Contributor, ARR.News

The NSW Government is today announcing the appointment of an expert panel to lead consultation on a Forestry Industry Action Plan, which will outline the path NSW will take to ensure a sustainable timber industry that aligns with the government’s key environmental priorities. The Independent Forestry Panel will be chaired by Peter Duncan AM who has more than 40 years’ experience in primary industries, infrastructure and regional NSW.

An insect species that evolved 130 million years ago is the inspiration for a  new research study  to improve navigation systems in drones, robots, and orbiting satellites. The dung beetle is the first known species to use the Milky Way at night to navigate, focusing on the constellation of stars as a reference point to roll balls of dung in a straight line away from their competitors.

A new Aviation White Paper will create the framework to give passengers a better deal while ensuring the industry maintains Australia’s strong safety record. The White Paper includes 56 policies setting the direction for the industry. The centrepiece is an independent Aviation Industry Ombuds Scheme and a new Charter of Customer Rights.

Education and community awareness, removal of problem animals and exclusion areas are significantly more effective in reducing saltwater crocodile attacks in the Northern Territory than a widespread culling program to reduce crocodile numbers, according to a new study. The study outlined why culling the reptiles to reduce density was not a cost-effective, or efficient solution, in reducing crocodile attacks.  

An expected increase in global cotton supply in the 2024/25 season is weighing on prices for Australian producers, as export markets look to absorb large volumes from the US and Brazil, Rabobank says in a recently-released report. The agribusiness banking specialist says expectations are that world cotton stocks will rise in the coming season – largely driven by a recovery in production in the US and a potential record crop in Brazil.

Murrindindi Shire Council acknowledges the proposal by Fera Australia to construct a large wind farm called the Seymour Wind Farm in the area between Avenel, Longwood, Ponkeen Creek and Ruffy in Victoria. The proposed project is said to feature 80 to 100 wind turbines that are up to 245 metres tall and require approximately 30km of new 330kV transmission lines, proposed to be overhead, mainly across private and crown land within Murrindindi Shire.

The iconic Aussie event, Trundle Bush Tucker Day, returns on Saturday 7 September 2024 and it’s set to be the best yet. Now in its 37th year, this community event just keeps on getting better with more and more entertainment and activities for the whole family. This year’s headline act, The Wolfe Brothers, will being fans from far and wide to experience this unique family friendly event.

State Member for Hill, Shane Knuth ... introduced the KAP’s Crocodile Control, Conservation, and Safety Bill 2024 into Parliament, taking a no-nonsense stand against the escalating crocodile threat in North Queensland. The Bill is a response to constant calls from North Queensland communities and places a premium on human life by implementing aggressive measures to mitigate the risks to human life posed by the increasing crocodile population.

The Laidley Saleyards will cease operations next year due to the high cost of maintaining a safe and compliant facility. Lockyer Valley Regional Council voted to close the facility at the August Ordinary Meeting of Council ... Deputy Mayor Chris Wilson said a range of issues impacted the decision.

More than 100 memorial plaques stolen from a cemetery at Kirkwood Road, Tweed Heads have been located and reported to police. A groundsman at the Tweed Heads Lawn and General Cemetery located the 102 plaques piled up and hidden behind barriers on the outer perimeter of the grounds late yesterday.