Victorian Farmers Optimistic Despite Flooding Challenges

Recent rainfall in regional Victoria has sparked a mix of gratitude and concern among farmers as they prepare for what is anticipated to be a hot, dry summer. While many are hopeful that the moisture will bolster their crops, others face the daunting challenge of accessing waterlogged fields after significant flooding.

Farmers like Russell Hocking, who operates properties in Prairie and Werrimull, are seeing the dual effects of the heavy rains. With approximately 150 millimeters of rain recorded last week alone, Hocking estimates that his crop yield could drop by as much as 25 percent due to flooding. Despite losing 15 percent of his barley and lentil crops, he remains optimistic about the season ahead, citing a favorable moisture profile heading into spring.

“The whole Mallee looks excellent, but our farm at Prairie is extremely wet,” Hocking explained. Both of his properties have already surpassed their average annual rainfall, with Prairie receiving 410 mm and Werrimull 348 mm this year. The rainy conditions have raised concerns about plant diseases, prompting some farmers to consider costly aerial spraying as a necessary measure to protect their crops.

Agronomist Simon Craig noted that the excessive moisture has heightened disease pressures, leading to a surge in demand for fungicides, which are now facing supply shortages. “Growers are going to have to be a little bit more open to looking at different chemical products,” Craig advised, emphasizing the importance of early application to manage disease effectively.

As farmers explore innovative solutions like drone and helicopter spraying, costs are significantly higher than traditional methods. Craig highlighted that aerial spraying can run between $24-$26 per hectare, compared to $8-$10 for tractor applications. In Bullaharre, dairy farmer Craig Dwyer is already on a waiting list for aerial services to treat his fields.

In contrast, cattle farmer Damien Gerrans in north-east Victoria expressed relief at receiving nearly 100 mm of rain over the weekend, filling dams and swelling creeks. Although the rain has flooded some low-lying areas, he acknowledged its importance after two years of drought. “It’s the biggest rain event we’ve had in a while, but the season has been great so far,” Gerrans stated, reflecting the cautious optimism shared among many in the agricultural community.

Source: www.abc.net.au