Cattle Australia Says: “Plan for challenging summer”

Australian cattle producers are set for challenging summer seasonal conditions, with an El Niño declaration and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole weather event at the same time.

Cattle Australia Interim CEO, Adam Coffey said the declaration signalled a hotter spring and summer ahead, with forecast reduced rainfall across the continent. “Southern Producers will now likely increase usual protection measures for their properties by managing fuel loads and ensuring they have adequate fire breaks," Mr Coffey said.

“With dryer conditions expected across the board, producers need to plan for the likelihood of increased fodder and supplement requirements with likely reduced availability.

“The Bureau has indicated the current forecast period is to autumn 2024, however, it is important to recognise most El Niño events last up to nine months.

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Australian beef cattle producers are no strangers to dry times and are accordingly very adept at building resilience within their businesses.

“There are many resources available at both a state and federal level to assist in drought preparation and CA recommends producers assess their access to these programs.

“Producers can also contact their local drought hubs to get advice on how to prepare.

"When tough times hit we need to recognise the strength in supporting each other and utilising the amazing support networks we have in our regional communities.”

The Federal Government’s drought resilience programs including drought hubs, and links to state initiatives can be found at: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/farm-food-drought/drought#toc_1

Producers can join Rural Minds Workshops to learn how to maintain mental well-being in a relaxed way at: https://rrmh.com.au/our-programs/rural-minds/

If you need urgent mental health support, please contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36.