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Thursday 9 July 2026
Seen sick or dead birds or wildlife? Avoid. Record. Report
H5 bird flu has not been detected in Victoria, but community reports play an important role in helping us monitor for signs of disease.
Each report DEECA receives is reviewed and assessed using information such as the species, number of birds affected, location and disease risk.
Not all reports will lead to an investigation, collection or testing. Where further action is needed, we may contact you for more information or arrange collection and testing.
If you see sick or dead birds or wildlife, avoid contact, record its exact location and report it online or call 1800 675 888.
You can also view reports on our online map and follow surveillance activity across the state.
Don’t bring back more than holiday memories
Jim Moran, Leading Biosecurity Officer - Plants
Hopefully, the challenges of last harvest and this season’s sowing are now behind you, providing the opportunity for you to enjoy a well earnt winter holiday.
If you’re travelling interstate or overseas it is important to remain vigilant with hygiene practices and do your biosecurity checks before returning home.
Trips to other regions, especially grain growing regions, perhaps to attend field days or visit farms, may inadvertently put Victoria at risk to new pests, weeds and diseases.
Recording: Understanding H5 bird flu webinar
If you missed the VFF webinar last Thursday 2 July on 'Understanding H5 bird flu' with presentations from DEECA staff on H5N1 bird flu, catch up on YouTube.
The webinar includes:
- what is H5N1 avian influenza
- animals at risk
- potential impacts for producers
- biosecurity measures.
Out now: July Very Fast Break
The Very Fast Break seasonal climate update video clip for July is now available.
We love to receive your feedback. If you have comments, questions or feedback, please contact Dale Grey at the.break@agriculture.vic.gov.au
Support is available for farmers in fire recovery
Farmers impacted by the January 2026 bushfires: you may be eligible for financial support for recovery.
- Primary Producer Bushfire Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 to assist with clean-up and reinstating enterprises.
- Primary Producer Bushfire Recovery Concessional Loans of up to $250,000 for those who have suffered major asset damage or loss of income.
Applications can be made at ruralfinance.com.au/grants
Drought Hardship Loans
The Australian Government has introduced the RIC Drought Hardship Loan to support farm businesses experiencing severe and prolonged drought.
The loan provides up to $250,000 over 5 years, at the RIC’s concessional interest rate (currently 5.18%), with a 2-year repayment holiday, to help farmers manage essential operating costs and improve cash flow during extended dry conditions.
It is available to eligible farm businesses that have managed through at least 24 months of drought and expect further impacts ahead. The loan complements other drought support and can be accessed alongside state programs.
Australian Government drought support information can be found here: drought.gov.au
A Feed and a Yarn – Orbost
When: Friday 10 July, 6 pm
Where: Orbost Club Hotel, 63 Nicholson Street, Orbost
Join us for a feed and a yarn, a chance to connect with fellow farmers and share experiences.
Explore practical ideas for on-farm challenges, whether it’s seasonal conditions, farm management, or simply a chat with people who understand.
Everyone is welcome! Numbers are limited so you must register to attend.
Doors open 6 pm, Farmer panel 6:30 pm and meal 7 pm.
Meals will be provided. Drinks at bar prices.
Better seasonal decisions online discussion: Connecting for clarity
When: Friday 10 July, 9-10 am
Where: Online
Cost: Free
It has been a year of surprises and there could be more to come. Join us online to share your experiences, connect with other farmers and navigate the business end of the 2026 growing season with guidance.
Guest presenter Dr Kate Burke is an independent farm consultant, with extensive experience across all aspects of crop decision-making and farm business management.
Online discussion topics
- How do we protect potential and be mindful of seasonal forecasts
- How do we manage input supply issues
- How do we plan for harvest
- How do we navigate the unknown
Discussions will be led by participants’ questions - think ahead and bring your questions to ask Kate during the session.
Aboriginal business procurement information session
When: Thursday 30 July, 12-1 pm
Location: online
Cost: free
Join Agriculture Victoria and Kinaway Chamber of Commerce for an online information session. Learn how Aboriginal businesses can supply goods and services to Agriculture Victoria.
What you will learn:
- what Agriculture Victoria buys
- where we work across Victoria
- where procurement opportunities may be available
- how our procurement processes work
- future opportunities and support available
Why you should attend
- understand how procurement supports the Victorian Government’s Pupangarli Marnmarnepu – Owning Our Future strategy
- learn how the strategy creates more opportunities for Aboriginal businesses
- get practical tips on working with Agriculture Victoria
Who should attend
- Aboriginal-owned businesses
- Traditional Owner Corporations
Be Work Ready – Jobs on Farms
When: Commencing Tuesday 4 August 9:30 am – 2:30 pm, running for 5 sessions, concluding Thursday 13 August
Where: Heyfield Community Resource Centre, 5 George Street, Heyfield
Looking to start a rewarding career in agriculture? Our locally focused training course is designed to help you gain the practical skills and confidence needed to step into jobs across a variety of ag-based sectors. With strong industry connections and support to make the first steps into employment, you’ll be better prepared to secure real job opportunities in your community.
- Local farm tours
- Meet industry representatives
- Support with resume writing and interview skills
- TAFE training pathways
and more...
Keep up to date with GippsDairy's events on their website.
Keep up to date with Gippsland Agricultural Group's events on their website.
Keep up to date with Food & Fibre Gippsland's events on their website.
Contacting Agriculture Victoria
Call 136 186 from anywhere in Australia for the cost of a local call (except for mobiles and public telephones).
If you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment, contact us through the National Relay Service at 133 677 or visit the National Relay Service.
All contact points can be found at: agriculture.vic.gov.au/about-us/contact-us
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