15 June 2020
- Farmers may benefit from more secure, affordable and reliable energy after Queensland Farmers’ Federation, Cotton Australia, Reaqua Solar Pumping and Constructive Energy were successful in securing funding to assess the advantages of microgrids. Read the media release HERE.
- Microgrids offer an exciting new model for farms to buy and sell power with this Project analysing four demonstration virtual microgrids in New South Wales and Queensland, to test their suitability in different circumstances. Check out the 7 News Mackay story HERE.
- With unsustainable electricity costs eroding the viability and productivity of many agriculture businesses, alternative solutions are needed so Queensland farmers can continue producing world class food, fibre and foliage. Read QFF’s Queensland Country Life column HERE.
- QFF CEO Dr Georgina Davis will join Professor Marcia Langton AO, Professor Tim Flannery, Professor James Watson, Ms Emma Herd, and Ms Sue Johnson as members of the Investment Panel assessing applications in the first round of the Land Restoration Fund. Details HERE.
- Less than two months after reaching 500 accredited farm businesses, the industry’s Smartcane BMP has reached 550. Congratulations to the growers for their commitment to the future of the industry. To find out more about the sugarcane industry best management practice program, click HERE.
- An initial assessment of the first positive case in Queensland of a farm worker with COVID-19 suggests that the processes put in place to manage risks have worked. For its success to date, this case should serve as a cautionary tale to the rest of horticulture. Read more from QFF industry member Growcom HERE.
- Deductions for agriculture workers can include clothing, footwear and laundry expenses, vehicle expenses, travel expenses and licenses, permits and cards. Download the ATO’s work-related expense guide to understand what you can and can’t claim this tax time HERE.
- The Queensland Government has announced a new tender release of five areas across nearly 1500 square kilometres located in the Bowen and Surat basins for petroleum and gas exploration. The tender process, PLR2020-2, will open on 18 June and close on 3 September 2020. More information HERE.
- You are invited to take part in a survey for a northern Queensland-focussed research project led by the Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia looking to prioritise, de-risk and broker agricultural development in northern Queensland. Have your say HERE.
- If you’re an extension practitioner working in the Reef catchments, you’ll appreciate how difficult it can be to clearly understand and communicate the science behind Reef water quality to farmers. You’re invited to join the RJSA for webinars on the 16 and 23 June to explore these topics. More details and register now HERE.
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