Considering the challenging environment many producers have faced over recent months (floods in QLD, NSW &VIC; drought in parts of the WA wheat belt)  it was good to hear some positive news. New figures released by the Federal Government show that Australian farmers contributed over $43 billion in gross production value to the Australian economy over the past year.  That’s an average of $316,000 per farm in value and productivity, a rise of $3 Billion overall following the end of the drought.

NFF President Jock Laurie commented on the figures by reminding people that while agricultural production is increasing, there is a declining rate in the growth of production. Meeting the food and fibre demands of Australia’s increasing future population clearly remains a challenge particularly when you consider the limitations involved such as water, labour and the simple fact that ‘they’ simply aren’t making any more land.

I’m not sure what’s happening in NSW however at least in QLD Agforce is calling on the State Government for an overhaul of kangaroo management. We already have a population explosion on the New South side of the border and QLD is bracing for a serious increase in numbers following the current terrific season in many parts of the state.  Apart from a kangaroo’s ability to chew through natural pasture a quick drive around some of our crops (those that haven’t as yet been fed off to stock) shows ongoing damage.  If your concern lies more with the kangaroos than a producer’s livelihood and subsequent grain production-Bread anyone? Consider the damage that is done to ecosystems. Agforce spokesman Stephen Tully notes the following results from lack of management: ‘Kangaroo’s dying of starvation and native animal species under threat from excessive grazing pressure’.

We’re shearing this week. So it’s back to mustering and shed work. Happy trails…