F E A T U R E D

More than 100,000 head of livestock were estimated lost during flooding in outback Queensland.

In short:

Early estimates indicate more than 105,348 head of livestock are dead or lost in the ongoing outback Queensland floods. Industry figures say the losses could be "catastrophic" for graziers.

What's next?

The total number of livestock lost will not be known until floodwaters subside.

More than 100,000 cattle and sheep are estimated to be dead or missing in the devastating flooding continuing in outback Queensland.

WARNING: This story contains images that may be distressing.

Early numbers confirmed by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) estimate 105,348 livestock are missing or deceased.

There are an estimated 13.3 million head of cattle, about 2.7m sheep and some 713,000 goats in Queensland. The DPI also confirmed that 3,183 kilometres of fencing had been impacted, along with 4,076km of private roads.

Those numbers are expected to increase in the coming days.

State Primary Industries Minister Tony Perrett said the impact would be devastating for producers and the industry.

"When you get those sorts of losses and those numbers are expected to grow, that's their livelihoods that, in some cases, have been washed away in front of them," he said.

"It's a devastating impact just on their business, but also on their mental health."

'They just won't live it out'

Eromanga producer Brendan Murray was running 9,000 sheep before the flood and estimated he had lost up to 6,000 head. He is not confident he will find the remaining 3,000.

"I don't think there's any hope for the rest," Mr Murray said.

"I think they're gone."

Mr Murray and his family have been dropped from helicopters in recent days to find livestock on foot and move them out of water.

He said some cattle were found "bogged to the brisket" and had to be put down because they could not be extracted from the thick mud.

"We've managed to get a lot out, but we've stopped looking for some," Mr Murray said.

"That's a dead loss. We're concentrating mainly on saving the ones we can save.

"We spent four hours walking 120 sheep to get them to an area where they weren't standing in water."

Mr Murray said the number of dead livestock was likely to grow given the forecast for more rainfall over the coming days in already drenched parts of the west. More rain is forecasted during the middle of the week, which may result in small renewed river and creek level rises.

"If it rains, we'll lose them," Mr Murray said.

"There's nowhere we can go with them.

"Even 20mm of rain will finish off what is left — they just won't live it out."

Recovery could take years

AgForce Queensland general president Shane McCarthy said he had seen stock losses of up to 80 per cent in some areas.

But the impact across graziers will vary depending on their herds, he said.

"Any stock loss is not good and we need as many as possible alive," Mr McCarthy said.

"If you've gone and lost 100 per cent of your stock, that's catastrophic."

He said the true numbers would not be revealed until the floods subsided.

"[Livestock] could be still alive but washed away, and we've got to find them and get them back … [but] they could be dead and washed away," Mr McCarthy said.

"At the moment they're just trying to move stock around, get them to high and dry ground, drop fodder to those animals that are still hanging around so that we can keep those stock alive and healthy.

"It takes years to build back numbers, and not to mention the time and effort of genetics that you've put into your livestock."

Many Thanks - Maddelin McCosker and Abbey Halter

As 2025 rolls in, optimism is sprouting across Australia's farms. After a tough year, nearly three-quarters of producers feel upbeat about the months ahead, with net confidence back in positive territory at five percent.

Beef and dairy farmers are leading the charge, boosted by solid global beef prices and favourable milk prices. They’re ready to invest, with nearly 90 percent planning to grow or maintain their on-farm investment. From silos to fencing, yards, and even tapping into unsecured loans, farmers are looking to expand and modernise their operations.

Take Sam, for example, a beef farmer from Queensland. Last year’s tough season hit him hard, with unpredictable rainfall and stubbornly high costs. But things are looking up. Sam recently used an unsecured loan to upgrade his fencing and install new water storage systems. With Rev Finance’s help, he streamlined the process without having to put up any collateral. "It was a lifesaver," he says. "Being able to get the funding sorted without tying up the farm was a game-changer."

Technology is playing a bigger role, too, with about 38 percent of farmers planning to invest in new tools and systems. From precision agriculture to smarter equipment, innovation is helping them stay ahead of the game. But not everything is perfect—drought and shifting policies are still weighing on some farmers’ minds, especially out west.

Still, with the cash rate holding steady at 4.1%, there’s some much-needed certainty in the mix. Pay In Time Finance, we're here to make growth plans a reality—whether it’s scaling operations, upgrading equipment, or simply having a solid financial safety net.

Agriculture’s its ups and downs, but with smart planning and the right support, 2025 is shaping up to be a bumper year. We're ready to help you seize the opportunities ahead!

WEEKLY AUCTION DATES – 2025

1.) 4^th April 2025 2.) 8^th April 2025  3.)18^th April 2025 4.) 22^nd April 2025

Ag Machinery

A new roadmap for the agriculture sector’s alternative energy transition

Industry representatives, government and a research consortium of industry experts are coming together to co-design a shared vision and roadmap to guide the energy transition for Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry sectors.

Led by AgriFutures Australia, the project will build upon foundational work The Diesel Transition: Petroleum diesel alternatives for the Australian agriculture, fisheries and forestry sector.

The co-design process will complement the sector’s decarbonisation efforts under the Agriculture and Land Sectoral Plan and will engage industry peak bodies, government, the National Farmers Federation and specialist expertise from some of Australia’s leading academic and research institutions to ensure the roadmap is fit for purpose and meets the needs of industry and government.

Jane Knight, AgriFutures Australia Senior Manager Rural Futures, said, “This is an essential step in ensuring the agriculture sector can transition to alternative energy sources in a way that is practical, sustainable and aligned with industry needs. We are excited to work alongside stakeholders to develop a roadmap that reflects the realities and opportunities across the sector.

Australian industry is reliant on fuel imports. The global energy transition is putting pressure on fossil fuels, and alternative fuel options are being actively explored by fuel producers. Petroleum diesel is the most widely used source of energy in Australian agriculture, fisheries and forestry, representing approximately 84% of total energy consumption. Diesel is seen as a reliable fuel that meets the demands of the sector, and the sector needs to develop a coordinated roadmap that carefully considers the risks and opportunities associated with changes in the global fuels market, and the broader shift to alternative energy sources.

Cassian Drew, Managing Partner of Acclimate Partners a specialist systems change and energy transition advisory firm that will lead the work, said it is important the sector’s energy transition roadmap represents the aspirations and timeframes of Australia’s food and fibre industries.

“A genuine co-design process needs collaboration between government, experts and industry at each stage to ensure genuine connection to the needs of end users,” Mr Drew said.

Australian agribusinesses are well-placed for 2025 despite expected rising geopolitical tensions, an underperforming Asian economy resulting in low consumer confidence, and a volatile energy market, which likely will make for an interesting year. Prices of livestock products are expected to fare well in 2025, and grain prices also hold upside potential, as reflected in a rising RaboResearch Australia Commodity Price Index forecast for 2025. Soil moisture in many regions is lower than one year ago. Most cropping and dairy areas along the southern coastline of Australia are too dry, while many of the country’s sheep and cattle areas received rains over the past two months, supporting feed availability. The rain forecast for the next three months paints a rather similar picture, which can hopefully still be offset if rains arrive during the growing season. Farm input costs, like fertilisers and plant protection chemicals, might remain stable but hold upside price risk, while crude oil prices might come off their recent five-month high.

RBA interest rate cuts are on the cards in Australia for Q2 and/or Q3 2025. We expect the RBA to make three small 0.25 basis point reductions, as global geopolitical headwinds might keep inflation and interest rates higher for longer. The global economic outlook for 2025 is subdued in many regions of the world, with Australia’s GDP growth recovery to 2.3% in 2025 being almost an exception. Major economies like the US (2.0% growth versus 2.7% in 2024) and China (4.7% versus 4.8%) are expected to struggle, which hurts consumer confidence and demand in those regions. The Australian dollar is forecast to remain weak near USc 60, which benefits Australian exports but makes imports more expensive. Australia’s tight labour market is expected to soften slightly.

Major agricultural sectors are well-prepared for the upcoming year. The recently harvested grain crop exceeded that of last year’s, but soil moisture levels in South Australia, southern Western Australia, and western Victoria need to be watched for the upcoming planting season. For beef and sheep producers, the outlook for farm-grown feed in the first half of 2025 looks promising. Prices of most commodities are not expected to reach the highs or lows seen over the past three years.

Geopolitics and shipping remain areas of concern. Trump’s return to the US presidency is expected to keep markets volatile. If trade duties are imposed as threatened, they are likely to be met with retaliation, with agri commodities possibly being impacted. Additionally, there is uncertainty about whether the US, a key destination for Australian beef, will impose import duties. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, along with the rerouting of ships away from the Red Sea due to piracy attacks, are expected to continue causing volatility in 2025, as the recent ceasefire and suspension of Houthi attacks on vessels could be short-lived. The war in Ukraine can still impact grain markets if Russia progresses further west and limits Ukraine’s grain exports.

Globally, farm input prices for fertilisers and plant protection products are forecast to remain stable or increase slightly. In Australian dollar terms ,Global urea and phosphate prices have moved upward from their Q2 2024 lows. As Australia imports most of its fertilisers, the weaker Australian dollar has been a key driver in this increase. Looking ahead to 2025, we don’t expect very significant price swings but see more upside than downside price risk. Costs on Australian farms are expected to remain well above pre-pandemic levels. Geopolitical tensions and potential conflict escalations could result in significant energy price swings and impact freight costs, thereby affecting the costs of fertiliser and plant protection products in Australia. Our global crude oil price outlook predicts Brent crude will drop below USD 70/bbl due to an expected oversupply, although the early 2025 price rally is heavily driven by fears of escalation in the Middle East.

Last week, around 60 growers and industry participants joined Rice Breeding Australia’s inaugural field day, held Tuesday, 4 March 2025, on-farm at Gogeldrie, New South Wales.

CEO Dr Georgina Pengilley said she was pleased with the turnout and interest, considering harvest has started early.

“It’s an important opportunity to share details about RBA’s breeding program and showcase our largest trial site with growers, industry and research partners.

“We are acutely aware of the responsibility we have to deliver high-performing new varieties into growers’ hands as quickly as possible, which is why days like these are so important.”

Formed in 2022, RBA is Australia’s only dedicated rice-breeding organisation. It is primarily levy funded, with involvement from AgriFutures Australia, SunRice and the Ricegrowers’ Association.

It works closely with research collaborators and industry to integrate the latest research outcomes into its programs.

“We’ve made significant progress over the past 36 months, and days like this are a great way for growers to see and understand what we’re doing and why and how that may be implemented on their farm,” Dr Pengilley said.

“It takes eight to 10 years for a variety to be developed for growers for use, and there’s a huge amount of work involved.”

The morning specifically covered genetic research projects targeting cold tolerance and lodging resistance, as well as techniques including hill plots, automation and drones designed to help speed up the development of new varieties.

On hand were RBA’s research collaboration partners from the University of Queensland, Deakin University and Rice Extension providing key updates on their work at the site.

“Ultimately, it’s all about getting varieties to growers that will give them what they need – that’s our sole focus,” she explained.

“And while we certainly concentrate on developing genetic solutions to address challenges such as lodging and cold tolerance, we also need to investigate and trial farm management techniques such as the use of raised beds and aerobic systems.

“We have combined agronomy, management and breeding together at this site, to trial and develop varieties that will be grown in the way famers will in the future.”

A new world-leading breeding facility to open in early 2026

RBA announced the development of a new dedicated rice breeding facility in December 2024. To be built at Leeton in NSW it is slated for completion in early 2026.

The complex will include a 480m2 glasshouse, 3ha bird-proof nursery, 4ha field trial area, as well as offices, seed processing and storage facilities.

“This is a significant investment, by industry, that will make Australian rice breeding a world leader. The facility and our capability will be on par with the best crop breeding facilities globally,” Dr Pengilley explained.

“We are always trying to work better, faster and smarter so that growers benefit as soon as possible, and this new facility will further boost our ability to do that.”

“It is incredibly exciting and shows strong confidence from the industry in its future.”

For further information, please visit ricebreedingaustralia.com.au

We Have Been to Your Town! We don’t just sit in an office; we are hands-on with our Farmers! 🙌

Nicole McNaughton, CEO of the Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN), has been named the 2025 Queensland AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award winner for her leadership in strengthening regional food and agribusiness industries.

At the helm of one of Australia’s leading food industry clusters, Nicole leads the Food and Agribusiness Network in connecting and supporting over 420 members across the Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast and Gympie regions, fostering collaboration, growth and innovation.

Ms McNaughton accepted the Award today at a ceremony attended by Her Excellency the Governor, the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young. The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, supported by platinum sponsor Westpac, is Australia’s leading award recognising the innovation, leadership and impact of women in rural and regional industries and communities.

With a $15,000 Westpac grant, Ms McNaughton will further develop FAN’s initiatives, as well as the opportunity to undertake a professional development course of her choice. Later this year, she will represent Queensland at the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Gala Dinner and National Announcement in Canberra, where the National Winner will receive an additional $20,000 grant and the National Runner-Up, $15,000.

A passionate advocate for regional agribusiness, Ms McNaughton has dedicated her career to connecting producers, manufacturers and industry leaders, ensuring regional food businesses can thrive in domestic and global markets.

“The success of regional agribusiness depends on strong collaboration, and FAN exists to bring people together producers, innovators, and businesses to grow stronger as a collective,” Ms McNaughton said.

“This Award is a testament to the impact of our food and agribusiness community in Queensland, and I’m honoured to champion the incredible work being done across our regions.”

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett congratulated Ms McNaughton and praised her commitment.

“Nicole is playing a pivotal role in advancing Queensland’s food and agribusiness sector, creating opportunities for producers and businesses to scale, innovate, and succeed. Her leadership through FAN is helping to strengthen Queensland’s $23 billion agricultural industry, and this Award recognises the impact of her vision and dedication.”

AgriFutures Australia Managing Director John Harvey emphasised the significance of the Rural Women’s Award in supporting projects that drive innovation, strengthen industries, and create lasting benefits for rural and regional communities.

“The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award celebrates leaders who are shaping the future of regional Australia, and Nicole McNaughton’s work exemplifies the power of connection and collaboration in driving industry success.”

“By supporting agribusinesses to grow and innovate, Nicole is not just strengthening Queensland’s food industry, she’s ensuring its resilience for generations to come.”

Simon Thurbin, Regional General Manager Southern QLD, Regional and Agribusiness for Westpac, underscored the importance of the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award in recognising the contributions of women in Australia’s food and agribusiness sector.

“Westpac is proud to support the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, which highlights the critical role women play in shaping Australia’s rural and regional industries.

“Nicole McNaughton’s work with FAN demonstrates the strength of community-led collaboration, and we are excited to see the continued impact of her leadership.”

Congratulations to all Queensland State finalists, including Angie Nisbet and Libby Cook-Black.

Meet - TEX

Comes from an old shed dog line. It's a bit of an old legend. Back to three legs after a bike accident. Handy in the paddock and yards. Massive Heart will work all day. Tex belong to Nic Perkins. He’s one of our Members and also the owner of Stock Shift, one of our Partners / Sponsors / Supporters.

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REALM Group Australia (RGA) - originally est. 1992. The most trusted online Ag Marketing System in Australia. Built by Farmers for Farmers! Education is the KEY. True Pioneers - We were the first, and we are still growing. Proud Supporters of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) & Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC)