Featured Members Group Sites. Click on image to visit.
Agmates Group sites are topic of interest / business specific with their own members. Heaps of free and helpful information, specials. Join the discussions and meet new people just like you. Its free to join.
Rebirth Of The National Party Is Proud Day For Agmates
The transformation of the National Party into a powerful stand alone political party was completed over the weekend at it’s peak federal council meeting in Canberra.
Until now to their great disadvantage seven million regional Australians have been at the mercy of the Urban centric Labor and Liberal political party’s. Now at last we have representation. Now at last we have a voice and are no longer the forgotten Australians.
Click on the Nationals New logo to Read More ….
*****
Help Us make History
Not Evil Just Wrong
Be Part of a World Record for the largest ever simultaneous film premiere
Billed as “The Movie Al Gore Doesn’t Want You to See”, it would also be the movie Rudd/Wong/Garrett/Garnaut would not want you to see, especially before any attempt at passing the ETS through the Senate in November.
Click Hereto read more about this globally important event ……..
****
Why do we need the Agmates Community Network?
The Agmates Community Network was launched on the 24th of June 2009 by its founder Steve Truman. Agmates has a staff of one – Steve but is backed up by our team of dedicated member volunteers.
The real work and impact of Agmates is achieved through our members, who identify the issues through their posts and engagement with each other.
That engagement leads to calls for action. The members then coordinate the emails, the phone calls, the event and supply the financial support.
Click on the Donate to Agmates button to read more …..
*****
AAco Management Turmoil Continues
Australia’s largest land and cattle corporation AAco’s revolving door management has been a circus for the past three years and the strife continues. Its hard to think of a publicly listed company who’s corporate governance has been so dogged by executive power struggles.
Click on photo of David Connolly to read more …..
*****
What the Emissions Trading Scheme will cost you
The Emissions Trading Scheme will be voted on in the senate this Thursday, 13th Aug. The costs of an ETS to ordinary Australians includes:
* Fuel prices will rise at least 10% but then increase much higher from there. * Food and transport costs will rise 10 – 25% then rise further from there: * Power costs will quickly rise by 100% (as has happened in Spain which is converting to more renewable power sources)
The Newspoll survey released in today’s Australian newspaper reveals that a massive 70% of Coalition voters expect the Liberal / National party to reject Kevin Rudds Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme when it comes before the Senate in two weeks time.
Article by Agmates editor Steve Truman. Click on Photo to read more …..
*****
Get to know your ETS, Take it out to Dinner.
Senator Barnaby Joyce writes: It has become apparent that there is a general lack of understanding in the community about exactly what an ETS is. People may understand the sentiment that surrounds it but they don’t really understand how it works and how it will affect them.
The ETS, which will be the Employment Termination Scheme or the Extra Tax System, take your pick, has not been properly explained to the Australian people away from the politics that surround it. There is a need to explain exactly what it is and how much it will cost the Australian consumer.
Featured Members Group Sites. Click on image to visit.
Agmates Group sites are topic of interest / business specific with their own members. Heaps of free and helpful information, specials. Join the discussions and meet new people just like you. Its free to join.
Be Part of a World Record for the largest ever simultaneous film premiere
Billed as “The Movie Al Gore Doesn’t Want You to See”, it would also be the movie Rudd/Wong/Garrett/Garnaut would not want you to see, especially before any attempt at passing the ETS through the Senate in November.
Click Hereto read more about this globally important event ……..
****
Why do we need the Agmates Community Network?
The Agmates Community Network was launched on the 24th of June 2009 by its founder Steve Truman. Agmates has a staff of one – Steve but is backed up by our team of dedicated member volunteers.
The real work and impact of Agmates is achieved through our members, who identify the issues through their posts and engagement with each other.
That engagement leads to calls for action. The members then coordinate the emails, the phone calls, the event and supply the financial support.
Click on the Donate to Agmates button to read more …..
*****
AAco Management Turmoil Continues
Australia’s largest land and cattle corporation AAco’s revolving door management has been a circus for the past three years and the strife continues. Its hard to think of a publicly listed company who’s corporate governance has been so dogged by executive power struggles.
Click on photo of David Connolly to read more …..
*****
What the Emissions Trading Scheme will cost you
The Emissions Trading Scheme will be voted on in the senate this Thursday, 13th Aug. The costs of an ETS to ordinary Australians includes:
* Fuel prices will rise at least 10% but then increase much higher from there. * Food and transport costs will rise 10 – 25% then rise further from there: * Power costs will quickly rise by 100% (as has happened in Spain which is converting to more renewable power sources)
The Newspoll survey released in today’s Australian newspaper reveals that a massive 70% of Coalition voters expect the Liberal / National party to reject Kevin Rudds Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme when it comes before the Senate in two weeks time.
Article by Agmates editor Steve Truman. Click on Photo to read more …..
*****
Get to know your ETS, Take it out to Dinner.
Senator Barnaby Joyce writes: It has become apparent that there is a general lack of understanding in the community about exactly what an ETS is. People may understand the sentiment that surrounds it but they don’t really understand how it works and how it will affect them.
The ETS, which will be the Employment Termination Scheme or the Extra Tax System, take your pick, has not been properly explained to the Australian people away from the politics that surround it. There is a need to explain exactly what it is and how much it will cost the Australian consumer.
Featured Members Group Sites. Click on image to visit.
Agmates Group sites are topic of interest / business specific with their own members. Heaps of free and helpful information, specials. Join the discussions and meet new people just like you. Its free to join.
Australia’s largest land and cattle corporation AAco’s revolving door management has been a circus for the past three years and the strife continues. Its hard to think of a publicly listed company who’s corporate governance has been so dogged by executive power struggles.
Click on photo of David Connolly to read more …..
*****
What the Emissions Trading Scheme will cost you
The Emissions Trading Scheme will be voted on in the senate this Thursday, 13th Aug. The costs of an ETS to ordinary Australians includes:
* Fuel prices will rise at least 10% but then increase much higher from there. * Food and transport costs will rise 10 – 25% then rise further from there: * Power costs will quickly rise by 100% (as has happened in Spain which is converting to more renewable power sources)
Australians Demanding Senators Vote No to the Rudd Governments Emissions Trading Legislation
A protest rally by ordinary Australians against the passing of the Emissions Trading Scheme will be held in Canberra this Thursday to coincide with the Senate vote on the legislation. The protest rally will commence from 9.30 am (assembly time) behind Old Parliament House, then marching to the precinct in front of Parliament house to hear speeches, poems & songs from 10 am.
Click on the image of Skeppy to see rally details.
The Newspoll survey released in today’s Australian newspaper reveals that a massive 70% of Coalition voters expect the Liberal / National party to reject Kevin Rudds Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme when it comes before the Senate in two weeks time.
Article by Agmates editor Steve Truman. Click on Photo to read more …..
*****
Open Letter to Commodity Councils & Farming Organizations
An open letter to President’s, Chairperson’s, executives and members of commodity councils and Farming organizations, urging them to rally their members to attend the August 13th Protest March on Canberra.
You are urged to hit the phones, email whatever and firstly explain that this is the most important issue to farmers (them) in our lifetime. No time to lose. We have just 16 days to save our industry. Once the legislation is passed its to late. Senator Barnaby Joyce will be speaking at the Rally.
Click the photo of Agmates Founder Steve Truman to read more …..
*****
Get to know your ETS, Take it out to Dinner.
Senator Barnaby Joyce writes: It has become apparent that there is a general lack of understanding in the community about exactly what an ETS is. People may understand the sentiment that surrounds it but they don’t really understand how it works and how it will affect them.
The ETS, which will be the Employment Termination Scheme or the Extra Tax System, take your pick, has not been properly explained to the Australian people away from the politics that surround it. There is a need to explain exactly what it is and how much it will cost the Australian consumer.
THE WORLD’S leading climate change campaigner Al Gore has been making headlines in Australia, sprouting more of his “inconvenient truths” and convincing willing disciples that the planet is doomed unless we change our wicked polluting ways.
Well, thanks for that, I hate pollution to, who in their right mind wouldn’t? But when he blames an essential atmospheric gas for worsening bushfires (think of Victoria), stronger cyclones and rising sea levels, even increasing refugee numbers – I don’t see the logic , despite the very convenient imagery.
Click on photo of John to read more …..
*****
Buying the adjacent/adjoining property, to add to your own
Scenario: Land adjoining your farm comes up for sale – let’s say it would add an additional third to your current holdings.Price is commensurate with current local valuations. Land is unimproved (and price reflects that).
Your farm needs scale to improve its current overhead cost structure. Do you place any financial value on future land prices/value of land next door/future viability size/advantage of current low interest?
Click on the photo of Ray Jamieson to read more …..
Featured Members Group Sites. Click on image to visit.
Agmates Group sites are topic of interest / business specific with their own members. Heaps of free and helpful information, specials. Join the discussions and meet new people just like you. Its free to join.
The Newspoll survey released in today’s Australian newspaper reveals that a massive 70% of Coalition voters expect the Liberal / National party to reject Kevin Rudds Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme when it comes before the Senate in two weeks time.
Article by Agmates editor Steve Truman. Click on Photo to read more …..
*****
Open Letter to Commodity Councils & Farming Organizations
An open letter to President’s, Chairperson’s, executives and members of commodity councils and Farming organizations, urging them to rally their members to attend the August 13th Protest March on Canberra.
You are urged to hit the phones, email whatever and firstly explain that this is the most important issue to farmers (them) in our lifetime. No time to lose. We have just 16 days to save our industry. Once the legislation is passed its to late. Senator Barnaby Joyce will be speaking at the Rally.
Click the photo of Agmates Founder Steve Truman to read more …..
*****
Get to know your ETS, Take it out to Dinner.
Senator Barnaby Joyce writes: It has become apparent that there is a general lack of understanding in the community about exactly what an ETS is. People may understand the sentiment that surrounds it but they don’t really understand how it works and how it will affect them.
The ETS, which will be the Employment Termination Scheme or the Extra Tax System, take your pick, has not been properly explained to the Australian people away from the politics that surround it. There is a need to explain exactly what it is and how much it will cost the Australian consumer.
THE WORLD’S leading climate change campaigner Al Gore has been making headlines in Australia, sprouting more of his “inconvenient truths” and convincing willing disciples that the planet is doomed unless we change our wicked polluting ways.
Well, thanks for that, I hate pollution to, who in their right mind wouldn’t? But when he blames an essential atmospheric gas for worsening bushfires (think of Victoria), stronger cyclones and rising sea levels, even increasing refugee numbers – I don’t see the logic , despite the very convenient imagery.
Click on photo of John to read more …..
*****
Buying the adjacent/adjoining property, to add to your own
Scenario: Land adjoining your farm comes up for sale – let’s say it would add an additional third to your current holdings.Price is commensurate with current local valuations. Land is unimproved (and price reflects that).
Your farm needs scale to improve its current overhead cost structure. Do you place any financial value on future land prices/value of land next door/future viability size/advantage of current low interest?
Click on the photo of Ray Jamieson to read more …..
Featured Members Group Sites. Click on image to visit.
Agmates Group sites are topic of interest / business specific with their own members. Heaps of free and helpful information, specials. Join the discussions and meet new people just like you. Its free to join.
The Newspoll survey released in today’s Australian newspaper reveals that a massive 70% of Coalition voters expect the Liberal / National party to reject Kevin Rudds Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme when it comes before the Senate in two weeks time.
Article by Agmates editor Steve Truman. Click on Photo to read more …..
*****
Open Letter to Commodity Councils & Farming Organizations
An open letter to President’s, Chairperson’s, executives and members of commodity councils and Farming organizations, urging them to rally their members to attend the August 13th Protest March on Canberra.
You are urged to hit the phones, email whatever and firstly explain that this is the most important issue to farmers (them) in our lifetime. No time to lose. We have just 16 days to save our industry. Once the legislation is passed its to late. Senator Barnaby Joyce will be speaking at the Rally.
Click the photo of Agmates Founder Steve Truman to read more …..
*****
Get to know your ETS, Take it out to Dinner.
Senator Barnaby Joyce writes: It has become apparent that there is a general lack of understanding in the community about exactly what an ETS is. People may understand the sentiment that surrounds it but they don’t really understand how it works and how it will affect them.
The ETS, which will be the Employment Termination Scheme or the Extra Tax System, take your pick, has not been properly explained to the Australian people away from the politics that surround it. There is a need to explain exactly what it is and how much it will cost the Australian consumer.
THE WORLD’S leading climate change campaigner Al Gore has been making headlines in Australia, sprouting more of his “inconvenient truths” and convincing willing disciples that the planet is doomed unless we change our wicked polluting ways.
Well, thanks for that, I hate pollution to, who in their right mind wouldn’t? But when he blames an essential atmospheric gas for worsening bushfires (think of Victoria), stronger cyclones and rising sea levels, even increasing refugee numbers – I don’t see the logic , despite the very convenient imagery.
Click on photo of John to read more …..
*****
Buying the adjacent/adjoining property, to add to your own
Scenario: Land adjoining your farm comes up for sale – let’s say it would add an additional third to your current holdings.Price is commensurate with current local valuations. Land is unimproved (and price reflects that).
Your farm needs scale to improve its current overhead cost structure. Do you place any financial value on future land prices/value of land next door/future viability size/advantage of current low interest?
Click on the photo of Ray Jamieson to read more …..
During the last 50 years a handful of technological innovations have profoundly changed peoples lives in rural and regional communities. I’ll list a few here and you can think about how they impacted on your life. …..
Ray Jamieson says – Rural folks have unique challenges and distance is only one of them. Lack of services, lack of recognition or understanding by the bureaucrats in their ivory towers, lack of basic facilities enjoyed by people in urban or city locations, there is so much.
Click on photo of Ray to read more …..
*****
The Agmates Community Welcomes Property Rights Australia
The Farm group Property Rights Australia is the be congratulated on being the first farm organization in Australia to recognize the Agmates community and utilize its media. I personally congratulate Property Rights Australia and their board on moving on from the ‘last century’ model of farm activism to embrace this new and powerful medium.
Click on the photo of Christopher Leeds to read more …..
*****
Agmates Photos in Agriculture
Over 185 photos contributed by our members from all over Australia.
To See all members photos depicting the life and the land of Agmates members Across rural Australia click on the photo.
.
*****
Selected Community Member Articles
Agforce-QLD Have you lost the plot?
Qld Grazier and Agmates member Rob Moore writes on his blog:
I have been a grudgingly paid up member of AgForce since the beginning…. my renewal is on my desk. Each week I receive my AGFORCE ACTION and live in hope some of the bread and butter issues confronting us will get a look in … but no. So I’m not renewing. I’ll instead spend spend my money with some of the groups that are confronting these issues … Property Rights Aust , Australian Beef Association, LifeSource.
Click on photo of Rob to read more …..
*****
Noel Pearson at Property Rights Aust. conference: a landmark speech
QLD Grazier and Agmates member Dale Stiller writes:
The following is not opinion but rather a summary of a speech given by Noel Pearson as the keynote speaker at the Property Rights Australia conference on the 27th June 2009.
I have written this précis from notes I scribbled down as Noel Pearson spoke so I would hope that the following account is reasonably accurate.
Click on the Photo of Dale to read more …..
*****
Green House Gas Emissions and Livestock … why all the Fuss?
Please find below a letter that was provided to me by a colleague from Paraguay. This letter was sent to the editors of the Tropical Grasslands Society…..
But when I got to the Green House Gas (GHG) chapters I was a bit embarrassed about how much you Australians seem to be concerned on the GHG emissions by ruminant livestock and their potential effects on climate change. I’d like to make some comments on this topic:
Click on Photo Of Ross to read more …..(6 Comments)
*****
EPBC Act Review recommends Gov’t take Control of Land Clearing Off States
Agmates member and NSW farmer Rob Wass writes on his blog:
Land Clearance in the interim report. It is proposed that the Commonwealth take a greater role under the Act in the intervention of all forms of land clearing which to date has by and large been left to the States under the authority of the EPBC Act. I recommend that all land owners acquaint themselves with what is going on within this department.
Click on photo of Rob to read more ….. (14 Comments)
*****
Bloggers versus Journalists – may the honest man win!
Agmates member and NSW farmer Sue Maynes writes on her blog:
This news, he states, comes from trained, highly paid journalists who spend their days searching out truth and facts, committed to presenting unbiased reports to the community, adding the element of interest without discarding veracity. “Responding to the publics’ right to know”, he propounds. “Quality journalism” he oozes. And he goes on to state that the rise of net media are part of the future, but of course, sadly, are open to that most dreaded of people – the “bloggers”.So I ponder to myself – what are bloggers?
Click on the photo of Sue to read more …..
*****
Hi everyone – intro and about my farm in Mulino, Oregon USA
Oregon USA farmer and Agmates member Joanne Rigutto writes on her blog:
Hi everyone, I’d like to introduce myself and my farm. My name is Joanne Rigutto. I have a very small farm in Mulino, Oregon, USA. We’re located in the northern Willamette Valley of Oregon, about 15 miles south and a bit west of Portland, the largest city in Oregon. Here are the specs on my farm and the business I’m building around it.
Click on the photo of Joannes Emu to read more ….. (10 Comments)
*****
Algae is heating and Killing The Ocean and Not Farmers
Agmates member and marine researcher John Fairfax writes on his blog:
Farmers are being blamed for nutrient pollution runoff without sewage nutrient pollution being even identified or measured to determine sources of the TOTAL nutrient load causing damage. Wrong diagnosis is occurring and therefore solutions are not being implemented. There is need for complete science.
Click on Photo of John to read more …..
*****
My Story – Bobby Calves
Agmates member and Victorian farmer Rebecca Bailey writes on her blog:
I would have stumbled on agmates on my never ending search for information. We live in a small community and job prospects are very limited, my husband was retrenched in december last year and has only been able to get casual work since, as we don’t wish to move we need to find alternate sources of income.
Click on image of Rebecca’s children to read more …..
*****
Bluegums – MIS, Greast Southern, Timbercorp & Australian Ag Part #3
Agmates member Roger Crook has an intimate knowledge of the industry from its origins in WA and writes:
Landowners responded to the fear tactics employed by Timbercorp and the other companies fed off that fear.
Land and lease values showed spectacular growth as the blue gum plantation industry grew and grew in WA until it collapsed like a deck of gambler’s cards. What happened in the intervening years? In the fifteen years since the beginning to the end as we know it.
Click on photo of Roger to read more …..
*****
WHEN it comes to email scams, I’m a major target
It seems that way, after news items this week highlighted just two scams aimed at separating a couple of local residents from their hard-earned cash. Well, over the past month, I’ve had about 20 claiming to be from banks or financial institutions, which have had the delete button running hot.
But I’ve been a target since long before that. Hasn’t everybody with a computer, or is it just me sending out a big “sucker” signal when I log on?
Click on the photo of John to read more …..
*****
Surviving When Debt Turns Bad Part #4
Agmates member St Botolph writes: Here is part 4 -
“What options Do I have When The Bank Demands It’s Money back?.”in the 12 post series – Surviving When Debt Turns Bad.
4. Most recent comments / posts.The 5 most recent members posts from anywhere on the site over here -> on the right. Click on the blue link at the bottom of the brief intro to go straight to the article and scroll down to the comments.
Feature – RFDS Charity Auction
RFDS Charity Auction Flying Thanks To The Agmates Community Support
Thanks to the support of the Agmates community members The Royal Flying Doctor charity auction of Jame McLeans new book When Bloods Enough has been Flying along.
With three days to go the Auction has already raised $315 and still going strong.
Click on photo of Senator Fiona Nash to read more …..
Agmates Editorial
Is This The Next ‘Big Thing’ In The Bush?
During the last 50 years a handful of technological innovations have profoundly changed peoples lives in rural and regional communities. I’ll list a few here and you can think about how they impacted on your life. …..
Ray Jamieson says – Rural folks have unique challenges and distance is only one of them. Lack of services, lack of recognition or understanding by the bureaucrats in their ivory towers, lack of basic facilities enjoyed by people in urban or city locations, there is so much.
Click on photo of Ray to read more …..
*****
The Agmates Community Welcomes Property Rights Australia
The Farm group Property Rights Australia is the be congratulated on being the first farm organization in Australia to recognize the Agmates community and utilize its media. I personally congratulate Property Rights Australia and their board on moving on from the ‘last century’ model of farm activism to embrace this new and powerful medium.
Click on the photo of Christopher Leeds to read more …..
*****
At last We Are Finished – Let the Fun Begin.
At last the development work on the Agmates site is finished. I know our Agmates members have had trouble keeping up with the constant development and I’m actually suffering from development exhaustion myself.I’m aware that many of our members are relatively computer illiterate. Agmates offers the best opportunity to teach yourself the new technology. The rest of the world is miles ahead of rural and regional people in using this technology, but as a group and with each others support and the Agmates platform we can catch up quickly.
Click on photo of Steve to read more …..
*****
Agmates Photos in Agriculture
Over 100 photos contributed by our members from all over Australia.
This photo is from Corey Ryan of Kapunda in South Australia. His brilliant photo set is called “windamingle station”
To See all 134 photos depicting the life and the land of Agmates Across rural Australia click on the photo.
.
*****
Selected Community Member Articles
Agforce-QLD Have you lost the plot?
Qld Grazier and Agmates member Rob Moore writes on his blog:
I have been a grudgingly paid up member of AgForce since the beginning…. my renewal is on my desk. Each week I receive my AGFORCE ACTION and live in hope some of the bread and butter issues confronting us will get a look in … but no. So I’m not renewing. I’ll instead spend spend my money with some of the groups that are confronting these issues … Property Rights Aust , Australian Beef Association, LifeSource.
Click on photo of Rob to read more …..
*****
Noel Pearson at Property Rights Aust. conference: a landmark speech
QLD Grazier and Agmates member Dale Stiller writes:
The following is not opinion but rather a summary of a speech given by Noel Pearson as the keynote speaker at the Property Rights Australia conference on the 27th June 2009.
I have written this précis from notes I scribbled down as Noel Pearson spoke so I would hope that the following account is reasonably accurate.
Click on the Photo of Dale to read more …..
*****
Green House Gas Emissions and Livestock … why all the Fuss?
Please find below a letter that was provided to me by a colleague from Paraguay. This letter was sent to the editors of the Tropical Grasslands Society…..
But when I got to the Green House Gas (GHG) chapters I was a bit embarrassed about how much you Australians seem to be concerned on the GHG emissions by ruminant livestock and their potential effects on climate change. I’d like to make some comments on this topic:
Click on Photo Of Ross to read more …..(6 Comments)
*****
EPBC Act Review recommends Gov’t take Control of Land Clearing Off States
Agmates member and NSW farmer Rob Wass writes on his blog:
Land Clearance in the interim report. It is proposed that the Commonwealth take a greater role under the Act in the intervention of all forms of land clearing which to date has by and large been left to the States under the authority of the EPBC Act. I recommend that all land owners acquaint themselves with what is going on within this department.
Click on photo of Rob to read more ….. (14 Comments)
*****
Bloggers versus Journalists – may the honest man win!
Agmates member and NSW farmer Sue Maynes writes on her blog:
This news, he states, comes from trained, highly paid journalists who spend their days searching out truth and facts, committed to presenting unbiased reports to the community, adding the element of interest without discarding veracity. “Responding to the publics’ right to know”, he propounds. “Quality journalism” he oozes. And he goes on to state that the rise of net media are part of the future, but of course, sadly, are open to that most dreaded of people – the “bloggers”.So I ponder to myself – what are bloggers?
Click on the photo of Sue to read more …..
*****
Hi everyone – intro and about my farm in Mulino, Oregon USA
Oregon USA farmer and Agmates member Joanne Rigutto writes on her blog:
Hi everyone, I’d like to introduce myself and my farm. My name is Joanne Rigutto. I have a very small farm in Mulino, Oregon, USA. We’re located in the northern Willamette Valley of Oregon, about 15 miles south and a bit west of Portland, the largest city in Oregon. Here are the specs on my farm and the business I’m building around it.
Click on the photo of Joannes Emu to read more ….. (10 Comments)
*****
Algae is heating and Killing The Ocean and Not Farmers
Agmates member and marine researcher John Fairfax writes on his blog:
Farmers are being blamed for nutrient pollution runoff without sewage nutrient pollution being even identified or measured to determine sources of the TOTAL nutrient load causing damage. Wrong diagnosis is occurring and therefore solutions are not being implemented. There is need for complete science.
Click on Photo of John to read more …..
*****
My Story – Bobby Calves
Agmates member and Victorian farmer Rebecca Bailey writes on her blog:
I would have stumbled on agmates on my never ending search for information. We live in a small community and job prospects are very limited, my husband was retrenched in december last year and has only been able to get casual work since, as we don’t wish to move we need to find alternate sources of income.
Click on image of Rebecca’s children to read more …..
*****
Bluegums – MIS, Greast Southern, Timbercorp & Australian Ag Part #3
Agmates member Roger Crook has an intimate knowledge of the industry from its origins in WA and writes:
Landowners responded to the fear tactics employed by Timbercorp and the other companies fed off that fear.
Land and lease values showed spectacular growth as the blue gum plantation industry grew and grew in WA until it collapsed like a deck of gambler’s cards. What happened in the intervening years? In the fifteen years since the beginning to the end as we know it.
Click on photo of Roger to read more …..
*****
WHEN it comes to email scams, I’m a major target
It seems that way, after news items this week highlighted just two scams aimed at separating a couple of local residents from their hard-earned cash. Well, over the past month, I’ve had about 20 claiming to be from banks or financial institutions, which have had the delete button running hot.
But I’ve been a target since long before that. Hasn’t everybody with a computer, or is it just me sending out a big “sucker” signal when I log on?
Click on the photo of John to read more …..
*****
Surviving When Debt Turns Bad Part #4
Agmates member St Botolph writes: Here is part 4 -
“What options Do I have When The Bank Demands It’s Money back?.”in the 12 post series – Surviving When Debt Turns Bad.
4. Most recent comments / posts.The 5 most recent members posts from anywhere on the site over here -> on the right. Click on the blue link at the bottom of the brief intro to go straight to the article and scroll down to the comments.
Feature – RFDS Charity Auction
RFDS Charity Auction Flying Thanks To The Agmates Community Support
Thanks to the support of the Agmates community members The Royal Flying Doctor charity auction of Jame McLeans new book When Bloods Enough has been Flying along.
With three days to go the Auction has already raised $315 and still going strong.
Click on photo of Senator Fiona Nash to read more …..
Agmates Editorial
Is This The Next ‘Big Thing’ In The Bush?
During the last 50 years a handful of technological innovations have profoundly changed peoples lives in rural and regional communities. I’ll list a few here and you can think about how they impacted on your life. …..
Ray Jamieson says – Rural folks have unique challenges and distance is only one of them. Lack of services, lack of recognition or understanding by the bureaucrats in their ivory towers, lack of basic facilities enjoyed by people in urban or city locations, there is so much.
Click on photo of Ray to read more …..
*****
The Agmates Community Welcomes Property Rights Australia
The Farm group Property Rights Australia is the be congratulated on being the first farm organization in Australia to recognize the Agmates community and utilize its media. I personally congratulate Property Rights Australia and their board on moving on from the ‘last century’ model of farm activism to embrace this new and powerful medium.
Click on the photo of Christopher Leeds to read more …..
*****
At last We Are Finished – Let the Fun Begin.
At last the development work on the Agmates site is finished. I know our Agmates members have had trouble keeping up with the constant development and I’m actually suffering from development exhaustion myself.I’m aware that many of our members are relatively computer illiterate. Agmates offers the best opportunity to teach yourself the new technology. The rest of the world is miles ahead of rural and regional people in using this technology, but as a group and with each others support and the Agmates platform we can catch up quickly.
Click on photo of Steve to read more …..
*****
Agmates Photos in Agriculture
Over 100 photos contributed by our members from all over Australia.
This photo is from Corey Ryan of Kapunda in South Australia. His brilliant photo set is called “windamingle station”
To See all 134 photos depicting the life and the land of Agmates Across rural Australia click on the photo.
.
*****
Selected Community Member Articles
Agforce-QLD Have you lost the plot?
Qld Grazier and Agmates member Rob Moore writes on his blog:
I have been a grudgingly paid up member of AgForce since the beginning…. my renewal is on my desk. Each week I receive my AGFORCE ACTION and live in hope some of the bread and butter issues confronting us will get a look in … but no. So I’m not renewing. I’ll instead spend spend my money with some of the groups that are confronting these issues … Property Rights Aust , Australian Beef Association, LifeSource.
Click on photo of Rob to read more …..
*****
Noel Pearson at Property Rights Aust. conference: a landmark speech
QLD Grazier and Agmates member Dale Stiller writes:
The following is not opinion but rather a summary of a speech given by Noel Pearson as the keynote speaker at the Property Rights Australia conference on the 27th June 2009.
I have written this précis from notes I scribbled down as Noel Pearson spoke so I would hope that the following account is reasonably accurate.
Click on the Photo of Dale to read more …..
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Green House Gas Emissions and Livestock … why all the Fuss?
Please find below a letter that was provided to me by a colleague from Paraguay. This letter was sent to the editors of the Tropical Grasslands Society…..
But when I got to the Green House Gas (GHG) chapters I was a bit embarrassed about how much you Australians seem to be concerned on the GHG emissions by ruminant livestock and their potential effects on climate change. I’d like to make some comments on this topic:
Click on Photo Of Ross to read more …..(6 Comments)
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EPBC Act Review recommends Gov’t take Control of Land Clearing Off States
Agmates member and NSW farmer Rob Wass writes on his blog:
Land Clearance in the interim report. It is proposed that the Commonwealth take a greater role under the Act in the intervention of all forms of land clearing which to date has by and large been left to the States under the authority of the EPBC Act. I recommend that all land owners acquaint themselves with what is going on within this department.
Click on photo of Rob to read more ….. (14 Comments)
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Bloggers versus Journalists – may the honest man win!
Agmates member and NSW farmer Sue Maynes writes on her blog:
This news, he states, comes from trained, highly paid journalists who spend their days searching out truth and facts, committed to presenting unbiased reports to the community, adding the element of interest without discarding veracity. “Responding to the publics’ right to know”, he propounds. “Quality journalism” he oozes. And he goes on to state that the rise of net media are part of the future, but of course, sadly, are open to that most dreaded of people – the “bloggers”.So I ponder to myself – what are bloggers?
Click on the photo of Sue to read more …..
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Hi everyone – intro and about my farm in Mulino, Oregon USA
Oregon USA farmer and Agmates member Joanne Rigutto writes on her blog:
Hi everyone, I’d like to introduce myself and my farm. My name is Joanne Rigutto. I have a very small farm in Mulino, Oregon, USA. We’re located in the northern Willamette Valley of Oregon, about 15 miles south and a bit west of Portland, the largest city in Oregon. Here are the specs on my farm and the business I’m building around it.
Click on the photo of Joannes Emu to read more ….. (10 Comments)
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Algae is heating and Killing The Ocean and Not Farmers
Agmates member and marine researcher John Fairfax writes on his blog:
Farmers are being blamed for nutrient pollution runoff without sewage nutrient pollution being even identified or measured to determine sources of the TOTAL nutrient load causing damage. Wrong diagnosis is occurring and therefore solutions are not being implemented. There is need for complete science.
Click on Photo of John to read more …..
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My Story – Bobby Calves
Agmates member and Victorian farmer Rebecca Bailey writes on her blog:
I would have stumbled on agmates on my never ending search for information. We live in a small community and job prospects are very limited, my husband was retrenched in december last year and has only been able to get casual work since, as we don’t wish to move we need to find alternate sources of income.
Click on image of Rebecca’s children to read more …..
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Bluegums – MIS, Greast Southern, Timbercorp & Australian Ag Part #3
Agmates member Roger Crook has an intimate knowledge of the industry from its origins in WA and writes:
Landowners responded to the fear tactics employed by Timbercorp and the other companies fed off that fear.
Land and lease values showed spectacular growth as the blue gum plantation industry grew and grew in WA until it collapsed like a deck of gambler’s cards. What happened in the intervening years? In the fifteen years since the beginning to the end as we know it.
Click on photo of Roger to read more …..
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WHEN it comes to email scams, I’m a major target
It seems that way, after news items this week highlighted just two scams aimed at separating a couple of local residents from their hard-earned cash. Well, over the past month, I’ve had about 20 claiming to be from banks or financial institutions, which have had the delete button running hot.
But I’ve been a target since long before that. Hasn’t everybody with a computer, or is it just me sending out a big “sucker” signal when I log on?
Click on the photo of John to read more …..
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Surviving When Debt Turns Bad Part #4
Agmates member St Botolph writes: Here is part 4 -
“What options Do I have When The Bank Demands It’s Money back?.”in the 12 post series – Surviving When Debt Turns Bad.
Click on the image of St Botolph to read more …..
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Breaking Fox News – EPA buried study showing Global Warming Not Critical – Video
Agmates member JeffT writes:
Breaking News – From Fox News — Video
“This thing is Phony” – Assign it to the scrap heap.
Interview with US Senator James Inhofe on Youtube
Click on image of Video to read more and watch…..
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Barnaby Joyce on the ETS, the United States and Australia
Mr Rudd is today lauding the vote in the United States known as the American Clean Energy Act (otherwise known as the Waxman-Markey Bill) as the indelible truth and righteousness of his position. Don’t laud an American position if you don’t want to emulate the principals that brought it about.
Click on the photo of Barnaby to read more …..
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There are solutions to overcoming uncertain times
Agmates member Ross Newman writes: It depends on who you talk to as to the current state of Queensland’s and possibly Australia’s agriculture industry. If you listen to ABARE …. apparently Agriculture is booming. But if you speak with producers at the coal face, particularly graziers, the situation is vastly different.
Click on photo of Ross to read more ……. Note link is to the article at Ross’s blog on the Community site. You will have to join the social network if you wish to leave a comment there.
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One Year Of Wheat Deregulation – Reaping What You Sow
NSW Senator and Deputy Senate Leader of the Nationals Fiona Nash writes: Tuesday June 23 marked the first anniversary of the end of the single desk wheat exporting marketing system and the first troubled year for growers under the new arrangements.
Approximately 30 disgruntled Wheat Growers and their families attended Parliament House in Canberra in a rally to register their protest on the anniversary of the axing of the single desk.
4. Most recent comments / posts.The 5 most recent members posts from anywhere on the site over here -> on the right. Click on the blue link at the bottom of the brief intro to go straight to the article and scroll down to the comments.
Feature – RFDS Charity Auction
Young Western QLD farmer, author and Agmates member Jame McLean is teaming up with Agmates to launch his latest book and raise money for that wonderful cause the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Jame is auctioning a personally signed copy of his latest book ‘When Blood’s Enough’ on Agmates Trader with the entire proceeds going to the RFDS.
Updates: Click on the links below to read the latest and see the live bidding.
The Agmates Community Welcomes Property Rights Australia
The Farm group Property Rights Australia is the be congratulated on being the first farm organization in Australia to recognize the Agmates community and utilize its media. I personally congratulate Property Rights Australia and their board on moving on from the ‘last century’ model of farm activism to embrace this new and powerful medium.
Click on the photo of Christopher Leeds to read more …..
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At last We Are Finished – Let the Fun Begin.
At last the development work on the Agmates site is finished. I know our Agmates members have had trouble keeping up with the constant development and I’m actually suffering from development exhaustion myself.I’m aware that many of our members are relatively computer illiterate. Agmates offers the best opportunity to teach yourself the new technology. The rest of the world is miles ahead of rural and regional people in using this technology, but as a group and with each others support and the Agmates platform we can catch up quickly.
Click on photo of Steve to read more …..
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It’s Disheartening Trying to Help Those That Won’t Help Themselves
Personally I’ll admit that I’m growing weary of doing all the heavy lifting with no support, financial or otherwise. Agmates has been a labour of love for me the last two years. At the end of the day, no one can help those that won’t help themselves. If we can’t get the support of the very people we are working tirelessly to help then we need to move on and concentrate our efforts on the commercial money making potential of the site. It goes without saying that if that were to happen it would be a huge relief to many people in positions of power in the ruling establishments around the country.
Click on image Steve to read more …..
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Why An Agmates Social Network
Agamtes social network is an online community that emphasizes:
* Traditional Family Values –
* Honesty, Decency and Integrity.
* Individuals members connecting with like minded individuals.
As such we insist that our members are real people. Not companies, not organizations, not phantoms, just real live people like those that you meet in person in your community each day. Your family, your friends.
Click on the image to read more …..
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Its Time To Support Our Food & Fibre Producers
If Australians don’t make a decision soon to actively support our food and fibre producers just like our manufacturing industries they will be be gone forever. Free Trade is a cancer that is eating away at our food and fibre producers. Its time we acknowledged the Free Trade cancer. Once we acknowledge it exists we can treat it. Maybe we have left it to long? But we must try.
Click on the image to read more …..
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Selected Community Member Articles
Bloggers versus Journalists – may the honest man win!
Agmates member and NSW farmer Sue Maynes writes on her blog:
This news, he states, comes from trained, highly paid journalists who spend their days searching out truth and facts, committed to presenting unbiased reports to the community, adding the element of interest without discarding veracity. “Responding to the publics’ right to know”, he propounds. “Quality journalism” he oozes. And he goes on to state that the rise of net media are part of the future, but of course, sadly, are open to that most dreaded of people – the “bloggers”.So I ponder to myself – what are bloggers?
Click on the photo of Sue to read more …..
*****
Algae is heating and Killing The Ocean and Not Farmers
Agmates member and marine researcher John Fairfax writes on his blog:
Farmers are being blamed for nutrient pollution runoff without sewage nutrient pollution being even identified or measured to determine sources of the TOTAL nutrient load causing damage. Wrong diagnosis is occurring and therefore solutions are not being implemented. There is need for complete science.
Click on Photo of John to read more …..
*****
My Story – Bobby Calves
Agmates member and Victorian farmer Rebecca Bailey writes on her blog:
I would have stumbled on agmates on my never ending search for information. We live in a small community and job prospects are very limited, my husband was retrenched in december last year and has only been able to get casual work since, as we don’t wish to move we need to find alternate sources of income.
Click on image of Rebecca’s children to read more …..
*****
Bluegums – MIS, Greast Southern, Timbercorp & Australian Ag Part #3
Agmates member Roger Crook has an intimate knowledge of the industry from its origins in WA and writes:
Landowners responded to the fear tactics employed by Timbercorp and the other companies fed off that fear.
Land and lease values showed spectacular growth as the blue gum plantation industry grew and grew in WA until it collapsed like a deck of gambler’s cards. What happened in the intervening years? In the fifteen years since the beginning to the end as we know it.
Click on photo of Roger to read more …..
*****
WHEN it comes to email scams, I’m a major target
It seems that way, after news items this week highlighted just two scams aimed at separating a couple of local residents from their hard-earned cash. Well, over the past month, I’ve had about 20 claiming to be from banks or financial institutions, which have had the delete button running hot.
But I’ve been a target since long before that. Hasn’t everybody with a computer, or is it just me sending out a big “sucker” signal when I log on?
Click on the photo of John to read more …..
*****
Surviving When Debt Turns Bad Part #4
Agmates member St Botolph writes: Here is part 4 -
“What options Do I have When The Bank Demands It’s Money back?.”in the 12 post series – Surviving When Debt Turns Bad.
Click on the image of St Botolph to read more …..
*****
Breaking Fox News – EPA buried study showing Global Warming Not Critical – Video
Agmates member JeffT writes:
Breaking News – From Fox News — Video
“This thing is Phony” – Assign it to the scrap heap.
Interview with US Senator James Inhofe on Youtube
Click on image of Video to read more and watch…..
*****
Barnaby Joyce on the ETS, the United States and Australia
Mr Rudd is today lauding the vote in the United States known as the American Clean Energy Act (otherwise known as the Waxman-Markey Bill) as the indelible truth and righteousness of his position. Don’t laud an American position if you don’t want to emulate the principals that brought it about.
Click on the photo of Barnaby to read more …..
*****
There are solutions to overcoming uncertain times
Agmates member Ross Newman writes: It depends on who you talk to as to the current state of Queensland’s and possibly Australia’s agriculture industry. If you listen to ABARE …. apparently Agriculture is booming. But if you speak with producers at the coal face, particularly graziers, the situation is vastly different.
Click on photo of Ross to read more ……. Note link is to the article at Ross’s blog on the Community site. You will have to join the social network if you wish to leave a comment there.
*****
One Year Of Wheat Deregulation – Reaping What You Sow
NSW Senator and Deputy Senate Leader of the Nationals Fiona Nash writes: Tuesday June 23 marked the first anniversary of the end of the single desk wheat exporting marketing system and the first troubled year for growers under the new arrangements.
Approximately 30 disgruntled Wheat Growers and their families attended Parliament House in Canberra in a rally to register their protest on the anniversary of the axing of the single desk.
You are on the Agmates News home page, we call it our Community News Forum. Below are headline links to:
1. Agmates Editorialwritten by Agmates Editor Steve Truman
2. Selected Agmates Community Members articles.written by our members.
3. Agmates Community Members Forum.
In many ways this is the most important part of the Agmates Community News site. This is really our community Billboard if you like.
Its where our members post any their thoughts, ideas, general information, coming event notices, photos , Youtube Videos, groups and organizations press releases and links to relevant, interesting news items articles that they want to share, comment on and discuss with others in the community.
Scroll down through the forum for heaps of interesting stuff.
4. Most recent comments / posts.The 5 most recent members posts from anywhere on the site over here -> on the right. Click on the blue link at the bottom of the brief intro to go straight to the article and scroll down to the comments.
Feature – RFDS Charity Auction
Young Western QLD farmer, author and Agmates member Jame McLean is teaming up with Agmates to launch his latest book and raise money for that wonderful cause the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Jame is auctioning a personally signed copy of his latest book ‘When Blood’s Enough’ on Agmates Trader with the entire proceeds going to the RFDS.
Updates: Click on the links below to read the latest and see the live bidding.
Even though I said I wouldn’t I’ve released another major enhancement to to community site. Agmates Social Network. Its only in it’s test phase at the minute. Over 60 people registered by lunch time today (18 hours), from every state of Australia and one from the USA and one from Tonga.
There have been three groups set up (one of them by me). Anyway, have a look for yourself. Its really up to you the Agmates members.
Click on the image to read more …..
*****
Its Time To Support Our Food & Fibre Producers
If Australians don’t make a decision soon to actively support our food and fibre producers just like our manufacturing industries they will be be gone forever. Free Trade is a cancer that is eating away at our food and fibre producers. Its time we acknowledged the Free Trade cancer. Once we acknowledge it exists we can treat it. Maybe we have left it to long? But we must try.
Click on the image to read more …..
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Isn’t It Ironic – Sad really.
So we have the NFF in Brisbane having a conference with school kids looking at how farmers might adapt to climate change and the governments CRPS, and we have the National Party in Canberra taking a stand for rural Australia saying No, No, No.
Isn’t that ironic? No – Moronic is a better way to describe it.
Click on photo of Agmates Editor Steve to read more and watch video ….
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Selected Community Member Articles
One Year Of Wheat Deregulation – Reaping What You Sow
NSW Senator and Deputy Senate Leader of the Nationals Fiona Nash writes: Tuesday June 23 marked the first anniversary of the end of the single desk wheat exporting marketing system and the first troubled year for growers under the new arrangements.
Approximately 30 disgruntled Wheat Growers and their families attended Parliament House in Canberra in a rally to register their protest on the anniversary of the axing of the single desk.
Click on the photo of Fiona to read more …..
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Bluegums – MIS, Greast Southern, Timbercorp & Australian Ag Part #2
Agmates member Roger Crook has an intimate knowledge of the industry from its origins in WA and writes:
Managed Investment Schemes changed the agricultural landscape and the face of rural communities. If there were questions and concerns about the schemes, the MIS promoters tactic was to vilify and pour scorn on their detractors.
Click on photo of Roger to read more …..
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Emission Trading Scheme Not Just A Cap On Carbon
QLD farmer and Chairman of the Carbon Sense Coalition Viv Forbes writes: The bill will also levy a tax on whatever carbon dioxide is produced, and levy an excess production tax on anyone whose production exceeds the legal cap.
It is a carbon dioxide Cap-n-Tax Bill. This is a very serious proposal, with wide-ranging implications for all aspects of economic life and personal freedoms.
Click on the photo of Viv to read and try the Cap-N-Trade Maze …..
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Surviving When Debt Turns Bad Part #3
Agmate member St Botolph writes: Here is part 3 - “How do I convince my bank to continue to support me?” in the 12 post series – Surviving When Debt Turns Bad.
Click on the image of St Botolph to read more …..
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Why This Farmer Loves Her Dogs
Submitted by Victorian farmer and Agmates member Jenny Bird:
8 photos of her dogs and why she loves them. Add your dog photos and story.
Click on photo of Jenny’s dog Jennie in action to read more …..
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Has Nathan Rees Got It Right With His Made In China Ban
Freelance Journalist and Agmates member John Mikkelsen writes: Are we becoming a Chinese satellite state by stealth? How many Australian jobs have been lost or put at risk because of cheap Asian imports flooding our markets?
The local products can’t compete as Australian manufacturers have to comply with more stringent controls and higher wages.
Click on image to read and watch video China Blue …..
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ETS Senate Debate Update – The more Australia sees the worse it looks
Nationals Senate Leader Barnaby Joyce writes from Parliament: All over Australia views on the ETS issue are changing as people understand that they face increased costs to consumables like power and food. This is the most crucial economic policy in recent time in Australia and it’s vital we keep the debate going.
If we get it wrong then the economic ramifications for Australia will be catastrophic.
Click on the photo of Senator Joyce to read more ….
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Why Some Men Have Dogs And Not Wives
Submitted by Agmates member Sue Manton.
14 reasons why some men have dogs not wives. This is really very funny and cute. Add your dog photo and reason why.
Click on the dogs image to read more …..
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If Australian Politicians Looked At New Antarctic Ice Data They’d See The Scam
Remember the frightening pictures (recycled from previous year) of the Wilkins Ice Shelf breaking away. Revealed today – ANTARCTIC ice shelves are showing no sign of climate change, six years of unique research have shown (See Photos).
We should support Senator’s Steve Fielding and Barnaby Joyce – and any other politician who believes that the current push for an ETS is a scam.
Click on Agmates member JeffT’s logo to read more ….
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Labor Jams Food Producers with New Award Process
Leader of The Nationals, Warren Truss writes: Under Labor’s proposed Horticulture Industry Award, due to come into effect from January 1, growers will have to foot penalty rates of more than 200 percent for pickers and packers working outside usual hours.
This comes from new loadings and vastly higher overtime rates for Sundays, late at night or on public holidays.
Waterfall & swimming hole at farm
The transformation of the National Party into a powerful stand alone political party was completed over the weekend at it’s peak federal council meeting in Canberra.
The Agmates Community Network was launched on the 24th of June 2009 by its founder Steve Truman. Agmates has a staff of one – Steve but is backed up by our team of dedicated member volunteers.
AAco Management Turmoil Continues
What the Emissions Trading Scheme will cost you
Poll Shows 70% of Coalition Voters Want Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme Delayed
Get to know your ETS, Take it out to Dinner.
