Queensland Farmer Today - February 2024

February 2024

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Future F Fut ture cotton co leaders

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Win on tariffs India’s decision in December to extend its tariff-free period for lentils to 31 March 2025 is an “enormous outcome and a major economic and confidence boost for farmers“.

So says Grains Australia Pulse Council chair Peter Wilson who will this month travel to the Global Pulse Convention in New Delhi where Grains Australia, in partnership with Australian Government representatives, will continue to engage with the Indian Government regarding the remaining 66 per cent tariff on desi chickpeas.

Grains Australia - an initiative of the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) - is responsible for vital industry services and functions that improve the industry’s competitiveness and profitability.

STORY PAGE 11

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Swap the supermarket aisles for farms Attention foodies, flavour chasers and local produce lovers, a new and incredibly authentic farmers’ market is coming to South East Queensland. A full monthly shop can now be done direct from farmers - on the farm - at Towri Sheep Cheeses near Beaudesert in the Scenic Rim on the first Saturday of every month.

STORY PAGE 4

New skills Queensland’s Rural Regional and Remote Women network announced election of a refreshed board in December, adding new skills and experiences while marking 30 years of connecting, developing and inspiring Queensland women.

A new president, treasurer and board member were elected to join the existing board members, together positioning the independent not-for-profit organisation to continue supporting members in 2024 and beyond.

WOMEN IN AGRIGULTURE PAGES 18-19

Announcing the Towri Growers Markets in the Scenic Rim, featuring Kay Tommerup, Harry Tommerup, Theresa Scholl, Aspen Forgan, Kate Van Der Borgh, Chris Topher, chef Kyle McNamara and Dallas Davidson.

Picture: JOSH WONING

Farmers fed up!

By Fiona Gowers Desperate farmers are begging big supermarkets to cut their fruit and vegetable prices, claiming “price gouging“ will force them off the land.

In fact, Daintree Fresh Far North Queensland farmer Shaun Jackson warns “Australia will run out of food“ as farmers refuse to sell to local retailers and “walk away“.

Mr Jackson said he now exported 80 per cent of his melons to Japan as, in Austra-

lia, he received $1.50 for an average melon, which supermarkets then sold for about $5.90 each.

“Instead of dealing with Coles and Woolworths I’m now sending 200,000 boxes of melons overseas,” Mr Jackson said.

“My cost of production is $14 for a box (and) right now the supermarket price is $12 to $14 a box. “For that, it costs me $4 per box to get the product from a truck to Brisbane. So, I’m gone, it’s goodbye Shaun if that continues in 2024.

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YOUTH CAMP ............................. page 12 GOWNS ON THE DOWNS ............. page 16 WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE ......pages 18-19 RECIPES ..................................... page 24 MARKET ROUND-UP ..................... page 25 CLASSIFIEDS .............................. page 26 SPORT .................................pages 27-28

WEATHER Beardmore..................................... 31.3%

David Littleproud, Sally Jolly of Smart Berries Pty Ltd and Flynn MP Colin Boyce.

Bjelke-Petersen ............................ 76.44%

ACCC the way to go

Borumba ....................................... 91.2% Boondooma ................................. 75.41% Cedar Pocket .................................. 102% Chinchilla Weir .................................. 52% Coolmunda .................................. 70.55% Cunnamulla (Allan Tannock Weir): .................. 111.14% Leslie: ......................................... 75.94% Paradise: ..................................... 98.39% Somerset: ..................................... 82.1% Wivenhoe:...................................... 63.7%

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Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Labor are now flagging they will direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to conduct a supermarket price inquiry to eradicate price gouging.

The Nationals leader David Littleproud said his party had, since last year, called for the ACCC - armed with tough powers - to investigate and deal with the spiralling cost-of-living crisis Australians are feeling at the checkout.

“Under section 95, the Treasurer has the legislated power to direct the ACCC and give it strong powers to compel witnesses and recommend harsher penalties,” Mr Littleproud said.

“The Nationals wanted this investigation urgently before Christmas but Labor is simply too slow to take action. They are only now realising these powers exist but promised Australians the two inquiries they announced would yield results.

“We need an inquiry into disparities between farmgate and retail food pricing. A Senate inquiry this year won’t go far enough, while a review into the Food and Grocery Code wasted almost 100 days to even start its investigation.

“The ACCC has the powers to properly investigate as part of a dedicated inquiry to ensure fairness for farmers and consumers and it’s baffling it has taken the government so long to realise.”

Mr Littleproud said the supermarkets’ claims they had lowered prices by 20 per cent last week was a “PR stunt“ and proved an ACCC inquiry was needed.

Mr Littleproud said most beef and lamb prices were still exactly the same as early November and the giant supermarkets were once again treating the public like fools.

Mr Littleproud issued a press release on November 11, 2023, saying beef and lamb prices were far too high at supermarkets, with shoppers at the time paying $36 per kilogram for grass-fed beef rump steak, $25/kg for beef rump roast and $19/kg of humble grass-fed beef mince.

Families on November 11 were also paying $27/kg of grass-fed graze lamb boneless shoulder roast, $18 for one kilogram of lamb loin chops and $8/kg of lamb leg roast.

He said Coles claims it had dropped beef and lamb prices by 20 per cent on January 10 was misleading, false and wrong.

Picture: CONTRIBUTED

Shoppers are still paying $36/kg for grassfed steak and $25/kg for beef rump roast.

Grass-fed mince has actually increased by $1/kg, to $20/kg.

A kilogram of lamb leg roast has also increased from $8/kg to $10/kg, while grassfed graze lamb boneless shoulder roast has decreased to $22/kg and lamb loin chops are down to $16/kg.

“Since The Nationals’ price investigation in early November, two meat items have increased in price, just two items have decreased in price and the other items are the same,” Mr Littleproud said.

“This is a stitch-up and, quite frankly Australians deserve better than more lies from the big supermarkets.

“The Labor Government is now trying to claim credit for lower prices at Coles and Woolworths.

“If they actually cared about prices and the cost-of-living crisis, Labor would have realised that the 20pc price drop claim is nothing but more lies, which only the ACCC can get to the bottom of.”

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 Samantha Wantling Sales & Marketing E: samantha.wantling@WarwickStanthorpetoday.com.au P: 0439 420 289 Cindy Unwin Sales & Marketing E: cindy.unwin@CQToday.com.au P: 0408 281 861 Jemma Wilson Sales & Marketing E: jemma.wilson@BurnettToday.com.au P: 07 4182 0458 Nicola Rickuss Sales & Marketing E: nicola.rickuss@todaynewsgroup.com.au

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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 February 2024

Easing of food price inflation a ‘silver lining’ There has been some “silver lining“ for consumers, with the latest monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI) data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showing food price inflation has continued to moderate.

RaboResearch senior food retail analyst Michael Harvey said the November 2023 data showed prices for food and (non-alcoholic) beverages had risen 4.6 per cent annually (from November 2022).

However, this was down on the 5.3pc rate of annual inflation in this category posted in October 2023 and well below the peak of annual food price inflation of 9.6pc seen in September 2022.

Mr Harvey said red meat and fresh produce saw annual inflation of less than one per cent, which “will be welcome news for Australian consumers as they are important categories in household budgets”.

“More sticky inflation was evident in key packaged food categories such as dairy and bakery,” he said.

“But, the good news is there is less ‘sticker shock’ for consumers in these categories as well, with the rate of inflation also moderating and actually at the lowest level since mid-2022.”

Mr Harvey said Rabobank saw agricultural commodity prices broadly remaining range-bound at lower price levels through 2024 and this would be “welcomed by consumers as it has been a leading cause of higher food prices”.

However, he said, recent rainfall and flooding reinforced the risk to local food supply and prices from unfavourable im-

RaboResearch senior food retail analyst Michael Harvey.

Picture: CONTRIBUTED pacts of adverse weather conditions, particularly across horticulture and fresh produce.

“Unfavourable weather during key growing periods can affect quality and disrupt supply, leading to upward pressure on prices,” Mr Harvey said.

He said margins in the food supply chain were also improving “downstream“ for food companies on the back of weaker agricultural commodity prices and easing food processing and distribution costs.

“And, with this, we are seeing a sharpened focus from food and beverage companies to tailor products to a value-conscious consumer.

“And this will be a key theme through 2024 as cost-of-living pressures continue to influence purchasing behaviour,” he said.

Mr Harvey said for agricultural commodity prices, there had, however, been “some outliers, such as cocoa and sugar”, which have remained higher for longer. “And this does keep pressure on certain processed foods such as chocolate,” he said.

Across rural Queensland, a fierce battle is raging as farmers rally against big supermarkets, demanding fair compensation for their produce. Over the past few years, the Sunshine State’s agricultural sector has faced mounting financial challenges but now, it says, the disparity between farm gate prices and retail prices has become untenable.

Queensland farmers find themselves locked in a David and Goliath struggle with powerful supermarket chains.

Producers who toil day in, day out to ensure consumers can buy fresh, quality produce are grappling with the harsh reality that their hard work often goes unrewarded. The crux of the issue lies in the supermarkets’ pricing policies, which often leave farmers with a small slice of the profits. Many argue the current system is unsustainable and places undue burden on the very people responsible for putting food on our tables.

In response, angry Queensland farmers are uniting to secure fair compensation for their produce. Their aims are greater transparency in the supply chain, fair negotiation practices and a more equitable distribution of profits.

As the battle rages on, Queensland farmers are fighting for survival, as well as a more sustainable and fair future for the agricultural sector.

The outcome of their struggle will surely have significant implications and, therefore, shape the landscape for both farmers and consumers across the nation.

- Fiona Gowers

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

NEWS

Urgent call for supermarkets to slash prices. . .

The farmers are fed up!

By Fiona Gowers Desperate farmers are begging big supermarkets to cut their fruit and vegetable prices, claiming “price gouging“ will force them off the land.

In fact, Daintree Fresh Far North Queensland farmer Shaun Jackson warns “Australia will run out of food“ as farmers refuse to sell to local retailers and “walk away“.

Mr Jackson said he now exported 80 per cent of his melons to Japan as, in Australia, he received $1.50 for an average melon, which supermarkets then sold for about $5.90 each.

“Instead of dealing with Coles and Woolworths I’m now sending 200,000 boxes of melons overseas,” Mr Jackson said.

“My cost of production is $14 for a box (and) right now the supermarket price is $12 to $14 a box. “For that, it costs me $4 per box to get the product from a truck to Brisbane.

“So, I’m gone, it’s goodbye Shaun if that continues in 2024. “(And) it’s not just me. We are on the precipice of losing 30pc of farming, which (equates to) 30pc of food, if we don’t fix it.”

In November, Natural Earth Produce Victorian farmer Ross Marsolino said he was prepared to walk away from a 32-hectare zucchini crop if he failed to get more than $2 per kilogram in 2024.

“We will walk away from the whole farm this year if we have to,” he said.

“I have 50 workers who will have to go and find another job. The supermarkets are buying our product for $1.80 a kilo but then retailing them for $4.99 a kilo when, in reality, our product should be selling for under $3 a kilo.

“Since Covid, supermarkets have got stronger and stronger. Now supermarkets make too much profit out of our crop and we simply can’t survive.

“The more you produce the more you lose.

They dictate the price and I have no confidence in supermarkets anymore.”

AusVeg backs Messrs Jackson’s and Marsolino’s concerns.

A recent survey by the horticultural industry’s peak body found record low morale, with more than 30pc of Australian vegetable growers considering leaving the industry this year.

Labour shortages, policy changes and rising operational costs are their major concerns.

Coles and Woolworths own 65pc of the market share and made record profits of more than $1 billion each last year.

Leader of The Nationals and Shadow Agriculture Minister David Littleproud is calling for an Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Inquiry into fruit and vegetables.

To ensure, he said, supermarkets paid their fair share.

As families struggle to pay for their food amid a cost-of-living crisis, supermarkets are still making record profits, even though all they are doing is putting fruit and vegetables on the back of a truck and onto the supermar-

Natural Earth Produce Victorian farmer Ross Marsolino is prepared to walk away from a 32-hectare zucchini crop if he fails to earn more than $2 per kilogram in 2024.

Daintree Fresh Far North Queensland farmer Shaun Jackson exports 80 per cent of his melons to Japan.

Pictures: CONTRIBUTED ket shelves, Mr Littleproud said.

“Farmers are walking away because supermarkets are taking them for a ride.“ Mr Littleproud said the matter was urgent and a Senate Inquiry into grocery prices this year wouldn’t go far enough.

“I previously called for an ACCC Inquiry into beef and lamb but it must also now investigate fruit and vegetables – we need to investigate the price disparity, compel CEOs to give

evidence and have greater penalties for those who do the wrong thing, including not paying farmers a fair price.“ According to comparison website Finder’s Consumer Sentiment Tracker, the average Australian household spent $182 on their weekly grocery shop in October 2023.

In all, 39pc of respondents said grocery shopping caused them financial stress. That number doubled over the past three years,

Shaun Jackson’s melons in the supermarket. from 19pc in October 2020.

Finder analysed the cost of items across Woolworths, Coles and Aldi and found the most expensive shop cost seven per cent more than the cheapest option.

The total price for a basket of 46 goods from Aldi came to $199.69, followed by Woolworths at $208.85 and Coles at $214.32.

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February 2024 TODAY 3

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Dallas and Carolyn Davidson of Towri Sheep Cheeses.

Harry Tommerup of Harry’s Paddock.

Forget the grocery aisle in 2024, get your food...

Straight from the farms

By Fiona Gowers Attention foodies, flavour chasers and local produce lovers, a new and incredibly authentic farmers’ market is coming to South East Queensland.

A full monthly shop can now be done direct from farmers - on the farm - at Towri Sheep Cheeses near Beaudesert in the Scenic Rim on the first Saturday of every month.

It starts 3 February.

Starring real producers and growers only (no pop-ups and part-timers allowed), the monthly paddock-to-plate growers’ market will allow for shopping direct from a collective of Scenic Rim farmers.

As big grocery continues to squeeze farmers, the time is right and ripe for farmers to do it for themselves.

Dallas Davidson of Towri Sheep Cheeses said: “Our Growers’ Market initiative has been months in planning as a pivot to offset the challenges we are expecting this year in terms of drought.

“However, following the Christmas Day tornado on Tamborine Mountain and the recent flooding, it is even more important for people to support the growers and producers of the region.

“Our producer community is resilient, we’ve lived through fire, floods, drought, Covid and, now a tornado, but we need people from all over South East Queensland to come and support us, to buy direct from us as g rowers and producers, to get to know us, to share our stories and become our extended family.

“We are just an hour from Brisbane and a little more from the Gold Coast, but the trip means the world to us and we guarantee it’s a better experience than walking up and down the aisle of a major grocery store.

“We are calling on South East Queensland to swap the grocery aisle for the farm in 2024.

“We promise a brilliant market, plus lots to do – there’s sheep milking demonstrations, loads of sheep pats, great lawn games, wine tasting and more. Also, fur babies are welcome!”

Stars of the monthly market are names known, loved and highly respected and awarded including Tommerup Dairy Farm, Towri Sheep Cheeses, Valley Pride Produce, Harry’s Paddock, The Black Bee Apiary, Baney Creek Vineyard, the chefs from Embers Woodfire and The Lingering Baker.

Kay Tommerup from the sixth generation Tommerup Dairy Farm said: ”If there’s one thing that I’ve learnt about farmers and pro4 TODAY February 2024

Some of the growers and producers of the Towri Grrowers’ Market. ducers in the Scenic Rim, it’s that we always find a way.

“A way to rebuild, regroup, reinvent and reimagine. Anything is possible when we work together and support each other.

“The Towri Growers’ Market has come from producers supporting each other to create a regular on-farm produce experience, where authenticity and connection to farmers is our focus.

“On the first Saturday of each month, you’ll find the best of Scenic Rim produce all available in one fabulous place. A collection of our farmer friends will bring their wares - from our family farms to your family table.”

The Towri Growers Market – a snapshot: First Saturday of each month starting February 3, 9am-2pm, $5 entry.

Towri Sheep Cheeses - 206 Saville Road, Allenview.

Meet the local farmers who grow the fresh produce you love - dairy, meat, fruit, veg, baked goods and preserves.

Meet beekeepers Chris Topher from Black Bee Apiary – the bees call Towri home so the honey is made with zero food miles!

Sheep Milking Demonstrations 10am |1pm.

Wine Tastings.

Live Music Every Month by @taleahlivingsmusic.

· · · ·

· · ·

Pictures: JOSH WONING

· Lawn Games. · Local Makers: Candles, Ceramics, Skin Care and preserves. · Local coffee. · A family friendly market, with lots for the kids to do. · Fur babies welcome! · At every market one lucky shopper will win ·

a hamper packed with local produce, announced at 12pm (winner must be present on the day to receive the award).

Follow @towri_growers_market for full details.

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February 2024 TODAY 5

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Cotton leaders stepping up

By Fiona Gowers Six Queenslanders have been chosen to participate in the 2024 Australia Future Cotton Leaders Program (AFCLP) after a record number of talented individuals applied for the prestigious opportunity.

Georgie Flick, Greg Pearce and Grace Griffiths all of Goondiwindi, Rhys Herbert of Warra, Alison McCarthy of Toowoomba and Brendan Murray of St George were successful, alongside nine NSW applicants and one from the NT. In all, 46 people applied, forcing organisers to extend the participant number from 15 to 16 due to the quality received.

Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay said he was excited about the potential of the 2024 participants to advance the already outstanding reputation of Australian cotton.

“Each year we have been challenged in our selection process because the standard of applicants is incredibly high and this year was no exception,“ he said.

“Half of the 16 participants are growers and, after the completion of the program, they will be able to directly apply what they have learned to their respective farms and share that knowledge with their local farming communities.”

Held every two years, Cotton Australia runs and coordinates the AFCLP with additional funding from the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC).

Designed for emerging leaders, the program has produced 116 graduates since the concept was devised back in 2006.

This year’s applicants came from across the cotton supply chain including growers, consultants, merchants and research and extension personnel.

CRDC acting executive director Allan Williams said the program recognised the importance of the entire supply chain.

“CRDC has supported the AFCLP since inception, as we recognise that our people are cotton’s most important resource. This program plays a crucial role in shaping cotton’s future – helping to establish the leaders of tomorrow,” Allan said.

Leadership is one of the key priorities in both the Cotton Australia and CRDC five-year Strategic Plans, demonstrating its importance to the industry.

CA and CRDC jointly support the AFCLP, the Australian Rural Leadership Program and Nuffield Australia Farming Scholarships.

“Pleasingly, the AFCLP is demonstrating its appeal to the best and brightest in the industry with the average age of the 2024 contingent sitting at 28,” Mr Kay said.

In 2024, the program will feature face-toface forums, interactive online discussions, one-on-one coaching and integration with industry activities.

Participants will also undertake an individual project related to their area of interest, developing their leadership skills in a real-life scenario.

Mr Kay said previous AFCLP participants have moved into senior positions within Australian cotton, with many former graduates on boards including Cotton Australia, CRDC and CSD, as well as Cotton Grower Associations and other industry committees and projects.

The 2024 program will conclude with a graduation ceremony and leadership dinner at the 2024 Australian Cotton Conference on the Gold Coast in August. * To find out more about the conference visit: https://australiancottonconference. com.au/ GEORGIE FLICK, GOONDIWINDI With a profound love for cotton and a commitment to embracing the opportunities the industry presents, Georgie is driven to make a positive impact on the Australian cotton industry and mentor future generations.

Georgie’s journey began in 2012, bug checking and progressively evolving through diverse roles. Starting as an agronomist with Nutrien Ag Solutions, she now collaborates closely with independent consultant Pablo Vega, offering advice and decision support to growers.

Simultaneously running her own consulting business, Georgie contracts agronomy services in both cotton and broadacre. Her dedication extends beyond professional endeavours, serving on the executive Macintyre Valley Field 6 TODAY February 2024

Grace Griffiths of Goondiwindi.

Alison McCarthy of Toowoomba.

Day Committee and Macintyre Valley CGA. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and coursework from the Cotton Production course at UNE, Georgie looks forward to furthering her leadership journey through the Future Cotton Leaders Program.

GREG PEARCE, GOONDIWINDI Joining Cotton Growers Services in March 2017 as a sales agronomist in Wee Waa, Greg’s intrigue in cotton was sparked during his time as an irrigator for Auscott on Togo Station.

Transitioning to Bayer Crop Science in March 2023 to oversee the Bayer business in the Gwydir, Macintyre and Mungindi valleys, Greg is actively involved in the cotton industry. Currently serving as president of the Macintyre Valley Field Day Committee and vice-president of the Macintyre Valley Cotton Growers

Brendan Murray of St George.

Greg Pearce of Goondiwindi.

Association, he showcases his dedication to the cotton community.

Drawn to the Future Cotton Leaders program, Greg aims not only to build on his prior knowledge and skills but also to evolve into a solid leader ready to contribute significantly to the cotton industry’s future. His excitement to delve into the program reflects his genuine commitment to personal and industry growth.

GRACE GRIFFITHS, GOONDIWINDI Growing up in a family agronomic cotton consultancy business and a family irrigated cotton property in Goondiwindi, Grace has been immersed in agriculture since childhood. School holidays and university experiences were filled with irrigating and bug checking, shaping her deep connection with the industry. Graduating in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Biol-

ogy and Plant and Agricultural Science, along with specialised training in Cotton Production at UNE, Grace returned home to work as an agronomist in the family consultancy business. The journey didn’t stop there; she also started her own business 101 Ag Pathways, sharing agricultural roles and opportunities, particularly within the cotton industry.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Grace actively contributes to the industry’s growth.

Serving on the Macintyre Valley Field Day Committee and participating in the local CGA, she is dedicated to community engagement and industry events. Embracing increasing leadership roles, Grace anticipates the opportunity for mentorship and professional development at this stage in her career, a sentiment that aligns with her passion for the agricultural sector.

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

RHYS HERBERT, WARRA In the 13 years Rhys has spent in the cotton industry, a deep appreciation for its values has taken root. The industry’s commitment to innovation and knowledge-sharing, along with the integration of technology for efficiency, has left a lasting impression.

As a farm manager, Rhys recognises the pivotal role of leadership skills. Joining the Future Cotton Leaders Program is a deliberate step towards honing these skills across the entirety of their career. Building on past mentorships, Rhys envisions the program as a means to emerge as a leader for the next generation, contributing not only within the farm management realm but also making a mark in the broader cotton industry and community.

ALISON MCCARTHY, TOOWOOMBA Passionate about advancing the Australian cotton industry through AgTech integration, Alison, with a background in mechatronic engineering, has been a key figure in CRDC research at UniSQ’s Centre for Agricultural Engineering since 2010. Her expertise extends from a CRDC-funded PhD focused on cotton irrigation optimisation in 2007 to the 2018 Cotton Seed Distributions Researcher of the Year Award. Actively collaborating with scientists, consultants, and commercial entities defines her impactful work, including the adoption

Georgie Flick of Goondiwindi.

NEWS

of algorithms in Goanna Ag’s GoField canopy temperature sensors and the PestDetect App for automated silverleaf whitefly monitoring.

Eager to join the Future Cotton Leaders Program, Alison aims to share her knowledge and play a crucial role in advancing AgTech adoption in the industry. She sees the program as an opportunity to contribute actively to shaping the future of the industry through innovative leadership, particularly in integrating AgTech solutions.

BRENDAN MURRAY, ST GEORGE Brendan’s journey, from early work on cotton farms to pivotal roles in agribusiness, reflects a deliberate path guided by a personal development plan. Commencing as a summer irrigator at 15, he quickly found his passion in the cotton industry. Advancing from managing crews to roles such as irrigation manager and operation manager on large-scale cropping farms, Brendan is now employed in marketing and grower services in St George for Queensland Cotton.

As treasurer of the St George Cotton Growers Association, Brendan actively contributes to the industry. Eager to further develop his leadership skills, Brendan sees the Future Cotton Leaders Program as a crucial step to building and leveraging skills to benefit the cotton industry and his community.

Rhys Herbert of Warra.

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Harnessing the waste

By Fiona Gowers NASA technology will ensure imperfect fruit in Thabeban, Bundaberg, now has a use.

SSS Strawberries officially opened its 4000-square metre factory in December to produce freeze dried and frozen fruit products under its own retail brand, Gina’s Table.

Gina’s Table general manager Gina Dang said once fully operational, the business would employ 50 staff.

She said she saw this as a natural evolution of the family’s business.

“We have been strawberry growers since arriving in Australia from Vietnam so know firsthand the back-breaking work it takes to get a good crop up and out of the ground,“ she said.

“The level of innovation now available in freeze dry technology will allow us to take the next step in value adding to tonnes of strawberries that may have ended up rejected and destroyed in the past due to market conditions.

“We invested in this factory as we saw a growing need to end food waste. It’s heartbreaking to watch fruit that we have grown get rejected and destroyed.

“We wanted to find a way to ensure that the fruit that can’t be sold due to strict criteria has a second life,” she said.

“Why should all that flavour go to waste?

“We give fruit that can’t be sold a second chance through freeze dry technology.

“This is the same technology that has helped food survive in space and we are going to be able to process (more than) 2000 tonnes of fruit at capacity.“ Freeze drying involves placing frozen raw materials in a refrigerated vacuum. Ice crystals in the product are then sublimated into water vapour, while the cell structure of the original product remains.

“This freeze drying machine from Denmark gives us many applications for food production such as frozen fruit, fruit purees, juices, dairy blends, powders, crumbles and pro-biotic yoghurts,“ Ms Dang said.

“It also helps growers like ourselves to create new and interesting product lines for both the Australian market and export markets.

“Freeze dried fruits retain their shape integrity, are light weight, have a long shelf life, are GMO free and all natural and, most importantly, it not only keeps but intensifies the flavour.“ SSS Strawberries stands for Seven Successful Siblings and is a family business that moved to Bundaberg more than 20 years ago.

“All my brothers and sisters Victor, Lily, Cindy, Tam, Trinity and Rena have worked incredibly hard to make this factory the logical next step in our family business,” she said.

SSS Strawberries has launched a new factory in Thabeban, producing freeze dried and frozen fruit products under the SSS Strawberries’ retail brand Gina’s Table.

Pictures: CONTRIBUTED “The seeds we are putting down today in opening this factory, plant the future – not only for our business but many others growers in Australia.”

Bundaberg region Mayor Jack Dempsey welcomed the investment made by SSS Strawberries which, he said, highlighted the region’s superior soils.

“The global food supply stemming from the Bundaberg region’s ‘food bowl’ perfectly combines our natural competitive advantage with state-of-the-art processing,” Mayor Dempsey said.

“The agricultural industry is a key contributor to our local economy and to have businesses not just growing but also processing and packing product in our region creates a substantial flow on effect.

“The Bundaberg name is known throughout the world as a supplier of high quality fresh produce and innovative products and this endeavour will further enhance that reputation.”

· Factory site: 4000 square metres. · Capacity to process 2000 tonnes of food per year. · Locally grown fruit will be washed,

frozen and freeze-dried, packaged and shipped, all from in-house.

SSS Strawberries has launched a new factory in Thabeban, producing freeze dried and frozen fruit products under the SSS Strawberries’ retail brand Gina’s Table.

Funding boost for region still reeling from deadly fire

By Laine Clark, AAP Some people are still fatigued months after battling a deadly blaze that devastated their region west of Brisbane.

Others on the Western Downs may take years to rebuild after the ferocious blaze destroyed more Queensland homes than the Black Summer disaster.

But Western Downs Mayor Paul McVeigh is confident the region will bounce back after receiving a $1 million recovery package.

After a 10-day battle, a huge bushfire was finally contained near Tara in early November.

The blaze claimed a life, burned 26,000 hectares and forced hundreds to evacuate.

The Tara fire destroyed 58 homes, nine more than the 2019 Black Summer blaze claimed across Queensland.

Mr McVeigh said locals who fought the fire were still recovering.

“They are still worn out,” he told AAP. “The fires were a very stressful time, not just for the victims but also those who fought the fires.

“Although it goes back a few months there is still some fatigue.”

At least there was some respite on Monday 15 January.

A bushfire destroyed 58 homes in Tara, Queensland, in late 2023.

Picture: DARREN ENGLAND, AAP People who helped fight the blaze were celebrated at a special luncheon attended by new Disaster Recovery Minister Nikki Boyd on the Western Downs.

There was another shot in the arm - a $1 million state-federal grant for the Western Downs Council to help rebuild after the Tara fires.

They were also one of nine regions that shared $5 million in state-federal govern-

ment funding to help farmers and primary producers impacted by bushfires last year.

The other regions were Bundaberg, Central Highlands, Gladstone, Maranoa, North and South Burnett, Southern Downs and Toowoomba.

Mr McVeigh said the Western Downs council had not yet finalised how it would spend the money.

But he added: “It won’t be hard”.

“It will potentially be infrastructure of some nature,” he said.

“Our focus will be what is the best investment to lift that community.”

Some lost everything in the fires.

“It is going to take quite a few years to get everything back on track,” Mr McVeigh said.

“It’s pretty hard when you have had 58 homes destroyed. Trying to get people back into some sort of accommodation is very tough.”

But there are encouraging signs.

Some people have been able to return home while work is almost complete redeveloping an old caravan park in Tara with intermediate housing.

In another sign of progress, some caravans set up for the displaced at Tara showgrounds have relocated to the far north for communities devastated by record flooding by another disaster, Tropical Cyclone Jasper.

They have even had rain at Western Downs, one of the state’s biggest producers of beef, pork, sorghum, wheat, oats, barley and mung beans.

“It’s greening up,” Mr McVeigh said.

“But one rain event doesn’t make up a heap of feed or build back a house - it’s going to take some time.”

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QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

India’s tariff move boost

By Fiona Gowers India’s decision in December to extend its tariff-free period for lentils to 31 March 2025 is an “enormous outcome and a major economic and confidence boost for farmers“.

So says Grains Australia Pulse Council chair Peter Wilson who will this month travel to the Global Pulse Convention in New Delhi where Grains Australia, in partnership with Australian Government representatives, will continue to engage with the Indian Government regarding the remaining 66 per cent tariff on desi chickpeas.

Grains Australia - an initiative of the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) - is responsible for vital industry services and functions that improve the industry’s competitiveness and profitability.

It has welcomed the recent extension of tariff-free access for lentil exports to India, which also imports from other origins, particularly Canada.

Mr Wilson said India, the biggest export market for lentils had, in recent years, received close to half the product shipped from Australia since the tariff was removed in October 2021.

He said the zero-tariff extension represented a great opportunity for local producers, both now and for the 2024 growing season.

“It provides instructive market signals for Australian lentil growers, who can plan with greater confidence their cropping programs for 2024,” Mr Wilson said.

Grains Australia General Manager Trade

and Market Access John Ackerman welcomed the development by the Indian Government.

“India is a historically valuable market for Australian lentils and other grains, and Grains Australia continues to work collaboratively with industry to strengthen ties with this important trading partner,” Dr Ackerman said.

India, which has a population of more than 1.4 billion people, is one of the world’s largest consumers and importers of lentils and Canada and Australia are its main sources of lentil imports.

Under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) tariffs on lentils had previously received a 50pc reduction of the most-favoured nation (MFN) tariff (at 30 per cent) within an annual quota of 150,000 tonnes.

A Grains Australia statement says the Indian Government confirmed the extension on 21 December 2023 and Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry was formally notified of the extension through Australia’s Agriculture Counsellor in New Delhi.

According to Australian Bureau of Statistics data, Australia exported a record 1.75 million tonnes (Mt) of lentils in the year to 30 September 2023. India received 821,479t.

Australia has finished its lentil harvest and ABARES last month forecast the national crop at 1.39Mt, down from a record 1.69Mt in 202223.

Planting of Australia’s new-season lentils will start in April, with crop size reliant on rainfall in key growing areas in South Australia and Victoria.

Grains Australia Pulse Council chair Peter Wilson.

Picture: CONTRIBUTED

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February 2024 TODAY 11

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Throw those caps off!

By Breanna Lloyd Queensland youths threw their hats off for the conclusion of the 2023 Brangus Youth Camp in December.

The four-day program started on Saturday 9 December at the Theodore Showgrounds, and enabled youths from the ages of five to 25 to participate in numerous beef competitions including lead steers, judging and more. It concluded on 12 December.

President Brad Hanson said he and his team were thankful for all the sponsorships and support they received for this year’s camp.

“This year there were 96 youth participants at the camp,” Mr Hanson said.

“Thank you to all of the sponsors and people who came to the event, we are looking forward to our next camp in 2024.”

Established in 2002, the program focuses on teaching and granting the youth the opportunity to dive into learning about animal care, maintenance, nutrition, handling of large animals, sustainable land management, soil health, public speaking, teamwork and much more.

Some of the camp’s award winners.

The youth celebrated the conclusion of the 2023 Brangus Youth Camp.

Pictures: AMANDA SALISBURY 12 TODAY February 2024

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

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India trials AI grain tool

By Fiona Gowers India will soon trial Australian Artificial Intelligence (AI) assessment technology for assessing grain.

The Council of Agricultural Research and the Indian Agricultural Research Institute have selected Grain Analyser to bring GoMicro’s phone-based AI grain quality assessment to 20 farmer organisations nationwide.

GoMicro is an Australian agtech startup.

India’s wheat exports grew at 387 per cent in the April-June period of 2022 compared to the previous year and GoMicro says AI grain quality assessment is expected to boost India’s global quality ranking in the export market.

India has historically relied on subjective grain quality assessments, often leaving farmers vulnerable to buyer-driven pricing.

The Indian Government is committed to modernising the assessment system to ensure equitable pricing for farmers through various initiatives to support the digitising of the grain industry.

GoMicro’s patent-pending imaging technology - capable of accurately assessing grain quality - is now deploying an App capable of assessing grain quality using only a smartphone.

It can be used for quality control in wheat, lentils, soy and coffee.

“We are in the business of democratising Quality Assessment, turning grain into tradable digital assets,“ said Dr Sivam Krish, chief executive officer and founder of GoMicro, which has clients in Indonesia, the European Union and the United States.

GoMicro’s AI assessment solution has been used by PB Agrifood in Australia to assess soy quality for more than a year.

Amanpreet Singh, CEO of Grain Analyser, underscored the importance of utilising AI for assessment, stating: “AI assessment will level the playing field,

Assessment results from pre-release web app for lentils and wheat.

Pictures: CONTRIBUTED

GoMicro’s new Grain Analyser app is in testing.

currently testing a pre-release version, which is limited to counting defects and has been a year in the making.

tions and, with developments in place to standardise quality control with AI Assessment by the Grain Traders Association of Australia, an AI Assessment framework is expected to be in place soon.

Grain Analyser’s CEO Amanpreet Singh, India. ensuring fair pricing and making it challenging for buyers to exploit sellers.“ In addition to lentils and wheat, GoMicro AI Apps can assess the quality of corn and coffee.

Various players in the grain industry are

It will be free to use.

A paid version will have weight estima-

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February 2024 TODAY 15

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Alex, Angus and Will Dalgliesh at the 2022 Gowns on the Downs Charity Ball in Dalby.

Attendees at this month’s Gowns on the Downs Charity Ball are promised a generous food and drinks package, charity auction and ag-related raffle.

The ball will raise money for bush charity Aussie Helpers.

Downs gowns helping out

By Fiona Gowers

Local agents will again auction items at Gowns on the Downs Charity Ball. charity Brian and Nerida Egan of Dalby formed in 2002 to support farmers in need.

Its mission is to: “Help farmers, farming

families and communities survive through the tough times so they can thrive in the good”.

Gowns on the Downs is on 24 February from

·

Picture: CONTRIBUTED

·

6pm to 11pm at the Dalby Events Centre.

Tickets are on sale now via trybooking.com/ CNICX

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Gowns on the Downs Charity Ball returns on 24 February to help raise funds for Aussie Helpers, a bush charity that supports local farmers in need.

The Darling Downs Young Ag Professionals (DDYAP) will host the second such event in Dalby, with attendees promised a generous food and drinks package, charity auction and ag-related raffle.

DDYAP chair - and Nutrien agronomist Angus Dalgliesh said the inaugural ball, held in 2022 to help unite young Darling Downs professionals, had raised $26,400.

He said, uniqely, funds were raised through auctions, raffles and sponsorships - not ticket sales - ensuring attendees received value for money. The same strategy will apply this year.

“This ball is an opportunity to network, build connections, create a strong community among the members of our community and ag industry and celebrate all that is ‘young ag’ on the Downs.”

Mr Dalgliesh said the Darling Downs Young Ag Professionals was formed in 2017 as a networking platform for young people in the region.

What began as a casual Facebook group and some Thursday night pub sessions - had evolved into a professional organisation boasting diverse members who sought to celebrate - without bias - the talents of all.

“There is recognition of gender disparities within the agriculture industry, with acknowledgment that male-dominated perceptions still exist,” Mr Dalgliesh said.

“Efforts are being made, however, to promote inclusivity and recognise the contributions of female professionals within the sector.

“Younger generations are fostering an inclusive environment where gender distinctions are becoming less prominent.“ Attendees at Gowns on the Downs will have the chance to bid on auction items and win big in the raffle.

Funds raised will flow to Aussie Helpers; a

16 TODAY February 2024

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CA call for transparency

to pay more taxes), while others continue to avoid making any contribution to biosecurity costs and shared responsibilities.

This flawed, “one-size-fits-all” tax proposal needs to be paused or reversed immediately to prevent these unintended consequences.

“Australian producers take biosecurity seriously on our farms every single day,” Dr Parker said.

“That’s why we already pay significant

amounts to fund biosecurity protections directly within our own businesses. We also pay directly through other compulsory industry levies that raise hundreds of millions of dollars – including biosecurity levies.

“We’ve been calling for increased funding and protections to make the system better and fairer for producers with increased accountability and shared responsibility, but this proposal in its current form is grossly unfair and fundamentally flawed.

“One of those inequities is that for the cattle industry, the levy as proposed will be paid many times on an individual animal.”

CA is urging Treasury to conduct proper, detailed economic analysis and modelling of the policy proposal, including providing the actual criteria used to label agricultural producers the only “beneficiaries” of the biosecurity system and not others who also benefit from strong biosecurity and food security.

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Cattle Australia is calling on the government to show a genuine commitment to consultation on any new biosecurity levy.

As one of 50 signatories from agricultural producer representative groups to a recent letter sent to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Cattle Australia (CA) called for an immediate and urgent reversal of the fundamentally flawed tax on producers while serious flaws are addressed.

The principles of the policy proposal do not accord with the recent Productivity Commission report into levies, which assesses the policy against well-understood criteria.

The independent Productivity Commission analysis also supports industry’s view that this tax carries multiple risks and consequences for producers.

CA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Chris Parker, said he was disappointed that, as the Prescribed Industry Body representing the grassfed cattle sector, CA was not consulted on the proposed Biosecurity Protection Levy (BPL) prior to its announcement in the Commonwealth’s May Budget.

“Even once this tax was announced, the consultation process was unable to adequately address the shortcomings in the policy,” Dr Parker said.

“In fact, the government has provided no information on how it intends to address industry’s serious concerns and needs to come clean on how it intends to address the serious inequities in this new tax.

“CA insists the new BPL design include a mechanism for genuine and ongoing industry consultation on both implementation of the levy and its ongoing management, consistent with the sustainable funding actions of the government’s own National Biosecurity Strategy.”

CA said, primarily, the new tax unfairly punishes those already doing the right thing (i.e. levy-paying producers are being forced

February 2024 TODAY 17

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Excited for the future

By Angela Norval Queensland’s Rural Regional and Remote Women network announced election of a refreshed board in December, adding new skills and experiences while marking 30 years of connecting, developing and inspiring Queensland women.

A new president, treasurer and board member were elected to join the existing board members, together positioning the independent not-for-profit organisation to continue supporting members in 2024 and beyond.

Media and public policy professional Emma Clarke was voted into the president role after holding a non-executive board director role for the past year, while Michelle McVeigh also moved from a non-executive director role to treasurer.

Agricultural and retail business owner Patrea George, from the Banana Shire, was elected to a non-executive director role from a pool of 16 nominations.

Bundaberg is well represented on the board with Melissa Brooke being voted in as vice president.

Melissa was particularly proud to see at the AGM that there were a record number of members in attendance and that Queensland’s Rural Regional and Remote Women Network currently have the highest membership numbers that they have ever had, with 18 applicants apply for vacant board positions with the calibre of these applicants exceptional.

Melissa herself brings extensive experience in public sector leadership within state and federal government departments across corporate affairs, public policy, business profess improvement, stakeholder management and customer relations with her strengths including a commitment to lead, challenge and mentor.

Melissa is committed to her community and is a lifelong learner focusing on self-development to enhance her ability to motivate and drive economic growth, inclusiveness and resilience in regional communities.

Employed by Department of State Development Local Government and Planning working with Local Governments, affords Melissa the opportunity to travel throughout the West, Central and Wide Bay Burnett Regions.

Born and raised in Longreach, Melissa first joined QRRRWN in 1997 and is a passionate

Queensland’s Rural Regional and Remote Women network new vice president Melissa Brooke (right) is looking forward to what her role can bring. advocate for fairness, women and injustice.

Asked how she was focused on making a difference as vice president, Melissa said being in leadership and on boards was about embracing opportunities and having a seat at the table. “Crafting, shaping and influencing policy and strategies for the betterment of your members and communities and I personally find board work to be very rewarding and pride myself on volunteering,” she said.

“RRR Women is an amazing independent not for profit organisation dedicated to building a vibrant and strong community of women across Queensland.

“Our purpose is to provide a platform to connect, develop, inspire and support each other in our individual and collective pursuit for better and brighter futures.”

Having first joined the organisation at the age of 21, in the remote town of Longreach while working for the Department of Primary Industries in 1997, Melissa could never have dreamed 26 years later she would be their vice president.

“This again highlights for me the importance of leadership, mentoring and building connections for one another as you never know what the impact or the outcome of these key introductions will have or could be.

“I hold extensive experience in public sector leadership within state and federal government departments across corporate affairs, public policy, business process improvement, stakeholder management and customer relations that has contributed to building better infrastructure, emergency response care, local government governance, funding and compli-

ance and now I’m working in the sustainable futures portfolio with innovation, climate, sustainability and first nations.

“I love a challenge and the opportunity to work on wicked problems.

“I am a full-time working mum of two children and have held numerous board positions which include an appointment by the Premier for a two-year seat in the Wide Bay-BurnettFraser Coast Regional Community Forums, a current board member at Shalom College, a current committee member with National Strengthening Rural Communities Program Advisory for Foundation of Rural and Regional Renewal (FRR), previously on Wide Bay Hospital and Health Services Consumers reference group, the vice president for the Bundaberg Chamber of Commerce, and on the Community Reference Group member for Paradise Dam. “I am committed to community and a lifelong learner focusing on self-development to enhance my abilities to motivate and drive economic growth, inclusiveness and resilience.

“I am passionate advocate for fairness, women and injustice.“ Looking to 2024, Melissa will make it her mission to assist the board in growing their membership and obtaining further grants and funding so that they can continue to hold future events for their members to come together and workshop, be educate and have a space to craft bespoke solutions that they can apply across Queensland.

“The youth are our future and I would love to attract further diversity of minority groups and a younger age demographics.

“We all need to sell the dream of living and working regionally and do our bit to protect this legacy.

“As woman we celebrate the accomplishments of everyone – our children, our partners, our communities.

“But we often downplay our ability to juggle career, family, community, volunteer work, friendship, and accomplishments.

“After all it was not that long ago in history that women were told that they could not be a good mother and hold a full-time job.

“Well, we sure showed them, didn’t we?”

The RRR Women Board for the coming year is made up of inspiring women from across the state.

Tegan gives the next generation a new lease on ag life With rising land prices making it difficult to gain a foothold in the agricultural industry, QRIDA’s Tegan McBride is helping aspiring farmers locked out of the rural property market embark on alternative pathways to a career on the land.

“Lease-farming is a great way to get a start in primary production without the high debt and risk associated with land ownership,” she said.

“This way, you can invest your money in other capital such as equipment, machinery, livestock or crops, while you build a business case for your farm operation.

“Then, when you’re ready to invest in your own land, you’ll be able to show the cashflow and farming experience you’ve built while lease-farming, which may look attractive on a rural property loan application.”

The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) has First Start Loans of up to $2 million that can help aspiring producers enter lease-farming arrangements.

“These concessional loans are available to help aspiring primary producers build their farm business as part of a longer-term plan to operate a viable enterprise,” Tegan said.

As the QRIDA regional area manager for Central Coast and Whitsundays, Tegan has experience helping a range of primary producers and said lease-farming benefits all involved.

18 TODAY February 2024

QRIDA regional area manager for Central Coast and Whitsundays Tegan McBride is helping aspiring farmers rethink how they can enter the agricultural industry through lease-farming arrangements.

Picture: CONTRIBUTED “Farmers who are transitioning into retirement can continue to make money and reduce expenses by leasing blocks of their land,“ she said.

“And those impacted by fluctuating markets might also benefit from lease-farming

to create a diverse income stream and maximise the productivity of their property.

“For primary producers who are getting started, lease-farming can give them an opportunity to try their hand at farming while gaining knowledge from the lessor producer

who might take on a mentor role.”

There are three top tips Tegan has for primary producers who are considering leasefarming ...

“If you have existing relationships with your farming community, you could approach farmers looking to retire to find out if they might be looking to drop back on some areas of land that you could lease,” she said.

“Once you’ve found the right country that is suitable to your operation, make sure you get a written lease agreement in place, outlining clear expectations for the lease including the term of the lease and use access.

“Finally, have a clear goal in mind for what you are going to do when the lease agreement ends, whether you are ready to invest in your own block of land or continue leasing.”

Tegan encourages Queenslanders who are passionate about agriculture to consider a long-term career in the industry.

“While it might seem a bit daunting at first, primary production is a really worthwhile and rewarding career and you have the ability to produce something tangible that helps feed other families,” she said.

“If you have any questions about how QRIDA could help you make your dream farm business a reality, please contact us.” * For more information about how QRIDA’s First Start Loans could help you enter lease-farming arrangements, visit qrida.qld. gov.au or call QRIDA on 1800 623 946.

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

Remote Contract Cooks travels around Australia offering a helping hand to those willing to learn about bush cooking.

Bush cook’s new venture

By Breanna Lloyd An eager and passionate rural chef has dedicated 30 years of cooking experience to her new cook recruitment and training business, Remote Contract Cooks.

The nationwide business, now going into its second year of operation, recruits and trains bush cooks while offering temporary, relief or short-term jobs.

Business owner Raqual Humphries said the idea struck when she was talking to an old boss.

“She said ‘why don’t you start a business from it’ and that’s what I decided to do,” she said.

“I want to help people not only on stations but also in rural and remote areas as there is a significant lack of resources in those regions.”

Being professionally trained as a qualified chef, Raqual said she had spent her younger years living and travelling with her family throughout Australia.

“I loved travelling around in our bus and now I get to live it myself,” she said.

Once Raqual and her family settled in Ipswich when she was 17 years old, Raqual left home to become a steward in the Royal Australian Air Force.

Her first year as a camp cook in 1996 on Carlton Hill Station, WA was where her love of cooking first emerged.

“I love the people on stations and that’s why I came to the outback,” she said.

“I think that’s the reason why a lot of people come to the outback” “I love being able to feed nutritious meals to ringers because they have been working outside all day and they can come back and have a hearty meal waiting for them” Having 30 years of bush cooking experience, Raqual said she has dozens of favourite recipes to make.

“My favourite things to make would have to be baked goods, like cakes and breads,” she said.

Raqual’s favourite recipes include bread making and baking.

Remote Contract Cooks owner Raqual Humphries.

Raqual’s first job as camp cook in 1996 at Carlton Hill Station, WA.

Pictures: CONTRIBUTED

Raqual’s famous jam and cream lamingtons.

Raqual now has over 30 years of experience as a professional shear cook and chef.

February 2024 TODAY 19

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

Dam to bring water woes

By Arthur Gorrie The officially declared failure of the Paradise Dam, now said to require a total rebuild, may be just the beginning of water wars expected to spread, as coastal and near coastal regions confront the limits of growth.

This coincides with state government moves to take Gympie and South Burnett water for the burgeoning South East and follows suggestions that Fraser Coast region may also need more water.

The Bundaberg district dam, now operating at less than half its rated capacity, has been subject to questions about whether, even when full, it will be adequate for projected industry and population growth in its immediate service area.

It all spells potential water resource trouble not just for Bundaberg and North Burnett regions in the near term, but ultimately for urban and irrigation water consumers, possibly from Gympie to Rockhampton and beyond.

The state government’s stated commitment to inter-basin water transfers, starting with taking Mary River and South Burnett water to the South East, coincides with projected agricultural and urban consumption growth elsewhere, combined with limited regional water resources to the north, creating potential for cascading water shortage concerns.

The Paradise Dam has already been suggested as a water source for downstream Mary River irrigators as Gympie and Maryborough and Sunshine Coast demand takes more water out of the Mary system.

That suggestion has angered the dam’s existing Bundaberg and North Burnett customers, including farmers who say they do not have enough water as it is, even without planned industry and population growth planned locally.

The logical expectation is that we will need more storage, including off-river and dam impoundments, on the Mary River and potentially in Bundaberg region, where the Burnett River system is already one of our .most heavily impounded catchments.

Ultimately that would mean increased pressure for more inter-basin transfers from the north.

Paradise Dam water releases will be undertaken throughout the reconstruction project to ensure a safe environment for workers. Picture: SUNWATER This would likely require further inter-basin transfers, probably from Rockhampton’s Fitzroy Basin, which itself may then need help from Mackay’s Pioneer River - with the ultimate possibility of a major water grid piping water when needed from as far as Far North Queensland.

The recently released Wide Bay Burnett Regional Plan reveals persistent government intentions to start such a process with greatly

increased transfers from Gympie and South Burnett, where councils have been instructed to co-operate with plans to provide cost effective water for increased demand in the South East, despite the apparently unrecognised limits on Gympie region bulk water resources.

All this is starting to happen at a time when it is still unknown when rebuilding of the Paradise Dam will allow it to fill to rated capacity once more.

Meanwhile, a war of words has erupted between current Water Minister Glenn Butcher and former Premier Peter Beattie about who is to blame for the inadequate state of the Paradise Dam, an issue which became a significant part of the Gympie region’s successful campaign against the Beattie Government’s other dam proposal, at Traveston Crossing, upstream from Gympie and also part of a plan to provide water for South East Queensland.

Opposition says we will pay for years to come

By Arthur Gorrie Queenslanders will pay the hidden price of the Paradise Dam for years to come, Opposition Shadow Water Minister, Deb Frecklington said.

But one Bundaberg region irrigator, Joe Russo, expressed a fondness for the dambuilding ex-Premier, Peter Beattie, who took responsibility for the failure.

Mr Russo said Mr Beattie’s honest apology resonated with growers and praised him for having “delivered so often for the region.“ Ms Frecklington indicated she thought this would be a rare sentiment among fruit and vegetable producers and consumers facing shortages and price hikes.

Farmers were “already facing some of the most uncertain growing conditions on record along with the skyrocketing cost-ofliving pressures.“ She said Premier Steve Miles should answer the question posed by Mr Beattie: “If the problems were identified years ago, why has there been such a delay?”

She said the government’s “sudden interest in fruit and vegetable price rises“ came at a time when government actions would further drive them up.

Burnett MP Stephen Bennett said the dam was “quite possibly the greatest infrastructure fail in our nation’s history.“ He said his office had been “flooded with calls from distressed residents who are still in disbelief.“ Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers CEO and LNP candidate Bree Watson said implications for farmers were catastrophic.

And there was no doubt the problems would drive up food prices.

Bundaberg Labor MP Tom Smith succeed20 TODAY February 2024

ed in his call for former Premier Peter Beattie to apologise and this week said Mr Beattie’s ready acceptance of responsibility showed him as “an individual of great integrity, extending an apology to our community and accepting the political responsibility.

“Peter and his Government delivered a lot for Bundaberg and the whole of the Wide Bay region during an important time in Queensland’s history.

He said the Beattie Government had inspired him to “join the (Labor) cause.

“However, it is my job as the Member for Bundaberg to call it as I see it, and to speak out on behalf of my community when it is needed.“ Meanwhile farmers in the Bundaberg region are calling for a legislated ban on water sales from Paradise Dam while the dam is at its reduced capacity.

Irrigator spokesperson Judy Plath said legislation was “the only way to stop Sunwater selling more water from Paradise Dam.“ Lychee and macadamia grower, Craig Van Rooyen, one of those who successfully agitated for the dam to be built, said local growers were “aghast at the news that Sunwater was in secret talks with potential buyers of water while work on the reinstatement of Paradise Dam had not even begun.

“They have been in secret negotiations since 2022 to sell water they literally do not have”.

Childers cane, peanut and macadamia grower Joe Russo backed the legislation call and called for Mr Smith to do the same.

And he thanked Mr Beattie for his positive contribution to the region and “for recognising the importance of his words to our local industry and community at this time; a community he delivered for so often as Premier.“

Former Queensland Premier Peter Beattie has apologised for the state of Paradise Dam, which was built during his time in government.

Picture: CONTRIBUTED

2024 Wednesday 27 March 2024

Saturday 30 March 2024

9:00am to 4:30pm

7:00am to 2:00pm 7:30am to 9:00am 8:00am 9:00am to 10:00am 10:00am to 1:00pm

9:00am to 4:00pm 6:30pm 5:30pm

The Big Rig Tower & Tree Walk & Self-guided Tour of the Oil Patch Up the Creek Garage Museum Opening Night Easter Art Show The Big Rig Night Show Sunset Experience

Thursday 28 March 2024 8:30am 9:00am to 4:30pm 9:00am to 4:00pm 10:00am to 2:00pm 10:00am to 4:00pm 10:30am 5:00pm to 11:00pm 5:30pm

Roma Saleyards Tours The Big Rig Tower & Tree Walk & Self-guided Tour of the Oil Patch Up the Creek Garage Museum Miniature Train Rides Easter Art Show Dance Like an Animal Outback Tucker Under the Stars sponsored by Cement Australia The Big Rig Night Show Sunset Experience

Friday 29 March 2024 6:45am 7:00am 7:00am & 9:00am 8:00am 8:00am to 2:00pm 9:00am to 2:00pm 9:00am to 4:30pm 9:00am to 5:00pm 9:00am to 4:00pm 10:00am to 2:00pm 10:00am to 4:00pm 10:00am to 4:00pm 10:00am, 12:00pm 2:00pm & 4:00pm 10:00am to 4:00pm 2:00pm to 5:00pm 2:00pm to 5:00pm 4:00pm (cars on track 5:00pm) 5:30pm 5:30pm to 10:00pm 6:00pm

Lost World Carnarvons (Wallaroo) Day Tour by Boobook Explore Maranoa Monster Fishing Competition Roma Bush Gardens ‘Walk on the Wildside’ Ecumenical Good Friday Service Moorelands Bush Nursery Roma Butter Factory The Big Rig Tower & Tree Walk & Self-guided Tour of the Oil Patch John Richardson Camel Rides Up the Creek Garage Museum Miniature Train Rides In Stitches Quilt & Craft Show Easter Art Show Deadly Way Cultural Show Roma sings Bush Ballads and Bush Poetry Roma History Lodge An Eggcellent Afternoon with Bluey and the Easter Bunny Roma International Speedway The Big Rig Night Show Sunset Experience Xtreme Bulls Australia Lions Fish & Chip Van

9:00am to 2:00pm 9:00am to 4:30pm 9:00am to 4:00pm 10:00am to 12:00pm 10:00am to 7:00pm 10:00am to 1:00pm 10:00am to 1:00pm 10:00am to 1:00pm 10:00am to 4:00pm 10:00am to 4:00pm 11:00am 12:00pm to 4:00pm 1:00pm (gates open)

Country Markets Main Stage, CBD Roma Breakfast with Dan and Steph Celebrity Chefs Street Parade Live Music Saturday supported by Origin Energy as Upstream Operator for Australia Pacific LNG Roma Butter Factory The Big Rig Tower & Tree Walk & Self-guided Tour of the Oil Patch Up the Creek Garage Museum John Richardson Camel Rides Gin Tasting with Western Queensland Spirits St Paul’s Anglican Church Activities (Windows, Stalls & Morning Tea) Roma Historical Motor Club Roma Historical Car Club In Stitches Quilt & Craft Show Easter Art Show Dance like an Animal Miniature Train Rides Racing commences from 2pm Ironbark Raceway Drag Racing XXXX Easter Races Roma History Lodge

1:00pm to 5:00pm 2:00pm to 5:00pm 4:00pm (cars on track from 5:00pm) Roma International Motor Speedway 6:00pm Roma Sings Bush Ballads and Bush Poetry 5:30pm The Big Rig Night Show Sunset Experience 7:00pm to 9:30pm Eva’s Place Roma Easter Soiree Easter Saturday BBQ Competition - Details to come

Sunday 31 March 2024 Subscribe to watch the XXXX Pro Rodeo Livestream 7:00am to 2:00pm Country Markets 7:00am to 1:00pm Family Fun Sunday 8:00am (gates open) Racing commences from 9:00am Ironbark Raceway Drag Racing 8:00am Roma District Motorcycle Club 8:00am to 2:00pm John Richardson Camel Rides 8:00am to 2:00pm Moorelands Bush Nursery 9:00am to 2:00pm Roma Butter Factory 9:00am to 4:00pm Visit Mount Abundance Homestead 9:00am to 4:30pm The Big Rig Tower & Tree Walk & Self-guided Tour of the Oil Patch 9:00am to 8:30pm XXXX Pro-Rodeo 10:00am to 2:00pm Miniature Train Rides 10:00am to 4:00pm In Stitches Quilt & Craft Show 10:00am to 4:00pm Up the Creek Garage Museum 10:00am to 4:00pm Easter Art Show 10:00am to 7:00pm Gin Tasting with Western Queensland Spirits 2:00pm to 5:00pm Roma History Lodge 5:00pm *NEW* St Paul’s Anglican Church Organ Recital 5:30pm The Big Rig Night Show Sunset Experience 8:30pm til late ALPNG/Origin Country Music Concert Extravaganza

28 March to 1 April February 2024 TODAY 21

NEWS QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

First prize in the practice round went to the best heifer and how she was led.

Pictures: LUCY WALDRON

Leading the bulls and parading them for judging is no easy task.

Fostering future leaders

By Lucy Waldron Morgan Park buzzed with youthful enthusiasm in January as 125 children from across Australia converged in Warwick for the Santa Gertrudis Cattle Youth Camp.

The primary aim of the camp is to impart knowledge about working with cattle and to cultivate a passion for the agricultural industry among the younger generation.

Chairman of the Santa Gertrudis Youth Committee David Bassingthwaighte, said with interested youth is how the industry grows.

“The Agriculture industry needs new ideas and new people coming through all the time so our goal is to educate the kids and pass on our knowledge so they can make it an even better place,” David said.

The three-day camp serves as an educational platform where students delve into cattle selection, safety practices, animal health, and the intricacies of preparing cattle for shows and parades.

The program has been ongoing in Warwick for 20 plus years and while it draws participants from far and wide it has also become a multi-generational event.

A long-term participant of the program and Warwick local who is now cheering on his grandchildren, Gary Waldock, said one of the best factors of the program is the social element.

“It is really beneficial for the kids to get those social skills by working in groups and making some like-minded friends,” Gary said.

“Even for the families, those who have been

Kids from ages 8 to 17 take part in the Santa Gertrudis Cattle Youth Camp to build their skills.

Maintaining the care and health of cattle is a important skill taught. coming here from early on get to catch up with each other over the three days.”

Beyond its educational aspect, the camp serves as a significant economic driver for the town Tonya Carew, the Kitchen Coordinator, underlined the local impact, stating, “We bring 300 people into the region who no doubt use

the shops in town, so there is a real economic benefit to this program.“ The kitchen staff and parent volunteers work collaboratively to cater to the needs of the 300 participants, sourcing produce from nearby shops.

While various cattle youth camps are held across Australia, participants of the Santa

Students are taught and then judged on how they put their theory to practice. Second place and First place winners lead the group.

Gertrudis camp lauded it as the best program available.

Ranging from eight-year-olds confidently leading heifers to 17-year-olds meticulously grooming cattle for judges, the camp emerges as a catalyst for fostering a genuine love for agriculture and rural life among the participants.

Farmers are deploying new ways to power ahead Farmers are going ‘off the grid’ and switching to renewables in growing numbers as Australia’s ongoing energy crisis impacts their profits and pressure amps up on agribusinesses to reduce their ecological footprint.

As rising electricity costs and supply issues continue to plague the nation, farmers are increasingly seeking to generate their own power.

It’s a transition not without its challenges, however the potential benefits are huge given the energy intensive nature and of agriculture across everything from machinery to irrigation.

While energy requirements vary across commodities, the bottom line is farmers and agribusinesses are among those most impacted by power price hikes and blackouts so having access to affordable and reliable electricity is paramount.

I recently ventured to a Darling Downs food manufacturing and packing facility which was in the middle of a power outage 22 TODAY February 2024

BREAKING GROUND WITH THOMAS HALL that ended up lasting 17 hours. To keep operations going, they had to fire up 120 generators, which they had installed at a substantial cost following previous blackouts. It was a costly exercise but necessary to ensure customers received their deliveries on time.

Halting operations is a risky business that puts contracts in jeopardy.

Given the industry’s vulnerability to the impacts of a volatile energy market, energy is one of the top burning issues for agriculture.

And as Australia moves towards Net Zero, where greenhouse gas emissions will be balanced by removals, farmers are coming un-

der increased pressure to reduce emissions, given records show the sector produced 16.8 per cent of national greenhouse gas emissions in 2020-21.

Many farmers are already looking to power ahead with sustainable alternative energy solutions. In other words, they are disconnecting from the national energy grid and opting to generate their own electricity.

At the Agtech and Logistics Hub, we are seeing more farmers adopt, or enquire about, the following sustainable and off-grid options: Solar power: Installing solar panels on a property reduces energy costs and allows for power to be stored in batteries (see below) for future use. This is a particularly attractive option for Queensland farmers given the abundance of sunshine in the state, however installation can be costly so it can take some time to see a return on investment.

Battery storage systems: Solar and other off-grid energy solutions often have energy

storage systems to ensure a consistent power supply.

Wind energy: Wind turbines can generate electricity for farms and allow farmers to sell their surplus.

Biomass and bioenergy: Bioenergy is a form of renewable energy generated from the conversion of biomass products, including crop residues and farm waste, into electricity, heat and transport fuels.

When looking at any of these options, it’s important for agribusinesses to understand what their investment, and their return on it, will be.

Many solutions are long-term investments, but there are many grants, incentives and programs available to help with the transition. While going off-grid can seem a little overwhelming, our team is happy to point you in the right direction. * Thomas Hall is the Director of the Agtech and Logistics Hub, Australia’s home of digital agriculture.

QueenslandFarmerToday.com.au

NEWS

Making healthy choices As many people head into 2024 with New Year’s resolutions, it’s important to implement these changes in a healthy manner.

Introducing exercise into a routine is a common New Year goal and Darling Downs Health physiotherapist Nick Derouet has a few tips for achieving an active start to 2024.

“If you’ve had a break from exercise, ensure you ease back into it,“ he said.

“To begin with, aim for 20 to 30 minutes of low intensity exercise a few times a week, then slowly increase the duration, frequency or intensity one at a time.

“Stay cool and hydrated, we’re in for a hot summer so make sure you’re exercising in the cooler parts of the day. Set realistic goals and have a plan for how you will achieve them.

Most importantly, have fun, do exercise you enjoy and invite friends along.

“You’re more likely to maintain regular exercise if it’s something you enjoy. So, pick an activity, exercise or sport you’re familiar with or have always wanted to try.“ Darling Downs Health acting senior dietitian Donna Harris said you don’t have you start 2024 on a diet to be healthy.

“There are a few easy swaps you can make to maintain a balanced diet. Our top three tips for 2024 are to drink more water, eat more vegetables and increase legumes and lentils.

“Cutting out certain foods and food groups are the most common mistakes we see. This leaves you feeling tired, hungry and often wanting more discretionary foods.

“Getting a balance of all food groups, helps us feel fuller for longer, more energetic and helps keep our immune system strong.”

When it comes to smoking, people who have a lapse over the Christmas period due to stress and alcohol, try to refocus their efforts in the New Year, said Darling Downs health consultant pharmacist and tobacco treatment specialist Johanna Bou-Samra.

Women walk through a park on the Darling Downs.

“We know seven out of 10 people want to quit smoking and a New Year’s resolution is a good prompt to action.

“Even if you’re not ready to quit right now, there are steps you can take to start working towards this goal.

“Start by speaking to your doctor, pharma-

Picture: CONTRIBUTED cist or Quitline about available treatments.

Make small behavioural changes like keeping your cigarettes, vape and ashtray out of sight.

Start using a nicotine patch, even if you aren’t ready to stop straight away.

“If you’re trying to quit but are struggling, Quitline is an excellent confidential phone

service, dedicated to supporting people to quit smoking and vaping.

“Smoking is a leading contributor to death and disease, within two months of quitting, the blood is less sticky, circulation improves, wounds heal faster and the risk of heart attack and stroke decreases.“

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Learn more at ruok.org.au February 2024 TODAY 23

Prune Muffins Prep time: 20 mins Makes: 12 pieces Ingredients 2 cups self raising flour 1/2 cup Prune Extract 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup milk 1 egg

· · · · · ·

Method: 1. Combine all ingredients into a bowl.

2. Mix well either with a wooden spoon or mixer.

3. Can add a little extra milk if consistency is too thick.

4. Grease or spray muffin tray with margarine or canola oil.

5. Spoon a large tablespoon of mixture into the muffin tray so it is 1/2 to 3/4 full.

6. Bake in oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

7. Remove from tray and let stand until cool.

Tips:

· Add some blue berries for variety and serve with yoghurt. · A great healthy snack, breakfast or desert!

Recipe courtesy of Sunraysia

Prune Energy Balls Prep time: 10 mins Makes: 8-10 balls Ingredients

· 1/2 cup Prune Extract · 1/2 cup oats · 1/2 cup almond butter · 1 tsp cocoa · 1 tsp cinnamon · 1 tsp of honey · Coconut to cover Method: 1. Combine all ingredients 2. Mix well until all ingredients are blended in 3. Roll small amount into a round ball 4. Cover with coconut 5. Refrigerate until cold Recipe courtesy of Sunraysia

Natural Prune Extract FREE OFFER*

24 TODAY February 2024

6. Keep in fridge so they are ready for a quick snack!

Tips:

· Adjust ingredients to suit the quantity of the amount of Prune Energy Balls you want to make. You can also add Chia seeds or nuts.

Monthly market report brought to you by Herefords Australia.

12663443-JC08-24

Regional market round-up Report Date: 17/01/2024 Saleyard: Charters Towers The opening sale for the year attracted 878 cattle. Quality was mixed, comprising of limited numbers of well finished prime cattle and several small lines of store steers and heifers, with many in plain condition. Three regular processors operated at stronger rates than last year, supported by two regular feeder operators and opportunity restockers. Cattle were drawn Hughenden to Einsaleigh and the local area. A small sample of vealer steers to restockers sold to 320c to average 309c, with light heifers making to 198c to average 190c/kg. A small sample of yearling steers above 330kg to feed reached 264c to average 258c/kg. Yearling heifers above 280kg to feed sold to 246c to average 220c, restocker lines reached 272c to average 229c/kg.

Limited numbers of grown steers to feed sold to 276c to average 266c/kg. A good sample of grown heifers returning to the paddock sold to 270c to average near 236c/kg, a small number of heifers to the trade made to 272c to average 270c/kg. A limited number of full-mouthed bullocks to export slaughter topped at 274c to average 265c/ kg. Medium weight 3 score cows sold to 266 to average 251-256c, isolated single cows to 270c/kg. A pen of prime heavyweight cows made 252c/kg. Heavy bulls to processors reached 270c to average 257c/kg.

Market Reporter, Mick Kingham Report Date: 17/01/2024 Saleyard: CQLX Gracemere With the local show on this week, a substantially smaller yarding was offered to all the usual buyers. The quality of the yarding was described as mixed, with plainer types easing slightly. A fair percentage of the yarding was sold to southern buyers, were smaller yardings have also been offered this week. Similar to some southern centres, a majority of the trade cattle were lighter weights. The yearling steers sold to 140c, as the yearling heifers topped at 152.4c/kg. Nearly all of the light and medium weights steers offered suffered falls, with the medium weights the most effected.

Dominated the steers was those suited to the Jap ox market which improved 2c to average 168.7c/kg. The heavy bullocks remained firm after selling to a top of 172c/kg. Heifers and cows were once again in large numbers, with most types receiving very good competition and improving up to 9c/kg. Over one hundred light D3 heifers improved over 5c to average 144.6c, as the limited number of heavy weights reached 166.4c/kg. A majority of the light cows were plainer store types, with the medium weight D4s topping at 150.2c/kg. The heavy cows reached 150.4c, with the D4s averaging 146.2c/kg. The light bulls sold to 136.2c, as the heavy weights reached 138c/kg.

Report Date: 17/01/2024 Saleyard: Dalby The number of cattle penned at Dalby increased by 2,543 head to 3,694. Buyer attendance was good with the return of all the regular operators and most were active in a generally dearer market.

Light weight yearling steers returning to the paddock lifted in price by a further 23c/kg on top of the improvements experienced the previous sale. Medium weight yearling steers to feed averaged from 30c to 40c/kg better. Heavy weights averaged 16c/kg dearer. Yearling heifers to feed lifted in price by up to 18c/kg. Plain condition cows experienced the largest gains to average 35c/kg dearer pushed on by restockers and processors. Heavy weight cows averaged 24c to 28c/kg better.

Light weight yearling steers returning to the paddock made to a top of 450c with a good sample averaging 407c/kg. Yearling steers under 330kg to restockers made to 423c to average 395c/kg. Yearling steers to feed for the domestic market averaged from 379c to 389c with sales to 418c/kg. Heavy weight yearling steers to feed made to 370c to average 350c/ kg. Light weight yearling heifers returning to the paddock made to 332c to average 300c/kg.

Yearling heifers to feed averaged from 300c to 305c with sales to 338c/kg. Heavy weight yearling heifers averaged 306c and made to 338c/ kg.

A handful of bullocks made to 306c/kg. Medium weight 2 score cows to restockers averaged 242c and made to 247c and processor lines averaged 236c/kg. Good heavy weight cows made to a top of 271c to average 263c/kg.

Heavy weight bulls made to 290c/kg.

Market Reporter, Trevor Hess Report Date: 16/01/2024 Saleyard: Roma Numbers increased at Roma to 6317 head.

Cattle were drawn from N.S.W, also along with consignments from a large number of the usual supply area. All the regular processor feed-

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lotters and backgrounders in attendance with one additional export buyer in the cow market which increased prices.

Light weight yearling steer under 200kg returning to the paddock made from 321c to 464c to average 441c/kg. Yearling steers 200 to 280kg also returning to the paddock sold to 468c with an average of 403c/kg. Yearling steers 280 to 330kg improved in price to 446c/ kg. Yearling steers 330 to 400kg sold from 280c to a top of 452c/kg.

Yearling steers 400 to 480kg averaged 343c and sold from 310c to 374c/kg. Yearling steers over 480kg sold well to reach 364c/kg.

Light weight yearling heifers under 200kg topped at 338c up almost 40c/kg on last sale.

Yearling heifers 200 to 280kg mostly sold from 234c to 360c/kg. Yearling heifers 280 to 330kg sold to 298c to processors with restockers paying to 322c/kg. Yearling heifers 330 to 400kg also to processors made to 298c/kg. Yearling heifers 400 to 480kg to feed topped at 328c to average 324c/kg.Yearling heifers over 480kg also to feed made to 296c/kg.

Grown steers 400 to 500kg topped at 310c most sold from 270c to 290c/kg. Grown steers 500 to 600kg made to 298c to processors with the over 600kg selling to 296c/kg. Grown heifers also sold to 296c/kg. A small number of young cows made to 288c with the 2 score cows 400 to 520kg selling to 253c and the heavy 3 score cows to 283c/kg.The best of the heavy weight bulls to 281c/kg.

Market Reporter, David Friend Report Date: 15/01/2024 Saleyard: Toowoomba The first cattle sale in Toowoomba for 2024 attracted 208 head. There was a large variation in the standard however some excellent quality light weight steers were included in the lineup. Buyer attendance was good along with a very large number of onlookers. Prices improved across all classes with light weight yearling steers returning to the paddock noticeably dearer. Light weight yearling steers to restockers under 200kg sold to a high 550c to average 520c/kg. Yearling steers under 280kg returning to the paddock made to 494c to average 460c/kg. Yearling steers to feed for the domestic market averaged from 353c to 360c with sales to 366c/kg. Heavy weight yearling steers to feed made to 354c to average 347c/ kg. Light weight yearling heifers under 200kg made to 320c/kg. Yearling heifers under 280kg to restockers averaged 294c and made to 306c/ kg. Yearling heifers to feed averaged from 304c to 308c and sold to 314c/kg. Medium weight 2 score cows averaged 214c and sold to 218c/kg.

Good heavy weight cows made to 254c to average 248c/kg. Light weight bulls made to 324c/ kg. Cows and calves made to $1,180/unit.

Market Reporter, Trevor Hess Report Date: 16/01/2024 Saleyard: Warwick Warwick agents penned 1,132 cattle up by 606 on last week. All the usual processors

and wholesalers were present and very active along with extra feeder buyers and restockers.

The yarding contained a good amount of well finished heavy cattle plus several pens suited to the local wholesale meat trade,the balance of the yarding consisted of mixed quality yearling cattle with the better bred lines receiving the strongest competition. Light weight yearling steers to restockers made 434c to average 424c with those over 200kg lifting by 28c and topping at 420c to average 380c/kg. Yearling steers in the 280-300kg range made 388c to average 343c/kg. Yearling steers to feed for the domestic market made 350c to average 331c with restockers paying to 358c/kg. Heavy yearling steers to feed averaged 334c and sold to 350c with those to the wholesale meat trade at 378c/kg. Yearling heifers to background sold to 316c/kg. Yearling heifers to feed for the domestic market sold from 334c to 350c/kg.

Heavy yearling heifers to feed averaged 286c and sold to 307c with the wholesale meat trade paying 320c/kg. Good fresh young bullocks to processors sold to 311c and averaged 308c/kg.

Well finished grown heifers again to process made 297c to average 269c/kg. Light weight cows to processors sold from 170c to 225c/kg.

Good heavy cows to processors topped at 260c and averaged 240c/kg. Heavy bulls to processors gained 28c and sold to 286c and averaged 276c/kg. Cows and calves sold to $1000/unit.

Market Reporter, Errol Luck Sheep report Report Date: 17/01/2024 Saleyard: Warwick The supply of stock at Warwick remained unchanged with 1,473 lambs and 1,003 grown sheep penned. All the regular processor and wholesale buyers attended along with extra feeder and restocker buyers.The prices for feeder and restocker lines lifted fro $4 to $14 and more in places with prime butcher and heavy lambs selling to rates firm to $4/head easier however heavy mutton sold to slightly dearer trends. Light weight young lambs 12-16kg to restockers averaged $60 and sold to $71/head. Young lambs over 18kg to the wholesale meat trade made $107 with feeder buyers paying to $106 and averaging $96/ head. Light weight lambs to restockers sold to $102 and averaged $95 with butchers paying to $110/head. Lambs in the 20-22kg range to feeder operators made $126 to average $121 with those to the local meat trade at$151/ head. Ideal trade weight lambs averaged $151 and sold to $172/head. Heavy lambs to processors sold from $175 to $204/head. Hoggets to processors averaged $71 and sold to $99 with the ewe portion returning to the paddock at $100/head. Light weight plain ewes sold from $12 to $45/head. Heavy well finished ewes to processors sold from $50 to $81/head. Good heavy wethers to processors sold from $48 to $73/head. Ram lambs to the wholesale meat trade sold from $67 to $110 with older rams topping at $69/head.

Market Reporter, Errol Luck

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Fun gallops on at Taroom From page 28

Dawson Jockey Club secretary and president Sarah and David Parry-Okeden have been integral in growing the reputation of the Taroom Races.

Graham Rewald has been a stalwart of country racing in Queensland. He has been a trainer, owner and served on the Country Racing Advisory Panel. To Taroom locals, he’s best known known as one few who works tirelessly every year to ensure Taroom can host its two race meets.

Pictures: ROSIE PARRY-OKEDEN

Racegoers dashed for cover as the wild weather hit. Fortunately, all the bars were undercover and open!

Sam Mobbs and Annabelle Paterson at the Taroom Races.

Just two of the five races were run at Taroom on December 30.

Brooklyn Handford and Sophie Tennyson at the Taroom Races.

Sue Presho and Georgie Worsfold at the Taroom Races.

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Lani Zelda, Will Alexander, Sophie Makim, Meg Mills and Meg MacGillivray at the Taroom Races.

Picture: ROSIE PARRY-OKEDEN

Tom Hughes, Harry Carrigan and Bill Hall at the Taroom Races.

Picture: ROSIE PARRY-OKEDEN

Chantelle and Will Argus at the Taroom Races.

Picture: ROSIE PARRY-OKEDEN

Rain stops races, not fun

By Fiona Gowers and Breanna Lloyd An isolated thunderstorm over Taroom on 30 December may have stopped the horse racing but failed to dampen the party vibe.

Dawson Jockey Club secretary Sarah ParryOkeden - whose husband David is club president - said just two of the five races were run due to flashes of lightning, rain and hail.

She said spirits, however, remained upbeat among the “2000-plus“ attendees who instead socialised, enjoyed a drink and danced to DJ Johnny Mac’s tunes.

“The forecast was touch and go leading into the event but we had a full race card, the track looked great and everyone was excited about the afternoon,“ Mrs Parry-Okeden said.

“But, the big thunderstorm came over and that was pretty much that.“ Mrs Parry-Okeden said she wished to thank the committee and community for their support, the Taroom Kindergarten and Wandoan Wildcats for running the bars and major sponsors Senex Energy, Now Buildings and Murray Builders in Roma.

Taroom has hosted the races since 1859, with the Dawson Jockey Club formed in 1890.

It boasts one of only four left-handed tracks in Queensland, with horses racing anti-clockwise. Results from the Taroom Races hosted by the Dawson Jockey Club: Legend Of Zorro (1) won the Anipro Benchmark 60 Handicap 1000m Bill Joynson Memorial Class, with jockey Sarah Robbins and trainer Rodney Hay. Cutting it close in second was Soopat (5), jockey Brodie Moffat and trainer Bevan Johnson and in third Karbors (4), jockey Tyler Leslight and trainer Bevan Johnson.

The Argus Builders QTIS Maiden Plate 1200m Class went to Semper Invictus (3), jockey Brooke Johnson and trainer Shane Iverson with Goldie’s Power (7), jockey Tyler Leslight and trainer Bevan Johnson in second.

Montagliari (8), jockey Jack Baker and trainer Wayne Baker galloped to third place.

Continued page 27

Sophie Clein, Dust Whitehead, Sam Christie and Laycee Sivyer.

Picture: CONTRIBUTED

Chelsea Woodard, Abbey Cutting, Chloe Norris, Jocelyn Woodard, Lizzie Younger and Sophie Gibbs.

Picture: CONTRIBUTED

Joel Cherry and Meg MacGillivray at the Taroom Races.

Picture: ROSIE PARRY-OKEDEN

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