NATIONAL parks, beef markets, drought policy and rural crime issues are all on the agenda at AgForce’s multi-topic field days in North Queensland starting next week.
AgForce northern president Russell Lethbridge said the field days were an opportunity for locals to hear the latest industry information from a diverse range of speakers, while it was also a chance for AgForce representatives to get feedback from Gulf graziers about their priorities.
The AgForce Gulf Multi-Topic Field Days will be held in:
• Einasleigh: Monday August 29, 9am to 4pm.
• Gregory: Friday September 2, 9am to 4pm.
• Camooweal: Monday September 5, 9am to 4pm.
AgForce will also jointly run an event next week with Gulf Savannah Development and Croydon Shire Council focused on 'Tackling Real Issues with Practical Solutions' covering topics such as debt management, well-being, small business advice, and workplace health and safety. That event will be held at:
• Croydon: Wednesday August 31, 9am to 7.30pm (followed by a free barbecue and entertainment).
“With the Gilbert River Holdings property being gazetted as a national park, there will be an opportunity for landholders to hear first-hand the proposed plans for this parcel of land now and into the future," Mr Lethbridge said.
“AgForce representatives will also discuss the recent vegetation management debate and reiterate that the fight is only just beginning with the industry needing to maintain a firm, united front in support of fair laws for farmers so we can produce more food and create more jobs."
Mr Lethbridge said Meat and Livestock Australia would be attending the meetings to outline where cattle markets were heading and the opportunities for producers in coming months and years.
"Domestic and international cattle markets continue to hold firm and there is renewed hope that we will soon see a new live export market out of Weipa, which would provide a massive boost for northern producers," he said.
"AgForce is also pleased to welcome representatives from the Stock and Rural Crime Investigation Squad (SARCIS) to the field days to talk to producers about rural crime issues, while other topics of discussion will include biosecurity and the Grazing Best Management Practice program.
"It's going to be a very busy week with lots of interesting discussions aimed at ensuring primary producers are better informed about the challenges they face as well as the opportunities to take their businesses forward."