Australian states embrace virtual fencing, creating growth opportunities for Halter
More Australian states are embracing virtual fencing technology, opening growth opportunities for Kiwi companies like Halter.
Australian farmers are throwing their support behind a proposed agricultural visa, which the Government could soon introduce to ease the worker shortage on farms.
Industry puts the shortfall at about 100,000 sector-wide.
National Farmers Federation Australia president Fiona Simson says the nation’s summer fruit harvest is again under threat.
“Our peaches, nectarines, mangos and cherries are almost ripe for picking,” says Simson. “Unfortunately, again this season, growers will struggle to hire the workers they need to pick the fruits of their labour.”
Agriculture Minister David Littleproud has been a vocal advocate for new visa categories since he took office in December.
“This has been a priority of mine since becoming the ag minister,” Littleproud said. “I [want] it this season as I promised and I’m confident I’m close, in consultation with immigration and workforce ministers.”
Simson says farmers are buoyed by Littleproud’s support for a visa, to “cater specifically for the acute skill shortages facing agriculture, including fruit pickers and packers. Our sector already relies heavily on migrant labour”.
She says the industry is keen to develop a domestic labour force but this alone is not the answer.
“Research and experience demonstrates that we need migrant workers to meet the farm sector’s needs.
“Many agricultural tasks are short-term and/or seasonal.
Commercial fruit and vegetable growers are being encouraged to cast their votes in the Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) board directors' election.
A unique discovery by a Palmerston North science company, Biolumic, looks set to revolutionise the value and potential of ryegrass and the secret is the application of ultraviolet (UV) light.
A New Zealand company is redefining the global collagen game by turning New Zealand sheepskin into a world-class health product.
With further extreme weather on the way, ANZ Bank is encouraging farmers and business owners impacted by the recent extreme weather and flooding to seek support if they need it.
New Zealand must continue to educate Chinese consumers about the unique qualities of its red meat products and how they differ from competitors, says Silver Fern Farms chief executive Dan Boulton.
There are opportunities outside the farmgate for young farmers to further develop their skills, says 2025 Primary Industries Emerging Leader Award winner Bridie Virbickas.
OPINION: Dust ups between rural media and PR types aren't unheard of but also aren't common, given part of the…
OPINION: The Hound hears from his canine pals in Southland that an individual's derogatory remarks on social media have left…