Escalating supply chain costs must be addressed if we are to ease cost of living pressures. Read more in QFF’s President’s column.
2. Last week, 11 LGA’s had their drought declaration status revoked. You can read Minister Furner’s announcement here. This status change may have an impact on electricity tariffs for some producers and QFF has some advice for you here on how to navigate these changes.
3. A tightening supply of eggs on supermarket shelves has left some producers warning the shortage could last for months and drive up prices for consumers.Read more here
4. The next round of the Business Basics grants program opens on 4 May 2022. The Business Basics grants program provides support to businesses to increase core skills and adopt best practice. Grants of up to $5000 are available. More information is available on the Business Queensland website.
5. Biosecurity and the protection of our agriculture industries is an ongoing issue of critical importance. Japanese Encephalitis is on the march and while pork is absolutely safe to eat, the virus is having an impact on producers. There are now 30 New South Wales piggeries affected by the mosquito-borne virus and 11 people have been infected, with three deaths nationwide. Read more here
6. Growcom has announced the resignation of CEO, Stephen Barnard. QFF has enjoyed a productive working relationship with Stephen in advancing the needs of Growcom members and we wish him all the very best in his future endeavours.
7. Queensland is leading the way by supporting drought preparedness activities for a broader range of primary producers. QRIDA has been hosting forums throughout Queensland and you can register for your local event here. Can’t make the forum? You can access a webinar series on Queensland drought assistance, including grants, loans, workshops and training here.
8. High diesel prices are fueling rural properties’ move to solar. This is a pretty good yarn about how and why many properties have started to invest in sustainable energy sources. Read more here.
9. EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION opens on 3 May for the Queensland AgWorkforce Summit on 3 – 5 August 2022. The summit is an excellent opportunity to network and learn about innovative strategies that have worked in attracting, retaining and skilling workforce. For more info, go to the Summit website.
10. The teams at RMCG and AgriFutures Australia have been progressing key tasks for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Waste Program and are inviting producers to participate in a survey that will help capture current waste volumes and practices.Survey: https://research.kynetec.com/mrIWeb/mrIWeb.dll