rural SOUTHERN DOWNS AND GRANITE BELT MONTHLY RURAL ROUND-UP APRIL 2017
GOING WITH THE GRAIN
12345728-PB16-17
World-leading research in the region ... see more inside on pages 8-9.
OLSENS PRODUCE ‘PRODUCT OF THE MONTH’ - HORSE RUGS AND DOG COATS
WE'RE FOR THE LAND
WINTER is coming around very quickly this year, so don’t go past Olsens Produce’s range of horse rugs and dog coats. In their horse rugs range Olsens stock Kozy Combo, Horsemaster Ripstop Combo, Hamilton Combo, Rip Protector Rug, Aircon Combo, Blue Mountain Rug, Jute Rug, Defender Rug, Supa-air Combo, Supastop/Guard Combo and Crusada Rug. The Kozy Combo: · Built for comfort, warmth and endurance, the classic Kozy is packed with features designed to maximise comfort for your horse and stay where you want it, even when your horse is enjoying the freedom of a paddock. · Now in safety high visibility material - find your horse, dawn or dusk. · We stock a wide range of patterns and colours in the Kozy combo for a low price of $120 including GST. Horsemaster Ripstop Canvas Combo: · 20oz Ripstop canvas, waterproof, cotton lined with 200g polyfill. · Single chest strap, double 50mm nylon surcingle straps, acrylic fleece wither pad, large tail flap, fully detachable leg straps and hood dees, buckle-up neck straps. We stock the navy blue and white in the Horsemaster Ripstop Canvas for a low price of $122 including GST. In their range of dog coats Olsens stock the famous Weatherbeeta Dog coats such as the parka and the windbreaker coats. Weatherbeeta Parka:
WELCOME to the second edition of the Southern Free Times’ specialist rural publication, ‘Rural Links’. Rural Links is our monthly, fullgloss publication inserted into the ‘SFT’ around the middle of the month and catering to the needs of our region’s farming sector, as well as being of general interest to the community. The Free Times team - Jeremy Sollars, Natasha Sheahan, Bryan Pask and Lisa Crouch - has been working hard to bring you our second edition of Rural Links and we thank all of the advertisers who supported both our first edition in March and the April edition for their valued contributions. We hope to further build Rural Links in the months to come - for advertising and editorial inquiries please call the Free Times team on the numbers below.
Olsens stocks a wide range of horse rugs. · Strong, waterproof and breathable 1200 denier outer shell with stylish triple weave outer. · Features strong 210T nylon lining with a warm 220g of polyfill. · Touch tape closure at the chest and adjustable belly closure. We stock a range of colors in this dog coat for a low price of $43 including GST Weatherbeeta Windbreaker: · Showerproof and strong, 420 denier outer shell with boa fleece lining for warmth. · Features touch tape chest closure and adjustable belly closure. We stock a range of colors in this dog coat for a low price of $32 including GST.
12348952-HM16-17
CONTACT US Jeremy Sollars Editorial
Natasha Sheahan
Full Range of Leading Brands for TRUCK • TRACTOR • 4X4 and CARS • Rubber Matting • Batteries
Advertising
natasha.sheahan@freetimes.com.au 0497 291 072
• Mag Wheels • On Farm Service
37 Victoria St., Warwick 4661 1819 Cnr Centenary & Logan Rds., Clifton 4612 3370 www.ryaniefortyres.com.au
Bryan Pask Advertising
bryan.pask@freetimes.com.au 0403 388 945
Lisa Crouch Admin/sales support
admin@freetimes.com.au 07 4661 9800
WE OFFER TOTAL WATER SOLUTIONS •PUMPSANDTANKS •IRRIGATIONSYSTEMS •PLUMBINGSUPPLIES •PIPEANDFITTINGS •PUMPINGSYSTEMS
General Enquiries Ph: 07 4661 9800 Shop 6/70 Fitzroy St, Warwick QLD www.freetimes.com.au/rural-links
rural
•WATERFILTRATION •FIREPROTECTION •FARMANDAGRICULTURE SUPPLY | DESIGN | MANUFACTURING INSTALLATION | MAINTENANCE 12345730-EPJ16-17
2 RURAL LINKS Thursday, 20 April, 2017
SPEAKTOOURTEAMOFWATER SPECIALISTSTODAY. WARWICK 34 Meneely Street Warwick QLD 4370 07 4661 1644
12345837-JV16-17
jeremy.sollars@freetimes.com.au 0427 090 818
WORKING HARD FOR PRIME RESULTS HAVING two consecutive Supreme Champion Lambs of the Warwick Show is the “icing on the cake” for John Skinner, who says there are “no secrets to winning” the top spot. “It’s a matter of having the right genetics and then what you put down their throats,” John said. John and Marion Skinner farm 240 acres at The Glen, 20km south of Warwick, and are on what John describes as “miserable” country. “It’s all deco (decomposed granite) country, very light soil which doesn’t hold on during a dry spell and necessitates having to supplement livestock through the worst of winter,” he said. “We aim to lamb at the end of August, after the worst of the cold weather and some years we’ll have early lambs finish on grass before Christmas, but the volume of our lambs go onto grain from about the end of January, once they reach 35kg live weight. “If it wasn’t for the small lamb feedlot, the lambs wouldn’t finish until much later in the year.” The Skinners have a composite flock of Poll Dorset and Dorper-cross ewes and have had up to 80 at times in the better years. “We have been using Poll Dorset rams bred by Graham Greenup at Marylands, just over the border, and I couldn’t be happier than I am with his rams,” John said. “He regularly tops the Warwick sale with prime lambs and they are much sought after. “As for feed, we buy Riverina Lamb Feedlot pellets in bulk and I always strive to have the best lucerne hay available to the lambs 24 hours a day. “Good clean water is important but I also let them out into a small, well-grassed paddock for a few hours every day. “It gives them space to run around and keeps them clean but as soon as they hear me bucketing pellets into the feeder, they’re back in a flash.” John said the prime lamb competitions held at the various agricultural shows and at rodeo time at the saleyards had provided excellent examples of what a well-finished lamb should look like. “My early attempts at the competitions placed nowhere but I took notice and learned a lot from other producers and various judges’ comments,” he said. “In recent years we’ve won several pen classes - three prime lambs - including a win at Stanthorpe Show, but two Supreme Prime Lambs at Warwick Show is the ‘icing on the cake’.”
John Skinner from The Glen notched up a second consecutive Supreme Champion Prime Lamb of the Warwick Show at the 2017 show in March.
79-85 Ogilvie Rd Warwick QLD
Phone 4667 0263
12348785-ACM16-17
For all your Transport, Ag & Automotive needs
Thursday, 20 April, 2017 RURAL LINKS 3
SHOT AT FERAL PLAN By Jeremy Sollars A Queensland Audit Office report on Biosecurity Queensland says it is “unclear” what benefits have resulted from the State Government’s investment in wild dog management in Queensland. The QAO’s Biosecurity Queensland Management of Agricultural Pests and Diseases Report 2016/2017 was released at the end of March and concludes Biosecurity Queensland “cannot always demonstrate it has successfully achieved the ultimate aims or outcomes of its programs”. The report takes particular aim at wild dog management, with the scourge costing the Australian economy around $60 million a year. The report states that “where Biosecurity Queensland shares responsibility for managing pests and diseases with other government and non-government entities, the effectiveness of its contributions is not always clear or easy to measure”. “This means Biosecurity Queensland cannot always demonstrate the value it has delivered,” the report says. “Wild dog management activities and surveillance activities are examples of this. “Although Biosecurity Queensland has met most of its commitments in the strategy, it is unclear what benefits have resulted from the state’s investment in wild dog management. “Limited data has been collected by Biosecurity Queensland and no evaluation
MUTINY ON PEST BOUNTY? By Jeremy Sollars
A Queensland Audit Office report suggests the effectiveness of state wild dog management is “not always clear or easy to measure”. of the strategy has been completed to date by the Queensland Dog Offensive Group - a subcommittee of the Biosecurity Queensland Ministerial Advisory Council.” The report goes on to state that Biosecurity Queensland has “documented strategies, objectives, and some performance indicators” for wild dog management, and for management of the Panama disease outbreak in North Queensland bananas. “However, in the main, the performance indicators are not specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timed (SMART),” the report says. “This means that Biosecurity Queensland is not in a position to monitor and report on how effective these activities are. The full report is available for download at www.qao.qld.gov.au
WILD dog bounties have been included in the Southern Downs Regional Council’s 2017/18 draft budget, despite an advisory committee to the council questioning their effectiveness as a control measure. The draft budget proposes a $100 bounty per dog and $50 per pup across the council area, with the draft currently out for public consultation, until Wednesday 10 May. Minutes of the March meeting of the council’s Pest Management Advisory Committee state that committee members have raised a question mark over the continuation of wild dog bounties, payable on the presentation of scalps. The issue arose during the committee’s consideration of a draft ‘Southern Downs Wild Dog Management Strategic Plan 20162020’. Previous council advice was that for the period January to September 2016, council paid out $19,300 for 190 adult dogs and six pups under the Wild Dog Bounty Program. The advisory committee - which includes Cr Cameron Gow, council pest management officers James Eastwell and Craig Magnussen, Southern Downs Wild Dog Management Advisory Committee chairman Clive Smith and state agency representatives - agreed that council should consider “reducing the current bounty offer”. The draft is online at www.sdrc.qld.gov.au
TopX Warwick specialise in the following areas: Auction Sales - Cattle & Sheep
Meatworks
Private Sales
Feedlot
Contact Your Local Agent George McVeigh M: 0459 441 606
Jim Ross M: 0437 982 233
12342075-RC11-17
Property Sales
E: warwick@topx.com.au
property marketing
12341894-FA11-17
livestock
www.agricon.com.au 4 RURAL LINKS Thursday, 20 April, 2017
Call James Dickson 07 4122 2599 or 0437 715 981
Lot 1, Ascot Hercules, in the selling arena at North Toolburra.
AUCTION ACTION AT ASCOT BUYERS descended in their droves on the Ascot Charolais and Angus inaugural Autumn Bull and Heifer Sale on Friday 24 March, held at the selling complex on North Toolburra. Owners Jim Wedge and Jackie Chard were pleased with the sale results, which included 19 Charolais bulls averaging $6894 to a top of $19,000, and 24 Angus bulls averaging $7375 and to a top of $13,000. Jim Wedge said there weren’t many other autumn bull sales and it was pleasing to see buyers continuing to re-build herds and invest
in high quality genetics. He was also “pleasantly surprised” by the interest shown in the heifers offered last month. He said Ascot’s premier Spring Sale was shaping up to be an exciting one and would feature “a lot of two year old bulls and some interesting yearlings,” with 110 bulls overall to be offered - including 60 Angus and 50 polled Charolais. The on-property Ascot Spring Sale will be held on Friday 29 September.
Rural Financial Counselling Service Southern Queensland
WARWICK’S ONLY LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED PRODUCE STORE • All Rural Needs • Pet Food • Stock Feed • Hay & Chaff • Seed, Chemical & Fertilizer
• Fencing Supplies • Animal Supplements & Medications • Agronomic & Nutritional Services
13 Lyons St, Warwick olsensproduce@westnet.com.au
• Horse Rugs • Dog Coats • Much, much more...
NEED HELP ASSESSING YOUR BUSINESS OPTIONS? The Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) provides free, conidential rural inancial counselling to farmers, ishing enterprises, forestry growers and harvesters, and small, related businesses who are experiencing inancial diiculties. 12341752-HM11-17
Did you know we are suppliers of:
Results from the Ascot Autumn Sale: · 19 Charolais bulls, averaging $6894 to a top of $19,000. · 24 Angus bulls, averaging $7375 and to a top of $13,000. · 32 joined Charolais heifers, averaging $2812 to a top of $5000. · 6 unjoined Charolais heifers, averaging $2416 to a top of $3500. · 35 joined Angus heifers, averaging $3386 to a top of $8000. · 2 unjoined Angus heifers, averaging $4000.
www.rfcssq.org.au Stay connected:
4661 2455 Olsens Produce
A counsellor can help with: • preparing cashlows • developing a business plan • negotiating with lenders • preparing for succession planning • preparing for retirement • assisting you to access the Farm Household Allowance (FHA) • providing information about government and other assistance schemes
12341435-HM11-17
By Jeremy Sollars
Rural inancial counsellors are mobile and can meet at a place convenient to you. To make your appointment please call your local Rural Financial Counsellor today. Micheal Fagg 0419 732 591 micheal.fagg@rfcssq.org.au Cnr Guy & Fitzroys Sts, Warwick QLD “Supported by the Australian Government and the Queensland Government”
• All Steel Sections •Roofing Products •Fencing Products •Stock Feeding Equipment •Repairs & General Fabrication •Handrails, Step Stringers House Stumps etc. 12342053-CG11-17
PH (07) 4661 5328
Cnr Ogilvie Rd & Cunningham Hwy, WARWICK QLD Thursday, 20 April, 2017 RURAL LINKS 5
THERE’S A COST WHEN DEER RUN FREE By Jeremy Sollars THE Condamine Alliance conducted a feral deer survey of landholders in the Warwick area earlier this month. The survey sought information about deer sightings and behaviour, including species, numbers, times of day and night spotted and the type of country. The Condamine Alliance is offering to organise visits from council pest management officers to producers and landholders to discuss impacts and feral deer management and control options. The most commonly seen species of feral deer in the Warwick and Stanthorpe areas is the fallow deer, but others can include the chital, rusa and red deer. Originally native to Iran and Iraq, fallow deer are an attractive species that generally have a tan or fawn coat. They were introduced to southern Queensland in the late 19th century. Fallow deer contained within a deer-proof fence, such as on farms or in game parks are not restricted invasive pests. Any fallow deer not within a deer-proof fence is considered feral or wild and subject to control. Farmed deer that escape captivity quickly revert to a wild state. Fallow deer can damage native and cultivated vegetation and pose a hazard to vehicles and humans and are a restricted invasive animal under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
The Condamine Alliance is building its knowledge base on feral deer. Fallow deer facts: · Found in temperate environments and less suited to hot conditions than other introduced deer species. · Prefers open, grassy glades in forest, with dense understorey a favoured retreat. · Generally grazes on grassy areas; browses trees and shrubs more when other feed is scarce. · Most active at dawn and dusk; feeds more during darkness. · Established populations found west of Stanthorpe, with scattered populations around Warwick. · Breeding season usually begins April and lasts six to eight weeks, with males aggressive until early August.
· Can damage forestry seedlings, agricultural and horticultural crops, commercial flower crops, orchards, irrigation systems and fences. · In orchards, feral deer sometimes selectively eat new growth and ringbark trees, leading to reduced orchard viability. · In dry seasons, feral deer can compete with cattle for pasture and supplementary feed. · Can be hazards on roads and highways and aggressive stags can be danger to humans in built-up areas. Sightings of feral deer should initially be reported to the Southern Downs Regional Council on 1300 697 372. Condamine Alliance contact - Kym Campbell, 0411 589 886.
2010 UP PK9 Crane Truck
2001 Mercedes Benz ML 320
2000 Ford Falcon Wagon
• 121,000 local kms • Full maintenance history • Palfinger PK8501 Crane
• LUXURY MODEL • 7 Seater
• Rego till Feb 2017 Backpacker Special
• 7.6 meter steel tray • $99,000 inc GST plus on road
$5,990 Drive Away
costs 12345314-LB15-17
$2,990 Drive Away
1999
• serviced with 6 months • Rego
2003 Toyota Avalon Sedan
• Well maintained • RWC and rego until July
1996 Volvo FL10 tray truck • Local truck • Ready for work
$2,490 Drive Away
• 6.8 meter tray • Reg until November 2017
$3,990 Drive Away
• $28,000 inc GST plus on road costs
2002 Mercedes Benz
2008 Holden Astra • • • •
• C240 Elegance • Safety, luxury and reliability at an affordable price • 6 months registration
Automatic Hatch Only 50,138 kms Local car since new 6 months registration
$8,990 Drive Away
$9,990 Drive Away
TFS Automotive 6 RURAL LINKS Thursday, 20 April, 2017
TRANSPORT FIELD SERVICE 12 Project St Warwick PH: 07 4661 3228 0409 826 182
STORM BENEFITS GO FAR DEEPER By Jeremy Sollars THEY say every cloud has a silver lining and for the Southern Downs and Granite Belt it would appear to largely be true in the wake of Cyclone Debbie. While some Warwick area producers have reported losses, including mung beans, overall the sub-soil moisture gained from the tropical depression into which Debbie formed over the Darling Downs has been welcomed. Pursehouse Rural sales manager Marty Kerlin said Southern Downs producers were largely upbeat about rainfall of between 100 and 150 millimetres in many areas. “Damage to infrastructure such as fences was isolated to flood-prone and low-lying areas where it would be expected,” he told the Free Times. “Crop damage from heavy rain appears to be minimal in comparison to the greater good gained. “It’s excellent for established early winter forage crops, and for finishing the end of summer forages. “Graziers with improved pastures and a fertiliser program
Marty Kerlin says increased subsoil moisture will aid planting confidence for producers. Stanthorpe's tomato and capsicum crops sustained some damage from the rain in the wake of Cyclone Debbie. will be reaping the rewards of careful planning - and the odd calculated punt. “It’s certainly an ideal start for winter cropping programs. “There’s a long-term gain for sub-soil moisture levels.” Marty said producers were now looking at winter forages such as oats, barley, rye grass and lucerne and the improved moisture levels would improve confidence for chickpea plantings. On the Granite Belt, Stephen Tancred of Orchard Services said the heavy rainfall did cause some quality problems with tomatoes, capsicums and strawberries and
it had been a “fairly average end to the season, even though it was quite a long season”. But he said on the plus side there was now “plenty of water” in dams and apple crops being harvested now had benefitted. He said there would be a gap in supply of tomatoes and capsicums in a month to five weeks due to picking issues in north Queensland brought on by Debbie. “In Bowen the plantings weren’t at harvest stage so they’ve had to re-build and that’s put those growers behind,” Stephen said. “Bundaberg will be picking
now, and there are going to be supply issues so we will see prices increase. “With strawberries here there were obviously some quality issues but with a week of fair weather which followed the rain plants were fruiting nicely, so those growers got out of it fairly quickly. “Apples have done well - the Granny Smiths and the Pink Ladies which are being harvested now are sizing well.” Stephen said wine grape growers had their harvest delayed due to the rain, which affected sugar levels in berries with increased water content. “Basically they’ve had to wait for the sugar levels to come back up, so the harvest was delayed but quality was not affected.”
AUCTION SATURDAY 13th MAY 2017
HOUSE:- 3 BEDROOMS--SUN ROOM -- KITCHEN / DINING -- FAMILY ROOM -- OFFICE -- BATHROOM -- TOILET -- FERN HOUSE -- LOCK UP GARAGE -- CAR PORT -- 3 SMALL COLOUR BOND SHEDS -- 2 RAIN WATER TANKS -- 3 R/V AIR CONDITIONERS. ALL THIS ON A CORNER BLOCK OF 1588sqm TO BE FOLLOWED BY AUCTION OF FURNITURE -- TOOLS -- CAMPER TRAILER -- MOWERS -- LARGE QUANTITY OF GENERAL EQUIPMENT ELECTRICAL TOOLS:- Ozito Reciprocating Saw, 5” Grinder, GMC Battery Drill, SHER Electrical Drill. Hitachi 9” Grinder, Electrical Drill, Ozito Battery Drill, Ozito Electrical Drill. Rockwell 710W/13mm Impact Drill, Ozito Palm Sander, Ozito Random Orbital Sander, Electrical Drill. Black Ridge 200 Hi Flow Electrical Air Compressor. 9” Double Bench Grinder.Taurus 3/4HP 200mm Double Bench Grinder. Ryobi Grind Force 6500 150mm 6” Bench Grinder. Uni Arc 180 Stick Welder. Hitachi 355mm Drop Saw. Powermac 12 Speed Heavy Duty Drill Press. Plasplugs High Speed Steel Drill Sharper. GMC Orbital Sander, Ozito 18v Lithium Battery Drill, Ozito 100mm Angle Grinder, Ryobi Cordless Driver drill. Ozito X2 Twin Cutter 1200W. Battery Charger. Ryobi Jigsaw. Skil 16mm (5/8) Drill Super Duty 2 Speed. Battery Charger. Ozito 13mm 710 watt Hammer Drill. WorkForce Electrical Vacuum Cleaner. Work Light. Renegade 200W Heat Gun. Compact 1000 Series Air Compressor. Qty Electrical Cords. TOOLS:- Qty Spanners. Qty Open Ended & Ring Spanners. Qty Screwdrivers (30. Shifter. Socket Set. assorted Spanners & Tools. Assorted Tools.Qty Pointer Nose Pliers. Qty Tin Snips. Power Sissors. Knife Set. Ratchet Screw driver. Titanium Coated Drill Sets. Masonry Drills & Assorted Drills. Qty of Drills AS NEW. Tool Box, Gauges, Air Tool Kit ( NEW). Seal Assorted Kit. Right Angle Drives, Vice Grips, Flexible Drive Tin Snips. Spanners, Spray Gun. Screw drivers.Pot Rivet Screwdrivers & Leather Punches, Hose Fittings. Masonary Bits. Hydro Jack, Wood Chisel & Levels. Spirit Levels. Rivets. Spade Bits, Assorted Drill & Bits. Drills & Plugs. Wire Brush Kit. Hand Drills. Drill Press Set. Spray Gun Filter. Hole saw Kit. Screw Driver Set. Taps & Dies. NEW Flame Gun. Pliers Set. Solar Welding Helmet. Stihl 023 Chainsaws. Qty Welding Rods. Dog Kennels. Ladder, Stands. Assorted Mesh & Gates. Tool Chest. GARDEN TOOLS:- Kawasaki zero turn rider mower FR 651V 21.5 HP 6 Hours- brand new. HONDA Easy Start Push Mower. Husquvarna Rotary Hoe, Snapper Rotary Hoe. 2 x Hedge Trimmer. 2 x HONDA Whipper Snippers. Leaf Blower, Garden Hoses. 4x Wheel Barrows. Shovels Picks, Racks, Crowbar. Axes, Hammers, Racks. Garden Sprays. Step Ladder, Work Plank Ladder, Qty Shelving, Garden Mesh. Gernie. Extension Ladder. Animal Cage GARDEN ORNAMENTS:- Windmill. Bird Bath. Wombat. Lizard. Ducks. Owl, Goanna, Kookaburra, Magpie. 3x Smurfs, Birds, Lion heads, Budgies. Chooks, Black Swans. turtles. Registered Camper Trailer:- 6x4 Trailer Fully Lockable -- Double Bed & 2 x 1.5m Canvas Awning Fully Weather Proof: AS NEW. WELL BORING GEAR:- Rope Hook. Recover Tool .Casing Slotter. Shoe for Chop Pump. Sand Pump Shoe. Swivel Bar. Lowing Tool GENERAL:- Endless Chain.9 Pigeon Holes Steel Locker. Shelving x 10 Bays. Lockable cupboard on Wheels. Numerous Cupboards. Vehicle Support Stands (JACKS).Qty Spray Paint. Large Pipe Vice. Vice. Air Hose, Spray Gun. Qty G Clamps ( Approx 40). Hand Saws. Spirit Levels. Saw Horses. Car Ramps. Cross Cut Saw. Hand Planner. Qty NEW Oil. Meat Safe. Hydro Jack. SHELL Specialised Lubrication Double Sided Enamel Sign. Bird cages. Cig Oxy gauges. Qty Paint. Suitcases. Qty Chains .3 x Jacks, Bottle Jack. Pipe stensils & pipe cutters HOUSEHOLD GOODS:- Scales. Lead light China Cabinet. Montana 6 string guitar, 50” TV (as new), 4 x office chairs, 4 draw filling cabinet, Steel Cabinets, white wardrobe, laminate table & 6 chairs, Westinghouse fridge / freezer, 320lt chest freezer, curved front lead light cabinet, 2 x mantle clocks, silky oak side board, silky oak china cabinet, double bedroom suite, solid timber wardrobedressing table & small chest of draws, fans, trolleys, sewing machine, elec mixer, books, 2x Mincers. 3 x Kero Lamps. PLUS SUNDRIES TOO NUMEROUS TO MENTION PAYMENT STRICTLY DAY OF SALE -- EFTPOS AVAILABLE
12345651-HM16-17
10am ON SITE 137 DRAGON STREET, WARWICK. HOUSE & LAND A/C M & M BELL
OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN OUR LOCAL AREA IN SELLING, AUCTIONEERING & CLEARING SALES Please call Stuart Bond on 0419 677 775 or
STUART BOND
www.stuartbondrealestate.com.au sbondrealestate@bigpond.com
REAL ESTATE & AUCTIONEER WARWICK, QLD, 4370 Thursday, 20 April, 2017 RURAL LINKS 7
RESEARCH AIMS TO HARVEST THE GOOD
Sorghum grown at the Hermitage Research Station comes in a surprising array of colours.
Fruit of his labour: An Ethiopian highlands farmer proudly displays a head of sorghum.
WHILE a failed sorghum crop in Australia means less feed for livestock, in Ethiopia it can mean entire families and communities go without a feed. World-leading research funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation at Warwick’s Hermitage Research Station is helping to famine-proof one of Africa’s most droughtprone nations, as well as extending huge benefits to Australian sorghum producers. Here in Australia sorghum finds its way into the stomachs of cattle and sheep and other livestock, but millions of people in the developing world rely on the grain as a staple food source. Around our own region we’re used to seeing commercial sorghum crops of a mostly uniform height and colour, but those being cultivated at the Hermitage are a delightfully diverse bunch, both in colouring and in height. Sorghum stalks are widely used as an animal feed, construction material and cooking fuel in Ethiopia, with some varieties grown there reaching well over three metres. Local scientists, University of Queensland professor in genetics and plant breeding David Jordan and principal research scientist Dr Emma Mace (joint appointment with Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and the University of Queensland) are leading a Hermitage team of around 10 scientists and other specialists undertaking groundbreaking work to improve sorghum’s drought resistance. It's in conjunction with their core sorghum improvement program funded by the Grains Research and Development Corporation. Professor Jordan, together with Professor Graeme Hammer from the University of Queensland, oversees a program which has attracted $4 million in funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and supported by $600,000 from the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), an agency of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. This program has two parts, the first being to improve sorghum production in Ethiopia through training and capacity building in
plant breeding, with the second about understanding the genetics of important drought resistance traits. Professor Jordan says conventional plant breeding employs the same principles as animal breeding, and in simple terms it’s about identifying the most desirable traits of “parents” and bringing them together. Professor Jordan said it’s “a complex science and Australian researchers are some of the world’s best in this area”. “It’s a bit like if you go to hospital to have a major procedure you’ve got a heap of different specialists working together,” he told Rural Links. “What we’re doing is improving the technical skills of plant breeders and scientists in Ethiopia to help them to develop better varieties and understanding the drought-resisting traits of sorghum.” Members of the Hermitage team and scientists from the university and DAF make the long trip to Ethiopia around three times a year, with the team made up of scientists from a range of disciplines, including genetics and genomics, statistics and IT. The program is producing benefits for Australia too. “As well as improving the technical skills of plant breeders and scientists in Ethiopia we are trying to develop better understanding of the drought-resisting traits of sorghum so we can breed better varieties for Australia and Ethiopia,” Prof Jordan said. “Drought is common in both countries, and so, in another aspect of the project we are looking at particular plant characteristics that allow them to use water more efficiently. “We’re looking at things like root architecture - how the roots of the plant position themselves in the soil - and how we can get them to grow deeper into the soil to reach moisture. “A plant uses water and sunlight to produce carbohydrate, which is the grain itself, so it’s also about identifying the genes in sorghum which allow for greater efficiency more grain using less water.” Dr Mace’s work focuses on understanding the genetic differences in sorghum’s genes that change the way they respond to drought.
stockMan watER tRouGHs 6FT ROUND TROUgh wiTh exTeRNal FlOaT chambeR
12FT lONg TROUgh & apRON cOmbiNaTiON
IFFEREnt oVER 20 D RouGHs t tYPEs oR bLE a IL a V a
www.toowooMbatanks.coM.au 8 RURAL LINKS Thursday, 20 April, 2017
Ph: 0408 140 061
12342224-CG11-17
BY JEREMY SOLLARS
Drought scene in Ethiopia.
Dr Mace said the benefits of the Hermitage team’s research were being seen on the ground both in Ethiopia and here at home. “What we’re doing is not only improving the technical skills of plant breeders and scientists in Ethiopia but also understanding the drought-resisting traits of sorghum, which are important in both Australia and Ethiopia,” Dr Mace said. The program is now in its fourth year and the results are not only helping to bolster Ethiopia’s food security but are also improving cropping outlooks for Australian sorghum production, with every commercial sorghum hybrid seed on the market bearing a genetic “stamp” from the Hermitage. And in more good news Hermitage scientists are embarking on a second project to extend their learnings from sorghum breeding to chickpeas, wheat, maize and common bean. As we head towards winter on the Southern Downs and Granite Belt the program’s sorghum cultivation focus will switch to the Hermitage’s sister research stations in Emerald and at Ayr in north Queensland, meaning the program runs yearround - and our own farmers will continue
to benefit as new sorghum genetic material continues to be commercially licenced. Professor Jordan said the commonly-held perception of Ethiopia being a desert land is only partly true. “It’s a really variable environment - yes, you’ve got desert and you’ve got areas which are down to 125 metres below sea level, but there’s also highlands where there can be consistent rain,” he said. “What’s interesting is that back in the 1980s when they experienced some of their worst famines the population was around 40 million. “Today that’s more than doubled to around 100 million and while in 2015 and 2016 they had their worst drought in 50 years, they’re not seeing the same kind of widespread famine as in the past. “This is because their overall food security has been improving. “We’re also working with them to improve grain storage and transport. “The bottom line is if they don’t produce a crop they don’t eat. “There are around half a billion people around the world who rely on sorghum as a basic food source. “That’s a fair bit of tucker.”
Members of the Hermitage Research Station team in the field in Ethiopia.
A farmer ploughing with cattle.
A FEW THINGS YOU PROBABLY DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT ETHIOPIA: •A landlocked nation in the north-east ‘Horn of Africa’, Ethiopia is roughly the same size as New South Wales. •It’s the most populous landlocked country in the world, and the secondmost populous nation in Africa after Nigeria. •Some of the oldest evidence for anatomically modern humans has been found in Ethiopia and it’s widely considered as the region from which modern humans first set out for the Middle East and places beyond. •Ethiopia derived prestige with its uniquely successful military resistance during the late 19thcentury ‘Scramble for Africa’, becoming the only African country to defeat a European colonial power and retain its sovereignty. •Lying at an elevation of 2300 metres, the capital and largest city is Addis Ababa, with a population of more than 3.3 million. •Ethiopia was invaded and occupied by Italy between 1936 and 1941, with spaghetti - with an African twist remaining a popular dish.
Professor David Jordan and Dr Emma Mace with towering sorghum plants in the Hermitage Research Station paddocks.
AUSTRALIA'S BREAKTHROUGH SHEEP DRENCH • Proven broad-spectrum worm control right around Australia • No mixing, no OP dust, no headaches • Unique, liquid naphthalophosm triple combination • Consistent results in every precise dose.
www.pursehouserural.com.au Allora (07) 4666 2800 Clifton (07) 4612 4800 Pittsworth (07) 4693 6800 Warwick (07) 4667 8800
12345997-PB16-17
NAPfix liquid Naphthalophos Comibination
Thursday, 20 April, 2017 RURAL LINKS 9
VINEGAR MAKER’S SWEET SWEET MOVE By Jeremy Sollars THE Australian Vinegar corporate head office and innovation centre is finally complete after four years of design, development and construction. The new facility was officially opened by Australia's Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove on Saturday 25 March. Located in the Stanthorpe Industrial Estate, the new vinegar facility brings the very best of world-standard vinegar making to Queensland. The new centre incorporates the most modern vinegar technology currently available for vinegar research and development and commercial production. “It was a long build with more than the usual amount of hurdles to overcome, but we wanted it done right the first time and we were determined to stay in Stanthorpe because of its location and beneficial cost of doing business here,” CEO Ian Henderson said. “We didn’t just build what we need now, we built what we need to grow our business for the next 10 or more years. “We are proudly a regional company and have built to stay.” What has been completed so far are stages one and two of a five stage, campus-style master development for the site. “There is more to come, but for now we are
Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove and Lady Cosgrove with Ian and Robyn Henderson at the Australian Vinegar official opening. Picture: Bryan Pask taking our new facility out for a spin and seeing what we can do with it,” Ian said, “The new, much larger facility, has unlocked even more of our company’s potential. “Prior to 2017, production was farm based at our initial production site in Ballandean. Ian Henderson established Australian Vinegar in 2005. It started as an export-only company and has rapidly grown to be the industry leader in its field. It services both large and small food manufacturers with quality vinegar for food production. In addition they make foodservice and retail vinegars for the domestic and international markets.
LOCAL FIRM WORKS HAND IN HAND IN a true local collaboration Warwick’s Ranbuild, managed by Glenn and Nerida Eastwell, were handed the job of constructing the new Australian Vinegar factory. Ranbuild erected the three 20-metre by 30-metre sheds which house the vinegar production, with Glenn saying it had been “great to be given the opportunity” to work with Ian Henderson on the major project. “Ian contacted us a couple of years ago and we sat down with him and started to talk and negotiate and listened to him to understand his needs,” Glenn said. “We worked Ranbuild Warwick's through the Glenn Eastwell said he different stages, was pleased to have from earthworks had a hand in the to concreting to project. construction. “The factory has an under-floor water system which Ian and his staff installed, so we had to take care with that when we did the concreting. “It’s great when local businesses support each other and the council were on board as well and very supportive.” A small Ranbuild crew of four staff worked full-time on the project, with numbers doubling when it was time for the roofing to be done.
AUCTION 1,308 Hectares Lot 11 Luna Road, Inglewood Auction 11am on the 26th of May at the Warwick RSL Mark Mauch 0419 519 979 Rob Doro 0468 916 379 By Appointment
‘KILTYMAUGH’ OMAN – AMA LOCATION: Located 37 kilometres east of Inglewood and 105 Kilometres west of Warwick along formed all weather gravel road. AREA: Approximately 1308 hectares ( 3232 acres ) COUNTRY: Predominately undulating traprock grazing country ideally suited to fine wool production. Approximately 50% open grazing country and 50% scattered timber to heavier timbered areas. Areas of millable cypress pine. PMAV in place with 90% white. WATER: Frontage to the Macintyre Brook as well as seasonal creeks and springs. 8 stock dams provide water to every paddock. FENCING: Fully fenced into 7 main paddocks plus 3 holding paddocks. Fencing is a combination plain wire, barb and hinge joint and dog netting. INFRASTRUCTURE: 2 sets of sheep yards, 1 attached to a 2 stand shearing shed in excellent condition with undercover race and dry housing for sheep. ESTIMATED CARRYING CAPACITY: Vendor estimates the carrying capacity at 1500 dse or approximately 80 cows turning off progeny as weaners. Vendor currently uses this block to run merino ewes. COMMENTS: Held by the same family for generations and run exclusively as a self replacing merino flock ‘Kiltymaugh’ is for genuine sale as the owners wish to scale back their workload. Also ideally suited as a hunting, fishing or recreational block. Would make a great investment in a self managed super fund. Enjoy the many pursuits on your own block and have your money invested in land.
visit the property @ www.sdrealty.com.au 10 RURAL LINKS Thursday, 20 April, 2017
12348617-EPJ16-17
Land Size Location Price Contact Inspection
BUZZ SURROUNDS NEW GROUP By Jeremy Sollars MORE than 30 interested beekeepers and potential beekeepers turned up to a meeting at the Warwick Library on Monday April 10 to discuss forming an amateur beekeeping association. The initiative was the brainchild of local beekeeper John Craig. John said an excellent turnout saw more people than there were chairs available, so the next meeting will be held at the QCWA Warwick rooms. John Craig, who has been an amateur beekeeper since the age of 16, told the Free Times last month he was keen to form a group to swap experiences and learnings related to the art of honey-making, along with organising workshops and field days. John maintains around a dozen hives in his backyard which he builds himself and is more than happy to share his years of knowledge. He said some of the topics discussed at the first meeting of the group included beehive construction, pests and diseases associated with apiaries and potential ideas and locations for workshops and field days. The next meeting will be held on Monday 2 May at the QCWA Warwick rooms on Grafton Street. For more information contact John Craig on 0431 188 139.
John Craig was happy with the turnout at a meeting to discuss the formation of an amateur beekeeping association in the region.
12345740-DJ16-17
OM MF42-20SD FR INCL. $ GST*
3,995
BATTERIES MOTORBIKES * MOWERS CARS * CARAVANS * 4WD CAMPING *TRUCKS HEAVY MACHINERY BUDGET QUALITY CARS Cnr Wood & Wallace Sts., Warwick 0434 012 444 12 RURAL LINKS Thursday, 20 April, 2017
12345701-RC16-17
MF42-20SD 20HP | 42 | blade deck 20 hp Kohler Command V-Twin petrol engine 42/107 cm triple blade deck Heel/toe operated hydrostatic transmission
Cruise control Four deck wheels (two front, two rear) Electric PTO Deck Engagement
MFLZ-60 $
FROM INCL.
12,650 GST
*
MFLZ-60 | 27 hp* | 60” cutting deck Large 60” floating/fabricated deck Electric clutch Dual 30 litre fuel tanks
Optional mulch kit Zero turning radius
OM MF50-22ZT FRINCL. $ GST*
4,750
MF50-22ZT | 22 hp* | 50” blade deck 22HP Kohler Engine 50”/ 127cm triple blades/ 13-gauge steel deck
PTO clutch: electric engagement Zero turn radius
CONTACT SOUTHERN DOWNS AG FOR A REAL DEAL ON GROUNDS CARE TODAY!
Southern Downs Ag 87 Ogilvie Road, WARWICK | Ph: (07) 4661 5900 | www.southerndownsag.com.au MASSEY FERGUSON®, MF®, the triple-triangle logo® is a worldwide brand of AGCO. © 2016
MASSEYFERGUSON.COM.AU
THE INDUSTRY - IN BRIEF Pest fee pain A proposed new pest management fee targeted at landowners the Southern Downs Regional Council deems have failed to control pest animals and plants on their properties does not appear in the draft council budget for 2017/18. Landowners across the Southern Downs and Granite Belt with more than five hectares were potentially to be slugged with a minimum $500 fee next financial year if they failed to comply with the council’s pest management requirements. Councillors at a special meeting in Warwick in late February voted in favour of adopting the new ‘Invasive Pest Control Scheme Policy’ which a report by officers said was aimed at “incentivising
and increasing voluntary compliance with invasive pest control requirements”. The scheme had been estimated to net more than $1.1 million in revenue each financial year for the council, depending on the extent of compliance by landowners. The draft budget is available for public comment until Wednesday 10 May. To view the draft budget and for details of public consultation sessions visit www. sdrc.qld.gov.au Saleyards committee meets THE report of the March meeting of the Southern Downs Regional Council’s Saleyards Advisory Committee is expected to be reviewed by councillors at next week’s April meeting. The committee met for the
first time in December and again in March, with the main topic of discussion being a potential plan to demolish the existing Warwick Saleyards and establishing a new $15 million state-of-the-art facility on land adjacent to Frasers Livestock Transport, off Old Stanthorpe Road. The site is understood to be the 80-acre former Warwick Enterprise Park which Frasers Livestock Transport purchased earlier in 2016 for an undisclosed sum from BWC Developments. The draft council budget for 2017/18 released on Monday 10 April allocates $75,000 for replacement of sections of the cattle yards, $100,000 for safety improvements in the 2018/19 financial year and $100,000 each year for the next 10 years for
further upgrades to the saleyards. An allocation of $75,000 has been set down for the 2022/23 financial year for a saleyards master plan. Chemical clean-up QUEENSLAND farmers are proving their worth as recycling champions with bookings for Agsafe’s ChemClear collection ramping up during its final few weeks of registration. Farmers end up with leftover product they cannot re-use and ChemClear works with the State Government to help farmers fund collections of unlabelled, unregistered or unknown chemicals. Register unwanted agvet chemicals online at www. chemclear.org.au or phone 1800 008 182.
RURAL LINKS DIRECTORY Insurance
NeuroLinguisticProgramming•MedicalHypnotherapy
•Home•Motor•Business•Farm •Earthmoving•Transport
12346122-AM16-17
3/35 Maryland St., STANTHORPE Q 4380 Phone: 07 4681 3387 | Mobile: 0447 598 161
Donna Nevin Lifetime Guarantee www.quitwithdonna.com
0429 620 951
www.cavinsure.com.au | Email: josh@cavinsure.com.au
STANTHORPE SEPTIC SERVICE 12342544-CG11-17
Septic Tanks Cleaned by Your Local Man Available Seven Days a Week Greasetraps and Rainwater Tank Cleaning
107 Palmerin Street, Warwick
4661 1117
GLENN DAVIE REFRIGERATION P/L
81 Connor Street, Stanthorpe
12345735-LN16-17
Sam’s Fruit 44 Middleton Road, Cottonvale
Ph 4685 21 56 Visit our A ir Conditionin g DISPLAY C ENTRE
Over 30 Years Of Experience CFCAccredited•LicenceNO.75900&AU03878 Email:gdrefrigeration@yahoo.com
Find Us on
Specialising in local brands!
4685 2396 0407 634 221
AIR CONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION •Commercial&Residential •Coldrooms•Automotive GET READY FOR WINTER HEATING!
12345705-ACM16-17
12348618-DJ16-17
Specialising in all types of General
All Puffed Out? Quit Cigarettes in 60 minutes
Ph/Fax 4681 4009 Mobile:0407024027
Specializing in locally grown fruit & veg. Wholesale & retail. Over 100 lines in store. Local apple juice, apple cider vinegar, Mt Stirling olives. 12345425-MB16-17
Thursday, 20 April, 2017 RURAL LINKS 15