New pig welfare standards have been introduced into Victoria and apply to all people involved in pig farming including stock handlers, supervisors, managers and piggery owners.

One of the most significant developments in pasture and grazing management over the last 50 years has been the introduction of electric fencing. This was pioneered by an innovative Kiwi by the name of Bill Gallagher in the 1930's. Faced with a horse 'Joe' who took too much of a liking to using Bill's car as a scratching post, Bill devised a cunning electrical circuit that delivered a shock whenever Joe rocked the vehicle.

Australian Year of the Farmer celebrates the hard work of everyone involved in producing, processing, handling and selling products from 136,000 farms across the country.

Queensland livestock owners are reminded to renew their brand, earmark and tattoo registration details with Biosecurity Queensland by January 31.

Biosecurity Queensland Deputy Registrar of Brands Pat Kalinowski said up-to-date brand and earmark registration enabled the ownership of livestock to be established and ensures brands were being used correctly.

“Any changes to address, name or other details should be made with the annual return,” Mr Kalinowski said.