Best rainfall break in years

“Finley received 43mm, Blighty received 49.5mm, South Coree received 39mm, Jerilderie received 38mm and Berrigan received between 40mm and 43mm,” he reported after speaking with landholders.

The Southern Riverina News has also received reports there had been rainfall between Conargo, Jerilderie and Colleambally of about 60mm.

Mr Lacy said the rainfall was “really important because they (producers) have had no fallow moisture”.

“We haven’t had significant rains for five months,” he said.

“The timing of this rain will allow weeds to grow on this moisture, so farmers can have a crack getting them out by doing a weed kill.

“Normally with rains during the fallow season, weeds grow and they can then go in and spray them before planting.

“Before this rainfall, people were really stressing, but this will give farmers a lot more confidence.”

Nutrien Ag Solutions Finley senior agronomist Hayden Lunn said the downpour contributes to a positive outlook for farmers in the region.

“It is fantastic rain,” he said.

“It is fairly even across the board, with places seeming to get about a minimum of around 35mm and up to 55mm.

“It will allow farmers to start weed kill and control on summer crops that haven’t really had rain.

“The moisture in the ground will also help dry-land situation crops.

“It’s also had a little bit of an impact on the water price and brought that back a bit, dropping the price slightly, but we’re not sure yet if it will affect the allocation.”

Mr Lunn said the great seasonal start will also allow farmers to be better positioned for the season ahead.

“The sooner they can get out to plant now, the better.

“We have had some clients sow a bit, as it is going to germinate it really well with the warmer weather following.

“It’s also good for summer crops such as rice, cotton and corn as it saves on extra watering for the farmers, and they use some of that for pre watering or for pasture.

“It is a very timely rain with a lot of benefit for weed control and moisture.”