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Rural
Lismore MP Janelle Saffn is seeking a review REVIEW SOUGHT OF $75,000 PRIMARY PRODUCER GRANT GUIDELINES
Lismore MP Janelle Saffn is seeking a review of some guidelines which make it harder for Northern Rivers and Northern Tablelands farmers to access the $75,000 Primary Producer Grant to help them recover from food, bushfre or storm events.
Ms Saffn said this was a long-standing bugbear for local primary producers, many of whom had complained to her about having grant applications denied, shutting them out of vital Category D Natural Disaster Assistance.
“I’ve raised two main issues with NSW Agriculture Minister Dugald Saunders and Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Senator Murray Watt, who also has responsibility for Emergency Management,” Ms Saffn said.
“The frst one is more generous up-front payments of the grant. The Small Business Disaster Recovery Grant at least provides an upfront payment to eligible applicants of $25,000 or 50 per cent of the total $50,000. I was able to lobby to have it increased from zero to $25,000.
“Why not increase the up-front payment for the $75,000 Primary Producer Grant from $15,000 to $37,500 so farmers can get access to the funds they need for urgent clean-up and recovery costs?”
Ms Saffn said she had also put it to the Agriculture Ministers that the eligibility criteria of having to draw at least 50 per cent of gross income from a primary production enterprise is draconian and too high a bar.
“This antiquated off-farm income rule does not recognise the economic reality that it is commonplace for one partner to be working off farm so that they can continue farming,” Ms Saffn said.
“Some relaxation of this criteria to a more reasonable percentage is long overdue so we as a nation and state do not effectively make our agricultural sector a more marginal proposition for people keen to work within it and see it grow.”
Ms Saffn urged peak bodies representing primary producers to keep pressure on both governments to review the guidelines.
Is your drench effective?
This year’s wet conditions have brought many challenges for agricultural producers on the North Coast, with heavy worm burdens being observed in young cattle this year.
Ian Poe, District Veterinarian said, “Cattle are often drenched with a product that has not been effective and whilst resistance profles vary from property to property, recent trial work conducted on the North Coast has confrmed that drench resistance to the macrocyclic lactone (“ML” or “mectin”) group is an increasing issue.
“This class of drench makes up the majority of injectable and pour-on products available.
“In young cattle on the North Coast both barbers pole (Haemonchus) and small intestinal worm (Cooperia) are commonly seen at pathological levels.”
Recent drench trials conducted on the North Coast demonstrated that cattle with ineffective barbers pole worm control were 10kg lighter than those drenched with a highly effective drench after 28 days. Further information on these trials can be found at the Department of Primary Industries website Drench resistant worms on the NSW North Coast.
North Coast LLS district veterinarians are advising cattle producers to be mindful of potential drench resistance when considering their next drench.
When designing a drenching program, producers should consider which chemicals have been used in the past and rotate between different chemical groups.
Combination drenches (products that contain two or more actives for roundworm control), or concurrent treatment with two single actives from different chemical groups can be one method of increasing drench effectiveness.
Mr Poe continued, “We can provide worm test kits and can help in determining if worms are an issue in your animals, when drenching is required, and if your drench has been effective.
“A worm test conducted 7-10 days after drenching can give valuable information on how effective a worm treatment has been and demonstrate if drench resistance may be an issue.”
For more, contact the North Coast Local Land Services District Veterinarian team on 1300 795 299.
GROWERS READY TO LEAD INDUSTRY DOWN NEW ROAD
Peak industry organisation CANEGROWERS is ready and willing to lead the way to a more proftable and diversifed future for sugarcane outlined in a new roadmap.
“This document has been two and a half years in the making. It is exciting as a cane grower to be at the starting point of a new chapter in our sugarcane industry’s story,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said. “We are ready to lead the transition, working with existing and new investors.”
CANEGROWERS
initiated a Sugar Industry Leaders Forum in late 2020 to talk about realising bioeconomy opportunities to add to Australia’s expertise in quality raw sugar production. Today the Sugar Plus vision has been launched to position the industry as fuelling the Future of Food, Energy and Fabrication.
“We know that the green and renewable crop we grow has huge potential to be the raw material for products such as biofuels and bioplastics and we’ve been pushing for this kind of whole-of-industry collaboration,” Mr Menkens said.
“This roadmap points the way, outlining priorities and actions which the whole supply chain has agreed to.
“Importantly, both the Federal and Queensland governments have supported the development of the roadmap, seeing that a strong and diversifed sugarcane industry secures the future prosperity of regional communities.
“CANEGROWERS will be representing the interests of growers in a series of working groups, which will be tasked with making the vision a reality.”
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The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has launched its second prosecution this year against Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW) for allegedly failing to retain habitat for local wildlife, by felling giant and hollowbearing tees in Wild Cattle Creek State Forest, near Coffs Harbour.
The Authority alleges nine breaches occurred as a result of forestry operations in 2020 including the failure of FCNSW to retain six giant trees and seven hollow bearing trees.
In addition, the EPA alleges FCNSW failed to ensure harvesting debris did not accumulate within fve metres of the base of a retained tree. Such debris can be a fre hazard.
EPA Acting Executive Director Regulatory Operations Cate Woods said protection of giant trees and hollow bearing trees was important because they can provide signifcant habitat and biodiversity value for threatened species like the koala.
“Wild Cattle Creek
EPA launches another FCNSW prosecution for alleged forestry
breaches near Coffs Harbour Trade policy and reducing agricultural support have State Forest is home a strong role to play in to koalas that rely on guaranteeing international critical habitat like giant food security, according and hollow bearing trees. to the latest Insights There are strict forestry report from ABARES. rules in place to protect Executive Director these trees and preserve of ABARES Dr Jared habitat that offers Greenville said open important shelter and trade is a big part of the food to local wildlife. solution to long-term food “All forestry operations security.in coastal areas must “Recently we’ve seen comply with the Coastal Integrated Forestry Operations Approvals, a serious spike in grain prices, which has put food which contain strict security on the agenda operating rules that must again,” Dr Greenville be adhered to. said. “Stringent procedures “Trade policy and must be in place to cutting agricultural ensure breaches do not support can create real occur. Harvest plans outcomes for food must be clearly defned security. All countries can and habitat trees such as play a role advocating for giant trees and hollowing policies that help longbearing trees must be term food security. clearly marked. Non- “Globally, immediate compliance will not gains in food security be tolerated, and the are mostly not about the EPA will thoroughly quantity of food. Between investigate alleged 1961 and 2019, the global breaches of the rules and population grew by 149 hold forestry operators to per cent while agricultural account.” production grew by 262 Each breach carries per cent. The issue is a maximum penalty of the distribution of food $2,000,000. relative to where people live.
“Trade plays an important role in helping improve the distribution of food and its affordability. Open trade helps move food to where it’s needed and can promote higher incomes, creating better access to food.
“Trade also improves the stability of food supply. Crop failure in one region doesn’t have to mean famine and hunger if trade relations are strong and trade partners can make up for lost supply.
“A number of policies directed at the agriculture sector can worsen food security outcomes. Policies that restrict trade, including export restrictions directly restrict food supply, along with domestic subsidies which reduce long-run economic growth and more often than not raise food prices, curb consumers’ ability to afford food.
“It’s tempting for governments to pursue independence and selfsuffciency when times are tough, but it can have the opposite effect to what they’re looking for.
“Self-suffciency, when pursued through agricultural subsidies and other support, makes a country more vulnerable
Open trade key for food security
to food supply shocks, reduces national incomes, can raise prices for consumers and can deny nutritional diversity. “Decades of policy research by international organisations and reputable academic researchers have shown that lower trade barriers and removal of distortionary support help to improve a nation’s food security.” Australia has one of the lowest levels of agricultural support across the 37 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) member countries - and when compared to major emerging economies. The Insights paper Food security: the role of international trade and support can be read at www.agriculture.gov.au/ abares/products/insights/ food-security-the-role-ofinternational-trade-andsupport.
NEW PLAN TO ALLOW POLLINATION MOVEMENTS
The NSW Government has announced a plan to allow the movement of beehives for pollination and honey production, after consultation with the apiary and horticultural industries.
Commercial beekeepers will be able to apply for movement permits next week, provided they are located outside of the eradication, surveillance or notifcation zones (red, purple and yellow zones as shown on the DPI website).
Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said the change to the stop movement order is a big step forward and will allow this year’s pollination season to get underway.
“We know varroa mite is the biggest threat to honeybees worldwide and while we remain focused on eradication, we also recognise the need to ensure business continuity for the State’s $20.9 billion primary industries sector”, Mr Saunders said.
“This plan has been carefully developed through a risk-based approach to enable critical pollination services for crops that we rely on so heavily.
The permit system is due to go live on Wednesday, but beekeepers can start to prepare by: • Alcohol washing a proportion of their hives and recording the results to prove they are free from varroa mite; and, • Checking their records are up to date and that none of their hives has been in an eradication, notifcation or surveillance zone within the past 24 months.
As part of the application process, commercial beekeepers will be required to complete a short online training course through Tocal College and will need to declare that the above steps have been completed.
“We need all beekeepers who want to be involved in pollination activities to do their part by minimising their risk,” Mr Saunders said.
“They will have to learn how to conduct surveillance and monitoring practices on their own hives to facilitate the safe and traceable movement of honeybees and apiary equipment.”
A second level of surveillance will be undertaken by authorised offcers using miticide strips and sticky boards, when the hives have arrived at their destination.
The number of alcohol wash tests being conducted will depend on the number of hives.
CEO of the Australian Honeybee Industry Council, Danny Le Feuvre said the strong tracing requirements and self-surveillance declarations will give the industry confdence to move honeybees again.
“This plan to allow the movement of commercial beehives for pollination and honey production gives business continuity to the honeybee industry while minimising the risk of spreading varroa mite”, Mr Le Feuvre said.
Almond Board of Australia CEO Tim Jackson said the industry welcomed the proposed movement plan.
“The almond industry understands and supports that the frst priority is tackling varroa and appreciates that a lot of people, including volunteer beekeepers, have been working long hours since the incursion was frst detected,” Mr Jackson said.
“We have appreciated the Minister’s leadership on this issue. Right from the outset there has been an approach that has taken into consideration all stakeholders and an understanding of the importance of pollination to beekeepers and a range of food producers that need bees on farm in the weeks ahead.”
Mr Jackson said as a result of this movement plan NSW almond growers are back on track to produce a record sized almond crop worth more than $200 million next summer.
For instructions on how to do an alcohol wash and to fgure out how many hives need to be tested go to: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/ varroa.
Beekeepers in eradication, notifcation and surveillance zones are still required to report the locations of any hives to NSW DPI at www.dpi. nsw.gov.au/varroa or by calling 1800 084 881.
FISHERIES RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION New NSW extension offcer for fsheries, aquaculture R&D
Fishers and aquaculturists in New South Wales can now access a state-based offcer appointed by Fisheries Research and Development Corporation to strengthen the exchange of information with end users and increase the uptake of research and development (R&D).
Fisheries scientist Kris Cooling, who is based in Coffs Harbour, has been appointed to work with Indigenous, commercial and recreational fshers and aquaculturists as the NSW representative of FRDC’s new national extension offcer network.
Kris has worked across a wide spectrum of roles in fsheries and aquaculture since completing First Class Honours in Marine Science and Management at Southern Cross University in 2011.
He has worked for the NSW Department of Primary Industries as a technician and researcher and as an observer on commercial fshing vessels, as a technician at a trout hatchery; as a research assistant for universities, and as foor manager for one of the largest fshing tackle stores in Australia.
FRDC Managing director Dr Patrick Hone says the extension offcers are helping to increase FRDC’s engagement with people at the grassroots.
“We have established the network in response to feedback from our stakeholders, who said they wanted more regionally based staff to help accelerate the adoption of R&D outcomes and drive practice change,” he says.
“The broad remit of the extension offcers is to work with people and stakeholders to extend R&D outputs that meet user needs, incorporate their input into R&D priorities and bring people together to solve problems,” he says.
“They are looking at solutions for regional issues in ways that can be adapted across the country, and will help all stakeholders tap into previous, current and future research to fnd workable solutions.”
Kris grew up in Taree and is a keen fsher, diver and surfer. He has done volunteer work on cuttlefsh behaviour studies, coral health, and aquatic conservation projects with Traditional Owners in the Northern Territory.
He enjoys connecting fshers and other stakeholders to relevant research and is keen to utilise their insights and innovation in regional and national projects.
“There’s an existing stable of research that would be hugely benefcial to people involved in fshing and aquaculture but they are busy and haven’t got the time to go searching through the scientifc literature to fnd a solution that’s right for them,” he says.
“Meeting face to face with people is really valuable, even if it is just kicking tubs down at the local fshing co-op.”
“Everyone I’ve met so far has been really positive about the connections and opportunities this role could offer for them. There are so many fantastic opportunities in the fsheries and aquaculture and I’m very excited to be a part of it,” Kris says.
Temporary reprieve on telehealth but RACGP warns greater action needed
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has welcomed a temporary reprieve for some telehealth consultations but urged the Government to go even further in securing the future of telehealth services so that no patients are left behind.
It comes following an emergency meeting of National Cabinet as COVID-19 case numbers soar across Australia. On 1 July this year, the Government removed Medicare rebates for telephone consultations lasting longer than 20 minutes, a decision the RACGP warned was particularly detrimental for vulnerable patient groups. After today’s meeting, the Government announced that longer telehealth phone consultations will be available for patients who may need access to COVID-19 antiviral drugs until the end of October. The Government has also extended paid pandemic leave until 30 September, with the costs covered 50-50 with the states.
RACGP President Adj. Professor Karen Price said that today’s announcement would help more patients access antiviral treatments.
“Allowing longer phone consultations for patients who may be eligible to receive potentially life-saving COVID-19 antivirals is a sensible decision,” she said.
“The Royal Australian College of GPs welcomed the expansion of antiviral access last weekend and for good reason – these treatments can make all the difference between someone suffering relatively minor effects or ending up in hospital. Conducting a consultation to determine suitability for these treatments is not straightforward and takes time. We have to fgure out how the antivirals interact with a host of other drugs and whether they are suitable for each individual patient.
“So, today’s announcement providing a temporary reprieve for longer telehealth phone consultations is timely. We want to encourage more people to talk to their GP about accessing these drugs at a time when the virus is running rampant in communities across Australia.”
MOBILE OUTREACH TO CURB RURAL HOMELESSNESS
More than 3,500 people in regional and rural NSW will have greater access to housing supports and services following the launch of a new mobile outreach program to assist people sleeping rough.
Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones said the program would ensure regional communities, from Broken Hill to Leeton, are supported into stable accommodation.
“This funding will ensure there are dedicated staff on the ground ready to help people living in regional communities to apply for housing,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.
“Housing stability plays a signifcant role in keeping families together and these regional outreach teams will provide people with the tools to make decisions for a chance at a better future.
The outreach program will be launched in the Murrumbidgee, Far West and Western NSW regions.
Safe farms, strong families! Tips to help farm families thrive
This Farm Safety Awareness Week (18-24 July) Triple P - Positive Parenting Program experts are supporting farming families to not only address the physical and mental risks on the farm but to take active steps to support mental health and wellbeing to create a positive, strong farm family where everyone benefts.
Carol Markie-Dadds, Triple P International Country Director, said this year’s theme ‘Recipe for Averting Disaster’ is an opportunity to adopt early intervention strategies that are proven to help build happy, resilient, confdent children.
Top 5 Triple P Tips for Farming Families 1. Look after yourself: It’s important to take care of your own mental health and wellbeing. This means fnding time to do things you enjoy and seeking support – practical and emotional - when you need it. Ask for help early, before problems escalate. Call on friends and family you trust – there’s no need to face challenges alone. 2. Balance work time and family time: Have a clear signal to let your children know when you’re working versus not working, and when you’re off the clock, make time to be with your family. Remove distractions so you can be emotionally present with your family. 3. Tune in and guide your children: Show you care. Take an interest in your children’s activities. Talk with them about what’s expected and help them learn to do things for themselves. Children thrive when they have parents who are warm and loving, yet able to guide them and set fair limits.
4. Spend quality time together: Find small ways, that ft in with the farm schedule, to be together often and build strong relationships with your children. This may be while doing a particular chore that becomes a special time for you and one or more of your children, or it may be separate to farm life, like reading a bedtime story. 5. Keep your family safe from harm: Every working farm is different, but they all have hazards. Prioritise the safety of your family. For example, have safe and non-safe zones that your children know about, set rules for using equipment safely such as wearing helmets and seatbelts, and give your children age-appropriate farm work that can be carried out under adult supervision.
Visit farmsafe.org.au for more.
World-frst sustainability scorecard for sheep and wool industry released in Australia
The frst Annual Report of the Sheep Sustainability Framework (SSF) will today be released at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show in Bendigo delivering on the worldfrst commitment of the Australian sheep and wool industry to create a data-driven yearly snapshot of sustainability performance.
Led by Sheep Producers Australia (SPA) and WoolProducers Australia (WPA), the SSF is underwritten by four themes: caring for our sheep; enhancing the environment and climate; looking after our people, our customers and the community; and ensuring a fnancially resilient industry. Within those themes are nine focus areas and 21 priorities - monitored and measured by 58 data-driven indicators.
SSF Sustainability Steering Group (SSG) Chair and respected livestock veterinarian, Dr Scott Williams, said the Annual Report creates an important foundation for the sheep and wool value chain and its stakeholders.
“This is a major milestone for the Australian sheep and wool industry,” Dr Williams said.
“We are the largest producer and exporter of premium quality fne wool and the largest exporter of sheep meat in the world.
“We are now one of the most transparent sheep and wool industries as well.
“From reducing greenhouse gas emissions and climate change adaptation to animal husbandry practices and on-farm safety, the Annual Report is a documented baseline on how we as an industry are performing.”
CSIRO research last year found the Australian sheep meat industry was already climate neutral and the latest Annual Report shows the sheep meat and wool industry has held steady on net emissions (9.13 million tonnes CO2e in 2019).
Nominations for the 2022 Australian Biosecurity Awards now open
Australians can now nominate individuals, groups and businesses who have made an outstanding contribution to protect our $81 billion agricultural industry and the health of our animals, plants and people for a 2022 Australian Biosecurity Award (ABA).
Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and Australia’s Director of Biosecurity, Mr Andrew Metcalfe AO, said producers, researchers and community groups are doing vital work to help protect Australia’s biosecurity.
“Biosecurity risks are becoming more complex and harder to manage for many reasons, including the increasing spread of pests and diseases overseas and an increase in cargo and mail volumes,” Mr Metcalfe said.
“Australia’s biosecurity system protects $50 billion in inbound tourism, $64 billion in agricultural exports and 1.6 million Australian jobs.
“It safeguards our human, animal and plant health against potentially devastating exotic pests and diseases such as foot and mouth disease which would be devastating for our livestock industries if it were to reach our shores.
“The Australian Biosecurity Awards highlight the incredible and diverse work of Australians who maintain and improve Australia’s biosecurity system in the face of increasing and evolving threats.”
Last year’s winners include a biosecurity team that helped thwart the illegal import and sale of prickly-pear cactus into Queensland, a nursery whose biosecurity innovation improved business quality and effciency, and an industry, community and government partnership that is managing fruit fy and plant health in Victoria.
There are eight award categories in 2022: • Dr David Banks Biosecurity Lifetime Achievement Award • Dr Kim Ritman Award for Science and Innovation • Industry Award • Government Award • Environmental Biosecurity Award • Community Award • Education Award • Farm Biosecurity Producer of The Year Award — jointly presented with Animal Health Australia and Plant Health Australia.
Nominations close on 22 August 2022 at 5pm AEST, and winners will be announced in November. For more information on the 2022 Australian Biosecurity Awards, including how to submit a nomination, visit: agriculture.gov.au/ ABA
CSIRO energy report highlights opportunity for farmers and regions
CSIRO’s GenCost 20212022 Final Report into energy again highlights the huge opportunities for farmers and regional Australia in renewable energy and storage, Farmers for Climate Action CEO Dr Fiona Davis said.
“The CSIRO GenCost report again found renewables by far are the cheapest form of electricity production even after the investment in extra transmission and storage are included,” Dr Davis said.
“This means renewables with batteries keep our electricity bills lower than they’d otherwise be whilst also creating sustainable jobs for regional communities.
“The opportunity to grow regional jobs whilst keeping energy costs down is huge. Farmers can also diversify into being paid an annual fee for renewable energy production on their property. We’re seeing energy companies providing solar and wind setups made specifcally to allow sheep and cattle grazing now.”
CSIRO’s GenCost report found renewables including the investment in transmission and storage would continue to become even cheaper, although noted current global factors could hold up this progress for a year or so.
Also, The Australian reports the SEC Newgate “Mood of the Nation” surveyfound most Australians feel the speed of the shift to renewables is happening too slowly.
Asked what was contributing to higher electricity prices in Australia, the two highest responses were nominated were “International infuences” at 74% and “Morrison Government inaction” at 73%.
SEC Newgate Partner David Stopler is quoted as saying there is “strong support for the transition to renewables, with the majority calling for even faster action”.
Dr Davis noted the survey found 60% of Australians feeling positive or very positive about renewables with 21% feeling neither positive or negative.
“Australians understand climate action is now creating regional opportunity, regional industry, regional jobs and cheaper electricity bills,” Dr Davis said.
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Global demand for Australian sheepmeat rises as national fock grows
Favourable seasonal conditions have supported above average lambing percentages and a larger breeding ewe fock, which continue to drive the national sheep fock’s growth, according to the latest Sheep Industry Projections update from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).
A strong start to Western Australia’s season coupled with above average rainfall patterns for most sheep regions of New South Wales and Victoria will see the national fock rise by 7.2% or 5.1m in 2022, to 76m head.
On the back of this growth, lamb production is forecast to reach record levels at 549,000 tonnes in 2022, with higher carcase weights driving the increase.
International demand for Australian sheepmeat continues to rise, with export markets outperforming year-todate levels. The large 2021 lamb cohort, heavier carcase weights and frm slaughter rates in mutton, are delivering favourable supply to several key markets.
Strong export growth in emerging markets such as Malaysia, Japan and South Korea demonstrate the diverse range of countries Australian lamb and mutton can go, according to Ripley Atkinson, Senior Market Information Analyst at MLA.
“On top of booming markets in Asia, the United States has quickly emerged as Australia’s number one destination for lamb exports,” Mr Atkinson said.
The United States imported 35,053 tonnes of sheepmeat from January to May, which was 3% higher than at the same point in 2021. Nearly 87% of exports to the US were lamb, which was an increase of 13%.
“With sheepmeat production in plentiful volumes and international demand for Australian product remaining robust across key established and emerging markets, the outlook for the Australian sheepmeat industry is bright.
“It is evident in both production and export terms that the national fock has recovered from the rebuilding and COVID-19 events,” Mr Atkinson noted.
National fock growth and slaughter
Due to strong seasons across the country, MLA has revised the sheep fock higher by 2.2% compared to the February release. This will mean that the fock is expected to grow by 7.2% to 76m head this year. For 2023, MLA expects further growth to 78.75m, which is 23% or 14.75m head higher than the 100-year low recorded in 2020.
While for 2022 lamb slaughter, MLA has revised fgures higher by 2% or 400,000 on its February projections to reach 22m head. This is due to is strong production fundamentals driving a second large lamb cohort delivering increased supply.
Carcase weights
Average lamb carcase weights are forecast to remain frm on February projections, reaching 24.9kg/head in 2022.
For 2023, MLA has revised carcase weights down 2% or 500g to 24.6kg/head with seasonal conditions expected to ease and return to the long-term average. However, the implementation of improved genetics and on-farm production management will ensure that 2023 carcase weights remain historically high.
“The Australian sheep fock is growing strongly and with carcase weights remaining at historic highs, the country is well positioned to continue supplying high quality protein to both the domestic and international markets.
“Industry confdence has further been buoyed by favourable seasonal conditions, robust export demand and strong market prices, exciting times ahead,” Mr Atkinson said.
AUSTRALIA SUPPORTS INDONESIA’S RESPONSE TO FOOT AND MOUTH OUTBREAK
The Australian Government will provide $1.5 million to support Indonesia’s response to the recent outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
The funding will provide at least 1 million FMD doses for Indonesia’s vaccination program, following a formal request for assistance from the Indonesian Government.
Indonesia’s vaccination program is focused on support for the smallholder farming sector, which makes up around 90 per cent of Indonesia’s cattle industry.
This support is in addition to Australia’s existing commitment of 435,000 Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) vaccine doses that are currently being distributed to affected Indonesia provinces.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt discussed Australia’s support with Indonesian Minister for Agriculture Syahrul Yasin Limpo in Jakarta today.
Minister Watt also met with Indonesian National Disaster Management Authority head and Chief of the Indonesian Task Force for Foot and Mouth Disease, Lieutenant General Suharyanto.
The Australian Government has also committed an initial $500,000 to Meat and Livestock Australia, responsible for coordinating support from Australian industry for the Indonesian feedlot sector’s emergency response to these diseases.
“Safeguarding the biosecurity of our region is a shared concern for Australia and Indonesia – this was something confrmed during the recent Indonesia-Australia Annual Leaders’ Meeting,” Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong said.
“The provision of 1 million vaccine doses to combat Foot and Mouth disease underscores Australia’s commitment to supporting Indonesia’s response to the outbreak.”
“During my meeting with Lieutenant General Suharyanto we offered to share Australian expertise on emergency disease management and biosecurity,” Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator the Hon Murray Watt said.
“The Albanese Government is taking a two-pronged approach to preventing the incursion of Foot and Mouth disease, frst by strengthening biosecurity measures at the Australian border, and also by supporting efforts to curb the spread overseas.”
End of La Nina - but not the rain...
ABARES
It’s offcial, the 2021-22 La Niña event has ended according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
The 2021-22 event was the second consecutive year of La Niña conditions, which are usually associated with higher-thanaverage rainfall across much of Australia in winter, spring and early summer.
The presence of La Niña events over the past two years largely explains the record Australian agricultural production volumes in 2021-22. Not only are La Niña events associated with increased Australian agricultural production through increased rainfall and milder temperatures, but with a decline in rainfall amongst our competitors in North and South America, it tends to decrease production and drive up international commodity prices.
Despite the offcial end to the 2021-22 La Niña event, the climatic impact is likely to linger. The Bureau of Meteorology also predicts a 50% chance that a third consecutive La Niña event will form in the latter part of 2022. In the meantime, the formation of a negative Indian Ocean Dipole is looking increasingly likely, with warmer water off the west coast of Australia bringing increased rainfall to much of southern Australia. If La Niña were to re-emerge or the negative Indian Ocean Dipole event to become established in 2022 as currently forecast, we are in a very unusual position in that we are looking at a 3rd consecutive year of very high rainfall.
VARROA MITE COMPENSATION FOR BEEKEEPERS
An $18 million compensation package has been developed for registered beekeepers affected by the varroa mite outbreak, under an agreement reached by governments and industry.
The National Management Group (NMG) for Emergency Plant Pests has endorsed a National Response Plan to eradicate Varroa Destructor from NSW. The NMG comprises Commonwealth and State governments and pollination dependent industries and the honey bee industry.
Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said the agreement will see registered commercial beekeepers reimbursed for all equipment, hives and bees that are destroyed in the eradication process, as well as the costs of honey.
“We are frmly committed to the national response plan,” Minister Watt said.
“Varroa mite is the most signifcant threat to our honey bee and pollination industries and we unanimously agree that it is both technically feasible and economically benefcial to remove it from our shores.”
NSW Agriculture Minister Dugald Saunders said eradication is the primary goal, and the NSW Department of Primary Industries’ strong initial response measures and contact tracing work have made this possible.
“We still have an unbroken chain of infected premises and have extensive surveillance operations in place to fnd and destroy any further cases,” Mr Saunders said.
“I want to thank the entire beekeeping community for their commitment and vigilance during this time.”
Danny Le Feuvre from the Australian Honey Bee Industry Council said it was great to see the recognition from all governments and industries of the importance of the bee industry.
“Industry fully supports the eradication efforts and appreciates the professionalism and commitment of DPI’s incident management team,” Mr Le Feuvre said.
“Agreement to provide reimbursement costs to our members will ensure the success of the eradication program.
“The approval of the plan and funding demonstrates the importance of the partnership between pollination dependent industries, the honey bee industry and the government.”
The National Management Group also endorsed compensation for licensed recreational beekeepers in recognition of their critical role in the response to this incursion.
New Varroa mite detection at Wards River
Biosecurity offcers have identifed Varroa mite in honeybee hives at a property at Wards River, north-west of Bulahdelah.
NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) Chief Plant Protection Offcer Dr Chris Anderson said Varroa mite was positively identifed following a report from a beekeeper who had conducted an alcohol wash of a hive to conduct surveillance.
Tracing is underway to confrm if this new detection is linked to a case in an existing emergency zone.
The new detection at Wards River brings the total number of infested premises to 39 since Varroa mite was frst identifed as part of routine surveillance at the Port of Newcastle on 22 June.
“NSW DPI has established an emergency zone around the infested premise and has put signifcant measures in place to stop the spread of the Varroa mite,” Dr Anderson said.
“As per the agreed response plan with industry, all movements of hives and equipment onto and off the properties over the past 12-months will be traced, and risk analysis and surveillance will be conducted to minimise further spread.”
DPI’s response plan for the eradication of Varroa mite in NSW follows a strategy agreed between the apiary industry, NSW DPI, neighbouring jurisdictions and the Commonwealth.
Dr Anderson said a state-wide ban on the movement of honeybees and hives remained in place, and beekeepers within current eradication zones were not permitted to work their hives other than to conduct surveillance for Varroa mite.
“We are working hard in partnership with the apiary and horticulture industries to develop a permit process to manage the movement of hives outside of the current emergency zones,” he said.
“We know how important the coming pollination season is for both beekeepers and the horticulture industry and we expect to have a process in place soon.
“In the meantime, we cannot overstate the importance of community reporting as an invaluable component of our control measures.
“I would urge people to report the locations of any hives, both managed hives and wild hives they might be aware of.
“I’d like to thank our NSW beekeepers, who have partnered with us very successfully on this response so far and encourage every member of the public to continue to let us know of any hives they might be aware of. We all have a role to play.”
Farmers for Climate Action is thinking of those hurt by the recent, repeated fooding in NSW, Farmers for Climate Action CEO Dr Fiona Davis said.
“I cannot imagine the pain of families having worked for decades to build a farm business only to see it taken away,” Dr Davis said.
“So many of our farmers are really suffering right now. Our farmers deserve safety and security but they do not have it in an unbalanced climate caused by carbon emissions.
“This is the third time areas west of Sydney have fooded in three years.
“Insurance Council of Australia data shows the 2022 foods in northern NSW and south east Queensland cost $3.35 billion in insured losses. Repeated, climate driven disasters are driving up insurance costs, making some farms unviable.
“The opportunity for Regional Australia is enormous if we drive down emissions this decade: we will create a regional jobs boom whilst we protect the farmers who grow our food. Let’s not miss the opportunity.
Sam Rumpit, from Saddler’s Creek Wines in the Hunter Valley said while he felt the vineyard had “got off extremely lightly”, the business was still being hurt.
“We can’t send wine anywhere through transport if the roads are closed. We can’t meet people through the cellar door. We’ve held off for a month but we can’t hold off pruning any longer or risk a bad vintage. This puts our vines at risks for disease and injury.”
Farmers hurt by ongoing foods in New South Wales
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A ‘summer of content’ is still on offer for Australia’s grains and oilseeds sector this year, despite a recent softening in prices for global agri commodities and for some local commodities, Rabobank says in its just-released monthly outlook.
In its July Australian Agribusiness Monthly, the agribusiness banking specialist says the S&P GSCI Agriculture Index – a key benchmark of global agricultural commodity market performance – lost more than 15 per cent during June, including a 20 per cent month-on-month price decline in Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) wheat. And further substantial declines have been recorded into early July.
The drop in global agri commodity prices came as other asset classes also fell – triggered by interest rate hikes, infation concerns and “hawkish central bank rhetoric”.
For grains and oilseeds, the report said, the decline in prices was driven by signifcant selling by institutional funds, as well as this year’s northern hemisphere harvest beginning to hit the market. Hopes had also lifted for the potential resumption of Ukrainian grain exports to the world market, with discussions around the opening of a trade corridor.
Meanwhile, there was also some easing in local prices seen across June for grains and oilseeds, cotton, sugar and also the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI).
However, despite local grains and oilseeds prices following global prices some of the way down over the past month, the global outlook continues to support a “summer of content” for local prices this year, the report says.
RaboResearch general manager for Australia and New Zealand Stefan Vogel says Rabobank continues to expect above-average global prices to remain for grains and oilseeds, although has marginally downgraded its forecast for CBOT wheat to between USc1050 a bushel to USc1080 a bushel over the next 12 months.
Locally, while many Australian farmers are still battling to get crop planted due to wet conditions, especially in New South Wales and Queensland, several drier weeks in June had allowed an uptick in planting progress, the report said. Central NSW has been impacted most severely in recent weeks by downpours.
Rabobank’s forecast for local wheat prices remains unchanged from our late May crop outlook ¬– quarterly average Newcastle APW1 track prices of a $428 a tonne to $406 a tonne by quarter four 2022.
For dairy, the report says, the new production season has begun with record milk prices across all states, providing a platform for proftability despite cost headwinds.
For beef, after a temporary jump in prices following rain in May, young cattle prices had returned to their downward trend from earlier in the year. The bank expects this to continue through to spring when producerbuying activity may lift prices.
Good supply saw lamb prices remain stable this June, unlike the rises seen at the same time last year. Although lamb supplies are expected to decline in coming months, which would support upward price movement, these increases are not expected to be large.
A “dramatic” 25 per cent month-on-month fall in the global cotton price seen in June is not expected to be the end of price declines for the year, the report says, with consumer confdence in key markets signalling slower demand ahead. Local prices of below AUD600 a bale for cotton are now expected for quarter four this year.
For wool, while the 2022 price outlook is supported by post-Covid consumer spending around the world, 2023 is looking “increasingly gloomy” for prices.
For farm inputs, Mr Vogel said, global fertiliser prices edged higher in June, but were still lower than the highs seen in the frst half of 2022 – by 36 per cent for urea and 4 per cent for MOP (potash).
Growers ready to lead industry down new road
Peak industry organisation CANEGROWERS is ready and willing to lead the way to a more proftable and diversifed future for sugarcane outlined in a new roadmap.
“This document has been two and a half years in the making. It is exciting as a cane grower to be at the starting point of a new chapter in our sugarcane industry’s story,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.
“We are ready to lead the transition, working with existing and new investors.”
CANEGROWERS initiated a Sugar Industry Leaders Forum in late 2020 to talk about realising bioeconomy opportunities to add to Australia’s expertise in quality raw sugar production. Today the Sugar Plus vision has been launched to position the industry as fuelling the Future of Food, Energy and Fabrication.
“We know that the green and renewable crop we grow has huge potential to be the raw material for products such as biofuels and bioplastics and we’ve been pushing for this kind of whole-of-industry collaboration,” Mr Menkens said.
“This roadmap points the way, outlining priorities and actions which the whole supply chain has agreed to.
“Importantly, both the Federal and Queensland governments have supported the development of the roadmap.”
Biosecurity failures risk billions
The state’s peak agricultural body says the Varroa mite outbreak is a stark example of the failures in the national biosecurity system.
NSW Farmers Biosecurity Chair Ian McColl said it was clear biosecurity screening protocols at our borders were clearly not at the standard required, and it was time for the federal government to urgently fx the system before it was too late.
“We have been warning Australia is highly exposed to biosecurity incursions and we’re seeing that play out right now,” Mr McColl said.
“It is clear that there are gaps in the system, because Varroa mite reached our shores and evaded detection.
“Good luck – not good management – seems to be the only thing keeping biosecurity threats out of Australia.”
While the state government has boosted funding to enhance biosecurity preparedness and respond to incursions, Mr McColl said keeping diseases out was of utmost importance with foot and mouth disease and lumpy skin disease poised to rip an enormous hole in the economy.
“If we get a detection of foot and mouth disease it will cost Australia $80 billion and take years to recover from,” Mr McColl said.
“To put that into perspective, that’s roughly the size of the entire JobKeeper program, and it’s something we can prevent if we get the systems right.
“This is why the agriculture sector has been calling for urgent action on biosecurity for some time now, because as we have seen over recent years, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
While the new federal government had made a pre-election commitment to improve biosecurity, Mr McColl said it was critical this work was done as a matter of urgency.
“I know the new ministers have a lot on their plate, but we need this actioned now, not in 18 months’ time,” he said.
“With foot and mouth disease now in Bali, it is perilously close to our shores.
“If the government wants to avoid an $80 billion economic disaster, it should put biosecurity reforms at the top of the agenda.”
STATE-FIRST STRATEGY TO SECURE FUTURE OF NSW GROUNDWATER
The NSW Government released the draft NSW Groundwater Strategy, the state’s frst-ever long-term roadmap for the sustainable management of its vast and precious groundwater resources.
Kaia Hodge, Executive Director Water Strategy and Policy for the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, said the strategy will be on display until 14 August giving the community an opportunity to have its say.
“Groundwater is essential to the people, businesses and environment of NSW, and this strategy will ensure our communities have the groundwater resources they need into the long-term future,” Ms Hodge said.
“More than 250 regional towns across our state rely on groundwater for their day-to-day water needs. Groundwater directly contributes nearly $1 billion to our yearly economy by supporting the agricultural sector and other industries, and groundwater supplies close to 10 per cent of NSW’s drinking water. First Nations people and Aboriginal communities also have deep cultural and social connections to groundwater, which plays a key role in their caring for Country. This is a vital resource that we need to manage sustainably and protect, especially as we face challenges like a more variable climate, and more pressure on our resources as our towns and cities continue to grow, particularly off the back of the pandemic.”
The draft NSW Groundwater Strategy is a priority action under the NSW Water Strategy and builds on 30 years of worldleading groundwater management, further refning the state’s existing and robust groundwater framework. Using the latest available science, it will set the strategic direction for groundwater management over the next 20 plus years, putting actions in place to secure its continuing quality and supply. It will also bolster recognition of Aboriginal people’s rights to access and use groundwater, and for the frst time, culturally signifcant and valuable sites that are groundwater-dependent will be recognised and protected.
“Our state has more than 450 groundwater sources from which more than 3,000 billion litres of water could be extracted for use every year – including for cultural use, critical needs, and town water supply. That’s 1.2 million Olympic-sized swimming pools worth of water,” Ms Hodge said.
“About 6.5 million hectares, or about eight per cent of the state’s land surface, contains valuable ecosystems which are dependent on groundwater – including many wetlands, springs and lakes that support our unique plant and animal species. But some of these sources are becoming more vulnerable.”
Register at: https:// water.dpie.nsw.gov.au/ plans-and-programs/ nsw-groundwaterstrategy
Workers wanted to boost food and fbre production
NSW Farmers President James Jackson says Australians looking for work should consider a career in agriculture.
There were almost half a million job vacancies across the country, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which Mr Jackson said was holding back productivity. Getting out of your comfort zone and embracing a new career in rural and regional Australia was a “no-brainer”, he said.
“We have a little over half a million people who say they’re jobless, and a little under half a million job vacancies in this country,” Mr Jackson said.
“Throughout the pandemic agricultural businesses have been desperate to get workers and there are some really great opportunities to build a solid future out here.
“With food prices and availability being a big concern for many households, working in the farming sector is a great way to earn a living and do something positive for the country.”
From casual opportunities to get involved in seasonal picking and food production through to long-term careers in cropping, dairy, shearing and agronomy, Mr Jackson said agriculture was just waiting for the right people to come along.
“Shearers can earn fantastic money and young people getting into that career are setting themselves up for the future, earning more than they could pulling beers or pouring coffees,” Mr Jackson said.
“Agriculture is growing and changing – technology is playing an increasingly important role from data, to robotics, and remote sensing – these are exciting technologies where life imitates the game console.”
Landholders impacted by the current food event across NSW can now access immediate support through the reactivated Agriculture and Animal Emergency Services hotline on 1800 814 647.
Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said signifcant work has already been undertaken as part of the food emergency response to provide support to communities as quickly as possible.
“The NSW Government put plans and processes in place in anticipation of this food emergency to ensure we were ready to respond and provide immediate support to primary producers, landholders and the broader community,” Mr Saunders said.
“Although the full extent of the damage across the State is varied and yet to be realised, we are providing emergency support to landholders, including providing emergency fodder, animal assessments and welfare checks, and emergency safe places for livestock and domestic animals. “
As the fooding continues to unfold, the staff on the ground and in the response centres will adapt as required to provide the necessary support for local landholders and community members.
“The Department of Primary Industries and Local Land Services are working together to assist landholders and communities with animal welfare and agriculture related issues arising from the current food event devastating NSW.”
To keep up to date with the latest information, visit www.nsw.gov.au/foods, dpi.nsw.gov.au/foods.
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