Open Farm Day - In an attempt to bridge the rural, urban divide Federated Farmers National Council has resolved to hold an open Farm Day on March 1 next year. Farm Day will enable urban families to visit working farms, right throughout New Zealand on the same day. Farmers know city children who think milk comes from a bottle and meat from a supermarket refrigerator. Many children lack the chance to walk through a paddock, see a working sheep-dog and jump in haystacks. Farm Day's staff champion is Ali Undorf-Lay who has seen first hand the benefits of such a day in the United Kingdom. UK farmers have offered this opportunity to the urban public for more than ten years. In the United Kingdom the open days are run by a national organisation called Linking Environment and Farming (LEAF). See some of the coverage in this 2007 BBC article for an idea of what the day can achieve. If you know the ideal host farm in your area contact your provincial president or Ali Undorf-Lay, 0800 327 646.

Losing lambs - Federated Farmers has worked out that nine lambs a minute have vanished from New Zealand farms over the past year.  Federated Farmers Meat & Fibre chairman Bruce Wills expressed concern at the collapse in lamb numbers to 27.3 million; 15 percent or 4.7 million less than last spring. Though decrease was expected, he said it is further evidence of the desperate state of the New Zealand sheep meat sector. He concedes the short to medium term is uncertain given how commodities have been affected across the board.  But hopes the falling kiwi dollar will provide a much needed counterweight. Read more »

GM onions no cause to cry - Biosecurity spokesperson, John Hartnell, was on Radio New Zealand today talking about ERMA's decision to grant Crop and Food Research permission to carry out GM onion field trials. John pointed out that the trial is legal and onion pollen is heavy, so there was little chance of it becoming wind borne. John used the Federation's policy to comment on individual cases of gene technology but questioned the need for GM onions in New Zealand. He said, "Our ability to grow crops and deliver food to the rest of the world is very good and we are probably the most efficient in the world.  As it stands today I don't think we need to supplement that with GE onions to make us any more efficient."

Trade up - New Zealand will be bound for the top half of the OECD if the Doha trade round can be completed successfully. The president of Federated Farmers, Don Nicolson was hopeful after positive noises came from the recent APEC summit in Peru. If the Doha trade round is concluded successfully, it will the proverbial magic bullet for New Zealand's economy. Federated Farmers' single biggest fear from the current global crisis is a return to protectionism.  Read more »

Basic focus - Councils should focus on core services says the Local Government Forum. The Forum's publication "Local Government and the Provision of Public Goods", identifies core activities councils must focus on as a way to help curb huge increases in local government spending and rates. The new Minister of Local Government, Rodney Hide, has welcomed the paper and forum members will meet with Mr Hide to discuss local government policy. The forum is made up of a grouping of business organisations, including Federated Farmers, which share an interest in promoting efficient local government. Read more »

Leaders unleashed - An enthusiastic group of members were taken on a guided tour of Wellington's political landscape during Federated Farmers' leadership course this week. Course participants were introduced to the role of policy staff, they met politicians and were addressed by Federation president Don Nicolson, the Minister of Agriculture, David Carter, Act MP Heather Roy, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Deputy Director General, Paul Stocks, and CEO, Conor English, all contributed to an inspiring two days in the windy city.

With much sadness - One of the Federation's family, Otago Federated Farmers vice-president and Otago Grain & Seed chairman, John Pawson, was tragically taken in a climbing accident on Mt Aspiring yesterday. Federated Farmers President, Don Nicolson said our thoughts are with John's wife Meg, his family, Richard and Sarah Burdon and the close knit Central Otago team. Only last week Federated Farmers enjoyed John's fellowship and intellect at National Council. He precedes us in the knowing and experiencing of things that we, the living, are yet to endure and embrace. He will be missed by family, friends, neighbours and farmers across the country.

Breaking news - See Federated Farmers in the news this week.

Aerial 1080 banned on Coast - The West Coast Province of Federated Farmers is extremely disappointed in the decision by the Westland District Council to ban aerial application of 1080. The council acted on a letter from KEA and the Fluoride Action Group Hokitika asking that where aerial drops encompass water catchments for town use that aerial 1080 be banned. Federated Farmers is frustrated that the council did not engage in wider community consultation, as the consequences of this decision will have far-reaching implications on both farmer and town resident ratepayers. Since aerial drops cannot be used, 1080 will have to be applied by ground which is extremely difficult in rugged areas. This is neither effective for killing possums, nor is it likely to be cost effective. Most concerning is the fact that currently the West Coast has around 48 percent of the nation's infected herds from TB for which possums are a vector. The loss of the option to drop 1080 aerially is a major threat that will only hamper efforts to reduce this percentage. 

Reconvened hearings - Hill country farmers in the Horizons region are urged to support Federated Farmers in its submission at 9.30am on Monday at the Horizons council chambers in Palmerton North. Farming practices on land that slopes 25 degrees or more could become severely restricted. This is your chance to show concern. The Taumarunui Farmers Action Group will also speak on the issue at 1pm.

Southern foothold - The strong Southland and Otago provinces are set to thrive and members can expect a strengthened support on policy issues in the New Year with the appointment of policy advisor, David Cooper and contractor Annie English joining Otago based Matt Harcombe. Both new advisors have political science degrees and are committed to advancing agriculture in the regions. David takes up the reins from the Dunedin office in early January and Annie, who has previously worked for the Federation in a similar role, will be coordinating members' responses to Environment Southlands discharge plan. The trio stepped out for the first time together this week at a meeting supporting members who were meeting with Environment Southland staff and Councillors, where hot topics included the Council's response to the rapid rise in dairying in the region and the potential for a dramatic impact on farmers rates indicated in early LTCCP budget planning.

Dairy positive - Federated Farmers has welcomed release of a report by Environment Canterbury showing that Canterbury's dairy farmers are receptive to public scrutiny and improving in farm practice. Federated Farmers Dairy Mid-Canterbury chairman, Dean McConnell said: "The key for us in the 2007/08 report is that 80 percent of farmers are now either fully compliant or on the road to full compliance. Being open about how we are performing is positive as it builds public trust in dairy farming." Read more »

Rural water at risk - A Water Conservation Order on the Hurunui River could limit any development of rural water infrastructure, including water storage. The order applied for by recreational interest groups does not take into account that such development is crucial to the economic and social wellbeing of Canterbury. Well designed rural water infrastructure projects can have win-win economic, social and environmental outcomes. A good example of a successful water storage project is the Opuha Dam and Irrigation Scheme which recently won a prestigious environmental award. Submissions on the conservation order close on 15 December 2008. If you have concerns, it is important to have your say. For more information visit the Ministry of Environment website or to have input into Federated Farmers' submission, contact Lionel Hume, lhume@fedfarm.org.nz or 0800 327 646.

Creative or formulated consent charges - Getting to the bottom of how much the consent holder needs to pay has led to protest action in North Otago. The way that the Otago Regional Council has weighted its resource consent monitoring charges seems to be more creative than formulated. North Otago provincial president, Robert Borst and other consent holders in the Kakanui catchment are refusing to pay the council invoice until the formula is made public. Robert urges all consent holders in North Otago to check with neighbours or Federated Farmers before writing out cheques. Federated Farmers is unsure if the same issue is occurring in other parts of the region. Contact Matt Harcombe, 0800 327 646 if you have concerns.

Power option - Powerlines are no longer the only option Manawatu/Rangitikei president Gordon McKellar learnt after visiting Otairai Station near Hunterville. Gordon with a group from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry viewed an alternative power supply used for shearing at the station's back woolshed. So far the trial looks like a win-win situation for both the power company and farmer. The station generates on-site power with solar cells instead of linking into power lines stretching across 3.5km of steep hills and in doing so hopefully lowers operating costs. Gordon said it was pleasing that a Bill had been introduced in to parliament to get rid of the 2013 sunset clause, which could have meant that the lights went out for remote rural users in New Zealand. Opportunities for these positive voluntary schemes are able to be explored.

Impersonating a fireman - En route to the North Canterbury Federated Farmers Christmas "dress as an F" party on Friday night past provincial president, Harry Schat, came across a road accident. Harry arrived on the scene and offered assistance in his fireman's costume until the police arrived. It is reported Harry was seen doing a fast U turn when high tailing out of there. His wife Gail described him as rather dashing bedecked in blue with gold buttons.

Seed scheme - Oil seed rape or canola growers are being encouraged by Federated Farmers Grain and Seed chairman Ian Morten to adhere to the principles of a ‘Seed Crop Isolation Distance Mapping Scheme'. The Seed Crop Isolation Distance Mapping Scheme is designed to manage the isolation distances required between high value cruciferous and vegetable seed crops so that they do not cross pollinate each other when flowering. Pollen from such crops can travel and pollinate similar crop species several kilometres away. Read more »

Business confidence stabilises - According to the National Bank's Business Outlook Survey released this week a net 43 percent of respondents expect general business conditions to deteriorate over the coming year. Aside from the fact that there was no deterioration, the collective message from the survey remains poor. A net 14 percent expect worse times for businesses over the next year ahead.

General advice

Registration reminders - While it is the responsibility of the owner to maintain current motor vehicle registration it has been brought to Federated Farmers' attention that some registration reminder notices (MR1) may not be reaching their destination. It seems to be especially prevalent for vehicles with recent ownership change and where address data fields submitted by the new owner were considered incomplete or not entered properly by the NZ Transport Agency (formerly LTNZ). The risk of breaking the law is heightened if the MR1 registration form does not get delivered as expected. If this has happened to you please contact: William McGimpsey, wmcgimpsey@fedfarm.org.nz or 0800 327 646.

Sponsors advice

Tax refunds - Let your wage and salary earners know they can find out for free if they are eligible for a tax refund at www.taxrefunds.co.nz.  The site provides a free, no obligation assessment of whether taxpayers are owed a tax refund in any of the past five years. For further information call 0800 327 646.

Special Discounts

New suppliers of safety equipment - On the farm there are accidents waiting to happen, the best way to minimise risk is to ensure that your working environment is safe as possible. Preventing workplace injuries can be as simple as wearing the appropriate protective clothing or having trusted safety equipment on hand. New Zealand Safety Equipment and Protector Safety New Zealand are now offering members special rates on all safety equipment.

To find out more about special discounts for members call 0800 327 646 or login to the Special Discounts section of Federated Farmers website.

Contracts and agreements

Contracts and agreements - Members can purchase Federated Farmers contracts and agreements online. Read more »

Books - order now », e-books - order now », branded clothing - order now » 

Abandoned hives - Federated Farmers Bees wants to know if you have neglected or abandoned hives on your property. Managing bee disease is vital for the ongoing sustainability of beekeeping and pollination services. The American Foul Brood Pest Management Strategy requires that all beehives are registered and apiary details are recorded on the national database. Please assist by calling 0800 327 646 or emailing details of any neglected or abandoned hives to canterbury@fedfarm.org.nz or fax: 03 357 9451.

Traceability meetings - National Animal Identification and Traceability public meetings give farmers an opportunity to see how the NAIT concept will work, hear where the project is at and discuss any concerns. Upcoming meetings:

• 1 December, 1pm-2.30pm, Hot Springs Motor Lodge, 2 Fraser Close, Hanmer Springs.
• 2 December, 10am-11.30am, Workingmens Club, 41 Guinness Street, Greymouth.
• 2 December, 7pm-8.30pm, Ashburton Hotel Racecourse Road, Ashburton.
• 8 December, 1pm-2.30pm Wairakei Community Hall, 2 Kauri Drive, Wairakei, Taupo.
  9 December, 1pm-2.30pm, Wintec Tiroa House, Taupiri Street, Te Kuiti.
• 12 December, 1pm-2.30pm, Kereone Rugby club, Campbell Park, Thames Street, Morrinsville.

Director nominations - Meat & Fibre chairman Bruce Wills prompts members wanting to contribute to industry good activities that they now have the opportunity with nominations being sought for Meat & Wool New Zealand. There are two director positions open for the Northern North Island and Northern South Island electorates. Nominations close at 5pm Monday 12 January 2009. Nominations must be received on the official form that can be obtained from Warwick Lampp, 0508 666 336.

Exchange anniversary - International Agricultural Exchange Association is 40 in 2009. Join the party on 3-5 April 2009 in Ashburton. Trainees, host families, board members, office staff and contact people are welcome. To register your interest please contact Mike and Ros Dodgshun, 06 862 2729 or email: mikeros@farmside.co.nz.

FAME scholarship - Applications are open for the Food and Agribusiness Market Experience Programme (FAME). FAME is a full-immersion course that includes a wide range of topics covering all aspects of the supply chain. While the course is New Zealand-based, it includes international travel to Asia, North America and Europe studying supply chain innovation and best practice. The FAME programme is run by a joint venture of Otago, Lincoln and Massey universities and commences in April 2009. An AGMARDT scholarship valued at $25,000 is up for grabs as well as two support grants of $12,500. For more information contact Stephen Macaulay on 04 499 6173. Applications close 30 November 2008.

Forward the Flash - Send a copy of the Friday Flash to a non-member. If they join up as a full member of Federated Farmers, you will both receive $50. Call 0800 327 646 to join.

Christmas hours - The Federated Farmers 0800 advice line will be closed between Friday 24 December 2008 and Monday 5 January 2009.

Whitebait trip - Members, families and farm staff of Hauraki-Coromandel province are warmly invited to attend an all day trip to Charles and Jan Mitchell's whitebait farm in Raglan on December 4. The cost is $50 a person and covers transport, a tour, lunch and drinks. This is shaping up to be a great day out with plenty of fishy stories. Lunch is at Whale Bay, Raglan. RSVP to Bev or John Sanford, 07 869 0080 or email jsanford@xtra.co.nz by 28 November.

Franklin garden party - Franklin District's Christmas function is again at the beautiful St Margaret's Gardens, Karaka on November 30. Cost is $30 for the night, all are welcome. Please ring Doug Gellert 09 294 8647, Garth Ross 09 238 7703 or Jean Hamilton 09 292 7813 to RSVP by November 23.

Wanganui Christmas dinner - Christmas dinner is being celebrated in Wanganui province on 29 November at the Avoca Hotel. Cost is $27 a ticket. RSVP to Brian Doughty, 06 342 1846.

Christmas cheer - Manawatu/Rangitikei farmers are invited Farming House, 105 Queen Street, Palmerston Northon Friday 5 December 2008, 2pm - 5pm. RSVP by 2 December to Sue Wall, 06 357 4026 or email: swall@fedfarm.org.nz.

Milking and sharing in Taranaki - Taranaki Sharemilkers section is holding a barbecue get-together. Both members and non-members are welcome. The date is Friday 5 December at 6.30pm at the Demonstration Farm, East Road Stratford. Bring a mate and join us for food and drinks. There are spot prizes and guest speakers. RSVP by Wednesday 26 November 2008 to Frances Cooper,  06 765 8025, email: cooperfarms@farmside.co.nz or Shelley Porteous,  06 757 3423, email: taranaki@fedfarm.org.nz.

Quote of the week - "And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years." Abraham Lincoln