While drought conditions have worsened across parts of southern and western New South Wales, producers in the Northern Tablelands are continuing to benefit from strong seasonal conditions and a positive production outlook. The latest NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) report shows that while large areas of the state remain in, or have recently transitioned to, the 'Drought Affected' category, the Northern Tablelands has avoided these conditions, remaining firmly in the ‘Non-Drought’ category throughout July. Rainfall across the Northern Tablelands during July was well above average, which has helped establish winter crops and promote growth. This has…
Across the region, more producers are experimenting with mixed species annual fodder crops to improve their feedbase. But do these mixes actually deliver better results than traditional single-species crops? Oats and annual ryegrass have long been reliable options for filling the autumn–winter feed gap, providing high-quality biomass when perennial pastures are less productive. However, interest is growing in whether combining species can offer additional benefits such as feed reliability, extended grazing and improved livestock production. A typical Northern Tablelands mix includes oats, a brassica or legume, and annual ryegrass. Oats provide bulk feed, ryegrass adds high-quality regrowth, and the brassicas…
Local Connect (formerly Attract, Connect, Stay – Glen Innes Inc) has launched a new program called The Welcome Experience. The program is a concierge service that helps settle and connect Essential Service Workers into the Glen Innes and Inverell communities. The program supports eligible new-to-area workers in government and non-government organisations positions in healthcare, education, communities and justice, police, fire and rescue and ambulance. Local Connect has adopted its Sustainable Business Plan, funded by the Whiterock Community Grant, and is now focused on developing a whole-of-community approach to workforce attraction and retention. This is an important development for the organisation…
