WITH most Mallee crops now in the ground and maturing, growers are weighing up their options — particularly where frost has bitten. Some are making decisions about whether barley or wheat will go through to harvest, or whether it makes more sense to cut for hay.
Canola is shaping up to be one of the better performers, while lentils are holding steady in both yield outlook and pricing. It’s a mixed bag of optimism as farmers hold out for another spring break, ahead of the dry period.
$29,990
Picture: Phil Down
Future options for rural livestock exchange heard
By Edmund Coleman
WHILE several options for the Swan Hill Regional Livestock Exchange were presented to councilors and the council executive at the town hall forum, all speakers stressed the importance of maintaining a saleyard in the region.
Options including relocating and upgrading the saleyards, appointing a management committee, and running an expression of interest for alternate ownership were heard.
The current site has been deemed unviable into the future by many due to being landlocked, and the lack of access for A-Double trucks and road trains.
The concrete surface also does not currently adhere to animal welfare requirements, particularly for heavy bulls.
Former mayor and livestock producer, Bill Moar, said the current site was unsuitable.
“I believe that it’s clear from the outset that over the long term, the saleyards cannot exist on its current site, and that council should be working on a transition plan over the next five, 10, 15, 20 years,” he said.
“My recommendations are that council commit by resolution to retain livestock selling facilities, one initially on the current site and two in or around the Swan Hill region or town.
“Two, that council resolve to go to an expression of interest process to ascertain the level of interest, if any, from the private sector in running the SHRLE on the current site or on an alternative, purpose-built site.
“Let’s build a bigger pie somewhere else. Expand the compostable materials process… a bigger, better truck wash and any other ancillary business to bolt on to that business.”
Many speakers highlighted the potential revenue which could be raised by upgrading the truck wash, pointing to the successful example at the Ouyen saleyards.
Livestock producer Leonard Vallance concurred with Mr Moar, restating the need to move the saleyards in the future.
“Recently I went to a saleyard in Devon, England,”
he said.
“The saleyard wasn’t just a saleyard, it was an advanced centre - they had shows, agricultural exhibitions, all sorts of things at that facility, it was quite impressive.
“There’s an opportunity to grow the business, not shrink your town.”
immediate cost of such a move.
The strategic review stated based on similar projects, the cost of building a regional centre would be around $25 million.
“Repositioning the saleyards is a very attractive
A place for the little guys
By Edmund Coleman
THE Swan Hill Regional Livestock Exchange is a vital resource for smaller scale producers, with any closure of the saleyards risking their livelihood in the region and potentially affecting wider agriculture in the region, the town hall forum heard.
While the strategic report points to options such as Auctions Plus - a large online agricultural marketplace - in lieu of the saleyards, many producers said it was univable.
Speaker Wayne Murray said some producers would have to shut down their farms if the saleyard closed.
“I have sold some cattle on Auctions Plus,” he said.
“The last two years I’ve been running at a 60 per cent passing rate and you need large truck numbers to be
able to sell.
“The saleyard performs as a clearing house for all cattle… small breeders only have small lots but everything sells if it goes to the saleyards.
“There’s many producers I’ve talked to on a smaller scale who have said that they’ll have to shut down production.”
Mr Murray said this could have a potential impact on horticulture in the region.
“If those farms shut down, a lot of that water will get sold out of the area. That also affects horticulture, because horticulture needs water off the temporary market in times of drought because they don’t have full water allocations.”
Livestock producer Bill Moar reiterated the importance of the saleyards for small scale producers.
“Of the livestock exchange users… the vast majority are actually the little guy, and the little guy is going to lose here,” he said.
“They’re not going to be bothered taking the trailer load or their 50 or 100 to Ouyen or Ballarat, they’re just not going to do it. They’re going to shut up shop.”
The former mayor also stressed the importance the saleyards play in the wider agricultural value chain.
“Something like 30 to 50 million dollars worth of livestock goes through the livestock exchange,” he said.
“That value chain is probably worth about $300 million, and what we’re trying to do by retaining a livestock exchange is to keep as much of that value chain within our town, within our region, as we possibly can.”
option to position us for the future,” Mr Bishop said.
“However, at this point in time I suspect it’s not an option. Council ownership is the only sensible option, as they are best placed to apply for government grants such as the $900,000 we received last time through the Federal Government.
“As we look to the future, options need to be considered. I would suggest the saleyards advisory committee investigate an option of council ownership and an industry management committee to manage the yards.”
Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh said several steps would have to be taken before the Nationals would commit to government funding for a new facility.
“It has to be a really good business case put forward,” he said.
“In reality, I see the two major priorities for Swan Hill being funding for stage two of the hospital and getting a new bridge.
“Now it’s up to council and the users, including the stock agents, to work out what is the best operating model in the future.
“I don’t see closing it as a viable option for the town, it would cause too much harm.”
Mr Walsh also threw his support behind a management committee.
“Now is the time for constructive dialogue rather than polarising positions,” he said.
“Look at both Ouyen and Wangaratta… both run very successfully with committees of management and ownership tenure with local council.”
Swan Hill Rural City Council Mayor Stuart King said it was good to hear directly from speakers and to be presented with new ideas.
“People have obviously had time to consider different things, see the challenges that we’re having and they’ve had time to consider those,” he said.
“In terms of the next step, we’ll take away what we’ve got - and we’ve already obviously got the written submissions - but also what we’ve heard (at the forum).
“Those things will guide what decision council makes next, basically.”
Council officers are currently preparing a report to be presented to councilors by the end of the year.
Many stakeholders said online auctions were not an option for small scale producers. PICTURE: Supplied
Former Nationals MP and primary producer, Barry Bishop, questioned the
Many speakers supported SHRLE being run by a management committee. PICTURE: Supplied
Saleyard throughput increases
By Edmund Coleman
THE Swan Hill Regional Livestock Exchange (SHRLE)
saw a 26 per cent increase in cattle and a 24.6 per cent increase in sheep throughput in the last financial year, according to data from the National Livestock Reporting Service saleyard survey.
The percentage increases were both above state averages, which saw a 20 per cent increase in cattle throughput (1.16 million) and 8 per cent for sheep (4.84 million).
At the SHRLE, cattle rose to 16,135 head up from 12,762 in 2023-24, but was still the lowest performing saleyard in terms of cattle in the state.
Sheep increased to 111,111 head up from 89,146 in 2023-24, and recorded the sixth highest sheep transaction sales in the state.
NLRS operations manager for Meat and Livestock Australia, Stephanie Pitt, said national numbers highlighted the resilience of the livestock sector.
“The data also underscores the importance of regional saleyards in supporting producers, agents, and buyers in a dynamic market environment,” Ms Pitt said.
Local agent and livestock expert Matt Rowlands said recent high prices for lamb, sheep and cattle would have an in-turn effect of further boosting throughput numbers.
“People that have stuck in the livestock industry
have worked very hard over the last two years through floods, fires, droughts - they’ve worked through a huge decline in prices in 2022,” he said.
“Now they’re in a rebuilding phase, they’re now getting more money than they have in the last four to five years for their livestock. What do they do with that money? They reinvest it into their business, and their business is livestock.
“So in turn, you’re going to get more livestock produced, you’re going to get better quality livestock presented to the seller. Everybody wins.”
A Swan Hill local, Mr Rowlands regularly conducts business at the city’s saleyards, and has a vested interest in the SHRLE remaining operational.
While addressing the town hall forum, he delivered several pointed lines towards councillors with a number of tense, glowering looks shared between himself and Swan Hill Rural City Council chief executive Scott Barber.
“People have gone through all the ups and downs for the last few years, and they’re now seeing a more clear path,” he told North West Farmer after his speech.
“So I just hope that the council can see as clear a path as we all can see.
“There couldn’t be a clearer demonstration to the whole process they’ve conducted. People aren’t happy with it, not happy with the way they did it, but they’ve got an opportunity to be able to change that and do the right thing.”
Regional service or local burden?
By Edmund Coleman
DESPITE Swan Hill Rural City Council ratepayers footing the bill, only around one-in-five head of the livestock which pass through the saleyards come from the municipality.
According to a graph presented by council at the town hall forum earlier this month, 20 per cent of cattle and 22 per cent of sheep throughput for the 2024-25 financial year were produced in the Swan Hill LGA.
The majority of sheep came from New South Wales, with the largest proportion of cattle produced elsewhere in Victoria.
In the last financial year, Swan Hill ratepayers forked out $106,658 for losses incurred by the saleyards. In the preceding four years, according to the strategic review, the burden on ratepayers totaled over $830,000.
Swan Hill Residents and Ratepayers Association secretary Roger Day said the origin of livestock should be seen through the lens of how many people the saleyards bring to town.
“Let’s not look at this as a negative to the town; the
benefit of the saleyards far outweighs the cost to the community,” he told North West Farmer.
“My take on it is, we are providing a benefit not just to our community but to others as well. We know that a lot of farmers come to town and spend a lot of money in the area.
“We always want to bring other income into the town.”
Livestock producer Leonard Vallance is not from the municipality, farming 10 kilometres west of the shire boundary.
Earlier this year Mr Vallance told North West Farmer he would spend over half a million dollars a year in the Swan Hill municipality due to travelling to the saleyards.
At the forum, Mr Vallance said he had spent $20,000 in the last fortnight, and if the SHRLE was to close he would have to take his business to Ballarat.
“We sell between 300 and 500 head a year, so I’m at the upper end of the people that supply cattle here, and it’s a very good market,” he said.
“Pre-sale weighing gives complete transparency to the buyer and seller of the product, and it should be maintained.”
Only around a fifth of the livestock that passes through the saleyards is from
municipality, according to a graph from
the
Swan Hill Rural City Council. PICTURE: Edmund Coleman
Matt Rowlands speaks at the Swan Hill town hall forum. PICTURE: Edmund Coleman
Overseas workers needed
By Peter Bannan
THE Federal Government can’t guarantee when muchneeded workers from Vietnam will land on Mallee farms.
Member for Mallee Anne Webster recently met with Nathan Falvo from Orchard Tech, a leading agricultural and horticultural contract management company based in Robinvale.
“Orchard Tech have done all the work to secure workers from the former Coalition government’s deal with Vietnam to bring in 50 much-needed workers,“ she said.
“Vietnamese workers were expected in the region by now, but Labor has hit the brakes, and it may be 2026 before Orchard Tech welcomes them to Robinvale.“
In a letter sent to Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Dr Webster said Orchard Tech was at a “critical“ stage in planning for their next growing season and if Vietnam Labour Mobility Agreement workers could not be secured soon, they would have “to go to great expense to revise their workforce supply efforts“.
Ms Wong said the government had worked to “ensure our VLMA recruitment practices are conducted with transparency and integrity, as set out under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme”.
“Conducting recruitment in Vietnam comes with range of risk factors that need to be adequately mitigated before recruitment can progress,” she said in response.
“The removal of two recruitment agents from the program in June following legal investigations by the
Vietnamese Government resulted in further delays, and highlighted the integrity risks that we continue to seek to mitigate.”
Ms Wong said the government remained committed to “honouring the spirit” of the agreement with Vietnam and identifying labour mobility pathways that fulfil the objectives of employers, workers, and partners in Vietnam.
“I appreciate the difficulty recruitment delays pose to Australian VLMA employers,” she said.
“There remains the option to recruit workers from one of the 10 partner countries in the PALM scheme.
“More specifically, the Timor-Leste-Australia Labour Mobility and Skills Partnership is now underway, aimed at assisting Timor-Leste to achieve 10,000 workers in the PALM scheme over the next several years.”
Mr Falvo said growers were caught in a “crisis“ as delays threaten productivity, profitability and the cost of food on supermarket shelves.
Under the scheme, up to 1000 Vietnamese workers were due to arrive during the next 12 months, spread across 20 approved employers who could each recruit 50 workers. But, despite the framework already being in place –modelled on the long-running PALM scheme – the rollout has been paused indefinitely.
Mr Falvo said the decision made little sense at a time when farmers and families were battling rising costs.
“It’s ironic ... there’s been an economic reform roundtable, and part of the solution to help farmers
would be to get these Vietnamese workers into the country,“ he said.
Mr Falvo said employers had already gone through the expensive and time-consuming process of preparing recruitment plans when the pause was suddenly announced.
“As an approved employer, we’re a little bit confused,“ he said.
“It’s actually using the same framework as the current seasonal worker program with the Pacific Islands, which has been running successfully for 10 years.
“In my eyes, it’s quite simple to facilitate this.“
The consequences, he warned, were not limited to growers.
“This affects our business, our clients and ultimately the consumer,“ Mr Falvo said.
“If a grower can produce a product at a better cost, then it’s cheaper for the mum and dad at the supermarket.
“Everyone is trying to make their business or household as cost-effective as possible, and it’s no different for farming.“
Mr Falvo said northern Victoria needed productive workers, particularly in industries like citrus, table grapes and stone fruit.
“The Vietnamese are well suited,“ he said.
“They come from a developing country where if you don’t work, you don’t earn.
“They’ve got skills in farming and manufacturing –they’re productive, nimble workers who want to be here.”
Beef up, dairy down in local bovine mixed bag
By Alistair Finlay
AGRIBUSINESS market advisor Rabobank has issued mixed local guidance for beef and dairy producers d espite strong global conditions for both commodities.
In two recent reports, spokespeople for the rural banking and farm finance provider said milk production is set to fall nationally, but there’s good seasonal conditions for meat.
“Given current Australian cattle inventory and seasonal conditions, we believe production volumes will continue at current levels, allowing exports to maintain their strong volumes,” RaboResearch senior animal proteins analyst Angus Gidley-Baird.
The Australian beef market is underpinned by increasing export volumes to the end of July to key markets including China - up 43 per cent, the United States - up 23 percent, and South Korea - up nine per cent.
“Global cattle prices keep rising as global production volumes are contracting,” Mr Gidley-Baird said.
“Imports from Brazil into the US were up 107 per cent compared to last year in the first half of 2025, but higher tariffs will have a material impact on the trade between Brazil and the US.
“In Europe, the tight market is also attracting higher imports.
“Northern hemisphere countries continue to stand out at record prices, but prices in the US and Canada moderated in July, suggesting some of the heat is going out of the market.
“The reduced volumes of beef in the North American market, plus what appears to be a slight improvement in the Chinese market have generated stronger demand for southern hemisphere beef suppliers.
PICTURE: File
“This demand is now flowing through to cattle prices.”
At the same time global milk and dairy markets were also trending up overall, but a continued drop in Australian production was limiting the ability of local producers to truly capitalise on the conditions.
RaboResearch senior dairy analyst Michael Harvey predicted Australian volume could drop 1.7 per cent for the 2025/26 season, with total milk production at 8.05 billion litres.
He also said the forecast reduction was due in part to drought impacted feed supply issues and a smaller overall milking herd.
“This included the western districts of Victoria, where production dropped more than five
per cent,” he said. “Unfavourable conditions also dragged production lower in eastern Victoria and Tasmania.”
With some increase in rainfall in some areas during winter and that trend expected to continue into spring, Mr Harvey there was some hope of a volume rebound.
“However, soil moisture is still an issue with more rainfall needed, and feed shortages are expected to persist,“ he said.
“Positively, though, above-average rainfall is forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology across many regions over the next three months.
“Strong demand for supplementary feed to bridge winter feed gaps, combined with limited supply, has pushed hay prices higher in 2025. And prices are expected to remain at higher levels for some time.”
In some good news for those who can milk, farmgate prices are up, and exports for value added products like butter, and skim and whole milk powders are booming.
“Across Australia’s southern export region, 2025/26 farmgate prices are around 10 per cent higher than last season’s closing prices, at AUD 9.00/kgMS or higher,” Mr Harvey said.
“Australian cheddar cheese exports increased 26.4 per cent last season, reaching 30,639 metric tonnes.“
While Australian production levels are down, other markets are increasing production volume, with Rabobank forecasting rises from New Zealand, the EU, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, and the US, despite reducing dairy consumption in places like China.
“Going forward the global market appears well supplied,” Mr Harvey said. “If demand picks up gradually, it should be enough to counter the volume without overwhelming the market, although we could still see some downside pressure on prices in the short term.”
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Monitoring network established
By Almonds Australia chief executive
Tim Jackson
THE Almond Board of Australia’s Sunraysia regional meeting was held earlier this month, providing valuable information about grower priorities for the industry that will be incorporated into a new strategic plan for both the ABA and Hort Innovation.
Sunraysia has the highest level of damage caused by carpophilus beetle and some in the industry estimate losses have exceeded $20 million, so it’s vital that solutions are found to combat this problem as soon as possible.
In the past year, a carpophilus beetle monitoring network was established to gather more data about this tiny pest that likes to feed on almond kernels.
Participating growers have been trapping the beetles and these samples have been provided to scientists at Agriculture Victoria for analysis.
The trapping has been made possible by the development of an attract and kill lure by AgVic researchers based in the Sunraysia.
This trap has allowed researchers to better understand the habits of the beetle and growers to gauge the extent of the problem across their orchards.
More than 500 traps will be used across the industry this year to add further data to the researcher in order to commercialise the trap and
make it widely available to growers.
Researchers estimate that the trap can reduce carpophilus beetle damage by between 50 and 60 per cent using this technique and could be a key tool in the management of the pest in years ahead.
Australian growers will get priority access to this product when it is released, given this work has been co-funded using the almond industry research and development levy funds.
The Almond Board of Australia is also in the process of planning a carpophilus beetle spray trial at the Almond Centre of Excellence, using products from three chemical companies.
Pollination
SUNRAYSIA growers also reported a successful pollination during August.
Sourcing enough strong hives wasn’t easy this year, with summer bushfires, drought and varroa mite all having an impact on bee health.
Thankfully the weather in August was mostly warm and sunny, prompting bees to leave their hives and fly around the almond orchards.
It is a critical component in the almond life cycle as almonds are virtually 100 per cent reliant on bees to strike a crop each year.
Growers were also asked to provide feedback on key issues faced on farm as the Almond Board develops its next five-year strategic plan.
Currently, there are 29 research and development projects being funded using the grower levies and co-funded through the Federal Government.
These projects receive dollar for dollar cofunding and are administered by the industry’s RDC, Hort Innovation.
Of these, 18 are specifically for the almond industry, while 11 are multi-industry projects.
The industry has a range of identified priorities, including managing carpophilus as well as developing a self-fertile variety for Australian conditions.
The ABA team at the Mildura meeting received feedback on issues such as ensuring all budwood supplied for new trees was virus free and ensuring enough resources were being dedicated to address the damage caused by pests such as carpophilus and carob moth.
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A carpophilus beetle trap is currently being trialled with the aim of making the product available to growers Picture: Supplied
Caged eggs to remain
Peter Bannan
SUPERMARKET giant Coles has shelved plans to scrap caged eggs until 2030 – and farmers say it’s the right call, warning the nation’s egg supply is hanging by a feather.
The Victorian Farmers Federation said the recent bird flu outbreaks that wiped out flocks across the country prove Australia needs caged, barn and free-range systems working together to keep cartons on supermarket shelves.
VFF Egg Group president Brian Ahmed didn’t mince words, warning that abandoning cages too soon could leave Aussie families paying the price.
“The harsh reality is recent bird flu outbreaks decimated egg supplies across the country and it won’t be for the last time,” Mr Ahmed said.
“Our biosecurity safety net is good, but due to the nature of migrating wild birds, we can’t
stop everything.”
He said caged systems were often the last line of defence in a crisis.
“In times of bird flu outbreaks, caged egg systems are vital to ensuring a reliable supply of eggs across Australia,” Mr Ahmed said.
“A phase-out of caged eggs only accelerates the uncertainty for farmers, disrupts supplies, and puts massive pressure on food affordability for consumers.”
The VFF demanded that both government and big retailers sat down with farmers to find a balance between welfare, viability and affordability.
“We encourage retailers and policymakers to work closely with farmers to ensure that animal welfare standards improve, without compromising farm viability or consumer access to affordable eggs,” Mr Ahmed said.
But the warning wasn’t just for supermarkets
and ministers – backyard chook owners were being urged to step up their own defences.
“Migratory birds from all over the world begin arriving en-masse during spring, which increases the risk of foreign diseases such as bird flu landing on our shores,” Mr Ahmed said.
“We’ve seen how damaging bird flu can be and I’m encouraging everyone to have a biosecurity plan in place and alert authorities if your birds become sick.
“Biosecurity is a shared responsibility between everyone and is a vital defence to protect both our industry and the natural environment.”
Making a positive impact
THE most important news of the month is that super Sally has won a Nuffield scholarship! If you have never heard about it, it’s an Australia wide agricultural scholarship where you are given $40,000 and told to go travel the world, learn, then come back and share. Nuffield are looking for people that are going
to make a positive impact on Australian agriculture - Sally does that, and will continue to do so.
We would average a school group through our farm once a week for the year, and Sally gives her time freely, willingly and joyfully.
She loves dairy farming with a passion, and that would make no sense to your average bear of sound mind.
Whilst this is great for Sally, as always, it’s all about me.
How on earth am I going to manage a farm, factory, do all the irrigating and kid wrangle five wombats for two or three months while she gallivants around the globe?
The answer is, I can’t, something will have to give.
I did suggest we consider a beautiful blonde
Scandinavian au pair but this only received lukewarm support, actually, no support.
Luckily the boys are all handy in the kitchen.
The right answer will present itself and if it doesn’t I will lose what remains of my hair.
Raff who is 15 looked up from reading the other day and said: ’Dad have you ever considered that if you had nits they would be homeless!’ and without further comment or even a smile returned to his book.
In other breaking news on a much smaller scale, my pallet wrapper and semi-automatic carton taper should arrive in a few days.
The bottle labeller for the chocolate milk is only three or four weeks away and the gas boiler is on site awaiting installation and commissioning.
The milk separator is in the factory looking
for someone with some brains (above my pay grade) to connect it to the system and make it work.
I waited three months for the homogeniser to get rebuilt, the variable speed drive blew up the first day and then we didn’t know the pressure gauge was faulty and we ran it at too high a pressure and it blew out the brand new seals that came from England, so it’s back on the bench. The chiller unit is actually working and chilling, it’s just not fully connected to the things I need to chill yet.
I have all these awesome bits of kit staring at me daily and I stare back and say: ’Hey I’ve paid for you so do the decent thing and start working’, but they are not co-operating thus far – maybe they see right through me and know it was the bank that paid and not me!
SWAN HILL CHEMICALS
The VFF has warned that abandoning cages too soon could leave Aussie families paying the price. Picture: File
DAIRY with PAUL BETHUNE
Adding value for dairy farmers
Peter Bannan
STANDING among 18 of the nation’s most promising agricultural leaders at Adelaide Oval, Lake Boga dairy farmer Sally Bethune admitted she felt “excited“, although it was “a tiny bit nerve-wracking” as she was named one of Nuffield Australia’s 2026 scholars.
Ms Bethune, who runs a 1000-cow crossbred dairy herd, irrigated cropping, a 500-head beef/ dairy herd and her family’s processing business Bethune Lane Dairy, will use her scholarship to study the “keys to success in value adding for dairy farmers”.
“We started value-adding to take some risk out of dairy farming, which is notoriously volatile,” she said.
“Other farmers often ring us up asking for advice, and what I’d really like to do is collect global information so I can say, ‘here are the motivations, challenges and keys to success,’ rather than just sharing my own experience.”
Over the next 18 months, Ms Bethune will travel for 15 weeks across the globe, beginning with a week in Canberra next March and then Japan, where she will meet up to 90 international Nuffield scholars.
She plans to visit the UK, Canada and Scandinavia to investigate whether valueadding enterprises truly improve farm profitability, sustainability, and succession.
Belgium, she admitted with a laugh, “is definitely tempting” given her own family’s successful chocolate milk line.
Bethune Lane Dairy began with cheese before expanding into fresh milk, yoghurt and, most recently, its signature Belgian Chocolate + Milk drink.
The business is now in a growth phase, with new equipment and an expanded “milk enhancement centre” boosting production capacity.
“We’re looking forward to getting our chocolate milk further out there so more people can enjoy it — hopefully into more
Melbourne outlets soon,” Ms Bethune said.
Her Nuffield research aligns with the Dairy Industry Sustainability Framework and the Australian Dairy Plan, and she hopes to build a practical framework to guide farmers weighing up value-adding opportunities.
“Sustainability isn’t just environmental — it’s triple bottom line,” she said.
“You have to be profitable, plan for succession, and take your responsibilities to community and environment seriously.
“That’s how you stay in business.”
For Ms Bethune, sustainability also means creating opportunities for the next generation to stay in farming.
She and her husband currently employ two school-based apprentices, both keen to learn dairying.
“It’s exciting to see young people interested in milking cows,” she said.
“But the onus is on us to be good employers and create career pathways, whether they want to own a farm or manage someone else’s.”
Ms Bethune also sees rural housing shortages and community strength as key factors in keeping families on the land.
“If a partner comes from the city, moving to a rural area can feel isolating,” she said.
“Communities are what keep people together — and we have to work hard to make them welcoming and vibrant.”
Ms Bethune joins 18 other scholars from every state and territory, all announced under the theme “be curious, drive change”.
Each receives a bursary worth tens of thousands of dollars to study world-leading agricultural practices.
For Ms Bethune, the experience is about both learning from others and giving back.
“We’ve learned some valuable lessons through value-adding — sometimes the hard way,” she said.
“It would be great if I can help others avoid the costly mistakes while giving them confidence to explore opportunities.”
Bethune Lane Dairy began with cheese before expanding into fresh milk, yoghurt and, most recently, its signature Belgian Chocolate + Milk drink. Picture: Supplied
Mallee crops turn the corner
Peter Bannan
QUAMBATOOK grain grower Brett Hosking says the Mallee’s cropping season has been a mixed bag, with fortunes changing district by district as crops move into the critical spring period.
“It depends on where you are,” Mr Hosking said.
“West of the Calder Highway it’s drying out quickly, and around Murrayville and into South Australia you can see sandhills exposed and crops lacking vigour.
“But east of the Calder, conditions have generally been kinder.”
With most crops now in the ground and maturing, Mr Hosking said growers were weighing up their options — particularly where frost has bitten.
“Some are making decisions about whether barley or wheat will go through to harvest, or whether it makes more sense to cut for hay,” he said.
“In the Wimmera, I’ve heard of growers cutting after frost damage, but it’s not widespread.”
Canola is shaping as one of the better performers, while lentils are holding steady in both yield outlook and pricing.
“Wheat and barley markets have softened as global supplies look plentiful, but lentils have probably held their ground better than most,” Mr Hosking said.
On the pest and disease front, he said the region had been fortunate.
“We’ve seen a bit of native budworm pressure, but most growers have treated oilseeds and pulses.
“Disease levels have been mild compared to other years — stripe rust has been talked about, but I haven’t actually seen any in our paddocks.
“The dry sunny conditions have kept things in check.”
Labour for harvest remains another focus.
Mr Hosking, who is the Victorian Farmers Federation president, said the VFF Grains Council had already met with GrainCorp.
“They’re recruiting quite aggressively, and so are
other bulk handlers,” he said.
“We want to make sure we don’t face the worker shortages we’ve seen in the past.”
At Speed, grower Phil Down said 2024 had delivered one of the sharpest turnarounds he had ever seen.
“Up until July it was dire — by my records the second or third driest year since 1982,” he said.
“Some growers were even drier than ’82, which is still the benchmark bad year.
“But a 5mm rain in July completely shifted things, and the follow-ups since have been enough to turn
clays and lighter sands remain behind.
“Practices like dry sowing and storing summer moisture have made a huge difference,” Mr Down said.
“If this season happened 30 years ago, we’d still be in real trouble.
“Now even small rains can be capitalised on.”
Canola has surprised some after a slow start.
“It looked average all year, but patience has paid off — with the kind spring we’ve had, it’s coming through,” Mr Down said.
“The cool, mild days and little bits of drizzle have been ideal.”
Frost, however, remains the main concern.
“We had decent frost a fortnight ago,” Mr Down said.
“Around home it caused minor damage, but there are reports of cereals being cut for hay.
“With hay sheds empty and prices reasonable, it’s an option more growers are considering.”
Despite sub-par rainfall — Speed has had about 165mm for the year, with 130mm in the growing season — Mr Down said the outlook was “far better than expected”.
“My thinking has shifted from this being a decile three season to closer to a decile seven,” he said.
“If we can avoid a hot spell and have another good rain before mid-October, we’ll finish with average cereals and maybe slightly below-average legumes.”
He said local adoption of newer cereal and pulse varieties was also giving growers more confidence to chase higher yields.
it around.
“I can hardly remember a bigger turnaround.”
He said the contrast across the district was striking.
“North of Ouyen, they’re talking about their best year ever and cutting massive hay crops, but south of Ouyen it’s very different,” Mr Down told North West Farmer.
“Even 10km apart, you can see a completely different story.”
Around his own patch east of Speed, cereals on sandy loam soils are looking excellent, though
“The Mallee can produce more than we used to believe — people are prepared to feed crops harder now because they know it will pay them back,” Mr Down said.
Mr Down added that the lift in prospects was already flowing through to local towns.
“The optimism is noticeable compared to four months ago,” he said.
“It ripples through businesses, schools and families.
“Agriculture drives the whole district — when the outlook improves, the whole community feels it.”
Grapevines kick into gear
WINE GRAPES with COLIN FREE
SPRING is here and the grapevines are kicking into gear for another season.
The Chardonnay received their first spray last week and other varieties are starting to burst. There is plenty of slashing to be done and the planting of a replacement patch after removing a patch of Shiraz.
The hardest task is selling next year’s crop. I might need a magic wand I reckon, to change the minds of the many winery contacts I have been harassing.
The few warmer days are pretty good after a pretty cool winter and I’m looking forward to more of the warm stuff.
The creatures were out and about during the 8mm of rain on Tuesday.
The snails were racing around and when they came to a puddle they would go straight through it, the snorkel type eyes were handy so they could still see where they were going.
I’m not sure how they were breathing but if you got up close, they sounded like little outboard motors as they motored through the puddles.
The lizards have woken up from their winter hibernation and are out stretching their legs, doing the yoga thing and feeling hungry.
Newly washed snails are a great feed, and the lizards find that if they back up to a few snails and do the wind passing thing and quickly whip around and have a big sneeze, the resulting flame and minor explosion is akin to a quick air frying/ microwave meal.
Canola is shaping up to be one of the better performers this season. Picture: Michelle Brady
Young Chardonnay shoots have begun to emerge.
Sustainable farming plan launched
Patrick Tucker
MALLEE Sustainable Farming (MSF) has launched a new 10-year Strategic Plan which aims to transform dryland agriculture across the Mallee.
Backed by more than 25 years of farmer-led innovation, the 2025 to 2035 Strategic Plan cements MSF’s role as a national leader in sustainable farming and rural resilience.
Unveiled alongside a refreshed visual identity, the plan sets a clear course to boost productivity, enhance environmental stewardship, and strengthen community connection across the low-rainfall regions.
At its heart, the plan seeks to improve farm efficiency, reduce input costs, and mitigate climate and market risks, while supporting the long-term sustainability of rural communities.
MSF chair Steve Burt said the strategy reflected a strong collaboration with farmers and stakeholders to define the region’s future.
“This plan is about more than farming; it’s about shaping the future of our region,” Mr Burt said.
“We’ve listened closely to farmers and stakeholders.
“What we’ve created is a roadmap for sustainable, profitable and resilient farms and communities.”
Mr Burt acknowledged the various challenges facing Mallee growers, especially after a difficult season, marked by low rainfall.
“It’s been a really tough 12 months,” he said.
“Despite the conditions, we’ve seen farmers maintain groundcover, which has been critical in reducing soil erosion during what has been a diabolically dry year.”
The Strategic Plan is complemented by a Research Plan 2025 to 2035, which sets out a forward-looking agenda for practical, farmer-focused research.
The Research Plan outlines a strong focus on reducing reliance on herbicides, improving soil health and plant establishment, expanding the adoption of pulse crops across the region, and capitalising on new opportunities in carbon and emerging commodity markets.
MSF research manager Penny Roberts said the new approach built on existing work with cuttingedge data and tech.
“MSF will continue to deliver practical, independent, farmer-driven research that
supports decision-making in real-world conditions,” Dr Roberts said.
“We’re future-proofing farms through collaboration, insight and innovation.”
Mr Burt agreed, emphasising the importance of cutting-edge research and development in this next phase.
“It’s more critical than ever that farmers have access to the latest research and technology,” he said.
“We’ve gone from ploughing to zero-till, then GPS and now variable rate application.”
Mr Burt said the future was exciting with autonomous equipment, data-driven inputs, and
better varieties, especially in pulses like lentils, which were now thriving in Mallee conditions.
“Farmers here are highly conscious of their environmental footprint,” Mr Burt said.
“They want to farm profitably, but also sustainably and MSF is helping make that possible.”
The organisation also unveiled a refreshed brand identity, now live across its website and communications, reflecting a more modern and collaborative direction for MSF.
“I’m incredibly proud of what’s been achieved in the Mallee over the past 30 years,” Mr Burt said.
“And I’m excited about where we’re heading.
“MSF is part of something bigger. We’re helping farmers become not just food producers, but economic enablers and environmental stewards.”
In the face of climate volatility and shifting global markets, the new strategic direction represents a bold step forward for Mallee agriculture.
The Mallee Sustainable Farming Strategic plan has been launched.
The Mallee Sustainable Farming board tour at Mick Pole’s farm near Walpeup. Picture: Supplied
Red lentil days ahead for new big pulse
Alistair Finlay
BROADACRE farmers and a peak industry body are touting the benefits of a new red lentil variety.
Known as GIA Colombo, the large seeded red imidazolinone, or IMI, tolerant lentil is named after the Sri Lankan capital city where growers are aiming to create a key market for the pulse.
The lentil verity has been provisionally rated R/MR to ascochyta blight and MRMS to botrytis grey mould, with Grains Innovation Australia advising it’s good for growers in medial to high rainfall regions that have heavy soils. GIA Colombo could also be good for early sowing.
Grains Innovation Australia’s Victorian-based breeder Dr Michael Materne said the new lentil has benchmarked well against other verities.
“National variety trial (NVT) data showed the new variety stacked up well against industry benchmarks in a broad range of settings,” he said.
“The all Australia NVT predicted MET yield across 25 trials in 2023 and 2024 showed GIA Colombo to be the highest yielding of all the large and medium sized IMI red lentil varieties.
“We developed the variety from a PBA Jumbo2 lentil background, and it has a similar plant type and reaction to boron and salinity. It also has a moderate to good vegetative frost reaction and mid maturity rating, like PBA Jumbo2 and GIA Thunder.
“This makes GIA Colombo well suited to longer and more favourable growing season environments.”
A GIA South Australian-based breeder Dr Larn
McMurray praised the crop’s disease resistance.
“If growers do have concerns about diseases this variety will give them more confidence in managing their crop, particularly in seasons with a wetter spring,” he said.
“Fungicides are still required in crop, but less than for more susceptible varieties.
“Areas where lentil intensity is high and crop rotations tight will also find this variety useful to help minimise ascochyta infections.”
GIA Colombo will be sold via PBSeeds, and spokesperson Janine Sounness said there’s been strong interest in the new, large seed pulse.
“There will be plenty of seed available for the growers to sow in the 2026 season for growers interested in producing large lentils,” she said.
“The large lentil market isn’t as big in volume as the small size lentil market but at times large lentils can offer a premium price over small and medium types.
“GIA Colombo is well suited for the Sri Lankan market with its grey seed coat and seed size a little larger than PBA Kelpie and a little smaller than PBA Jumbo2.”
New large red lentil variety, GIA Colombo, was on display at the recent Birchip Cropping Group field day with Janine Sounness and Dr Jason Brand from Grains Innovation Australia on hand to talk about the pulse’s benefits. PICTURE: Supplied
Raising grape yields
Matt Wilson and Michael Treeby support the future of the dried grapes industry.
DRIED Fruits Australia is set to collaborate with SuniTAFE SMART Farm on a research project to improve Australia’s dried grape productivity.
The Dried Grape Production Systems project will run for six years comparing climate change-ready varieties on different trellis systems.
Researchers in the project are hoping to find the most profitable production system.
Mark King, DFA chair, said the findings would help support the future of the industry.
“DFA is once again looking to the future of the industry and what trellis system and varieties will
give growers the best opportunities to increase returns,” he said.
The six-year project is worth almost $900,000 and funded by the Hort Innovation Dried Grape Fund and Commonwealth contributions.
The trial will establish a one-hectare site on the SuniTAFE SMART Farm in Irymple, with SuniTAFE managing the day-to-day operations.
Matt Wilson, senior manager for the SMART FARM campus, said the project was planned to provide learning opportunities in student training.
“There may also be an opportunity to link in with student training into the future, so we can
encourage more emerging leaders to look at the dried fruits industry as a potential career path,” he said.
“Of all the commodity crops grown at the property, it’s probably been the most consistent in regards to financial returns over the years.”
DFA will co-ordinate forthcoming field walks on the site for industry workers to learn more about the project.
The SuniTAFE SMART Farm is set to research new grape plantings and production systems for grapes set to be dried. Pictures: Supplied
Lochlainn Heley
WE HAVE ALL YOUR WE HAVE ALL SPRAYER TYRE TYRE REPAIRS COVERED
The crew at Goodyear Curlewis Street have all your commercial tyre needs covered, from truck to tractor tyres and repairs – we do it all.
Stocking the biggest range of tyres in the area at competitive prices. With our on farm service truck, we have all your on site jobs and after hours call outs covered, we will keep you on the road or in the paddock.
Expression of Interest
Parish of Mumbel
Rising Mallee Loam Pipeline connected
Sown to Lentils (not included) Excellent chemical history
30km south/west of Swan Hill 12km east of Ultima
Expression of Interest to selling agent by Tuesday October 14th, 2025, by 10am.
Terms: 10% deposit on signing, balance 60/90 days with immediate working possession after harvest.
Annuello/Manangatang
3227 acres / 1305 hectares
Absolute Prime Mallee known as “McLeans” C/A 42 & 43 Parish of Geera
(concrete
of 2025
To be Auctioned on the 26th of September 2025 at the Swan Hill Club at 10am.
Terms: 10% deposit on signing, balance 12th of January 2026 with immediate working possession after
Expression of interest to the selling agent by Friday 3rd October 2025, by 10am.
Terms: 10% deposit on signing, balance 19th December 2025 with immediate working possession after harvest.
Agent Joe O’Reilly
M 0427 329 911 joreilly@brcagents.com.au
LIVESTOCK REPORT
with Matt Rowlands
Seasonal shift reflected in the yards
WITH spring now in full swing, livestock markets across the Mallee are showing strong demand for quality lambs, steady cattle values and renewed confidence among sheep breeders as major store sales approach.
Matt Rowlands, from Elders Swan Hill, said the seasonal shift was clearly reflected in the yards.
“Stock that have been looked after through the winter, whether it be grass or a bit of grain, are presenting for sale very well,” he said.
“Demand is still coming for wellfinished, heavy weight lambs, and the market is rewarding producers who have put the effort into feeding and management.”
Over the past fortnight, markets have begun to split on pricing depending on quality and weight. Secondary lambs, particularly those coming off simple paddock feed and lacking carcass finish, have been the most affected.
But grain-fed and well-finished pasture-fed lambs are still achieving excellent results, with sales ranging between $11.50 and $13.70 a kilo.
The Swan Hill Livestock Exchange held one of its biggest yardings of the season last Thursday, with around 10,500 sheep and lambs offered, including approximately 4000 new season suckers.
“The majority of lambs presented in very good condition with good weight, and that was reflected in prices,” Mr Rowlands said.
“Elders sold the top run of lambs for $380 a head on account of the Thompson family of Manangatang, and plenty of other lambs made between $11.50 and $13.70 a kilo.
“There was very keen buyer activity across the board.” Mutton values, which slipped slightly a fortnight ago, have since bounced back, improving by around $20 a
head.
Mr Rowlands said processors were still showing strong interest in mutton, partly because lamb supply remained tight.
“Processors have a real preference for mutton at the moment,” he said.
“It’s a combination of demand in the kill space and the fact that lamb supply is still short.
“That demand is keeping mutton prices very strong.”
Looking ahead, attention is turning to the spring store sheep sales, which are expected to draw large numbers and significant buying interest.
The Hay Store Sheep Sale this week will yard approximately 36,000 breeding sheep, followed by the Yelta Store Sale on October 15, Deniliquin on October 17, and Wycheproof on October 31.
“We’re expecting very good lines of Merino and first-cross breeding
ewes at those sales,” Mr Rowlands said.
“The current market gives people a great opportunity to purchase young sheep at very good changeover rates compared to what you can sell older ewes for.
“If you haven’t been in sheep for a couple of years, now is a really good time to get back in.
“On the basis of where lamb prices have been, buyers should be able to turn those ewes over for a profit within eight to 12 months.
“That’s a pretty exciting chance that doesn’t come around every year.”
The cattle market has also steadied, with good demand for heavier-weight animals destined for both the domestic and export kill, as well as feeders heading onto grain.
“The cow market has really recovered,” Mr Rowlands said.
“We’re seeing heavier rump and loin cows back into the $4 range.
“Processor demand is very strong and the outlook looks stable heading into spring and summer.
“Buyers are chasing heavy cattle, whether it’s for kill or to put on grain.”
Seasonal conditions remain mixed, with some paddocks beginning to dry off after lighterthan-expected recent rainfall.
“Feed is okay in most places, but the last couple of rains haven’t delivered great totals,” Mr Rowlands said.
“We’re starting to see some dryland country turn off, and it really depends on where you are.
“Areas that had better falls earlier in the year are holding up well, but others are beginning to feel the pinch.”
Despite the seasonal challenges, the overall outlook is positive for producers, with well-finished stock continuing to command premiums and store sheep sales tipped to attract strong competition.
Online Only Auction commencing 11am Saturday 11 October 2025 offering two individual lots: Lot 1 - 22.9ha/56.6ac* Includes improvements.Lot 2 - 23.9ha/59.1ac*
• Dual road frontage only 12km* to Swan Hill and 6km* to Lake Boga. Two conditional planning permits to build included.
• Unsurpassed improvements illustrated by 12m x 40m multipurpose machinery shed including lockable workshop and mezzanine floor, 3 bays concreted. Three phase power. Business ready!
• Hay/machinery shed. 2 stand shearing shed and yards. Stock proof fencing.
• Efficient easy-care irrigation layouts with fully recycled drainage. Fertile soils sown to barley.
• Goulburn Murray Water access and 1ML water with both lots. Mono solar pump for S&D water to Lot 1.
Simultaneous auction of both lots on AuctionsPlus. Registration essential to bid. Contact auctionsplus.com.au or agent for assistance.
*approx
Closing midday Wednesday 8 October 2025 at Elders Swan Hill
To be offered as three individual lots being:
• ‘Four Winds’ O’Brien Road, Ultima 256.58ha/634ac*
• ‘Dagges’ O’Brien Road, Ultima 257.91ha/ 637.3ac*
• Within close proximity and situated south of Ultima
• Magnificent undulating sandy loams under favoured rotations. All lots sown to Lentils. Growing crop not included.
• Secure Stock and Domestic from the Grampian Wimmera Mallee Pipeline System.
Details: EOI and Contracts available from Agent.
Terms: 10% deposit. Settlement 16 January 2026. Working access after harvest.
*approx
‘Anchorage’ 1208 Nowie Road, Nowie Vic
Consistent agronomic management favouring best farm practices Closing midday Friday 10 October 2025 at Elders Swan Hill To be offered as a whole and as two individual
• Situated only 29kms* from Swan Hill off the Waitchie Road in the renowned Nowie District.
• Secure Stock and Domestic from the Grampian Wimmera Mallee Pipeline System.
Lot 1 518.4ha/1,281ac*
• 3BR
• Two paddocks sown to Maximus barley. Wheat 2024. Lentils 2023. Lot 2 605.8ha/1497ac*
• Two paddocks sown to Lentils. Wheat 2024. Canola & Lentils 2023.
• Steel sheep yards and loading ramp.
Details: EOI and Contract available from agent.
Terms: 5/10% deposit. Settlement 16 January 2026. Growing crop not included. Working access after harvest.
*approx
Students experience a taste of farm life
By Peter Bannan
THE smell of hay, the buzz of bees, and the clatter of shearing blades set the scene at Kerang Technical High School last Thursday, as the grounds transformed into a hub of possibility for hundreds of students eager to explore what life in the agriculture industry could offer.
The school hosted its second agriculture industry careers expo, drawing exhibitors from Swan Hill, Cohuna, Kerang, and surrounding districts.
Designed to showcase the wide-ranging opportunities across the sector, the expo welcomed students from Kerang Technical High School, Cohuna Secondary College, Boort District School, Swan Hill College and St Mary MacKillop College.
From livestock to machinery, research to finance, every corner of agriculture was represented.
Exhibitors included stud beef cattle, goats, and sheep, while live demonstrations provided students with a rare chance to get hands-on.
Crowds gathered to watch pregnancy scanning of ewes, lamb marking and vaccination, shearing, and even tips on preparing stud cattle for the show ring.
The scope of industries on display was equally diverse, spanning agricultural engineering and machinery dealerships, veterinary services, apiarists (beekeeping specialists), rural merchandise suppliers, agricultural research organisations, agribusiness banking, registered training organisations and apprenticeship and employment services through HeadStart.
Adding extra spark to the day was the lunchtime Ag Olympics, a relay-style interschool showdown that pitted teams against each other in quirky farmthemed challenges.
Students dressed in PPE at speed, flipped tyres, stacked small hay bales, and raced to match agriculture terms with their images — all to raucous cheers from classmates.
In the end, Boort District School emerged
victorious, proudly claiming the 2025 title.
Behind the fun and hands-on learning sat a serious message about the industry’s future.
VET Agriculture teacher Krystal Grills told students the sector was more important than ever.
“With the global population continuing to rise, the demand for food and fibre is increasing rapidly,” she said.
“This highlights the need for efficient and sustainable production methods.
“There will always be employment opportunities in agriculture — whether it’s in engineering, livestock, information technology, marketing, transport, or horticulture. The list is endless.”
Ms Grills said she hoped the expo would encourage students to see agriculture not just as farming, but as an industry brimming with diverse career paths, networks, and opportunities.
She also underlined how vital it was for local businesses to connect with potential future employees, noting the community benefited from those relationships.
“We are incredibly grateful to all the exhibitors who helped make this day such a success,” Ms Grills said.
“It’s through these collaborative efforts that we can open students’ eyes to the vast potential within the agriculture industry and encourage them to consider futures in this vital sector.”
This was only the second year the expo has been held — an idea sparked when Ms Grills, inspired by events at other agricultural colleges, decided she could do something similar, but with a local twist.
“A lot of my students said, ‘You could do this, but probably better,’” she said.
“So, I decided I’d have a crack.
“There’s a lot of planning involved — I’m the only one who organises it — but once you build that rapport with local industry, it gets a bit easier.”
Kerang Technical High School students were thrown into the world of ag last week.
PICTURES: Tracy Roberts
Forest Fire Management Victoria was on hand to show students life in the organisation.
Students enjoyed the expo, while learning about the various career paths the industry offered.
Students compete in the ag Olympics.
Tired students gave it their all as they competed in agricultural-themed challenges throughout the day.
Students were intrigued by the pregnancy scanning technology.
WEATHER
Warnings Information at www.bom.gov.au/vic/warnings or Ph: 1300 659 210 (local call cost)
Mallee Forecast
Mallee
Mostly sunny. Medium chance of showers. Winds northerly 15 to 20 km/h turning westerly 25 to 35 km/h during the morning. Saturday. Cloudy. Slight chance of a shower. Winds westerly 20 to 30 km/h.
Victoria
Isolated showers, tending more scattered about southern and mountain parts. Possible storms about the northeast. Moderate to fresh and gusty northerly winds, tending westerly from the west during the day. A mild day, with temperatures near average, although becoming cooler in the west.
Saturday. Scattered showers about southern and mountain parts, isolated showers elsewhere, although remaining mostly dry in the far northwest and southeast. Small hail in the south. Showers falling as snow above 900m. A cold day with below average temperatures. Moderate west to southwesterly winds, fresh about the coast.
Recent rainfall has delivered a welcome lift to storage levels in the Southern Basin. As of Wednesday 17 September, Southern storages are sitting at 70% capacity, down from 81% at the same time last year. However, the trend marks a positive response amid otherwise below-average conditions.
The increased water availability is already feeding into optimism around future allocations. On Monday, 15 September, Victorian Murray High Reliability entitlement holders received a 13% boost to their allocations. Based on current outlooks, they remain on track to achieve 100% allocation by February 2026.
In contrast, the Victorian Goulburn/Loddon system received a more modest 3% increase. A result of limited rainfall and subdued inflows into Eildon. The announcement triggered a sharp rise in market activity, as many irrigators who had held off buying in anticipation of rainfall re-entered the market. This has underpinned an uptick in temporary allocation prices, which are expected to remain firm in the absence of significant rainfall on the forecast horizon.
In New South Wales, the Murrumbidgee market remains closed for trade to the Murray. Steady rain events in the region have helped maintain stable demand and pricing. General security holders received a 6% allocation increase, bringing the cumulative total to 27%, with average carryover, general security entitlements are sitting around 43%. While planting decisions for cotton and rice in the Riverina are still pending, next month’s allocation update will likely play a decisive role.
NSW Murray General Security entitlements
received a much-needed 5% lift, taking their total to 10%, complemented by carryover estimates their average account balance is around 45% of entitlement.
Encouragingly, the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) has forecast an additional 460–560 GL of inflows to Menindee Lakes by the end of October. If realised, this could provide critical operational flexibility and support further allocation increases for NSW Murray general security holders later in the season.
Meanwhile, the permanent entitlement market continues to show strength, particularly in High Security and High Reliability classes.
The Aboriginal Water Entitlement Program also
remains open, offering another pathway for interested sellers.
We’re also fielding increased interest in Expression of Interest (EOI) 1, with the latest update from the department confirming ongoing collaboration with South Australia, Victoria, and NSW Irrigation Infrastructure Operators (IIOs). The aim is to assess the opportunities and risks for progressing to future stages. Once a position is agreed upon, further updates will be provided outlining the trading strategy and next steps for EOI 1.
As always, for reliable advice and assistance navigating the current water market, contact your local Ruralco Water Broker.
