Michael Condon
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documentaries, environment, general features, long-form features, features, crime, asia pacific, southeast asia, asia, refugees, natural disasters, film, australia, south asia
Articles by Michael Condon
Poultry industry concerned but prepared as H5 bird flu detected for the first time
The poultry industry is bracing for the spread of a deadly strain of avian influenza, but is confident the planning has been done to prevent any widespread egg shortages. Two cases of the H5N1 variant of avian influenza have now been confirmed in migratory seabirds that washed up on a remote beach in Western Australia. They are the first suspected Australian cases of a deadly strain of a virus that has killed millions of birds and mammals worldwide.
The evolution of healthcare cost management demands a new approach
Self-insured employers are facing a stark reality: healthcare spending continues to rise, yet transparency into what drives those costs remains limited. One of the most persistent challenges is price variation—where identical services can carry dramatically different costs depending on where and how care is delivered.
ABARES report predicts broadacre farm profits will drop by 70 per cent
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ABARES report predicts broadacre farm profits will drop by 70 per cent
The lingering drought and soaring input costs mean there are tough times ahead for the nation's farmers, according to the latest report from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES). Its June quarterly report shows that winter crop production across the nation is forecast to fall by 21 per cent, as the value of agricultural exports shrinks by $7 billion. ABARES executive director David Galeano said farmers would feel the impact.
'Morale' boost for Brokenwood Wines after 2026 NSW President's Medal win
As shrivelling demand for wine forces winemakers to make the difficult decision not to harvest their crops, one winery is not letting a single grape go to waste. Brokenwood winery in the New South Wales Hunter Valley has been turning grape waste into "vineyard gold" by turning the stems, skins and seeds into compost that is then used to fertilise its vines.
Restrictions after drop in Menindee Lakes water level are ineffective, expert warns
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Restrictions after drop in Menindee Lakes water level are ineffective, expert warns
A water policy expert says some farmers are bypassing restrictions designed to keep water flowing through New South Wales as the state starts to dry out. The NSW government last week introduced a temporary water embargo aimed at preserving water in the Darling River system and preventing ecological events such as fish kills and turtle deaths.
Program: NSW Country Hour
Casella wines post the first loss in more than a decade as sales of Yellowtail are hit by US tariffs. Farmers are worried about proposed changes to access of the Burrendong Dam water. Mutton prices have doubled in a year, but can they go much higher?
Invasive feral hog deer discovered in New South Wales but authorities confident of eradication
A small but destructive species of deer has been detected in New South Wales for the first time in more than a decade. Hog deer were recently detected by landholders across the Southern Tablelands and the Central West, using images filed by landholders using the feral scan app. It is the smallest species of feral deer in Australia, with males growing up to just 70 centimetres in height and females up to 60 centimetres.
Risk of vegetable price rise in response to spiralling fuel and fertilizer costs
Michael Condon, David Claughton and Lara Webster The war in the Middle East is already taking a toll on Australian vegetable growers and wholesalers, with consumers next in line to feel the pinch. A snap survey over the last 48 hours by industry group AUSVEG has revealed many growers are cutting back or have stopped planting vegetables. Three quarters of those surveyed reported being critically low on fuel, with diesel prices up 75 per cent and surcharges on freight increasing by 38 per cent.
Orange sees red over Ag Minister Tara Moriarty's claim that DPI has no HQ
The NSW Agriculture Minister says there is no head office of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), despite the opening of the "DPI headquarters" in Orange six years ago. Tara Moriarty was questioned in a NSW budget estimates hearing about where the department was headquartered. "There's not a head office, there are 200 locations of varying types around regional NSW and Sydney," she said.
The Middle East conflict is having an impact on Australian agriculture and exports - ABC listen
The war in the Middle East is pushing up the cost of shipping globally, restricting access to key commodities from the region like oil, gas and fertilizer. Australian meat exporters are dealing with stranded shipments and cancelled flights, while farmers are wondering about the cost of diesel and if there will be enough fertilizer to plant the next crop.
Researchers warn climate-linked disease leptospirosis spreading south
Sylvia Morris was in her second year of veterinary science studies in Townsville when she became seriously unwell with what appeared to be a cold. The illness quickly progressed to pneumonia, and she was later diagnosed with leptospirosis. The bacterial disease, which spreads through the urine and faeces of infected animals and contaminated soil, can lead to serious illness and even death.
Some NSW farmers say 10 guns are not enough ahead of planned restrictions
Calls for broader exemptions to new gun laws for farmers and sporting shooters in New South Wales are growing. Once the new regulations are finalised, licensed individuals will be limited to a maximum of four firearms, with exemptions for primary producers, who can own up to 10. Ben Emms is a stock and station agent in Central West NSW and his family has hosted a gun club for nearly 100 years. Ben Emms, pictured with his wife Mandy, is a stock and station agent.
NSW Country Hour
The NSW Country Hour celebrated the program's 80th anniversary with a broadcast from the Tamworth Agricultural Institute. Michael Condon, Amelia Bernasconi and Lara Webster spoke to former rural reporters Kristy Reading and Jenny Bailey about the program's history and their own experience as reporters.
Country Hour celebrates 80 years of continuous broadcasting today - ABC listen
Australia's longest-running radio program, The Country Hour, celebrated 80 years of continuous broadcasting on Wednesday 3rd of December, 2025. Michael Condon has been delving into the archive to look at the major events and stories the program has covered over the decades.
Chicken meat industry review finds market failures threaten supply, consumer prices
The Australian Chicken Meat Industry Review interim findings have identified market failures caused by a bargaining power imbalance between growers and processors. The review has found that without change, growers will continue to leave the industry, reducing supply and pushing up prices for consumers. Submissions on the findings are open until October 24.
Khapra beetle found in Woolworths nappy pants poses $15b threat to grains industry
The Australian government has estimated the cost of khapra beetle to Australia's grains industry at more than $15 billion if it became endemic across the country. The invasive grain pest was discovered in imported nappy pants on September 7. Australia is currently free of khapra beetle, which the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has listed as the number one priority pest for grains, and if the beetle became established would severely impact Australia's grain exports.
Authorities urge parents to check Little Ones Nappy Pants for khapra beetle larvae
Hundreds of cartons of nappy pants remain unaccounted for after an invasive grain pest was discovered in the imported products on September 7. Investigations are continuing into how khapra beetle larvae came to be in a box of Little One's Ultra Dry Nappy Pants in walker size five. Khapra beetle is among the biggest threats to Australia's multi-billion-dollar grains industry and could have major trade implications if it were to establish here.
NSW Country Hour
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ACF uncovers massive illegal land clearing
The Australian Conservation Foundation says nearly 700 citizen scientists have helped uncover swathes of native species habitat cleared across Australia, mostly for farming. The bulldozing of 90,000 hectares of bush across 176 properties amounts to around 320 Sydney CBDs. Featured: Ruth Hughes, ACF volunteer Nathaniel Pelle, Business and Nature Lead, Australian Conservation Foundation.
Farmers face 'new world' of extreme weather as scientists urge action on climate change
Farmers say the recent floods in NSW were unprecedented, terrifying and exhausting. Internationaland Australian science agencies link the flooding to climate change. Experts say approvals for fossil fuel projects need to stop, and a national disaster plan is needed. Scientists and politicians are warning big policy shifts are needed to mitigate extreme weather impacts, following what farmers describe as unprecedented flooding in the New South Wales Hunter and Mid North Coast regions last month.
Tathra Oysters wins Sydney Royal Easter Show President's Medal
The first winner of what is regarded as one of the most prestigious food awards in the country has claimed it for a second time, almost two decades later. Tathra Oysters has been awarded the 18th annual Royal Agricultural Society of NSW President's Medal at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. It's not only a shot in the arm for the business, but also for the oyster industry on the NSW South Coast which has suffered through bushfires, flood, emergencies and even an ex-tropical cyclone.
Farmers say inquiry into live sheep export ban impact on NSW a disappointment
A NSW parliamentary inquiry heard fears that sheep prices for Australia's eastern state producers could drop heavily as live export was being phased out. The report handed down this week made only one recommendation — monitoring industry trends. NSW Farmers says it will continue to push for more action to address the impacts. Farming groups have slammed the findings of a NSW government inquiry into the impact of the live sheep export ban on the state after it delivered just one recommendation.
Goats cheese makes history at Royal Agricultural Society dairy awards
A semi-hard goats cheese made in South Australia has been named Champion Cheese. It's the first time a goats cheese has won the Royal Agricultural Society's top award. One judge said hard cheeses of this kind are "unusual and rare". For the first time in 150 years of judging, the Annual Trophy for the Champion Cheese of Show at the Royal Agricultural Society's dairy awards has been awarded to a goats cheese.
Despite a $13b government investment, study finds health of Australia's largest river system has declined
A report has found that the $13 billion investment into the Murray Darling basin is "failing". The report released by the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists found that across 27 indicators used to measure the effectiveness of the basin plan, 74 per cent showed no improvement or a decline in conditions. The report has provided recommendations for the Murray Darling Basin Plan, which is expected to be reviewed in 2026.
Could a lack of education options for their kids be turning highly qualified women away from the bush?
The "glass ceiling" is not restricted to cities and corporate offices. Female farmers say it also reaches the remote properties they live and work on. A Department of Education rule requiring academic supervision for primary school-aged children makes career progression difficult for women on the land. Many say the cost and availability of other options leaves them little alternative but to educate their kids themselves.
Farmers paid to protect environment, improving biodiversity
When a major supermarket announces plans to sell "deforestation-free beef", you know concerns about land clearing are starting to hit home. The latest NSW Biodiversity Outlook Report, published earlier this year, shows 50 million trees and 100,000 hectares are lost across the state each year. The NSW government is reviewing the state's Biodiversity Conservation Act and the biodiversity offsets scheme, but some farmers are already making money while protecting the environment.
Merino sheep stations Boonoke, Wanganella snapped up by US investors in $780 million deal
A US-based company will snap up a property portfolio spanning 225,000 hectares of iconic New South Wales farming land if a landmark $780m deal is given the green light. Australian Food and Agriculture (AFA) will offload its sheep, cattle, and cropping properties in the New South Wales districts of Deniliquin, Hay, and Coonamble, including iconic Australian Merino sheep stations Boonoke and Wanganella. The sale will also include over 55,000 megalitres of water entitlements.
Ark Energy shelves Armidale wind farm project after landholders change their minds
A wind farm that was proposed for north-west New South Wales is one of many that may never be operational, according to an energy expert. Ark Energy, which was behind a bid to build a 55-turbine Doughboy Wind Farm 50 kilometres east of Armidale, said in a statement last month the decision to withdraw the project was made "following a change of mind" from some of the nine landowners whose properties took in the project's boundaries.
Fortescue green hydrogen partnership with AGL at former Liddell coal power station mothballed Original
Fortescue Future Industries says a green hydrogen project at the closed Liddell Power Station site in NSW is no longer a priority. Fortescue chair Andrew Forrest launched a feasibility partnership with AGL, which owns the site, in 2021. AGL says it is still interested in developing green hydrogen at Liddell, alongside other renewable industries. Multinational metals giant Fortescue has confirmed it has put green hydrogen plans for the NSW Upper Hunter on the backburner.
NSW Country Hour
Oil and gas giant Woodside buy up 40 million dollars worth of farm land on the Monaro. New government Nature Strategy not welcomed by NSW farmers. Importers charged 47 million more to protect biodiversity but detractors say its not enough.
More poultry shows cancelled amid rising avian influenza concerns for backyard rare bird breeders
Heds/ sells URL More bird shows have been cancelled across New South Wales as poultry fanciers and backyard breeders come to terms with the spread of the deadly avian influenza. The growing list of cancelled events follows bird flu detections in Victoria, NSW and the ACT. Ian Birchall, secretary of the Mudgee Poultry and Pigeon Club, has cancelled two events, the junior championship and a rare breeds show, this month.
Can agriculture really act as a carbon sink to neutralise the emissions of heavy polluters?
The chair of the Australian Climate and Biodiversity Foundation says agriculture needs to be the carbon sink for Australia's heavy polluters. But a leading soil researcher says trials show very little carbon can be stored in the Australian landscape. Farmers want more information before they commit to carbon storage projects. A leading soil scientist has poured cold water on the idea that agriculture could act as a carbon sink for the rest of the Australian economy.
Human hair and unwanted wool could be turned into a vital component for lithium batteries, researchers say
In short: About 70 per cent of the world's graphite, a key component in lithium batteries, comes from China. Australia has a large supply of lithium, but currently has to import graphite. What's next? The wool industry is interested in exploring opportunities for low value wool that be used in the energy transition.
Farmers trial new tech to keep equipment running as 3G network shutdown looms
In short: The 3G network will soon shut down and farmers are looking for ways to stay online. Everything from 4G upgrades, low Earth orbit satellites and range extenders are being used. What's next? Thegovernment is offering grants to help farmers adapt. As the shutdown of the 3G network approaches, millions of Australians are switching over their phones to make sure they are compatible with 4G, but farmers are facing a much bigger problem.
Calling Out Affordable Housing Components of New York Budget Bill | JD Supra
A number of affordable housing components of the New York State Budget Bill are worth calling out for developers, as the moves, along with the hundreds of millions of dollars coming from the state, should spur development. In a press release announcing the affordable housing components of the budget bill, Gov. Kathy Hochul said she and legislators had agreed on initiatives that are the most progressive in more than 50 years.
Four states in firing line as more invasive fire ants nests found on army base
An outbreak of invasive fire ants in one of the largest catchments of the Murray-Darling Basin has experts worried four states could be affected if the pest spreads. Powered by the Echo RSS Plugin by CodeRevolution.
Fears fire ant nests found on Oakey army base will spread to Murray-Darling Basin
In short: 110 invasive fire ants nests have been found at Swartz Barracks, an army air base west of Toowoomba at the top of the Murray Darling Basin river catchment. Experts say it is a significant outbreak that threatens four states if the ants make it into the river system. What's next? The National Fire Ant Eradication Program is DNA testing the ants to find their source and working to contain the outbreak.
President Biden’s Proposals to Spur Affordable Housing Development | JD Supra
More Americans than ever are priced out of the housing market and President Biden has outlined steps his administration is taking to increase development of affordable housing. In the 2024 Economic Report of the President, President Biden said housing shortages and unaffordability have risen dramatically over the past 60 years, primarily affecting low- and middle-income families.
Winery using more electricity than a small town turns to solar power as industry pushes to decarbonise
One of Australia’s largest wineries, Casella Family Brands, has installed almost 9,000 solar panels — enough to power more than 1,900 homes. Powered by the Echo RSS Plugin by CodeRevolution.
Solar farm at Yenda switched on to power Casella Family Brands, makers of Yellowtail, Peter Lehmann wines
In short: A NSW winery has switched on an 11-gigawatt solar farm, which it hopes will help the business become carbon neutral by 2050. The company claims it is one of the biggest solar farms in Australia directly supplying a beverage producer. What’s next? The Australian wine sector aims to cut carbon emissions by 42 per cent by 2030 by using renewable energy, lightweight glass and reducing road transport emissions.
East coast low dumping rain across NSW 'lifts the spirits' of farmers ahead of winter
In short: Rain has been welcomed by farmers across northern New South Wales ahead of winter. Up to 100 millimetres has fallen in some areas, with more widespread falls of between 20mm and 50mm. What's next? Livestock producers will need a month of warm weather to promote pasture growth, while those harvesting summer crops will stop until the ground dries out. Farmers across New South Wales have described widespread rain falling across much of the state as a crucial and timely break.
Canadian rodeo clown loves his job Down Under, but beneath the white paint and laughs he has a very dangerous job
Behind the mak-eup and the big shoes, being a rodeo clown is a deadly serious business. Canadian Dennis Halstead is heading home after performing alongside the rodeo riders at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. He said the job can be a lot of fun. "I like to get the crowd to do singalongs to Sweet Caroline or Take Me Home, Country Road and maybe a Mexican wave and I even tell a few jokes." But when the rodeo events are on, things get serious, fast.
Canadian Rodeo clown Dennis Halstead reckons he has broken every bone in his ...
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Canadian rodeo clown loves his job Down Under, but beneath the white paint and laughs he has a very dangerous job Original
Behind the makeup and the big shoes, being a rodeo clown is a deadly serious business. Canadian Dennis Halstead is heading home after performing alongside the rodeo riders at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. He said the job can be a lot of fun. "I like to get the crowd to do singalongs to "Sweet Caroline or "Take Me Home, Country Road" and maybe a Mexican wave and I even tell a few jokes." But when the rodeo events are on, things get serious, fast.
Hemp is a superfood and is even replacing plastics. So why isn't Australia embracing it?
Most of us are familiar with hemp clothing, and maybe you have tried eating hemp seeds on your yoghurt. It can even replace plastic. But six years after it was first approved as food, the industry in Australia is going backwards. Hemp advocates say it is a hardy crop that grows quickly in most areas with less water and a low-carbon footprint. Canada is the world's leading producer, exporting hemp seeds, oil and protein powder. And China is not far behind.
Rice blast fungal disease found near Lismore as Northern Rivers growers destroy crops
In short: Rice blast was detected in a crop near Lismore earlier this month and the DPI issued an alert to farmers on February 10. Crops are being destroyed to stop it spreading south to major rice growing areas. What's next: Growers in the Northern Rivers will now look at using different varieties of rice that are resistant to the disease. A fungal disease that can decimate rice crops and is regarded as a serious threat to the industry has been identified in northern New South Wales.
Grains industry expresses risk to barley trade as China takes lion's share of Australian exports
In short: Australian exports of barley to China have boomed since tariffs were lifted in August 2023. Prices for Australian barley fell when tariffs were in place, but China is now paying a premium. What's next? Analysts warn producers should be exploring other markets in case Australia finds itself in the same position again. China has become the number one market for Australian barley again, but the booming trade is ringing alarm bells for some.
‘Risky’ business as Australian barley exports to China surge after three-year ban
Barley exports to China are booming after tariffs were lifted in August, but are Australian farmers just repeating the same mistake? Powered by the Echo RSS Plugin by CodeRevolution.
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