Grow Nt Mag -may 2021

GROW
NT
The Latest news from NT Farmers
NT Farmers - May 2021

Contents.
2021
6 President's Update
10 CEO's Update
16 Diversify with Airbnb
18 Workforce Update
3
21 Peats Soil Update
22 Food Futures Special
30 Financial Workshops
33 Industry Development Update
38 Education Update
40 Water Update
41 ATO Information
NT FARMERS GROW NT MAGAZINE.

by 20
2018
"NT Farmers As
to grow the indu
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www.alexkoin.com

sociation aims
2019
stry to $1 Billion
30."
5
Mauris ligula sollicitudin. Maecenas netus, vivamus mollis dui.

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6
Update from the
President.
Simon Smith
I attended the NTCA conference in Alice Springs a few
weeks ago to fly the NTFarmers’ flag with development officer
and champion networker Simone Cameron. The mood
was optimistic to say the least with cropping opportunities
seen as a cornerstone for increased beef production and
business diversification. NTFarmers was widely acknowledged
as having a prominent role to play and we look forward
to building on our already close working relationship
with new NTCA President David Connolly and CEO Will Evans.
The gala dinner on Friday night was a spectacular affair
held under the stars at a disused quarry where many
moons ago I sourced rocks for my landscaping business
in Alice. Repurposing was a bit of a theme and it spurred
some thoughts… or perhaps it was that extra beer I grabbed
from the tray of an old land cruiser repurposed as a huge
esky!
The repurposing of land and water on an unprecedented
scale is what we are about to embark upon as agricultural
development ramps up across the NT. Exciting times but
not without cost and risk.
Farming expansion will create economic growth, jobs and
opportunity for all Territorians, strengthening existing rural
communities and building new ones while the broadening
of the NT’s cropping and horticultural production base will
spread risk and increase business resilience. It will drive
the expansion of local educational opportunities and career
pathways and see more processing and value adding.
It will require the repurposing of government resources and
private sector financial and human capital. We proceed
with the blessing of all three levels of Government and with
explicit Territory Government backing via the accepted recommendations
of their TERC report.
However, as we know, political favour and largesse are fick-

2021
le and move according to public sentiment.
Repurposing land and water for farming in the NT presents
challenges perhaps unique in the world. We are talking one
of the few remaining huge greenfield sites for agriculture on
the planet… but these are not the days of Terra nullius and
unfettered ‘opening up’ of country. While society needs development
and the food and fibre we produce there is rightly
and understandably scrutiny on where, what and how we
farm and mounting caveats on our social licence too farm.
As an industry we can circle the wagons and argue (correctly)
that poor regulation, not cotton, kills rivers or more tenuously
that adaptive management provisions in water licences are
the silver bullet for all environmental concerns. Powerful and
well-resourced adversaries, social media savvy and armed
with the politics of fear (sometimes even facts!), will continue
to turn public sentiment and therefore political will against
us. Land clearing in the Territory and climate change implications
already have the media circling and environmental lawyers
salivating. We cannot delude ourselves that large scale
land and water repurposing do not have some detrimental
social and ecological consequences. We need to acknowledge
them, minimise them and promote the beneficial outcomes
to defend them.
Two ‘case studies’ are playing out at present. Questions and
concern around the scale of emerging cotton industry and
the granting of Fortune Agriculture’s water licence at Singleton
Station come not just from environmental extremists but
Traditional Owners, recreational anglers, scientists, average
Territorians and members of your own board including myself.
NTFarmers must and will unequivocally back new and
expanded farming development that win approvals under the
current policy and regulatory framework and we applaud the
reasoned and staged Singleton decision by Water Controller
Jo Townsend and the on-going strong backing of our industry
by Ministers Manison and Lawler. However, the battle
against farming expansion and our right to choose the crops
we grow has begun in earnest and we need modern weaponry
to defend ourselves.
The rules of engagement are skewed in favour of dead fish
pictures and extravagant and often baseless doomsday
claims of farming’s threat. We need to educate the public
through a strong social and mainstream media presence on
the facts and figures to counter the fiction. We need to argue
for the repurposing of research funds to give us the facts on
environmental impacts. We need to be both empathetic and
emphatic. Empathetic with the issues of public concern but
emphatic that farming is a public good and NTFarmers are
here to support good farmers become better.
NTFarmers must continue to work collaboratively with
stakeholders in the land and water space such as Land
Councils, AFANT, ECNT, TNRM, government agencies and
others to identify and address the real issues of concern. We
need to communicate outwardly and widely our benefits as
an industry and our genuine intention to identify and mitigate
any adverse environmental, social and cultural impacts.
To this end the upcoming Food Futures Conference (Balancing
Agri-development and the Environment in Northern
Australia) is the perfect opprtunity to explore these themes.
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Our recently commenced NT Water Efficiency, Productivity and
Sustainability Project will generate important data and improve
irrigation efficiency. We need to instigate research from DITT,
DIPWS, CSIRO, CDU etc. that not only counter unsubstantiated
emotive argument but more importantly provides us with the
tools and awareness to be better farmers and land managers.
Such work can be bankrolled by the repurposing of public funds
from, for example, several virtually mothballed research farms
and other areas of the NTG budget and from federal agencies
(the recently announced Drought Hub is a great example). We
also need to be ambitious as an industry… such as seriously considering
water license fees and charges that could help fund research
and capacity in government for regulatory oversight.
As an industry we must continue be proactive and progressive….
or we’ll be the one’s facing repurposing.
8
Thank you Andrew!
We farewelled development officer Andrew Phillip recently, repurposed
to the wilds of Afghanistan to continue his great work
building export opportunities and resilience amongst local farmers
under an American aid program. Andrew was instrumental
in getting our cotton industry up and running and encouraging
new ventures and diversification in our cropping sector. He was a
great contributor within our team and we wish him well.

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2021
CEO Update.
Paul Burke
Diversification the key
to Food Futures.
10
www.ntfarmers.org.au
After fare welling 2020, I thought 2021
would be new start and less volatile, yet
we have seen borders close with little
warning and growing frustrations in seeking
and securing the required skilled and
mobile workforce that industry needs to
truly prosper. There does not appear to
be an easy solution to addressing these
critical areas for producers. Rest assured
NT Farmers will leave no stone
unturned to deliver the workforce that
is required for the 2021 season. I have
written extensively about workforce over
the last couple of years and decided to
try a new theme for this month’s article.
The Chief Minister responded to the
TERC review, stating that his government
would implement all the recommendations
of the review. NT Farmers
contributed significantly to this process
and were pleased to see many of our requests
made the final report.
To put the TERC report into some context,
the Territory needs to grow its current
economy by 53% or 4.3% per annum
to meet a $40 B Gross State Product
(GSP) economic target by 2030. Over the
last decade the Territory economy averaged
2.3% p.a. GSP.
The growth in the gross value of production
(GVP) for NT agriculture is at 9.7%
over the last decade (2009-19). This figure
is a measure of farm revenue and
is strongly influenced by upward movements
in commodity prices. According
to calculations derived from Australian
Bureau of Statistics data for the same
period, NT agriculture has an average
rate of 6.7% gross value-added (GVA)
over the same 10-year period. GVA is a
measure that provides a dollar value for
the amount of goods and services that
have been produced, minus the cost of
all inputs and raw materials that are directly
attributable to that production.
Whichever metric is used, these figures
indicate agriculture is well placed to sup-

2019
port the government’s growth ambition.
Many agricultural pursuits including pastoral,
plant and fisheries sectors have major
impediments to growth and that being
the amount of land for development. Government’s
must work out how more land
can be made available for agricultural pursuits.
If the cattle industry is to grow, then
higher protein feed and intensification of
herds is going to be required. NT Farmers
have been front and centre in making
this a reality, through partnerships with
NT LandCorp, major land releases and an
extensive range of training sessions and
direct on farm extension.
The only way this has been possible has
been through the support of the Northern
territory Government who funded an Industry
Development role within NT Farmers,
without this support, this development
would not have been possible. This role
finished in early March 2021 and I would
like to acknowledge the significant contribution
Andrew Philip made to our industry.
NT Farmers have made a formal request
to have Diversification Officer role funded
for a further 2 years so we can ensure
that this momentum is not lost and these
emerging growers are supported.
NT Farmers have been instrumental in
supporting existing agribusinesses and
attracting new investment and agricultural
sectors to the region. NT farmers have
achieved significant outcomes for the Territory
in the following emerging agricultural
sectors:
Cotton
The role assisted Territory farmers with
cotton trials and attracted large scale cotton
investors into the Territory. In 2018
the Territory did not produce cotton, today
thanks to NT Farmers, cotton is grown on
over 3000 hectares. The cotton industry is
expected to continue to grow and generate
hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars
for the NT economy.
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Peanuts
The Association has focused on promoting
peanuts as an anchor crop for producers
in central Australia. Within a couple
of years, peanut production has grown
to 200 hectares in the region as of 2021.
Successful trials have prompted farmers
to purchase shelling equipment and significant
investors have been attracted to the
peanut opportunities in the region.
Rice
In 2021 rice cultivation will double as
farmers explore the possibilities of dryland
production methods. Rice currently under
production will support the cattle industry
in the form of stock feed. It is highly likely
that successful rice crops will result in the
establishment of a stock feed processing
facility in the NT. NT Farmers have consistently
supported rice farmers and attracted
interest in the sector.
Fodder
NT Farmers extension staff provide high
level support to the fodder industry and
the association is actively exploring opportunities
to export fodder to key Asian
markets.
Avocados
Our Industry Development Officer has
NT Farmers are proudly supported by

been at the forefront of private trials of avocados
in the Territory. The role has promoted the opportunities
of the crop, connected farmers with avocado
experts and provided extra support when needed.
NT Farmers work has resulted in a 1000 tree trial in
the Top End. If successful, this trial could establish
a pathway for a new vibrant horticultural sector of
the NT.
Hemp
The Association has been actively involved in the
promotion and development of the hemp industry
in the NT. The NT now has four hemp licence
holders with potentially more farmers to apply for
licenses. NT Farmers are promoting the Territory
and advocating for the local industry as a founding
member of the Hemp Council of Australia.
Sesame
Currently there is 200 hectares of sesame under
cultivation in the Territory, an exponential increase
since its establishment in 2018. The prospects for
the crop are strong and could develop into a profitable
industry that offers diversification options for
producers. NT Farmers have worked closely with
producers and have delivered technical advice and
promoted the industry.
Potatoes
NT Farmers identified a gap in the commercial potato
market and connected a successful farmer
with potato buyers and processors. NT Farmers
can be credited with facilitating the creation of a
commercial potato farm in which will generate jobs
and income for all Territorians.
NT Farmers Association’s contributions to the sector
are not simply limited to the Industry Development
Officer position, the association extensively
supports the industry through policy creation, advocacy
and education initiatives.
NT Farmers have led the push to build a thriving
cotton industry in the Territory, it has campaigned
for the sector and developed a business case to
construct a cotton processing facility. The business
case and advocacy for the sector has resulted
in commitment from industry and investors to
self-fund a cotton gin in the Northern Territory and
potentially additional infrastructure throughout the
Top End. The new cotton industry will also support
the cattle sector by delivering a high protein cattle
food source from the byproduct of the cotton lint.
The association have been instrumental in opening
up opportunities for plant-based agriculture and
communities in the less developed regions of the
Northern Territory. NT Farmers identified the agricultural
opportunities in the Western Davenport
region and commissioned studies into the feasibility
of development in the region. The studies have
underpinned plans by government, investors and
farmers to create a long-term sustainable industry
in the Tennant Creek area.
The Association has implemented programs to
ensure the long-term viability of the industry. NT
Farmers and Airbnb are helping farmers to diversify
their income by hosting farm stays and experiences
for tourists. This initiative will assist farmers
to reduce their vulnerability to harvest and price
fluctuations while at the same time growing the
NT’s tourism sector. Furthermore, our Education
Development Officer is developing curriculum content
to encourage the next generation of successful
territory farmers.
In all of NT Farmers diversification activities, sustainable
farming practices are promoted to industry.
NT Farmers have held highly successful irrigation
and center pivot master classes in the Top End
region. The classes seek to enhance farm yields
while at the same time minimizing the impact of
agricultural water use on the environment.
The Northern Australian Food Futures Conference
is organized by the association and is Australia’s
leading conference on agricultural development in
the North. Not only does this event promote new
industries in the NT but it also places the Territory
front and center in the minds of politicians and

investors. The outcomes of the event greatly assist
to drive the future growth and development
of the NT.
2018
I would strongly urge all producers, suppliers and
associated businesses attend the Food Future
event in Darwin between 17th – 21st of May, this
will support us, NT Farmers to continue to deliver
outcomes for our producers and to continue to
contribute significantly to the Territory economy.
I look forward to meeting everyone at Food Futures
2021 and celebrating the exceptional industry we
all work in.
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Diversify with Airbnb!
Australia's premier conference on agricultural developmnet
is back! Dont miss three days of industry insights,
networking and field days.
16
www.ntfarmers.org.au
As Aussies continue to enthusiastically explore their
own backyard, Territorian Hosts on Airbnb are passionately
showing travellers around their state and pointing
them in the direction of its world-renowned attractions.
These Hosts not only enjoy a diversified income stream
by listing their property as a farm stay on Airbnb - they’re
also making a big contribution to the local economy in
their region. Their farm stay helps bring valuable tourist
dollars to nearby towns, supporting local jobs and businesses,
as well as the Northern Territory Government’s
positive economic recovery efforts.
As part of a broader, ongoing effort to boost regional
economies across the state, Airbnb has partnered with
the Northern Territory Farmers Association to help more
farmers become part of Airbnb’s community of Hosts
and make extra income through agritourism.
“Our guests are always looking for unique, authentic ex-

periences that take them off the well-beaten path and allow them
to immerse themselves in regional communities,” says Derek Nolan,
Airbnb’s Head of Public Policy for Australia.
“Farm stays are a terrific way to both help farmers diversify their
income, as well as put their communities on the tourism map.
Farmers can also develop unique Experiences on Airbnb, which is
an exciting way to further grow their tourism business alongside
the accommodation they offer. Experiences are one-of-a-kind
activities hosted by experts and a great way to creatively give
visitors another way to connect with rural life.
“Importantly, each single farm stay plays a vital role in growing
tourism in their region and helping local businesses thrive.”
Airbnb is running interactive webinars designed to help farmers
become farm stay or Experience Hosts on Airbnb. Additionally,
Airbnb is making available to Northern Territory Farmers Association
members its Great Aussie Farm Stay resource, a bespoke
guide to help farmers across Australia understand the benefits of
hosting with Airbnb and a useful resource for new Hosts.
These resources will help farmers across the NT learn more
about how they can earn additional income through hosting on
Airbnb, as well as make a strong contribution to growing their
state’s tourism economy.
17
Contact NT Farmers to find out more about the opportunities with Airbnb.
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2021
Work Force Update.
Aisla Connolly
Read the latest updates affecting the Territory
workforce.
18
Ironbark Aboriginal Corporation hosted
an industry workforce briefing on the 18
February at at the Humpty Doo Golf Club.
Ironbark can assist to provide farmers in
the greater Darwin area with a farm ready
workforce under the Community Development
Program.
The Generation Next Training Program
for the NT Young Farmers to professionally
develop skills. The 19 February event
facilitated by Donna Mogg provided participants
with current information on:
industrial relations, workplace relations
and employment legislation.
NT Farmers met with CDP Providers in
Katherine on 12 March to discuss the
availability of work ready jobseekers.
There are jobseekers available to work on
farm under a work experience capacity,
training can be provided upon farmers request
(negotiable) and transport can be
provided by the CDP Providers. Katherine
Growers interested in hosting these jobseekers
are urged to contact Aisla immediately.
Incentives available
Harvest Trail CDP job seeker incentive
payment
$1,500 for the Employer after 4 weeks of
employment
New Territorian Relocation Bonus from
NT Government. Click here to find out
more.
Cash payment to eligible applicants to
meet relocation and transition costs, up
to: Singles = $3,000 and Couples = $5,000
Relocation Assistance to take up a Job,
from Federal Government Department of
Employment. Click here to apply.
FREE UPSKILLING!
You or your staff could benefit from upskilling
in leadership or management.
Skill set training will provide competence
in leading and managing teams.

2021
Register now to ensure your place as
spots are limited. Contact Aisla before
30 April 2021.
per last years pilot where growers collaborated
to meet their requirements by
chartering flights from Vanuatu.
The National Farmer Federation Horticulture
Council Policy Committees include
NT representatives Paul Burke on
the Water Committee and Aisla Connolly
on the Labour Committee.
The start of 2021 has been busy trying
to access returning seasonal workers
from Timor Leste for the NT 2021 melon
harvest. The first 19 seasonal workers
from Timor Leste arrived on a flight on
24 February, these workers undertook
quarantine at Howard Springs quarantine
facility for 14 days prior to working
in Katherine and Ali Curung. (At print)
The recruitment of seasonal workers
from Timor Leste has been paused due
to COVID-19 cases in Dili.
Mango growers are encouraged to contact
NT Farmers to provide workforce
requirements to commence the process
of accessing seasonal workers, as
The NT Government has guidelines for
on farm quarantine measures.
Only Approved Employers under the
Seasonal Worker Program and Pacific
Labour Scheme are able to apply for on
farm quarantine.
For further information please click
here.
The Department of Home Affairs announced
a number of changes to international
student visas, including the temporary
relaxation of working hours. This has
the effect that currently anyone on a student
visa who works beyond their normal
restricted hours will be free to do so, but
only if they are working in certain industries,
including agriculture. Students are
required to limit working hours to allow
for study time.
NT FARMERS GROW NT MAGAZINE.
19

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Work Force Update.
NT Farmers presented to a group of senior
school students at the Casuarina Secondary
College giving students a brief insight
into plant industries within the NT on 8
March.
This included participating in the P-Tech
Round Tables sharing information on entry
level opportunities, pathways to employment,
skill requirements and training.
NT Farmers are an industry member on
the reference group of the Top End P-Tech
Committee to promote and enable plant
industry careers and pathways for students
in the Top End. NT Farmers will host
the next meeting on 25 March.
Where can I advertise farm jobs?
Go and Pick website hosted by Thankful-
4Farmers
Swaggie.co
Jobactive
If you require further information please
contact Aisla Connolly, Workforce Development
Coordinator phone 0400 416 558
or email wpc@ntfarmers.org.au

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Peats Soil Update.
www.ntfarmers.org.au 2021
It has been 6 months since the official opening
of the new Peats site in Darwin. The expertise
of Peats Soil and Garden Supplies in
organics resource recovery, combined with
the knowledge of the team at Katherine Tree
Maintenance team has seen an increase in
production capabilities and quality of products
available to NT farmers and commercial
growers.
Steady growth has resulted in 4000 m3 of
organic material now being processed per
month. That’s 4000m3 of materials diverted
from landfill and recycled and repurposed
into nutritious mulch, compost blends and
soil conditioners – all available from the Shoal
Bay depot.
Demand for these products has increased exponentially,
and the recent addition of a dedicated
road train now provides the ability to
deliver up to 170m3 per load. Delivery area
coverage is expanding across the Territory,
and plans are underway to deliver to areas
in and around Alice Springs in the coming
months.
A new range of specialised carbon based
granules and chicken manure pellets are also
now available in 1 tonne bulkas for commercial
growers and farmers. These products add
organic matter, build topsoil carbon levels
and increase water holding capacity, resulting
in irrigation savings and improved soil
health.
As silver sponsors of the NT Farmers Association
we are looking forward to attending our
first Northern Australia Food Futures Conference
next month. Please come and see Peter,
Peter (yes – take your pick!) and John at
the Peats Tropical Soil Solutions stand. They
would love to discuss your growing challenges
and work with you to offer innovative but
affordable solutions.
In the interim you can call 0408 803 919.
2019
21
Mauris ligula sollicitudin. Maecenas netus, vivamus mollis dui.

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2021
Dont miss our largest conference to date!
17-20 May.
22
The Northern Australia Food Futures
Conference is Australia’s leading conference
on agricultural development in the
North.
The conference is integral in driving expansion
in the north and places northern agriculture
on the national agenda. Investors, politicians,
industry and community stakeholders from
around Australia and the world attend the Conference
to explore agricultural opportunities in
the north.
The theme for the upcoming conference is Development
and the Environment. The event
will be critical in informing investors and policy
makers on sustainability trends in the industry
and the role agriculture can play in safeguarding
the north’s environmental resources.
Industry experts will deliver keynote speeches
on the current environmental legislative
framework, the future of agriculture, the environmental
impact of farming and the rise in
environmentally sustainable agriculture in the
north.
The three day conference held in Darwin,
Northern Territory will feature:
- Over 80 speakers
- Ministers and government representatives
from the NT, WA and QLD
- 250 participants with over 50% from private
sector
- Successful farmers from the region
- Indigenous and environment components
In addition to conference events, the program
includes farm visits, industry specific workshops
and an industry exhibition hall. The event
will cover all agricultural sectors with a focus on
new sectors that will drive development in the
north such as cotton.
The biennial NT Farmers Association Food Futures
Conference is now in its 4th year and receives
strong support from the governments of
the Northern Territory, Western Australia and
Queensland, the National Farmers Federation,
Hort Innovation, Cotton Australia and the private
sector.

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DARWIN CONVENTION CENTRE
Young Farmers Breakfast
WEDNESDAY 19 MAY
0645 Event opens and registration
0700 Welcome address by the Hon Lauren Moss MLA,
Minister for Youth
0715 “How can young people take advantage of
agricultural development opportunities in
the north?”
2019
Our speakers will explore opportunities in the North for
young people in the industry and discuss ways young people
can start a career in farming with limited resources. Panelists
will share their insights into the future of agriculture in the
region and examine potential business arrangements such
as share farming, sub leasing and how to successfully match
landowners with young farmers.
Matt Nevison (facilitator). Matt recently graduated from
a degree in agribusiness and has begun a graduate role
with KPMG, hoping to bring together economics and
sustainability in a way that is good for both business and
the environment. He has an interest in native food species
and hopes to identify how these foods can be used to
climate proof farming enterprises and generate economic
opportunities for Indigenous stakeholders.
25
Michael Jakobi. Michael is the owner and operator of NT
Hay, Seed and Grain Business, he is driving innovation
in the NT the farming sector. He holds the Territory’s first
commercial trial licence for hemp and is involved in trials of
ginger. Michael has experience in successfully utilizing share
farming/lease agreements to get a start in the industry.
Emma Moss. Emma has a Bachelor of Sustainable
Agriculture and is in her final year of an agricultural science
degree whilst working on a cattle station in the Kimberly.
She is particularly interested in the link between soil, plant
and animal health. Emma is passionate about promoting
Australian agriculture, she established an Instagram page
which now has over 21,000 followers and has been featured
on the ABC Invisible Farmer Blog, a Graziher magazine story,
Landline and in the Rural Weekly.
Maddison Clonan. Maddison has diverse experience in
scientific research, extension, project management and
stakeholder engagement, specializing in environmental and
agricultural projects. She has worked within international
agricultural development programs, climate change risk
assessments and supply chain management projects.
0805 -
0820
Presentation of the Inaugural AusIndustry Young
Farmers Award
The AusIndustry Young Farmers Award seeks to recognise
innovative and dynamic young farmers shaping the future
of the agricultural industry. The award promotes and
encourages industry innovators who are driving evolution
and progress in the sector.
For more information:
Iain Forrest
0405287344
pco@ntfarmers.org.au
REGISTER NOW
Proudly supported by

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2019
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NFF Regional Forum.
2019
The National Farmers Federation, the NT
Farmers Association and the NT Cattlemen’s
Association are pleased to host the
Towards 2030 Forum in Darwin on the 20th
of May 2021.
The Forum will bring together farming and
regional leaders to take stock of progress
towards our shared goal of reaching $100
billion in farmgate output by 2030. The
event will focus on the important role the
Northern Territory agricultural sector will
play in achieving the 2030 milestone.
The Forum will feature keynote presentations
by Telstra, the Federal Department of
Agriculture, Water and the Environment,
and industry leaders. NFF President Fiona
Simson will moderate a panel with NT agriculture
associations regarding enhancing
the economic opportunities of agriculture
in the Territory.
“NT Farmers are excited to be part of the
NFF forum which will assist to drive agricultural
investment and development
across the north. Northern Australia will
have an extremely important role to play in
achieving the $100 billion target by 2030.
The event will assist farmers and investors
to take advantage of growing demand for
agricultural produce in a responsible and
sustainable way.’
‘This is a must attend event for investors,
farmers and policy makers interested in the
opportunities of northern development.’
“The 2030 goal of $100 billion in farm-gate
output is an ambitious one. The Towards
2030 Forum provides a key opportunity
to reflect on our progress to this goal and
drive the policy debate to ensure we meet
and beat the goal in 2030”.
“The forum is a unique opportunity to hear
from people at the front line of growing
Australian agriculture, developing new industries
and ensuring that new innovation
keeps Australia at the forefront of agriculture
around the world”. National Farmers
Federation President, Fiona Simson said.
“For more than 150 years, the Territory’s
pastoral sector has served as the model for
regional development in Northern Australia.
Now, as we move towards a $100 billion
Agriculture output by 2030, learning
lessons from the past will offer insight into
how Northern Australia, and especially the
Territory, can be the leader in contributing
to this growth.
The NTCA is excited to be part of the forum
that will showcase the important role
the Northern Territory’s Pastoral sector can
play in meeting the 2030 milestone.” Said
Mr Will Evans, CEO NT Cattlemen’s Association.
29
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Free Financial
Education!
2021
NT Farmers Association in partnership
with RBS are delivering Financial
Fitness Bootcamps for the industry.
Rural Business Support (RBS) has further expanded
its Northern Territory team as the
NT Farmers Association rolls out a ‘Financial
Fitness Bootcamp’ made possible through
the generosity of the NT Government’s Financial
Fitness Fund.
The Financial Fitness Boot Camp will assist
primary producers across the NT to develop
their understanding of how well their enterprise
is performing financially while also
improving their ability to make consistently
sound financial decisions.
Rural financial counsellor and business analyst,
Paul Erkelenz said that “topics covered
will include better business decision making,
how to read and get the most value out
of annual financial reports, and financial record
keeping.
“There with be an emphasis on the calculation
and interpretation of key financial ratios,
and how to access appropriate finance
and credit,” he said.
Paul will work closely with RBS’s Darwin
based rural financial counsellor, Kate Green
and other industry specialists to deliver the
program from July to December this year.
The Financial Fitness Bootcamp will be delivered
in Darwin, Katherine, Tennant Creek
and Alice Springs and will consist of three
group workshops (one face-to-face and two
online) in each location followed by an individual
training session with a business analyst.
The sessions will be tailored to avoid
individual and industry peak work periods.
RBS CEO Brett Smith said the focus for the
Financial Fitness Bootcamps is to assist primary
producers to improve their enterprise
profitability as well as their odds for long
term business success and viability.
NT FARMERS GROW NT MAGAZINE.

2021
“We’re committed to work collaboratively
with NT Farmers to tailor the programs and
content to suit the industry groups represented
at each of the bootcamps,” Brett said.
31
“We’re particularly interested in assisting
primary producers to consistently make
sound financial decisions through providing
budgeting and planning tools and to
help them to access the right credit and financial
packages for their business.
“This program is perfect for primary producers
with limited financial knowledge, as
well as those with significantly more experience.
Because the programs are tailored to
the individual business, our team will cater
for individuals with all levels of financial literacy,
from basic to experienced.
“It’s about providing each person with important
skills to better manage their businesses’
finances and the confidence to
make more informed business decisions
overall,” Brett said.
NT FARMERS GROW NT MAGAZINE.

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www.ntfarmers.org.au 2021
32
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2021
Industry Development
Update.
Simone Cameron
VegNet
2019
The commencement of the 2020-2025 Regional
Extension Plan has begun with a renewed
enthusiasm by growers after the quieter
extension season of 2020.
Recently regional growers in the Marrakai
area signalled a timely reminder about the
importance of networking and the value of
the sharing knowledge amongst our grower
communities.
This grower group meeting was a buzz of
conversations. Discussions and self-assessment
surveys were completed which begin
the creation of the development of benchmarks
around key focus areas where further
awareness and confidence is needed. Growers
have a strong interest in improving their
soil and water awareness, capacity and understanding.
In the coming months seasonal events
planned for levy growers will have an emphasis
and focus on extension in both soils
and IPM. On farm workshops are being developed
and more information regarding
these workshops for growers will be out
shortly. Growers are aware of the valuable
resources on offer to them however they
are still eager to have further assistance
and support with these to help them to better
understand their production systems
and to improve their on farm seasonal production
plans and to help develop benchmarks
around particular varieties with par-
33
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2018
Chris Pham checking traps.
34
www.alexkoin.com
ticular reference to Asian melons, snake
bean and okra. The biosecurity champion
project initiative was also showcased
which highlights local industry champion
representatives giving their key messages
to others about the value of biosecurity
and its value for the continuity industry
in the north.
Fall Army Worm (FAW) surveillance & Biosecurity
Extensive monitoring, surveillance and trapping adult
moth populations across the Darwin rural, Douglas Daly
and Katherine regions has been on going throughout
the wet season supporting DITT R & D projects and the
collaborative relationships NT Farmers have with industry
and growers. Traps and wet season crops like sorghum
and millet have been monitored weekly to determine the
presence of insects, both in pest pressure nature and the
beneficial insect populations. Traps have been placed to
ID and to calculate moth populations and how this influences
grub pressures on the growing crops. Sticky traps
were also placed and monitored fortnightly basis on a
number of regional farms in the Darwin rural area over the
wet season to monitor insect populations present in the
‘lay’ months from vegetable production. Both these activities
allow for the collection of vital information about
potential ‘green bridging’ of pests and diseases that may
have an impact on the 2021 vegetable growing season.
It also gives insight into the best practice management
options for the grower for the season ahead.
The seasonal Area Wide Surveillance (AWS) Project with
DITT and NAQS has commenced for the 2021 season
with a number of properties who have been a part of this
project for the last couple of seasons eager to continue
this relationship and now value the regular monitoring,
relationships and support this has with their successful
production systems. If you are keen to be a part of the
monitoring this season please email bio@ntfarmers.org.
au for further details.
Fall Armyworm
NT FARMERS GROW NT MAGAZINE.

WA – Gin Gin/Carnarvon trip
In late February a valuable extension trip
across to the horticultural regions north of
Perth and Carnarvon allowed for the continuity
of relationships between the NT and
the WA industry. Sarah Hain (IDO, AMIA)
and I travelled across to WA and visited a
number of growers and producers as part
of those ‘building relationships’ model.
Farms in these regions are known for the
production of citrus, mango, avocado,
melons, tomatoes, vegetables and herbs.
Truyen Vo (VegetablesWA, RDO) hosted a
valuable irrigated farm visit in Carabooda
to Mr Vu’s farm. He grows between 50-60T
leafy green Chinese vegetable, herbs and
spinach weekly off his 32 acre property and
all produce grown is done on a rotational
basis. This produce is sent directly to the
wholesale markets in Perth. All crops are
grown without the use of agplastic formed
beds with a strong influence of using IPM
programs.
Watering is achieved using overhead sprinklers.
Soil composting is done to improve
soil properties every 3 years which is incorporated
into the soil when preparing seed
beds. Mr Vu produces his own compost on
farm to ensure quality control and to minimise
any biosecurity hazards. Carnarvon
Growers Association, the peak body for
horticultural industry and leading supplier
of agricultural inputs in the Gascoyne area
held their first field day in over 10 years
showcasing local regional producers and
industry activities. ‘It’s time to grow’ was
the theme.
WA Agricultural Minister, Alannah Mac-
Tiernan officially opened the event and a
number of industry representatives, local
and further afield presented on the central
theme of sustainability of industry and future
pathways for production. A visit to the
Department’s Research Farm was another
highlight. Protected netting/cropping is
a significant feature in the region due to
the extremes in weather conditions especially
prevailing winds. These structures
are a common site around the region with
many farms using the structures as wind
breaks between blocks. The department
has a newly constructed housing that will
be planted to a variety of vegetables this
season looking at new potential varieties
for the region.
2019
35
Vegetables Carabooda
NT FARMERS GROW NT MAGAZINE.

36
www.alexkoin.com
Protected Citrus Carnarvon
Paddock to plate initiative in collaboration with NT Hospitality
There has never been a more poignant time to look at locals
supporting locals. NT Farmers and Hospitality NT have been collaborating
on several initiatives to strengthen the connection between
each of our respective members and how we can get more
of our own NT grown produce onto the menus in the NT. The first
of these was a roundtable discussion held in February last year,
where 25 chefs and producers met to discuss how better to work
together. This month the annual food tour is to be held in Katherine,
promoting produce grown in the Katherine region. A number
of local farms will be visited, and the Katherine local hospitality
venues, Finch Café, Kumbidgee and Cicada Lodge at Nitmiluk will
provide meeting places for the event.
One of the main challenges identified is the logistics and distribution
of local fresh produce. Recognising that many of the NT’s producers
are small businesses that have limited distribution capabilities.
In order to link hospitality with producers Hospitality NT and
NT Farmers are compiling a list of all interested chefs/restaurants
and farmers, including details of what types of produce they need
and what is available. The information collected will be shared
amongst venues and producers in the near future. A follow up
roundtable discussion will be held in the coming months, which
will assist in creating and establishing these important relationships
and to continue the conversations.
If you are interested in being part of this connection can you
please contact either Kelly Hannus (NT Hospitality) kelly@hospitalitynt.com.au
or Simone Cameron (NT Farmers) bio@ntfarmers.
org.au
DrumMUSTER update
NT DrumMUSTER collections for this 2020-2021 year is currently
around 9000 to date. It is never too late to begin your duediligent
journey towards sustainability by recycling your agvet drums into
the program. No pile too big or too small is worth being overlooked
and the recycling of farm waste will help to improve your
on-farm management practices. This program is a great initiative
and with everyones help we can help to reduce the number of
recyclable agvet drums going into our landfill. HDPE drums from
1L up to 200L displaying the DM logo can be recycled.
Drum disposal instructions are EASY and will save you money!
1. TRIPLE RINSE empty drums so they are free from residue
2. REMOVE lids and turn drums on side to allow them to
dry
3. RECYCLE with drumMUSTER
All drums are inspected as aprt of the recycling process. An in-

Drum bailing machine
spection certificate qualifies any on-farm auditing purposes
and requirements (Eg: FreshCare (ENV3), HARPS
accreditations)
37
NT Farmers have an autobaler that can be used in those
more remote locations to assist with the process of recycling
them to the nearest collection centre. A minimum
of 350 drums on farm is required for this service.
If you have any questions regarding the DrumMUSTER
program or would like to coordinate a collection day(s)
in your community please contact the NT Regional Coordinator
Simone Cameron on 0413 308 335 or email
bio@ntfarmers.org.au
Compressed drums
NT FARMERS GROW NT MAGAZINE.

Education Update.
Anna Day
www.ntfarmers.org.au 2021
38
On 11 March NT Farmers hosted a teacher
workshop event at Taminmin College. The
aim of the event was to showcase the NT agricultural
sector to teachers and show ways
to integrate agricultural concepts into all
subject areas and curriculums. The event
was for primary and secondary teachers and
there was a great turnout from local schools.
Industry presentations included Forestry,
From Paddock to Plate, NT Cattlemen’s Association
and NT Farmers Association. Feedback
from the event was very positive and
we are looking at ways teachers and schools
can work with industry in the future. More
teacher events are being planned later this
year.
Frank Miller presenting to teachers.
In March I travelled to Alice Springs to attend
the Northern Territory ICPA Conference. The
ICPA represents parents who are living in
geographically isolated areas and advocates
for the provision of accessible and equitable
education in the Northern Territory and
Australia. At the conference, guests spoke
about the educational disadvantage they experience
such as distance from schools, lack
of connectivity, travel and education costs
and traveling hundreds of kilometres on dirt
roads to attend education events.
It is extremely important that geographic
isolation does not impose barriers on education
for young people and their families in
Australia. Our future productivity, development
and innovation depends on providing
quality and accessible education to all Australians.
NT Farmers advocates for all rural
and remote families to receive a free and fair
education.
After the ICPA Conference, a group of people
involved with NT education, travelled with
Joe Clarke from Centrefarm to Ali Curung.
We saw a group of trainees in action at the

2019
fantastic Work Experience Pilot Project (WEPP) farm.
The trainees presented to the group, explaining the
horticulture work they have been involved with including
planting, weeding, harvesting and laying
irrigation lines. NT Farmers are very excited to host
the WEPP trainees at our Food Futures Conference
in May.
In a new initiative, NT Farmers have partnered with
‘Picture You in Agriculture’ to sponsor a Young Farming
Champion from the Northern Territory. Olivia
Borden an agronomist for EE Muir in Katherine has
been selected as the NT’s Young Farming Champion
for 2021. Olivia has diverse agricultural experience
across many states and has achieved so much in
such a short time. Young Farming Champions from
around Australia will receive an amazing two-year
package of support including professional development,
media training, networking and mentorship
opportunities. Olivia is an asset to the agricultural
industry, and we know she will be a fantastic advocate
for the NT. Congratulations Olivia!
In Term 2, new groups of school students from St.
Josephs will be visiting the Katherine Food Ladder.
Over 6 weeks, the students will be growing
and managing edible greens while learning about
plants, soil and protected cropping. Also in Term 2,
students from Berry Springs Primary School will begin
excursions to local farms, research stations and
agribusinesses.
NT Farmers are delighted to be part of Katherine
High School’s Entrepreneurship Learning in Action
Program. Earlier this week I spoke to Year 9 students
participating in the program about some challenges
the agricultural industry faces and potential opportunities.
The Year 9’s will now formulate a plan
to solve a farming challenge, work on their design
and present their idea to a “shark tank” style panel
later this year. This is a national program sponsored
by Agrifutures with the best innovations traveling
to Sydney to present their designs nationally. Good
luck to the Year 9’s at Katherine High School!
39
NT FARMERS GROW NT MAGAZINE.

Water Industry Development
Officer Update.
Di Renfree
2018
2021
40
www.alexkoin.com
Irrigation Australia together with NT Farmers
presented a Centre Pivot and Lateral Move
(CPLM) course in Katherine on the 2nd and
3rd of March 2021. Held at the Katherine
Research Station, we had 17 participants attending
from Central Australia, Katherine
and the Douglas Daly regions. Presented by
Peter Smith from Irrigation Australia, the two
day course covered a range of topics from introduction
to centre pivot and lateral move
machines, financial and planning and design
considerations, performance evaluation,
sprinkler packages, operational issues and
maintenance of centre pivot and lateral move
irrigators.
Grant Stuart from Irrigation Components
Australia presented the practical element
of the course. Grant demonstrated different
sprinkler types for different crops and situations
as well as design and maintenance of
these sprinklers. Thanks again to Jack Wheeler
from the Katherine Research Station for
allowing us to use the centre pivot for these
demonstrations.
Many thanks to Peter Smith, Irrigation Australia
and Grant Stuart for coming up to the NT
to present such an informative course. Any
queries about Irrigation Australia’s training
please go to their website on www.irrigationaustralia.com.au/training/training
or NT
Farmers.
NT FARMERS GROW NT MAGAZINE.

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ATO’s top 4 farmfriendly
tax time tips.
The Australian Tax Office
2021
With tax time just around the corner it
pays to learn what you can and can’t claim
in your tax return. The Australian Taxation
Office (ATO) has shared their top 4 tax
tips for people working in the agricultural
industry to help them get it right this tax
time.
provide a sufficient degree of protection
against that risk, for example, a cattle
farmer can claim gloves and steel-capped
boots. You can’t claim a deduction for
buying or cleaning conventional clothing
worn at work, for example track pants,
jeans or jackets.
41
1. Car expenses – You can claim the
cost of using your car when you drive between
separate jobs on the same day, for
example driving from your first job as a
fruit picker to your second job in the cane
fields. You can’t however, claim a deduction
for the cost of normal trips between
your home and work.
2. Travel expenses – You can claim a
deduction for the cost of travelling overnight,
for example carting cattle long
distances. This includes the cost of your
meals, accommodation, fares and incidental
expenses. You can’t claim a deduction
for travel costs incurred looking for
work or travelling to a new job.
3. Clothing, footwear and laundry expenses
–You can claim clothing and footwear
you wear to protect yourself from
your income-earning activities or the environment
in which you carry them out. To
be considered protective, the items must
4. Licences and permits – You can’t
claim the initial cost of getting your heavy
vehicle permit, firearm or forklift licence in
order to gain employment. You can, however,
claim the cost of renewing these licences
during the period you need them
for work.
Remember, if you want to claim a work-related
expense:
■ you must have spent the money
yourself and weren’t reimbursed
■ the expense must be directly related
to earning your income
■ you must have a record to prove
the expense.
For more information about what you
can and can’t claim during tax time, go to
www.ato.gov.au/agriculture2021pr
NT FARMERS GROW NT MAGAZINE.

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of NT Farmers.
Help us help you
Visit www.ntfarmers.org.au
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NT Farmers Association Ltd
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COOLALINGA, NT, 0839
P: (08) 8983 3233, F: (08) 8983 3244
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