Ruralweekly
SEPTEMBER 2017 EDITION NO.9
Auctioneers shine
GDL Roma agent Nick Shorten takes top prize at Ekka EKKA Auctioneer competitors Andrew Carcary (GDL Blackall), Brady Jackson (Elders Roma), William Loudon (GDL Miles), Jack Henshaw (Landmark Mareeba), Anthony O'Dwyer (GDL Dalby), Sarah Packer (TopX Roma), Alexander Riley (Ray White Rural Roma), Nick Shorten (GDL Roma) and Brent Williams (Elders Charters Towers). Stories pages 8 and 9. PHOTO: SARAH DIONYSIUS
2 GRAZIER & FARMER
Ruralweekly
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
welcome WELCOME to the spring edition of Grazier and Farmer, your guide to rural news in the region. This edition we look at some of the highlights from the year so far and also to the future and what’s in store for the agricultural industry. The next generation of auctioneers are making their mark in the bidding world, with Roma agent Nick Shorten taking out the 2017 ALPA Queensland Young Auctioneers Competition. Bull sales across the region are providing positive results for sellers and buyers alike and one breeders group celebrated a significant milestone. The question that is on everyone’s lips at the moment is “when are we going to get rain?” An extremely dry winter has left many graziers and farmers looking to the skies hoping for a downpour. Although the dry has impacted crop productivity and livestock numbers, farmers are still concentrating on the positives and are hoping for the relief of the summer rain. I hope you enjoy what’s in store in this edition of Grazier and Farmer. Happy reading.
06
WHAT’SINSIDE
03 ANDERSEN’S SPRING FLOORING Your guide to avoiding allergies this season
04 BULL SALE HONOURS RANA
Bitter-sweet annual sale for the Valorbrook Angus Stud
05 WHAT’S IN STORE FOR GRAIN CROPS
Dry weather causes a downturn yet graziers are still hopeful
07 AUSSIE BARBECUE IS AT RISK
High beef prices are making meat unaffordable for families
09
08 ROMA AGENT TAKES OUT BIDDING WAR
contact us EDITOR Sarah Dionysius Phone: 07 4578 4115 Email: editorial@westernstarnews.com ADVERTISING Greg Latta, Tori Johnson, Stacey Hewlings, Western Star Phone 07 4672 9927 Email greg.latta@westernstarnews.com GENERAL MANAGER Erika Brayshaw Email: Erika.brayshaw@apn.com.au 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 will not be liable for any opinion or advice contained herein.
Ten agents from the region competed in the 2017 ALPA Queensland Young Auctioneers Competition
11 KATTER CALLS FOR CSG INQUIRY
Independent MP Bob Katter has started an inquiry into the Coal Seam Gas industry
12 GRAZIERS LOOK TO THE SKY
The question we all want answered: When will we see the rain?
13 LOCAL HOSE DOCTOR
Roma based Hose Doctor’s business is thriving
14 TIPS ON EXCLUSION FENCES
Two western Queensland sheep and wool producers provide their advice
15 POSITIVES FOR THE QUILPIE SHEEP INDUSTRY
10
Quilpie Shire Mayor says despite drought, the region is optimistic
16 HARNESSING THE BENEFITS OF DRONES IN AG
Aerial photographer Fiona Lake speaks at the AgForce Forum in Charleville
17 GOLDEN HOBBLES CAMPDRAFT All the action from Roma’s three-day event
19 THE EGGS ARE CREAMIER FROM MUCKADILLA
Husband and wife duo set up their pasture-fed commercial chicken farm
20 ON TRACK FOR MORVEN RAIL
Rail project receives more than $4 milllion in funding
21 BALONNE COUNCIL SLAM BUYBACKS
Council call for support after proposed buybacks that could ‘devastate’ region
19
GRAZIER & FARMER 3
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
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Prepare yourself for allergy season SPRING is the season for renewal, but for the 15% of Australians affected by hayfever, it can be a time of dread. Medically known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, hayfever is caused by “the body’s immune response to inhaled pollen”. Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Typically associated with the transitional period between winter and spring, seasonal allergies can strike at any time of the year, depending on the flowering times of grass and flowers. If you’re one of many people affected by seasonal allergies, you’ll know that it’s nearly impossible to avoid pollen. However, just because you can’t control Mother Nature, doesn’t mean you can’t do your best to minimise the effects of allergens in your own home. Get a headstart on hayfever by checking our list of recommendations on how to prepare your home for allergy season. Follow our pointers to help reduce pollen and other allergens in your home to improve your quality of life. ■ Vacuum at least twice a week: Use a water filtration vacuum cleaner with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate) filter for efficient filtering and cleaning that disturbs fewer dust particles. ■ Steam clean: Steam clean carpets on a regular basis, especially in the bedroom where you spend the majority of your time. ■ Air-con on: Avoid heavy fan use as this can stir up dust. ■ Clean air filters and ducts: Clean air filters and ducts at least once a year. ■ Wash bedding weekly: Gather your sheets, pillowcases and other bedding
and wash every week in hot water to kill and reduce dust mites. ■ Tumble dry: Decrease your level of exposure to pollen by using a tumble dryer instead of air-drying bedding or clothing. ■ Remove your shoes: Leave your footwear at the door or use doormats to prevent tracking in dust from outside. ■ Pet-free bedrooms: Pet dander and saliva can be a trigger for some allergy sufferers. If making your animal friend sleep outside is unthinkable to you, make sure to bathe your pet at least once a month. ■ Dehumidify: Keep your house well ventilated and the humidity low. Use a dehumidifier where necessary and if you’re sensitive to mould, remove indoor pot plants as they can promote mould growth. ■ De-clutter: Clear away rubbish and mess frequently as clutter provides a perfect home for dust mites, mould, and other nasties. ■ Inspect your garden: Check your yard for plants, weeds, or trees that cause allergies and have the offenders removed if possible. Research low-allergen plants before commencing any landscaping. ■ Let grass grow: Avoid mowing the lawn to limit your pollen exposure. ■ Consider blinds or shutters: Heavy curtains are harder to keep clean. Have a look at installing shutters or blinds, or curtains in a washable material. As always, for medical advice about your allergies, please consult your doctor. If you need help deciding on allergy-friendly flooring or window-coverings for your home, talk to the team at Andersens Roma – they’ll be happy to help.
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4 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Auction was ‘bitter-sweet’ Annual bull sale a chance for family to honour Rana’s passion Michael Doyle THERE was a mix of emotions for Brett and Ashley Haager when the hammer dropped at their auction at the family stud on August 25. The managers of Valorbrook Angus Stud held their annual bull sale, but for the father-and son duo, it was a bitter-sweet day. The annual sale marked 12 months since the passing of Rana Haager, Brett’s wife and Ashley’s mother, who tragically died of a brain haemorrhage two weeks after last year’s sale at Valorbrook. Rana was an integral part of the stud, and her presence has been greatly missed over the past year. “It was her life,” Brett said. “She lived for stud cattle, she was very hands-on with everything around the farm.” Brett said it had been a difficult year, with the auction day just as emotional. “It’s been really tough on myself and Ashley,” he said. “We have pushed this sale around her since she was a significant lady in the cattle industry. “It (was) a big relief once we got the sale out of the road.” This year’s sale had 60 angus bulls and 10 short-horned bulls. The annual sale also raised money for not-for-profit group LifeFlight, which helped the Haager family close to one year ago. “They were there for us. They flew Rana to Brisbane after her haemorrhage,” Brett Haager said. “All of the proceeds from the first lot of cattle will go to them. When something like that happens and you receive help like they gave, it is time to give something back.”
Brett and Rana Haager from Bell show their winning cow, Valobrook Tessa, and her calf at the Dalby Show in 2012.
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GRAZIER & FARMER 5
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Grain crops downturn
Dry winter brings decrease in production Louise Shannon THIS winter has provided the state’s grain producers with a stark contrast to last year’s “phenomenal” season, with forecasts for the national grain harvest now predicting a 40% downturn. According to the ABARES (Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences) quarterly crop report, wheat production is expected to decrease by 38% to 21.6 million tonnes, barley production to decrease by 40% to 8.0 million tonnes and canola production due to be down 33% to 2.8 million tonnes. AgForce Grains president Wayne Newton said he believed the forecasts were conservative, with this year’s disappointing crop levels coming immediately after a very good production year last year. “So it was somewhat almost inevitable that things would fall,” he said. “Those figures could be quite conservative. We’re going to have a pretty ordinary winter year.” Mr Newton said the combination of a dry winter with warm days and cold, frosty nights
had not helped, and he predicted the summer months would be average, or “medium” in terms of productivity. However, “I think a lot of people have a got a terrible feeling about the way the summer is starting”. Chinchilla wheat farmer Brian Bender said his last winter had been “phenomenal”, but this year the situation was looking dire with “disappointing” wheat and barley crops forecast. Mr Bender, who runs the three properties of Valencia, Chinta, and Alkoomie, said he had been grateful for last year’s winter crop, but also believed the latest crop estimates were cautious. He said that while the summer paddocks were looking good, rain was needed, and there was no guarantee it would come. “We need rain by the end of September, and even that’s late. And I can’t see it raining for another two weeks. “We just need the rain, but when that’s going to happen, I don’t know. Tomorrow morning would be great, but that’s not happening.” Cyclone Debbie provided about 75ml of rain across Mr Bender’s properties and “that is virtually what these crops are growing on”.
Chinchilla farmer Brian Bender is hoping for rain to help his wheat crop at Chances Plain. PHOTO: FILE
New quad bike helmet designs user-friendly NEW innovations designed to help reduce Australia’s quad bike injury and death toll are an important step towards giving farmers a choice in how they protect themselves, according to the Primary Industries Health and Safety Partnership. A number of new designs were showcased at the 2017 National Quad Bike Safety Forum. One example is a fully certified ATV and ROV helmet – the ‘Shark X-16’ – that was created as part of an ATV manufacturer’s initiative that included surveying farmers from around Australia to understand why they avoided helmets when using quad bikes. Yamaha Motor Australia’s Lance Turnley said the surveys highlighted common themes.
Innovations in helmet designs are important to reduce Australia’s quad bike injury and death toll. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED
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6 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Santa breeders mark 25 years A MILESTONE was celebrated at the Roma Saleyards, with the 25th annual Heartland Bull Sale in September. The Heartland Santa Gertrudis Breeders Group is a collection of 10 studs, which come together to promote and sell santa gertrudis bulls and females at annual sales in Roma. There were 66 bulls sold for $393,500 to an overall average of $5962 on the day. The top-priced sale of the day was Lot 61 Talgai Lott (P), which sold for $15,500 to Paul and Karen Timmins, Murgo Stud, Mungallala. Seller Max Baldwin, of Talgai Santas, said the Timmins family was definitely getting a
good quality bull. “He comes from a good line, he’s been well looked after and he’s been mothered,” Mr Baldwin said. “He’s only been fed oats and he’s come from an easygoing herd. “He’s a natural good-doer.” Mr Timmins said he could tell they had purchased a good quality bull. “What stood out was his sheer scale and the size of the bull,” he said. “He’s a beautiful dark colour. “And he has a really good background,” he said.
Members cut the cake to celebrate the 25th anniversary. PHOTO: NICK INMON
‘What stood out was his sheer scale and the size of the bull.’
— Paul Timmins
Paul and Karen Timmins from Murgo, Mungallala, bought the top-priced bull for $15,500.
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Heartland Santa Gertrudis Breeders Group junior members Oliver Evans, 3, and Taylor Phillips, 4.
The second-top-priced bull on the day was bred by Andrew and Angela Doering, of Spring Creek Stud, Crooble, New South Wales, and sold for an impressive $15,000. After the official sale was finished, group members gathered for the cutting of a cake to commemorate the anniversary and the four members who had been with the group for the entire 25 years. Those who wished to stay on then enjoyed Canapes with the Cattle. Members expressed their appreciation to Roma PJH Livestock and Top X agents for their support.
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GRAZIER & FARMER 7
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
High beef prices put BBQ at risk Iconic Aussie tradition could be thing of past Renee Viellaris, Lexie Cartwright FEARS are growing the iconic Aussie barbecue is at risk because of high beef prices dragging on household budgets. Australia’s beef cattle herd is now at a 20-year low, which is contributing to higher prices at the checkout. The price of mince has doubled in the past two years to more than $10kg and in June eye-fillet steaks were averaging more than $50kg. Cheaper cuts, like beef cheeks, shanks and even offal have also increased. Butchers say families are turning to cheaper cuts of meat and abandoning beef altogether because of increasing prices. Andrew Loveday from Loveday’s Quality Meats in Burleigh said beef was becoming unpopular with his customers for at least the past year due to its growing price tag. “Certainly sausages are a favourite for a barbecue and they’ve probably maintained a pretty affordable price tag over the years, which you can’t say for a lot of other cuts of meat,” Mr Loveday said. “We’ve been having good sales with all our meat except beef because it’s just so expensive. “We try to keep the price down as much as we can hoping cattle prices will drop but I won’t hold my breath for that to happen.” Queensland Senator Matt Canavan - who lives in Australia’s beef cattle in Rockhampton said he wanted to help mums and dads keep Aussie steak on the menu at home and on the Webber. Senator Canavan said one of the best ways to help families reduce the grocery bill was to help farmers. “That’s why we want to develop the north and
The Coffey family having a BBQ in the backyard to go with a spread on 'the death of the Aussie BBQ' with prices of meat getting too expensive. Craig (dad) and Margo (mum) Coffey with son Jack, 13 having a family BBQ. PHOTO: FILE build more dams,’’ Senator Canavan told The Courier-Mail. “We need to save the Aussie BBQ. This is a real BBQ stopper.” A Meat and Livestock Australia spokesman said Australia had faced higher prices over the past 12 months. The Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI), one the leading indicators used for the market,
is currently at 541.75c/kg per carcase weight price. The EYCI reached a record high of 725.75c/kg cwt in August 2016 but sat below 300c/kg in 2014. “A number of factors influence prices. The recent higher prices seen in Australia over the past 12 months are predominantly on the back of very low cattle availability, with the national cattle herd now down at a 20 year low at
around 26 million following the drought experienced across many parts of northern Australia over the past couple of years,’’ the spokesman said. “Parts of western Queensland and NSW have experienced herd declines of up to 40 per cent in just three years. The national herd has dropped from a peak of 29.3 million head in 2012-13, to 26.2 million head this year.
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8 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Nick Shorten from GDL Roma took out the win at the ALPA 2017 Queensland Young Auctioneers Competition at this year’s Ekka.
PHOTOS: SARAH DIONYSIUS
Shorten wins bidding war Roma GDL agent takes out 2017 ALPA Queensland Young Auctioneers Competition at the Ekka Sarah Dionysius
sarah.dionysius@westernstarnews.com
THE best of the best ventured from all around the state in a bid to claim the title of Queensland’s top young auctioneer. Ten agents, including four from Roma, took part in the ALPA Queensland Young Auctioneers Competition at the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) in August. Against tough competition, GDL Roma agent Nick Shorten claimed the first prize ribbon. “This was the fourth time I’ve competed at the Ekka and the competition was very strong, probably the strongest it’s ever been,” Mr Shorten said. “It was my lucky last competition as I’m too old to compete next year so it was good to get a win.” In the lead-up to the competition, Mr Shorten said he had prepared as much as he could but it all came down to the performance on the day. “I had a couple of practices on the microphone to work on my clarity but apart from that I didn’t really do anything different,” he said.
“The competition is the same concept as what we do at the saleyards here, but just on a larger stage. “It can be a bit daunting but I just try to forget about the crowd.” There were three other agents from Roma including Brady Jackson, Sarah Packer and Alexander Riley who competed alongside Mr Shorten. “It was good to have a few familiar faces there on the day,” Mr Shorten said. “You meet a lot of other agents at the competitions and I’ve made a lot of lifelong friends,” he said. Mr Shorten will now travel to Sydney for the ALPA National Young Auctioneers Competition at Easter next year. The agents who competed at the Ekka were: Andrew Carcary from GDL Blackall, Brady Jackson from Elders Roma, William Loudon from GDL Miles, Jack Henshaw from Landmark Mareeba, Anthony O’Dwyer from GDL Dalby, Sarah Packer from TopX Roma, Alexander Riley from Ray White Rural Roma, Nick Shorten from GDL Roma and Brent Williams from Elders Charters Towers.
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GRAZIER & FARMER 9
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Young talent marks a first ROMA resident Sarah Packer was the first woman to compete in the state’s Young Auctioneer Competition this year. Ms Packer was among the 10 auctioneers selected to compete at the 2017 Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association Queensland Young Auctioneers Competition, which was held at the Queensland Royal Show (Ekka). To be selected, Ms Packer had to compete against entrants in a trial at Rockhampton. “Every year ALPA holds an auctioneer school at Rockhampton and anyone can go to it,” she said. “It’s really good because they have speech therapists and mentors there to help you. “At the end of it you have to try out, so you do a dummy sale and from there you get selected on your clarity, market value, voice control and those sorts of things.” Although auctioneering is traditionally a male-dominated industry, Ms Packer said she didn’t look at it that way. “I have to prove myself just like anyone else who is competing,” she said.
Ms Packer joined three other selling agents from Roma, all vying for the top spot in the competition. “It was nice to sell amongst the guys who I sell with here in Roma every week,” she said. Miss Packer said she was still learning “the art” of auctioneering and it just came down to “practice, practice and more practice”. “I enjoy the challenge of being an auctioneer and it is a great way to finish off the marketing process. “It is a great feeling after you spend hours drafting and presenting cattle for sale and then get rewarded by being able to stand up and auction the clients’ cattle.” Ms Packer works as a selling agent for Roma TopX and said she’s really enjoyed getting the chance to get into the selling ring. “I’d like to make a really strong foundation within TopX and just keep improving and hopefully make a career from it. “It’s definitely something I see myself doing for a long time.” Although unsuccessful in her bid to win at the auctioneers competition, Ms Packer was happy to see it go to fellow Roma agent, Nick Shorten.
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YOUNG TALENT: Roma TopX livestock agent Sarah Packer competed at the 2017 Australian Livestock and Property Agents Association Queensland Young Auctioneers Competition. PHOTO: SARAH DIONYSIUS
10 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Call for submissions into the rural banks senate inquiry TIME is almost up for new submissions to the Senate Select Committee’s inquiry into rural banks and their lending practices to primary producers. One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts is the chair of the inquiry which was established in February and is due to report by October 18. Senator Roberts said close to 100 submissions had already been received from farmers across the nation.
The committee has been travelling to regional centres to interview and listen to farmers and other stakeholders regarding their injustices with the rural banks. It conducted a hearing in Roma in August. Senator Roberts said the committee would like to get as many submissions as possible from primary producers. “I’m going to be talking to the other committee
members about doing another hearing by phone as there are so many people who just didn’t get a hearing,” he said. “What I’ve noticed throughout the submissions is the sheer breadth of them. “There are some very diverse submissions.” Visit www.aph.gov.au/ Parliamentary_Business/ Committees to view in detail the submissions from farmers, including the stories told in Roma.
Ongoing fight for justice Sarah Dionysius
Shedding light on injustice
sarah.dionysius@westernstarnews.com
IT MAY be a case of too little too late for former grazier Cate Stuart, but she’s putting up a fight to ensure that what has happened to her family doesn’t happen again. Mrs Stuart and her family were evicted from their historic Charleville cattle station, Mount Morris, in 2014 after a rural lender sent in receivers to collect their owed debt the year before. They now live in rental housing in Dulacca. Mrs Stuart attended the inquiry into rural banks hearing in August with the hope that by sharing her story she would be able to help others. “The primary production lending inquiry is very important because it has been going on for so long and there are alleged cases of financial abuse by so many primary producers,” she said. “For me personally, I came to this hearing as one last-ditch effort to give people a voice and so many people have been contacting us and watching our family’s story.” The Stuart family has experienced a number of financial and personal hardships, the most recent being the passing of Mrs Stuart’s daughter Jacquie from brain cancer. “She was an amazing and brave woman and she would have celebrated her 32nd birthday last Saturday (July 29),” she said. “When she was diagnosed with brain cancer and then her subsequent death, that period of time was made so much harder because of our financial restraints.’’ Despite the tragedy rocking her family, Mrs Stuart said she did not want to give up her fight for justice. “It was important that we continue what
Cate Stuart and her daughter Britt, formerly of Mt Morris Station at Charleville. PHOTO: SARAH DIONYSIUS Australians expect from all Australians and that is to be community-minded,” she said. “Even though we have suffered personal tragedies, everybody has their own experiences. “These are not stories or fictitious characters, we are real people and these are real-life experiences.” After hearing some of the other stories told at the hearing, Mrs Stuart said she expected the government would have some big issues to deal with. “The senators at the hearing appeared to be truly shocked because people are bringing out
documents that are undeniable, in my opinion.” Mrs Stuart said she would like to see legislative reform put in place to help protect people taking out loans and will not stop until she gets closure for her family. “I have nothing to lose, the bank did not break me, my daughter’s death broke me and I need to heal,” she said. “It’s too late to help people like us but let’s look after those we can now and into the future,” she said. Mrs Stuart and her family’s case with the rural bank is an ongoing court matter.
Farmer seeks compensation from banks BOB Yabsley has experienced more than his fair share of grievances with the banks. Mr Yabsley said he had been fighting to keep his head above water since the early 2000s, going into receivership two times and surviving with the assistance of consultant, mediator and negotiator
Sunshine Coast couple Craig and Moeroa Caulfield.
Andy McLoughlin. Mr Yabsley was evicted from his Queensland property in 2012 after going into receivership for the third and final time. He said he was of the belief, rightly or wrongly, it was because the banks were embarrassed that they did not do their job right the first two times and so they
hit him hard with interest rate rises until he couldn’t afford to keep up with payments. “From the period of 2002 to 2012 the interest we were charged on average was 14.05% and it ranged from about 9 to 21%,” Mr Yabsley said. “The banks just worked towards making it so difficult
HORSE WORLD ROMA
that I couldn’t survive. “We managed until 2012 and then it got on top of us and we virtually drove off the property with all our gear at night time and just moved out.” Mr Yabsley is hoping that the inquiry will change the way the banks operate in the nation and a better system is established.
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“What I hope this inquiry achieves is retribution to people like myself and some compensation from what we went through from the banking industry,” Mr Yabsley said. “I would also like this inquiry to find a better banking system to go forward with than what we have today.”
SUNSHINE Coast producers Moeroa and Craig Caulfield made the 12-hour return trip to Roma to have their story heard. The couple were among those who attended the inquiry into the rural banks hearing at Roma in August. Mr and Mrs Caulfield bought a 110acre sugar cane farm on the Sunshine Coast with a 60% loan from the bank. They were then rocked by the global financial crisis. Their businesses suffered, their income dropped and their cane farm closed. “By 2010 we approached the bank for financial hardship and they declined any sort of financial hardship,” Mr Caulfield said. “They’re supposed to come to the party with help at least. It’s not like a free ride, but they didn’t do anything.” The couple enlisted the help of state government departments and a rural financial counselling service and were not happy with the answers they were given. The Caulfields said they were hoping the inquiry would shed some light on the injustices they had experienced at the hands of the banks.
GRAZIER & FARMER 11
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Katter calls for CSG inquiry Crossbenchers want Royal Commission to investigate industry Marguerite Cuddihy
Marguerite.Cuddihy @westernstarnews.com
INDEPENDENT MP Bob Katter has formed an unlikely alliance with the Greens in an attempt to see a commission of inquiry investigate the coal seam gas (CSG) industry. The Commission of Inquiry Coal Seam Gas Bill 2017 will focus on the negotiating powers of parties involved, impacts on land, water and communities, agreement making, and payment for damages and compliance. The bill responds to concerns raised about the conduct of CSG companies and their negotiations with landowners, along with inadequacies in the government compliance processes. Mr Katter didn’t hold back when he presented his bill to Parliament in early September. “The ugliest garbage dump and cesspool will be uncovered if this bill proceeds,” he said. “There will be a lot of people of the mainstream parties who will be fighting tooth and nail to avoid this from happening.” Mr Katter said more than 2000 formal complaints had been registered against the industry. “That’s 2000 complaints and not one single action by the ALP and LNP governments. “There are people that have made ‘squillions’ of dollars out of this. The relationship between government and CSG needs to be put under the spotlight.” Chinchilla cattleman Kane Booth, who is currently embroiled in a legal battle with gas giant QGC over infrastructure on his farm, joined Mr Katter in Parliament as he introduced
Chinchilla cattleman Kane Booth addresses the media on the CSG Bill with Adam Bandt (left) and Bob Katter. the bill. Mr Booth said his business had been destroyed and that the Commission of Inquiry would make the government hold big gas companies accountable. “It’s about compliance, that’s the big issue. “It’s a massive imbalance – how can one person or farmer stand up against multi-billion dollar companies? We just can’t compete with the legal teams. “As a farmer your hands are tied. Much of our station will now be in a permanent
man-made drought.” Mr Booth broke down in front of the media as he recalled the toll the last six years had taken on his family and friends. “It’s hard for us farmers. I have spent $500,000 in legals. You can’t get these people into court. Who is going to help? “There is no one to help or keep these people accountable. “The State Government has acknowledged the breaches to the environmental authorities and acknowledged that there is potential
PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED
diversion of the overland flow across the entire Surat Basin but have taken no action.’’ Many properties are now experiencing a man-made drought. “You know when Adam Bandt (Greens MP) and Bob fight together – two who seldom agree – this must be serious. “These people have to be held accountable for the devastation they have caused in the entire Surat Basin and they need to review these people from an unbiased independent body.”
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12 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Graziers keep eye on the sky
❝
Weather experts boost hopes with predictions rain is on the way
We’ve been here before, we’ll be here again, and we will manage it accordingly.
Louise Shannon WINTER temperatures throughout south-west Queensland have unleashed record highs for the region and farmers and graziers are hoping predictions of summer rain prove true. Weatherzone meteorologist Graeme Brittain confirmed that July had been the hottest month on record for the area, and Australia had recorded its fifth warmest winter on record. Mr Brittain said temperatures were “very much above average” with Queensland recording its second warmest winter, and hottest day-time temperatures for this time of year. Owner, agent and auctioneer of TopX Roma Cyril Close said people were “hanging their hat on that prediction of more rain”. Mr Close said the north-eastern Maranoa district had received some summer rain when Cyclone Debbie lashed Australia’s east coast at the end of March. “It was only two to three inches of rain, but that’s what we’re living off. That’s what has got us through to now, and it did help grow some quality feed.” Mr Close said the major effect on crops had been the lack of moisture. “As far as the cattle, it hasn’t really done a lot of damage in the eastern Maranoa because the grass hasn’t been heavily
James Stinson on his property Moonya, 60km south-west of Roma. frosted. There were a few light frosts, but not week after week.” He said this meant the grass hadn’t lost its protein, and while it had been “knocked around” it was not as bad as it would have been during a severe winter.
PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED
He said the districts along the north-eastern Maranoa district – Injune across to Taroom – didn’t suffer as badly as the southern areas of Surat, St George and Cunnamulla, while towns along the highway, including Roma, Mitchell and Morven, had fared more marginally.
“The southern areas are living off their winter rain from last year because they did not get that cyclone rain.” James Stinson, a grazier 60km south-west of Roma on a property called Moonya, said he had only had 120mm of rain this year, but a “significant spring” last year had provided decent rain. “The summer wasn’t too bad, but hot and dry. We got the edge of the cyclone and planted some oats which was still worthwhile,” Mr Stinson said. “It’s getting pretty ordinary now. We’re not hitting panic stations yet but we’re watching the skies pretty closely. We’ve been here before, we’ll be here again, and we will manage it accordingly. “We’ve got a couple of paddocks with a bit of feed and hopefully we’ll get through to the summer break … and the signs are positive.” Mr Stinson said the cattle market had “come off its big high from earlier in the year” but compared to what it had been in the past “the vast majority of producers are still pretty happy”. He said cattle producers further west and north-west were facing “a tough slog” and had depleted cattle levels because “it has been too dry for too long”. Weatherzone’s Mr Brittain said October and November should provide some relief with above average rainfalls expected through the state’s south.
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— James Stinson
GRAZIER & FARMER 13
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Call for ‘reel’ emergencies Sarah Dionysius
sarah.dionysius@westernstarnews.com
ROMA based Hose Doctor Lance Tainton is your go-to guy for all hose emergencies, big and small. Just like an ambulance service, the Hose Doctor operates 24 hours, seven days a week and will be there in your times of need. Mr Tainton first started with the franchise two years ago in Chinchilla. After a year he moved the mobile service to Roma where he said he’s been warmly welcomed. He said the business has grown rapidly in the last 12 months and he was now recruiting for additional Hose Doctors. “I have a lot of regular, good customers and I’m always busy,” he said. “I’ve now gotten to the point where I am looking to employ someone locally to help me out.” Mr Tainton said those looking to apply for a job with the Hose Doctor don’t necessarily need to have any prior skills as they provide the training needed. He said it was a job were you were never bored. “You never know what you are going to do each day,” he said. “It could be a simple change of fitting to pulling seating out of a dozer to allow access in effecting repairs. “I like that it’s different each call out.” He encouraged anyone who was keen to give the job a go. “It’s rewarding,” he said. “Even with the worst tasks on the job, at the end of the day you can say that you’ve accomplished it and can move on.” Mr Tainton works out of Roma and covers the Surat region. He has just ordered a new vehicle to meet the vast growth in the business. For any inquiries about the Hose Doctor service in Roma contact 07 4662 7038.
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PHOTO: GREG LATTA
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14 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Tips on exclusion fences Queensland sheep and wool producers give their advice SHEEP and wool producers have been advised to be proactive when weighing up the merits of exclusion fencing and not to wait until lambing percentages are down before taking action. Wool producer Ben Banks has warned western Queensland farmers that delaying fencing could put them in a position where it was difficult to financially justify the infrastructure expense. “If you’re in a position to be able to afford to put up fencing while you’re marking 80-100% of lambs, do it,” he said. “Don’t wait until you’re marking 20% of lambs because it becomes a lot harder to justify and harder to afford.” Mr Banks and his wife Oona run Rivington, west of Blackall, and have installed 60km of dog fencing to protect their 25,000 merinos. He said the expensive investment was critical for the sustainability of their business. “It has cost us $6500 a kilometre, or $400,000 in total, but it has paid for itself within a couple of years.” Wool producer David Owens is another western Queensland farmer motivated to install exclusion fencing to reduce the impact of wild dogs on his merino operation. “In one paddock we were losing 20 to 30 lambs a week to wild dogs,” Mr Owens said. “Overall our lambings were down to 50%, when we can normally work on 70%, and we felt certain most of those losses were a direct result of wild dogs. “So we made the decision to start work on exclusion fencing. “It will cost us about $150,000 for the 20km of fence we have planned, but if it will save our lambing rates, then it’s worth it in the long run. “The dog fence is one of the most important investments you can make around here. “We’ve run some numbers and found that, depending on the season, the fence will pay for itself within two years and, importantly, it will give us back some control over production.” When building the fence, Mr Owens found good preparation helped with time and labour efficiency in the installation. “It’s important to do your research into the kind of fence and the materials you need for your place,” he said. “You don’t need a lot of machinery, you can get by without some things such as a slammer.”
Wool producer David Owens, a western Queensland producer, was motivated to install exclusion fencing to reduce the impact of wild dogs on his merino operation. PHOTOS: CONTRIBUTED
Western Queensland wool grower Ben Banks.
Merino sheep need protection from wild dogs.
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GRAZIER & FARMER 15
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Sheep industry looking up Quilpie Shire Mayor says despite drought, the region is optimistic Sarah Dionysius
sarah.dionysius@westernstarnews.com
THE future is looking bright for the sheep and wool industry across the Quilpie Shire. There is a renewed air of confidence with graziers as the positive impacts of cluster fencing initiatives are starting to reap rewards. A marked increase in lambing rates, coupled with the resurgence in wool prices means the outlook is positive for the rural communities across the region. Quilpie Shire Council’s Mayor Stuart Mackenzie said he had spoken with landowners and there was definitely a sense of renewed optimism despite the ongoing drought conditions. “Quilpie Shire has always been an active supporter of wild dog control measures, encouraging and working with landholders to co-ordinate baiting and other measures,” Cr Mackenzie said. “We were delighted to see participation by groups of landowners in the State Government’s Feral Pest Initiative Program, which has provided subsidies to make the construction of wild dog fencing an affordable solution.” Importantly, a return to sheep means more jobs in the local community. Cr Mackenzie said the latest Census figures have shown that in the past five years there had been a decline in population and a marked increase in unemployment. “Naturally the drought conditions have contributed to these figures but with more people getting back into sheep we can begin to address these trends,” Cr Mackenzie said. Currently, six “clusters” have been, or are being, constructed across the shire. In addition another two properties have constructed their own exclusion fence in the area.
Positive impacts of cluster fencing initiatives are starting to reap rewards.
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PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED
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16 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Goat guide to be a winner Films created to help bust some myths about raising goats Martin Volz ASIAN and North American demand for Australian goat meat is piquing local graziers’ curiosity. Meat and Livestock Australia’s goat industry project manager Julie Petty said she had a number of graziers wanting to learn more about developing goat herds as a viable aspect of their operation. To accommodate their queries, Ms Petty has just finished travelling with a film crew around northern New South Wales and western Queensland. Their mission – to create films that answer questions about the industry and bust some myths about raising goats. The team filmed and interviewed local goat producers about how and why other livestock producers should get into the goat game. The films include advice, infrastructure and fencing requirements and methods to calculate forage. “What I have been impressed about is that there are producers extremely willing to share information and experiences because they see so much opportunity in the industry,” Ms Petty said. “It is a win-win situation for all parties if more people get into goats.” While there is nothing new about goat harvesting, Ms Petty said selling goats had become an integral part of many grazing operations. “In the last 20 years many graziers have been reliant on goats to keep their
The films will be available online and at MLA conventions in the next couple of months. businesses afloat,” Ms Petty said. “In a dry environment it can be a viable option.” The films will also serve to help define what kind of goat operation graziers can manage. “I spoke with a cattle enterprise who says for a few months of the year, when their cattle were not bringing in a cash flow, goats fit in. “ Everyone has different circumstances
and it is about finding the right fit for you and what you want to do as a goat producer.” Ms Petty said current goat producers’ hands-on experience was vital to growing the industry and establishing best practice methods. The information will serve as an informative base for graziers to create a premium product and develop a reliable and
PHOTO:FILE sustainable cash flow. While there has been a correction in goat prices in the past month, Ms Petty said there was still a profit to be made. Currently there are three major markets – export, live export and the domestic market. The films will be available online and at MLA conventions in the next couple of months.
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GRAZIER & FARMER 17
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Using drones in agri-business WITH a drone hovering above the racecourse green, graziers gathered to watch and wonder at its capability. Its owner, aerial photographer Fiona Lake, was there to demonstrate the flying machine’s potential as a photographic tool in the agricultural sector at July’s AgForce conference. Graziers learned how drones can be used around the farm to check livestock, water, crops and the roof of your own house. “I envisage most people having one even if it is to check radio towers around the house,” Ms Lake said. “For crops it is a no brainer or to use as an agronomist. Drones have great potential in grazing.” Ms Lake, who will attend a drone conference in Las Vegas later this year, focuses her seminars on building connections between different industries and regions by showcasing aerial agricultural pictures that tell a story. The Townsville-based photographer has spent time working on remote cattle properties where she found her passion in mixing aerial and agricultural photography. Those pictures are proving educational for many urban Australians who attend Ms Lake’s exhibitions. “I am passionate about prompting people to think about who grows the food they eat and
where it comes from,” she said. “It is an important responsibility to provide useful and accurate information to increase understanding and encourage mutual respect and maintenance of a healthy, evolving rural culture, worldwide.” While neutralising the effects of animal rights activists spreading misleading, false information, her work does not focus on portraying ag stakeholders as victims. “I show the best version of reality,” Ms Lake said. “My motivation is to make the world a better place.” Ms Lake, who grew up on a farm, first found a passion for photography in the early 1980s at ag college. She would take pictures at B&S balls and sell copies for $1. “I could not afford to buy film unless someone bought prints,” she said. From there work followed on remote cattle stations in northern Australia. For 30 years Ms Lake relied on hiring pilots and planes to aid her passion for bringing a different point of view, visually. At the conference, as the drone descended toward the racecourse green, its small propellers spinning, Ms Lake grabbed it carefully and turned it off remotely. “This is freedom for me after relying on pilots for 30 years. It is independence.”
AgForce Queensland general president Grant Maudsley.
PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED
Call to celebrate the state’s farming sector
Photographer Fiona Lake gave a new angle on drone technology and the farm. PHOTO: MARTIN VOLZ
AGFORCE is encouraging all Queenslanders to show their support for farmers and join in the celebrations for National AgDay on Tuesday, November 21. AgForce general president Grant Maudsley said agriculture was a cornerstone of the Queensland economy and a vital contributor to society, underpinning tens of thousands of jobs in regional communities and thousands more in our cities. “National AgDay provides an opportunity for all Queenslanders to celebrate and be proud about our contribution to feeding and clothing the world,” he said. “The recent Agricultural Census revealed Queensland is now the most valuable agricultural state in the country, producing almost a quarter of Australia’s food and fibre. “Over 330,000 Queenslanders are employed across the whole food supply chain, meaning that about one in seven Queenslanders are either partially or entirely supported by the food sector.
“No matter where you are in Queensland, agriculture provides employment opportunities and supports small businesses that keep our country towns ticking.”
❝
No matter where you are in Queensland, agriculture provides employment opportunities
— Grant Maudsley
Mr Maudsley encouraged Queensland farmers and all those involved with agriculture to come together and celebrate their industry and way of life. “Host a lunch with all Aussie produce making up the menu, fire up a community barbecue and raise money for a good cause or simply share a pic of fabulous food and fibre on social media,” he said.
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18 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Giddy up at campdraft MORE than 200 competitors and 1600 head of cattle took to the ring at Bassett Park for the three-day Golden Hobbles Campdraft on September 2 and 3. Competitors came from near and far, including riders from central Queensland and northern New South Wales.
The program included thousands of dollars of prize money across a number of maiden, novice, juvenile, junior, open, ladies and encouragement drafts. Golden Hobbles Campdraft president James McAuley said the weekend was a massive success.
Jodie Cowley competes at the campdraft.
George Reynolds riding Mississippi at the Golden Hobbles Campdraft in Roma.
Todd Hammond on Condaleeza Acres.
Jacinta Brennan on Cruiser.
Angus Rains.
Andrew Richardson rides Stingray in the cut-out.
Troy Roberts on Sugarloaf.
Robert Neville on Selina.
Toni Burke rides Rattatunga out of the camp.
Yasmin Vidler pursues a beast on Crystal Acres.
PHOTOS: MARGUERITE CUDDIHY
Bill Little with Cardea and William Little, Roma.
Cameron Lee on Bernard Remembrance.
GRAZIER & FARMER 19
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
Having a ball for RFDS REVELLERS landed at the Charleville base RFDS hangar for the third annual Western Winter ball in July. More than 280 people attended the event to dance the night away while raising money for a good cause. Everyone enjoyed a three
course meal, bar and live entertainment – and bidders competed for all the items up for auction on the night. More than $17,000 was raised for the RFDS. Visit www.flyingdoctor. org.au/support-us to donate to the service.
Richard and Lauren Todd, Penny Black, Gina and Justin Lawrie and Sarah Taylor.
Blair Musson, Kirsten Jury and Tessa Lappin at the RFDS Ball.
Lauren Brennan, Sarah Blythe and Courtney Steedman at the RFDS Ball.
Hilary Owen, Alison Simmons and Jo Springor enjoy their dinner.
Around 300 people packed in the RFDS Charleville base hangar for the Western Winter ball.
PHOTOS: SARAH DIONYSIUS
Jenny Peacock, Kerry Radnedge and Melissa Jones.
Natalya Kajewski, Kate Ferguson and Tanya Fuller.
Maddie McDonald and Ellie Taylor.
Kristie Richardson and David Marks at the RFDS Ball.
Enjoying the RFDS Winter Western Ball.
Hannah Graham, David and Tiffany Marks and Jack Keegan.
Hayle Hodgen Gurnett.
and
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20 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Raising chooks was a far greater challenge than expected.
Hens roam the paddock at Muckadilla Pasture-Fed Eggs.
Megan Mackay and Adam Sutton.
PHOTO: SARAH DIONYSIUS
Egg farmers’ big coup Future looks bright for couple who follow creative methods Martin Volz AMONG a field of oat stalks and under the watchful eyes of two maremma dogs, a brood of chickens happily peck away at seed. The brood of about 1000 chickens call 220 acres just outside Muckadilla home, where they lay eggs for owners Megan Mackay and Adam Sutton. The pair rise by at least 5am every morning and head out to coops in the pasture, picking up about 620 eggs a day. The eggs are then hand washed, hand weighed and packaged in recyclable plastic cartons bound for supermarkets in Mitchell, Roma, Miles and Chinchilla. Muckadilla Pasture-Fed Eggs started selling
cartons of fresh and sustainably grown eggs in May, and is focused on providing south-west Queenslanders with its fresh product. Mrs Mackay said getting started in the egg business tested her and her husband’s patience but they love the process. “Raising chooks is new to both of us and it is not like raising hens in the backyard,” she said. “I ignorantly thought chooks wouldn’t be too big a challenge.” The biggest challenge was moving through various government departments’ red tape before the pair could start gathering, packing and selling eggs, alongside cleaning and moving coops around their property. Ms Mackay said she was inspired by Joel Salatin, a pasture-fed farming guru from the United States, whose philosophy is grounded in the ethos that farms are most productive when the owner creates a sustainable and cyclical agricultural system. Ms Mackay said farming is not about size or following conventional methods but looking at how to make the agribusiness work to its full
potential. “When I saw Joel Salatin on Landline, his message was: farming can be profitable, just be smart about it and be creative,” Mrs Mackay said. “He inspired me because he is about conservation of the land.” At Muckadilla Pasture-Fed Eggs, the cycle starts with cattle mowing down fields of oats and hens following through, picking at seed and native grass as they spread manure around in the soil. The hens are also fed commercial feed and a calcium substitute which helps keep egg shells stronger and more durable. The brood is kept safe from foxes by electric netting and two maremma dogs. Mrs Mackay said she pre-empted the need for maremmas to protect the brood and started off by socialising one of the maremmas with chickens in the backyard to teach the guard dog rules and responsibilities. “The maremmas are doing a good job,” Mrs Mackay said. The family will continue to closely supervise
the dogs during their duty hours until they are two years old. “We are going against what everyone says – you can’t leave dogs (maremmas) unsupervised,” Mrs Mackay said. Mrs Mackay and her husband source ready-to-lay hens from Abbott’s Poultry at Biloela. The Hyline Brown breed grown at Abbott’s Poultry remain in their natural form – beaks intact, never trimmed. Trimming of the beak is a typical practice in the poultry industry to prevent chickens from eating their own eggs, pecking at their own feathers or turning to cannibalism. Alongside cattle and chickens, Mrs Mackay and Mr Sutton plan to incorporate pigs into the pasture-fed operation. Muckadilla Pasture-Fed Eggs will soon also be available in Charleville where Ms Mackay usually attends markets. When asked about customer opinion, Ms Mackay said it had been very receptive. “People talk about how creamy the yolk is and how fresh the eggs are,” she said.
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GRAZIER & FARMER 21
Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
$4m for Morven rail project Success for funding under the Building Better Regions Fund Sarah Dionysius
sarah.dionysius@westernstarnews.com
MORVEN is on track for a new rail and freight hub after securing more than $4 million in funding for the project. Regional Development Minister Fiona Nash, alongside Maranoa MP David Littleproud, announced in August the Morven Rail Hub project was successful in its funding application under the government’s Building Better Regions Fund. South West Regional Economic Development chair Lindsay Godfrey welcomed the news and said the project would ensure renewed economic activity in the region. “This is a significant announcement and one we collectively advocated for,” Cr Godfrey said. “Our regional push to utilise more cattle on trains, access to affordable freight and competent supply chains is dependent on this infrastructure.” Cr Godfrey said SouthWest RED met with all decision makers, including the Prime Minister, when a delegation visited Canberra on the issue last year. “Senator James McGrath is one of the best supporters we have in south-west Queensland and he has worked very closely with us to ensure our vision for the region is met with support,” he said. The new hub will include road-train loading and unloading facilities, rail loading and unloading facilities, cattle yards for spelling and drafting, a live-weight livestock weighing facility and associated storage and
Andrew McDonald (export sales manager NH Foods) and Pat Gleeson (general manager, Oakey Beef) with Murweh Shire Mayor Annie Liston and Paroo Mayor Lindsay Godfrey at the old Morven rail loading dock. PHOTO: FILE amenities. Mr Littleproud said the $4,181,157 funding to create the freight hub would make it easier
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22 GRAZIER & FARMER
westernstarnews.com.au Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Balonne slams buybacks
THE Federal Government’s “strategic acquisition” of another 28GLs in the Lower Balonne region in August would have devastating effects on St George and Dirranbandi according to the region’s councillors. “Our communities are still reeling from the previous water buybacks, so to hear there has been another substantial buyback we feel our communities have been blindsided,” a council statement said. “Our understanding was that the Federal Government would seek to recover water through other means due to the devastating social and economic impacts of buybacks felt by our communities.
Council calls for support of 320GL limit
“We call on our political representatives to support the 320GL limit as recommended by the Murray Darling Basin Authority to provide some certainty for our residents.” Councillors have called for equitable federal funds for the shire considering the amount of money spent by the Federal Government on the latest buyback. “This money would boost employment and investment in industry in our region which will combat the effects of water buybacks,” the statement said. “We want to assure our residents and businesses that we are continuing to fight
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We are still reeling from the previous water buybacks, so to hear there has been another substantial buyback we feel our communities have been blindsided
— Balonne Shire Council
for their best interests.” Under the new plan, the Commonwealth believes it has made a significant step towards achieving the remaining water recovery required under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan in the Condamine-Balonne. Deputy Prime Minister and
Agriculture and Water Resources Minister Barnaby Joyce said the strategic acquisition represented 70% of the remaining local water recovery task for the Condamine-Balonne under the proposed target set by the Murray-Darling Basin Authority.
“This acquisition was a unique opportunity to secure a significant volume of water in a catchment but I know there are communities where the prospect of any further water recovery will be met with concern,” Mr Joyce said. “We understand that every job is important for rural communities. “However, the impacts of this water recovery have been independently assessed to confirm that this purchase of overland flow licences should have a relatively low impact on regional production and casual employment.” Mr Joyce, who before becoming the federal member
for New England in New South Wales, was a federal Senator for Queensland based in St George, said he had a personal connection to the issues. “St George will also gain important flood mitigation benefits from the decommissioning and modification of structures on the property,” Mr Joyce said. Member for Maranoa David Littleproud was quick to offer support for the purchase as well. “While this is not the most ideal outcome, it goes towards protecting the small family farms and those small businesses which support those smaller irrigators in the Lower Balonne from further buyback impacts,” he said.
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Tuesday, September 26, 2017 westernstarnews.com.au
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