This week saw buyers keen to secure more volume before the looming recess. Price increases in the merino sector were gradual rather than extreme, as buyers slowly increased their limits. By the close of trade, the market was generally 10-20 cents dearer.

The skirting market experienced similar movement to the fleece, gradual increases rather than dramatic rises, with the main buyer interest focused on wools carrying less than 2.0% vegetable matter or those exhibiting excellent additional measurement results.

The crossbred market defied the other sectors and continued its downward trend. Prices were generally discounted by 10 to 25 cents. Buyers were very selective with their purchases, focusing on the well prepared lots.

The oddment market rose slightly leaving the NR carding indicator 1 cent dearer, while washing lambs were extreme as buyers attempted to purchase them before the small buying window closes for the year.

Source AWEX.

There are a number of elements that add to the risk of fire on harvesting machinery.

Most of these can be monitored, maintained and addressed to avoid fires.

According to Kondinin Group research, dust and trash build-up on the machine and bearing failures account for around half of harvester fires.

Mechanical failures are implicated for one in 12 harvester fires. While static electricity is regularly blamed for starting fires, static discharge does not have sufficient energy to ignite crop dust.

Reducing harvester fires requires minimisation of the fuel and the ignition source with regular clean downs of the machine, particularly in dusty crops and those that have suffered mould and disease. In extreme cases a blow-down every boxful may be required.

Bearing failure is the cause of one in four harvester fires. Buy an infra-red thermometer (around $50) and monitor bearing temperatures, keeping a log of discrepancies.

Some pulse crop plant material can ignite at temperatures as low as 130°C. While this can vary by seasonal conditions, there are plenty of components on a harvester that exceed this.

(Source: GRDC.com.au)

Essential Energy is encouraging residents across regional New South Wales to be prepared for storm season and aware of electrical safety during wild weather events.

Manager Community Relations Northern, David Crough said severe storms could damage homes and the electricity network, causing unplanned power outages for customers. “Traditionally, the storm season occurs from October through to March but it’s never too late to prepare your property for severe weather by removing debris and overgrown vegetation from around the home and clearing gutters,” said David.

“Residents are advised to have a battery powered torch handy, along with candles and waterproof matches, and a list of emergency contact numbers including Essential Energy’s 24-hour 13 20 80 number.”

“It’s also useful to have a portable radio with spare batteries to keep you informed of the situation, non-perishable food, a can opener, some spare clothing and fresh drinking water.”

During a storm, residents are advised to stay indoors, unplug sensitive electronic equipment like televisions and computers, and check social media via mobile phones for updates.

“Take care when walking or driving after a storm as fallen powerlines can be hidden by vegetation or other debris,” said David.

“Stay at least eight metres away from fallen powerlines or any objects in contact with them, always assume they are live and report any network faults to Essential Energy immediately on 13 20 80.”

The grain harvest is getting underway across the region and this means that there will be a lot of extra trucks and agricultural machinery travelling on our local roads.

Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils are reminding drivers to share the road safely this harvest.

“Many road users are unaware of the size of some of these agricultural vehicles and hey can find it confusing or daunting when aced with these vehicles on the road.

“Farmers will be driving tractors, combine harvesters, augers etc. These are slower moving, occupy more of the road and take longer to stop. This usually on roads where car drivers and other vehicles are accustomed to driving at high speeds.

“When approaching an oversize vehicle you should be patient, reduce your speed and wait for a safe opportunity to pass. Start slowing down sooner than you normally would. Give the vehicle a lot of room. Don’t drive right behind the agricultural equipment because the farmer can’t see you,” said Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor.

Please take care this harvest and share the road safely.

For further information please contact Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils’ Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor on (02) 6861 2364.