In a move set to send ripples through the rodeo world like a record-breaking barrel race, the iconic Mount Isa Mines Rodeo has announced the biggest prize pool in its 66-year history, making the 2025 event a recordbreaker.
And those big bucks mean big names, and even bigger rides and runs. COVERAGE PAGES 4-5
By Nationals Leader David Littleproud
After careful consideration, The Nationals have agreed that now is not the right time to enter a federal Coalition Agreement with the Liberal Party.
During the last term of Parliament, The Nationals fought hard for a package of sensible and important policies that will benefit regional Australia and the future of our nation.
These were adopted as Coalition policies and
were strongly supported by local communities.
Following discussions with the leader of the Liberal Party, we do not have the assurance we need that these policies will be honoured in a future Coalition Agreement.
The Nationals cannot in good conscience walk away from our commitments to regional Australia. We will not walk away from the $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund, which would provide up to $1 billion extra funding every year for regional projects, from improving access to better
health, child and aged care, through to fixing local roads and building new sporting facilities.
We will not walk away from ‘big stick’ divestiture competition laws that keep the big supermarkets honest and deliver fairer prices for farmers at the farmgate and families at the checkout.
We will not walk away from an improved Universal Service Obligation for communications, forcing a better minimum standard for regional mobile and internet access.
We will not walk away from the potential of
nuclear power as a necessary element of a balanced energy mix that secures Australia’s energy security.
The Nationals’ Party Room does not take this decision lightly.
It is made without malice. When the Liberal Party is ready, our door will be open.
We will always stand up for regional Australians and the policies that will take our nation forward.
MORE ON THE SPLIT, PAGE 3
AgForce has announced that its chief executive officer Michael Guerin will step down from his leadership role later in 2025.
The organisation will shortly start the process of looking for his replacement to ensure a smooth transition to the new appointee later this year.
Shane McCarthy, General President of AgForce paid tribute to Michael’s strong contribution and leadership in his eight years in the role and his substantial impact on the organisation and industry during this time.
“Michael has been our longest serving CEO and leaves the organisation in strong shape and with our collective best wishes,” Mr McCarthy said.
“He leaves knowing the organisation is in a great position thanks to the many pivotal deci-
sions and achievements he made in his time at the helm.
“The growth of AgCarE from what started as an idea at an AgForce incubator to a world leading program that enables farmers to capitalise on their natural capital assets is a great credit to his leadership. So much so that he personally took it to the World Farmers Organisation in Geneva to tell them about how it’s success could be applied around the world.
“The battle to save the Great Artesian Basin from mining was also largely led by Michael and the protections it now enjoys are a credit to his leadership in that difficult space.
“Other main achievements such as the launch of the AgForce Training Joint Venture and a significant influence on national policy matters in areas such as EPBC Act reform attest to the depth
and breadth of his accomplishments”
Michael Guerin said it had been an absolute privilege to lead such a powerful and purposeful organisation that truly represented Queensland farmers across a diverse range of agricultural industries.
“Producers are an amazing group of people, they play a critical role in food and fibre security and are the unsung heroes in environmental management,“ Mr Guerin said.
“They form a critical element of the social fabric of regional and rural Australia and deserve a strong voice in decision making circles where they have much to offer.
“I’m proud that I was able to help their collective voice to be heard that much louder in critical government decisions about their future.”
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By Queensland Farmers’ Federation
Australians headed to the polls this month to cast their vote in the 2025 federal election, with the Australian Labor Party and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed to return to government.
Queensland agriculture’s message to all levels of government remains clear: the food and agriculture sector requires strategic focus.
From food security to regional development, from water management to workforce and energy reform – these are national issues and they require strong agricultural policy at their core.
Queensland has played a key role in this election. This election followed an incredibly challenging period for Queenslanders, who have faced three major flood events to date this year. Communities across the north, south-east and south-west have been focused on recovery and rebuilding and, for many, responding to immediate community needs understandably took precedence over the past few months.
Despitethis,theimportanceofQueensland agriculture gained traction during the campaign on a number of fronts. These included bipartisan commitments to develop a national food security plan – an important step towards recognising food production as a national priority, investment in the mental health of farming communities and support for improved on-farm safety initiatives.
While these commitments are welcome, there are key issues still requiring urgent collective action at both the state and federal level.
Many of Queensland’s farmers operate small businesses and are finding it increasingly difficult to navigate continually chang-
ing labour laws. Reform in this area must be a priority if we are serious about ensuring a sustainable agriculture sector.
The future success of Queensland agriculture depends on long-term investment and coordinated planning in regional housing, roads and digital connectivity – essential foundations for thriving regional economies to support the agriculture sector.
Queensland is the most weather-affected state in Australia. The frequency and severity of recent natural disasters demand a step change in how we manage risk and prepare for extreme weather. While we do well in some areas, there is a clear opportunity for the federal and state governments to work together on a smarter, more proactive approach to disaster preparedness, resilience and response.
With the election now behind us, it is important that we now get on with it. An effective working relationship between the Queensland Government and the returned Federal Labor Government is essential. The Crisafulli and Albanese governments have already shown that they can work together – as demonstrated by their joint commitment earlier this year to long-overdue Bruce Highway upgrades.
We now call on both levels of government to extend that spirit of cooperation to other key policy areas that matter to our farmers and regional communities including the environment, water management, workforce, infrastructure and biosecurity.
Queensland is one of Australia’s fastest growing states. The state’s agriculture sector is vital to national food security, regional employment, economic growth and Australian consumers. Now is the time for leadership, vision and action.
Tiny Thallon makes a big splash Who says size matters? Certainly not Thallon, a tiny town of just 50 residents in south west Queensland that is now strutting its stuff as a finalist in the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Top Tourism Town Awards.
Yes, that Thallon, where sheep outnumber people and the silo murals are more famous than the mayor.
Initially, some may question how a town with less residents than your average city coffee queue landed on the tourism map. But, that’s exactly its charm. In Thallon, what you see is what you get. It’s proudly authentic, unabashedly rural and home to one of the most Instagrammable silo artworks in Australia — a towering tribute to the land and its people.
Let’s be honest: part of the magic is how quickly you can “do” Thallon. Coffee at the local pub? Check. Selfie with the silo? Check. Sunset over the paddocks? Check. And, just like that, you’re no longer a tourist, you’re practically a local!
Thallon’s nomination is a win for every underdog town with a big heart and a cracking good coffee shop. It reminds us that you don’t need roller coasters or luxury resorts to be memorable. Sometimes, all it takes is a warm smile, a cold beer and a stunning outback sky.
So, hats off to you Thallon. May your 50-strong population party like it’s 1999. And, may the rest of us be lucky enough to pass through before Queensland’s best kept secret is out.
- Fiona Gowers
By Andrew Brown and Dominic Giannini, AAP
The man who led the Nationals during its last divorce from the Liberals believes the coalition partners will eventually reunite.
Ian Sinclair was leader of the Nationals during the coalition’s five-month split in 1987, which was triggered by then-Queensland premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen’s push to enter federal parliament.
The ’Joh for Canberra’ campaign drove a wedge through conservative politics and collapsed without widespread support.
Mr Sinclair is confident the latest trial separation will not last forever, saying a split after an election wasn’t unusual and issues would eventually be resolved.
“It has happened before and will happen again,“ the 95-year-old said.
“It’s quite a healthy thing.“
Party leader David Littleproud pulled the Nationals out of the coalition after Liberal Leader Sussan Ley said she couldn’t commit to four policy demands, including keeping nuclear power as part of an energy policy.
Ms Ley didn’t reject the policies, but said she couldn’t commit to anything before her party had a chance to have an open discussion about policy after a massive election defeat on 3 May.
Mr Littleproud and Ms Ley say their doors are open for renegotiating a coalition.
But Liberal sources believe the Nationals weren’t serious about signing a deal as they pushed for a demand they knew couldn’t be met.
This also included Mr Littleproud becoming deputy opposition leader rather than the Liberals’ second-in-command.
Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie said the policy impasse was the only thing her party room considered when deciding to leave.
But she tiptoed around whether a demand had been made for Nationals in shadow cabinet to vote against coalition policy.
Members of shadow cabinet - made up of both Liberals and Nationals when the coalition are in opposition - must vote in line with determined policy positions to show solidarity.
Asked if Mr Littleproud could have inserted the clause in his list of demands, Senator McKen-
zie told the ABC’s 7.30 program, “there are a lot of conversations about what might be part of a broader coalition agreement if we could get past the first gate“.
But a spokesman for Ms Ley said it wasn’t correct to suggest cabinet solidarity wasn’t an issue.
“We have in writing that it was a requirement from their leader’s office to ours,“ he said, although the letter hasn’t been released publicly.
Senator McKenzie acknowledged a consequence of the split would be her Senate spot was at risk at the 2028 election as the Nationals run
on a joint ticket with the Liberals in some states, including her home of Victoria.
The same is true for Nationals senator Ross Cadell in NSW.
Without a combined vote, the Nationals could struggle to get the quotas needed in each state to retain their seats when they don’t run candidates in metropolitan areas.
“Bearing in mind that those decisions and those negotiations are part of our state bodies ... we were all cognisant of the risks and made our decision, irrespective,“ Senator McKenzie said.
By Arthur Gorrie
Tuesday’s historic Coalition split might ultimately be good for the National Party and for Australian politics, Gympie’s Wide Bay MP Llew O’Brien said this week.
His comments echoed those of National’s Senate leader Bridget McKenzie, who said the National Party would not walk away from policies “which only a few weeks ago we fought an election on.“
These included the Nationals’ call for divestiture powers to punish supermarket duopolies that “misuse their market power,“ nuclear power, a proposed Regional Australia Fund and con-
cerns about Telecom’s regional coverage.
Mr O’Brien said the split would hopefully give the Nationals “clear air (so) we don’t have to worry about how we fit in with the Liberals and we can focus on our policies and on Labor.“
He was hopeful the split would not affect Queensland politics, where the two parties have merged to form the LNP, and would not see Nationals and Liberals running against each other here.
Ms McKenzie said the Nationals would stick with calls for anti-trust laws to prevent abuses of market power by big supermarket chains.
On nuclear power, she asked: “Why in this
day and age, as an industrial power, we should not avail ourselves of the backyard we have of uranium, like the UK, the USA, France, to provide a reliable, sustainable, affordable, low emission energy source.“
Nationals leader David Littleproud said the two former Coalition parties had not been able to reach a new Coalition agreement.
He had relayed his party’s views to new Liberal leader Sussan Ley.
The call has gone out across the country: Mount Isa is upping the ante.
In a move set to send ripples through the rodeo world like a record-breaking barrel race, the iconic Mount Isa Mines Rodeo has announced the biggest prize pool in its 66-year history, making the 2025 event a record-breaker.
Organisers have confirmed that every single event — from saddle bronc and bull riding to steer wrestling and barrel racing — will offer more prize money than ever before.
That means higher stakes, fiercer competition and a serious drawcard for the country’s top riders.
Big bucks mean big names, and even bigger rides and runs.
All open events at the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo now have a $15,000 purse, with second division events at $2000 and junior events $500. The Indigenous Rodeo Championships now has a $2000 purse for senior events and $500 for junior.
“Bigger prize money means the best of the best will ride into town, bringing their A-game, their grit and their wildest rides,“ said Mark ‘Tommo’ Thompson, chair of the Mount Isa Mines Rodeo Community Board.
“It also means tougher bulls, bolder broncs and edge-of-your-seat action for fans.
“This is raising the bar. It’s about attracting elite talent, giving local and visiting fans the greatest show on dirt and honouring the rodeo’s incredible legacy as we write the next chapter — led by locals, for locals.”
While the rodeo veterans bring the grit, it’s the next generation that is lighting up the arena.
The Mount Isa Mines Rodeo is witnessing a phenomenal surge in junior competitors, young guns who ride with the heart of champions and the hunger to prove themselves on the famous red dirt of Buchanan Park.
Add to that the unstoppable rise of women in rodeo, whose strength, speed and skill are rewriting the playbook.
A long way from 1959 ...
Back in 1959, the first Mount Isa Mines Rodeo offered just over £500 in prize money — a mighty sum for its time, but a whisper of what’s on offer now.
Since then, it has grown to become the largest rodeo in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the most prestigious anywhere in the world.
The 2025 event confirms its status as a juggernaut of the sport, drawing riders, fans, and media from far and wide.
Here’s what’s new in 2025:
• Prize money increased across every single event — more incentive, more prestige, more legends made.
• Daily entry prices slashed; new affordable family passes introduced.
• The Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships returns for its fourth year, now on Sunday morning before the Open Finals.
• Rodeo legend Luke Geiger is back to rock Friday and Saturday nights.
• Lower food and drink prices, because good times shouldn’t break the bank.
• Affordable camping options for the full rodeo experience under outback stars.
Will the reigning champions return?
With the richest prize pool in the event’s 66-year history now up for grabs, fans are asking one big question: will the 2024 champions return to defend their titles?
All eyes are on All Round Cowboy Terry Evison, who dominated last year with a powerful performance in the Open Steer Wrestling (11.80 secs) and All Round Cowgirl Ellysa Kenny, who showcased all the hallmarks of a rising star.
They’ll face fresh challengers but their names are etched into the red dirt of Isa now — and the crowd will be watching closely.
In the Open Bull Ride, Braydon Wellby proved why he’s one of the nation’s best, racking up a massive 168 points.
The Open Saddle Bronc saw Clayton Braden claim the buckle with 164 points, while Luke Higgins took top honours in the Bareback with 161 points.
Sisters-in-arms Wendy and Leanne Caban lit up the Ladies Barrel Race, coming in at 34.909 and 35.414 seconds respectively — a thrilling duel for top spot.
In the junior and mini ranks, rising rodeo royalty showed the future is bright.
Bronzon Mara-Skellern conquered the Mini Bulls (11–14 years) with 73 points, Jayden Kenny blitzed the Junior Breakaway Roping with 3.40 secs and Matty Ahern rode to victory in the Junior Bull Ride with 130 points.
And in the Mount Isa Mines Indigenous Rodeo Championships, the raw talent was undeniable. Jed Farrington (Katherine) took out the Bull Ride (71 pts), Luke Metcalf (Western) won the Bareback (69 pts) and Kimba Fien (Injune) claimed the Saddle Bronc (72 pts).
Local hope Jack Mullins thrilled the home crowd by taking out the Junior Steer event with 65 points.
Will they return in 2025 to go back-to-back? Or will new names rise to claim rodeo glory on the richest red dirt in the Southern Hemisphere?
One thing’s certain — it’s going to be one helluva ride.
The 2025 Mount Isa Mines Rodeo takes over Buchanan Park, Mount Isa from 8 to 10 August and promises three unforgettable days of grit, glory and red dirt pride.
Tickets are on sale now.
Forks up folks, it’s feasting time!
The famous Scenic Rim Eat Local Month returns this June with more flavour, fun and fire, as well as carrots, cheese, wine, beer and pickles, than ever before.
The event will serve an epic month-long celebration of the region’s award-winning producers, makers, farmers, brewers, bakers and food innovators. And, for the first time in the event’s 14 flavour-filled years, it takes to the air!
From on-farm experiences, brew-your-own classes, paddock walks, vineyard experiences and long lunches with your besties, the 2025 program is packed with more than 100 events across the Scenic Rim, just an hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
The program - a flavour-filled love letter to the people, produce and paddocks of the Scenic Rim - was unveiled last month at The Overflow Estate 1895.
It features a menu of themed weekends, fresh events, paddock-to-plate feasts and full-andmulti-day food adventures curated for families, couples, mates and solo samplers alike.
This year, there’s more than 100 food events including 41 long lunches, degustations and dinners, 25 workshops and classes, almost 50 familyfriendly options and a record 64 on-farm adventures.
The Scenic Rim proudly holds the title of Australia’s carrot-growing capital, with local farmers harvesting 600 million each year and yes, the famous Kalfresh Carrot Day remains one of the most popular for families everywhere.
June is also the only month that Moffatt’s Fresh Produce makes their sought-after Carrot Ice-Cream!
The event is supported by 12 serious food names, with this roll call of volunteer Scenic Rim Food Ambassador chefs the envy of the country — Alison Alexander (Queensland Food Fellow), Brenda Fawdon (Picnic Real Food Bar), Cameron Matthews (Mapleton Public House), Caroline Jones (Three Girls Skipping), Daniel Groneberg (Kooroomba Vineyard and Restaurant), Elliot Platz (Monte Land Wine Bar), Glen Barratt (renowned Pastry Chef), Jack Stuart (Blume Restaurant), Javier Codina (Moda Steak. Tapas. Seasons), Josh Lopez (Lopez at Home), French-born Olivier Boudon from Roastbeef and The Frog at The Overflow Estate 1895 and Richard Ousby (Cru Bar & Sixes and Sevens).
Scenic Rim regional council mayor Tom Sharp said:
“Eat Local Month provides the opportunity for our local community, visitors and people from all ages and backgrounds to enjoy an authentic paddock-to-plate experience and to renew their connection with our natural environment and agricultural production.
“With more than 100 events on offer, there is a variety of options for everyone and for every taste and budget.
“Traditionally, growers have taken their product to market, however we are seeing an increase in consumers wanting to connect with where their food comes from and buy directly from producers and growers in the region.
“People are not only tasting the freshness and quality of the product but gain an understanding of the farmers’ experience, their lifestyle and their dedication to quality produce.
“This raises awareness of the improvements being made in farming practices to build resilience in rural production and we’re seeing more and more artisans take raw and by-products to create something of even greater worth.
“From its modest beginnings in 2011, this event has provided a boost to our rural sector, helping to create jobs and drive our region’s prosperity.
“However, it also increases the appreciation for those who put food on our tables and where our food comes from.“
Food tourism is a powerhouse in the Scenic Rim and the numbers say it all Scenic Rim Eat Local Month has become a major economic driver, contributing almost $2 million to the region’s economy in 2024 —a 49 per cent increase on the previous year.
It generated nearly 3000 visitor nights (up 30pc) and continues to foster lasting connections between visitors and producers.
An impressive 95pc of intrastate and interstate guests came specifically for the event and 90pc said they planned to return.
Even better, 75pc of attendees reported they’re more likely to buy local produce after attending,
while returning visitors grew by 64pc — a clear sign that this celebration of local flavour leaves a lasting taste.
A Feast of Firsts: And in 2025, Eat Local Month Takes to the Air!
On opening weekend, leading the first charge is the Foraged, Fired and Farmed Lunch at Binna Burra Lodge, where guests will dine under the rainforest canopy on saltbush chips, flame-grilled corn, smoked brisket and even green tree ants. Up on the mountain there’s High Tea and Cocktails in the Rainforest, a culinary collaboration between Pethers Rainforest Retreat and Tamborine Mountain Distillery, marrying sweet treats with sassy sips.
Foodies can also become brewers for a day with Boxer Brewing Co’s head brewer and celebrate the opening weekend in style at The Cauldron Distillery’s Spirit of the Mountain, where First Nations storytelling, local spirits and a performance by Ben Lee set the tone for a spectacular month.
On the rich pastures of Harrisville there’s the Heritage Poultry Farm Tour and Sunset Dinner, hosted by Scenic Rim Food Ambassador Daniel Groneberg, while vegetarians can rejoice at the Long Table Vegetarian Feast at the Old Church BNB Boonah — a garden party of the highest (and greenest) order.
Mid-month, soar at sunrise with Hot Air Bal-
looning and a Producers’ Breakfast at O’Reilly’s or make your way to the Scenic Rim Farming Expo in Harrisville, where more than 100 exhibitors will showcase the latest in farming, sustainability and rural living.
The more adventurous can craft their own rum or citrus liqueur at Tamborine Mountain Distillery, or slow down with a soulful Vegetarian Fireside Feast on Wild Mountains.
That same weekend, you can picnic with alpacas, taste cheese and honey at Towri Sheep Cheeses, trek through native orchards, or experience the Edible Garden Trail on Tamborine Mountain.
And, for those hungry for connection as much as cuisine, the unmissable Smoke and Mirrors at Tommerup’s Dairy Farm will be a masterclass in meaningful dining and story-telling.
Set on the famed sixth-generation farm that celebrated 150 years last year, the event pairs three chefs with three farmers for a grounding, delicious and unforgettable paddock-to-plate experience.
Workshops and hands-on masterclasses dot the calendar too — from herb garden-making at Kooralbyn Community Garden to fermentation, cheese-making, beekeeping and so much more.
The popular Winter Harvest Festival, the signature event and finale of Scenic Rim Eat Local Month, will again be held in and around the stun-
ning village of Kalbar as part of a full-weekend of harvest activities from 27 to 29 June.
There’s the Friday night Harvest Dinner at Kooroomba Vineyard and Restaurant, a Saturday evening Harvest Hoedown and, of course, the day-long Winter Harvest Festival celebrating the joy of harvest produce and featuring the legendary Tractor Pull event.
A Celebration of Lost Culinary Arts will take over the Kalbar School of Arts on the Saturday, offering a deliciously nostalgic nod to the generations of women who preserved, pickled and prepared from scratch.
Presented by 612 ABC Radio Brisbane, this free event invites guests to explore traditional skills through talks, demonstrations and market stalls — honouring the creativity, resilience and culinary ingenuity that filled pantries and fed families long before refrigeration and supermarkets.
The final weekend brings even more newness: the Winter Harvest Dinner at Kooroomba Vineyard and Restaurant and Speckles on the Teviot with its long lunch and Speckle Park beef.
The best advice is to plan your visit, take some time to read the program and book accommodation and tickets now, because with a menu this good, it will sell out!
* Please visit www.eatlocalmonth.com.au.
By Fiona Gowers
Scenic Rim Eat Local Month is Australia’s most authentic food and farming festival.
Three local identities explain why people should attend this month-long celebration of award-winning local produce, farms, wineries, distilleries and authentic paddock-to-plate experiences.
Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp
Eat Local Month really showcases the Scenic Rim region, east-west, north-south. It highlights our growers, the product they produce and our associated artisans and chefs in terms of what they create on the plate with that. And we bring in thousands of people from all around the state, interstate and, hopefully, more and more from overseas as we go forward.
The people, the farmers and their commitment to the region have made Eat Local Month so
successful for the Scenic Rim. I think it shows off the actual product they produce, that it is authentic, that it is fresh, that it is seasonal. And then the curators, in terms of their creativity. You combine that, that’s a massive point of differentiation for the public experiencing it.
Kay Tommerup - From the sixth generation Tommerup Dairy Farm. She also chairs Agritourism Queensland.
I think this is a region that encourages generational farming. And, across the region, there are so many farmers that are generational who are looking to pass that down to their children and to keep that authenticity going, that really working farm lifestyle. (My husband) Dave’s family have been dairy farming for 151 years. So, for us, it’s a really special part of what we do and it means a lot to us to be able to continue that with things like Eat Local putting our brand out there.
I think that’s one of the most special things for
me about Eat Local and that is the community that it’s created around all of us as farmers.
Eat Local Month might bring us together in our fancy clothes but this isn’t the only time we all come together. We’ve created this beautiful farming community where we all stand by each other and we all are really proud of each other’s achievements.
We love this land and we’re all connected to the land and when you come out here, I think you feel that connection. You’re welcomed with open arms and it’s much more than the beauty of the landscape, it’s the beauty and the characters that you’ll find here.
Chef Dan Groneberg – Scenic Rim regional ambassador chef and head chef at Kooroomba Vineyard and Restaurant.
I think tourism has changed the Scenic Rim and the influx of people, especially from Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast.
Around that Covid time when they couldn’t go anywhere else, I think it really put it on the map. The producers out here are fantastic and I think that it had gone unnoticed for a really long time and, during Covid, they sort of noticed that, ‘Hey, this is right on our doorstep and we haven’t been here’.
The lifestyle is what has brought the chefs here. I moved here in 2016 and began cooking at Kooroomba in 2017 and it’s definitely a lifestyle choice.
It’s a relaxed environment and, as you leave the city, you take a big, deep breath, relax and enjoy what the region has to offer. It’s magic. Also, the Scenic Rim Boasts some of the best produce you’ll find anywhere in the world. And, it’s right here in south east Queensland. If you have never been to Eat Local Month then you’re missing out. You need to come. You need to see what this region has to offer and enjoy it for yourself.
By Fiona Gowers
In September, hundreds of Australian producers will “shut the farm gate“ and head to the nation’s capital. No, not to protest, but to lead.
The Farming Forever National Summit will unite more than 300 attendees in Canberra, including farmers, innovators and policy influencers to partner, share insights and shape the future of farming using a nature-positive lens.
Farmers for Climate Action (FCA) will host the event.
FCA CEO Natalie Collard said farmers were already adopting clean tech, slashing inputs and stacking new income streams — all from the same piece of land.
“Farmers are driving the move toward naturefriendly farming — 71 per cent are self-funding climate action such as clean energy to future-proof their farms,” said Ms Collard.
“Australian farmers have always been clean and green and now we’re extending that to be as friendly to nature as possible.
This summit puts that leadership on the national stage and gives producers the tools to adapt — on their terms.”
Held at Hotel Realm, Canberra on 1 – 2 September, the summit marks 10 years of FCA’s farmer-led movement.
Designed to deliver action — not just conversation — it will equip producers with practical tools, build relationships across the supply chain and send a strong message to decision-makers in an election year.
Attendees will hear directly from farmers who are:
• Turning biodiversity into passive income
• Electrifying machinery to cut diesel costs
• Embracing agtech to boost profits
• Hosting wind and solar while grazing livestock
“Hosting modern clean energy helps our farmers continue their traditions,” Ms Collard said.
“They’re still grazing sheep under solar panels and raising cattle around turbines — but now with an income stream that keeps families on the land.”
The potential returns are significant. Recent analysis shows farmers could earn up to $40,000 per year for every wind turbine hosted on their property — while still using 98pc of their land for food production.
Call for Urgency from the Land – Farmers on the Frontline
Peter Holding, a third-generation sheep and cropping farmer from NSW, is clear about the stakes:
“We’re in a battle for survival — urgency is critical. If we want to keep producing food at the levels needed, we have to adapt.
“This summit is where we come together and get serious.
“Farming today is science, strategy and tech. The problems are complex — but we’ve got the tools. Now we need practical solutions that work.
“I’ve got faith in younger farmers. They’re thinking differently — but struggling to break into leadership. We need to back them.”
Farmer Conversations Driving Real-World Change
“Australia has some of the toughest farming conditions in the world—but that’s made us leaders in climate-smart agriculture” said SA pastoralist Ellen Litchfield who is looking forward to networking with farmers from across the country.
“Great stuff happens when farmers come together. Whether it’s after a panel session or over drinks — it’s those everyday conversations that spark powerful change.”
Who’s Speaking: Climate, Clean Energy, and Innovation Leaders in Ag Panels and workshops will showcase leading voices in climate science, biodiversity, innovation and real-world production, offering practical strategies for farming smarter in a changing landscape.
Headline speakers include:
• Brent Finlay – Cattle farmer, former NFF presi-
dent and MD of Finlay Agricultural Industries
• Mike Casey – Cherry grower and CEO of Rewiring Aotearoa, who has electrified every machine on his New Zealand orchard
• David DJ Jochinke - National Farmers’ Federation president
• Tim Jarvis AM – Environmental scientist, author and explorer
• Professor David Lindenmayer AO – One of Australia’s foremost biodiversity and nature-friendly farming experts
• Professor Mark Howden – IPCC vice chair and director, ANU Climate, Energy and Disaster Institute.
For more information please visit: www. farmersforclimateaction.org.au/farmingforevernationalsummit25.
To keep making Queensland safer, the new Queensland Government is expanding ‘adult crime adult time’ to include 33 serious offences. We’re putting more police on the ground and rapid response for crime hotspots. We’re also taking knives off the street with Jack’s Law and breaking the cycle of youth crime with early intervention programs like Regional Reset.
To see how safety is being restored where you live, search Making Queensland Safer.
By Fiona Gowers
A debilitating drought in the Traprock region of south east Queensland in 2012 spurred former AgForce and National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) president Brent Finlay to build wind turbines on his 4500ha mixed farm, Cooinda.
The renewable energy source, according to Mr Finlay, gave him the opportunity to diversify and provided a secure secondary income stream to offset the fickle cost and climate variables of agriculture.
“Renewables created an opportunity in our region for diversification, not every region has that opportunity,” he said.
Mr Finlay said a weakening wool industry had recently prompted him to replace his Merino sheep flock with prime lambs - “ a lot of Dorpers“ - cattle and goats.
He is also “looking carefully“ at carbon and biodiversity markets.
“If you’re a farmer, you just do what you’ve got to do,“ he said.
Mr Finlay is now involved - alongside nine other landholders - in a big project built by Acciona, which is one of the largest wind farms in the Southern Hemisphere.
He advises other landholders interested in renewable energy projects to engage a legal team with extensive experience working in the field.
“That is so important because this industry is different again to the gas industry. You need to source as much information as you can.”
Mr Finlay said he had visited 17 wind farms in Australia and New Zealand and urged other landholders considering hosting developments to do likewise.
“It is so important to understand what that industry is and how it operates,“ he said.
“It is not just the turbines, it is all of the infrastructure that comes in with that.”
In September, Mr Finlay will attend the Farm-
ing Forever National Summit in Canberra to engage with key issues shaping the future of agriculture.
He said he expected his audience to be a mix of renewable energy supporters and opponents, those with question marks and others impacted by projects in some way.
“My role, and I’ve probably been quite public about this, is to share my experience.
“It’s the good, the bad, the ugly and that’s what people will get.
“And also, I think where most of the learnings come from, are out of the questions that people have, which I find really interesting.“
Mr Finlay was at the NFF when Farmers for
Climate Action first came into the membership of NFF.
“It was a very large milestone for a fledgling organisation in becoming a credible farm advocate for rural and regional Australia,“ he said.
“Renewable energy brings one of the most significant changes in rural and regional Australia and in agricultural production systems nationally.
“I look forward to the opportunity to network and be aware of current advocacy work. Farmers draw on insights from Farmers for Climate Action around future policy development.”
Rim farmers have rallied for their mates in the outback, staging a night where the paddock met the plate with purpose, proving that in the toughest of times, Queensland farmers never stand alone.
The land gives and the land takes but Queensland farmers have always stood shoulderto-shoulder, no matter the challenge.
As outback Queensland reels from devastating floods, losing generations of hard work, stock and livelihoods, the farmers of the Scenic Rim stepped up in the way they know best: through food, community and unwavering support.
In a powerful show of solidarity, Scenic Rim producers hosted Hands Across The Land on 26 April at O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards, a fundraising dinner where the region’s finest produce was served by the very farmers who grew it.
More than $35,000 has been raised, so far. Every bite, every shared story and every dollar raised went towards Farm Angels, helping outback families rebuild, recover and return to the land they love.
All the product was donated, as it should be, with acclaimed chef Glen Barrett (formerly Wild Canary) heading the kitchen with Shinade Harper from Canungra Valley Vineyards. Both donated their time.
The incredible roll call of producers who donated included:
• O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards
• Tommerup’s Dairy Farm
• Valley Pride Produce
• Kalfresh
• Scenic Rim Fingerlimes
• Vanbery Jam Co.
• Towri Sheep Cheeses
• Summer Land Camels
• Peak Veggie Patch
• Bee All Natural
• Tommy’s Pastured Eggs
• Harry’s Paddock
• Lick Ice Cream
• Ladybrook Farm
• Australian Sweetwater Crays
• Pretty Produce.
Kay Tommerup from Tommerup’s Farm said seeing the devastation across the outback was heartbreaking.
“Coping with the rain events of the past two summers created significant challenges for our family farm and the health of our animals,“ she said.
“I cannot begin to imagine how it must feel to be facing the enormity of what outback farmers are right now.
By Kath Rose
They work our sunburnt country, This land of sweeping plains, They face its fire and fury, The droughts, the flooding rains.
They rise before the morning light, Hands calloused, spirits bold, Boots older than their youngest kid, And just as full of gold.
The wide brown land’s their canvas, Brushed with grit and grace, Where cows escape, the ute gets bogged, And dust sticks to your face.
They know the silence of the skies, The promise in a seed, The joy when crops decide to grow, Instead of just the weeds.
Through storms that lash and winds that wail, Through fire’s blistered breath, They don’t wear capes, they wear their grit, And farm through ‘til their death.
And when the skies fall heavy, And floods take all they own, Farmers calls to farmers, So no one stands alone.
“The size of this flood and the loss of more than 500,000 head of stock is just unbelievable to me.
“As farmers, the health and wellbeing of our animals is always our top priority – the image of what has happened to them in those floods would be indelibly imprinted in their minds.
“We can’t bring back their livestock, nor the
generations of work they have lost, but we can show that our farming community stands together with them as they begin the huge task of rebuilding their lives on the farm.
“I hope we can raise significant funds to assist them in the recovery process but, even more importantly, show them that people really do care about what they’re going through.”
From the Outback to the ocean, From red dirt to the reef, They share the load, they lend a hand, They shoulder all the grief.
For in their hearts, a steadfast beat, A rhythm born of earth, They’ll fix a fence with baling twine— And still shout you some dessert.
So here’s to those who till and tend, With grit and grace combined, Our farmers—heroes without end, The backbone of mankind.
©For Hands Across the Land
Wednesday 23rd July
Glenwarrah Herefords 25 Bulls (Horn & Poll) Sale @ 11.30am
David & Kate Collins, Bundarra NSW M: 0497 270 455 E: glenwarrahbrooksby@gmail.com www.glenwarrah.com.au
Thursday 24th July
Lotus Herefords
44 Hereford Bulls Sale @ 11.30am
Tony & Barbara Holliss, Glen Innes NSW M: 0418 655 009
Cameron 0419 841 005 Ace 0488 016 109 E: hollissofp@gmail.com www.lotusherefords.com.au
Thursday 24th July
Amos Vale Herefords
35 Hereford Bulls Sale @ 1:45pm
Mark & Wendy Campion, Glen Innes NSW M: 0428 334 626 E: amosvaleherefords@gmail.com www.amosvaleherefords.com.au
Friday 25th July
Glen Innes Bull Sale (Horn & Poll) 32 Bulls & 14 Females Thursday 24th July - Show @ 1.30pm
By Fiona Gowers
Queensland teachers received a taste of cheese making last month at the RNA Teachers’ Cheese Making Workshops at the Brisbane Showgrounds.
In all, 37 teachers from 20 schools across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich and Toowoomba learnt how to craft camembert and blue cheese under the guidance of renowned dairy expert and cheesemaker Russell Smith.
The workshops blended theory with handson experience, equipping teachers with the skills and confidence to help their students create topquality cheeses for the Royal Queensland Show’s (Ekka) Student Made Cheese Competition in September.
Hosted annually by the RNA since 2010, these workshops are the only ones in Australia that offer educators free cheese making training combined with student cheese making competitions.
Mr Smith said the popular workshops were now in their 15th year and continued to receive strong support from local schools.
“The number of entries in the student cheese competition has steadily increased, with an estimated 6000 students participating in the program since its inception,” he said.
“The competition is a real eye-opener for students - over a six-week period they experience the fascinating transformation of milk into cheese, gaining hands-on experience and valuable insights into the production process.”
Indeed, Toowoomba Grammar School Agricultural Science teacher Julie Brophy participated in the workshop in 2022 and, each year, teaches her 40 to 50 year nine students using the only course Dairy Australia approves for cheese making in classrooms.
As part of the dairy industry unit, she incorporates aspects of the cheese making process into an assessment item.
Among other things, students learn the history of cheese as a method to preserve milk and
how the milk affects cheese quality.
Students spend a full day learning how to make camembert cheese from the RNA Teachers’ Cheese Making Workshop.
They also design a label for their camembert cheese, with the best labels chosen as the school’s entries in to the Royal Queensland Show’s (Ekka) Student Made Cheese Competition.
“It’s a really engaging way for students to learn where their food comes from,“ Mrs Brophy said.
“One of the big things they learn when they make the cheese is how much milk it actually takes to make such a small amount of cheese.
“They also learn a lot about food safety and hygiene.“
Once theirs is made, students buy camembert cheese from the supermarket and, using Russell Smith’s video, they assess the quality of the store-bought camembert cheese against their student-made cheese and decide which one they think is best.
“It is a lot of fun,“ Mrs Brophy said. “The students really do enjoy it.“
This year the schools participating in the RNA Teachers’ Cheese Making Workshops were: Brisbane Boys College, Brisbane Youth Education & Training Centre, Burpengary State Secondary College, Caboolture SHS, Harristown State High School, Helensvale State High School, Kawana Waters State College, Mount Gravatt State High School, Murrumba State Secondary College, Nambour State College, Pine Rivers State High School, Queensland Academy of Creative Industries, St Aidan’s Anglican Girls School, St Benedict’s College, St Peters Lutheran College, The Lakes College, Toowoomba Grammar School, Tullawong State High School, Unity College, and West Moreton Anglican College.
The RNA Teachers’ Cheese Making Workshops were held last month at the Brisbane Showgrounds. (Supplied)
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By Aussie Pumps Australia
It’s well known that Australian Pump Industries, a family-owned Australian pump manufacturer, is Australia’s leading supplier of self-priming centrifugal pumps.
The company, a 31-year-old “start-up”, began with high pressure fire fighting pumps on the basis that they felt that there was room in the market for a substantially better product than were currently on offer.
The old conventional Davey & Onga pumps that had been around for years had shown no particular improvements. They were now owned by corporations, rather than the original family operated businesses.
“Corporations have an instinct to go for profit above all other priorities. We, on the other hand, felt a strong affinity to the man on the land and were motivated to provide products that would be superior, not only in engineering, but in value for money as well,” said Aussie Pumps Chief Engineer, John Hales.
The company has proved itself over the last decades with a massive increase in production and even export action not just in the South Pacific, but as far afield as Mongolia, Japan, and even the USA.
The company’s first major product was the Aussie Fire Chief, now regarded as the world’s best lightweight portable fire pump. Those pumps, producing 25% more flow than the old fire pumps, showed that not only could they produce better flow, but also higher pressures, more water at pressure!
“Our intent was to produce a better product even if it cost more. Comparing an Aussie Fire Chief to a single impeller Davey pump with the same size engine shows clearly why our pumps out-perform the old girls” said Hales.
“The first factor is that we designed in a 2” flanged inlet for the suction piece. On the other hand, the Davey pumps continue to build product with 1½” inlets, cast into the pump’s body,” said Hales.
The Aussie idea was simply that the flanged suction piece meant that the customer could change it out for a three inch or one and a half inch suction port, depending on the type of pumping required. It adds a degree of flexibility that was not available for pumps that have the inlet cast into the body.
“It’s simple logic. The two inch inlet allows more water into the pump. The larger water channels also aid the flow, producing more water at pressure! A two inch inlet increases suction volume by 25!” said Hales.
The company also designed a superb onepiece state-of-the-art 7” impeller, delivering more pressure as well.
From the Fire Chief, Hales’ design team went on to produce twin impeller pumps that again offer more features and benefits to the end user than all others. These twin impeller pumps provided heads as high as 90 m but also gave an excellent flow at pressure.
“Our 3” twin impeller pump, what we call the ‘Mr T’, will deliver 200 litres per minute at 80 metres head,” said Hales. “Even we were amazed at the performance we got out of that pump, running off a Honda 13 horsepower GX390 engine.”
“Our twins all come with heavy duty steel frames. The biggest seller in the range is the huge three inch Mr T. It appeals to all farmers that want to get the best value for money, with the best capabilities,” said Hales.
Today, Aussie is building trash pumps from two inch all the way to big six inch monsters, like those used by local government bodies, for flood mitigation.
“Flood mitigation is a high priority to us,” said Hales. “We know that climate change is a reality, and the climate cycles seem to be becoming more erratic and more frequent.”
Local government bodies, like Winton in central Queensland, understand that a squadron of big six inch pumps, mounted on heavy duty trailers, can provide a mobile ‘flood mitigation’ response.
“Aussie’s six inch heavy duty diesel drive trash pumps, producing 6,000 liters a minute, are now
popular right through mining and construction markets around the South Pacific. We have them working in tough conditions in PNG but also operating in mines and quarries around Australia. They’re also the choice of smart construction companies with big civil works,” said Hales.
These pumps are self-prime, so no compressors or vacuum pumps are necessary to get the pump working.
“It’s so simple, you undo the priming cap built into the huge water tank that’s cast into the pump’s body, fill the pump body up with water, replace the priming plug, and start the engine.
“Next thing you know, you’ve created a massive flow of water, pushing water from where you don’t want it, to where you do,” said Hales.
Saving South Sudan
One of the world’s youngest democracies, South Sudan, is right on the Nile, and subject to annual monsoons with floods as well.
The United Nations has funded around 25 of Aussie’s big six inch heavy duty trash pumps to divert the Nile River away from the capital city of
Juba, and to push the water around the city, instead of through it.
“It was a great privilege to work with the United Nations team in the Sudan. They appreciated that the only pumps in the world that could do this job reliably, were our Aussie-built machines,” said Hales.
Aussie Is the Farmer’s Friend
The company’s production slogan is an indication of just how fairdinkum Australian Pump actually is.
The Chief Engineer has a sign up in his office that reads “We design and build pumps as if we’re going to use them ourselves.” That’s not just a slogan, but rather a credo that permeates right through the entire product line developed by the Australian Pump team.
The Best Dealers and Distributors
You’ll find the Aussie Pump product range of fertilizer pumps, fire fighting pumps, trash pumps, the world’s best high-pressure water blasters, all built right here in Australia for Australian farm-
“It’s a triumph in Australian ingenuity and a relentless drive to build better performing products that represent value as well. Our dealers and the education programs that go with our products make the choice of an Aussie machine so obvious. We simply build better, and we care more,” said Hales.
“We can’t get it right the first time, every time!” said Hales. “What we do is we keep on going until we’ve built a product that we know we would want to operate. We relate to the agricultural markets, whether it’s sugar cane, cropping, or livestock. After all, agriculture is in Australia’s DNA!” he said. Further information is available from Aussie Pump distributors right throughout Queensland. “Our dealer loyalty and the incredibly good service they give end users is a testament to our philosophies being right!” said Hales. Comprehensive catalogues on Aussie Pump products are available from Aussie Pump Gold Distributors. Visit aussiepumps.com.au for your nearest store.
By Sarah Dimond
Arrow Energy has started major works on its Surat Gas Project (SGP) North in an area north-east of Miles.
Construction has started on more than 30km of pipeline, which will transport natural gas from Arrow’s gas fields near Miles to a nearby inlet processing facility, before being distributed to market.
Drilling of the first of up to 450 gas wells is scheduled to begin by mid-year, with the first gas expected by 2026.
Arrow Energy chief operating officer Anton Verdel said the pipeline construction was a major milestone in the project.
“At full capacity, SGP North will produce enough energy to power the equivalent of more than one million homes every day, which will make a major contribution to gas supplies,” Mr Verdel said.
“This investment includes upgrading key intersections and roads, including a recently completed major upgrade on the intersection of Kerwicks Road and the Warrego Highway…
“The region will also benefit from up to 400 jobs and a boost to local commerce and industry. Our major contractor, MPK, has already hired more than 60 people, many of whom are local, and partnered with over 50 businesses located between Toowoomba and Miles to support the project.
“The project is also focused on providing opportunities for First Nations people. To date, MPK has employed six local Indigenous jobseekers and engaged three local Indigenous businesses from Toowoomba, Dalby and Chinchilla.”
But local farmers are concerned about the impact of the drilling on their agricultural land.
Western Downs farmer John ‘Korjak’ Karrasch has lodged an urgent request for ministerial intervention to stop further nearby drilling by Arrow Energy, saying his priority agricultural landlisted farm has been heavily impacted by coal seam gas-induced subsidence.
One of the “Springvale Four” who successfully challenged Arrow’s attempts to drill directly on their land, Mr Karrasch said his land was now under increased threat from Arrow Energy’s plans to drill six wells on a neighbouring property to his east, and two on the property to his west.
Mr Karrasch claimed coal seam gas drilling on neighbouring properties since 2020 has caused his mixed grain farm to sink, leading to significant depressions and changes in land gradient that have caused the flow of water and effluent from a nearby feedlot to run over his property.
“Arrow Energy’s drilling on neighbouring properties is causing the country on my farm to sink. It’s severely impacting my ability to grow crops for Queenslanders and others right around the country.”
Mr Karrasch, supported by Chinchilla-based landholder advocate Dr Shay Dougall, has questioned the legal basis of Arrow’s recent drilling approvals, arguing that priority agricultural land should receive greater legal protection.
“The priority agricultural land-listed farms of the Springvale district should all be protected under Queensland law from damage caused by coal seam gas drilling,” Dr Dougall said.
“But in practice, companies like Arrow find loopholes that allow them to drill, which in turn causes farmland right throughout the district to sink.”
Arrow Vice President External Affairs Matthew Jeffries said the company worked with hundreds of farming families on the Western Downs to produce essential energy for homes, businesses, and industries, including some of the best farmers on the Downs, who produce cotton, grains, and live-
stock while hosting Arrow infrastructure on their properties.
“Arrow’s current activities in the Springvale area are fully compliant with all legislation, including the Planning Act, which is designed to
support co-existence between the natural gas and agricultural industries. All required agreements and assessments have been completed for our work, and there is clear recourse for landholders under Queensland legislation if losses occur due to resource company activities,” Mr Jeffries said.
By Sarah Dimond
Primary producers in and around Roma and Goondiwindi are among those who will have their say on a draft blueprint that will drive future investment, create jobs, and unlock opportunities for agribusiness for the next 25 years.
The state government is working with primary producers across Queensland to design a plan to deliver a prosperous future for the sector.
Consultation throughout regional Queensland has started on the 25-year blueprint, “Primary Industries Prosper 2050”, which is the largest strategic collaboration between the government and industry in at least a decade.
The blueprint was formulated when around
250 industry representatives from agriculture, fisheries, forestry, biosecurity, research, investment and government came together on 26 February at the Queensland Primary Industries Forum to discuss ideas.
The draft blueprint is now touring the state and is available online.
Farmers, graziers, fishers, forestry workers, truck drivers and anyone connected to primary industries can contribute to the plan at a series of consultation events held across Queensland or online.
The government is aiming to boosting the state’s agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030.
Speaking at the Gympie information session, Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett said the blueprint would drive future investment,
create jobs, and unlock opportunities for agribusiness.
“I’m calling on all representatives from across our industry sectors, including research, community, investors and government, to make sure their voices are heard so we can co-deliver a future where our primary industries thrive and prosper,” Mr Perrett said.
“We want every industry to have their say… We need to work with the industry to return the sector to full profitability.”
Help shape the future of Queensland’s primary industries by joining the conversation on a draft blueprint at dpi.engagementhub.com. au/primary-industries-blueprint.
Regional information sessions will be held across the state in person as well.
The information sessions will dive deep into the core elements of the draft blueprint and discuss the vision, priorities and how the government will work with industry to deliver the blueprint.
Then, there will be the opportunity to workshop ideas on the five-year action plans to identify what’s needed specifically for an individual’s region or sector. RSVP is needed to attend the sessions.
Goondiwindi information session: Wednesday 4 June, noon–3pm, Gateway to Training, 1521 Russell Street, Goondiwindi.
Roma information session: Thursday 5 June, noon–3pm, Explorer’s Inn, 44778 Warrego Highway, Roma.
By Sarah Dimond
The Wambo Wind Farm has reached some significant milestones, with infrastructure for stage one now complete and stage two well underway.
With major site infrastructure for Stage 1 finished, installation of the wind turbines is in progress.
So far, 12 turbines have been successfully installed, and more than half the turbine components have been delivered to the site.
The next milestone the project expects to hit in either May or June is energising the substation.
“Once energised, we’ll begin testing and commissioning the turbines. This is when we’ll start to see turbines spinning,” Wambo Wind Farm updates said.
All public road upgrade works for Stage 1 have also been completed.
“We’re continuing to work closely with Western Downs Regional Council to support follow-
up maintenance and improvements on the local road network.”
Stage two is powering ahead, working towards the delivery of the grid transformer.
“The main civil works is nearing completion, and we’re now putting the final touches on roads and hardstands, with capping works scheduled to finish in May,” Wambo Wind Farm reports. They hope that the completion of this work will reduce the volume of heavy vehicle traffic on local roads.
“Installation of the wind farm’s underground electrical and fibre-optic cables is progressing well, and the Stage 2 substation connecting the wind farm to the Queensland grid network remains on track for completion later this year.”
One of the next big steps will be the delivery of the main grid transformer.
“Weighing in just shy of 180 tonnes, the transformer will make a slow and steady journey overnight from the Port of Brisbane to the site.”
By Sarah Dimond
Karen Penfold has been selected for the 2025 cohort of the NFF Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program.
The National Farmers’ Federation’s (NFF) Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program has welcomed 12 women, including Meandarra local Karen Penfold.
“After having the first session and meeting the other applicants, we were advised that there were 70 other applicants, so I feel pretty chuffed to make the cohort this year,” Mrs Penfold said.
The mentoring and networking program is the NFF’s flagship initiative to address the underrepresentation of women in agriculture’s leadership ranks.
Among the applicants, there is a lot of diversity, with the NFF having picked people from a broad range of Australia and across all sectors of agriculture with different skills.
Mrs Penfold was inspired to apply after being encouraged by previous participants and other successful ladies, and thought it would be a great opportunity.
“It’s great to have someone from outside your circle take the time to look into your business and look into your role in agriculture with a fresh set of eyes…. A great opportunity for personal growth,” Mrs Penfold said.
Mrs Penfold is the co-founder of a multigenerational farming and cattle business. She is a part of managing the day-to-day operations of Penfold family properties, business structures and the Four Daughters brand. Their beef cattle enterprises include breeding, backgrounding and feedlot finished beef direct to supply chain partners.
“We are a family business based 60 km west of Meandarra,” Mrs Penfold said.
“We use our brand to connect with consumers through social media, telling the story of beef and sharing the good stories about ag.”
Through the brand, they aim to connect the city and country.
“We feel very passionate about the need for ag businesses to connect with consumers. To create a positive influence and talk about the great future in ag, and the massive impact ag has on the economy,” Mrs Penfold said.
“We are all living on the land and have a story to tell,” Mrs Penfold said.
Through the program, she hopes to gain a deeper understanding of national farmers in the area of advocacy, especially for the future of agriculture.
She believes advocating for women and particularly the younger generation is a very important part of her role in ag.
“The teacher in me loves to support the younger generation,” Mrs Penfold said.
“It’s great to share stories and have so many young people who want to come listen and learn. They are all so willing to learn.”
“If we can be there to support them and help them believe in themselves, that’s great.”
Before Mrs Penfold married into a beef and farming family over 30 years ago, she was a teacher and principal for schools in the area.
She was lucky enough to have four girls who have a passion for agriculture.
“They live and breathe everything ag, they have a passion to stay on the land for another generation,” Mrs Penfold said.
“As a family, we are making a conscious decision to grow our business so our girls can continue to thrive in ag, as their chosen profession.”
“It’s really motivating and inspiring having all the girls around us, and other young people.”
The girls, Bonnie, Molly, Jemima and Matilda, aged between 21 and 27, all work actively within the business, with the skills to do everything.
“It’s great to see so many girls in ag, their attention to detail and care of animals and machines is next level,” Mrs Penfold said.
Over the years, there has been a shift away
from farming that is strength-based to technology instead, meaning that women no longer have anything stopping them from flourishing in the ag industry.
“Technology has provided the opportunity to achieve anything they want to in Ag,” Mrs Penfold said.
She is hoping through the program to broaden her network of women in ag across Australia, as she believes the power of connecting with people is invaluable.
She also hopes that she will find inspiration and direction in relation to her personal and ag business future.
“We all get so entrenched in our family and business, and this is an opportunity to step back and look at how you’re going and listen to other people’s vision.
“I am looking forward to stopping and reflecting on our own business and actions – it’s an absolutely incredible opportunity.”
“There is a great cohort of so many different ages, so this is about exploring what the future holds and what your leadership role can be.”
“I feel very grateful for the opportunity and really looking forward to what I can learn and what other opportunities this will provide in the next 10-20 years of my life,” Mrs Penfold said.
By Fiona Gowers
Growing up in Darwin, Olivia Anderson dreamt of working in space and medical technology.
Her dream became a reality in 2022 through the Kim Jackson Scholarship.
In partnership with the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, The Skip Foundation provides opportunities for young women from regional areas across the country to pursue a Bachelor of Engineering.
Scholarship recipient Olivia Anderson, 21, said the scholarship had made moving from the Northern Territory to study Engineering at the ANU a reality.
She said it had presented academic opportunities and industry exposure that had inspired her learning journey.
“Growing up in Darwin, I dreamt of working in space and medical technology and coming to the ANU to study Engineering has put me on a path to make this a reality,” said Ms Anderson who graduated from Darwin High School in 2021.
“The Kim Jackson Scholarship has been lifechanging — not just financially, but through its community of academic and industry leaders.
“The scholarship has helped cover the practical costs of uni life but, even more importantly, it has connected me with other women in STEM and given me a support network right from day one.
“It’s an opportunity that continues to grow and empower.
“The other benefit of the Kim Jackson Scholarship has been its people.
“Being introduced to other women in STEM, getting to attend academic and industry events and finding a sense of community within the scholarship group was what made all the difference in my first year of university.
“I’m excited that the networking opportunities in the scholarship are being expanded and can’t wait to see what we’re doing next.”
Kim Jackson, co-founder of the Skip Foundation and long-time advocate of equality in education, had won an engineering and commerce scholarship in the early 2000s at the Australian National University (ANU).
She moved there from Yeppoon in central Queensland.
“When I finished high school I was awarded a scholarship that allowed me to pursue Engineering and, without it, I wouldn’t have been
able to come to ANU and follow my passion and start my journey,” Ms Jackson said.
“It seems so simple but you really can’t be what you can’t see. That’s what the Kim Jackson Scholarship is all about. I’m committed to helping young women, particularly those from nonmetropolitan, rural and regional areas like me, see what they can be.”
Women are consistently underrepresented in STEM-qualified fields, comprising just 15 per cent of the workforce.
In engineering, women encompass just 16pc of university graduates and constitute only 13pc of the engineering workforce, despite the sector being the largest employer of all STEM professions.
“I know first-hand how it feels to be the only woman in the room,“ Ms Jackson said. “By giving regional women the opportunity to study engineering, we’re helping the next generation of Australian innovators.“
The Kim Jackson Scholarship was recently increased to $25,000 annually for both existing and future scholars as part of a newly-assigned agreement between the Skip Foundation and the ANU School of Engineering.
* Please visit: www.skipfoundation.org.
FIONA GOWERS shares a remarkable story that serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person’s sel essness can have during times of medical crisis ...
By Fiona Gowers
In a moving display of love, compassion and dedication, Jenny Underwood has donated blood and plasma 130 times since she was 18 to support her younger sister who was diagnosed with a lifethreatening bone infection - Osteomyelitis - at two-and-a-half years old.
Jenny has vivid memories of Michelle suffering a sudden fever and hip pain on a family fishing holiday in Caloundra in 1966 that left doctors confused until their investigations revealed an infection had spread to her hip bone.
“Shelley was deliriously ill,“ Jenny said.
“She was rushed in an ambulance to the Mater Children’s Hospital in Brisbane and, because she was so sick, the surgeon just said to my Mum, ’Michelle is very ill; look, if she’s still alive in the morning, I’ll operate’. And that was the worst night my mother ever had.
“It was touch and go for many days.“
Michelle remained in the Mater for 17 weeks, with another 12 weeks in The Xavier Home for Crippled Children in Coorparoo once the infection cleared.
According to Jenny, besides the skill of the orthopaedic surgeons and care given by the Mater’s dedicated nurses and nuns, Michelle’s life was also saved by the numerous blood transfusions she received.
“From the moment I was eligible, I became a blood donor,“ Jenny said.
“I too wanted to help others in the same way generous strangers had saved my baby sister’s life.“
While the treatment was successful, the infection caused gradual and long-term damage to her hip. Michelle, who is now 61, finally had a hip replacement in 2009 at the age of 45. She has outlived two orthopaedic surgeons and has three children.
“She has lived a long time with a bad hip but never complains,“ Jenny said.
Jenny Underwood was raised alongside two sisters, Julie and Michelle in the Lockyer Valley where her father was a primary school principal.
After graduating as a boarder from Brisbane Girls’ Grammar School, she attended Teachers’ College at Mount Gravatt and continued to donate blood as she taught at various schools across the State.
In 1993, Jenny was appointed the teaching principal of Cameron Downs State School on a cattle station south of Hughenden in northwest Queensland. From there, the nearest donation centre was in Townsville about 500km away.
And, after marrying a local grazier, she would book appointments in Rockhampton (a good nine hours’ drive) to coincide with bull sales.
In 2015, Jenny and her husband Roger relocated to Wallumbilla in the Maranoa region where they continue to run Eversleigh and Wallace Vale Droughtmasters, with Jenny donating blood every time they make the nine to 10-hour round trip to Toowoomba.
“My husband knows that when we’re planning a trip blood donation is my priority. It’s not shopping or meeting friends, the first thing I organise is a blood donation appointment. I would love to work out how far I’ve travelled to donate over the years.
“But, it’s hard to describe, I just feel so honoured to donate.
“You feel fulfilled, I suppose. And the staff, I cannot praise the staff enough. They really do employ the right people.
“From the people you ring for your appointment, to the person who first welcomes you at the front desk, to the person who then takes you in for your interview and does your blood pressure and haemoglobin then supervises your donation once you are ‘in the chair’.
“They are incredible and Australia has one of the best - and safest - blood services in the world.“
Jenny’s commitment has also inspired friends, family and colleagues to join her, creating a small network of regular donors in their community called The Droughtmaster Bleeders, which cur-
rently boasts 27 members.
She said the importance of their efforts was emphasised every time someone they knew was diagnosed with cancer, most recently her brother-in-law David who is now in remission from Multiple Myeloma.
“I was talking to a lady yesterday who has a form of Leukaemia and she said, ’Look, thank
you. I know I’m probably not receiving your blood products, but the fact that there are people like you who donate is saving my life’.“
One of Jenny’s big milestones was to reach 100 donations. She finally achieved that goal on Monday, 7 August 2019.
“It took 40 years but I did it!“
Her next milestone is to reach 150 donations.
“I plan to continue donating even after I turn 80!
“In that time I hope lots more people will roll up their sleeves to donate blood and give someone the gift of life.
“It really is the best feeling in the world.“
* For more information, please visit www.lifeblood.com.au
By Breanna Lloyd
This year’s Ray White Livestock Working Dog Trial and Sale attracted vendors and buyers from across the nation, as well as its first international buyer from Vanuatu.
Held from Thursday, 24 April to Sunday, 27 April at Gracemere Saleyards, the event offered over 100 Kelpie and Border Collie dogs – both male and female – with 98 lots and two semen packages sold under the hammer.
Topping the sale at $33,000 was Cabra Glebe Bernie, a 26-month-old AI Border Collie male owned by Joe Leven of Cabra Glebe Working Dogs, Casino, NSW.
Daniel Low of Sunday Camp Brangus Stud, Bellbrooke, NSW, purchased Bernie through the online platform StockLive.
Mr Leven sold all three of his dogs, with Cabra Glebe Sambo fetching $22,000 and Cabra Glebe Scoop $20,000.
The top-priced pup of the sale, Carrdoon Charm, was purchased for $22,000 by an undisclosed buyer from Vanuatu. Gavin Carr of Carrdoon Genetics, Mundubbera, bred the fivemonth-old Border Collie female from an AI mating between Carrdoon Netty and US sire J Crazy J Sam.
Ray White Rural Gracemere principal Gary Wendt said that although this year’s yarding was reduced, the sale remained a tremendous event.
“This year’s sale was steady, which is good, and it turned out to be better than I originally expected,” he said. “The cattle market has come back thanks to the good season, and now you’re seeing the dog market do the same.
“Our trials went very well this year, especially thanks to the new Youth Challenge.”
Amongst the sale were a number of competitions, including the Carrdoon Genetics Dam Duel, Queensland Veterinary Specialists Sire Shootout, Youth Challenge, Battle of the Sexes, and the Open and Rookie Incentive Challenges.
Thanks to the success of the inaugural Youth Challenge, Mr Wendt confirmed it would definitely return next year.
A major climatology study has revealed hailstorms are far more frequent across regional Queensland than previously reported, raising urgent concerns for the state’s agriculture sector.
Published by researchers at AIR Worldwide, the findings show that southern and central Queensland, long thought to be at lower risk, actually face some of the highest hail activity in the country.
In some areas, the study showed up to three times more hail days than what official records captured, particularly in farming corridors from Roma through to Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.
This sharp increase in hail frequency is exactly what KISTERS, a global environmental data technology firm, is aiming to address.
“This study confirms what Queensland farmers have suspected for years: hail is hitting them more often than official records show. Without the right data and detection systems, they’re flying blind,” said Johan Jaques, chief meteorologist at KISTERS.
KISTERS HailSens IoT gives Queensland growers real-time alerts
To help farmers respond faster and protect crops, KISTERS has developed HailSens IoT, a hail sensor that tracks hailstorms in real time and delivers instant, actionable alerts.
HailSens IoT measures:
• Hail size
• Impact force
• Storm duration
Farmers can use this hyperlocal data to respond in the moment, reduce losses and support insurance claims with accurate reports.
“You can’t prevent hail, but you can be ready for it. HailSens IoT gives farmers a window of time to act and the data they need to recover faster,“ said Johan Jaques, KISTERS Why Queensland’s growers are at risk Hail is one of the most destructive and unpredictable threats to Queensland’s crops, capable of wiping out an entire season’s yield in minutes.
In 2022, widespread hail damage impacted crops across the Lockyer Valley and Burnett regions, with little warning and massive financial impact on growers.
This sort of extreme weather is exactly why experts are pushing for climate-smart farming.
“We’re entering the age of climate-smart farm-
Rural women pursuing higher education are eligible for a helping hand thanks to the Nationals leader and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud, who is once again offering a $1000 bursary through the National Council of Women in Queensland (NCWQ).
Since 2017, the bursary offered by Mr Littleproud has helped regional women take the next step in their educational journeys by assisting with the financial challenges associated with pursuing further education.
Last year, Yelarbon’s Charlotte Baker used the bursary to assist her while undertaking a Bachelor of Economics at the University of Queensland.
Mr Littleproud said the bursary had helped country students pursue educational pathways for the past nine years and had provided much-needed support for those needing to move away from regional areas to pursue further study.
“It shouldn’t matter where you come from,
everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue their educational dreams,” Mr Littleproud said.
“I understand how important it is for our next generation of young women to pursue further education and that’s why each year I sponsor a bursary through the NCWQ for a young woman living in the Maranoa electorate to undertake full-time study because it gives them the support they need to take their education to the next level.
“This is a great initiative by the NCWQ and I am proud to be involved again in 2025.”
The bursary is designed for a female, firstyear, full-time student undertaking a tertiary course, such as university, TAFE or the Conservatorium of Music.
To be eligible, applicants must be a Maranoa electorate constituent - although they may have relocated for their studies - and eligible applicants must also be an Australian citizen or a permanent resident of Australia.
ing. Hyperlocal weather data is going to be as essential as seed or fertiliser, especially if we want to keep food supply stable in a volatile world.” Johan Jaques, KISTERS
About KISTERS
KISTERS has specialised in the development of data-driven environmental software, state-of-
the-art environmental instrumentation and IT solutions for more than 60 years. They focus on the collection, processing and reporting of environmental and energy data worldwide, offering innovative, data-driven solutions that harness the power of information and technology.
By John Baker, AgForce CQ Regional Director and President
It’s clear from speaking to fellow primary producers like myself, that there’s an urgent need to increase the level of awareness of the importance of Agriculture and where people’s food comes from in the wider community.
Increasing numbers of young people are looking for alternatives to the city career options, looking instead to a life on the land and needing training.
AgForce recognises how critical the education of young people with an interest in Agriculture is. As such we’ve invested members’ funds heavily in the Schools to Industry Partnership Program in collaboration with the Queensland Government, as well as starting an AgForce Training organisation to try and fill the gap https://ag.training/
AgForce’s renowned SIPP is taking on the challenge of connecting schools with the agriculture industry in a time when the divide between urban and rural communities continues to grow.
Queensland is Australia’s largest agricultural state, yet following the closure of its last Agricultural College in 2019, young people looking for pathways into the industry have had to travel to places as far away such as Victoria. Meaning we are potentially losing their expertise if they decide to stay there.
So in response to these Ag College closures we have developed AgForce Training, potentially running training courses at Belmont as well as other sites across the State.
AgForce owned Belmont Research Station in partnership with RGS provides Cert2 and Cert3 levels of training in partnership with the CQU Degree in Agriculture.
Belmont also has livestock research being done by CQU, and Brian Pastures is leased by DPI and used for research also.
Producers, through their state farming organisations, should not be funding education – but here we are.
I am proud to be a part of AgForce pushing for better pathways for the next generation of producers in Queensland. It’s vital that we encourage the next generation coming through to give our industry a future.
We will also continue to ensure that those who should be delivering these pathways – our Government – are supportive and back those necessary pathways as a crucial feed into the Queensland industry - making it viable into the future.
Food and Fibre is actually mentioned 168 times in the Australian curriculum. But too often we find our teachers lack the knowledge and confidence to teach it in the classroom.
There are many great agriculture industry cur-
‛If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it’
Livestock are responsible for 14.5 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Each year, a single cow can emit 100 kilograms of methane.
Methane is more potent than carbon dioxide – one molecule of methane has a global warming potential equivalent to 28 molecules of carbon dioxide over a 100-year period.
Australia reports its emissions using standardised carbon dioxide equivalents, which means methane emissions are converted to a carbon dioxide equivalent.
Methane emissions from cattle account for approximately 33pc of Australia’s reportable methane emissions, or approximately 10pc of Australia’s reportable carbon dioxide equivalent emissions.
These facts and figure roll off the tongue like lucerne hay being fed to a Brahman cow.
And they give me the sh*** - not the cowsbut these bull**** numbers.
The accuracy of these numbers is rarely questioned and the methodology has been adopted as part of the Paris Climate agreements and associated carbon emission reduction targets.
Many of agriculture’s carbon emission “es-
TOM MARLAND
timates” are based on research and measurements done in the 1970s and 1980s.
These numbers have simply been adopted rather than challenged.
But these numbers are critically important because as the old adage goes “if you can’t measure something, you can’ manage it”.
Australia has legislated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43pc by 2030 and to be “Net Zero” by 2050.
The great hope is that Australia can reach these targets by implementing 82pc renewable energy generation by 2030.
As we get closer to 2030 and these targets are not met - our predominantly urban based politicians will look for a cheap fix with the cheapest political consequence.
It’s not hard to imagine what the target will
be – cows.
As I am out mustering my cows among the green grass, tall trees, chirping birds, clean flowing water and general tranquillity – I struggle to accept that my humble bovines are the ones killing the planet and should be the ones that are first on the chopping block (excuse the pun) when emissions reduction targets have to be met.
I also struggle to accept that the emissions from a cow – that eats grass that’s grown from a natural carbon cycle – is compared on the same carbon dioxide equivalent as a fossil fuel that extracts carbon that has been stored beneath the ground and outside of the natural carbon cycle for hundreds of millions of years.
We are already seeing global examples of countries trying to use the bovine as a way to meet their international emissions targets.
Belgium for instance has placed a “cow tax” on the consumption of beef and dairy.
Fortunately, the agricultural industry is starting to fight back by looking at the science and trying to measure our actual carbon footprint.
Recent research funded by Meat and Livestock Australia and conducted by several Australian Universities has revealed that feedlot
emissions have been overstated by as much as 40pc.
Feedlots make up only 4pc of Australia’s cattle herd and their emissions are easier to target and mitigate.
This research has been provided to the Federal Department of Climate Change and Energy and if accepted will be sent to the IPCC for approval.
Let’s not hold our breath but while we wait let’s continue and extend the research to broad scale grazing and agriculture to find a true understanding of our actual footprint.
I don’t mind having to pay a “fart tax” on my cows - as long as those emissions are accurately measured and my Brahman cows eating natural grass in an open canopy forest aren’t measured the same as a Dairy cow being force fed lucerne hay in a heated barn in Belgium.
Ihaveaverystrongfeelingthatoncethegrass they eat, the trees they graze around, the water they drink and the ecosystems they support are properly accounted for – that their hoof print will be much smaller and their benefits much larger to the environment and the climate.
Until then - I’ll keep running cows - and loving them.
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By Erle Levey
Gympie father and daughter Trevor and Ashleigh Rimmington have had a fascinating introduction to the Lachlan Hughes Foundation’s national scholarship for up-and-coming farmers.
The foundation was set up to continue the vision and work of Western Downs farmer Lachlan Hughes who was tragically lost in an on-farm accident in 2018.
He was only 36 years old, and respected as a most amazing young man.
Lachlan met Anna his wife of 10 years while studying Agribusiness at the University of Queensland, Gatton. Together they were dedicated and passionate about leading a healthy life and living and working in the rural industry.
Lachlan leaves a wonderful legacy – he had a passion for regenerative agriculture and educating young people about rebuilding our soils.
His parents Philip and Adele, Anna and their children,togetherwithyoungerbrotherAlisterand his wife Jules, are carrying on Lachlan’s dreams.
Lachlan believed that it is possible to rebuild our soils and increase their sustainable production capacity to withstand the variabilities of rainfall and that this, in turn, would revitalise our rural communities and improve the economic sustainability of the industry.
The Lachlan Hughes Foundation aims to support people who are motivated ’to do’ and are ’implementers of change’ and ’champions for regenerative agriculture.’
In 2019 a scholarship was established to fund one scholar annually to attend training courses in regenerative agriculture. It was project-based to ensure skill development, and mentoring support was provided.
A program was developed, starting in 2023, to provide training for up to 10 participants annually.
The four-module program has workshops of two and half days each, spaced throughout the year. Participants benefit from coaching in capacity building, personal development, project design and regenerative agriculture.
Personal mentoring assists with the outcomes based, on-farm regenerative agriculture project, and includes visits to participants’ properties during the year.
The aim is to grow leaders in regenerative agricultural practices and to support them to lead change in their industry and communities.
For Ashleigh and Trevor, being selected for the nation-wide program comes just as the family is establishing a 190-acre property in Lower Wonga.
Widgee Creek runs for 1.5km around the property while Brooyar State Forestry adjoins two boundaries.
It was the perfect canvas for the family to follow Trevor’s dream: A place where nature could thrive, and where he could put into practice the benefits of sustainable living.
A cancer scare had awakened Trevor to his own mortality, and he was forced to look to the future and make plans accordingly.
Trevor could see great potential in the farm despite the fact that it was somewhat overgrown and had been farmed conventionally for many years.
“With many months of cancer treatment, multiple surgeries, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, I had plenty of time to research the most effective ways to bring the farm back to a healthy, productive ecosystem,’’ Trevor had said.
“Regenerative farming seemed to be the best solution and minimises the use of chemicals.’’
This, together with Ashleigh’s enthusiasm and skills, impressed the Lachlan Hughes Foundation selection committee.
Based at the Hughes property at Dulacca, the first workshop in the year-long scholarship provided to 10 participants was Regenerating Ourselves Before the Land, Ashleigh said.
Simple when you think of it. Just like how you need good soil to grow good food and that in turn sets us on the path to good health.
“We’ve just returned from the first of four onfarm workshops as part of the program,’’ Ashleigh said, “and what an incredible few days it was.
“The idea behind it is something we’re really starting to resonate with: Before you can truly regenerate the land, you need to regenerate yourself.
“It sounds basic, but it’s something most of us rarely make time for.
“Over three days, we dug deep into understanding who we are - not just as farmers or business owners, but as people.
“With the guidance of our facilitator Barb Bishop, we explored the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to better understand our personality types and how
they influence our decision-making, communication, and daily operations.
“It was both confronting and empowering in the best possible way.’’
Barb Bishop also delivered sessions on communication, time management, and the importance of self-awareness.
This is especially pertinent as participants move into planning and delivering their on-farm projects later this year as part of the course.
“One quote from Barb really stuck with us,’’ Ashleigh said, “and we’ll be keeping it front and centre.
“Time is non-reusable. Time management is basically self-discipline.”
There was also a really practical session on social media, content creation, and video storytelling.
“It was all about sharing our journey in a way that educates and inspires others, especially around regenerative farming principles - which is exactly what we want to do at Lower Wonga where we are developing Highland Hideaway Experiences.’’
The Rimmingtons are breeding a mix of standard beef cattle and Highland Cattle to the farm. This is in conjunction with a getaway experience for guests to get close to other farm animals, especially the young ones.
A definite highlight of the Dulacca farm tour with Philip Hughes and daughter-in-law, Anna, was seeing how they integrate regenerative agriculture into their everyday operations was truly inspiring, Ashleigh said.
“Dulacca Downs is a beautiful example of what’s possible when you work with nature, not against it.
“They walked us through the Four Pillars of a Balanced Environment - functioning soil, hydration, nutrient cycling, and plant biodiversity - and it gave us a lot to think about in terms of what we can do back home.
“One of our biggest take-aways was understanding how our land fits into the wider catchment.
“We left with a clearer sense of how important healthy soil really is — and how energy, while invisible, is the driver of all life in a functioning landscape.’’
Dulacca Downs is a 13,000-acre cattle property and, run in conjunction with the adjacent Heath-
erlea property, supports about 3000 cattle.
The Hughes family employs regenerative agriculture practices, including rotational grazing across more than 60 paddocks. There are leaky weirs, level contours, spreading of humified compost made on the property, and paddock feeders that enable nutrients to improve soil health.
Environmentally sensitive areas are identified and managed separately. They utilise technologies such as AgriWebb, integrated with remote pasture sensing from Cibolabs, to monitor pasture conditions and manage grazing effectively.
Water levels and rainfall are monitored remotely, and all livestock data is analysed during their time at the properties.
At the Dulacca Downs workshop, we learned how microbials play a key role in rebuilding healthy soils by working with nature, not against it,’’ Ashleigh said.
“Seeing how the Hughes family have gradually transitioned their farm systems really inspired us to start applying some of these simple, powerful practices at our own Lower Wonga property.
“We also began to understand how to observe the environmental signs on our land - such as plant diversity, moisture retention, and insect activity - as indicators of how happy and healthy our soil and ecosystems really are.
“By learning to read these signs, we can make better-informed decisions to improve the resilience, productivity, and natural balance of our land over time.
“We’ll soon be undertaking soil testing at Highland Hideaway and are excited to learn throughout the workshops how to interpret the results and put that knowledge into practical action on the ground.’’
Ashleigh could not talk about their experience without mentioning the heart of it all: Adele Hughes, Philip’s wife.
“The warmth and generosity she brings to the program is truly something special.
“Not only did the Hughes family open their home to us, but Adele catered the entire workshop - with absolute grace, warmth, and delicious food that made us feel completely at home.
“Her hospitality is second to none. You don’t feel like a guest; you feel like family.
“There’s even a little sausage dog, Lucy, who reminded us so much of our own dog back home on the farm - it made the whole experience feel even
more personal and grounding.’’
The Foundation also has a growing suitcase book library, filled with donations to support the learning journey of scholarship participants.
“That is a brilliant touch,’’ Ashleigh said. “It’s all part of the bigger picture: Growing ourselves so we can have better land, better food, and better futures.’’
Next on the calendar is for Ashleigh and Trevor to start working on their on-farm project, to be presented at the end of the program.
“One participant or couple will be awarded the Tree of Life Award - an honour we’d be incredibly proud to even be considered for.
“We’re feeling grateful, inspired, and more committed than ever to our path.
“This program isn’t just professional development - it’s personal transformation. And we’re only just getting started.’’
Ashleigh and Trevor are deeply thankful to the sponsors and donors who make the Lachlan Hughes Foundation possible.
“Their generosity is what allows Lachlan’s legacy to thrive, and we encourage others to support this powerful initiative so that his impact can continue for many years to come.’’
The program course is free to participate in and the Foundation is operated solely by donations with all directors and board members donating their time on a voluntary basis.
For Phillip Hughes, the improvement of the land and their system is a work in progress rather than a revolution.
“We run our cattle operation the same way as we live our life, and it’s reasonably sustainable. You can’t go green if you’re in the red.
“Anna and Adele are very organic in their thinking – quality, mineral-rich food is very important to us as a family.’’
As Anna puts it, “It’s a blended approach because, at the end of the day, you can’t do the regenerative work if you aren’t able to maintain your financial position.’’
What the Hughes family is doing is not just creating a living memorial to Lachlan but providing the skills to help others follow his dream for Australian farming and the land.
Australia is a big country, a dry country, and it is imperative that as much can be done as possible to regenerate the soil and hold not just it togetherbut the fabric of our society.
By Bevan Jones
Farmers who are starting to look towards the future and desire for the farm to continue to operate successfully after their retirement or death, then a succession plan is imperative.
Succession planning in farming involves strategically preparing for the transfer of ownership, management, and responsibilities of a farm business to the next generation.
Have you given thought to how your business will continue when you retire, or if you choose to step away for another reason?
If it is a family business, who will take over the reins and continue the legacy to the next generation?
Or who will buy out your share of the enterprise?
Good succession planning requires thought and direction.
It is a complex process for any business leader and can be fraught with questions and emotions.
The facilitation and understanding of each stakeholder’s expectations, needs and desires is paramount.
It includes developing a plan that addresses retirement, financial outcomes, and the working arrangements for both current and future family members.
It is crucial to involve family members in the process and seek legal and accounting advice to ensure a smooth and successful transition.
Succession generally refers to developing a plan for how businesses, such as the family farm, will be passed on to other generations.
Many farmers want to have an ‘off-farm’ retirement and so they need to consider how that will be achieved.
Equally, younger farmers and family members want to know how they will manage their own futures on the farm.
So, it’s a tricky process but with good communication and professional advice, positive results can be achieved for everyone involved.
Hood Sweeney director in accounting and business advisory, Jim Pinkney, works with many family-run agribusinesses.
Mr Pinkney said a professional service will help to make the process of succession planning more efficient and effective that their expertise would be very beneficial to others.
“Our experience tells us that succession planning for the future should start as early as possible and be considered as a continuum not an event,” Mr Pinkney said.
“At least five to ten years out from a planned transition is the minimum.
“The younger generations would like to see those conversations start even earlier as they want to plan for their family’s future, and how the farm will be a part of that.”
Quite simply, succession planning is about planning for the future to create confidence and certainty for those involved.
Many farmers want to have an ‘off-farm’ retirement so they need to consider how that will be achieved.
Equally, younger farmers and family members want to know how they will manage their own futures on the farm.
So it’s a tricky process, but with good communication and professional advice, positive results can be achieved for everyone involved.
Mr Pinkney said succession should be considered as part of an overall transition plan that should:
• treat all children fairly (and it does not always mean equally);
• maintain the farm as a going concern and most importantly;
• meet the needs of the generation transitioning out of the business.
He said people needed to be aware that it was a process involving multiple meetings and in-
volved parties to come up with an appropriate solution.
“The key success factor in our decades of experience has been having a series of specific conversations over a period of time where the focus has been on succession,” Mr Pinkney said.
“Finding time to discuss the topic of succession and the future of the farm as a specific meeting may seem odd to many families, but it works.
“Sitting down for a dedicated discussion can help to open up the dialogue and clarify the goals and objectives of the various parties involved.
“You can’t expect this to happen in one meeting, it is generally a series of conversations that evolve and mature until a clear path is established.”
Using professional advisers is another factor. They have experience and advice that can be very valuable and help to navigate around the “well how are we going to do that?” moments.
Hood Sweeney recommends every family business should be thinking about a range of topics now and talking to their advisors about:
• Start early - Plan well in advance and allow time for alignment, trust building and effective implementation. Understand that a plan is
something that you work towards over a period of time.
• Prioritise family discussion and communication - Engage in open conversations with all family members whether involved in the family business or not, while addressing concerns, expectations and roles during any succession or transition.
• Clarify long term goals and intentions – Understand if the family is aligned on these goals and confirm each generations intent, do they wish to exit completely, stay involved or transition overtime and if so, what are those timeframes.
• Identify and prepare successors – Understand who the successors may be and do they have the appropriate skills, experience and motivations. If not, what training, mentoring or transitional roles can support their readiness.
• Explore the transition options - Consider the impact on family dynamics and business operations.
Families should be prepared to invest time and resources into the formation and implementation of a succession plan, with the return being a greater likelihood that the family’s legacy has the opportunity to continue and for the family to remain intact.
The Queensland Police Service is helping landowners safeguard their properties against rural crime as part of a new crime prevention initiative launched in the Darling Downs.
Shut the Gate on Rural Crime is a campaign designed to address the unique challenges of rural crime through targeted educational resources and a regional roadshow, where landowners can meet with police officers.
As part of the campaign, a dedicated Rural Crime Prevention webpage has been developed, featuring a suite of downloadable resources including security brochures detailing ways to deter fuel tank, livestock and machinery thefts.
It also includes a property marking checklist, a crime prevention handbook and a factsheet for reporting suspicious activity.
Darling Downs Acting Superintendent Scott Stahlhut acknowledged the impacts of criminal activity in rural areas and encouraged residents to adopt proactive measures to secure their properties.
“There are effective steps our rural communities can take to ensure their property is secure, which can significantly reduce the risk of theft,” Acting Superintendent Stahlhut said.
“Reporting crime and suspicious activity not only assists in ongoing investigations, it helps police identify trends.”
Detective Inspector Jim Lacey, Operations Manager of the Rural and Stock Crime Squad, said collaboration was the key to maintaining safer rural areas.
“When landholders, communities and police work together, we create stronger networks that help prevent crime and strengthen our ability to protect rural communities,” Detective In-
Attention cotton growers! Does your local Cotton Grower Association (CGA) need more weather data, want to run a trial or hold a workshop?
Feel like you need a bit of training or help navigating the complex world of carbon? The CRDC Grassroots Grants program can help make it happen.
The program offers grants of up to $10,000 and has become popular with growers and consultants for activities planned through their local CGAs.
Since 2011, CRDC has supported 95 projects across cotton growing regions, investing $827,000 to help fund local initiatives to increase the engagement of growers, solve specific regional issues and improve skills, knowledge and networks.
Projects have stretched across regions and topics.
Recent initiatives include improving growers’ digital skills, purchasing weather stations, visiting growers in other regions, creating networks and holding irrigation field days.
CottonInfo regional extension officers (REOs) often work with CGAs and Cotton Australia regional managers to develop a project and carry it out.
“Support is available for CGAs who are thinking about applying,” CottonInfo program manager Janelle Montgomery said.
“One of the major benefits of these grants is that they can be tailored to the needs of growers and consultants in each valley. They’re easy to apply for, don’t involve a lot of paperwork and funding is available now.
“We’ve been getting a lot of feedback through recent Area Wide Management meetings that growers are looking for more information or advice about holding training, workshops and events.
CottonInfo program manager Janelle Montgomery. (Supplied)
“Our CRDC Innovation Brokers and CottonInfo REOs are happy to talk through ideas and options with any interested grower, consultant or CGA representative.”
Grant funding is capped annually and is allocated on a first-in, first-served basis.
Funding is currently available and CGAs are encouraged to apply.
For more CRDC Grassroots Grants please visit www.crdc.com.au/growers/community-growersupport
Applications are now open for Nuffield Australia’s 2026 farming scholarship, with cotton growers urged to apply.
The Cotton Research Development Corporation (CRDC) is a proud supporter of the Nuffield program, supporting one cotton grower annually to undertake the program in partnership with Cotton Australia.
Nuffield is one of the world’s longest-running agricultural capacity building programs, offering its global program for 75 years.
A Nuffield scholarship is a great way to build skills, grow networks and explore new innovations in the cotton sector.
The comprehensive program includes a
range of group and individual components, including travel around the world, to equip scholars with the tools, insights, knowledge and global networks they need to adapt to changing climatic and market conditions in agriculture.
Nuffield has created a diverse community of alumni who are united in a shared purpose: to lead and fuel innovation in agriculture. From paddocks to boardrooms, Nuffield scholars are leaders who push boundaries, drive change and ensure Australian agriculture will thrive in a changing world.
* For more information please visit https:// www.nuffield.com.au/
you have a story to tell, new
Fiona Gowers | E: fiona.gowers@queenslandfarmertoday.com.au For all your classified and advertising enquiries, contact our team.
Jane Lowe 0408 488 609
E: jane.lowe@queenslandfarmertoday.com.au
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E: daniel.pelcl@burnetttoday.com.au
Sharon Jones
P: 07 4182 0451
E: sharon.jones@burnetttoday.com.au
40,000 readership per month
Inserted into the following newspapers:
• South Burnett Today
• Central & North Burnett Today
• Warwick Today
• Stanthorpe Today
• Leader Today
• Jimboomba Today
• Beaudesert Times
• Emerald Today
• CQ Today
• Goondiwindi Argus
Also available from the follow outlets:
• Hartleys Newsexpress Toowoomba
• Roma Sale Yards
• Warwick Sale Yards
• Highfields News & Post
• Pittsworth Newsagency
• News Extra Central City
• Dalby Saleyards
• The Barn, Oakey
• Crows Nest Newsagency
• CQLX Gracemere,
• Longreach saleyards
• Emerald saleyards
• Meringandan Produce
• Goombungee Newsagency
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1.5 hours
Serves: 12 people
Ingredients:
For the pavlova
· 5 egg whites (175g)
· 225g sugar
· 1 tsp lemon juice or white
Method:
1. Preheat oven to 150°C. Line oven tray with baking paper.
2. In a large electric mixer bowl fitted with whisk attachment, beat the egg whites on medium speed until bubbles start to form, about 1 minute.
3. Add half of the sugar, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Then, continue whisking until soft peaks are formed, about 2 minutes.
4. Add remaining sugar and beat until glossy, stiff peaks are formed, about 1 minute.
5. Remove bowl from the mixer and fold in the chopped macadamia nuts.
wine vinegar · 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
· 140g roasted macadamias, finely chopped
For the cream
· 300ml cream, cold
· 1 tsp Davidson Plum powder (optional)
6. Spoon the meringue mixture onto the baking tray to make 2 round nests.
7. Reduce oven temperature to 120° and bake for 1 hour.
8. Turn off the oven and cool with the door ajar for at least 2 hours.
9. In a large mixing bowl, whip the cream to soft peaks then fold in the Davidson Plum powder.
10. To assemble the pavlova, carefully place one of the meringue nests on a platter.
11. Spoon and spread half of the cream, sprinkle 1 tbsp chopped pistachio and macadamia onto the meringue then carefully
For the topping
· 20g roasted pistachios, chopped
· 20g roasted macadamias, chopped
· 60g passionfruit pulp (~2 passionfruit)
· 1 (150g) mango
· 20g blueberries
· 50g strawberries
place the other meringue nest on top.
12. Spoon remaining cream, drizzle passionfruit pulp, assemble fruits, sprinkle remaining nuts and dust Davidson Plum powder on top of the meringue.
13. Serve immediately.
Tips:
· You can also make one big round nest (bake for 1 hour 15 minutes) or 20-30 mini-meringue nests (bake for 30 minutes). Assemble your pavlova at the very last minute, as the cream and fruits will soften the pavlova. Roasted almonds can be used instead of pistachios.
Prep time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Serves: 3 people
Ingredients:
For the chicken
· 150g chicken tenderloin or breasts
· 1/2 cup (65g) macadamia nuts
· 1/2 cup (30g) desiccated coconut
· 1/2 tsp dried oregano
· 1/2 tsp onion powder
· 1/4 tsp salt
· Pinch of pepper
Method:
1. Mix almond meal, onion powder, dried oregano, salt and pepper in a shallow dish.
2. In another small bowl, whisk the eggs.
3. Blitz macadamia to fine crumbs.
4. Mix macadamia crumb and desiccated coconut in another shallow dish.
5. Slice chicken into bite size strips.
6. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
7. Dredge (coat lightly) chicken with almond meal mixture, dip in egg wash then coat with macadamia and coconut crumb.
8. Place breaded chicken on frying pan. Cook for 5 minutes then carefully flip the chicken over with
· 1/4 cup (25g) almond meal
· 1 large egg (65g)
· 2 tbsp (25ml) oil
For the dressing
· 1 1/2 tbsp (25g) Dijon mustard
· 2 tsp (15g) honey
· 1 tsp (5g) apple cider vinegar
· 1 tsp (5g) olive oil
· 1 tsp (5g) mayonnaise
For garnishing
· 1/2 tbsp chopped parsley
a spatula and cook for another 5 minutes. Add remaining oil if needed.
9. Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer chicken to a clean paper hand towel to absorb excess oil.
10. Meanwhile, whisk together dressing ingredients until an emulsion is formed.
11. Transfer chicken to a plate & serve immediately, with dressing on the side.
Tips
· Macadamia nut crust can go from perfectly brown to burnt very quickly! Use medium heat and don’t go too far away while you’re cooking. Increase to medium-high heat for the last 30 seconds to get an extra crispy crust.
Mary Valley riders have done the region proud at Australia’s premier endurance horse ride. ERLE LEVEY went to Tasmania to report on the 2025 Tom Quilty Gold Cup and came back with stories about the riders, their journey and their achievements.
It was a gallop finish for the coveted Tom Quilty 2025 Gold Cup with Queensland’s Sample family repeating history.
Imbil’s Matthew Sample and brother Brook, from Kenilworth, were equal winners of the 160km endurance ride in 2009 at Tonimbuk, near Pakenham in Victoria.
Now Nikki Sample, wife of Matthew, and Matty Sample, 21-year-old son of Brook, have tied in 2025 for what is regarded as Australia’s premier horse riding endurance event.
They crossed the line at Sassafras, in northern Tasmania, with raised arms. They were just a couple of minutes ahead of the fast-finishing Ben Hudson - a two-times winner of the Tom Quilty.
Nikki was riding Razorback Blue Avatar and Matty was riding Brookleigh Danu. They completed the 160km course in a total ride time of 10hrs 43mins.
It was Matty’s third Quilty, and a win in his first completion.
For Nikki it was fourth time lucky - her first Tom Quilty ride was in 2019 at Stirling’s Crossing Equestrian Centre at Imbil where she finished second in the lightweight division riding Anglesea Finneas.
That was after two 40km training rides, three completed 80km and one 160km ride in six months to qualify.
Nikki admits to not being sure she knew what she was doing at that time.
In 2023, again at Imbil, Nikki finished third middleweight on Brookleigh Danu, five months after having had a baby, Elle.
Then in 2024 Nikki finished fourth middleweight at Wirrina Cove in South Australia.
“It was very special with both Matty’s and my horses having wins.
“Matty was fabulous to ride with. He’s very independent.
“He rode perfectly. He did the job. It’s in the blood.
“Elle will be here in a heartbeat, the day she turns 12.’’
The Tom Quilty started in 1966 when Gabriel Stecher won the gold cup in the Hawkesbury district, near Sydney, riding Shalawi.
The highly-coveted Tom Quilty belt buckles are awarded to each competitor to complete the 160km course in a day.
The event is held on a rotational basis between the Australian states each year, where possible.
Horses are checked by veterinarians after each of five legs of the course to see if they are fit to continue.
The location for the 2025 gold cup at Tasmania’s farming community of Sassafras was ideal for the event.
Situated to the south of the port city of Devonport, and to the east of the iconic Cradle Mountain National Park, it is a farming community including grazing, agriculture, orchards and forests.
There was a hiccup in the weather in the leadup to the TQ 25 with showers and the temperature dropping to three degrees during the day and minus-one overnight.
Yet by the time it came to start time the weather had cleared - clear nights, fog in the valleys of a morning but the sun shining during the day and temperatures rising to 17 degrees.
It had been a day of pre-ride vetting, the preride talk, strappers and riders readying for a Tom Quilty Gold Cup start.
The atmosphere was full of anticipation in the lead-up to the traditional midnight start of the ride. Then, in the blink of an eye, it was time to saddle-up and set off.
Riders are allowed 24 hours to complete the course but the leaders expected to complete in a total ride time of 10 hours.
THE TRADITION CONTINUES
The Sample tradition started in 1993 when Bob Sample won on Sharahd Caprice in Tasmania.
His sons Matthew and Brook have continued that legacy, with Brook winning three gold cups before sharing the win in 2009 with Matthew. Brook won the junior division in South Australia in 1986 and came in equal with Bob in 1993 but his horse did not pass the final vet check.
He has gone on to win a record seven Tom
Quilty Gold Cups and 14 buckles - the same number of buckles as Bob.
Matthew won the coveted trophy at Nanango in 2008, gained third placings at South Australia in 2011 and Tasmania in 2012, then won the heavyweight division in South Australia last year.
The Sample name was a further part of the TQ 2025 with Taylor Grogan, the 12-year-old great granddaughter of Bob, finishing third in the junior division at her first attempt.
“The year has been focused towards this whole event,’’ Nikki said. “It’s very special because we are now focused towards the world championships next year in Saudi Arabia.
“Hopefully we will be taking Razorback (Blue Avatar) and Stirling’s Thor.’’
The Sample team had been almost six weeks on the road from Queensland to Tasmania, competing at the Burrumbuttock End Ride and Tumbarumba Snowy Zone Carnival in New South
Wales before catching the ferry across Bass Strait.
Nikki won the 120km ride at Burrumbuttock and the 100km ride at Tumbarumba, where Matty finished fourth.
There were 135 nominations for the 2025 Tom Quilty, with a 57.78 percent completion.
Queensland Endurance Riders Association had 29 nominations at Sassafras, with the QERA
A Team finishing second in the teams event.
Peter Field from Cashmere was second in the heavyweight division on Rkayn Xuberant, while Troy Butler of Buccan, riding Falcon Hill Mahbeer, was seventh.
Mary Valley rider Giulia Ciprino, in what was her first Tom Quilty, was fourth in the lightweight division on Shakeel Glow.
Biggenden’s Sue Sutcliffe finished fifth in the lightweight division on En-Theos Zhivago, Wondai’s Virginia Barber was 12th on Lockleigh Park Special Edition, and Belli Park’s Emma Shone fin-
ished 13th on Brookleigh Syria.
TOM QUILTY 2025
The course at Sassafras, a farming community south of Devonport, was at first impression to be a good ride through undulating grazing land, orchards and forestry with some stony and steep sections.
The weather was exceptionally fine after some showers beforehand that softened the trails. Fog and overnight temperatures of zero degrees at the midnight start cleared to 17 degrees during the day.
However, it turned out to be a technically challenging course, especially the stony sections that saw many riders needing to dismount and run or walk their horses.
At the pre-ride briefing tribute was paid to the many property owners and organisations who had got behind this ride, to open their properties up and facilitate a great event.
Recognition was also paid to the volunteers and the effort that had gone into transforming Pat Lamprey’s Paddock into a welcoming ride base.
The year-long planning came down to the last 30 days, which showed how many people getting together could achieve a great outcome.
The venue, on sloping land, is well known to endurance riders.
The traditional midnight start was in almost frosty conditions, with the stars and a three-quarter moon in the night sky shining brightly. Only the warm breath of horses and riders broke the air.
By 6am fog had descended into the valleys, adding to the intrigue of this iconic event.
As riders completed the second leg the sun broke through over the surrounding ranges.
It created a shroud of excitement for the third leg and this turned out to be the moving moment for the Queensland duo of Nikki and Matty Sample.
For Matty, the win was so special - not just for himself but his father Brook and the Sample family.
“I’m sure Dad would be proud, very happy.’’
Throughout the ride, Matty said, both he and Nikki just kept cruising along at an even pace.
“We seemed to be in a good position compared to the rest of the riders.
“It was the third leg that we moved through to the front.
“Overall, there was some stony bits … a couple of steep bits and some rocky ones so you would jump off and run down some hills.’’
For spectators, it was a team effort between rider and horse. We could see the way Matty and Nikki adapted a similar pace and style when running with their horses.
That represents how they were on the rest of the track. They understand the horse and the horse understands them. It’s noticeable.
“That’s a very good way of putting it,’’ Matty said.
It was his first completion, and first gold cup. If the Sample history and Matty’s ability is anything to go by, there’ll be some more in the future.
“I hope so,’’ he said. “That’s the plan. RISING TALENT
Taylor Grogan couldn’t wait until she turned 12 and was able to compete in the Tom Quilty Gold Cup.
The daughter of Mark and Saasha Grogan, and great granddaughter of Bob Sample, she started riding at the age of five.
Mark was leading her on rides and when she outgrew her pony Dee Dee it was a matter of finding another horse.
Saasha had Anastazia VA (Grace) in 2019 and rode her for a couple of years until they decided she was the best one for Taylor.
Her first 160km qualifier ride was at Stirling’s Crossing five years ago - that was as a junior on Dee Dee at the Queensland State Championships.
Taylor went on to win junior division of the Winton-To-Longreach ride in 2023 … a 220km ride in 24 hours on Grace.
“They are a good pairing,’’ Mark said.
“Taylor had to wait two years to ride the Quilty. She had qualified at seven and had to wait.
“Last year the Quilty was late in the year and it looked like it was going to pay to her advantage, but her birthday was not for another couple of weeks after the event.
“She just wanted to complete this event. She is so happy.’’
Saasha said the course was technically challenging. Not the racecourse people were expecting.
It saw a gallant ride by Ella Stanton from Boonara Endurance at Tansey, who only started the sport at this time last year and completed the Tom Quilty at South Australia in her first attempt.
However, a requirement of endurance riding is that the horse must pass the final vet inspection as if able to continue.
While Ella was first junior to cross the line her horse Boonara Dark Ruby was vetted out.
It was a magnificent result for Giulia Ciprino and Shakeel Glow from the Thunder Ridge Equestrian at Carters Ridge, finishing fourth in the lightweight division in what was her first Tom Quilty.
This was despite encountering setbacks, including being bucked off in the warm-up ring, getting lost on the fourth loop, and losing a horseshoe just 2km from the finish line.
Yet they did it and you could not wipe the smile from Giulia’s face.
Coming from Italy five years ago as a chef, Giulia has gone from learning to ride, to exercising and managing horses at Thunder Ridge, and working her way up through the endurance riding distances.
From the lakes country in the Piedmont Region of northern Italy, she came to Australia almost 12 years ago.
A school mate had come to Australia on a work-
ing visa and Giulia soon joined her.
From Sydney, she moved to Noosa when her friends returned to Italy and stayed on through her work in hospitality.
Giulia started taking riding lessons with Brooke Marshall at Thunder Ridge and then volunteering a couple of days a week.
That was two years ago. Giulia quit her job and started working full time with Brooke.
“Giulia’s very resilient,’’ Brooke has said. “She doesn’t get cranky - perhaps the most chilled person I know.’’
PREPAREDNESS LEADS TO SUCCESS
The Tom Quilty ride base at Lamprey’s Paddock was a reflection of the exceptional volunteer planning and work undertaken for the event.
From the location of competitors and their camp sites to the well-groomed transition area and vetting lanes, everything worked well. From the presentation of marquees, food vans and display stalls to the lanes for starting a ride or completing it.
Despite the absence of any permanent structures, everything worked extremely well in regard to managing the flow of horses, traffic and spectators.
The efforts of volunteers to produce special touches such as the TQ 25 logos around the ground were appreciated - the main one created out of horseshoes while others used flowers or metal cuttings presented on wood structures. It was a novel way to reflect Tasmania and the Australian landscape.
One of the newer features for the Tom Quilty was electronic tracking of riders while out on the course.
Each rider must carry their own phone which is automatically linked to the software that tracks all riders, keeping them safe and located on the tracks.
The work of support teams is made easier by knowing where their rider is and when they can prepare for them to enter base ready for vetting.
On my return home I went to the butcher to get something for dinner and the young bloke asked: “How’s your day been?’’
My reply was simple: “Let me just tell you.
“I was in Tasmania this morning after covering a 160km endurance horse ride and here I am, feeling as if I have ridden it but I was there to photograph and write about it.’’
The young fellow was impressed.
Another customer wanted to know when and where she could read the story as it sounded so inspiring, especially as her daughter has a horse.
That’s what I like to hear. A new generation being inspired by the challenges others take on, and the care the riders take of their horses.
Not only that, it allows you to fully appreciate the beauty of the Australian landscape and the ability to ride through it in all types of weather.
RESULTS
Middleweight
1. Nikki Sample, Razorback Blue Avatar, 10hours
43minutes, 19seconds. 1. Matty Sample, Brookleigh Danu, 10:43:19. 3. Ben Hudson, Razorback Porsche. Best conditioned horse: Angie Clark, Littlebanks Troubadour.
Heavyweight
1. Harrison Berg, Khan Sadyk, 12:17:55 (best conditioned). 2. Peter Field, Rkayn Xuberant. 3. Shelley Jones, Shellal Blood Moon.
Lightweight
1. Susan Woodward, Kalody Park White Feather, 12:19:38. 2. Matilda Rockliff, Anderton Park Jonah Hex (best conditioned). 3. Toni Sheean, FoleyJones Precious.
Junior
1. Alexa Parker, Bellawongarah Isaac, 13:42:28 (best conditioned). 2. Piper Braid, Kasdell Khali. 3. Taylor Grogan, Anastazia VA.
The Pat Slater Cup went to Khan Sadyk, ridden by Harrison Berg. It is for the horse judged to be the one renowned horse photographer Pat Slater would have liked to have seen in the ring next day.
• The TQ Division Representative Teams went to Team Green (TAS): Jessica Goulding, Molly Napier, Kirsty Neilley and Angie Clark.
• QERA A (QLD) in 2nd place: Ella Stanton, Peter Field, Alexander Toft and Jess Dakin.
• Go The Blues (NSW) in 3rd place: Clare Fleming, Susan Woodward, Alan Mackinder and Amelia
More photos page 30
Report Date: 15/05/2025
Saleyard: Blackall
Numbers fell to 1,700 head of cattle for the Blackall prime sale this week. While there was some good quality pens of heavy feeder steers and heifers on offer it was a very mixed quality yarding with restockers and feeder buyers operating selectively. Most export buyers were present however not all were active and prime cattle could not maintain the levels of the previous weeks. Good quality light weight restocker steers were in short supply with the top priced pen at 426.2c while steers 280 to 330kg sold to 424.2c to average 387c/kg. Medium weight steers saw local support selling to 402.2c and heavy feeder steers made to 368.2c to average 346c/kg. The light weight heifer run was dominated by plainer ‘D’ muscle type heifers with most averaging 229c, while ‘c’ muscle heifers sold to 310.2c to average 290c/kg. Heifers 280 to 330kg to the restocker made to 331.2c to average 286c and good quality PTE heifers over 400kg to feed sold to 334.2c/kg to average 311c/kg. Mixed quality grown steers slipped 10c this week selling to 299.2c to average 289c/kg. Medium cows under 520kg sold to 236.2c to average 224c and a small sample of heavy cows sold to 256.2c with most around 247c/ kg. Cows and calves sold to $1680/unit. Market reporter, Sam Hart.
Report Date: 21/05/2025
Saleyard: Casino
The continuing wet conditions reduced the penning at Casino to 860 head. The yarding contained a good mix of vealers suited to the restockers along several pens of yearling steers and heifers which sold to dearer trends. The cow yarding was good with restockers keen to buy the plainer lines and processors stronger on the better finished heavy cows.
Light weight vealer steers to restockers made 428c to average 390c/kg. Vealer steers over 200kg to background made 448c to 403c/kg. Light weight vealer heifers to restockers sold to 332c and averaged 295c/kg. Vealer heifers over 200kg to background made 354c to average 317c/kg. Yearling steers in the 200-280kg range returning to the paddock made 434c to average 399c/kg. Light weight yearling heifers to background made 318c with those to processors at 330c to average 285c/kg.
A handful of grown steers to processors sold to 300c and averaged 293c/kg. Light weight plain conditioned cows to restockers sold from 170c to 246c/kg. With the better finished lines to processors at 250c to 259c/kg. Heavy plain conditioned cows to processors made 249c to average 235c/ kg. The best heavy cows sold to 275c and averaged from 257c to 268c/kg. Heavy bulls topped at 270c/kg. Market Reporter Errol Luck. Report Date: 21/05/2025
Saleyard: CQLX Gracemere
The yarding at CQLX Gracemere sale decreased by 595 head to 2192, with cattle drawn from local districts, Clermont, Collinsville and south to Berajondo. It was a very mixed yarding throughout. Prices again struggled to hold last sale rates and there were some gaps in the buying panel across most sections.
Vealer steers in euro cross pens reached 431c/
kg, to average 369c to 399c/kg for the best. Vealer heifers sold to a 299c/kg top, with best-bred lines averaging 252c to 272c/kg.
Yearling steers in light weight pens made to 427c/kg, averaging 374c/kg for the best bred pens. Medium weight pens averaged 336c to 361c/kg, again for the well-bred lines. Light weight yearling heifers topped at 299c/kg to average 257c to 270c/kg, whilst medium and heavy weights averaged 250c to 289c/kg with a 293c/kg top.
Feeders paid 333c to 355c/kg average for their grown steers. Processor bullocks averaged 283c to 289c/kg with a top of 293c/kg. An exceptional pen of prime, grown heifers made 300c/kg to the trade. However, trade prices generally averaged 250c to 264c/kg.
Restockers averaged 210c to 227c/kg for their two score cows, with heavy, four score cows averaging 239c and making to 255c/kg. Heavy bulls to livex averaged 242c/kg whilst those to processors averaged 219c/kg. A very small and plain offering of cows and calves saw the best units make $1,280 to $1,410 per unit. Reporter: Richard Thomson Report Date: 21/05/2025
Saleyard: Dalby
Despite the good falls of rain over the local supply areas the number of cattle penned at Dalby only reduced by 296 head to 3,970. Export buyer attendance continues to be good and the southern export processor of the previous week returned and was more active in the market. The regular feed and trade plus restocker buyers were also present and operating.
Light weight yearling steers returning to the paddock responded to the rainfall and improved in price by over 20c/kg in places. Yearling steers to feed sold to a market 12c to 29c/kg better. Light weight yearling heifers to restockers or background attracted strong support to average 30c to 40c/kg dearer. Yearling heifers to feed improved by 15c to 30c/kg. A small sample of bullocks and grown heifers were dearer. Most classes of cows sold to a dearer trend of 5c to 15c/kg with the better end pushed on by the southern processor. Light weight yearling steers to restockers made to 470c with a good sample averaging from 412c to 419c/kg. Yearling steers to feed for the domestic market made to 447c and averaged from 394c to 420c/kg. Heavy weight yearling steers to feed made to a top of 444c to average 382c/kg. Light weight yearling heifers returning to the paddock made to 386c to average from 328c to 337c/kg. Medium weight yearling heifers to feed made to the occasional 398c to average from 336c to 340c/ kg. Heavy weight yearling heifers to feed made to 364c to average 313c/kg.
A handful of bullocks made to 362c to average 350c and heavy grown heifers made to 349c/ kg. Very plain condition medium weight cows to restockers made to 248c to average 235c/kg. Medium weight 2 scores to processors averaged 239c and made to 240c/kg. Heavy weight 3 score cows averaged 252c/kg. Good heavy weight cows averaged 273c with the very occasional sale to 315c/ kg with one cow returning $2,249/head. Heavy weight bulls made to 315c/kg. Market Reporter, Trevor Hess.
Report Date: 20/05/2025
Saleyard: Roma
Roma Agents yarded 5,990 head. All the regular processors feedlotters and backgrounders present. A mixed quality yarding penned including weaners heavy feeders and a small number of bullocks and cows.The market firm to dearer 5c to 10c/kg for the better lines of weaners . Bullocks and cows could not maintain the levels of last sale.
Yearling steers 200 to 280kg topped 484c/kg. Yearling steers 280 to 330kg made to 482c to average 415c/kg. Yearling steers 330 to 400kg with the majority selling from 300c to 428c/kg almost 10c/kg dearer. Yearling steers 400 to 480kg with a small number making 415c to feed and 390c/kg to restockers.
Yearling heifers 200 to 280kg with large numbers selling from 208c to 348c to average 315c/kg. Yearling heifers 280 to 330kg topping 356c to average 319c/kg to restockers. Yearling heifers 330 to 400kg improved almost 25c/kg to make 345c to feed and 364c/kg to restockers. Yearling heifers 400 to 480kg and made to 306c/kg.
Grown steers 400 to 500kg topped 350c/kg to restockers. Grown steers over 600kg made to 335c/kg to processors. Grown heifers over 540kg also to processors made to 293c/kg Only a small number of cows penned with most cows losing yield. The 2 score cows sold from 185c to 240c/ kg. The 3 score cows topped 275c/kg. Bulls 450 to 600kg made to 294c and bulls over 600kg making to 282c with a euro bull making to 311c/kg. Market Reporter David Friend.
Report Date: 20/05/2025
Saleyard: Warwick
The useful falls of rain across parts of the supply area reduced cattle numbers at Warwick by 559 head to 802. All the regular buyers were in attendance and operating in a firm to dearer market in places. Light weight yearling steers returning to the paddock responded to the rainfall and averaged 14c/kg better. Medium and heavy weight yearling steers to feed experienced only quality related price changes. Yearling heifers to restockers and feed sold to a firm market with some top quality lines improving in price. Medium weight plain condition cows were in demand however heavy weights sold to within a few cents of the previous week. Light weight yearling steers returning to the paddock made to 422c averaged 387c/kg. Yearling steers to feed for the domestic market made to 412c to average from 383c to 396c/kg. Heavy weight yearling steers to feed averaged 367c and made to 398c/kg. Light weight yearling heifers returning to the paddock made to 335c to average from 290c to 300c/kg. Medium weight yearling heifers to feed made to 342c average 318c and heavy weights made to 322c to average 300c/kg. A handful of bullocks made to 336c/kg. Medium weight 2 score cows averaged 233c and made to 243c/kg. Heavy weight 3 score cows averaged 242c and the good heavy weight cows averaged 262c with a C muscle heavy weight cow making to 277c/kg to return $1,663/head. Heavy weight bulls were dearer and made to 316c to return $3,035/head
Australia’s rising stars of professional bull riding have just scored the ride of their lives – drafted to the world’s biggest stage, the PBR (Professional Bull Riders) Teams Series in the USA.
Four of the country’s toughest and most talented young guns – Queensland brothers Macaulie and Boston Leather, fellow Queenslander Thomas Triplett and Jack Brodrick from Bungendore in NSW – have officially been picked up in the 2025 PBR Teams New Rider Draft, securing coveted spots in top-tier American teams.
Macaulie Leather (24 years from Calliope) – 2023 PBR Australia Champion – drafted to the Texas Rattlers, joining fellow Aussies, the legendary Brady Fielder, Callum Miller and Qynn Anderson.
Boston Leather (19 years from Calliope) – 2024 PBR Australia Champion and Rookie of the Year –headed to Missouri Thunder.
Thomas Triplett (19 years from Bungundarra, QLD) – the top scorer at Newcastle’s PBR Origin I and Rookie of the Year contender – drafted to the Oklahoma Wildcatters.
Jack Brodrick (22 years from Bungendore, NSW) – the #1 ranked rider in Australia after PBR Australia’s first quarter, also drafted to the Oklahoma Wildcatters, where he’ll be coached by his childhood idol, PBR legend and two-time World Champion J.B. Mauney!
These signings mark a major moment for Australian bull riding, solidifying PBR Australia as a breeding ground for international stars. The Draft, held in the USA, is the launching pad into one of the toughest and most high-profile professional sports in the world – and these boys are ready to bring the heat. And they’re following in elite footsteps...
Queensland’s Brady Fielder, already a mainstay with the Texas Rattlers, just capped off an epic campaign at the 2025 PBR World Finals in Arlington, Texas – taking out the prestigious Lane Frost/Brent Thurman Award for the highestmarked ride of the Finals. He also locked in a Top 10 individual finish, with the Rattlers clinching the overall Teams Championship title.
PBR Australia’s Glen Young said the success of Fielder – and the new wave of drafted riders –proves that Aussie bull riders are a global force.
“Brady has shown that our Aussie riders are truly world class,” Young said. “We’re incredibly proud of the talent coming out of PBR Australia. The structure, training and events here prepare our athletes for the biggest stage – and this Draft proves just that. These boys are headed into battle, but they’re ready. And they’re going to fly the Aussie flag high.”
By Jessica McGrath
A quarter of a century has passed since the idea for a freshwater fishing permit to assist with dam restocking was floated around.
South Burnett’s Alan Keates was there when the conversation first started and when the Queensland Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS) was first established.
The Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme is required to fish at impoundments stocked with native fish specifically for recreational fishing. This provides a sustainable fishing option and reduces fishing pressure on wild fish stocks.
Mr Keates was instrumental in the development of the Boondooma Dam as a productive freshwater fishery and tourist destination for the South Burnett region.
The former Wondai Shire Council CEO, and Boondooma Dam Fish Stocking and Management Association foundation secretary-treasurer and life member reflected on the journey to restock the dams.
“I can recall the meeting the Boondooma Dam fish stocking group, Wondai Shire Council and local fishing clubs had with DPI officers to convince them that a freshwater fishing permit was needed to raise meaningful funds to stock fingerlings in Queensland’s freshwater dams,” he told the Queensland Department of Primary Industries.
“Many stocking groups didn’t have the ability to raise sufficient funds and couldn’t rely on local councils for annual funding.
“I didn’t have that problem with the Wondai Shire Council, as their vision was to provide a productive recreational fishery and promote tourism in the South Burnett region.”
Mr Keates recalls some were hesitant about the permit system, its cost and how much would be invested into the fingerling purchases.
“I can remember suggesting that a permit fee might equate to one carton of stubbies per year,” he said.
According to the Department of Primary Industries, freshwater fish stocking is the process of releasing young fish, known as ‘fingerlings’, into dams, weirs and rivers to enhance and maintain fisheries and help threatened freshwater fish species recover. Since SIPS was first introduced, millions of fingerlings have been released into the Boondooma Dam.
South Burnett Regional Council states that the main species of fingerlings released each year into the dam are golden perch (yellowbelly), silver perch and Australian bass.
The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Queensland estimates that millions are injected into the local and regional economy each year thanks to recreational fishing.
The Boondooma Dam Caravan and Recreation Park’s development, as well as the annual Boondooma Dam Family Fishing Competition has seen fishing grow into a big tourist destination for the region.
Numerous other fishing competitions are held at the dam each year, as well as Kingaroy Sport Fishing Club’s Tag-a-toga annual research project.
“The introduction of SIPS and fish stocking groups has proven to be one of DPI’s success stories, benefiting economic growth in all regions throughout Queensland,” Mr Keates said.
“My congratulations to all involved in the program.”
A stock impoundment permit is needed to fish in Boondooma Dam, as well as the South Burnett’s Bjelke-Petersen Dam.
The South Burnett’s Gordonbrook Dam is stocked by the Boondooma Dam Fish Stocking and Management Association, with Australian bass, golden perch, silver perch and saratoga. Fishing at Gordonbrook Dam is restricted to shore fishing with a SIPS permit.
As for the North Burnett, a SIPS permit is required to fish at Cania Dam and Wuruma Dam.
The Jones Weir near Mundubbera and Claude Wharton Weir near Gayndah have been stocked from SIPS funds since 2017, and also require a permit.
A SIPS is not required to fish at Paradise Dam in the North Burnett, as it is not a stocked impoundment.
By Maddison Richards
Three Burnett riders saw polo-perfection as they competed on the Queensland Sub Junior Under 12 team.
Over Easter, 18 to 20 April, Ava Stevens, along with a couple of her team mates Indiana Collins and Jason Wacker, travelled down to New South Wales to compete in the Albury Autumn Junior Classic for the Queensland Sub Junior Under 12 team, with half the team attending a Junior Coaching clinic across 15 to 17 April.
Hosted by the Albury Holbrook Polocross Club at Albury, NSW, the competition was an interstate polocross competition aimed for sub juniors, riders under 12-years-old, and juniors, riders under 16-years-old.
To add to their list of competitions, there were two others held separately over the same weekend, a club competition and Silver Spur.
Selena Stevens, manager for the Sub junior team, explained that the Silver Spur competition had elite players competing from all over Australia as well as some international players.
With three games, followed by a final, the Queensland team competed against the NSW 2, NSW 3 and Victoria team, with the Queensland team facing Victoria in the final and riding away victorious.
“As the manager of the team, it was great to see all the kids build friendships and learn to play as a team,” she said, “when they hadn’t played together before.”
Ava Stevens is a Kingaroy local, 12 years of age and has been riding horses all her life and enrolled in the Gold Coast polocross club, was amazed to be selected for the Queensland Sub Junior Team, finding it unbelievable.
“I felt great, so excited to be part of a Queensland team,” Ava said.
After much tough competition, the Queensland team rode away winners.
“It felt exhilarating and mind blowing that we won,” she said.
Ava’s mother, Selena, felt extremely proud when her daughter was selected for the Queensland team, even more so when the team won the competition.
“It was great to see how hard she had worked in the off season to improve her polocross and have it pay off,” she said, especially as she was riding a horse she had not played before.”
To prepare for the competition, Ava trained with her horse, Brittany, with the help of the Bredhauer family, after school once a fortnight, as well as with her family everyday she had available to ride at home.
“I also did three days of junior coaching in the week leading up to it,” Ava said.
“It was pumped up with lots of great games to watch,” was how Ava described the atmosphere.
Ava appreciated the opportunity to compete with other local riders, and cannot wait to play
for Queensland again.
Indiana Collins, aged 10 and a Nanango local, was on the team alongside Ava, and has been riding for as long as she could remember.
“I was happy and excited to be picked, but also a bit nervous,” Indiana said. “Once I got rid of the nerves after our first game it was an adrenaline rush.”
“It was very exciting to compete in my very first Queensland team,” she said. “It felt really good to win, I’m super proud of my team.”
Alongside her horse, Bud, Indiana trained with him everyday, practising polocross with her big sister.
Indiana would like to thank her coach, Colten, manager Selena and her team mates for making this opportunity possible.
Jason Wacker, 8-years-old from Pittsworth, and fellow teammate for the Queensland sub junior team, has been riding horses for three years, and was introduced to riding and Polocross through the Tansey Polocross Club.
Jason felt extremely proud when he learnt he was selected for the Queensland sub junior team, a feeling echoed by his mother, Rachel Wacker.
Riding his horse, GOATie, he felt the rush of excitement, building up his experience prior to the competition by practicing with the Hafey family.
His mother also echoed this feeling, but with an added touch of nervousness.
When the Queensland team won the competition, Jason said “it was amazing.”
“I believed they could win,” Rachel Wacker said.
Age proved no barrier to Gympie grandfather Ian Allen, who at 72 years old showed them all that experience overcomes youth, winning the Open Steer Wrestling category at the Gympie Show Super Rodeo by taking down his target in a little over ve seconds.
By Sophie Mossman
The 23rd annual Paradise Lagoons Campdraft was a well-attended weekend full of entertainment for all ages, showcasing cattlemen and horsemanship from 8–11 May.
More than 1500 competitors from across the country herded to Paradise Lagoons for the annual event, which featured tough competition in the ring.
Paradise Lagoons Campdraft president Tom Acton said it was great to see so many returning to the precinct for this action-packed event.
Paradise Lagoons had 76 competitors in this year’s juvenile category.
“It’s a big draft for (the juveniles) this year (and) we’ve actually only had that in the program for about the last six or seven years,“ Mr Acton said.
Paradise Lagoons also hosted a cocktail night on Friday, where various items were auctioned off.
More than $35,000 was raised from the auction, which will go towards SYNGAP research.
Paradise Lagoons Campdraft attendee Julia Leech said she had been attending the campdraft for the last few years after moving from Warwick.
“Some of the horses are top-quality horses that you’d see anywhere in Australia, as well as the rider combinations,“ Ms Leech said.
After all the action on Friday and Saturday, the Zac Cross Band and Jaymon Bob provided live entertainment for the kick-ons, which were well received.
The Paradise Lagoons Campdraft committee thanked everyone for attending, as well as their sponsors and volunteers for making this event another big success.
Results are as follows:
Graeme Acton Memorial Open:
• First - Peter Black on Yaven Freestyler, 264 points
• Second - Jason Lindley on Millungeras Pop A Top, 262 points
• Third - Bec Hayes on Shaydack Mahalia, 260 points
Champion of Champions:
• First - Peter Black on Yaven Freestyler, 85 points
• Second - Matthew Moffatt on Reyv On Kitty, 83 points
• Third - Rick Hopkins on Superact Shiraz, 82.5 points
Novice A:
• First - Matthew Moffatt on Reyv On Kitty, 268 points
• Second - Sarah Dillon on One Stylish Desire, 199 points
• Third - Sam Phelps on Braeview Electrum, Teah Beak on Hustlin, Jaimie Kreisch on Lookin Smart and Lance Spannagle on Real Suen, 177 points
Novice B:
• First - Joshua Smith on GI M Hard, 180 points
• Second - Nick Clydsdale on Connie and Clayton Titmus on Little B, 175 points
Ladies:
• First - Sarah Lindley on KNS Who Stole My Sock, 174 points
• Second - Hayley Sypher on Louella Rey, 172 points
• Third - Aimee Olive on Corrine, 171 points. Restricted Open:
• First - Peter Black on Outa Time, 178 points
• Second - Steven Comiskey on One Knight Stand, 175 points
• Third - Lance Spannagle on Miss Pepto Lena, 173 points
Two-Handed Cutting:
• First - Rick Hopkins on Oaks Spin n Cat, 75 points
• Second - Ben Tapp on Yulgilbar Lady Spins, 74 points
• Third - Breanna Bauman on Duck Star, 73.5 points
Two-Handed Cutting Youth:
• First - Tayla Sypher on Sophisticated Kitten, 75 points
• Second - Olivia McCallum on Flash Mello,
74 points
• Third - Kacee Dillon on Smart as a Whip, 73 points
Stallion:
• First - Rick Hopkins on Superact Shiraz, 86 points
• Second - Sarita Murdoch on Crusaders Cavalier and Regan Lyons on Duck Star, 85 points
Futurity:
• First - Joshua Smith on G IM A Playboy, 170 points
• Second - Tia Dillon on Navaho and Paul Pownall on Tecoma Enigma, 169 points
Maiden:
• First - Nick Clydsdale on Connie, 181 points
• Second - Paul Allgood on Zena, 178 points
• Third - Patrick Luck on Superact Got Style and Jaimie Keisch on Lookin Smart, 175 points
