3445P ThunderRipper ® in action
A MIXED BAG
Local and world events have created a mixed bag. As all the states open up and travel plans are full steam ahead, it is wonderful to be able to enjoy things that we once took for granted. Although COVID is still a threat, it feels that we are all learning to live with it; yet we are being cautious and being optimistic that further future variants are less dangerous and that we are through the worst of this pandemic and life across Australia is looking much brighter. Across the other side of the world and yet still influential here; Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has challenged agricultural commodity markets. Fertiliser, grains and especially oil prices have all seen large increases in prices and production uncertainty. The fertiliser index was up on a year-on-year basis in February, and 119% compared to the same time in 2020. The invasion of Ukraine has particularly caused problems with global grain markets. Russia and Ukraine produce around 27% of global wheat exports, this challenges already mixed overseas growing conditions and low global
stocks, this makes high volatility conditions. On a positive note; the recent budget took place against a generally reasonably strong two years for domestic agriculture, but with emerging challenges around trade disruptions. Seasonal conditions since autumn 2020 have generally been excellent, resulting in record crop production, combined with generally excellent commodity prices for many sectors. Some of the key measures to come out of the Federal Budget: • $61.6m for biosecurity infrastructure • $20.1m for on-farm biosecurity • $20m for pest and weed reduction • $15.4m for agricultural shows and field days • $12m for trade events • $6.6m for the AgMove program Winter seeding is near complete throughout both the Eastern States and W.A. wheat belts with a large portion of the Canola seeding now complete. All southern regions have a full profile of subsoil moisture.
Wishing all readers a problem free seeding season and hoping that your equipment is reliable and that your preparation pays dividends for you. I have outlined highs and lows, but like they say proper planning prevents poor performance and I am confident that your diligence towards your seeding season will be well rewarded. Glenn Soper General Manager Seeding and Tillage, CNH Industrial
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