Scott and Kylie Anderson (pictured) are Border Leicester sheep breeders from Crookwell, New South Wales, operating under the Talkook stud. Known for producing high-quality Border Leicester rams and ewes, with a focus on traits like wool quality, structure, carcass, fertility, and performance, their sheep are in demand for both wool production and meat qualities. Securing the sash for Interbreed Champion Longwool Exhibit Talkook Titanium at the 2024 Australian Sheep and Wool Show, the award adds to a long list of accolades for the the stud with the breeders recently taking out Champion Ram and Supreme Border Leicester at the Canberra Royal Show 2025. The Andersons will be back at Bendigo in 2025. Turn to page 13 for the Australian Sheep and Wool Show feature.
Drought reprieve, funds relief
A $69 million support package is now open to eligible primary producers in the North East and the rest of Victoria battling through drought.
Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence on Thursday June 19 announced the opening of the On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program statewide, with updated guidelines based on farmer feedback and expanded eligible activities.
The program, managed by Rural Finance, makes available co-contribution grants of $5000 for all
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
primary producers across the state, with $10,000 available for eligible farmers in south west Victoria and parts of West Wimmera to help those who have been in drought longer.
A previous $15.9m package did not cover pasture/crop restoration or water carting for livestock, a shortfall that Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy highlighted last month.
“This long overdue change will provide important relief to farmers who have been crying out for immediate assistance for water, however, I remain disappointed that there is no support for feed, which is something that will help keep stock on the farms in the immediate time,” Mr McCurdy said.
“I urge the government to ensure grants are easy to access and money provided in a short time frame, and to extend them to the cost of feed.”
■ Continued page 11
A dangerous precedent
THE state government’s decision to ignore community concerns and approve the controversial Cooba Solar Farm has been met with a public outcry as the impact to agricultural land and discrepancies in planning come under scrutiny.
The decision to proceed with the project comes despite overwhelming opposition from the Colbinabbin community, local council, and regional leaders.
The development will see 740,000 eight-metre-tall solar panels installed across 665 hectares of highvalue agricultural land just 4.5 kilometres from Colbinabbin and 57 kilometres east of Bendigo.
The $600 million dollar investment is projected to power about 210,000 homes however the site sits right in the heart of the Heathcote Wine GI, a region known for its farming heritage and thriving tourism.
The solar farm falls under the electoral district of Euroa with local Nationals member Annabelle Cleeland a long-time supporter of the campaign opposing the project.
Having presented petitions in parliament, met with ministers, and advocated for the community across multiple platforms, Ms Cleeland said the approval was a devastating blow to the Colbinabbin community.
“Locals have been clear from the start that this project is not welcome, yet this government has chosen to ignore them,” she said.
Ms Cleeland said the project raised serious concerns among
Cooba Solar Farm given go ahead, despite community concern
bill would fine landholders who oppose work on their properties, with a provision also enabling “authorised officers, accompanied by officers of electricity corporations, to enter private land without owner or occupier consent”.
farmers, local businesses, CFA volunteers and residents, including the destruction of highly arable land, increased fire risk, and a lack of local benefit.
“We are talking about some of the most productive agricultural land in the state, a community built on farming, wine, and tourism that is now being sacrificed without justification.”
As vocal opponents, Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Daniel Mackrell confirmed council were extremely disappointed by the decision, having formally cited significant risks to land use, safety and local industry.
“Council and the community raised significant concern in relation to the suitability of the site for the proposal and the impact the solar farm would have on productive agricultural land,” Cr Mackrell said.
“The agricultural sector is highly important to both the economy and
social fabric of Campaspe Shire and this decision has failed to adequately consider these impacts.
“The application and the decision have not considered the extensive concerns raised and does not demonstrate any net community benefit to the immediate community or broader region.
“Council is deeply concerned about the long term impacts the Ministers decision will have on the community and the inability to review the decision only heightens this.
“Disappointingly this decision has been made when the State Government is undertaking public engagement on the Draft Victorian Transmission Plan which seeks to provide strategic guidance on where renewable energy facilities should be located.”
Liberal Member for Northern Victoria Wendy Lovell said the Colbinabbin community were
outraged by the approval and condemned the state government for completely ignoring local objections to the project.
“It will carpet prime agricultural land with over 700,000 solar panels and over 100 batteries the size of shipping containers, and ruin the beautiful views that visitors currently enjoy at winery cellar doors,”
Ms Lovell said.
“This decision sets a dangerous precedent that Labor will prioritise its ideological obsession with renewable projects and ignore the voices of regional Victorian communities in regional Victoria who are trying to preserve our rural landscapes and farmland.”
Following on from the ruling, the government has also now introduced the National Electricity (Victoria) Amendment (VicGrid Stage 2 Reform) Bill, with the bill moved in parliament on June 19.
Legislation contained within the
Be it property owners or other community members, should they remove work permit signs, bar access to farmland or even fail to identify themselves, they may be liable for a fine under the new legislation with penalties of over $12,000 for those convicted of obstruction.
It is part of the state government’s overall bid to fast-track the transmission and renewables roll-out, having previously centralised planning laws, giving the Minister for Planning power to override local voices and deny community any right to appeal the decision through VCAT.
“This government talks a lot about consultation, but when it matters most, they do not listen,” said Annabelle Cleeland MP.
“Our planning system is broken.
“It allows distant decision-makers to impose massive developments on people who have everything to lose and no power to stop it.
“This decision sends a clear message that Labor does not care about regional Victorians.
“Our communities deserve a say in their future,” Ms Cleeland said.
“They deserve to be respected, not ignored.”
BLOT ON THE LANDSCAPE: The Cooba Solar Farm will stretch over 665 hectares of high-value agricultural land just 4.5 kilometres from Colbinabbin.
Primary producers equipped to manage challenges at roadshow
By LYNN ELDER
A NEW approach by Agriculture Victoria to bring the top industry experts to four locations across the state in lieu of the usual conference was well supported with high numbers of primary producers registering for the BetterBeef and BestWool/BestLamb Networks Roadshow 2025.
The Mansfield event at the local golf club on Wednesday, June 4 rounded out the series of roadshows with 146 people registering from across the north east and as far away as Seymour and across the NSW border.
The previous roadshows began at the end of May in Edenhope in the Wimmera, followed by Dunkeld in the Southern Grampians and then Larder Park near Warragul in Gippsland.
Mansfield’s Alison Desmond, Agriculture Victoria project leader - BestWool/ BestLamb, said in her introduction, planning had begun in January but given the current conditions the program had been adapted to better support farmers who are dealing with added pressures.
The beef and sheep networks boast 70 groups across Victoria which are able to “thrive” and lean on each other for advice and support.
The new half-day format allowed primary producers to attend without spending an entire day off farm and in a closer location for the free event.
Each roadshow featured three guest speakers with a wealth of knowledge and the latest insights on pastures, livestock, and farm business management.
Each event used veterinarians that were local to the area.
Dr Anna Manning from Delatite Veterinary Services addressed attendees on the topic “Tough Stock in Tough Seasons, what every producer should know”.
With the dry season many producers are focused on feeding and what they should be doing.
Providing a comprehensive overview of how the rumen was “pivotal” to the health of the animal, Dr Manning looked at the common diseases associated with disruption to the rumen.
The rumen’s diverse microbes ferment fibre-rich feed that mammals cannot digest.
It has microbial networks in its compartments to convert nutrients into energy and fatty acids.
“Significant energy change comes with lactation,” said Dr Manning.
She spoke about increasing feed and the right feed to adjust to what is coming.
Among diseases of concern were acidosis, pulpy kidney and bloat which was most common.
There was advice given how to address various ailments with different approaches in sheep and cattle.
The second speaker Cam Nicholson, director of Nicon Rural Services, a consulting business near Geelong, which works with the grazing
he has a strong livestock background and the ability to engage with producers in a practical way.
His engaging presentation was peppered with plenty of sporting analogies such as “defend and attack” to encourage those present to think about their game plan to deal with various challenges.
“Make sure your systems are designed to do what you want,” Dr Trompf said.
This includes being both productive and adaptive.
Dr Trompf shared strategies used by the top 20 farmers in the country over five years and how they were making a profit by taking a longer-term approach rather than relying on a one-year analysis.
Following the speakers there was an opportunity to ask them any questions which produced some lively discussion.
and cropping industries, presented a two-part presentation on “Optimising Pasture Recovery”.
He covered pasture growth potential and options, calving/lambing considerations, supplementary feeding and spring strategies.
Mr Nicholson tailored his talk to be relevant to Mansfield district farmers.
Two of the drivers for grasses growth he said were soil temperature and soil moisture.
“We have no control over this unless under irrigation,” he said.
He discussed other pasture options and planning ahead.
One useful resource referenced was the government website https:// vicdroughthub.org.au/
The final speaker was Dr Jason Trompf from Lambs Alive based at Greta near Wangaratta on “Bullet proofing your business against varying seasons”.
He looked at a review of farm system adaptability to challenges, how to enhance recovery and resilience.
As an agricultural consultant for more than 25 years,
The roadshow concluded with lunch and an opportunity for further conversations and catchups.
Ms Desmond said overall there had been positive feedback from the surveys at each of the sessions.
Comments included “Great event.”
“Very good/positive at a time when we’re all feeling a bit low/tired.”
“Three excellent presenters – best BestWool/BestLamb and BetterBeef event I have attended.”
“Liked the concept of several regional events.”
“I don’t think you could do it better.”
“The best speakers in the business.”
“Just wish more farmers attended to hear such experts share such valuable information.”
“Great workshop adapted to the current conditions with reminders on how to manage the challenges.”
This one probably sums it up best; “10 Practical things everyone can do after leaving the event”.
Breen
CATCH UP: Speaker Cam Nicholson with Mansfield locals Alison Desmond one of the organisers, Tim Finger and Nina Burnet.
FULL HOUSE: The Mansfield roadshow was attended by 146 farmers from across the north east. PHOTOS: Lynn Elder
Specialty varieties helping King Valley weather wine trends
By ANITA MCPHERSON
GROWING recognition of King Valley’s specialty wine varieties, and the continuing popularity of prosecco, are helping local producers deal with a global decline in wine consumption, and the trend of younger people turning away from more traditional red wine styles.
The latest global consumption data from IWSR reveals ongoing change in the world of wine, with wine consumption volumes declining by three per cent in 2024, continuing a longer-term trend.
An ongoing oversupply of red wine in Australia, exacerbated by China’s imposition of high tariffs on Australian wine in 2020 (lifted in 2024), has led to large-scale growers, particularly in the Riverina, having to make some tough decisions.
Last week De Bortoli Wines revealed it was removing vineyards at Bilbul in the Riverina, along with shiraz vineyards in Rutherglen, responding to a downturn in demand for the traditional variety.
Meanwhile its sales of rose and King Valley prosecco were on the rise.
While the changing trends, particularly from a more health-conscious under-30 demographic, are being felt in the King Valley, producers there are managing to maintain and develop an existing customer base while also finding ways to broaden their appeal.
Pizzini Wines’ Louise Way said while their own demographic of consumer has always skewed a little older, there is a consistent, younger contingent also present, who want to try something new.
“We have noticed the younger wine drinkers we see through cellar door are really interested and knowledgeable about wines – and that our more unusual Italian varieties, which are typically a little lighter, more savoury
CHANGING TASTES: King Valley grape growers including Pizzini Wines are finding their younger demographic of wine consumers are knowledgeable about wine and interested in trying more unusual Italian varieties.
PHOTO: Cara Dosser
consumer.
Mr Cleave-Smith said the organisation is currently turning its attention to the speed at which Australia and the European Union (EU) are wanting to resume negotiations on a free trade agreement.
He said there had been media comment the EU was intending to visit Australia in late August/early September to make an announcement, which indicated talks will move “very, very quickly”.
“We know there were three key areas left unresolved last time, and prosecco was one of them,” he said.
and very food-friendly, are of particular interest,” she said
“We also notice that at the off-site events we attend, such as The Big Design Market, Little Food Market and North East Wine and Food Festival, there is a good proportion of younger people interested in trying our wines.
“Again, I think the opportunity to try new varieties - or being introduced to different ways to enjoy the wines, such as in a brachetto cocktail or limoncello spritz - help to generate interest too.”
La Cantina King Valley’s Rueben Corsini agreed visitors to their cellar door were tending to move away from more traditional red varieties and towards Italian varietals including sangiovese, nebbiolo and barbera, but that applied to visitors across the board rather than in any particular age demographic.
He said the rising cost of living was still having an impact on the sale of luxury or discretionary products like
wine, and that was generally the case across the sector.
“The red wine market at the moment is a challenging one, but there’s no doubt there is a better understanding and attraction towards Italian varietals,” he said.
“Offering preservative-free and vegan-friendly wines is a really nice niche for us - being vegan-friendly in particular is growing in significance and it’s helpful - but it doesn’t make us immune from the overall trends.”
Wines of the King Valley president Dean Cleave-Smith said demand for the region’s broad portfolio of red and white table wines, including medium bodied red varieties like sangiovese, nebbiolo, pinot noir and gamay, continues to rise.
“They are wines the red wine audience (and a younger audience) are looking for,” he said.
“They are more approachable, they are generally lower in alcohol, and more suitable
for drinking now (without being aged).
“It has been an industry reckoning, but one that for the most part, the King Valley has already gone through, because our transition from traditional varieties to Italian styles has already occurred.”
Mr Cleave-Smith said while the soaring growth in demand for prosecco continues and is a real success story for the region, they were conscious of not being pigeon-holed as only having one wine variety.
He said their broader range of specialty wine styles which appealed to a more contemporary wine palate, held them in good stead for the next decade.
Some King Valley producers are also exploring and investing in no and low alcohol wine products, as well as alternative packaging such as single serve cans, bottles and pouches, in response to growing demand from a more health-conscious wine
“We remain very committed to our previous position that prosecco is the name of a grape variety, and it was imported to Australia as such, so we have a right to call it prosecco.”
Mr Cleave-Smith said while he’s confident Australia’s Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell understood the economic impact of any concession to naming rights on prosecco, he feared with global trade uncertainty and Australia’s need to find alternative markets for products like beef, may alter the dynamic of the negotiations.
“We will keep reminding all stakeholders that the growth trajectory for prosecco remains double digit, and there are no signs of that ceasing,” he said.
“The wine industry is a very complex, sophisticated, vertically integrated and regionally-oriented business, so any decisions around this has regional implications for jobs.
“We employ a huge number of people in the King Valley and across the wine region more broadly, and the minister needs to keep that in mind when making decisions around matters such as naming rights, including prosecco.
“We have the right to call it prosecco and we’re not wavering on that.”
NUMBER ONE: Prosecco grapes remain the number one variety produced in the King Valley.
Weekend rain freshens hopes on the land
By STEVE KELLY
JUNE rainfall brought relief and joy to the local farming community, with cropping operations finally able to get under way and cattle producers buoyed by new confidence.
About 35mm in Wangaratta district and 58mm in Whitfield over the King’s Birthday weekend came as a pure delight for producers, with cattle sales this week bringing a steadied market and renewed outlook.
It has been the latest start to a crop growing season in 20 years, but Bungeet cropping farmer Ashley Martin is happy the crops have sprung out of the ground thanks to steady rain over the weekend.
“We’re over the moon,” he said about the 25mm of rain they received.
The trigger for germination of crops sowed in about the third week of May is just what they needed.
Wheat, canola and fava beans have been the mainstay in the Martins’ operation for decades and Mr Martin was pleased as it was the start of another growing season for them.
Road out of dry period for Wangaratta district producers is in sight: livestock agent
with the cold period now it’s going to be a struggle for them.
“Hopefully the season will keep ticking along and turn around.”
Corcoran and Parker livestock agent Reiley Murtagh said “it’s steadied everyone in their thinking” enabling producers to take a breath.
“It’s stopped a bit of panic selling and it has loaded the ground with water and any person who has locked a lot of their land up away from cattle, they’re in a box seat.
“They’re still going to find some growth even through this cold period, they’ve sold cattle for pretty good money, and they can still buy cattle cheap enough to validate it.
“All the signs considering how tough it has been, are very, very positive.”
“We’ve got a long, long way to go and we don’t know what’s in front of us but we just need that rain with dry land farming.
and 2005 was a late start and the agronomist indicated with the right condition a reasonable harvest and yield is possible.
was a split germination and dried out too quickly,” Mr Martin explained.
“It was a later start than ideal but that’s farming for us and the seasons are not all the same.”
The Martins went back through the record books
They sowed canola in early April but without follow up rain the plantings failed.
“We had quite a bit of rain in March with subsoil moisture and we sowed that but not all of it came up and it
“Back then, we were anticipating that rain was coming and we tried to sow some in front of rain that didn’t eventuate and the rest of it was dry sown.”
A spraying program has started already with the early canola, some weed they had
to knock out, and a little bit of fertiliser went out last week because everyone was talking the rain up and Mr Martin said it was well worth it.
“For the tough start the whole of the state has seen we’re lucky to get what we did,” he said.
“Fingers crossed the graziers can get some benefit but
Mr Murtagh said it’s nowhere near doom and gloom and now is a really good opportunity to get into the market and heavy cattle are selling exceptionally well.
“There is no doubt that it has been the toughest people have had it for a long time but our road to success out the other side is getting very close.”
HUGE WINTER CLEARANCE
or
GREEN GROWTH: The Martin family’s wheat crop has germinated at Bungeet after unsuccessful plantings during autumn.
CFA members are hanging up their overalls
FIREFIGHTERS are hanging up their overalls in protest, refusing to turn out to emergencies in protest against the new fire services levy.
Some 25 CFA volunteers who are primary producers for the Boweya Fire Brigade have been hanging their overalls over their front fences to let the state government know they’re off duty for any emergencies outside their immediate area.
The government has backed down from the initial tax instalment date of 1 July 2025 for the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy concerning primary producers, but that’s not enough.
Despite the 12-month reprieve for primary producers paying the property tax, for many about $20,000 a year extra, firefighters are sending a clear signal to the Labor government to scrap the tax altogether.
BY STEVE KELLY skelly@ nemedia.com.au
Boweya CFA brigade member Doug James said a predominant percentage of CFA brigade members are farming landholders who will pay triple the property tax they’re paying now.
“It rubs salt into the wound as people are giving up their voluntary time to protect the community and we have to wear this outrageous, disproportionate tax,” he said.
“Every farm will be hit with another $20,000, the damn rates are bad enough as it is.”
It’s not just the financial cloud hanging over local CFA members, it’s the social impact this could have on many who withdraw from the community and become isolated.
“The local CFA is the only connection that a lot of these members have left,” he said.
“You talk about mental
health and you can see how people go down the gurgler.”
Mr James used the old saying ‘you cut the suit to fit the cloth’ as an analogy to the government’s spending on new vehicles and equipment in a time it and taxpayers can’t afford it.
“The CFA and the SES have all these ‘you beaut’ expensive toys, but nobody has asked the question about what we can afford,” he said.
Mr James made reference to the aerial firefighting fleet which he said are useless in high wind scenarios such as the 2014 fire that threatened the James’ property.
“These massive trucks that cost $500k - do we all need to have these trucks when a $200k truck would suffice?
“The same goes for the SES, does every unit need the jaws of life when most of them use a crow bar and a battery angle grinder?
“I’ve been to an accident
situation and they spend half their time laying the equipment out of tarps and there’s some poor bugger trapped in a car.
“Meanwhile half an hour later they go to get him out and then they have to borrow our crowbar to do it.”
He said when CFA members deployed on the steps of parliament in recent weeks, a lot of the city folk were unaware of the new levy.
“The easiest way I say it is: How would you be if the
government said we’re going to have a levy to fund the police force, but your area has a higher crime rate so we’re going to slug you triple?” he said.
OFF DUTY: TWO DOZEN BOWEYA CFA VOLUNTEERS WHO ARE PRIMARY PRODUCERS SAY THEY WILL NOT TURN OUT TO A FIRE IN PROTEST OVER THE EMERGENCY SERVICES & VOLUNTEERS FUND LEVY THAT WILL COST THEM THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS MORE A YEAR.
When the tax hits primary producers in July next year farmers will not be much better off financially in what Mr James said is currently one of the worst seasons in his farming career.
He and his son Steven will be looking to cull the sheep flock at the end of this
month during weaning, as they couldn’t do it before as they’re right on the eve of lambing.
“We’ll be selling off ewes then because we’re just about exhausted and you can’t buy hay and we’re buying in wheat now,” he said.
“It’s pretty tough and we’ve still got the lambs to keep them going or sell them at stores where the margin will get chopped out, but we can function with some cash flow.
“It’s worse down in south west Victoria and people are just going to walk away when they have to sell their whole milking herd - you don’t come back from that in a hurry.”
CFA District 23 group officer Lachie Gales explained that at the worst about 10 brigades were offline, but it’s “a fluid situation”.
He said some bridges went offline to attend the rally in Melbourne, some are making a longer term stance, and
in every case they’re doing work to make sure people are still covered in the communities.
“While they’re making a protest they’re still not necessarily neglecting their communities,” Mr Gales said.
“For a lot of these people this is an extraordinarily difficult choice to make and when you think about a CFA volunteer and their motivation it’s really in their DNA to serve.
“These kind of action are
not taken lightly at all and they are really the result of years of a lack of respect exhibited.
“This current issue for many is the straw that breaks the camel’s back.”
Meanwhile, Victorian Treasurer Jaclyn Symes has revealed during budget preparations that administration costs associated with the rollout of the ESVF in 2025-26 are $12 million despite local councils being responsible for collection of the tax.
Beechworth winemaker awarded this year’s Premier’s Trophy
BEECHWORTH
winemaker Adrian Rodda has been awarded the prestigious Premier’s Trophy for his 2023 A. Rodda Baxendale Chardonnay, announced at Parliament House Wednesday June 18.
An initiative of the Victorian Wine Show and supported by the Department of Premier and Cabinet, the award is decided by a panel of experts following a taste-off between the winning wines from each of Victoria’s regional wine shows in 2024.
Panel member and incoming chair of judges at the Victorian Wine Show, Josh Cooper, said the judging represents “the best of the best” of the Victorian wine industry, with the diverse range of styles and varieties showing “the depth and breadth of great winegrowing and making in the state.”
“The A. Rodda Chardonnay won in a hotly contested taste-off,” he said.
“It is a neo-classic style from a great vintage showing a combination of fruit quality, depth of flavour with deft winemaking to amplify the quality raw materials.”
The 2023 A. Rodda Baxendale Chardonnay is made from grapes grown at high altitude in the King Valley.
The Premier’s Trophy tasting included regional classics such as Rutherglen durif, Yarra Valley pinot noir and Western Victorian shiraz, with a 2022 Anderson Winery Cellar Block durif (Rutherglen) and a 2023 Fighting Gully Road verdicchio (Beechworth) the other locals among the 12 champion wines.
Finalists attended the special event held at Parliament House, and their wines were presented at a tasting which included government and industry.
As part of the awards, all the finalists’ wines will
be served at functions at Parliament House over the next year, further promoting the quality of the local wine industry. Premier of Victoria Jacinta Allan conducted her own tasting under wine show conditions, agreeing with the professional judges - also selecting the 2023 A. Rodda Chardonnay as her top wine. Ms Allan admitted prior to the tasting that chardonnay was “not her favourite”, but left the tasting really impressed with the quality of local chardonnay. As such, the 2023 A. Rodda Baxendale Chardonnay was awarded the Premier’s Choice Award, as well as the Premier’s Trophy.
winemaker Adrian Rodda was awarded the prestigious Premier’s Trophy, and the Premier’s Choice Award, for his 2023 A. Rodda Baxendale Chardonnay. He is pictured with Victorian Premier receiving the award on Wednesday evening.
Tensions flare at solar farm community, proponents
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
“SHE hasn’t even been here.”
It was the resounding statement of concerned community members lined out the door of the Bobinawarrah Memorial Hall on Thursday June 5, as they listened to expert planning proponents looking to build a 566-hectare solar farm in their community at Meadow Creek.
Experts from the Sydneybased project planning agency Urbis tuned into the meeting virtually and delivered addresses on the back of presubmitted questions in the opening hour of the meeting.
But the community made it heard they have had enough of the “controlled dribble” they were hearing, interrupting social and economic impact consultant Amanda Micallef’s address.
The community asked Ms Micallef if she had ever visited Bobinawarrah before, to which she replied ‘no’.
A bronx cheer went out across the hall and the community demanded to ask the questions they said they had been waiting three years to ask the proponents in person.
The tensions, which boiled
over at the afternoon meeting, had been built up over 70 meetings, countless emails and hours of research into solar farm facilities put in by Meadow Creek Agricultural Community Action Group (MCACAG) members.
The meeting came out of the advocacy from Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner (AEIC) Tony Maher, who implored the proponents to meet with the community before the planning application public notice period expired on Tuesday.
MCACAG members had been in discussion with Mr Maher and his predecessor John Sheldon since July 2023 relaying concerns of a lack of community consultation in the project.
The group said they had not met face-to-face with project team members since drop-in sessions at Milawa on March 2023.
Leaders from all three forms of government, Indi MP Helen Haines, Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy and Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant were in attendance and spoke in closing statements.
Key members of the Meadow Creek Solar Farm
company including project development manager Cameron Munro, planning director John Mills and applicant and landowner Mark Milano were also seated at the front of the hall.
MCACAG members Jess and John Conroy, David Minifie and Angela Godley began the meeting with an opening address restricted to 15 minutes.
Ms Godley echoed the community sentiment of the room to the proponents both online and sitting across from her.
“I’m constantly, along with our community shocked, bewildered and feel very
let down in the current processes involved in the establishment of these renewable facilities,” she said.
“I’m concerned by the negative implications this is having and continues to have on our community as a whole and other rural communities like ours.”
Before the experts began their planned responses to questions, project community engagement director Anna Mitchell stood in front of the community and conceded the proponents had not done their part in meaningful consultation so far and looked to move on.
“We could’ve done better,
we’re sorry,” she said.
“It’s really about moving forward and hopefully we can use today to do that.”
Agricultural expert Daryl Poole spoke on the assessment of agricultural land undertaken on the project, saying the land was of the “lower end” of grazing priority in the state.
“We don’t deem it be that of significant agricultural land,” he said.
Mr Poole said the proponents looked to use the land for “on and off” sheep operation when the solar facility is built.
Bushfire consultant Kat Stevenson spoke on the bush-
fire risks which had gravely concerned the community and said 85 per cent of the state was declared a bushfire prone land and all solar farm projects would be built on such land.
She said thorough guidelines mitigated the risks of fire. For the second hour of the meeting the community had their chance to have their say to the proponents, asking questions and making statements about concerns around fire management, water contamination, flooding, community engagement and access to the proposed site of the BESS.
■ Continued page 9
■ From page 8
Final questions were asked prior to the conclusion of the two-hour meeting including one directed to Mr Milano.
“I’d like to ask why the Milano family are putting the community through the hard ache it’s going through at the moment and the last three years,” Ms Conroy said.
Mr Milano said he looked to support the community.
“At the end of the day you look at every community that are trying put a solar farm and there’s affection to the solar farm coming up in each of the rural areas,” he said.
“Unfortunately, they go in rural areas, and that’s where they go.
“We’re not doing anything unlawful, there’s a thorough process that has to be followed and will scrutinize everything you’re scrutinising, but at the end of the day
if we’re granted a permit, we’re granted a permit.”
Speaking after the meeting, Ms Conroy said it was a vital meeting for the community to have and for the three levels of government to see and hear the feelings of the community.
“Even though we’re only a few days out from public exhibition it was definitely a key meeting for the community,” she said.
“There were a lot of new faces there, particularly from the Oxley community.”
A Meadow Creek Solar Farm spokesperson said the meeting provided a constructive forum for the community to hear more about the project and the planning process and raise their concerns.
“We appreciate the efforts of all stakeholders who helped facilitate the meeting, and the community for their attendance,” they said.
VicGrid to consult on transmission network soon
By STEVE KELLY
PREMIER of Victoria Jacinta Allan would not be drawn to comment on the particulars of the Meadow Creek Solar Farm application following a recent letter to the premier from Wangaratta Mayor Irene Grant.
Cr Grant wrote a letter to the premier dated 10 June as an 11th hour plea to the government with a case urging the government to refuse the application based on numerous grounds.
One of the aspects noted by the mayor in her letter was that VicGrid does not identify the North East as being suitable for any of the proposed Renewable Energy Zones (REZs).
The draft REZs show industry and communities where renewable energy development should be focused.
However, a government spokesperson this week reported that VicGrid will soon be consulting on a Grid Impact Assessment process for projects that are under development outside of REZs (including the Meadow Creek proposal), which will be finalised later this year.
Developers inside a renewable energy zone will be given first access to connect to the grid.
VicGrid released a consultation paper on the grid impact assessment in January that set out the proposed approach at a high level for early stakeholder input.
It will soon be launching another round of consultation, open to community and industry, on the new Victorian Access Regime, setting out how access to the transmission network
MORE CONSULTATION
VicGrid visited Wangaratta last June to hear from locals. The North East is not a proposed Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), however, VicGrid is soon launching another round of consultation, open to community and industry, on the new Victorian Access Regime, setting out how access to the transmission network will be managed inside and outside of REZs.
will be managed inside and outside of renewable energy zones.
This will include a detailed grid impact assessment guide and other details of the proposed approach to access and connections, including an update on transitional arrangements for projects underway.
“The grid impact assessment will be based on projects not negatively impacting the network access of generators inside the zone, and meeting government expectations on community, landholder and Traditional Owner engagement, including providing comparable benefits,” a government spokesperson said.
“Members of the community can make submissions which will form
part of any planning decision-making process.
“Every submission will be considered as part of the decision-making process.”
The planning application and the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC) controlled action documentation were on public notice/exhibition, which concluded on 10 June.
After public notice finishes, the proponent is required to respond to the concerns made.
Department of Transport and Planning officers engaged with council officers and various agencies including the CFA, Goulburn Murray Water, North East Catchment Management Authority, Worksafe, and DEECA.
COMING:
Research at Fowles Wine into the impact of microbats on insect control has paid off with an investment from the Coles Nurture Fund for future work.
Half a million reasons to go batty
FAMILY-owned winery Fowles Wine in Avenel has been awarded $500,000 to engineer BatNavs - a technology that helps micro-bats to navigate their way around a vineyard and feed on pests, reducing the need for pesticides and promoting biodiversity.
Fowles Wine is a Coles Liquor supplier and received the grant as part of the Coles Nurture Fund, which aims to turn innovative ideas into real-world solutions that benefit producers, the environment, and customers.
Fowles Wine owner and director Matt Fowles said the Australian-first project is about rethinking how farming and nature can work together.
“The potential benefits of this project are massive, not just for Fowles Wine, but also for the broader wine industry here in Australia,” Mr Fowles said.
“Based on our research, we estimate savings of $50 million per year in pesticides and a reduced environmental impact.
“Farming can be a fairly lonely pursuit, so it is really nice to have your ideas and hard work recognised; the Coles Nurture Fund has put wind in our sails and allowed us to think big.”
Coles said the grants reflect its commitment to supporting local producers and communities, noting that it remains Australia’s top cor-
porate giver by percentage of profit for the fifth year running.
Coles Group chief commercial and sustainability officer Anna Croft said this year’s recipients stood out for their forward-thinking projects.
“We’re proud to support these businesses that are pioneering smart and practical solutions that will help to create a more sustainable future,” Ms Crofts said.
“It’s exciting to see such a strong pipeline of ideas with the potential to make a real impact, not just on production methods here in Australia, but on the communities and environments they are part of.”
More relief arrives for drought stricken farmers
■ From front page
The new grant covers activities like constructing a new or upgrading existing:
stock containment areas (SCA);
reticulated water systems;
irrigation system upgrades;
grain and fodder storage;
internal re-fencing to better match property layout;
feed system upgrades;
pasture/crop restoration; and
water carting for livestock and essential business activities.
Agriculture Victoria’s technical decision-making services are also now live and farmers across the state can access a free one-onone consultation with a farm advisor to help make the difficult decisions they are facing, particularly due to fodder and water shortages.
Agriculture Victoria has engaged 60 consultancy businesses in Victoria, including more than 90 individual farm advisors, who will assist farmers to take action to develop a drought action management plan.
Grants will be available from the date the program
DRY: Some are describing the current drought as the worst in living memory. PHOTO: golds imaging/Shutterstock.com
opens until program funds are fully allocated or 30 June 2026, whichever occurs first.
The Look Over The Farm Gate farmer mental health and wellbeing program is also now open, bringing communities together and supporting farmers and farm families under stress.
The program, managed by the National Centre for Farmer Health on behalf of the government, will provide grants of up to $5000 for community-led events that promote social connection and mental health awareness. Other supports are also
available including the Farm Household Allowance, and Regional Investment Corporation loans.
The Rural Financial Counselling Service offers free, confidential and independent financial information, options, decision-making support and referral services to farmers and small rural businesses who are in, or at risk of, financial hardship.
For more information about available drought support visit agriculture.vic. gov.au/dryseasons, to apply visit ruralfinance.com.au/ grants, or call 136 186.
Water buyback halt needed to protect rural communities
THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is backing the Victorian Government’s call to halt water buybacks, warning they pose a serious threat to rural communities and the future of Australian food production.
VFF Water Council Chair
Andrew Leahy said the practice of buying back water from farmers, especially during times of drought was harmful and opportunistic.
“Buying water from farmers during a drought is like preying on them at their most vulnerable.”
“It’s not just flawed policy, it’s deeply damaging to our communities and to national food security,” Mr Leahy said.
Mr Leahy highlighted the long-term consequences of previous buyback schemes during the Millennium Drought, where many farmers under severe financial pressure sold their water
entitlements to make shortterm ends meet.
“Many farmers now say they regret those decisions.
“What seemed like a financial lifeline at the time ultimately left them in a weaker position to deal with future dry periods,” Mr Leahy added.
The VFF has consistently argued that water buybacks reduce agricultural output, drive up the cost of water for remaining farmers, and do little to achieve environmental gains.
A recent report from the dairy industry revealed that future water buybacks could cut milk production by 270 million litres, reduce dairy processor revenues by $500 million, and increase water costs for farmers who remain in the system.
Mr Leahy called on the Commonwealth Government to stop focusing on arbitrary
water recovery targets and instead shift its attention to meaningful environmental outcomes.
“We need to stop chasing headline water volumes and start asking: what outcomes are we actually delivering for the environment?”, Mr Leahy said.
He cited the recent purchase of 13,000 megalitres of Goulburn water by the Commonwealth in Junewater that, due to inter-valley trade constraints, cannot even be delivered to the Murray.
“These trade rules were designed to protect local ecosystems, yet we’re seeing policies that ignore those rules, putting our local environments and communities at risk.”
“Water buybacks spell disaster for rural communities - they must stop before more damage is done,” Mr Leahy said.
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Emergency service budgets slashed despite
THE Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland has blasted the Allan Labor Government for cutting emergency services funding at the same time it is introducing a new Emergency Services Tax that will take more than $3 billion out of Victorian pockets.
Despite promising to improve frontline response, Labor’s own budget papers show significant funding reductions across key emergency agencies, including those the government used to justify the tax.
“These cuts prove this tax was never about improving emergency services,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Labor is ripping money out of the CFA, SES and Fire Rescue Victoria while asking local families, farmers and small businesses to pay more.
“Once again, our regional communities are footing the bill and getting less in return.”
Parliament’s Public Accounts and Estimates Committee has revealed:
CFA funding is down by $42 million
Fire Rescue Victoria funding is down by $115 million
SES funding is down by $8.4 million
In total, $464 million worth of emergency service agency budgets that were previously funded through general revenue will now be covered by the new tax.
This shift saves Labor money by forcing Victorians to pay more while receiving less support on the ground.
“This is typical Labor - grow the bureaucracy, shift the financial burden onto local communities, and leave our volunteers under-resourced,” Ms Cleeland said.
Just $13.5 million has been allocated for regional CFA station upgrades, and there is not a single new tanker listed in the forward estimates.
By comparison, $10 million a year is being directed to Fire Rescue Victoria fleet replacements and another $10 million to Forest Fire Management Victoria, both now funded by the tax.
Ms Cleeland said the Strathbogie CFA is one clear example of the state government’s ongoing neglect.
“They are still operating out of a shed with no toilets, no water and no changerooms, despite being in a high-risk bushfire area and having multiple
•
female volunteers,” she said.
“They have been pleading for support for years and still have nothing to show for it.”
Last year, internal documents revealed 193 CFA trucks are more than 30 years old and 429 are more than 25 years old.
This includes the Benalla CFA, who currently have two-wheel drives and single cab trucks that are both over 30 years old.
“Some of these trucks are older than the people driving them.
“Volunteers across our region are being left behind, and they know it,” Ms Cleeland said.
Meanwhile, as road conditions worsen, SES volunteers in towns like Kilmore have seen their callouts increase significantly - increasing the need for additional funding support.
“Every dollar from this tax should be going to the frontline.
“Instead, Labor is using it to balance its budget while leaving our emergency services to scrape by.”
Concerned community members can voice their opposition to the Emergency Services Tax at http://scrapthetax.com.au or contact Ms Cleeland’s office on (03) 5762 1600 or annabelle.cleeland@parliament.vic.gov.au.
JOINED VOICES: Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland (second from left) at the May rally at parliament protesting the ESVF.
Preview to the 15th-17th July, 2022, Bendigo, Victoria July 18th-20th, 2025, Bendigo, Victoria
Australian Sheep & Wool Show
Woolbroker of the year in France for wool congress
By LYNN ELDER
FROM a city girl visiting the Thompson family farm near Mansfield to a journey that has taken Tamara Pabst to France for an international wool industry congress this year, she was sure her precious “Pa” was smiling down from above.
She credits her late grandfather and Barjarg farmer Bill Thompson, who called her a “natural,” from two years of age as being her inspiration to follow a career in the wool industry following his death in 2012.
In July last year Tamara won the National Council of Wool Selling Brokers of Australia (NCWSBA) Wool Broker Award for 2024.
This prestigious award was presented to Tamara, a wool technical officer at AWN (Australian Wool Network) for more than three and half years, on July 19 at the NCWSBA’s annual general meeting in Melbourne during Wool Week.
The passionate young woman from Lurg impressed judges with her “personal and industry skillset”, seeing her win an all-expenses paid trip to the 2025 IWTO (International Wool Textile Organisation) Congress in France which was held in May.
The global wool community gathered in Lille for the 94th IWTO Congress for what was “an incredible experience” according to Tamara.
From May 20 to 22, 286 participants from 170 companies across 28 countries including Australia came together at the historic Palais de la Bourse to shape the future of wool.
“It was good to meet a lot of people with a number of companies and internationals from South Africa, China, Canada, England and Poland,” Tamara said.
During the three days key
Organisation
their support for the industry.
Commenting on the current tough dry condition in southern Australia, Tamara did admit that as producers reduce sheep numbers less sheep are being joined.
“I think a lot of people have concluded there is a lack of wool around and the market has to be basic supply and demand but that does not answer the question of what wool has to offer,” she said.
WOOLBROKERS: John Colley and Tamara Pabst from the Australian Wool Network in France for the annual international congress.
topics explored included sustainability, traceability, innovation, and market trends - through expert panels, working groups, and dynamic discussions.
“The program included a Young Professionals group and mentors which was a good step to be part of,” said Tamara.
“I got to meet the next generation and make good connections with others with some similarities,” she said.
“What surprised me was how innovative they were.”
She also remarked that the congress featured a lot people who were not at the farm gate as such, but it was a good learning curve “how to get the wool off the sheep’s
back” in the first place.
The Young Professionals have vowed to stay connected via Zoom following the congress.
“Another point made by the group was many were still treating marketing as they did 40 years ago,” said Tamara.
From cruise ships to circular fashion, building insulation to blockchain, the congress showed how far wool’s potential could reach.
The first day covered the European wool industry and the second day sustainability which was a huge topic said Tamara.
Speakers highlighted that fashion brands were pushing a more regenerative ap-
proach in line with consumer demand.
“The speakers from the fashion side of the businesses said sustainability was a good marketing tool for them, but it was a bit tough with people not spending,” said Tamara.
The congress provided examples of practical innovation in action, shared global market insights, and discussed fresh strategies for wellness, purpose, and environmental leadership.
One example of thinking outside the traditional market outlets was a talk about the use of wool in cruise ship liners.
“The speaker explained how the large cruise liners
were being fitted out with 80 per cent wool carpets because of its durability and stain resistance,” Tamara said adding “It was a game changer”.
There was a presentation on how silvopastoral systems integrated trees, livestock, and pasture as a way to boost sustainability and carbon capture in wool production.
Those not considering wool as a viable alternative were not factoring in that a lot of carbon goes back into the ground, she said.
There was a focus on a need for “education” to encourage the wearing of wool.
Those attending the congress were expected to wear wool to the event showing
One attendee Dave Maslen from the New Zealand Merino Company said, “The potential is there but rising production costs and changing weather patterns are causing immense pressures on-farm - putting wool production figures under pressure.”
The 2026 IWTO Congress will be held in Dalang, China.
The IWTO has been the global authority for wool textile standards since 1930, representing the collective interests of the worldwide wool trade.
The trip to France also provided Tamara the opportunity with her AWN boss John Colley to visit neighbouring Italy for a tour north of Milan.
“We met the top makers as we toured the mills with their own unique features,” she said.
“The people and companies are so invested in this industry”.
Back home, Tamara’s feet have barely touched the ground after her life changing experience, which has motivated her to achieve more in her chosen field.
Her busy schedule includes attending one of the biggest industry events in Australia, the annual Australian Sheep & Wool Show in Bendigo from July 18 to 20 where no doubt there will be plenty of passion for the natural fibre.
GLOBAL: Tamara Pabst (third from left) joins the other Young Professionals from across the world for the 2025 International Wool Textile
in France.
PHOTO: IWTO Facebook
Rock crushing, land boosting
AN automated rock crushing machine that has doubled cropping yields, boosted stock carrying capacity and trebled land values is attracting more and more Victorian growers and will once again be on show at the upcoming Australian Sheep and Wool Show at Bendigo.
Developed by Rocks Gone founder and former farmer Tim Pannell, the three-metre wide H4 Reefinator machine comprises a levelling blade, four front row and five rear row hydraulic tines, and a following ribbed drum, all weighing 28-tonne when filled with water and digging up to 600 millimetres deep.
The machine is on a travelling roadshow along the country’s eastern seaboard this season, and farming groups and growers interested in demonstrations with the machine should get in touch with the company.
The latest H4 Reefinator also features integrated automation technology, eliminating the requirement for operators to perform on-the-go depth adjustments according to changes in land and rock conditions, whilst also adding other valuable benefits.
The Rocks Gone ‘Depth Master’ auto depth and slip control system, which is suitable for ISOBUS and GPS-integrated tractors, calculates
speed over ground and tractor load or wheel slip to adjust machine depth up to 50 times per second, as well as the level of its blade.
Operators set the depth and only make a manual adjustment if desired, thereby better optimising machine and tractor performance and resulting in improved crushing results and operational efficiency.
Adrian Carr, National Business Development Manager with Rocks Gone, said another benefit of the automation
technology, in conjunction with GPS guidance systems, was that it could produce depth maps of worked areas.
“The maps can show perhaps where you may not have been digging deep enough and rather than doing extra passes over the whole area, you may concentrate on some areas and not on others, and effectively do less passes,” Adrian said.
The Rocks Gone Reefinator machines have achieved considerable return on in-
vestment for growers.
“The crushing of the rock into silt-like particles is really valuable.
“In addition to reducing the impact on seeding machinery, there is better rooting depth and development, and soil moisture and nutrient retention improves,” Adrian said.
“In weedy paddocks, growers are also improving weed control by ‘reefinating’ during summer, later seeding the rest of their program, and then do-
ing another pass to get a massive weed germination to hit before seeding it last.
“It is giving them the best, cleanest result.”
He said with the high cost of rural lands today, growers were benefitting by maximising production from their properties and boosting their value.
In Victoria, Stephen Rodger and Tracy Hunt have been using a H4 Reefinator to transform some family land near St Arnaud in the State’s Goldfields region that previ-
Double yields and land value*
ously couldn’t be utilised.
The area features a mix of quartz and shale country, while they have also worked some steep land, where the Reefinator assisted the construction of contour banks plus potential for future cropping.
“You certainly couldn’t get over the quartz and shale area with an airseeder.
“You couldn’t even drive over sections before,” Stephen said.
“We are working on three passes with the machine –going to a depth of 10-20 centimetres, then to 25cm, and we do a final roll and use a grader blade to level it.
“In the steep area, we can now get the airseeder across the ground and we can just drop the seed on top and then go over it with a roller.
“Where we sowed some summer crops (in 2023), it was phenomenal.
“We planted in October and, with the help of a bit of rain, we had some sorghum and summer crops that were eight-foot high.”
The H4 Reefinator will be on display at the Rocks Gone stand at site 267 at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show. For further information on the Reefinator and arranging a demonstration, Adrian Carr can be contacted on 0499 970 177 or email adrian@rocksgone.com.au
ROCK CRUSHING MACHINE: Rocks Gone founder and former farmer Tim Pannell and National Business Development Manager Adrian Carr are looking forward to updating growers on the company’s latest H4 Reefinator at the Australian Sheep and Wool Show at Bendigo.
Celebrating 25 Years of the Australian Sheep and Wool Show in Bendigo
THIS July, the Australian Sheep and Wool Show returns to Bendigo for its 25th consecutive year, marking a significant milestone in the city’s rich agricultural tapestry.
Since relocating from Melbourne in 1999, the show has flourished in Bendigo, transforming the regional hub into a global epicentre for wool, livestock, and rural innovation. The event’s growth over the past quarter-century reflects both the strength of the sheep and wool industries and the vital role of regional Australia in driving agricultural excellence.
Held from July 18 to 20 at the Prince of Wales Showgrounds, the show brings together over 3,000 sheep representing more than 30
breeds, 400 trade exhibitors, and an anticipated 30,000 attendees.
It is the largest event of its kind in the world, offering a comprehensive showcase of Australian sheep breeding, wool production, and rural craftsmanship.
From seasoned industry professionals to curious first-time visitors, the Australian Sheep and Wool Show appeals to a broad and passionate audience.
This year’s feature breed is the White Suffolk, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the Australian White Suffolk Association.
The milestone celebration underscores the breed’s significance in Australia’s prime lamb industry, renowned for its fast growth and
superior carcass quality.
It also highlights the show’s continuing commitment to promoting genetic excellence, breed diversity, and sustainable breeding practices.
Beyond the show ring, the Australian Sheep and Wool Show is packed with attractions and activities that celebrate the full spectrum of rural life.
The popular Woolcraft competition, this year themed “The World Through Textiles”, will display an extraordinary array of hand-crafted creations from artisans across the country.
Meanwhile, fashion enthusiasts can enjoy the Australian Wool Innovation fashion parades, which demonstrate the modern versatility and
style of wool in contemporary design.
Food lovers won’t be left out, with the Festival of Lamb offering cooking demonstrations, tastings, and opportunities to savour some of the finest lamb Australia has to offer.
From paddock to plate, the festival celebrates the entire lamb production journey, championing Australian producers and culinary talent.
For those pursuing a future in agriculture, the Careers and Technology Hub will shine a spotlight on emerging technologies and career pathways in the sheep and wool sectors.
It’s a must-visit for students, job seekers, and anyone looking to explore innovative directions in the rural economy.
In addition, industry gatherings such as the Stud Masters’ Muster and the Sponsors and Breeders Cocktail Party provide valuable networking opportunities and foster collaboration within the agricultural community.
The Australian Sheep and Wool Show’s enduring success in Bendigo is a testament to the city’s strategic location, robust infrastructure, and unwavering community support.
As the show celebrates 25 years in Bendigo, it not only honours its storied past but also looks confidently toward a future of continued growth, innovation, and excellence in Australia’s sheep and wool industries.
YARDED: The Australian Sheep and Wool Show returns to Bendigo for its 25th consecutive year.
Australian Lamb’s first Silver Cannes Lion win
MEAT & Livestock Australia (MLA) is proud to announce that its 2025 Summer Lamb campaign, The Comments Section, has won a Silver Lion at the Cannes International Festival of Creativity, marking the first-ever Silver Cannes Lions win in the Film category for Australian Lamb in the campaign’s 20-year history.
The Cannes Lions Festival, held annually in Cannes, France, is the world’s most prestigious celebration of creativity in advertising and communications.
This year, The Comments Section stood out in the Film/ Viral Film category, earning a Silver Lion from a field of 1,636 global entries, includ-
ing work from some of the world’s most iconic brands such as Apple, Nike, L’Oréal, Adidas and Budweiser.
Created by Droga5 ANZ, part of Accenture Song, and directed by Max Barden from The Sweetshop, The Comments Section cleverly brought to life real Australian social media comments by reimagining them as a real-world cauldron of opinions, misunderstandings, and cultural clashes.
The ad struck a chord with audiences by holding up a mirror to Australia’s digital discourse while reminding us that lamb is the ultimate unifier and brings us all together.
According to MLA’s Gener-
al Manager of Marketing and Insights Nathan Low, this annual campaign aims to articulate a cultural reflection of modern Australia.
“To see The Comments Section and Australian Lamb recognised on the global stage at Cannes Lions is not only a celebration of creative excellence, but a powerful endorsement of the authentic Australian cultural stories we aim to tell with the annual Lamb campaign,” Mr Low said.
“This win reinforces the value of long-term brand investment for our levy payers.
“The Summer Lamb platform continues to deliver strong returns by driving demand, building brand equity,
Shannon Noll to headline Sheepvention After Dark Concert 2025
THE Sheepvention Rural Expo is set to light up Hamilton this August with its Sheepvention After DarkDrought Relief concert, headlined by none other than Aussie rock legend Shannon Noll.
Taking place on Sunday 3 August, the concert will be a powerful blend of music, community and mental health awareness.
and positioning Australian Lamb as a premium, tasty and nutritious protein, both at home and abroad.
“It’s a proud moment for our industry, and a reminder that when we tell our story with creativity and boldness, the world takes notice.”
The Comments Section was one of only 15 campaigns globally to receive a Silver Lion, standing shoulder to shoulder with the world’s most innovative and impactful advertising.
This milestone win reinforces the Summer Lamb campaign’s legacy as a culturally resonant platform that delivers real-world impact for Australian lamb producers and levy payers.
The concert is proudly supported by the Let’s Talk Foundation, a grassroots charitydedicated to breaking the stigma around mental health in rural Australia.
As part of the evening, attendees will experience a panel discussion featuring lived-experience ambassadors and mental health professionals, sharing stories and strategies for building stronger, more connected communities.
“Sheepvention is more than just an agricultural expo - it’s a celebration of rural resilience,” said Darren Schurmann, Sheepvention president.
“Partnering with Let’s Talk brings a deeper purpose to the night, reminding us that mental health matters just as much as innovation and livestock.”
The Let’s Talk Foundation and other organisations will offer free resouces, support contacts and information about local mental health services.
Their presence aims to empower attendees to start conversations, seek help and support one another.
Tickets for the Sheepvention After Dark Drought Relief concert are on sale now via www.sheepvention.com.
Doors open at 7pm, with local support acts warming up the stage before Shannon Noll delivers his iconic hits.
INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM: 2025 Summer Lamb campaign, The Comments Section has won a Silver Lion at Cannes.
Government support urged as fallen livestock concerns grow
THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is urging the Victorian Government to step up and deliver immediate support to drought-affected livestock producers by introducing a targeted rebate scheme for fallen stock collection costs.
The VFF has made the request as it continues to work to ensure a long-term, sustainable solution for animal disposal across the state.
The call comes as a new user-pays trial for fallen stock services begins across western Victoria from June
2025, following sustained VFF advocacy to keep the service running in the face of mounting financial pressures.
The trial will implement the following fee structure:
$50 per head paid to farmers for standing, live cows
$200 per pickup paid by farmers for deceased stock (Pricing may vary depending on livestock size, volume, or circumstances. Discounts may be available.)
VFF Livestock President Scott Young said the VFF has
actively worked with service provider Loc Rivett and Agriculture Victoria to prevent a complete collapse of the system, but now warns the government must intervene.
“We absolutely need this service and we’ve helped keep it operating,” Mr Young said.
“Clearly the provider has decided to introduce a service fee and we’re calling on the government to step in and help cover the costs in this time of drought.
“We are calling for a re bate scheme to offset collec
tion costs for producers in declared drought-affected areas.
Anything less is a failure to support animal welfare and on-farm biosecurity during crisis conditions.
“It’s a complex issue and we’ve been working with the provider, government and farmers behind the scenes for months to ensure there is a service for farmers to access.
“This vital service remains
fees,” Mr Young said.
The VFF has consistently flagged the risks of inadequate fallen stock infrastructure, including animal welfare breaches, biosecurity exposure, and environmental harm.
The VFF is working closely with stakeholders to design a fit-for-purpose system, but insists producers must not be left carrying the financial burden alone.
UDV President Bernie Free
to ensure drought-stricken farmers aren’t made to absorb extra costs.
“We’ve worked hard to ensure producers still have access to a collection service, but affordability in times of drought remains a major concern and we can’t lose focus of that.
“We’re asking the Government to commit funding for a rebate model that recognises the regional impact of drought and helps keep farmers compliant without punishing them financially,”
Young steers giving struggling vendors bang for buck
By BAILEY ZIMMERMANN
YOUNG cattle around 200kg continue to give producers strong value despite the ongoing dry hardship experienced by farmers across the region.
Some 1173 head were yarded at the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange Thursday 19 June, bringing the monthly store sale back to some normality following last May’s major offloading of 3000 head due to the current drought.
Just under half of the June yarding had heifers and steers within 200-280kg going under the hammer, with steers within the 180-220kg weight range proving a popular choice for northern buyers.
Those cattle went for well over $4/kg, while heifers and steers more than 300kg going into feedlots also attracted interest.
Young heifers were bought for around $3.30 to $3.50/kg.
AWN Livestock agent Pe-
ter Dargan said given the dry state of the local countryside and the rising prices of hay, the stock were selling well.
“It could’ve been a disaster overall, but it was actually quite good,” he said.
“A lot of those young cattle are going on trucks to Queensland and northern New South Wales so that underpins those prices a bit and those 300kg cattle going into feedlots underpins that.
“A lot of cattle are still go-
ing north, not much locally because we are probably selling more than buying.
“It was definitely a winter yarding in terms of the quality, a bit hairy in the coats.”
There have now been well over 4500 head offloaded through the Wangaratta Livestock Exchange over the past two months, with most of those cattle usually held for the annual feature Gordan Sinclair Memorial Sale in August, according to Mr Dargan.
“The cost of hay is one of the main driving things, whether it’s worth buying hay at the price it is and feeding the stock, or whether it’s better to cut your numbers, which is what a lot of people have been doing,” he said.
Following next to no rain during autumn, some reprieve was found in downpours across the King’s Birthday weekend, with farmers keeping their fingers crossed for some further rain forecasted early this week.
Mr Dargan said it would take some time before feed begins to grow back to more stable levels.
“Even if we get rain now it’s not going to bring a lot of grass until we get to the early part of the spring and when you combine that with the cost of hay, you’ve got to be realistic, and people can’t keep everything,” he said.
This month’s store sale is set for 17 July, with the Gordan Sinclair Memorial Sale scheduled for 21 August.
SALE’O SALE’O: AWN livestock agent Ryan Hussey takes the bidding at the sale.
PHOTOS: Bailey Zimmermann
BUYING UP: The Bussell family of Claire (holding six-month-old Will), Henry and Justin were at Thursday’s sale looking to add to their operation at Greta and Hansonville.
Thrown to the dogs
Wild dogs: the future of control in the state?
By MIKE SMITH
AT the beginning of May, Animals Australia, Australia’s leading animal protection organisation, announced its legal team had ‘filed proceedings in the Supreme Court of Victoria on behalf of dingoes being cruelly trapped, poisoned and shot in the state’.
They say that dingoes, despite their status as threatened native animals in Victoria, are being targeted and killed to appease the interests of the animal agriculture industry.
They blame the government’s endorsement for a three more year extension of the Unprotection order in place in the east of Victoria calling it an ‘eradication program’ for a unique threatened species saying that unidentified experts have warned that dingoes are ‘hurtling towards extinction.’
“We are on the precipice of wiping out another native animal,” they said.
“Dingoes are integral to the balance of our ecosystem.
“We’re suing the Victorian Government – because dingoes deserve better.
“The survival of native dingo populations in Victoria is hanging in the balance – they don’t have three years to spare.
“So, together, we are ensuring they are given a voice.”
This comes after months of discussion regarding wild dogs in Mansfield Shire, much of which has centred around booming populations, increased activity on public and private land, the dogs’ changed brazen behaviour, and the increased threat to livestock.
Animals Australia did not disclaim the source of their data.
Given the animal protection organisation is looking to removed the state government legislated unprotection order on wild dogs/dingoes statewide, North East and Goulburn Murray Farmer
has turned its eyes to the north west of the state where the unprotection order has already been lifted.
In recent weeks, the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has been calling upon the state government to urgently strengthen wild dog management programs in light of the mounting impact seen in North-West Victoria and where non-lethal controls have failed to protect livestock.
VFF Vice-President Peter Star has said that concerns are growing over potential changes to the dingo unprotection order and that now is not the time for the government to retreat from effective, science-based wild dog management.
“In the North-West, where lethal control methods have been restricted, farmers are already seeing the consequences, more frequent and brazen livestock attacks, increased stock losses, and rising emotional and financial
ANIMALS AUSTRALIA: THE ANIMAL PROTECTION ORGANISATION SAY THAT DINGOES ARE TRAPPED, POISONED AND SHOT TO APPEASE THE ANIMAL AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY.
stress,” Mr Star said.
“These are not isolated incidents.
“The lack of effective wild dog control is undermining confidence and doing real damage to rural livelihoods.
“We must not allow this to spread to other parts of the state.
“Our farmers deserve protection.
“The tools exist, we just need the government to use them.”
Jade Benham, Nationals Member for Mildura, told Farmer that the situation in the north west is symptomatic of a Melbourne-centric government whose regional policy rarely represents the views of the regional population.
“A sheep grazier recently called my office to tell me that he is either losing or having to euthanise a third of all the lambs born on his farm after dog attacks see them mauled.
“Non-lethal controls are not working.
“Guardian animals and predator proof fences alone, do not work.
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PHOTO: DEFEND THE WILD / FARM TRANSPARENCY PROJECT
HAMISH Farmsworth, a grazier and shearer, whose farm shares borders with the Wyperfeld National Park in the state’s north west, painted a bleak picture of what life looks like for those left in the sheep trade once the unprotection order was lifted.
“I don’t have a gun license, I don’t want to wipe out wild dogs or dingoes; I just want the animals that cause problems on my farm off my farm,” he said.
“We’ve used foxlights, we’ve used guardian animals, and nothing has worked.
“We’re not even allowed to try and scare wild dogs off, we just
have to watch them eat our sheep.
“We’re trying to build a predator proof fence but when you’re looking at fencing 10 kilometres and it costs $16,000 a kilometre, it’s not easy.
“We keep losing ewes and we keep losing lambs.
“The attacks and the stress they cause affect the sheep’s fertility.
“The lambing rate on an 800-ewe farm near me is around 50 per cent - which is terrible.
“When I go shearing, I pull the wool back on sheep and lambs and find they’ve been bitten, they’re green and rotten under their wool and there’s no saving them.
Mr Farmsworth said producers were selling their livestock and getting out of the industry.
“We’ve been left alone to please the Greens and the activists,” he said.
“These are the same people who used to drive around to see which properties had warning signs that there was bait on the property so they could send them death threats, before the unprotection order was lifted.
“One guy who was baiting around here, before it was made illegal, was told by the activists that they were going to come and feed the bait to his children.”
electorate in the north west, she was quite clear that she would vocally oppose the lifting of the unprotection order elsewhere in the state.
“If the unprotection order was lifted in the High Country or in Gippsland where the numbers of wild dogs are higher, the results would be catastrophic.
“The north west has campsites lying empty because wild dogs are stalking campers at night and the numbers here are supposedly smaller that elsewhere in the state.
worries farmers, and indeed many other regional Victorians, is the ideological pattern behind all this.
“The activist mindset now dominates not just the Minister’s office, but the bureaucracies like DEECA and Parks Victoria.
“They used the same tactics to shut down native timber harvesting, to ban climbing in national parks, to wage war on brumbies, to target the pig industry, and to impose new restrictions on bush user groups.
“Graziers in the north west are commonly having to patrol their farms in the dead of the night and despite their best efforts, they are still finding mauled sheep on their land.
“Once they are on private land, it is too late.
“Controls need to be put in place on public land long before they are on farms.
“The three kilometre buffer used to work and we need to go back to managing wild dog numbers where they live and breed, on public land before they are on our farms, killing sheep.
life when a species threatens others.
“We have excellent Landcare groups in our region and even they are frustrated at the current situation.
ment sacrificing its rural communities to appease citybased activists.
“Children growing up in rural Victoria should not be afraid to be out after dusk.”
Bev McArthur, Liberal Member for Western Victoria Region and Shadow Minister for Scrutiny of Government, believes the way the unprotection order was removed in the north-west has severely damaged trust in the government.
“The lifting of the unprotection order followed a period of several years where the control orders were only extended for a single year at a time,” she said.
“There’s a serious and concerted campaign to push people out of nature, based on some obsessive ideological belief in ‘pristine, pre-colonial wilderness’ that excludes humans altogether.
“I’m sure you’ve noticed, these activist groups present the dingo in highly idealised terms, as some pure and noble apex predator that existed in perfect balance with the environment before European settlement.
“Poor decisions were made early in Australia’s history as a nation and now we have to try and live with them and that means controlling wild-
“There was no consultation, no impact studies before the decision was made elsewhere and forced upon us up here.
“It’s a city-centric govern-
“We’ve been thrown to the dogs and we need the unprotection order back in place so we can go back to managing our environment, responsibly.”
While Benham’s primary concern is the protection of the communities within her
“That short-term, reactive pattern has given farmers no confidence at all that the government intends to maintain long-term, effective wild dog control.
“If anything, the short extensions and politicised review process suggest the opposite, and that in fact control measures may be revoked again at any time.
“In my view, what really
“This narrative depends on contested claims about the dingo’s DNA purity, its status as a separate native species, and its supposed ability to selectively prey on introduced animals.
“These assumptions influence policy discussions, including proposals for reintroduction and restrictions on lethal control, despite ongoing scientific uncertainty about dingo taxonomy, population numbers, and ecological impact.”
Scammers targeting drought-hit farmers with fake hay ads
By MIKE SMITH
A MANSFIELD Shire grazier is warning others to be cautious after losing more than $5000 to a hay scam on Facebook Marketplace - one of several targeting livestock owners during the current feed shortage.
With 200 Herefords to feed and local suppliers unable to meet demand, Deanne Aldridge turned to the internet in search of big round bales.
She found a seller on Facebook Marketplace who seemed genuine and asked all the right questions.
After agreeing to pay $5200 up front for 42 bales, she was later asked for a second “refundable” deposit.
When she refused, the seller became aggressive and blocked her.
The hay never arrived.
The warning comes as Mansfield Shire continues to struggle with dry conditions and a severe fodder shortage.
Ms Aldridge has since posted a warning to a local community noticeboard, urging others to be wary of scams and to take care when dealing with unfamiliar sellers online.
“There didn’t seem to be anything untoward going on,” she said.
“I’ve been buying fodder for stock for 35 years and in that time I’ve worked with a lot of suppliers.
“It’s not uncommon to have to pay money for a purchase upfront, especially through a new supplier.
“Before we paid, we asked if that was everything because we didn’t want to be hit by any hidden costs and they assured us that was it.
“Then on Sunday night the seller messaged to tell us they had forgotten their transport partner would need to take a refundable deposit to get the delivery to us.
“They wanted $3299, which they said they would get back to us upon delivery.
“It all sounded very strange, they wanted the money immediately through Osko pay.
“35 years we have been buying feed and never have we heard anything so ludicrous.
“But we are desperate, we have cows to feed and we have already sent them $5250.
“We deliberated sending them this hidden cost because we just need the hay.”
When Deanne refused to pay the second amount, the seller’s tone changed, they became pushy and accusatory.
Deanne went to the police who directed her to scam watch and the supposed seller has now blocked her so she has no line of communication to try and get a refund on the lost money.
“This is our livelihood,” she said.
“These people should be ashamed of themselves.
“We are in a drought and we are desperate to feed our animals and they are taking advantage.
“I just hope people see this and aren’t fooled by these scammers.”
Steve Carden, Senior Sergeant and Station Commander at Mansfield Police Station said that opportunistic criminals will take any opportunity for advantage.
“Our advice is the same for all such scams,” he said.
“If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
“Do not attend remote locations to meet unknown people for transactions.
“Verify whom you are dealing with.
“Do not provide any bank details.
“Do not tap any links on emails/SMS from unknown sources.
“If your “Spidey senses” are tingling, they are tingling for a reason.”
Supporting cattlemen in the High Country
CATTLE were banned from grazing in the high country of Victoria, firstly in 2005, then a trial to reintroduce them to the high country was ceased in 2015.
Prior to this cattle had grazed the high country for nearly 170 years.
The introduction of new technology with virtual fencing, fencing cattle with GPS technology and collars to keep the cattle in designated areas, provides an opportunity to revisit High Country cattle grazing.
Jeff Bourman MP, Member for the Eastern Region of the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party of Victoria, said the Mountain Cattlemen’s Association of Victoria (MCAV) have been looking after the high country for over 150 years, they know the
area like the back of their hand.
“Their cattle assisted in management of the region’s bushfire fuel load for decades, and enhanced Victorian primary production outputs.”
New GPS enabled technology would permit graziers to target specific areas of the high country for grazing.
Grazing could again be utilised for areas where overgrowth and weeds have outpaced Parks Victoria’s management capabilities.
Environmentally sensitive areas would be excluded, protecting flora and fauna without the need for a physical fence.
“Cattle were banned due to environment concerns, concerns that
were hotly debated at the time,” Mr Bourman said.
“The new GPS technology will allow areas of concern to be protected, whilst reducing fuel loads, and allowing beef farmer’s additional areas to graze livestock.”
Virtual fencing has now been approved for use in Victoria and is proving to be a useful farm management tool.
“It’s now time to explore if we can make use of this technology to better manage public lands,” he said.
“It’s time the government moved with the times and works with the MCAV to conduct a pilot for the reintroduction of grazing cattle to the High Country now the technology exists to protect the environment.”
YOUR KNOWLEDGE IS NEEDED: Don’t miss your chance to help Farmers for Climate Action shape policy focus, farmer engagement, and government advocacy over the next 12 months. Fill out their survey before 31 July.
Farmers asked to help inform direction
FARMERS and agricultural professionals are invited to help shape the future of Australian agriculture by taking part in the Farmer Insights Survey, launched by Farmers for Climate Action (FCA).
FCA CEO Natalie Collard said the survey is a vital opportunity for farmers to have their voices heard on the challenges, opportunities, and direction of Australian agriculture -particularly in the context of a changing climate.
“The insights we gathered from our last national survey were transformative,” Ms Collard said.
“More than 700 farmers and industry professionals contributed, and their voices shaped our submission to the Federal Government’s agriculture and land sector plan.
“It also gave FCA a clear mandate on how to most effectively advocate for Australian farmers.”
Key findings from the previous survey included:
92 per cent of farmers reported changes in seasonal conditions and climate-related onfarm impacts over the past three years.
71 per cent had already invested in emissions reduction measures on farms.
64 per cent planned further investment in emissions reduction within the next five years.
The survey also identified three major barriers holding farmers back from greater climate action:
1. A lack of clear government policies and incentives.
2. High upfront costs and limited access to finance.
3. Challenges in measuring and validating emissions and carbon outcomes.
“This new survey will directly shape FCA’s policy focus, farmer engagement, and government advocacy over the next 12 months,” Ms Collard said.
“If you’re a farmer or you work in agriculture, this is your chance to influence real outcomesyour experience matters, and we’re listening.”
The Farmer Insights Survey closes on 31 July.
To participate, visit: https:// farmersforclimateaction.org.au/ blog/2025/05/29/farmer-insight-survey-2025.
CATTLE IN THE MOUNTAINS: MCAV Mansfield branch president Bruce McCormack back in the days before grazing cattle in the High Country was banned.
Drought solutions, water security for the future
AS South Australia, Victoria and Southern New South Wales suffer what looks like a serious drought, farmers look around for some signs of potential government innovation to work on providing water security for the future.
Aussie Pumps are specialists in droughts, floods and dealing with what we hope is not an upcoming severe fire season.
IF ONLY
If only the water from the Queensland floods that flowed into the Pacific Ocean could have been diverted to South Australia and Victoria.
Now we are also seeing Tasmania suffering as well.
You see the Burdekin River watershed being channelled south to provide a completely different situation to the one farmers now face.
AUSSIE HAS SOME ANSWERS
Australian Pump is an 31 year old startup that began in a backyard shed.
The original founders realised that corporations were taking over the pump industry.
Aussie saw corporations look after the welfare of their shareholders and sometimes, choose to ignore the real requirements for the man or the woman on the land.
In today’s world with the continually increasing cost of living, farmers and their customers, everyday consumers, need value for money.
That means buying good quality products, so they get the value for money they deserve.
AUSSIE UPDATE
Australian Pump Industries has come a long way.
The company now exports its top quality products all over the world, even to provide flood relief with their big 6” pumps in South Sudan.
The good news is some local government bodies are realising that Aussie’s big 6” flood pumps can help fill dams to provide water security and insurance against the next drought.
Aussie is represented throughout Victoria, and right throughout Australia, by top quality outlets who really have the farmers interest at heart.
Brown Wigg in Gippsland is a classic example.
Go into any of their stores and you will find Aussie Pump Smart pumps, in 2” and 3”, designed to handle fertiliser.
These 30 per cemt glass-filled polyester pumps will handle the most corrosive liquids and are powered by Honda engine.
Aussie dealers offer great prices at this time of year.
The products come with Aussie’s unique five year warranty.
You won’t see any five year warranties from the big corporate pump businesses.
GET READY FOR FIRE
We all know the cycle.
Sooner or later, we will be faced with a fire.
LOCAL DEALERS: Aussie’s
All it needs is a few super hot days in August or September to suddenly find it’s on again.
We salute the CFA volunteers for the wonderful work they do.
They put their lives on the line to serve others and deserve our appreciation and applause. They also deserve to get access to the best equipment, including our Aussie Fire Chief and Mr T twin impeller fire pump.
These pumps are head and shoulders above all other lightweight portable fire pumps, offering superior performance and even a five year warranty.
They are built with either Honda petrol or Yanmar diesel engines. Great performers include the
3” Mr T delivering 200 litres at minute at 80 metres head.
Imagine having one of those on your farm for transferring water from one dam to the other.
Their pump range is phenomenal with a recent introduction of 316 stainless steel pumps for dairy processing applications.
FIGHTING FLOODS … THE NEXT CHALLENGE
We know the seasons change. As farmers say, “every day of drought brings us one day closer to rain”. They also know that after the rain, every day brings us closer to the next drought. Prepping for both is the
DAIRY WASHDOWN
Dairies and piggeries don’t only need high pressure motor pumps like Aussie’s GMP range but also need portable trash pumps for livestock waste handling.
Aussie are specialists in that area, with heavy duty trash pumps on the market with special deals from washdown pumps to steam cleaners, super high pressure water blasters and even big drain cleaning Jetters for clearing blocked drains fast.
“We’re pleased to say that we owe a lot to the market.
responsibility of governments but, frankly they seem to be a little slow when it comes to the realisation that prevention is better than passivity.
Aussie’s big 6” pumps can easily fill dams during flood time.
It’s local government who should take steps to avoid that water going to waste.
Winton Council in Central Queensland recently bought four of Aussie’s big 6” pumps for flood protection.
It’s a relief to see somebody doing something to get ready for the next disaster.
Winton bought these big 6” mobile trailer mounted machines, each capable of pumping 6,000 litres per minute.
That’s 24,000 litres per minute.
“It’s what you taught us about the requirements that generate our R & D program,” said Aussie Pumps Chief Engineer, John Hales.
Hales claims that Aussie Pumps are unique in that their policy is amplified by the sign on the wall in his office in Sydney’s Norwest business district.
“We design and build machines as if we were going to use them ourselves,” he said of the policy.
“That’s what it’s all about and it is also what separates Aussie from the corporates.”
Further information is available from Brown Wigg stores or for direct dairy hot water pressure cleaners, call the Aussie hotline for great deals.
GOOD TO GO: Winton Council is well prepared for the next flood.
BRING IN THE BIG GUNS: This Aussie flood buster saved the town of Horsham from flooding.
self priming pumps provide real quality and performance.
Henty field days showcasing the latest in ag technology
MORE than $200 million worth of the latest in agricultural and machinery products will be showcased to the nation in southern Australia’s single biggest agricultural event, the 2025 Henty Machinery Field Days.
The agribusiness super event is scheduled for September 23 to 25 and has evolved into the nation’s agricultural shop front over its 62-year history with 14 kilometres of outdoor sites.
HMFD chief executive officer Belinda Anderson said the event has become an in stitution on the farming cal endar with an incredible 78 per cent of visitors making the trip to the field days an average of nine times.
“The event has a proud heritage and the HMFD Cooperative has never lost sight of the primary reason for its existence – to showcase the agricultural industry, and the very latest in new and emerg ing agricultural technology,” Mrs Anderson said.
Farm Gate will be a hive of activity of gourmet products direct from regional producers whilst outside on the sound stage is the talented regional duo Happy Hour.
Competition is expected to be intense this year at Henty as the nation’s best sheep dogs and their handlers gather for the Murray Valley Championship Yard Dog Trial and Henty Three Sheep Trial which are proudly supported by Hypro.
This year’s field days will have all the usual attractions including the prestigious Henty Machine of the Year Award, the working sheep dog trials, Country Lifestyle pavilion, Farm Gate, Baker Seeds agronomy trials, helicopter joy rides, live entertainment, the Natural Fibre Fashion Awards and vintage farm machinery display.
“2025 will further build on the visitor experience achieved with last year’s launch of Agtech Alley, a collaboration with the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Devel-
opment,” Mrs Anderson said.
“This hub connects over 20 collaborating business, industry, grower and producer organisations, and delivers an extensive schedule of workshop, demonstrations, networking events and start-up mentoring for all attendees.
“Agtech Alley delivers practical advice to producers and industry organisations through the live demonstrations.
“Visitors can learn about cutting-edge innovation and how they can apply the latest technology, be it re-
mote sensors, connectivity, or post-harvest solutions to streamline their on-farm operations.”
The 2025 field days will be officially opened by popular television presenter, wool industry ambassador and fashion designer, Catriona Rowntree.
The official opening on Tuesday, September 23 will include the presentation of the prestigious Henty Machine of the Year Award while Greater Hume Council will sponsor the Best Australian Designed and Manufactured
Machine to be presented on Wednesday, September 24 at 10.30am.
National and international agricultural and commercial businesses will be eligible for the HMFD Exhibitor Awards at the 2025 field days. Awards will be presented on Thursday, September 25 to the winners of the Best Outdoor Large Commercial, Best Outdoor General and Best Indoor Exhibitor sites (Country Lifestyle and Farm Gate Produce Market).
At Country Lifestyle, the stage will be the focus of
fashion parades featuring garments from exhibitors daily at 11am and 1pm.
Designers with a flair for converting natural fibres into wearable art will compete for more than $5500 worth of prizes, including the new Best Repurposed/ Recycled Fabric Garment Award sponsored by Greater Hume Council for $500.
The Henty Natural Fibre Fashion Awards showcase designs using at least 70 per cent natural fibres with parades daily and the winners announced at 1.30pm Thursday.
The display by the Henty and District Antique Farm Machinery Club members always draws a large crowd of both young and old visitors, and will include machinery commemorating 100 years of Caterpillar.
There will be an ATM courtesy of the ANZ Bank on site 567.
Pre-purchase early bird tickets until September 22 by heading to the home page on www.hmfd.com.au and click on Buy Tickets.
Online prices are $26 + card fees for adults and $9 + card fees for children 12 to 17 years.
Children under 12 years free when accompanied by an adult.
Gates are open from 8am to 5pm, with prices for online and gate entry (unchanged on 2024) being adult gate tickets $30 (cash), card $30 + card fees, children 12 to 17 years $10 (cash), card $10 + card fees and children under 12 free when accompanied by an adult.
Online tickets can be purchased while in the queue at the gate.
ANNUAL EVENT: A view of the 2024 Henty Machinery Field Days which drew 55,000 visitors across the three days.
Farmers in need of more mental health support
STATE Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, has renewed calls for urgent support for farmers facing severe drought conditions following a well-attended mental health support event at the Euroa Cattle Sale on June 6 .
Ms Cleeland was joined by regional mental health professionals, Strathbogie Shire Councillors, and dozens of local farmers for a morning of free and confidential mental health support, conversation, and connection.
“This was more than just a morning tea – it was a powerful reminder that our farmers are crying out to be heard, seen, and supported,” Ms Cleeland said.
“While it was heartening to see so many locals stop
by for a cuppa and a chat, the stories we heard were confronting – of livestock losses, financial despair, and isolation that has gone on too long without real support.”
Ms Cleeland said the event highlighted the depth of the mental health crisis facing farming communities in the region, made worse by ongoing drought and the continued lack of formal recognition from government.
“Our farmers are resilient, but they are not invincible,” Ms Cleeland said.
“We cannot expect a chat over a cuppa to carry someone through another season of dust and debt.
“What we need now is not more platitudes, but policy.”
Ms Cleeland said the State
Government’s lack of urgency to formally recognise the drought in North-East Victoria, and deliver on much-needed mental health support, was failing farmers across the region.
“Every person who came through the gates of the Euroa Saleyard yesterday had a story – and many of them had reached their limits,” she said.
“Some are selling off generations of breeding stock just to pay bills.
“Others are looking down the barrel of walking off the land altogether.
“The conversations we had on June 6 were raw, real, and heartbreaking.
“And they made one thing clear – much more must be done.”
Glass full of jobs for regional Victoria’s dairy industry
A MAJOR expansion backed by state government funding is enabling a Kyabram dairy processing facility to churn more milk and create more local jobs.
Goulburn Valley Creamery has more than doubled its production capacity to 100 million litres of milk per year with the $10 million fit out of a larger processing area and upgrades to key equipment and water infrastructure.
The increased capacity has enabled the company to employ 17 new operational staff at the facility and take in more milk from Goulburn Valley dairy farms.
“Victoria’s dairy industry is an
important driver of local jobs and economic activity, which is why we’re thrilled that Goulburn Valley Creamery’s expansion has led to more jobs than expected,” said Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes.
“The expansion project is enabling local dairy producers like Goulburn Valley Creamery to support towns like Kyabram with more workers and a strengthened supply chain.”
The local supply chain is benefitting through an increased demand for frozen milk storage following processing.
The expansion was completed
last year, through an investment in upgrades to Goulburn Valley Creamery’s water treatment infrastructure to allow the company to treat water onsite.
The company can now treat more water than it was previously able to, using a variety of technologies such as filtration equipment and dissolved air flotation systems.
Access to safe water is critical for the company’s operations and underpinned its decision to deliver the broader expansion and upgrades of the facility to produce more dairy products for their customers.
Located in the historic Kyabram
Jam Factory – home to IXL jams –Goulburn Valley Creamery has operated from the site since 2020.
From frozen milk concentrate to frozen cream, the company’s wide range of dairy products are sourced locally and exported globally.
Goulburn Valley Creamery has grown to employ 90 full-time workers across Victoria.
The company has more than doubled the workforce at its dairy processing facility in Kyabram to 30 workers.
“We’re thrilled with the expansion at our Kyabram factory which has included water treatment upgrades that have boosted our pro-
duction capacity and opened up new market opportunities and enabled us to employ more people in the local area,” said Chief Executive Officer Goulburn Valley Creamery, Mancel Hickey.
“These improvements have helped us bring on more staff and deliver more products to market, while also providing a flow-on benefit to local suppliers.”
The dairy industry is an important part of Kyabram’s economy and the surrounding area.
Around 30 per cent of Victoria’s dairy farms are in northern Victoria, producing 1.55 billion litres of milk in the 2023-24 financial year.
LISTENING TO THE COMMUNITY: Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland at the Euroa cattle sale with Strathbogie Shire Council mayor, Claire Ewart-Kennedy, and mental health advocate, Ivan Lister.
Permits fast-tracked, fees waived
IMPORTERS looking to bring fodder into Victoria from interstate can apply for a plant biosecurity permit (PBP) through Agriculture Victoria to ensure biosecurity risks are properly managed.
AgVic is providing a free service to suppliers, transporters, and farmers to navigate permit requirements and expedite access to animal feed.
Ongoing drought conditions have created serious challenges for Victoria’s livestock industry, particularly a critical shortage of hay and fodder - so farmers are needing to look interstate for source supplies.
All imported fodder requires a PBP to manage key biosecurity risks, including annual ryegrass toxicity (found in all states except NT and Tasmania), green snail (found in WA), red imported fire ant (found in QLD), and electric ant (found in QLD).
AgVic chief plant health officer
Stephen Dibley said all fodder imports would require a PBP, except for that coming from NT and Tasmania.
“Given the ongoing tough conditions across the state, AgVic is prioritising permit applications for fodder to make sure essential transport can be fast-tracked,” Dr Dibley said.
“Once a PBP is submitted, our team will be in touch within two working days to discuss and assess the specifics of (an) import request.”
Costs associated with the inspection of interstate fodder by Agriculture Victoria where it is required, will be waived.
For more information and to apply for a plant health permit, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/ moving-plants-and-plant-products/ plant-biosecurity-permit or email it directly to market.access@agriculture.vic.gov.au
Farmers under financial stress as a result of drought or other pressures can access support and resources 365 days a year:
Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS)free and confidential business planning supporthttps://agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-management/ business-management/farm-debtmediation/ rural-financial-counselling-service
Farm Household Allowance (FHA) program - a fortnightly Commonwealth Government payment - www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/farmhousehold-allowance
Regional Investment Corporation low interest drought loans of up to $2 million - to assist farmers to prepare for, manage and recover from drought - www.ric.gov.au/loans
Local governments also offer rate hardship policies.
Ongoing supports are outlined in Agriculture Victoria Resource Directory, available at https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/ farm-management/emergency-management/ floods/recoveryresources-and-events/resourcedirectory
SmartFarms to break new ground for soil research
AGRICULTURE Victoria’s soil research capabilities at its Horsham and Tatura SmartFarms have been boosted with a $1.49 million investment from the Australian Government’s National Soil Action Plan (NSAP).
Agriculture Victoria Research Scientist Dr Katherine Dunsford said the ‘Improving soil structure for resilient ecosystems’ project will fund critical research into increasing drought resilience.
“In Australia soil is the basis for
most agriculture, both food and fibre, and directly tied to our food security and economy.
“This project funding has helped us appoint a dedicated soil physicist Dr Anne Yusuf to our soil physics laboratory facility at the Tatura SmartFarm.
“Dr Yusuf will apply her soil science, hydrology and ecosystem knowledge to our project and make the most of the technology and facilities available at the soil physics lab and our SmartFarms,” Dr Dunsford said.
“Poor soil structure limits rainfall capture and root access to water, shrinking the soil’s water bucket.
“It can also lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions and reduced fertility, resulting in lower plant production and poor environmental outcomes.
‘Soils can have naturally poor structure or as a result of management decisions, such as excessive tillage or trampling by cattle in wet conditions.
“Our research focuses on under-
standing how different soil amelioration strategies such as organic materials and gypsum can improve soil structure and soil function,” she said.
Dr Dunsford said they are looking to expand understanding across a wider range of soil types and industries, particularly grains and dairy.
“The goal is to guide farmers to effective soil improvement strategies to maintain or boost productivity, enhance drought resilience, and increase environmental services in a changing climate,” Dr Dunsford.
NORTH EAST AND GOULBURN MURRAY
BEECHWORTH
Beechworth Machinery 30 High Street
RUTHERGLEN
McNamara’s AGnVET
Cnr Murray Valley Highway
MYRTLEFORD
Buffalo Farm Equipment 62-66 Myrtle Road
Tafco Rural Supplies 215 Myrtle Street
SEYMOUR
Seymour Equine & Rural 38 Emily Stree
BENDIGO
Bush’s Produce Store 94-96 Williamson Street
VIOLET TOWN
Violet Town Rural & Hardware 31 Cowslip Street
ECHUCA
Echuca Rural 37-41 Cornelia Creek Road
Haeusler’s Echuca 2-10 Murray Valley Highway
SHEPPARTON
Aussie Ag Supplies 6 Sofra Drive
Bertoli Farm Machinery 198-200 Numurkah Road
Haeusler’s Shepparton 219 Numurkah Road
Konigs Shepparton 355 Midland Highway
O’Connor’s Shepparton 212 Numurkah Road
Shepparton Rural 21 Telford Drive
A LBURY
North Albury Newsagency 1082 Mate Street Nth Albury
WODONGA Cadmac 233 McKoy Street
FarmTech Machinery 30 Moloney Drive
Birallee Newsagency, Shopping Centre, Birallee Place
KYABRAM
Irwin Stockfeeds 20 Wood Road
Kyabram Motorcycles 121 Albion Street
WANGARATTA
Elder’s Insurance 24 Rowan Street
McGregor Machinery 150 Tone Road
Landmark Wangaratta 4 Mason Street
NSAP is a five-year plan under the 20-year National Soil Strategy.
The funding aligns to priority actions which aim to improve Australia’s soil health and long-term security.
Learn more about NSAP at agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/ farm-food-drought/natural-resources/soils/national-soil-actionplan.
To learn more about our SmartFarms visit www.agriculture.vic. gov.au/research
Wangaratta Chronicle 37 Rowan Street
Wangaratta Rural Supplies 40 Ryley Street
NAGAMBIE
John Sanderson Machinery 36-38 Industrial Cres
BENALLA
Peter Davis Rural 46 Gillies Street
Smyth Seeds 35 Gillies Street
W AGGA W AGGA
Hunters Newspower 68 Fitzmaurice Street
Southcity Newsagency Shop 6/1-7 Tanda Place
M ANSFIELD
Mansfield Newsagency 57-59 High Street
DROUGHT BITES: With farmers looking interstate for fodder supplies, AgVic is helping with biosecurity permits. PHOTO: Andy Wilson
Wangaratta
New Holland Baler parts
* Tractors * Diesel * Baler * Hay machinery mechanic.
Service & repairs all makes of tractors, agricultural, industrial, earthmoving machinery Over 30 years experience, factory trained. Specialising in Ford New Holland PAUL WILLIAMS - CHESHIRE & WILLIAMS REPAIRS P/L Ph (03) 5721 4419 mobile 0428 574 195 1 WENHAMS LANE, WANGARATTA
A good cattle crush is essential for safely restraining cattle for vaccinating, ear tagging, drenching, pregnancy testing and other procedures. It is usually not possible for a veterinarian to examine and treat cattle without a workable crush. A crush should be designed, constructed and maintained to ensure that:
• Cattle are adequately restrained in minimize injury to cattle and handlers.
• The design allows for a safe and easy release should an animal go down while inside the crush.
• Access is provided on both sides of the animal.
• Gates and head bail operate effectively to capture and secure stock, are positive catching and do not release when kicked or struck.
• The head bail should be adjustable to accommodate animals of different sizes.
• It has solid and secure anchorage points, preferably set in concrete
• It is safe to use for handler and cattle with non-slip floor, adequate head clearance, and no sharp edges, protruding catches, bolts or wire.
• It is serviceable and easily maintained with greasing points.
• Access to water.
• Ideally it has a walk-through design rather than a reverse-out configuration, particularly when handling large numbers of cattle.
• Consider installing shade and lighting if the crush is going to be used in poor weather and/or at night.
Ask your veterinarian for some suggestions before purchasing new or
