AgLife – March 2026

Chronic shortages hitting farmers

BY LAUREN HENRY

Chronic fertiliser shortages are hitting farmers across the region, with urea particularly difficult to source at a critical time for seeding crops.

Reliable access to diesel and fertiliser have been worsened by global disruptions from the Middle East conflict, which has led to panic buying at the bowser, and sharply rising import costs.

Disruptions at this time of year risk reduced yields, serious livestock welfare issues, and higher food prices for all.

Travis Hair, of Crop Opti in Horsham, said urea was at a real shortage at the moment.

“There’s a lot of talk that it’s probably going to stay this way for a little while still,” he said.

Mr Hair said ships carrying urea and ammonium phosphates were on their way from the Persian Gulf – which supplies about 40 per cent of Australia’s requirements – but all products were already pre-sold.

“At the moment there seems to be

no sight forward of any more boats being purchased and making their way over,” he said.

“It’s going to be a real issue, unfortunately.

“Oil prices have probably lifted over a couple of hundred dollars a tonne over the last few weeks alone, so that obviously pushes it up domestically.

“The dollar sits quite high at the moment, and probably the thing that’s hurting the most is the energy problem, which leads to having the fuel for boats.”

Mr Hair said he was expecting a huge price jump in urea when it did become available – maybe up to $1400-$1500 a tonne.

He said investigations were taking place about sourcing product from China but that could take up to three to four months, which would be too late for Wimmera cropping.

“A few guys that did get in early and get things sorted, they’re not too bad off, but definitely everything does seem to be rising,” he said.

“I think for growers when they’re considering their nitrogen and what

they’re going to need for the year, there are actually other options out there a little bit at the moment.

“So it’s definitely worth talking to their agronomists or their rural suppliers about what they can actually get in the way of nitrogen and when they can actually get it.”

Call for action

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy has called on the Labor Government to take urgent action and secure reliable supplies before critical winter cropping and livestock feeding operations suffer.

Ms Kealy said diesel and fertiliser were non-negotiable inputs for Victorian agriculture, and panic buying and supply-chain pressures had left some regional areas waiting weeks for diesel deliveries, hitting farms just as winter crop preparations reach their peak.

She said urea prices had surged nearly 30 per cent in the past month, with supplies tightening due to ongoing instability.

“Victorian farmers cannot simply switch off production when inputs dry

up. Agriculture operates every single day of the year,” she said.

“The Allan Labor government must stop downplaying this crisis and start treating it with the urgency it demands.

“Labor’s inaction is leaving our farmers – and the food on every Victorian table – at serious risk.”

Ms Kealy said the State Government must immediately engage with the Federal Government, fuel wholesalers, and fertiliser importers, to prioritise agriculture in supply allocations, and activate contingency measures.

Labor’s anti-price gouging laws came into effect in Victoria earlier this month, with its Servo Saver program through the Services Victoria app allowing people to find the cheapest fuel near them.

The government also plans to have more anti-price gouging officers carrying out field inspections to make sure fuel retailers are registered and are reporting.

All the data from the Servo Saver program will also go to the ACCC

for investigation, via Consumer Affairs Victoria.

Premier Jacinta Allan convened an emergency sub-committee meeting of cabinet last week to prepare for worsening impacts of the Middle East conflict.

Ms Allan also chaired an industry forum with fuel suppliers, business groups and agricultural representatives to understand the situation on the ground and outline the actions the government could take, with heads of departments and agencies developing continuity plans for energy, agriculture and other key sectors.

She said they were working closely with the Federal Government to monitor the fuel supply situation, claiming last week there was ‘enough fuel for normal demand’.

The government has also appointed a ‘class two controller’ – a dedicated resource within the State Control Centre able to monitor and prepare – and escalate as necessary.

Couple convicted for animal cruelty

A Loddon Shire couple has been prosecuted and fined by RSPCA Victoria for animal cruelty.

A man and a woman, both 62, each pleaded guilty to one count of animal cruelty after a member of the public reported a goat with an abnormal limb angulation and obvious lameness.

RSPCA Victoria inspectors attended the Loddon Shire property where the animal’s owners confirmed they were aware of the goat’s injury and had failed to arrange veterinary care for the animal.

An RSPCA Victoria veterinarian reported the fracture was severe, likely sustained weeks to months earlier, and would have caused significant and obvious pain to the animal.

care for a sick or injured animal was a cruel and serious breach of an owner’s responsibilities.

“Failing to provide appropriate treatment or veterinary care to an obviously debilitated animal is illegal,” she said.

“Turning a blind eye to its need for medical intervention was cruel and entirely preventable.

“RSPCA Victoria is committed to defending animal welfare and ensuring every animal has the right to a life without pain or suffering.”

SHARED KNOWLEDGE: Country Women’s Association members showcased their practices at this month’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days, from traditional baked goods to this year’s theme of wool. Horsham CWA member Helen Torey, pictured with Veronica Priestley and Heidi Rethus, demonstrated Kumihimo – Japanese braiding – as well as making pompoms and the arts of needle felting and Knitting Nancy. Women of all ages are welcome to join their local CWA branch. More information can be found by contacting a branch or visiting website cwaofvic.org.au.

Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

Magistrate Timothy Hoare found the charges of animal cruelty proven and imposed a fine of $1000, with conviction, on each accused.

RSPCA Victoria chief inspector Michelle Green said failing to provide appropriate treatment or veterinary

The relevant offences fall under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986, and anyone found guilty of cruelty offences can face fines of up to $50,877.50 or 12-months’ imprisonment.

Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals is urged to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic. org/who-to-call or by calling 9224 2222.

Preserving food security

The Nationals tabled proposed laws earlier this month – to ban federal funding of projects that diminish prime agricultural land, or place it under foreign ownership.

The move was aimed at taking a major step toward preserving Australia’s food security.

Queensland Senator Matt Canavan introduced The Nationals’ Prime Agricultural Land Protection Bill 2026 in the Senate on March 11, following an identical bill tabled by NSW Nationals’ Member for Lyne Alison Penfold in the House of Representatives the week before.

Member for Mallee and shadow minister for regional development, local government, territories and regional communications Anne Webster authored the Bill following outcry about the rapid rollout of mining and energy projects on prime agricultural land in her electorate.

Mr Canavan, a former Resources Minister and now leader of the Nationals, said The Nationals’ Bill drew a line in the sand after threats by often foreign-owned energy projects under Labor’s all-renewables energy agenda.

“The Nationals in Federal Government will not support mining or energy projects that diminish Australia’s food security on our prime agricultural land,” he said.

“Transmission lines, wind turbines, solar farms, battery installations or critical minerals mines are unlikely to proceed at all, as they often depend on Commonwealth funding support.”

The Nationals plan to map all of Australia and designate prime agricultural land, other agricultural land, and marginal – unviable – land, and then ban Commonwealth funding for a mining or energy project that reduces the productivity of designated tier-one prime agricultural land; that reduces any other, tier two, agricultural land to lesser productivity than before the project began; and that has not properly secured social licence from the local community, and is on tier one and two land.

Dr Webster said terrible experiences of poor rehabilitation and State Government powers to compel projects to proceed threatened to ‘kick farmers out of their homes’.

“The Prime Agricultural Land Bill 2026 will ensure no Commonwealth Government leaves farmers worse off – for example, if a government-backed project cannot proceed without making a family home uninhabitable, farmers will be offered an acceptable, substitute home,” she said.

“Our food security, our farmers and re-

gional economies are too important to be thrown under a bus for Labor’s political targets.

“Prime agricultural land doesn’t just happen. For generations farmers have cultivated, nurtured and preserved that soil, they’ve protected it from erosion, they have put their blood, sweat and tears into the ground that feeds and clothes our nation.

“When farmers are forced off their farms, when irrigation is switched off because Labor has eroded water rights, our food security is at risk.”

Dr Webster said supply chains were shaken during the pandemic and would again be at risk with the war in the Middle East.

The Bill also creates a referee – the Commonwealth Agriculture Commissioner – to resolve disputes under the Act, accountable to the Agriculture Minister.

New shadow minister for agriculture, fisheries and forestry Darren Chester said he supported the principles in the Bill.

“We need to protect our prime agricultural land for food and fibre production as part of the National Food Security Strategy,” he said.

“The Victorian government’s approach of stripping away the rights of farming families to impose industrial-scale energy projects needs to be rejected.

“The Nationals in Federal Government will not support mining or energy projects that diminish Australia’s food security on our prime agricultural land.”

Mr Chester said he would continue to promote the social licence of agriculture, fisheries and forestry to combat extreme environmental groups which seek to shut

“I will always stand on the side of Australian farmers, fishers and forestry workers to secure and grow their industries and defend them against illogical and ill-informed attacks from environmental extremists”

– Darren Chester, left

down primary industries, including the native hardwood forestry sector.

“I will always stand on the side of Australian farmers, fishers and forestry workers to secure and grow their industries and defend them against illogical and ill-informed attacks from environmental extremists.”

Mr Chester said he was looking forward to working with industry groups and regional communities to increase the focus on improving the resilience, profitability and sustainability of Australia’s primary industries.

“When it comes to food security, I agree with industry leaders that it’s time to take the issue more seriously and link it to national security in an increasingly uncertain world,” he said.

“As a nation, we grow more than enough food for our own domestic consumption, but the agricultural sector depends heavily on many imported critical inputs like fuel, fertiliser and pesticides.

“Disruptions in the supply chain have the potential to undermine our farmers’ capacity to feed Australians and the tens of millions of people around the world who rely on our high-quality agricultural exports.

“Household budgets are already under pressure, and Australian families can’t afford the price-shocks associated with these supply chain failures.”

Mr Chester said he would embark on an Australia-wide tour to meet with industry leaders in their home states and gain a first-hand appreciation of the challenges and opportunities, with a focus on securing key inputs, growing access to markets and reducing costs of production.

“I’m a huge believer in localism. That means listening to the locals, trusting their insights and working with them on solutions that will work in their community,” he said.

“Some of the challenges, like expanding markets, high input costs, access to workforce, reducing the regulatory burden and increasing pressure from alternative land uses, may be the same in each area. But how we deal with those challenges with a national strategy requires careful consideration of local impacts.”

Biosecurity grants open

Member for Lowan Emma Kealy is encouraging livestock producers and agricultural organisations to apply for the 2026 Livestock Biosecurity Fund Grants Program.

The program supports practical projects that help prevent, monitor and manage pests and diseases affecting livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and honeybees.

Ms Kealy, also the shadow agriculture minister, said strong biosecurity measures were essential to protecting animal health, farm productivity and long-term industry confidence.

“Farmers know better than anyone how quickly a pest or disease can take hold and the toll it can have on a business,” she said.

“Good biosecurity protects not only individual properties but whole districts, and should be part of everyday farm management.”

In the previous funding round, $15-million was awarded to 22 projects across Victoria.

Grants included support for the Victorian Farmers Federation to expand its Stock Sense Program, delivering education and practical resources to livestock owners and hobby farmers on biosecurity responsibilities and animal health practices.

The grants program has been developed by Agriculture Victoria in partnership with the state’s livestock advisory committees, with a strong focus on practical, on-ground outcomes.

Ms Kealy encouraged eligible groups throughout Lowan and surrounding communities to consider applying.

“These grants back practical ideas that make a real difference on the ground. If there’s a project that can strengthen biosecurity in our region, I strongly encourage local groups to put their hand up and apply,” she said.

Applications close on April 14. Further information is available at agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestockbiosecurityfunds.

Toast to new ‘Norton’

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Norton Estate Wine’s new release has been ‘a slow walk up the hill’, eventuating after a stroke of luck enabled owners Chris and Sam Spence to find a Norton grapevine in Australia.

“We always knew there was a Norton grape out there, but never really thought about it,” Mr Spence said.

“We were on holidays at Robe and talking about what next to do, and I said to Sammy that it would be nice to have Norton red wine from the Norton grape variety from America.”

Mr Spence said he contacted government departments to find out how to import the root stock, which was not impossible, but would be time-consuming and costly.

“But it was a stroke of luck that we found David Cliffe at Narromine Transplants in New South Wales who had brought them back in the 1980s,” he said.

“The grape has been around for 206 years, cultured by horticulturalist Dr Daniel Norton in Richmond, Virginia, and he cultured this vine by cross-pollinating a heap of different varieties of grapevine.

“They believe it’s a cross between a Native American vine and a European vine, but nobody knows which ones.”

Mr Spence said Mr Cliffe was initially reluctant to pass the vines on, because he had retired that part of his business.

“But then we found a link – our winemakers are Best’s at Great Western and my late father, Don, was very good friends with owner Viv, and in a past life, David had worked at Best’s with the CSIRO – and he said, ‘well, I’ll dust off the gear and I’ll get some going’,” he said.

“That was in 2016, and in 2017, we got the message there was a parcel of 68 vines on the way.

“We’ve nurtured those vines, they’ve done really well, and we’ve since expanded that vineyard out to 1000 vines.”

The first commercial run will be released at Easter, with sales and tastings at the winery.

Mr Spence described the combined Euro-

pean and American flavour profile as ‘different’, but a nice experience.

“It’s got a medium weight, very pretty nose, and a soft and delicate palate at the front,” he said.

“Our winemaker, who described it as ‘funky and cool’, said, ‘before you have a sip, think cherry cola’ – it’s got this spicy, but slightly

savoury, slightly colder, cherry cola, but soft finish to it.

“It’s got this funny little twist on the back palate, which is very unique, but very nice.

It’s a nice experience.

“It’s been a slow walk up the hill, but we finally got our first commercial batch – it’s wonderful.”

Agriculture events and grants

Partnerships against pests grants program Online, Friday, 11am-12 noon

Grants of up to $50,000 for 12-month projects that build local capacity to manage established weeds and pest animals are available. Round five is open to groups and organisations working at state, regional and local levels. People can find more information and register at Agriculture Victoria’s website.

Lean and drought support planning

Online, Tuesday, 1pm-2.30pm

Specialist consulting and industry development firm Moshie is hosting a free webinar designed for business owners and management teams seeking practical tools, fresh perspectives and support to begin planning for a stronger, more sustainable future for their business. As an added benefit, people will receive 12 months of access to Moshie’s online resource portal containing downloadable templates and support materials. People can register at Humanitix by searching for ‘Intro to Lean’ in the online events.

BestWool/BestLamb and BetterBeef

June 23 and 24

Conferences return to The Goods Shed in Ballarat for two days of insights, innovation and practical messages for sheep and cattle producers. There will be a combined industry dinner at the end of day one.

Landcare grants

Landcare and environmental volunteer groups can apply for grants of up to $20,000 for projects and $500 for support. People can find more information at www.environment.vic.gov.au/grants/victorianlandcare-grants. Applications close April 23.

Farm drought support

Farmers in southwest Victoria can access $10,000 in drought support grants to make on-farm infrastructure upgrades and improvements such as grain feeders, troughs, pasture restoration, and stock containment areas. People can find more information at the Agriculture Victoria website.

Bushfire recovery grants and loans

The State Government has measures to support primary producers affected by January bushfires, including grants and concessional loans. People can check eligibility at Rural Finance’s website rural finance.com.au or call 1800 260 425. Applications are now open and close at 4pm on October 21.

New chair and a new strategy

Birchip Cropping Group, BCG, has entered a new chapter with the appointment of Brett Hosking as chair of the board.

A grain grower from Quambatook, Mr Hosking steps into the role following founding member John Ferrier’s decision to step down after seven years as chair.

Mr Ferrier’s leadership has helped guide BCG through a period of growth, strengthened partnerships and expanding regional influence.

Mr Ferrier said BCG had ‘always been led by farmers, for farmers’.

“That local relevance and independence is what makes it strong,” he said.

“I am proud that BCG continues to be farmer-driven, grounded in the realities of our region, and focused

on delivering practical outcomes for farming businesses.”

Under Mr Hosking’s leadership, the BCG board has also endorsed a new organisational strategy, best described as evolution, not revolution.

Mr Hosking said the strategy recognised the ‘magic’ that had made BCG ‘fiercely independent’ and deeply farmer-focused for more than three decades, while positioning the organisation for the future of farming in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing environment.

Key pillars of the strategy include:

• Advanced farming systems research and extension: delivering cutting-edge, locally relevant research that supports profitable and resilient farming businesses.

• Collaboration: strengthening part-

48th annual tractor pull

Live music, full-sized and model tractor pulls, vintage tractors and the Easter Bunny are highlights of Quambatook’s 48th annual tractor pull championships on Easter Saturday.

Quambatook Tractor Pull president Tim Betson said the event promised a full day and night of raw horsepower, mechanical innovation and genuine country hospitality, with standout entries.

“Modified tractor pulling is widely regarded as one of the most powerful forms of motorsport, it pushes extreme horsepower and innovation to the limit,” he said.

“Among the standout entries is the iconic Quamby Quaker, a super modified running a blown 502 Chev paired with a 4020 John Deere transmission and rear end – a machine that can only be seen competing at Quambatook.

“It will be joined in the super modified class by Woteva, featuring twin 350 Chev engines, a Road Ranger transmission and Steiger back end.”

Mr Betson said Bad Attitude was set to feature in the two-wheel drive truck A class, powered by a 540 Chev with a three-speed gearbox and Rockwell differential.

“The modified farm class includes Wasted Days and Wasted Nights, a 1973 John Deere 4630 combining traditional machinery with modern

performance through its intercooled, turbocharged JD 466ci engine, while the mini-modified class features machines such as Tossa, running a 349 Chrysler through a Powerglide and Ford nine-inch differential,” he said.

“Together, these examples reflect the depth, variety and technical innovation that continues to define tractor pulling at Quambatook.

“This iconic event continues to attract competitors and spectators from across Australia, cementing Quambatook’s reputation as ‘The Home of Tractor Pulling’.”

The event is at Quambatook Tractor Pull Complex, Australia’s first permanent tractor-pulling venue, which features both big and mini sled tracks running side-by-side.

“Designed by pullers for pullers, it consistently delivers some of the strongest competition in the country,” Mr Betson said.

“Making a debut appearance is Tringali Racing, bringing its1300-horsepower Detroit 8V92-powered Transtar to Quambatook.

“Led by Frank Tringali and his son Anthony, the team is a standout on the Australian Supertruck scene and is also recognised for its fundraising efforts supporting brain-cancer research.”

Patrons have the opportunity to meet drivers and crews, enjoy live music by Lachlan Downes and a

nerships with industry as well as every major university across Australia, along with strong links to Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO.

• Great people: investing in a highperforming team committed to delivering value to farmers.

• Farm community and environmental wellbeing: recognising that agronomic success must go hand in hand with strong communities and sustainable landscapes.

Mr Hosking will work closely with BCG chief executive Fiona Best and the BCG team to ensure the organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to farmers across north-west Victoria, bringing research investment into the region, fostering collaboration, and creating opportunities for farmers to connect and learn.

will compete in the mini-modified class at Quambatook’s 48th annual tractor pull championships on Easter Saturday.

visit from the Easter Bunny, as well as a remote-control tractor-pulling demonstration and a truck and car display.

There will also be heritage exhibits, market stalls, children’s entertainment, food and drink vendors including bar, and community-operated catering areas.

On Saturday, April 4, gates open at 11am, the vintage tractor pull is at 1pm, the modified tractor pull starts at 3.30pm, with action under lights until about 10pm.

Tickets are available at the gate or online via www.ticketebo.com. au/qtpa.

Crack down on aquatic pests

Agriculture Victoria has strengthened aquatic pest rules to protect the state’s aquatic environment and industries, declaring 14 new high-risk species.

Biosecurity Victoria executive director Charlotte Austin said Victoria’s rivers, lakes and coasts faced increasing threats from harmful pests and invasives.

“These pests can damage habitats, harm native wildlife, and hurt local industries by spreading quickly and are almost impossible to remove once they take hold,” she said.

“They can hitch a ride on boat hulls, fishing gear, or even through the aquarium trade, and if they spread, they cost millions of dollars to manage and can destroy our waterways.” Ms Austin said there were practical ways to protect waterways.

“Protecting our waters starts with us and it is as simple as cleaning and drying your gear and boats before moving to another waterway,” she said.

The newly-declared noxious aquatic species are Asian brush-clawed shore crab, Asian shore crab, Asian paddle crab, Chinese mitten crab, Harris’ mud crab, Charru mussel, New Zealand green-lipped mussel, brown mussel, Asian green mussel, carpet sea squirt, white sea squirt, freshwater golden clam, zebra mussel and didymo.

For more information, people can search ‘marine pests’ on Agriculture Victoria’s website, or call 136 186.

Elevated fire risk amid dry autumn

BY BRONWYN HASTINGS

Most of Victoria continues to face higher-than-average temperatures and is set for a drierthan-average autumn, with a continued, elevated fire-risk.

Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council’s, AFAC, Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Autumn showed a continuing lack of significant rain, extreme heat and high fuel loads – major contributors to the January bushfires.

Agriculture Victoria seasonal risk agronomist Dale Grey said despite significant rain early this month, it was not yet clear if the season had broken.

“After a mainly dry first three weeks, high rain over late February and early March through much of the Mallee, Wimmera and Northern Country significantly increased soil moisture levels and germinated weeds, self-sown crop and pastures,” he said.

“Time will tell whether this is a true break or a false break.”

Country Fire Authority acting chief

officer Alen Slijepcevic said Victoria remained well-prepared for the potential of fires, with aircraft positioned across the state to support dedicated volunteer and career firefighters on the ground.

“While conditions remain dry with little rain forecast in certain parts of the state over coming months, the fire risk will continue, but our crews are ready and will adapt to changes as they develop,” he said.

“Victorians should continue to maintain their properties and stay informed of their local risks so they can take action to protect their families in the event of a fire.”

Bulk water continues

CFA will also continue its bulk-water carrier pilot program, set up by the State Government after a seasonally high fire-risk was predicted in August last year.

Launched in October, the program included 19 mobile bulk-water carriers, each with the capacity to hold more than 20,000 litres, strategically placed across Victoria to enable access to most

Heatwave help at hand

Community collaboration and resilience building is at the centre of Grampians Public Health Unit’s heatwave campaign, in a bid to reduce heat-related morbidity and mortality.

The Heatwave HELP, Health Emergency Local People, project covers three local government areas and trains a myriad of community leaders to identify people who might be at high risk of heat harm, and to support people to stay safe from heat.

Professor Rosemary Aldrich said the unit’s work spanned health protection and prevention.

“One of the things that harms our community is heat,” she said.

“Now, we’ve had hot days forever, but in the last 15 years or so, the science around how heat harms people has become much more precise.

“And because it can harm everybody, and we’re an organisation that tries to protect the health of everyone, that’s why we’re in the business of protecting people from the harms of heat.”

The unit, with Horsham co-ordinator Kerrie Godbold, has partnered with several groups including Western Vic Primary Health Network, Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative, and Ambulance Victoria.

“Kerrie has worked tirelessly to tap into something that’s very special in rural and regional Australia,” Professor Aldrich said.

“There’s nothing more Australian than people helping people, and we, in rural and regional Australia, know that better than anyone. It’s kept us safe in some dark and difficult times.

“Our program trains anybody, particularly the leaders of social, business, care, volunteer, sporting, faith and cultural networks, who know who might be at risk of harm from heat.”

Professor Aldrich said more than 500 health providers had been trained, subsequently educating thousands of people to assist health-vulnerable people, those who play sport or work outside, and those who speak English as a second language.

“They get beside the people they know are at risk, they know how to keep them safe, and that’s what they work to do,” she said.

“At the other end of this program there is an evaluation, it measures whether people were or weren’t kept safe, whether it reduced the number of ambulance call-outs, whether or not it reduced the number of presentations people might have made to primary care or to the health service,

fires within 60 minutes’ drive time.

CFA deputy chief officer Garry Cook said the program had been a huge success, saving firefighters time and getting their tankers reloaded with water and back on the fireground faster.

“We knew leading into the fire season there was going to be a shortage of groundwater, particularly through the west and the north,” he said.

“But as conditions continued to dry out across the state through the very hot and dry summer, the shortage was right across Victoria.”

Mr Cook said to date the bulk-water carriers had logged more than 1121 operational hours, supporting firefighters on firegrounds across the state including more than 30 incidents.

“It’s the first time we have had bulk water at our direct disposal without having to pick up the phone and call contractors to see whether they are available to support us,” he said.

“Once the season subsides, we will review how this has supported onground operations and start to look to

how we can improve this program into the future.”

Holistic control

Forest Fire Management Victoria chief fire officer Chris Hardman said FFMV continued to monitor conditions after some of the most destructive fires Victoria had faced in years.

“Victoria faces a higher fire-risk this autumn. We’re closely monitoring conditions, staying ready to respond and making sure resources are placed where they’re needed most,” he said.

“We’re learning from recent events and are strengthening our strategies.”

Mr Hardman said FFMV managed Victoria’s bushfire risk holistically.

“Planned burning is an important tool, but it’s not the only one,” he said.

“Our firefighters and fire managers are world-class. We use the latest research from around the world, but we apply it to Victoria’s conditions and landscapes.”

Mr Hardman said bushfire risk was reduced by using planned burning, fire bans and campfire controls, early detections from fire towers and recon-

naissance flights, rapid attack by air and ground-crews, and community engagement and timely warnings through VicEmergency.

“Autumn usually gives us more chances to carry out planned burns because the weather is more stable, and fire behaviour is more predictable. As soon as conditions are suitable, our crews will begin planned burning across the state,” he said.

For updates about where and when burns are planned, people can visit plannedburns.ffm.vic.gov.au.

Fire restrictions lifting

While farmers are permitted to burn their stubble under strict conditions, the Fire Danger Period remains in most fire districts across the state.

The FDP lifted on Monday in the northern part of Yarriambiack, Buloke and Loddon shire councils.

It will lift in Hindmarsh, central Yarriambiack and northern West Wimmera on March 30 and in Horsham, West Wimmera remainder and southern Yarriambiack on April 7.

and whether or not we know, if some groups heeded the message well, and others didn’t.”

Professor Aldrich said it was often said to go somewhere cool and put on an air-conditioner, but not everyone could do that.

“Some people are without homes, some people have homes but they’re not insulated, and some people have homes that aren’t insulated and don’t have any power or feel they can’t afford power to actually then put on a fan or an air-conditioner,” she said.

“We know that even having a cool wet towel around the shoulders can keep a person’s body temperature within normal limits, even on the hottest of days.

“But we’re asking agencies to go out and find those people and bring them in to cool spaces.

“Lots of organisations – neighbourhood houses, churches, libraries, cafes – are opening the door and extending hours, and having people come in, because that’s where they can get cool.”

People can follow HEAT to iden-

✘ BUT

PROMOTION:

Grampians

Health media and communications officer Steve Cook, public health physician professor Rosemary Aldrich and Heatwave HELP Horsham co-ordinator Kerrie Godbold at the Wimmera Machinery Field Days earlier this month. Picture: BRONWYN HASTINGS

tify those at risk: H: home and living conditions; E: environment and social exclusion; A: age and underlying conditions; T: taking certain medications. SAFE to stay safe: S: stay cool and drink water; A: avoid being outside in the heat of the day; F: phone family and friends; E: emergency alerts and weather warnings.

People can contact Ms Godbold on 0448 904 947 or email kerrie.godbold @gh.org.au for more information or to book a session.

– Bronwyn Hastings

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Closing Friday, March 27 @ noon

Western Highway, Riverside, Vic 3401

Two parcels of land on offer

Outstanding parcels of land are available via Expressions of Interest, closing Friday, March 27 at noon.

• Lot 6/LP50881 and 7/LP50881 – Prime Western Highway frontage, approx 84 acres, being offered just minutes from Horsham.

This high quality block offers:

• Direct Western Highway frontage

• Located less than 3km from Elders Rural Services Horsham

• Premium self-mulching soils

• Full cropping history available upon request

• Leased until 31st January 2027, providing immediate income security

• With excellent exposure and valuable improvements in soil quality, these parcels are ideal for farming continuity or future development potential (STCA).

Internet ID: 300P192225 Contact: Mat Taylor 0437 018 787

And here we go again ...

After what many would have thought was a return to a certain level of stability and predictability in the ag sector, we have once again been thrust into a state of wild swings and volatility to which the average farmer has little to no control over.

It is amazing to think that with a stroke of a pen or an idea, the ripple-effect can spread as far and wide as it does.

Using a 2000-hectare broadacre cropping farmer as an example, a swift 20 per cent rise on fuel and fertiliser combined, somewhere upwards of $200,000 needs to be found or redirected just to cover this increase in cost alone for the season.

That is, if these vital inputs can even be sourced in a timely fashion.

The humble farmer is of course at the end of the line with these issues, with nowhere to pass on increased costs.

With governing bodies trying to resolve a supply-based cause to inflated pricing with a deterrent used to quell high levels of demand, it is unhelpful at best and is akin to drinking a smoothie with a fork.

Cuts can be made by the grower of course, however where the line is drawn between the point of saving money versus putting a cap on income production will differ for everyone, with no onesize-fits-all answer.

In the livestock world, it is also a tale of two stories with re-stockers, particularly

buying SIL ewes, having to fork out eye watering amounts to purchase breeding ewes as early rains bolster this already strong market – with $300 per head now the absolute bare minimum needed to participate in this space.

However, those holding a solid breeding base with the ability to produce more, along with possibly still holding progeny from last season, are sitting on the other side of the fence and will benefit from having this stock on hand and well positioned to withstand an increase in freight, fuel and fertiliser costs in the short-term.

It is safe to suggest most livestock producers would be somewhere in-between these two scenarios, holding stock but maybe able to handle a few more, with restricting factors such as water-supply and seasonal-outlook playing on the mind.

The mixed farmer might also have their hand moving toward the dial, ready to adjust it ever so slightly towards livestock and reducing machinery hours and the associated costs, leaving them still subjected to international markets, but not beholden quite as much to the oil and gas fields of Middle East.

Excep

Moyston looks to centenary

On the back of its 98th annual event, Moyston Sheep Dog Trials is looking forward to its centenary celebration, which might see it host a state-first champion of champions trial.

Moyston Sheep Dog committee president Max McLean said plans for the event would be confirmed at an upcoming meeting.

“The Victorian Working Sheep Dog Association has offered us a champion of champions trial, which is the 15 winners of all the Victorian trials in the preceding 12 months coming into our trial and playing off for a champion of champion,” he said.

“They haven’t done it before in Victoria, so they want to try it out with us.

“I’m 99 per cent sure we’ll ac-

cept that, but we’ve got a meeting coming up in another month, they just review the trials and we’ll talk about that there.”

Mr McLean said this year’s event attracted 30 more entries than last year, from across Victoria and South Australia.

“Jim Dodge from Ross Creek, who won the open, was very good. He just came on the Saturday with two dogs,” he said.

“The winner of the improvers was Mike Deppler and the novice was won by Fiona Burbidge.”

Television show Muster Dogs’ Jack Kennedy and Renee Spencer presented on the process for muster dogs before giving a demonstration.

Mr McLean said the event was well-supported by the communi-

trial

ty, from spectators to assistance, which he said the small committee was grateful for.

“Friday night was well-attended, they served 111 meals, and Saturday was busy as well,” he said.

“A lot of people came out from the retirement village, and we still get good sponsorship from the Burke family.

“A lot of people camp there, and they develop their own little groups and chat.”

Mr McLean said there were new workers to Moyston who joined in the competition.

“The new workers, and some of them were new to trialling, they came along, which was good,” he said.

“I hope they come back next year.”

The Future of Farming is Collaborative

Young farmers unite at BCG ball

More than 250 young farmers gathered at Horsham Golf Club on March 13 for the third annual BCG Young Farmer Network Ball.

A one-of-a-kind event was designed to bring the next generation of farmers together to build the connections, confidence and knowledge needed to navigate an increasingly variable climate. While many agricultural events focus purely on technical information, the ball blends learning, networking and celebration of agriculture, recognising that resilient farming businesses are built not only on agronomy, but on strong relationships and shared experience.

The event, which has quickly become a highlight on the regional agricultural calendar, changes location each year to connect young farmers across Victoria’s grain-growing regions.

Following previous balls in Bridgewater and Swan Hill, this year’s sell-out event travelled to the Wimmera, after strong demand from local farmers.

Guests enjoyed a formal sitdown meal, speakers, live music and plenty of opportunities to connect with others across the agricultural industry.

This year’s panel discussion themed ‘cod, carbon and clothing’ featured broadacre grower

turned cod farmer Tom Dunn, Emma Smith from Agriculture Victoria’s on-farm emissions action-plan pilot program, and Holly Normoyle from RB Sellars.

The speakers shared their ag career journeys and insights into diversification, education and continuous learning through building networks, redirection and focus when necessary. They all had one key message – through collaboration, innovation and connection, farmers can prepare for an uncertain climate future.

Beyond the formal program, drought preparedness discus-

sion prompts placed throughout the room encouraged conversation between attendees, helping spark discussion and knowledge sharing between farmers from different regions and farming systems.

“BCG’s Young Farmer Network is for the youngest generation on farm and is not exclusive to farm owners,” BCG’s Joe Collins said.

“We encourage anyone who wants to grow their network while keeping up to date with the latest ideas and innovations that can help their business remain resilient to get involved.”

Fuel, fertiliser rising concerns

With farmers gearing up for the new winter sowing season, there is a crisis, not of their making.

It is of course, the oil crisis. And about to supersede it, the dwindling supplies of urea fertiliser.

Daniel Linklater is a grain grower at Trentham Falls near Mildura in the Mallee.

After two poor seasons, he was planning a big winter cropping program this year as welcome rain has left him with a full soil profile.

“Cropping in the Mallee is all about timing, so when it’s time to go, we need to be able to turn the key and get those tractors moving, and so it’s been a little bit of an anxious period in terms of just making sure we’ve got our usual supplies of fuel and fertiliser available,” Mr Linklater told Country Today.

“We have quite extensive fuel storages, which in our case we coincidentally filled everything before the proverbial hit the fan in the Middle East … and certainly we’ll need more, so I’ve been giving my distributor a heads up on when we’ll require our usual amounts into April and then into the first half of May, just to keep everything moving.”

However, it’s now more of a crisis that there is little, if any urea available.

Horsham fertiliser supplier Travis Hair, of Crop Opti services, told Country Today he was clean out of urea and had never seen such a drastic shortage.

Mr Hair said he expects that if urea came to the market in the next few weeks, prices would be about $1400-$1500 a tonne.

Country Today

with Libby Price

“There is a bit of talk that China may come back into the market. The rules around China and exports are that it has to look after its own domestic market first, before it can actually go out and sell to other countries,” he said.

“The current China market probably won’t be sorted out domestically … probably for a good couple of months yet. Generally, for our area in the Wimmera, that’s probably going to be a little bit late.”

Extensive soil testing is key to the decisions Mr Linklater will make on whether some areas of his farm are worth sowing at all.

“When it comes to rationing of fertiliser with what we’ve got, we’ll certainly be prioritising the most productive soil types we have,” he said.

“Because we’ve come off such average to poor seasons, and a very dry summer, we haven’t contracted any more than what you’d call a very base level of nitrogen. To get additional urea is proving to be quite difficult, so, yes, fertiliser is my bigger worry than fuel at the moment.

“When you’ve got a good season you’ve got to be in a position to take advantage of it, so it would be a pity to think supply constraints would actually prohibit it for many growers this year.”

BCG runs Young Farmer Network events throughout the year covering topics such as agronomy, machinery, farm business management and strategy. Alongside technical learning, the events play an important role in strengthening the social and professional networks that underpin resilient farming communities.

With three consecutive soldout events, the ball continues to demonstrate the strong energy, leadership and innovation emerging within the next generation of Australian agriculture.

Farmer’s Day Out

Ararat Rural City Council is encouraging agribusinesses to take part in an upcoming professional development event, with council offering to reimburse registration costs for eligible participants.

Farmer’s Day Out, hosted by the Central Highlands Growers and Producers Hub, will be at Ballarat Showgrounds today, Wednesday, from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

The Farmer’s Day Out program features a dedicated Farmers Doing It Differently: Innovation in Ag panel, showcasing producers who are trialling new approaches, technologies and business models on the ground.

The day also includes a suite of workshops designed to give attendees practical, take-home skills they can apply straight away in their own enterprises.

Keynote speakers Barry Clark and Simon Quilty will share their insights on market trends and farm business resilience.

The event will bring together growers, producers and industry specialists to share practical insights, market knowledge, and farm business know-how.

With a strong line-up of speakers and networking opportunities, the day is designed to support farm businesses to plan ahead, strengthen connections and explore new opportunities across the region.

Ararat Mayor Bob Sanders said the event was a timely opportunity for producers to focus on the long-term health of their businesses.

“Our farming community carries a lot on its shoulders and days like this give people a chance to step off the farm, compare notes, and hear directly from people who are working on the same challenges,” he said.

“We know agribusiness underpins jobs, investment and confidence across our municipality, so council is very pleased to remove the barrier of the ticket cost and encourage as many local producers as possible to get along.

“If you can take a day to be there, I am confident you will come home with at least one idea, one contact, or one insight that will make a real difference to your operation.”

To access the reimbursement, Ararat Rural City agribusinesses are asked to book through the Farmer’s Day Out website, then email their ticket receipt to pcairns@ ararat.vic.gov.au for a refund of the registration fee.

SPIRAFLEX AIR SEEDER HOSE

Goodyear’s Spiraflex Air Seeder hose is designed for use in Air Seeding applications where there is a requirement to view the product being conveyed.

This hose is specially formulated with a Clear Thermosplastic Urethane Liner offering superior wear resistance in not only seeding applications, but many other dry bulk material delivery applications.

In stock ready for the 2026 season

Goodyear Engineered Products Australia is very pleased to introduced our USA made Spiraflex Air Seeder Hose. It was developed exclusively for use on OEM air seeder applications in the North American market and is now available in Australia.