National database of mycorrhizal fungi reveals hidden biodiversity contained within our soils
Western Sydney University researchers have led the development of Australia’s first national database of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, mapping the hidden fungal networks beneath our feet that support plant health, soil processes and ecosystem resilience. The AusAMF database brings together data from mainland Australia and Tasmania, mapping the distribution and diversity of AM fungi – microscopic soil organisms […]
Bruce Billson appointed MTAA Executive Director
The Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) announced the appointment of the Hon Bruce Billson as its Executive Director, effective today. Bruce Billson brings to the role an exceptional combination of senior government experience, deep understanding of the automotive sector, and a proven track record of championing the interests of small and family businesses across […]
Queensland cane growers state clear expectations as STL takes over terminal operations
Queensland cane growers has outlined it expects Sugar Terminals Limited to put the interests of the sugar industry first as it formally takes over operation of the state’s bulk sugar terminals today, 1 July 2026. CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said growers had not forgotten the concerns raised when STL announced its decision to bring terminal […]
Queensland farmers welcome added protection of farms and water assets before development can occur
The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) welcomes the Queensland Government’s reintroduced Regional Planning Interests (Condamine Alluvium) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 (the Bill), which has adopted the recommendations of the Parliamentary Committee in full. QFF, Cotton Australia and Central Downs Irrigators Limited (CDIL) were involvement in the Parliamentary Committee process, and advocated strongly for the retention of […]
CQU climatologist alerts regional Queensland it is at biggest risk of severe El Niño drought conditions
Following the Bureau of Meteorology declaring an El Niño event for much of the continent, the fear is that Central Queensland could be one of the worst regions affected, according to CQUniversity Adjunct Professor of Environmental Geography (Climatology) Professor Steve Turton. He is urging communities and industries not to be complacent as there is a […]
Post Offices will be subject to mass closures according to the Coalition as they pursue a Senate inquiry
Following today’s revelations about Australia Post’s secret plan to rationalise its metropolitan outlets, Senator Sarah Henderson says the Federal Government must also come clean on Australia Post’s plans to rationalise its rural and regional Licensed Post Office (LPO) network. According to Senator Sarah Henderson, the end result is that many LPOs in rural and regional […]
Kylie Porter steps up to the CEO role with the Queensland Farmers Federation
The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) has announced the appointment of Kylie Porter as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO). QFF President Aaron Kiely said that Kylie’s deep experience in regional economic development, industry advocacy and stakeholder engagement would be invaluable to QFF’s future success. “Kylie is a fantastic appointment for QFF, bringing with her a deep […]
Deadly H5 bird flu virus detected here for the first time
The discovery of the H5 bird flu virus in a dead migratory bird on a remote Western Australian beach east of Esperance at Cape Le Grand has sounded alarm bells in biosecurity and agriculture. Until now, Australia had been the only continent where the virus was undetected. That all changed on 20 June 2026 when […]
Over the Farm Gate grants get another $400,000 for drought and bushfire support
An additional $400,000 is now available through the Look Over the Farm Gate program to support farmers in drought and bushfire recovery. Delivered by the National Centre for Farmer Health, the program funds community-led events with grants of up to $5,000 each, bringing people together to support farmers and their families. Director Climate, Resilience and […]
NSW Government takes over management of the Rural Fire Service
The NSW Government has advised that from 1 July 2027, it will take over ownership and responsibility of the NSW Rural Fire Service’s mobile assets – commonly referred to as the “Red Fleet”. Mayor Darcy Byrne, President of Local Government NSW said the move would come as a great relief to local councils across NSW. […]