Rain brings hope

Farmers across all agricultural sectors are feeling good about the approaching season, after recent rains lif confidence

Green grass and plenty of rain has got farmers around the district heralding the 2010-11 season  as one of the best starts they have seen for many years.
Years of drought have taken their toll on the agricultural sector with many farmers across all commodities just hanging on. This year may the year that things finally begin to turn.
Victorian Farmers Federation vice president Peter Tuohey said rain had given the season ahead a look of promise.
"There is a bit of confidence out there now," Mr Tuohey said.
"Commodity prices are reasonable, grain prices look promising, fat lamb prices are good and dairy is improving. People are cautious with their business decisions, it is still only August and the money isnt there until the cheque is in the bank, but things are definitely improving."
Mr Tuohey grows crops around the Pyramid Hill area and he said many crop framers will be making decisions about their future after harvest.
"The crops are looking good but until there is wheat in the silos, well have to wait."
Daryl Jensen from Jenharwill hay and silage contracting said this season should be very positive for both silage and hay growth.
He grows cereal hay for both the domestic and export markets and vetch and peas for the domestic market.
"If we get the right conditions in spring, it will be quite a good season for a lot of farmers," Mr Jensen said.
"After the years we have had, we are not overly concerned about the amount of rain we have had. Everything is benefitting  including runoff  for our dams."
Cohuna dairy farmer Max Fehring said he and his business are feeling optimistic about the season ahead.
"We are having an excellent season and we want to make the most of it," Mr Fehring said.
"We have recently purchased more land and we are looking forward to the future. We are in the process of a family transition and that is going well. At Christmas time we will pipe and riser the farm and milk prices are looking pretty good too. "
"This season we have the chance to be optimistic, things have been pessimistic for way to long."
Lets hope Mr Fehring is right and this season is the one that gives farmers the chance to be optimistic.