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Rural News

Macadamia growers show orchard management key to resilience, sustainability

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Macadamia growers show orchard management key to resilience, sustainability.

Integrated orchard management (IOM) projects designed to get more sunlight into macadamia orchards, promote grass coverage on orchard floors, and manage water drainage are key to improving
the industry’s resilience and environmental sustainability.

“We work closely with our growers to help plan and implement IOM projects that have long-term benefits for macadamia production, profitability and environmental stewardship and sustainability,” said Mark Whitten, Marquis Macadamias Grower Liaison Officer for northern NSW.

“IOM combines three fundamental pillars of orchard management; drainage, orchard floor management and canopy management.

“Growers implement IOM to improve sustainability, control erosion, build healthy soils and canopy management to ensure adequate light levels to sustain grass cover on the orchard floor.

Improving the light environment in the orchards also makes the environment less suitable for pests and diseases.

“This system also ensures orchard resilience in the face of extreme weather events, such as during the floods that hit the Northern Rivers region in New South Wales in February and March in 2022,” he said.

Situated on the Southwestern side of Alstonville in the Northern Rivers region, Marquis Macadamias grower Robert Mosse has spent the previous decade implementing IOM in his orchards.

The program was specifically designed to widen tree spacing within his orchard to improve light penetration, grass coverage, pest management, and more efficiently control the water flowing within
the orchards by installing diversion drains.

“Long before the floods came, we removed approximately 8,000 mature trees.,” Mr Mosse said.

“In the older orchards where the spacing was 7m x 4m, we removed alternate rows, and in some cases, we removed whole blocks, even where the spacing was 8m x 4m, and replanted using much wider spacing.

“Water control was extremely effective in the blocks where tree removal and profiling within rows had been completed. There were no visible signs of erosion within any of these blocks during the recent floods, and the water leaving these blocks was clean.

“We suffered some soil erosion in blocks where the spacing is still 8m x 4m despite the construction of diversion drains.”

He said upon completion of all remedial work, the spacing across his properties will vary between 16m x 4m and 10m x 5m.

“We believe in our situation 10m x 5m is probably the optimum spacing because this will allow for easy conversion to 10m x 10m spacing in the future in the case of some of the really big varieties,” Mr Mosse said.

Mr Mosse said the remedial work undertaken though costly, had been worthwhile.

“Prior to the floods, we started to see yields increase as well as the quality of the nuts. Despite the floods and prolonged wet weather at the beginning of this season, we were able to harvest during most of the wet weather, and our crop this year will exceed last year’s crop.

“However, there is no doubt when the floods hit, we lost nuts already on the ground, especially in those blocks where remedial work has not commenced. Wind damage too was significant in our region, and we suffered a loss due to a few trees being blown down, but most of the damage was caused by heavily laden branches being torn off by the wind.”

Mr Mosse attributes the fact that his orchards suffered less flood damage to the advice given to him by Phil Zadro in Bundaberg many years ago, where they often experience very heavy rain.

“Phil said to me at the time that keeping control of water flowing within the orchards was essential. Phil was absolutely right,” he said.

Mr Whitten said following the floods, it was inspiring to see the resilience of the region and the macadamia growers.

“Growers have been helping each other where possible, with a general acceptance of the situation and an enthusiasm to get back into farming macadamias,” he said.

“Most importantly, Marquis Macadamias has maintained communication with growers, ensuring they have someone to speak with about their situation and to receive tailored advice on harvest strategies and pathways to recovery.

“We have been able to support growers impacted by floods by working with our transport providers to ensure more options are available to get their nuts to the dehusking facilities or factories, as well as extending the opening hours for receivals at our factories,” he said.

For more information on the Marquis Group, visit www.marquis.com

About the Marquis Group

The Marquis Group of companies is the world’s largest growers, processors, and marketer of macadamias, providing superior quality macadamias to food manufacturing, wholesale and retail
customers spanning across five continents.

The Marquis Group is 100% grower owned, processing over 22,000 tonnes per annum through Marquis Macadamias Australia and 18,000 tonnes per annum through Marquis Macadamias Africa.

Both regions are ramping up capacity in the coming years to a combined 96,000 tonnes.
• The production from these facilities is sold through the jointly owned company Marquis Marketing, which markets and sells over 20% of the world’s macadamia kernel.
• Marquis Macadamias Australia production: 22,000 tonnes of nut-in-shell processed, representing 43% of Australia’s macadamia production
• Marquis Macadamias Africa production: 18,000 tonnes of nut-in-shell processed
• 485+ growers
• 700+ employees
• Annual revenue of AU$292 million.

History of the Marquis Group

The Marquis Group began in 1983 when four growers established the Macadamia Processing Company (MPC) in Lismore, New South Wales, Australia, processing 53 tonnes of nut-in-shell.

In 2011 Pacific Gold Macadamias (PGM) was established in Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia, while Macadamia Marketing International (MMI) was formed in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia , to
market and sell the combined production of MPC and PGM.

In 2019, MPC wholly acquired PGM. In February 2020 MPC and PGM rebranded to Marquis Macadamias Australia, while MMI rebranded to Marquis Marketing.

In October 2020, South Africa’s Global Macadamias became a 50% shareholder in Marquis Marketing.

In May 2021, Global Macadamias rebranded to Marquis Macadamias Africa to align with the greater vision of the Marquis Group.

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NFF Criticises Food Supply Chain Workforce Report for Lack of Actionable Data

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NFF Criticises Food Supply Chain Workforce Report for Lack of Actionable Data

 

By Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has voiced its disappointment over the recently released final report by Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) on the future of the food supply chain workforce. While the report presented 41 recommendations to address workforce challenges, NFF President David Jochinke said it fell short of providing the much-needed workforce data to inform policy and business decisions.

“The Government intended to solve a critical gap in workforce data, but this report has largely restated old problems without delivering meaningful new insights,” Mr. Jochinke said.

Old Problems, Few Solutions

Mr. Jochinke acknowledged that while the report didn’t meet industry expectations, some of its recommendations were encouraging. Key highlights included:

  • Working Holiday Maker Program: The report cautioned against changes to specified work provisions within the program, reinforcing its critical role in addressing agricultural labour shortages and safeguarding national food security.
  • Labour Hire Licensing: A national approach to labour hire licensing was identified as urgently needed, echoing long-standing industry calls for reform.
  • Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme: The report highlighted the need to reduce the costs of placing workers under the PALM scheme to maintain its viability for businesses and ensure maximum benefits for Pacific communities.
  • Short-Term Visa Pathway: JSA recommended a targeted, capped visa to address short-term workforce surges in horticulture, a sector particularly vulnerable to labour shortages.

Familiar Challenges

Mr. Jochinke noted that many of the recommendations closely resembled those in the National Agricultural Workforce Strategy, launched by the previous government in 2020.

“The report covers a broad range of issues facing the agricultural workforce, but there’s little here that is groundbreaking. Producers are already acutely aware of these challenges,” he said.

The Road Ahead

Despite its limitations, the NFF sees the report as an opportunity for the government to take decisive action.

“Perhaps the most redeeming feature of the report is that no stakeholder—be it industry, unions, or others—is entirely satisfied with its findings. What matters now is how the government chooses to respond,” Mr. Jochinke said.

With critical issues like labour shortages, visa reform, and workforce mobility still unresolved, the NFF is urging the government to use the report as a springboard for meaningful change.

“All the hardest work is yet to be done. The agricultural sector is watching closely to see whether the government is prepared to back this report with the action and investment needed to address our workforce crisis,” Mr. Jochinke said.

 

For more local news, click here.

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AgCAREERSTART Welcomes Dozens of Young Australians to On-Farm Careers

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AgCAREERSTART Welcomes Dozens of Young Australians to On-Farm Careers

 

By Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation’s flagship gap-year program, AgCAREERSTART, is back for another year, with dozens of young Australians beginning their agricultural careers this week.

The program connects 17- to 25-year-olds with farmers across Australia, providing participants with job placements, pastoral support, training grants, and opportunities to build networks within the industry. Funded by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, AgCAREERSTART is now in its fourth year and has become a vital pathway into the agricultural sector.

O-Week Prepares Participants for Farm Life

This year’s program began with an action-packed Orientation Week (O-Week) in Ballarat, Victoria, where 54 participants visited farms, underwent training, and connected with program alumni. The event serves as an essential stepping stone for participants, many of whom are stepping into rural life for the first time.

One of the participants, 19-year-old Morgan Carroll-Keays, is moving from Victoria to a beef cattle operation near Stanley, Tasmania. Morgan sees the program as an ideal way to kickstart his career in agriculture.

“Having the $4,500 bursary makes it so much easier. We can upskill across the industry, even beyond our placement’s focus, which helps set us up for the future,” he said.

Morgan added that O-Week gave him the confidence and preparedness for his new role. “I’m looking forward to just getting involved, giving it a crack, and getting my hands dirty.”

A Growing Program with Strong Retention Rates

In 2025, approximately 70 young Australians are expected to join the program, bringing the total number of participants since AgCAREERSTART’s inception to nearly 250. With a retention rate of 83% of graduates remaining in agriculture post-program, the initiative is proving successful in attracting and retaining fresh talent in the sector.

AgCAREERSTART Project Manager, Kayla Evans, highlighted the importance of O-Week in helping participants transition to rural life.

“For many, this is their first full-time job, first time living away from home, and first time without their usual support network,” she said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see 54 fresh and nervous faces arrive, and just days later, leave with new friends, excitement for the year ahead, and a readiness to get started on the farm.”

Building the Future of Agriculture

AgCAREERSTART continues to attract a diverse range of young Australians to the agriculture industry, offering participants hands-on experience, industry connections, and a launchpad for long-term careers.

For more information about the program, visit here.

 

For more local news, click here.

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Opportunities for Students to Excel in Rural and Remote NSW

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Opportunities for Students to Excel in Rural and Remote NSW

 

Parents of high potential and gifted students in rural and remote areas of NSW are encouraged to apply now for placement in online opportunity classes (OC) or selective high school classes for the 2026 academic year, with the application deadline fast approaching on 21 February 2025.

Who Can Apply?

  • Opportunity Classes (OC): For students currently in Year 4 in 2025.
  • Selective High School Classes: For students currently in Year 6 in 2025.

Aurora College: A Virtual Learning Experience

Run by the NSW Department of Education, Aurora College delivers online classes to students at over 700 host public schools across rural and regional NSW. The program is designed to minimise disruption to students’ lives while offering them advanced educational opportunities.

Key Features:

  • Online Classes: High-quality education delivered virtually at students’ local schools.
  • Residential Camps: Two camps each year, providing opportunities for students to meet classmates, collaborate in hands-on lessons, and attend specialist excursions.
  • Equity Placement Model: Ensures fair access for students from under-represented groups, including those from low socio-educational backgrounds, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities, rural and remote locations, and children with disabilities.

Equity Placement Model

Under the Equity Placement Model, 20% of all OC and selective school places are reserved for high potential and gifted students from under-represented groups.

  • Students may qualify if their test performance is within 10% of the general first-round offer threshold for their desired school.
  • More details are available on the Fair Access webpage.

Placement Tests

Once an application is submitted, students will be invited to take the Opportunity Class or Selective High School Placement Test between 2 and 4 May 2025. This year, the placement tests will shift from paper-based to computer-based formats.

How to Apply

Parents can view the list of Aurora College host schools and submit applications through the NSW Department of Education’s Selective High Schools and Opportunity Classes website.

Supporting Every Student to Thrive

Dr. Paul Wood, Executive Director of Educational Standards, NSW Department of Education, highlighted the program’s impact:

“Regardless of geography or background, we are committed to providing every child in NSW with access to an environment that supports them to reach their full potential.

“Aurora College enables students to remain in their local communities while benefiting from advanced educational opportunities. This minimises disruption to their and their families’ lives, allowing them to focus fully on their studies.”

For more information and to apply, visit the Department of Education website.

 

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News and Reviews

2024 Australian Macadamia Crop Exceeds Expectations Despite Weather Challenges

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2024 Australian Macadamia Crop Exceeds Expectations Despite Weather Challenges

 

By Ian Rogers

The Australian Macadamia Society (AMS) has announced the completion of the 2024 macadamia harvest, with a total crop yield of 53,950 tonnes in-shell at 3.5% moisture (equivalent to 57,850 tonnes at 10% moisture). This marks an 11.5% increase in production compared to 2023, despite falling slightly short of the original forecast of 56,000 tonnes at 3.5% moisture.

Strong Performance Amid Adverse Conditions

AMS CEO Clare Hamilton-Bate praised growers for their resilience in overcoming challenges such as prolonged heat and extended wet weather during the season, which extended harvest into November for some regions.

“The 2024 season surpassed expectations, with significant improvements in kernel recovery, nut size, and overall quality,” Ms. Hamilton-Bate said.

The industry also noted a marked increase in the volume of cracked nuts, resulting in a higher quantity of kernels available for the market.

Regional Conditions and Early 2025 Outlook

Looking ahead, the 2025 crop is showing promise, with most regions experiencing favourable growing conditions.

  • South East Queensland and Northern NSW have faced mixed conditions, including high temperatures and wet weather, but flowering and nut set have been positive overall.
  • A significant number of young trees are expected to start bearing fruit next year, further boosting production.

“The outlook is optimistic, though it’s still early days,” Ms. Hamilton-Bate added.

Industry Context

The 2024 figures are based on factory receipts from the Australian Macadamia Handlers Association (AMHA), which represents 90% of Australia’s macadamia production, as well as estimated contributions from non-members.

This robust performance underlines the resilience and adaptability of Australia’s macadamia growers, positioning the industry for further growth in 2025.

Key Statistics for 2024 Crop

  • Total Production:
    • 53,950 tonnes in-shell at 3.5% moisture
    • 57,850 tonnes in-shell at 10% moisture
  • Year-on-Year Growth: +11.5% from 2023

The industry remains cautiously optimistic as it prepares for the challenges and opportunities of the coming year.

 

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Ballina News

“Australian lightweight champion from lil ol’ Swan Bay”

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Sunny McLean with his coach, Scott Smith. Boxing Northern Rivers News
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“Australian lightweight champion from lil ol’ Swan Bay”

 

By Samantha Elley

Maddog boxing’s Sunny McLean has been going from strength to strength this past year, grabbing titles from each of the events he has been fighting in.

Sunny McLean and his coach, Scott Smith, who runs Maddox Boxing, were recently picked to represent Queensland as the fighter and coach team to compete in the national titles in Gosford.

Sunny won all his elimination bouts and beat the NSW champion in the gold medal fight, to become the newly crowned Australian champion in the lightweight division.

They were surprised with a visit from Jason and Andrew Moloney, world champion professional boxers.

“Every state in Australia was there with all the best fighters and the (Moloney brothers) came to support us, so we felt so special,” said Scott.

“They came to help me prepare Sunny for his last two fights in this event.”

Sunny was competing for Queensland as he already holds the title of QLD/NSW interstate champion.

“His first opponent, the referee stopped the fight in the 3rd round,” said Scott.

“His second opponent was the favourite from Tasmania and Sunny won that fight to go through for the gold medal against the NSW champion.

“Andy (co-trainer) and I worked out a plan to beat him and Sunny did exactly what he was asked and never last control of the situation.

“He is now the Australian lightweight champion from lil ol Swan Bay.”

 

For more local news, click here.

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