Strong growth in farm salaries - report
A new report shows farm employers across the dairy, sheep and beef, and arable sectors have continued to invest strongly in one of their greatest assets – their staff.
Farmers on the East Coast of the South Island are looking to move their stock to greener pastures as the hot and dry weather conditions continue to intensify.
The Feds are encouraging drought affected farmers struggling due to the dry El Nino weather pattern to continue destocking as necessary – and to think further afield.
"Farmers who have stock to shift should start thinking outside the regions they would usually sell to," says Federated Farmers national meat & fibre chairman Rick Powdrell.
"Likewise, if you have surplus feed and can assist farmers in areas struggling with drought by taking on stock, broaden your search - there are bound to be farmers who need a hand."
"This is an industry issue, we all need to think about assisting these farmers, to maximize the potential of these animals while keeping their welfare front of mind," he says.
Powdrell says there are various avenues farmers can consider taking when looking to buy or sell stock.
"Maintaining close contact with traditional channels such as your meat company and agent will be helpful - and they may be able to assist with getting your stock to other parts of the country or helping you to find stock to take on," he says.
"There are also new alternative methods emerging such as Stock X, a secure online trading platform. Those with stock to sell can create listings and potential buyers from anywhere in the country can browse the listings. Stock X has pledged a fifth of their commission to support drought affected farmers in Canterbury."
Powdrell says the welfare of the animals remains paramount both on farm and throughout transport.
"It goes without saying that all animals need to be confirmed fit for transport before they commence their journey."
Farmers who require support throughout the rest of this testing season or who have concerns for friends or neighbours are encouraged to get in touch with the Rural Support Trust.
The Rural Change programme, providing free private mental health professional sessions to the rural industry, is set to continue its next chapter within Rural Support Trust from 1 July 2024.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand chief executive Sam McIvor will step down in July.
A new report shows farm employers across the dairy, sheep and beef, and arable sectors have continued to invest strongly in one of their greatest assets – their staff.
The country’s 4200 commercial fruit and vegetable growers will vote from May 14 on a new HortNZ levy.
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
OPINION: The new government has clearly signalled big cuts across the public service.
OPINION: Your canine crusader is not surprised by the recent news that New Zealand plant-based ‘fake meat’ business is in…