Rural News

The South Australian Farmers Federation (SAFF) is wary of claims that inconsistent rainfall patterns will lead to a rise in the price of fruit and vegetables locally.

Narrabri Shire Council, in north-west New South Wales, is to launch a major campaign to attract energy-dependent business.

Strict water restrictions for all towns along the Murray River will still be introduced this weekend, despite recent rain.

Tasmanian fishermen say today's meeting with Gunns chairman John Gay has allayed some of their fears about the proposed pulp mill.

A herpes-like virus killing abalone in waters off Victoria's south-west coast is now spreading east of Warrnambool.

Tatura Milk in north-east Victoria is making six staff members redundant in an effort to cut costs.

Another plea has gone out to landholders to put their excess fodder supplies on the market.

Loxton Waikerie Council has asked the owners and operators of a local goat abattoir linked to a Q fever outbreak to comply with original development approvals.

The outlook for South Australian farmers has improved significantly from last year, with the recent good rain resulting in some easing of commodity prices.

Farming groups say producers should not count on rain predicted in Western Australia's northern agricultural region this week.

Funds are being provided to stop fire ants from invading the New South Wales north coast.

Environmentalists say weeds are choking parts of the Mary River, in south-east Queensland.

Consumers are being warned to prepare for a huge increase in fresh vegetable prices because of cold and wet conditions.

Greenhouse growers plan to bring British scientists to Australia to help prove the benefits of importing bumble bees.

The South Australian Farmers Federation is worried that personal pride is preventing some farmers from applying for government drought assistance.

The Tasmanian Government is considering whether to send police officers to the Northern Territory as part of the Federal Government's initiative to help tackle sexual abuse in Aboriginal communities.

The West Tamar Council says it will consider carrying out DNA tests on dogs suspected of killing sheep.

A herpes-like virus killing abalone in waters off Victoria's south-west coast is now spreading towards Melbourne.

A Golden Plains residents' group will make a submission to the State Government's review of the Victorian broiler code.

Irrigators will debate the implications of a four per cent River Murray water allocation at a drought forum in Tailem Bend tonight.