Queensland Farmer Today - March 2023

March 2023

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Celebrating Women in Agriculture PAGES 28-30

China patent

The right career ingredient

PT Blueboys, a coupling connector cover startup from Goondiwindi, has just been awarded their patent registration in China and the United States.

This gives them the sole right to manufacture and sell their products in two of the largest transportation markets in the world.

Husband and wife founders Darren and Anna Dillon say they are “over the moon“ with their achievements and highlight resilience as key to success.

“This is a milestone achievement for us as it gives us the opportunity to really start growing our business overseas,” Mr Dillon said.

“We knew from the start that we had to go big or go home and filed for patents worldwide,” Mrs Dillon said.

STORY PAGE 3

Life has served up many fruitful experiences for chef Lisa Hopkins but none tastier than a degree in food science at the University of Southern Queensland.

After 32 years in the food industry, Lisa made the decision to pursue higher education - something she says was never on the table.

It wasn’t long before Lisa was excelling in her studies, with Associate Professor Burey impressed by her scientific skills.

“Lisa has always been one step ahead, always thinking of where to go next in her studies,” Associate Professor Burey said. “Opportunities keep opening up for her because of her work ethic.“ STORY PAGE 7

Hereford head Former senior Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) executive Michael Crowley becomes chief executive officer of Herefords Australia this month.

Mr Crowley replaces former MLA marketing chief Lisa Sharp whose contract at the breed society has ended. Ms Sharp will continue as a member of the Herefords Australia board.

Mr Crowley had been with MLA for 14 years, serving as a member of the senior executive team for the past six.

STORY PAGE 5

Associate Professor Polly Burey has provided mentorship throughout Lisa’s study journey.

Two season twist

By Fiona Gowers From zero allocation to 100 per cent, it has certainly been a tale of two cotton seasons for Danni Ingram on the Central Highlands.

Based on the western irrigation scheme, Danni, who together with her husband Robert and two children, farms the 600-hectare irrigation property “Avondale” west of Emerald.

Due to seasonal conditions in 2022, the In-

grams delayed planting their 520ha of cotton to September/ October but consistent rainfall received since has kicked the Bollgard 3 plants along.

“We’ve had a rather wet season, which is

quite different,” Mrs Ingram said. “But it has been good to set up the crop nicely.

“We’re quite happy with how it is shaping up at the moment, but a lot can happen . . . “ STORY PAGE 4

2023 Here We Come!

ROMA Easter In the Country • 6 - 10 April 2023 www.easterinthecountry.com.au 12590232-AA08-23

INSIDE

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

AUSSIE LAND AND LIVESTOCK ...... page 9 PROTEIN 2023 ......................pages 13-15 EASTER IN THE COUNTRY ......pages 17-20 BREAKING GROUND .................... page 21 FROM THE MLA ........................... page 21 MOVING FORWARD ...................... page 21 FARMERS’ HEALTH ...................... page 22 WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE ......pages 28-30 QCWA RECIPE ............................ page 32 MARKET REPORTS ...................... page 33 SPORT ....................................... page 36

DAM LEVELS Beardmore: ................................. 38.54% A new biosecurity zone has been established in Queensland to further protect our beekeeping industry from the threat of varroa mite, Bjelke-Petersen: ........................... 94.08%

Boondoomba: .............................. 97.71% Cedar Pocket: ................................ 94.5% Chinchilla Weir: ................................. 97% Coolmunda: ................................. 80.92% Cunnamulla (Alan Tannock Weir): 111.03% Leslie: ........................................ 98.17% Paradise: .................................... 98.96% Somerset: ..................................... 80.1% Wivenhoe: ..................................... 77.3%

CONTACT US

Address: 154-156 Haly Street Kingaroy 4610 Telephone: 07 4182 0450 Website: QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au CONTACT US Editorial: Email: newsdesk@QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au Advertising: Email: advertising@QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au Classifieds: Phone: 07 4182 0450 or 1300 666 808 Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au ADVERTISING Annette Weatherstone Account Manager E: annette.weatherstone@QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au Michael Callaghan Media Sales E: michael.callaghan@BurnettToday.com.au P: 07 4182 0452 Tonia Gilbert Media Sales E: tonia.gilbert@BurnettToday.com.au P: 07 4182 0458 Tori Johnson Media Sales E: tori.johnson@MaranoaToday.com.au M: 0447 621 904 Queensland Farmer Today is published monthly and part of the Today News Group. Published by South Burnett Today Pty Ltd ACN 641 796 349.

Publisher: Damian Morgan Managing Director: Daniel Pelcl.

All material is copyright to South Burnett Today Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. For our terms and conditions please visit QueenslanFarmerToday.com.au/terms-and-conditions/ 2 TODAY March 2023

Bee-ing sure A new biosecurity zone has been established in Queensland to further protect our beekeeping industry from the threat of varroa mite coming into our state.

Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Rural Communities Minister Mark Furner said honey producers would welcome this step as another important safeguard of their livelihood.

“Queensland is free of varroa mite and we want to keep it that way,” Mr Furner said.

“All of Queensland is now a designated biosecurity zone and anyone wishing to bring in bees, hives, used beekeeping equipment or bee products (including unprocessed honey) from states or territories where varroa mite has been found will need a permit.

“Entry from states or territories declared free of varroa mite will be allowed without a permit, providing any hives are secured to prevent bees from escaping or entering other hives while in transit,” he said.

Jacob Stevens, President of the Queensland Beekeepers Association, said this was a positive step forward for members and industry colleagues who’d been caught up during the closure of state borders.

“Varroa mite is a significant threat to honey bees and all those dependent on a healthy honey bee industry,” Mr Stevens said.

“The reopening of borders under a strict permit and compliance system will provide beekeepers with a means to migrate bees again on the back of another challenging season for the state’s beekeepers,” he said.

Bee louse is no longer considered to be a prohibited matter, but beekeepers must still report any signs of louse infestation

in their hives.

Processed honey or processed beeswax, new or unused apiary appliances, and quarantine secured diagnostic honey sample for testing at a recognised diagnostic facility can continue to enter Queensland.

Beekeepers should continue monitoring their hives and report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

All beekeepers should the results to Bee 123 - Surveillance (arcgis.com) online form, scan the QR code or call us on 13 25 23, even if no suspect mites are found.

The more checks and reports made by commercial and recreational beekeepers, the more data is available to support Queensland’s claim of area freedom from varroa mite.

If you think you have varroa mite: Take a photo. Place the mite (legs down, or legs up) on the tip of a cotton bud against a white background.

Save the sample. Place the mite in a sealable container in the freezer Report it by calling 13 25 23 or email info@ daf.qld.gov.au.

The Bee 123 online form is available through the Survey 123 app on the Apple App Store, website and ehub.

Apiarists who suspect a case of varroa mite should immediately call Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or email info@daf.qld. gov.au.

Detailed information on how to check hives and report results can be found at daf.qld.gov. au/varroa and daf.engagementhub.com.au/ varroa-mite

Even after the fee reduction • Queensland learner licenses are still the second highest in the country.

LNP will continue to fight for young Queenslanders to reduce cost of living pressures.

Ann Leahy MP, Member for Warrego

In my experience, the commentary surrounding the youth of today is, on the whole, pretty negative.

Lazy, spoilt and entitled are some of the oft-used descriptors I hear to describe “Generation Z”.

In my role as a rural reporter, however, I have the opposite view of our 18- to 26-year-olds.

Each day I interview young adults in the agricultural sphere who are intelligent, driven and articulate.

I often finish a phone call with them and think, ‘Wow, the future looks bright’!”

Last month I interviewed Chloe Plowman and Kyla Milne of Aussie Land & Livestock in Kingaroy.

Both are 19-years-old and both are passionate about forging successful careers in the agricultural industry.

When asked her advice to another young person considering a similar pathway, Chloe said: “Get out there amongst it and give everything - and anything - a go. The sky’s the limit!

“It is an industry where you will never stop learning and there are many elders with so much knowledge.

“They are very willing to share and pass this information on to young people who are eager and interested in the agricultural industry.”

Wise words indeed.

- Fiona Gowers

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QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

NEWS

Invention patent in China

By Fiona Gowers PT Blueboys, a coupling connector cover startup from Goondiwindi, has just been awarded their patent registration in China and the United States.

This gives them the sole right to manufacture and sell their products in two of the largest transportation markets in the world.

Husband and wife founders Darren and Anna Dillon say they are “over the moon“ with their achievements and highlight resilience as key to success.

“This is a milestone achievement for us as it gives us the opportunity to really start growing our business overseas,” Mr Dillon said.

“We knew from the start that we had to go big or go home and filed for patents worldwide,” Mrs Dillon said.

Mr Dillon, a diesel mechanic by trade for more than 20 years and owner of Dillon Mechanical, founded PT Blueboys with wife Anna in 2017.

Both had observed frustrated truckers having to change broken coupling connectors and, with nothing in the market that would completely protect the coupling connectors from the elements, Mr Dillon decided to find a solution.

“Australia’s climate is unforgiving and trucks get exposed to all sort of harsh weather conditions causing the coupling connectors to tear down frequently,” he said.

“We decided to change that and invented a high-grade silicon cover, specifically designed to seal out air, moisture and dirt, reducing maintenance downtime and costs for truck owners.”

Long-term PT Blueboys customer Jim Ambrose (left) and PT Blueboys founder Darren Dillon.

Husband and wife founders of PT Blueboys Darren and Anna Dillon.

PT Blueboys coupling connectors in action.

Anna Dillon with PT Blueboys coupling connectors.

PT Blueboys help seeking a new competitive edge Ambrose Haulage owner and long-term PT Blueboys client Jim Ambrose said he was always seeking products that gave his trucking business a competitive edge.

He said introducing PT Blueboys had been so positive for his business.

“We are constantly on the lookout for products that enables us to do preventive maintenance, saving time and money,” Mr Ambrose said.

“After using PT Blueboys on our fleet for the past five years, we have not had to replace our couplings once, it is a brilliant product we would not be without.”

Mrs Dillon said customer feedback had been great and she hoped the sentiment

would continue when they introduced the connector covers overseas.

“We have received really good feedback from our customers in Australia,” she said.

“With these new patents we hope our fellow truckers overseas will be as excited when the products are introduced.”

PT Blueboys provides market-leading coupling covers for air hose and hydraulic connectors in the trucking and transportation industry. They are a family-owned business founded in 2017 by Goondiwindi locals Darren and Anna Dillon.

All products are designed and manufactured in Queensland, Australia.

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March 2023 TODAY 3

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

It’s a tale of two seasons

By Fiona Gowers From zero allocation to 100 per cent, it has certainly been a tale of two cotton seasons for Danni Ingram on the Central Highlands.

Based on the western irrigation scheme, Danni, who together with her husband Robert and two children, farms the 600-hectare irrigation property “Avondale” west of Emerald.

Due to seasonal conditions in 2022, the Ingrams delayed planting their 520ha of cotton to September/ October but consistent rainfall received since has kicked the Bollgard 3 plants along.

“We’ve had a rather wet season, which is quite different,” Mrs Ingram said. “But it has been good to set up the crop nicely.

“We’re quite happy with how it is shaping up at the moment, but a lot can happen . . . “ “Avondale“ has been in the Ingram family since Robert’s parents Bob and Anne bought it as an undeveloped block in 1978.

They began growing cotton in the early 1980s, phasing in genetically modified varieties as they became available, which Mrs Ingram said had significantly reduced chemical spraying.

She said the Bollgard 3 Roundup Ready plants also allowed access to weeds and regrowth early, which meant fewer applications and additional environmental benefits.

“Basically, we inspect (the crops) twice a week, assess what’s out there and what actually needs to be controlled based on thresholds we feel comfortable with,” Mrs Ingram said.

“We now only spray on an as-needed basis.”

Rotating between corn, chickpea and cotton has increased cash flow for the Ingram’s business and reduced risk while also increasing soil health.

“The three crops fit well into our winter/ summer rotation,” Mrs Ingram said.

“Corn also has the added benefit of being a good break crop for disease.”

The Ingrams irrigate their one-metre, black soil beds when their “moisture probes” detect a deficit in the soil.

A critical part of their cropping management, the moisture probes explain how many millimetres of water are drawn from the soil per day.

“It is great technology and we’ve used less water this year due to having a wetter season as well, so it really helps,” Mrs Ingram said.

“We schedule our irrigation based on infor-

Robert and Danni Ingram - and their two children - farm the 600-hectare irrigation property “Avondale” west of Emerald. mation from the moisture probes. Water is not cheap so, yeah, we try to utilise it to the best of our ability.”

Another string to the “Avondale” irrigating bow are two centre pivots that Mrs Ingram said

have enabled even greater flexibility for their business “The country that we needed to irrigate was up a bit of a slope so we needed to go in this direction,” Mrs Ingram said.

“But the beauty of overhead irrigating is the speed at which we can harvest and replant.”

Mrs Ingram said she expected to pick the 2022/ 23 cotton plants with round-bale pickers in April/ May.

Smiles greet a return to full cotton production

By Fiona Gowers For the first time in six years Central Queensland mixed farmer Renee Anderson is celebrating a return to full cotton production.

From September to November 2022 - on four different planting dates across two properties - Ms Anderson of Emerald managed to sow 500 hectares of Bollgard 3.

Starting the season with zero allocation out of Fairbairn dam, the Andersons were granted some carryover which, combined with small inflows, allowed them to plant 100ha into their black soils.

Then, steady spring rainfall fell across their irrigated cropping properties, increasing the allocation for the 2022/ 23 season.

“It is pretty exciting to be back to full production,” Ms Anderson said.

“I think the most cotton we have planted over the past six years has been 25 per cent of our allocated area.

“We’ve now got water for this year and possibly, maybe, next year just because it’s rained a significant amount.

“But, it has been a challenging season.

“There have been lots of overcast days, which can impact fruit setting.

“And we’ve had some significant downpours that have occurred in a really short period of time too that may cause some damage.”

4 TODAY March 2023

Ms Anderson said the licence agreement governing genetically modified (GM) cotton allowed a five-month planting window from August 1 to December 31.

This was fortunate, she said, due to the unusual weather patterns La Niña & El Niño were driving.

“So, 2020 was the driest year we’ve had in many, many years and it was a La Niña,” Ms Anderson said.

“And, this year, we’re definitely having much earlier monsoonal influences than previous years and it’s certainly been lower radiation much earlier.

“But, across the Central Highlands each farm is quite different. So there’s a lot of guys who planted in August who are just about ready to harvest now.”

The Andersons normally pick cotton in March but, due to uncertainty about the weather in February - and a permissible extended growing window - they may grow it on to May/ June.

“It will purely depend on what happens with the weather this month (February),” Ms Anderson said.

“You know, if it looks quite clear and dry and we’re able to get on the paddock, we will as soon as possible with that early September-planted crop, yes.”

Alongside her family, Ms Anderson also grows mixed irrigated crops, including mung beans, wheat and chickpeas.

For the first time in six years Emerald mixed farmer Renée Anderson is celebrating a return to full cotton production.

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Crowley in at Herefords

By Fiona Gowers Former senior Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) executive Michael Crowley becomes chief executive officer of Herefords Australia this month.

Mr Crowley replaces former MLA marketing chief Lisa Sharp whose contract at the breed society has ended.

Ms Sharp will continue as a member of the Herefords Australia board.

Mr Crowley had been with MLA for 14 years, serving as a member of the senior executive team for the past six.

He was general manager of Research and Development and has previously held a range of senior roles with MLA, including program manager of Meat Standards Australia and regional manager for Europe and Russia, based in Brussels.

Personal and professional interest, as well as family reasons underpinned his decision to take on a new challenge as CEO of Herefords Australia.

Mr Crowley’s family runs a Poll Hereford stud at Barraba, about two hours drive from his home in Armidale, NSW. He has also been a member of the Herefords Australia board over the past two years.

Mr Crowley said the move to establish an organisation in a position “where the buck stops with me” represented a positive development and career progression opportunity.

“I have really been offered a tremendous opportunity to contribute to the development of the breed,” he said.

“And, I guess just working in MLA across the supply chain, I have got a great opportunity to be part of implementing and commecialising a lot of the things we have been working on for the benefit of the commercial sector.

“I am really keen to work with members of Hereford Australia and to really try to connect with the commercial supply chain and

Michael Crowley becomes chief executive officer of Herefords Australia this month. drive great outcomes.

“It is a really unique and priveleged opportunity.”

Mr Crowley’s 20 years of industry experience includes previous ownership of a cattle

and beef marketing business and property management covering stud and commercial operations.

Herefords Australia chair Ian Durkin said it was Mr Crowley’s combination of general

management experience, technical knowledge and connection with the Hereford breed and stud operations that most impressed the Board.

“Michael Crowley has a wealth of red meat industry experience,“ he said.

“This includes comprehensive technical knowledge in areas such as genetics and eating quality, coupled with first-hand experience gained in stud and commercial operations.

“Michael and the Crowley family are well known among the Hereford community and we are thrilled the opportunity has arisen for Michael to come in and lead the company and the breed.”

Mr Durkin said Lisa Sharp had made “a significant contribution to the breed” over the past two years, leading long-term strategy development, business planning, excellence in corporate governance and breed marketing and promotion.

“Changes implemented under Lisa’s leadership have and will make a long-term difference to the company’s success,” he said.

“Specifically, I like to acknowledge Lisa’s work in streamlining systems and processes that allowed for the introduction of a single monthly invoice, the development of the Herefords Australia five-year plan, growth in revenue from services and breed marketing presence and effectiveness, which saw breed share of media increase significantly in the past year.

“Lisa has also advocated on behalf of members, be that to government during COVID for continuation of on property sales or when negotiating with suppliers to get the best value for members, such as no increases in DNA pricing this year.”

The current Herefords Australia Board comprises Ian Durkin (chair), Marc Greening (deputy chair), Mark Baker (company secretary), Sam Becker, Sam Broinowski, Michael Crowley, Mark Duthie, Annie Pumpa and Alex Sparkes.

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March 2023 TODAY 5

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Ned Graving, John Graving and Jill Galloway.

Barrie Bauman from Dingo and David Atkinson from Marlborough.

Bianca Collins and Clayton Collins.

Early birds get the worms

By Breanna Lloyd CQLX Gracemere sale yards kicked off the annual February All Breeds Sale on 13-14 February, starting early at 8am.

The sale provided a variety of bulls and females, a range of genetic varieties and bloodlines for buyers.

Over the two days, the 628 lots were auctioned by Nutrien Livestock and Elders rural who are both major sponsors to CQLX. The saleyards had a variety of bulls and females ranging from 19 different breeds such as Brangus, Brahman and Droughtmaster.

Day one presented buyers with a variety of beasts, which had come to an average of $7,864.00 and a gross of $1,360,500.

For both bulls and females, the overall total sales made were 173 out of 255 (68 per cent).

The top price of the sale, day one, was taken by lot 38 Brahman bull for $32,000 to Stewart Nobbs of Yoman Cattle co.

Day two displayed promising results for buyers as the top price increased to $50,000 for a Simmental bull (lot 459).

The overall average for day two was $9115, with a gross of $2,023,500, selling 222 out of 247 (90pc).

Agent auctioneer Dane Pearce from Nutrien Livestock said buyers were still confident with what they were purchasing.

“People are still confident in buying the bull they want, while the commercial cattle markets may be a bit off the pace from where we left it in 2022,” he said.

“Sales will get better throughout the year given the good seasons graziers have been given.”

Given Dane has been in the industry for more than 10 years, he said he believed buyers were not chasing a specific bloodline.

“The stronger market was the crossbreeders,” he said.

“Day two the bulls averaged $9245, that’s the traditional crossbreeder blokes, but yes they provided the strength for the sale.

“Most of Queensland has had good rain so it has definitely helped the livestocks condition.”

Dane said the seasonal conditions had helped the livestock’s overall quality.

“The quality of the breeds was very good,” he said.

“We had a Murray grey bull make $27,000 that’s a breed that is probably not that common in Central Queensland. The blokes bought a few bulls and got paid very well.”

Elders agents auction bulls.

6 TODAY March 2023

Nutrien Livestock agents auction bulls.

Renelle Ring.

Sherrie Actin.

Gracemere CQLX 2023.

Gracemere February All Breeds Sale.

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

NEWS

Right career ingredients Life has served up many fruitful experiences for chef Lisa Hopkins but none tastier than a degree in food science at the University of Southern Queensland.

After 32 years in the food industry, Lisa made the decision to pursue higher education - something she says was never on the table.

“I started my chef apprenticeship when I was 14,” she said.

“My family and I had quickly realised school was not for me and it was my dad who encouraged me to pursue further training.

“It taught me so much and took me so many different places, both geographically and professionally.“ After making her way to the Toowoomba region and working locally for 10 years, Lisa said she was left wanting more.

“I had got to a point where I wanted to extend my industry knowledge when I serendipitously met Associate Professor Polly Burey from the university,” she said.

“She was inspirational and showed me there was still so much left to learn within the industry.

“With her encouragement - and the help and support of the University - I enrolled in the tertiary preparation program and was then able to enter the Bachelor of Science (Food Science).”

It wasn’t long before Lisa was excelling in her studies, with Associate Professor Burey impressed by her scientific skills.

“Lisa has always been one step ahead, always thinking of where to go next in her studies,” Associate Professor Burey said.

“Opportunities keep opening up for her because of her work ethic.“ In 2022, Lisa joined Associate Professor Burey in her NO WASTE pilot program team, which focuses on design and development of

Lisa Hopkins continues to enjoy learning about food at the University of Southern Queensland. new material circular economies, built to fit environments operating on a regional to metropolitan scale.

“Lisa has been able to contribute ideas

related to her topic, which is focused on preventing coated cardboards (wax and polymer coated) going to landfill,” Associate Professor Burey said.

“It’s exciting to have Lisa on board and her work shows her potential for further higherlevel research.

“I can’t wait to see where she goes next.”

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March 2023 TODAY 7

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Wayne Ziesemer (with microphone) talks to the WeedSmart crowd.

Peter Bach presenting at his property to WeedSmart Week attendees.

The WeedSmart Team in Dalby (L-R): Greg Condon, Jo Contencin, Jessica Scholle, Jessica Strauss, Cindy Benjamin and Paul McIntosh.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Being smart with weeds

By Breanna Lloyd Over the course of two days, 7-8 February, in Dalby, WeedSmart held an educational week to introduce farmers to productive weed control tips.

The corporation strives to teach growers and agronomists first-hand information about weeds and how to reduce them.

The organisation has come up with six control methods using mechanical, chemical and cultural techniques.

These methods include the following, rotate your crops and pastures, increase your crop competition, double knock preserve glyphosate, mix and rotate herbicides, stop weed seed set and implement harvest weed seed control.

Project manager of WeedSmart Jessica Strauss said her team had a solution for reducing the pest.

“We’ve got our big six which is a framework that all of our communications use,” she said.

“The aim is to provide the latest information on weed control tactics and we make sure we are up to date.

“Our mission is to try and inform growers with practical tools that they can apply on farms to reduce weed infestations.”

With staff based all around Australia, Jessica encourages farmers to test weeds in their regions.

“I would encourage farmers to get a herbicide-resistance test on those weeds so they know what they are dealing with,” she said.

“They vary from region to region and from farm to farm.”

The WeedSmart event gave farmers the opportunity to learn and share their experiences with herbicides they might not have been exposed to before.

Jessica said she believed farmers were encouraged to try these methods.

“I think farmers would have got a lot out what applies to their region whether it’s from chemical to non-chemical tactics,” she said.

“We are all about information exchange.”

Having been a part of the WeedSmart team for six and half years, Jessica speaks for all WeedSmart employers when she said: “We are just excited to be able to have a positive resource for agronomists and farmers, we love engagement,” she said.

The national business has their own platform called Diversity Era where they hold podcasts, webinars, and case studies with other people, to help them understand methods they can use against the weed.

The WeedSmart communications project was funded through several financial partners including GRDC. 8 TODAY March 2023

WeedSmart northern extension agronomist Paul McIntosh chairs a panel on the WeedSmart Big 6 on the forum day.

Jeremy Rennick (Croplands) talks to the crowd about their WEED-IT machinery.

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AUSSIE LAND & LIVESTOCK YOUNG LEADERS

Investing in next generation

By Fiona Gowers Since its inception in 2004, Aussie Land & Livestock has invested in the next generation.

Directors James Bredhauer and Midge Thompson are passionate about introducing and encouraging young people in the agricultural industry.

Just as their mentors gave them opportunities as young men, James and Midge have continued the legacy, providing the same opportunity to the young people of today.

Mr Bredhauer said employing young people gave them a start and helped the long-term sustainability of the community, which benefitted everybody.

“The community surrounding agriculture is a very important part of the wellbeing of the industry as a whole,” he said.

“The roles within Aussie Land & Livestock are both diverse and interesting for the young up- coming adults.

“Within the office, roles include administration, marketing and PR. “Out in the field, you will see the younger employees get involved in the saleyards drafting, livestock handling and working among cattle buyers, vendors and agents.

“Aussie Land & Livestock also employ up and coming sales agents, real estate salespeople and auctioneers.”

In the past, Aussie Land & Livestock has mentored high school students who have then won Queensland Young Auctioneer and also placed second in the national competition.

As Chloe Plowman and Kyla Milne, confirm in their staff profiles below, long-term employment is encouraged with clear career path options offered.

Chloe Plowman How long have you worked at Aussie Land & Livestock?

I first started at Aussie Land & Livestock in October 2019, working after school at the fortnightly Coolabunia cattle sales until finishing school in 2021.

I then approached (Aussie Land & Livestock director) James Bredhauer at the end of 2021 to see if there was an opportunity to join the team more permanently. I then worked parttime from the start of 2022 to full-time from the end of 2022.

What is your role? And do you enjoy it?

My current role is junior real estate & livestock agent. This involves livestock administrations of fortnightly/monthly cattle sales (pre-sale, on sale day and post-sale), private sales and stud sales, aiding in real estate administration, marketing of livestock on socials and reception duties within the office.

I love my job. It’s what I dreamt of doing throughout my secondary schooling as it provides both theoretical and practical tasks on a daily basis. I work in the office, as well as out and about at cattle sales.

Junior real estate and livestock agent Chloe Plowman.

Aussie Land & Livestock junior promotions officer Kyla Milne.

Aussie Land & Livestock director Midge Thompson.

Aussie Land & Livestock director James Bredhauer.

What do you love about the agricultural Industry? And where do you think your future lies within that industry?

I have grown up in the agricultural industry and have a strong passion for cattle and the land. I love the diversity and quantity of pathways there are within the industry and how you can follow the process all the way through, from the beginning to end product. One of my major passions is showing stud beef cattle at local shows, the EKKA and Beef Australia, as well as breeding stud Angus cattle on my parent’s property Ruby Ridge Angus. I believe my future lies within this industry as an Angus and Angus-cross cattle breeder. And, as I gain more knowledge here with Aussie Land & Livestock, my goal is to become a real estate and livestock agent.

What is your advice to other young people considering a career in agriculture?

My advice to younger people considering a career in agriculture is get out there amongst it and give everything - and anything - a go. The sky’s the limit. It is an industry where you will never stop learning and there are so many elders with so much knowledge. They are very willing to share and pass this information on to young people who are eager and interested in the agricultural industry. Careers in agriculture can also take you down so many diverse

pathways, as well as developing connections in so many different avenues.

Kyla Milne How long have you worked at Aussie Land & Livestock?

Between 2019 and 2020 I had a few stints with Aussie Land & Livestock, making a few advertisements and property videos for them. I even worked at the saleyards once or twice helping out where I could. I was offered a job mid-way through 2021, where I started managing all social media platforms and promotional designs for the company, as well as administration duties.

What is your role? And do you enjoy it?

I am now the junior promotions officer. Basically, I make the brand itself look appealing to current and future clients. I am the photographer for listing properties, for any special cattle sales such as our bull and female sales, as well as filming videos.

I have always enjoyed creating and have always had a knack for digital and creative design and promotion. It’s something that I’ve kind of always done and started to work towards making it my profession when I left school.

What do you love about the Agricultural Industry? And where do you think your future lies within that industry?

Growing up near Brisbane, I used to love go-

ing up to my grandparent’s property on weekends near Mount Stanley. Being around horses and cattle, driving tractors and having room to run and breathe fresh air, rural living was where I had always wanted to end up. I was lucky enough to grow up being involved and, learning how important Australia’s agricultural industry is, and to now officially be working within it. I know that I am now the future of the agricultural industry.

What is your advice to other young people considering a career in agriculture?

Unfortunately, young people don’t realise just how vital the industry is, mainly because it isn’t being taught in schools or promoted for them to become a part of it. Unless you have grown up on the land, it isn’t an industry young people consider joining or even want to learn about.

Current farmers and producers are more than willing to teach and pass on any knowledge, even offer traineeships or jobs for those willing to learn. So, my advice is to any young person who’s looking for that lifestyle change, is looking for something new to do or even wants to know more about Australia’s agricultural industry, is to give it go, try a few different things, learn from others and see what really goes on in our country behind the concrete walls of the city.

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March 2023 TODAY 9

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Bringing the bulls to you

By Breanna Lloyd The Charters Towers Big Country Sale (BCS) certainly brought “the bulls to you” on 6-7 February, as two records for the top-priced bull were broken over two days.

Selling both bulls and females, Red and Grey Brahmans and a range of genetic varieties, the Dalrymple saleyards had increased its herd to more than 500 lots for the first time in northern Australia.

Day one showed promising results as the record for the top-priced bull was broken by the Mollenhagen family, Mountain Spring Brahman stud and the Rockemer family, Gigoomgan Brahmans.

The $160,000 bull was a beautiful Red Brahman sire (lot 36) from the NCC Brahman stud.

The average of the 135 Red Brahman registered sires was $14,970 with a gross of $2,021,000.

In all, 156 Brahman Belle stud heifers’ top price was $60,000 (lot 249) averaging $7448, with a gross of $1,162,000.

Eugene Mollenhagen, owner of Mountain Spring Brahmans stud for 15 years, said what interested him about the record-breaking bull.

“His overall look really, he looks like a stud bull and has the correct sire, great red colour, perfect clean sheets and great figures,“ he said.

“He is the overall package.

“He’s got an amazing genetic strength in the female bloodline we were looking for (and is) a really good stud bull.”

Owners of the Gigoomgan stud, Les and Felicity Rockemer explained how they will share the bull between the two studs.

“Niko will be used privately in-house between the two studs and we are already planning IVF and AI programs,” Mrs Rockemer said.

Having both reds and greys, the Rockemers said no money went to waste on the Red Brahman sire.

“No one was unhappy with the conditions as there is more money in mud than in dust,” she said.

“We will definitely be returning to Charters.”

Day two displayed even better results as the top-priced bull record was broken again for a $170,000 Grey Brahman sire (lot 369).

The $170,000 beast was sold to Chatfield Brahmans and was from Arizona Brahmans.

In all, 158 Grey Brahman registered sires averaged $14,287 with a gross of $2,257,500.

Owner of Arizona Brahmans Catherine Mackenzie said selling the top-priced bull was “unbelievable“.

“At first it didn’t quite feel real, from where I was standing I couldn’t really hear the auctioneer but then people started applauding and then I heard the auctioneer announce the price,” she said.

“We are only a small stud and I never thought that something like this was possible for us.

“I am extremely pleased, this result was unexpected but wonderful.”

Catherine thanked those who have helped her.

Big Country Sale at the Dalrymple saleyards Charters Towers.

Auctioneers selling lot 146 at the Big Country Sale on day one.

“I am extremely grateful for the support of my friends and family, they all know how much this means to me,” she said.

“I would also like to thank QLD Rural and McCaffery’s Livestock for making this Big Country Sale one that my family and I won’t soon forget.

“Also, a massive thank you to Rob and Sha-

Picture: SUPPLIED

Auctioneers selling lot 249 at the Big Country Sale on day two.

ron for the purchase of Arizona Sir Presley and all our other buyers and underbidders of our bulls.”

BCS also offered semen from the highestpriced bull sold in Australia ($325,000), for the first time (NCC justified).

They made total sales of 451, with a gross of $5,464,500 and an average price of $12,116.

Having buyers coming from as far as South Australia, Queensland Rural agent Shaun Flanagan said he believed it was a sale to remember.

“We were very happy with the sale, the cattle went as far south as Kapunda in South Australia and north to Darwin in the Northern Territory,” he said.

Toowoomba TAFE grows its reputation for excellence The Queensland Government is expanding the now $8.1 million Rural Centre of Excellence into its second stage.

This is part of its $100 million “Equipping TAFE for our Future“ initiative firmly placing Toowoomba’s TAFE Queensland campus on the agricultural training map.

The project is boosting its reputation as the region’s foremost agricultural training facility, with the additional $1.1 million investment growing the centre’s ability to provide cutting-edge training to more students in the region.

Officially opening the centre’s second stage, Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said the state-of-the-art facility was helping to prepare Queensland’s workforce for the anticipated growth in the state’s $23.5 billion agriculture industry.

“The Queensland Government is provid10 TODAY March 2023

ing specialised training to get more people into more jobs, and we are making sure our industries are supported by people who are trained in the latest facilities and technologies,” Ms Farmer said.

“The Rural Centre of Excellence, which was officially opened three years ago, trains students in more than 25 courses covering the latest in innovative, sustainable agriculture and horticulture practices.

“This new $1.1 million facility, which includes a specialised laboratory, will also offer a new course in Laboratory Skills – for the first time in Toowoomba.

“I know local agribusinesses are excited about their employees being trained in improved analysis of environmental samples of soil and water along with grains, seeds, and animal health.

“In 2021 and 2022 more than 560 students

were trained at the centre and enrolments are expected to continue to grow this year, especially with three of the centre’s courses available under the new Fee Free TAFE agreement with the federal Government.

“Since the Rural Centre of Excellence opened in 2019, more than 1800 students have passed through its doors and many have gone on to secure jobs in the farming and cattle industry, veterinary practices, and horticulture industries.

“Almost 1200 students have studied agriculture and horticulture at the centre with the help of the State Government’s Free TAFE and Free Apprenticeships for Under 25s programs, as well as the Job Trainer scheme.”

Jobs Queensland predicts agriculture industry jobs in the Darling Downs/ Maranoa region will increase by 11.5 per cent from

2020-21 to 2024-25 with a 20,000-strong workforce.

State-wide by 2024-25, it is predicted the industry workforce will grow to more than 87,000 – up 8,700 since 2020-21, and the Queensland Agriculture Industry Workforce Plan 2022-2027 has identified the four priority groups for future employment growth as grazing, horticulture, crops and aquaculture.

“The anticipated growth is great news for students and a highly skilled workforce is great news for employers,” Minister Farmer said.

The Palaszczuk Government continues to provide good jobs, better services and a great lifestyle for the people of Queensland. *** For more information about the Rural Centre of Excellence and its courses, including the fee-free TAFE courses, visit tafeqld. edu.au

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

NEWS

Interns set Downs record

Some 54 medical interns will begin work across Darling Downs Health’s hospitals this month.

“And, it is such a beautiful area, the landscape, the community and the events that happen in the area.“ After growing up in Leyburn and attending local schools, new graduate Dr Nicola Murphy has recently completed her degree and is excited to complete the medical intern program at Darling Downs Health.

“I’m really excited to be able to return to the Darling Downs,“ she said.

“I have been away for about 10 years while I’ve been studying, it means so much to be in the comfort of my local community but as well

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give back to the community that supported me as I went through my studies.“ James Cook University graduate and former Moree local Dr Sarah Barton is excited to pursue a rural generalist pathway that will see her provide care in regional and rural environments.

“Growing up in Moree I can definitely appreciate the necessity for rural generalists having a multitude of skills from emergency medicine to GP to an advance skill.

“I’m hoping to do anaesthetics as my advance skill just to provide rural communities

with a wide range of care.

“Goondiwindi isn’t too far from where I grew up and I’m really excited to pursue the rural generalist pathway. There is no better place to live then in a rural community.”

The 12-month graduate program will allow the medical interns to put all they’ve learned at university into practise.

“I can’t wait to see what these graduates accomplish during their time at Darling Downs Health and I wish them all the very best,” Ms. Scott said.

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A record 54 medical interns will begin work across Darling Downs Health hospitals this month.

It marks the largest cohort of interns starting since the program began and they will soon provide care for the entire community.

With a diverse range of locations and work environments, the interns will experience the demands of urban, rural and remote medicine.

Darling Downs Health chief executive Annette Scott PSM said the big number of medical interns would play a crucuial role in ensuring Darling Downs Health continues to provide an excellent experience for patients and their families.

“Over the next 12 months these interns will play such an important role in the patient journey,“ she said.

“This program provides them an excellent opportunity to interact with patients and their families in very practical ways, while also continuing to learn with the support of their new colleagues.

“These foundation years for medical graduates are exceptionally important and I’m confident they’ll have a positive experience at Darling Downs Health.

“I’m so pleased to welcome this latest cohort of interns to the health service and we look forward to working together with them to achieve great outcomes for the community and the health service.”

Former Hunter Valley resident Dr Murray Thompson chose Darling Downs Health after fielding multiple offers from other hospital and health services, locally and interstate.

“I got a few different offers, including in my home state of NSW but, ultimately, I decided to come back to Darling Downs Health as it was such a welcoming environment during my placement at Goondiwindi Hospital last year,“ he said.

March 2023 TODAY 11

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

TQ 2023 up and running One hundred and sixty kilometres in one day is the enormous challenge that will face some of Australia’s best endurance horses and riders at Imbil this year.

Preparations and planning for the 57th Tom Quilty Gold Cup National Championship, to be held this year at the Stirling’s Crossing Equestrian Complex, has got off to a flying start with a highly-successful committee meeting 160 days ahead of the 160km event to be held 2325 June.

The Quilty, as it is known among horse enthusiasts, is an annual event and was first run in 1966 when the legend himself, RM Williams, wrote to his friend, Tom Quilty, looking for support to run the race.

Tom Quilty donated $1000, which was used to make a gold cup to be awarded to the winner. The original gold cup now resides in the Stockman’s Hall of Fame in Longreach, Queensland.

The Stirling’s Crossing complex is a purpose-built endurance ride base and Arabian horse stud a few kilometres from the picturesque township of Imbil in South East Queensland’s historic Mary Valley.

The Stirling’s Crossing Endurance Club, will be hosting the event this year, which was originally scheduled to be held in Victoria this September.

The race these days is hosted on an annual rotation basis but there have been major disruptions over the past few years due to Covid restrictions and a string of bad weather.

Stirling’s Crossing Endurance Club president, Kim Moir, said that despite the short time frame, the club was both grateful and excited to be given the opportunity to host the next Tom Quilty Gold Cup. “Our team of members and volunteers have a great deal of experience and knowledge in running successful endurance events, including the 2019 Tom Quilty.

“To get the event organised is a challenge in itself and we are determined to put the Covid lockdowns and horrid weather that have disrupted our sport over the past few years behind us.”

Along with the change of venue, the 2023 event has been rescheduled to the week of the 23-25 June.

The club is expecting about 250 to 300 horses and riders from all parts of Australia and overseas to muster just before midnight for the start of a five-leg course that traverses through the Imbil State Forest.

The Quilty is a test of skill and stamina for both horses and riders, who are required to qualify for the ride by achieving open status, and each rider must have successfully completed a 160-kilometre endurance ride.

As with all endurance events, the health and well-being of the horses are top priority.

Owner of the complex and Tom Quilty Gold Cup winner himself, Matthew Sample, said it was a privilege to have this marvellous event at Stirling’s again in 2023, after such a successful 2019 event.

“Our hope is that we can again be a showcase for the sport of endurance and that our

The Tom Quilty 2023 planning committee at Stirling’s Crossing Equestrian Complex in Imbil. 317343 venue provides all our visitors with fond memories of what is undoubtedly the premier event on our annual calendar.

“We want everyone who is coming to Stirling’s that week, riders, support crews, volunteers and spectators, to have a great time.”

To host an event such as the Quilty takes an enormous amount of planning and coordination.

Throughout the competition week, many of the activities will need to be supported by volunteers.

The organising team has established a web

page where anybody interested in donating some of their time to help at the TQ23, can provide their name and contact details, so that a volunteers roster can be established.

Keep your eyes out for more information on the website www.tomquilty.com.au, as well as Facebook and Instagram pages.

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Ride base at the 2019 Tom Quilty at Stirlings Crossing Endurance Complex, Imbil, Queensland. 317363

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2019 Tom Quilty winner Kaylea Maher crosses the finish line at Stirling’s Crossing Endurance Complex at Imbil, Queensland. 317363 Picture: COLIN MCLELLAN

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PROTEIN 2023 DAIRY - PORK - BEEF - POULTRY

Grant Higgs, of nBn Local, Greg West, of iTrazo and Sam Wallace, of JBS Australia.

Protein 2022 at the Dalby Events Centre.

2022 protein conference

John Whitfeld, of TSA Agribusiness, Carissa Hallinan, from Western Downs Regional Council, Stephen Carney, of AI Agriculture, and Kate Miguel, from the Western Downs Regional Council.

Tom Capel, from NAB, Rob Martyn, of SunPork Farms, and Donna Seiler, of Seilers Transport.

Tom Coggan, of Coggan Farms, and Kevin Jackson, of Fraser Valuers.

Prudence Barwick, of Entegra Signature Structures, and Sarah Martin, from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Queensland.

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More than 120 industry leaders attended the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) Protein 2022 Conference in Dalby last year bringing together all of the intensive animal sectors to talk around and share best practice, innovation and common issues.

Southern Queensland is the home of intensive animal industries in Australia, with strong investment in the beef, pork, poultry and dairy sectors.

More than 80 per cent of Australia’s egg production is in Queensland, with 42 per cent of the nation’s feedlot capacity located within a 200 kilometre radius from Dalby.

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said the intensive agricultural industry is extremely important for the region.

“It’s not just our feedlots and our piggeries, but it’s all those supply chain industries that supply quality products to our community,“ he said.

“This is about bringing together all parts of our community that service the protein industry so everyone can discuss their challenges.“ The 2023 conference is set to welcome local producers, business owners and industry representatives with sustainable food supply chains as the hot topic.

March 2023 TODAY 13

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PROTEIN 2023 DAIRY - PORK - BEEF - POULTRY

The Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) protein conference in 2022.

Sustainable food futures

By Fiona Gowers Southern Queensland’s protein sectors are set to share best practice and encourage collaboration across the beef, pork, poultry and dairy sectors at the Protein conference in Dalby on 22 March.

Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) are facilitating the conference, where local producers, business owners and industry representatives are expected to attend.

TSBE Food Leaders Australia (FLA) general manager Justin Heaven said he was excited to present an outstanding program of industry leaders who will commentate sustainable food supply chains.

“Every day we get one day closer to our 2030 carbon neutral deadline, but the time is now to introduce measures to ensure no net release of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are released into the atmosphere from 2030,” he said.

“With sustainability at the forefront of discussions, the Protein 2023 speakers have been carefully curated to include representation from decision makers along with producers on the ground.

“Panel session themes are biosecurity, sustainability, animal welfare, new energy project, production improvements with shedded systems and demystifying carbon markets and net zero.”

Mr Heaven encourages anyone who works

in the protein sector to attend TSBE’s Protein conference, to ensure the region maintains its strong reputation.

Compass Group Australia’s head of sustainability Simon Jackson is one of this year’s speakers who will share valuable insights into Australia’s paddock to plate processes.

“Getting protein on plates is changing as we decarbonise our menus,“ he said.

“Understanding the complexity of global emission reduction strategies and the known challenges of ruminant animal emissions, while balancing consumer demand is something we are constantly reviewing.

“Our targets are bold and require a ‘shift’ in how we consume protein. To achieve these targets, measures need to be implemented every step of the way.”

“This will be a marathon, not a sprint, but being in the know now will greatly benefit those within the protein sector in years to come.”

The Protein conference is expected to attract close to 200 attendees with local producers, business owners and industry representatives attending.

View the full program and book a ticket by visiting https://www.tsbe.com.au/events/protein2023.

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14 TODAY March 2023

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PROTEIN 2023 DAIRY - PORK - BEEF - POULTRY

TSBE Food Leaders Australia (FLA) general manager Justin Heaven.

Compass Group Australia’s head of sustainability, Simon Jackson.

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Producers, business owners and industry representatives working within the dairy, pork, beef and poultry sectors are urged to attend the Protein 2023 conference to get up to speed with sustainable food supply chains.

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NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Revolutionising production

SwarmFarm’s Andrew and Josie Bate have now have offices in Queensland and New South Wales and are revolutionising agriculture.

SwarmBots had successfully been deployed to farmers who covered over 1.3 million commercial acres, operated for 64,000 hours, and reduced pesticide inputs by an estimated 780 tons.

“We are proud to support the team at SwarmFarm as they unlock the potential of Integrated Autonomy in agriculture,“ GRDC Head of Business Development Fernando Felquer said.

“What makes SwarmFarm so attractive to us is that the founders are Australian grain growers developing autonomous solutions from the ground up with Australian farming systems in mind, and the technology has global application.“ Born on the Bate’s family farm in Gindie, SwarmFarm exists to solve a complex problem

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set many farmers are facing around the world today: how to grow better crops and the optimal amount of food on their land without putting down excessive amounts of chemicals or acquiring larger and larger equipment.

“We hit a point where we just said enough is enough,“ Mr Bate said.

“We saw our input costs increasing, our equipment costs rising as we bought larger equipment, our dependence on pesticides rising, and our yields declining despite it all.

“There was a day when we sat down and realized that this wasn’t an equation that needed incremental change; we needed an entirely new farming system - and SwarmFarm was the solution.“ The SwarmFarm team saw a future where developers could create specialized tools that

could be attached to swarms of small, nimble, autonomous robot platforms that create new farming practices through facilitating collaboration between farmers and technologists laying the groundwork for the SwarmConnect product.

“We envision a future where the most promising minds in technology are encouraged to turn toward solving the challenges faced by modern agriculture,“ Mr Bate said.

“We also believe in a future where there is no longer such a severe distinction between farmers and technologists, but rather a new breed of farmer-technologists.

“This funding helps us to move toward that future by meeting more of the global demand for our product and facilitating the growth of our SwarmConnect network of developers.“

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Gindie innovators Andrew and Josie Bate’s Swarmfarm Robotics has raised $12 million to develop and grow integrated autonomy in agriculture.

Through the versatile SwarmBot platform and a breakthrough operating system network, SwarmConnect, developers are enabled to create an array of innovative applications for users of the autonomous platform.

“There is enormous demand for autonomy in agriculture, but today, most solutions unlock minimal potential,“ said SwarmFarm CEO Mr Bate.

“The current equipment providers believe that farmers just want to be plucked from the cab or replaced by robotic arms.

“We believe that farmers want more.

“They want a technology ecosystem built to address the issues in their locality, a farmcentric system that leaves the lowest possible footprint on their fields, helping them do more with less.

“They want Integrated Autonomy, so that’s what we’re building.“ The team at SwarmFarm defines Integrated Autonomy as a new approach to autonomy on-farm that unlocks the full potential of driverless technology by providing specialty robotics solutions with an open platform to develop on.

“While many companies are making driverless tractors and developing niche robotics solutions in agriculture today, we believe that there is a third category of autonomy that combines the robot and the application within a development framework that will allow farmers to customize their equipment for their needs and allow developers to bring their innovations to life much more rapidly,“ Mr Bate said.

“It’s the best of both worlds. For the farmer, we provide customized autonomy in a box.

“For the developer, we provide a streamlined path to the grower with a tight feedback loop.“ The company’s Series A funding round was led by Emmertech, an AgTech fund from Conexus Venture Capital based in Canada.

The funding also sees new investment from Tribe Global Ventures and Access Capital.

Also joining the round are SwarmFarm’s existing investors, including Tenacious Ventures, and GrainInnovate, the Grains Research and Development Corporation venture capital fund managed by Artesian .

“We are thrilled to be joining Andrew, Jocie, and the whole SwarmFarm team as they pioneer the future of autonomous agriculture,“ Emmertech director Sean O’Connor said.

“The key trait that drove our eagerness to lead this round was the farmer-centric approach this team is built around and the truly exceptional results their robots have achieved.

“We met with several farmers who were putting upwards of 3000 hours a year on their SwarmBot, often leaving them out in the fields for over 24 hours at a time.

“We believe there is a future where SwarmBots can be found on farms across North America and worldwide.“ In 2022, SwarmFarm announced that

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6 - 11 April 2023

Easter boost for economy

By Fiona Gowers Roma’s Easter in the Country, to be held this year from 6 to 11 April, is considered the premier Easter event in southern Queensland.

A powerful six-day festival that packs a punch locally, it allows businesses the chance to leverage their marketing and to exploit the visitor’s dollar.

The focus, according to Easter in the Country committee president Jenny Flynn, is to underpin and drive the local economy.

She said it had a $2 million direct economic value to Roma, as well as many social and health benefits.

“The flow-on effect is powerful, not just via the visitor expenditure but also the event expenditure,“ Mrs Flynn said.

“This is a complete community festival run by a committee of volunteers that promotes everything country.

“We have an abundance of outdoor activities, which enhance and promote participation from all those who attend the festival.

“From enjoying the great outdoors of walking leisurely in the bush to experiencing the great country hospitality.

“All activities within the festival speak ’bush’ and enjoyment in a relaxed atmosphere.“ Mrs Flynn said in her nine years as president she had tried to instil a family-feel through the event, which consistently records strong return visitation.

“When I hear people say, ‘I’m definitely coming back next year, this event has the best feel’. It makes me happy. You can’t buy that,” she said.

“Many people attending hear of the event through word of mouth … the old bush telegraph.”

Based on Tourism and Events Queensland data, visitors to outback Queensland spend an average of $605 per trip.

And, Mrs Flynn said her committee was expecting somewhere in the vicinity of 12,000 visitors to Roma over the Easter weekend.

“There is something for absolutely every-

The street parade at Roma’s Easter in the Country festival.

So much family fun at Roma’s Easter in the Country. one,” she said.

“From the fast-paced gin tasting rodeo, monster Easter egg hunt and billy cart rides to the slower-paced art exhibition, visiting country markets and bush gardens, the festival ca-

ters to all ages and interests.

“More than that, the not-for-profit organisations based in town use Easter in the Country as their major annual fundraiser.

“It’s all about sustainability and viability.”

Mrs Flynn said the festival boasts engagement from a range of community organisations, which partner with the Easter in the Country committee to demonstrate their commitment to the biggest celebration in southern Queensland at Easter.

She said visitors travelled from “all ports east“, including the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Brisbane who seek a relaxed getaway.

Roma Commerce and Tourism general manager, Debbie Joppich said Easter in the Country was Roma’s longest running festival.

It began in 1977 with the aim of raising funds for the local rugby league team to build a clubhouse.

Since then, the festival has grown with new events and attractions added each year for visitors and residents to enjoy.

Mrs Joppich commended the committee for pulling the six-day event together and said, uniquely, its success relied on the effort of the community as a whole.

“It showcases our region as a place to visit but also as a great place to live and work,” she said.

“It also brings an injection of money to the region, which is a big boost to our local economy. “

There’s plenty to see and do at Easter in the Country

By Breanna Lloyd Grab your tickets, friends, and loved ones and get ready for the Easter in the Country festival in Roma from 6-11 April.

The event offers a variety of activities for all age groups which capture all qualities of outback Queensland and the lifestyle it has to offer.

It provides opportunities for locals, relatives, friends and first-timers to spend their Easter holiday out in the country in the Maranoa region.

Throughout the five days, there are a number of different events to participate in which include the Monster Easter Egg Hunt, Roma International Motor Speedway and Family Fun Sunday.

Yet again, Easter in the Country is offering a memorable live music program on both the Saturday and Sunday.

On Saturday the following events are occurring at the main stage on McDowall Street.

Starting at 10am, Bluey and Bingo welcome children to come and sing along.

Bo’Ness, twin brothers who are successful on the Aria chart with Campfire Stories.

They will promote anti-family violence at 11am.

Pocket rocket performer Natalie Pearson is performing her contemporary country music at 12pm.

On Easter Sunday from 9am to 8:30pm, Easter in the Country is hosting the XXXX Roma Pro-Rodeo where competitors come together to compete against newly-crowned APRA Australian champions.

The event takes place at Bassett Park, with

Beccy Cole and Adam Harvey have toured Australia more than a dozen times and will be performing their new album and their old classics. an entrance fee of $30 each for adults, children $15, 12 years and younger are free and family tickets for two adults and two children $110.

Later in the evening guests will be rocking as star country singers Beccy Cole, Adam Harvey and up and coming star Josh Setterfield take the stage at 8:30pm at Bassett Park.

Eleventh-time Golden Guitar winner Beccy Cole has been charming Australian country music fans for 28 years with her amazing singing, songwriting

and instrumental abilities.

Beccy has also claimed multiple ARIA awards for top 10 country and top 40 mainstream albums, three gold-certified releases, top 10 DVDs and more than a dozen numberone country singles.

Beccy Cole is known by her listeners and watchers to be one of Australia’s most successful singer-songwriters and is also a hilarious live performer.

In January 2022, Adam Harvey was nomi-

nated for album of the year, the traditional album of the year and song of the year at the Golden Guitar Awards in Tamworth.

Beccy and Adam have toured Australia more than a dozen times and will be performing their new album and their old classics.

The creation of their new album called the Great Country Songbook Volume 3, was sparked by Adam staying in constant contact with Beccy after having suffered through difficulties over the past few years.

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BECCY COLE

ADAM HARVEY

SUPPORTED BY

JOSH SETTERFIELD #easterinthenountryroma www.easterinthecountry.com.au 12590231-JC08-23

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6 - 10 April March 2023 TODAY 19

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6 - 11 April 2023

Full calendar for Easter The Big Rig Tower & Tree Walk & Self-guided Tour of the Oil Patch Venue: The Big Rig, 2 Riggers Rd, Roma Time: 9am to 4:30pm daily Cost: Pricing ranges from: Adults $20/ Concession $18 Family (2 Adults, 2 Children) $55 Child $15 Children under 5 yrs free.

Bookings essential. Book online or phone (07) 4624 0204.

Learn about the trials and tribulations that our pioneers endured while trying to strike it rich with Roma oil and how their lessons have led to a multi-billion industry today.

Immerse yourself in the pioneering stories, climb the magnificent 40m tower, meander along the tree walk through the ancient river red gums, stand beneath the rigs and gain an understanding of hope, ingenuity and mateship that shaped the Australian oil, gas and energy industry.

Outback Tucker Under the Stars – Sponsored

by Cement Australia Venue: Roma Saleyards, Warrego Highway, Roma Time: 5pm for a commencement at 5:30pm Cost: Adults $80 (13 years and above), Children $20 (12 yrs and under) Bookings: Tickets on sale 1 December 2023 Everyone is invited to the Opening Dinner, for Roma’s Easter in the Country at the Roma Saleyards. The Roma Saleyards is the leading venue for cattle sales in the Southern Hemisphere and a great place to view the open skies.

As part of a signature Terra Firma dining experience, guests will be treated to an open fire pit installation with delicious local produce slowly roasting over the hot coals. French chef Charly Pretet has mastered this humble style of dining and embracing back to basic cooking techniques, using only fire and the best local beef Roma has to offer. The combination of the delicious aromas and the ability to interact with the Chefs at work make for an unforgettable show.

You will experience food at its best with the following menu items: Hung and slow-roasted beef long ribs rack Homemade chimichurri sauce Whole pig cooked on the cross over the open fire pit Served with greek style yoghurt sauce Coal-roasted whole pumpkin, burnt balsamic dressing, fetta, rocket, pepitas Smoked green and red cabbage and grilled vegetables slaw, burnt citrus dressing.

Smoked Queensland pineapple basted with honey and served with dulce de leche and cinnamon crumble.

The night will be further enhanced by the presence of Roma’s own Western Queensland’s first small-batch, hand-crafted distillery servicing cocktails and samples of their individual products.

Be quick to book – do not miss out!

Licensed bar, live entertainment and EFTPOS available.

Entertainment is provided by our old friends – Vinney and John.

The 2023 dinner is dinner with a real difference, so this will be an event not to be missed.

NRG Xtreme Bulls Australia Venue: Bassett Park – Roma Showgrounds Northern Road, Roma.

Time: 5:30pm to 10:00pm Cost: Adults (12 years and over) $20 each Children (11 years and Under) Free – no tickets required.

Buy your tickets online The Original Xtreme Sport is back this year with NRG presenting Xtreme Bulls Roma!!

Xtreme Bulls are pleased to be heading back to Roma’s Easter in the Country weekend for another stop of the Xtreme Bulls Australia Tour.

This will be Roma’s fifth Xtreme Bulls event and one not to miss out on. Featuring Australia’s elite Bull Riders taking on the Gill Bros Rodeo Company’s Xtreme Bulls. Be sure to catch the action at this event and the big screen replays.

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20 TODAY March 2023

relax in the splendor of the bush location.

Family Fun Sunday Venue: Bassett Park – Showgrounds Northern Road Roma Time: 7.00am to 1.00pm Cost: Free entry BUSH POETS BREAKFAST – 7:00am to 9:30am Hosted by the Roma Lions Club, and starring the guests from the Roma Performance, Poetry and Song. Don’t miss out on the best breakfast in town.

SENEX COLOURXPLOSION – 8:15am The Senex ColourXplosion coordinated by PCYC Maranoa is a 5km family fun event held Easter Sunday as part of Roma’s Easter in the Country celebrations. The 5km course can be a run, jog, or walk and we encourage all family members to participate. Every person that registers will receive a FREE packet of paint to use along the course. The most important thing to remember is – HAVE FUN ColourXplosion is based on an Indian tradition where vibrant colours are thrown at people who are walking past colour stations dotted along the 5km course. After the event, the local fire brigade hoses everyone off before we announce the winners of various competitions that are run throughout the morning.

Cost: Adults (15yrs+) – $15, Children 6 yrs – 15 yrs – $5. Children 5yrs and under – Free.

BILLY CART RACES – 9:15am Everyone can nominate to have a race in the Billy Carts. Mum, Dad and the kids! Nominate on the day of Easter in the Country tent.

GOAT RACES – 10:30am We are expecting a big turnout of goats with the two Rocky Boys, John Richardson and Maurie McQuillan going head to head.

But don’t be surprised if a big buck from the Maranoa takes out the prize. Easter in the Country has sourced a mystery goat racer right here on our own doorstep and these fellows will be putting it to the competition from the north. Do not miss this competition!

Prize money is $1500 – winner takes all. All entries are welcome.

Interested riders of the goats in the Goat Races must also nominate at the EITC tent.

The riders are required to be over 10 years of age and will be required to sign Goat Race Liability Form (signed by a guardian).

Nominate by emailing info@easterinthecountryroma.com.au WIFE CARRYING RACES – 11:30am WINNER WINS THE WEIGHT OF THE WIFE IN BEER/XXXX PRODUCT. Who would have thought that XXXX would sponsor Wife Carrying! The biggest competition in QLD and the best prize!

Return to Roma’s Easter in the Country, full of fun and laughter.

Very popular IN Northern England and Northern Europe, wife carrying is also a growing sport in Australia and is now here in the Maranoa.

Wife carrying is what it says: the man carries a woman- preferably his wife – over an obstacle course. The sport demands equal measures of humour and fortitude and (although not essential), the Wife Carrying World Championships organising body recommends carrying your own wife.

The concept has now grown and at many events, husband and wife teams are in the minority. According to international competition rules, the “wife” must weigh at least 49 kg. If she weighs less, the wife will be burdened with a heavy rucksack to bring the weight up to the competition minimum.

World Championship organisers recommend a training routine that involves carrying your wife as part of “daily” routines: in the bath, in the supermarket, in the playground, at SNAP or PCYC. So, if you see this happening in the Maranoa you will know they are training for this event. While strength might seem to be the clincher for winning this event, the style used to carry the “wife” is also very important.

Nominate prior to the event by emailing info@easterinthecountryroma.com.au or on the day of Easter in the Country tent.

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XXXX Pro Rodeo.

With increased prize money to $8000 winner takes all – not a bad wager for a 10-second ride…

The event is a classic, so sit back and relax at the alcohol-free family night.

Food vans on site.

Roma International Motor Speedway Venue: Roma International Speedway, 27 Two Mile Road, Roma.

(2klms east of Roma on the Warrego Highway – follow the signs).

Time: Gates open at 3:00pm. Track Pack at 4:00pm. Main racing starts 4:30pm Cost: $25 – Adults $10 – 13 to 17yrs Free – Children Under 12 $10 – Aged Pensioners with ID Classes running: SSA National 4’s – $1000 to win Lightning Sprints Australia Title Legend Car Classic Super Stockers SSA Juniors Surfers Paradise Sedans done Monster Easter Egg Hunt Venue: Big Rig Parklands, Riggers Rd, Roma Cost: Free Time: From 2:30pm to 5:00pm Enjoy an afternoon of children’s entertainment and fun for the young at heart 2:30pm – Join in the fun of the games – egg and spoon races, sack races and three-legged races. These will be in age groups and on the terrace adjacent to the Miniature Train at the Big Rig Parklands.

3:00pm – CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT – Bluey and Bingo return to Roma’s Easter in the Country! Come down and welcome them back and meet Bluey and Bingo.

4:30 pm – The Easter Bunny arrives to greet the children and there will be loads of photo opportunities.

5:00pm – Easter Egg Hunt. This will run in age groups again and under the supervision of parents and officials. Children will only get one or two small Easter eggs and sharing is strongly encouraged to ensure everyone gets to participate.

Refreshments are available and enjoy your time at Roma’s Big Rig Parklands.

If you want a seat you need to bring a chair or a blanket.

Ironbark Raceway Drag Racing Venue: Ironbark Raceway – Kimblers Road (off Warrego Highway), Roma Time: Gates Open: 2:00pm – Racing com-

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mences at 3pm Cost: Adults $15 (15 years and over) 14 years and under FREE entry Get your backsides, and trackside for some great drag racing action.

The South West Drag Racing Association will be celebrating ’20 years of Ironbark Raceway’. The race track was officially opened in Easter 2003.

To celebrate we hope to get as many past and present members together for a three-day event which includes: Friday 2pm – Burnout Competition at 2pm Heats to be run (with Finals of Burnouts on Saturday afternoon) Canteen only operating.

Eftpos Available 6pm Official ’20 years of Ironbark’ Dinner at Ironbark – tickets available by contacting secretary@ironbarkraceway.com.au Saturday 2pm – Gates open to the Public for a 3pm start.

Qualifying of Drag Racing and Burnout Comp Finals.

Canteen & Bar operating with Eftpos available.

Sunday 8am – Gates open to the Public for a 9am start.

Canteen & Bar operating. Eftpos available Get your thrills on the Hill at Ironbark Raceway.

Gin tasting with Western Queensland Spirits Venue: Western Queensland Spirit Distillery, Roma Sessions: Please note sessions are limited to 150 adults.

Saturday: 10am- 1pm 1pm – 4pm (Live Music) 4pm – 7pm (Live Music) Sunday : 10am- 1pm 1pm – 4pm (Live Music) 4pm – 7pm (Live Music) Monday: 10am- 1pm 1pm – 4pm Cost: $20 per adult, Children under 18 yrs free. These will include the tasting of three products on a tasting paddle. Bookings Essential. Purchase your tickets online How do western botanicals including bush lemon, desert lime, saltbush and lemon myrtle sound for your gin and tonic? The Outback gin has a drier style, a hint of spice and a citrus finish. It’s our unique take on a classic London dry. Garnish with a slice of lime and pair with a gentle tonic and you’re ready to sit back and

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QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

OPINION

Biotechnology is the future Biotechnology will be a major player in developing more sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices in the future.

Did you know some synthetic pesticides are being banned or restricted in various countries due to concerns over their impact on human health and the environment?

After implementing bans, some countries have encouraged farmers to adopt alternative methods of pest control, such as integrated pest management and biopesticides.

Recently, the Agtech and Logistics Hub travelled to Europe to look at the biopesticides and biostimulants sector. We were invited to observe cutting-edge trials of new biopesticides.

These products are pest control agents derived from natural materials such as plants, bacteria, and minerals used to also stimulate the growth of plants. They are used to control a variety of pests, including insects, weeds, and plant diseases.

Unlike synthetic pesticides, biopesticides are typically less toxic and have fewer environmental impacts. The trial results were very impressive and showed extremely effective

BREAKING GROUND WITH THOMAS HALL control of targeted pests, while not harming beneficial insects.

However, the big mover in agriculture was the rise of biostimulants. These products utilise chemistry derived from botany, microbiology, microalgae and green science to enhance plant growth and health, improve soil fertility, and increase crop yields.

Biotechnology is gaining great traction due to aligning strongly with ESG principles by promoting environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and good governance in agriculture.

The Hub is working closely with many biotech companies to solve challenges faced by the industry. A good example of this is a very

effective plant-growth regulator used in agriculture to enhance the growth and flowering of grapevines, fruit and nut trees.

It is being banned in many countries due to concerns over its potential environmental impact and potential health effects. Without this effective product the farmers stand to lose huge yields from their crops.

The Hub has been looking at many types of technology to help solve this challenge, including visiting one of Europe’s leading biotech companies, Kimitec, to look at a solution called Invierna. The trials and validation were so convincing the Hub will facilitate a trial of Invernia in Australia and New Zealand this year to check performance in Australian conditions.

With ESG becoming such a focus of the agricultural industry, biotechnology will play an important role in helping farmers develop more sustainable practices.

In terms of social factors, the use of biotechnology can help improve the health and safety of farm workers, who are often exposed to the harmful effects of synthetic pesticides.

Red meat continues to offer good value FROM THE MLA

What’s the big secret?

MOVING FORWARD

JASON STRONG The cost of living is dominating the news. Every time we read the paper or watch the news, there’s another story about inflation eroding the value of our dollar.

In that context, I recently had someone ask me: can people no longer afford to eat red meat?

It’s a valid question when household budgets are getting tighter. But when we look at the value of red meat, the question should be looked at from another angle.

When we talk about affordability, it is also incredibly important to have a conversation about value. First off, red meat is a very highquality product. It’s consistent and reliable.

This consistency and reliability has been driven by a system called Meat Standards Australia, which is based on almost 1.2 million consumer taste tests by more than 171,000 consumers from 11 countries, taking into account all factors that affect eating quality from the paddock to plate.

In addition to quality, we can also look at how red meat can be the centrepiece of a meal, helping us feel full with its protein and provide a range of fantastic nutrients like zinc, iron, and others. Finding these essential nutrients from other food sources can be difficult and more expensive.

Red meat is also free from additives and it comes from trusted providers: Australian farmers.

When we talk about the affordability of red meat, it’s also important to remember that there is a range of red meat options that can suit a range of household budgets.

We absolutely believe red meat can and should continue to be a centrepiece of the Australian diet and that meal can be just as delicious whether you are eating eye fillet or lean mince.

The cost of living is currently undergoing scrutiny by a national Parliamentary Inquiry, and MLA presented to this inquiry in Brisbane in February. One of my key messages to this inquiry is that gram for gram, red meat is still considerably cheaper (and better value) than other common foods like chips, processed biscuits, muesli bars, and cereals.

When it comes to food inflation, red meat has experienced less of a price rise than many other grocery items.

According to last week’s Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data, prices for products in the food and non-alcoholic beverage subgroup rose 9.2 per cent over the last 12 months.

Amongst the food and non-alcoholic beverage category, the price of meat and seafood increased by the least amount - up 8.2 per cent

Biotechnology also has lower toxicity levels, reducing the risk of harm to humans and wildlife.

In terms of governance, the use of biotechnology is regulated in many countries, and their approval and registration processes are based on scientific evaluations and public policy considerations. This helps ensure products like biopesticides are used in a safe and responsible manner.

The biopesticides and biostimulant market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, and it is evident many major agricultural research and development companies have been investing in biopesticides, including some major players in AgChem. These companies and others are investing due to growing demand from farmers for more sustainable and eco-friendly pest-control options, as well as the increasing regulatory restrictions on the use of synthetic pesticides.

Driven by the increasing demand for sustainable agriculture practices and the need to feed a growing global population, biotechnology will be a major disruptor in traditional pest and weed control.

WITH LYNNE WILBRAHAM

A delicious row of porterhouse steaks. annually. The food groups that experienced the highest price rises in the last 12 months were dairy and related products (up 14.9 per cent), bread and cereal products (up 12.2 per cent), and non-durable household products (up 12 per cent).

Over the past 12 months the price of fresh fruit and vegetables have increased at a faster rate than meat and seafood. Vegetable and fruit prices were up 8.5 per cent in 2022.

According to ABS data, both beef and lamb retail prices fell in the December 2022 quarter.

Beef prices fell 0.28 per cent and lamb fell 2.49 per cent.

There is no disputing that the red meat supply chain is subject to the same inflationary forces as the rest of the economy - labour, energy, transport. These all have an impact on production and processing, along with other issues like recovery from drought and fires and, more recently, major flooding.

At the end of the day, the whole supply chain is very focused on providing a highquality, nutritious product for Australian consumers.

The immense value is there - in the tasty piece of red meat on your fork and in the nutritional benefit that it provides your body.

I am asked many questions during my day, but one of the most frequent ones is: “What is the secret to running a successful business?”

You can talk about business planning, marketing, target-market development, financial management and operational planning until the cows come home. All of these are, of course, vital to operating a successful, profitable and sustainable business. However, there is one key element, which, if not performing to its highest potential, will surely impact all these aspects and more.

That element is you. The person running the business. The person who had a dream to pursue their passion. To help people. To bring a new product or service to market. To make and sell delicious food or provide beautiful products.

Whatever it is that drove you to start and run your own business.

Every so often, it is not only good for you, but good for your business, to sit back and take stock of how things are going. It is so easy to get caught up in the demanding day-to-day doings of running a business. To be quite honest, it can be quite confronting to step back and take stock. Do you still have the passion, drive and focus that you had when you started?

What is the vision for your business?

What are your hopes and dreams and ultimate goals?

Have you given thought to your business’ mission? What do you do? How do you do it and why?

Crafting Vision and Mission Statements is a valuable skill. They can help you refocus, define your business and its purpose and communicate this to the world.

Things change over time, so if you feel that you have lost some of your drive and focus it may be time to revisit the vision and mission for your business and check that they are still appropriate for your business and the market in which you are operating.

So, maybe take some time this month to do a stock-take of your business’s most important element and check that it is performing up to scratch!

March 2023 TODAY 21

OPINION QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Importance of skin checks FARMERS’ HEALTH WITH DR TOBY FORD Skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, but also represents over 80 per cent of cancer diagnoses every year in Australia.

Early detection saves lives. Why do country people seem to be more likely to have skin cancers, sometimes more advanced on presentation? We think this situation is complex.

However, the stereotypical rural person may live in a harsher climate and operate more outdoors than city-dwellers. Sometimes their forebears or piers can legitimise a more casual approach.

Comments such as my dad’s generation talked about getting burnt and developing skin cancers that were neglected until advanced because it was part of bush life. Another can be a lack of access to screening with local health services overloaded treating emergencies etc or just no resources at all.

This however, doesn’t mean one should give up or ignore your skin.

Catching some Vitamin D from the sun’s rays is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.

Although, most Australians will know that sunlight must be enjoyed in moderation. Too much sunlight can become harmful and burn us, leading to sun damage and health complications such as melanomas and other skin cancers.

Preventative measures are the best way to reduce sun damage and the risk of skin cancers. Most Australians will be familiar with the Cancer Council’s Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide slogan (originally popularised in the 1980’s with Sid The Seagull as Slip. Slop, Slap).

This slogan is a great way to remember what we need to do to protect our skin from sun damage. But protection is rarely 100% assured and people can still be damaged by the sun, particularly in places where they think they are already protected such as in their car, or on a cloudy day. So, what can we do to reduce our risk of health complications caused by sun damage and skin cancer?

I’ve asked Dr Penny Templeman who works with me in our skin screening team to takes us through the ‘what’, ‘why’, ‘how’, and ‘when’ of preventing and detecting skin cancer with skin checks! Dr Templeman has a certificate in Skin Cancer in Primary Care and is performing hundreds of skin checks every year in our worksite health programs.

Skin Checks as Preventative Measure Fortunately, skin cancers are one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Regular skin checks are one of the best ways to detect skin cancers early and reduce the risk of skin cancers developing and becoming a threat to our health and wellbeing. To get a better understanding of skin checks and what is involved, we asked Dr Penny Templeman to help us de-

bunk skin checks by asking her some of the most common questions we get about them.

Doctor Templeman has a certificate in Skin Cancer in Primary Care, and she performs hundreds of skin checks every year for Ford Health clients!

What is a Skin Check?

A skin check is a full body assessment and inspection of the skin for abnormalities and skin cancers. A medical professional or doctor will typically use a dermatoscope to look closely at your skin and any particular points of interest to assess whether they are threats to your health. A skin check is usually performed professionally in a private room to ensure your comfort. Some doctors may ask you to change into a gown so they can more-easily inspect your skin. Any abnormalities or concerns that are identified would be referred on for investigation by a specialist and/or treatment.

Why Should I Get a Skin Check?

A trained professional who is experienced in identifying skin cancers, such as Dr Templeman, is much more likely to identify a skin cancer and organize treatment before it becomes harmful. A skin check also poses the perfect opportunity for you to point out any new moles or spots on your skin.

The good thing about skin cancers is that they are there to be found with early detection -Dr Penny Templeman

When Should I Get a Skin Check?

Dr Templeman recommends getting a skin check annually, at least. Frequent skin checks are highly recommended for people are considered to be at high risk of skin cancer. You might be considered high risk if you have: More than 10 freckles or moles on an arm, a personal history with skin cancer, family history of skin cancer, or if you are on immunosuppressors.

You should also get a skin check when you notice any new moles, freckles, or pigment shapes in your skin.

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What Could the Doctor Find in a Skin Check?

Precancerous lesions such as Solar Keratosis or Dysplastic Naevi are the most common abnormalities found in a skin check. These can be treated and dealt with before they even become cancerous if they are detected early enough. Melanoma is the most common form of skin cancer found in a skin check. Sometimes non-melanoma cancers can be found such as: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) Nevus Sebaceous (type of birthmark that can turn into a BCC) Early detection saves lives. There is nothing more distressing for a skin check doctor than to see someone who has an advanced lesion which they have been ignoring or have been

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When was the last time you had your skin checked? ‘too busy’ to have checked. Early melanoma has a 95-99 per cent survival rate, but this drops to 25 per cent (five year survival) for very advanced melanomas.

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22 TODAY March 2023

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March 2023 TODAY 23

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Being blind from birth has not stopped Geoff Munck from embracing endurance riding ... and life, as ERLE LEVEY found out.

Riding blind: Reflections It can be quite confronting to get on a horse for the first time ... especially if it is 15 or 16 hands high.

It’s quite another thing if the rider happens to be blind.

Yet Geoff Munck has taken the challenge on ... and is loving it.

I met Geoff a year ago at the Stirlings Crossing Endurance Education Weekend at Imbil.

There were experienced young riders to 60-year-old first-timers at the event. Riders, strappers, handlers, veterinarians, horse owners, breeders and trainers.

Meeting Geoff and listening to his story was truly inspiring.

Being blind from birth was not going to stop him from embracing this exhilarating, and at the same time endearing sport.

Experienced endurance rider Virginia Barber had been assisting Geoff for the past four months at her Dayboro riding school.

“Virginia has been teaching me to ride,’’ Geoff said at the Imbil event, while saddling up for his first endurance ride - 10km through the state forest.

“I’m an absolute newbie.

“I looked at it in September. Virginia was quite keen to take on a blind rider ... it was a risk but the risk was all mine.

“For a blind person it’s spectacular.

“If you talk to a blind person they probably understand more about what’s going on around them than you do.

“We are more attentive - we use our ears, use our hands, we smell, we do a lot of things.

“That’s what’s so great about the horse, my balance.

“If you ask Virginia, my balance on a horse has been pretty good ... right from day one.

“I’m used to balance and keeping myself balanced in an awkward environment. So being on a horse is just another element.

“It gives you freedom. I jump out of aeroplanes, I sail boats, I do stupid things.

“This is just another one of those wonderful experiences.

“I like to be in the outdoors. I like to go bushwalking but it can be problematic as it puts stress and strain on those I’m walking with.

“It occurred to me that horse riding is a way in which the horse looks out where it’s going, and that makes it easier for me.

“Horse riding, for me ... I smile, I keep smiling.

“It’s the whole environment ... I hear, I smell, there’s the movement, the sound, I feel the breeze.

“Apart from being up close and personal, being able to touch a beautiful animal. It’s all of those things.

“I cannot stop smiling.’’

I saw Geoff again in February, at the Bony Mountain Pink Ride for Breast Cancer near Warwick.

Making friends: Geoff Munck at Virginia Barber’s Riding School at Wondai. 317085

I find enjoyment in observing the world around me. Listening, tasting, smelling, sitting and observing … feeling the energy of places. I use the expression of seeing the world around me.’’

It was his first official Queensland Endurance Riders Association (QERA) event, and he was so anxious to get in the saddle.

Virginia held the guide rope but at times, when we saw him later on the course, his horse had taken the lead.

When the chance came to meet up with Geoff again just recently and see how he had progressed with riding in just over a year, I jumped at the chance.

He and partner Katrin Terton, an artist, were at Virginia’s new horse-riding property at Wondai.

Sitting in the shade of the verandah, he told me about the time they were at Stanthorpe having a wine tasting.

“I’m at the bar, having a couple of white wines. Next minute I hear this clip-clop, clipclop behind me.

“I look around and it’s the farm horse - he has been sired by Octagonal, the champion Australian thoroughbred racehorse.

“And he’s walked in, so in true horse comedy I turn and ask: Why the long face?“ That gives me an idea of the talent, the exuberance that is Geoff.

I suggest that, being blind, he has probably got a great understanding of horses - that he needs to be responsive to their characteristics.

“Oh no, I’m just a novice at becoming aware of horses.

“I’m just like any city slicker - horses look gorgeous but they are also intimidating.

“What I’ve learnt in engaging with them is that because I can’t see them I have a real awareness of their energy.

“The feel of them, how they respond ... only a horse person can know this. The little flexes of the skin and their muscles, staying balanced, rolling with the horse’s movement instead of pre-empting what they are going to do.

“When you are learning to ride, the horse is learning to trust you. That’s part of the relationship.

“The horse and I have to evolve, that’s very true.

“Maybe that’s it. We are independent characters and it’s a meeting of minds.

“As you do, you just greet the horse and I spend the time to get to know them. Perhaps it’s in the way I saddle him up - I take longer. I run my hands over him all the time.

“I think the horse understands that or there’s something in that, that they work with it.

“So I’m feeling my way along them in the way that most people don’t have to. They may choose to but they don’t have to.

“I get a lot of affection back from the horse,

a lot of nuzzles. A lot of tolerance.

“What I’ve learned is that after a couple of kilometres of riding, of course they are starting to work out that they are relying on me.

“That’s why Virginia picks educated or intelligent horses for me … they are pre-empting problems I suppose. I feel safe in the horse’s care.’’

Geoff finds that the relationship is about him trusting the horse and that must be reflected through body movement and attitude too.

“Virginia often comments about my balance: ’You will stay seated and comfortable in environments and situations where other people may turn around and go another way or come off.’

“My enjoyment of riding is just surrendering mindfully, not mindlessly ... giving over to the horse in most instances for the horse to be my guide.

“I’m used to being guided throughout my life. I rely on other people.’’

Reflecting on this, you realise much of Geoff’s life only needs a thread to connect him to the wider world - whether that be a cord used in skydiving, a line used in yachting or a lead for horse riding.

Blind from birth, he was born in Brisbane and now lives at Bribie Island.

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Virginia Barber with Geoff Munck, a blind rider in his first 20km event and competing at Bony Mountain in March 2022. 269952 His family was from Rockhampton originally, so Geoff lived there for a couple of years working in the government service before moving to Brisbane.

When people try to experience what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes, he tells me that’s it’s always a good gesture to discover the problems you can come across.

“Kat and I work in the world of art. My partner is an artist and she works in art therapy - the investigation of visual experiences for blind people.

“That’s how we came to meet each other.

“Mine, from an audience perspective and how can a blind person better appreciate visual arts. I can walk into a room and I can feel it.

“I was a long-time forensic accountant … both for the government and the private sector.

“You’ve gotta be fast in that role and my eyesight ranged from poor to nil.

“Even with the best technology in the world you can’t keep up so I basically retired and continue doing private consultancy, where I can manage my own environment and time.’’

We discuss the issue of how the focus of retirement planning is always about money how much you are going to need.

Yet no-one is talking about the personal advice, the psychology, the emotional support, of how to live in retirement.

It was a quality of life decision that saw Geoff move to consultancy. Up until then, he wondered why he was working so hard.

“I am slower than an average sighted person, even with the technology available.

“Just to keep up you have to drive yourself more than most.

“I wrestled with that - who am I? “That’s when it occurred to me that I’m just me, I don’t need labels any more.

“I find enjoyment in observing the world around me. Listening, tasting, smelling, sitting and observing … feeling the energy of places.

“I use the expression of seeing the world around me.

“I have a 360-degree enjoyment of the world around me, no matter where I might be.

This is when so many people just see what’s in front of them.’’

Geoff said he has learnt to slow down, appreciate the world.

Geoff Munck and Katrin Tertonat Beyond Sight. Artwork and Image by K Terton. 317085

Virginia Barber with Geoff Munck on his first 10km endurance ride, which was at Stirlings Crossing in Imbil in January 2022. 266579 The times that he’s having, that’s the real gift … to understand that it’s more than just the money.

“I’ve learned that the world is much more generous, and wonderful, and beautiful than you can believe. That’s because I took the time to breathe it in.

“Then I learned I could share that experience with other people and they would enjoy it with me.’’

There, sitting in the shade at Wondai enjoying a cup of tea and some biscuits, I realise this is one of the most beautiful conversations.

“You attract people into your life,’’ Geoff said. “Kat was exploring the idea of surely people having this issue of sensory problems could engage with art.

“She does wonderful art - she was in Noosa at the time and exploring how people could understand something they can’t see or hear.

“I’d been working on a program on my experience of the visual world, and I thought if I

can crack it in an art gallery then I can crack it anywhere.’’

Geoff said that sighted people generally ask if he touches the art to understand it.

His answer is always: “What was Rodin’s idea when he created a sculpture … that he expected you to touch it?

“Unfortunately the blind community has historically been so condescended to that they took any attention as good attention.

“I think, no, you’re making me different to the rest of the community, so you’re not making me inclusive.

“You’re creating an exclusive group of people to experience something that was never meant to be.’’

He turns the question on its head and asks: “What is a work of art?

“What is vision? It’s shorthand for information - just like time is a measurement we have created.

“Art is a physiological response to physical properties of light that we give meaning to -

NEWS

Geoff Munck. That’s a good question ... 317085 those spaces, places and shapes, movements, patterns and colour - through our understanding of the world.

“We develop a visual biography and we overlay that on our visual experiences.

“We can see … sometimes we can see things that are not there. They are illusions.

“The mind can be tricked. That’s why we have magicians and that’s why we have moviemakers.

“As for the expression of visual arts - I wanted to work out what it was about art. I enjoy art, just like I enjoy horse riding.’’

Geoff enjoys the experience of sharing a gallery space with others has an energy.

The space speaks to him and he can enjoy it as it’s always a thoughtful space.

“I can read a book and it’s just printed words but it tells me a story. Why? It’s got characteristics in the way the printed letters are put together.

“I’m trained to understand the language and comprehend then create pictures in my mind. That’s what artists do. They take a thought or an idea and use their medium to create an illusion that people can interpret the way they will.

“It tells a story and it allows us to interpret … it allows us to think about the vision or what they are representing.

“It stimulates a memory to most viewers of a particular experience.’’

Geoff has created a process, refined over the years, that Kat and he go into a gallery and they have a discussion, with the blind person leading the conversation by generating questions to help appreciate and understand what is the object in front of them.

Not the history, not what the curator wants the viewer to understand.

“As a sighted person you can read the notes but we go in and follow a process. Kat is tolerant, patient and also interested.

“We start with the big picture and move down to the smaller things. It’s like anyone can have a conversation but it can probably be deeper ... because we slow down.’’

Understanding that is like a science-fiction novel that takes people where they have never been - what it requires is the development of the dialogue between the sighted person and a vision-impaired person.

Continued page 26

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NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au From page 25 “Too many experts, too many institutions are trying to inform the world on how to work with blind people.

“We are told technology is going to be the answer but that gives no nuance.

“Let’s create 3-D models of famous pictures ... yet if I touch a cold piece of plastic it gives me no nuance of what the artist has used and it tells me little about what the artist is trying to convey.

“Technology is instrumental in us losing so many of these senses.

“It is robbing us of the ability to reason … we are losing a lot of pragmatic learning skills.

“Sighted people believe they are doing something good for those who are blind.

“Is it effective? Not particularly.

“Are they necessary? Definitely not.’’

Geoff tried skydiving in his younger days tandem of course.

It gave a sensory overload ... not just the adrenaline, the force of the wind and the sound racing past your ears.

“You are strapped onto a perfectly good tandem jumper but that moment of exhilaration as you leave the plane is as valid for me as anyone else - the feeling of absolute nothingness around you.

“The sensations as you are immersed into the experience.’’

As well as jumping out of perfectly good aeroplanes, Geoff has been a competitive club sailor on Moreton Bay but now has a Hobie 18foot trimaran he sails with Kat. “We zip up and around the Pumicestone Passage, observing dugong and we can tell the difference between them and a dolphin by the way they exhale.

“So you can pinpoint where they are - a dugong sighs as it breathes out whereas a dolphin puffs it out.

“When you’re on the water you feel the movement of the boat, the breeze, the smell of the ocean. It’s all of that.

“When setting out, I quickly ask where the various sheets and lines are. That way I can put my hand on them very quickly - it’s sensory, it’s moving in an environment.’’

Whether it’s sky-diving, sailing or horse riding, I suggest it might be a matter of a sight-impaired person being more prepared for what’s ahead of you.

“I guess you’re right. I don’t go in with a preconception.

“I’m aware of, and pay attention to, the weather. To the horse I’m about to ride.

“I’m very conscious of what the track is going to be like. Are there a lot of branches? Are we going to break through the surface of the track?

“It’s important for me to understand or appreciate what’s going to happen. Not anticipate. We can anticipate a lot of things, it’s just that we can’t predict it.

“We need to be prepared for all the sorts of things that can possibly happen. Then, if it does happen, we respond.

“In the case of riding, what is important for me is understanding that the horse has the lead.

A lot of riders might find that uncomfortable.

“It’s almost the reverse ... like in the art gallery or a visual experience where blind people have been told what to think by sighted people.

“If we turn it around so that the blind person can direct the conversation, then the

Virginia Barber and Geoff Munck on the 20km ride at Bony Mountain in March 2022. As a rider who is blind, it was Geoff’s first QERA event. 269952

Geoff Munck and Katrin Terton at Virginia Barber’s Riding School at Wondai. 317085

Geoff Munck sailing. 317085

Picture: K TERTON

Geoff and Katrin riding at Wondai. 317085 Picture: J HYAMS

I’ve learned that the world is much more generous, and wonderful, and beautiful than you can believe.” sighted person will see more of it as well.’’

Is this what it’s like with Virginia when you are out riding? Do you think she gets to understand and sense more because of your influence?

“This is a constant conversation. One of the things I learnt was that it must be so exhausting for her.

“It’s about me gathering information to make assessments rather than take things for granted.’’

Geoff agrees that Virginia must be seeing a lot more, understanding a lot more because of what he is giving back to her, what he is experiencing.

“Yes, it’s a loop. It’s feedback. It’s a conversation. I’m so used to being lectured on how I’m supposed to respond and understand the world.

“My interpretation is of well-intentioned condescension.

“They mean well but they are in a hurry to sort out the issue they think you’re experiencing.

“It’s not that they want to disempower you, it’s that they want to do it quickly. Yet really, I want to sort it out for myself.

“If you want to experience it, understand and enjoy what is there, then you have to slow

down - give yourself and your senses the opportunity to understand it.’’

Geoff’s horse riding started with Virginia as he had NDIS support and needed to get outdoors.

That was two years ago and NDIS opened the gate to what a wonderful program it is.

“NDIS is employing people, it’s enhancing people’s lives.

“It’s to have a comparable experience of life - a good quality of life at a community standard.

“I’ve gone from being a retired blind person to someone who is putting back into the community - it enables me to make choices that are good for my well-being that are affected by my condition.’’

When Geoff first went to Virginia‘s property she explained that it would only be after he could ride that she would take him on a trail ride.

“Sooner or later in life you’ll end up talking to the right person. Virginia had no reservations about taking me.

“However, the conversation continues to this day that we were both going to get something out of it.

“We learnt about communication which rolls over into everyday things. It became less

of a challenge and more of a pleasure.

“My goal this year is to complete two 40km rides as a pre-requisite for an 80km. That’s why I’m looking forward to the Bony Mountain Pink Ride this weekend.

“We’ve done some experimenting with me riding in front of Virginia - we did that with a good horse last year and it worked well. The horse was comfortable and that put us in even more of an independent state of mind - at one stage we were cantering.

“Kat is coming up to speed with riding so that we can enjoy the sport together, and in some way I can be a guiding person.’’

Geoff describes Virginia as an exceptional woman who is acknowledged widely in the horse industry and brave enough to take on a 60-year-old blind person.

He considers Kat has exactly the same qualities as she was happy to give tandem sailing a go despite not having tried it before.

“Blind people are often seen as a problem and the first step is backwards, but not with these two women.

“Virginia said you’re going to have to saddle up your horse, put on the bridles and bits.

“I had never done it before in my life.

“This represented an opportunity to feel comfortable and welcome, not alienated.

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Geoff Munck. 317085

Katrin Terton, Virginia Barber and Geoff Munck riding at Wondai. 317085

Geoff Munck doing a rubbing at MONA, Tasmania. 317085 Picture: K TERTON

317085

“You just have to be treated with the professionalism with which you expect of anybody who is purporting to work with you.

“It’s a matter of working together.’’

When it comes to greeting the horse, Geoff believes his deep voice and height are enough that they recognise him.

“With any horse, I walk up to it and I can sense it … it gives off an echo. Actually, it doesn’t. It absorbs sound and what is around the horse is reflected.

“I find out where the horse is, put my hand out and rub up to his shoulder, then it’s just a matter of gently rubbing and asking: ’How are you mate?’

“If he turns his head in, I just put my hand out and he can touch that. Be respectful and then ask if it’s fine to go for a ride.’’

That’s when Geoff tells me about the time

Geoff Munck exploring Girraween National Park.

Picture: K TERTON

they had ridden to the Dayboro Pub, and go into the bar for a drink.

“I turn around and the horse is going to sleep.’’

We all have much to learn from Geoff Munck: Horse-riding has encouraged him to reflect on many aspects of his life ... on being active, on ageing, on being confident in how he faces life.

And he’s learnt to appreciate the world simply by slowing down to get the most out of it.

Geoff has heightened his sensory perceptions, which should be a model for everyone in the way we are losing those abilities in modern life.

The other thing is, what Geoff has achieved while overcoming such huge adversity in his life is inspirational across all generations today.

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Geoff Munck of Bribie Island, saddles up before his first 10km endurance ride in January 2022. 266579

Virginia Barber with Geoff Munck before his first 10km event, that was in January 2022.

Geoff Munck and Katrin Terton at Virginia Barber’s Riding School at Wondai. 317085

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Emma Black is a 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Queensland finalist.

Pictures: CONTRIBUTED

Certainty has its rewards

By Jessica McGrath A Queensland business is providing newfound certainty for livestock producers.

Emma Black, who is the co-owner of Black Box Co, is one of four Queensland women who have been named a 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award finalist.

“It’s super exciting … it’s always humbling to get recognised for doing what you love to do and what you’re really passionate about doing,” she said.

Ms Black moved to the South Burnett region in December 2022 and now calls a Booie farm home.

She will be joined in Brisbane on 1 March by her fellow 2023 Queensland finalists Emma-Louise Gibbons from the Sunshine Coast, Kate Mamason from Cairns and Louise Noble from Toowoomba.

“I’ve followed the award for a number of years now and seen a lot of the incredible projects and businesses that have grown out of it,” Ms Black said.

“I think it offers huge opportunities for women to really promote or influence change within agriculture, especially around regional communities.”

In Brisbane the finalists will have their state finalist interviews as well as networking events with the Agrifuture alumni. The Agrifutures winner will be announced on Thursday, 2 March.

Providing producers with certainty Ms Black and her co-founder Shannon Speight started Black Box Co three years ago.

The pair strived to meet a need in the industry: producers were too time poor and often lacked the skills to sift through the data analytics they needed to make the best decisions.

Black Box Co now has a team across Australia with developers and data scientists on board.

“The difference between us and a lot of other ag tech companies is that we’ve come out of agriculture,” Ms Black said.

The team pulls raw production data that’s already collected along the supply chain - including details such as from farms, pregnancy tests, weight gain, feedlot and abattoir data and creates a visual interactive dashboard 28 TODAY March 2023

Emma Black is a 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Queensland finalist. with data graphs.

“The software analyses it and gives it back to the producer in a way that they can visually see what they need to do,” Ms Black said.

“We’re making data more transparent along the supply chain.”

The analytical data allows farmers to produce livestock more efficiently by giving them confidence in their decisions.

“The big picture is that we’re enhancing food security right along the supply chain, it’s increasing a more consistent supply of better quality livestock,” Ms Black said.

The Black Box Co data helps producers identify their highest and lowest performing animals and the possible reasons for their performance. These could range from breeds

to health issues to environmental impacts or supplements being used.

The data could also help identify which animals and breeds don’t produce a calf every year.

This empowers the everyday producer to make confident, informed sales and business management decisions based on industry trends and their own data.

“One of the key benefits of what we do is we can get the information from beyond the point of sale,” she said.

“We’re empowering the little guys, the everyday family farmers, to really make informed decisions.”

Black Box Co is looking at expanding into the sheep industry in the near future.

Emma Black’s business collects real-time analysis and insights for livestock producers, which is providing certainty in the industry.

QUEENSLAND’S ONLY MONTHLY NEWSPAPER FOR WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE 12582497-JW52-22

Emma powers innovation

By Fiona Gowers Emma-Louise Gibbons has been named an innovative leader in rural and regional communities with her nomination for the 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s award.

She is one of four Queensland finalists vying for the prestigious AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

Based on the Sunshine Coast, Ms Gibbons received recognition for using Australianfarmed insect protein to sustainably produce a line of dog food and treats.

She said she was “absolutely thrilled“ to be recognised as a finalist for this award.

“Especially alongside the three other amazing women. I’m very proud. It is such an honor to be able to represent women in this way and in our industries.

“Receiving this recognition really cements my drive to showcase what we as women can do in the agricultural and manufacturing industries.

“And, hopefully, I can be of some inspiration to other women in our industries to show that innovation, plus an amazing all-women team, can really create new markets and help producers to think outside the square with their commodities.“ Ms Gibbons said she helped Australian insect and vegetable farmers, who produced alternative proteins, to create premium, marketready products.

She said the insect protein animal food was in its final stages of product development.

“Huds and Toke work with Australian producers and companies from the ground up,“ Ms Gibbons said.

“We understand we are the link for many of these agri-industries to be able to test the viability of these alternative proteins in market.

“And, we play an important role in this supply chain for agribusiness in Australia.“ Ms Gibbons was raised on a mixed farm at Grandchester in the Lockyer Valley but now operates her business Huds and Toke, which manufactures edible dog and horse products, in Coolum on the Sunshine Coast.

“It has been a slow journey for us as we have done it all ourselves and learnt everything the

pac grant and represents Queensland at the national finals in September.

Other finalists for the award are: Emma Black, Kingaroy, creator of a real-time analysis and insights software for livestock producers designed to generate certainty across the supply chain.

Kate Lamason, Cairns, whose vertically-integrated production model has brought tuna canning to Australian markets.

Louise Noble, Toowoomba, who is creating industry partnerships that upskill and connect disadvantaged job seekers to agricultural employment.

Minister for agricultural industry development and fisheries and minister for rural communities Mark Furner said the awards had a rich heritage of promoting the contribution Australian women make to rural industries, businesses and communities.

He said it inspired them to further develop their skills.

“Being nominated as a finalist represents due recognition for initiative and dedication, and I congratulate all of this year’s finalists and wish them well for the future.”

Mr Furner said another Queenslander, Leanne Kruss from Mareeba, had been named as one of seven national recipients of the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant.

“Leanne has been awarded a $7000 learning and development bursary for her innovative work to develop a sustainable, value-add paddock to podium Australian fibre apparel rental concept,” he said.

“The grant is a sister program to the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award and aims to foster the professional growth of women in rural and emerging industries, businesses and communities.”

AgriFutures Australia managing director John Harvey said it was fantastic to see the 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award state finalists already making such a positive influence in their industries and communities with their initiatives.

“We’re excited to provide these women with a platform to build on their leadership skills to drive change in rural and regional Australia,” Mr Harvey said.

·

·

·

Emma-Louise Gibbons is one of four Queensland finalists vying for the prestigious AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award. She is pictured with dogs Odin and Pepper. hard way without outside investment,“ she said.

“Our whole goal has been to create worldclass premium products using Australiangrown commodities.

“We have been, and continue to be, ex-

tremely innovative in our approach to creating products and building a well-known brand throughout Australia and the world.“ AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award finalists receive $2000, while the State winner (announced on March 2) receives a $15,000 West-

Researchers continue to revolutionise growers’ futures

By Fiona Gowers Dynamic duo Alison Jensen and Karli Groves are proving that a career in agriculture is so much more than tractors and dirt.

The CQUniversity researchers - through innovative technologies - are challenging the agriculture world, working with growers in the Bundaberg region to implement unique problem-solving tech in an effort to secure a sustainable future in farming.

As part of the Hinkler AgTech Initative, they have done research trials, provided technical support and facilitated industry connections for farmers.

Dr Jensen said one of the initiative’s main aims was to facilitate the trialing of commercially-available AgTech products and services on farms and to promote adoption of AgTech in the Hinkler region.

“It’s been great to see some of the trials have led to the adoption of AgTech, where growers have really seen the value of a particular product or service,” she said.

“Especially now as horticulture is facing increased pressure to produce more with less . . . less cost, less land, less chemicals - the data that technology provides can help growers to make informed decisions and to improve production efficiency.”

Dr Groves said awareness of AgTech was heightening in the region.

And, she said, being able to build increased networking opportunities for growers had added value in working together to

CQUniversity researchers Alison Jensen and Karli Groves are working with growers in the Bundaberg region to implement unique problem-solving tech in an effort to secure a sustainable future in farming. find the best solutions and practical uses of technology.

“We’re able to be a touch point for farmers to be able to access reliable information in the region,“ Dr Groves said.

The women said the ability to be “on the ground“ had helped growers gain the full benefit from their investment, as the adoption of new technology in the industry required various adjustments between both the grower and the tech.

“The role of people in agriculture will likely shift in the coming years, with demand for highly-skilled workers as a result,” Dr Groves said.

“There are so many aspects of agriculture to work in, more than just the hard labour roles.

“While people will always play a role in how a crop is grown, technology is empowering growers to make more informed decisions and to make the best of their own

knowledge and growing experience.”

Both coming from significant, established careers and academic studies in agriculture, they have been part of the Institute for Future Farming Systems (IFFS) Precision Horticulture Team over the past two years.

Between them, they bring experience in plant breeding, plant pathology, practical industry outcomes, on-farm skills and system knowledge.

“Working so closely with industry has allowed us to develop a deeper understanding of complex and varied farming systems, which has really helped to shape the direction of the project and future work,” Dr Groves explained.

Dr Jensen’s research in plant pathology in conjunction with the implementation of AgTech - is also seeing a role in improving disease management, where the systems and data can measure natural occurrences during crop development and helps in pinpointing when a disease outbreak may occur.

“Automated spore traps and environmental sensors have been some of the ways we’ve been able to monitor and predict disease outbreaks,” Dr Jensen explained.

“Careers in agriculture are sometimes stereotyped as difficult and dirty, but farming systems are so complex and interesting.

Technology is changing the way crops are grown and the boundaries of what’s possible in research.

“It’s a great industry to be a part of and it’s exciting to be part of this transition in farming.”

March 2023 TODAY 29

QUEENSLAND’S ONLY MONTHLY NEWSPAPER FOR WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE 12582497-JW52-22

They met out of St Louis

By Fiona Gowers The day Wendy Caldwell accepted a job as a Teacher of the Deaf, which required her to move from the United States to Sydney, she met her future husband who is a Queensland farmer.

Graham Caldwell, a fifth-generation beef producer from Bell in the western foothills of the Bunya Mountains, north of Dalby was in the US touring farms.

Mrs Caldwell, meanwhile, was born and bred in St Louis, Missouri and studied at Washington University in St Louis, which often sent graduating students to The Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children in Sydney.

Her specialty was teaching deaf children who had recently received cochlear implants.

“I just thought, ‘Oh well, why not go to Australia’?”

Mrs Caldwell stayed in Sydney for two years, before moving to a private charity for hearing impaired children in Brisbane called the Hear and Say Centre, which lobbied hard for mandatory newborn screening.

Soon after she moved to Mr Caldwell’s cattle grazing property.

Her first impressions were positive.

“I just thought it was so peaceful and you know it’s so different to a city, of course,” Mrs Caldwell said.

“I didn’t prove to be very useful doing any actual farm tasks but soon settled in to man-

aging the bookwork and finances, as well as feeding everyone. I often call myself the CEO of food and finance!

“But, it wasn’t until I had kids that a little network formed through other mums.

“I mean, it’s really so fascinating talking to other women in rural areas who, not all, but the majority have arrived there because they married somebody from the area.

“They come from all walks of life and there are so many of us here locally who have come from other places and have had careers in so many different areas.“ The Caldwells have two children who have both stayed close to their agricultural roots – their son through farming and daughter through law.

“Our son works alongside us, as well as adding his own farm nearby that he purchased from his grandmother,” Mrs Caldwell said.

“Our daughter is a solicitor who works in the agriculture sector.“ Since 2014, Graham and Wendy Caldwell, through their Darling Downs farm-based business Wenbox Solutions, have supplied the Australian market with seed bins.

Traveling to visit family in the US, Graham and Wendy were “blown away” when they first saw the boxes on her cousin’s property.

“It was like ‘oh, we need those’ to replace the dangerous one-tonne bags and maximise safety and efficiency on our farm,” Mrs Caldwell said.

Due to his extensive on-farm experience, Mr Caldwell soon developed a chute to facilitate the transfer of flowable product from the seed box to the delivery point.

“So that’s something Graham has come up with and it’s really helped sell the box for us because it makes it just that little bit easier.

To get the contents into whatever you’re trying to fill.

“We sent that attachment back to the US and they’re looking at manufacturing it and adding it as an accessory.”

Mrs Caldwell said the seed bins continue to make life easier for farmers across Queensland, NSW and Victoria.

“You know, when we attend field days, every farmer has a story about how they had a near-miss with a one-tonne bag,” she said.

“Word-of-mouth is one of our biggest forms of advertising. And I think farmers, once they’re happy with something, they will talk.

“And also the fact that we are farmers and Graham uses the seed bin he sells helps enormously.

“We’re completely happy with the product.”

Wendy and Graham Caldwell met in the United States but now live in Bell in the western foothills of the Bunya Mountains, north of Dalby.

Spray away: Uni scientists tackle myrtle rust threat University of Queensland scientists have developed an environmentally friendly RNAbased spray to help combat myrtle rust, which has wiped out many Australian plants.

Developed in collaboration with Department of Agriculture and Fisheries forest pathologists, the spray induces RNA interference (RNAi) – a natural way to shut down protein translation – which means it could stop the spread of myrtle rust through bushland, home gardens and nurseries.

PhD candidate Rebecca Degnan said in the decade myrtle rust had been in Australia it had become a huge problem, with more than 350 native hosts.

“Of those plants that have been screened, only three per cent were completely unable to be infected, and more than 40 species have been deemed conservation priorities because of damage from myrtle rust,” Ms Degnan said.

Molecular plant biologist Dr Anne Sawyer said the team wanted to find an alternative myrtle rust control to fungicides.

“Growers rely heavily on fungicides, but they come with a lot of problems such as being harmful to humans and beneficial organisms like bees and monarch butterflies as well as water contamination,” Dr Sawyer said.

“Pests and pathogens can also develop resistance to chemicals and consumers are becoming more aware of residues on their fruit and vegetables.

“We already knew that RNA interference works against other plant pests and pathogens, and our research found rusts are very amenable to this method when we sprayed the double-stranded RNA onto the plants.”

Dr Sawyer said the early results were very positive, and further research would test the spray in more uncontrolled conditions outside of the lab and glasshouse.

“Now that we’ve seen the proof of concept of RNAi in myrtle rust, there are a lot of possibilities for other rusts as well,” Dr Sawyer said.

“It’s really exciting, especially when you talk to people who have been working on myrtle rust for a long time and have seen the damage it can do.”

30 TODAY March 2023

UQ scientists Rebecca Degnan, Anne Sawyer and Louise Shuey in the glasshouse.

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

NEWS

Global demand beefing up The Australian Beef industry and cattle herd are well positioned to capitalise on changing global supply dynamics in 2023.

This year will be a year of transition and maturity for Australia’s cattle herd, with any increases in numbers now beyond rebuild status, with all key production metrics forecast to improve this year, according to the latest Cattle Industry Projections update from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).

Continued rainfall and favourable seasonal conditions seen last year will ensure that there will be solid supply of both young and slaughter weight cattle over the next two years, regardless of seasonal outcomes.

Southern Australia will continue to drive increases in cattle numbers, particularly NSW, with supply improvements also expected from southern Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria to different extents.

In the north, 2022 saw favourable seasonal conditions for large parts of Queensland, driving the beginning of the state’s herd rebuild and an improvement in female numbers.

Northern Australia’s rebuild is expected to gain significant pace this year.

Overall, the cattle herd in 2023 will grow to its highest level since 2014, reaching 28.8m head, an increase of 1.1m or 4.5 per cent yearon-year.

According to MLA’s Senior Market Information Analyst Ripley Atkinson, this growth is underpinned by a few key factors.

“The record retention of females for 15 consecutive months, coupled with above-average marking rates has delivered larger calf drops.

This bodes well for supply to increase substantially in 2023 for both young and slaughterweight cattle,” Mr Atkinson said.

“Both of these metrics suggest that the lowest or most significant retention of stock on record occurred for the year.

This underpins the positive growth in numbers forecast for the next three years,” he said.

National herd numbers are set to rise to their highest level in almost a decade this year.

By 2025, the national herd is expected to reach its highest level since the 1970s at 29.6m head, before a steady decline.

This continued growth is due to strong female reproductive performance, genetic improvements across the herd and sound on farm management.

Input prices and cost of production will be major factors affecting the ability of the sector to remain productive and efficient.

In addition, the availability of skilled and unskilled workers to manage the increased supply of cattle in 2023 will be the major issue

affecting the red meat industry.

The processing sector’s ability to process cattle will determine production levels and therefore exports in 2023.

MLA’s Market Information team has recognised this with a two-scenario forecast for 2023.

“If labour concerns are not addressed within the processing sector, slaughter is forecast to reach 6m head,” according to Mr Atkinson.

“Based on actual supply of cattle this year, the forecasts indicate an uptick in numbers to

6.625m head,” he said.

2023 will be a year of transition for the cattle industry Mr Atkinson said.

“Positive outcomes along the entire supply chain seem likely as the exceptional operating conditions on-farm continue,“ Mr Atkinson said.

“The overall outlook for Australia’s beef industry both domestically and internationally is one of optimism and positivity, whilst it continues to deliver high quality beef in larger volumes, this is expected to be a major feature in 2023,” he said.

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March 2023 TODAY 31

country k tchens recipes Dragon Fruit Smoothie Serves: 3 Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 0 minutes 1 serve per portion Ingredients: • 1 cup frozen pink dragon fruit chunks • 1 medium banana • 1 cup frozen blueberries • ¾ cup reduced fat milk • 1 tablespoon instant skim milk powder (optional) • ½ lime, juiced

Method: • ADD all ingredients to a blender.

• BLEND on high speed until very smooth.

• ADD more milk as necessary to thin to desired texture.

• POUR into glasses and serve immediately.

Everyday Food

What’s Great About It? This refreshing smoothie is a great way to increase your fruit intake. Feel free to swap the frozen fruit and use other berries or mango instead. The addition of lime adds a zesty twist to this recipe but can also be left out.

Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens 2023 Product of the Year Recipe Collection – Dragon Fruit

Peach and Raspberry Christmas Cheesecake Discretionary Food

Serves: 14 Prep time: 20 minutes + 30 minutes to set and 2 hrs to chill Cook time: 45 minutes + 30 minutes to cool ½ serve per portion

Ingredients: • 250 grams digestive biscuits • 300 grams margarine • 3 yellow peaches, halved, stones removed • 500 grams light cream cheese • 1/3 cup caster sugar • ½ cup Greek yoghurt • 2 eggs • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste • 100 grams frozen raspberries • 3 white peaches, halved, stones removed Method: • BLEND digestive biscuits in a food processor for 2-3 minutes.

Add margarine and process until well combined.

• SPOON mixture into a lined baking tray. Firmly press the mixture down into baking tray. Place in fridge for 30 minutes to set.

• PREHEAT oven to 160°C. • CHOP one yellow peach into thin slices and place in saucepan with 2 tablespoons of water.

• COOK on medium heat for five minutes or until tender.

Set aside to cool.

• BLEND the cooled peach in a food processor until smooth. Add cream cheese, sugar, Greek yoghurt, eggs, vanilla, and process until smooth.

• POUR over the prepared base and sprinkle with raspberries.

• SLICE the remaining yellow peaches into thin wedges.

Arrange over the top of the cheesecake, alternating between yellow and white peaches.

• BAKE for 45 minutes or until just set.

• TURN off the oven and allow it to cool, leaving cheesecake inside with door left ajar for 30 minutes • PLACE cheesecake in fridge for two hours or until chilled.

Cut into pieces to serve.

Recipe courtesy of Barb McMillan, Dirranbandi Branch

Empowering women through education and health is a priority for the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA). The QCWA Country Kitchens program, funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, supports Queenslanders to adopt healthier lifestyles. To find out more about the program visit https://qcwacountrykitchens.com.au/.

32 TODAY March 2023

Monthly market report brought to you by Herefords Australia.

12535648-BL08-22

Regional market reports Cattle Physical Report Report date: 14/02/2023 Saleyard: Roma Worsening seasonal conditions across southern Queensland pushed numbers up to 7100 head at Roma this week, which included 2000 head from central and northern NSW. Overall quality was good and despite the extra numbers, buyer support was firm and prices remained similar to those of last week. There was a large variance in quality of heifer pens this week and restocker heifers 280 to 330kg lost ground. Prices of prime cattle returned to those of a fortnight ago, due to the absence of a northern processor.

Light-weight restocker steers were firm to slightly dearer this week selling to 556.2c with most around 494c/kg. Medium-weight steers eased slightly with those returning to the paddock selling to 472.2c to average 428c/kg.

Heavy yearling steers to feed held firm making to 418.2c to average 389c/kg. Light-weight restocker heifers sold to 460.2c to average 397c/ kg. Restockers paid up to 398.2c for heifers returning to the paddock to average 372c/kg.

Fewer pens of grown steers made to 372.2c this week with most averaging 351c/kg. A run of PTIC grown heifers sold to 362.2c to average 346c/kg.

Medium cows held firm selling to 302.2c, averaging 289c, while heavy cows lost 12c selling to 313.2c to average 298c/kg. Cows and calves sold to $2170/unit.

-Market reporter, Sam Hart Report date: 15/02/2023 Saleyard: Dalby The continuing hot and dry conditions across a large portion of the usual supply areas increased the number of stock at Dalby by 604 head to 5373. A good sample of 684 from far Western Queensland and 275 head from NSW were included in the larger line-up. All the regular buyers were in attendance with representatives covering all categories.

Heavy-weight yearling steers to feed were well supplied and at the time of this interim report, close to 600 head have been sold. A combination of the larger number plus some consignments with an average of 520 kg prices could not maintain the levels of the previous week. A large number of cows averaged 3c to 7c/kg less.

Heavy-weight yearling steers to feed made to 398c to average 378c/kg. Heavy-weight yearling heifers to feed made to the occasional 393c to average 373c/kg.

Heavy-grown steers and bullocks averaged from 342c to 343c with sales to 358c/kg. Heavyweight 3 score cows averaged 275c and good heavy-weight cows made to 290c average 287c/ kg.

-Market Reporter, Trevor Hess Report date: 09/02/2023 Saleyard: Emerald Emerald vendors penned an increased number with 1635 on offer. Most were drawn from local areas. Competition was good from the regular

Santa steers sold by Kyntyre at Monto. panel of buyers with one processor returning and one not operating.

Light-weight pens of yearling steers sold to 523c, returning averages from 407c to 440c/ kg. Medium-weight pens averaged from 354c to 421c/kg. Light-weight yearling heifers sold to 465c/kg, averaging 328c/ to 372c/kg for restocker lines.

Bullocks to processors topped at 370c/kg to average 365c/kg. Feeders averaged 334c to 356c/kg for their grown steers. Grown heifers sold to the trade making to 328c/kg for the best to average 298c to 315c/kg. Those to feed averaged 313c to 323c/kg.

Heavy, four-score cows sold to 314c occasionally to average 295c/kg. Two-score cows to restockers from 250c to 260c/kg. Heavy bulls sold to processors to average 265c/kg.

Report date: 13/02/2023 Saleyard: Toowoomba The number of stock at the Toowoomba cattle sale reduced to 301 head. Young cattle were in the largest numbers along with a fair sample of cows and a handful of bullocks. All the regular buyers were present and active in the market.

Young cattle experienced some quality related price improvements in places. The export classes of heavy-grown steers bullocks and cows sold to fair demand for the quality penned.

Light-weight yearling steers returning to the paddock made to 518c to average 505c/kg.

Yearling steers to feed in the 280 to 330kg range averaged 431c and made to 468c/kg. Yearling steers 330 to 400kg sold to restockers at 466c to average 461c/kg. Heavy-weight yearling steers to feed improved in price and made to 390c average 385c/kg. Light-weight yearling heifers under 200kg returning to the paddock made to 420c to average 411c/kg. Yearling heifers to feed for the domestic market made to 444c to average 430c/kg. Heavy-weight yearling heifers to feed made to 376c/kg.

A couple of heavy-grown steers and bullocks made to 358c and 340c/kg respectively. Medium-weight poor-condition cows averaged 228c and made to 232c/kg. Good heavy-weight cows made to 282c to average 276c/kg. Heavy-weight bulls made to 264c/kg. Cows and calves made to $1860/unit.

-Market Reporter, Trevor Hess

Report date: 14/02/2023 Saleyard: Warwick The supply of stock lifted by 152 head to 992 at Warwick. All the regular export buyers attended however not all operated. The usual wholesale and feeder operators along with local and interstate restockers were present.

The yarding of heavy well finished bullocks and cows meet strong competition lifting prices on heavy cows by 6c/kg. The penning of yearling steers and heifers was mixed with the better quality lines receiving the strongest competition lifting prices on the feeder lines by 3c to 8c/kg.

Light-weight yearling steers to restockers made 550c to average 496c with those in the 200-280kg range averaging 449c and selling to 504c/kg. Domestic feeder steers made 463c with restockers paying to 454c and averaging 440/kg. Heavy yearling steers to feed made 410c to average 388c and to the wholesale meat trade at 420c/kg. Light-weight yearling heifers to restockers made 550c with those in the 200-280kg range selling to 462c and averaging 404c/kg. Yearling heifers to feed for the domestic market averaged 392c and sold to 439c/kg. Yearling heifers over 330kg to the wholesale meat trade made 460c to average 402c and those to feed selling to 410c/kg.

Heavy yearling heifers to feed made 350c to average 325c/kg.

Good young bullocks to processors made 370c to average 344c with the heavier lines selling to 349c/kg. Grown heifers to processors made 349c/kg. Cows to restockers made 268c good heavy cows to processors made 296c to average 290c/kg. Heavy bulls made 270c/kg.

-Market Reporter Errol luck Sheep Physical Report Report date: 08/02/2023 Saleyard: Warwick There was a small drop in numbers at Warwick with 1241 lambs and 439 grown sheep penned.

The yarding was dominated by store and feeder type lambs with only a small sample of well finished heavy and trade lambs, which sold to spirited bidding, which lifted prices across these lines. With several falls of useful rain across the local area, restockers competed strongly with the feeder buyers lifting prices on the suitable restocker lambs.

Young lambs to restockers sold to $112 and averaged $79 with those to feed averaging $104 and selling to $108/head. Young sucker lambs to the local butcher trade made $160/head. Lightweight older lambs to restockers made $78 with those to the butcher trade selling to $114/head.

Lambs in the 18-20kg range to feed made $149 to average $118 and to the meat trade at $152 to average $126/head. Trade-weight lambs made $182 to average $171 with feeder buyers paying to $184/head. Heavy lambs to processors sold from $195 to $213/head.

Hoggets to processors sold from $95 to $142 and averaged $110/head. Light-weight ewes to processors made $49 to average $41/head.

Good heavy ewes to processors made $116 to

average $102 with those to restockers selling to $144/head. Ram lambs to the wholesale meat trade sold to $110 and averaged $104/head.

Dorper rams to restockers averaged $90 and sold to $95/head.

-Market Reporter Errol Luck Report date: 15/02/2023 Saleyard: Monto Monto’s fortnightly fat and store sale saw a yarding of 421 head come to hand. Cattle were drawn from all local areas, as well as the Boyne Valley, Thangool, and Biloela. A good sample of fat cattle came to hand along with a very good run of heavy weaners.

The market was dearer across the export cattle and remained firm for all other classes.

With good increases experienced in the higher content cattle.

Santa bull account KH & RM Semple sold to 277.2c/kg at 1050kg to return $2910.60 Senepol bull account SM Schimke sold to 282.2c/kg at 745kg to return $2102.39 Brangus steers account K Hockey sold to 335.2c/kg at 655kg to return an average of $2195.56 Charbray cows account KR & TM Myles sold to 283.2c/kg at 597kg to return $1692.12 Santa heifers account KH & RM Semple sold to 321.2c/kg at 685kg to return an average of $2200.22 Santa Cows account C Schwerin sold to 277.2c/kg at 695kg to return $1926.54 Bailey Creek Beef sold brahman cows to 283.2c/kg at 670kg to return $1897.44 Charbray heifers account LG & RE Benecke sold to 295c/kg at 570kg to return $1682.64.

KR & TM Myles sold Charbray steers to 384.2c/kg at 438kg to return $1685.68 Goolah Grazing sold santa steers to 412.2c/ kg at 403kg to return $1663.91 Santa x steers account PR Birchley sold to 446.2c/kg at 342kg to return $1526.38 Santa steers account G, LG & K Muller sold to 466.2c/kg at 342kg to return $1596.74 Brahman steers account PL, JL & J Pownall sold to 404.2c/kg at 377kg to return $1525.86 Droughtmaster steers account DS Keitley sold to 506.2c/kg at 295kg to return $1493.29 Brahman steers account Michelle Lamb sold to 426.2c/kg at 303kg to return $1294.58 Charbray steers account Fire & Ice Farming sold to 522.2c/kg at 276kg to return $1441.27 Ashenhurst Partnership sold brahman steers to 542.2c/kg at 253kg to return $1372.77 KH & RM Semple sold santa heifers to 343.2c/kg at 500kg to return $1716.00 Charbray heifers account KR & TM Myles sold to 400.2c/kg at 280kg to return $1120.56 Droughtmaster heifers account SM Schimke sold to 338.2c/kg at 382kg to return $1293.62 Charbray heifers account LG & RE Benecke sold to 409.2c/kg at 265kg to return $1087.79 Brahman heifers account Michelle Lamb sold to 350.2c/kg at 298kg to return $1046.22.

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QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

NEWS

The in-depth Australian Good Meat Education resources have been developed by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) for the 2023 school year.

The new programs will cover key aspects of the red meat and livestock industry.

Students get ag-prepared Senior and primary school teachers across Australia have access to a range of new resources for their students, covering key aspects of the red meat and livestock industry.

The in-depth Australian Good Meat Education resources have been developed by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) for the 2023 school year, covering all grades from Foundation/Prep to year 10.

MLA group stakeholder collaboration manager Samantha Jamieson said that the resources are linked to the current version 8.4 of the curriculum and the new version 9.0 of the curriculum.

“These resources are free and easy to access on the Australian Good Meat website and are designed to be used in both print and digital format,” Ms Jamieson said.

The cross-curriculum resources are designed to meet curriculum outcomes for Design and Technologies, Science, Mathematics, English, and Humanities and Social Sciences.

Sustainability is a large focus across the resources to support this as a focus area in the Australian curriculum. In all, there are 178 new resources available for teachers.

Ms Jamieson said the education resources

were designed to be interactive and engaging for students, being created in consultation with teachers to ensure the materials were practical and resulted in the best possible outcomes for students.

“By accessing the teaching resources on the Good Meat website, teachers will find resources such as instructional videos for teaching support, lesson plans, student activity worksheets, and supplementary classroom materials such as posters and more,” Ms Jamieson said.

Primary Industries Education Foundation

Australia (PIEFA) chief executive officer Luciano Mesiti said there was huge value in bringing agriculture into the classroom.

“Agriculture is innovative and evolving and full of exciting opportunities around maths, sciences, technology, and much more,” Mr Mesiti said.

“PIEFA is excited to have worked with MLA on these resources. It’s great to be able to help provide these resources for teachers, and we encourage teachers all around the country to visit the website and make these resources work for them and their students,” he said.

ARE YOU IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR? Do you have a story to tell, new projects to talk about or just simply highlight an achievement....

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March 2023 TODAY 35

SPORT QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Australian Campdraft Association (ACA) president Rohan Marks.

Campdrafting is booming

By Fiona Gowers With its relaxed atmosphere and perfect mix of social and sport, campdrafting continues to boom throughout Queensland.

Each week, according to Australian Campdraft Association (ACA) president Rohan Marks, members would “easily” complete more than 1700 individual runs at official campdrafts.

Supply well exceeds demand, he said, with most committees running a wait list for their events.

“Nominations received each week far exceed the number of runs that eventuate,” Mr Marks said.

“Campdrafting continues to be a family sport.

“There are so many activities that happen outside of the arena that our campdraft families enjoy – from trade stalls, to auctions, to fundraising, right through to kids’ gymkhanas.

“The positive contributions that the sport of campdrafting makes to rural and regional communities are undeniable.”

The 2022 Triple Crown staged at Condamine, Chinchilla and Warwick attracted more

than 870 competitors from Queensland, the Northern Territory, Victoria, Western Australia and NSW. In all, 3550 first round runs were completed as competitors vied for $520,000 in prizemoney.

“The competition at all three events was very strong,” Mr Marks said.

“Due to favourable seasonal conditions, the cattle were the best we have ever presented and the grounds were very safe.”

Beginning as a friendly rivalry among stockmen, campdrafting has evolved into a popular weekend activity for both amateurs and professionals.

Mr Marks said ACA membership generally reaches a total of 9500 members per year.

He said while wet weather eventually caused the “incredibly” popular high school event to be cancelled last October in Dalby it had attracted more than 400 students from 25 schools.

He said this demonstrated the sport’s growth and the enthusiasm from young people.

In April 2022, the ACA celebrated its 50-year anniversary at Springsure.

“It was a huge success,” Mr Marks said.

CAMPDRAFT FACT FILE a campdrafting competition, a rider on · In horseback must “cut out” one beast from

· · · · ·

the mob of cattle and block and turn it at least two times to prove to the judge they have the beast under control.

They then take it out of the yard or camp and through a course around pegs involving right and left hand turns in a figure eight, before guiding it through two pegs known as “the gate”.

The outside course must be completed in less than 40 seconds.

Events for juniors between eight and 13 years have one sound beast in the yard at all times.

In other events, it is recommended that there shall be a minimum of six head of sound stock in the yard at any time.

Up to a total of 100 points are scored by

“The ACA-affiliated committee that hosted it for us did an incredible job, so much so that they were named ‘Committee Event of the Year’ at the Central Highland Regional Coun-

horse and rider: “Cut out” is worth a total of 26 points; horse work up to a further 70 points and four points for the course.

Most disqualifications (signalled by a crack of the judge’s stockwhip) occur when a competitor loses his beast more than twice on the camp; losing control of the beast in the arena or running a beast onto the arena fence.

A “tail turn” executed by a horse in the opposite direction of the beast’s line of travel also incurs disqualification at any stage of the draft.

The sport requires consummate horsemanship and skill in selecting a beast from the mob that will run well, but is not too fast for that particular horse.

Great prestige is bestowed on the winning horse and rider of the competition.

Source: campdraft.com.au

·

· · ·

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“We are looking forward to our next national finals in April, which will be hosted by the Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge Association.”

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