Strong yields offer welcome relief as Riverina harvest gathers pace

FARMERS across the Riverina are looking forward to a promising harvest, with favourable seasonal conditions delivering strong crop yields despite mounting financial pressures.

Harvesting is now underway across much of the region, with growers hoping increased production will help offset rising operating costs and softer grain prices.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke visited farmer Dan Manglesdorf at his West Wyalong property this week, where barley harvesting has begun ahead of what is expected to be a busy month.

Mr Manglesdorf said the season had produced encouraging results, providing some welcome relief after an expensive year for agricultural businesses.

“We’re very lucky to have the increased yields, which will help keep some return in the business,” he said.

“It’s been a very expensive year for farmers and small business people everywhere, of course, so we’re feeling very blessed.

“We’ve got a good month ahead of us if everything goes to plan.”

Tubbey, Dan Manglesdorf, Ryan and Steph Cooke MP at Manglesdorf Enterprises | Image: Supplied

Ms Cooke said grain harvesting was expected to continue until mid-December, followed by fruit harvesting in the eastern parts of the electorate, including Young.

She highlighted the importance of agriculture to regional economies, with the benefits of a successful harvest extending well beyond the farm gate.

Mr Manglesdorf said local businesses were already benefiting from increased spending on everything from machinery repairs and fuel to meals for harvest crews.

“We’re getting dinners catered in town, for instance, not to mention the fuel, oil repairs, everything else,” he said.

“We do what we can to keep liquidity in the local community because we’re all part of that community.”

Ms Cooke praised the contribution of farmers, describing agriculture as the backbone of communities throughout the electorate.

“You are feeding us, you are feeding our nation, and you are employing our locals so that our schools stay open, and that our hospitals are able to exist,” she said.

“On behalf of everyone in the electorate, I just wanted to say a huge thank you for what you do.”

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke having a quick lesson on how a header works at Manglesdorf Enterprises | Image: Supplied

With harvest operations underway across the region, farmers and rural landholders are being reminded to inspect firefighting equipment, maintain firebreaks and ensure machinery is properly serviced.

“Now is the time to maintain your fire breaks around key farm assets like sheds, machinery, fuel and grain storage, and homesteads,” the NSW RFS Riverina Zone said.

Authorities are also warning of the dangers posed by machinery, welding, grinding and other activities capable of producing sparks.

“Last season we saw significant fire activity from harvesting and hot works used in the open,” the RFS said.

“If you’re harvesting, or working with angle grinders or welders, have adequate fire protection on hand before you start.”

READ MORE: Landholders reminded of fire danger