FarmTalk Magazine - April 2024

May Edition:

April 19, 2024

June Edition:

May 24, 2024

July Edition:

June 21, 2024

August Edition:

July 26, 2024

September Edition:

August 23, 2024

October Edition:

September 20, 2024

November Edition: October 25, 2024

December Edition:

November 22, 2024

February Edition: January 24, 2025

March Edition:

February 21, 2025

April Edition:

March 21, 2025

Joint winners in scholarship’s milestone year

Adrienne Hartnett

Leesa Muir

Rebecca Flisher CREATIVE MANAGER

Zoe

Sam Wake

Amber King

Krista Schade RIVERINE GRAZIER JOURNALIST

Jennifer Ho TRAINEE GRAPHIC

Ava

Hope Fitzpatrick of Moulamein and Albury’s Ava Christie have been named joint winners of the 2024 Jan Cathcart Memorial Scholarship.

The scholarship of up to $10,000 per year will support both women in their studies.

Hope is in her second year of a Bachelor of Business majoring in Agribusiness and Finance at La Trobe University, whilst Ava is pursuing a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Hons), at the University of Tasmania.

In presenting Ava and Hope with their scholarships at a celebratory dinner in Deniliquin, SunRice Group Chairman Mr Laurie Arthur said it was a pleasure to have two worthy recipients in the 10th year of the scholarship.

“Both of this year’s winners, Ava and Hope, show a commitment to the rice industry and their communities through different pathways and the selection of two candidates is testament to the calibre of applicants we had for this year’s scholarship,” Mr Arthur said.

“Ava, whilst not growing up on a farm, is passionate about resource management, sustainability, pest management, and genetics, and applying each of these to rice growing.

“Hope’s vision is to pursue an agricultural profession within her home region of the Riverina, building on her connection to country living and establishing strong connections with local farmers and actively engage in the rice industry.”

The Jan Cathcart Memorial Scholarship was designed to provide recipients with financial support and handson industry experience to assist them in achieving their career goals.

“At the SunRice Group, we are really proud to have honoured Jan’s commitment by investing in the future of the industry through the scholarship,” Mr Arthur said.

“Jan had a passion for the rice industry, and for seeing young people properly trained and educated so that they could in turn contribute to the industry.

“So, there could have been no better way to have recognised her than by supporting a total of 14 young women to further their studies.”

The recipients thanked SunRice Group for the opportunity and reflected on Jan Cathcart’s legacy and what it means to them.

On receiving the Award, Ava said she is focused on developing a greater understanding of the wide range of elements of rice production, and contributing to the industry in research, work, education and marketing.

“I am fascinated by the rice industry and the challenges presented to rice production more broadly,” she said.

“I hope to further Jan Cathcart’s legacy as a dedicated and driven contributor to the industry by striving to model aspects of her career in my own.

“I am also so excited to immerse myself in a likeminded passionate community of women from all walks of life, working in all kinds of roles in the industry.”

Hope Fitzpatrick and SunRice Chairman Laurie Arthur.

Hemp to bring economic and environmental transformation to Barham

Murray Industrial Hemp, a new venture set to revolutionise the Barham region, is announcing its plans to establish a sustainable hemp building materials manufacturing facility.

The project promises numerous benefits for the community, including diversified crop options for farmers, improved water usage, and the creation of 15plus new jobs.

“This is more than just a manufacturing project; it’s about revitalising the Barham region,” says Joe D’Alo, owner of The Hemp Building Company and a key partner in Murray Industrial Hemp.

“Hemp offers a lucrative rotational crop for farmers, uses significantly less water than traditional crops, and opens the door to a whole new industry right here in Barham.”

Murray Industrial Hemp’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the farming stage.

The company looks to manufacture hemp-based blocks and panels, offering a superior alternative to conventional building materials due to their carbonstoring properties, energy efficiency, superior thermal and acoustic insulation and minimal environmental footprint, making the Murray Industrial Hemp building materials an exceptional choice for energy-efficient homes.

“We believe industrial hemp holds the key to transforming how Australia builds,” says Joe D’Alo.

“Our goal is to assist mainstream builders, enabling them to seamlessly integrate hemp building products into their standard processes. The building process doesn’t change with hemp blocks and hemp panels.”

The company aims to offer the Australian construction industry a greener option, providing materials that benefit homeowners, while achieving the new 7-star Building Standards required for newly built homes.

“We envision a future where Barham is known as a hub for sustainable manufacturing and eco-conscious construction,” says D’Alo.

Murray Industrial Hemp is dedicated to leading that transformation, bringing both economic and environmental benefits to the community.

“With community support, Murray Industrial Hemp is ready to start manufacturing Australian-made hemp blocks within two years,” finished D’Alo.

“Hemp offers a lucrative rotational crop for farmers, uses significantly less water than traditional crops, and opens the door to a whole new industry right here in Barham.”

JOE D’ALO

“This is more than just a manufacturing project; it’s about revitalising the Barham region.”

JOE D’ALO

Murray Industrial Hemp held an Investor Information Session on Tuesday, April 2 at cluBarham’s Loddon Room.

Community members, potential investors and interested farmers were invited to attend and learn more about this exciting project.

The Investor Information Session offered attendees:

• In-depth presentations on hemp’s potential in the construction market

• Market analysis and projected growth forecasts

• Facility and manufacturing plans

• Q&A session with the Murray Industrial Hemp team.

Murray Industrial Hemp is a vertically integrated company dedicated to supplying and manufacturing hemp building materials, with a strong focus on design and consultancy.

Based in Barham, the company leverages local resources and expertise to foster sustainable economic growth and champion environmentally sound construction practices within Australia.

Joe D’Alo – Director-Manager of The Hemp Building Company.

Abortion and Infertility

Are you noticing that you have fewer lambs on the ground than expected this lambing? If so, have you considered if abortion or infertility are causing you issues in your flock?

There are multiple causes of infertility and abortion in ewes that can have significant economic consequences to your flock.

Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy before the foetus is viable. Unlike full-term lambs, aborted lambs are generally small and not fully developed (e.g. missing wool). Some abortions in a flock are normal. Generally, around 1.5 to 2% of pregnant ewes abort each year. However, if you are experiencing abortion rates over 5% this is something that should be investigated.

Causes of abortion in ewes can include infectious and non-infectious causes. Infectious causes include toxoplasmosis, leptospirosis, campylobacter, listeriosis, brucellosis, Q fever, and salmonella. Non-infectious causes are less common and include trace element deficiencies (selenium or copper), and toxins in the diet or environment.

Infertility, on the other hand, is the failure to conceive. The most common cause of infertility we see is Brucella ovis in rams. Other causes of infertility can include illness/fever, nutritional causes, and low body condition at joining.

Sometimes with abortion and infertility cases it can be hard to determine a diagnosis. This is because the issue can go un-noticed while it is happening, and it’s not until lamb marking when lamb losses become apparent. At this point in time, it then may be difficult to determine the diagnosis as the cause likely occurred

months before you realised. Testing of aborted lambs is often the best way to find the cause, particularly of infectious causes of abortion. However scavenging predators and the rapid breakdown of foetuses can make it hard to find aborted foetuses in the paddock.

There are a few things you can do to keep an eye on abortion and infertility issues in your flock including:

• Monitoring for signs of abortion in the paddock –keep an eye out for aborted foetuses, evidence of membranes or discharge from ewes. Take care when handling aborted materials by wearing gloves and washing your hands as some infectious causes of abortion can also cause disease in humans.

• Act quickly and seek veterinary advice at the earliest sign of an ewe abortion problem.

• Look for signs that ewes are empty when handling pre-lambing, eg underdeveloped udders in ewes being crutched. Seek veterinary advice if you are concerned.

• Pregnancy scan ewes – comparing pregnancy scanning rates and lamb marking rates can help you determine if you have had potential issues with abortion. Similarly, if you identify low rates at pregnancy scanning this may indicate an infertility issue.

• Palpate your rams each year prior to joining – if you find abnormal lumps when palpating the testicles of rams seek veterinary advice for further investigation.

• Know the history of your flock – have you had any new mobs that were recently purchased and/or do you know the vaccination history of the ewes such as if they have been vaccinated against campylobacter.

If you are concerned you are having issues with abortion or infertility in your flock, get in touch with your local District Vet by contacting your nearest LLS office.

Katelyn Braine (pictured) is a district veterinarian with Murray Local Land Services.

The importance of respect

As a society, what value do we place on respect? Importantly, at the present time, what value does our local farming community place on respect?

As I grew up respect, along with honesty and integrity, were taught as the cornerstones on which we should live. I have always tried to mirror this in family, business and community life.

When I stood for the Murray Irrigation Board of Directors, an opponent was the current Chair Phil Snowden. We fought a hard campaign, but always with respect and, while we do not agree on everything around the Board table, as Chair and Deputy Chair the integrity and respect never wane.

It was an agonising decision when we had to ask the former Chair, Steve Fawns, to stand down after being made aware of behavioural complaints which did not uphold the level of respect that is now mandatory for any successful organisation. As a company director sometimes you have to make tough decisions; it comes with the territory.

Until the MIL election at the end of last year there remained a high level of respect in the Board room, even though we did not always agree. Debates were at times rigorous, but when a decision was made we respected each other’s views and moved on.

That changed after the November election. A sound, working and respectful Board with a high level of shareholder and nonmember director skills quickly became, as the general meeting requisitioning directors have said, dysfunctional. But it was not like that before November 30, 2023.

Nor did myself and other directors have to endure malicious, disrespectful and misinformed attacks that we have been forced to deal with in recent times. While I abhor this type of behaviour I can deal with it; what I don’t accept is the hurt it causes my family.

I have enjoyed most of my time on the MIL Board, and I know that every decision I have made and supported is what I believe to be in the best interests of the company and the shareholders. Hopefully I can continue in this role after April 10. If the ‘yes’ vote prevails, I would be morally and ethically compromised. I could not in good conscience continue to serve as a Director if the actions of requisitioning directors are condoned and would be forced to resign.

I initially ran for the Board on a platform of transparency and giving shareholders a say in their future. I have upheld those commitments, even with some restrictions from legal obligations and when decisions may not be popular.

A relevant question which must be asked is: What radical changes to the company do the requisitioning directors want to make that they obviously do not believe will be supported by myself and the current Chair? We have always been open to discussing issues which may improve the company.

I also believe that as a farming community we should be proud of our achievements, not undermining them, especially when it is done for personal gain or vendetta. Your Board over the past two years has developed a business strategy that offers financial stability, high level efficiency of water delivery and a workforce that is committed to the company and our community. How much of this are we putting at risk? At the very least we may lose some of our enthusiastic and dedicated team members, especially talented young professionals, if the general meeting condones the lack of respect that has infiltrated the company with a ‘yes’ vote?

We will also jeopardise relationships with key government stakeholders that have been carefully built, for the betterment of shareholders and the broader community. There is little doubt many of these people will not deal with individuals who lack respect.

I encourage all shareholders to be informed and vote at the general meeting. Have a say not just about your future, but the future of your children, grandchildren and the broader community. Please vote ‘no’ for a positive future and to send a clear message that the level of respect to which we all should aspire must be upheld in our company.

Yours faithfully,

Lachlan Marshall Deputy Chair – MIL

Sustainability in agriculture will evoke different thoughts and feelings with many people and growers, and some don’t want to know what is coming until it is upon them, others want to be on the front or middle step and develop an understanding and strategy into how they go about day-to-day operations early on.

Murray Local Land Services hosted an event in Finley on the March 6, 2024 talking all things ‘Environmental, Social & Governance’ (ESG) in agriculture and covering a vast range of topics from Sustainability Frameworks in industries, why we should be talking about Sustainability rather than ESG, through to, what farmers are doing on farm and what opportunities are open to farmers who are heading down this path.

Through all the presentations, it quickly became evident that Sustainability Development Goals, are being used to inform strategies within individual industries, it is not just consumers driving this topic but investors also, there is an important phrase missing from ‘ESG’ that can’t be forgotten in this processECONOMICS!, and at a base level, if we are aiming for best practice with growers and industry, it is a very strong starting point which encompasses ESG goals and provides economic outcomes whether it is through increased return or reduced input costs. As one speaker stated - “Farming well and efficiently, it’s good for the environment, it’s good for you, your community and your pocket (economically) as well”.

While there was plenty of talk around data, being able to improve efficiencies and demonstrate how a product is clean, green and meets expectations; it wasn’t all doom, gloom and pressure on growers. There

Sustainability in Agriculture - where are we heading?

Everyone has thoughts about what sustainability means to them. What it means to how they operate their business; are they being dictated to by people who don’t understand what it takes to grow produce or what the cost to business is.

were presentations from industry discussing some of the current opportunities there to assist growers in understanding what this all means, what data to collect, how to implement changes and where there is market opportunities for producers to possibly get more $’s for product or have access to additional marketing options.

From a practical, on farm perspective, Cam Nicholson spoke about his on-farm journey with ESG and overcoming the data management challenges associated with demonstrating this, again stating that, to him, it’s just about best practice farming and this being an evolving space. Cam spoke about the importance of understanding what sustainability programs are coming through and recognising what markets are doing as this is an indicator of expectations and where things are heading; and while data collection is important in demonstrating how you meet these expectations - don’t collect data for the sake of it, collect data that is going to help drive your decision making on farm, for example feed production in paddocks and animal performance and using this to assist make decisions relating to which animals are kept/ bred from/ sold to what markets and which paddocks are producing adequate feed to support the system - this helps in informing their grazing management.

Finally, to cap the afternoon off, we heard from a panel of local farmers and their thoughts on the ESG space or what it meant to them. Hearing that it is about environmental impact, soils and soil health, livestock management practices, ‘paddock to plate’ movements and providing information regarding how crops are grown, where grain is stored and how it is transported

are examples of how this is starting to emerge as drivers of information collection on farm - knowing numbers and data whether it be emissions, carbon or other practices.

If you missed out on the event or would like to re-visit information, scan the QR code or contact Rebecca Stacey, SLSO Mixed Farming for links, Rebecca. stacey@lls.nsw.gov.au.

Murray LLS will be running further events and workshops relating to this topic in the latter half of 2024, if you are interested, keep an eye out on socials and our webpage: https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/regions/ murray

Contributed by Rebecca Stacey (pictured), senior local lands officer - mixed farming with Murray Local Land Services.

Rabbit Virus Tracking Project

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, is calling on rural and regional Australians to join in the longest-running citizen science survey of rabbit diseases in the world, to help keep the invasive pest in check.

General Meeting

10 April 2024 at 10am

Deniliquin RSL Club

Shareholders will be asked to consider and vote on resolutions at a General Meeting on 10 April 2024

Shareholders can vote either in person or confidentially online. Online voting opens at 10am on Wednesday 3 April 2024

Learn more at:

murrayirrigation.com.au

/general-meeting

Feralrabbits are one of the most destructive invasive pest species in Australia. They compete with native animals, cause plant biodiversity loss, reduce crop yields and cost the agricultural industry around $239 million per year.

Rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV), also known as Rabbit Calicivirus or Lagovirus, is used as a biocontrol agent to manage rabbit populations at the landscape scale in Australia. It only affects rabbits and hares, and vaccination is available for domestic (pet) rabbits.

New research shows the success of the nine-year disease monitoring program, which relies on members of the public taking tissue samples from dead rabbits found in their area using free sample kits provided by CSIRO. Samples can be taken from deceased wild or domestic rabbits.

CSIRO scientist Dr Maria Jenckel said the samples provided since 2015 have helped paint a better picture of the viruses circulating in wild rabbit populations.

“We encourage community members from across Australia, particularly in rural and regional areas, to contribute samples for testing so we can get the widest possible coverage across Australia,” Dr Jenckel said.

“Citizen science has expanded rabbit virus tracking from fewer than 30 samples tested annually to an average of 345 samples tested annually from 2015.

“The program allows researchers to track the prevalence of rabbit virus RHDV, with samples arriving every week.”

CSIRO virologist Dr Nias Peng said the huge increase in citizen collected samples has allowed scientists to work on a much wider geographic spread as researchers don’t need to collect the specimens directly.

“A citizen science project such as this contributes directly to research on rabbit biocontrol, which has long term benefits for Australia’s biosecurity, native species conservation and ecosystem health,” Dr Peng said.

“It is therefore critical to sustain such programs for the long term to monitor for emergence of new RHDV incursions and/or recombinant variants which may affect wild and domestic rabbit populations.”

Funding for this program was originally provided by the Australian Government through the Invasive Animals CRC, the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions and CSIRO. Funding to continue the program is currently being provided by the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

To request a free test kit, email the research team at rabbitcalicivirus@csiro.au with your postal address.

General Meeting: How to vote

This General Meeting will be held as a hybrid meeting. There are a number of ways that shareholders can cast their vote including:

• Via post (open now)

• Confidentially online from 10am on 3 April 2024

• In person or online at the meeting on Wednesday, 10 April 2024

• By appointing a proxy to vote on your behalf

It is important that all shareholders involve themselves in the voting process, to ensure the final outcome on 10 April represents the majority view of the footprint.

The FUTURE of Murray Irrigation is too important to stay silent.

Murray Irrigation General Meeting – How to vote

Murray Irrigation is facilitating a General Meeting on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 10.00am at the Deniliquin RSL Club, for shareholders to vote for or against two resolutions to remove NonMember Directors Trisha Gorman and Robert Burbury from the Murray Irrigation Board.

ThisGeneral Meeting will be held as a hybrid meeting, which will enable shareholders to participate either in person or online.

Shareholders who are not attending the General Meeting can cast their votes early and confidentially either via post or electronically.

Why does my vote matter?

Murray Irrigation shareholder voting on Annual General Meeting resolutions and Director Elections typically attracts low turnout rates.

It is important that all shareholders involve themselves in the voting process, to ensure the final voting outcome on 10 April represents the majority view of the footprint.

To support this, the company is providing a range of channels for shareholders to vote at the upcoming General Meeting, as outlined below:

How and when can I cast my vote?

Shareholders can vote:

1. Confidentially online from April 3, 2024;

2. Via post (postal voting is already open);

3. In person or online at the meeting on Wednesday, April 10, 2024; or

4. By appointing a proxy to vote on your behalf.

Please note: all shareholders have a right under the company’s constitution to appoint a proxy, however, this method of voting is considered superfluous. Proxy voting was originally designed for shareholders unable to attend physical meetings and vote on the day. However, since the introduction of hybrid meetings and online/direct voting, there are multiple ways shareholders can participate in a general meeting, even if they are not available to physically attend on the day.

1. Voting online (direct voting) - from 3 April:

If you are unable, or do not wish to attend the General Meeting, you can still cast your vote confidentially online via the personalised link provided to you in your voting pack or via the following link h ttps:// investorcentre.linkgroup.com/voting/milu.

Online voting opens from 10am, Wednesday, April 3, 2024.

If you wish to vote online but do not have the means, Murray Irrigation will have online voting stations set up in the Deniliquin and Finley offices by appointment from Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Contact our Customer Support team to arrange your appointment:

P: 1300 138 265 or

E: customersupport@murrayirrigation.com.au

Shareholders will also have the opportunity to watch the General Meeting live online and to cast their vote electronically during the proceedings, using the step by step guide found the company’s website.

2. Voting via post:

All shareholders should have received a hard copy Notice of Meeting in the mail. Within this, you will find a voting/proxy form.

Simply complete this form and return it in person to Murray Irrigation’s Deniliquin office or via post to the below address before 10.00am on Monday, April 8, 2024.

3.

Voting in person:

If you are attending the General Meeting in person, you can cast your vote for, against, or abstain, using the voting cards provided to you on registration at the meeting.

4. Voting by Proxy:

If you do not wish to use the above methods of voting, you can appoint a proxy to vote on your behalf.

A proxy form can be completed online via the personalised link provided to you in your voting pack or via the following link https://investorcentre.linkgroup. com/voting/milu. Alternatively, you can return the hard copy provided to you in the Notice of Meeting pack in person to Murray Irrigation’s Deniliquin office or via post to the address below.

Please note, if a valid vote or proxy direction is provided by multiple methods of participation, priority will be given to the most recent method. For example, if you have appointed a proxy to vote on your behalf, and later decide to vote online, the online vote will be given priority.

Returning documents to the company

In person:

Murray Irrigation Limited

443 Charlotte Street Deniliquin NSW 2710

Via post:

Murray Irrigation Limited

c/- Link Market Services Limited

Locked Bag A14 Sydney South NSW 1235 Australia

By email: Company.secretary@murrayirrigation.com.au

By fax:

02 9287 0309

For further information on the General Meeting, please visit www.murrayirrigation.com.au/generalmeeting.

If shareholders have any questions about how to cast your vote, please contact Link Market Services on 1300 554 474.

For any other questions, please call customer support on 1300 138 265 or email company.secretary@ murrayirrigation.com.au.

Women of the Riverina

Women from across the Riverina region gathered at Hay Services Club last week, for Hay Plains Landcare’s highly successful Women of the Riverina Forum.

The two-day event was organised by local Landcare powerhouses Jade Auldist and Jenny Dwyer in recognition of NSW Women’s Week, and brought together inspirational guest speakers on a variety of topics.

On day one local sheep and beef producer Dimity Comb spoke about her role as a woman working on the land, and her detailed explanations of breeding techniques was fascinating.

“Women have a key role in ag and we contribute as much as men in many ways,” she told the assembled crowd. “I feel quite lucky that I haven’t found inequity. I think it’s because in the last decade there are many more women involved in all aspects of ag. We have big roles to play in agriculture into the future.”

Joanne Diver, formerly of Hay, spoke of her admiration of resilient Australian native plants and their role in our environment and history. She commented on how native bee mothers share a nest and work together to raise young.

“That’s a common theme - mothers working together,” she said.

Rangelands officer with Riverina Local Land Services (RLLS) Tanisha Shields talked about finding her niche in agriculture and the work she is undertaking across the rangelands of the region.

“I am so fortunate to live 130 kilometres from Hay but still be able to carve out such a rewarding career,” she said.

Breakout activities saw participants try their hand at dipping items in acrylic paint to create a marble affect, or roll clay seedballs, which were carefully taken home, destined for local paddocks or gardens.

After lunch Kate Jenkins from RLLS shared information about the Black Falcon and the preservation project she is working on. The project offers $10,000 grants to landholders to undertake habitat protection work to help protect the vulnerable hunting bird.

Biosecurity officer Bella McGrath said the importance of biosecurity was simple. “If you have pets, like to eat food or like to travel, then biosecurity can have an impact on you.”

She enthralled the crowd with details of her achievements at such a young age.

Hannah Brien from NSW Primary Industries spoke about the various programs available to landholders under the DPI banner before participants once again broke into groups, this time to try sewing hand dyed fabric, or paint watercolour wildflowers.

The afternoon wound up with a session all about Hay Plains Landcare, with speakers Jenny Dwyer, Sally Ware, Jade Auldist and Fleur Cullenward speaking about the various achievements of this hard-working group.

That evening guests were treated to a formal dinner, with a fashion parade and styling advice, facilitated by Sarah Laracy of Two Billy Buttons. The runway models definitely kept the crowd entertained.

On day two the morning speakers included Sandra Ireson from Hay Inc, Em Armstrong from Saltbush Stretch and Sheila Smith from Miss Smith Designs.

Each spoke of their journey towards creating their own niches, the importance of taking time for oneself and how being based in Hay is made possible by technology. The Riverine Grazier will bring you more in-depth stories of these inspiring women in coming weeks.

Hay Shire Council’s Tourism and Economic Development Officer Ali McLean shared Hay’s latest tourism, agriculture and economy facts, and answered questions from the floor about opportunities and fears in regards to proposed renewable energy developments.

Half the attendees were then loaded onto a bus for journalling exercises in the idyllic location of Deb Donohoe’s riverside home. The remaining participants

were put through their paces with a yoga session led by Em Armstrong.

Murrumbidgee Landcare’s Annika Brown gave an overview of the organisations work across the region before Cassie Douglas gave the final presentation of the forum.

Ms Douglas works with the Biodiversity Conservation Trust and talked about programs for landholders and how BCT has allowed her to thrive in the rural setting.

“I’ve been blessed to work in regional areas for my entire career,” she said.

A final afternoon session of seed ball rolling and guided water colour painting closed out what guests described as a “wonderful, inspiring event” which “should happen every year!”

Forum organisers Jenny Dwyer (left) and Jade Auldist.

Sheila Smith, Em Armstrong and Sandra Ireson each contributed to the highly praised two-day Women of the Riverina Forum.

Day one forum presenters (from left) Dimity Comb, Tanisha Shields and Joanne Diver.

Managing pests with beneficial insects

Australian grain growers will benefit from improved pest management strategies with the commencement of two new research projects focusing on beneficial insects (beneficials) in canola.

Lacewings.

Snout mite.

Hoverfly

Mother Wolfspider.

The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) investments are being led by Australia’s national science agency CSIRO and Cesar Australia and represent a collective investment of more than $12 million into understanding of the impact of beneficial invertebrates such as ladybeetles, lacewings, spiders, carabids, predatory mites and parasitic wasps in canola.

Canola is subject to attack by at least 30 species of invertebrate pests, although this can vary between grain growing regions. Over the last decade, the average annual loss from invertebrate pests in canola – using the management strategies available – was estimated to be $54 million.

GRDC crop protection manager west, Georgia Megirian, said sustainable production of canola requires integrated pest management (IPM).

“Cultural practices and biological control are important aspects of IPM. Chemical interventions should be reserved as a last resort, applied only when necessary to prevent pests from reaching economically harmful levels,” Ms Megirian said.

“To date, synthetic insecticides have served as the primary means of controlling pests in canola within broadacre agriculture. Relying solely on this single method could escalate the risk of developing pesticide resistance and potentially harm the natural enemies of these pests.

“These new investments focus on enhancing the activity of beneficials in canola pests, addressing critical challenges such as market access, chemical regulation and the increasing threat of insecticide resistance in canola production.”

The five-year, $9.7 million project Minimising damage of invertebrate pests in canola through a better understanding of the impact of beneficial insects –also known as Canola Allies – will be led by CSIRO with support from New South Wales Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI), the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), the Western Australian Department of Primary Industries

“Chemical interventions should be reserved as a last resort, applied only when necessary to prevent pests from reaching economically harmful levels.”

GEORGIA MEGIRIAN

and Regional Development (DPIRD) and Murdoch University.

CSIRO Principal Research Scientist Dr Sarina Macfadyen said beneficials could be instrumental in suppressing a range of pest populations and reducing the frequency and extent of damaging pest outbreaks.

“Globally about 35 per cent of crops are lost to preharvest pests (weeds, disease and invertebrate pests) even with the use of pesticides. Specific crop loss data for Australian systems is scarce but we know the threat posed by invertebrate pests changes across the season, year, location and crop type,” Dr Macfadyen said.

“Australian canola producers have an amazing diversity of beneficials on their properties and in the broader landscape (and also for purchase from companies like Biological Services and Bugs for Bugs) which could be used more strategically to reduce crop losses. But to achieve this requires some new knowledge, practices, and tools to integrate beneficials into farming operations.

“The Canola Allies project is designed to uncover new insights into the ecology and management of beneficials in Australia’s canola growing regions. It focuses on understanding their effects on key canola

pests and developing tailored practices to conserve and enhance their populations.”

Additionally, a four-year, $2.2 million project Assessing the ecological and economic benefits of controlling aphid pests of canola with parasitoid wasps will be led by Cesar Australia in partnership with Biological Services, Bugs for Bugs, Crop Capsules and the University of Melbourne.

This project aims to provide canola growers and advisers with evidence-based guidelines for integrating beneficial insects into their pest management practices. It specifically focuses on the strategic release of aphid parasitoid wasps to manage aphid populations effectively, potentially reducing or eliminating the reliance on pesticides.

Cesar Australia research scientist Dr Luis Mata said the project was aimed at gathering crucial information to bolster growers’ confidence in incorporating beneficial insects into their pest management strategies.

“Based on our consultations with industry experts and researchers, a critical question emerges: ‘If I use beneficial insects to manage pest X, what level of pest suppression can I anticipate, and how will it affect my crop?’,” Dr Mata said.

“This project is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of aphid parasitoid wasps in managing aphid infestations without the use of insecticides. It will also compare the results with the pest control levels achieved through conventional approaches, such as the application of broad-spectrum insecticides.

“Through field-based research, the project will assess the biological, ecological and economic advantages of leveraging natural enemies for pest control. Importantly, the findings will be translated into practical, feasible, and economically beneficial management strategies and tools tailored for Australia’s grains industry.”

Both projects are now underway, with results anticipated to be available to Australian growers starting from 2027.

Two new GRDC investments will study the impact of beneficial invertebrates such as ladybeetles, lacewings, spiders, carabids, predatory mites and parasitic wasps in canola. Photos: Cesar Australia.

GRDC crop protection manager west Georgia Megirian.

Helen Dalton MP

I have been contacted by a number of constituents who share my outrage over the federal government’s multi million dollar, taxpayer funded, Murray Darling Basin advertising campaign.

These ads, which have been airing on commercial TV networks for a number of weeks, falsely portray NSW farming families as environmental vandals and I am working towards having them taken off air.

The TV commercial blames NSW farming families for the state of the rivers, when water mismanagement by the federal government is responsible for the shocking state of our system.

I am calling on federal Water Minister, Tanya Plibersek, to take this dishonest government advertisement off-air immediately and to scrap the entire campaign.

We should never be portrayed as environmental vandals.

If you haven’t seen the ad, below is the full transcript:

“The Murray-Darling rivers pump life through our nation.

To our farms, communities and environment.

But water’s being overused. And the next drought is only a matter of time.

We have to make sure there’s enough water, otherwise the rivers may run dry.

If we don’t act, it could threaten our iconic Aussie plants and animals, our food supply, and affect the drinking water of more than three million Australians.

Find out how the Australian government’s plan will restore the Murray-Darling rivers. Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.”

Southern Riverina rice scholars

Finley’s Niamh Mason has been named as the recipient of the Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia’s prestigious Greg Graham Memorial Scholarship.

Tocumwal’s Laura Hatty has received the runnerup scholarship - the $3000 Peter Connor Book Award.

Niamh is in her third year of a Bachelor of Agricultural Science, majoring in Agronomy at the University of Queensland.

RGA president Peter Herrmann expressed his admiration for Ms Mason.

“Niamh was an outstanding applicant with a deep understanding and passion for the rice industry,” he said.

“Niamh has worked in rice research in the Riverina and at the University of Queensland.

“She has a keen interest in research and extension, and her determination to build a career in agriculture is evident from her varied work experience since completing high school.”

The Greg Graham Memorial Scholarship provides $10,000 to assist a student with the costs of tertiary education.

It is named after past RGA president Greg Graham of Deniliquin, who died suddenly on New Year’s Day in 1983.

The Peter Connor Book Award is intended to help with the cost of books and course materials.

Peter Connor was a leading rice grower in the Coleambally area, a long-standing vice president of the RGA, and a board member of the Ricegrowers’ Cooperative Limited.

Ms Hatty is studying for a Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science at Charles Sturt University.

“Ms Hatty impressed the interview panel with her strong knowledge of the rice industry, rice growing and current impacts facing growers,” Mr Hermann said.

“Her commitment to regional and rural communities was evident in her post-university aspirations.

“We see the next generation as a key part of our success and are excited to see where these two diligent young adults will go.

“The calibre of our scholarship applicants was incredibly high this year, giving me great confidence in the industry’s future.”

The RGA extends its gratitude to Rice Research Australia Pty Ltd and SunRice for their generous financial support, which makes these scholarships possible each year.

Since their inception in 2001, 40 students have benefited.

Laura Hatty.

Niamh Mason.

What else happened?

BORN IN 1940?

WHAT ELSE

HAPPENED?

Ron Williams

The Brits thought the War would be a picnic. But they changed their mind after military disasters in Norway, Belgium and Tobruk. German subs were filling the Channel with British shipping, and the Frogs stopped hopping. Then the Hun parked their planes full-time over London, and Blitzed it. But, against all odds, the Poms survived. In Oz, the first Menzies Government rationed food, clothing, petrol, smokes and shirt tails. It introduced conscription for men, internment for Italian men, and stopped the use of pink icing on cakes. Photography was suspect, strikes were almost treasonable. Amid all this, Contemporary Art was blossoming, and doing its bit to destroy Australian culture. $21.99

BORN IN 1950?

WHAT ELSE HAPPENED?

Ron Williams

Hopefully, they will spark discussions between generations, and foster the asking and answering of questions that should not remain unanswered.

In 1950, Dugan and Mears used a hacksaw to break out of gaol, they robbed banks, shot people and went back to gaol. The War finished five years ago, so it was time to stop petrol rationing. War criminals were hanging out at Nuremberg. Dancing pumps were tripping the light fantastic at The Plaza. Whaling in Australia was big; square dancing was bigger. $21.99

BORN IN 1960?

WHAT ELSE HAPPENED?

Ron Williams

Oz women were said to be drunks, Princess Margaret can now expect to have free photos taken, and professional tennis came via Jack Kramer to this fair land. The concept of male nurses was raised, Arthur Calwell’s dead hand fell on the Labour Party, William Dobell was said to tricked the Art World on April Fools Day, and two especially gory murders were committed in Maitland. And, can you believe it, a few men were admitted to hospitals during the labours of women. Has the new idea of the equality of the sexes gone too far? $21.99

BORN IN 1970?

WHAT ELSE HAPPENED?

Ron Williams

President Nixon’s war in Vietnam, and now Cambodia, was getting unpopular in the USA and Oz. We decided to take our 8th Battalion home. Melbourne’s Westgate Bridge fell into the water and killed 35 workmen. The Queen, Prince Phillip, and two kids came to Oz. They liked it, so the Pope came later. Margaret Court, John Newcombe, Shane Gould, and Raylene Boyle all did well overseas, and made us think we were world-beaters. Nick Jagger starred in “Ned Kelly”. There were 13 million people and 180 million sheep in Oz. The Indian Pacific made its first trip across the nation. $21.99

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$11.6 million upgrade strengthens Riverina’s farming future

The $11.6 million upgrade of the Corowa Saleyards, one of NSW’s largest sheep markets, has been offically opened by NSW Minister Tara Moriarty.

The NSW Government is prioritising the resilience of our agricultural industry, and this upgrade will ensure the saleyard continues to play a critical role in supporting the industry and local communities across the Riverina.

About 600,000 head of sheep pass through the saleyards annually, generating average sales of more than $81 million.

The upgrade has been jointly funded by the NSW Government ($10.1 million) and the Federation Council ($1.5 million). It will provide a safer, more efficient, and more attractive facility for livestock buyers, sellers and the general public.

The Government’s upgrade project to the 60 year old saleyards include:

• multi-purpose learning centre and administrative building for localising skill pathways

• new roof, which will better protect stock, staff and visitors from extreme weather conditions

• water catchment system and upgraded lighting system

• truck wash to provide improved biosecurity protections

The upgrades will draw additional traders and visitors into Corowa and surrounding centres, spending money in local stores and providing downstream benefits for businesses and suppliers.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:

“Corowa Saleyards is already one of the biggest saleyards in NSW, and the Government’s funded expansion will ensure it goes from strength-to-strength.

“It’s important to have major hubs like this facility in our regions because they futureproof our agricultural sector, support local economies and create opportunities for training and work.

“The flow-on impacts from the upgrades benefit sheep and lamb producers, as well as the transport and logistics and the education and training sectors.

Federation Council Mayor Patrick Bourke said:

“The Corowa Saleyards redevelopment project has been a significant project for Council to deliver and has resulted in our overall masterplan for the site coming to fruition.”

“This project has a strong focus on animal welfare, environmental responsibility, growth, and safety, and upon delivery will allow further future opportunities for the Corowa Saleyards to be unlocked in a holistic and strategic manner.

“This delivery of the new Corowa Saleyards precinct will not only improve the Saleyards facility moving forward but will go a long way in supporting the resilience of our local economy and wider agricultural trading market.”

FARMtalk welcomes community contributions from farmers, experts and professionals who make their living and life on the land. If you would like to contribute, there are several ways to do so.

• Get in touch and give us a tip of a great story idea.

• Contribute an article: If you are an expert in your field then contributing once off, or regularly, is a great way to get started in our FARMtalk magazine. Contact Zoe McMaugh at farmtalk@denipt.com.au or 03 5881 2322.

• Become an author: FARMtalk is open to occasional contributors who are experts in their field or authorities on a subject or area. Once you have contributed an article, and the editorial team have approved you, we can set you up with a regular column to contribute. We would love to hear from you. Contact Zoe McMaugh at farmtalk@denipt.com.au or 03 5881 2322.

• Have a fascinating farm in mind for us to showcase? Tell us! We would love to hear from you. Contact Zoe McMaugh at farmtalk@denipt.com.au or 03 5881 2322.