Articles tagged: Rural
Prioritise checking in: South-west safety plea after farm tragedy
Larpent farmer and Dairy Farmers Victoria president Mark Billing says farmers need to stay in touch with each other while working alone or remotely, with the south-west continuing to be over-represented in on-farm fatalities.
Consider layout effectiveness after bushfires
While recent bushfires have had devastating consequences for Colac district farming families, they also offer an opportunity to review and update farm layouts.
Farm program to boost business
Agriculture Victoria is inviting Colac and district farm business owners and managers to take part in a free online business program.
Keep an eye out for caterpillar
After increasing reports of native armyworms, Agriculture Victoria is encouraging Colac and district farmers to know the difference between native and invasive species.
Revegetation grants help deliver native results
Landholders in the Heytesbury district can improve their properties and help the environment with the next wave of a high demand program.
Farmer reappointed to role, ready to respond
The State Government has reappointed Peter Tuohey as its rural assistance commissioner to continue supporting rural and regional farming communities.
Virtual fence boosts productivity
A farming advocacy and lobby group has welcomed the State Government’s approval of virtual fencing technology across Victorian farms.
Council continues push for levy remodelling
Corangamite Shire Council has called on the State Government to explore a “fairer long-term funding model” for funding emergency services that does not disproportionately impact farmers.
OUTLOOK IMPROVES: Stock agents reflect on 2025
Colac livestock agents have reflected on the year of 2025, with improved conditions now beginning to benefit drought-stricken producers who have been consistently paying for feed.
Spring rain brings farmers hope
Colac’s final store cattle sale of the year has highlighted the market’s better position following an improved spring.
Drought ‘hangover’ lingering in south-west
South-west Victorian farmers have shared a mixed outlook for the approaching season, following a new report by Dairy Australia.
Local outfit bidding for premier event
Colac and district’s shearing industry could be set to spotlight on a national stage if a local contractor can win a bid to host the world shearing championships.
Shouldn’t have to wait: council
Colac Otway Shire Council says it should not need a cultural heritage permit for minor routine safety works on a key rural road.
Credits are costing farmland
An Irrewarra farmer says water authorities and other agencies should be spending on infrastructure and conservation instead of carbon sequestration.
Tariff backflip benefits district’s beef industry
A Colac and district stock agent has welcomed the removal of a US-imposed tariff on Australian beef product.
Potential plans for a unified lobby group
A reunification may be on the way for two major dairying lobby groups, with a Larpent farmer welcoming plans.
Authority probing on-farm death
WorkSafe is continuing to investigate a work-related death at a farm west of Cressy last week.
Prioritise harvester safety
Harvest season has begun across south-west Victoria, with fire officials warning community members to ensure precautions are taken to avoid harvester fires.
Government expands its drought help
An extension to the State Government’s Drought Support Package aims to continue connecting farmers to essential services to overcome drought conditions.
Assistance offered for water planning
Agriculture Victoria is inviting south-west Victorian farmers to sit down with a cuppa and join a series of water planning webinars running across five weeks.
Quality cattle, positive outlook
As 1200 head of cattle went under the hammer on Friday, current conditions helped farmers have a positive outlook. It was a welcome change from this time last year, they said.
Farmers doubt Bureau outlook
Farmers across the Colac district have echoed concerns about the unreliability of the Bureau of Meteorology’s long-range predictions, choosing to draw upon other resources for a plan of action.
Homes in farming zone given the green light
Three brand new homes will be built across farming land in the Colac Otway Shire, following council approval.
Party leader visits plantations
A former Queensland senator has taken a tour across south-west Victoria, including to plantations in the Simpson district.
