The Farmer May-June 2022

Natural capital from your land

Mad for macadamias

Battling melanoma

Our hardworking farm friends

Bark, water & insects can equal income

The hard nut to crack has a big future

Saving lives by checking in

The world of working dogs

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Fuelling the future What are our alternatives in the brave new world?

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Contents THE MUSTER NEWS AND VIEWS

NSW Farmers launches a new app; The Active Farmers Games go off in Colleambally; Saleyards are more than simply places to sell livestock; $1,500 grants for schools to take part in the Kids to Farm initiative; Skin Check Champions continues to fight melanoma; The town of Ivanhoe is bouncing back ������������������������� 8

TRADE NUTS FOR MACADAMIAS

Being a hard nut to crack has not held back investment in New South Wales' booming macadamia industry. ������������������������������� 46

INDUSTRY ROSY FUTURE FOR RED MEAT

THE BIG PICTURE

Beef and lamb producers are rejoicing as favourable seasonal conditions and high prices deliver a boost to the industry ������ 50

CASHING IN ON NATURAL CAPITAL

Financiers, farmers and scientists are working in tandem to establish a link between natural capital and farming profitability �������������������������������������������� 24

THE BIG ISSUE REGIONAL NSW IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Do we have the transport, workforce, telecommunications and social infrastructure to make the new strategy for regional NSW work? ������������������������������ 30

INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCE GRAIN GAIN

Many elements are affecting grain farmers, and one of the most obvious is the war in Ukraine �������������������������������������������������� 68

SPECIAL REPORT: CONNECTIVITY CONNECTING THE SPOTS

Innovative companies that are turning connectivity challenges into opportunities ����������������������������������������� 72

HISTORY ALL’S WOOL THAT ENDS WOOL

Outback Shear is celebrating 20 years in business and five new inductees into its Hall of Fame ������������������������������������������� 54

ENVIRONMENT

COMMUNITY NEW GENERATION: THE SMITHS

Merino graziers Norm and Pip are focussing on holistic farm management, SRS genetics and developing the Love Merino luxury clothing brand ����������������� 78 MEET A MEMBER

WEEDING THEM OUT

Pest animals and weeds cost NSW nearly $2 billion annually, and the situation is worsening ���������������������������������������������� 58

Meet third generation merino breeder Angus Beveridge, who is teaching the new generation about his trade ��������������������� 86 FARM DOGS

INNOVATION CAN DIESEL FUEL FARMING FOREVER?

Farmers need workable alternative solutions as the commercial sector looks to get cleaner ���������������������������������������������� 34

BUSINESS MAN’S BEST WORKER

Working dogs are in demand by farmers and farm workers for their economic return and companionship ��������������������� 42

SPECIAL REPORT: PRIMEX

Meet Kenny from New England – a dog that loves chasing pigs and confesses to being confused by sheep ������������������������ 87 MARKETPLACE: SALEYARDS

PRIMEX: SUPPORTING COMMUNITY & FARMERS

This year Primex will also support those affected by the recent devastating floods, and others in need ���������������������������������� 64

This issue we’ve rounded up products made with a focus on sustainability �������� 88 TAIL END

Meet Jack Archdale – a true blue Aussie larrikin from Northern NSW making his mark through farming and TikTok ��������� 89 JOIN US – SUBSCRIBE

Sign up and become a NSW Farmers’ member, and also receive The Farmer � � � � 90

MAY - JUNE 2022

THE FARMER

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From the editor

THE MAGAZINE

B

PUBLISHER James Wells EDITOR Michelle Hespe ART DIREC TOR Ryan Vizcarra

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EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES

Michelle Hespe Email: mhespe@intermedia.com.au

–ADVERTISING

SALES DIRECTOR

Ben Payne Email: bpayne@intermedia.com.au Phone : 0403 893 668

–CONTRIBUTORS Darcy Watt Darren Baguley Emily Simpson Ian Lloyd Neubauer Jeanette Severs Michael Burt Rachael Lenehan Sandra Godwin Sheree Young Susan Gough Henly Sue Wallace Tony Blackie NSW FARMERS

CEO Pete Arkle S O CIAL & CONTENT MANAGER Michael Burt MAGAZINE CONTENT TEAM

Alicia Harrison - Membership Service Manager Annabel Johnson - Head of Policy & Advocacy CONTAC T US

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@NSWFarmers THE INTERMEDIA GROUP

MANAGING DIREC TOR Simon Grover GM OF OPERATIONS Chris Baker FINANCE MANAGER Mina Vranistas PRODUC TION MANAGER Jacqui Cooper HEAD OF DIGITAL Jordan Guiao HEAD OF EVENTS Beth Tobin The Farmer magazine is published for the NSW Farmers Association (ABN: 31 000 004 651) by The Intermedia Group (ABN: 94 002 583 682) 41 Bridge Rd, Glebe NSW 2037. All rights reserved. Printed by IVE Group. Getty Images were used throughout the magazine.

udgets, elections, floods, climate change, war, dictators, the pandemic and so much more. There is a lot going on right now, and I tell you what, I’m always (slightly) surprised to find that our community is not only a part of everything going on, but often front and centre of so many issues that are directly related to Australian farming. From grain prices being affected by the war in the Ukraine, to supply chains being affected by the floods and the pandemic, farmers are so tightly entwined in currrent affairs, and also in Australian and global politics.

Everyone here at NSW Farmers is sending our heartfelt thoughts and best wishes to our flood-affected friends and associates, and many are also working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that people get the help they need from the government in order to rebuild and carry on doing what they do best – provide food and fibre.

Australians are well known for providing support for others in their community, and its been heartening to see that this sense of mateship and comradery continues to grow.

In this issue we’ve placed a focus on community support. For instance, meet Scott Maggs, who lost his mate Wes to melanoma at the young age of 26.

Scott went on to create a nationwide campaign and company that focuses on saving other people from skin cancer.

We also dive into the saleyards of Tamworth and learn that these places are not just venues to sell livestock, but rather safe spaces where people can come together over a tea and scones and feel a part of something larger than themselves. It’s amazing how much better you can feel after talking to someone who you might not even know,

about what you are going through, and how they are dealing with their challenges.

We've covered plenty of other topics, from the government’s solid investment in regional NSW, and how you can use natural capital to your advantage.

We also went behind the scenes in the wonderful working dog world, and looked into the nuts and bolts of the macadamia industry. Excuse the pun!

On a lighter note, let’s talk about something most of you love – sheds. Many of you entered our survey so that we can understand more about you and what you think of NSW Farmers Association and our magazine, and we appreicate all of your replies. One lucky man – Paul Graham from Adjungbilly – won $4,000 towards a new shed. Congrats Paul!

MICHELLE HESPE

Editor

The Intermedia Group takes its corporate and social responsibilities seriously and is committed to reducing its impact on the environment. We continuously strive to improve our environmental performance and to initiate additional CSR based projects and activities.

As part of our company policy we ensure that the products and services used in the manufacture of this magazine are sourced from environmentally responsible suppliers.

Natural capital on your land

Man's best (working) friend

Micro urban farming

Mad for macadamias

Bark, water & insects can equal income

The world of working farm dogs

A trend that is not going anywhere

The hard nut to crack has a big future

Photo by onurdongel (from Getty istock)

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Fuelling the future What are our alternatives in the brave new world?

THE FARMER

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MAY - JUNE 2022

DISCLAIMER: This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by New Zealand and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information.

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The Muster l NEWS

NSW Farmers launches app The state’s peak agricultural body is pleased to announce the launch of the NSW Farmers Mobile App. The NSW Farmers App will feature current news, events tailored to your region, farm community discussions, membership deals and stories from The Farmer magazine.

Regional Service and Sales Manager Jonathan Tuckfield says the app represents another step in strengthening direct connections with farmers.

“Each week we send over 30,000 emails to members, SMS reminders for events and emergency updates,” Jonathan says.

“We also connect with over 100,000 people each month via our social media channels, media releases, The Farmer magazine and The Muster newsletter.

“Our association produces and provides a massive amount of content, but some of it does not reach our members.”

Jonathan says email and SMS are not always the best means of communicating with farmers in today’s mobile world.

“NSW Farmers has one of the best benchmarks for email open rates at 42 per cent for Farm Post each week, but we all know that our email inboxes are full to the brim and get cluttered with junk.

“SMS is now also becoming less trustworthy and while all existing communication platforms have a place, there is a growing need to curate these into a central repository on your phone or tablet device under a trusted logo.”

Jonathan says the app will be a connection to NSW Farmers for updating your personal details and preferences, registering and checking into events, engaging with peers on the Farmfeed community, completing surveys and responding to special offers.

“All of this contained in a single trusted icon on your phone or tablet device,” he says.

The app is available to members and non-members from Google and Apple App Stores – search NSW Farmers and look for the NSW Farmers logo.

l INNOVATION

Red meat producers capture opportunity by value-adding Farmers2Founders & Straight To The Source develop a new program for red meat producers to explore, validate and commercialise value-added businesses.

In the midst of an ever-changing market, there’s no better way to build a brighter and more financially viable future than through a valueadded business. And with the Australian food and agribusiness sector predicted to triple in value by 2030, red meat producers are perfectly positioned to reap the rewards of commercialising a new value-added venture.

But sometimes the biggest hurdle is knowing how to start. Farmers2Founders has teamed up with Straight To The Source and Meat & Livestock Australia to curate a new red meat program.

The value+d program is specifically formulated for innovative Australian red meat producers who are looking for support when it comes to ideating, validating and commercialising a value-added business. Under the coaching and mentorship of industry experts, participants will learn the ins and outs of developing a successful value-added venture.

While it can be tempting to apply the old adage of ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’, there’s never been a better time for red meat

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THE FARMER

MAY - JUNE 2022

producers to pursue a value-add opportunity.

The needs and wants of consumers are changing, and producers who are able to meet these demands through innovative ideas are in the best position to significantly increase revenue. If you have an idea that aligns with consumers’ health and wellness goals, convenience, traceability or sustainability, then you’ve got the beginnings of a value-add opportunity.

“There’s a lot of complexity when becoming a value-add business in red meat, but there’s also lots of opportunities,” says Dr Christine Pitt, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Farmers2Founders.

“Through the value+d program, we place producers at the centre of the innovation process, and provide them with the tools and support to capture these opportunities and feel confident in value-adding on their own.”

To find out more about the value+d program visit: farmers2founders.com/valued-program.

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The Muster THE TEAM SP ORT EFFECT

Left then clockwise: Farmers compete in the Active Farmers Games; Joe Briggs (Active Farmers Board member) & Karen Deane – Corteva Communications Lead; The games go on.

l HEALTH & WELLBEING

Coleambally plays host to Active Farmers Games Words MICHAEL BURT

The small Riverina town of Coleambally played host to a gruelling farm-based obstacle course as part of the fourth Annual Active Farmers Games held in March.

Thirty teams of three people climbed hay bales, jumped fences, balanced on irrigation pipes and crawled through mud to help raise awareness of Active Farmers – a not-for-profit charity organisation that promotes physical health and mental wellbeing in small farming communities.

The Coleambally community united to make sure the games were a huge success with a volunteer army formed from local organisations including Lions Club, Apex, The Coleambally School P&C, Murrumbidgee

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THE FARMER

Council, NSW Farmers and the Rural Fire Service.

NSW Farmers Coleambally Branch Member Joe Briggs said it was a “cracking event”.

“It really was a great event for our Active Farmers community. It engaged our local community and showcased what Coleambally has to offer,” Joe said.

“We had 90 people take part in the Games and about 100 kids. The mud pit was a crowd favourite.”

Joe, who has recently joined the Active Farmers Board, said the 30 teams were made up of people from all walks of life, including local farmers.

“The kids loved having their own event and mini course. There was also a DJ, a gumboot throwing

MAY - JUNE 2022

competition, and a cheer squad that really kept everyone going.

“Everyone I have spoken to had a great time at the event, and importantly we brought the community together and raised money for a great cause.”

Corteva Agriscience was proud to be the major sponsor of this year’s games and sent a team to Coleambally to help out and also compete.

“This is the second year I have personally attended the Active Farmer Games, having missed out on the Western Australian event due to COVID,” said Corteva Communications Lead Karen Deane. “Both times I have seen such great community involvement, and Coleambally really turned it on this year.

“The energy, excitement and the sense that everyone is in this together really helps form a network of support.

“I’m so proud that my company, Corteva, sponsor amazing charities like Active Farmers that help build strong resilient communities, in areas that lack the support and facilities of their city cousins.”

Active Farmers was established in Mangoplah in 2015 with the aim of bringing the entire community together through regular group fitness classes in a fun and interactive environment. The classes were designed to mimic the ‘team sport effect’ and create a sense of community and belonging with attendees.

Active Farmers now has over 45 small communities involved, from NSW to WA. l

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The Muster The Association’s Facebook page features videos of personal stories of depression which many can empathise with, and where to seek help.

“During tough times, the centre is a place where farmers and families can relate to difficulties they may be experiencing and know they are not alone,” Michelle says. “We really want to raise awareness and let as many people in rural areas know where they can get help and the saleyards provide good social interaction.

“Sale days bring people together to discuss the highs and lows, common goals, and are also a time for just enjoying social interaction.”

THE SOCIAL VALUE OF SALEYARDS

l COMMUNITY

The heart of saleyards Regional saleyards are much more than centres for selling stock. They also play an important role in promoting mental health and are a place for sourcing valuable information and support.

Words SUE WALLACE

Like many saleyards, the busy Tamworth Regional Livestock Exchange (TRLX) has become an important centre not only for selling stock, but for supporting the wellbeing of farmers, their families, stock agents and the public.

Unlike online selling hubs, saleyards offer that face-toface contact and all-important socialisation often shared over a cuppa and scone.

An innovative mental

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THE FARMER

health social media campaign providing information around suicide prevention, stress management and accessing local services has been operating from the Tamworth exchange since last year.

Executive and Marketing Officer of the Tamworth Livestock Selling Agents Association (TLSAA) Michelle Mawhinney says the concept was developed with the Rural Adversity Mental

MAY - JUNE 2022

Health Program (RAMHP) to assist stock agents from the 10 agencies involved in the association because of the number of people they communicated with.

Michelle says the odds were high that their agents would meet people who have mental health concerns, so the TLSA decided to offer their help and support and equip agents with valuable information.

The Australian Livestock Markets Association, the peak body for saleyard facility owners and operators has commissioned a research project to investigate the social value of saleyards to rural communities with results to be released soon.

The project is seeking to capture what sale day means to community members, service providers and saleyard stakeholders.

ALMA President Ken Rogers says, “saleyards have historically formed an integral part of the social fabric of rural communities and this work will help to quantify this very important concept.”

Ken says previous research shows that saleyards and livestock exchange facilities provide extensive economic value to regional Australia with anecdotal evidence that there is a substantial social benefit to having operating saleyards in these areas.

“Sale days bring crowds to towns, are multi-generational events and are a meeting place for people who normally might lead a more isolated life,” he says. “Sale days are >

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The Muster

THE EXCHANGE

Dubbo Operations Manager Ross McCarthy (above) says Livestock Markets (top) play a significant role in social interaction and mental health for rural communities.

also known to be key contact places for service providers to connect with communities for information sharing and service access.”

Interviews have been held across saleyards in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria and further input has been provided by online surveys and virtual interviews for those who could not attend interviews in person.

Ken says the commissioned project report will be a valuable tool in working with all levels of government and the livestock industry to help shape future policy and funding direction.

CONVERSATIONS FLOW IN TAMWORTH

The TRLX – a bustling state of the art cattle and sheep facility which opened in 2013 – handles the sales of more than 820,000 cattle and 2,340,000 sheep each year.

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THE FARMER

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It is one of eight Regional Livestock Exchanges (RLXs) including Central Queensland, Inverell Regional, Central Tablelands, Northern Victoria, Central Victoria and Corangamite in the South West.

Michelle says the TRLX – which is celebrating its 10th anniversary – is highly regarded as a great facility that supports the community.

For the past decade the agent’s association has conducted an annual Tag a Calf Sale, which supports the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service raising up to $15,000 each year.

Tamworth mayor Russell Webb says the Exchange plays an integral part in the community, not only for selling stock and stimulating spending but also for social contact.

“It’s a magnificent centre and the turnover of stock numbers have increased dramatically,” he says. “One of the important things is when farmers and stock agents get together for a

BY PHIL SOMERVILLE

cup of tea and have a talk about the good and tough times. It’s that social interaction that is so important – we are very fortunate to have a facility like this in Tamworth.”

Andrew Jackson, northern region manager and buyer for Thomas Foods International, which has a processing facility in Tamworth, also praised the Exchange.

“There’s a lot of concern about worm burden and fly strike at the moment and farmers have the opportunity to chat to others about their concerns and gain information. The Exchange plays a very important part in the fabric of the community,” he says.

“It’s not the same with online sales where farmers are missing out on the face-to-face connections.”

The Dubbo Regional Livestock Market is another centre where social interaction and information exchange takes place as well as boosting employment and investment in the town.

Operations Manager Ross McCarthy says the Livestock Markets are one of the largest contributors to economic growth in the region and have played a significant and important role in social interaction and the mental health of the rural community.

“It was evident when COVID restrictions were in place just how valuable the saleyards are for socialisation and discussion.

When it was not available, it had a big impact,” he says. l

l YOUNG FARMERS

A royal title for Peak Hill

Peak Hill farmer and NSW Young Farmers member Molly Wright won the inaugural The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman award (left).

Peak Hill has the honour of being home to the inaugural The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman winner – Molly Wright.

Words MICHAEL BURT

NSW Young Farmers member and Peak Hill farmer Molly Wright won the title at the Sydney Royal Easter Show competition, which is a renaming of the iconic showgirl awards.

Molly was the ambassador for the Peak Hill Show and works as the livestock manager on her family farming operation, Riverview, alongside parents Tanya and Tony Wright, brother Artie and sisters Sally and Becky.

Molly described the win as surreal, but the 22-year-old is keen to jump into the reality of representing young rural women throughout NSW over the next 12 months.

“It’s a privilege to represent the ambitions of rural women. I can’t wait to be their voice in the bush,” Molly said.

“I was able to complete a diploma in agribusiness management during the drought and that was enabled through getting scholarships from the likes of RAS. “My aim is to give back to the rural communities that have helped me as well as encourage and and support young women to take up opportunities in agriculture.”

Molly thanked her parents, who have built up the farm business over the last 20 years, and neighbours the Frecklington family, who operate Hollywood Angus Stud, for their support.

Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman runner-up Imogen Clarke, Nowra, and winner Molly Wright, Peak Hill (right).

“All four of us kids have worked at Hollywood Angus Stud for at least 10 years, which involved preparing and showing cattle for the show circuit including the Royal Easter Show,” she said.

“Parading cattle for the stud and junior judging was how I started my involvement in shows. I’ve grown a real love for it since then. The show community is fantastic, they are like another family.”

Nowra Showgirl Imogen Clarke was the runner-up in the Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman event. Imogen said she was “honoured and humbled” to be the first from Nowra to earn place in the history of the competition.

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The Muster TWO BY TWELVE

Extended until June 2023, the Kids to Farms project aims to provide two agricultural experiences to kids by the age of twelve.

l KID S TO FARMS

$1,500 grants for farm excursions The NSW Farmers Kids to Farms project can now focus on getting students out of the classroom and onto farms thanks to an extension of $1,500 grants per primary school until June 2023.

COVID restrictions curtailed farm excursions in 2021, but they are back on with eight schools already successfully applying for $12,000 in funding this year.

This includes St Josephs Primary School in Orange, who were the first to partake in the project’s ‘2 by 12’ concept after a farm excursion in March and a school visit last year from NSW Young Farmers Council Member Charlotte Groves.

“Kids to Farms is built on the ethos of ‘2 by 12’ – or two agriculture experiences by

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the age of 12 – and we really want to see as many students as possible get involved,” Charlotte explained.

Charlotte said the Kids to Farms program had been popular since its April 2021 inception, with more than 400 students experiencing a real working farm, or a farm classroom experience, or ‘incursion’ last year.

More than 1,400 Ag Packs have been sent to students across NSW and the project brought the farm to Luna Park for city kids in November 2021.

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“Schools will be looking for something new and engaging for their students after long COVID lockdowns, and we’re saying look no further than a farm excursion through Kids to Farms,” Charlotte said.

“These grants make the Kids to Farms program available to more schools across the state and will especially benefit smaller regional schools.

“What better way to boost learning than to get a firsthand look at where our food and fibre comes from?

I encourage all primary schools to have a look at applying for the funding and get out on-farm.

“The program is all about exposing young students to farming so they understand food and fibre production and are aware of the opportunities in the sector.”

NSW Farmers is delivering the Kids to Farms project through funding from the Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment, which has been extended to June 2023. l

l RENEWABLE ENERGY

Farmers to share renewable stories Farm businesses that have switched to renewable energy sources will share their stories at the third National Renewables in Agriculture Conference and Expo in Albury on 18 August.

They include Meredith Dairy, which uses bioenergy through a woodfired gasifier to reduce their farm business’s reliance on the grid by 70 per cent, and Sam Stratham from Rosnay Wines who uses solar and batteries to reduce his operating costs.

“We share stories direct from farmers who have switched to renewables, hearing about what they’ve gained and learnt,” says conference founder Karin Stark.

“We’ve got a farmer talking about grazing sheep under solar panels and another who previously grew his own oil seeds to make biofuels, making him 90 per cent self-sufficient for his farm vehicles.”

The conference and expo will also feature other experts from the renewable world such as Elizabeth Lewis-Gray from Gekko Systems, who will discuss anaerobic digestion in dairies,

and Linda O’Mullane discussing Virtual Power Plants.

Hydrogen and battery storage are also in the mix of energy sources that will be covered in relation to the future of farming.

Gabrielle Chan, Guardian Australia’s Rural and Regional Editor and author of ‘Why you should give a F*ck about farming’, is the keynote speaker.

Karin said there will be a panel discussion on future farm vehicles, a session on community owned power and the option of farm tour to look at a bioenergy plant in a piggery.

“The conference is the only event that brings people interested in energy and farming together in the one place,” Karin says. “It’s all about looking at options to reduce farm costs and building business resilience by switching to renewables.”

Tickets are $175 for farmers and $220 for others, with early bird tickets available May to mid-June. More information can be found at renewablesinagconference. com.au NSW Farmers is a partner in the National Renewables in Agriculture Conference and Expo, which started in 2019 in Wagga Wagga. The second event in Dubbo last year attracted 350 participants. l

RENEWABLES ARE TAKING CENTRE STAGE

Karin Stark (above) says it's all about looking at options to reduce farm costs and building business resilience by switching to renewables.

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The Muster

l FO CUS ON HEALTH

The tough fight against melanoma Skin Check Champions are ensuring that early detection of melanoma is helping to win the fight against skin cancer.

Words SUSAN GOUGH HENLY

W

es Bonny was a country boy through and through. He went to ag school, loved water skiing, playing footy and helping his dad on the farm. In 2010, he died of a brain tumour, which started as a tiny spot on his neck, an undetected melanoma that could have been treated effectively if found earlier. He was only 26.

At his wake in Ardlethan, a short, dusty drive from where Wes grew up, his mates came up with an idea called Beard Season, which has gone on to save thousands of Aussies from skin cancer.

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“There were some old fellas with amazing beards in the corner of the bar,” says Wes’ friend Scott Maggs who was working in advertising at the time and was well-versed in wild ideas.

“Young blokes weren’t growing beards back then so we thought we’d grow a fine field of facial follicles every winter and use them as lifesaving conversation starters, encouraging people to get their skin checked.”

Now, 12 years on, Beard Season has ambassadors in over 24 countries, gained the support of the likes of Sir Richard Branson and Chris

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Hemsworth, and has inspired men (who account for over 69 per cent of Australia’s melanoma deaths) to become advocates for early detection.

One such ambassador is John Arthur Elliott, who’s been on a camel trek around Australia since 2018. Before his journey, a GP found an early-stage melanoma in the centre of John’s back which could have killed him if left unchecked. Now, he promotes skin checks in rural and remote communities across the country. “I think of it as taking out a Lotto ticket on continued life,” John says.

A FARMER’S CANCER

People living in hot sunny climates and/or who work outside are far more susceptible to skin cancer, which makes it a major risk factor for farmers and others living in Australia’s rural and remote communities.

The problem is compounded because they

have limited access to skin specialists since most dermatologists (of which there are only 600 registered in Australia) work in urban and coastal centres. According to a report by the National Rural Health Alliance, farmers have a 60 per cent higher death rate from skin cancer compared to the general population.

EVOLVING THE CAUSE

As Beard Season grew, Scott Maggs decided to fold the campaign into a master charity called Skin Check Champions, which appeals to ‘everyone under the sun’.

“We realised that awareness raising itself was not enough. We had to be more accountable by addressing something that wasn’t being done on a national scale,” says Scott.

The goal of Skin Check Champions is to pioneer a targeted national skin check program, bringing skin specialists and education

initiatives to communities most at risk. “The benefits have such a massive impact for regional Australia,” says Scott.

“Coming from a farming family in Oberon, I know first-hand how unavoidable sun damage can be.”

THE PROBLEM

Skin cancer is, literally, the national cancer of our Sunburnt Country. Australian skin cancer rates are 12 times the global norm. It affects two out of three Aussies, kills an average of one of us every five hours (particularly young people who are surprisingly the most affected), and it costs over $1.7 billion a year, making it Australia’s most costly cancer.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Despite these scary figures, the survival rates for skin cancer can be over 98 per cent, if it is detected early, which is far greater than for any other cancer.

THE MARKET FAILURE

The federal government funds screening programs for breast, cervical and bowel cancers, but there’s never been a coordinated national focus on skin cancer screening, despite the value of early detection.

“Previous models presented to the Health Department were too expensive on a ‘cost per check’ basis,” explains Scott. “However, with the recent advances in Artificial Intelligence, these models are due for an upgrade.”

THE SOLUTION

Skin Check Champions has developed Project Check Mate as a ‘proof of concept’ research initiative to pilot a targeted skin cancer screening program around the country.

The project was created in partnership with the Rosemary Bryant AO Research Centre at the University of South Australia and DermEngine

by MetaOptima, an artificial intelligence (AI) dermatology

software that images, documents and records clinical diagnosis for skin cancer.

Professor Marion Eckert, the Inaugural Professor of Cancer Nursing at the University of South Australia and the Inaugural Director of the Rosemary Bryant AO Research Centre, has been researching the incidence of skin cancer in remote and rural regions for years.

“We felt a huge sense

of relief when we were approached by Skin Check Champions because we finally felt we had comrades on the same dance floor with a mission and the energy to take our research and deliver a primary health care strategy for early skin cancer detection for rural and remote Australia,” she says.

“Nurses make up 60 per cent of the health profession and they are everywhere in >

MILLION D OLLAR BEARD

Scott Maggs (above and right) who was was best mates with Wes Bonny (left and above) sold his beard for $1 million to help fund the world’s first AI powered national skin check program.

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THE FARMER

17

The Muster rural and remote Australia. It’s a huge opportunity for nurses to be trained in dermatoscopy using AI software to screen people for skin cancer.

“This technology produces an accurate skin assessment report which is sent electronically to a dermatologist for evaluation,” explains Marion. “In a postCOVID world, people have adapted well to telehealth and nurses are at the forefront to progress technology in remote areas. It’s a low-cost, efficient process and farmers don’t have to travel long distances to see a dermatologist. By making access easier, it also helps overcome that behavioural reticence among many men, the ‘she’ll be right, mate’ attitude.

“Our goal is to perform 10,000 skin checks using this new model to present the data to the Government showing how much it costs per check, how many skin cancers we found, how many lives we saved and the health care costs saved per dollar invested in this early screening program, proving it’s great value to the Australian people,” explains Scott.

INTRODUCING SPOT

Multiple skin cancer survivor and Lake Cargelligo-born Don McInnes is a huge promoter of Skin Check Champions, as you can see on his graphic Instagram feed.

“I grew up among broadacre farmers in Griffith who are out in the elements all day

every day, but who are less likely to get checked for skin cancer because they live in a remote region where there aren’t many specialists. I’ve had 80 skin cancers surgically removed and now so many people are reaching out for advice on where to go and what to do,” he says. “I specifically tell them about Skin Check Champions and SPOT.” SPOT is the world’s first digital assistant designed to save Aussies from skin cancer.

It lives on Facebook Messenger and chats with you like a friendly, niggling mate who will do whatever it takes to make sure you get a skin check.

SPOT was designed in response to a report from Cancer Australia showing that because of the COVID

pandemic, over 81,000 people had not been treated for skin cancer compared to previous year averages. It is yet another way to remind people how important early detection is for skin cancer survivability.

Not only will SPOT help you find your nearest GP, skin cancer clinic or dermatologist, but it also will help you make an appointment, put it in your calendar, send you reminders to help you get there and then follow up to see how you went, providing further information depending on your results.

It also helps you assess your skin cancer risk and gives you information on different types of skin cancers.

Down the track, Skin Check Champions hopes to plug in a telehealth option so people who can’t find a GP or skin check clinic nearby can scan their own skin using their mobile phone.

MAKING SKIN CANCER HISTORY

The mobile skin check van service In early 2021, the Lions V Districts Cancer Foundation launched a mobile Skin Cancer Skin Check and Awareness Unit in Victoria and Southern New South Wales, promoting rural and remote skin checks.

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All these initiatives are part of a broad early detection strategy, the importance of which was highlighted in a recent ‘State of the Nation’ report produced by the Melanoma Institute and Melanoma Patients Australia.

In the meantime, Skin Check Champions isn’t sitting around waiting for funding.

They’re out and about at field days, country shows and regional festivals all yearround providing skin checks, raising awareness and honing their revolutionary model.

To show your support, you can join close to 7,000 Australians who have signed their government petition demanding a targeted national skin check program. You can also make a donation, take part in Beard Season, or book a skin check with SPOT all at www.skincheckchampions.com As Scott Maggs says, “The more Aussies who get checked, the more lives we’ll save.” l

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The Muster l TOWN IN THE SP OTLIGHT

Ivanhoe is on the bounce back Like the grazing lands surrounding it, the small outback town of Ivanhoe is coming back to life after a tough few years for all.

Words MICHAEL BURT Photography RACHAEL LENEHAN

T

he pastoral town of Ivanhoe was headed for a deep slumber in 2020 after a crippling drought and the closure of its major employer – the Ivanhoe Correctional Centre.

The pandemic then hit and at first, it seemed the town’s future was even bleaker. There were disruptions to events and the anxiety associated with lockdowns and outbreaks, but the last 18 months has also seen an awakening of sorts for this resilient community.

While its wide main street is no longer bustling like it once was – it was a major change station for Cobb & Co.’s horses on the coach routes to and from the Darling River – local postmaster Ray Longfellow says there are more and more positive vibes.

Ray said that these include saving the local RSL club from almost certain closure due to the impact of the drought. While it is called an RSL club, it is not affiliated with the RSL, and has been communityrun since its inception after World War II. “We were doing it very hard at the club,” Ray says. “The drought was terrible and graziers were simply not coming into town. But it’s now turning around and we’ve been able to employ a bar manager and a cook. The club has been run solely by volunteers up until this point and that’s what kept it going.”

The commencement of Superdraw events on a Thursday night brought some of the locals back. “I think they are starting to realise how important the club is and that it is owned by the community,” says Ray. “Considerable donations from locals helped to keep it open.”

Ray said there has also been progress on a nearby sand mining venture, which would revive local employment opportunities after the closure of Ivanhoe Correctional Centre in July 2020.

“It’s been a long time coming, but I understand it is now going to eventuate,” he says. “The closure of the Correctional Centre was a big blow to the community and local businesses. To this day, I still do not understand why the state government made that decision.” >

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EVERY SMALL TOWN NEED S A RIS SOLE

Clockwise from top left: Even the local petrol station is quaint; Along with community members, Ray and Jane Longfellow have helped save Ivanhoe RSL Club from closure; the main drag; Welcome to Ivanhoe.

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THE FARMER

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The former shire mayor has been the local postmaster for three decades, and he travels 600 kilometres every week delivering mail to remote cattle and sheep stations. He has seen more positivity around the community and accredits some of it with the turnaround in seasonal conditions for the grazing industry, and an uptick in commodity prices.

“A small supermarket has also reopened, albeit for just two days a week, but it’s there, and upgrades to Cobb Highway have been a positive step,” says Ray. Ivanhoe also benefitted from the COVIDinduced road trip renaissance, with an increase in visitor numbers sparking some enthusiasm towards future tourism opportunities.

Ray said tourists to Ivanhoe would fall in love with the freedom and open spaces of an outback adventure, just like he did after arriving in Ivanhoe 35 years ago to work as a station hand.

IVANHOE’S VINTAGE VEHICLE SHOW BACK ON

“All roads lead to Ivanhoe on the October long weekend for vintage truck, car, tractor and motorbike enthusiasts.”

That’s the catchcry of NSW Farmers member and Ivanhoe farmer Allan Carmichael, who is organising the 2022 Ivanhoe Dry Times Truck, Tractor, Car and Bike Show.

“We have bitumen roads into Ivanhoe now from Hay and Balranald, so I am hoping that will encourage more people to come,” Allan says. “They were all dirt roads back in 2019.”

Allan orchestrated the inaugural Ivanhoe Dry Times event in 2019 during the peak of the drought.

“I was feeding stock one day and it was dusty and hot as hell. I was getting fed up with things and I know everyone was feeding stock and getting a bit down, so I decided to ring a few blokes about putting a truck show together,” he says.

They said go for it, and so he did, and the show attracted people from Melbourne, Sydney, Gippsland and Broken Hill. Ivanhoe’s population

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MAY - JUNE 2022

BRINGING THE TOURISTS TO TOWN

Ivanhoe has benefitted from the COVIDinduced road trip renaissance, with an increase in visitor numbers sparking some enthusiasm towards future tourism opportunities.

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quadrupled, with around 800 people heading through the gates at the Ivanhoe Roosters Rugby League Club ground.

“It was bloody good, and it really did bring some joy to town,” Allan says. “We had a bloke who came from Sydney – Bernie Larson – who brought out a T-Model Ford up on a Kenworth. He was running people down to the hotel in it and buying them a beer and running kids to the shop to buy them an ice cream. We’re hoping he comes back.”

Funds raised through honesty box entry fees and an auction were provided to the Can Assist charity and to local community organisations like the Hospital Auxiliary, RSL club and CWA. Sadly, due to COVID, the show did not run in 2020 and 2021. However with times not so dry in Ivanhoe this year, it’s apt that the event will be a celebration of community resilience.

“Anyone with a vintage or much-loved truck, tractor, car or motorbike can come along,” says Allan. “There will be plenty of good food from the footy club, CWA and the RSL club and we have a great band – The Wobbly Boot from Wagga Wagga – coming along too.” l The 2022 Ivanhoe Dry Times Truck, Tractor, Car and Bike Show will be held on 1–2 October, 2022.

ROCK BREAKERS I POST DRIVERS

Connecting the future of farming: As a technology company and as Australia’s leading telecommunications provider, we see the huge benefits from Australia becoming a world leading digital economy by 2030.

It’s incredible how much digital adoption has accelerated, particularly during the COVID pandemic which, at its height, saw a huge acceleration in the adoption of telehealth, online learning, remote working and e-commerce.

This acceleration in digital adoption is also going to drive growth in the farming sector. Agriculture is already a very sophisticated, highly technical industry and technology is transforming the sector, enabling a raft of new capabilities.

Australia’s farmers already lead the world when it comes to efficiency and productivity. For some, the image of a farmer is somebody driving a tractor. But the new generation of primary producers can run their farms from an app on their

phone while flying a drone and using a huge range of connected sensors, predictive analytics and machinelearning capabilities.

In an agricultural context, digitisation will be revolutionary, and we’re investing more than any other telco in growing and maintaining our network to help power this change in Australia.

Today, our 5G network reaches more Australians than any other telco and we’re exploring new technologies to increase our network coverage, such as Low Earth Orbit satellites (LEO Satellites).

To support our customers to get the most out of the rapid technological developments and better listen and engage with regional Australia, we

are also boosting our on-the-ground support in regional and outer-metro areas around the country.

The bottom line is that a thriving regional Australia is critical to our nation’s success, and telecommunications is the keystone for meeting our 2030 ambition of becoming a world leading digital economy and 100 billion dollar agricultural sector.

Regional Investments and Connect Communities: Over the seven years to the end of June 2022 Telstra will have invested $11bn in our mobile network nationally with $4 billion of this invested in our regional mobile network.

We haven’t stopped there. A further $200 million will be spent for co-investments with government and local communities that will expand 4G and 5G coverage in regional Australia by 100,000 km2 over the next four years.

We are also investing $150 million in the current financial year to improve the experience for our regional customers by upgrading more than 180 3G-only sites to 4G and augmenting capacity at selected 4G sites which are experiencing very high growth in traffic.

And in April we also announced further investment into our Regional Australia team with the Connected Communities initiative where we will double the number of Regional

Engagement Managers and, because customer needs differ in different regional areas, we will split the existing regional footprint into much more focussed zones.

We will also triple the number of highly experienced Regional Network Advisors who will work directly with our Regional Engagement Managers and customers to work out and provide the best connection possible to meet their requirements.

5G: 3G, having been launched in 2006, is now a legacy technology and by closing this network in June 2024, we can repurpose the spectrum it uses for 5G. 5G is the first telecommunications technology specifically designed to connect devices other than mobile phones – it is the first telecommunications technology specifically designed for the world of the Internet of Things (IoT).

These massive IoT deployments can benefit just about every industry.

Connected transport, drones,

healthcare and infrastructure could communicate with centralised dashboards to help the nation move more smoothly. Global IoT connections will increase from 8.6 billion connections at the end of 2018, to an expected whopping 22.3 billion by 2024, all driven by a world where billions of sensors on farm gates, tractors, water troughs, livestock and countless other things will be connected and generating data about almost everything imaginable.

To support this, by the end of FY25 we are aiming toprovide 5G coverage to 95 per cent of the population and expect 80 per cent of all mobile traffic to be on 5G. That means more of our customers will have access to our 5G footprint, which has the potential to revolutionise the way that we live, work and stay entertained.

Low Earth Orbit Satellites: In March we announced we had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with OneWeb, to use LEO Satellites to improve coverage across Australia and the Asia Pacific. LEO Satellites have

huge potential, from backhaul to back-up, from enabling the Internet of Things to supporting emergency services, from improving home broadband to supporting ag tech.

The Earth is surrounded by satellites, each one serving a different and important role.

Traditional “Geostationary Earth Orbit” or GEO satellites work by staying in geosynchronous orbit at 35,786km above the Earth, staying focussed on one part of the land at a time, where as ‘Low Earth Orbit’ or LEO satellites circle the earth in orbits of 500km to 1,200km moving their communication beams as they move over the surface of the earth resulting in high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity to areas where it was previously unavailable.

In the end it will be a mix of connectivity solutions like these that will further support digital adoption in agriculture along with Telstra’s commitment to helping farmers improve operational efficiencies and the industry to meet their goal of $100 billion farm gate output by 2030.

The big picture

Cashing in on natural capital In an unlikely alliance, financiers, farmers and scientists are working in tandem to establish a link between natural capital and farming profitability.

–

Words IAN LLOYD NEUBAUER

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MAY - JUNE 2022

W

ater, soil, air, plants, animals and insects provide the basis for all economic activity in farming. But they have traditionally been ‘free’ – taken for granted and not properly valued by investors.

Enter ‘natural capital’ – an attempt to extend the economic notion of capital to ecosystem goods and services so investors can better account for the true costs and benefits of a venture.

The NSW Government released a Natural Capital Statement of Intent in April, making NSW the first state to explore opportunities to embed natural capital considerations in NSW Government decision-making.

One of the Intent’s key objectives is to recognise the importance of land managers in contributing to ecosystem services But how exactly can farmers put a dollar value on their properties’ soil, water, trees, insects, shrubs, and birds? And how can they find investors who will help them protect it?

To help shed some light on this extraordinarily complex issue, we speak to three thought-leaders at the forefront of the natural capital game in agriculture.

INSECTS & BARK

A third-generation canola and sheep farmer at Harden on the Southwest Slopes of NSW, Peter Holding has worked on dozens of projects designed to give farmers practical information, tools and investments to adapt to the impacts of climate change.

He’s currently working with his local networks to develop a natural capital project across multiple properties in the Hilltops Shire to revegetate degraded areas, creek lines and rocky hills, that are not being utilised for farming.

“If successful, the project will have a landscape impact on bird species and possibly larger fauna,” Peter says. “But really, it’s the insects I am concerned about as I try not to use a lot of insecticides and rely on predatory insects like wasps to wipe out pests like aphids on canola. But to do that you need to replant native trees with loose bark on them along with flowering shrubs.” >

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NFF backs natural capital measurement The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is supporting the development of a farmfriendly tool that shows how the natural capital can be connected and accounted for, in terms of farm productivity and profit.

“We are inviting farmers, either directly or through their farm advisor or accountant, to take the opportunity to be part of shaping the tool needed for an easy-touse measure of natural capital value for Australian farms,” said NFF President Fiona Simson.

The NFF is partnering with Farming for the Future, a not-for-profit research and capacity-building program with support from the Macdoch Foundation and philanthropists.

Applications opened in March 2022 for a limited number of eligible farms, to obtain a complimentary farm assessment delivered by the Farming for the Future team.

The 2022 program will cover four states and about 150 farms. The goal is to have assessed 1,500 farms by 2025/26.

“When farmers have a measure of these natural capital values they can be integrated with the farm’s normal production and accounting systems,” Farming for the Future Research Director Sue Ogilvy says.

“In due course this will mean farmers and their advisors can at last attach an asset value to the farm’s all-essential soil, water, production and ecological assets. These assets can be built for future generations and also prove to the marketplace and banks the farm’s true sustainability.”

The process will enable farmers to readily show the value of their natural capital and work towards their own farm’s sweet spot of managing their own environmental assets and production to suit.

“The end goal is to improve the profitability and resilience of crop and livestock production and to more easily handle climate fluctuations with less stress and greater profits,” Sue says.

To register your interest contact Farming for the Future: farms@fftf.org.au and/or find out more at https://farmingforthefuture.org. au/farm-participation/

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NATIVE VEGETATION REDUCING SHEEP MORTALITY RATES

Zoologist, Dr Blair Parsons says the natural environment is highly variable. One of the biggest challenges is determining the link between natural capital and profitability in farming.

Results are often hard to measure over large periods of time.

The project, however, is yet to attract any funding – a problem arising from the fact that the concept of natural capital is still in its infancy.

“Of course, there was that massive deal with Microsoft,” Peter says of the software giant’s purchase of half a million dollars’ worth of sequestered soil carbon from Wilmot Cattle Co in the New England region of NSW – the first global carbon credit sale made by an Australian grazing outfit.

“While I question the assumption that you can neutralise carbon emissions that have been locked away in the ground for 400 million years and somehow suck it up by planting more trees, it shows natural capital deals can be done,” he says.

He adds: “I speak with farmers every day who ask me how I can get involved in natural capital projects, especially those that improve soils that were destroyed by the way this country was colonised, by the introduction of rabbits and by drought.

“Right now, I don’t have any concrete answers on how much their soil is worth. But as the climate crisis deepens, more opportunities will arise and these things – water, soil and air – that until now have always been external to farmers’ balance sheets, will become a part of them.”

SWAMPS & REDGUMS

Growing up on a dairy farm in the 1970s and working in the industry for the past 15 years, Jeremy Bayard, CEO of Sydney-based ACE Farming Company, witnessed firsthand the effects a decline in soil structure that he attributes to the overuse of agrichemicals and synthetic fertilisers.

THE BIG PICTURE NATURAL CAPITAL

BUZZ OFF APHID S

Top to bottom: Bark can be used on the farm, and sold; Peter Holding, a canola and sheep farmer from Harden relies on predatory insects like wasps to wipe out crop killers such as aphids.

“They’re like a drug,” he says. “We use them again and again as short-term solutions because in a commodity-priced industry hugely impacted by weather shocks, we’re always chasing margins. But in the long term we’re on a death roll, where we are destroying our greatest asset – our natural capital.”

He explains that protecting our natural capital is the only long-term strategy for Australian agriculture to meet the demands and expectations of its future customers. “This is not at some time in the distant future but right now thanks to a stampede of banks and lending institutions that are changing their lending practices to reflect consumer awareness about climate change, environmental stewardship and water scarcity,” he says.

The Tiverton Agriculture Impact Fund is a textbook example. It recently purchased a 34,000-hectare property at Juanbung in Far Western NSW that harvests sustainable Redgum firewood whilst preserving swampland on the property that sequesters more carbon than any other kind of ecosystem.

Packhorse is another new natural capital company, and is deploying $300 million across six farms in NSW and Queensland with degraded soil that will be rejuvenated and leased out to beef producers.

Then there’s Pioneer Natural Capital, a boutique investment management company – of which >

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Sharing natural capital knowledge Stuart Austin, General Manager of Wilmot Cattle Company, notes subtle changes in the landscape each time he shifts cattle to fresh pasture at the 1854-hectareproperty on the Ebor Plateau of northern NSW. Native plants are emerging and the pasture biomass and ground cover continue to flourish, following a shift in grazing management nine years ago.

Global technology giant Microsoft noticed it too, and purchased around half a million dollars’ worth natural capital in the form of carbon credits from the grazing enterprise in 2021.

Stuart recently demonstrated the importance of farmers in restoring ecological function alongside building a profitable and robust business at a packed-out Maia Grazing field day on Wilmot’s Ebor property.

“We’re a passionate bunch here at Wilmot,” Stuart said. “We love this company and the work we do, but the thing that gets me up in the morning is helping others.”

The Wilmot Cattle Company team take a regenerative approach across three properties – Wilmot, Woodburn and Morocco – spanning 5,665-hectares in the New England region, to produce grass-fed beef and sequester soil carbon.

Under a NAB Agri Green Loan, the carbon conscious farmers will continue their natural capital work at a fourth farm, Paradise Creek, in the Inverell district.

“Some people love renovating houses, but I love renovating farms,” Stu said.

“This will be an exciting project for us and a significant step on our pathway to being carbon neutral.”

NAB launched its first Agri Green Loan in 2021, designed to help agribusinesses reduce net emissions and be more sustainable.

“I am so impressed by the quality of the farming principles at Wilmot Cattle Company. You can instantly see how their passion for restoring the land translates into ecologically healthy paddocks,” NAB Agribusiness manager Alyssa Ho says.

“It’s been especially rewarding to see how Wilmot Cattle Company’s sustainable principles can be converted into measurable outcomes.”

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MAKING A ROBUST BUSINES S

Top to bottom: Stuart Austin (above) recently demonstrated the importance of farmers in restoring ecological function alongside building a profitable and robust business at a packed-out Maia Grazing field day on Wilmot’s Ebor property; A red gum tree; Rabbits cause irreparable damage to the land.

THE BIG PICTURE NATURAL CAPITAL

Jeremy is a founding partner – that’s bringing institutional investment into farms and farmrelated businesses, that are actively reducing their environmental footprint.

“We’re currently looking into a number of agriculture businesses that embrace regenerative land management practices and new technologies that enable farmers to reduce greenhouse emissions as well as the use of pesticides, herbicides and antibiotics.”

Jeremy believes Australia is now at an inflexion point where the majority of farmers are already trying to do something about improving their management practices vis-a-vis the environment.

SHEEP & SHELTER

A zoologist by trade, Dr Blair Parsons is general manager for science and design with NGO Greening Australia, where he is at the forefront of a years-long research project that aims to determine the financial benefits of native vegetation for farmers.

“The reason we are interested in this subject matter is that farmers are the managers of nearly half of the Australian landmass, and the agricultural landscape needs help,” he says.

Blair’s research includes a nationwide survey carried out to determine the value of tree shade and

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shelter for lamb survival based on anecdotal evidence that native vegetation reduces sheep mortality. But putting a value on these trees has not proven easy.

“We conceptualised a model and received plenty of anecdotal evidence but did not succeed in populating it with hard numbers as most farmers did not have data that matched our specific focus,” he says. “The benefits are inherently difficult to measure.”

And that, Blair says, is one of the biggest challenges in determining the link between natural capital and profitability in farming.

“The natural environment is highly variable in both space and time. Something you measure one season can be different when you go back the next.

The benefits are also something that can take a long time to detect.

“For example, if you restore habitat to house fauna, it could take decades to witness genuine change, which is incongruent with the economic rhythm of agriculture that are typically measured over much shorter timeframes.”

Blair thinks that it’s just a matter of time until we get to a point where all forms of natural capital is monetised. “It’s already happening in the carbon market with carbon credits. Other types of credits are not far behind,” he says. l

Regional NSW in the spotlight The NSW Government has a diverse strategy for growing investment in regional NSW, but will we have the transport, workforce, telecommunications and social infrastructure to connect it all?

–

Words MICHAEL BURT

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THE BIG ISSUE INVESTMENT

A

$2 billion regional growth fund.

Special Activation Precincts.

Renewable Energy Zones. Regional tourism funding. A regional job creation fund.

There is a lot to the NSW Government’s strategy for boosting regional investment and much of it favours the NSW Farmers’ aspiration of a $30 billion Ag sector by 2030.

NSW Farmers has welcomed the diverse menu of regional funding but says there are more ingredients needed to help local food and fibre production to reach that goal. They are outlined in the Australian Farm Institute’s 2021 Stronger ag sector, stronger regions report, which identified the central themes of connectivity, infrastructure and farm workforce certainty as the priorities for government investment and intervention.

The NSW Farmers’ pre-budget submission for the 2022-23 NSW Budget carries the same themes, and includes additional ingredients such as resolving land use conflict, R&D investment and building farm business resilience.

According to NSW Farmers Chief Executive Officer Pete Arkle, supporting ‘engine’ industries like agriculture are vital to the state’s post-COVID economic recovery. “There are significant challenges, however, such as supply chain and competition issues and workforce challenges that have come to the fore during the pandemic,” Pete says.

“On the workforce front, the diversity of career paths and the clear need to fill a range of agricultural positions present an investment opportunity for the NSW Government as it focuses on a job-driven recovery from COVID.” Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole told The Farmer that the government’s diverse regional investment strategy will improve supply chain efficiency and telecommunications, and inspire more agricultural career pathways.

Minister Toole says that investing in regional infrastructure such as the Special Activation Precincts (SAPs) and transport connectivity are key elements in the government’s regional investment ambitions.

“A strong focus in the planning and coordination of the SAPs has been having good rail and road

connectivity,” he says. “For example, the Moree SAP will leverage off the investment in the Inland Rail project and the Parkes SAP positions the region as a strategic location for the distribution of freight between Australia’s five largest cities.”

The Government plans to develop six SAPs with Parkes being the most advanced. Moree is in the first construction phase while master plans are being drafted for Narrabri, the Snowy Mountains, Wagga Wagga and Williamtown.

The SAPs are being delivered by the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation and funded by the $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund.

“There is no doubt that the Special Activation Precincts are going to play a big part in growing investment in our regions,” Minister Toole says.

“They are not only going to benefit the communities they are based in, but they will also drive investment into the regions from across the globe.

“We are already seeing this with the Parkes SAP. We’ve already built the infrastructure around it – the roads, sewage, telecommunication – and we already have a global plastics recycling company called Brightmark investing $260 million.”

US-based Brightmark plans to bring Australia’s first advanced plastics recycling facility to the Parkes precinct, creating one hundred new jobs.

The company will use its waste solution technology to divert up to 200,000 tonnes of plastic waste from landfill to create oil, fuel, wax and new plastics, in line with the precinct’s circular economy and sustainability goals. Construction of the facility is planned to start in 2023 and it will be operational by 2025.

“This investment will have some benefits for the agriculture sector. The SAPs do have a focus on creating more opportunities for food and fibre production because agriculture is such a critical industry for regional NSW. “The central west is already home to around 18 per cent of the State’s food processing workers, so there is also a focus on freight and logistics at Parkes, as well as value adding opportunities.”

Paul says he expects investment in processing and value-adding of agricultural produce to be a feature of the Moree SAP, which received funding in March to commence the first stage of development. >

“Investing in regional infrastructure such as the Special Activation Precincts (SAPs) and transport connectivity are key elements in the government’s regional investment ambitions.”

– PAUL TOOLE Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW

MAY - JUNE 2022

THE FARMER

33

THE BIG ISSUE INVESTMENT

“We are already seeing early market interest in the Moree SAP and a number of them are from businesses related to agri-food processing and that’s exciting for the region.

“We have committed $194 million towards infrastructure that will leverage the benefits of the Inland Rail and bring investment into Moree and surrounding areas, building on the region’s already thriving agricultural industry.”

The first stage of delivery will open around 950 hectares to support the development of land with new and upgraded roads, gas, telecommunications, water, electricity, storm water and wastewater infrastructure.

“We are also doing early works to identify a suitable site for the Narrabri SAP, which will also focus on agribusiness investment,” Paul says.

“The one thing that COVID showed us is how critical it is to have more of our manufacturing back in Australia. We have the raw materials, now we need manufacturing and processing near to where they are produced.

“Because we’ve been able to speed up the planning process and we’ve been getting the infrastructure in place, businesses are willing to invest in our regions so they can be closer to raw products.

“And these are jobs of the future that are being created in the background, and they will encourage people to stay in the regions. It really is an exciting time for regional NSW.” GIVING THE GREEN LIGHT FOR TAMWORTH’S 246 -HECTARE GLOBAL GATEWAY PARK

All three levels of government are contributing to developing the Tamworth Global Gateway Park on a 246-hectare site to encourage large scale commercial investment and boost jobs in the region over the next two decades.

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MAKING MILK WHILE THE SUN SHINES

Above left then clockwise: Riverina Fresh owner-operators Neil and Simone Jolliffe; Riverina Fresh is now celebrating a century in business; The Global Gateway Park will be built in Tamworth (pictured from above).

The Tamworth Global Gateway Park is the centrepiece of Tamworth Regional Council’s Blueprint 100 strategy, which aims to achieve a population growth target of 100,000 by 2041 in line with the NSW Government’s plan for the state.

Works are underway with an $11 million investment into trunk stormwater drainage for the site, with 83 per cent of Stage One lots already sold or under contract.

The development includes a purpose-built rail freight intermodal facility to be operated by Qube Holdings, connecting local industry directly to international markets via the Port of Botany and Port of Newcastle.

When completed, investment into the new development including significant contributions from the Australian Government and NSW Government will total around $100 million.

RIVERINA FRESH FOR A CENTURY MORE

A digital transformation has set up Wagga Wagga dairy processor Riverina Fresh for another 100-year journey of value-adding and marketing fresh milk from local dairy farmers.

The Australian owned processor has achieved the rare feat of a century in the dairy business this year thanks to the work of generations of dairy farming families and recent supply chain innovations.

Australia’s love for specialty coffees has also played a key role in more recent chapters of its success story, with the Riverina Fresh brand proving popular amongst baristas.

CEO Rob Collier said recent investment in smart IoT technology and innovation to improve supply chain efficiency has also been an important chapter.

“Some of our processing infrastructure is not state of the art but is great gear. So, we overlayed

technology and software over existing equipment, which was a cost-effective way of improving efficiency in that part of the supply chain,” Rob says.

“We are bringing smart technology and innovation to each section of the supply chain and that is one that has been very successful at a plant level.

“What is also relatively new to the business is that we have acquired some distribution businesses in Melbourne and Sydney.”

Rob says IoT technology and new mapping and ordering software have also been applied to this part of the supply chain.

“That may not seem significant, but for a regional businesses like ours it is. A large part of our business is servicing cafés and restaurants and this investment brings us closer to our key customers and they have very specific delivery requirements.

“The investment also helps brings end to end visibility of our products, connecting our farmers with baristas and café owners.

“Working directly with the coffee industry has given them direct feedback from baristas and roasters that say, ‘we care about what you do’, and ‘we want to present your milk to the world’.”

Rob says there were no plans for further acquisitions of distribution businesses.

“It’s different on a local level. The local vendors

KEEPING WORKERS PUT

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole says it’s critical for manufacturing to come back to Australia.

Jobs of the future are being created which will encourage people to stay in the regions.

are typically a smaller family business that are part of the fabric of the Riverina, and they are some of our best ambassadors for the Riverina Fresh brand.”

Wagga Wagga dairy farmer and NSW Farmers member Simone Jolliffe said they are fortunate to have a local, Australian owned processing facility.

“For us, it’s very much about Riverina Fresh being a local business,” Simone says.

“We are really proud to have a local facility in Wagga Wagga that does a great job of value-adding and marketing the fresh milk that we produce.

“It is such an important business for the region.

It supports our farm employees, the many employees at Riverina Fresh and all the cafés that we supply.” l

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CAN DIESEL FUEL FARMING FOREVER? While emissions from diesel only represent about 8 per cent of agriculture’s total emissions, farmers will need workable alternative solutions as the commercial sector looks to get cleaner.

–

Words EMILY SIMPSON

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THE FARMER

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INNOVATION FUTURE OF FUEL

OLD FARM MACHINERY IS PART OF THE FURNITURE

NSW Farmers President James Jackson admits that farmers simply don’t have the time or investment capacity to find greener fuel solutions on their own.

D

iesel is the lifeblood of farming, but its availability is suddenly tied to a melting pot of factors. Supply chain disruption caused by COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine have sent diesel prices soaring, but these might be minor blips as the pressure to reach net zero emissions creates the possibility of a dieselfree future – causing many to wonder how agriculture will keep running on a full tank.

But does diesel really need to go? The rise in diesel ‘alternatives’ is showing the farmer’s preferred fuel doesn’t necessarily have to be dumped; it’s the fossil fuels used to create it that must go. The baby doesn’t need to be thrown out with the bathwater, so to speak, and the government and private sectors have been looking at diesel alternatives for years – producing a range of compelling options.

Diesel has a hold on the agriculture sector. About 80 per cent of production is reliant on it, and any changes to its price or availability are heavily felt by farmers.

According to John O’Connor, Research Officer at the Energy Efficiency Solutions Climate Branch at the NSW Department of Primary Industries, diesel is popular for a reason. It’s reliable, accessible, and easy to store. And John is adamant diesel engines don’t need to be abandoned any time soon. The fuel itself just needs to get cleaner.

“Diesel engines are not entirely the problem, and in fact they have come a long way over the past 20 years,” John says. “The addiction farmers have to diesel isn’t necessarily a bad one.”

IS RENEWABLE DIESEL THE ANSWER?

There are ways of overcoming a reliance on fossil fuels to produce diesel, and renewable diesel is a frontrunning option – for the foreseeable future, at least.

Renewable diesel is an advanced biofuel made using renewable materials such as straw, biomass, sewage, vegetable oils, and animal fats. It can be used as a ‘drop-in’ replacement for conventional diesel because it doesn’t require engine modification, can be blended, and can run in existing pipelines.

With the viability of renewable diesel having been demonstrated in the US, John O’Connor said its uptake here was more about an attitude shift.

“The supply of alternative fuels is still too small to be a replacement, but that will need to change over coming years,” he says, noting policy support and community awareness were key.

BIODIESEL & HYDROGEN IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Biodiesel is another low carbon option that uses oil and fats as feedstocks. Although it can already be blended with conventional diesel (typically at 5 per cent) biodiesel is not a complete replacement and therefore, according to John, “is not the full answer”. > MAY - JUNE 2022

THE FARMER

37

INNOVATION FUTURE OF FUEL

Biodiesel is not always better for the environment than conventional diesel, either. The feedstock, farm practices, production process, energy source and distribution process all have a bearing on the carbon emitted – with varying outcomes.

Hydrogen offers another low carbon fuel option, albeit a longer term one. Hydrogen is not a new energy source, but the processes used to create it can evolve to emit less or no carbon.

Dr Neil Thompson, an Adjunct Professor at the Queensland University of Technology and a farmer based near Kingaroy, said the first battlefront for hydrogen was transitioning away from so-called grey hydrogen – which uses natural gas – and toward green or possibly blue hydrogen.

Green hydrogen is produced using renewable electricity generated by the likes of wind turbines and solar panels to split water intro hydrogen and oxygen.

Producing green hydrogen is carbon neutral, but the infrastructure needed to make it is expensive, unlike the much more common and carbon-emitting grey hydrogen. Blue hydrogen is made using the same process as grey hydrogen, but the carbon is captured and stored.

The carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology used to make blue hydrogen is the centrepiece of the federal government’s Technology Investment Roadmap to lowering emissions and was one of Australia’s key submissions to the 2021 Glasgow Climate Change Conference.

However the efficacy of CCS has been questioned by numerous experts, and according to Professor

38

THE FARMER

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FULL TANK AHEAD

Above then left: Hydrogen offers a low carbon fuel option; H2X Australia’s new concept tractor powered by hydrogen and electric technology; alternative fuel options aren’t as accessible as diesel fuel right now; An artist's impression of a hydrogen tractor.

Thompson, was more expensive to produce than green hydrogen when additional storage costs and risk premiums were considered.

Green hydrogen is attracting growing interest from the commercial sector, with a potential $4 billion investment in the Hunter and Illawarra Hydrogen Hubs flagged by the NSW Government.

Treasurer and Energy Minister Matt Kean said commercial bids for these hubs included a plan to develop up to 5,900 megawatts of electrolyser capacity to produce green hydrogen. According to Minister Kean, the “ market has spoken”, with green hydrogen expected to meet 24 per cent of global energy by 2050 and be worth an estimated $900 billion.

FARMERS MORE HEAVILY HIT

NSW Farmers has been looking at the future of diesel for its members, and President James Jackson said agriculture couldn’t afford to be caught flat-footed on any changes to diesel use.

However farmers don’t have the time or investment capacity to be finding greener solutions on their own.

“Agriculture as a sector is typically asked to carry a heavier load when it comes to meeting carbon reduction targets,” James says.

“Suggestions that fuel tax credits be repurposed away from farmers’ pockets and toward the exploration of low carbon options is frankly alarming when farmers shouldn’t be taxed for road use in the first place. And the tax credits are the only way they can recoup their losses.”

Fuel tax credits The federal government applies a tax to petrol and diesel sales at the bowser, which until March 2022 stood at 44.2 cents per litre.

It has been temporarily halved in light of soaring fuel prices.

However, the future of the fuel tax rebate has been brought into question amid Net Zero Emissions discussions, with former CEO of Fortescue Metals Group Andrew Forrest suggesting the rebate be scrapped.

WHAT ABOUT ELECTRIC?

Electric vehicles are considered the primary driver of lower emissions in the transport sector, and the Australian Government’s plan for minimising transport emissions seemingly relies on subsidies and infrastructure to push EV use.

According to Nathan Gore-Brown, senior consultant at MOV3MENT, electric motors are much more efficient than combustion motors and some of the biggest advancements in vehicle energy efficiency have been made with some electric assistance. >

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INNOVATION FUTURE OF FUEL

production, and favourable environmental laws make it viable, full-scale adoption in Australia’s agriculture sector is not likely.

What’s more, methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas and any leaks from the supply, distribution and use stages seriously impacts methane’s emission reduction potential.

FUEL SECURITY

“A lot of low- or no-carbon solutions – from diesel-electric hybrids, through battery electric solutions, to hydrogen fuel cells – rely on some degree of electrification using electric motors to replace or support diesel engines,” he says.

But many commentators agree that battery cells have limitations in agriculture.

John O’Connor says that the immense size and scale of agriculture in Australia meant battery cells were not yet fully viable.

“We simply don’t yet have the infrastructure needed to go fully electric in Australia – especially in agriculture,” he says.

Professor Thompson said he wished he could buy an electric tractor for his farm, but the weight and duration limitations made it unfeasible.

“We saw electric ride on mowers developed in the US during the 1973 oil crisis so the current global oil price shock might expedite similar development of larger battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric tractors,” he says.

But while light trucks and machinery in peri-urban areas could feasibly go electric, John stresses the need to be realistic and to only electrify where practicable – not “just because”.

MOVING TO METHANE

Methane is another avenue being explored, and recently New Holland released a methane tractor prototype. The world’s first 100 per cent methane powered production tractor which is said to provide a ‘virtuous cycle’ whereby crop waste is used to power the tractor which helps grow those very crops.

But while methane’s potential has been showcased in Europe where smaller distances, intensive

40

THE FARMER

MAY - JUNE 2022

PRO OF OF CONCEPT

H2X’s new Warrego ute that harnesses Hydrogen power; H2X Global’s range of Hydrogen Fuel Cell powered Generators.

Australia imports about 90 per cent of its liquid fuels, with only two oil refineries remaining in the country.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine revived discussions on Australia’s fuel security and sovereign fuel stocks, with diesel prices hiking as high as $3 per litre amid sanctions on Russia, the world’s second biggest exporter of crude oil.

John and Professor Thompson were both excited by the low- or no-carbon opportunities to shore up fuel supply if new biofuel refineries and electrolysis infrastructure are established in Australia.

Australia’s two remaining refineries – Viva Energy in Geelong and Ampol in Brisbane – have both publicly expressed a commitment to de-carbonisation, with the latter set to pilot a green hydrogen production plant.

Professor Thompson says there is an opportunity for these refineries to differentiate themselves in the market with a greener product as they try to compete with overseas refineries.

“Building up local refineries would be huge for our food and even military security,” Professor Thompson said.

Australia currently has the capacity to produce enough biodiesel to constitute 4 per cent of agriculture’s fuel. But Australia’s only biodiesel refinery, Barnawartha, exports most of its fuel to more lucrative overseas markets.

WHERE TO NEXT?

Diesel will still have a place in powering agriculture over the next 20 years. While the fuel itself will need to get cleaner, Nathan Gore-Brown said fuel efficient practices and electrification of equipment will also play a role in reducing carbon emissions.

Several commentators agree that the long game will involve replacing combustion engines with cleaner fuel cells. Hydrogen fuel cells, which are effectively electric vehicles with a hydrogen rather than battery energy storage system, are being touted as a key option.

The Renewables in Agriculture conference will see industry leaders converge in August this year – with diesel alternatives high on the agenda. Meanwhile, the NSW DPI’s Exploring Beyond Diesel events continue to look at low or no carbon fuel options under development. l

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D O GS ON DUTY

A bright-eyed blue heeler, otherwise known as an Australian cattle dog. The TV series, Muster Dogs, has increased the demand for working dogs and training schools. The ABC reported 1.7 million views of the first episode, and 1.43 million views of the entire series.

MAN’S BEST WORKER Australia’s livestock working dogs are in demand by farmers and farm workers for their economic return and companionship.

And now there are new laws and licenses to contend with.

–

Words JEANETTE SEVERS

44

THE FARMER

MAY - JUNE 2022

BUSINESS WORKING DOGS

W

ell before the four-part Muster Dogs became a feel-good TV success story for agriculture, there was already a quantifiable increase in the demand for working dogs and the skills to train them.

One of the obvious measures is the increasing number of working dog auctions in recent years, where starter and trained working dogs – mostly kelpies and border collies – are shown demonstrating their skills and sold off the back of those demonstrations.

The established Casterton working dog auction was replicated at Jerilderie and Glen Innes in the past decade. In 2020, a kelpie sold for $22,000 at the Top of the Tablelands working dog auction at Glen Innes, and in 2021, the top-priced dog sold for $25,500 via online bidding.

In 2019, there were four working dog auctions operating with online delivery. By late last year, there were at least nine, including in Wagga Wagga where a kelpie sold for $34,000; in Geurie a border collie sold for $30,100; in Lucindale (South Australia) a kelpie topped the sale at $29,000; in Forbes a kelpie sold for $11,500; at the Capree International a kelpie sold for $15,500.

Because of lockdowns last year, Casterton ran its annual working dog auction exclusively online, with a kelpie topping the sale at $35,200. This year’s Jerilderie auction sold a kelpie at a top price of $25,750.

A working dog auction at Rockhampton that coincides every three years with Beef Australia, has moved to an annual sale due to demand. Last year, a collie-kelpie cross sold for $10,000.

In March this year, an online working dog sale originated out of Caboolture, southeast Queensland, demonstrating the growth in not only working dog auctions, but the interface with online bidding.

A female border collie topped the sales, at $8,025.

WORTH EVERY PENNY

“There’s a lot of interest from people to teach them stockmanship,” says dog trainer Gary White (above). “I’m finding there are more young people coming into agriculture who want to learn how to train and work with dogs.”

After being cancelled last year due to COVID, the Holbrook working dog auction is planned for May. There’ll be a working cattle dog auction in June this year at Emerald – where last year a border collie sold at the top bid of $8,000. In August a new working > dog auction will be held at Boonah, Qld. TRAINERS BEHIND THE SCENES

The rise in interest is no surprise to working dog trainers Gary White and Lauren Vest. Both are inundated with requests to help people learn livestock skills, including teaching their working dogs – mostly border collies and kelpies. When either of them advertise new dates for training clinics, they are snapped up by dog owners.

Petsafe – for well-trained dogs The PetSafe training and containment range is designed to help support working dogs go from pups to professionals.

PetSafe Brand Australia understands that a well-trained dog will not only be a better-behaved dog, but a better best friend and co-worker for any large or small farm.

The PetSafe range of Training and Containment Systems offer a choice of communication methods from harness and headcollars, to static, spray or ultrasonic remote trainers – all designed to support the effective management of behavioural issues and faster training.

The PetSafe Remote Spray Trainer, for example, will help to train your dog by using a short, harmless, and humane citrusbased spray from the collar. With three training options (Tone,

Vibration and Spray stimulation) it has a range of up to 300 metres.

A wireless fence system is also an easy way to help train your dog in larger areas, without the fear of them running away. The PetSafe Stay and Play Wireless Fence System is an easy to install, compact and secure fence system to ensure your dog doesn’t stray. The circular, wireless boundary allows you to put it up anywhere and doesn’t affect any other animal accessing your land.

However, the fence will work with more than one pet, by simply adding additional collars to the system.

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BUSINESS WORKING DOGS

“There’s a lot of interest from people to teach them stockmanship,” Gary says. “I’m finding there are more young people coming into agriculture who want to learn how to train and work with dogs.

“If we can get people into the right position and teach the same language the dog understands, everything falls into place. They have to learn how to read and handle stock. The more they handle stock, the more people learn to read them.”

Gary believes the role of working dogs in the industry will continue to grow.

“The cost of labour is high and people are finding if they have a couple of good dogs to work stock, they don’t need to employ and accommodate someone,” he said. “These dogs are bred to work livestock. They

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FOUR LEGGED FRIEND S

Above and clockwise: Lauren Vest runs the Australian Working Stock Dogs magazine; In 1825, Thomas Simpson Hall crossed an English drover’s cur with a dingo to eventually form the Australian cattle dog; Ivanhoe farmer Ian Edson with his two kelpie dogs.

can cover a lot more territory and access places where we can’t get in on foot or bikes.”

According to research from the University of Sydney, Australian working dogs are agile endurance athletes, and are able to work in all types of terrain, for long hours in all kinds of weather conditions. Their strong-eyed style of herding, with a low posture and slow quiet steps, means they’re sensitive to and adept at controlling and moving livestock.

Gary works as a contract musterer in NSW, and always has a team of eight working kelpies – with others either too old to work hard, or young and still learning.

“I like a dog with ability that, once it’s got a bit of experience, it knows what to do. Whether mustering

or at the yards, the dogs are the ones doing all the work,” Gary says. “It would drive me crazy to tell a dog what to do all the time. I like it to use its brains and natural instincts.”

He supports the working dog auctions, as do many of his contemporaries.

“Most of us are just finding one or two dogs in our programs to put in the auction system,” he says. “I keep most of the dogs I breed, but I still educate the dogs I don’t want to keep. There’s a big demand for dogs that are educated and a lot of us are selling dogs for $10,000.”

It’s a similar story from Lauren Vest, who honed her stockmanship skills mustering cattle throughout the Pilbara in WA. Later, she returned to NSW to manage two sheep properties, at Wallaroo and Coolac, while also mustering cattle on another property in the region.

“It’s country that’s largely inaccessible and it would be impossible to do the work without dogs – very steep, rocky and scrubby country,” Lauren says.

Lauren works with horses, a motorbike and a team of border collies, a border collie-kelpie cross, and a koolie.

“I like a dog with brains, and one that is calm and has really good paddock skills. So that means I prefer border collies,” Lauren says.

She now offers one-on-one training and finds a lot of her customers are workers on large properties who want to learn how to train a pup, or farmers who are using working dogs.

“I know it can be really hard learning how to train a dog, and even with buying a trained dog it can all go south quickly if you don’t know how to work that dog. The dog needs the owner to take the lead,” Lauren says. “And the handler needs confidence to trust the dog.”

Working dogs also have a place in the mental health space. Gary White presented 20 stockmanship workshops funded by the Australian Red Cross, that focussed on bringing farmers, workers and families, who were experiencing long-term drought or bushfires, to training days with their working dogs.

“Stockmanship and training working dogs were things we could connect around,” Gary says. “I ran everyone through a few hours of skills development and at the end of the day we yarned over a meal. A lot of people followed up with phone calls a few months later, talked about how the day was a bit of an outlet for them.”

He’s also noticed the TV series, Muster Dogs, has increased the demand for training schools.

The ABC reported 1.7 million views of the first episode, and 1.43 million views of the entire series. “The series enlightened people to think about what dogs can actually do,” Gary says. l

NEW LAWS AND LICENSES PROPOSED The NSW government is looking to regulate the dog and cat breeding industry, licensing breeders. This is on top of regulations contained within the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, the Companion Animals Act and the NSW Animal Welfare Code of Practice: Breeding Dogs and Cats.

The NSW government argues that additional regulation is necessary, because of the high demand for companion animals during the pandemic.

The NSW Farmers submission based on the New South Wales government’s Consultation Paper: Licensing and Regulation of Cat and Dog Breeders, supporting the exemption of farm working dogs in the proposed licensing and regulation.

NSW Farmers submission mirrors members’ concerns that regulations for breeding companion animals are and should be different to guidelines for farm working dogs.

The industry-designed Code of Practice – Care and Management of Farm (Working) Dogs and Code for Australian Livestock Working Dogs should be the basis for any standards for farm working dogs and be compatible with the practical operations of working dog breeders.

This will recognise that breeders focus on the health, welfare, genetic viability and performance of NSW’s working dogs.

Unlike companion animals, farm working dogs are bred for their physical abilities, rather than their aesthetic appeal.

Gary White and Lauren Vest agree, as does Joe Spicer, who bred the pups for the Muster Dogs TV series. They all say that farm working dogs are bred for genetic traits that take time to hone.

“Legislation doesn’t have much nuance. Working dogs are not like pets,” Lauren says. “Working dog ability is based on genetics and you have to breed litters to identify those dogs. Then it takes a couple of years of training to know what kind of dogs you’ve got.”

When Lauren produces a dog that isn’t useful for farm work, she has it desexed and rehomes it as a pet. She

often takes on dogs that have failed other people, for this purpose. “Some of them you can still find the instinct, some of them not. And that’s ok,” she says.

Gary is a board member of the The Working Kelpie Council of Australia, and a member of the NSW Yard Dog Association and NSW Sheepdog Workers.

“These organisations have aims and objectives that are focused on the betterment of working dogs,” he says.

“Working dogs are animals that aren’t bred to be pets. They’re an integral part of running a farm – essential, just like a tractor.

“I can’t see why they need to wrap pet breeders and working dog breeders into the same rules with the same oversight.”

Gary says he matches his dogs’ abilities to people’s personalities and farm work needs, rather than try to sell a pup to anyone.

His concerns are shared by Joe Spicer, who saw similar legislation come into Victoria. Muster Dogs was five years in development, identifying a consistent line of breeding to produce the necessary type of pups. The series demonstrated the versatility of kelpies, showing that they could work with sheep and Brahman cattle, in both cold and tropical environments.

“Selecting the pups for each person was as much about each person’s personality and their commitment to farming and love of nature, as the combination of a good dog with the right instincts matched to the right person, who’s going to put the work into training the dog,” Joe says.

He believes any new regulations should focus on common sense, and protect the market from bad breeders flying under the radar.

“In Victoria, a lot of the regulations they tried to bring into the code were designed to be unworkable, and that was a huge step backward,” he says. “We saw the price of companion dogs balloon from $500 to $5,000. That makes it unaffordable for a lot of people who want a dog to enrich their lives.”

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NUTS FOR

macadamias Being a hard nut to crack has not held back investment in macadamia farming. In fact, Australian yields of our own native nut have doubled in the last decade and there is room to grow more.

–

Words MICHAEL BURT Photography ANT ONG

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TRADE MACADAMIAS

T

WE ALL KNOW A LO CAL NUT OR TWO

Macadamia trees are endemic to Australia, found specifically in North-eastern NSW and central and Southeastern Queensland.

he macadamia industry has set a cracking pace for industry growth in the last decade. National production has almost doubled and farmgate value has grown to $300 million with growers receiving $5-$7 per kilogram since 2015, compared to lows of less than $2 per kilogram prior to 2010.

Average yields have increased from 2.6 tonnes per hectare to as high as 3.2 tonnes, with some Australian growers now achieving 6 tonnes per hectare.

Queensland’s Bundaberg region produced the lion’s share of last year’s record harvest of 58,200 tonnes (‘nut in shell’ at 10 per cent moisture), but investment in orchards is coming back to the Northern Rivers region.

Home to the Macadamia Castle, the Northern Rivers region harvested around 60 per cent of the nation’s crop less than a decade ago.

New orchards are popping up on the floodplains in the Clarence, Richmond and Tweed catchments, where an increasing number of sugarcane farmers are diversifying into small-scale macadamia orchards.

The Clarence Valley now also boasts one of the largest single orchards in the country, with 250,000 trees planted across 800 hectares at Boombera Park near Lawrence.

The former 1400-hectare grazing farm, owned by Australian investment group Arrow Funds Management, is expected to yield more than 3,000 tonnes of ‘nut in shell’ annually when in full production.

Project Manager Stuart Pettigrew says there are also plans for onsite husking, drying and storage facilities.

“We finished planting the orchard in November last year,” he says. “We will get a small harvest next year, but the first commercial harvest will be 2024.”

NATIVE HABITAT RESTORATION

In addition to looking after 250,000 trees, Boombera’s farm management team is preserving native vegetation and revegetating some creek lines and wetland areas on the remainder of the property.

“The project is all about working with the local environment as well, which in turns benefits the orchard

through creating more refuges for native bee pollinators.

“We’ve learned in the couple of years of operating the property just how important the native bee population is for pollinating macadamias.”

Stuart says there are a range of reasons why macadamias are a good investment.

“They are a sustainable crop and being an Australian native, they can deal with the vagaries of our climate,” he explains. “The trees also show tolerance to droughts and floods.

There are not many horticultural crops that can survive those sort of climate extremes.”

GROWING DEMAND

“We have seen a big uptick in the global market for macadamias as well, given the health benefits of nuts and a trend towards plant-based diets,” says Stuart.

Australian Macadamia Society CEO Jolyon Burnett agrees, saying there is surging global demand and new markets to conquer.

“The whole nut category has been growing, as they fit into all the dietary trends,” Jolyon says. “Macadamias only account for less than 2 per cent of the world tree nut market, so there is huge potential to take a bigger share.”

More than 70 per cent of the nation’s crop is exported to 40 countries, with Australian macadamias most popular in the US, Korea, China, Japan and Germany.

“India is definitely a key target market as the largest consumer of nuts in the world. The new Free Trade Agreement with India will help, with the removal of 32 per cent tariff on macadamias over the next seven years,” says Jolyon.

“The domestic market is also very important. Australians are macadamia mad, consuming more per capital than anywhere else in the world.”

But Australia is not alone in leading industry growth. South Africa, Kenya, China and Vietnam are all planting our native nut at a faster rate.

South Africa overtook Australia in 2018 as the world’s leading macadamia producer. South Africa’s projection for their 2022 crop is 62,215 tonnes, an 8 per cent increase on last year’s crop.

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of first preference purchased in most markets,” Jolyon says. “Australia is a high-cost producer, so there is a risk that if supply ever meets demand, we would find it difficult to compete against countries like South Africa and Kenya.”

5 to 10 per cent. There was of course a lot of damage to farm infrastructure and machinery. Farmers also have the challenge of being able to get into the orchards to harvest.”

The Australian Macadamia Society faced its own flooding nightmare. Their headquarters are based in Lismore, and like so many other businesses, it was swamped by record floodwaters, and they lost all of their historical images and records. “But we are lucky compared to so many other businesses in town and farm businesses,” a spokesperson said. “We can still do work from laptops and many others can’t do that.”

RECENT & ONGOING CHALLENGES

“We face challenges like any other industry,” Jolyon says. “Maintaining a social license to farm is one of those, particularly for the Northern Rivers region, we have to get that right to have a long term future.

“Farmers are increasingly aware of this and are adopting orchard management strategies to retain topsoil and integrated pest management to reduce chemical use.

“And of course, more recently we have had the challenge of natural disasters thrown at us.”

The 2022 macadamia crop was tipped to break the 2021 record, but unprecedented flooding in Northern NSW at the start of harvest has revised production forecasts.

“Fortunately, the floods hit early in the harvest season, so there was not a lot of nuts on the ground, but it really was a significant event,” Jolyon says.

“It’s still early days, but we estimate a crop loss of

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OPPORTUNITY FOR FAMILY FARMS

CRACKING THE CODE

Top then clockwise: Harvesting macadamias; Unripened nuts; Boombera Park macadamia orchard.

NSW Farmers member Tony Flick has experienced the high and lows of macadamia and beef cattle farming over the last 30 years.

The past two years has been one of the highs with record macadamia prices of up to $7 per kilogram and a soaring beef cattle market.

2022 has seen a dip, however, with the Northern Rivers flood disaster and a fall in farmgate macadamia prices to around $4 per kilogram.

As a fourth-generation farmer in his family, Tony first ventured into macadamias at the age of 21,

planting a five-hectare orchard with his father on the family’s beef cattle, soybean and small crop farm at Ewingsdale near Byron Bay. “I planted those trees while I was doing my fittersand turners apprenticeship and have been involved ever since,” Tony says.

“I am in the orchards all the time checking up on how things are going. It’s hard to run a farm from the office, and the orchard is a much better workplace.”

While working on the home farm at Ewingsdale and as a fitter and turner, Tony tapped into local macadamia share farming and farm management opportunities.

Three decades of orchard management experience, which has led to achieving above industry average yields of 4.5 tonnes per hectare, is now being applied to his family’s own new orchard as Tony transitions away from share farming.

Tony purchased his father’s 50ha sugarcane farm at Broken Head in 2018, started planting macadamia trees the following year and hand picked the first nuts this year.

“We’ve done a lot of pruning and feeding to really push the growth along,” Tony says. “Being

Macadamia shells are nature’s fuel In recent years, processors have realised the shells are almost as valuable as the nuts themselves. They have a high energy value, similar to low grade coal but without the emissions.

While the industry has always found innovative ways to use the shell, several processors now power their plants using the nut shells themselves.

One large processor with facilities in both Lismore and Bundaberg heats their drying rooms with a biomass boiler system. This sophisticated hot water system uses the heat from the burning nut shells to heat water that is then pumped through a radiator system in the drying sheds.

FLO OD DAMAGE

Macadamia grower Tony Flick (below). His orchard suffered from wind and flood damage in late Feburary, but fortunatley all the trees have survived.

higher up on the floodplain, the orchard escaped the worst of the flooding in February and March and we didn’t suffer the tree losses that occurred in other areas.

“There was still plenty of damage to the orchard, mainly from the strong winds that came with the flooding.”

Tony said indicative pricing for this year’s crop is a concern.

“We won’t do well out of the share farming this year at that price. It’s enough to be viable for our new orchard when it reaches maturity in 2028 because our costs are lower and we’ve planted high kernel recovery varieties.

“But I do think there is a good future for family sized farms, given the demand for macadamias in the domestic and export markets.

“There is also lot of business expertise that’s come into the industry. I’ve been in the fortunate position of being to manage orchards while others front the business side of things.

“The challenge will be matching the market demand with the increase in volume, and we will have competition from the likes of South Africa.”

THE MACADAMIA JOURNEY

The macadamia orchards of North-eastern NSW and South-eastern Queensland burst into flower each spring.

Harvest kicks off in March, continuing through into August every year, when fallen nuts are swept up off the orchard floor ready to be cracked, packed and shipped.

While a few farms have their own cracking and packing facilities, most producers will deliver freshly harvested nuts to their local processor. At the peak of the harvest, some processors have over one thousand tonnes of nuts go through their plants every week.

The nuts are weighed and have samples taken to determine their moisture content and are transferred to drying rooms to bring the moisture down to 3 per cent – a process which takes about two weeks.

After the nuts are dried, mechanical crackers expose the kernel and remove the shell, and each kernel is sorted by colour using hi-tech graders. Some of the darker nuts are used to make macadamia oil, while premium white or creamy coloured nuts with no blemishes are reserved for eating. l MAY - JUNE 2022

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Rosy future for red meat

Beef and lamb producers are rejoicing as favourable seasonal conditions and high prices deliver a much-needed boost to both their confidence and their bank balances.

–

Words SANDRA GODWIN

A

fter drought-breaking rains across the state in 2020, record livestock prices signalled the rebuilding of the national herd and flock.

Latest projections from Meat & Livestock Australia are for the red meat sector to hit record production levels within the next three years.

It’s new territory for those on the ground. Despite being used to weathering the ups and downs of agriculture, many say they’ve never experienced anything like it.

NSW Farmers Cattle Committee Chair Deborah Willis, who produces beef and timber on the mid North Coast, says the short term outlook for the industry is very healthy, thanks to two good seasons and strong export demand.

“We’ve got fat cattle and stacks of feed,” she says.

“The price of cows is going up. I think some of the farmers are cashing in as much as they can, while they can and while the prices are up. Others have got the herd rebuild going.”

NSW Farmers Sheep Meat Committee Chair Jenny Bradley, who breeds Border Leicester rams and produces prime lambs in the state’s Central West, says they’ve had three exceptional years in a row.

“It’s quite an outstanding and unique situation to be in,” she says. “There’s been numerous updates and outlooks and it’s all positive. We’ve never been in this situation before.”

CATTLE AND BEEF

MLA Market Information Manager Stephen Bignell says the herd rebuild is well underway right across Australia and total numbers are likely to reach 28 million head by 2024.

Cattle numbers in NSW fell to 3.8 million in 2020 – their lowest level in 60 years.

Even with higher herd numbers as producers hold on to more cattle for breeding, Stephen says slaughter numbers will also increase.

After the lowest slaughter numbers in 35 years during 2021, they’re expected to rise to 6.7 million this year and to 7.8 million head by 2024.

Higher carcase weights – the average is now 311kg – are also likely to continue on the back of access to abundant cheap feed.

“As a result, beef production will hit a new all-time record in 2024 of 2.45 million tonnes,” he says. “This

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NSW DPI undertaing 50 red meat research and development projects Demand for red meat is rising in line with global population growth.

Despite having a small proportion of the world’s cattle and sheep, Australia punches above its weight when it comes to exports. In 2020, we were the biggest sheep meat exporter and second only to Brazil for beef exports.

Australian red meat producers are among the most innovative and resilient in the world, coping with extreme weather events and increasing public scrutiny of their environmental, nutritional, and animal welfare credentials.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries has 50 research and development projects underway as part of a program to further boost productivity, profitability and sustainability in the red meat sector.

Current projects include: • Comparison of traits across the six key cattle breeds in southern Australia • A new vaccine for the tick-borne disease Theileriosis, and better vaccines for Pestivirus, Bluetongue and Q fever • A prototype to objectively measure sheep body condition scores • A world-first model for remotely assessing pasture and livestock condition • A camera for assessing key eating quality traits in live cattle • Collar and ear tag technologies to identify animals with superior intake, feed efficiency and reduced methane emissions.

NSW DPI Group Director of Livestock Systems Dougal Gordon says producers interested in learning more about these projects or being directly involved in future livestock R&D are welcome to contact him at dougal.gordon@dpi.nsw.gov.au

will be higher than the 2.4 million tonnes of beef produced in 2019 when there was a liquidation of the herd and slaughter of 8.4 million head.”

Cattle and beef exports are also projected to rise in the next three years, boosted by the UK Free Trade Agreement signed in December, which will reduce duties and tariffs.

Stephen says the MLA projections released in February factored in ongoing issues from the global pandemic, which include staffing at abattoirs and access to refrigerated shipping containers.

“We’re mindful that logistics, shipping and freight are the three things that will limit processing this year, it might not actually be supply of cattle,” he says.

Live exports fell 24 per cent to 771,000 head in 2021 due to reduced demand because of higher prices, and supply chain disruption.

A survey of industry analysts found they thought prices would fall 11 per cent by June 30, with the Eastern Young Cattle Index expected to be about 998c/ kg, as supply increases and demand falls.

The MLA report says half of last year’s production was grain fed beef “for the first time ever” and 50 per cent of the beef consumed in Australia was from lot fed cattle.

Australian Lot Feeders’ Association President Barb Madden says the sector has come a long way since the early days when feedlots expanded as grass fed producers ran out of grass during drought and contracted when the rains came.

“We’re a much more sophisticated industry now,” she says. “The markets are understanding exactly the purpose that feedlots play, and that is this consistent supply of exactly what they order to specification and delivered on time that meets standards set by the National Feedlot Accreditation Scheme.”

Barb says feedlot capacity hit a record high last year of 1.45 million head and more pen space is being built.

“Demand for grain fed beef is strong, particularly internationally where we’ve got this amazing reputation as a clean, green safe product,” she says.

“So, I see only positives for the industry moving forward.”

TOUGHER TIMES

Don Mack (far left) owns a cattle breeding and fattening enterprise near Bingara. He and his son Jason hand fed 450 breeders every day for 14 months during the peak of the drought on the 3500-hectare family farm Mitiamo, west of Bingara.

SHEEP AND LAMB

Stephen says the national flock rebuild is more advanced than for cattle, rising from 63 million sheep in 2020 to 70.8 million last year.

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producers expected to maintain or increase their flock size in the next nine months.

Sheep numbers in NSW bottomed out at 20.3 million in 2020.

“We’ve still got growth of 4.9 per cent for 2022,” Stephen says “That’ll take the national flock to 74.4 million head and then we’ve got tapering growth to 76.8 million in 2024. So the flock by the end of this year is the largest it will have been since 2013, which is really encouraging.”

Lamb slaughter is also expected to rise this year to 21.6 million head after an above average lambing in 2021.

Pandemic impacts on abattoirs, including reduced workforces and fewer shifts, prevented some of those lambs from being processed in spring and they were held over until this year.

Record lamb production of 540,000 tonnes this year and 567,000 tonnes next year is expected, before softening in 2024 to 549,000 tonnes, due to slightly lower carcase weights. After falling 16 per cent to 128,000 tonnes last year, mutton production is forecast to increase 63 per cent to 208,000 tonnes by 2024.

Live exports fell to 575,000 head in 2021, and the outlook is subdued because of high prices and the ban on exports during the northern hemisphere summer. Nonetheless, live exports are forecast to grow to 700,000 head in the next three years.

“One of the things that we’re also seeing is a shift away from Merino production to sheep meat

SEEMINGLY HOPELES S

Jason Mack looking out across their drought-ravaged farm in 2019. At the time, it seemed like there was no hope.

Reward time at Bingara New England beef producer Don Mack and his family are enjoying the spoils of good seasons and record cattle prices.

And they deserve to.

Don and son Jason hand fed 450 breeders every day for 14 months during the peak of the drought on the 3500-hectare family farm Mitiamo, west of Bingara.

“Initially we went out on the road with the cattle at first in 2018, then brought them back home in 2019 and started feeding them,” Don says.

“Things just started getting worse and worse back then.

We bought ourselves a feed mixer and built a lot of troughs and put all the cattle into small paddocks.

“We soon used all our own reserves of hay and just had to start buying feed in, which was a very expensive exercise.”

Don says the feed rations were based on straw hay, with additives like barley and even almond hulls.

“It was a very hefty feed bill by the time 2020 came around. We thought we can’t keep going like this and we were prepared to pull the plug in March that year. Fortunately, it rained in February and that was our first break.”

However, the fourth-generation farmer was not confident that their improved sub-tropical pastures would grow back after the worst drought in living memory.

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“We thought we would never grow anything again. It had all gone. All the paddocks were completely bare and I thought all the topsoil had been blown away, but the pastures did bounce back.

“We’d had only five inches of rain in 2019. Permanent creeks went completely dry for the first time and all our surface water had gone. Luckily, we had put a bore down in 2018 and found good water.”

Don, who is Chair of the NSW Farmers Bingara branch, said the turn-around in seasonal and business conditions for the family farm has been “extraordinary”.

“Last year we had our highest ever rainfall ever recorded here with 44 inches. That followed 37 inches in 2020,” he says.

“The farm is looking fantastic. And I have never seen cattle prices like this, they are incredible.”

The Mack family’s grass feed beef is now back on the shelves at Coles supermarkets and rebuilding their breeder herd back up to 650 head is well underway.

A much-deserved family holiday was on the cards after two very tough years of drought, but then COVID struck down any travel plans.

“Home was a good to place be anyway. We started to enjoy seeing green grass again and that was the reward,” Don says.

production,” Stephen says. “In the last 12 to 18 months, the proportion of Merinos as breeding ewes has fallen from 76 per cent to 72 per cent and that’s the first time in history it’s been under 75 per cent.”

WHAT’S NEXT?

Livestock production will benefit from the high levels of soil moisture, abundant pasture, grain in storage and full rivers, creeks and dams generated by two years of La Niña.

Australia has experienced three La Niñas in a row, most recently in 1973-1975 and 1998-2000. But the MLA says it’s statistically unlikely to happen again, and the next two years will probably bring drier summers and a return to more normal rainfall patterns after a wetter than average winter across much of the state.

“We do expect 2022 to be a wet year,” Stephen says. “And in 2023, even if the season was to turn we have stocks of grain, field dams and fodder available so it will be a reasonable season and producers are unlikely to have to turn off stock with the urgency and in the quantity they did during the 2019 drought.”

Deborah Willis says the positive short term outlook will enable many farmers to pay down debt accrued during the drought, and review their risk management strategy.

“It is hard with all this rain about at the moment,” she says.

“But a lot of farmers are actually looking at their preparedness for the next drought. The other thing we can do is concentrate on the factors we can control, such as on-farm biosecurity and traceability through keeping accurate NLIS records of stock movements.” l

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BUSINESS SHEAR OUTBACK

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HEAD ON D OWN TO MURRAY D OWNS

From Monday to Sunday, Shearing demonstrations operate twice daily at Shear Outback Museum in Hay.

ALL’S WOOL THAT ENDS WOOL

Among the wide open plains and the bleating of sheep is the unexpected delight of Shear Outback Australia in Hay, located in the state’s south west. This year, it will be celebrating 20 years in business as well as five new inductees into its Hall of Fame.

–

Words DARCY WATT Photography RACHAEL LENEHAN

S

hear Outback Australia has rapidly become one of Hay’s best attractions. The not-for-profit was built in 2002 with help from the government, and it is located on a six-acre slot where there’s plenty of room for large tour buses to get in and out.

With each tour bus, Kathy Finn, Museum Director of Shear Outback first points towards the toilet.

“That’s usually the first place people need to visit after a long journey,” she says with a laugh.

Shear Outback boasts five areas for visitors to explore. Six including the bathrooms. Besides being regularly confused as the local information centre, what really lies behind the doors is a buzzing café and ‘world-famous’ gift shop, a museum, the Hall of Fame and shearing demonstrations in the historic Murray Downs Woolshed.

The woolshed was built at Swan Hill in the 1920s and was transported to Hay in 1998 where it has now become a permanent feature of the exhibition experience. Over the many years, where hundreds of sheep have leant, the square wooden beams of river redgum have gradually been curved.

“Visitors from Sydney, Melbourne and elsewhere, gather their cameras and head towards the main entrance before asking me if the sheep will be shorn in the foyer,” says Kathy.

“It’s surprising how many people think a sheep can be shorn in the foyer.”

Apart from the regular confusion of where the sheep will be shorn, the only other thing Kathy must keep her eye on is the Shear Outback Museum. Often complemented for its architectural design, the round building has glass walls on the inside and out allowing visitors to view artefacts from all angles. > MAY - JUNE 2022

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BUSINESS SHEAR OUTBACK

“I always hear this banging sound coming from the museum and I think – ‘Oh no, they’re on the sling again!’ I must admit, for a kid it looks like a fun swing set,” says Kathy. For those not versed in sheep slings, shearers wear them looped around their torso to take the strain off their backs while working.

Shear Outback Australia is growing the museum’s collection and accepts all shearing-related donations, DVDs, handpieces and even pictures from the woolsheds. Often, people will visit the museum to simply drop off memorabilia they don’t want lost to time.

“We often have people drop in to leave an old set of clippers or even a book on wool. They don’t want all the history to be discarded so we keep it,” Kathy explains.

A PICTURE IN TIME

As a visitor, once you’ve bought a ticket, you’ll be directed to the Hall of Fame. Currently, 48 shearers have been inducted this year, with the hall welcoming its first female to the ranks.

Cathy Wendelborn began her shearing career at Millicent Homestead in 1982. Climbing the ladder by winning a plethora of events in the 1980s, Cathy shore before the Queen and presented her with a lock of wool in 1988 at the opening of the National Wool Centre in Geelong. Cathy also won the Ladies Invitation event at the 1998 World Championships in Ireland.

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HAY HO, LET’S GO

Shear Outback was proposed in 1997 by a group of Hay locals who believed Australia’s Shearing Industry shaped the country’s folklore, culture and economy.

In 2002, the multifaceted venue opened for the first time.

Another standout is Gene Mills, who was born in 1954 in Crookwell. Gene is the only inductee this year who is still shearing at 68 years of age. He is renowned as a fast and clean shearer.

Gene has won several awards in the past such as the Canberra Shearer of the Year (five times), Longreach Diamond Shears, the National Stock Show in Denver, Colorado as well as the Australian Open twice and the Australian Strong Wool twice. He can still be found in the wool sheds around Central NSW sharing his passion and knowledge amongst the up-and-coming shearers of the outback.

“Shear Outback Australia is growing the museum’s collection and accepts all shearing-related donations, DVDs, handpieces and even pictures from the woolsheds.

Often, people will visit the museum to simply drop off memorabilia they don’t want lost to time.”

SOCKS, SINGLETS AND HANDBAGS

This year’s inductee list also sees the likes of Ray Anderson who had won over 200 competitions during his shearing career, George (Dan) Cooper who achieved a world record 316 sheep at Bundoran Station in Queensland in 1910, and Bernie Walker who was awarded an OAM for his contributions to shearing.

Bernie helped establish Golden Shears Australia and the bi-annual test matches between Australia and New Zealand.

“Watching the new inductees being honoured in the Hall of Fame is a heart-warming experience,” says Kathy. “It’s a big event with family, friends and fans.

The inductees who are still alive and can attend often wear their Australian jackets they once competed in with such pride.”

THE MAN FROM CANNING D OWNS STATION

Legendary shearer Jackie Howe’s record of shearing 321 merino sheep – with hand shears – in seven hours and 40 minutes remains unbroken.

The world-famous gift shop (as Kathy calls it), sells several Australian wool products such as socks and singlets, but sauces and other knick-knacks grace the shelves as well.

“The shearers love the singlets and jumpers, and you might wonder why a handbag is in a shearing museum gift shop but they’re extremely popular,” Kathy explains. “You see, the shearers can’t go home to their wives empty-handed, so the handbags are a big seller.”

As a big venue in a rural town, Kathy says they’ve seen it all – weddings, live music and meetings over a long lunch at the café.

“People love coming out and learning about shearing as well as wool. I’ve been around the industry a while now. My husband’s a shearer and so is my brother-in-law and I am still learning new things every day,” Kathy said. l MAY - JUNE 2022

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SPECIAL REPORT PESTS & WEEDS

Weeding them out Pest animals and weeds cost the NSW economy nearly $2 billion annually.

But despite the astronomical effort and costs, the situation is worsening.

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Words DARREN BAGULEY

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“As farmers we do our bit spraying weeds and building fences to keep wild animals out, but it’s really tough to swallow when you’re neighbouring public land and the pests and weeds keep coming from there.”

– CRAIG MITCHELL NSW Farmers Conservation and Resource Management Committee Member

A

WEEDY INTRUDERS

(Top to bottom) Blackberries can be a nightmare on farms as they spread so quickly; Sticky Leaf Nightshade competes with pastures, crops and native plants.

ccording to the NSW Government’s State of the Environment report, weeds cost the NSW economy around $1.8 billion annually in lost agricultural production as well as time and money spent undertaking management activities.

In addition, pest animals such as wild dogs, feral pigs, deer, foxes and rabbits cost the NSW economy a further $170 million.

All farmers want to be able to pass on the family farm in a better state than it was when they took it over, but according to the report, despite the effort farmers, state government agencies and local councils have put in over decades, the spread of emerging invasive species is getting worse.

NSW Farmers Conservation and Resource Management Committee member, Craig Mitchell, says weeds are a persistent problem. Wild dogs, deer and pigs are destructive forces in their own way, but both weeds and pest animals require a coordinated management approach.

With a review of the Biosecurity Act 2015 due sometime this year, Craig says NSW Farmers would be repeating calls for landholders to be allowed to control pests and weeds on neighbouring public lands, while lobbying for increased compliance action on landholders who make no effort.

“As farmers we do our bit spraying weeds and building fences to keep wild animals out, but it’s really tough to swallow when you’re neighbouring public land and the pests and weeds keep coming from there,” Craig says.

APPLYING THE ACT

The Biosecurity Act 2015 contains within in it a General Biosecurity Duty. This simply states that: “Any land managers and users of land have a responsibility for managing weed biosecurity risks that they know about or could reasonably be expected to know about.

[The Duty] Applies to all land within NSW and all waters within the limits of the State.”

NSW Farmers believes the Biosecurity Act 2015 does not go far enough and would like to see the ‘nil tenure’ approach applied to weeds and pest animals > more widely.

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Case study of Chilean Needle Grass A C4 grass, Chilean needle grass is becoming a serious pasture and environmental weed in the wetter areas of south-eastern Australia.

It is very invasive, due to its prodigious seed production, and forms dense stands in pastures, bushland and roadsides.

It is drought- and grazing-tolerant and produces large amounts of unpalatable flower stalks with very little leaf material in the warmer months, resulting in a severe reduction of summer stock carrying capacity. Its seeds have sharp points that can penetrate and damage the fleece, skin and eyes of livestock.

In the New England region, Chilean Needle Grass has firm lodgement in the Upper Hunter Weeds Authority (UHWA), a county council covering the Northern Hunter Valley LGAs of Upper Hunter, Muswellbrook and Singleton.

It is determined the weed will not spread further south.

UHMA General Manager, Doug Campbell, says that a sharp-eyed weeds inspector noticed a plant they had not seen before on a roadside. “During drought it was hard to ID but as soon as it came out in seed, it was easy to identify,” he says.

After negotiating with landholders around withholding periods for stock, the UHWA began a program to apply a selective herbicide along the roadside using a drone. Doug says the UHWA will do follow-up programs over the next few years and there is also a plan to reseed the roadsides as the weed can be outcompeted by perennial pastures.

He adds the landholders should expect an influx of weeds when a drought breaks as the seeds come in on imported fodder and the rain creates the conditions for them to get started.

“It’s critical that landholders contact their local weeds officers if they see something unusual.”

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WEED S & FERAL PESTS

Left: UHWA GM Doug Campbell with some Chilean needle grass.

It has sharp points that can penetrate and damage the fleece, skin and eyes of livestock (Photo: Cooper Films) In addition to weeds, pest animals such as wild dogs, feral pigs (below), deer, foxes and rabbits cost the NSW economy a further $170 million annually.

The nil tenure approach acknowledges that pest animals do not recognise boundaries and has been successful in controlling wild dogs and foxes in various parts of New South Wales. Because of this success, there is considerable scope to extend the approach to other vertebrate pests and also to weeds.

As noted in the Proceedings of the third NSW Pest Animal Control Conference 4th-7th July 2005, “The nil tenure approach allows local communities, in collaboration with government land managers, to cooperatively address wild dog/fox issues across all land tenures by collectively identifying the scope of the issue, the management technique required and the level of resources required.

“The implementation of this simple approach has negated over twenty years of poor relations between private and public land managers in the area. More importantly, it has had a positive impact on the emotional well-being of farmers in the area who now feel that something positive is being done to address the constant financial and emotional impact of wild dogs.”

COUNTRY COUNCILS

An approach that has features in common to that used to control wild dogs is the formation of County Councils, an innovation that has been implemented in some parts of NSW. The Upper Macquarie County Council (UMCC) is a single-purpose local government authority, established as the control authority for biosecurity weed threats (formerly known as noxious weeds) in the Bathurst, Blayney, Lithgow and Oberon local government areas.

SPECIAL REPORT PESTS & WEEDS

“It is the responsibility of landholders to do remedial work but they need to realise it is not just spraying; they have to look at the bigger picture.”

– BRUCE REYNOLDS Deputy Chair of the Upper Macquarie County Council

Bruce Reynolds, Deputy Chair of the UMCC, says, “We inspect over 1,000 properties per year across the council areas and each property is given a rating; One is a low level of weeds, four is a high level of weeds.”

Bruce explains that they try to work with landholders to deal with the well over 100 priority weeds in their area by pointing them towards the best ways to deal with them.

“Most landholders work with us but for those recalcitrant landholders that fail to control their weeds after reinspection, may receive a fine or worse, and be prosecuted in a criminal court,” he says. “The UMCC has resolved to prosecute some landholders under the Biosecurity Act, and this shows it is not a toothless tiger, with around 60 separate $1,000 fines already issued. We are also starting criminal prosecutions under the Biosecurity Act.” Bruce adds that they would rather not fine anyone and that when their inspectors issue a notice, 75 to 80 per cent of landholders take action.

“It is the 20 to 25 per cent who ignore the notice that we are trying to deal with,” he says. “However, it is common to find that one property at Level Four contamination can create a lot of problems for many other neighbours.”

A WEED WITH NO BOUNDARIES

Doug Campbell with Serrated Tussock, which is known as a weed with no boundaries because it moves on the wind, under vehicles and machinery, on animals and even on clothing.

(Photo: Cooper Films)

very many times. There is a legal process you need to go through and it needs to be recorded accurately and it is very easy to muck up. Also, the problem is that across NSW there are a whole lot of different weeds and priorities. Which ones do you pick?”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Bruce added that it is vital that landholders and weed authorities take a holistic approach to weed management. “It is the responsibility of landholders to do remedial work but they need to realise it is not just spraying; they have to look at the bigger picture.

Take for example, the herbicide that controls Chilean Needle Grass and Serrated Tussock – Flupropanate – the NSW DPI is already seeing increased resistance to that chemical.

“So, despite the skyrocketing costs of chemicals and difficulty in obtaining supply, it is important that landholders still use the recommended rates,” he explains. “But they also must look at changing their management, looking at what they can achieve with better pasture management and biological control.

Bruce points out that there are also emerging weeds such as Sticky Leaf Nightshade.

“This weed is spreading rapidly through many areas of the state and is a major challenge to control,” he warns. “There are currently no biological agents available in Australia to control the weed and limited herbicide control options. We have to examine different approaches to the control of it, and are working with government and industry to develop a systematic approach.”

Australian agriculture has a goal of achieving $100 billion in production by 2030, with NSW’s contribution to hitting that target at $30 billion. “It is an ambitious target and landholders, government agencies and local councils will need to work together to control pest animals and invasive weeds if we want to achieve the goal,” Bruce says. l

DIGGING INTO THE PROBLEM

There is some disagreement as to why some properties become weed and pest animal hotspots. Some experts argue rail corridors and state forests are persistent offenders but for Craig, absentee landlords are a major culprit.

“Absentee landlords are a real problem. Some like to have deer on their place with no regard to their neighbours,” he says. “A few deer are not a big issue, but they only have to double a few times before neighbouring landholders have a real problem.”

When asked why councils tend to be reluctant to prosecute landholders who do not take action, Bruce explains: “Resources are tight, and prosecutions are expensive. We run the UMCC on the smell of an oily rag, however, we can focus solely on weeds. Most councils have thousands of things to do. But funding is an issue and prosecution is expensive so we have approached the NSW Government about setting up a weed prosecution fund so councils can prosecute.”

Craig believes weed authorities’ reluctance to prosecute is due to a lack of success. “You do not win MAY - JUNE 2022

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SPECIAL REPORT PRIMEX

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Primex: supporting farmers and the community Primex is back again and bigger than ever. This year the show will also support those affected by the recent devastating floods, and others in need.

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P

Words JEANETTE SEVERS Photography ORION MEDIA GROUP

rimex Field Days is in the heartland of the Northern Rivers region and every year the event is integral to bringing farmers, landholders and the general community together with a wide gamut of trade exhibitors and agricultural organisations.

The businesses and other organisations that are field days partners in delivering a raft of activities, from May 19-21 this year, are also integral community members. Not least of these is naming rights sponsor, Norco Cooperative, a local milk processing company supplied by 199 dairy farms and Primex’s agribusiness partner since the beginning, back in 1985.

Since 1895, Norco has remained an Australian farmer-owned cooperative. It is these types of synergies that underpin Primex field days every year.

SUPPORT AND RELIEF SERVICES

This year Norco and its supplier members – tens of thousands of people across the entire Northern Rivers region – are still coming to terms with the impact of extensive flooding that tragically led to the loss of homes and businesses.

The people in the committee behind Norco Primex are continuing to provide help and relief services, and the complex where the show is held very quickly became the hub for disaster relief agencies, coordinated by Local Land Services NSW. An emergency fodder distribution centre, a helicopter base and a mobile veterinary hospital were established, alongside stockyards for rescued and injured animals. The hub has since expanded to include recovery agencies, including Service NSW as well as food and other charity relief organisations.

Bruce Wright, Primex Director, said the venue and facilities were an ideal site to be a base for disaster support and recovery, and were used in a similar way during and after the 2019/20 bushfires.

“We’ve provided an ‘open gate’ policy for recovery agencies, and provide as much support as we can,” Bruce says. “Fodder distribution happened very quickly. It went from a frontage of 50 metres to well over 100 metres of fodder being stored and distributed every day.

“Four helicopters were operating out of the site, delivering fodder by air to livestock and farms throughout the Northern Rivers region. In the first instance, the B-double mobile animal hospital operated from here,” Bruce says.

“Then we provided space for veterinarians in our pavilions so the mobile hospital could move on to the next area they could service.”

The Australian Defence Force also used Primex’s Casino site as a base for recovery and relief work.

BEHIND THE SCENES

In the meantime, the Primex committee has been working hard to develop this year’s field days activities. In recognition of the current extreme circumstances, entry tickets have been discounted when pre-purchased online and site fees have remained the same as 2018.

“Part of the evolution of this event has been planning and developing the field days alongside drought, floods, bushfires and the pandemic,” Bruce says.

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SPECIAL REPORT PRIMEX

“But we’ve got very strong relationships and goodwill with our partners and exhibitors, and that’s been a large consideration for us to continue to deliver an event of this magnitude, while keeping it affordable for attendees.”

Norco Primex Field Days was cancelled in 2020 because of the pandemic, but it returned bigger and better than ever in 2021. The committee is backing up last year’s successful field days with more exhibitors, more activities and new themes in 2022.

“We attract exhibitors who recognise they have a place at this event and are part of the good things that are part of our region as well,” Bruce says.

“We want to be known as a reference point for the best solutions to farmers. We also want to open up the conversation about attracting the next generation to agriculture and highlighting jobs along the supply chain.

“The field days continues its long-held tradition of attracting and highlighting the latest innovations and technologies,” he says. “These may help many people impacted by the floods through the recovery process.

Bruce adds that with the field days being held in May, it’s an ideal time for farmers to research their end of financial year equipment, machinery and other purchases in one location.

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AUSTRALASIAN

CULINARY CONNECTIONS

AGRICULTURAL

Along with exhibitors showing the latest in drone technology and innovations using artificial intelligence, discussing alternatives to broadacre cropping, and showcasing beef genetics, the show is building a food culture that provides opportunities for local food growers and processors to meet chefs.

The Norco Primex Field Days provides an exhibition space for all livestock and highlights cattle through the Australian Beef Showcase event, including the Battle of the Breeds. The Showcase builds on previous on-the-hoof and over-the-hook feedback trials.

“We’ve continued to present a range of programs over the years that are relative to topics at the time,” Bruce explains. “This year we’re supporting stud and commercial cattle breeders to showcase their genetics and breeding.

“There’ll be presentations, panel discussions and networking events in the Livestock, Paddock to Plate, Business Innovation and Nourish Food Festival pavilions.”

Meat and Livestock Australia and Southern Cross University are key partners in providing presentations, panel discussion and networking events for farmers to attend. Topics for discussion can range from

FIELD DAYS

Primex – a family owned brand – has been involved with the Australasian field days calendar since 1985.

identifying opportunities for the next generation in agriculture, highlighting the diversity of jobs and careers along the supply chain, to discussing what carbon neutral farming means and how broadacre croppers could diversify their agribusinesses.

The Nourish Food Festival is where field days’ attendees will find chefs talking about food production and how to use local produce. A local butcher will bone out carcases and demonstrate how consumers can use all cuts of meat.

“We’re looking to target the broader audience, recognising we have two of the six largest cities within a short commuter distance of our event, and people in our region have a strong appetite to connect to food culture,” Bruce says.

“Our farmers and food producers can also talk to these chefs, about how they grow their food and hear from the chefs about how they would use that food.”

GIVING BACK TO THOSE IN NEED

Philanthropy is an important part of the business of the Norco Primex Field Days and an important partnership is with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. “It’s a tier one charity of Primex,” Bruce says.

This year, the Outdoor Leisure Show has been combined with the Home and Lifestyle

pavilion, to raise funds from site fees that are part of Primex’s ongoing support of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

“We commit a donation that increases exponentially by the number of outdoor leisure exhibitors that attend Primex,” Bruce says.

“We always have a number of outdoor leisure exhibitors that attend, and the pavilion centralises a number of them.”

Another philanthropic gesture is the next generation program, where the committee provides free entry to registered schools and their students, when they attend the show on Thursday and Friday.

“About 600 students from 20 schools attended the field days last year,” Bruce says.

“These students have such an important part to play as the next generation of people working in agriculture. The exhibitors see an advantage in talking directly to these students and letting them know what type of trade, education, and other opportunities there are in agriculture.

Primex also offers family passes to enable people to attend the event in a fair and cost-effective way.

Close to Bruce’s heart are the Prostate and Breast Cancer support groups, two of the many not-for-profit and other groups that attend the Norco Primex Field Days every year. “We’ve got very strong relationships and goodwill with our welfare and local philanthropic groups, and we like to support them with space at our field days,” he says.

“If we’re approached by a charity or not-for-profit organisation, we provide them with assistance to be at the event. The very basic level of support for any not-for-profit group is to provide them with free space so that they can attend.”

PLENTY TO SEE & D O

(Above and below) Interacting with farm animals at Primex; Primex is the only heavy machinery event in northern NSW.

AN ECONOMICAL INJECTION

The Norco Primex Field Days aims to host around 400 exhibitors and 30,000 visitors over three days. This makes it a pivotal event for economic value in the region, with hospitality and accommodation among the regional businesses that benefit.

“We are determined to make the event a success for them and our community,” Bruce says. “There are hundreds of businesses, family operations and organisations in our region which rely on Primex being successful, during the week of the event and in a ripple effect thereafter.”

Last year the Norco Primex Field Days injected an estimated $4 million into the region’s economy and generated more than $47 million worth of sales.

“By making sure Primex goes ahead this year, we can create access to products and services that are critically needed at this time,” Bruce says.

Primex will continue to support disaster relief, with various disaster relief agencies on-site at the field days. Farmers and landholders will also be able to speak directly with North Coast Local Land Services, and to employees of Service NSW, Richmond Valley Council and charity agencies about relief packages and financial support. l MAY - JUNE 2022

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INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCE GRAINS

GRAIN GAIN This year, there are many elements that will affect grain farmers, and one of the most glaringly obvious is the war still raging in Ukraine.

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Words IAN LLOYD NEUBAUER

I

n the early 1990s after the breakup of the Soviet Union, the Black Sea region underwent an agrarian revolution. Freed from the shackles of communism that seized and collectivised farms, growers in Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and other Central Asian nations invested in technology and began penetrating global grain markets. Coupled with new Black Sea ports, they helped turn the region from a net-food importer to the biggest grain-growing region on Earth.

Between 2001 and 2018, Russia’s share of wheat exports leapfrogged from 1 per cent to 27 per cent, while Australia, the world’s secondlargest exporter after the US a decade ago, sunk to the sixth spot under recurring drought.

Home to a quarter of the world’s black alluvial soils, Ukraine also overtook Australia’s wheat production by 2017 and now exports tens of millions of tonnes every year – not only wheat but all kinds of grains and oilseeds. When China blocked Australian barley exports in 2020 after Canberra demanded an independent inquiry into the source of COVID19, Ukraine swooped in to fill the gap. In 2019, only 9 per cent of their barley was shipped to China. By 2021, the figure increased to 70 per cent, according to government sources.

But the geopolitical forces that control global trade have now pivoted again with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine that coincided with the new planting season and has nearly paralysed agriculture. And while Russian farmers are not facing the same disruptions and sanctions are not currently targeting Russia’s food exports, many shipping lines are already refusing to do business with the country.

The US, the world’s number two exporter of wheat, cannot fill the gap because of the recent Northern Hemisphere drought. It expects wheat yields to fall 10 per cent this year, according to Gro Intelligence. In Canada, the world’s number three supplier, things are far worse with year-on-year wheat yields plummeting 39 per cent, according to Statistics Canada.

That leaves Australia, which accounts for 10 to 15 per cent of the world’s annual global wheat trade and anticipates a record 36 million tonne crop this financial year, in pole position to fill the void. >

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BUMPER CROP

Australia accounts for 10 to 15 per cent of the world’s annual global wheat trade, and with a record 36 million tonne crop forecast this financial year, is in pole position to benefit from the war in Ukraine.

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INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCE GRAINS

“Obviously, we don’t want to see conflict between any countries. We would hope they could resolve their difference peacefully,” Grain Producers Australia CEO Colin Bettles told the Rural Focus podcast.

Brett Hosking, the Chairman of Grain Growers Australia, adds: “But for Australian grain producers, there is an upside to any potential conflict that we are already seeing in the pricing of grain. And given the Black Sea is a major supplier, particularly into Asia where we compete, the market is factoring in this risk at the moment. Europe is constrained by energy supply and the potential for conflict is massive over there.

And I suspect that will be playing on the minds of any country wanting to purchase their grain. Canada has a massive rebuilding task should they have a good season this year, which leaves Australia in a very unique position as a reliable supplier of grain.”

ONCE-IN-A-GENERATION HARVEST

Historically, Western Australia’s Wheatbelt has yielded two tonnes of wheat per hectare in a good year. But in 2021 some farmers in the region grew up to six tonnes per hectare.

“Whichever way you look at it, the quantity grown was enormous,” says Rhys Turton, director of GrainGrowers, which represents 17,000 farmers across the country. “We are predominantly an export state so we are well set up to expand. We can sell as much as we grow.”

Queensland also recorded the biggest year-onyear increase in wheat receivals, up 46 per cent to 1.75 million tonnes, according to analyst IKON Commodities, while Victoria also enjoyed a good year with receivals up 2 per cent.

NSW wheat harvest receival figures are down nearly 6.5 per cent year-on-year in the latest IKON numbers because of summer floods that swamped some wheat fields waiting to be harvested. But it follows a record-breaking 10 million tonne crop in 2020, which was reflected in recent export figures.

More than 3.3 million tonnes of grain were exported through the Port of Newcastle last year – a whopping 900 per cent increase compared to the previous 12 months.

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BEYOND BORDERS

Left to right: Ports running at capacity, unable to ship any more grain out of the country; Ukraine before the Russian invasion.

But the idea that NSW can help fill gaps in the global grain markets is pure fiction, says Ed Colless, a wheat farmer in Walgett and NSW Farmers’ executive councillor.

“We simply do not have the export facilities to get additional wheat into the market in a timely fashion.

In northern NSW, we can’t even bring last year’s crop to port. It may as well be on the moon,” he says.

Justin Everitt is a wheat, canola and barley farmer in Howlong on the Murray River, and Chair of the NSW Farmers grains committee. He says farmers in the state’s south are facing the same dilemma.

“Growing conditions are just about perfect and we are set up for a good start to the next season. But ports are running at capacity so we can’t ship any more grain out of the country,” he says, describing the three million tonnes shipped out of Newcastle last year as “the tip of the iceberg” of all the grain stored upcountry.

“We’re frustrated because we improve our operations all the time, but it feels like very little is being done to improve port, storage and rail transport capacity,” Justin says.

Adam Robinson, general manager of Robinson Grain Trading Company in Sydney, also says the state is facing logistical constraints. “But that does not mean farmers cannot capitalise on the situation. We’re exporting at a record pace and we have seen NSW prices increase by about $70 a tonne in the first two or three weeks of the war,” he says.

“The Australian supply chain is at capacity, which is rare for the east coast. Supply chains are generally not full like this every month of the year because normally we become uncompetitive against Northern Hemisphere grains in June and July. So, if we buy grain today it will take a longer time to get it out of the country.

“A bigger issue for growers right now,” he says, “is the price of diesel, which has gone through the roof” while “road freight costs have doubled over the last few months”.

THE TIME TO SOW IS NOW

Diesel is not the only farm input that has seen

LACK OF P ORT AND STORAGE CAPACITY

“We’re frustrated because we improve our operations all the time, but it feels like very little is being done to improve port, storage and rail transport capacity,” says wheat, canola and barley farmer Justin Everitt (above).

astronomical price hikes as a result of COVID-19 related demand spikes, the global energy crunch as well as war in Ukraine. Things could get a lot worse. Russia – along with its ally in the war Belarus – supplies about 15 per cent of the world’s fertilisers and 20 per cent of natural gas, a key ingredient of the urea-making process.

“Last year fertiliser in Northern NSW cost $440 per tonne,” Colless said. “Now the price is tracking at $1,500 to $1,800 per tonne. And while it may be a global problem, if you’re a farmer in Western Europe thinking about increasing the amount of wheat you sow this year, you can be confident you’ll be able to pay for fertiliser because your selling price will reflect the global wheat price of nearly $500 per tonne. But the price for wheat in Northern NSW is only $295 per tonne and our supply chain constraints are to blame.”

Grain trader Adam concedes wheat prices in

Australia have not incorporated the steep increases or falls seen in the global price set in Chicago. “The futures market in Chicago is trending like what it is – a futures market,” he says. “There’s a lot of speculation out there on what may or may not happen because of the war in Ukraine and this is reflected in the market through huge volatility.”

The key takeaway, Adam says, is that it is not Australia’s job to fill the gap in supply from the Black Sea but farmers should do their best to take advantage of shortfalls that may arise. He also questions the assumptions behind the gap, saying Russia could still be exporting millions of tonnes of wheat. “There was even still some corn moving out of Ukraine to Poland in March, about 300 to 400 tonnes per month.”

But the impact of the war on farm inputs is real, says Colin at Grain Producers Australia. “Farmers are already acutely aware that input costs are high.

Fertilisers are at record highs and chemicals are as well, and there is a bit of added pain with fuel prices going up,” he says.

Colin and his team are currently lobbying Canberra to prevent current sky-high input prices from forming part of a long-term trend.

“With the federal election coming up, our messaging on input prices is that we want to see more investment in energy and local manufacturing of farm inputs so growers won’t have to manage so much external risk caused by conflicts like this,” he says.

Back in Walgett, wheat farmer Ed says farmers will have to make very careful calculations – and take on strong risk – should they decide to sew more grains this year. “No one knows where the price of fertiliser is going,” he says, a sentiment echoed by analysts factoring in fears Russia may cut its gas supply off to the world.

But Adam says the decision for farmers to sow more wheat is a no-brainer this year. “I think we will see very strong prices for grain for the next couple of years to come. And looking from where we are, things point towards having another very strong year in terms of quality and yield.” l

BY PHIL SOMERVILLE

MAY - JUNE 2022

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SPECIAL REPORT CONNECTIVITY

A WORLD APART

The difference between the mobile and internet services available in rural, regional and outback Australia, and that which is offered in urban centres is cavernous.

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CONNECTING THE SPOTS

Communication and rural connectivity have always been a contentious issue. Some companies are making headway and turning the challenges into opportunities.

–

Words TONY BLACKIE

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SPECIAL REPORT CONNECTIVITY

T

he federal government has recently promised a $480 million injection to improve regional internet speeds and allow more country customers to access fixed line services.

Anyone from rural Australia attempting to run a business – farming or otherwise – has experienced the frustrations of poor to totally inadequate internet and mobile services, so any upgrade to services, even if late in coming, is gratefully received.

Improved services will allow the many Australian rural-based companies, which provide connectivity via the internet or mobile connection, to deliver richer content and services.

But the fact remains that the difference between the mobile and internet services available in rural, regional and outback Australia, and that which is offered in urban centres is cavernous.

These challenges have provided some opportunities for some clever regional entrepreneurs.

STREAMLINING FARMING

For Lee Coleman – CEO of FarmSimple, and a farmer from Croppa Creek, some 57 kilometres from Moree in the Gwydir Shire – the lack of bandwidth meant he needed to think outside the square in order to get technology tools to help build his farm.

“Connectivity is something we don’t have a lot of out here,” he says. “I am glad that the Minister has more money for rural services, but we will have to see where that money goes.”

To overcome the poor on-farm connectivity, Lee installed a communications tower running microwave to fibre, and as he sees it – there is a lot going on in the bush, but it’s mostly come from private money.

Coming from an engineering background after 14 years in corporate life, he returned to the farm at Croppa Creek with his wife and has spent the past 10 years doubling the farm holding and dramatically modernised the property.

The process of modernisation made him realise that in order to compete on global markets Australian farmers need an edge, and that involves technology tools that can streamline processes and reduce costs.

Joining forces with Matt Higham, a software engineer from Scone, the pair worked together on weekends to develop an app to help manage on-farm activities, and FarmSimple was born.

“We have to have the best systems to

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provide for the most efficient use of the land,” Lee says. “We have to find efficiency and gains to be competitive.”

The FarmSimple product has been built in the knowledge that many farmers have little or no mobile connection so the design ensures operation with offline capabilities which allows farmers to use the product in the office or out in the paddock.

For those not familiar, FarmSimple is a comprehensive feature set that covers all the major farm management tools required for broad acre farmers to optimise their operation.

It provides for a wide range of monitoring and control aspects including silo management; monitoring and managing spraying and load calculations; timesheet control and payroll management for fast staff payments; job allocation work and time

BY PHIL SOMERVILLE

management for efficient labour use, and irrigation management.

“We’ve made FarmSimple so it can be used on any device, mobile or desktop,” says Lee, adding that the ultimate aim of the producer has been to link the activities of the paddock to the cash book.

COMMUNICATION FOR ALL

Shannon Fisher, Managing Director of IPSTAR, says recent constraints placed on all Australians throughout the pandemic highlighted the need for effective and efficient connectivity.

“In the modern world we have a basic human need for interaction and communication,” Shannon says. “And for many rural Australians, the feeling of isolation and need for connection is not > limited to pandemic lockdowns.

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“Rural Australians have dealt with the challenges of isolation for a long time – they are generally very familiar with the impact of being alone.”

With technology continuing to advance at a rapid rate, metropolitan Australians are used to being able to contact emergency services, mental health services and connect with friends or family with ease.

However, for those further from the city, this experience ceases to be an easy affair.

“I liken it to peeling back layers of an onion,” says Shannon. “At the centre you have the city where connectivity is not an issue, and most residences and businesses have fast fibre. The next layer, your options might be limited to fixed wireless, and the next layer, you might have no option but to choose a satellite connection.”

Shannon says that the key to ensuring you find a provider (whether fixed wireless or satellite) is truly understanding your needs and specific challenges.

“From a health perspective, regardless of your location, you should feel like you have access to modern tools that enable you to maintain freedom and independence.

“And from a mental health perspective, you should be in a position that if you need to talk or connect with someone, whether that be a professional or friend, you can,” says Shannon.

“At IPSTAR, we specialise in connecting regional and rural Australians, their families and businesses.

We’ve been dedicated to this for many years. Remote

MAY - JUNE 2022

connectivity is our core business and something that we are extremely passionate about.

“This means that our local team understand the challenges and pains felt by our customers, and we are constantly working with partners, including the NBN, as well as advocating for greater investment in regional connectivity.”

ON DECK WITH FARMERS

There are a growing number of computer-based management products that have been developed in rural Australia to specifically cater for the unique needs of farmers.

Farmdeck is a farm management system built specifically to cater for the poor connectivity and power so many farmers are forced to endure.

The company’s solution is promoted as an all-inone Internet-of-Things (IoT) farm management solution allowing a very wide range of monitoring capabilities The IoT is all about physical objects with sensors, processing ability, software, and other technologies that connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the Internet or other communication networks.

In relation to the Farmdeck product, IoT allows for on-farm monitoring of electric fences, rainfall, stock tracking and identification, water levels in troughs, dams and tanks, and a broad range of day-to-day farm management tools aimed at streamlining processes.

FARMERS ON DECK

WATER MANAGEMENT

Left and right: The Farmdeck solutions provide real-time water and farm monitoring helping with resources management.

Managing water resources is vital for any farmers but for some it is the most important element in the production cycle.

Farmbot Monitor Solutions provides remote monitoring capability to check water, diesel and trough levels, rainfall, and flow and pressure rates in real time.

While most farmers are currently getting more than their average annual rainfall, they are all aware that the La Niña weather pattern will end eventually, and we will return to lower rainfall averages as will the need to be much more waterwise.

The Farmbot product allows for remote accurate monitoring of water levels and usage which are vital components for crop and stock management.

The company claims that its monitoring sensors use satellite or 4G/5G/LTE and are guaranteed to work anywhere in Australia with year-round accessibility.

The installation is a major cost-saving process and according to Farmbot, every installed unit leads to a savings of $2,466 annually.

That calculation is apparently taking into account outgoings such as fuel, labour and the vehicle maintenance costs involved in doing water runs.

The company also provides an online cost-savings calculator to help users work out the benefits.

Elizabeth Cameron, is a member of Farmbot’s marketing team, she says one of the compelling benefits of the monitors is that they are essentially ‘plug and play’.

She says that when the farmer receives the monitor, they are able to quickly install it with no technical skill required.

The system then links to the communication method used on the farm, whether that is a satellite or mobile system.

“We currently have more than 6,500 monitors in use out in the field,” Elizabeth says.

“We wanted our system to be super simple to install, in order to allow farmers to be up and running

as quickly as possible and thus benefit quickly from the cost savings.”

Farmbot monitors are also applied to fuel and diesel tanks. Elizabeth points out that with the current cost of fuel, monitoring of tank levels is vital as it deters theft and allows for better consumption monitoring.

SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION

Agricore is a Tamworth-based agronomy business with a core focus on applying innovative farming practices for guaranteed sustainability. It aims to gives farmers a high level of agronomy expertise.

“We believe growers must receive value, and so our focus is to provide them with technical expertise in a boots-on-the-ground approach. The end result is to increase growers’ productivity and profitability to be at their farming best,” says their marketing manager.

To do this Agricore needs to be able to connect with the farming community.

Working on a ‘think global, act local’ philosophy, the company brings the latest knowledge of agronomy and farming systems to growers.

It specialises in irrigation and dryland broadacre cropping, precision agriculture solutions, irrigation and dryland forage systems, pasture systems and livestock nutrition.

One of the major tools developed by Agricore is its SWAT or soil, water and topography maps, that allows farmers to evaluate a soil’s potential, and sustainably apply crop inputs to the field. This links the production process to profitability in a highly tangible way.

The Agricore agronomy team scan the farm area with GPS mapping technology, survey the area physically and undertake strategic soil tests that are collected per zone, per field, and GPS reference future sample collection sites.

The SWAT process assists with farm inputs of fertilisers, allowing for the correct levels to be applied.

Farmers are therefore able to make better decisions about inputs, which in turn effects their cost savings while improving productivity and outputs. l MAY - JUNE 2022

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Meet the

GLENWOOD

SMITHS of

Each generation of a farming family brings new innovations.

For merino graziers, Norm and Pip Smith it is holistic farm management, SRS genetics and developing their Love Merino luxury clothing brand.

Words SHEREE YOUNG

H

aving the opportunity to make mistakes is one of the biggest gifts Merino wool farmer, Norm Smith, believes his father gave him when he took over Glenwood, an 8,000-acre Merino stud and farm in the hills northeast of Wellington in NSW’s central west. >

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COMMUNITY NEW GENERATIONS

“I’ve always said there is an innovation in each of the generations. My father’s innovation was spreading pasture out of a plane and my grandfather was one of the first to fly super phosphates out of a plane.”

Norm Smith, Merino grazier and co-owner of Love Merino.

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COMMUNITY NEW GENERATIONS

“I am very thankful to Dad that he gave us the opportunity to manage Glenwood and to make our own mistakes. He didn’t necessarily agree with holistic management or SRS Merinos, but he gave us the opportunity to make our own decisions.”

Norm Smith Norm is the fourth generation of the Smith family to run Glenwood, a farm which dates back to 1898. His great-grandfather (and namesake) Norman Smith, was loaned 2,000 pounds by his father, Henry Smith – a leasehold farmer on nearby Geurie Station – to buy part of the property.

Neighbouring properties were bought, and farm management practices evolved to grow Glenwood into what it is today – a lush, green, sustainably and ethically-run Merino farm and stud which is a haven for the 1,100 stud ewes and over 3,500 stock ewes which roam the hills producing some of the finest and softest Merino wool going.

Just about every inch of Glenwood is carpeted in perennial native ground cover,

providing quality feed for the stock and crucially a protective forcefield against drought and flood.

When Norm, the eldest of three brothers, took over the farm aged 28 from his father Brian, he and his childhood sweetheart, Pip, had just been married.

Norm had some ideas about how the farm should be managed to ensure its sustained success, but implementing change always has its challenges. After all, resistance from the previous generation happens out of concern it may backfire, and then there are the decisions and actions needed to forge the new path.

Holistic farm management was the first change Norm wanted to introduce and this

meant taking the whole picture into account – the people, the financials, the animals, and the land.

It also meant shifting to time-controlled grazing with all 3,000 ewes (instead of the usual 300) kept in one paddock but for a shorter period before being moved on to rest the land and give the plantings a chance to naturally regenerate.

“Holistic management was quite a big change for Dad and for us it meant we made mistakes. There were plenty of mistakes early on about the way you manage larger mobs of sheep and cattle,” Norm says.

The other was adopting SRS genetics – pioneered by ex-CSIRO veterinary scientist Dr Jim Watts over decades. SRS genetics >

A HOLISTIC APPROACH

Left: Norm Smith is the fourth generation of the Smith family to run Glenwood.

Right: Every inch of Glenwood is carpeted in perennial native ground cover, providing quality feed for their 3,000 ewes.

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“I love the stillness of the land and I have gained a whole new appreciation for the peace Glenwood has to offer.”

Chloe Smith are famed for producing a plain-bodied wrinkle-free Merino which eliminates the need for the controversial practice of mulesing and decreases fly strike. The result is happier more fertile sheep which can produce the highest quality super soft Merino wool.

Norm says whilst his father did have reservations, he did not stand in the way of change. Brian passed away 10 years ago but saw how the changes further transformed Glenwood into what it is today – a thriving example of regenerative farming and ethical, humane herd management.

“I’ve always said there is an innovation in each of the generations. My father’s innovation was spreading pasture out of a plane and my grandfather was one of the first to fly super phosphates out of a plane. Both of these activities have greatly improved Glenwood,” Norm says.

“For our generation, we feel that holistic management, time control grazing, and the adoption of SRS genetics are our innovations.

“I am very thankful to Dad that he gave us the opportunity to manage Glenwood and to make our own mistakes. He didn’t necessarily agree with holistic management or SRS merinos, but he gave us the opportunity to make our own decisions about breeding and the way we wanted to manage Glenwood.”

With time-controlled short-term grazing down pat, Norm says the benefits are substantial.

“We no longer re-sow pastures because we’re regenerating them via the grazing. We went from a high input/high output farming situation with significant chemical and fertiliser inputs, to a very low input system,” Norm explains.

“Our productivity hasn’t changed over that time, but the profit margin is a lot more stable and resilient during good times and drought times.”

the family’s Love Merino luxury clothing brand’s website and Instagram page.

“It’s special because this is what I studied at university, and I get to be a part of Love Merino through that,” she says.

Chloe also acknowledges the work her father has done with Glenwood. “I think following in his footsteps will be hard, but I know my siblings have learnt so much from him and I know they will continue to progress Glenwood more and more,” she says.

THE NEXT GENERATION

MAGGIE THE CARER

Norm and Pip also brought five fabulous children into the world – Chloe, 24, Amber, 23, 22-year-old twins Maggie and William, and Daisy, 14.

Maggie is a fourth-year nursing student at Notre Dame University in Sydney and has plans to head back to the country once she’s got a few years of nursing experience under her belt.

“Growing up on a farm meant there was always something to do, whether it be helping Dad in the paddocks, feeding the work dogs, or adventuring with my friends or siblings. I’ve learnt so many life skills from living on a farm and I’m very grateful for my parents having raised me on Glenwood,” Maggie says.

“It also taught me about being a hard worker and having a strong work ethic. Nothing in life comes easy and you have to work hard if you want something.

“Both my parents work extremely hard for the things they love, including their family, and this has played a massive role in how I view life.” >

CHLOE THE CREATIVE

Firstborn Chloe is a fashion and photography graduate and is making her mark on the creative scene in Sydney, while working part-time as a disability support worker. Having lived in the city for six years, Chloe has great appreciation for Glenwood.

“I love the stillness of the land and I have gained a whole new appreciation for the peace Glenwood has to offer. I’m so grateful to have grown up there and to be able to go back whenever I want,” Chloe says.

Chloe’s creative prowess and photography skills have come in handy when taking photos and editing them for

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AMBER IN ALICE

A graduate of animal science from Armidale’s University of New England, Amber is now working north of Alice Springs and can only see herself living on the land and, if possible, being a part of Glenwood going forward.

“At Glenwood we will continue to produce the most beautiful Merino wool, while also looking after the land, the people and the animals. We are the custodians of the land as our ancestors, grandparents, and parents have been, for future generations of the Smith families,” she says.

When she’s not working in far-flung locations, Amber loves going home.

“I have a deep love and compassion of all animals big and small, so I help Dad with anything that needs doing on Glenwood whenever I am at home. I also help Mum with Love Merino by doing social media posts, ironing, packing, offering advice on designs and colours and any other help I can give,” she says.

“Growing up on the land is a wonderful way to live. It is not always easy with the ever-changing rainfall, floods, droughts, mouse plagues and bushfires, but if you love what you do then it’s easy to get up and go to work.”

COMMUNITY NEW GENERATIONS

FAMILY AFFAIR

Above, then clockwise: Norm and Pip Smith's five children – Chloe, Amber, Maggie, William and Daisy; with their friend Vera de Hass.

Norm on the farm; Glenwood's Merinos produce high quality super soft wool.

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COMMUNITY NEW GENERATIONS

WILL THE FUTURE FARMER

When William Smith is not slogging it out for the Robb rugby team, he is studying a Bachelor of Agriculture at University of New England, Armidale or working at Glenwood.

The art of patience and knowing that if a job is worth doing, it is worth doing right are key learnings he has gained growing up.

“I’d love to follow in my father’s footsteps and keep moving forward with his values and genetics,” Will says.

“Ever since I can remember my grandfather, my uncle and especially my father said that you need to take the time to do things properly. So, for my part, I try to work to those words and work my hardest whilst doing the job right. I most commonly find myself helping Dad wherever he needs me and just getting things done. I also help Mum when she needs me to with Love Merino.

“In the next generation, I’d like to see the farm striving for the values, goals and genetics my father and his father have been working hard to reach. I’d like to see Love

LIFE ON THE FARM

Above: Transporting Merinos at Glenwood. Below: Pip and Norm were childhood sweethearts, who married just as Norm took over Glenwood at age 28.

Merino grow to a much bigger size with maybe a small store.”

DAISY THE STUDENT

Currently in Year 9 at Kinross Wollaroi School in Orange, Daisy says what she most loves about Glenwood is the open space and fresh air – and her favourite poddy lamb, Jenny.

“I especially love all the animals we get to have and look after. I love it when we have poddy lambs. My Mum and I have one right now from lambing last year and her name is Jenny,” Daisy says. “When I am at home, I help my Dad with what he wants me to do, which is usually things like helping move sheep and cattle into the yards or lamb marking. I look after the poddy lambs, get rid of bad weeds around the paddocks and when we have our field days or ram sales, I help cook lots of food for it.”

For such a young girl, Daisy has already learnt so much – how to be resilient, handle responsibility, follow instructions, and nurture a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the land and all animals. l

“We decided to branch out from straight up and down wool production into the design, manufacturing and marketing of fine Merino wool garments.”

Pip Smith

Love Merino In 2015, Pip Smith launched luxury fashion brand, Love Merino.

All of Love Merino’s products – scarves, pashminas, wraps and baby blankets – are made using 100 per cent merino wool from Glenwood and are knitted, hand-dyed and finished in Australia with each of the Smith children having a role to play in this business.

“The process is challenging, to be able to have everything processed and manufactured here in Australia, but our aim is to maintain quality and traceability,” Pip says. “We remain committed to the cause and work with a number of highly talented craftsmen, artisans and designers to produce our quality Love Merino garments.”

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The first Love Merino range in 2016 was designed by Manuela Strano, a designer based in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The garments are dyed using traditional Japanese methods by Stanmore-based, Shibori, a creative partnership belonging to Pepa Martin and Karen Davis.

After the initial release, the designs have continued to be made in a collaboration between Pepa and Karen at Shibori, along with Pip and her daughters.

Love Merino was borne out of an idea to create clothing products which could be traced back to a specific flock. The brand is also a great vehicle for promoting the sustainable practices and ethical flock management that is taking place at Glenwood.

“We decided to branch out from straight up and down wool production into the design, manufacturing and marketing of fine merino wool garments,” says Pip. “It was a leap of faith in our fibre, in the future of the wool industry and in our ability to gauge what the market wants and how to best supply and sell into that market.”

Juggling being a mum, helping Norm on the farm and Love Merino means Pip’s days are full to the brim. But she says her family always come first.

“I always put my family first and helping Norm on the farm second. Unfortunately, Love Merino has to come third. Life is short and I have learnt that whatever will be will be. I am very driven to have Love Merino succeed, and I know it will,” Pip says.

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COMMUNITY MEET A MEMBER

Sharing the great might of Merinos

Third generation Merino breeder Angus Beveridge is spreading the good word on wool and sheep meat production to the next generation through the NSW School Merino Wether Challenge.

Words MICHAEL BURT Photography RACHAEL LENEHAN

BELOW: NSW Farmers member Angus Beveridge runs a 2200-hectare mixed farm with 900 registered Merino ewes, 2000 commercial Merino ewes, 50 Poll Hereford breeders and 400 hectares of cropping.

Name: Angus Beveridge Farm Name: Warragong, Gilgandra Branch: Castlereagh Years as a Member: 26

G

ilgandra farmer Angus Beveridge has helped coordinate the delivery of almost 400 Merino wethers to schools across the state as part of a hands-on learning project for high school students.

The wethers are now the adoptees of Year 9 & 10 agriculture students at more than 60 different schools who have joined the 2022 NSW School Merino Wether Challenge.

Run by the Dubbo National Ram Sale Committee, the school challenge is an initiative of the NSW Stud Merino Breeders Association that started a decade ago.

The students and their agriculture teachers will take care of the sheep until August, where they will be judged on their commercial value at the Rabobank National Merino Sheep Show & Sale in Dubbo.

Angus said the schools collected their six wethers at three drop-off points in March at Narromine, Armidale and Wagga Wagga.

“I delivered some of the sheep myself, but there were plenty of people involved,” Angus says. “Schools in Tenterfield picked them up on behalf of schools in Bonalbo, Kyogle, Murwillumbah and Lismore as they were all impacted by flooding.

“We also have schools from the south

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LEFT: Sharing the might of Merino wool – Gilgandra farmer Angus Beveridge on the NSW sheep industry through NSW School Merino Wether Challenge.

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coast this year,” he says. “You normally don’t see too many Merinos on the coast, but it’s a great education program for all ag students.

There are also two schools from southwest Sydney involved this year.”

Angus says it’s great to get the ag teachers so involved – guiding the students and using the challenge as a practical education tool.

“They can link studies with hands-on experience in animal health, nutrition and husbandry practices and how best to care for their animals in different environments. A lot of the schools really get into it,” he says.

The 378 Merino wethers were purchased by the Dubbo National Ram Sale Committee from the historic Egelabra Merino Stud at Warren, managed by NSW Farmers member Cam Munro.

“In the end, the profits from the sales of meat and wool are distributed to the schools based on their performance,” Angus says.

Angus will also be delivering workshops in central locations in Term 2 as part of the challenge, with training assistance from Ben Watts at Bralca.

“The workshops provide the opportunity to further explore the importance of good nutrition and animal welfare and what

Why am I a NSW Farmers Member?

“It’s so important to have a united voice and to have the influence with decision makers on behalf of farmers. That’s why our family have been members forever. We also get a lot out of the NSW Farmers Industrial Relations service.”

happens in the supply chain after the wool or the sheep leave the farm,” Angus says, adding that the challenge is one of the biggest of its kind in Australia.

“The main focus is to encourage young people to think about a future in the sheep industry, whether it be farming or shearing or a career in wool and sheep meat marketing or research,” Angus says. “There are plenty of opportunities in our industry right now.

Even if we just get a small percentage to follow through on an agricultural career, the challenge has worked.”

The NSW School Merino Wether Challenge is supported by Australian Wool Innovation (AWI). l

COMMUNITY FARM DOGS

Kenny from New England Beef farmer Don Mack’s dog Kenny has his sights set on chasing pigs and swimming at the Olympics.

EDITED BY MICHELLE HESPE

REAL NAME AND

IF YOU BECAME FAMOUS

NICKNAMES

FOR ONE THING, WHAT

Ken, but my boss and friends call me Kenny.

WOULD IT BE?

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO DO ON THE FARM?

I’m a working dog through and through, so I love getting on the back of the quad runner and going to work. I’m good with cattle but I’ll be honest with you – sheep confuse me.

HAVE YOU EVER DONE SOMETHING REALLY NAUGHTY?

My boss always gets angry with me when I disappear when I’m supposed to be working.

Between you and I – I go chasing pigs instead.

WHAT IS YOUR WORST HABIT?

I have a habit of sitting in front of the cattle crush when my boss is trying to push cattle down the race. C’mon, I just like to be able to see what’s going on.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD?

I have always enjoyed fresh rabbit however they’re getting harder to catch these days. Or maybe I’m getting a bit slower these days?

I’m so lucky because my boss has installed swimming pools for me in every paddock.

I just love swimming in all of them, and I’m considering entering the next Olympics.

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANOTHER ANIMAL AS A FRIEND, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

I have poddy calves as friends – they’re great fun, and as a bonus I always get to drink the last of the milk that they don’t drink.

FAVOURITE TOY OR THING TO PLAY WITH?

My other mate plays with a ball but that’s not for me. Whatever my boss and I do is always play for me. Or rather, should I say it’s really hard work!

WHAT DOES EVERYONE LOVE ABOUT YOU?

I’m gentle, patient and good looking. All the people on our farm want to pat me.

ANY LAST WORDS?

I do it my way. What other way is there? Oh yes, that’s right, the way my boss says.

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MARKETPLACE

The saleyards We’ve pulled together some eco-friendly natural products that will bring both style and sustainability to the home.

Compiled by MARION GERRITSON

BURSTS OF COMMAND

The PetSafe Remote Spray Trainer is designed to help train your dog with a burst of spray. Whether you are taking an off-lead walk outdoors, or working on commands at home, this Remote Spray Trainer makes dog training easy. $274 barkcontrol.com.au

FIRST NATIONS CANDLES

This Australian made, triple-wick soy wax blend candle features Aboriginal artworks, and royalties benefit the artist and community. Available in assorted designs. $54.95 alpersteindesigns.com.au

GOT YOU COVERED

Eastwood silver jute and white four corners cushion covers from Mirage Haven will give any couch a sophisticated, welcoming feel. $59 miragehaven.com

COW SCRATCHING POST RUG UP

Made from the toughest weave, these gorgeous Moroccan inspired Kasbah Smoke rugs offer durability, warmth and protection above exposed floors and carpet. Use them all around the home and outdoors too; they're made from 100 per cent recycled plastic bottles. $879 weavergreen.com.au

The Totem pole brush is a scratching post designed for cattle comfort, cleaning, hair shedding and promoting milk production. The robust design can handle the roughest cattle all year round and discourages destructive behaviour. Its inground installation makes it easy to install in any paddock Call: (07) 3073 1414 bowsbarn.com.au

LET THERE BE WATER GOOD FOR THE EARTH

Earth Worthy’s original Good Bags are made from natural jute by the survivors of the 2013 Rana Plaza Garment factory collapse in Bangladesh. They last while they’re needed and then compost once they’re not. $8 earthworthy.co

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SHOO FLIES

For those summer days when you’re eating outside with the family and want to protect your food, ShooFly Eco Food Covers are the perfect fit. They come in platter and feast sizes. Prices start at $35 glassonthegrass.com

A great addition to any home, the KURO-BO 8-litre bamboo water filter dispenser comes with 3 filters which are 100 per cent natural, recyclable, plasticfree, and made of pure activated charcoal. $180 buxtonhanley.com

THE TAIL END

The TikTok-famous farmer from Walcha

It’s only fitting that a true blue Aussie larrikin from Northern New South Wales has risen in stardom in just a short year. His success is all thanks to an app called TikTok which is taking to the term content creation like a bull in a china shop.

Words DARCY WATT

J WHIP IT GO OD

Top to bottom: Jack cracks the whip on a photoshoot for tech start-up called Similar (his first paid sponsorship); Jack with the cattle on the family farm in Walcha.

ack Archdale – or @jarchy89 as he is known on TikTok – grew up surrounded by sheep on a farm in Walcha. As a child he got up to all of the usual mischief that a young kid does on a big property which has also continued into his adult life – racing tractors, shooting guns, hunting and even rolling his boss' Can-Am. “I flunked school and went overseas for about a year and didn’t really know what to do,” Jack says. “When a window of opportunity opened I ended up studying Commercial Radio

at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst and after a few corporate roles in radio I went back to Northern NSW and worked on Congi.”

Jack’s online skits predominantly involve the hilarious moments of life on a farm. His first video that skyrocketed him into stardom was a regular occurrence for those in the bush – Jack was patting an echidna.

“It went gangbusters. Just off that video I had 25,000 followers,” he says. “I think there were a lot of international people who didn’t know what an echidna was, and they saw that video and they must have thought I was crazy. They probably thought it was similar to a porcupine.”

As fame started flowing through TikTok, Jack progressed to creating content on Instagram, and now he receives branding opportunities from companies wanting to advertise their products via his channels. At the moment his TikTok career doesn’t make enough to leave his full-time job, but that’s where he hopes to be heading in the near future.

“If you went through my notes, you would think I was mad,” he says. “I write all of my ideas down and it takes about five minutes to write a script. It’s easier than doing it off the cuff,” Jack says.

Even with a following of over 225,000 people, Jack can never gauge how successful a TikTok video will be. As he says, it’s simply luck of the draw.

“Sometimes, I’ll have a great idea and I’ll be laughing to myself while I’m editing it, and it just doesn’t do well. Other times where I don’t think it’s that funny it will go crazy online. I did a skit on old bushies that I grew up around on the farm – the type who swear at anything, and everything's always going wrong.

That video alone earned me 25,000 followers on Instagram.”

Working with T.A. Field Estates on their farm Congi in the Walcha district, Jack managed mobs of sheep that produce ultrafine wool as well as prime beef cattle across the 10,000 hectare property. But then he moved to Sydney to pursue a career in love. In other words, his partner lives in Sydney so he made the choice to move away from farm life. Although, it has to be said that Jack is doing his best to convince the missus to relocate back to the family farm.

“My folks are still back in Walcha and I try to go back there as much as I can,” he says. “It’s a great escape and when I’m back there I can create the country content that my core following enjoys because they’re very much country orientated.”

Jack admits that every day is completely different on the farm whereas in Sydney, life can get a little repetitive.

“One day we had flash flooding at one end of the property and at the other end, lightning struck, so we had fires to deal with, less than two kilometres away. I thought to myself – what is this country we’re living in? It’s never boring!” l

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When it comes to my passion, I don’t compromise.

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