Barry Broe,
Divisional Manager,
Brisbane Infrastructure,
Brisbane City Council.
Dear Mr Broe,
I recently attended a forum organised by the Society of Sustainability & Environmental Engineering called: “South East Queensland’s Transport System in the Peak Oil and Climate Change Era”. I particularly enjoyed your opening remarks about understanding the problem of “car use” vs the problem of “traffic congestion”.
The remainder of your speech was contrary to your opening remarks, with a focus on so-called “congestion busting” by duplication and augmentation of roads for private motor vehicles. I took exception to your comment “when the Northern Link goes in & it will go in”. I shall be working very hard to lobby my political representatives (cc:d) to make sure the Northern Link does not “go in” if it is going to be a four lane motor way for motor vehicles. I am celebrating the fact that the Northern Link has not attracted any federal funding.
My expertise is in water & sanitation. I see a lot of parallels in the mistakes we make with sewage and the way we deal with traffic. I am convinced we need to separate our Number ones from our Number twos at source rather than mix them, pump them vast distances and then try to separate them out again. The same applies to Public Transport and private motor vehicles. Until we separate the streams, we cannot efficiently treat the associated issues appropriately.
The distinction between sewers and roads is when one duplicates a sewer main, it does not encourage more people to poo.
Regards,
Rowan Barber
Climate Campaigner
http://www.climatejusticefast.com/
24 May, 2009
12 May, 2009
Another Letter to Campbell Newman
Campbell Newman
Lord Mayor
Brisbane City Council
Dear Lord Mayor,
I am frustrated by both the State and Brisbane City Council using reductions in GHG emissions as an excuse to build more politically popular infrastructure for motor vehicles (such as the Northern Link Tunnel).
The more roads one builds, the more lanes one adds, the more congestion one busts, the more it encourages people to drive.
From BBC's annual report:
In partnership with the Queensland Government, Council is developing a common,
intelligent, integrated road network management system to improve the coordination of the city’s 7000 kilometre road network. A pilot of the traffic signals component of the project was conducted at Indooroopilly in 2008 and demonstrated how traffic can be streamlined by synchronising traffic signals on both Council and Queensland Government-owned roads. The Indooroopilly pilot demonstrated a saving of approximately 3800 tonnes in carbon emissions per year through the reduction of travel time.
Did one take into account all the additional trips that will be made when traffic flows more freely? Does one take into account the return of congestion once equilibrium is established at a higher traffic volume?
My expertise is in water, sanitation and carbon accounting not traffic engineering. However I see a lot of parallels between the problems we are encountering on SEQ roads and the problems I have encountered in sewers. The congestion of sewers is often caused by consumer behaviour. People put things down the sewer that do not belong there (like dead pets and sump oil). The distinction between sewage and traffic is when one builds a new sewer it does not encourage people to poo more.
Is there a more robust means of GHG emissions accounting to counter the circular arguments presented to justify more "congestion busting" roads?
regards,
Rowan Barber
Lord Mayor
Brisbane City Council
Dear Lord Mayor,
I am frustrated by both the State and Brisbane City Council using reductions in GHG emissions as an excuse to build more politically popular infrastructure for motor vehicles (such as the Northern Link Tunnel).
The more roads one builds, the more lanes one adds, the more congestion one busts, the more it encourages people to drive.
From BBC's annual report:
In partnership with the Queensland Government, Council is developing a common,
intelligent, integrated road network management system to improve the coordination of the city’s 7000 kilometre road network. A pilot of the traffic signals component of the project was conducted at Indooroopilly in 2008 and demonstrated how traffic can be streamlined by synchronising traffic signals on both Council and Queensland Government-owned roads. The Indooroopilly pilot demonstrated a saving of approximately 3800 tonnes in carbon emissions per year through the reduction of travel time.
Did one take into account all the additional trips that will be made when traffic flows more freely? Does one take into account the return of congestion once equilibrium is established at a higher traffic volume?
My expertise is in water, sanitation and carbon accounting not traffic engineering. However I see a lot of parallels between the problems we are encountering on SEQ roads and the problems I have encountered in sewers. The congestion of sewers is often caused by consumer behaviour. People put things down the sewer that do not belong there (like dead pets and sump oil). The distinction between sewage and traffic is when one builds a new sewer it does not encourage people to poo more.
Is there a more robust means of GHG emissions accounting to counter the circular arguments presented to justify more "congestion busting" roads?
regards,
Rowan Barber
03 May, 2009
Clean Cows (Clean Coal, Clean Cars) & other fairy tales
Dear Minister Mulherin,
I read with interest the results of research into genetic manipulation of beef cattle. Based on Hansard, this technology may have some useful applications for Members of Parliament.
Why is the Queensland State Government (and the oppostion for that matter) so intent on sustaining the Beef industry when clearly Beef is not ecologically sustainable? The CSIRO (Australia's National Greenhouse Gas Inventory, 2003) reports that beef generates over 50 kilograms of CO2 equivalent per kilogram of Beef meat from paddock to plate. A disproportionate amount of water is used in raising cattle. 20 000 liters of water is used to produce a kilogram of steak. 40 000 litres for grain fed Beef.
Why aren't we supporting our Beef producers to transition to alternative forms of protein?
Hard hooved, water and carbon intensive beasts have no place in a Queensland landscape. Apart from coal mining, nothing contributes more to land degradation and loss of native habitat and species, than cattle grazing.
When will the Smart State make the leap of logic and move Agriculture away from intensive, hydrocarbon dependent practices?
The Queensland State Government appears to pay lip service to "Ecological Sustainable Development" without any reference to Ecology.
regards,
Rowan Barber
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland
The Honourable Tim Mulherin
03/05/2009
"Temperamental" humans and cows may share same genes
Some of the genes thought to cause behavioural problems in humans may also cause temperamental behaviour in cattle.
A new $1.35M Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries research project will look at how to switch that gene off in a bid to boost the beef industry.
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Tim Mulherin announced the project ahead of attending the Beef Australia 2009 Expo in Rockhampton.
Mr Mulherin said: "This is exciting, ground-breaking research by our scientists which could literally change the character and quality of our beef herd.
"It would provide a huge boost to Queensland's beef industry which is worth $3.7 billion a year.
"Even though cattle and humans are separated by 60 million years of evolution we share many of the same genes.
"The genes thought to cause behavioural problems in humans are also found in cattle.
"We already know there is an association between the temperament of cattle and the tenderness of the meat - the more temperamental, the less tender.
"So if our scientists can learn how to switch off the gene that causes irritability in cattle then we can produce more tender meat which has a higher value to industry.
"We're not just looking at tenderness. We're also investigating a whole range of other factors that could boost profitability.
"For instance we may be able to influence cattle to have calves earlier in the season.
"Calves born earlier are typically heavier than calves born later in the season and because the cows have calved earlier they can produce a calf once a year (instead of skipping a year) and without increasing cow mortalities.
"This is one of the most significant aspects of this research as reproduction rate is the number one driver of profitability in Northern Australian beef enterprises," Mr Mulherin said.
Leading this five-year investment in cutting edge research is Dr Brian Burns, a Rockhampton-based QPIF principal research scientist specialising in genetics and animal breeding.
Dr Burns said his research project centres around the new field of 'epigenetics' - the study of modifications to genes other than changes in the DNA sequence itself.
Dr Burns said: "We're working closely with national and international partners on expanding our knowledge of 'epigenetics'.
"Our aim is to breed cattle with the most desirable genetic characteristics for domestic and international markets.
"That will mean cattle with improved reproduction, growth, carcase, adaptation and behavioural traits and better end-product quality.
"This is new territory we are entering and we still don't fully understand the various epigenetic interactions influencing some genes that can turn these genes on or off and cause deviations from traditional inheritance patterns in cattle," he said.
"What we do know is that this project will greatly improve our knowledge of epigenetics and help achieve more consistent production traits and better end product beef quality."
The beef epigenetics project is focusing on four main outcomes for Brahman x British crossbred and tropical composite breed cattle in Queensland:
·greater reproductive efficiency
·more consistent growth
·better carcase traits
·improved temperament
·better environmental adaptation.
Dr Burns said what made this research even more important to the Queensland agricultural economy was that tropically adapted Bos indicus beef cattle breeds (which include Brahman) and their crosses with non-tropically adapted British and large European breeds, and tropically adapted Bos taurus breeds and crosses were critical for survival and production in Queensland's harsh tropical production systems.
"Brahmans and their crosses are predominant in Queensland and northern Australia," he said.
"The Bos indicus content of northern Australian beef herds rose from 5% in 1970 to approximately 85% during the 1990s.
"Therefore, the Brahman and their crosses are central to the future development and productivity of the Queensland beef cattle herd."
Dr Burns said by identifying epigenetic influences that affect reproduction, growth, carcase, environmental adaptation and behavioural traits, breeders could expect increased efficiency and profitability in their operations.
"We believe we can also ensure that Brahman crossbred heifers and cows will be more fertile throughout their production lives, with improved maternal ability and temperament, and produce beef that is even more tender," he said.
"More consistent growth would mean better and more predictable final target market liveweights and slaughter weights, which could be tailored for specific markets.
"With a better understanding of the genetic potential of individual cattle, we will be able to develop strategies for producers to harness epigenetic influences within their own cattle breeding programs."
Dr Burns said the QPIF research team would be working closely with Professor Stefan Hiendleder, Head of the University of Adelaide/Roseworthy Campus-based JS Davies Epigenetics and Genetics Group.
The research group has the molecular genetics specialists to evaluate novel aspects of growth. This JS Davies group also has a collection of embryos and foetuses that are either purebred Bos indicus or Bos taurus or their reciprocal crosses which they will use to identify imprinted genes for a broad trait spectrum in beef cattle.
Another component of the project will be led by Associate Professor Andy Herring, Texas A&M University (TAMU), who will be supporting the project using almost 50 years of post-natal growth and development, reproduction and carcass data in addition to 20 years of DNA information collected from the TAMU McGregor Genomics Project resource herds.
The epigentics data extracted from these reciprocal cross herds in Texas will help validate parent of origin effects on foetal growth, calf birth weight and life time performance in both QPI&F owned Brahman and collaborating Droughtmaster producer herds throughout Queensland.
This project will be profiled at the Beef Australia 2009 expo in Rockhampton, as part of the 5 May "FutureBeef: Smart Science, New Technologies, Profitable Beef Businesses" Seminar. The seminar will showcase the innovative work of scientists and extension officers in the field of molecular and genetic technologies and beef business management, and how this can boost the beef industry.
What: "Smart science, New technologies, Profitable beef businesses" Seminar
When: 10.30am-1pm. Tuesday, 5 May 2009
Where: Room 1, James Lawrence Pavilion, Beef Australia expo, Rockhampton Showgrounds.
Media: Mark Symons 32396530
I read with interest the results of research into genetic manipulation of beef cattle. Based on Hansard, this technology may have some useful applications for Members of Parliament.
Why is the Queensland State Government (and the oppostion for that matter) so intent on sustaining the Beef industry when clearly Beef is not ecologically sustainable? The CSIRO (Australia's National Greenhouse Gas Inventory, 2003) reports that beef generates over 50 kilograms of CO2 equivalent per kilogram of Beef meat from paddock to plate. A disproportionate amount of water is used in raising cattle. 20 000 liters of water is used to produce a kilogram of steak. 40 000 litres for grain fed Beef.
Why aren't we supporting our Beef producers to transition to alternative forms of protein?
Hard hooved, water and carbon intensive beasts have no place in a Queensland landscape. Apart from coal mining, nothing contributes more to land degradation and loss of native habitat and species, than cattle grazing.
When will the Smart State make the leap of logic and move Agriculture away from intensive, hydrocarbon dependent practices?
The Queensland State Government appears to pay lip service to "Ecological Sustainable Development" without any reference to Ecology.
regards,
Rowan Barber
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland
The Honourable Tim Mulherin
03/05/2009
"Temperamental" humans and cows may share same genes
Some of the genes thought to cause behavioural problems in humans may also cause temperamental behaviour in cattle.
A new $1.35M Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries research project will look at how to switch that gene off in a bid to boost the beef industry.
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Tim Mulherin announced the project ahead of attending the Beef Australia 2009 Expo in Rockhampton.
Mr Mulherin said: "This is exciting, ground-breaking research by our scientists which could literally change the character and quality of our beef herd.
"It would provide a huge boost to Queensland's beef industry which is worth $3.7 billion a year.
"Even though cattle and humans are separated by 60 million years of evolution we share many of the same genes.
"The genes thought to cause behavioural problems in humans are also found in cattle.
"We already know there is an association between the temperament of cattle and the tenderness of the meat - the more temperamental, the less tender.
"So if our scientists can learn how to switch off the gene that causes irritability in cattle then we can produce more tender meat which has a higher value to industry.
"We're not just looking at tenderness. We're also investigating a whole range of other factors that could boost profitability.
"For instance we may be able to influence cattle to have calves earlier in the season.
"Calves born earlier are typically heavier than calves born later in the season and because the cows have calved earlier they can produce a calf once a year (instead of skipping a year) and without increasing cow mortalities.
"This is one of the most significant aspects of this research as reproduction rate is the number one driver of profitability in Northern Australian beef enterprises," Mr Mulherin said.
Leading this five-year investment in cutting edge research is Dr Brian Burns, a Rockhampton-based QPIF principal research scientist specialising in genetics and animal breeding.
Dr Burns said his research project centres around the new field of 'epigenetics' - the study of modifications to genes other than changes in the DNA sequence itself.
Dr Burns said: "We're working closely with national and international partners on expanding our knowledge of 'epigenetics'.
"Our aim is to breed cattle with the most desirable genetic characteristics for domestic and international markets.
"That will mean cattle with improved reproduction, growth, carcase, adaptation and behavioural traits and better end-product quality.
"This is new territory we are entering and we still don't fully understand the various epigenetic interactions influencing some genes that can turn these genes on or off and cause deviations from traditional inheritance patterns in cattle," he said.
"What we do know is that this project will greatly improve our knowledge of epigenetics and help achieve more consistent production traits and better end product beef quality."
The beef epigenetics project is focusing on four main outcomes for Brahman x British crossbred and tropical composite breed cattle in Queensland:
·greater reproductive efficiency
·more consistent growth
·better carcase traits
·improved temperament
·better environmental adaptation.
Dr Burns said what made this research even more important to the Queensland agricultural economy was that tropically adapted Bos indicus beef cattle breeds (which include Brahman) and their crosses with non-tropically adapted British and large European breeds, and tropically adapted Bos taurus breeds and crosses were critical for survival and production in Queensland's harsh tropical production systems.
"Brahmans and their crosses are predominant in Queensland and northern Australia," he said.
"The Bos indicus content of northern Australian beef herds rose from 5% in 1970 to approximately 85% during the 1990s.
"Therefore, the Brahman and their crosses are central to the future development and productivity of the Queensland beef cattle herd."
Dr Burns said by identifying epigenetic influences that affect reproduction, growth, carcase, environmental adaptation and behavioural traits, breeders could expect increased efficiency and profitability in their operations.
"We believe we can also ensure that Brahman crossbred heifers and cows will be more fertile throughout their production lives, with improved maternal ability and temperament, and produce beef that is even more tender," he said.
"More consistent growth would mean better and more predictable final target market liveweights and slaughter weights, which could be tailored for specific markets.
"With a better understanding of the genetic potential of individual cattle, we will be able to develop strategies for producers to harness epigenetic influences within their own cattle breeding programs."
Dr Burns said the QPIF research team would be working closely with Professor Stefan Hiendleder, Head of the University of Adelaide/Roseworthy Campus-based JS Davies Epigenetics and Genetics Group.
The research group has the molecular genetics specialists to evaluate novel aspects of growth. This JS Davies group also has a collection of embryos and foetuses that are either purebred Bos indicus or Bos taurus or their reciprocal crosses which they will use to identify imprinted genes for a broad trait spectrum in beef cattle.
Another component of the project will be led by Associate Professor Andy Herring, Texas A&M University (TAMU), who will be supporting the project using almost 50 years of post-natal growth and development, reproduction and carcass data in addition to 20 years of DNA information collected from the TAMU McGregor Genomics Project resource herds.
The epigentics data extracted from these reciprocal cross herds in Texas will help validate parent of origin effects on foetal growth, calf birth weight and life time performance in both QPI&F owned Brahman and collaborating Droughtmaster producer herds throughout Queensland.
This project will be profiled at the Beef Australia 2009 expo in Rockhampton, as part of the 5 May "FutureBeef: Smart Science, New Technologies, Profitable Beef Businesses" Seminar. The seminar will showcase the innovative work of scientists and extension officers in the field of molecular and genetic technologies and beef business management, and how this can boost the beef industry.
What: "Smart science, New technologies, Profitable beef businesses" Seminar
When: 10.30am-1pm. Tuesday, 5 May 2009
Where: Room 1, James Lawrence Pavilion, Beef Australia expo, Rockhampton Showgrounds.
Media: Mark Symons 32396530
26 April, 2009
it is high time to re-think water & sanitation in developed, Industrialised communities
The more I consider current practice in water and sanitation (particularly in my own city - Brisbane, Queensland, Australia) the more ludicrous it becomes...
Most of our potable water is sourced from dams in the hinterland. There are plans to build another dam over a hundred kilometres North of Brisbane. Yet the storm water that falls on the city of Brisbane (mostly on impervious, paved surfaces is channelled to the Brisbane River, mixes with the estuarine, brackish water and flows out to sea.
A de-salination plant 100 kilometres South, draws saline water from the ocean and uses electricity to purify the sea water and pump it into the so-called "water grid".
Taking a relatively solid reside, which contains some of the most harmful bacteria known to humanity and making a 1-2% slurry, solution, pumped hundreds of kilometres to centralised sewage treatment plants is a very inefficient use of electicity and potable water.
In Brisbane, we currently purify the sewage treatment plant effluent with an energy intensive process called Continuous Mirofiltration, followed by reverse osmosis. The lunacy continues with the purified water being pumped over 70 kilometres to be used to cool the exhaust from the steam turbines of a coal fired power station.
My background is in industrial water treatment (steam generation, heat rejection, process water, corrosion mitigation, anti-scalants, emulsion breaking etc). When I apply the principles of "cleaner production" to domestic sewage treatment, the first thing that needs to be done is separation of waste streams.
In other words, no.1's need to be kept separate from no.2's.
Adding a concentrated source of Nitogen, Phosphorus and trace quantities of endrocrine disruptors to this mix is sheer stupidity, considering the difficulty ond expense of removing the N.P and endrocrine disruptors from the dilute stream.
So what is the alternative?
I understand that Urine-separating toilets have been used as an effective source control measure in many parts of Europe for years. The No.1's can be collected and used beneficially as fertiliser and are a precursor to many industrial chemicals including ammonia, pool chlorine and/or bleach.
The No.2's contain many pathogens, which can be disinfected through dessication and/or heat. Once treated, this residue is a useful soil conditioner and source of organic material. It could even be digested and the biogases could be used to generate electricity.
There is billions of dollars tied up in the infrastructure that perpetuates this system. There is inertia and resistance to change. So just because this is the way it is always been done, does not mean we have to keep doing it this way.
Subvert the dominant paradigm. Lobby your local Authorities and install a urine separation toilet.
Most of our potable water is sourced from dams in the hinterland. There are plans to build another dam over a hundred kilometres North of Brisbane. Yet the storm water that falls on the city of Brisbane (mostly on impervious, paved surfaces is channelled to the Brisbane River, mixes with the estuarine, brackish water and flows out to sea.
A de-salination plant 100 kilometres South, draws saline water from the ocean and uses electricity to purify the sea water and pump it into the so-called "water grid".
Taking a relatively solid reside, which contains some of the most harmful bacteria known to humanity and making a 1-2% slurry, solution, pumped hundreds of kilometres to centralised sewage treatment plants is a very inefficient use of electicity and potable water.
In Brisbane, we currently purify the sewage treatment plant effluent with an energy intensive process called Continuous Mirofiltration, followed by reverse osmosis. The lunacy continues with the purified water being pumped over 70 kilometres to be used to cool the exhaust from the steam turbines of a coal fired power station.
My background is in industrial water treatment (steam generation, heat rejection, process water, corrosion mitigation, anti-scalants, emulsion breaking etc). When I apply the principles of "cleaner production" to domestic sewage treatment, the first thing that needs to be done is separation of waste streams.
In other words, no.1's need to be kept separate from no.2's.
Adding a concentrated source of Nitogen, Phosphorus and trace quantities of endrocrine disruptors to this mix is sheer stupidity, considering the difficulty ond expense of removing the N.P and endrocrine disruptors from the dilute stream.
So what is the alternative?
I understand that Urine-separating toilets have been used as an effective source control measure in many parts of Europe for years. The No.1's can be collected and used beneficially as fertiliser and are a precursor to many industrial chemicals including ammonia, pool chlorine and/or bleach.
The No.2's contain many pathogens, which can be disinfected through dessication and/or heat. Once treated, this residue is a useful soil conditioner and source of organic material. It could even be digested and the biogases could be used to generate electricity.
There is billions of dollars tied up in the infrastructure that perpetuates this system. There is inertia and resistance to change. So just because this is the way it is always been done, does not mean we have to keep doing it this way.
Subvert the dominant paradigm. Lobby your local Authorities and install a urine separation toilet.
17 April, 2009
beef means burps
Anna still does not make the connection between cars, coal and COWS and climate change.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Joint Statement: Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Anna Bligh
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland
The Honourable Tim Mulherin
17/04/2009
Backing beef in Rocky: Bligh
The Beef Australia 2009 expo to be held in Rockhampton next month is expected to inject millions of dollars into the local economy and significantly boost export trade income.
In celebrating the eighth Beef Australia Expo (Mon 4 to Sat 9 May), the Queensland Government will have a significant presence through pavilions, property tours, mobile office, meetings, committees, trade fairs, seminars and workshops.
Premier Anna Bligh said with more than 60, 000 people expected to attend from around Australia and overseas, it would be a great forum to showcase the best that the Queensland beef industry had to offer in terms of science, sustainability and innovation.
"This is an excellent opportunity to see first-hand how Queenslanders work hard to produce the best beef in the world, create a strong industry powered by bright ideas, and protect our lifestyle and environment," Ms Bligh said.
"Domestic and international exhibitors will demonstrate the latest industry innovations from genetics to live cattle, and handling equipment to cattle management software.
"A strong trade focus makes Beef Australia 2009 the perfect opportunity to make contact with the widest possible number of beef and cattle suppliers in the one place at the one time in Australia," she said.
Member for Rockhampton Robert Schwarten said at Beef 2006 expo, about 60,000 people attended with an estimate of over $50 million dollars generated from trade.
"Rockhampton is the beef capital of Australia and we are proud to host the Beef expo, which attracts a range of people from the general public through to major players in the beef industry," Mr Schwarten said.
"The five-day Beef 09 expo will feature Australia's largest stud, carcass and commercial cattle competitions as well as property tours, seminars and hundreds of domestic and international trade exhibitors."
Primary Industries and Fisheries is the lead agency for the Queensland Government's involvement with Beef Australia 2009.
Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Minister Tim Mulherin encourages delegates to visit the Queensland Government Pavilion for information about skilling and careers, business and community development, science and innovation, sustainability and health.
"Biosecurity Queensland Officers will be available to answer any farm biosecurity issues as well as presenting the latest National Livestock Identification System (NLIS)Express mobile phone software technology," the Minister said.
"There will be daily Queensland wine tastings and safe food production lunchtime activities.
"At the Durack Pavilion, Primary Industries and Fisheries will also be launching the Australian Tropical Livestock Genetics website, which will provide a primary access point to overseas customers interested in purchasing Australian tropical livestock genetics."
The Queensland Government's major business matching program Handshakes 09 will also be rolled out during the expo, providing a unique opportunity for Australian and international enterprises and specialists in the meat and livestock industry to explore business opportunities and meet face-to-face.
Mr Mulherin said the range of services and activities to be showcased at Beef 09 was proof of the government's commitment to working with industry.
"Our aim is to strengthen our producers' capabilities and improve access to new markets and deliver better trade outcomes," Mr Mulherin said.
Beef 09 delegates can also visit the Queensland Government's Mobile Office in the Centre Arena for beef services advice.
Another highlight is the comprehensive workshop and seminar program, including leucaena production, FutureBeef, livestock transport and e-business solutions.
Partnerships with Queensland Government, Austrade, the International Livestock Resources and Information Centre (ILRIC), Meat and Livestock Australia, Quadrant Australia, peak industry bodies and breed societies will see international delegations from up to 30 countries attending.
For more information visit the Beef Australia website www.beefaustralia.com.au
Media: Minister's Office 3239 3120
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Joint Statement: Premier and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Anna Bligh
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland
The Honourable Tim Mulherin
17/04/2009
Backing beef in Rocky: Bligh
The Beef Australia 2009 expo to be held in Rockhampton next month is expected to inject millions of dollars into the local economy and significantly boost export trade income.
In celebrating the eighth Beef Australia Expo (Mon 4 to Sat 9 May), the Queensland Government will have a significant presence through pavilions, property tours, mobile office, meetings, committees, trade fairs, seminars and workshops.
Premier Anna Bligh said with more than 60, 000 people expected to attend from around Australia and overseas, it would be a great forum to showcase the best that the Queensland beef industry had to offer in terms of science, sustainability and innovation.
"This is an excellent opportunity to see first-hand how Queenslanders work hard to produce the best beef in the world, create a strong industry powered by bright ideas, and protect our lifestyle and environment," Ms Bligh said.
"Domestic and international exhibitors will demonstrate the latest industry innovations from genetics to live cattle, and handling equipment to cattle management software.
"A strong trade focus makes Beef Australia 2009 the perfect opportunity to make contact with the widest possible number of beef and cattle suppliers in the one place at the one time in Australia," she said.
Member for Rockhampton Robert Schwarten said at Beef 2006 expo, about 60,000 people attended with an estimate of over $50 million dollars generated from trade.
"Rockhampton is the beef capital of Australia and we are proud to host the Beef expo, which attracts a range of people from the general public through to major players in the beef industry," Mr Schwarten said.
"The five-day Beef 09 expo will feature Australia's largest stud, carcass and commercial cattle competitions as well as property tours, seminars and hundreds of domestic and international trade exhibitors."
Primary Industries and Fisheries is the lead agency for the Queensland Government's involvement with Beef Australia 2009.
Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Minister Tim Mulherin encourages delegates to visit the Queensland Government Pavilion for information about skilling and careers, business and community development, science and innovation, sustainability and health.
"Biosecurity Queensland Officers will be available to answer any farm biosecurity issues as well as presenting the latest National Livestock Identification System (NLIS)Express mobile phone software technology," the Minister said.
"There will be daily Queensland wine tastings and safe food production lunchtime activities.
"At the Durack Pavilion, Primary Industries and Fisheries will also be launching the Australian Tropical Livestock Genetics website, which will provide a primary access point to overseas customers interested in purchasing Australian tropical livestock genetics."
The Queensland Government's major business matching program Handshakes 09 will also be rolled out during the expo, providing a unique opportunity for Australian and international enterprises and specialists in the meat and livestock industry to explore business opportunities and meet face-to-face.
Mr Mulherin said the range of services and activities to be showcased at Beef 09 was proof of the government's commitment to working with industry.
"Our aim is to strengthen our producers' capabilities and improve access to new markets and deliver better trade outcomes," Mr Mulherin said.
Beef 09 delegates can also visit the Queensland Government's Mobile Office in the Centre Arena for beef services advice.
Another highlight is the comprehensive workshop and seminar program, including leucaena production, FutureBeef, livestock transport and e-business solutions.
Partnerships with Queensland Government, Austrade, the International Livestock Resources and Information Centre (ILRIC), Meat and Livestock Australia, Quadrant Australia, peak industry bodies and breed societies will see international delegations from up to 30 countries attending.
For more information visit the Beef Australia website www.beefaustralia.com.au
Media: Minister's Office 3239 3120
10 April, 2009
a message to the LORD MAYOR - Campbell Newman
Dear Lord Mayor,
A quick note to wish you well for Easter (or facsimile) and congratulate you on doing a top job.
I am pleased to see the corporate social responsibility demonstrated by Brisbane City Council in the current economic climate. It is fabulous news to hear that the Northern Link project is “on hold” for at least two years. This provides Council with an opportunity to re-consider the options and perhaps even come up with a better idea (like an iconic mass public transport system for example). The new big, phallic, super buses are a fabulous idea and are one step closer to the light rail system that Council should have built decades ago.
I applaud the improvements to day to day services provided by the Council, including street sweeping and litter collection. I have taken advantage of a wide range of energy saving options available through the Council’s Green Heart CitySmart program and I am encouraging my fellow citizens to do the same.
I would also like to thank you for an outcome that you may not have anticipated. The proposal for the Northern Link tunnel provided an excuse for the people in my neighbourhood to start talking to each other. We are now discussing how we might collaborate on a “Community Garden” somewhere in our precinct. Councillor David Hinchliffe has be very helpful and supportive. In the first instance, I am becoming involved with the community garden proposed for Victoria Park (near Bowen Bridge Road). We are also looking for suitable locations within our own precinct.
While 2009 will no doubt be a challenging year for us all, there are tremendous opportunities to move towards a more ecologically sustainable and socially responsible society.
Kind regards,
Rowan Barber
A quick note to wish you well for Easter (or facsimile) and congratulate you on doing a top job.
I am pleased to see the corporate social responsibility demonstrated by Brisbane City Council in the current economic climate. It is fabulous news to hear that the Northern Link project is “on hold” for at least two years. This provides Council with an opportunity to re-consider the options and perhaps even come up with a better idea (like an iconic mass public transport system for example). The new big, phallic, super buses are a fabulous idea and are one step closer to the light rail system that Council should have built decades ago.
I applaud the improvements to day to day services provided by the Council, including street sweeping and litter collection. I have taken advantage of a wide range of energy saving options available through the Council’s Green Heart CitySmart program and I am encouraging my fellow citizens to do the same.
I would also like to thank you for an outcome that you may not have anticipated. The proposal for the Northern Link tunnel provided an excuse for the people in my neighbourhood to start talking to each other. We are now discussing how we might collaborate on a “Community Garden” somewhere in our precinct. Councillor David Hinchliffe has be very helpful and supportive. In the first instance, I am becoming involved with the community garden proposed for Victoria Park (near Bowen Bridge Road). We are also looking for suitable locations within our own precinct.
While 2009 will no doubt be a challenging year for us all, there are tremendous opportunities to move towards a more ecologically sustainable and socially responsible society.
Kind regards,
Rowan Barber
re-inventing the roo
it frustrates me that they put so much time, effort and cash into maintaining the status quo, instead of biting the bullet and looking at alternative sources of protein (apart from cow & sheep) like roo, mushrooms etc....
James thinks it's funny that they're trying to turn cow's into Kangaroos when they could just use Kangaroos. "they're politicians, they have to look for solutions that will win votes".
---------- Forwarded message ----------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: statements@qld.gov.au
Subject: Winds of climate change for gassy cows
Date: Mon, 6 Apr 2009 10:07:53 +1000
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland
The Honourable Tim Mulherin
06/04/2009 Winds of climate change for gassy cows
The Queensland Government has secured funding for three new, major research projects aimed at cutting the greenhouse gas belched out by livestock.
Primary Industries and Fisheries in the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI), and the University of Queensland (UQ) were successful in obtaining three of the Federal Government's 18 emission reduction projects.
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Tim
Mulherin said the projects focus on minimising methane emissions from cattle and sheep.
Mr Mulherin said: "Many people don't realise that livestock produce serious quantities of methane - affecting the earth's temperature and climate system.
"In fact, methane 'burped out' by sheep and cattle contributes up to 14% of Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions.
"We are already known for cutting edge research on this problem - in particular investigating whether bacteria from kangaroos, which are largely methane-free, can be implanted in cattle and sheep to reduce their methane production.
"These three new projects are in addition to that research.
Almost $1 million has been allocated to the projects, which aim to be completed in the next three years," Mr Mulherin said.
Primary Industries and Fisheries senior principal research scientist and UQ associate professor in animal nutrition Dr Athol Klieve outlined the projects.
Dr Klieve said: "One project centres on using viruses that attack methane-producing microbes in the guts of cattle and sheep.
"We are sure these viruses exist, we just have to isolate them.
"Another project will investigate boosting livestock feed by adding lipids (oils).
"Improving feed quality with lipids automatically improves the condition of the animal and cuts the amount of methane produced. It also reduces the organisms in the gut that produce methane.
"The third project will investigate the value of microbes that turn the methane produced in the gut back into hydrogen and carbon dioxide," Dr Klieve said.
Mr Mulherin said: "If we began reducing methane emissions now, we could see a change in 10 to 20 years.
"These projects could help achieve that while also contributing to increased productivity within the beef, lamb, dairy and wool industries," he said.
"The scientists and PhD students in Primary Industries and Fisheries Rumen Ecology Unit are excited to be involved with these projects that could potentially achieve significant cuts to Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions for the future."
The projects are co-funded through the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry's Climate Change Research Program in conjunction with Meat and Livestock Australia.
For more information on animal science, visit the Primary Industries and Fisheries website at www.dpi.qld.gov.au or call the Business Information Centre on 13 25 23.
Media: 32396530
James thinks it's funny that they're trying to turn cow's into Kangaroos when they could just use Kangaroos. "they're politicians, they have to look for solutions that will win votes".
---------- Forwarded message ----------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: statements@qld.gov.au
Subject: Winds of climate change for gassy cows
Date: Mon, 6 Apr 2009 10:07:53 +1000
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland
The Honourable Tim Mulherin
06/04/2009 Winds of climate change for gassy cows
The Queensland Government has secured funding for three new, major research projects aimed at cutting the greenhouse gas belched out by livestock.
Primary Industries and Fisheries in the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI), and the University of Queensland (UQ) were successful in obtaining three of the Federal Government's 18 emission reduction projects.
Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Tim
Mulherin said the projects focus on minimising methane emissions from cattle and sheep.
Mr Mulherin said: "Many people don't realise that livestock produce serious quantities of methane - affecting the earth's temperature and climate system.
"In fact, methane 'burped out' by sheep and cattle contributes up to 14% of Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions.
"We are already known for cutting edge research on this problem - in particular investigating whether bacteria from kangaroos, which are largely methane-free, can be implanted in cattle and sheep to reduce their methane production.
"These three new projects are in addition to that research.
Almost $1 million has been allocated to the projects, which aim to be completed in the next three years," Mr Mulherin said.
Primary Industries and Fisheries senior principal research scientist and UQ associate professor in animal nutrition Dr Athol Klieve outlined the projects.
Dr Klieve said: "One project centres on using viruses that attack methane-producing microbes in the guts of cattle and sheep.
"We are sure these viruses exist, we just have to isolate them.
"Another project will investigate boosting livestock feed by adding lipids (oils).
"Improving feed quality with lipids automatically improves the condition of the animal and cuts the amount of methane produced. It also reduces the organisms in the gut that produce methane.
"The third project will investigate the value of microbes that turn the methane produced in the gut back into hydrogen and carbon dioxide," Dr Klieve said.
Mr Mulherin said: "If we began reducing methane emissions now, we could see a change in 10 to 20 years.
"These projects could help achieve that while also contributing to increased productivity within the beef, lamb, dairy and wool industries," he said.
"The scientists and PhD students in Primary Industries and Fisheries Rumen Ecology Unit are excited to be involved with these projects that could potentially achieve significant cuts to Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions for the future."
The projects are co-funded through the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry's Climate Change Research Program in conjunction with Meat and Livestock Australia.
For more information on animal science, visit the Primary Industries and Fisheries website at www.dpi.qld.gov.au or call the Business Information Centre on 13 25 23.
Media: 32396530
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