After some tough years, the US’s national breeding herd is tipped to reach record levels. One of the country’s leading bull breeders, Kit Pharo, said: “The projected beef production for 2018 is above the previous high in 2002. Are you prepared to take 2002 prices for your calves? That would be just a little over half what they are worth today.” If Australian cattle prices in 2018 settled at values around half of what they are currently, there would be much pain. However, most producers are realistic and adapt accordingly.

Freezing cold in September, and some of the locals reckon the run of frosts has never been seen before. So, it is sobering the bureau tells us average winter temperatures in Australia rose by two degrees. Well, it must have been dammed hot in some places because it has been very cold in northern Victoria and the Riverina. Seems global warming is selective.​