Things are looking up for sheep and beef farmers, the B+LNZ midseason update is forecasting a strong return to profitability for the sector. Bryan talks to chair Kate Acland, who shares insights on market dynamics, challenges posed by tariffs, and the impact of input costs on farmers' profitability.

They also discuss the future of sheep farming, regulatory concerns, and the importance of farmer confidence in the sector.

Trade and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay joins the show to discuss the positive trends in profitability for sheep and beef farms in New Zealand after years of struggle. He emphasises the importance of reducing regulatory burdens and ensuring market access through trade agreements.

McClay also addresses the uncertainties in global trade and their potential impacts on NZ's agricultural exports.

Senior reporter Richard Rennie reports on his recent trip to Tairāwhiti, where he caught up with some of the forestry companies working to ensure the next storm that hits the region doesn’t cause the same damage as Cyclone Gabrielle.

This week, Bryan chats with Federated Farmers banking spokesperson Richard McIntyre, who delves into the complexities of rural banking practices in New Zealand, discussing the implications of banks' decisions on local businesses. They explore the balance between environmental responsibility and the need for financial institutions to support local economies. They also debate whether “woke” is a useful term to use when trying to discuss complex issues.

The New Zealand Meat Board flies under the radar a little bit but it does one of the most significant jobs in the food and fibre sector – managing the quotas for red meat exports. Chief executive Nick Beeby joins Bryan to lift the lid on the process.

Senior reporter Neal Wallace reports on a new auction system for strong wool that is modelled on the Global Dairy Trade system. Its backers say it will provide a better way to trade fibre and should lead to more value being created for farmers.

AgriHQ senior analyst Suz Bremner previews the beef weaner fairs and calf sales that are getting under way. She says everything is pointing to a bumper set of sales and there should be great returns for vendors.

Federated Farmers vice-president Colin Hurst joins the show to talk about the new funding announced for the QEII Trust, which was facing the prospect of being unable to register new landholdings. The funding boost is great news for farmers and for conservation efforts, says Colin.