STUD TO CELEBRATE SILVER MILESTONE AT SYDNEY ROYAL
The Royal Agricultural Society is preparing to bring the country back to the city once again, as people across the region gear up for the 2025 Sydney Royal Easter Show.
Inside this special edition of The Farmer, we spotlight some of the region’s brightest young talents in agriculture—future leaders who will showcase their skills in everything from judging to auctioneering.
Among the long-time contributors to the Show is Hollywood Angus Stud from Peak Hill, which is celebrating 25 years of recognition by the Royal Agricultural Society. Founded in 2000 by Lyn and Ian Frecklington after decades of breeding commercial Angus cattle, the stud has become a fixture in the industry.
This year, Lyn Frecklington takes on a busy role as breed captain, bringing eight adult cattle and two calves to the Show, supported by a team of four helpers.
Continued page 11
Advocacy
groups call for parties to declare support for farmers in lead up
With Australia heading to the polls on 3 May, the National Farmers’ Federation is calling on all parties to commit to our farming future.
“This election comes at a critical moment for Australian agriculture and every family that relies on farmers for a ordable food and bre,” Federation President
David Jochinke said.
“The choices made by the next government will shape our ability to feed Australians for generations to come.”
The Federation is calling for immediate action on:
Developing a National Food Security Preparedness Strategy;
Reducing regulatory bur-
dens and maintaining vital support programs; Investing in practical environmental solutions led by farmers;
Addressing critical labour shortages and enhancing safety;
Strengthening trade relationships and boosting export competitiveness;
Fixing unsafe rural roads and delivering on regional housing and childcare.
“Australian agriculture stands at the intersection of major global trends that will reshape farming and food prices,” Mr Jochinke said.
“From rising input costs to climate pressures, our $80 billion export industry faces
A critical time for ag
to Federal election
unprecedented challenges.
“But with the right policies, we can turn these challenges into opportunities – keeping food a ordable while growing towards our goal of becoming a $100 billion industry by 2030.”
The Federation spoke on the Federal Budget - delivered earlier in the week.
“While we acknowledge some new funding targeting the sector – especially the $3.5 million for a National Food Security Strategy, a key election ask – the budget falls well short of the investment needed to unlock agriculture’s full potential,” Mr Jochinke said.
■ Continued page 4
Search on for next generation leaders
A statewide search is underway for five young rural leaders as NSW Farmers opens applications for its 2025 Tertiary Scholarships.
Each worth $4000 annually, the NSW Farmers 2025 Tertiary Scholarships will be awarded to members or their children in their second year of study for a university degree or vocational qualification, in a field relevant to regional and rural Australia.
NSW Young Farmers Chair Martin Murray said the scholarship program aimed to build the farm communities of the future.
“As the state’s peak farm body, we exist to help farmers right now, but also in the future – and this scholarship program is part of our commitment to help the next generation access opportunities and careers in rural Australia,” Mr Murray said in a NSW Farmers announcement to the media.
“Investing in skill development and building capacity is essential if we want these future leaders to find their passion and get the head start they need to achieve their goals.”
2024 scholarship recipient and Rural Science student Jennifer Corderoy said the program had proved pivotal in unlocking new resources and experiences on her journey into the agricultural sector.
“This scholarship truly reflects the community unique to our industry, in which one generation gives a ‘leg up’ to the next,” Ms Corderoy said.
“By studying Rural Science, I am being equipped to address farming challenges, and I hope that the contributions of my career to our industry will be a return on the investment of NSW Farmers in me.”
Applications for the Tertiary Scholarships program close on 11 May.
Scholarships will be awarded based on academic performance, commitment to agriculture and rural communities, and all-round ability including leadership qualities and communication skills.
For information or to apply, visit the NSW Farmers website www.nswfarmers.org.au
Tasha’s life-long passion for ag and her community
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Tasha Hurley is one of eight in the state heading to this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show as a Rural Achiever nalist.
The Rural Achiever competition recognises young leaders working hard to make a signicant contribution to their local community, show society and Australian agriculture.
Tasha threw her hat in the ring and was surprised when she found out she had been selected as a nalist.
“I was very excited, I’ve spent a bit of time with the Rural Achievers in previous years as I was on the Royal Ag Society Youth Group so it’s quite an honour to be associated with them,” Tasha said.
Growing up on her family farm 100kms north west of Condobolin, Tasha has never considered a career outside of the agriculture industry.
She has completed a Bachelor of Agriculture Business Management and spent three years at Forbes Livestock Agency as a Livestock Marketing and Business Development O cer before moving to On The Box as an Agency Representative.
She now hopes to go into the grassroots of the industry, working on farm with producers.
“I’ve grown up surrounded by agriculture and love it so much, so I want to be able to contribute to the industry,” she said.
Tasha has already been recognised for multiple leadership roles: as a Red Meat Ambassador for Meat and Livestock Australia, and as the chair of the Royal Agricultural Society Youth Group when she was 21 years old.
THEN
NOW
ty: volunteering is something the Rural Achiever nalist is most passionate about.
“Growing up I absolutely loved my childhood in Condobolin where you could play pretty much every sport in the world and all the events that were on too,” she said.
When Tasha came back to the family farm for her gap year in 2018 during the drought she saw the closure of many shops, the end to local events and the folding of sporting teams.
“Obviously when farmers aren’t going too well the town struggles a bit too and it clicked with me that year and I was like, wow, people don’t shop local, help out and join committees,” she said.
Condobolin didn’t have a rugby union team for three years, a netball team for ve years and even a rugby league team for a while.
son all these people are having so much fun’.”
From events to the agriculture industry the people is what Tasha enjoys the most.
“Growing up we spent a lot of time with our neighbours who were obviously farmers so I think the people of agriculture are very resilient, they all have a good sense of humour because you need it, they are all hard working and I think they all have the features of great leaders and people,” she said.
Looking towards the Sydney Royal, Tasha is looking forward to catching up with people and being part of an exciting experience and professional development.
“I’m looking forward to meeting all the other nalists so it should be a great week,” Tasha added.
Our region’s Young Achievers
“I really want to contribute and be on all of those committees because these events are my favourite parts of the year,” Tasha said.
bassador Award recognising his enthusiasm for community engagement and agricultural advancement.
Brooke Watts from Molong founded The UpGen Project and oversees operations at her family owned company, Bralca.
Bralca which o en hold events and work with people in our region.
Brooke has deep roots in agriculture, growing up on her family farm in Molong.
Armed with a Bachelor of Business Management, she leverages her wealth of knowledge and passion to ignite innovative conversations in industry.
In the industry’s future Tasha would love to see every person in Australia have a basic understanding of agriculture, where their food and bre comes from and why the industry is so important to everyone in Australia.
Sales Courtney Gambrill Manager Mobile 0448 248 080 cgambrill@midwestmedia.com.au
“I think there is a growing divide between the city and the country and it’s getting harder with some people just not really appreciating agriculture for what it is,” she said.
“Being able to educate everyone to understand we’re doing our best, we’re doing it because we love it and we’re also feeding and clothing the nation, so it’s not an industry to be laughed at.”
Outside of the paddock you can nd Tasha in the communi-
Tasha is the founder and event manager of Condobolin’s successful Oktoberfest.
Last year Tasha was part of the team that raised more than $30k from this event which goes towards local sports clubs.
“Seeing this event grow each year and make a tangible impact on the community has been incredibly rewarding,” Tasha said.
“It’s not hard to join committees and it’s very satisfying at the end of the event when you get to look around and go, ‘I helped make this happen’, ‘I’m the rea-
From eight Rural Achiever nalists four, including Tasha, have a connection to our region.
Jacob Moriarty from Canowindra discovered a passion for agriculture following high school.
Jacob is currently completing a Diploma in Agriculture while working as an assistant farm manager in Canowindra.
This Rural Achiever has been recognised for her leadership being named a 2024 nalist for Western NSW Outstanding Young Business Leader of the Year and a nalist for 2023 Charles Sturt University Young Alumni of the Year.
Brooke has a passion for inspiring youth initiatives in agriculture and an increased adoption of ag tech.
Roy Elder from Wongarbon managed the construction of the multi-million dollar grain silo and railway upgrade at Red Bend and managed the build of a new silo factory at Forbes.
In this role Jacob’s responsibilities include, enhancing soil carbon levels in dryland cropping and managing livestock in the mixed farming system.
He is an active member of the Canowindra Show Society and serves as the organiser of the Canowindra Crop Competition.
Last year saw Jacob honoured with the Canowindra Rural Am-
Roy is a project manager delivering infrastructure to improve the competitiveness of Australian grain growers holding a Master of Construction Project Management and a Bachelor of Architecture and Environments.
He is involved with local tree planting and river clean up initiatives.
Tasha has always had a love for agriculture. PHOTOS: Supplied
Tasha Hurley is one of eight Rural Achiever finalists at this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show.
Quality offering at Reiland bull sale
The autumn Reiland Angus bull sale is set for Wednesday 16 April at Killimicat Station, Brungle.
Several new sire lines will be represented via Reiland Republic who is an Ashland son with tremendous so ness, growth and marbling focus.
This drop represents his rst sire group from a two-year-old joining.
An additional sire line is that of Reiland Speculator S257, who currently is ranked in the top one per cent on both $A an $ A-L indexes.
The bulls that represent this sire will impress buyers by his moderate frame, low birth, high growth and exceedingly positive carcase data
of +12.7 EMA, positive fat and +4.0 marbling.
Reiland has used Speculator S257 widely in 2024 AI joining programs and is looking forward to o ering expanded numbers from this industry leading sire.
Popular AI sires who are represented include: Baldridge Goalkeeper, Millah Murrah Paratrooper, SS Brickyard, Landfall Mainland, Sterling Paci c. The sale comes on the heels of recent Reiland Premier female sale where cows and calves topped at $3300 per unit and PTIC heifers made $2100 in a challenging southern season.
Call for federal candidates to show support for ag
From page 1
“Farmers are grappling with major geopolitical, environmental and societal shi s,” the National Farmers Federation presi-
“We need a sharper focus from Government to ensure we keep farmers farming, and keep food a ordable for Aussie families.”
Mr Jochinke said trade was a worthy focus for the agriculture portfolio, and showed the Government was listening to farmers’ increasing concerns about the changing trade environment.
“Farmers export about 70 per cent of what they produce, so undoubtedly any threats to market access are top of mind,” he said.
The budget includes $6.8m for international engagement and market access, as well as $20m
for a Buy Australian campaign.
“We acknowledge funding for new and existing infrastructure and $2.9m to help fresh produce suppliers better negotiate with supermarkets,” Mr Jochinke said.
“We need billions more invested in xing potholed rural roads. We need innovative approaches to stimulate regional housing and overcome workforce challenges.
“We need major investment in our waterways and in ecosystem services to protect our environment.”
NSW Farmers also put the spotlight on poor infrastructure, telecommunications and biosecurity.
“Billions have been promised to x roads and rail in the cities, but we don’t know whether there will be any allocated to x the
roads, railways and bridges that are falling apart throughout the bush,” NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said.
“Meanwhile, our telecommunications are in ruin and farmers are ghting a losing battle against a growing number of biosecurity threats.
“Promises to upgrade the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness and deliver $11 million to ght pests, weeds and feral animals are only a drop in the ocean, and we need much more funding to deliver a serious biosecurity regime that will defend our industry and assure our food security into the future.”
Funding commitments to keep Rex Airlines a oat and regional bank branches open were welcome, alongside commitments to
drive competition reform, create a National Food Security Strategy and deliver cost of living relief for communities Australia wide.
However, Mr Martin warned more targeted investment in regional, remote and rural communities would be essential to ensure farmers could keep growing the Aussie food and bre the nation needs.
“Investing in farming communities drives productivity and will deliver food security,” Mr Martin said.
“Our government keeps talking about a future made in Australia, but how about a future grown in Australia?
“As we head to the polls, our politicians can’t forget the fact that people need fresh, Aussie grown food at fair prices.”
Lot
National Farmers Federation president David Jochinke PHOTO: Supplied
Every Easter, the country’s best young auctioneers put their skills to the test under the bright lights of the Sydney Royal ampitheatre.
Each has three steers to sell - prime stock of Sydney Royal competition to showcase their skills in commanding the room and getting the best price for the vendor.
This year, central west auctioneer Darcy Howard will step up to the microphone to represent NSW in the competition at a national level as the reigning champion from the NSW title this time last year.
The ampitheatre at Sydney Royal Easter Show is a far cry from the Central West Livestock Exchange and Cowra saleyards, and it does take some adjustment.
“You’ve just got to do a little bit more practice focussed on that competition,” Darcy said.
“I feel very privileged to go down there and represent NSW, I want to give it my best shot.”
But for Darcy, it’s about more than just the competition - it’s about people and his passion for agriculture and the ever-evolving livestock industry he loves.
The young auctioneer has had a whirlwind 12 months, busy across the Forbes and
Cowra selling centres but also in business, becoming a director of the new Cowrabased MCC Howard Oliver.
“It’s been a big 12 months but a very exciting 12 months as well,” he said.
The competition is just one part of the job and the industry he loves.
“There’s a few facets to it but I really enjoy being able to work with my clients,” Darcy said.
“I get a lot of satisfaction from seeing them have good results in di erent sales whether it be in the yards or over the hook.”
There’s just nothing better than partnering with clients to grow their business and seeing them reach their goals: in this industry clients become friends and Darcy counts himself very lucky to work with very good people.
“I love the industry in terms of it’s very competitive but some of my best friends are in the industry as well that are competitors,” he said.
Being part of the Young Auctioneers competition has grown the opportunities to expand those networks.
“The biggest thing is the exposure you get from being in the competition and the networking that comes from that,” Darcy said.
“It’s just such a good op-
portunity for agents across the country to put a face to the name - you meet a lot of people down at the shows.
“The networking with other people in the competition and other people down there, that’s invaluable for your business.”
It’s a business Darcy has long-term con dence in, despite seasonal variations and market uctuations.
“In agriculture we are so reliant on rain and on the seasons, and in Australia we’re so reliant on export markets, there’s going to be times where the industry’s tested,” he said.
“But we’ve got a growing population in the world and the world needs protein.
“In Australia we can produce high end quality red meat and that gives us a big competitive advantage on the world stage.
“Our animal welfare standards are better than anywhere else in the world and I think that’s something we can be really proud of in Australian agriculture.”
And the season ahead?
Seasonal rains will make all the di erence.
“The livestock job’s all set up to be really, really strong going into the winter but we just need a bit of rain to make that happen,” Darcy said.
Darcy Howard, MCC Howard Oliver, pictured right with Craig Oliver, will represent NSW in the national Young Auctioneers finals. PHOTOS: Supplied
Experience vital in Jack’s Sydney bid
Jack Whitty reckons he’s a better auctioneer and a better person for his 2024 Sydney Royal experience in the State Young Auctioneersnal - and he can’t wait to open bidding in this year’s big event.
Jack was just 19 when he contested his rst State nal, an experience that’s shaped both the day-today of his job and his preparations for this year.
“Last year was a really good building block,” he said as he looks to the 2025 event scheduled for Friday 11 April.
“I’m a lot better auctioneer for it.
“I learnt plenty of di erent techniques o the back of it and a different style of selling so I’m really looking forward to going to Sydney again and giving it another crack.”
Jack grew up around cattle and shows and then followed dad Luke - a former winner of this competition - into the business at a young age.
His dad has obviously been one of his key mentors both in getting established as a livestock agent, but in knowing the value of the Young Auctioneers competitions.
There are some key di erences between selling at the sheepyards at the Central West Livestock Exchange of a Tuesday morning, and selling at Sydney Royal.
Just getting used to a microphone and using that to your advantage is key - but so is adjusting your tempo and intensity to create atmosphere within the very different environment that is Sydney Royal.
“You need to be able to take your
intensity to another level to engage 3000 people,” Jack said.
“With a bit of experience and practice coming into the competition this year I feel as though I’ve got that ability to engage a crowd.”
Jack’s plan for the main event is
to have as ordinary a morning as possible, and to keep his sale approach simple.
“Going over those steers and picking out four or ve key aspects or each steer to emphasise - emphasising those key factors rath-
er than trying to do and say too much,” he said.
“That’s probably where my focus is this year: say more numbers than words.”
But there’s so much more to this event than making a sale.
“I really like livestock and probably more so connecting with people through the industry,” Jack said.
“That’s where my focus is and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to do it all again.”
Jack Whitty, KMWL, is preparing for the 2025 NSW Young Auctioneers finals at Sydney Royal.
PHOTOS: Supplied
Jack Whitty’s dad Luke is his mentor in business and the Young Auctioneer competition.
Lockie’s set for next steps in livestock industry
the opportunity to go to Syd-
The increasingly popular competition attracted about 40 young auctioneers from around the State and in itself opened up great opportunities - because the industry is as much about connections as
training and learning, each of the contenders had their chance to sell three steers for
The opportunity to meet and work with people is a huge part of what attracted Lockie to the business and what he hopes to gain from Sydney.
It’s what he loves about his
“I love that I can do my job where my Pop is, one of my best friends, it’s really good having someone like that as
“He’s a very good mentor and I’m very lucky to be under
Matthew Lennon is another in the business who’s showing the next generation the way.
“They’ve taught me a lotand obviously there’s still plenty to learn,” Lockie said.
“They’re steering me in the right direction anyway.”
KMWL today is based in Forbes with a vast reach and Lockie’s work most frequently takes him to the north and west - between Parkes and Dubbo, to Nyngan and Cumnock.
While he’s had plenty of selling experience at Forbes’ Central West Livestock Exchange, Lockie’s been preparing himself for Sydney by working with mentors with competition experience and watching videos of previous winners.
Lockie Miller, KMWL, will contest the State Young Auctioneers final at Sydney Royal. PHOTOS: Supplied
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Hollywood Angus to celebrate Sydney Royal milestone
From page 1
“Sydney is one of the most prestigious cattle shows in Australia so the competition will probably be the best in Australia,” Lyn Frecklington said.
“You always hope you can win your class at Sydney but we just hope to be competitive and pick up a few ribbons.”
Hollywood Angus has already seen some promising results this Show season, claiming Junior, Senior and Grand Champion Angus Bull titles at the Canberra Royal Show.
Hollywood Top O’ The Morning was awarded Senior and grand Champion Angus Bull which he also won last year at the Canberra Royal.
“His half brother and half sister won the sires progeny and the breeders group in the Angus as well and his younger half brother, Hollywood Vaya Con Dios, won Junior Champion Angus Bull,” Lyn said. All four of these cattle are the progeny of Hollywood Longmire who Hollywood Angus Stud bred themselves.
“That made us really happy. When you use your own bull and they’re capable of winning at the Royal Shows, it’s pretty good,” Lyn said.
Hollywood Angus Stud place strong emphasis on structural correctness, feed e ciency, good growth and docility within their Angus cattle.
“We like structurally correct cattle which is why they do well at shows,” Lyn said.
“I don’t like looking at ugly cattle and when you go to sell them it’s the good looking ones, the structurally correct ones, that people prefer and that’s why we like breeding them.”
Lyn prefers the Angus breed as she sees them as the premiere breed and sees more demand for
Angus cattle through the sale yards and from the processors.
“The Angus Society does a good job at marketing them but it’s not just Australia, it’s the same in America and Canada. Angus are sort of a premium, therefore Angus beef,” she said.
“Angus beef have certain standards that it has to achieve or they won’t get the grading, Certi ed Australian Angus Beef (CAAB), and apart from just being black they have to have certain meat quality characteristics to pass to get graded that way.”
Apart from Canberra and Sydney Royal, Hollywood Angus will only be competing in local shows around the Central West this year and are excited to have the opportunity to display some of their cattle at the Angus World Forum.
Held every four years the Angus World Forum sees Angus studs from around the world and this year it will be held in Australia allowing Australian Angus studs to display a representation of their herd to the world.
“We went to the Angus World Forum in Scotland in 2017 and it was absolutely fantastic and we thought we’d really like to be part of the Australian one.”
This will be the rst Angus World Forum since 2017 with the original forum being scheduled in 2021 being cancelled due to Covid.
The event is also promising to be the largest gathering of registered Angus cattle ever held in Australia.
“They are expecting a lot of Angus breeders from all over the world to come out here and be part of it and look at Australian Angus,” Lyn added.
Looking ahead, Lyn and Hollywood Angus are looking forward to an exciting 2025 marking 25 years of Hollywood Angus.
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
Sizzle set to return to beef prices
By KIM WOODS
There are golden times ahead for the nation’s cattle producers with a “new norm” of 630c/kg liveweight for feeder steers next year as the markets enter a sevenyear period of stability.
Market analyst Simon Quilty, Global AgriTrends, Wangaratta, delivered his price forecast out to 2028 at the Pasture Agronomy Service conference at Gundagai on March 10.
Mr Quilty forecast 2026 average prices to reach 630c/kg liveweight for feeder steers, 510c/kg LW for Jap Ox, 420c/ kg LW for cows and for the Eastern Young Cattle Indicator (EYCI) to peak at 1277c/kg carcase weight.
This would be up on the strengthening 2025 prices of 490c/kg for feeder steers, 410c/kg for Jap Ox, 325c/kg for cows and an ECYI of 954c/ kg carcase weight.
Prices have been tipped to remain elevated through 2027 but begin trending downwards in 2028 with feeder steers slipping 80c/kg LW as the national herd rebuild grinds to a halt.
Overall, the cattle market has recorded a ve per cent
(up from 276c/kg in southern Queensland), driven by exceptional price levels for grinding meat at a time when we hit the herd rebuild.”
Mr Quilty has the nominal yearling carcase weight indicator entering a seven-year period of stable prices this year until 2032, o the back of a decade long transitory period when prices rose 35 per cent since 2015.
in Queensland and northern NSW a month earlier than normal due to the lack of cattle in the south.
“This year I expect these Victorian processors to travel north even earlier by late March/early April due to more processor capacity in Victoria and NSW, and further herd liquidation.
tralian imported prices are tipped to move higher on the back of rocketing domestic prices and Brazilian product becoming uncompetitive due to tari s.
this year.
“They see shortages with the liquidation and the increased global demand.”
Market analyst Simon Quilty, Global AgriTrends.
Supplied
fall in March due to Cyclone Alfred closing major ports, with Meat and Livestock Australia quoting yearling steers trading at 370c/kg, feeders averaging 356c/ kg, heavy steers at 342c/kg, heifers 299c/kg and cows at 284c/kg.
Mr Quilty expects the market to move upwards in late April for feeder steers to 536c/kg by September.
“A good quality Angus feeder steer is 410-420c/kg liveweight today in the market and lot feeders are willing to pay 420-430c/kg now for forward cattle,” he said.
“In terms of cows, we are still talking around 440c/ kg by the end of this year
“Input costs have run ahead but by the start of 2027 to 2032, those input costs will be in line with your returns.”
Processing capacity in NSW, Victoria, South Australia and Queensland has risen to 3600 cattle per day, o the back of the herd liquidation for at least seven quarters.
The herd liquidation has resulted in a 60-80c/kg LW discount on heifers relative to feeder steers across Queensland. Heifers are trading at a 70c/kg discount in NSW and 90c/kg in Victoria.
Mr Quilty said northern processors would be squeezed as young cattle ow from the southern states to Queensland and older heavier cattle ow to southern processors.
“We are about to go into a staggered rebuild phase where prices for heifers go back to a premium if good rain comes to the southern Australia in July. If we don’t get the rain, liquidation will stop, and the herd will hover in a holding pattern for six months.
“The rebuild will start in Queensland, move into northern NSW and by the end of this year and early next year, southern NSW and Victoria will be in a rebuild, resulting in higher prices.
“We are expecting the steer kill to subside over the next six months – add that to the female kill and suddenly supply is getting tight.
“The higher prices from this rebuild are potentially coming this year and will carry into next year.”
Grinding beef is at record levels of 385 USc/lb and Aus-
“Price rises in America on all beef cuts are so bene cial to us – if consumers cannot pay the price for cuts, they go into the 90CL pack (90 per cent lean meat). The higher the 90CL price goes, the less US exports and the more Australia becomes the player in those markets,” Mr Quilty said.
The makeup of Australian feedlots is changing with less Wagyu cattle on feed and mid-fed programs switching to larger short fed programs of 110-120 days.
There is a record number of Australian cattle on feed at 1.45 million head with that forecast to increase to 1.6 million by the end of 2025.
“Flatbacks are playing a huge role in the Japanese market – marble score doesn’t matter any more, they just want 100-day grain fed cheap beef and atbacks provide that,” Mr Quilty said.
“There is genuine concern from the major players on how many Angus feeders will be around at the back end of
Mr Quilty said the long fed Wagyu market had been challenging with marble score 8-9 falling in the US from US$53/ lb in June 2022 to US$28.50/lb in February 2025. Australian Wagyu prices in the US have seen tenderloins fall in value by 33 per cent, ribeyes by 48 per cent and striploins by 57 per cent.
“In the US, Australia Wagyu F1 marble score 3-4 and 4-5 now trade at a discount to Prime, Certi ed Angus, Choice and just above Select – equating to a 77 per cent fall in price,” he said.
“Wagyu marble score 6-7 plus still sit at a signi cant premium in the market. Australian Wagyu numbers on feed have come o a peak of 306,000 in 2022 to 275,000 head and at the moment Australian domestic supply is outstripping demand.”
“We have unsold Wagyu F1 cattle, poor quality cattle and it will be a year before we start to see some of the old premiums that we are used to. Poor quality Wagyu F1 steers will trend at a discount to Angus.”
Roots on the le showing active rhizosphere where YLAD Living Soils Seed Dressing treatment was applied – Roots on the right are without seed dressing.
PHOTO: Supplied
PHOTO:
Young judges set to shine in Sydney
By MADELINE BLACKSTOCK
The Central West and Hilltops will be well represented in young judges competitions at this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show.
It has been 105 years since the rst young judges competition kicked o at the Sydney Royal in 1920 with the competition continu ing to improve the youth of agricul ture’s knowledge and skills.
Qualifying for young judges com petitions including beef, dairy, meat breeds sheep, Merino sheep, Merino eece, fruit and veg and grain were held at multiple shows around the state last year.
One passionate Grenfell young judge, Heather Walker, has quali ed to compete at multiple com petitions at the Sydney Royal once again.
This year she quali ed for eece judging and meat sheep judging at the Henty Show (Group 8), meat sheep judging at the Cootamundra Show (Group 9) and grain judging at the Dubbo Show (Group 11).
At Sydney Heather will also be entering into the poultry and pigs young judges competition and the soil young judges competition which is a new competition at the Sydney Royal.
Heather will be aiming to place in events that will qualify her to compete at Nationals later in the year at the Melbourne Royal Show.
Heather started competing in young judges coemptions when she was in year 9 and continued to compete in the competitions as she is studying to be an agriculture teacher.
“My drive to do shows was because I wanted to be one of those
ag teachers who has the skill set,” Heather said.
“I don’t want students to feel lost, I want them to know they are being taught by someone who has been in their position and I was that person standing in front of the judge with mic really scared.”
A big achievement for Heather
this year in young judges was quali fying for beef cattle judging.
She is currently working with Forbes Livestock Association and says this experience has had an inuence on how far she has come in beef judging.
“I have never made it past the oral class to speak on my placings
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in beef judging and to actually take out the competition and have the opportunity to speak about the class of beef cattle was really exciting and something new I’ve chucked into the mix this year,” she said.
Heather enjoys getting the ribbons but also loves hearing from the judges and building connections and networking.
“I enjoy learning new things, every time I go to a show there is something new,” she said.
“When I’m looking at a eece, I’m looking at something that I’ve liked and then I hear a judge and they tell me what they see and it’s like, ‘oh, I’ve never thought of that’, so it’s the journey of learning that I enjoy.”
Heather’s favourite young judges competition is anything to do with sheep.
“For anyone that knows me, I’m a big sheep lover, I love judging meat sheep,” she said.
The passionate young judge’s advice for anyone who wants to have a go at young judges competitions is don’t be scared, embrace the experience and learn from the judge.
“No body is exactly right but if you can explain yourself and use the correct terminology it will get you through and don’t be afraid to say, ‘honestly, I don’t know, can you explain?’
“When I was competing as a year 9 student I never use to get ribbons or placings, it does come instantly for some but give it some time and practice because you never know where it will take you,” Heather added.
Young Judges competitions at
this year’s Sydney Royal will be held from 12 to 22 April.
Our Young Judges From Group 10 Shows including Bedgerabong, Cowra, Eugowra, Forbes, grenfell, Koorawatha, Murrumburrah Harden, Parkes, Peak Hill, Trundle, Tullamore, Woodstock and Young the following young judges have qualified for the Sydney Royal: Beef: Jess Tudgey and Alana Haynes
Dairy: Lily Eagles, Jess Tudgey and Abby Fuge
Meat Breeds Sheep: Eli Brown and Rhys Knight
Merino Sheep: Bryce Tandy
Merino Fleece: Lachlan Haynes and Anderson Ball
Fruit and Veg: Sienna Pearce, Lila Gascoigne and Marnie Noakes
Grain: Anderson Ball and Lila Gascoigne
Beef Paraders: Ava Rouse, Claire Wilkins, Chelsea Hall, Max White, Jack Smyth, Sam Garvin, Lachlan Haynes, Maddy Lawry and Issy Pearce.
From Group 11 Shows including Canowindra the following young judges have qualified for the Sydney Royal:
Beef Young Judges: Alana Haynes and Issac Bennetts
Meat Breeds Sheep: Alexis Farrugia and Marc Presnell
Merino Sheep: Mary Westwood
Merino Fleece: Brendan Mitchell and Zachery Charlton
Fruit and Veg: Immy Ousby, Tegan Godwin and Lachlan Hooper
Grain: Immy Ousby and Heather Walker
Beef Paraders: Lachlan Hooper, Angus Johnson, Jack Taylor, Faith Green, Sophie Lockyer, Max Taylor, Charlie Lockyer, Marcus Wythes, Fraser Gill and Amelia Miller.
Dealership gong for AGnVET team
AGnVET with Darling Irrigation have received the 2024 Top Dealership Award for the Asia Paci c region from Lindsay Corporation.
Darling Irrigation’s business manager Sam Maroulis accepted the award on behalf of AGnVET at the International Dealer Convention in Costa Rica.
Gustavo Oberto, Lindsay President Agricultural Irrigation, said the organisation was proud to recognise AGnVET and Darling Irrigation on their outstanding achievement.
“We congratulate our award winners for their relentless commitment to excellence, innovation and customer satisfaction,” he said.
Sam Maroulis founded Darling Irrigation in Bourke, NSW with his
have nine outlets across NSW, Victoria and Tasmania.
“This award is testament to the
daily basis are delivering legendary service to our farming customers across our network,” Sam said.
“The dynamic and changing nature of the irrigation, water and pumping industry means that we always need to be at the cutting edge of technology and innovation, so we value solid relationships with leading manufacturers such as Lindsay, who manufacturer Zimmatic irrigation infrastructure and FieldNET remote irrigation management technology.”
AGnVET is only the second dealer in the APAC region to receive this prestigious award, making the occasion even more special for the Australian company.
Founded in 1915 by Harry Walker in Forbes NSW, AGnVET has
years to a network of businesses in the broadacre cropping, irrigation and mixed farming areas across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.
Darling Irrigation is its specialist water and irrigation business and excels in water use e ciency and advanced irrigation services.
With Darling Irrigation branches located in Bourke, Dubbo, Latrobe, Launceston, Leeton, Narromine, Rochester, Scottsdale and Wagga Wagga, AGnVET provides readily available, high-quality products and services across Australia.
Lindsay dealers are selected for a variety of awards based on their dealership’s performance in the categories of overall sales, FieldNETâ„¢ subscription sales, FieldNET Advisorâ„¢ sales, a ermarket
sales, top-performing new dealer, marketing, and the coveted Zimmerer Entrepreneur Award, which recognises the dealer who demonstrates innovation, creativity, and the drive to make a di erence.
An awards ceremony is held biennially to recognize all winners in their respective category.
With a global network of authorised dealers and manufacturing facilities, Lindsay stands at the forefront of agricultural innovation and irrigation solutions.
“It’s an exciting time for AGnVET, Darling Irrigation and our clients and partners,” Mr Maroulis said.
“Our team looks forward continuing to provide expert service, products and advice that clients and businesses can count on.”
Region’s women share their passion and purpose
Passion and purpose were front and centre as rural women celebrated International Women’s Day in Forbes.
Central West Farming Systems hosted a lunch and learn event, with some 60 women from the central west gathering.
“It was great to see Forbes buzzing celebrating International Women’s Day,” Brooke said.
“The energy in regional NSW is contagious and has a bright future.”
The national industry-led Carbon Farming Outreach Program was the rst topic for the day, with plenty of discussion in the room with presenters Emma Ayli e and Central West Farming Systems’ Diana Fear.
This program is supporting more than 3500 farms with carbon reduction tools, and ensuring access to independent advice on low emission farming.
COWRA REGIONAL LIVESTOCK SELLING CENTRE
Prime lamb and Sheep Sale every Wednesday 11:30am.
• Selling Agents • Allan Gray & Co • Normal C. Bellamy
• JJ Dresser & Co • James P Keady • Elders – Cowra
• Kevin Miller Whitty & Co • Landmark Cowra
A panel discussion on passion and purpose followed with Emily Sinderberry, Tasha Hurley and Chiara Stommel, facilitated by Brooke Watts.
All had plenty to share to inspire and empower others.
Diana Fear is the CEO of Central West Farming Systems (CWFS), an independent, not-for-pro t, farmerdriven organisation based in Condobolin.
Under her leadership, CWFS oversees agricultural projects across 14 million hectares in the lower rainfall, mixed farming regions of Central West NSW.
Chiara Strommel is the trials agronomist at Central West Farming Systems, designing and managing eld trials that address the unique challenges of the region’s mixed farming systems.
Tasha is a State nalist for the 2025 RAS Rural Achiever Competition, and has served as Chair of the Royal Agricultural Society Youth Group and as a MLA Red Meat Ambassador.
Brooke Watt’s dedication to industry growth and sustainability has earned her recognition as a nalist for 2024 Western NSW Outstanding Young Business Leader of the Year and 2023 CSU Young Alumni of the Year Finalist.
She too is heading for Sydney Royal this year as analist in the 2025 RAS Rural Achiever competition.
More about them on page 2 of this edition of The Farmer. This event was delivered with funding support from the Commonwealth of Australia through the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water under the Carbon Farming Outreach Program in collaboration with the Grower Group Alliance.
Weston, Julia
Darling Irrigation; Randy Wood, Corporate President and CEO.
Trundle Back In Time
Green machines take centre stage
The Trundle Showground was almost glowing green as hundreds of tractors young and old were on display for Trundle Back In Time.
The display was bolstered by a range of John Deere tractors to mark the celebration of just over 100 years of the company manufacturing its own tractors.
And among them was one close to Chris Green’s heart.
Chris, along with his three-year-old son Al e who are from Forbes, spotted a John Deere Model D tractor that belonged to his grandfather Jack Green who owned it in the late 40s and early 50s.
While it’s no longer in the family, Chris didn’t want to miss the opportunity to have a photo with the tractor on Saturday a ernoon.
The John Deere Model D tractor was introduced in 1923 and became the rst tractor built, marketed, and named John Deere.
It replaced the Waterloo Boy in the company’s product line.
The two-cylinder kerosene-burning engine produced 15 horsepower at the drawbar and 22 at the belt, and was the longest model run of any John Deere tractor.
Attendees over the weekend of 15 and 16 March were very fortunate to see one of these original 100-year-old Model D’s in Trundle and in action in the precious parade.
Andy Mackenzie and his father Norm came over from Molong with Andy’s
John Deere D Spoker tractor.
The Spoker style was produced from 1923 to 1926, and as the nickname suggests, the ywheel had spokes like a wagon wheel.
Only 5846 of these were produced.
The father-son duo have restored the tractor and it looked in spectacular condition for the parade.
“There’s only four or ve [of these] in Australia,” Norm said.
“It took us six months to restore it, there wasn’t much to do.”
While there are many activities taking place at Trundle Back In Time - like car and engine displays, sheaf toss, market stalls, kids entertainment and a great opportunity to catch up with friends - the event very much focuses on tractors.
And those who are very passionate about these machines are very much in their element.
Like central west farmer Edgar Orr, who is very well known in the Parkes Shire and those in the vintage machinery circle for his John Deere tractor collection.
Edgar had 14 tractors on display at Trundle Back In Time, including a ride-on tractor, and has a collection of about 30.
His oldest is a 1925 John Deere model.
Sporting bright green and yellow John Deere suspenders, Edgar was found among the tractor display only too happy to share his knowledge and stories on the tractors with visitors.
Tractors make tracks to Trundle
More than 100 tractors and their drivers from near and far showed spectators their tracks in one of Trundle Back In Time’s best tractor pull competitions yet.
Organisers of the biennial tractor pull and the annual vintage rally, Trundle P&A Society were delighted with this year’s results with some entrants coming away with multiple awards and placings across the 20 competing classes in the tractor pull, including a ladies class.
It all took place at the Trundle Showground on 15 and 16 March.
John Deere tractor collector and Goonumbla farmer Edgar Orr not only took home the Rob Goodsell Memorial Trophy for Best Looking Tractor with his John Deere 5020, but his John Deere 720 also won Best John Deere Tractor on Ground.
Andrew McKenzie’s 100-year-old
John Deere Model D Spoker was the Best Restored Tractor and Duncan Howe with his International Crawler B-TD6 won Most Original Tractor.
The Show Us Ya Tracks Best Track on Ground was Scott Goodsell’s TD 24 Crawler.
Meanwhile the remaining machines at the event weren’t forgotten with the Best Restored Truck going to Peter Thomas from Trundle for his Furphy Chevrolet and Most Original Truck to Andre Moser and his 1922 Renault.
Tony McGrath had the Best Re-
stored Car, the 1937 Ford Coupe ute and Most Original Car was Kellie Thomas’ 1982 Chevrolet.
The Best Restored Stationary Engine went to Joe Collet, Most Original Stationary Engine to Mick Buezell and Best Display Stationary Engine to Eddy Gould, who all had their entries featured in the weekend’s Stationary Engine Display.
2025 TRACTOR PULL RESULTS
Class is listed above, tractor make is listed a er the winner’s name and the distance pulled in their rst, second and third attempts listed last.
Under 20 HP
First Peter Thomas, Hart Parr 16/30: 60m, 45m.
Second Joe Collet, Lanz Bulldog “J”: 20m.
Under 25 HP
First Digger Anderson, McCormick Deering 15-30: 39m, 24m.
Second Will and Terry Charlton, Case Dexter: 37m, 24.5m.
Under 30 HP
First Rob Robertson, Oliver Hart Parr 28-44: 70m, 55m, 52m.
Second Bruce Capps, Lanz Bulldog “K”: 70m, 51m, 49m.
Under 35 HP
First Scott Walder, Inter WG: 70m, 54.5m, 55m.
Second Digger Anderson, Massey Harris Model 25: 20m.
Under 40 HP
First Geo Heinjus, Hanomag
R40: 51m, 56m, 70m.
Second Murray Mitton, John Deere Model “D”: 47m, 63m.
Under 45 HP
First James Hetherington, John Deere Model “R”: 62m, 61m, 70m.
Second Jason McCutcheon, John Deere Model “R”: 49.5m, 48m, 70m.
Under 50 HP
First Mick Umback, International WD-40: 75m.
Second Claude Fuller, Chamberlain 9G: 61m, 67m, 70m.
Under 55 HP
First Warren Krause, John Deere 730: 48m, 68m, 70m.
Second Geo Heinjus, Chamberlain 55 DA: 62m, 63.5m, 70m.
Under 60 HP
First Norman Bush, Case 500: 76m, 68m, 64.5m.
Second Claude Fuller, Chamberlain 60 DA: 74.5m, 60.5m, 59.5m.
Under 70 HP
First Warren Krause, Internation-
al 756: 76m, 65m.
Under 80 HP
First Murray Milton, International 660D: 80m, 80m. Under 90 HP
First Graham Pont, Chamberlain 354: 80m, 80m.
Second Matt Vella, Fiat 900: 77.5m, 63m.
Under 100 HP
First James Hetherington, Minneapolis Moline G1000: 80m, 80m. OPEN
First Ben Armstrong, Massey Ferguson 4800: 80m, 80m.
First James Hetherington, John Deere 4630: 80m, 80m.
Second Bill Shandley, John Deere
6030: 80m, 80m, 76m.
Crawler Under 30 HP
First Jason Goodsell, International T20: 48m.
Crawler Under 40 HP
First Steven Umback, McCormick
TD 35: 80m, 80m.
Second Peter Thomas, McCormick TD 35: 80m.
Crawler Under 50 HP
First Duncan Howe, International B-TD6: 78m, 61.5m.
Second Peter Thomas, Fiat Crawler: 67m.
Crawler Under 70 HP
First John Glanville, Caterpillar D4D: 80m, 80m.
Second Patrick Umback, International TD9: 70m, 80m, 80m.
Crawler OPEN
First Scott Goodsell, International TD24: 80m, 80m.
First Chris Axiah, ANS Crawler, 80m, 80m.
First Jason McCutcheon, International TD-18 1946: 80m, 80m.
Ladies Class
First Zoe Herbet, John Deere 8960 (Open): 80m.
Second Maree Krause, John Deere 2010 (U40 HP Class): 33m, 40m.
ABOVE: Andy Mackenzie from Molong showing his 100-year-old John Deere D Spoker tractor. RIGHT: Chris and Alfie Green from Forbes with Chris’ grandfather Jack Green’s John Deere Model D tractor from the 40s-50s.
PHOTOS: Christine Little
Edgar Orr, beaming in his John Deere braces, had 14 tractors on display at Trundle Back In Time. Here he is catching up with Bob Wythes from Forbes.
Peter Thomas from Trundle finished the tractor pull with a first in the Under 20 HP class and two seconds in the crawler classes.
