Many staff members and landholders as well as several board members attended the launch at last week’s Mudgee Field Days.

Details available on 6333 2300.

LOCAL Land Services, the Department of Primary Industries, NSW Farmers and the Bathurst Merino Association are openly discussing strategies to attract a school leaving generation to be trained and involved in agriculture in its many and varied forms. 

Borrowing a lot of funds to purchase a property, livestock and farming plant is probably way out of reach for most young people, so long-term leasing could be attractive. 

People with trade or tertiary qualifications could have the world as their oyster if they are interested in full-time or contract arrangements with absentee farm owners.

A wise man suggests to me that the time spent attracting a young generation to agriculture would be better spent in convincing the older farmers to exit their industry.

FURTHER to the exit issue: If a farm couple of retiring age moves to a coastal town for a warmer climate and a peaceful life, will it be a dream retirement? 

The wife may have a dope for a mate if Dad doesn’t read, follow football or cricket, horse or dog races, doesn’t play bowls or golf, doesn’t like service clubs, or having a walk round the shops. 

Please think carefully before deciding to leave our friends, churches and town that we know and love. 

At least we know where all the light switches are at home, and someone might listen if we talk about cattle or sheep.