F E A T U R E D

Welcoming Simon Cheatham 
Ringers From The Top End (RFTTE) with REALM Group Australia

G’day Robbie and Team REALM, thank you for the opportunity to introduce RFTTEJOBS.com - Australia’s largest Agriculture Jobs Network!

I started Ringers From The Top End (RFTTE.com) in 2007 as a Facebook group to track down old mates from my days on Carlton Hill, a million-acre cattle station in the Kimberley. Mates like Longfella, Hank, Woody, Tiny, Turtle, Rambo, Burner, Big Luke, Fast Eddy, Mick, Mitch, and Rut. But I found more mates than I bargained for — today the community has grown to 330,000+ followers across socials and 65,000 newsletter subscribers.

In 2019, I launched RFTTEJOBS.com full-time. Now with 400,000 followers and 300+ employers on board, it’s helping thousands find work in the cattle station and rural industries.

The name pays tribute to the late Slim Dusty, whom I met at Carlton Hill in the ’90s while photographing his Ringer From The Top End album.

I’m passionate about helping people experience life on a station — whether for a season or a lifetime — and proud that so many have found jobs and mates through RFTTE.

Hooroo for now,
Simon Cheatham
0417 277 488 | [email protected] 
Founder | Ringers From The Top End | RFTTE.com | The Online Campfire since 2007
RFTTE PTY LTD | ABN 29 678 593 283

The paddocks might look greener than last year, but water storages tell a different story. In central Victoria, storages have plunged—in places like Geelong, they’re down to just 37%, and even Melbourne’s not far behind. With winter rainfall underwhelming and water forecasts uncertain, farms that depend on water for stock or irrigation are feeling squeezed.

In response, the federal government has delivered a shot of relief. An extra $1 billion has been earmarked for low-interest drought loans—aimed at helping farms in Victoria, South Australia, and beyond with working costs, ecological events, and fighting off the worst effects of dry spells. This funding is being extended past mid-2026, giving farmers a bit more certainty and breathing room.

These developments show two things clearly: drought isn’t letting up, and finance is starting to follow where the pain is. But it’s not enough to wait for support—you’ve got to move.

What Farmers Should Be Doing Now

When water is tight and costs are rising, waiting is expensive. Here’s what to act on:

• Check your loan repayments—if your loan allows, refinance or restructure to ease payment load during lean periods.

• Preserve cash flow—dip into drought loans if viable; it could prevent stock losses or force fire-sale sales.

• Plan for dry springs—invest smart in water storage, feed buffers, and even fodder contracts early if you can.

Why Smart Finance Doesn’t Have to Come at High Cost

It’s tempting to believe that cheap finance means compromise. But in this season, adjustable loan structures, flexible repayment schedules, and loans indexed to real farm cash flow are what make the “cheap” bold.

At Pay In Time Finance, we are helping farmers line up finance options that deliver two things: lower cost and better fit. It’s not just about interest rates—it’s about timing, impact, and having funds working when you need them most.

Because when drought bites and water dries up, the farms that thrive are the ones whose finance beats the weather—not just wait for relief.

WEEKLY AUCTION DATES – 2025

1.) 12^th September 2025

INPUTS

Agriculture has been one of the pillars supporting the country’s economy, accounting for 12% of the nation’s GDP. Due to the expansive arable land in the country, large-scale farming activities thrive, consisting of some of the largest beef ranches in the world as well as huge wheat and barley fields. The majority of the agricultural commodities produced in Australia are sold to international markets, with 80% of all wheat, 90% of all wool, and over 50% of barley being exported to various international destinations. The top consumers of these commodities include China, the United States, Japan, and Indonesia. The Australian landscape is predominantly arid and hence only suitable for livestock rearing and specifically beef production, with estimates putting the total area under beef farming being 60% of the country. 

Agricultural Export Products Of Australia 

There are over 25 million head of beef cattle in Australia, with an annual capacity of exporting 2.34 million tons of veal and beef, making Australia the second-largest beef exporter in the world behind Brazil. Beef accounts for 19.9% of all agricultural exports from the country. Wheat is another top agricultural export, with the country exporting over 16 million tons in 2016 according to the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Science (ABARES). Wheat accounts for 12.5% of all agricultural products exported from the country. The wheat is grown on large-scale plantations in Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales, and Queensland. 

While beef is the most popular export, other types of meat from Australia are also in high demand in the export market and include mutton and goat meat. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Australia is the second biggest exporter of mutton and lamb, with the country exporting a total of 0.5 million tons of lamb and 0.2 million tons of mutton, with the Middle East being the primary destination. Australia is the world’s largest goat meat exporter, with the country exporting over 34,000 tons in 2015, 66% of which is exported to the United States. Wool is another top export product of the country, with Australia exporting wool worth $3 billion in 2015 and accounting for 25% of the total sold on the world market. The wool is produced in large sheep farms in all the states bar the Northern Territory, with the total number of wool-producing sheep estimated to reach 70 million in the country. 

The horticultural industry is another key player with several fruits and vegetables locally produced being exported, including tropical fruits such as mangoes, bananas. and citrus fruits. The country is also exceptional in its export of opium, which is produced for use in the pharmaceutical industry and is one of the few legal exporters of the rare commodity. Tubers produced in the country are also exported in high quantities, with potatoes being exported to the United States and Japan. 

Policies To Promote Exports 

The Australian government has always been supportive of the agricultural industry in the country through several policies that create a favorable environment for agricultural practices to thrive. The government has placed subsidies on numerous farm inputs, making them affordable to all farmers and making large-scale production a sustainable activity. The government has also reached out to its international partners and established trade deals that place low tariffs on agricultural exports and hence source large international markets for local farmers. 

Top 10 Agricultural Exports Of Australia

AG MACHINERY

The agriculture equipment industry is on the brink of a transformative wave, with advancements poised to reshape the landscape in 2025. According to a recent report from the International Agricultural Machinery Association, the global market for agricultural equipment is expected to reach $200 billion in 2025, driven by increasing demand for enhanced productivity and sustainability in farming practices. As we delve into the emerging trends, it is essential to recognize how innovations such as automation, precision farming technologies, and eco-friendly machinery are not just enhancing efficiency but also setting new industry production standards. These trends reflect a broader commitment to integrating smart technologies and data analytics into agricultural operations, ultimately paving the way for more sustainable and efficient farming methods.

EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES REVOLUTIONIZING AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENT BY 2025

As we advance into 2025 and beyond, the agricultural sector is poised for a seismic shift driven by emerging technologies. Artificial intelligence (AI) and remote sensing (RS) are spearheading this transformation, particularly in pest management. By leveraging AI algorithms and real-time monitoring, farmers can achieve rapid detection and precise interventions, which is projected to reduce pesticide usage by up to 90% for certain crops. This evolution not only enhances yield but also promotes eco-friendliness in agricultural practices.

Moreover, the integration of AI-powered drones in precision agriculture is set to change the landscape entirely. These drones facilitate accurate surveying and data collection, significantly improving the efficiency of monitoring crop health and the optimization of resources. Industry reports indicate that innovations in agricultural technology and machinery could increase overall efficiency by as much as 30%, leading to more sustainable farming operations. As we look to the future, the convergence of these advanced technologies is revolutionizing how we grow food, ensuring that agriculture remains both productive and sustainable in an ever-changing environment.

SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES: THE FUTURE OF ECO-FRIENDLY FARMING EQUIPMENT

As the agricultural sector evolves, sustainability is taking center stage in the development of farming equipment. Eco-friendly technologies are no longer just an addition; they are becoming essential components of modern agriculture. In 2025, we can expect a surge in innovations aimed at reducing environmental footprints while enhancing productivity. This shift is a response to growing concerns about climate change and resource depletion, pushing manufacturers to create more energy-efficient machines that utilize renewable resources and minimize waste.

One notable trend is the integration of smart technology in eco-friendly equipment. Precision farming tools, equipped with advanced sensors and data analytics, are allowing farmers to optimize their resource use. For instance, smart irrigation systems can significantly reduce water consumption by delivering precise amounts of moisture based on real-time soil conditions. Additionally, electric and hybrid tractors powered by renewable energy sources are emerging as a viable alternative to traditional gasoline engines, further decreasing greenhouse gas emissions from the agriculture sector. By embracing these sustainable practices, the future of farming not only promises increased efficiency but also a healthier planet for generations to come.

SMART FARMING: INTEGRATING IOT AND AI IN AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY

The agricultural equipment industry is on the brink of a technological revolution, primarily driven by the integration of IoT (Internet of Things) and AI (Artificial Intelligence) in smart farming. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the smart agriculture market is projected to reach $22 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 12.2% from 2020. This remarkable growth is largely fueled by the demand for increased productivity and efficiency in farming operations, facilitated through advanced machinery equipped with IoT sensors and AI algorithms.

Implementing IoT in agricultural machinery allows farmers to collect real-time data on soil conditions, crop health, and weather patterns. This data-driven approach enables precise decision-making, from irrigation management to pest control. AI enhances this further by analyzing vast datasets to optimize planting schedules and yield predictions. A report from Deloitte highlights that farmers implementing AI-driven tools could potentially increase their yield by up to 20%, representing a substantial return on investment. As we look towards 2025, the synergy between IoT and AI in agricultural machinery promises not only to transform farming practices but also to redefine the future of food production on a global scale.

This chart illustrates the anticipated growth in the adoption of smart farming technologies in 2025, focusing on key areas such as IoT integration, AI utilization, and autonomous equipment.

THE ROLE OF DRONES IN PRECISION AGRICULTURE: TRENDS TO ANTICIPATE

As we look at 2025 and beyond, the role of drones in precision agriculture is set to transform the farming landscape dramatically. Drones are poised to become indispensable tools for farmers seeking to optimize their operations through advanced data collection and analysis. By leveraging aerial imagery and real-time monitoring capabilities, farmers can gain critical insights into crop health, soil conditions, and irrigation needs, leading to more informed decision-making and efficient resource management.

Moreover, the integration of artificial intelligence with drone technology will further enhance precision agriculture. AI systems can analyze vast amounts of data gathered by drones to identify patterns and predict outcomes. For instance, farmers will be able to detect pest infestations or nutrient deficiencies earlier than ever before, allowing for targeted interventions that minimize chemical use and promote sustainable practices. As these technological advancements continue to evolve, the future of agriculture will be characterized by greater productivity, resilience, and environmental stewardship.

FUTURE TRENDS IN AUTOMATION: ENHANCING EFFICIENCY WITH ROBOTICS IN FARMING

The future of agriculture is being revolutionized by the rapid integration of automation and robotics, addressing the increasing pressure on food production systems driven by population growth. According to a recent market report, the smart agriculture market is projected to significantly expand, with advancements such as precision farming and livestock monitoring emerging as crucial components of this transformation. The market for smart agriculture is expected to grow by leaps and bounds, driven by the need for efficient and sustainable farming solutions.

Robotic systems are at the forefront of enhancing operational efficiency in agriculture. With the ability to perform complex tasks through AI-driven algorithms, these robots not only automate labor-intensive processes but also contribute to precision agriculture by delivering targeted interventions. As highlighted in industry analyses, the adoption of agricultural robots helps alleviate labor shortages while improving crop yields and reducing operational costs. As the global special robot industry blossoms, it is anticipated that the market will reach significant figures, with projections indicating a potential USD 140 billion market by 2024, showcasing the rapid evolution of this sector. 

The automation wave in agriculture is not just about technology; it is also a response to ecological pressures and modern agricultural challenges. With innovations like smart irrigation systems and pest detection robots becoming commonplace, the sector is on the brink of a renaissance that marries efficiency with sustainability. As we look towards 2025, it will be critical to monitor how these advancements reshape agricultural landscapes, offering solutions that not only enhance productivity but also adhere to environmentally friendly practices.

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AG NEWS AUSTRALIA

In 2025, the question isn’t just about how we can increase food production - it’s how we can do so in a way that minimises our impact on the planet and maximises the efficiency of every acre. This is where innovation intersects with necessity - new solutions that won’t just improve productivity, but also address the global crises of our time.

This article highlights six agrifood innovations selected through collaboration between the experts at grow^AG. and evoke^AG., who have identified the agritech trends and foodtech developments likely to have the greatest impact on the industry in the coming year. Drawing on firsthand insights, emerging research, and the latest industry developments from grow^AG. and evoke^AG.’s extensive networks - spanning partnerships with research institutions, startups, corporates, and investors - this article provides a unique perspective on the technologies transforming the agrifood ecosystem.

Here are the six agrifood innovations that will shape the sector by 2025:

1. Carbon reduction in agriculture

The agriculture sector is often seen as a culprit in the climate change debate, accounting for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions. However, carbon reduction in agriculture is beginning to reshape the industry as farmers increasingly adopt technology to reduce emissions and capture carbon. 

Companies - not countries- around the world are leading the charge, with many pledging to cut emissions to 30% by 2030. To achieve this, 2025 will likely see technologies like Rumin8 (alternative feed supplements that reduce methane emissions) and industry-wide adoption of greenhouse gas emission reduction practices, such as the Australian Pork Industry’s Roadmap, take off. 

As carbon becomes the modern "currency" of agriculture, efficient, low-emission farming will be key to meeting these targets and securing future market opportunities. Companies like AgriProve, which are helping producers measure and monetise their carbon capture, will become vital partners for farmers in meeting global sustainability goals. 

 2. Robotics, automation, and energy-efficient machinery

Next-generation robotics and electric/hybrid machinery are transforming agriculture in ways we never thought possible. 

The use of robots in agriculture will have industry-wide impacts, from fixing labour shortages to tackling food waste. In the next few years, this innovation will likely give rise to fully automated agricultural production systems, with emerging trends pointing to a focus on autonomous harvesting and precision agriculture. 

Ongoing research is centred around improving robot adaptability and performance. Companies like Ripe Robotics are leading the charge, developing robots capable of apple-picking, pruning, and precision spraying. 

As robotics and automation progress, we can look forward to fully automated farming operations that will improve efficiency, reduce waste, and drive higher yields.

3. Biotechnology in crop development

Biotechnology in crop development, driven by genetic modification (GM) and bioengineering, has seen unmatched adoption among farmers worldwide. In 2019, GM crops were cultivated by 17 million farmers across 190.4 million hectares in 29 countries, surpassing the impact of previous agricultural innovations. 

This technology not only benefits crop resilience by enabling plants to endure harsh conditions like drought, pests, and disease, but it also contributes to greater sustainability by reducing reliance on chemicals. In the coming years, research focused on developing climate-resilient crops to address challenges like drought tolerance and pest resistance through gene editing technology will make crop improvements even more precise and impactful. 

Innovative research in plant biotechnology, synthetic biology, soil science, and process engineering is driving progress, with companies like Gondwana Genomics offering plant DNA testing services through Marker Assisted Selection (MAS) to improve breeding programs. As these technologies mature, they promise to address global challenges such as food security, sustainability, and the effects of climate change, ensuring agriculture remains adaptive to change in the decades to come.

4. Sustainable packaging solutions

As consumer demand for eco-friendly products grows, agricultural businesses will increasingly turn to innovative packaging materials like biodegradable plastics, plant-based fibers, and recyclable options. These sustainable alternatives can significantly cut down on single-use plastics, which are major contributors to pollution.

For example, research by Dr. Nasim Amiralian from the University of Queensland has led to the creation of packaging from sugarcane waste, offering antimicrobial properties that extend produce freshness. This technology reduces the carbon footprint, making packaging more sustainable while addressing both plastic waste and agricultural food waste.

Similarly, C4C Packaging has successfully developed a responsibly sourced carton packaging production line for Australia’s wine and Ready-to-Drink (RTD) products industries. These products lie on the frontier of a mass movement towards sustainable packaging solutions and more eco-conscious agricultural practices.

5. Advanced bio-fertilisers and soil enhancers

Advanced biofertilisers and soil enhancers offer a more sustainable and efficient alternative to chemical fertilisers by harnessing beneficial microorganisms and organic compounds to improve soil health and promote healthier plant growth. 

The sustainability benefits this innovation offers are significant. By promoting natural processes within the soil, such as microbial activity, biofertilisers can improve long-term soil fertility and reduce the carbon footprint of farming. As adoption grows, they will be key to transitioning agriculture toward more eco-friendly, efficient, and resilient systems.

Companies like Food2Soil are already making ground in this space by turning commercial food waste into an advanced biofertiliser. In the coming years, innovation from companies like ICL, which are “hacking” into the natural communication system of plants, will support nutrient uptake and help plants access the resources they need more efficiently. Continued research and adoption will not only see more eco-friendly, soil-enhancing products on the shelves in 2025 but will also drive a drastic shift in agricultural practices towards sustainability. 

6. Green hydrogen from agricultural waste

In 2025, green hydrogen is expected to become an increasingly vital tool as a cleaner alternative to the carbon-intensive processes currently used in farming, food production, and supply chains.

Agricultural waste - such as crop residues, animal manure, food processing byproducts, or energy crops - can be repurposed into green hydrogen. These materials, which are typically discarded or burned, are rich in carbon and can be processed through clean energy methods like electrolysis, powered by renewable sources such as solar or wind. This reduces both agricultural waste and its environmental impact while creating a carbon-neutral alternative to traditional hydrogen production to support the decarbonisation of agriculture.

Startups like HydGene Renewables are already bringing this technology into the real world. They are developing a pilot system capable of producing 1kg of green hydrogen per day - enough to power a home for a day or be used in ammonia production. In 2025, HydGene Renewables intends to demonstrate its technology in the field, with plans to deploy commercial demonstration plants in the coming years.

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

We’ve heard the word a thousand times. Provenance.

It’s in presentations, pitch decks, and packaging. It signals origin, authenticity, and care. But in practice, provenance is often reduced to marketing copy or static certificates that live in a folder no one checks until something goes wrong.

That won’t hold much longer.

Retailers and exporters are no longer buying stories. They’re buying systems. They’re asking what happens after the fruit leaves the orchard. Who packed it? How it was handled. What temperature did it travel in? And whether that information is accessible in real time, not just in a PDF three weeks later.

In berries, leafy greens, melons, and cherries, the businesses getting ahead are the ones that treat traceability as operational infrastructure—not a brand flourish. In Australia, several pilots have already shown the blueprint. It’s not complicated. But it is consistent.

What Happens When the Data Moves With the Product

For growers and packers, one scan should be enough. It should clearly tell the story: paddock, inputs, crew, harvest time, pack run, and cold-chain performance. When that data travels with the product, not behind it, a few things happen:

• Recalls shrink.

• Disputes are resolved faster.

• Certification proof is instant, not requested.

That’s not a hypothetical. In NSW DPI and CGA trials, serialised labels and GS1’s Digital Link created real-time traceability from property to store, while also improving market access and buyer confidence.

For exporters and retailers, shared identifiers (like GTIN and SSCC) alongside event-based data capture provide a single source of truth. In the cherry and potato pilots, this translated to better logistics, cleaner data handovers, and stronger engagement when product data flowed directly into consumer channels.

And for regulators or QA teams, this same structure reduces admin and improves compliance visibility. FSANZ standards and emerging RegTech frameworks are better served when data doesn’t live in silos or spreadsheets.

Why Horticulture Should Lead

Horticulture has a short shelf life and a long list of things that can go wrong. It’s seasonal, brand-sensitive, and fast-moving. That’s why traceability pays off fastest here.

In trials with serialised labels, automated data capture, and real-time visibility, cherry growers didn’t just meet export standards—they earned stronger positioning, faster clearances, and more resilient cold-chain coordination. The system didn’t slow them down. It protected their margin.

What a Good Platform Actually Needs to Do

You shouldn’t need to rebuild your entire operation to prove where your product came from. The platforms that win will be the ones that quietly strengthen what already works.

A good system will:

1. Label once, prove everywhere.
   Use standardised, serialised QR codes (like GS1 Digital Link) across punnets, cartons, and pallets so identity stays with the product all the way through.
   

2. Capture events, not attachments.
   Record harvest, pack, ship, and temperature data in structured formats, not PDFs. This enables visibility in real time, not weeks after the fact.
   

3. Integrate lightly.
   Connect to what you already use: packhouse software, cold-chain monitors, WMS, or TMS tools without starting from scratch. The cherry pilots proved this works best when rollout begins with one crop, one buyer.
   

4. Make compliance automatic.
   Bind certifications and QA checks to the same product identifiers so your audit trail builds itself.

The Payoff

Here’s what Australian horticulture pilots already confirmed:

• Speed and access.
  Faster intake. Fewer DC rejections. Data matched to product, not email chains.

• Risk control.
  Targeted recalls with smaller financial and brand impact.

• Premium positioning.
  Credible proof of origin, quality, and handling that supports sustainability claims and high-value export programs.

Bottom Line

Provenance doesn’t need to be loud. It needs to be real.

It should be built into the product, not stapled on at the end. It should ride with the label, not live in the inbox. And when it’s needed (whether in a supermarket, an audit, or a logistics dispute), it should already be there.

Australia’s pilots have mapped the path. The pieces are in place. Now the question is no longer how to do it.

It’s whether we will.

“Samantha Watkins Photography”

Realm Group Australia

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)