I believe the most accurate sporting analogy for the next phase of our cropping season is that we're approaching finals after a posting a solid front end of the draw finishing with a very mixed end.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Across the nation we appear to be the only state with notable production albeit there are many regions especially in northern Victoria who are looking at a very poor season.
With the barley now in the final stages of doughtiness drying down into seed and the canola seeds maturing rapidly, the time to get the grease gun pumping and spanners swinging on different equipment is starting to get more frantic.
We're currently cleaning out storage and setting a rough plan of what and where we are going to deliver and what we are going to store.
Getting fuel sorted and augers cleaned will be next after the sheep are crutched.
Later this week I will visit one of the Melbourne schools at which I annually discuss agriculture and take some plants and seeds for them to touch, feel and taste.
There are always questions about contentious topics like chemical usage and animal welfare, however it is a good opportunity to discuss their concerns and explain the why and how of our production systems.
I find it both a great opportunity to get them to think about where their food comes from and challenge their views about farming.
Two weeks ago we celebrated Ag Week in Canberra which involved the National Farmers' Federation 40th anniversary dinner.
I had the great honour of sitting between our Prime Minister and our Federal Agriculture Minister, with whom I took the opportunity to discuss key issues for our state and the Wimmera.
It was good to hear Scott Morrison mention the East Grampians project in his speech talking about water infrastructure.
I also discussed the importance of locking in a strong national agriculture policy, which is as important as critical drought support.
On November 21 we will also be celebrating the second Ag Day across the nation in conjunction with the Victorian Farmers Federation 40th birthday as well.
Unfortunately it is being held when the harvest is cranking up across the state, however we will also be ensuring our conference in 2020 will be celebrating the event and the people who have made our organisation great.
Overall I hope everyone uses the next few weeks to get everything lined up for, hopefully, a solid harvest. It is all about making sure everything is ready in what could be considered the finals of the season.
David Jochinke is president of the Victorian Farmers Federation