The year is rapidly coming to yet another end, and fortunately the general seasonal picture across NSW is better than for many years. The downside continues to be rainfall in the cropping areas that has already caused signifi cant delays with winter crop harvest resulting in inevitable grain quality problems. To all our cropping members, we hope for some fi ne weather, at least until the headers have finished the job.
Livestock producers have enjoyed what some people describe as the best spring for at least 10 years. This was very welcome after a generally dry autumn that threatened to continue the protracted dry weather of recent years. The Society continues to prosper, with a membership over 400 and prospects for interesting new projects planned for 2011. We are currently planning to put together a series of localised meetings across the state, designed to provide updates on new pasture varieties from all seed companies. When firm plans are available, including dates and venues, details will be posted on the internet site.
In addition the newsletter will give members information on this and other activities. As many of you will now be aware, next year’s conference will take place at Bathurst. This will be the fi rst time at Bathurst and the emphasis of the conference will focus on improved pasture development and management for sheep and cattle producers. A number of interesting and novel farm tours are in the planning stage for what is likely to be a very stimulating conference. The convenor for the conference is David Harbison, ably assisted by an enthusiastic committee.
As this is the last newsletter for 2010, I would like to wish our members, all the best for a safe and restful Christmas period with hopes high for continuing good seasonal conditions.
Mick Duncan (President, Grassland Society of NSW)
