The old vision of the ‘cockie’ relying on local knowledge alone to gauge the seasons is fast becoming a thing of the past.
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Farming, like many industries, is taking a leap into the techno age, as our lead story today demonstrates. Tablelands Farming Systems and Local land Services have collaborated on a project which gives graziers far more surety in their planning. John Klem (pictured) can wander up the paddock, iPad in hand, and figure out how much stock feed he’ll have available in three months or beyond.
The information, gleaned through a one-metre probe into the soil, allows producers to decide whether to offload stock or purchase more. That sort of planning would have been unimaginable even a short time ago. The two organisations should be commended for the initiative.
Tablelands Farming Systems is only four years old but is providing valuable localised information to producers.
Unfortunately, it’s not all good news. Low rainfall is clearly biting for some, despite plentiful falls last year instilling good subsoil moisture. Strong August and September winds, coupled with higher than average temperatures are making for a worrying season.
Our thoughts are with producers along with the Rural Fire Service. Southern Tablelands operational manager Daniel Osborne sounds an ominous warning, saying that the grassland curing index is sitting at an ominous 68 per cent. We have already seen several small fires take off. It is incumbent on everyone to remain vigilant so we don’t have a fire season like last year.
School’s long tradition
Goulburn Public School (aka Bourke Street School) dates back to 1868 and was opened by Sir Henry Parkes.
Because it has existed for so long, many people in the city have a connection to it.
The school is celebrating 150 years next year and the P&C is seeking the input of the wider school community to celebrate this milestone properly. The input of former students and teachers would be appreciated, especially with an old photos they could share, etc
A public meeting is being held about the celebrations today, September 20 in the school’s History Room at 4pm for those interested. A Facebook page has been established called ‘150 years at Goulburn Public School’ so people can comment and have input on that as well.