We’ve compiled a host of tips for boosting your ability to weather drought while supporting productivity, and managing risks as we navigate changing weather patterns. We’ve also added tips for bushfire and flood preparedness to help people think about getting ready, no matter what the season ahead brings.

 

You can also find some amazing Sustainable Agriculture resources (factsheets and more) here!

 

Why disaster readiness is the talk of the town (and country)

We’ve all experienced how natural disasters can disrupt primary production. The changing seasons bring unpredictable challenges for primary producers.

In recent years there has been a lot of interest in preparedness techniques. Many landholders say it is crucial to help them better protect their businesses, assets, and employees. There is research and a host of anecdotal evidence which supports that early steps toward preparedness can significantly reduce damage and financial loss and help build long-term business resilience. Many landholders are starting to ask how to start crafting a Farm Business Resilience Plan.

In this article, we will start with getting ready for bushfires, then look at drought and floods, and finish off with cyclones. Even though cyclones that cross land in South East Queensland are extremely rare, we are covering this for our readers up north, and reminding people that the impact of cyclones can be felt a long way away – particularly with increased risk of storm surges and heavy rain.

Navigating bushfires

We're no strangers to bushfire risks in Queensland. With the increasingly likely El Niño event ahead, it’s time to refresh our memories on prepping for the upcoming bushfire season. As a primary producer, crafting a survival plan, ensuring well-maintained fire equipment, and training your team can make a world of difference.

Financials and data

Before the summer heat takes hold, primary producers can get proactive in safeguarding their assets. Part of this includes evaluating insurance coverage, documenting equipment, and formulating plans for orders, refunds, and cancellations. It is also important to maintain financial reserves for unforeseen emergencies. Another factor is preparing for extended power outages with generators and alternative relocation options for perishable stock. Critical data can be safeguarded by backing it up externally or on cloud storage.

Fire alerts

Stay well-informed by accessing bushfire alerts and information from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services. Develop a comprehensive bushfire survival plan that includes evacuation strategies and smoke management.

Fire, stock, and crops

Prioritise livestock and crops by maintaining detailed inventories and planning for relocation. Protect valuable livestock with branding or microchipping and equip animals for evacuation. Heavily prune or harvest crops where possible and make sure to create and maintain significant fire breaks around crops.

Overall fire preparedness

Prioritise preventive steps: clear gutters, re-establish or support firebreaks, keep large volumes of flammables away from structures, and ensure hoses reach all areas. Stay informed by tapping into resources from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, Federal Government resources, and local council websites.

Building business resilience to droughts

Now onto drought readiness. This winter's warmer and drier conditions, attributed to the shift toward El Niño, signal an unseasonably hotter and drier summer ahead and an expectation of lower rainfall in the coming months.

A great way to start to manage risks is by crafting a Farm Business Resilience Plan. Our Healthy Land & Water Sustainable Agricultural team can help landholders develop a plan through Farm Business Resilience Planning workshops.

This plan is also essential when applying for drought assistance grants and loans administered by the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA). Seek templates and checklists from trusted sources like the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), Queensland Farmers' Federation (QFF), and Growcom. Leverage support from Canegrowers' Farm Business Resilience Program.

Getting ready for floods

While it might not be very likely this summer, preparation is still vital. Floods can strike swiftly, underscoring the importance of having a ready and up-to-date plan. Even if the odds seem low, being proactive can help ensure the safety of your livestock and business.

For effective livestock management during floods, prioritise actions like prior stocktaking, relocating, and proper identification through branding or microchipping. Ensuring maps are ready, preparing horses without rugs for easy evacuation, and stocking post-disaster supplies for the care of your animals are also important. Factor in power outages, flexible staffing, and business continuity in your preparation. Staying one step ahead and staying informed about potential flooding risks, can help secure the wellbeing of your property and livelihood.

Cyclone-ready business strategies

Cyclones can also bring a whirlwind of challenges. However, readiness can mitigate losses, support business flow, and accelerate recovery. Preparedness for flooding, high winds, storm surges, and debris is a must.

Prioritise securing debris around structures, trim large branches that could be prone to collapse, and ensure your emergency supplies are gathered in an elevated part of your main structure.

Being a primary producer requires vigilance. With the unpredictability of natural disasters, proactive steps now can help ensure the future of your livelihood.