RFCS NSW July Newsletter
CEO update
Just when we thought the cost-of-living crisis may ease, supply chain disruptions in the Middle East continue to drive up fuel and other prices. In the Strait of Hormuz – the location that once moved 20% of the world’s oil supply - oil tankers and other vessels are navigating mines, being intercepted and threatened by Iranian officials and having to bear additional insurance and other costs for increased risk and travel time. Consequently, traffic in the strait has reduced by 70% since the cease-fire breakdown earlier this month. This equates to daily traffic of a few dozen ships.
The Red Sea to Gulf of Aden has emerged as another problem in the region. Houthis rebels have been blockading the chokepoint forcing oil tankers to make U-turns near Yemen. Nearly 15% of global sea trade moves through this area. These developments influence the Brent Crude price which has climbed back up to around US$95 a barrel. Should this continue, it may go well beyond US$100. This upward trend, placed alongside a return of the Australian Government’s fuel excise on 2 August, makes for a bit of a bleak outlook for fuel prices.
On Wednesday, the Australian Bureau of Statistics released latest inflation data – the Consumer Price Index. This came in at 3.8% for the 12 months to June 2026. While this is a reduction of 0.2% from the May 2026 release, it is 0.8% above the RBA’s target band of 2-3%. This number, placed in the context of developments in the Middle East and previous high inflation data, puts pressure on the RBA to increase interest rates at its next meeting on 10–11 August.
Earlier this month, the NSW Government identified a second positive case of ‘bird flu’ in a wild migratory seabird. Detections in other states highlight the disease is not only relatively prominent in this species it is likely to spread to other native animals like seals. It is important to note that there have been no detections in commercial poultry and the risk to human health remains low. The NSW Government activated its response plan earlier this month. Farmers are advised to sanitise farm visitors and vehicles, house birds indoors, remove objects that attract wild birds and animals and secure buildings, especially those housing the birds.
Like most organisations, RFCS NSW has been busy working on annual reports. There is the organisation’s annual report and the various individual program reports that are provided to our funding bodies. While it is too early to provide you with the detail, what I can report is we are doing more complex and wide-ranging work with our clients than we have in many years.
Virtual fencing: what farmers are learning
Rural financial counsellor Danielle Davenport has been following the rollout of virtual fencing, now legal in NSW for cattle producers using GPS-collar technology instead of physical fences. It's shaping up as a real game-changer for paddock management. Find out what local farmers are learning about the tech, the costs, and the welfare safeguards now in place.
Just A Farmer: wellbeing focus in Wagga
The film wasn't the only thing that left an impression at last week's Elders Just A Farmer screening in Wagga. Representatives from Wellways, Murrumbidgee Men's Group, StandBy Support After Suicide, Wagga Women's Health Centre, Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network and RFCS NSW were on hand, and one line from the night has stuck: 'it's not so bad not being ok; what matters is not being ok, and alone'.
As rural financial counsellor Scott Boyle told the room, most of us have some experience with this, whether in our own lives or someone close to us, so don't be afraid to reach out. A practical tip courtesy of a registered nurse in attendance: ask your GP to include Vitamin D in your next routine blood test, since low levels are common and linked to anxiety and depression. And if you're after something practical to act on, Wellways points to the Black Dog Institute's free online suicide prevention training - about an hour of your time that could make a real difference to someone around you.
Bank ready, Farm Smart
Close to 100 producers, including oyster growers, took part in Farm Smart workshops across Finley, Trangie, Griffith, Orange and the South Coast in May–June, sharpening business plans, stress-testing risk and building bank-readiness through real farm scenarios. Kept deliberately small, the sessions gave attendees room to talk through drought preparedness and other challenges and the reassurance that they're not facing these alone.
A dedicated Oyster Focus series for NSW oyster growers is also underway, with three more sessions to run through 2026–27 building toward a practical Commercial Farm Development Plan for each participant. Delivered by our rural financial counsellors with NSW Farmers under the Farm Business Resilience Program, feedback so far suggests it's hitting the mark.
Confinement feeding: what was revealed
Around 26 farmers, advisors and industry reps gathered at Cumnock Showground earlier this month for MerinoLink's Confinement Feeding Workshop, delivered by Kieran Smith of For Flocks Sake. Trial data shared on the day showed a straw-quality change in one ration had no impact on ewe condition, but delivered a 20pc saving to the bottom line. Single pregnant ewes lambed successfully in confinement, though twin-bearing ewes were a harder case.
Rural financial counsellor Danielle Davenport found attendees highly engaged with plenty of questions; proof that confinement feeding, once seen as a "big no no," is now firmly on farmers' radar for the savings it can offer. Beyond the dollars, attendees heard that confinement systems can free up time for family and reduce reliance on extra labour - a win for younger farmers building their operation and older farmers looking to ease the physical load. A Guide to Confinement Feeding Sheep and Cattle in NSW was recommended reading, available through Local Land Services and drought adoption officers or download a copy.
Cattle reproduction and containment feeding: Dunedoo
Rural financial counsellor Danielle Tuckwell also attended a Cattle Reproduction and Containment Feeding workshop, run by Delta Ag Dunedoo at Cobbora Station last month. Farmers heard from Brett Littler (Senior LLS Officer) on fat scoring and feeding with attendees invited to feel for coverage themselves, and Aden MacDougall (Zoetis) on vaccination timing, including a focus on Pesti Virus and getting the program right for calving performance.
With many in the room having weathered drought conditions, the workshop was a timely reminder that getting the basics right - vaccination schedules, condition scoring, biosecurity between neighbouring properties - pays off at calving time. It was also a great chance to spread the word about RFCS NSW's new Coolah office, now covering the Warrumbungle, Gilgandra and Dubbo LGAs.
Looking after yourself, and your business
Financial stress lands harder in the regions - a 2025 government report found 16pc of people in Outer Regional areas and 13pc in Inner Regional areas had experienced financial stress, compared to 12pc in major cities. It's something RFCS NSW sees often in its work with farming families, and it was the focus of a recent panel discussion, Looking After Yourself and Your Business, hosted by Watershed Landcare in front of around 14 participants.
Rural financial counsellor Rebecca White joined Carol Mudford - founder and CEO of sHedway, a mental health nurse, shearer and the 2025 national Rural Women's Award winner - along with Cooreene Horenko from Lifeline and Brooke Statham from Watershed Landcare, sharing how RFCS NSW's free, confidential and independent service helps ease financial pressure. A recurring theme: getting in early and having a plan ready well before it's needed, because as with mental health, prevention is better than cure.
Look Up. Slow Down. Go Home.
Rural financial counsellor Scott Boyle backed the message that safety starts with you at this year's Farm Safety Week - because on the land, it's the split-second decisions that matter most. Read why looking out for yourself is just as important as looking out for the bottom line. Also tune in to some Essential Energy tips that might just save your life here.
Rangelands Business Pathways Workshop, Cobar
Rural financial counsellors Sophie Ray and Anna Shearman joined a two-day Rangelands Business Pathways Workshop in Cobar last Thursday, alongside RAMHPS, Agrista, Ag360, DPIRD, Rabobank, the SQNNSW Drought Hub, Western Landcare and local producers. Day one covered bank-readiness, rangeland profitability, climate and feed forecasting, and opportunities for a young farmer group, while day two took the group out to Geandale and Etiwanda Stations for firsthand insights into running a rangeland enterprise. A great chance for the pair to strengthen existing networks and make new ones across the district.
GRDC and other events: out and about roundup
It's been a busy stretch on the road. Dan Brown and Danielle Davenport took in GRDC's grains research updates at Barmedman and Manildra respectively, while Justin Luckel attended the GRDC RiskWi$e Decisions Workshop - all chances to bring the latest research and risk-management thinking back to our farming clients. Team leader Liz Brown and Rebecca White represented RFCS NSW at the Mudgee field days, the team turned out in force at the Australian Women in Ag Conference, and Vicki Hall is this week connecting with growers at the Delta Cowra Agribusiness Expo.
Every event is another chance to put a face to the service and remind the district we're here to help. Make sure you come and find our rural financial counsellors at the upcoming events:
1 AUGUST: Nyngan Ag Expo - rural financial counsellor Sophie Ray attending.
4, 5 AUGUST: Profitable Grain Storage Solutions - rural financial counsellor Danielle Davenport attending the Molong workshop on the 4th, Vicki Hall will be at Cowra on the 5th. Also running at Condobolin (5th) and Warren/Collie (6th). Register here.
12 AUGUST: National Renewables in Ag Conference and Expo, Orange - RFCS NSW team attending. Register here.
18-20 AUGUST: Ag Quip, Gunnedah - RFCS NSW will be there.
26 AUGUST: Riverina Sheep and Wool Expo, Conargo - rural financial counsellor Angela Lonergan attending. Register here.
27 AUGUST: National Bush Summit, Dubbo - the RFCS NSW CEO Craig Hough attending on day two, joining national and state political leaders, and industry and community heads for a national conversation tackling the big issues facing the bush.
29-30 AUGUST: Wentworth Show - rural financial counsellors Stephen Morris and Graeme Witte attending.
1 SEPTEMBER: 2026 SWSSMB Field Day - rural financial counsellor Vicki Hall attending. Register here.
Boots on the Ground in Illawarra
It's been a busy stretch for FCS NSW in the Illawarra, out in the community at two very different events. At a renters forum, local MPs and the NSW Rental Commissioner unpacked new tenancy laws and answered questions directly from attendees, with FCS NSW sitting alongside Southern Cross Community Housing and the Illawarra Legal Centre to talk through individual situations and book appointments on the spot, plus a valuable chance to speak directly with decision-makers.
Then it was on to the Shoalhaven NAIDOC Family Fun Day. Second only to the local Ag Show as the town's biggest community event, with services from across Shoalhaven and Wollongong turning out in force. Beyond the usual chats and bookings at the stall, FCS NSW even ran an on-the-spot counselling session on the day. Whether it's a forum or a festival, these events are as much about renewing referral pathways between services as reaching new clients - a reminder of just how connected the local support network really is.
H5 bird flu update - now in five states
As of 30 July, Australia has 29 confirmed detections of H5 bird flu - all in wild seabirds, spread across Western Australia (10 detections), South Australia (15), NSW (2) and most recently, Queensland (1) and Victoria (1). There are still no detections in poultry or the wider agriculture industry, and no evidence of mass deaths. If you notice sick or dead birds or other animals, don't touch them; record the location and call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
New grapevine virus detected, but not in NSW
A new-to-Australia virus, Grapevine Berry Inner Necrosis Virus, has turned up in table grape vineyards in Victoria, Queensland and South Australia - none in NSW so far. It's easy to miss, since infected vines often show no symptoms. NSW growers can stay ahead of it by using certified virus-tested planting material and by watching for anything unusual. Report concerns to the Plant Biosecurity Hotline on 1800 084 881.
Disaster recovery assistance, and climate survey
Financial assistance is now available for eligible primary producers and small businesses in the Central Darling and Wentworth LGAs and the Far West Unincorporated Area, following the natural disaster declaration for the Far West NSW Severe Weather Event (7 February – 13 March 2026). Check the Rural Assistance Authority website for the full list of declarations and funding programs. On a related note, CSIRO wants to hear how farmers use long-term climate information for on-farm decisions - a five-minute survey that'll help shape the climate tools available to producers in future.
eID rebate program winding down
Time's running out to claim back 50pc (up to $1,500) of the cost of a handheld eID reader - applications close 31 August 2026, or sooner if funding runs out. Purchases from 3 October 2023 onward are eligible, with a valid tax invoice and proof of payment.
New tool takes the guesswork out of margins
With nitrogen and diesel prices squeezing budgets, LLS and Agripath have built a gross margin tool that lets growers flex fertiliser and fuel prices and instantly see the effect on gross margin per hectare, across eight crop types. It's a quick way to pressure-test decisions before committing.
Have your say on a new ag apprenticeship
The National Farmers' Federation is testing the waters on a dedicated Agricultural Trade Apprenticeship - a potential new pathway to recruit and retain the industry's future workforce. Your feedback could help make the case.
Safety net for seasonal workers
SafeWork NSW has a new webpage helping farmers and rural businesses keep seasonal and itinerant workers safe, informed and supported, with practical tools and guidance ready to go.
ABARES farm surveys back on the road
A team of 35 ABARES collectors will visit around 1,900 farmers by December, gathering insights on farm structure, land use, production and costs - the kind of data that shapes ag policy nationwide. If you're selected, your input helps make sure your region and industry are properly represented.
First-ever national agritourism survey
If you're welcoming visitors onto the farm, or know someone who is, a new survey wants to hear about it. It's the first real attempt to benchmark what agritourism means for Australian farmers and their communities, looking at what drives it, what it delivers, and what gets in the way.
New coin honours the outback
The Royal Australian Mint has released a special coin marking 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, featuring a horse and rider, working dog, sheep, cattle and a wedge-tail eagle, capturing the spirit of pastoral life and the people behind our food and fibre. Check out the coin here.
4 August | Profitable Grain Storage Solutions - Cowra & Molong
With margins under pressure, this event offers practical, expert guidance on getting more value from on-farm grain storage infrastructure - covering pest identification and biosecurity, smarter storage practices, drought planning and key marketing decisions to maximise grain value.
Cowra (morning) - register here.
Molong (afternoon) - register here.
5 August | Riverine Plains In-Season Update, Mulwala
Join Riverine Plains from 8:30am–1:30pm to discuss this season's key issues with industry experts, agronomists and researchers, including managing blackleg and sclerotinia risk in canola, understanding insect pressure, and making crop management decisions through uncertain conditions. There's also a tour of the SCOUT for the Riverine Plains Trial Block, plus the chance to hear what others are seeing across the region and connect with farmers ahead of spring decision-making. Register here.
5–19 August | AgriFutures Strategic Plan Consultation Workshops
AgriFutures Australia is developing its next Strategic RD&E Plan 2027–2032 and wants your input on the opportunities, priorities and challenges facing agriculture. Register for the workshop session here.
10–11 August | AgTech Workshops – Molong, Bathurst, Euston & Balranald (Sept)
Upcoming ag tech workshops across the region. Register here.
11 August | Farm Business Insights Webinar
Join Local Land Services and Agripath for data-driven insights into enterprise profitability, with a look at new gross margin and cost-of-production tools in action. Register here.
12-14 August | Business Transition & Succession Planning – Canowindra, Young & Wagga Wagga
Hosted by the Rabo Client Council of NSW, this free session helps farming families lay the groundwork for succession planning, covering communication, meeting structure and balancing family goals across management, business, property and wealth. RSVP by Friday 31 July.
13 August | Office Efficiency and Xero – Finley
A practical workshop on simple farm office systems and Xero workflows to keep your bookkeeping up to date and support confident decision-making. Register here.
13–14 August | Rice Connect 2026, Barham
Powered by the Ricegrowers' Association of Australia, Rice Connect delivers a streamlined program keeping participants informed and connected to current research and innovation, industry leaders, and fellow rice producers, minimising time away from the farm. Register here.
19 August | Wild Dog Forum – White Cliffs | Save the Date
A wild dog forum is being coordinated for landholders, stakeholders and government in White Cliffs. Save the date and share through your networks. Contact Brooke Anderson for more information:
19 August | Get RIC Ready Webinar – Free, Online
The Regional Investment Corporation is hosting a free webinar at 12 noon (AEST) for farm businesses, advisers and industry stakeholders, covering RIC loan eligibility, the application pathway, and how a concessional loan can help improve cash flow - whether you're navigating drought, starting out or planning succession. Can't attend live? Register anyway and receive the recording.
27 August | Variable Rate Tech Field Day
See a live SwarmFarm demo showcasing how autonomous machinery can support more precise and efficient farming operations, plus the latest soil amendment trial results, machinery safety insights, and variable-rate lime and fertiliser spreading demonstrations. Register here.
14 September | Regions Rising National Summit, Parliament House, Canberra
The Regional Australia Institute's flagship Summit returns under the theme 'People Power', exploring how workforce mobility, migration, liveability and community leadership shape the future of regional Australia. Speakers include economist Ken Henry, Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain, and Productivity Commission Chair Danielle Wood. Tickets on sale now.
25 September & 30 October | Worm Egg Counting Online Workshops
Learn how to conduct your own worm egg counts for your livestock in this online, trainer-led course run over a full day. Cost: $380 per person - NSW participants may be eligible for full subsidy under the AgSkilled program. Register here.
Chemical Card Plus – Accreditation Workshops Across NSW
Ensure your team holds current accreditation for the safe handling and transportation of chemicals. One-day face-to-face workshops and a fully online self-paced option are available, with NSW participants eligible for full fee subsidy under AgSkilled. Upcoming locations: Nyngan (3 Aug) | Parkes (4 Aug) | Condobolin (10 Aug) | Canowindra (11 Aug) | West Wyalong (17 Aug) | Forbes (18 Aug) | Tottenham (24 Aug) | Dunedoo (25 Aug) | Balranald (27 Aug). Register here.
Land Services Program (LSP) | EOIs Open for 2026–2028 Intake
The LSP is a 2-year structured program for land managers to set and achieve individual goals for their farming operation through training and one-on-one support specific to their property and aspirations. Participants undertake workshops in year one covering human factors, financial benchmarking, asset stocktake and action planning, helping identify business opportunities, set priorities and build a plan. Apply here.
Vertebrate Pesticide Induction Training – Online
Want to control feral pests like pigs, rabbits, wild dogs or foxes on your property? In NSW you'll need certification to use restricted pesticides such as 1080, Pindone, RHDV, and PAPP. The upgraded online course provides five years of certification. Register here.
Natural Capital Course – Online
Enrol in this free online course to understand the value of natural capital, and how you can capture and increase it on your own property. Register here.
Australian Agriculture Awards
Launched jointly by ACM Agri and the National Farmers' Federation, the program recognises excellence across five categories at a state level, culminating in a national gala in Canberra this November. Whether it's a peer, a mentor, or yourself, nominate to make sure your community's quiet achievers are represented on the national stage. Nominate here.
Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships | Applications Close 30 September
First-year NSW apprentices experiencing financial or personal hardship can apply for scholarships of up to $5000 per year for up to three years, to be used for tools, fuel or general living expenses. Applicants must be working in NSW for a NSW-based employer and be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Apply here.
Nutrien Community Grants Program
A small grants program supporting the success, vibrancy and wellbeing of rural and regional communities nationwide, funding meaningful projects run by local grassroots organisations. Applications close 6 August 2026. Apply here.
In a Good Place (IAGP) Grants
Community organisations in remote, rural and regional Australia are invited to apply for funding through the In a Good Place grants program, supporting projects that strengthen mental health, social and emotional wellbeing. Applications close 18 August. Apply here.
CSIRO Kick-Start
For many start-ups and SMEs, progressing an R&D idea can be challenging without the right support. CSIRO Kick-Start pairs businesses with CSIRO experts and offers dollar-matched funding of $10,000 to $50,000 to help investigate challenges, refine concepts and move ideas closer to market. Apply anytime.