AgLife, Wimmera Machinery Field Days edition – February 26, 2025 by The Weekly Advertiser

Think BIG

Brian Petrass, pictured with Turbo and Scoot, will show his 1985 225-horsepower Steiger Cougar at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days next week. The theme of this year’s field days is ‘big tractors’. Story, page 3.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Wimmera Machinery Field Days 2025

Multi-million-dollar showcase

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Hundreds of millions of dollars in agricultural equipment and machinery, lifestyle and market goods will be on show at the 61st annual Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

The field days, at Longerenong from Tuesday to Thursday next week, is set to have a theme of ‘big tractors’.

Field days committee president Harry Young said while the event did not usually have a theme, last year’s anniversary featured 60-year-old machinery, prompting the idea of big tractors for this year.

“The idea evolved in discussions after last year when we showcased some old machinery. After some banter upstairs during a meeting, we decided we’d showcase some big tractors,” he said.

“We set out to find some big ones and some unusual ones.

“We’ve got American tractor Big Bud coming, which is pretty cool, as well as one of two remaining Waltannas, an Agco with triple wheels, a Ford County, and a couple of Steigers.

“I’m staggered by how many people are interested in the tractors – there’s a lot of people coming all the way from Mildura, not for the field days, but just to look at the tractors.”

More broadly, the field days brings traders, exhibitors, thousands of people and millions of dollars to the Wimmera, with 80 new exhibitors this year among the 365 sites booked.

Children’s entertainment featuring Paw Patrol characters Chase and Marshall, helicopter and mini train rides, fashion parades, demonstrations and a market on Wednesday add to the traditional agricultural features, making for a day out for the whole family.

Balancing vendors

Field days manager Vanessa Lenehan said there would be a variety of food trucks onsite.

“While it’s getting harder and harder for community groups to cater with the decline in volunteers, we have been able to fill the gaps with commercial food trucks,” she said.

“We aim to not have too many of the same thing – kebab food trucks are very popular at the minute – otherwise that little niche is flooded and they don’t get enough sales to make it worthwhile.”

Ms Lenehan said it was a challenge to place them all.

“We have to have a good mix and

strategic locations for fairness, but we also have to consider what kind of power they need – there’s a whole heap of stuff behind the scenes,” she said.

Economic benefits

With 10,000 people expected during the event’s three days, it is the biggest event in the Wimmera.

The region is set to gain about $2-million.

Ms Lenehan said a formula provided by Horsham Rural City Council showed who would benefit.

“It includes accommodation, cafes and restaurants being utilised every night, and people just travelling through,” she said.

“It also includes the community

groups that come in and get paid to contribute, from helping with car parking, to cleaning the site up afterwards.”

Participation

Some schools and community groups take advantage of complementary passes to the field days.

Ms Lenehan said students, and clients from groups such as aged care and disability support services, received passes.

“We offer tickets to a variety of places, with some just bringing a busload of their participants out and slowly driving around the site so they can have a look, when they’re unable to walk around – they absolutely love it,” she said.

Planning process

The hundreds of man-hours put into planning is apparent – the event runs as a well-oiled machine.

Ms Lenehan said the committee starts planning for next year’s event on the final day of the current year’s showcase.

“We’ll have a big debrief upstairs on the Thursday, then a couple of weeks after, the girls in the office and I sit down and we write a heap of notes about what we could do better, what worked, what didn’t work, and file that away,” she said.

“Then we pick it up again around July or August, before we have the annual general meeting in September,

FINAL TOUCHES:

Committee members Nick Zordan and Andrew Bell put the finishing touches on the Wimmera Machinery Field Days site ahead of next week’s three-day event. This year’s theme – the Year of the Big Tractors –was chosen after the popularity of last year’s milestone event theme of 60-yearold machinery.

Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

get the new committee, a new president, then we’re up and running again.

“It comes around too quick.”

On-site facilities

From food, to toilets, to being prepared for an emergency, the Wimmera Machinery Field Days is prepared to host the thousands of people who will visit each day.

“We have the Royal Flying Doctor Service doing first-aid this year, with Dooen’s fire truck on standby,” Ms Lenehan said.

“We’ve also got ambulance, VICSES, police and emergency management team here as exhibitors, but I’m sure they would help out if anything went majorly wrong.”

Ms Lenehan said cleaners were also onsite during the three days, maintaining the toilets and eating areas.

Slow burn

Mr Young said it was hard for exhibitors to quantify the success of the field days.

“Talking to some of the bigger exhibitors, they say it’s hard to know because they might have someone ring up or come and see them six months later,” he said.

“People do mention what they had seen at the field days, but they’ve had to go home and weigh it up, do some sums.”

Tickets can be purchased on the website, wimmerafielddays.com.au or at the gate.

STEP ONE: Andy Medlyn, of Harbergers of Donald, starts his set-up at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days site at Longerenong last week.

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Grateful for support

From the manager

Welcome to the 61st annual Wimmera Machinery Field Days – The Year of Big Tractors.

We hope you enjoy the display of some of the biggest and most unique tractors in Australia.

We thank all of the owners for their enthusiasm and effort in getting their tractors here. Please enjoy looking at them, but also respect that they are private property.

Once again a big thanks to all of our exhibitors, both returning and new. Without your support the field days would not go ahead. We are always interested in your feedback and strive to keep the field days exciting and relevant.

This year we have seen an increase in the number of corporate partners and sponsors.

A big welcome to all of our new sponsors and we greatly appreciate the loyalty and support of our returning sponsors. We value the relationships we build with you to help you promote your business at the field days.

The local market square is being hosted on Wednesday this year as the Local Market Day and is once again supported by 1089 3WM.

We are very glad we can offer these small businesses the opportunity to showcase their products to a wider audience.

There are many other local businesses in the

region that have had a very tough summer due to the bushfire activity in the area. Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism is on site to promote local business, so please drop in to see them in Moore Exhibition Centre and ask about the many ways we can help get them back on their feet.

Once again we have a wide range of attractions, including the Black Snake reptile and wildlife display, Rev It Up racing simulator, Laser Tag, Level Up Gaming, heritage tractors, helicopter rides, mini train rides, animal nursery, kids zone and brand new for 2025 – Marshall and Chase from Paw Patrol up on stage on Wednesday. There is also a meet-and-greet at 11.30am.

Partners in Ag is once again co-ordinating the Ag Ed Quest. It is important the field days showcases the many and varied careers the agricultural industry has to offer.

Thanks to the community groups that contribute to the successful running of the field days and the many volunteers that make it possible.

Running an organisation based on volunteer contribution is getting more difficult so we commend the individuals who keep these groups going.

Lastly a big thank to the volunteer WMFD committee for their work and support and to the team in the office for their dedication.

I hope you enjoy the 61st annual Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Vanessa

Lenehan

Invaluable opportunity

From the mayor

March

in our region is renowned for the Wimmera Machinery Field Days, one of Australia’s premier agricultural and agribusiness shows.

The field days is a testament to the vision, dedication, and hard work of a small but passionate group of volunteers and staff who have made it all possible. Agriculture is the cornerstone of Western Victoria, and events like this offer a unique platform for farmers and industry professionals to come together.

It’s an opportunity to share insights, discuss common challenges, and explore the latest innovations and technological advancements.

We understand that farmers are always seeking ways to enhance productivity and efficiency in their operations, and I am confident that the diverse range of machinery, tools, and technologies on display will meet those needs.

Moreover, the Wimmera Machinery Field Days draw visitors from near and far, attracting people from across the region, the state, and beyond.

This influx of attendees provides a significant boost to our local communities and small businesses.

I am excited to see the area bustling with activity once again, with exhibitors and attendees participating in what has become a vital agricultural event for our region.

A special congratulations to president Harry Young, the volunteer committee, and all the staff for your exceptional efforts in delivering another outstanding event.

Your hard work and dedication have ensured its success.

Last cropping season was tough for our local farmers, but we look forward with a positive outlook for the year ahead.

Horsham Rural City Council is proud to support the Wimmera Machinery Field Days. If you have any questions or would like to chat, please visit us at our site in the Moore Pavilion. Cr Ian Ross Horsham Rural City Council

Warm welcome to 61st annual event

From the president

Onbehalf of the Wimmera Machinery Field Days committee and staff, I would like to extend a warm welcome to the 2025 Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

We are celebrating our 61st year of delivering the latest agriculture technology and innovations to farmers across western Victoria, while also hosting a major social event for networking and catching up with old friends.

After a more challenging season in western Victoria, the field days is a chance to celebrate and share successes from the past year, as well as improve on things that did not work as well.

We wish you all the best for a successful 2025.

The committee would like to thank all sponsors and exhibitors for their generosity in supporting this year’s event.

We are lucky enough to be able to showcase a wide range of exhibits including machinery, technology, finance, tools as well as home and lifestyle. The committee would also like to thank all the community groups for their time and effort, without your support we would not have such a successful event.

We also thank our staff for their professionalism and hard work in bringing the committee’s visions and ideas to life. I would like to thank all the committees and their families for the time, effort and dedication they put in throughout the year.

Harry Young

READY TO ROLL: Wimmera Machinery Field Days manager Vanessa Lenehan and president Harry Young at the Longerenong site. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Machinery Field Days special edition

Proud past driving event’s future

Over the Wimmera Machinery Field Days’ 61-year history, organisers have dealt with a variety of challenges and opportunities to showcase agriculture to the region and beyond.

The field days at Longerenong, near Horsham, is Victoria’s longest-running field days and Australia’s premier broad acre and machinery focused event.

It showcases the latest developments in farming practice, machinery, equipment, technology and services, with the committee maintaining a longterm charter to foster innovation and development in primary production and agribusiness.

The field days began in 1963 as a two-day event with about 80 exhibitors and 3000 attendees.

It has grown to have more than 400 exhibitors, and still attracts thousands of visitors across the now three-day event.

The Wimmera event first came about after a group of Wimmera farmers attended agricultural field days in Orange, New South Wales, in 1962.

The group of farmers returned from Orange and formed a committee to organise an event that would form a key part of Victoria’s agricultural landscape and become part of the Wimmera’s social fabric.

ment to showcasing the latest technology and innovation in agriculture has remained the same.

Over the years, it has welcomed various special guests, and introduced new initiatives including children’s activities and demonstrations by local producers.

cal economy. It continues to be run primarily by volunteers, with a small team employed to manage the event.

The field days is often referred to as a barometer for social, economic, agricultural prosperity and growth in the region.

scientific age, we have the machines and knowledge available to help us in this task. Let us therefore grasp this opportunity and use it to the utmost.”

later field days, boosting the amount of farm machinery on display.

The success of the field days continued in the 1980s, with record site bookings, but as drought hit in the early 1990s, attendances were affected.

But as always, the field days bounced back by the late 1990s, with organisers saying it was worth $15-million to the national economy.

The weather affected attendances in the early 2000s – from up to 30,000 people attending in 2002 to decreases as organisers dealt with a variety of conditions from hot and windy to flooding in 2011.

In 2003, 40 years after the first event, then-field days secretary Noel Curran said the event had a ‘Genetically Modified Crops Feature’, as it was the ‘hottest topic’ in farming that year.

At the 50th event, in 2012, technology was at the forefront, from machinery getting larger to cover more land more efficiently, to advancements in farm precision technology.

Highlights

here to help

The inaugural field days boasted £200,000 of farm machinery on show, with organisers opting for a full-day dress-rehearsal on the Monday before the official event started.

The 1971 field days was opened by the then federal Opposition leader Gough Whitlam – a year later he would become Australia’s 21st Prime Minister. By the mid-1970s, a boom in farming in the Wimmera was reflected in

The 50th event also paid tribute to tractors of past eras, featuring a tractorcade of vintage tractors from the 1960s, thanks to the Dunmunkle Sump Oilers, Wheatland Museum Warracknabeal, Nhill Vintage Club and Jeparit Pioneer Museum. At the 60th iteration last year, biosecurity was a key focus.

The field days has only been cancelled once, in 2022, and was hosted virtually in 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions.

STEPPING BACK: Field days attendees watch a 1963 Horwood Bagshaw header in action during an early iteration of the event.

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Not to be missed

Member for Lowan

The Wimmera Machinery Field Days is an event like no other, and one I look forward to every year.

The field days is always an amazing showcase of the latest developments in primary production and agribusiness, and the 61st instalment of the event at Longerenong this year promises to be no different.

Through the incredible work of the volunteers on the Wimmera Machinery Field Days Committee, led by Harry Young, and the field days staff, this event – one of the country’s largest agricultural trade shows –continues to raise the bar and innovate.

This year has been billed as the year of the ‘big tractors’, and I have no doubt there will be people young and old lining up to get a look at some of the largest machines ever seen in our region, including the American powerhouse Big Bud.

The field days not only offers unique opportunities to see an amazing array of products and attractions, but also offers a chance for people to catch up with others, enhancing the social fabric of our region and building connections.

As one of the premier events for our region, the field days also plays a vital role in our economy, with significant flow-on effects for our accommodation and hospitality sectors among others.

Member for Mallee Epitome of Australian spirit

Ilookforward to seeing Wimmera community members at the upcoming Wimmera Machinery Field Days after a frenetic summer period.

I was about to say ‘holidays’ – but it wasn’t for some of us.

The bushfires in the Grampians and Little Desert have been highly stressful for Wimmera communities and for the farmers and volunteers who fought the fires, I can only say thank you. How can we ever thank you enough?

To put aside your family time and challenges on the farm to protect your community is perhaps the epitome of the Australian spirit.

I spent time following Christmas in Halls Gap visiting what was, at that usually bustling tourist time, a ghost town.

Sadly, Prime Minister Albanese and Premier Allan flew over Halls Gap and didn’t visit the struggling community on the ground.

The mood at recent field days has been soured by the looming threats to farming from industrial-scale energy projects and mining operations.

enticing largely foreign-owned mining and energy cowboys to stir bad blood in small farming communities to divide and conquer, trying to get their project over the line.

I encourage everyone to come along and see the incredible variety of things the field days has to offer as we celebrate our wonderful agricultural community.

I look forward to seeing you there.

As the Deputy Leader of the Victorian Nationals, Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Shadow Minister for Mental Health, events like the Wimmera Machinery Field Days provide me with a fantastic forum for ensuring that the issues that matter most to rural and regional Victoria are heard in Parliament.

Emma Kealy

Business owners are still on the financial brink and I moved a motion in Canberra on February 10 calling on state and federal governments to help.

Coalition MPs also joined Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton’s call – from Halls Gap, which he visited in January at my invitation – urging Australians to book holidays in the Grampians.

I will emphasise every time that social licence is paramount – if a project proponent gets a community on board fair and square, go your hardest.

That is not what I am hearing across Mallee.

The Allan Victorian Labor government has marked Mallee as though it is a blank on the map with nobody living there,

The Allan Victorian Labor government’s railroading of farmers and communities with fast-tracked planning and ‘environmental’ approvals is reprehensible.

Feel free to say g’day at the field days, I hope to talk with many of you, and as always, you are welcome to email anne. webster.mp@aph.gov.au with more for me to consider during this huge 2025 election year.

Anne Webster

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Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Paw Patrol adventure

Paw

Patrol’s Chase and Marshall will head the children’s entertainment at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days next week, appearing in the Country Lifestyle pavilion during the event’s family day on Wednesday.

From the children’s television show that features six rescue dogs with unique talents akin to emergency services, police pup Chase and firedog Marshall will feature in a show at 10.30am before a meet-and-greet at 11.30am. A second show will stage at 12.30pm.

Field days manager Vanessa Lenehan said while Paw Patrol was the main drawcard in the children’s entertainment, there was plenty more activities planned across the three days.

“We will have miniature train rides, GWMWater’s Phil the Bucket, and all-day entertainment in Rev It Up Racing race car simulator, Level Up gaming, flying doctor simulator, and laser tag,” she said.

“Black Snake Productions will also feature in several sessions across the three days –they’re a wildlife education and conservation group.”

Schools have also integrated learning into their visits, with scavenger-type hunts for students of all ages to complete.

“We’ve got the Ag Ed Quest that our partners Ag Ed are co-ordinating for us,” Ms Lenehan said.

“They make contact with the schools and write a list of questions based on students’ ages and the courses that they are undertaking.”

The event will also feature an indoor area where parents can sit with their children and enjoy some quieter activities.

“Green Park Kindergarten is running a kids’ zone, which will have puzzles, playdough and pretend play items,” Ms Lenehan said.

“There will also be a feeding area and

changing facilities within that zone, so anyone with young kids or who needs a break to go and just chill, that’s somewhere parents and kids can go.”

New ideas blend with experience

Blackheath farmer Harry Young’s decade-long membership of the Wimmera Machinery Field Days committee has put him in good stead for his new role as president.

He said he saw the promotion as part of a slow progression up the ranks, and already had goals set for his term.

“I’d like to bring more people onto the committee, and I aim to just make it better, easier for the next person who comes into the role,” he said.

Mr Young was elected in September, along with new committee members Guillermo Sierra, Shane Colbert, Alex Cameron, Matt Waugh and Vince Carbone.

“At the moment we have about 35 or 36 people. I’m quite keen to bring that up to 40, but it’s quite hard to recruit people,” he said.

“There’s a lot of camaraderie among the committee, we really enjoy the working bees. It’s quite social and there’s a bit of banter.”

Mr Young said committee members brought a breadth of experience and knowledge.

“We’ve got people as young as 20, to people who have been on the committee for double that time, up to 45 years,” he said.

“It’s a good mix of experience and new ideas. We have members who live in a 100-kilometre radius of Longerenong, from farmers to business leaders from in town, who are an important voice too, considering it’s a business sector.

“Vince Carbone is our first representative for Traction Ag, and that’s pretty exciting from a committee point-of-view, just to get a different perspective that we haven’t had before.”

The committee maintains the site at Longerenong, which also hosts major events including debutante balls, the annual careers expo, seminars, and ag training days.

Although, Mr Young’s main task in his new role has been to continue planning for the approaching annual Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

“The good thing about the field days is the people you interact with, especially being part of the committee. That’s something I enjoy most about being on the committee, so I’m looking forward to that,” he said.

ON THE DOUBLE: Paw Patrol characters Chase and Marshall will feature on Wednesday in the Country Lifestyle pavilion, ready to take visitors on an adventure before a meet-and-greet session.

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Building blocks to live broadcast

The region’s premier agriculture event at Longerenong next week is an annual focus for ACE Radio’s Horsham team.

Much like the Wimmera Machinery Field Days committee and staff, work on the event begins a long way before the March event.

The Weekly Advertiser today publishes its largest-ever AgLife feature – 68 pages detailing field days information and agricultural news.

Radio stations 3WM and MIXX FM will broadcast lots of key information from the three-day event, with staff from both the radio stations and The Weekly Advertiser on site.

General manager Brendan O’Loughlin said supporting community events – such as the field days – from a marketing and promotion perspective as well as having an onsite presence was part of ACE Radio’s commitment to its communities.

“We live and work in our local community, and we want our local community to succeed, to be engaging and offer a variety of events for all people in the community,” he said.

“The field days just keeps getting better every year, and we’re thrilled to play a part in what is a fantastic social and business gathering.”

Radio stations 3WM and MIXX FM will offer listeners a range of field days-flavoured news and entertainment, leading into and throughout the field days event.

“It’s not just a privilege to be involved in the event again this year, but we take our role extremely seriously in ensuring our listeners not only get insights into what the event is all about, but making sure they don’t miss out on experiencing the many highlights of the field days for themselves ” – Anthony Thompson

strong readership. “The field days is such an important event on the Wimmera’s calendar – whether it’s for learning about innovation in agriculture, sampling products or from a social perspective,” she said.

“And it’s not just for farmers – there is plenty to keep the ‘town’ people occupied and enjoy a day out.

Visitors will also be able to meet the radio team at its site between the field days office and Local Market Square at the Wimmera Events Centre.

Content director Anthony Thompson said the field days were a major focus on-air in the lead-up to and during the event.

“As one of the biggest events in the

Horsham-based broadcast journalist and rural reporter Emma Clark will conduct on-site interviews with a range of exhibitors across the event and provide extensive coverage throughout 3WM’s Country Today and Afternoon programs, as well as both stations’ Local News services.

local annual calendar, our entire team really looks forward to being part of it and get caught up in the excitement of the three days as much as anyone,” he said.

The feature in today’s The Weekly

Advertiser recognises the power of the field days and what the event brings to the region – and the organisers, volunteers, exhibitors and sponsors that ensure its success.

The Weekly Advertiser reaches more than 20,000 homes and businesses across the region, and will also be available from ACE Radio’s site at the field days.

Editorial director Lauren Henry said The Weekly Advertiser continued to grow in pagination, thanks largely to the support from local businesses – many agricultural-related – and a

“We are proud to play our role in celebrating the field days – outlining all the key facts, as well highlighting the stories behind the event.

“We love meeting all the people it takes to produce such an event, and their stories help us record the history of the field days.

“The special feature we put together takes many weeks to compile – from the working with clients to produce their advertisements to gathering editorial and photographs, and then finally pulling it all together to produce an informative and entertaining read.”

INFORMATIVE: ACE Radio and The Weeky Advertiser staff will be onsite at next week’s Wimmera Machinery Fields Days, including, from left, Lee Meadows, Lily Olver, Issa Riches, Bronwyn Hastings, Heidi Higginson, Danica Cutter, Kelly Schilling, James Davidson, Emma Clark and Lauren Henry. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Creating market appeal

The country lifestyle section at the Wimmera Machinery

Field Days is offering people a range of information, demonstration and degustation experiences across the event’s three days.

On Tuesday and Thursday, Casey Kosch will talk about first-aid in a variety of scenarios, and chef teacher Cat Clarke will showcase locally sourced bush foods, with tastings included.

On-site exhibitors will stage fashion parades on the two days also, while Horsham College textile students will model their creations across the three days.

Wednesday is expected to bring the largest crowds, with the family day set to feature Paw Patrol shows and a meet-and-greet with its characters Chase and Marshall.

GWMWater’s Phil the Bucket will also make an appearance.

Exhibitors across the three days in the country lifestyle section will have meats, skincare, clothing, books, coffee, tea, perfumes, and handbags for sale.

Field days manager Vanessa Lenehan said Wednesday would also feature the local market square.

“We have condensed the market to just one day this year – it was a big commitment for the smaller traders, but we do have 13 or 14 coming this year, which is really good,” she said.

“We have a lot of different traders

in both the market square and the country lifestyle sections, which brings fresh ideas and a variety of goods each year.”

Ms Lenehan said the field days offered a great opportunity for the smaller craft and hobby businesses to find a footing in the wider market.

“It’s a community event, so if we can get them up and running

by showcasing them to a wider audience than our area’s smaller monthly markets, then that’s great,” she said.

“From there, they can keep their customer base and grow.”

The market trading will bring a range of giftware, foods, crafts, and local produce.

Ms Lenehan said the Moore Exhibition Centre would showcase a

variety of services, from banking to educational, emergency and more.

“The Moore Exhibition Centre is certainly a really good place to be –there are a lot of different exhibitors in there, lots of different things on show,” she said.

“And if it’s warm outside, it will certainly be a good place to be.”

Bird’s-eye view awaits

People can again take in a bird’s-eye view of the Wimmera Machinery Field Days site, with helicopter joy flights taking off each day of the event.

Commercial helicopter operator Ultimate Helicopters has a 100 per cent safety record, but if being off the ground does not appeal, people can stay on the ground and take a seat in the cockpit of the Royal Flying Doctor Service’s flight simulator instead.

A life-sized replica of the fuselage of a flying doctor plane, the simulator shows users what it is like to be onboard the plane, from the interior equipment to the outside challenges, with localised information available.

It is fully equipped with stretchers, communications, oxygen, suction and other equipment used every day by the doctors, nurses and pilots of the service.

The helicopter rides leave from the east boundary of the site, with prices starting at $80 per person.

At a glance

The 2025 Wimmera Machinery Field Days will run on March 4, 5 and 6 at Wimmera Events Centre, Longerenong.

Gates open to the public at 8.30am and close at 5pm on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Thursday, gates open at 8.30am and close at 4pm.

One-day prepaid tickets are $22. Tickets at the gate are $25. Children 17 years and younger can enter free of charge. Cash and EFTPOS facilities are available at the gate. ATM facilities will be available and there is first aid on site.

Mobility scooters will be available to hire from gate two.

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HOW TO: Chef and teacher Cat Clarke will showcase locally sourced bush foods, with tastings included, on Tuesday and Thursday of the field days.

Scouts ready to lend hand

Volunteer profile

Horsham’s Scouts Victoria groups will again clean up af-

ter the Wimmera Machinery Field Days event, one of their more substantial fundraising activities of each year.

Leader David Timms said the money goes towards maintaining their Baillie Street hall, keeping the costs down for families of members.

“We fundraise to pay for our utility bills, insurances and hall maintenance, so this takes a bit of pressure off the support committee having to fundraise, and keeps our fees as low as possible,” he said.

“We have put in for grants over the years and have done well – last year we got a Horsham Sports and Community Club grant that we used to buy new tents, portable lights and batteries.

“Our biggest thing now will be the maintenance of the building – we need to upgrade the floors and the toilets.”

The 90-year-old building hosts about 60 people, there are four school-age Scout groups; Joeys, Cubs, Scouts, and Venturers; a young adult group, Rovers; and their leaders.

The younger four groups have fundraised with barbecues at events including Kannamaroo, as well as with their own market.

Site awards a feature of field days

Exhibitors at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days have the opportunity to be awarded for their presentation, professionalism and products at this year’s event.

Manager Vanessa Lenehan said there were seven categories in the awards, which include two major product awards and three site awards.

“A select group from the committee go around the site and judge the exhibits and exhibitors against specific criteria,” she said.

“They are based on presentation and effort, whether everyone is looking professional, whether they are happy and engaging with patrons, and the general overview of their site.”

Ms Lenehan said Wimmera Machinery Field Days prided itself on providing a showcase with a modern professional image and the latest in agriculture machinery and technology, with the aim of the awards to encourage exhibitors to do the same. The product awards are Machine of the Year, and Ag Business Innovation of the Year.

The Rovers are self-sufficient, raising money to fund their own activities, including racing their Subaru Impreza at Scout-run events across the state.

Mr Timms said the field days clean-up was probably one of the group’s easier fundraisers.

“We have been doing it for about 15 years, and we’ve got a set routine that allows us to pick up the rubbish, empty the bins and take it all to a collection point, and if we have enough people, we can do it all in a morning,” he said.

“The kids and helpers wear gloves, and we go around, just doing an emu bob.”

Boys and girls are welcome to try Scouts for three weeks without making a commitment; people can find more information on the Horsham group’s Facebook page www.face book.com/4thhorshamscoutgroup or by calling 1800 Scouts.

Site awards are the best in Ag Machinery Outdoor Site, General Outdoor Site, Alan Heard Pavilion Site, Moore Exhibition Centre Site, and Country Lifestyle Site.

The winners will be presented with their awards in the field days square at 2pm on Wednesday.

HELPERS: Horsham Scouts, from left, Imogen Cincotta, Lily Nitschke, Torey Holland, Aiden Henderson, Zane Munn, Angus Heard, Chris Okely, Oscar Eldridge and Henry Taylor-Carman will help clean up after the Wimmera Machinery Field Days. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Extending a service

AXIS Worx’s orange bin program is extending to the Wimmera Machinery Field Days this year, with the disability support employer supplying 60 bins for the event.

Director of social enterprise Bill Schmidt said the eight-month-old program was being utilised by several community groups under the state-wide container deposit scheme.

“We’ve got more than 100 bins out with clubs, sporting and service groups, and schools at the moment, which they fill with recyclable con-

tainers and return to us,” he said.

Mr Schmidt said he wanted community groups and sporting clubs to maximise their benefits by using the program.

“One club that is very proactive in recycling used the bins last year and collected more than $3000 in revenue. It’s working really well for them,” he said.

“We also have children come in here, little entrepreneurs, who have agreements with their neighbours that they can cash in their containers; they get back $10 or $20 and think they’re millionaires.

“Soon we’ll extend further into more schools and groups.”

Mr Schmidt said AXIS Worx had been able to provide support and employment to more people with disabilities, with more opportunities created by the demand of almost 10million containers being recycled from its Horsham site.

“So at the field days, look for the big orange bins – they’ve got a hole in the top, and they’ve got stickers on them, they’re easily identifiable for people to put their 10-cent containers in,” he said.

Children, parent retreat

Park’s Casuarina and Acacia kindergartens rooms.

Horsham’s Green Park Kindergarten community will present a children’s activity and parents’ area at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Kindergarten committee events organiser Brit Burns said the space provided a play area for children and a retreat for parents.

“We will have heaps of kids’ activities – pretend play, puzzles, playdough – as well as a changing and feeding facility, so it will be a little retreat for parents and kids to spend some time out together,” she said.

One of the kindergarten committee’s main fundraisers for the year, it will help supply valuable equipment for Green

“The money the committee raises goes towards new play equipment and resources for the kids, but we have also just put in some new washing equipment for staff so they don’t have to take socks and hats and things home to be washed,” Ms Burns said.

A whole-community approach, kindergarten staff will choose and pack the resources for the space, while parents, grandparents and other volunteers will man it during the three days.

“It’s great for us to be involved in a community event,” Ms Burns said.

“It’s not just about showcasing Green Park, but all the kindergarten facilities that we have across Horsham.”

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Volunteer profile

RECYCLING OPPORTUNITIES: AXIS Worx supported employees Blade Dickerson and Glenn Castleman with can and bottle recycling bins for clubs and community groups. Watch out for the bins at next week’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

SHOWCASE: Green Park Kindergarten’s Ollie and Easton Burns are part of the Acacia room’s three-year-old cohort. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

While demonstrations of the latest farming techniques and technology have always formed the backbone of the Wimmera Machinery Field Days, photographer and author Tracey Kruger believes celebrating farming culture is just as important.

To that end Ms Kruger, who grew up in Warrnambool and now lives in Penshurst, will exhibit and sell a collection of her books at this year’s event.

She said her books – which include two volumes of woolshed photography as well as children’s books – were brought about by a perceived lack of books detailing Australian farming culture.

“I’m very passionate about wool. I grew up on a sheep farm as the daughter of a shearer, and I love everything about the wool industry,” she said.

“I thought shearing in our district really needed to be chronicled, which was the inspiration for the first book.

“I had been a primary school teacher and after the first woolshed book I went into children’s farm books, all with real photos of farm machines, farm animals and general farming.

“There was a big need for children’s junior farming novels, because no one had really done that in Australia for 100 years and farming kids needed some representation.”

Ms Kruger said her first book of woolshed photography covered about 160 working sheds across western Victoria, while her second, released in August last year, contained in-depth features of 28 historical woolsheds in Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales.

“I was concerned because I feel like a few of our historical Australian woolsheds are probably borderline in terms of whether they can keep being maintained,” she said.

“I think sharing their history is really important, so I brought out another woolshed book.”

Ms Kruger said she enjoyed meeting people and discussing her work face-to-face.

“I try to do field days because it’s nice to get out and actually meet people and for them to get a chance to look at the books,” she said.

“Everyone in society loves to get representation. People like to read about people similar to them, and I think getting a chance for farmers and farm children to read about kids with similar lives has got a lot of value.

“I know farmers also have the same reaction with the woolsheds. You like to see that someone really values what you have and that they’re prepared to make books about it.

“Then there is the other side, which is that it’s not just for farm kids to read. The children’s books are written in a way that hopefully non-farming kids can get some education about how Australian farming works.”

REPRESENTATION: Photographer and author Tracey Kruger will bring her books – which include two volumes of woolshed photography as well as children’s books, to next month’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Ms Kruger will be at the Country Lifestyle Indoor space during this year’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

For more information on Ms Kruger or to view her books, people can visit www.shearinginvictorias westerndistrict.com.

Looking at water options

Agriculture Victoria will run a two-day water workshop for farmers next month.

The workshop, at Moyston, will cover a broad range of topics, from siting and construction of farm dams, planning and designing a water reticulation system, and preparing a water plan, as well as the more practical aspects of pipeline installation and construction.

Agriculture Victoria land management extension officer Clem Sturmfels said the workshop was suitable for people new to farming, as well as those with plenty of farming experience.

“Whether you are looking at your water options, planning to build a new dam or have signed up for the new East Grampians Rural pipeline, this workshop is for you,” he said.

“Each day will start with presentations and activities in the Moyston Recreation Reserve rooms followed by a farm visit after lunch.”

Mr Sturmfels said a highlight would be a presentation by local farmer Anthony Pola who, with his wife Jane and parents John and Karyn, run a mixed farming enterprise about 10 kilometres north of Moyston.

“Anthony will discuss their experiences in installing more than five kilometres of piping, tanks and troughs across their farm,” he said.

The workshops, on March 18 and 25, start at 10am. People can visit www.trybooking.com/events/landing/ 1344489 for more information or to book.

Tracey Kruger

Exhibitor profile

special edition

Energy Hub collaboration

Wade’s

Horsham is set to make a significant impact at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days, where it will introduce an innovative ‘Energy Hub’ in collaboration with leading suppliers.

The initiative is designed to showcase the latest advancements in renewable energy and energy-efficient solutions tailored to the agricultural, industrial, and residential sectors.

The Energy Hub is a new addition to the field days this year, and will be a feature in the Moore Exhibition Centre.

As a trusted provider of quality products and energy solutions, Wade’s Horsham recognises the growing demand for sustainable and efficient power alternatives.

Wade’s Horsham general manager Michelle Khan said the Energy Hub would serve as a focal point for businesses, property owners, and farmers interested in exploring cutting-edge renewable energy technologies, gaining valuable insights, and networking with industry experts.

“Several key suppliers will be joining us at the event to present their latest products and solutions,” she said.

“Reclaim Energy will be showcasing advanced heat pump technology designed for efficient and sustainable heating solutions.

“Daikin will be presenting high-per-

formance split systems for effective climate control in various environments.

“Visionline will feature fireplace systems, pellet fires, and flue systems for efficient and stylish heating solutions, while Sinergy has battery options, including EV chargers, for reliable and sustainable energy solutions.

“We will also have Goodwe presenting cutting-edge inverters for efficient and reliable solar energy conversion.”

Organics in spotlight

Nationals leader David Littleproud is calling for organic products to be organic, after a Senate committee handed down its report into the National Organic Standard Bill 2024. Mr Littleproud said industry was backing the Coalition’s legislation.

“There is a clear and unified recognition across the organics industry, that Australia’s regulatory framework is not fit for purpose,” he said.

“The industry does not need another review or inquiry.

“It defies logic that organic products currently are not required to be certified or comply with any particular organic standard, but can still call themselves organic.

“Products in Australia can currently claim to be organic with as little as two per cent of the ingredients being certified organic.

“People can engage directly with industry professionals for personalised guidance on energy efficiency,” she said.

“They can explore products that can enhance operational sustainability and cost-effectiveness, and learn about innovative solar, battery storage, and heat pump technologies that reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower energy costs.

“We look forward to seeing you there.”

Mrs Khan said field days attendees would have the opportunity to discover the latest trends and advancements in renewable and alternative energy solutions.

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The Energy Hub is set to be an informative and valuable experience for anyone looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving energy landscape.

The initiative is supported by industry memberships through Green Energy Trading, the Clean Energy Council, and the Australian Home Heating Association.

People are encouraged to visit Wade’s Energy Hub at the field days to learn more about how renewable energy innovations can benefit their business.

“In comparison, organic products sold for export require 95 per cent organic ingredients.

“Australia is also the last nation in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development to not have a regulatory framework for the use of the word ‘organic’.”

Mr Littleproud said the former Coalition government had started a pathway to setting an Australian standard for the organics industry, worth more than $2-billion annually, by setting up an industry-led advisory group, which laid down the pathway to complete reforms in 2020.

Wade’s Horsham

ENERGY EXPERTS: Wade’s Horsham electrical manager Mitch Seipolt and owner Adam Jolley.

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Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

From classrooms to catwalk

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Starting as a small showcase of Horsham College textiles students’ talent, being part of Wimmera Machinery Field Days has evolved across more than a decade into a popular fashion show.

College textiles teacher Tina Fitzgerald’s collaboration with the field days committee has grown into a vibrant display of talent – which often incorporates musical performances and costumes from school productions, food tastings by VET hospitality students, and a display of debutante dresses.

Ms Fitzgerald said this year, students in years nine, 11 and 12 elective textiles would present their fashions at 2pm each day of the event.

“The students will model garments they have created within the first few weeks of school, with a highlight being the year-12 garments designed and made last year, including a standout evening gown made by 2024 student Jo-Mari Pretorius,” she said.

“The collection includes everything from pyjamas to dresses, which are made as part of the students’ curriculum.

“We do have a hard deadline for the event, but it motivates the students, and hopefully they can each make a second garment.”

Ms Fitzgerald said the year-nine students were introduced to overlockers this year.

“At base level, I just want to teach them to be able to make things that

they will be able to wear and will be a good life skill, so in the future they’ll be able to follow a simple pattern or mend their clothing,” she said.

Ms Fitzgerald said it was inspiring to see how textiles was thriving among young people, with the event giving younger students the chance to see the work of senior students.

“The parade also encourages students to step outside their comfort zones and perform in a public space,” she said.

“Hopefully it will inspire students

to consider the fashion industry as a career and build their confidence in their abilities.”

A musical performance by year-12 student Ella Lloyd will be part of the parade.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for Horsham College to collaborate with the local community and work alongside Wendy Byrne and the field days committee to showcase the high-quality work our students are producing,” Ms Fitzgerald said.

OPEN 11AM 8

SATURDAY

PROGRESS: Horsham College students, from left, Latayah BrightPerry, Zahlee McLean and Ella Doti make garments to showcase at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days. Pictures: PAUL CARRACHER

READY: Horsham College’s Lily Wearn, Imogen Stockdale and Sienna Wood show off their pyjama pants ready to model at next week’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Gifting a day out

Morethan 40 Pinnacle participants from across Ararat and Stawell are looking forward to their annual trip to the Wimmera Machinery Field Days, as part of their community access program.

One of several organisations and groups the field days committee gifts tickets to, Pinnacle offers people with a disability a range of personalised programs, activities, supported employment and respite options.

Ararat-based acting Viewpoint Street co-ordinator Ashtyn Hamilton said she would take a group from her campus.

“We’re going to take 12 people to the field days on the Tuesday,” she said.

“One of our participants, Tom Fleming, lives on a farm and is very hands-on, so he’s very excited to be able to go out and look at the tractors.”

Aged from about 21 to 80, Pinnacle has about 200 people in a variety of group and individual activities and support services, 48 people employed in their Australian Disability Enterprises employment business, and about 80 families using their respite services.

Participants enjoy a range of in-house activities

“We’re going to take 12 people to the field days on the Tuesday. One of our participants, Tom Fleming, lives on a farm and is very hands-on, so he’s very excited to be able to go out and look at the tractors”

– Ashtyn Hamilton

and experiences such as cooking, arts and crafts, sensory activities, and exercise programs, as well as regularly visiting community spaces as part of their individualised programs.

“We have swimming groups at the pool, and we use Neighbourhood House and the Powerhouse in Stawell,” Ms Hamilton said.

“We also have supported employment agencies like the laundromat in Ararat and Greenfingers nursery in Stawell.”

Ms Hamilton said free tickets to events such as the field days adds to Pinnacle’s quality programs.

“It’s a huge help to our participants – they do have funding for programs and activities, but having free tickets gives us opportunities to do extra things,” she said.

Young farmers having a ball

The Young Farmer Network ball will take place again this year, presented by Birchip Cropping Group and supported by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal and the Australian government’s Future Drought Fund.

At Swan Hill, the second annual event gives people the opportunity to connect with others

and celebrate the dedication and leadership in the agriculture industry, while enjoying a meal and live music by That Guy.

From 6.30pm until 11pm on Friday, March 14, more information and tickets are available from www.bcg.org.au/event/young-farmer-networkball-2025.

EXCITED: Ararat Pinnacle participants, from front left, Tom Fleming, Jack O’Callahan and Jarrod Gibson; and back, Mathew Joy, Bernard Kennedy and Maree Shand, are ready to go to The Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Feature day for Emmetts

Emmetts will present demonstrations, talks and interactive activities among the features of its new ‘Customer Day’ on Wednesday at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Exhibiting for the three days, the feature event on Wednesday offers an action-packed schedule including expert-led talks, hands-on demonstrations and plenty of prizes – set to offer something for everyone.

People can explore the latest precision ag technology, chat with industry experts, or encourage the kids to be involved in interactive activities.

One of the key demonstrations will be the See and Spray Challenge, running from 11.30am to 1.30pm.

The hands-on experience allows attendees to test John Deere’s revolutionary targeted spraying technology in a fun and interactive way.

Participants activate the system using a green soccer ball, demonstrating the precision of the See and Spray advanced weed detection.

Children can take on the challenge of activating half of the boom, while adults can put their skills to the test by aiming for full activation.

Those who successfully complete the challenge will receive a prize, making it a must-try activity for farmers and families alike.

Emmetts has also curated a line-up

DEMONSTRATION: See and Spray technology will be a feature at Emmetts’ site at next week’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

of John Deere expert-led talks covering the latest advancements in precision agriculture, seeding, spraying, and harvesting.

The sessions provide valuable insights into new technology and practical applications to help farmers improve efficiency and productivity.

At 9.30am, digital specialist Abby Turner will discuss how John Deere’s operations centre is transforming farm management through seamless connectivity and precision data insights.

At 10.30am, product system specialist Alex Conterno will explore recent advancements in air seeding technology, focusing on the C-Series Cart and its ability to enhance planting accuracy and efficiency.

At 11.30am, product system special-

ist Patrick McCarthy will provide an in-depth look at the John Deere 616R Sprayer and its See and Spray technology, a breakthrough in chemical application and weed control.

Later in the afternoon, at 3pm, Mr McCarthy will return to discuss the latest combine technology, highlighting how John Deere’s innovations are enhancing harvesting efficiency and profitability for farmers looking to stay ahead in an evolving industry. In addition to gaining valuable knowledge, customers will have the chance to win prizes simply by attending a talk; current Emmetts customers will be entered into a prize draw, with the top prize being a $1000 parts voucher for Emmetts Horsham.

A second prize of $500 in parts credit is also up for grabs, along with John Deere hoodies for select runners-up. The more sessions an attendee joins, the higher their chances of winning.

Beyond the scheduled sessions, Emmetts staff and John Deere specialists will be available throughout the day to answer questions, discuss new and used equipment, and demonstrate the latest in precision agriculture technology.

Whether people are looking to invest in cutting-edge machinery, improve farm productivity, or simply enjoy the field days, Emmetts’ Customer Day is a must-attend event. Emmetts will be at Site E1 for the three days of the Wimmera showcase.

Duck season declared

This year’s Victorian duck season will begin on March 19 and close on June 9.

The start time is 8am for the first five days of the season, after which hunting can start 30 minutes before sunrise.

The State Government is ensuring the duck hunting season is sustainable, safe and backed by science.

Outdoor Recreation Minister Steve Dimopoulos said the settings for the 2025 duck hunting season were determined by the science-based Adaptive Harvest Management, AHM, model and the Wounding Reduction Action Plan.

This year is the first season the AHM model will be used to guide the daily bag limit in Victoria – which is nine ducks, and seven duck game species.

The blue-winged shoveler cannot be hunted this season, and the use of lead shot is banned.

From this season, all new hunters seeking a license are required to do mandatory online knowledge training and testing – including Aboriginal cultural awareness training – as part of the Waterfowl Wounding Reduction Action Plan.

All hunters renewing their licence from 2026 will also be required to complete the training.

Further details about the 2025 season, including any wetland closures, will be regularly updated on the Game Management Authority website at gma.vic.gov.au.

Free test for oral cancer

WestWimmera Health Service, in collaboration with the University of Melbourne, will commence the first trial of its kind in Australia by offering free mouth skin cancer checks for adults at the upcoming Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

The trial, an oral cancer screening model, has been designed specifically for regional areas and communities with limited access to dental services.

The first stage of the trial will incorporate rural health workers taking a full set of standard photos of peoples’ mouths, which will then be reviewed remotely by oral medicine experts using special MouthMap software.

Hamid Ghaderi, who is leading the trial for West Wimmera Health Service, said the trial aims to improve access to oral cancer screening for people living outside of big cities, especially those in regional farming communities.

“Mouth skin cancers are not caused by sun exposure, can be difficult to see yourself and might

not be painful at all, so this trial has the potential to enable earlier diagnosis and better outcomes for our smaller rural communities,” Mr Ghaderi said.

“The trial aims are threefold: to help put evidence-based oral health programs into practice in Australia, reduce the health problems and inequities linked to oral health issues, and lower the burden on the healthcare system.

“This approach of using photographs and telehealth to connect with specialist expertise will enable researchers to determine the practicality of the service and the potential for it to be rolled out on a larger scale.”

It is recommended people book ahead to take part in the trial by having a complementary mouth skin cancer photography check at the field days.

People can call the West Wimmera Health Service Health Promotion team on 5391 4313 or email health. promotion@wwhs.net.au.

The second stage of the trial will see the creation of a regular local oral cancer screening service, including those from different cultural and language backgrounds across West Wimmera.

Max goes extra mile for Burras

Minyip-Murtoa

Football and Net-

ball Club’s Max Golder first offered to help out with the club’s annual Wimmera Machinery Field Days effort in 2009, and has been a repeat volunteer since.

Mr Golder’s son Jamie started playing with the club, but being a selfemployed plumber, found it difficult to take time away from work.

“They were looking for volunteers for the field days and I put my hand up in Jamie’s place,” he said.

Mr Golder’s son has since departed the club and the town, but the commitment has remained.

“Now they tell me I’m not allowed

to leave – that’s how it happens around here I think – but the club has made me feel very welcome. They’re a great bunch of people,” he said.

The club’s volunteers act as couriers at the field days.

“When people buy stuff, and they’re given a couple of tickets, we pick the tickets up from the secretary’s office, and we go and collect what they’ve bought and take it to the shed on the edge of the site, where people come and collect it,” Mr Golder said.

“It makes life a bit easier and safer

for everyone, not having to navigate through the site to pick up their purchases.”

Originally a Brim-based farmhand, Mr Golder now lives at Warracknabeal. He said he enjoys catching up with old connections he made during his career.

“I’ve been going to the field days for years, being a farmer in my own right in the past, I got to know a lot of businesses and people associated with the businesses, so it still keeps me in touch with them,” he said.

“I enjoy being a part of it – it’s a great club, a great community.”

West Wimmera Health Service

Exhibitor profile

Volunteer profile

HAPPY TO HELP: Max Golder has volunteered with Minyip-Murtoa Football and Netball Club at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days since 2009.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

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Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Only the best get through

Increasingly prevalent artificial intelligence is now assisting farmers and grain handlers in ensuring premium quality, by utilising colour sorting machines.

Colour Sorters Australia’s Paul Pappas said farmers producing grains, pulses, or rice know that maintaining top-notch quality is essential, not only for meeting market standards, but also for maximising profits.

“One of the most effective ways to ensure premium quality is by utilising advanced technology such as colour sorting machines,” he said.

“Among the many options available, the AMD brand, known for its AI and deep learning software, stands out as an exceptional tool that offers farmers and traders an unparalleled advantage in the industry.”

Mr Pappas said Colour Sorters Australia was proud to be the sole Australian agent for AMD colour sorters.

“Based in Melbourne, we are committed to providing local service and maintenance for the Wimmera region and beyond, ensuring that our customers have reliable support when they need it most,” he said.

Mr Pappas said AMD colour sorters effectively remove unwanted seeds and contaminants such as vetch, frost-bitten lentils, and insect-damaged grains.

New era for conference

TheNational Farmers’ Federation’s annual conference AgXchange Australia is set to take place on the Gold Coast from September 23 to 25.

NFF president David Jochinke said it was the first time in many years the event would step beyond Canberra, instead at Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

“AgXchange Australia is set to be the must-attend event for farmers, agribusiness professionals, policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders across the entire agricultural supply chain,” he said.

“We’ve designed AgXchange Australia to be the best national agricultural networking opportunity in the country. Whether you’re on the farm, in the boardroom, or driving policy, this is where our industry comes together to exchange ideas, build networks, and shape the future of Australian agriculture.”

The conference program is guided by the NFF’s 2030 Roadmap and will dive into key industry challenges and opportunities across the five pillars of innovation; sustainability; risk; farming communities; and supply chain.

“By improving the grade of your produce, you ensure you receive better prices, and at the same time, reduce the amount of product that needs to be discarded due to contamination, resulting in higher profits and less waste.”

“For farmers in the Wimmera and other regions, this means a greater return on investment,” he said.

Mr Pappas said AMD sorters had deep intelligence, allowing the flexibility to handle a variety of grains and pulses, as well as capacities ranging from one to 20 tons per hour.

“Investing in AMD colour sorters adds value to your operation,” he said.

“By ensuring that only the best grains reach the market, you gain ac-

cess to premium pricing and enhanced market opportunities.

“At Colour Sorters Australia, we are proud to offer these cutting-edge machines and exceptional local service to ensure that you achieve the best possible outcomes for your harvest.”

“I think sometimes as farmers we have our heads down in the business and don’t invest in ourselves. That’s exactly what we want AgXchange to be – an opportunity to learn some new things, make new connections and give you that break to think about the future of your business,” Mr Jochinke said.

Colour Sorters Australia

Exhibitor profile

SORTED: Colour Sorters Australia offers cutting-edge machines and service to ensure their clients achieve the best possible outcomes.

West Wimmera Health Service is collaborating with the University of Melbourne to deliver the ﬁrst trial of its kind in Australia by offering free mouth cancer checks for adults at the upcoming Wimmera Field Days.

How it works

Rural health workers will take a full set of standard photos of your mouth, which will then be reviewed remotely by oral medicine experts using special "MouthMap" software.

Pre-season catch-up

Taylors Lake Football Netball and Club volunteers will man the barbecue at this year’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days – and are looking forward to a pre-season social catch-up while doing so.

Club sponsorship co-ordinator Robyn Kelm said members were continuing their decade-long involvement in the event, this year

supplying an egg and bacon breakfast, with steak sandwiches and sausages for lunch.

“It’s a great event, and we have so many put up their hands and say they can help out – we have a great time, and don’t call it work,” she said.

“We get recognised as Taylors Lake members and have people come over and say hello and support us.”

Ms Kelm said the fundraiser eases the pressure on members having to generate an income to keep the club going.

“We have about 250 active members and about 150 non-active members who are still about, but not as involved as they once were,” she said.

Despite not being a big club, all football and netball teams have enough players to enter this season’s competition.

“We’ve got really good numbers this year,” Ms Kelm said.

“But we are looking forward to the field days and catching up with the people who we haven’t seen for a long time.”

A little bit of everything

“Depending on the item, they could have a dozen cards, or two or three artworks.”

Wimmera artists Megan Lonsdale, Ju-

The work of Makers’ Gallery and Studio members will be represented at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days, with a ‘little bit of everything’ at the site.

Co-ordinator Tricia Arber said visitors to the Horsham gallery were pleasantly surprised.

“People are quite stunned when they walk in the first time, it’s not what they expect,” she said.

“I think they expect a craft shop, but it’s more like a gallery come gift shop. Items are all handmade or enhanced by hand in some way, that’s the main stipulation.”

The gallery’s 80-plus members produce candles, jewellery, paintings, quilts, clothing and other unique pieces.

“This is the only place of this size that people can actually exhibit more than one piece,” Ms Arber said.

vena Miatke and Di Dales all feature at the gallery.

“Megan does prints of her original pieces, so you can buy one of her prints for $20. People mistake her work for photos. Juvena’s work is all her own designs too. She’s been a member for many years, but this is the first time she’s had a display,” Ms Arber said.

“I will have a hard time choosing pieces to take to the field days.

“The quality of work that we’ve gotten in here over the past few years is really, really amazing – and the variety, too. I’d like everyone to get a look in.”

The gallery will share a site with Wimmera Hospice Care Auxiliary, and will be part of the market on Wednesday.

“I’m really excited the gallery is a part of the field days this year,” Ms Arber said.

Volunteer profile

ALL SET: Taylors Lake Football and Netball Club treasurer Ella Hogan and sponsorship co-ordinator Robyn Kelm prepare for Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

MAKING A MARK: Makers’ Gallery and Studio co-ordinator Tricia Arber is excited to attend the field days. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Makers’ Gallery and Studio

Exhibitor profile

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Colourful range for all ages, sizes

“We provide customers with the option to view hundreds of different rugby tops – the most difficult part will be choosing,” Ms Rosenzweig said.

Out and About Clothing is bringing its range of unique country clothing to the Wimmera Machinery Field Days this year, a decade-long tradition.

With more than 450 different designs, Out and About Clothing provides women of all shapes and sizes a colourful collection of rugby jumpers and polos with bright contrasting collars.

The rugby tops range in size from XS to 6XL and the company will tailor-make garments to fit people’s specific measurements.

Owner and designer Christine Rosenzweig has turned a love of sewing into a thriving clothing label.

She said she loves to attend the field days and other events around the country to give ladies the opportunity to view one of the largest colour ranges of women’s rugby tops.

Out and About Clothing offers women both relaxed fit and semi-fitted rugby tops in short and long sleeves, and offers a range of kids’ rugby jumpers as well.

A range of other products including Out and About rugby skirts and shorts, sock protectors, and a selection of farm-themed baby bibs will also be displayed at the field days.

Established in 2001, Out and About Clothing proudly manufactures its entire range of women’s and kids rugby tops in the South Australian town of Keith.

Ms Rosenzweig said Out and About Clothing looks forward to seeing people at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days’ Country Lifestyle Pavilion.

The full range of clothing is available to view online at www.outandaboutclothing.com.au.

Tools for monitoring water supply

Water is a precious commodity and with the current dry seasonal conditions it is a critical farm asset to manage and monitor.

Agriculture Victoria Livestock Industry development officer Christopher Blore said having the right quality of stock, domestic and commercial water, where you need it, when you need it and in the quantity you need, is critical for all farm businesses.

“There are some simple tools that you can use to monitor water supplies in dams and tanks across your farm,” he said.

“Tools can be as simple as a couple of floats and a bit of bar to give you an indication of the water left in your tank, or people can use a DAMDEEP tool.”

Mr Blore said a video of how to make a measuring tool could be found on Agriculture Victoria’s website.

“More advanced options such as ultrasonic or hydrostatic sensors to measure the depth of tanks or dams or flow meters to measure water flow rates from pumps and tanks, can be set up

to send automatic alerts like when a tank or dam is low,” he said.

“If you are looking to compare options, visit agtechfinder.com as the website has a large range of available AgTech solutions for water monitoring.

“People can also chat with their local rural store about options and the ongoing support available at a local level.”

For further information on calculating livestock water needs and how much water is on farm, people can refer to the stock water resources page on the Feeding Livestock website or contact Mr Blore at christopher.blore@agri culture.vic.gov.au

As part of the Victorian government’s $13.53million drought support package, eligible southwest farmers can apply for on-farm drought infrastructure grants of up to $5000. Further information, including how to apply can be found at ruralfinance.com.au.

For more information about drought and dry seasonal conditions support, people can visit agri culture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons or call 136 186.

Out and About Clothing

Exhibitor profile

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Inspections: Mon 3, Tue 4 & Thu 6 Mar By Appointment Only

A LOOK BACK: The Weekly Advertiser dived into the archives to showcase Wimmera Machinery Field Days across the years. Pictured, clockwise from above: 2018: Horsham College students Soe San Di, Jacinta Oliver, Jessica Taylor, Hannah Murray, Georgia Perris, Tori Foster, Destany Dickerson-Cornell and Tara Emmerson prepare for a fashion parade at the field days; 2019: Matilda Zanker, Henry Zanker and Archie Zanker check out a header; 2018: Kynan Stasinowsky gets a high-five from stunt man Josh Burdon; 2023: Kay Eyles of Wimmera Harvest Fare, serves Emma Streeter, Jemma Hoffmann, Kaylene Streeter and Tayla Streeter; 2017: Wimmera Event Centre office manager Annie Mintern with tickets and parking passes for the event; and 2020: football legend Doug Hawkins at the Horsham Bearings stand.

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Meeting on-farm demand

Action Steel has developed a range of fertiliser sheds in practical designs and sizes to assist cropping enterprises with on-site storage solutions.

Sales manager Lennie Grace said the demand for on-farm storage had increased.

“This is as a result of cropping enterprises aiming to reduce the impact of volatile fertiliser prices and unreliable supply,” he said.

“In other words, storing fertiliser on-farm has become more than just a convenience – it is a smart investment.”

Mr Grace said there were several significant benefits of storing fertiliser on-farm, from decreasing external risk to future-proofing businesses.

“An Action fertiliser shed is the smart way to take full advantage of these benefits,” he said.

“Firstly, a fertiliser shed will save you money by allowing you to buy fertiliser in bulk when prices are lower.

“With fluctuating fertiliser prices, these savings can quickly add up.”

Mr Grace said as well as saving money, fertiliser sheds saved time and avoided delays in cropping programs by allowing the security of fertiliser supply ahead of time.

“Action fertiliser sheds are also

designed to save you time by making loading, unloading and handling fertiliser straightforward and efficient,” he said.

“Remember, the saying that ‘time is money’ is particularly true at important times of the year, such as cropping.

“Additionally, a fertiliser shed can help you maximise your profitability.

“For example, having fertiliser onhand allows you to take advantage of favourable growing conditions and apply the fertiliser at the right time for maximum results.”

Mr Grace said fertiliser sheds had

also become popular because they were the safest way to store granular fertiliser – fertilisers such as DAP and DAP blends should not be stored in silos due to the high risk.

“Action fertiliser sheds aren’t just a safe storage option, they are also very versatile,” he said.

“For example, your fertiliser shed could be repurposed for machinery storage or grain storage, providing good value for money.

“Ultimately, the shed design will influence the functionality of your fertiliser shed and your ability to capitalise on these benefits.

“This is why the team at Action

Biosecurity tax scrapped

Farmers are celebrating the Federal Parliament’s decision to discharge the Biosecurity Protection Levy, effectively binning the tax. The levy, first announced in the 2023-24 Federal Budget as part of a $1-billion package to keep biosecurity threats at bay, would have resulted in farmers paying about $500 each year. It was set to be introduced in July this year but there was no system set up to calculate or collect the funds.

National Farmers’ Federation president and Murra Warra farmer David Jochinke welcomed the decision and thanked Agriculture Minister Julie Collins for listening to farmers’ concerns.

“This is a huge win for farmers. The Minister and the Senate have listened – this tax was deeply flawed and unfair to farmers,” he said.

“The agricultural sector was united in its opposition to this tax and we are just as united in our commitment to protecting our country’s biosecurity.

Steel has developed a standard fertiliser shed range.

“The tried-and-tested range includes best-practice designs and practical sizes and is an excellent starting point for your project planning.”

People can visit actionsteel.com. au to learn more about Action fertiliser sheds and how they can be customised to suit each cropping operation.

Visitors to Wimmera Machinery Field Days who have a farm shed project on the cards can talk to the Action team at Site S1-3.

“Farmers already contribute significantly to the system, and we look forward to working with the government on policy that strengthens our defence against pests and diseases without adding extra costs on farmers.” Member for Mallee Anne Webster said farmers and farm managers represented almost 10 per cent of the Mallee electorate workforce, according to the ABS, meaning yet another farming tax would apply a significant handbrake on local productivity.

“Mallee producers already pay sector-specific levies on citrus, avocadoes, wine grapes, table grapes, grains and dozens more,” she said.

“Labor’s fresh food tax would have hurt families at the checkout, as well as 84 agricultural commodities that were facing $50-million in annual taxes under Labor to pay for the risks their competitors bring to our shores by importing.”

VERSATILE: The 6000 tonne Action Steel storage shed recently completed for Darcra Farming is a versatile and functional set-up that can be used for storing fertiliser, grain or machinery.

WE COME TO YOU!

Travelling hydraulic hose repair trailer, business to your door

A range of hose sizes and hose fittings to choose from

Parts ordering service with a good turn around time Fast reliable service

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

At the touch of a button

Exhibitor profile

Time,

money and effort-saving kitchen appliance Thermomix TM6’s capabilities will be demonstrated at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days – it can chop, steam, blend, cook, stir, whisk, weigh, knead, ferment, grate and more, at just a touch of a button.

Consultant Carly Mitchell said she uses her Thermomix daily.

“I’m on the farm with a young family and I use it every day to create meals and snacks with ease,” she said.

“It is so handy being able to leave the Thermomix to cook safely whilst bathing children or feeding the animals.

“It speeds up the meal preparation process, and uses inexpensive pantry staples to create show-stopping meals.”

Ms Mitchell started as a consultant so she could upgrade her TM5 model to a TM6 for no cost, and planned to stop consulting then.

“But here I am, a team leader in the area, and loving helping people to save time, money and effort while eating well,” she said.

“People can also join the team – there’s generous commission, incentives and a supportive community.”

Thermomix’s exclusive recipe library Cookidoo gives people access to thousands of step-by-step recipes on-screen, menu planning and inspiration, as well as the freedom to cook family favourites.

“You can simply choose what you’re cooking for the week, add it to the shopping list and send it to your supermarket cart,” Ms Mitchell said.

Ms Mitchell will have a stand in the Country Lifestyle Pavillion, where she will host a 30-minute cooking class at 11am on Tuesday.

Focus turns to export demand

The latest Monthly Commodity Insights report from Bendigo Bank Agribusiness flags a strong start for Australian agricultural markets in 2025.

Winter crop harvest has exceeded expectations with the focus now shifting to demand dynamics.

Cattle markets are also expected to see some upside amid strong export demand, particularly from the United States.

Bendigo Bank agribusiness senior manager industry affairs Neil Burgess said winter crop harvest generally exceeded expectations.

“Western Australia and New South Wales delivered more than 70 per cent of total production, balancing big drops in South Australia and Victoria due to dry conditions,” Mr Burgess said.

“The domestic wheat market remains largely rangebound, so for now, the focus is on export demand.

“Tight ending stocks should support barley prices, however growing uncertainty in global grain markets is set to drive ongoing price volatility in the coming months.

“Cattle prices could see upside in February, with Australia recently overtaking Canada to become the largest supplier of imported beef to the US.

“Barring any further supply chain issues from wet weather in Queensland and further processing bottlenecks, exports are likely to rise due to strong ongoing demand from the US and rising availability of local supply.”

Mr Burgess said dairy also looked to be a bright spot with tightening global supply continuing to support global dairy prices in coming months, but there were concerns about local production putting pressure on processors to lift farmgate prices as dry conditions spread in southern dairy production regions.

“Lamb prices eased as we entered 2025, after peaking just prior to the Christmas break with the lamb market expected to be relatively steady this month, gaining support from continued high processing rates, although strong supply of lambs and dry conditions in key growing areas will limit upside,” he said.

The Heliodor is a true all-rounder: it is ideally suited not only for shallow stubble culti-vation of light and medium soils, but o ers outstanding performance even in seedbed preparation for mulch seeding and after ploughing!

Bene t from its numerous other advantages:

■ The optimum angle adjustment of the discs ensures good penetration and intensive mixing

■ Maximum clearance to prevent clogging

■ Low lifting power requirement due to low weight

■ Flexible uses for both soil cultivation and tillage

■ Hydraulically adjustable levelling tines for optimum levelling

Thermomix

READY TO DEMONSTRATE: Thermomix consultant Carly Mitchell will host demonstrations at next week’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Medics pushing a message

Paramedics and Ambulance

Community Officers will promote CPR campaign ‘Call Push Shock’ at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days, while providing further information about health and careers with Ambulance Victoria.

Operational community engagement liaison co-ordinator for Grampians region Kristy McMahon said she was excited to attend the event.

“The Wimmera Field Days is a priority engagement for us, being able to reach thousands of people in the community is just gold for us, and we really value it,” she said.

“One of our big focuses will be ‘Call Push Shock’, which is the amazing program we offer where we teach community members how to do CPR, with really simplified messaging.

“People get the opportunity to practise pushing hard and fast, doing their CPR and using an automated external defibrillator, AED, as well, which will be good.”

Mrs McMahon said Ambulance Victoria representatives would have information about calling Triple Zero, and the Emergency Plus app.

“We will have simple messaging of how and when to call Triple Zero, which we presume the majority of the community knows, but it’s always nice to get that reminder,” she said.

“Using the Emergency Plus app is great because it shows you the address you’re at, and three words, which tell us where you are.

“Kids are great at reading those three words, but it is also handy for people on properties who know exactly where they are, but it’s hard to get an ambulance to them.

“I also recommend it for people who travel a lot, who don’t always know which towns they are between.”

Mrs McMahon said paramedics and community officers local to Horsham and the Wimmera would be at the site.

“It’s our local people, which is ter-

rific. They can speak to the local situation, things like our Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, they know that it’s difficult to get in to see a GP and therefore the virtual pathway is perfect for people who are in rural and remote communities, who can see an emergency doctor or nurse from home,” she said.

“We are also always keen for more community officers – the more remote you get, the more integral they are to our system – and more paramedics, so we will have a bit of career information, too.”

Mrs McMahon said being at the field

days was also a good opportunity to be seen by children.

“Just that exposure to our uniform and our equipment is always beneficial, interacting and taking away that fear and intimidation, which can come with our uniform or perhaps a previous experience,” she said.

“Sometimes it’s really good to talk it through with somebody who’s wearing blue, and in a relaxed, calm environment.”

Ambulance mascot Stretch the Bear will be at Ambulance Victoria’s site, and there will also be stickers for children.

More than firefighting

Exhibitor profile

Country Fire Authority, CFA, representatives will again partner with other emergency agencies at their field days site, this year with a focus on significant fires in the area.

CFA West Region community engagement co-ordinator Jenny McGennisken said people would be able to look at information about the fires.

“We will have maps and information on the fires at Kadnook, the Grampians and the Little Desert National Park,” she said.

“We also welcome people to come along and find out about the many volunteer roles in the CFA, we offer much more than fighting fires.”

Mrs McGennisken said it was a very exciting time to join the CFA.

“Our volunteers play a key role in helping CFA to achieve its mission of protecting Victorian lives and property,” she said.

“As one of the world’s largest volunteer-based emergency services organisations, CFA is committed to providing a modern and effective operation in which our volunteers are valued and respected.”

CFA representatives, with other agencies including Wimmera Emergency Management Team, will be in the Moore Pavilion.

Ambulance Victoria

Exhibitor profile

READY TO HELP: Paramedics, from left, Emma, Claire, Karen, Shane, Murdoch and Luke will promote the ‘Call Push Shock’ program at next week’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special

Open invitation to have a chat

The

men and women of Wimmera Prostate Cancer Support Group will be at the field days with information about the cancer and the service they offer to the community.

Group leader Brian Nagorcka, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer 10 years ago, said the group started about eight years ago.

“We have both men and women in the group, because it isn’t just men dealing with the disease on their own – it has a ripple effect,” he said.

“Not all support groups have women in them, but we believe in the importance of partners and wives in men’s cancer journeys, they’re a part of the story, too.”

Meeting at Horsham RSL on the fourth Wednesday of each month, members and visitors enjoy a meal and a guest speaker.

“People talk a lot more now than they ever did about these issues,” Mr Nagorcka said.

“While everyone is welcome to come to the meetings, they don’t have to – we are available to talk on the phone.”

The men’s age range of 60 to 91 is indicative of the disease and its testing – although group member Jack Janetzki said he had encouraged his three sons to start testing for the disease early.

“It’s just a blood test that people should get every two years once they reach the age of 50,” Mr Janetzki said.

“However, if you have family history, you should start testing earlier.

“My boys are 45, 42 and 36, they’ve all had their tests done, and I encourage them to go every two to three years.”

About 24,000 men are diagnosed

with prostate cancer each year in Australia, and about 3500 will die from it.

Men at average risk of prostate cancer who decide to undergo regular testing should be offered the test every two years from age 50 to 69.

Men with a family history should be offered the test every two years from age 40, depending on the strength of

their family history. Prostate cancer specialist nurse Mandy Johns continues to support men with prostate cancer at Horsham following the departure of urologist Richard McMullin from Grampians Health, while patients also receive care via appointments at Ballarat or via telehealth sessions.

Joan Nagorcka said the group com-

“A lot of our members get a lot more support from being in the group and hearing what the others have been through –men and women. Their stories are all unique, but none of them are on their own”

– Joan Nagorcka

plements the medical care the men receive.

“The group might start with prostate health support, but it becomes more about friendships and social outings,” she said.

“A lot of our members get a lot more support from being in the group and hearing what the others have been through – men and women. Their stories are all unique, but none of them are on their own.”

Mr Nagorcka said several group members will be at the field days.

“When we go out to the field days, we like to have a lady on our stand, because sometimes women might not want to talk to men about their experience, but they’ll talk to a woman and get advice.”

Wimmera Prostate Cancer Support Group members welcome patients and their families to meetings at noon for lunch and 1pm for the meeting.

People can call Mr Nagorcka on 0448 710 628 or Mr Janetzki on 0418 555 706 for more information.

We understand that downtime costs money. Be rest assured that we are committed to supporting our customers to obtain maximum uptime from our quality parts.

Prostate

SUPPORT: Wimmera Prostate Cancer Support Group members, from left, Brian Nagorcka, Jack Janetzki, Jan Janetzki and Joan Nargorcka will be at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

3G plagues farmers

The shutdown of the mobile phone 3G network and the resultant varying drop in phone coverage have disconnected grain growers across regional Australia, according to GrainGrowers.

The national body representing grain growers says the 3G network shutdown was reducing the efficiency of farming activities, affecting access to health services and reducing overall farm safety.

Addressing the Senate Standing Committees on Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport hearing on the issue earlier this month, GrainGrowers advocacy and rural affairs manager Sean Cole said telecommunications was fundamental to the business of rural Australia.

Mr Cole said the impact of poor telecommunications could not be overstated.

“Telecommunications is fundamental to how people farm and how they do business, particularly in regard to health and safety issues,” he said.

“In interviews and discussions across Australia, the majority of growers have been adversely impacted by a lack of mobile phone coverage, resulting from the 3G shutdown.”

Mr Cole said the reduction in coverage was impacting worker and farm safety, with the recent fires in the Wimmera also highlighting the

serious effect on co-ordinating an effective response to natural disasters.

“This is not just about being disconnected from family and friends. It is about being able to run a business, co-ordinate farming activities and deal with issues that arise across regional Australia,” he said.

Mr Cole said GrainGrowers was concerned about the decreasing service coverage and would continue to work with the National Farmers Federation, NFF, to progress workable outcomes.

“In our grain-producing regions, we need increased connectivity to run the software in tractors, undertake grain market activities and business accounting and access the increasing number of mobile apps,” he said.

“The 3G shutdown has comparatively put us well behind urban areas, with growers frustrated they are paying for services they simply cannot access.

“It is not as though growers have not tried to rectify the situation.

“Many of our members have invested heavily in mobile boosters and other technology workarounds, but they are simply unable to address the overwhelming need for better technology.”

National Farmers’ Federation general manager of rural affairs Charlotte Wundersitz also spoke at the 3G Shutdown Senate Inquiry Public Hearing.

“The livelihoods of Australian

farming families are intrinsically tied to accessible, reliable, affordable, and high-quality connectivity,” she said.

“Telstra and Optus commenced the shutdown of their respective 3G mobile networks in October 2024, with a promise to consumers of equivalent or improved coverage.

“Three months later, Australian farmers are not convinced that the major providers have delivered on that promise.”

Ms Wundersitz said the NFF continued to hear widespread reports of reduced service availability and quality.

“Farmers are reporting that overall service quality has diminished postshutdown; that includes more calls dropping out, cutting in and out, slow download speeds or no ability to load internet at all,” she said.

“The loss of fortuitous coverage, that is ‘bonus coverage’ that was available with 3G turned on but not guaranteed after the shutdown, has been significant.

“Areas, and in some cases entire properties, which had mostly reliable coverage have now become blackspots.

“We have said repeatedly that the situation on the ground is a safety issue and a productivity issue.

“With the shutdown coinciding with both harvest and fire danger season, rural communities are bearing the full weight of this fact.”

Hydration station

Antwerp

Tennis Club is providing drinks at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days, in its major fundraiser for the year.

A continuing, decade-long effort, club president Chris Avery said the money would go towards club costs.

“This will go towards our membership fees, balls, and paying for use of court lights at our Dimboola home ground,” he said.

“We have about 14 or 15 members –six men and six women to play, with a few spares – so we rely on club volunteers and players’ families to help out at the field days.”

Mr Avery said he started as a junior with Gerang and moved to Antwerp’s club when Gerang folded more than 25 years ago.

“Antwerp is still a small club, we have a seniors’ team and a few junior players, and we always welcome more,” he said. Club volunteers will sell cold beverages such as soft drinks, water, energy drinks and iced coffee.

Volunteer profile

HELPERS: Antwerp Tennis Club juniors, back, from left, Alfie Greig, Temika Greig, Sienna Avery and Marni Toet, and front, Darcy Albrecht, Molly Avery, Hamish Greig and Daisy Avery.

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

A proud regional focus

Regional Victoria’s largest law firm Harwood Andrews is returning to the Wimmera Machinery Field Days this year.

Established in 1840, the firm has a proud regional focus.

With strong client and business relationships in the Wimmera and Western District, the team at Harwood Andrews understands the needs of rural communities and provides expert legal advice when it counts.

Principal lawyer Amy Jenkinson said the firm was excited to again attend the Wimmera Machinery Field Days as a professional services exhibitor.

“Many of our lawyers and administrative staff have family, business and farming connections within the Wimmera and Western District,” she said.

“We are approachable and have a genuine interest in advising primary producers, agribusinesses and their rural communities.”

Based in Geelong, the firm supports and works alongside existing regional legal, accounting and other professional advisors when specialist legal knowledge is required.

The firm also acts for regional councils and other statutory authorities.

Red meat ambassadors

Meat and Livestock Australia, MLA, is launching a new social media academy to create the next batch of influential red meat ambassadors to connect everyday Australians with the work of our producers.

MLA is calling for producers to sign up to the academy, which can boost their profiles and benefit themselves, their community and broader industry.

MLA managing director Michael Crowley said the program would help metropolitan Australians see how red meat was produced on-farm.

“Australian livestock producers are highly trusted by the community to raise high quality, nutrient-dense food and it’s imperative that customers continue to have these high levels of trust,” he said.

Farmers and the agribusiness sector are subject to an increasingly complex regulatory and legal environment.

Mrs Jenkinson acknowledged the tough conditions primary producers continued to face and said it was understandable some farmers and agribusinesses did not prioritise legal affairs and planning when time poor and focused on their day-to-day operations.

Mrs Jenkinson said Harwood Andrews regularly assisted clients and their existing advisors to deal with legal issues which may be outside their local lawyers’ area of expertise or involving a sensitive matter where distance from immediate community was preferred.

However, she emphasised the right advice at the right time could reap significant benefits and avoid unnecessary exposure to liability and cost in the future.

“We are people-focused, and the field days is a great opportunity to catch up and discuss legal matters of concern to regional communities and the industry more broadly,” she said. Harwood Andrews provides advice in all areas of the law including structuring and asset protection, estate and succession planning including family farm and multi-generational business, property transactions including wind

farm leases, taxation, occupational health and safety and employment law, farming agreements, environment and planning issues, debt recovery, and family and other dispute resolution.

Mrs Jenkinson encouraged people to drop by and meet some of the Harwood Andrews team at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

“It promises to be a fantastic few days and we are looking forward to catching up with our current clients as well as forming new relationships,” she said.

“MLA’s social media academy will assist producers show best practice in caring for livestock and the environment so customers can continue to feel good about eating red meat. We’ll be doing this on social media where Australians are highly engaged in receiving and sharing information.”

The academy is an extension of

MLA’s Ambassadors for the Red Meat Industry as part of the Australian Good Meat project, which harnesses the power of producers to engage with the community and reveal the facts about best practice red meat production.

Academy participants will attend workshops at TikTok’s head office in Sydney for training – with the first session on April 23.

Applications close March 16. More information is available at www.mla.com. au/mla-social-media-academy.

Harwood Andrews

Exhibitor profile

COMMITTED: Harwood Andrews staff, from left, Jamie McCallum, Joseph Flanagan, Amy Jenkinson, Tayla Berger, Alasdair Woodford and Ali Erskine.

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Qualified, tailored advice

Horsham-based National Insurance Bro-

kers’ Abbie Wilson offers insurance to people with all kinds of assets under a variety of circumstances.

Specialising in everything rural, Ms Wilson said she was looking forward to catching up with her clients at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

“It’s always good to go out there, catch up with current clients and meet prospective clients,” she said.

“We invest a lot into the field days – it’s always a good event to go to, a good community event.”

Ms Wilson said the hot topic in insurance at the moment was affordability and availability, not just in the Wimmera and Grampians, but Australia-wide.

“It’s been a tough time, we had clients affected by the Pomonal fires, then the Grampians fires, and now the floods up north, and then throw a cyclone in the west, and insurance is a hot topic,” she said.

Ms Wilson said people could save thousands of dollars by using a broker, rather than trying to source their own insurance online.

“There’s a lot of variables and a lot of rating factors that go into the end price that we’re all charged,” she said.

“That’s where brokers are valuable because we’re qualified to give tailored advice.

“You go online, there’s no qualified advice there, you tick boxes and think that will do, but it might not do if you need to make a claim.

“I recently saved a farmer $16,000 on his annual insurance, just by sitting down with him, going out to the market, and working out what he needed.”

Ms Wilson said there was a misconception that brokers worked for insurance companies.

“We advocate for our clients, we do what is best for them,” she sad.

“A lot of what we do is pro bono – we don’t charge for quotes.

“It’s a lot of work, but if we can get people protected, we’ve done our job.”

Ms Wilson said she would again be in the

Moore Pavilion this year, and would have a giveaway for children.

“We always have a giveaway for the kids – they are the ones with the little legs walking around the field days site all day,” she said.

Ms Wilson said people just needed to enter their details at the National Insurance Brokers’ site to go into the draw.

Finalists announced

Ellerslie’s Sherri Symons is one of three finalists in the 2025 Victorian AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

The award celebrates women driving positive change in rural and regional Australia by empowering them with the skills, support, and leadership opportunities to shape their industries and communities.

Now in its 24th year, the award provides each state and territory winner with a $15,000 Westpac grant, and professional development opportunities.

Ms Symons is founder of WoolGrow Australia, creating sustainable gardening solutions using 100 per cent wool products to support the environment and the crossbred wool industry while promoting eco-friendly gardening.

The other two Victorian finalists are Den Lim, of Churchill, who founded Uplift Collective, a collaboration of more than 20 organisations providing free, engaging activities for young people to help them connect with local services through entertainment, cultural events, sports, and the arts; and Dr Mary Cole, of Garfield, a leading scientist, educator, and founder of Agpath, a biological farming research and education centre helping farmers reduce costs, improve soil health, and build more sustainable businesses.

Last year’s Victorian winner Grace Larson, co-founder of The Sisterhood Project, was named national runner-up for her work in improving healthcare education and empowering parents and caregivers with vital first aid skills.

This year’s Victorian winner will be announced in March and will then go on to the national award in September at Parliament House, where the national winner will receive $20,000.

ONSITE: National Insurance Brokers’ Abbie Wilson will be set up in the Moore Pavilion at next week’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER

Tracey Kruger

Machinery Field Days special edition

Driven to improve practices

RYAN NT has been set many challenges in the almost-20 years the company has been retrofitting seeders and planters, but with no qualms about getting their hands dirty, they have had great success.

The drive to improve farming practices has brought into focus the conversion of tyne machines into disc systems, and then to revert when required.

Managing director Paul Ryan said the RYAN NT retrofit double disc system had been designed to suit most frames and tyne trips released in the past 40 years.

“There are many benefits to retrofitting, including in productivity and profits,” he said.

“The first being you won’t need to buy a whole new machine – our discs make light work of stubble and trash in all soil types, allow you to plant early in dry conditions, and use less fuel while planting up to 30 per cent faster.”

Mr Ryan said the disc system’s strong bearing and axle system had been designed for easy servicing and maintenance.

“It has one grease nipple per hub that only needs to be greased once a year, plus the discs have been designed for longevity, as they are four or six millimetres thick, with an 18-inch diameter,” he said.

“The disc legs are thick and made of hardened cast steel, which can handle the largest side force pressure.”

Mr Ryan said the RYAN NT Retrofit double discs for Flexicoil tyne assemblies were by far the most popular with farmers across Australia.

“The Ryan disc seeder system uses an adapter to fit the discs easily, and has no trouble fitting any of the wellknown Flexicoil tyne trips, such as the 350, 355, 550 and 650 tyne systems,” he said.

“In addition, the retrofit disc and Ryan tyne system can also be fitted to Flexicoil cultivators such as the ST820 and 800 series.”

Mr Ryan said farmers reported the

discs performed great in challenging soils and conditions, such as hard red clay soils and big stubbles.

Richard Kirkland, of Furner, South Australia, said he was now using just 60 to 70 per cent of his usual engine load after fitting 39 RYAN NT double discs to his Flexicoil ST820 tyne system.

Mr Kirkland said he sowed at 12 to 14-kilometres per hour, equating to two litres less per hectare.

“Pulling the bar has proved so easy that we have taken the duals off the Case,” he said.

“We also have issues with stones in our country, but the discs handle it well.

“In the stubble on stony ground, the tynes kept digging up the stones, plus sometimes stubble clearance can also be a problem.”

Notably, the Ryan discs can now double chute, with a rear seed boot adaption.

RYAN NT retrofit disc system will fit most brands and models, including RFM, AFM, Allan Johns, Agrowdrill, Ausplow DBS, Boss, Bourgault, Conservapac, Davimac, Duncan, Equalizer, Ezee On, Flexicoil, Horwood Bagshaw, Gason, Gyral, Janke, John Shearer, John Deere, Morris, Seed Hawk, Simplicity and Smale.

Egg supply in question

The Victorian Farmers Federation, VFF, is calling on the state and federal governments to pause the proposed national phaseout of conventional cages by 2036 until a reliable supply of eggs to the community and businesses can be guaranteed.

VFF Egg Group president Meg Parkinson said ongoing impacts of avian influenza was severely hampering the supply of eggs to consumers and all forms of egg production must be used to maintain future supply.

“We need a supply chain that is designed with consumers in mind and their needs. This includes eggs from all production systems such as barn laid, cage and free range and enables consumers to choose how their eggs are produced,” she said.

“The impending phaseout of conventional cages, coupled with a lack of clear transition planning from governments, has created uncertainty within the industry.”

Ms Parkinson said action was needed to ensure a steady and reliable future supply of eggs.

“We’re calling for the state and federal governments to pause the proposed national phaseout of conventional cages,” she said.

“If not, future shortages will also drive up egg prices, placing additional financial strain on Australian families.

“The VFF urges governments to work closely with industry to develop a practical transition plan that ensures egg supply remains stable and affordable for all Australians.”

RYAN NT

Exhibitor profile

PREPARED: RYAN NT managing director Paul Ryan will be onsite next week.

Fleming rising to challenge

Former Warracknabeal woman

Nikki Fleming will participate in a leading mentorship program designed to assist, guide and recognise future leaders in the grains industry.

Ms Fleming, a GrainCorp quality supervisor, was recently chosen to participate in Grain Trade Australia’s ‘Five under 30’ program.

She started her journey with GrainCorp aged 16, as a harvest worker –alongside her father who also worked at GrainCorp’s Warracknabeal site.

After secondary school, Ms Fleming moved to Geelong where she completed a Bachelor of Psychology at Deakin University – working at GrainCorp throughout university holidays.

Once she graduated, Ms Fleming began working at GrainCorp’s Geelong terminal as a bulk grain worker, before moving into a quality support officer role where she was supported to progress to her current role, leading the team as a quality supervisor.

She will be paired with Grain Trade Australia’s chief executive Pat O’Shannassy as her mentor.

“I was looking for a way to build my professional development, while also contributing to the future of the grains industry,” Ms Fleming said.

“This program gives me the unique opportunity to not only benefit from the experience of having Pat as my mentor, but the chance to collaborate and learn from the four other participants.”

Ms Fleming plans to focus on quality management and operational excellence in the years to come at GrainCorp, with the ultimate goal of landing a leadership position one day.

“Over the next five to 10 years, I envision myself in a leadership role at GrainCorp and within the grains industry generally,” she said.

“I’m very eager to explore sustainability and technology integration in grain trading, both of which are crucial for the future of the sector.

“Ultimately, I’d like to influence industry standards and practices, contributing to a resilient and environmentally responsible supply chain.

“The Australian grains industry is vast and multifaceted and navigating the different aspects can be difficult for people new to agriculture – I hope in the future to return the favour and become a mentor for emerging professionals.”

Ms Fleming said she was excited to grow her network across other agriculture businesses and foster professional relationships with the experienced mentors and young professionals.

“There are some parts to leadership that I think can only be learned by having conversations with people who’ve been in your shoes, so by

having dedicated time to connect with both emerging and experienced leaders, I hope to grow personally and professionally,” she said.

Ms O’Shannassy said GTA recognised the need to engage with the younger cohort in the industry.

“Nikki was selected from a very competitive field of candidates, which in itself is very exciting for the future of the grain industry,” he said.

“We saw Nikki’s progression at GrainCorp, and among other things, her willingness to take on higher responsibilities and engage with people as strong attributes.”

Horsham set to host

The Victorian Farmers Federation will host its 2025 Grains Conference at Horsham Golf Club on March 16 and 17.

Dubbed ‘the most impressive agricultural social events of 2025’, the grains conference will start with a cocktail party on the Sunday, followed by the conference and networking dinner on the Monday.

VFF president Brett Hosking said an impressive roster of speakers had been selected.

“They’ll cover highly relevant topics including transport, land use conflict, sustainability, market updates and farm safety, which will help deliver better outcomes for both growers and graziers while sharing insights that will improve how you operate and understand the new world we live in,” Mr Hosking said.

Conference organisers are also aiming for the networking dinner to be a highlight for all attendees.

“Bringing together a selection of ingredients grown in Victoria gives you a guarantee of quality,” Mr Hosking said.

“This year’s is shaping up to be one of the best events coming out of the grains sector.”

The event has a dress code of smart casual, with tickets required to be purchased before March 10.

To register, people can visit vicfarmers.zohobackstage.com/ TheVictorianFarmersFederation2025GrainsConference.

EXPERIENCE: Nikki Fleming, second from right, with GrainCorp colleagues at the Portland terminal.

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

United to spread message

Two groups with concerns about mining in the Wimmera have aligned to get their message out to the public through hosting a site at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days.

Dunmunkle Land Protection Group, DLPG, and Mine Free Wimmera Farming, MFWF, will have a site in the Moore Exhibition Centre.

It is the first time the groups will have a presence at the field days.

DLPG president Andrew Weidemann said the group was first formed 34 years ago, but reformed last year due to the growing amount of mining exploration licences in the Wimmera.

Mr Weidemann said the group was originally formed due to potential mining projects in the area – particularly at Drung, south of Horsham.

“That never ever took flight because they found it was cost prohibitive to do it, et cetera,” he said.

“Whereas now, obviously with the expansion of the exploration licence area that Donald Mineral Sands applied for earlier in the year, it has highlighted to everyone that it was a potential of starting to happen.

“I’m obviously quite concerned about what is going to transpire in the Wimmera.”

Mr Weidemann said the proper checks and balances needed to be put

in place before mining projects were approved.

“We’ve already seen some train wrecks in terms of mining already in the Wimmera – in the south of Horsham and then in the southern Mallee region, where restoration hasn’t been done properly on the land, and so you lose the productive capacity of the land,” he said.

“We’ve actually had a look at some of these sites, and it’d be lucky if it was 10 percent of its productive value at the moment, if at all.”

Mr Weidemann said the productivity of agricultural land in the Wimmera needed to be more valued and protected.

“The soils here are self-mulching grey clays. They’re unique in Australia. There’s only two spots that I’m aware of – the Darling Downs and the Wimmera and southern Mallee areas –that actually have these self-mulching grey clays,” he said.

“When you look at it on balance, 1.6 percent of arable land area in Victoria is producing 25 percent of the GDP of agriculture in Australia and every ounce of land, people don’t realise how finite it is – the actual arable area that we’re farming for agriculture and what we’re trying to produce and continue to produce from.

“Any loss of land is an issue, but also I think the fabric of the society in

the area is also coming under scrutiny because we’ve seen where mining companies have set up in other areas and the whole demographics change, particularly in the town and so forth.

“Now some might say that’s for better, but from an agricultural perspective it’s probably for the worse.”

Mr Weidemann said the groups planned to give out information to the public.

“We’re looking to engage the community across all the areas that mining licences cover,” he said.

“I think we need to make sure that we get ourselves educated and make sure we can make good decisions.”

For the diary

Some dates for people to mark on their calendar for those interested in attending other agricultural events across Victoria and nearby states.

March

South East Field Days –

Dates: March 21-22, 2025

Location: Lucindale, South Australia Farm World –

Dates: March 27-29, 2025

Location: Lardner

Karoonda Farm Fair –

Dates: March 28-29 2025

Location: Karoonda, SA

April

Seymour Alternative Farming Expo –Dates: April 4-6, 2025

Location: Kings Park, Seymour East Gippsland Field Days –Dates: April 11-12, 2025

Location: Bairnsdale Aerodrome, Bairnsdale

May

Mildura Field Days –

Dates: May 16-17, 2025

Location: Mildura

July

Australian Sheep and Wool Show –Dates: July 18-20, 2025

Location: Prince of Wales Showground, Bendigo.

Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia conference –

Dates: July 24, 2025

Location: Hyatt Essendon Fields, Melbourne August Sheepvention –

Dates: August 3-4, 2025

Location: Hamilton Showgrounds

Mallee Machinery Field Days –

Dates: August 6-7, 2025

Location: Speed FutureAG Expo –Dates: August 6-8, 2025

Location: Melbourne Showgrounds

Insurance for Rural and Regional Australians

Regional Knowledge

Insurance needs in rural and regional Australia are vastly di erent from those in urban areas, and this is o en re ected in the coverage options available. From unpredictable weather events to the challenges of remote living, rural Australians face unique risks that require specialised insurance solutions.

For farmers, businesses, and homeowners in regional areas, insurance policies must account for a wide range of factors, including natural disasters such as oods, bush res, and droughts. e recent bush res in the Grampians have highlighted just how devastating these events can be, with many residents le facing signi cant property damage.

Insurance coverage for properties in re-prone areas or ood zones needs to be tailored to address these speci c risks.

But it’s not just the physical risks—rural and regional Australians also face challenges in terms of access to insurers and timely claims support. With distances o en making face-to-face meetings di cult, many residents rely on brokers to help navigate the complexities of insurance policies. A broker familiar with rural risks can ensure that the coverage aligns with the unique needs of the community, from farm machinery to livestock and even specialised business assets.

Having the right coverage is critical, but so is ensuring that premiums remain a ordable. Rural and regional areas can sometimes experience higher premiums due to increased risk exposure. at’s why working with an experienced broker can make all the di erence—they can help source policies from insurers who understand the speci c risks of rural living and ensure you’re not paying more than necessary.

“In rural and regional Australia, insurance isn’t just a financial safety net—it’s a lifeline that helps protect the livelihoods of individuals and communities.

Tailored coverage and expert support are essential to ensuring that these communities can recover and rebuild after unexpected events.”

French connections

Best’s Winery at Great Western is part of a group of Victorian wineries to be on show at the world’s largest wine museum in France.

Economic Growth and Jobs Minister Danny Pearson announced earlier this month that Victorian wineries would be featured at the iconic La Cité du Vin trade museum in Bordeaux, France.

La Cité du Vin is a major tourist attraction that welcomes more than 400,000 wine lovers every year.

The Victorian wineries on display are from the Grampians, Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Gippsland, and Hume regions – highlighting the diversity and vibrancy of the wines the state produces as part of a $9-billion wine industry.

As part of the two-year partnership, other Victorian wineries have the chance to be displayed in the future.

The partnership with La Cité Du Vin follows the Wine Paris Vinexpo 2025 held last week, where Victorian wines were also celebrated on a global stage.

Boasting more than 800 wineries and 21 wine regions, Victoria is home to more wineries than any other state in Australia – with the exports generating about $141-million a year.

powdery mildew, downy mildew, and other fungal diseases, aiming to eliminate the need for some sprays.

“We’re promoting Victorian wines at one of the most influential wine museums in the world, strengthening our reputation as a premium wine destination and attracting more people to Victoria,” he said.

“Victoria is home to many of our country’s most celebrated winemakers, and this partnership is sharing their talent with the rest of the world and boosting their export opportunities.”

Innovation

It’s no secret that Best’s managing director Ben Thomson loves to tinker in the vineyards.

When Wine Australia and Agri Automation approached him to test a fully autonomous vehicle using UVC light to control powdery mildew on the vines as an Australian-first, Mr Thomson could not resist.

The trial, at Best’s Great Western Sugarloaf Creek vineyard, may look like something out of an extraterrestrial movie, there are plenty of opportunities on the horizon.

The Vertex UV UVEX system harnesses the power of UVC light to combat plant pathogens such as

Mr Pearson said wine was one of Victoria’s key tourism drawcards and played an important role in regional economies – jobs at wineries, vineyards and cellar doors provided people with good jobs close to home, while serving as popular tourist attractions.

The technology has already produced great results for other agricultural products like strawberries, but the test is how it will work for grapes.

“We’re very excited about the potential benefits that this system could deliver,” Mr Thomson said.

“We’ve always tinkered with new processes in the vineyards, and the opportunity to help eliminate some of the disease pressure and potentially impact the quality of fruit has enormous upside.

“It requires a little perseverance to get the system running, but I look forward to sharing some of the learnings with others in the wine community in the future.”

The Vertex UV unit sits on the autonomous vehicle, Burro Grande, which will work at night between 9pm and 5am.

The Burro Grande has already been successfully tested in measurable trials in New Zealand and France.

“It’s incredible to think about the progress we’ve made with technology to drive efficiencies in viticulture,” Mr Thomson said.

“We are always keen to embrace new methodologies and innovations that improve practices and allow us to make better wine. We can’t wait to see how this new technology works.”

Manhari. Knows. Metal.

FINDING THEIR FEET: Longerenong College’s students are back on campus, with first year students participating in ‘O Week’ activities earlier this month. The students are undertaking a variety of agricultural courses, including Certificate IV of Agriculture, and wool classing and agronomy. Above, Bella Hardy, Trentham, Christine Oliver, Bacchus Marsh, Mason McEwan, Colac, and Alex Oxbrow, Rupanyup, find their stride, and below, Fletcher Bright, Casterton, Lexie Heinrich, Echuca, Katy Pollard, Bendigo and Ashby Rigers, Swan Hill, settle in.

With another harvest done and dusted and hopefully some time for grain growers to get a few field day fixes, it’s good to know that wheat prices are creeping back up.

The main gauge for pricing is the Chicago Board of Trade, and earlier this month the wheat price rose 0.4 per cent to 580 US cents a bushel.

Commonwealth Bank agricultural economist Dennis Voznesenski told Country Today it was largely due to a slowdown of wheat being exported from the Black Sea region, which could last until mid-year.

The reasons are twofold.

Firstly, both Russia and Ukraine sold high volumes of wheat last year to get more foreign currency to fund more arms purchases.

Secondly, it’s been a mild winter and crops are likely to be smaller.

“Above average temperatures have melted snow in Russia and Ukraine, leaving crops vulnerable to cold snaps,” Mr Voznesenski said.

The downside is China. Its economy continues to struggle.

“Imports of grain dropped considerably at the end of last year. If proposed US tariffs further stunt economic growth, low grain import levels could continue,” Mr Voznesenski said.

Reuters reported China has delayed or divert-

ed 600,000 tonnes of mostly Australian wheat and resold it to buyers in Southeast Asia.

The canola market is more unstable. If US President Donald Trump goes ahead with his 25 per cent tariffs on goods from Canada, it is likely to increase Canadian canola exports to Asia and Europe, traditionally Australia’s major canola markets.

Again, Australia’s canola fortunes depend on China.

“China’s anti-dumping investigation into Canadian canola could lead to less canola being planted, which could reduce global canola stocks in the second half of the year,” Mr Voznesenski said.

The likelihood of an escalation of the trade war being China and the US could work in Australia’s favour.

“Chinese retaliatory tariffs on US soybeans could lead to a rise in demand in canola from Australia,” Mr Voznesenski said.

with Libby Price

Growing jobs for women

The State Government is breaking down barriers to get more women involved and taking on leadership roles in Victoria’s $20billion agriculture sector.

Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Michaela Settle joined leaders from across the state for the 64th Annual Pioneer Women’s Ceremony earlier this month, celebrating Victorian women’s role in agriculture.

Member for Lowan and Opposition agricultural spokesperson Emma Kealy also attended the event with Member for South-West Coast Roma Britnell.

The event marks 30 years since the Australian Bureau of Statistics recognised that women could list their occupation as farmer in the Census.

Representatives from industry, peak agriculture bodies and gender equality organisations came together to celebrate the impact and influence Victorian women have on the agriculture sector and their communities.

Guests heard from Victorian Director of Australian Women in Agriculture Narelle Hanrahan, primary producer and Central Goldfields Shire councillor Liesbeth Long, and Aus-

tralian Women in Agriculture founding member Alana Johnson, who spoke about the Invisible Farmer Project – the largest ever study of women on the land.

The Victorian Rural Women’s Network aims to improve women’s workforce participation, grow job opportunities and support more women to secure leadership and decision-making roles in regional Victoria through initiatives such as its leadership and mentoring program.

This year’s program is being delivered by Leadership Victoria and managed by Agriculture Victoria.

For almost 40 years, the network has played an integral role in building the collective identity of Victoria’s women in agriculture, both among rural women and as an outward representation of their essential contributions to their industry and communities.

“Women in Victorian agriculture are making a real difference, leading the way to a future that’s more productive, profitable, and sustainable,” Ms Settle said.

To learn more about the Rural Women’s Network, visit agriculture.vic. gov.au.

MAKING A STATEMENT: Tatyoon’s Leila McDougall displays the words ‘No farmers no food’ on her dress at the Australian Academy Cinema Television Arts Awards.

Producer’s focus on bigger message

Tatyoon’s Leila McDougall made a statement at the Australian Academy Cinema Television Arts Awards.

McDougall – producer and lead character in her film Just a Farmer – wore a striking gold dress displaying the words ‘No farmers no food’ across the front.

The film-maker often wears a shade of yellow at big events – no doubt aligned with the event she cofounded ‘Mellow in the Yellow’, an annual event in Tatyoon which raises money for mental health support in farming communities.

She said appearing at the AACTA Awards was more than being just about the film.

“It’s about honouring the people who keep our tables full and our communities thriving,” she said.

Just a Farmer was a finalist in the

AACTA Award for Best Indie Film, won by Birdeater.

McDougall was also a guest speaker on a producer panel at the awards.

The AACTA Awards, formerly the AFI Awards, have honoured screen excellence in Australia since 1958.

The ceremony on the Gold Coast earlier this month recognised Australia’s highest achievements in feature film, documentary, short film, television, online, visual effects and animation, announcing more than 55 awards across two major ceremonies.

McDougall attended the awards with husband Sean, a farmer at Tatyoon, west of Ararat, and co-producer of the film.

“We might not have walked away with the win, but honestly, the biggest prize has been the messages

from people saying Just a Farmer has impacted them, changed their lives, or even saved them. That’s why we made this film, and that’s what makes it all worth it,” he said.

Just a Farmer has picked up a slew of accolades in the past six months. It won best narrative feature global at the Buffalo International Film Festival; audience-voted best feature film at the Rencontres International due Cinema des Antipodes; and best cinematography in a feature film and best international feature film at the International Film Festival of Australia.

McDougall won best Oceanian actress award at the Septimius Awards, while Susan Prior won best supporting actress in a feature film at the International Film Festival of Australia.

Seeding investment fits the bill

Machinery transport is naturally a big focus for contract seeders, and for a Beulah business switching to an alternate sowing rig, has so far ticked all the boxes.

Chivell Ag Contracting predominantly supports corporate farming enterprise Warakirri, who has a focus on productivity and efficiency, including reduced staff fatigue.

In operation since the late 1990s, Chivell Ag Contracting is now run by Zeb Chivell and his wife Amanda, who took over the reins from Zeb’s father Joe.

The family, including Zeb’s grandfather Allan, also runs a small 650-hectare property in the region.

In addition to contract seeding on Warakirri properties, Chivell Ag Contracting also offers contract spraying services.

Chivell Ag Contracting has maintained a long-term relationship with Warakirri and, with its support, Zeb upgraded from an 18-metre seeding bar to a 24-metre Morris Quantum air drill for his cropping program, which also follows a controlled traffic farming system.

It was the first 24m Morris Quantum to be sold in Victoria, but surprisingly, considering its size, it had a narrow transport width.

“The transport aspect was the best.

I got down a lot of roads that I hadn’t got the 60-foot bar down,” Zeb said.

The Chivell’s 24m Morris Quantum air drill folds to 7.6m wide and 5.9m high.

“It’s 80 kilometres between the farthest points where we are seeding on properties and the transport width of the Quantum was three times better than I thought it would be,” Zeb said.

Features

The family’s Quantum air drill is set on 30-centimetre tyne spacings, uses a primary sales in-line, dual chute seeding boot and features Morris’ Auto-Lift and Auto-Pack technologies, as well as a blockage monitoring system and automatic end-of-row turning.

The auto-lift allows for automatic lifting and lowering of tynes, making headland turns easy, while the auto-pack automatically adjusts the air drill’s packing pressure according to the soil conditions, providing for correctly closed and packed furrows to help achieve the most ideal seedbed for germinations.

“It’s a well-built bar and there are a lot of Morris bars around now,” Zeb said.

“The other benefit with that is there is a representative from Morris’ Australian distributor in the area and a dealer at Warracknabeal – Bellevue

Machinery – with parts sitting there, so there are seven to eight people I can call if I have any issues.”

The Warakirri cropping program is close to 10,000 hectares, traversing soils ranging from sands and loams to heavy clays, including seepy crabhole areas.

Pulled by a 590-horsepower John Deere tracked tractor, Zeb said the frame strength of the Morris Quantum air drill almost stalled the tractor last season and it had to work hard in heavy clay soils due to the dry start.

In addition to the transport benefits, there were strong gains in the targeted areas of seeding productivity and efficiency.

“We were doing 20 to 21ha per hour and averaging about 150ha per fill,” Zeb said.

“It was a big effort and a really solid five weeks, but the year before we were doing 15 to 16 hectares an hour and going 24-7 for six to seven weeks.

“Last year we had just two days that were around the clock, otherwise we were only doing 18 hours per day, six days a week and we had Sundays off.

“Our staff also took to the new system like a duck to water. It was all easy, so they could largely just sit there and monitor everything.”

Goodyear’s Spiraﬂex Air Seeder hose is designed for use in Air Seeding applications where there is a requirement to view the product being conveyed. This hose is specially formulated with a Clear Thermosplastic Urethane Liner offering superior wear resistance in not only seeding applications, but many other dry bulk material delivery applications.

ON SITE: Beulah-based seeding and spraying contractor Zeb Chivell, from Chivell Ag Contracting, with Tony Williams, McIntosh Distribution, and the family’s 24-metre Morris Quantum air drill.

Celebrating women in science

Agriculture Victoria profiled some of the women who they employ, in recognition of International Day of Women and Girls in Science. In 2015, United Nations General Assembly declared February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, which aims to close the gender gap in science and promote role models to young girls. Christy Vander Jagt, Anna Weeks, Sukhjiwan Kaur and Audrey Delahunty each make an impact in their respective roles.

Vander Jagt

Dr Christy Vander Jagt is a senior researcher with the genomics and cell sciences team based at AgriBio Bundoora.

Ms Vander Jagt is leading a project for AgVic research that aims to reduce methane produced by cows by establishing a breeding value for methane efficiency for the Australian dairy industry. To develop the breeding value, her team is looking to measure methane in more than 10,000 dairy cows.

Developing the breeding value will help dairy farmers select cows with lower methane emissions as part of their breeding programs, improving feed efficiency and supporting a more sustainable agriculture industry.

Sukhjiwan Kaur

Dr Sukhjiwan Kaur heads up the Applied Genomics and Predictive Breeding team in Plant Sciences. She is passionate about driving real world impact and sees plenty of opportunity to innovate, collaborate globally, and contribute to food security and sustainability within her role. Her team focuses on developing cutting-edge genomic tools to speed up crop improvement and make plant breeding faster and more efficient. One of the biggest opportunities in her field lies in the rapid advancement in genomic and predictive breeding technologies, which will enable the development of crops that are better adapted to climate change, more resource efficient, and resistant to pests and diseases.

Dr Audrey Delahunty works at Horsham and Mildura SmartFarms as a researcher with the Crop Agronomy team. She is a familiar face to many due to her active involvement in field days and industry events. Her research focuses on improving pulse production by developing climate-resilient crops such as heat tolerant lentil and seeking new farming methods supported by agronomic best-practices on-farm as well as helping diversify and grow the pulse industry.

Ms Delahunty works in an agronomy network to help growers increase their resilience and profitability by delivering knowledge on crop optimisation and management in challenging environmental conditions.

Anna Weeks

Landscape and Water Science team systems modeller Anna Weeks is exploring key relationships between agricultural productivity and drivers such as climate, soil, topography and land use.

Ms Weeks is working on the Agriculture Climate Spatial tool, which provides farmers with on-farm insights to adapt to different climate change scenarios and PastureSmarts, a framework that aims to get the most out of land by improving pasture growth and grazing while helping farmers manage risk and daily decisions. People can learn more about the State Government action on climate change at go.vic.gov. au/3tkWm83

Christy

Audrey Delahunty

S1-3

G4-5

V2-3 Agridry B14-15

A12-19

Agrifac

Agrimac A77-90

T12

D1-7

2025 Exhibitor list

Endeavour Energy Fuels S4

ENLOQ Loaders G9-10

ES Tanks Australia C18-19

Eureka Garages and Sheds X9-10

Excel Agriculture U14-16

Farm and Diesel Pty Ltd D43-44

Finch Engineering V26-29

Firepits R Us N6-7

Fordham Ag X4-6

Frontline Socks F3

Gallagher Australia U4-5

Gason N11-15

GE Silos M14-15

Geronimo Farm Equipment U27-32

GNS Engineering V5-6

Goldacres Y1-7

Grainking D32-33

Grainline A23-25

Greenfleece K10

Greg Allan Farm Machinery B20-25

Grizzly V17-19

Polymaster K19-20

Powercor Australia D36-37

Precise Farm Solutions B19

Prestige Tractors O1-4

Primary Sales Australia N16-18

QuikFence P7-8

R & D Plus Pty Ltd R7

Rabobank D11-12

Radicate – The Footrot Solution R16

RDO Equipment S8-9

Red River Stockyards W20-27

RedGum Products X7-8

Rex Stotten Machinery Q15-19

RFDS Aeromedical Simulator F1

Rich River Rural U11

Ringers Western – The Signature

Bull N1

Riordan Grains K11

Riteway Farming Australia O7-8

Rivercity Trailers Q7-9

ADM

Advantage Grain

Ag Leader

Ag Plus Grain Services

Agpoint McCoy

Agsafe Pty Ltd

AGT Foods

Arya Pulses Australia

AusFarm Nutrition Products

Australian Grain Export

Autonomous Ag

Bingham Agriculture

Blue Lake Milling

CHS Broadbent

Country Fire Authority – District 17

Disaster Legal Help Victoria

Donald Mineral Sands

DSL Pacific

Dunmunkle Land Protection Group (MFWF)

EliteFin

Emma Kealy MP – The Nationals, Member for Lowan

Encaps – F500 Encapsulator Agent

Eye Muffs

Forty Winks Horsham

Free Wimmera Hearing Tests

Grampians Health Clinical Research

Grampians Public Health Unit

Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism

Harwood Andrews

Horsham Rural City

D45-46 Anglomoil

Haeusler Group D21-22

G19

Lubricants G11-13

A48-53

Hayrakes C15-16

D18

Best Farming Systems R19-20

Best Sheds R11-12

Bison Engineering V1

BK Golf Carts L2

BlueScope Distribution N23-27

Bonney Energy Q13-14

BreedELITE G20

Brett’s Tools P18-20

Bromar Engineering M9-10

Bruce Rock Engineering O9-11

Bruder Australia M2

BTE – Bulk Transport Equipment Q3-4

Buildpro Horsham K16-18

Burando Hill P12-13

Bushmans water tanks P9-11

Bute Discs and Frames A34-36

Campbell Silos W28-31

Central Steel Build R4

Cheeky Rascal F14

Cimbria C17B

Claas Harvest Centre

Lake Bolac A54-61

Clear Ridge Fabrication N8-10

Clipex Fencing & Stockyards X12-17

CloudBreak Grain Marketing BC2

CMV Truck and Bus V7-10

Cod Pro Shop R10

Commander Agriculture C37-40

Converte R22

Cool Tech Pumps R14

Crop Opti D21-22

Croplands Equipment B10-13

DEMOT Pty Ltd L3

Diesel Performance Tuning Modules D47-48

Discount Combine Parts T1

DLF Seeds T9-10

DLL Finance D11-12

Dunmunkle Sumpoilers H2-11

Dunstan Farmers Engineering W12-19

Duraquip A26-33

EcoEarth Solutions R13

EE Group C20-21

Elders K1-2

Emmetts E1

Handymax Trading Pty Ltd D8-10

Harberger U20-26

Haymate Australia R17-18

HE Silos B14-15

Hernon Fabrication D28-29

Horsham Bearings & Industrial Supplies D13-17

Horsham Lawnmower Centre K16-18

Horsham Toyota L7-10

INCYT Q10-12

JADS Driver Training G17

Jayco Ballarat K12-15

Jetwave Group K5

Jumpbooster D50-51

King Craft Tools K6-7

Kingspan Water Tanks T16-17

Knuckeys Agricultural X1-3

Kotzur T11

Land Watch Australia G1

LED Light Co R8-9

Liquip Victoria F11

Little Helpers Kids Wear F2

Longerenong College D42

Lonsdale Merchants – Lonsdale

Livestock U18-19

Lowes Petroleum C22-23

Lucas Mill N30-31

Macdon E1

Manutec O5-6

McDonald Steel F12-13

Mech-Elec Air & Automation K8-9

Michaels Group O12-18

Midland Trailers N2-5

Midstate Machinery B16-18

Mobishear Australia R15

Morrow Motor Group D23-27

Mozzie Fire R3

Murray River Equipment S12-14

MyEnergy Engineering F17-18

NAES G14-15

Nelson Silos N28-29

Nhill Silos L11-12

Norton Livestock Handling Solutions U4-5

Norton Motor Group R23-25

Nutrien Ag L1

O’Connors J1

Oz Ag Machinery V12-16

Pastoral Panels R21

Peregrine Ag P7-8

Pioneer Water Tanks D1-7

PJ Green X1-3

Rivsteel Sheds and Trailers C5-7

Rocks Gone Q5-6

Rotech Rural U1-2

Ryan NT – Ryan Farming Machinery N19-22

Ryebucks Portables S5-7

Scania Australia U9-10

Schinckel Hayrakes B26-30

SheerSpeed Shearing Products V4

Shooters, Fishers and Farmers

Party R6

Silo Upgrades U3

SLTEC Fertilizers G18

Smale Farm Equipment N16-18

South East Marine and Motorcycles D34-35

Spinitek G2

Spraytec Australia K3-4

St Marys Super Tools Q1-2

Steele Steel D30-31

Stockpro P14-17

Super Tools Australia S10-11

Swanbuild R5

Swayn & McCabe Claas Harvest Centre C27-36

Te Pari Products T2-3

Techgrow C11-14

Terricks Engineering P3-6

The Davey Group – Rhino Trailers and Grainmaster Silos C8-10

The Silo Construction Company T7-8

Total Tools Horsham C1-4

TPOS Fabrications N19-22

Traction Ag A62-72

Truline Machinery M11

Universal Trailers and Feeders T13-15

Valton Feeding Solutions M3-8

Vennings L13-17

Wahroonga Enterprises A38-47

Walkabout Mother Bins U6-7

Wallers Mildura F20

Waringa Distribution W1-9

WEED-IT by Rometron A73-76

Weigh Station Mobile Caravan & Vehicle Weighing G17

Western Victorian Wholesalers M1

Willowdale Rural G8

Wilson Bolton L4-6

Wimmera Truck Centre V20-25

Wise Farm Equipment – Horsch Crop Care U12-13

Crop Smart

CropScanAg

Dual Chelate Fertilizer

Essantis

Farm Monitoring Solutions

Farmscan Pty Ltd

FieldView

Fieldworks SA

Geo Commodities

GrainCorp

GWMWater

Inari Australia

Leersen Electronics – Bale Time

Liquid Systems

Making Our Farms Safer – VFF

Mandala Trading

PBSeeds

Pioneer Seeds

Precise Farm Solutions

PSS AG

Ridley Agriproducts

SCT Port Logistics

UniPak

Victorian Farmers Federation, VFF

Westpac Agribusiness

WFI

Wimpak – ETG Australia

ACEN Australia

Achmea Farm Insurance

Agri Om Australia

Agriculture Victoria Ambulance Victoria

ANZ

AusNet Services

Aussie Home Loans

Ballarat & Grampians Community Legal Service

Ballarat Clarendon College

Ballarat Grammar

Breakwater Insurance Brokers

Brendan’s Australian Tours

Chris Packer & Associates

Colour Sorters Australia

Community Insurance Solutions

Control Synergy Pty Ltd

AgLife, Wimmera Machinery Field Days edition – February 26, 2025

Think BIG

Wimmera Machinery Field Days 2025

Multi-million-dollar showcase

Economic benefits

Participation

Planning process

FINAL TOUCHES:

Grateful for support

From the manager

Invaluable opportunity

From the mayor

March

Warm welcome to 61st annual event

From the president

Machinery Field Days special edition

Proud past driving event’s future

We’re here to help

Highlights

We’re here to help

here to help

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Not to be missed

Member for Lowan

Member for Mallee Epitome of Australian spirit

THUNDER

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Paw Patrol adventure

New ideas blend with experience

Building blocks to live broadcast

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Creating market appeal

Bird’s-eye view awaits

At a glance

Scouts ready to lend hand

Volunteer profile

Site awards a feature of field days

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Extending a service

Children, parent retreat

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Looking at water options

special edition

Energy Hub collaboration

Organics in spotlight

NEED CONCRETING?

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

From classrooms to catwalk

Gifting a day out

Young farmers having a ball

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Feature day for Emmetts

Duck season declared

Free test for oral cancer

Max goes extra mile for Burras

Minyip-Murtoa

Your local retirement specialists

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Only the best get through

New era for conference

How it works

Pre-season catch-up

A little bit of everything

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Colourful range for all ages, sizes

Tools for monitoring water supply

ONE MACHINE...MULTIPLE BENEFITS

DEPTH MASTER

MAJOR MODERN AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENT DISPERSAL

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

Meeting on-farm demand

Biosecurity tax scrapped

WE COME TO YOU!

Wimmera Machinery Field Days special edition

At the touch of a button

Exhibitor profile

Focus turns to export demand

Medics pushing a message

More than firefighting

Exhibitor profile