National Rural News Friday December 5

In today's National Rural News: New framework to protect farmers near renewable energy projects, butter prices slump, WA's aquaculture industry 'blindsided' by fishing reforms -- plus the latest from the markets and more.

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Experts warn currant bush in North Queensland grazing areas is growing so fast, it's reducing pasture. 

Some paddocks are losing up to 30 percent of pasture due to the shrub. 

Rural Editor Emily Minney spoke with Department of Primary Industries Principal Extension Officer for grazing land management Bob Shepherd about how to manage it.

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National Rural News Thursday December 4

In today's National Rural News: Beef industry 'performing at its best', manufacturers respond to right to repair reforms, citrus industry concerns about imports  -- plus the latest from the markets and more.

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A new report forecasts Australia's beef production is set to reach new benchmarks in 2025. 

3rd quarter data has been analysed by Rabobank, finding production rates are expected to reach 3 million metric tonnes this year. 

Rural Editor Emily Minney spoke with Senior Animal Proteins Analyst Angus Gidley-Baird, who says the report shows the sector is performing at its best. 

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National Rural News Wednesday December 3

In today's National Rural News: Right to repair laws to be extended to farm machinery, agriculture production value to reach nearly $100 billion, BOM declares a late season La Nina -- plus the latest from the markets and more.

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The federal government has committed to extending Right to Repair laws to agricultural machinery. 

The laws, which are currently in place for light vehicles, would mean farmers can either repair their own machinery like tractors, or use third party mechanics instead of sending it back to the manufacturer. 

Rural Editor Emily Minney spoke to National Farmers Federation President Hamish McIntyre about the reforms.

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National Rural News Tuesday December 2

In today's National Rural News: ADPF to remain a member of Dairy Australia, sheep sector making sustainability gains but struggling with the workforce, cherry harvest delayed -- plus the latest from the markets and more.

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A new report shows the sheep sector is making gains in sustainability. 

According the Sheep Sustainability Framework's annual report, the industry is seeing reduced emissions, increased volumes of non-mulesed wool, and better pain management. 

But Sheep Producers Australia says there are issues which need to be addressed urgently. 

Rural Editor Emily Minney spoke with Chief Executive Bonnie Skinner about the success and challenges the sector is experiencing.

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National Rural News Monday December 1

In today's National Rural News: Confidence in cattle producers ability to meet new trade requirements, asbestos found in renewable energy infrastructure, varroa mite pressures continues -- plus the latest from the markets and more.

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There are fresh calls for financial relief for New South Wales beekeepers struggling with varroa mite. 

The New South Wales Apiarists Association is calling for subsidies to help cover the rising costs of treating their hives and the increased labour it requires. 

It also warns wild honey bee populations are also falling, increasing demand for pollination services. 

Rural Editor Emily Minney spoke with Executive Councillor Sam Lockwood, who warns pollinators are on the brink of collapse.

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