- Time is now quickly running out for the state government to develop a suite of suitable tariffs and a genuine transition program for farmers required to move to standard business demand-based tariffs before mid-2021. Read QFF’s Queensland Country Life column HERE.
- The Rural Jobs and Skills Alliance is asking for farmers’ help to resolve issues around labour availability and to ensure an agricultural workforce that is well resourced, fit for purpose and responsive by completing the Agriculture and Grazing Labour Forecast Survey. Have your say HERE.
- Commercial sectors have been benefitting from the use of drones in an ever-increasing variety of ways, offering high value gains in efficiencies, productivity, safety and marketing. But it is essential that the risks involved are appropriately managed. Read more from QFF corporate partner Holding Redlich HERE.
- Many growers are currently planning their cotton picking and winter crop planting operations, which often involves bringing contractors on farm. But what COVID-19 precautions should you take to protect the health and safety of your family and staff? QFF industry member Cotton Australia has some suggestions HERE.
- Greenlife Industry Australia has launched a dedicated COVID-19 directory page on their website for nursery and garden growers and industry to follow for the most up-to-date information and advice as the situation unfolds. Check it out HERE.
- The Federal Government is making temporary changes to visa arrangements to allow those within the Pacific Labour Scheme, Seasonal Worker Program and working holiday makers to continue to work in agriculture and food processing until the coronavirus crisis has passed. Details HERE.
- Advice and assistance for agriculture businesses during the COVID-19 outbreak including border restrictions and entry passes for agriculture, supply chain and business continuity, and financial and wellbeing support is now available on a dedicated Queensland Government webpage HERE.
- Fall armyworm has now been detected in Bundaberg. Be alert but not alarmed. If you think you’ve seen fall armyworm, take some photos and call Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or speak to your local biosecurity or extension officer. More information and watch a series of webinars about the pest HERE.
- Small grants of up to $50,000 and large grants of up to $150,000 are now available through round two of the FNQ & NQ Monsoon Trough Category C Flexible Funding Grants Program. Applications close Monday 4 May 2020. For more information regarding eligibility and to apply, click HERE.
- The recent heavy rain isn’t just great news for drought-affected South East Queensland, it’s also good for anyone trying to get rid of fire ants from their backyard with recent wet weather meaning the community may see fire ant nests much more clearly. More information HERE.
10 Things to know
Subscribe to QFF’s weekly ’10 things to know’ e-bulletin stay up to date with the latest news affecting Queensland agriculture.
Subscribe
Get ’10 things to know’ weekly direct to your inbox.