In this final episode of Courty Today for 2024 There has been a  detection of tomato potato psyllid... in a glasshouse at a tomato production facility on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria. Tomato growers are being encouraged to monitor their crops closely.An annual scholarship encouraging the next generation of young leaders who want to pursue a career in rural industries, has opened for applications.There's been a fire in the Grampians National Park this week ...Wimmera farmer Ryan Milgate joins us on Country Today, to talk us through damage in the region and give an update on harvest results.A control Area around Meredith that was put in place for the current H7 avian influenza outbreak, has just been lifted. . One property remains in the last stages of quarantine.To the weekly wool report and the Eastern Market Indicator gained 14 cents for the week, making this the largest weekly rise in the EMI since October. An optimistic end, before the 3 week recess.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - December 20th

Global wheat stocks are at their lowest since 2012, with Russia, a key exporter, possibly facing a poor winter wheat season … if there's a further drop in production it could send prices soaring in 2025The latest Australian Wool production Forecast has been released and has seen a 12 percent reduction in the shorn wool production forecast for 2024/25The Australian wine industry is in a state of crisis … and wine grape growers in the southern riverina have been hit particularly hard with a major correction ahead.Food regulators are looking to fast-track approvals for lab-grown foods, Food Standards Australia New Zealand says clear standards and labelling are key, but questions remain about consumer trust and what this means for Australian agriculture.ANZ has released their latest Agribusiness In Focus Report... we’ll be looking at what’s in store for the 24/25 summer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - December 18th

The Australian Dairy industry is in a very different position to last season, with a rise in domestic sales and stronger export conditions things are looking optimistic globally.The Victorian Farmers Federation have partnered with leading Australian farm safety software developer AirAgri, in an effort to reduce the over representation of farm related injuries and deaths.Australia's most comprehensive report on carbon dioxide emissions has been released and out of the 17 million cars on our roads, one thing is clear ... more and more of them are electric. So where does that leave farmers and their favourite diesel utes?The rain could not have arrived at a worse time for grain growers, threatening the quality of this season’s wheat /// however, there is a way to improve the quality over time, and it all comes down to storage.And scorching temperatures across the state has authorities warning us about just how important it is to follow strict campfire safety rules, now more than ever with increased fire dangers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - December 16th

Farmers in the Wimmera are devastated by the news that the Victorian Government has granted environmental approval for two mineral sands mines: one near Dooen just outside Horsham, and the other near Swan Hill.  With Christmas just around the corner, one staple on the budget is pork which is making something of a comeback. CHOICE has released the results its quarterly report on supermarket prices and in short, Aldi is the cheapest supermarket Good news for grain growers counting the losses from wheat, that has been downgraded to feed grain due to rain. Storing grain for several months can improve falling numbers test And Rabobank’s monthly report looking at global prospects for beef and wheatSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - December 12th

Rice growers will have the first purpose built, state-of-the-art rice breeding facility funded by growers levies. National Centre for Farmer Health in Hamilton is offering free farmer health checks Yet another farm organisation has dumped its membership of the National Farmers Federation. This time it's the peak vegetable organisation, AusVeg Nuclear  power gets the big thumbs down from the CSIRO for being far more expensive than going down the renewables path.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - December 9th

The Victorian Government offers grants to farmers to join the On-Farm Emissions Action Plan Pilot. You’ll hear from South Gippsland beef producer Carolyn Wilde did some of her own research on how to reduce methane emissions and then successfully applied for a government grant of nearly $40k It's been a big year in the Australian beef industry, as we've produced the highest volume of beef in a quarter, to date On the back of heavy rainfall across the northern half of Victoria and the Riverina over the last few weeks, farmers are now coming to terms with just how much damage their crops have suffered. We’ll catch up with Corowa farmer Derek Schoen and Mallee agronomist based in Swan Hill Brad Williamson The weekly wool report. The EMI has fallen again, despite a lower Australian dollar.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - December 6th

After a frustrating wait for dairy farmers, Fonterra has announced a 15 cent step up in the price it pays suppliers. To red meat exports, and AUSTRALIA’S two last remaining beef processing plants banned from exporting to China have had the restrictions listed. With summer upon us, livestock are grateful for those cooler, shady spots.  the latest research into cattle in feedlots shows they don’t just enjoy the shade, they also increase weight gain On the back of the first step-up in prices for dairy farmers this season, the prospects for the global dairy market are looking brighter for next year And an 11 year old Gippslander Tanner McMillian is taking an epic journey to raise money for research into Lyme disease by walking Gippsland’s 90 mile beach.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - December 5th

Farmers warned of new wage theft laws coming into effect on January 1 introducing much harsher criminal penalties for businesses that intentionally underpay workers. Australian sheep producers are a lot more feeling optimistic than they were this time last year.   Victoria’s Country Fire Authority has lost more of its funding in favor of the other emergency services, The largest exporter of wheat, Russia has announced reductions in its wheat export quota in an attempt to curb food inflation. The Weekly Times report with editor James Wagstaff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - December 4th

The Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists has released a report into the health of the Murray Darling River system and the key findings are that the basin river health is still in decline, despite the $13 billion spent by the Murray Darling Basin Plan The Kondinin Group's annual farmer survey reveals that less than 20 percent of farmers have a legally binding succession plan  Agricultural production in NSW has grown to its third highest level on record. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - December 2nd

Labour shortages brought on by the pandemic are beginning to ease in the horticulture sector.  If you’re a wool grower, how good are you at filling in your national wool declaration? Perhaps you should be using the mobile app woolclip? We’ll take a look at beef cattle prices, and it’s certainly a tale of two very different markets, with northern cattle, particularly feeder steers in Queensland, outpricing cattle being sold in Victoria The dairy industry contributes about 3 per cent of Australia’s emissions, yet the industry is lagging behind in finding ways to reduce emissions And the weekly wool report, with solid gains in the wool market this weekSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 29th

It’s just the news prime lamb producers have been hoping for … heavy lambs have topped a record $300 a head To renewables, and a planning application for a solar battery storage plant in Victoria's north east has been lodged with no consultation with the locals  It’s now 14 months since Dairy Farmers Victoria opened for business. So, how is the organization faring? And would it ever join the fold of the Victorian Farmers Federation And we take a look at milk prices, not here, but in New Zealand. Milk prices there have hit a record $10 per kg milk solids. So why are they being paid so much more than Australian dairy farmers See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 28th

The Nationals in Victoria have elected Member for South Gippsland, Danny O'Brien to the leadership unopposed after Peter Walsh announced he was stepping down. Rural Aid has once again demonstrated its vital role in supporting the nation’s farmers and rural communities.  We head to Victoria's north west, where up to 50 mm of rain dampened the grain harvest this week As he said he would, Donald Trump has announced heavy tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, So could their loss be Australia’s gain?  The wave of city dwellers looking at a tree change in the country hasn't eased post covid with people looking to relocate to the regions has doubled in the past 18 months. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 27th

Australia’s only remaining domestic wind turbine tower manufacturer is being mothballed after fighting a losing battle to compete with cheaper Chinese imports How many farmers have successfully negotiated a farm succession plan? That’s just what a new national survey is hoping to find out We’re going to take a look at historic wheat prices in fact going back 760 years to 1264. And the take home, grain growers are earning less now.. The Murray Regional Strategy has met with, the Murray-Darling Basin Authority , for the first time they were listened to And what grain growers need to know about storing their precious grain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 26th

As the appetite for beef continues to grow in South-East Asian markets, Australia may be in a position to cement itself as one of the major global suppliers. To another in our seasonal updates, and while a dry season has seen early selling of livestock in many areas of Victoria, it's an entirely different situation in the Riverina. A large rain band stretching from the far North West of Victoria right across the central and North East districts has come at just the wrong time for the annual wheat harvest. Victoria’s Country Fire Authority is still have major staffing problems four years after the then Andrews Labor Government created Fire Rescue VictoriaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 25th

Country Today went to a Best Wool Best Lamb seminar at Lima in North East Victoria. You’ll hear from manager of Lima Park Pastoral Company Andrew Maffesoni who's mad the most out of a poor season.  We’ll take a look at prospects for wool NutrienAg North East Wool area manager, Jarrod DeMarco Scientists and nutritionists from around the world have formed a movement to lobby against the anti-red meat movement to bust the red meat myths   You’ll hear about hopes to expand Country University The weekly wool report See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 22nd

While the lamb market has been volatile for the past year, Global Agritrends analyst Simon Quilty thinks the market will rise next year and continue to do so for two to three years. with the drought continuing in Victoria’s south west, expressions of interest have opened for a program offering one on one consultations with a farm advisor. Leading Victorian fruit grower Peter Hall who was called to give evidence at ACCC inquiry into supermarkets Should regional Australia get more funding from the Federal Government to address the chronic housing shortage? Independent Federal MP Helen Haines thinks so and will explain why. Australia’s cattle herd is officially in a de-stocking phase. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 21st

Now to the next in our series on seasonal conditions, and the big dry continues in Victoria's South west. The Heytesbury Settlement is well known for being some of the best dairy farming land in the Victoria ... but farmers this year are still battling drought The live sheep trade claimsa nationwide survey suggests Australians are increasingly in favour of keeping the live sheep trade The DemoDAIRY Foundation has now contributed more than $500,000 over the past six years to help develop a better future for the dairy industry in south-west Victoria.  The Weekly Times report with editor, James Wagstaff. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 20th

Will we see a return of the trade wars? China is our biggest export market, followed by the US … what position will that put Australian farmers in, when Trump is back in the picture?And you’ll find out about a Breakfast and farm water discussion which is on tomorrow at western Victoria How do you prefer your lamb? Roasted, or grilled? The University of New England has put the different cooking techniques to the taste test, and grilled came up the winner.  And some simple tips for livestock producers to reduce their methane emissions on-farm. Farming systems scientists at the University of Tasmania, Matthew Harrison  --See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 19th

Wool growers have voted and the poll results announced at Friday’s Australian Wool Innovation AGM - show that farmers want to keep their levy spend at 1.5 per cent of their gross income.The CFA is urging farmers to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of header fires, now more than ever as we come into harvest and the days are warming upWe’ve been talking a great deal about what will happen when Trump returns to presidency, - but perhaps the more interesting question for Australian farmers to ask is, what can we expect from Robert F Kennedy junior?National Agriculture day was an opportunity to recognise  the major talking points within the sector and of course, renewables was at the top of the list. You'll hear from a Senior Scientific Officer from RSPCA  about horses ... they're subject to abuse with electric prodders at rodeos… electric prodders should be banned in all jurisdictions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 18th

Sheep farmers need to take more care when they’re lamb marking, with poor tail docking and mulesing failing to meet the Sheep Welfare and Standards Guidelines.  Wild dog attacks continue to impact farmers in the north west of Victoria, and due to the removal of the unprotection order, there’s very little they can do about it.  How can we incentivise dairy farmers to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, if they’re not getting paid more for their milk?  You’ll hear from Richard Heath, he leads the Zero Net Emissions Agricultural Cooperative Research Centre… and we’ll be discussing what it takes to make a net zero steak? To the weekly wool report - the Eastern Market Indicator added 10 cents, closing at 1,142 cents…  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 15th

You'll hear about the CSIRO report to the latest from the cop29 conference, Global Carbon Budget which shows carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from fossil fuels have reached a record high this year and agricultural lending has increased Farmers are taking on debt so they can invest back into their businesses, particularly on buying more land.  And a better way to label wool: the Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme   We have the next in our series of seasonal updates, and the green drought in the South West of the State has been a major story this year.  They might be little critters,  but the humble Honey Bee has a major impact on Australian Agriculture and this week is a chance to celebrate as its Australian Pollinator Week. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 14th

The United Dairyfarmers of Victoria is demanding the national dairy body, Dairy Australia, remove dairy processors from the organization.  To our series on seasonal updates, and today we head to Western Victoria which has had one of the driest winters on record. We’ll then head to the Riverina where harvest is in full swing but pastures are drying out very quickly. Australia’s cattle industry is anxiously watching the spread of Lumpy Skin Disease across Asia. It has of course swept through Indonesia, and now it’s as far north as Japan. And the Victorian Government substantially increasing probate fees and what that means for farmers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 13th

Sheep producers in western Victoria and south east South Australia are being forced to cull older ewes due to the poor season The grain harvest is now in full swing in the  Southern Riverina and starting in Victoria’s North East.  To yet another line of research into flystrike protection in sheep, and the latest project is looking at nanotechnology to develop a tea tree oil biopesticide.  Australian Women in Agriculture is hosting an online, the first in a series dedicated to helping women join agricultural boards and leadership positions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 12th

To solar farms, and a rather different take. A study of sheep grazing under solar panels on a large scale solar farm shows an improvement in wool quality and weight gain. What are the risks and benefits that lie ahead for Australian agriculture as Donald Trump returns to presidency? You’ll hear from Rabobank’s Stefan Vogel. On Country Today, our team of reporters are this week filing updates on the farming season as we head into summer. First up we'll head to Gippsland where  the lack of rain has been a concern for farmers.  And coming into summer, its important farmers know how much water they have in dams. Ag Victoria has developed a dam depth measuring device that farmers can make themselves using fishing tackle.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 11th

Australian beef exports have reached the highest levels on record, The annual survey of Victoria’s game duck population is about to start. What is a Donald Trump presidency likely to mean for Australian agriculture, in particular, the beef and cropping sectors. You’ll hear about the plantation timber industry contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions And the weekly wool report See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 8th

The forecast is for a wetter and warmer three months. Libby Price spoke to Ag Victoria's Seasonal Risk Agronomist, Dale Grey. As we enter the new bushfire season, smoke detecting Artificial Intelligence software is being trialled to help detect bushfires earlier We’ll cross to the United States, and no, not to talk about the election.. early days on that for agriculture.. you’ll hear all about food integrity.  We’ll be joined by  Charlie Arnot is CEO of the Centre for Food Integrity based in Missouri. He says it’s a case of buyer beware of the large retailers And with the dry season in southern parts of Australia,  More sheep and cattle have been sold through livestock saleyards, an increase of more than 2 million animals   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 7th

The general public are being asked to get involved in fruit fly control, simply by reporting any rogue fruit trees. The Nationals warn the federal government has been too slow in its response to a senate inquiry into the spread of fire ants. The National Rural Health Alliance has released a report today recommending governments make significant changes to health service delivery to address the inequities in health outcomes in rural and remote areas. Also today, Indonesia claims it wants to be self-sufficient in food production within four years. Indonesia is Australia’s largest export market for live cattle and wheat. Today we’ll look at both. Firstly, what would Australia’s beef and live cattle export market look like, without Indonesia in the picture?. Should we prepare ourselves to say farewell to the billion dollar wheat export market. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 6th

Food inflation in Australia is well above the long term average, with the fresh produce industry being the most volatile.   An AI driven product developed in Australia called GreenView is giving grape and berry growers far more accurate yield forecasts.  Australia’s sheep flock suffers from a fertility problem. That’s the conclusion of a massive 14 year study of the reproductive performance of 7 million ewes. And two different options for farmers going through difficult financial times. You’ll hear about some of the lending options from Australian Government farm business lender, RIC (Regional Investment Corporation) And more practical help Rural Financial Counselling Victoria  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 4th

A Meat and Livestock Australian funded project has investigated the ideal ageing time for different cuts of lamb. At the moment. Most is aged for 5 days. But the study shows it should be two weeks Mitchell Taylor, of Taylors Wines is in Shanghai at the moment. He says it will take four to five years to rebuild relationships with the Chinese market. Farmers say the ACCC's interim report into Supermarket pricing still ignores their pleas for regulations on fresh food pricing. the not-for-profit Mulloon Institute has announced a partnership with food and beverage company, Vitasoy which will donate funds for land restoration projects, The wool market fell yet again this week See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - November 1st

Country Today has been at the digital agrifood summit in Wagga Wagga  and from that conference, we’ll take a look at two different takes on renewable energy.  The first is a farmer from the Riverina who has built what she calls a solar garden.  A small solar farm that sells plots to city investors who can then claim back the renewable energy off their power bills.  And the other side of the debate. What farmers need to know about renewable developments encroaching on their land. You’ll hear from Opening keynote speaker, New Zealand farmer Mike Casey claims to have the first fully electric farm. He spoke to Libby Price. Measuring methane emissions in livestock is currently more of a guess, not taking into account all the variables. And what is greenwashing of food products?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 31st

The VNI West transmission line route has finally been released after months of uncertainty. you'll hear from one farmer who is refusing to share his land with the highly controversial high-voltage line.We’ll be discussing some practical ways to ensure you’re always prepared for a water shortageHas the updated food and grocery code of conduct draft - really addressed the concerns of the fresh produce industry?…the nff horticulture council certainly doesn’t think so.The 3G Network shutdown has officially begun this week, with Telstra and Optus transitioning to 4G and 5G networks…how will this impact farming equipment?A new research project is coming to the Wimmera..Horsham's Smart farm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 30th

Grain Producers Australia has made a submission to the Australian Pesticides and Medicines Authority arguing the cast to NOT ban the chemicals Paraquat and Diquat.  All the details of a webinar, ‘what makes a soil carbon project work. GrainGrowers has released a report on the significant implications of the United States presidential election. Be it Trump or Harris, farmers, fasten your seatbelts. Graincorp harvest workers in NSW are taking one hour rolling stoppages due to another breakdown in wage negotiations. A very enthusiastic young farmer. Ebony Wilson doesn't come from a farming family, is in seventh heaven in her chosen career in the dairy industry. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 29th

To the timber industry, it’s estimated between 15 and 30 percent of all wood traded globally is the product of illegal logging. So the Federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has trialled technologies to verify species and origins of timber.  The Gardiner Foundation is providing funding for three young farmers from South-west Victoria to attend the Australian Dairy Conference in the Gold Coast in February next year. The methane reducing cattle feed additive made from the seaweed asparagopsis, is also increasing weight gain in cattle in commercial feedlots NSW farmers are one step closer to being able to use of virtual fencing With the winter crop harvest looming, some great tips for farmers to reduce the risk of harvester fires this summerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 28th

All the details of a series of drought drop-in sessions are being held across south-west Victoria. Telstra is upgrading its financial hardship program to include customers dealing with natural disasters We’ll take a look at the lamb market with opportunities for farmers to buy and fatten some of the lower priced store lambs It's been a challenging year in Victoria's North-East and the Southern Riverina -- as farmers get ready for harvest.  The weekly wool report and the market , EMI falling seven cents to close at 1131 cents a kg clean. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 25th

Is Australia too reliant on China for our agricultural exports?  Predictions the record dry across Victoria’s south west will be followed by plentiful rain.  The Victorian Farmers Federation has released a map with areas in red being no go zones for renewable energy transmission lines. But members are furious the entirety of North West Victoria, including the planned route of the controversial VNI west power lines hasn’t been included. The NSW Government  funds a dispute resolution service for farmers opposed to renewable energy project. which will be conducted by the Energy and Water Ombudsman. But does that mean projects could be stopped? It probably comes at no surprise to the timber industry that the number of saw mills has fallen across the country. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 24th

The latest wool market campaign, wear wool not waste,   Victoria's water register has collapsed, putting an abrupt hold on all Goulburn Valley water being traded into the Murray.  A “marginally larger” winter crop this season, though well down on the 5 year average.   If you're passionate about making a difference in agriculture, the Zanda McDonald Award applications for 2025 are now open. Plus the weekly Weekly Times report with James Wagstaff.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 23rd

The crop damage from last week's hailstorms in Western Victoria is proving to be a lot worse than first thought. To Timber plantations, landholders are eligible for grants of $2,000 per hectare to plant a timber crop on their property.  Dairy Australia estimates within 20 years, forty per cent of our herd will be housed. The resumption of Australia's lucrative lobster export market to China should be in time for the Chinese New Year.  While media focus on the Royal Tour has been the angry outburst from Indigenous senator Lidia Thorpe, you’ll hear from another federal mp who was thrilled to meet the King and Queen when they visited Parliament House in Canberra.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 22nd

It’s turned out to be a disastrous spring for many grain growers with lack of rain, frosts and now hail.  Crop insurance assessors are busy looking at hail damage in Western Victoria, with estimates of damage in the tens of millions of dollars. Moving further north to the Mallee and parts of the Riverina, some farmers have had the double whammy of frost then hail with some facing 100 per cent losses. And there's mounting opposition to a huge $750 million solar farm in North East Victoria on prime farming country. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 21st

Australian Wool Innovation has released its annual report and the numbers reflect the downturn in the industry and a reduction in the flock. AWI Chair Jock Laurie. wIll talk about  expenditure now exceeding revenue by $3 million and criticisms of the amount of the payout to former CEO Stuart McCullough of nearly $500 k.  Farmers in the Wimmera have been hit by hail storms, completely destroying some crops. With this wild weather and so many crops being hail or frost damaged, farmers are opting to cut them for hay.  The weekly wool report and the market was more subdued than last week  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 18th

India this year has surpassed China with the world’s largest population. So is India the next frontier for Australia agriculture? The Federal Government has announced that under its Growing Regions Program, they have not signed any contracts for projects. Are you a sheep producer who’d like to stop mulesing but just don’t know where to start? You’ll hear about MLA funded project "Transitioning to a Non Mulesed Flock"  Australian beef exports have been strong this year, with just a slight disruption to China because exports exceeded the 'safeguard trigger volume' in September The Aussie Bird Count is on this week -- Data collected will give BirdLife Australia an annual snapshot of how our birds are faring across the country. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 17th

We’ll take a look at the Worksafe campaign targeting farmers, it’s never you until it is. We also find out how the 20 minute calving rule works there are investigations in to the troubled PALM worker scheme, of the Pacific Australia Labor Mobility Scheme. Last week, President of Timor Leste, Jose Ramos-Horte told the National Press Club that the scheme has allowed exploitation of workers. So how widespread is this kind of exploitation?  Prior to the September frost, pulses were predicted to reach record levels, we’ll take a look at the extent of frost damage The weekly Weekly Times report, editor James Wagstaff talks about the Victorian Government's cuts to the regional development spending from $1 billion to just $250 millionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 16th

Australian farmland values have continued to grow this year albeit at a slower pace.  Farmers are having to make the tough decision on whether to feed lambs to finish them, or whether to cut their losses and sell as store lambs.  War and wheat. The title of a just published book. Did you know the Australian Wheat Board was created by Government due to the chaos of WW1 Workers at Graincorp sites in NSW are planning to go on strike during what is expected to be a bumper harvest.  A workshop for beef cattle producers struggling with managing their breeding programs in such a dry year is being held at Casterton tomorrow See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 15th

Dairy farmers are concerned a drop in the price of home brand milk could be the start of a new “milk war”.  An immersive virtual reality tool has been developed, to help streamline training for workers in the nation's $24 billion dollar forestry industry. Is it possible to measure pain in animals, and also to test if the pain relief they’re given is working? Scientists are trying to do just that by using research already done in humans and translating that into livestock Southern Farming Systems is holding its AgriFocus 2024 at Streatham in Western Victoria this Wednesday looking at high rainfall zone farming systems Victorians are encouraged to engage with nature this October and record frog calls for Frog Month Victoria.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 14th

The Victorian Farmers Federation general election is next month and Mallee farmer and former VFF vice president Brett Hosking has thrown his hat in the ring. We’ll take a look at the highly virulent strain of bird flu, H5N1. It's thought it's only a matter of time before it makes it to Australia.  Chicken and dairy farmers need to carefully monitor their flocks and herds That’s following the experience with the virus in the United with 14 States now reporting outbreaks. You’ll hear about the most common modes of transmission.  The weekly wool report and the market had the strongest rise since February 2023.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 11th

Feedback on wool from the longest-running wool conference in China, Nanjing Wool Market. One of the Wimmera’s favourite events for women in agriculture is returning Chicks in the Sticks is back focussing on low emissions farming. In the rush to renewable energy, farmers are reporting what they think is harassment from companies eager to clinch deals to construct wind farms. A recent economic stimulus package in China could spell good news for wool producers, with the cash injection expected to increase demand. The Helping Regional Communities prepare for drought initiative has found agriculture dependent communities are becoming more socially resilient to the impacts of drought. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 10th

You’ll hear about how 40 years of agricultural research shows the impact of different types of crop management on soil Carbon and Nitrogen Farmers urged to go to the Tatura SmartFarm to find out about the very hungry caterpillar, the fall army worm which could be munching its way through crops near you. Also Cattle Australia explains why the European Union has decided to delay the introduction of its controversial Deforestation Regulations A Trump victory in next month’s US elections could mean for Australia’s agricultural exports   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 9th

The Southern Victorian Merino Field days are on again. You'll hear from field day president, Pat Millear. A large water entitlement in Victoria's Goulburn Valley is expected to attract strong bidding interest from farmers. On Country Today we've recently reported on frost damage to crops in Victoria. In the Mallee entire crops have been wiped out. To add insult to injury, there was another frost overnight.    A big win for a dairy farm in Gippsland which is sponsoring two skilled workers from Kenya Australia's forestry industry has just been  given a $100 million boost See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 8th

Cocoa prices have hit their highest levels in nearly 50 years. We take a look at beef exports with some strong demand from the U.S. and South Korea. Time is of the essence with the season still drier than average  you’ll hear from Seasonal Risk Agronomist Dale Grey The Victorian Government is abandoning the Fruit Fly Control Program much to the horror of fruit growers. . A Land Care Group in the Southern Grampians is running a ten-week fox control program.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 7th

Scientists have found a new conservation approach to saving vulnerable species from the impacts of climate change. You’ll hear from a Conservation biologist, Victorian dairy farm profits were above the long-term average , that is according to the most recent Dairy Farm monitor annual survey… Will we be faced with hyper inflated water prices all because of the tender water buybacks? We’ll be discussing the southern murray darling basin plan and the final submission date for expressions of interest… It’s that time of year, when we need to start preparing for bushfire season and the CFA is in urgent need for more staff.   And it’s Friday so the weekly wool report…and the Eastern Market Indicator …closed the week at 1,104 cents a kg, with a weekly gain of 17 centsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 4th

It’s been a big week for David Jochinke as it marks one year as president of the National Farmers Federation. It’s also 12 months until the Victorian Farmers Federation plan on officially resigning from the NFF. Their notice has been submitted - so Country Today wanted to find out what David plans on doing with that time…or if it really is over? Is protected cropping a solution to food security?  China is purchasing less wheat, although the market is still strong and Canola and Pulses are looking fair. Although conflict in the red sea continues to cause freight issues and you may have noticed a spike in transport prices.   The frost damage in some parts of the state has been immense. So much so, that farmers are having to be innovative with how they make use of failed cropSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 3rd

Woolworths decided to shave 5c per litre off their homebrand milk, it comes after the ACCC’S investigation into pricing at coles and woolworths  Then the dairy industry welcomes Australia's new bilateral trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates, Large-scale wind and solar farms are coming to the Hay Plain in southern New South Wales and the community is making sure it benefits. While South West Victoria is well known for its food and fibre sector...it is also shaping up to soon lead the way on Hydrogen research, testing and training. we ‘ll hear about a  20 Million Dollar Hycel Technology HubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 2nd

We’re constantly hearing about cattle as large methane emitters, but what would it look like if we didn’t have them grazing the land?  Dry conditions in the southern part of the state are leaving paddocks bare … with one saleyard having to nearly double their prices for hay. We’ll be going through the Global Methane budget for 2024, to see how much emissions have increased over the last 20 years.  We'll hear from another farmer in the Wimmera region about his tough start to the seasonAnd it’s spring which means snakes …we’ll find out what to do if you spot one on your property. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - October 1st

VNI WEST -  Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West - it’s the 500 kilovolt overhead transmission line which has been approved to be built on farming land.  Charinga merino stud held its main ram sale today, if you can’t make it to the sale they’re at auction plus, north of st arnaud.  Plastic - it’s everywhere, even in the places you’d least expect to find it. So how can we break the cycle? A vineyard North of Melbourne is turning mulch and compost, which has been taken straight out of Melbourne bins, into wine.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 30th

The Barham Micro Abattoir has been approved for processing of poultry. Crime Stoppers and Agriculture Victoria have joined forces to launch the 'Your Pet, Our Pest' Campaign. People with illegal exotic pets are asked to surrender the animals -- no questions asked. Farmers in Victoria's Wimmera are having to make some tough decisions due to the poor season and hail and frost events Finley High School in the southern Riverina showcasing its Agricultural Program at the Royal Melbourne Show.  Andrew Partidge has the weekly wool report.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 26th

Farmers' worst fears are being realised with significant frost damage in pulse crops in the Mallee and southern NSW An update on how farmers are faring with western Victoria’s driest season in living memory. The Australian Agtech company MEQ has just launched a new platform that gives prime lamb producers  previously unimagined access to data and trends around the eating quality traits of entire mobs.  Farmers are being warned to try to minimise broadleaf weed spray drift if they are near vineyards.  We find out about how a northern Victoria farmer became one of four official Australian photographers for the paralympics in Paris.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 25th

A grain grower from the WA wheatbelt is trialling using drones to map mouse numbers in crops. Farmers are urged to seek legal advice when they're approached by commercial businesses, seeking grant of rights for land use on farms. The supermarkets Coles and Woolworths are being taken to court by the ACCC for allegedly misleading shoppers with claims of discounted products. The National Farmers Federation CEO has quit to take on the role as Australia’s next Energy Infrastructure Commissioner. A cost of living forum was held in Ararat in the state's south west.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 24th

Bumble bees in Tasmania are being geared up with micro radio transmitters and cameras to help scientists uncover their crucial role in crop pollination. China drops its huge imports of Australia’s table grapes It's 20 years since the Australian wool industry made a commitment to phase out mulesing, which it reneged on. RSPCA Australia is now calling for States to ban mulesing. WE also atake a look at the wool industry's response to renewed calls for a ban on mulesing. And a farmer expo called 'A Little Bit of Relief' shines a light on farmers' mental health. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 23rd

We take a look at the outlook for fertilizer prices, as Rabobank is predict's a volatile year ahead. Wool growers can now vote in WoolPoll24 to determine how much they pay in the wool levy.  The National Irrigators Council is warning State Governments to not sign the revised National Water Agreement. The Australian Women in Agriculture Annual Conference is heading to Albury next week. We have the weekly wool report and the EMI fell one cent to close at 1098 cents  per kgSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 20th

Cattle Australia has launched its Land Management Commitment strategic policy, which includes definitions of deforestation. You’ll learn all about the product Efflu8, used to manage effluent ponds in dairy an intensive animal production Seasonal risk agronomist Dale Grey gives his assessment of whether La Nina will make it in time to bring good spring rain. Crop assessors are already out inspecting for frost damage in the Mallee. Libby Australia has just signed its first Free Trade Agreement with a nation in the Middle East.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 19th

More than three thousand kilograms of asparagus has been dumped from the major supermarkets, after damaging winds in Victoria and New South Wales left the crops slightly curved.  Australian Beef Leaders are seeking people between the ages of 21 to 35 looking for a career in beef ANZ has released its latest spring outlook and no surprises, all States except Victoria and South Australia are optimistic. Charinga merino stud is holding its annual open day tomorrow, Thursday 19 at Berrimal in central Victoria. The weekly Weekly Times report with Editor James Wagstaff about ongoing concerns about the closure of regional bank branchesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 18th

Rabobank has released its latest farmer confidence survey. a dry winter has left Victorian farmers less confident than farmers in other States.   An annual scholarship program which supports students from dairying regions in their further studies, has opened for applications  Wheat prices have gone up due tensions in the Black Sea Farmers are accusing some media of cherry picking information on deforestation The Henty Machinery Field Days are on again this week  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 17th

What started out as a very dry cropping season has flourished into a good crop for Riverina farmers A nationwide commitment to addressing housing and rental shortages in the bush is falling by the wayside. Farmers threatening to go to court to try to stop huge electricity towers being built on their land. Four months after hundreds of thousands of chickens in western Victoria had to be euthanized due to an avian influenza outbreak, restrictions are finally being eased.  And Rural Financial Counselling Services reminding farmers help is available    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 16th

For dairy farmers, milk equals money, the latest research shows under-performing calves could be identified from as early as five days old An Angus stud heifer has sold for $6500 with all proceeds going to the Angus Foundation The very lucrative export of live dairy heifers to has slowed to a trickle  We take a look at the beef cattle market which is rather volatile at the moment. The weekly wool report and a slight rise in the EMISee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 13th

There's a bright outlook for the Australian Almond Industry Wa investigate the crisis in regional childcare services.   Australia’s booming beef exports to China are about to be hit with a 12 per cent tariff A tomato virus which can reduce crop yields by up to 70-percent has been detected in Australia. It's that time of year again when magpies turn into dive bombers, swooping on unsuspected passers by. What can we do about it? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 12th

In this episode: Australian Wool Innovation has recommended wool growers vote to increase the wool levy to 2 per cent.The Regional Investment Corporation  low-cost Farm Investment Loans.15 years ago Australia was in a gas boom , now there's talk of importing because we're running out. So what's really going on?Also today Australia’s agricultural exports have fallen, but there is a shining light.To the weekly Weekly Times report. Libby Price spoke to editor James Wagstaff.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 11th

In this episodes: Today, we head to Parliament House in Canberra, where a convoy of trucks and tractors and farmers on foot are demonstrating in the Keep the Sheep campaign. It started in Western Australia when the Federal Government passed legislation to phase out the live sheep trade. But in the past few weeks, more, though not all, farmer organisations have jumped on board. We'll to Keep the Sheep campaign's Benno Sutherland.President of the National Farmers Federation David JockinkeCEO of Wool Producers Jo Hall.Also, a member of Mallee, Dr Anne Webster, said that the nationals are joining the cause.New records have been set in global beef markets, See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 10th

There's a national shortage of hay and farmers are being encouraged to consider cutting crops for fodder this season. Agriculture Victoria is encouraging farmers to seek help as they navigate current difficult conditions.   The so-called Green Drought in Victoria’s south west is leaving dairy farmers at breaking point.  The 3G mobile network shut down is not just going to impact mobile phone services, It's also medical devices and farming equipment. The weekly wool report and the EMI rose 4 cents due to a lower Australian Dollar See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 6th

Farmers are frustrated with the limits on culling kangaroos. Birchip Cropiing Group’s Main Field Day is next Wednesday the 11th of September at Kinnabulla. nitrogen Management strategies and hyper yielding cereals are just some of the topics being discussed at the event. China has announced an anti‑dumping probe on Canadian canola.. The dry winter in Victoria's Northeast is forcing beef producers to wean calves early. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 5th

ABARES estimates agricultural production with rise four per cent on gross value this financial year. Sheep producers in Victoria's south west can expect lower lambing percentages due to the record dry winter. LambPro's Tom Bull has broken away from traditional farming practices with self-replacing systems and talks about how to remain labour efficient on the farm. And farmers fear the Victorian Government is one step closer to abandoning wild dog controlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 4th

Spring has sprung and so too have lamb prices, with the spring sucker lambs selling for more than $300 Waste not, want not: Australians generate more than 7 million tonnes of food waste each year. There's yet another case of a renewable energy project that appears to be going ahead with little or no consultation. The Northern Grampians Shire will soon be home to a three hundred and fifty megawatt battery Wool Producers is the latest farmer body to join the Keep the Sheep campaign and National Farmers Federation rally being held next in Canberra. With the onset of spring, Wildlife Victoria is expecting to be inundated with orphaned native animals. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 3

China is sending messages that it might not be so keen on some of our feed grain. More than half Australia’s sheep flock is suspected to have lung damage due to sheep pneumonia. Farmers are increasingly concerned the Victorian Government is going to dump its wild dog control program. The recently formed Keep the Sheep campaign is raising money to target federal seats to get rid of the Albanese Government. And we have Rabobank's Global Dairy Quarterly Report. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - September 2

There's huge potential for exports of feed grain to South East Asia.   West Vic Dairy is offering advice to farmers on Succession Planning, Employment or Farm Safety, Great news for beef: a study of greenhouse gas emissions from grass fed cattle in the United States shows emissions were lower than on ungrazed land The Australian Agri-Renewables Innovation Challenge is set to accelerate new technologies and services. The Wool market has closed at a four year low at 1087, down 26 cents. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 30th

Grain growers need to be on the lookout for stripe rust in wheat crops which has been the biggest cause of yield loss in previous years.  On Country Today, we’ve discussed several times the onerous deforestation regulations of the EU, Food Agility chief scientist, Professor David Lamb is confident the AgTrace Australia project could solve the problem. Could outdated employment practices be the reason for farm labour shortages? And we have more information The Birchip Cropping Group Main Field day on next monthSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 29th

In this episode: Wheat prices have fallen dramatically.Year 11 Scotch College student Max Phelps who has an Australian Indigenous Education Foundation scholarship.La Trobe Valley residents exposed to air pollution when the 2014 Hazelwood coal mine fire show signs of accelerated lung aging.NSW is going to get an Independent Agriculture Commissioner who will assist farmers with the problems of renewable energy rollouts.The National Farmers Federation's latest survey of more than 1000 farmers shows widespread dissatisfaction with government.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 28th

In this episode of Country Today: Country Today was at the Herald Sun Weekly Times Bush Summit in Bendigo.The major topic was renewable energy: Keynote speaker Victorian PremierJacinta Allan copped some heckling from the crowd.Marnoo farmer Ben Duxson has the planned VNI West transmission lines running through his property.You’ll also hear from CEO of Hancock Agriculture and S Kidman and Co, Adam Giles. about the groundswell of dissatisfaction with Governments not listening to regional Australians.The other major topic was regional road funding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 27th

In this episode: Can livestock slaughter be more humane? More than sixty per cent of consumers don't want to know the details of slaughter ... but they do want to know it's been done as humanely as possible.Charity Rural Aid is taking entries for its annual photography competition with 12 photos to feature in its calendar. We're going to focus on methane emissions from sheep and cattle. First Cattle Australia questioning how emissions are calculatedand then ... Integrity Ag has spent the past three years breaking it down and creating a plan for the sheep industry to reach its targets..Get an update on the first detection of Varroa Mite in Victoria.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 26th

In today's episode, farmers are encouraged to keep an eye out for Fall Armyworm, as the very hungry caterpillar munches its way through veggie crops in East Gippsland. Scientists are collecting a library of hail stones so they can better understand and predict damaging storms.  There has been mounting opposition to the recommendation of merging regional health services in Victoria. You’ll hear from leader of the National’s, Peter Walsh, about the ‘hands off our hospitals’ petition. Australia's biosecurity capabilities have been substantially bolstered with the launch of the new 30 million dollar Charles Sturt University Biosecurity Hub at Wagga Wagga. The weekly wool report and the auctions returned after a three week recess.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 23rd

In today's Podcast, Divisions within the Victorian Farmers Federation have worsened. United Dairy Farmers of Victoria President Bernie Free has been banned from VFF Melbourne headquarter. You’ll hear from Bernie about where this leaves UDV members. Farmers fear the Victorian Government is going to ban wild dog control on public land] 2While it may not have been a complete shock, Bee Keepers across Victoria are digesting the news that Varroa Mite has been detected in Victoria for the first time  A Victorian is runner up in this years  AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 22nd

Lamb prices have been disappointing this year, but finally, it looks like things are turning around. You’ll hear how farmers in Tasmania are faring in what has been the driest year on record A mid-year report on the progress of the Murray Darling Basin Plan has just been released by the Basin Authority. You’ll hear from MDBA Chief Executive Andrew McConville The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman reported more than 50 thousand complaints in the last financial year for regional telco customers .. that’s nearly 1k a week. The Weekly Times report. Editors James Wagstaff talking about the improvement in beef cattle prices and the Herald Sun Bush Summits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 21st

There's been some handy rain over the weekend. It's a real boost for grain growers in Victoria's southern cropping zones, but for livestock farmers, pastures are still suffering and animals are being grain fed. Meanwhile Southwest Victorian farmers face an incredibly tough season. Australian Dairy Farmers President, Ben Bennett proposes one-off emergency drought payments. Further north, Good news for irrigators in the southern Murray Darling Basin … There are high water storages in the basin despite a dry winter.  We take a look at Australia's wool production with the forecast to fall by just over three per cent in this year. We also find out about "The Small Blocks Big Dreams Healthy Hectares Guide" for  small-scale producers, bush block owners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 20th

Lamb meat is becoming tougher to eat, as farmers seek to produce a leaner product. You'll hear from meat scientist Dr Peter McGilchrist.  The wool market is going through tough times at the moment and that’s being reflected in current merino ram sales. The plantation timber industry can’t keep up with the demand for timber for housing, so more and more land in Victoria is being planted to pine trees.  The Victorian Government has draft Animal Care and Protection Legislation that could effectively outlaw recreational fishing competitions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 19th

We’ll introduce you to Margaret who has become a TikTok sensation with 30 million views of her promoting Bulla dairy foods cottage cheese of all things. Chemical manufacturer and plant breeder BASF has just released two new varieties of InVigor canola. It was inevitable: varroa mite has been detected in bee hives in Victoria, Federal Parliament pressured to tackle a national grain freight strategy, with transport a huge cost to farmers, And we’ll cross to Brazil to find out why there is a global shortage of coffee beans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 16th

 If you're a young person looking for a career in agriculture, the 2025 Ground breaker program might be the perfect start. The 32nd Variety Club Bash, the Red Dirt to Reef is raising funds for Victorian children living with disabilities, illnesses, or experiencing disadvantage. We find out about this years bash and the Variety Bikes for Kids program Queensland is the first government to challenge the bargaining power of the major supermarkets, announcing it will appoint a Food Farmer Commissioner.  If you're growing pulses this season, you should be keeping a close eye on a disease called Ascochyta Blight. With access to healthcare in regional areas is worsening, The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare says one in 18 rural hospitalisations were classified as potentially preventable .See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 15th

The wool Market is experiencing a lot of uncertainty with recent recession fears and the possibility of another Trump Presidency, and whilst the wool market is in the doldrums, we’ll find out why sheep farmers are happier than the average Australian.   Professor Paul Wood is a biotechnologist at Monash University and an advisor to the Global Methane Hub which is coordinating vaccine research to reduce methane emissions in ruminants. We’ll find out where the research it at. Cotton Australia’s annual sustainability report highlights an overall increase in productivity, but it also shows there’s still work to be done. These stories in this episode of Country Today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Country Today - August 14th

With the cost of diesel continuing to increase we’ll find out what impact that's had on farm profitability. Emily Minney speaks with National Extension Manager Emily King about the “Making More from Sheep." In the race to find ways to reduce methane emissions from livestock, a dry feed supplement called Mylo is showing promise.  Regenerative wool is becoming increasingly popular in the fashion industry, but regulations are yet to be put in place to ensure accountability. And with 45 header fires in the Mallee region alone, with several others in the Wimmera, The CFA has released a report available to farmers showing all the causes of header fires and a pre-season harvest checklist. These stories in this episode of Country Today.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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