” Those are the stakes. But towns like Quilpie and Tambo, with populations of less than 1000, will be totally left out of the physical system. Farmers, too, will have to rely on satellite connection for internet connection. Sky Muster, NBN Co’s satellite, was turned on in late April, with another set to launch later this year. Demand exploded immediately, with users installing as fast as the workforce could go. According to Better Internet for Rural, Regional and Remote Australia, 5000 homes already have access, with 7000 more coming online in June and installation ramping up to 10,000+ every subsequent month. Which raises the question: If everyone wants in on the
satellite, can it provide the bandwidth? Kylie Stretton, a spokeswoman for Better Internet, is concerned that the system may be overloaded in peak times, forcing the Internet Service Provider to choke download speeds across the network. “They’re launching Skymuster 2 – but they’re already planning to put people on it,” she said. “The ABS released a study and they said that in 2013-2014 Australia’s internet usage went up 33%. “It won’t take very long until we’re beyond what that can carry.” The maximum monthly download, Kylie says, is 75 gigabytes of data. Hit that and you’re throttled to super-slow speeds. And that’s the most expensive connection money can buy. “My husband’s an agent and he does lots of Auction Plus and it does take forever for us to upload photos and that,” she said. “It can be infuriating when it pauses halfway through.” But LNP candidate for Maranoa David Littleproud, which covers much of outback Queensland, said never say never for full fibre-to-the-node connections. In an interview over the phone from Birdsville, he said the most remote parts of Queensland were being connected directly to the grid. And he hinted that bigger and better things may come to those who wait. But he defended the current approach of investing in good enough internet that can be put online immediately, even if it’s worse than the city. – Andrew Messenger
National herd heading for 24-year low
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“This will only heighten if there is widespread relief from the ongoing hot and dry conditions,” it said. “Disconnection between young and finished cattle prices needs to be monitored closely though, as a narrower margin leads to a riskier trade.” MLA stated cattle prices would continue to trend strongly compared with 2015 prices. “MLA remains confident that cattle prices in 2016 will average higher than 2015, but lower than the peaks recorded at the beginning of the year,” the report said. “2017 will probably see a reduction in average prices – influenced by growing global supply pressures.” - Tom Gillespie LOW OUTLOOK: The national cattle herd is expected to reach lows not seen since 1993 if predictions by the MLA prove to be correct.
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THE NATIONAL CATTLE HERD IS EXPECTED TO FALL TO ITS LOWEST TALLY SINCE 1993 BY THE END OF THE MONTH, ACCORDING TO MEAT AND LIVESTOCK AUSTRALIA. The MLA has not shifted its prediction of a fall in the national herd to $26.2 million in its April report update, meaning 2016 is set for a reduction of 5.4%. This would put our national herd at its smallest for 24 years. The report stated the manufacturing side of the cattle industry would face challenges from the softening US market and increasing global exports. The younger end of the market, on the other hand, would more than likely be supported by competition between lot feeders and restockers for the significantly smaller pool of Australian cattle (currently estimated at 26.2 million head), the report said.
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THERE IS A CRISIS IN OUR AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY THAT DOESN’T GET THE SAME PUBLICITY AS DROUGHT, CATTLE AND GRAIN PRICES OR THE LIVE EXPORT MARKET. It is affecting future farming generations at levels far in excess of those affecting the general Queensland population. In fact, it is twice as likely to affect farmers as it is to affect those in any other occupation. However, we talk very little about it and it’s time we asked why? The subject is taboo, considered too personal or too uncomfortable, yet we allow it to kill our farmers at a rate 1.6 times higher than those in the general population. What we are speaking about is anxiety, depression and suicide and while the
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letters in a three-piece brand,” Coomber Bros Jewellers owner Carol Schefe said. The belt buckle range had exploded and would be the most popular item ordered in the past year,” Ms Schefe said. There are four belt buckles to choose from, two for men and two for women, and a genuine leather belt in either brown or black is included in the cost. All Queensland brands are checked against the DPI brands database to ensure they are being done correctly and for other states we use pictures of the registration certificate supplied by the client or pictures of brands on the beast, on hats, or the irons themselves. To ensure the client is happy with the item we do a mock-up of the brand first and this is emailed to the client for approval. Once approval is given it can take up to three weeks to complete the piece. We can still do it the old way as well if you don’t have computer access. When brand pendants are ordered we offer the clients 20% off the purchase of a chain. Last Christmas we did our first brand pendants for South Africa and Canada, with one to England this year. Order forms are online at www.coomberbros.com.au. There are also pictures of the belt buckles available and completed jewellery items to view. Or you can give us a call and we can take the order over the phone, or drop into the store.
message is starting to get out there, we have only really just began to scratch the surface of a problem affecting hundreds of rural communities. Case IH, in partnership with beyondblue, is trying to firmly place this issue in the spotlight. If you or anyone you know are experiencing depression or anxiety, there are effective treatments available and the sooner you take action the better. The Shed Online is a great resource, as is the beyondblue website itself (www.beyondblue.org.au). You can also contact the Suicide Callback Line on 1300 659 467 or Lifeline on 13 11 44. Take action today and help us stop the unnecessary loss of life from these silent killers.
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Make sure it will stand test of time WHEN IT COMES TO DECORATING YOUR HOME IT IS IMPORTANT TO ENSURE THAT YOU ARE INVESTING WISELY IN YOUR DECOR AND OPTING FOR PIECES THAT NOT ONLY LOOK GREAT, BUT WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME. Thankfully, the friendly and knowledgeable consultants at Andersens Roma can help you achieve exactly that. Boasting a team that goes above and beyond to work with you to ensure your personal tastes are catered for, Andersens can find pieces to suit all individual situations, be it fitting out their private homes or workers’ quarters. With a range that caters for ultra-modern and classic country looks and anything in between, you are sure to find all you need at Andersens Roma. The team is happy to travel to any customers wanting to have a look at their mobile showroom and Andersens even offer a free measure and quote. Selling carpet, ceramics, blinds, vinyl, timber, cork and awnings, Andersens are sure to give your home or workers’ quarters a timeless appeal that will, best of all, withstand the wear and tear of everyday life for many years to come. Contact the team today to realise a new level of impeccable service and first-class living. - Carmen Barclay
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The Agriculture and Environment Committee hears submissions from the public about the proposed changes to vegetation management and land clearing on Thursday.
Landholders slam new vegetation laws LABOR’S NEW VEGETATION LAWS ARE “AN UNFAIR VIOLATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS THAT MAY RENDER WESTERN QUEENSLAND AN UNPROFITABLE MONO-CULTURE OF PURE MULGA AND WORSEN DROUGHTS”, A PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY WAS TOLD THIS MONTH. Not one single grazier in either Roma or Charleville, or anyone else, rose to defend the Vegetation Management (Reinstatement) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill to the Agriculture and Environment Committee in early June. Chaired by state members Glenn Butcher, Tony Perrett, Julieanne Gilbert, Robbie Katter, Jim Madden and Ted Sorensen. Members of the local AgForce turned out to give the state agriculture committee a piece of their mind. One of the biggest complaints was that incorrect, huge scale maps, based on the opinions of bureaucrats in Brisbane would be used as the basis for prosecution. Even if a farmer believed himself to be acting within the law, this would be no defence – and he or she would be presumed guilty, and have to prove himself or herself otherwise. Or so the committee was told.
Trish Agar, describing herself as the seventh generation on the land, said the legislation would have all those negative effects and more – and wouldn’t even reduce carbon emissions. “This legislation has the ability to destroy us graziers – has the ability to destroy us as a family operation,” she said. “It also has the ability to destroy the future of agriculture in Australia.” She said that mulga was likely to grow out of control without regular clearing, wiping out grass and therefore local wildlife. And, because grass soaks up more carbon than trees, this would have the opposite effect to the intent of the legislation. John Sommerfield complained that maps were often wrong and made at such a big scale that they’re essentially useless even when correct. A single polygon – the smallest measure of area – can contain more than one regional ecosystem, he said. “It’s like a street with three speed limits fixed to the one pole and the motorist has to be responsible for identifying which one of them is correct,” he said. The committee continued on to Roma that afternoon, hearing yet more reasons
why not to adopt the legislation. Beef producer Justin MacDonnell fought back tears when he described the impact the State Government’s vegetation management laws had on his family business. “Do you know what it feels like to have a young family live on the land, have debt up to your eyeballs, work seven days a week, live a life of a social hermit because you cannot really afford to go out and you basically spend your time working on your farm?” he asked. “Yet the government can introduce legislation that basically vilifies you from the start (and) tells you that you have a reverse onus of proof. “For my wife and me, it was too much of a financial burden to undertake and that is just frustrating.” Southern Inland Regional president of AgForce Robyn Bryant has also lent her support to the grazing community, expressing her disbelief at the proposed law changes and their effects on regional businesses. “Vegetation management is not about clearing trees; it is a planned and methodical process to enhance and improve the landscape.
“It ensures that true native trees are maintained without having to fight other species for survival,” she said. “The best people to assess and maintain this land are the people who know it best: the rural producers. This is not a decision that should be made by any one political party.” Ms Bryant, who is also a cattle producer, attacked the laws for stunting economic growth and putting pressure on regional workers. “The introduction of Labor’s proposed vegetation management legislation affects each and every person in rural Queensland (it) suggests that we are incapable of managing our own land and that we also might be criminals for doing it,” she said. “Decisions about such a valuable asset to our state and country should not be made from behind a political desk in Brisbane by people who have never seen for themselves the positive outcomes of good vegetation management. “If agricultural land continues to be used as a political tool, the state and federal economies will ultimately suffer.” It will return its findings to Parliament by the end of the month. - Blake Antrobus and Andrew Messenger
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Cattle on rail set for boost after project THE REJUVENATION OF RAIL FREIGHT TO WESTERN QUEENSLAND IS NOW WELL UNDER WAY, WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT FINISHING PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENTS ON THE EXISTING LINE. In April, the State Government finally caved to pressure to allow abattoir Oakey beef to use the line, agreeing to invest $2.5 million to upgrade sidings. The upgrade will also develop new hubs at Morven and Mitchell; cattle can currently only be loaded in Quilpie. Clare Mildren, a representative of South West Regional Economic Development, said the upgrade would mean a dramatic improvement for graziers in access to markets. “The railway line west of Toowoomba means more than affordable freight, it acts as a life source to our regional communities and is vital for economic development and connectivity to market in Asia and elsewhere,” she said. “It is absolutely vital, especially for our agricultural pursuits, allowing us access, support and more.” Graziers would be able to take advantage of subsidised
freight rates for the first time since the privatisation of the line through the livestock freight subsidy. Aurizon, the only current player, wouldn’t move anything less than a full train of cattle. Under the new deal, farmers can combine together to fill a contract with Oakey, making the service more flexible. In April, Oakey Abattoir general manager Pat Gleeson said he wanted the first train of cattle into Oakey before Christmas, and the upgrade is well on the way. “Going forward this gives us the opportunity to source more cattle from those areas we've had limited access to (like the far West),” he said at the time. Morven is at the confluence of several highways, allowing access to properties north and south of the Warrego Highway. The upgrade was tied to $60 million of Japanese investment in additional slaughtering capacity in Oakey, which is predicted to generate 4300 jobs in that town. – Andrew Messenger
South-west Queensland is set to benefit from the rejuvenation in freight rail to move cattle.
Roos could be key to environmental woe Feral animals remain a problem across the Maranoa region, and are known to cause damage to agricultural lands, crops and livestock. Mr Ritchie said there could be economic benefits associated with the hunting of over-abundant feral animals, which would provide an additional source of income for farmers and even abattoir workers. “You need the infrastructure to do that as well, but it seems sensible that rural workers would take advantage of options to diversify their produce,” he said. “It’s about finding ways to help farmers produce meat and reduce pressure in light of future environmental problems they face.” Cr Robyn Bryant said while the government-regulated kangaroo industry was currently not commercial in the Maranoa region, it would be timely to look at change from a producer level. “There is definitely room for expansion in these areas, and they’re becoming quite popular in the region,” she said. “More research is needed into how we manage this economy in the long term.” Maranoa Regional Council maintains a feral animal baiting program that assists landholders in helping keep them at bay. - Blake Antrobus
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WITH THE PLIGHT OF FARMERS ALREADY AT FEVER PITCH IN THE MARANOA REGION, BOLD SOLUTIONS INVOLVING WILD ANIMALS HAVE BEEN PUT FORWARD TO KEEP FARMING BUSINESSES ALIVE. In an article for The Conversation, co-authored with UNSW lecturer Adam Munn, senior ecology lecturer at Deakin University Euan Ritchie said economic and environmental problems associated with farmland could be solved by diversifying meat sources to kangaroos and feral animals within the region. Mr Ritchie said capitalising on alternative species would help combat the future limitations of climate change, increasing population and lack of suitable farmland in the Maranoa region. “Climate change has made it harder to farm species, especially in arid regions, so we’ve argued that we can look at these options to help farmers and rural workers with economic limitations, and environmental issues,” he said. “It’s about taking advantage of the problem with feral animals and helping to not only reduce their impact on the land, but also utilise their resources without dependence on livestock. “We’re not arguing for a complete ban or replacement, but for more diverse options in light of the limitations and future problems.”
The Ekka awaits for Ray White’s AJ Riley SIXTEEN MONTHS AGO, ALEXANDER “AJ” RILEY WAS DOING THE HARD YARDS AS A TRAINEE WITH RAY WHITE RURAL ROMA. Today, he’s one of nine finalists across Queensland to compete in the Australian Livestock & Property Agents Association Young Auctioneers Competition at the Brisbane Exhibition this year. Mr Riley, who has been selling as an auctioneer for ten months at the Roma Saleyards, said it was a big honour to represent the region. “It’s a great opportunity; I’m a little bit nervous but it should be great fun,” he said. “I really enjoy selling and the auctioneering side of work, so it should be a great time experiencing something new outside of the saleyards. “I’m pretty excited about the experience.” Growing up on his parent’s property Wyalla in Tamworth, NSW, Mr Riley said he became interested in the rural scene through his father, who looked after numerous show steers. With his passion for auctioneering already acquired, he wasted no time in taking up the job offer from Ray White Rural Roma. “There was a trial period for a few weeks last year, then I managed to get my auctioneering licence and start working at the saleyards,” Mr Riley said. “I mostly work on the Thursday Prime Sales, but I’ve slowly started heading Tuesday’s sales with a little help.” But he’s got high hopes for the future as well, looking towards the Nationals in Sydney sometime in the future. “I want to keep selling here and I’m growing a lot more confident with my work, but there’s always the possibility of advancing further,” Mr Riley said. “I’m still really excited for the Ekka, and the challenge it will provide.” - Blake Antrobus
Ray White Rural Roma's AJ Riley has been selected to compete in the ALPA Young Auctioneers competition at the Brisbane Ekka later this year.
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Still a state of drought despite brief relief THE WORST DROUGHT IN LIVING MEMORY HAS YET TO BREAK DESPITE HIGH HOPES RAISED BY HEAVY RAIN IN JANUARY. FARMERS in nearly 85% of Queensland continue to endure drought conditions, despite the revocation of declarations in the South Burnett area in early May. State and Federal governments will have no choice but to continue to provide aid for shires and graziers despite calling in Local Drought Committees to discuss revocation of some declarations earlier in the year. Graziers out west have had a much better year than last, with at least some rain every month, following the massive 80cm or so in early January. But rain has been spotty and an occasional downpour rather than a constant presence. Charleville Elders manager and cattleman Keith Richardson said: “It’s like pouring a bucket on your desk.” “It’ll go everywhere. But if you spill it slowly, it’ll pool.” Mr Richardson said mulga country would respond well to heavy rain but
The dry country of Trinidad station, near Quilpie.
heavy rain could ruin dried-out grassland or downs, washing away any surviving grass then draining too quickly to be of use. Property in Wyandra has little green left after this year’s rain. Some cattle died of pneumonia in January in the west as temperatures dropped by more than 10 degrees overnight. “Some guys will say to you, I lose more stock in the rain than all through the drought,” Mr Richardson said. “On downs-type country, if it’s been very dry and (you get a big wet), they could even bog,” he said. He said most graziers hoped for an end to El Nino, which the BOM suggested is likely this winter. Every La Nina is different, just as every drought is different, but the 2010-12 condition caused huge floods across the state, including its capital. And when there is rain, it raises the question – how will people restock? Many farmers are in debt, totally destocked or beset by pests like wild dogs or kangaroos. Where will they find the money to recapitalise? – Andrew Messenger
Graziers call for more black spot funding THERE’S NO BLACK SPOTS IN THE SALEYARDS THIS WEEK, BUT ROB AND JANE CORNISH ARE CALLING FOR ACTION ON THE LACK OF MOBILE RECEPTION IN RURAL AREAS. The pair sold charolais-cross steers to 316c/kg for 418kg to return $1324/head at Tuesday’s Roma Store Sale. But Mr Cornish, who works between three properties across the region, said there were more pressing concerns than sale prices or cattle numbers for rural workers. With mobile and internet reception now on the Federal Election agenda, he said there was a need for improved mobile and internet infrastructure across the region. “There are issues out on some of our properties, where the mobile reception cuts in and out and the internet is very poor,” he said. “It’s population-based, of course, so there will be
some issues out on rural properties, but the demand for a new satellite is there.” Jane Cornish echoed similar sentiments with the lack of reception, citing the pressures of long-distance education creating difficulties for external students. “It’s become increasingly important to have reception and internet with the current work in rural locations today,” she said. “But it’s extremely important if you want to improve education; I’ve studied online and sometimes I can’t use the net, so it makes it totally impossible. “It goes back to the lack of tertiary education in the area; given that it’s so rural, the only option is online study, so improvement is crucial.” - Blake Antrobus Rob and Jane Cornish, Riverview, Mitchell, would like to see more investment in resolving mobile black spots.
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WHEN IT COMES TO THE FROSTY MORNINGS AND CRISP EVENINGS OF WINTER, THERE ISN’T ANY BETTER PLACE TO ESCAPE THAN THE WARM SANCTUARY THAT IS YOUR HOME. However, for many of us our home isn’t quite winter-ready yet thanks to the warmer days we were blessed with at the start of the season and for those who fit this bill, your favourite place of escape may feel a lot less peaceful and relaxing than you would like. Thankfully, there is a solution. Roma Betta Home Living offers everything you need to take your home from drab to fab this winter and give you the warm sanctuary you seek. Including gorgeous Logan & Mason linen, Rapee cushions, stunning lounge suites and throw rugs sure to light up any room, you can design and decorate the perfect winter oasis in which to sip hot chocolates and read to your heart’s content. The store offers an extensive range of heating solutions, light fittings, soup makers, pressure cookers and crock pots, so it won’t just be your interior decorating that gives your home that warm, winter feel. With everything you need to make your home a sanctuary this season, look no further than the extensive range on offer at Roma Betta Home Living. - Carmen Barclay
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Moves afoot to bring back the glory days YOU COULD SEE IT IN LYLE SUTTON’S EYES AS HE WALKED AROUND THE OLD SHEARING SHED ON RICHMOND DOWNS – HE WAS DRINKING IN THE MEMORIES. The Roma resident and a veteran of shearing, recalls the glory days of the sheep industry in the 1970s and 1980s. Back then, the price of wool was worth the equivalent of up to $27/kg. Shearers didn’t need to travel all over the country to get work. It was a time Lyle looks back at fondly. “I just loved it – the mateship and camaraderie,” he said. “Out of all the shearers I’ve worked with, there’d only be a handful that I didn’t like. “I could do between 160-200 sheep a day, depending whether I wanted to work hard.” Australia could one day ride on the sheep’s back again like it once did, with the State Government now funding cluster fencing projects that will hope to bring 600,000 sheep back to south-west Queensland. Quilpie shire has been the most successful in terms of land protected, with 482,385 hectares protected. There will be 408,817 hectares of land fenced in the Murweh shire, with a further 412,211 fenced in the Maranoa. Paroo and Balonne shires will have about a quarter of a million hectares fenced, with Barcoo graziers fencing 189,709 hectares. SWNRM will administer the program. Chairman Mark O’Brien said under pessimistic assumptions, the investment could deliver 600,000 sheep back to the area.
Retired Roma shearer Lyle Sutton returns to one of the old shearing sheds at Richmond Downs, finding the markings of his own stall.
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But while cluster fencing will be a big step, Queensland’s largest ram seller Errol Brumpton wants to see the industry move with the consumer of the 21st Century. “We need to drop this itchy, scratchy image of wool,” he said. “We pay too much attention to the market in relation to microns and we should have other major influences on the market, including softness, elasticity and whiteness. “We’re still wanting to go down the old paths and selling wool by microns. “I’m trying to lead the charge but it’s a slow journey.” The owner of Well Gully outside Mitchell, said the State Government’s proposed vegetation management legislation would hinder attempts to re-vitalise sheep. “One of our big threats for sustainability is this tree-clearing legislation – what they should be doing is sending vegetation management back to local governments.” There is some evidence to suggest the sheep industry for both prime lamb and wool is improving – Australia experienced a 60% increase in job growth for shearing between 2012-14, and wool is now worth 1270c/kg as of June 10. But to put this in perspective, the price sat at 1166c/kg in the 1970s and 1980s, which is equivalent to $27/kg when adjusted to today’s inflation. Meat and Livestock Australia are also predicting an impressive 2017 for prime lamb producers, with the number of animals slaughtered expected to rise again next year after a 3.4% drop for 2016. “Over the past five years lamb marking rates and the ability to produce an early finishing lamb have steadily
improved, and this continued in 2015 despite many producers facing unfavourable winter and spring conditions,” MLA market manager Ben Thomas said. Labor candidate for Maranoa and sheep shearer Dave Kerrigan said the lack of skilled workers to fill the soon-to-be increasing numbers of sheep can be a tool governments could use to improve unemployment in rural towns. “There is no quick fix and if we start to get good numbers again, the next thing we’ll have is the lack of a skilled workforce,” he said. “I know so many people have left the shearing industry, and that’s a great opportunity for governments to plan in advance and start to train a workforce up. “It’s not for everyone, but I’m sure plenty of young people would love to learn how to shear and class wool.” Mr Brumpton agrees with these sentiments, but said the problem with underskilling was not with the shearers but the people who worked with them. “We’ve got bigger issues than shearing skills – our critical issue is a lack of skilled shed staff and lack of skilled farm hands,” he said. “I’d like to see more money spent on stock-husbandry skills, farm hand skills and shed hand skills.” LNP candidate for Maranoa David Littleproud said the entire rural sector could benefit from more diversity in south-west Queensland. “Enabling beef producers to choose whether to build a sheep, wool and lambs component in your business mix is an important part way to build that diversity,” he said. “A strong local wool industry also keeps skilled workers, such as wool classers and shearers, in the region, which helps build rural communities.” - Tom Gillespie and Andrew Messenger
Mitchell merino ram seller Errol Brumpton is an advocate for the industry.
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Candidates quizzed on trees, sheep IT’S NO SECRET THAT THE ELECTORATE OF MARANOA IS AN AREA WITH A STRONG CONNECTION TO AGRICULTURE – BUT HOW DO OUR POLITICIANS FEEL ABOUT IT? We asked five of the candidates in the upcoming Federal Election what they thought about two current issues affecting the rural sector – Queensland Labor’s proposed vegetation management legislation and the need to revitalise the sheep industry.
Landholders have been expressing their anger at proposed vegetation management reforms by the State Government. How should vegetation management be handled on a federal level, and what rights do landholders have? We need to trust that a majority of landholders are looking after their land. They know that clearing on marginal soils will end in reduced productivity in the long run and will act responsibly. However, there will always be somebody doing the wrong thing, and we need strong mechanisms in place to address that. Wholesale land clearing leads to increased climate change which affects all landholders. How would you go about revitalising the sheep industry, for both wool and lamb, in south-west Queensland? The threat posed to livestock, primarily by the high numbers of wild dogs in the area, needs to be remedied. More funding needs to go into traditional methods of control but also newer approaches such as cluster fencing.
Dave Kerrigan – Australian Labor Party
David Littleproud – Liberal National Party
Landholders have been expressing their anger at proposed vegetation management reforms by the State Government. How should vegetation management be handled on a federal level, and what rights do landholders have? The Queensland Vegetation Act must be shredded before Rural Queensland is crippled beyond repair and the family farm is forced from the landscape, by these fascist laws that victimise landholders for the benefit of political power and vote buying. These laws where forced upon the states by the Howard/Truss Federal government. How would you go about revitalising the sheep industry, for both wool and lamb, in south-west Queensland? The government must invest much more into feral fencing and dog control, the miserable amounts offered on an annual basis are inadequate and are dividing communities. I would advocate for better funding of these programs.
Landholders have been expressing their anger at proposed vegetation management reforms by the State Government. How should vegetation management be handled on a federal level, and what rights do landholders have? There has to be concentrated, negotiable and well researched conversation in this area. Does this combine with the mining industry legislation as well? When there are no trees or very few and the droughts last for twice as long as this current one, are we going to revisit this question? How would you go about revitalising the sheep industry, for both wool and lamb, in south-west Queensland? The main thing to revitalise any industry is have everyone working together for the whole community. Have everybody’s input about the benefits to the whole community and all work towards a common goal. It will be a long hard job to get the sheep and wool industry going in south-west and western Qld but this will be worth it.
Landholders have been expressing their anger at proposed vegetation management reforms by the State Government. How should vegetation management be handled on a federal level, and what rights do landholders have? The vegetation management debate not only affects producers and growers, but it has a flow-on impact that is felt across the entire local economy. Agriculture is the biggest driver of many Maranoa economies and if Labor brings in laws that halt the landholder’s ability to develop their land there will be huge repercussions. And it is all done so Labor can win a few easy votes in the city. How would you go about revitalising the sheep industry, for both wool and lamb, in south-west Queensland? If we can bring back the sheep, we bring back the shearers and we bring back work and muchneeded dollars to Maranoa communities. The Coalition has delivered more than $50 million in funds for pest management.
k c a b t Ou s e r a p S
Lynette Keehn – One Nation Landholders have been expressing their anger at proposed vegetation management reforms by the State Government. How should vegetation management be handled on a federal level, and what rights do landholders have? Self-management with reference to Landcare Flora and Fauna and AgForce guidelines. Most previously utilised agricultural land is free of true old-growth vegetation/flora fauna environmental risk. How would you go about revitalising the sheep industry, for both wool and lamb, in south-west Queensland? Land management has become an issue whereby the enterprise needs to suit the remaining, existing land and what it can offer. Overcropped land can provide nothing. Smaller, mixed farming with high quality, organic, boutique products (meat and wool) seem to be gaining a foothold as viable options. Perhaps that, side-by-side with improved pasture management, would prove sustainable for the sheep industry.
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Brothers not bucking at chance to help MOST KIDS WOULD SPEND THEIR SCHOOL HOLIDAYS WITH THEIR FRIENDS, OR TRAVEL ABROAD WITH THEIR FAMILIES. But Jimmy and Angus Stinson are having a ball spending time with their dad at the Roma Saleyards. The brothers spent the day at one of April’s sales, assisting their father James Stinson with the weighing and general movements of the bulls throughout the day. But they don’t seem to mind the hard work, with both brothers stating they enjoyed being back home to help the family business in their own time. “It’s not too unusual for us to be here helping out, since we both really enjoy the saleyards and helping out with the weighing,” they said. Jimmy’s work is also a welcome break from boarding school, using the school holidays to help out with work and spend time with his family. “We’re going to be back here next holidays helping dad out, so we make the most of the next few weeks to plan ahead,” he said. Grazier James Stinson said it was a good opportunity to get some mustering done while the boys were back home, stating that everyone enjoyed the work. “Tuesday was part of our normal program, and we’re really happy with the results on the market,” he said. “Most kids really enjoy the outside type of life, and it’s all pretty good fun for Angus and Jimmy.” Mr Stinson said both boys were learning the ropes of the grazier trade, but also found time to have fun during their break. “They’ve been out and about, just having fun and trying to enjoy their holidays as much as possible,” he said. - Blake Antrobus
Angus and Jimmy Stinson, Moonya, Roma, at the Roma Saleyards in April.
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Joyce pledges research funds
CSG unit criticised A KEY LANDHOLDER GROUP HAS WARNED THE COAL SEAM GAS COMPLIANCE UNIT NEEDS TO BE ALLOWED GREATER INDEPENDENCE IF IT IS TO REGAIN THE CONFIDENCE OF FARMERS. Property Rights Australia chairman Dale Stiller welcomed the continued funding for the CSGCU, but said by and large the government was falling short in the area of monitoring and compliance and needed improvement. Mr Stiller said it was good to hear the CSGCU was being properly resourced and there was “certainly a role for bodies such as the compliance unit”. The Labor government has extended its funding commitment to the CSGCU for a further two years at a cost of $7 million. Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Anthony Lynham said the long-term success of the CSG industry relied on community support and a strong social licence. “That means the industry has to operate sustainably within a strict regime of environmental, land access, safety and health and water monitoring requirements,” Dr Lynham said. But Mr Stiller said while the government claimed the CSG industry is governed by strict legislation, when “it comes down to rubber on the road”, that was not always the case. “Often complaints from the compliance unit are at the first place referred back to the
company that the landowner is having a problem with,” he said. He agreed the unit had well-qualified and experienced staff but said it had been “hamstrung” in fulfilling its role. “It’s an important role and should be allowed to have greater independence from the government to fulfil this role,” he said. Mr Stiller said broadly he felt there was too great a government interference in the compliance unit. “This is a body which should be able to have full independence,” he said. “Because of its role it can’t be too in the pocket of either the CSG operators or the landowners. “It has to determine where the truth lies in the middle and the government should allow it to do this,” he said. “It has been said that amongst landowners currently there’s a lack of confidence in the compliance unit but if government allowed the unit to have greater independence to do its work, then that confidence can return.” Basin Sustainability Alliance chairman Lee McNicholl welcomed the news of continued funding, but argued it would require additional funds. “It needs enhancing. There are plenty of unresolved issues, such as gassy bores, which the compliance unit needs more resources to take care of,” Mr McNicholl said. - Matthew Newton
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Property Rights Australia chairman Dale Stiller.
IN THE LEAD-UP TO THE FEDERAL ELECTION, BARNABY JOYCE CAME TO DALBY TO SPREAD THE WORD – AND THE WORD WAS “COTTON”. Supported by the Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash, and tailed by LNP Maranoa candidate David Littleproud, Mr Joyce announced a multimillion-dollar boost to research and development. He said the Federal Government was set to help growers “cotton on” to the benefits of nitrogen use. Nitrogen is critical for Australian agriculture, because it improves soil quality, crop yields and farm-gate returns. A $5.9 million research and development project will be run by the Cotton R&D Corporation Mr Joyce, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, said part of the Coalition’s plan for jobs and growth was giving farmers the tools they needed and that round two of the Rural Research and Development for Profit Programme would be highly beneficial for cotton growers. “Those who work the land already know their soils are their greatest asset, and are always looking for ways to protect and improve it so they get greater returns for their efforts,” he said. “This project will give us important information on how best to use fertilisers to address specific crop requirements and, in turn, increase profits for growers. “The research will have wide-ranging benefits for a range of industries – notably cotton – but also the dairy, sugar and horticulture sectors. “It will also underline the fact that farmers are at the front line in looking after our country, reducing fertiliser leaching or run-off into creeks and rivers. “In the spirit of getting the best bang for everyone’s buck, the grant will be matched by more than $9.7 million in cash and in-kind contributions by CRDC and its partner organisations.” Ms Nash said helping farmers get more from their soil could mean more jobs for regional areas. “As a farmer myself, I know how important it is to get the most out of your soil,” she said. “Higher yields mean better returns and this gives farmers the opportunity to expand production and potentially put on more people. The positive effects can flow right through regional economies.” - Alasdair Young
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Gap year showed Jack what he wanted IT’S 10AM, SUNDAY MORNING. WHILE MOST OF HIS MATES WOULD BE BUSY NURSING A MASSIVE HANGOVER, ROMA’S JACK DEARDEN SPENDS THE COOL MORNING PLANTING WHEAT FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON. The 23-year-old, who currently assists his parents to look after Beverley about 20km east of Roma, is part of the next generation of graziers and farmers. Jack’s decision to spend up to seven days a week helping run the several properties his family owns was made after he left boarding school. “I had a gap year after I left The Southport School and I Beverley grazier Jack Dearden is one of several young men and women who are part of the next generation of rural professionals.
spent it at home before I went to university at Gatton,” he said. “I’ve always been interested in agriculture – I studied agribusiness at Gatton. “When I was at school I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but after that year here, I realised this was where I should be.” The Deardens are currently planting their wheat at sister property Olivia, with most of their produce being sold to neighbours Brindley Park. Jack said the rain earlier in the year had left plenty of moisture in the soil of their properties. “It was a good summer for us. We’ve got a place on the south-west side of Roma and that had plenty of rain,” he said. “We got a more than other people did, so we’re lucky.”
Life as a vet offers a diverse work day IT WAS A DARK AND RAINY NIGHT WHEN SARAH PFINGST, JUST 7, DECIDED TO BECOME A VET. She watched a caesarean from her uncle and aunt’s house. For the country girl from a property near Inverell she immediately knew what to do with her life. Unlike most 7 year olds, she never stopped. That said “I’ve never wanted to be a dairy vet,” she laughed. Not a pleasant sight for a toddler. She’s now playing second fiddle to legendary Charleville vet Terri Eckel, doing locum work from a property north of Augathella when she’s not on call in the office. The area has been spottily covered in the past, simply due to distance. She deals with everything from house pets to working dogs. We caught up with Sarah early on a Friday afternoon. That day she’d healed a guinea pig, taken two sticks out of animals, a working dog and a horse’s stomach. There’s only one animal she won’t work on; she describes herself as “snakeophobic”. Lizards and reptiles have to see the other vet. The most dramatic work she’s done: helping out
baited dogs from town. The most bizarre: putting fake testicles in a dog. “They weren’t breeding with the dog, but they liked the way it looked,” she said. They’re called neuticals, a very expensive medically-pointless alleged aesthetically advantageous prosthetic for a dog’s crown jewels. She described meeting a big bloke with a sausage dog, who just didn’t want to let his best friend go through life half a man. “I like the diversity of the job,” she said. Being on call 24/7 is hard for Sarah, but she’s never had a problem working to a budget, like some vets. “People love their pets just as much as people in the cities,” she said. But some procedures, particularly diagnostic, are out of the price range of rural people. “I sort of like that challenge. “I like to think that as a vet I’m very practical.” Sarah Pfingst is the newest vet in the west, working under Terri Eckel.
Country girl Samantha is staying put YOUNG PEOPLE ARE THE FUTURE OF THE AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRY WITH SCHOOLING PLAYING A LARGE PART IN THAT JOURNEY, AND ST GEORGE HIGH STUDENT SAMANTHA DUFFEY IS NO DIFFERENT. Currently in her last year of high school, she is studying a Certificate 3 in Animal Science. Her high school studies include agriculture and she is an active member of the sheep show team at school. At the age of 16, Samantha already knows where her future lies and she is excited. “I live in Dirranbandi and I am surrounded by people living on the land and it’s a place I want to stay when I leave school for sure. I have family who own properties and I help out on them and it is fantastic.” Samantha says that she has the option to participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities which would not be possible in the city.
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“I want kids to know that there is a future on the land and that you don’t have to go to the cities to have opportunities, there are great chances for people to stay out here. “Growing up on the land you develop a sense of community by knowing everyone in the community and have a grounding that has shaped me for the better.” In the future Samantha says, “I want to help people stay out here. City people think that meat comes from a shop but really it is due to the hardworking people out here.” Samantha will join two other seniors taking animals to the Ekka in August, and after a very successful run last year hopes to compete and do ever better.
Samantha Duffy, a student from St George High School, is excited about her future on the land.
Tick line framework finalised by Labor
The legislation around the tick line through Queensland has been resolved by Labor.
AFTER MONTHS OF COMMUNITY CONSULTATION A NEW CATTLE TICK MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK HAS BEEN PUT IN PLACE FOR QUEENSLAND. The new cattle tick management framework will be put in place on July 1. Queensland Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Leanne Donaldson today announced a “simplified and stronger” cattle tick management framework in Queensland, which included the location of the new tick line. “We've simplified and strengthened the tick line by removing the confusing control zone and in some areas aligning the tick line with stronger double fenced boundaries,” Mr Donaldson said. “The new framework will provide greater flexibility for producers, reduce travel times, reduce costs for industry, and most importantly it will continue to protect the cattle tick free zone. “We have continually heard from producers that a one size fits all approach does not work and livestock owners want control of biosecurity decisions that impact their businesses.” More than 1000 surveys were collected during the consultation on the location of the tick line, as well as submissions from industry groups and feedback collected
during producer meetings. Three options were on the table during the consultation process and Minister Donaldson said option three would be implemented on July 1. With the changes, several hundred properties in the control zone will be moved to the infested zone. AgForce cattle president Bim Struss said managing ticks was a significant and costly issue for the cattle industry and every effort needed to be made to minimise the impact of the tick line and the cost of maintaining the integrity of the tick line. “The location of the tick line has been a contentious issue for years and the Queensland Government spent months consulting with more than 1000 producers at information meetings AgForce organised,” Mr Struss said. “AgForce has always maintained that reform should only be pursued where increased market access and support is provided to producers irrespective of their location. “From the consultation process, it was clear there were different views in different parts of the state, and even within the same areas, but today's announcement means producers now know where they stand.” – Rhiannon Tuffield
Family cotton operation accepts change seven days a week, spraying for weeds and insects. It was hands-on all the time. “In recent years we have seen a quantum leap in the development of technologies. When we began we would be lucky to get three bales a crop; now if we don’t get at least five, we are left wondering where we went wrong,” Frank said. “The new strain of cotton does not need to be sprayed as often as it is more pest-resistant, which is obviously better for the environment and a testimony to the advancements that have been made.” More broadly the cotton that comes from this region is hailed as some of the best in the world and Frank says that has a lot to do with the climate we live in. “We live in a hot dry climate and which means we have a wide scope to grow in. We have long warm days with little rain during the growing season and that means growers are in control when it comes to adding water and nutrients to make the conditions as good as they can be to create the perfect cotton yield. “We also have a strong cotton organisation that helps farmers all over this region so that the newest technologies and breakthroughs can be shared.” - Laura Telford
Cotton farming on the Deshon property just outside Dirranbandi.
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TWO GENERATIONS OF DESHONS HAVE FARMED COTTON JUST OUTSIDE DIRRANBANDI, AND HAVE SEEN SIGNIFICANT CHANGES TO THE GROWING OF COTTON DURING THAT TIME. Frank Deshon is the current owner, with his brother Ned and family. He said despite the family not having produced a cotton crop in a few years, he had seen his fair share of changes, for the better. “Our first crop was back in 1996 and at that stage we were very new; having being a part of the sheep industry we didn’t really know what we were doing, or getting ourselves into,” he said. “It began because we were able to get some water licences from the government and at that point in the cycle it was either use them or give them back, and we decided to go into the cotton business. Frank said the family opted to buy all equipment to start. “From a logistical point of view it was easier to purchase all our own equipment because at that point there weren’t many contractors who would service out past Dirranbandi,” he said. “Back in the day of farming conventional cotton it was a very full-on process. We had to live with the cotton 24 a day,
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Veteran grazier reflects on the saleyards MARK HUMPHREYS HAS BEEN IN AND OUT OF THE SALEYARDS SINCE HE WAS 10, AND IT’S GIVEN HIM A LIFETIME OF EXPERIENCE WITH THE WORKINGS OF THE CATTLE INDUSTRY. The Roma-based grazier brought 63 santa-cross steers to sale, getting 302c/kg for 300kg to return $908/head at one of April’s store sales, despite market prices slightly dropping back since earlier in the year. He said it was normal for the market to experience some minor setbacks at this time of the year. “The market seems to drop back a little bit each week at this time of the year, so it gets pretty normal to see what happens,” Mr Humphreys said. He speaks from experience, with the saleyard lifestyle in his blood since his childhood and early work since 1964. “Back then, there only used to be three feedlots, and you had to walk the cattle there,” he said. “There certainly were a lot of peaks and booms, ups and downs back then, and we had to contend with low cattle prices despite good seasons. “Agents had their own yards back when we used to bring our own cattle in, and that certainly brought the buyers along. “These saleyards are certainly good yards, and they’re making improvements to them to keep up their maintenance.” With the market experiencing a downturn, Mr Humphreys said the situation would improve, but not before some smaller properties faced some serious challenges. “It could be that smaller properties are gobbled up and bigger properties end up with more cattle, but that could also change,” he said. - Blake Antrobus
Mark Humphreys, The Jungle, Roma, sold santa-cross steers to 302c/kg for 300kg to return $908/head at Tuesday’s Roma Store Sale.
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CSG study shows 469 bores affected
ACCC to probe cattle industry AUSTRALIA’S BEEF AND CATTLE INDUSTRY WILL BE PUT UNDER THE MICROSCOPE IN A MARKET STUDY COMMISSIONED BY THE AUSTRALIAN COMPETITION AND CONSUMER COMMISSION, WHICH WILL LOOK AT TRADING IN BEEF AND CATTLE SUPPLY TRAINS ACROSS THE COUNTRY. Key issues that will form the basis of the study include the competition between cattle buyers and market power. The ACCC uncovered problems relating to the collective boycott of a prime cattle sale at the Barnawartha Saleyard in Victoria and the acquisition of Primo Smallgoods by JBS USA Holdings Inc. ACCC chairman Rod Simms said the study would be one of the first conducted on agricultural markets over the coming years. “A number of ACCC Commissioners
and I will be closely involved in the market study, including at the public forums,” Mr Simms said. “Competition and consumer issues in the agriculture sector are a priority for the ACCC.” Written and oral submissions are planned to be accepted, with submissions at public forums to be held by the ACCC. Commissioner Mick Keogh said confidential submissions would also be accepted by the commission. “We understand that some market participants may fear retribution from commercial partners for speaking to the ACCC (and) firms may be reluctant to provide the data we need to understand the complete picture,” Mr Keogh said. Information from submissions and forums will be published in draft findings in September. - Blake Antrobus
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at the end of the industry the groundwater system will progressively rebalance.” Basin Sustainability Alliance chairman Lee McNicholl welcomed the report results but said it still depended on the “heroic aspirations” of the industry. “The 2016 UWIR version contains significantly more data points which should improve the accuracy of the model, but predicting impacts out to 2065 still depends on some ‘heroic assumptions’ from CSG proponents,” Mr McNicholl said. “The industry (relies) on the... ever changing business plans of the CSG proponents.” - Blake Antrobus
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The ACCC will investigate problems in cattle markets.
A NEW DRAFT REPORT FROM THE OFFICE OF GROUNDWATER IMPACT ASSESSMENT HAS FOUND UP TO 469 WATER BORES ACROSS THE SURAT BASIN COULD BE AFFECTED BY CSG PRODUCTION IN THE LONG TERM. The 259-page report, Underground Water Impact Report for the Surat Cumulative Management Area, details the impact of CSG on bores using geological and geophysical evidence gathered from CSG companies and OGIA officials. Of the 22,500 bores within the surveyed area, 469 were predicted to be affected in the long term, with 100 of these bores likely to be affected in the next three years. OGIA general manager Randall Cox said there would most likely be a reduction in water at supply bores. “(It) can lower the water level in water supply bores that tap the coal formation or to some extent overlying or underlying aquifers,” Mr Cox said. “If the lowering of water levels is significant, supply from the water supply bore can be impaired.” Most affected bores are east of the Roma area, but all companies are obliged to carry out monitoring specified in the report. Mr Cox said there would be a process for companies establishing CSG activities near bores. “The Queensland Water Act requires that the CSG company carry out a bore assessment and enter into an agreement to implement measures to avoid impairment of water supply, such as establishing a new bore,” he said. “If the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection has reason to believe that a water supply is impaired, it has the power to direct a bore assessment be carried out and an agreement be established. “Developing a CSG industry unavoidably involves lowering water pressures in coal formations and the overlying and underlying formations that are connected to the coal formations, but
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Nebgar Engineering can repair anything WITH MORE THAN 20 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE IN THE AGRICULTURE SECTOR, IT’S FAIR TO SAY NEBGAR ENGINEERING AND HYDRAULIC SERVICES’ OWNER-OPERATOR BEN GARRELS AND GENERAL MANAGER DEAN PURSSELL KNOW THE NEEDS OF FARMERS AND GRAZIERS. Mr Garrels and Mr Purssell, of the successful Roma business that has operated since 2007, want to extend their gratitude to Nebgar’s rural and local clients. Mr Garrels said customers come from across south-west Queensland for all their welding, fabrication, hydraulics, machining and repair needs. “We have had massive support from the farmers in the Roma and District area,” he said. “We get landholders from Rolleston, Injune, Wallumbilla, Yuleba, Charleville, Surat, Condamine, Mitchell, Morven, Mungallala, Quilpie and Augathella,
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which are not exactly down the road. “We want to thank all of them for supporting us and helping us to grow, right here in Roma.” Specialising in manufacturing new equipment and repairing old parts, Nebgar perform repairs on all gear found on the farm. Mr Garrels said they also have plenty of parts and equipment in their Raglan St shop to suit all rural backgrounds. “We do fabrication and welding on all agricultural equipment and also manufacture equipment such as stock crates and trays, grain-handling equipment, all types of trailers, cattle handling equipment and yards,” he said. For more information on their services, give Ben, Dean and the team at Nebgar a call on 4622 3088. - Tom Gillespie
Tucker Under the Stars at saleyards DOZENS OF TOURISTS AND LOCALS MADE THEIR WAY TO THE ROMA SALEYARDS DURING EASTER FOR THE FIRST OUTBACK TUCKER UNDER THE STARS EVENT IN MARCH. Along with an offering of delicious locally grown food for guests, TopX auctioneer Carl Warren treated the crowd to a mock bull sale of two prized animals. Mr Warren said this was not the only purpose for the bulls at Easter in the country. “These two will be bucking in the bull ride on Friday night,” he said. TopX auctioneer Carl Warren gets ready to “auction” off this prized bull.
Swedish couple Michael and Claudia Bergmaier.
Nathan Lehman and Michelle McManis, of Brisbane.
Marney Cohn and Laney McLaren enjoy the tucker on offer.
Mark and Jane Dixon from Brisbane at the Roma Saleyards.
Nicola and Jonathan Stanton ,of Roma.
Mikayla Gordon, of Dalby, and Alice Hansen explore the Roma Saleyards.
Toowoomba family Elizabeth, Daniel and David Stanfield at the Roma Saleyards.
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