Mikkira

Mikkira Station is a pastoral lease that operates as a sheep station in South Australia.
It is situated approximately south west of Port Lincoln and south east of Coffin Bay on the Eyre Peninsula. The property is composed of grassy plains well watered by Sleaford Mere, Fishery Creek and other permanent springs along with numerous wells.
The traditional owners of the area are the Barngalla, Nauo and Battara peoples who inhabited the Eyre peninsula for thousands of years and often camped at the permanent Mikkira waterhole while travelling along the coastline.
Settled in 1842, Mikkira was one of the first properties settled on the lower Eyre Peninsula.
The station was placed on the market in 1863, it had some improvements and was stocked with 9,700 sheep. Owned by the Cadby Brothers Mikkira occupied an area of . It contained a homestead, workers huts, store, kitchen, woolshed and drafting yards.
The property was owned by William James Browne from before 1870 to at least 1881, the property was being managed by Alexander Tolmer from 1864 to 1887.
In 1884 Mikkira was put up for auction when it was stocked with about 6,000 sheep.
John William Henderson acquired Mikkira in 1911 and held it until his death in 1914.
The Theakstone family acquired the station in 1923, with the family still owning the property today. Elzabeth de la Perrelle (née Theakstone) took over the freehold in 1986.
In 2012 the station was struck by the Sleaford bushfire and several koalas at the property were killed. A count was completed in 2013 and found 114 koalas as were found in the sanctuary area, although some of their habitat had been destroyed by the flames.


Alex Shigo

www.ShigoandTrees.com
Alex L. Shigo (May 8, 1930 – October 6, 2006) was a biologist, plant pathologist with the United States Forest Service whose studies of tree decay resulted in many improvements to standard arboricultural practices. He travelled and lectured widely to promote understanding of tree biology among arborists and foresters. His large body of primary research serves as a broad foundation for further research in tree biology.
Biography.
Shigo was born in Duquesne, Pennsylvania. He served as a clarinetist with the United States Air Force Band in Washington DC for four years during the Korean War. After his service, he earned a Bachelor of Biological Science degree at Waynesburg College in Pennsylvania in 1956, followed by a MS and PhD in Plant Pathology at West Virginia University in 1958 and 1959..
He joined the U.S. Forest Service as a tree pathologist. He served there as Chief Scientist for 25 years and retired in 1985. Shigo was known for his digressive and philosophical style when writing and speaking, and for his trademarked phrase, “touch trees,” with which he autographed his books.
Research.
Early in his career, the first one-man chainsaws became available. These enabled him to prepare longitudinal sections of trees, which allowed him to study the longitudinal spread of decay organisms within them. A major discovery from this work was that trees have ways of walling off decaying tissues, which he named Compartmentalization of Decay in Trees (CODIT). This led to reassessment of arboricultural practices such as pruning techniques and cavity treatments, which showed that many then current practices (such as coating cuts with tar) actually promoted decay or were ineffective. The ANSI A-300 Pruning Standard reflects his recommendations.
Publications.
Shigo produced over 270 publications, including many research papers, books, pamphlets, CDs, and DVDs. In retirement, he and his wife Marilyn published these as Shigo and Trees, Associates. He traveled the world doing presentations, workshops, seminars and demonstrations, sharing his passion for trees. The Shigo and Trees, Associates business was transferred to their daughter in 2005.


Mount Minnie Station

Mount Minnie Station, often referred to as Mount Minnie, is a pastoral lease that once operated as a sheep station but now operates as a cattle station.
It is located about south east of Onslow and east of Exmouth in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
The property was pioneered by Kenneth Durwent Messer. It was once part of the Gifford Creek lease, which was owned by Septimus Burt. The station takes its name from the nearby Minnie Creek. In 1913 a stone homestead was built on the property.


Shenggen Fan

Shenggen Fan (樊胜根) was the Director General of the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) between 2009 and 2019.
He is known for his work on transition economies and rural development in China. His research has focused on analysis of the role of public and private investments in agriculture and public infrastructure in the fight against chronic poverty and hunger. In addition to his work on his home country, he has also worked extensively in other Asian countries, and East Africa.
Education.
He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from Nanjing Agricultural University in China. In 1989, he graduated from the College of Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences of the University of Minnesota with a Ph.D. in applied economics. His research was the first to separately measure the effects of the green revolution promoted by international agricultural research, technological change, and institutional changes in China, on the productivity of the Chinese agricultural system.
Career.
After completing his PhD, he was a post-doctoral fellow and associate research officer at the International Service for National Agricultural Research (ISNAR) in The Hague, Netherlands from 1990-1992, and then a research economist at the Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. From there, he joined IFPRI in 1995.
At IFPRI, he was successively
Other activities.
Fan has received the Outstanding Alumni Award in Applied Economics and the Distinguished Leadership Award for Internationals in 2006 (both from the University of Minnesota).
He is a member of the Executive Committee of the International Association of Agricultural Economists and has been on the editorial boards of "Food Policy" (UK), 2002–Present. "Journal of Chinese Rural Economy, China", 2001–Present and " Review of Agricultural Economics", USA, 2001–2002
Fan is a member of the Leadership Council of Compact2025, an initiative for ending hunger and undernutrition by 2025.
Since 2004, Fan is an adjunct fellow of the Institute of Indian Dalit Studies, New Delhi.
Dr. Shenggen Fan is on the Board of Trustees of the University of Central Asia.
Awards.
Fan received the 2017 Fudan Management Excellence Award, which recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the field of management.
Publications.
Fan has published 32 peer-reviewed journal articles, which were cited over 250 times.
He has also edited or (co-)authored 7 books:


Bel Paese (cheese)

Bel Paese () is a semi-soft Italian cheese. It was invented in 1906 by Egidio Galbani who wanted to produce a mild and delicate cheese to sell mainly in Italy. The name Bel Paese comes from the title of a book written by Antonio Stoppani. It is Italian for "beautiful country", and is used as a phrase for Italy itself.
Originally produced in Melzo, a small town near Milan in the Lombardy region, it is now made in both Italy and the United States. Bel Paese is a cow's milk cheese. It matures for six to eight weeks, and has a creamy and light milky aroma. The color is a pale, creamy yellow. It is made in small discs, and is very similar to the French Saint-Paulin cheese and to German "Butterkäse". It has a mild, buttery flavor for which it has been popularly eaten with fruity wines, such as dry red or white. It is favored by many as a snack or dessert cheese and melts easily for use on pizzas or in casseroles. It is often used as a substitute for mozzarella cheese.
Genuine Bel Paese cheese can be determined by the wrapping. It has an image of the Italian geologist and paleontologist Antonio Stoppani, whose geological treatise "Il bel paese" gave its name to Galbani's cheese; but while on the wrapping of the cheese made in Italy Stoppani's image comes with a map of Italy, cheese made in the United States has a map of America.


Pierre Bossier

Pierre Evariste Jean-Baptiste Bossier (pronounced Boh Zhay) (March 22, 1797 – April 24, 1844) was a planter, soldier and politician born in Natchitoches, Louisiana. He is the namesake of Bossier Parish (pronounced ), located east of the Red River across from Shreveport in northwestern Louisiana. Bossier City and the Pierre Bossier Mall shopping center in Bossier City are among the other places named for him.
Early life and education.
Born in Natchitoches in 1797, during the period of Spanish rule in Louisiana, Pierre Evariste Jean-Baptiste Bossier was the son of the planter François Paul Bossier and the former Catherine Pélagie Lambre. An ethnic French Catholic Creole, he was privately educated by a tutor in the classics.
Career and death.
Bossier was a planter like his father and cultivated cotton and sugar as commodity crops on his plantation, Live Oaks, on the Cane River, depending on the labor of large gangs of enslaved African Americans. This waterway was formerly a segment of the Red River, in Natchitoches Parish. Like other native-born creoles of the planter elite, Bossier served in the state militia, gaining the rank of general.
He entered politics as a Democrat. Bossier was elected as a member of the Louisiana State Senate in 1832, defeating Whig Louis Gustave De Russy. Bossier served from 1833 to 1843.
In the summer of 1839, a political argument between a prominent Whig, General F. Gaiennie, and State Senator General P. E. Bossier, a Democrat, escalated to recriminations published in the local newspaper. Gaiennie, also a general in the state militia, had denounced Bossier as a coward. Bossier demanded a duel and Gaiennie accepted, choosing rifles as the most deadly weapon available. The duel occurred the following autumn on the grounds of Cherokee Plantation, which was owned by Emile Sompayrac in Natchitoches Parish. Gaiennie fired first and missed, Bossier hit Gaiennie in the heart, killing him instantly. Another eleven men died in the aftermath, as animosities related to the duel continued to play out.
Bossier was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from the newly established Louisiana's 4th congressional district, serving from March 4, 1843, until his death in office a year later on April 24, 1844 in Washington, D.C. before his first term had ended.
Driven by grief over the duel and its fallout, Bossier committed suicide. His coffin was placed in the well of Old Hall of the House and services were conducted by James A. Ryder S.J., then the president of Georgetown University.
Bossier's remains are interred at the Catholic Cemetery in Natchitoches.
Legacy and honors.
Bossier City, Bossier Parish, and Pierre Bossier Mall in Bossier City, and Bossier Street in Natchitoches, are all named in his honor.


Shah Jeewna

Shah Jeewna (or Jewna, Jiwana, Jewana) is a town of Jhang District in the Punjab, Pakistan. it is located on the Jhang-Lalian road at 31°31'13N 72°20'21E 34 km from Jhang.
Shah Jeewna was named after Syed Mehboob Alam Naqvi-ul Bukhari Al-Maroof Shah Jewna a famous pir and missionary also descendant of Jalaluddin Surkh-Posh Bukhari. His father Syed Sadaruddin Shah Kabeer Naqvi was polyester and advisor of King Sikandar Lodi. Shah Jewna migrated from Kannauj to Shah Jeewna (a town named for him), which was deserted until he settled there. Jewna's descendants still present in various places of India including Abdullapur Meerut.


Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kannur

Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kannur is a front-line agricultural extension center and one of the 700 KVKs financed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). It opened on 30 March 2004 on the premises of Pepper Research Station, Panniyur under Kerala Agricultural University. KVK primarily works to influence the other extension systems of the district, caters to the training needs of the farmers and extension functionaries, and facilitates the spread of technologies tailored to the diverse environment of farmers.
Thrust areas.
The activities of the Kendra are focused to address the prioritized agricultural problems of the district and identified thrust areas.
Location.
The station is at the Pepper Research Station Campus at Poovam, which is 8 km from Taliparamba towards Alakkode route in Kannur district.
On farm testing (OFT).
Mite control.
KVK has carried out field trials of a compact area group approach (CAGA) for mite control at Vellavu in Pariyaram panchayat. Limits against coconut mite was discussed in the state assembly. Under a Creative Extension programme, the Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kannur produced a tele-cine-drama titled "Thengukalude Nilavili" (Screaming coconut palms) as part of a Compact area group approach (CAGA) implemented at Vellavu under Pariyaram grama panchayat limits. The film gained wide acceptance, and the Director of Agriculture in the government of Kerala accorded sanction for the purchase of 1088 CDs of "Thengukalude Nilavili" by the principal agricultural officers of all districts from the KVK, Kannur for screening in all Grama Panchayaths of the state through Krishi Bhavanas. The telefilm is the first of its kind aimed at bringing about changes in the mindset of farmers.
Phytophthora.
Crop loss due to severe incidence of Phytophthora foot rot disease of black pepper and poor adoption of the technological recommendations against the disease — as they are labour- and cost-intensive — is a major problem for the pepper farmers of Kannur district. Hence, an OFT was undertaken to tackle this problem.
Front-line demonstrations (FLDs).
FLD on stem bleeding of coconut.
Technologies to control stem bleeding disease of coconut was convincingly demonstrated to the farmers of Sreekandapuram area. Farmers accepted the technology and the Panchayat included the technology in their annual plan. The message spreads through mass media.
Coir pith compost for the management of moisture stress in rain-fed coconut.
To demonstrate the benefits of coir pith compost in combating the moisture stress in coconuts, this FLD was implemented at Kudiyanmala. It created a great impact on the local coir industry. In Kannur district, there are 36 cooperative societies and 25 private coir industries. The coir pith waste from these industries creates serious environmental problems. KVK, Kannur recognized the potential of coir pith and implemented this FLD. One of the cooperative societies, Kudiyanmala Coir Vyavasaya Sangham approached KVK for training on coir pith compost making. After the training the society initiated the composting by producing 12 tons of quality compost. The society became rejuvenated and this small intervention brought considerable benefits through waste disposal, soil enrichment, moisture conservation and employment generation.
Subsurface Dyke.
The sub-surface dyke constructed at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kannur at Panniyur near Taliparamba under Kerala Agricultural University with the support of ICAR as part of demonstrating rain water harvesting technologies has become a living example for an effective method for ground water conservation. A trench was made across the valley portion of the undulating topography of the farm down to the bed rock. Three layers of plastic sheets were spread on the wall of the trench from ground level to the bed rock level. The plastic sheet on the wall measured 40m in length with a maximum depth of 8 m. It obstructs the flow of sub surface water raising water table in the catchment area.
The dyke was constructed in the 25 hectare farm of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kannur in 2007 to solve the problem of water scarcity. The experience of KVK indicated that subsurface dyke was an efficient barrier to arrest the subsurface flow of water and conserve ground water. The rate of depletion of drainable water in the catchment area due to the typical undulating topography could be efficiently arrested by the dyke. The dyke resulted in the maintenance of higher water table in the catchment area for a longer period of time. There is an existing dug out pond with top length of 12 m, width 8m a depth 5m in the upstream side of the dyke. The pond is the only source of water in the KVK farm. The pond, which usually gets dried up in the summer is now maintaining a high water table throughout the year as the dyke ensures an incessant supply of water to the pond. Weekly data on the ground water level were recorded using water level recorder. The data showed that significantly higher level of water table was maintained in the catchment area (upstream area) compared to down stream area. Taking into account the mean depth of soil as 2 m the catchment area as 1.5ha (the actual area is 15 ha) and the drainable porosity as 10%, the total water storage capacity of the dyke would be 3000 m3. The crops cultivated in the catchment area would be benefited by way of constant capillary feeding of the rhizosphere. Kerala receives, on an average, more than 3000mm of rainfall per annum which is concentrated to the months of June to October. Due to the typical undulating topography of the state, the excess rain received is mostly lost through runoff. Immediately on cessation of rains subsurface water drains off along the slope resulting in poor retention of water in the catchment area. In spite of the heavy rainfall received in Kerala, the state experiences severe drought during summer months due to inefficient utilisation of rain water. In a state like Kerala, where the pressure on land is very high surface storage of water in large reservoirs with their adverse ecological impact is not an economic proposition. Alternatively, structures like subsurface dyke are most ideal for in situ conservation of rainfall received in a watershed.
Training.
Nursery techniques.
A number of groups and individuals who received vocational training subsequently started horticultural nurseries.
Mushroom production.
The KVK conducts vocational training on mushroom cultivation, spawn production and value addition. After completion of the training programme a group of trainees formed a club under the patronage of KVK and registered with the name Malabar Mushrooms.
Trichoderma production.
KVK formed a women's self-help group (SHG) with 17 ex trainees, who have undergone training on trichoderma, nursery techniques and banana fibre extraction. The group was named Pulari and they are a human resource to KVK production units.
Cashew apple processing.
An ex-trainee, Tomochan Syriac, started the first-ever cashew apple processing unit in the district under the brand name TOMCO.
Coconut climbing.
To address the paucity of coconut climbers in the district, KVK conducts vocational training for rural youth in coconut climbing and plant protection. The Kendra also conducts training on coconut climbing using climbing machine developed by Dar. M.J. Joseph.
Credit facilities.
To facilitate beneficiary farmers and entrepreneurs Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kannur (Kerala) took initiative in collaboration with State Bank of India (SBI) and opened a ‘SBI-KVK Loan Window’ at KVK which offers hassle-free credit facilities. This facility was operational 2 March 2009. With this facility, farmers and entrepreneurs who benefited from KVK on technologies in agriculture and allied fields through vocational training and other income generating activities will be able to get credit facilities to start their vocations. In addition, they would be provided with information regarding subsidies from agencies like District Industries Centre. The main target group of the SBI-KVK Loan Window is KVK farm families. With the introduction of this single window facility, trainees could discuss plans of action on reaping harvest of the technologies advocated by KVK trainers with the bankers on the spot. Initially the Loan Window would be open once a week. State Bank of India has deputed an officer to operate the counter so that farmers’ needs could be well-assessed (financially and technologically) under KVK guidance. In addition, support for project preparation and loan processing would also be given at the loan window.
Plant Health Clinic.
There is a Plant Health Clinic functioning at the Kendra. Plant and soil samples are analysed for major and minor nutrients at the clinic.
Other activities.
KVK has also been involved with Farmers' Science Congress, Subsurface dyke, and the Paddy Task Force.


Bitsa Park

Bitsevski Park () is one of the largest natural parks (forests) in Moscow, Russia. The park, traversed by the Chertanovka River and the Bitsa River, sprawls for some 10 km from north to south and covers the area of 18 square kilometres. The park is elongated from the north to the south and is bounded by Balaklavsky Avenue from the north.
Nature.
The park is home to more than 500 species of plants, including lindens, oaks, and fine firs, planted by Mikhail Katkov's son at his family manor in the 19th century. 33 species of mammals and 78 species of birds have been registered in the park.
Relative events.
The grounds of the park contain the Museum of Paleontology, as well as the 18th-century country estates of Uzkoye and Znamenskoye-Sadki and the reconstructed estate of Yasenevo. They skirt the Bitsa horse-riding complex which was built for the 1980 Olympic Games. The forest was the site where serial killer Alexander Pichushkin committed the vast majority of his 61 murders.


Roussin de Morgex

Roussin de Morgex (sometimes known as Rossano Rosso in Italy) is an Italian grape variety, native to the western part of Valle d'Aosta in the municipality of Morgex. It is a pink-skinned teinturier grape that produced a light pink juice. Although it may by used as one of the autochthonous varieties allowed in the red DOC wine from the region, Valle d'Aosta Rosso, in 2010 it was not cultivated commercially; according to wine writer Ian D'Agata nobody had made wine from it in 300 years. Since then, small experimental plantings have been made, and a subsequent 20 bottle batch of pink sparkling wine produced by Cave Mont Blanc in 2014 showed sufficient promise to spur further research and planting.
Origin.
Roussin de Morgex belongs to a group of grape varieties geographically isolated in the Alpine regions of Italy and Valais, in Switzerland. DNA analyses suggest that while unrelated to Roussin, it is related to the Prié variety, and more distantly to Rèze, from the Swiss Alps.


Unionville Vineyards

Unionville Vineyard is a winery in the Unionville section of East Amwell in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. Originally part of the largest peach orchard in the United States, the vineyard was first planted in 1988, and opened to the public in 1993. Unionville has 41 acres of grapes under cultivation, and produces 4,500 cases of wine per year. The winery is named for a former village near where the farm is located.
Wines.
Unionville Vineyards specializes in the use of Burgundy, Rhône, and Alsatian grapes. Wine is produced from Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chambourcin, Counoise, Gewürztraminer, Marsanne, Mourvèdre, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Roussanne, Syrah, and Viognier grapes. It is the only winery in New Jersey that grows and produces wine from Counoise, Marsanne, and Roussanne – "vinifera" grapes indigenous to the Rhone river valley of France.
Unionville is best known for its single vineyard Chardonnay wines. At the 2010 International Wine and Spirit Competition, which included both blind tasting and laboratory analysis, Unionville's Chardonnay was the only wine from the United States to win a gold (best in class) medal. Likewise, their Chardonnay was the highest-scoring wine from New Jersey at the Judgment of Princeton, a wine tasting organized by the American Association of Wine Economists that compared in-state wines to premium French vintages. The winery is not located in one of New Jersey's three viticultural areas.
Licensing and associations.
Unionville has a plenary winery license from the New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control, which allows it to produce an unrestricted amount of wine, operate up to 15 off-premises sales rooms, and ship up to 12 cases per year to consumers in-state or out-of-state. The winery is a member of The Winemakers Co-Op, a collection of wineries advocating and promoting fine wines from New Jersey-grown "vinifera" grapes. Unionville Vineyards is also a member of the Garden State Wine Growers Association and Vintage North Jersey.


Simon Coveney

Simon Coveney (born 16 June 1972) is an Irish Fine Gael politician who has served as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence since June 2020 and Deputy Leader of Fine Gael since June 2017. He has served as a Teachta Dála (TD) for the Cork South-Central constituency since 1998. He previously served as Tánaiste from 2017 to 2020, Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government from 2016 to 2017 and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine from 2011 to 2016. He also served as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for the South constituency from 2004 to 2007.
He was elected to Dáil Éireann in a by-election, following the death of his father Hugh Coveney.
After the formation of the coalition government in March 2011, Coveney was appointed Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Following a cabinet reshuffle in July 2014, which saw him also take over the position of Minister for Defence. Following the formation of a Fine Gael minority government in May 2016, he was appointed Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government. In June 2017, after Leo Varadkar succeeded Enda Kenny as Taoiseach, Varadkar appointed Coveney as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Deputy Leader of Fine Gael. He was appointed Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) in November 2017, following the resignation of Frances Fitzgerald. As part of the new government formed following the 2020 general election, Coveney was appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defence in the new cabinet.
Early life.
Coveney was born in Cork in 1972 to Hugh Coveney and Pauline Coveney. His father was a chartered quantity surveyor and later a TD, and also a member of one of the famous merchant families in the city. His uncle is Archbishop Patrick Coveney. Simon was educated locally in Cork, before later attending Clongowes Wood College, County Kildare. He was expelled from the college in Transition Year but ultimately was invited back to complete his full six years there. He repeated his Leaving Certificate in Bruce College in Cork. Coveney subsequently attended University College Cork and Gurteen Agricultural College, before completing a BSc in Agriculture and Land Management from Royal Agricultural College, Gloucestershire. In 1997/8, he led the “Sail Chernobyl Project” which involved sailing a boat 30,000 miles around the world and raising €650,000 for charity. He spent several years working as an agriculture adviser and farm manager.
His brother, Patrick, is chief executive of the food corporation Greencore.
Political career.
Early years in Dáil Éireann: 1998–2004.
Coveney was elected to Dáil Éireann as a Fine Gael candidate for Cork South-Central in a by-election, caused by the death of his father in 1998. In spite of being a strong supporter of party leader John Bruton, he remained on the backbenches for a number of years.
In 2001, discipline in the parliamentary party broke down and Coveney came out against Bruton in a leadership heave. His loss of support was a surprise and encouraged others to vote against Bruton. The subsequent leadership contest was won by Michael Noonan and a new front bench was put in place.
After an initial period on the backbenches, Coveney was promoted to the Front Bench by Michael Noonan, as deputy chief whip.
Coveney was re-elected at the 2002 general election, in what turned out to be a disaster for Fine Gael. The party lost twenty-three seats and some of its most important party figures. Noonan was replaced as party leader by Enda Kenny, who promoted Coveney to the position of Spokesperson on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, in his new front bench.
Member of the European Parliament: 2004–2007.
Coveney was elected to the European Parliament for the South constituency, in the 2004 European Parliament election. During his three years as an MEP, Coveney held the position of human rights co-ordinator for the largest political group in the European Parliament, the European People's Party, and twice authored the Parliament's Annual Report on Human Rights in the world. He spearheaded the Stop the Traffic campaign at the European Parliament. He was a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee and the Delegation for Relations with the United States and a substitute on the Human Rights Subcommittee, Fisheries Committee, Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee and the Delegation for Relations with Iran.
Return to the Dáil: 2007–2011.
Coveney returned to Ireland to contest the 2007 general election. He was successful in being returned to the Dáil, as a result, he stepped down as a Member of the European Parliament. He was replaced in the European Parliament by Colm Burke.
Fine Gael won back many of the seats that the party had lost five years earlier; however, they still fell short of forming a coalition government with the Labour Party. Coveney returned to the party's front bench as Spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.
In June 2010, Coveney and a number of other front bench Spokespersons stated that they had , Enda Kenny. A subsequent confidence motion in the leader was won by Kenny. Coveney was re-appointed to the front bench as Spokesperson on Transport.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine: 2011–2016.
On 9 March 2011, Coveney was appointed Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, in the new Fine Gael-Labour Party coalition government.
He attended his first meeting of EU Agriculture Ministers, in Brussels on 17 March 2011.
Coveney provoked controversy when, in September 2011, he flew to Algeria, on the government jet at a cost of more than €26,000 to the Irish taxpayer when there were flights available for €16,331. While there, Coveney cut a ribbon at the opening of a supermarket in Oran.
In May 2014, Coveney attended a meeting of the Bilderberg Group, in Copenhagen.
Minister for Defence: 2014–2016.
On 11 July 2014, Coveney was also appointed as Minister for Defence, in a cabinet reshuffle, following the resignation of Eamon Gilmore as Tánaiste. He took over from Taoiseach Enda Kenny, who was the acting Minister for Defence, following Alan Shatter's resignation from cabinet, in May 2014. As Minister for Defence, Coveney launched the White Paper on Defence in August 2015.
On 17 June 2015, Coveney questioned the judgment of an experienced Air Corps pilot who refused to fly him to Cork, because of predicted fog. In email correspondence between Department of Defence officials, the Air Corps is described as being “very unhappy” about the incident and indicating that they had never received such a call in 25 years.”
In January 2017 it emerged that a number of Air Corps whistleblowers had attempted to contact Coveney while he was Defence Minister over their concerns about the adverse health impacts of chemicals used to service the force's aircraft. The whistleblowers had complained about being unable to speak to Coveney about the issue, however Coveney claimed he was “not aware of there being any problem with hearing from, or talking to, or understanding the concerns that whistleblowers may have”.
The Irish Examiner subsequently published a series of text messages between one of the whistleblowers and then-Chief Whip Regina Doherty sent in January 2016. Doherty forwarded a text message onto one of the whistleblowers that she said came from Coveney, in which he said he would call this whistleblower the next day. The call never took place.
Speaking in the Dáil on the revelations, Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin described the Government handling of the whistleblowers' complaints as 'a scandal'.
Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government: 2016–17.
On 6 May 2016, Coveney was appointed the new Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, with Taoiseach Enda Kenny taking over the Defence portfolio and Fine Gael TD Michael Creed becoming the new Minister for Agriculture.
Fine Gael leadership election: 2017.
On 2 June 2017, Coveney lost the 2017 Fine Gael leadership election to Leo Varadkar, despite gaining the support of 65% of party members (party members only had 25% of the vote in Fine Gael's electoral college). The winner was expected to succeed Enda Kenny as Taoiseach. On 13 June 2017, it was announced that he would be the deputy leader of the party.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade: 2017–present.
After Leo Varadkar was appointed Taoiseach, by the President of Ireland, as part of his new cabinet, Coveney was appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, with special responsibilities for Brexit. Coveney replaced Charles Flanagan, who became Minister for Justice and Equality. It was understood Coveney heavily lobbied Varadkar for the role as he wanted a large role on Brexit. In his capacity as Minister, he has also been co-chairing the European People's Party (EPP) Justice and Home Affairs Ministers Meeting since 2018, alongside Esteban González Pons.
According to Lawrence Franklin of the Gatestone Institute, within the Irish government, Coveney opposes the Control of Economic Activity (Occupied Territories) Bill to ban goods produced in Israeli settlements. He has expressed concern that the bill might contravene EU trade law.
In July 2020, he was re-appointed as Minister for Foreign Affairs. The Trade portfolio was re-assigned to another government department.
Tánaiste.
On 30 November 2017, Leo Varadkar named Coveney as the new Tánaiste, replacing Frances Fitzgerald.
Brexit negotiations.
On 27 January 2019, Coveney in an interview with Andrew Marr, said the Irish backstop in the Brexit withdrawal agreement will not be changed. He said the backstop was already a pragmatic compromise between the United Kingdom and the European Union to avoid infrastructure on the Irish border, that there was no sensible legally-sound alternative to the backstop, and that the European Parliament would not ratify a Brexit withdrawal agreement without the backstop in it.
COVID-19 pandemic.
As Minister for Foreign Affairs, Conveney headed up the response to the COVID-19 pandemic on behalf of the Government of Ireland. On 10 March 2020, he upgraded travel advice recommending that Irish citizens do not travel to Italy. He added that people should think carefully about unnecessary public gatherings and urged the public to play their part and help themselves by following advice and doing practical things like sneezing and washing hands properly.
Personal life.
Coveney married his long-time girlfriend Ruth Furney, an IDA Ireland employee, in July 2008. They have three daughters and live in Carrigaline in Cork.


Robert R. Spitzer

Robert R. Spitzer (4 May 1922 – 30 April 2019) was an American agricultural researcher who worked with Murphy Products Co. for 28 years and was the third president of Milwaukee School of Engineering.
Spitzer was born on 4 May 1922 in Waukesha, Wisconsin. He died on 30 April 2019 in Burlington, Wisconsin.


Ramsagar National Park

Ramsagar National Park () is a national park in Bangladesh located at. 25°33'00"N 88°37'30"E Tejpur, near Dinajpur District in the north-west of the country. The Park is 27.76 hectare, in size, and is built around a large water reservoir known as "Ramsagar tank".The lake is 1079m in length and 192.6m in width. The soil is red-yellow clay
History.
The tank was built in the 18th century by Raja Ram Nath. It is believed that the lake was excavated by King Ramnath, Maharaja of Dinajpur before the Battle of Plassey. The tank was dug by 15 million workers at a cost of 30,000 Taka.
Management.
The park is managed by 8 staff members which include 1 forest officers, 3 gardeners, 3 forest guards and 1 watchman. It was first established in year 1960 and was earlier recommended that the park be developed as class-B national park for recreation and education by the Government of east Pakistan in 1971. It was declared as national park on 30-4-2001 under the Bangladesh wildlife (Preservation) Amendment Act of 1947.
Flora and Fauna.
There are no big trees; the park consists of a big lake surrounded by embankments.Mostly the flora and fauna is associated with wetland ecosystem.
Flora.
272 plant species belonging to 132 families were recorded in this sanctuary. "Mangifera indica, Syzygium cumini, Tamarindus indica", and "Semecarpus anacardium" are some of the trees found in the sanctuary.
Fauna.
The lake is full of different types of fishes. There are turtles and fresh water crocodiles in the lake. The animals found here are spotted deer, wild boar, blue bull, sloth bear and Hyaena. The water birds mainly white breasted water hen, jacanas, river tern, kingfishers, ringed plover, grey heron and purple heron are found here.
Threats.
The plants inside the park are removed by the local villagers for food, fodder, making furniture, medicine and fuel.There is a decrease in the indigenous fish species due to expolitation. The other factors affecting the biodiversity of the park are agricultural pollution, siltation, diseases and floods.


Mission Hill Family Estate

Mission Hill Family Estate is a wine grower and producer based in West Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, in the Okanagan Valley wine region. The winery is situated atop Mission Hill overlooking a 145 kilometre lake, mountains and vineyards.
History.
Mission Hill Family Estate was established in 1966.
Anthony von Mandl was a wine seller in Vancouver during the 1970s and assisted in preparing a feasibility study regarding growing grapes in the area for Josef Milz, a Mosel based winery. While the German vintner did not go ahead with a purchase, von Mandl decided that the area was worth investing in, and in 1981 purchased the abandoned Mission Hill estate. von Mandl is also the founder of Mike's Hard Lemonade Co..
The first Chardonnay made by John Simes, who had just joined the winery, in the 1992 vintage won the trophy for "Best Chardonnay" at the 1994 International Wine and Spirit Competition, becoming the first Okanagan winery to receive overseas recognition.
Olson Kundig Architects were commissioned in 1996 to rebuild the winery and associated buildings. This was the first winery project undertaken by the design firm. The work was completed in 2002 at an estimated cost of thirty-five million Canadian dollars. The centrepiece and focal point of the design was a twelve-story and 85 foot high bell tower, with four bells cast by Fonderie Paccard in Annecy, France who also crafted the bells for St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York and Sacré-Cœur in Paris. The largest bell weighs nearly 800 kilograms.
Vineyards.
Until 1996, Mission Hill had purchased grapes from vineyards owned by others to produce wine, with no vineyard holdings of its own. It started to purchase its own vineyards in 1996. Mission Hill Family Estate farms 32 family-owned estate vineyards in the Okanagan Valley. Mission Hill has estate vineyards in each of the five growing regions; West Kelowna, East Kelowna, Naramata Bench, Black Sage Bench in Southeast Oliver and Osoyoos. Most of the vineyards are planted on benches above the valley floor; on varying degrees of slope that assist with air drainage, improves frost protection and increases the amount of sun the vines receive.
Wines and winemaking.
The current chief winemaker is Darryl Brooker who joined the winery in 2015. Darryl Brooker resigned effective April 15th 2021 to join a Cannabis producer in Okanagan: Flowr Corporation
Michel Rolland, a prominent French oenologist, has been consulting at the estate since 2005.
Mission Hill estate produces wines across four tiers. Their entry level wines are labeled as "Five Vineyards". The next tier are the "Reserve" wines, followed by the "Terroir Collection" and the top-tier "Legacy" series.
The flagship "Oculus" is a Bordeaux style red wine made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It is named after circular windows used in classical architecture.
Other.
The estate has a sixty-seat restaurant called "Terrace" that opened in 2002. It overlooks Lake Okanagan. In 2008 it was named by Travel + Leisure magazine as one of the five best winery restaurants in the world.


Ponty vineyards

Ponty Vineyards, also known as Vignobles Ponty, is a wine estate of Bordeaux wine in the Canon Fronsac appellation located on the right bank of the Garonne river, 25 km away from Bordeaux, close to the city of Libourne. Close to the Pomerol and Saint-Emilion regions, Canon Fronsac’s landscape of plateaus and hills snuggle into the confluence of two rivers: the Isle and the Dordogne. Winemaking has been the family business for the Ponty family for more than five generations. The vineyard currently produces five wines: Chateau Grand Renouil, Chateau du Pavillon, Petit Renouil, Clos Virolle, and Blanc de Grand Renouil.
Region.
Canon Fronsac's location, close to the Dordogne river and the city of Libourne, with its hills allowing to spot attackers, made it an ideal military camp in the past. In 769 Charlemagne decided to use it to build a stronghold. In 1623 the castle was destroyed and the land given to the Cardinal of Richelieu . In the 18th century, his heir, the Duke of Richelieu had an Italian-style mansion built on the hills of Canon Fronsac. There, he housed parties and contributed to making Fronsac's wines famous. The castle remained in Richelieu's family until the French revolution, when the domain was confiscated.
Canon Fronsac wines were very famous in the 17th and 18th century, when the Duke of Richelieu brought them repeatedly to the court of the King of France, over time reserving the whole harvest of Canon Fronsac wine for the nobility.
Widely known as possessing the most beautiful landscapes in Bordeaux, Canon Fronsac is great by the quality of its soils: the "molasse du Fronsadais" found in the soils of Saint Emilion is named after the region. Many Canon Fronsac vineyards are located on hillsides facing the Dordogne river on the South. Mainly made of chalky "plateau" where the stone often shows on the surface and of clay-chalky hillsides, Canon Fronsac's great soils are complete with an microclimate due to its proximity to the Dordogne river. Besides the oceanic climate, the Fronsac soils benefit from an Indian summer during the harvest time.
History.
The Ponty family have been producing wine in Canon Fronsac since 1905, when Victor Ponty discovered the potential of wines produced in the appellation. In 1905, Victor Ponty, born in a family of farmers in the French region of Corrèze, settled in Fronsac, a small village not far from Bordeaux, where he started commercializing wine with the help of his wife's family, the Dezeix.
In 1925 Victor bought the Château du Pavillon in Canon Fronsac and moved in with his family. He and his wife Elizabeth gave birth to a son, Jean Ponty, who started working with his father early on and developed the company's clientele in Normandy. Jean later marries Jeanne Labegorre, from the Bearn region of France, and they together decide to buy the Château Grand Renouil in Saint Michel de Fronsac in 1938. Over the years, Jean and Jeanne have 7 children. The oldest son, Jean-François, gradually replaces Victor and Jean as head of the family company and in the winemaking process. He then brings on Michel, the youngest son, to learn the family business and share his passion for wine.
In 1986, Michel becomes solely in charge of the company after François retires. In 1989, Michel and his wife Nadine Couraud bought a small estate that they rename Blanc de Grand Renouil.
The Ponty family are involved in the Canon Fronsac association of winegrowers, to raise awareness of Canon Fronsac wines that were famous in the 18th century.
Wines.
Merlot is the dominant grape variety in Canon Fronsac, giving its wine a structure and richness, but Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon grape varieties are also produced in the region. Canon Fronsac wines are known to be elegant, sophisticated, and keep strong tannins. The aromas of the wine include red fruits, berries and spices, as well as truffles for older wines. Canon Fronsac wines are known to pair well with red meat, roasted chicken or duck and cheese.
The Ponty family hand picks their grapes and allows their wines to express its flavors through time during the vinification process. The family lives on the estate to care for the vines' entire growth cycle, and protect the soils they live on using sustainable development farming practices.
The vineyard currently produces five wines: Chateau Grand Renouil, Chateau du Pavillon, Petit Renouil, Clos Virolle, and Blanc de Grand Renouil.


Leah Penniman

Leah Penniman (c.1980) is a farmer, educator, author, and food sovereignty activist. Penniman is Co-Founder, Co-Director and Program Manager of Soul Fire Farm, in Grafton, New York.
Biography.
Leah Penniman was born to Reverend doctor Adele Smith Penniman, a Haitian American pastor and activist, and a white father. Penniman was raised in central Massachusetts with two siblings as the only family of color after the parents split and Adele moved to Boston. Penniman began farming at age 16, working with The Food Project in Boston in 1996 when staying with her mother. Penniman received an MA in Science Education and BA in Environmental Science and International Development from Clark University. After graduation, Penniman lived in a food desert in Albany, New York and was on WIC after giving birth. This experience led Penniman to see the need for food sovereignty in Black and Brown communities.
In 2006, Penniman purchased 72-acres of land in Grafton, New York to co-found Soul Fire Farm and the farm officially opened in 2011. The name is taken from the song "Soulfire" by Lee “Scratch” Perry and originally focused on a farm share for low-income people. As Soul Fire Farm has grown, its mission is to end racism and injustice in the food system and by reclaiming the inherent right to belong to the earth and to have agency in the food system as Black and Brown people. The farm's flagship program is the Black Latinx Farmers Immersion, a 50-hour course to train beginner farmers. By 2018, 500 individuals had taken the course.
Penniman has been farming since 1996 and teaching since 2002. Penniman has worked at the Food Project, Farm School, Many Hands Organic Farm, Youth Grow and with farmers internationally in Ghana, Haiti, and Mexico. Penniman has also worked as a science teacher at University Park Campus School, Tech Valley High School, and Darrow School and was founding director of the Harriet Tubman Democratic High School.
In 2018, Penniman published "Farming While Black", a book designed to create sustainable, equitable, profitable, and dignified relationships with food historically disenfranchised communities eat, and the land it comes from.
Recognition.
The work of Penniman and Soul Fire Farm has been recognized by the Soros Racial Justice Fellowship, Fulbright Program, Presidential Award for Science Teaching, NYS Health Emerging Innovator Awards, and Andrew Goodman Foundation, among others.
In 2019, Penniman was awarded the James Beard Foundation Leadership Award for facilitating food sovereignty programs.
Personal life.
Penniman identifies as genderqueer/multigender. Penniman lives on the farm with a partner, Jonah Vitale-Wolff and their two children, Neshima and Emet Vitale-Penniman.


Rhodes Fruit Farms

Rhodes Fruit Farms, founded by Cecil John Rhodes in 1902, exists today as Boschendal The Estate, one of the oldest wine estates in South Africa.
Founding of Rhodes Fruit Farms.
Mining magnate, politician and empire-builder Cecil John Rhodes founded Rhodes Fruit Farms in South Africa in 1902, shortly before his death. Much of his activity centred on the farm Boschendal, which has given its name to the current Boschendal Estate. To this day it is a major source of employment for the local community.
Location.
Close to Cape Town, between Stellenbosch, Pniel, Franschhoek and Paarl, Boschendal stretches between the foot of the Groot Drakenstein mountains to the Simonsberg mountains, with views of the mountain, vineyards and valley below. On there is a unique combination of vineyards, orchards, nature reserves, mountain corridors and rivers. The historic homesteads on the Estate, part of the Cape Dutch heritage, are Boschendal Manor House, Goede Hoop, Rhone, Nieuwedorp, Old Bethlehem, Champagne and the Cecil John Rhodes Cottage.
Phylloxera Epidemic.
In the late nineteenth century, it was tragedy which gave birth to opportunity. The Western Cape wine farms had been devastated by a phylloxera epidemic in the 1880s & 1890s. Diseased vineyards were ploughed up and gradually replanted with vines grafted onto resistant American rootstock. In the meantime, farmers needed alternative forms of agriculture and the lucrative fruit industry in California provided a suitable model for the Cape. Pioneering work was done by fruit farmers in Wellington and the Hex River Valley. In 1892, shipping magnate Percy Molteno developed and introduced refrigerated cargo space on Union-Castle shipping lines, between the Cape and the largest consumer markets in Europe, which revolutionised the industry and made the export of fresh fruit an attractive proposition.
Rhodes & Pickstone.
Harry Pickstone, an Englishman who had experience growing fruit in California, landed in the Cape in 1892. He convinced Rhodes that a commercial nursery was needed to propagate new varieties of fruit trees for the industry. Rhodes financed his first venture, the Pioneer Fruit Growing Company.
After retiring from politics in 1896 Rhodes decided to invest further in fruit farming. Pickstone advised him to buy old wine farms in the Groot Drakenstein, Wellington and Stellenbosch areas.
In March 1897 Rhodes secured the first of more than 20 farms, including Boschendal and Rhone. Twelve young managers from South Africa, Britain and America were appointed; many of them had been trained in California. Under Pickstone's tutelage they transformed the farms, introducing modern methods of pruning, grafting and irrigation, and training farm workers in the new skills. They planted 200,000 deciduous fruit trees – pears, apricots, plums and peaches.
This rapid expansion and Rhodes' use of his fortune to buy out smaller farmers led to some opposition. He was condemned for a "monopolistic" policy but rode out the storm.
Pickstone set up offices at Lekkerwijn where Rhodes, Kipling and others were visitors. Rhodes was keen to have his own retreat and commissioned Sir Herbert Baker to build him a simple cottage. Baker also designed two churches in the area and a village for workers at Languedoc.
Anglo-Boer War.
Relations between Britain and the Boer republics deteriorated and led to the outbreak of war in 1899. Rhodes immediately left for Kimberley, the centre of his diamond interests and remained there during the four-month siege. He continued to attend to fruit farming matters and persuaded the mining magnate, Alfred Beit and De Beers to become shareholders, to ensure continuing financial strength for the project. Rhodes's health deteriorated and on his return to the Cape he withdrew to his cottage in Muizenberg. In February 1902, as Rhodes was dying, a new company, Rhodes Fruit Farms Ltd, was born. The day before Rhodes died, Pickstone was appointed technical director to the company and resident director at Groot Drakenstein.
The De Beers era.
De Beers, Sir Alfred Beit and the Rhodes Estate became joint share-holders of Rhodes Fruit Farms with Dr Leander Starr Jameson (of Jameson Raid fame) was chairman. Pickstone ran the company for another two years before returning to his nursery business. By then the railway was extended to Groot Drakenstein and trains were fitted with refrigeration cars for the distribution of fruit. Rhodes Fruit Farms became the industry leader and a major source of employment locally. It opened a cannery in 1903 and a jam factory in 1906.
After Sir Alfred Beit's death in 1906, De Beers bought Beit and Rhodes's shares. Returns were never high and in 1927 De Beers ordered an investigation into its fruit-farming operations. They appointed one of the consultants, Alfred Appleyard from the University of Bristol, as general manager. He held the position for 22 years and consolidated the company's holdings: selling off the Wellington farms and acquiring Excelsior and Bien Donné in Groot Drakenstein.
Sir Abe Bailey.
In 1937 De Beers decided to sell Rhodes Fruit Farms and it was bought by Sir Abe Bailey, three years before his death. He was an old associate of Rhodes with gold-mining interests and had been involved in the Jameson Raid. During Bailey’s short interlude as owner, Appleyard remained in charge of the fruit farms and lived at Goede Hoop.
Syndicate.
In 1941, a syndicate of businessmen bought Rhodes Fruit Farms from Bailey's estate. They were A.B. McDonald, E.J. Crean, S.T. Richards, G.H. Starck, and later Frank Robb. The Directors and their families spent many holidays at Rhodes Cottage.
John Manning, the new general manager, built a new cannery in 1951, a sawmill in 1953 and purchased the farm, Bethlehem, in Groot Drakenstein. Rhodes Fruit Farms retained only one farm in Stellenbosch, namely Vredenburg. This was sold in the late 1960s and is now a suburb called Die Boord (Afrikaans : the orchard).
Anglo-American Corporation.
In 1969, Frank Robb persuaded Anglo-American, De Beers and Rand Selection Corporation Ltd to become majority shareholders in Rhodes Fruit Farms. The company decided to restore Boschendal and revive wine farming under the Boschendal brand name. The complex was restored by the architect, Gawie Fagan, and opened to the public in 1976. The company changed its name to Anglo-American Farms.
Anglo American started divesting itself of the cannery, dairy, piggeries and its fruit interests in the late 1990s, eventually selling off all the lands along the Berg and Dwars Rivers.
Boschendal Ltd.
In 2004 a private consortium, under the leadership of property developer Clive Venning, bought Boschendal.
The 600 hectare, 17th Century Boschendal Estate is sectioned into 18 Founders’ Estates between 21 and 44 hectares each. The Goede Hoop Homestead, built by Pieter Hendrik de Villiers in 1821 graces – Estate 17. On Estate 19 stands the historic Rhodes Cottage, designed and constructed in 1902 as a country retreat for mining magnate and empire builder by Sir Herbert Baker, the dominant force in South African architecture for two decades.
Boschendal The Estate continues to be a major source of employment for local communities and the development of Boschendal will generate R 100 million for investment in the local community projects such as nutrition and health, education and skills development, agricultural, heritage and environmental support. The consortium has donated 270 hectares of land to the community trust.


Norbert Aleksiewicz

Norbert Antoni Aleksiewicz (25 November 1948 – 19 November 1994) was a Polish politician and member of the Ninth Term of the People's Republic of Poland sejm from 13 October 1985 to 3 June 1989 on behalf of the Polish United Workers' Party.
Born in Klukowo near Złotów, Aleksiewicz graduated from the Agricultural Academy in Szczecin in 1973 and became a farmer in 1974, owning a 35-hectare farm near the Złotów. He was active in the agricultural cooperative, and for many years was chairman of Farmers' Cooperatives in Złotów, then Chairman of the Board cooperative bank in Złotów. From 1979 to 1989, he was President of the General Council of the National Union of Farmers, Circles and Agricultural Organizations. He was also active in youth organizations (Rural Youth Association, Polish Students' Association, Socialist Union of Rural Youth, Polish Socialist Youth Union etc.). He was also a member of the National Council Patriotic Movement for National Rebirth. He was elected to the Provincial Committee of the Communist Party in Piła.
Aleksiewicz was the elected to the council in Złotów and later the collegial advisory body for the President of the Council of State Polish People's Republic. He was active in the Committee on Agriculture, Forestry and Food Economy.
Aleksiewicz was awarded a Bronze and Gold Cross of Merit.


John Haygarth (cricketer)

John William Haygarth (3 December 1842 – 30 March 1923) was an English first-class cricketer and magistrate.
The son of John Sayer Haygarth, he was born in December 1842 at Rodmarton, Gloucestershire. He was educated at Winchester College, before going up to Corpus Christi College, Oxford. While studying at Oxford, he played first-class cricket for Oxford University, making his debut against the Marylebone Cricket Club at Oxford in 1862. He played first-class cricket for Oxford until 1864, making ten appearances. Described by "Wisden Cricketers' Almanack" as “one of the best amateur wicket-keepers of his time”, he took twelve catches and stumpings in his ten matches for Oxford, in addition to scoring 81 runs.
He left England in 1865 and emigrated to Queensland, where he became a sheep farmer at Kooralbyn and later served as a magistrate. Haygarth died at Boonah in March 1923. His brother, Edward, also played first-class cricket, as did his second cousin Arthur Haygarth, was also the compiler of "Scores and Biographies". Another cousin was William Parry-Okeden, an Australian police commissioner and protector of Aborigines, while his nephew, Francis Gresson, played cricket at first-class level.


Guise Brittan

William Guise Brittan (3 December 1809 – 18 July 1876), mostly known as Guise Brittan and commonly referred to as W. G. Brittan, was the first Commissioner of Crown Lands for Canterbury in New Zealand.
Biography.
Brittan was born in Gloucester, South West England, in 1809 into a respectable middle-class family that originated from Bristol. He received his education at Plymouth Grammar School, after which he studied medicine at Canterbury Christ Church University. He undertook several journeys on the "General Palmer" to China or India.
Later, he lived in Staines and then in Sherborne, Dorset, where, together with his older brother Joseph, he was proprietor of the "Sherborne Mercury", a newspaper covering the area beyond the boundaries of Dorset. He married Louisa Brittan (née Chandler) and his brother married her sister Elizabeth Mary Brittan (née Chandler).
He joined the Canterbury Association, despite being of much lower class than most of its members. When a Society of Canterbury Colonists formed in 1850, with the objective of representing land purchasers (referred to as colonists, as opposed to 'emigrants' for labourers and artisans), Brittan was called to the chair for the first meeting on 25 April 1850. A management committee was formed, where Brittan was joined by James FitzGerald and Henry Sewell. Brittan impressed Edward Gibbon Wakefield, one of the instigators of the Canterbury Association. Wakefield wrote to John Robert Godley, the other driving force behind the colonisation scheme who was already in New Zealand, and suggested that Brittan be given a role of responsibility.
Brittan came to Christchurch on in December 1850 and was thus one of the Pilgrims (the term adopted for all those early arrivals). His wife and four children travelled with him. He chose land at Papanui Bush and alongside the Avon River just outside the initial town area (these days the area to the east of Fitzgerald Avenue), where he built his first substantial home, Englefield Lodge. His older brother Joseph followed him to Christchurch in 1852 and established his farm some downstream, which he called Linwood.
Political ambitions.
Brittan declared his candidacy in the Christchurch Country electorate for election to the 1st New Zealand Parliament by advertisement in the "Lyttelton Times" on 18 June 1853. In late July, Henry Sewell decided that he would also stand for Parliament; the question was whether he should run in the Town of Christchurch or the Christchurch Country electorate. There was one position to be filled in the town electorate, and two in the rural electorate. Sewell sought counsel from some friends, who recommended for him to stand in the rural electorate, but he did not want to oppose Brittan. Sewell thought that whilst Brittan was unpopular with the constituency, it would nevertheless be useful to have him in Parliament. The complication with the town electorate was that John Charles Watts-Russell had already received a pledge from the majority of that constituency, but there were rumours that he would not stand, and it was known that he was just about to go travelling during the time of the election campaign. Sewell talked to Brittan, who fully supported him standing in the town electorate, and Brittan pledged that he would get his brother-in-law, Charles Fooks, to canvas for him. Sewell first advertised his candidacy in the "Lyttelton Times" on 30 July. In the same edition of the newspaper, James Stuart-Wortley advertised his candidacy for the Christchurch Country electorate. Jerningham Wakefield reiterated his candidacy for the Christchurch Country electorate in early August upon his return from Wellington. At the same time, Fooks announced his candidacy for the Town of Christchurch electorate. With James FitzGerald, who had just been elected the first Superintendent of the Canterbury Province, apparently in support of Watts-Russell, Sewell decided to withdraw from the contest, but decided to go ahead with a public meeting to 'speak his mind'. On 4 August, he held a meeting at the Golden Fleece, a hotel on the corner of Colombo and Armagh Streets, and addressed between 30 and 40 electors. He discussed all the issues that Parliament should deal with, but finished by saying that he would not be available as a candidate, as Watts-Russell had been pledged the support of the constituency. After an awkward period of silence, Richard Packer stood up and replied:
We are in an awkward position. Here was a Gentleman who told [us] all sorts of things which a Representative ought to attend to and then declined standing himself, because of another Candidate whose intentions no one knew anything about—and who was just on the point of starting for an excursion without giving any one an opportunity of learning his sentiments about anything.
The meeting expressed dissatisfaction with Watts-Russell and that they would not hold themselves bound to support him. FitzGerald spoke in support of Watts-Russell, but was not well received. Fooks then spoke, but mainly to attack Sewell. The following day, Sewell met with FitzGerald and discussed that either himself or Watts-Russell should retire from the contest, but that if he himself was to retire, then Watts-Russell or at least some of his friends should inform the constituency about his intentions. FitzGerald's impression was that it should be Watts-Russell who should retire. Later that day, Watts-Russell wrote an announcement that he would retire from the contest, which was published in the "Lyttelton Times" on 13 August.
On 9 August, the Colonists' Society held a meeting at the White Hart Hotel. Christchurch's first hotel was on the High Street (then called Sumner Road) and Cashel Street corner, with Michael Hart as proprietor. The 50 to 60 attendees were addressed by Sewell, Stuart-Wortley, and Wakefield. As a result, committees were formed that were to achieve the return of these three candidates. At this point, Sewell thought that Brittan would not have a chance of getting elected, as he was most unpopular, and he refused to go canvassing. Over the next few days, Octavius Mathias, the vicar of St Michael and All Angels, was Sewell's main antagonist.
The nominations for the town and country electorates were held together on Tuesday, 16 August. The hustings were erected in front of the Land Office (these days the site of Our City). The three candidates for the Christchurch Country electorate spoke first, with Stuart-Wortley and Wakefield winning the show of hand, and Brittan visibly offended, but demanding a poll. Sewell was proposed by John Hall, and seconded by postmaster and storekeeper Charles Wellington Bishop. Fooks was proposed by Joshua Charles Porter (a lawyer; later Mayor of Kaiapoi), and seconded by the publican Michael Hart. Whilst Sewell's speech was well received, Fooks was laughed at and interrupted (Sewell said that Fooks did him "more service than [he] could have done [him]self"). The show of hands was in favour of Sewell; no more than five hands were raised in support of Fooks.
The election in the town electorate was held on Saturday, 20 August, between 9 am and 4 pm. The method of voting at the time was that an elector would tell the returning officer his choice of candidate. As this happened in public, a tally of the votes could be kept, and Fooks was initially ahead, but within an hour, Sewell passed him. The final result was 61 votes to 34 for Sewell, who was thus declared elected.
The election in the country electorate was held one week later, on 27 August, in the same place and with another polling station in Lyttelton. In both locations, Brittan came a distant last. There were rumours at the time that Stuart-Wortley was under age; to be eligible to vote or to be elected, one had to 21 years of age. According to "Burke's Peerage", he was not of full age, but the family lawyer confirmed that he was. These days, we know that "Burke's Peerage" had it right and Stuart-Wortley was only 20 years and 7 months old at the time of his election.
Family.
Guise Brittan died on 18 July 1876 at his home in Cashel Street West, Christchurch, and is buried at St Paul's Anglican Church in Papanui. It was his wish to be buried there, as his son Frederick was minister at the church at the time of his death. The Brittan brothers were Anglican, though the Brittan family had been Methodist.) Guise had been a lay reader at Holy Trinity Avonside, which he had helped start and supported.)
Brittan's wife Louisa died in 1901, aged 92. The four children that emigrated with them were Emily Sophia (18 December 1842 – 30 December 1897), William Guise (12 June 1844 – 5 March 1916), Harriette Louisa (four when she arrived), and Frederick George (19 February 1848 – 10 September 1945). Frederick Brittan was the last survivor from the First Four Ships, and his funeral service was held at ChristChurch Cathedral.
Harriett (1846–1934) married Rev. Charles Carlyon Coates in 1881. Their grandson was Charles Hazlitt Upham, VC and bar.)
Emily Foster, although married (to Tony Foster) with children, continued teaching (which was unusual at the time) and became headmistress, first at Christchurch West and then at Christchurch Girls' High School.


Michael Jordan (Irish politician)

Michael Jordan was an Irish politician. A farmer, he was an unsuccessful candidate at the 1922, 1923 and June 1927 general elections. He was first elected to Dáil Éireann at the September 1927 general election as a Farmers' Party Teachta Dála (TD) for the Wexford constituency. He stood as a Cumann na nGaedheal candidate at the 1932 general election but was not re-elected.


Marcus Oldham College

Marcus Oldham College is an agricultural, equine and farm management tertiary education institution located in Geelong, Victoria and is the only private agricultural college operating in Australia. Founded in 1962, the institution attracts enrolments from domestic and international students.
At the undergraduate level, the school offers the following degrees: Bachelor of Business in Farm Management, Bachelor of Business in Agribusiness, Associate Degree of Agribusiness, Associate Degree of Farm Business Management, Diploma of Agribusiness, and Diploma of Equine Management. The postgraduate program consists of a Masters, Graduate Certificate and a Graduate Diploma in Agribusiness.
In May 2008, the college opened the Centre for the Study of Rural Australia on its campus. The Centre focuses on the intersection of agriculture and rural communities and aims to foster sustainable practices through community involvement.


Victor Davies (horticulturalist)

Sir Victor Caddy Davies (3 May 1887–26 March 1977) was a New Zealand nurseryman and horticulturist. He was born in New Plymouth, New Zealand, on 3 May 1887.
In the 1954 Queen's Birthday Honours, Davies was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire, for services to horticulture. He was made a Knight Bachelor in the 1977 New Year Honours, also for service to horticulture.


Rottweiler

The Rottweiler (, ) is a breed of domestic dog, regarded as medium-to-large or large. The dogs were known in German as , meaning Rottweil butchers' dogs, because their main use was to herd livestock and pull carts laden with butchered meat to market. This continued until the mid-19th century when railways replaced droving. Although still used to herd stock in many parts of the world, Rottweilers are now also used as search and rescue dogs, guard dogs, and police dogs.
History.
According to the FCI Standard, the Rottweiler is considered to be one of the oldest dog breeds. Its origin goes back to Roman times. These dogs were kept as herder or driving dogs. They marched over the Alps with the Roman legions, protecting the humans and driving their cattle. In the region of Rottweil, these dogs met and mixed with the native dogs in a natural crossing. The main task of the Rottweiler now became the driving and guarding of the herds of cattle and the defence of their masters and their property. This breed acquired its name from the old free city of Rottweil and was known as the "Rottweil butcher’s dog". The butchers bred this type of dog purely for performance and usefulness. In due course, a first rate watch and driving dog evolved which could also be used as a draught dog.
The buildup to World War I saw a great demand for police dogs, which led to a revival of interest in the Rottweiler. During the First and Second World Wars, Rottweilers saw service in various roles, including as messenger, ambulance, draught, and guard dogs.
The Deutscher Rottweiler-Klub (DRK, "German Rottweiler Club"), the first Rottweiler club in Germany, was founded on 13 January 1914, and followed by the creation of the Süddeutscher Rottweiler-Klub (SDRK, "South German Rottweiler Club") on 27 April 1915 and eventually became the IRK (International Rottweiler Club). The DRK counted around 500 Rottweilers, and the SDRK 3,000 Rottweilers. The goals of the two clubs were different. The DRK aimed to produce working dogs and did not emphasise the morphology of the Rottweiler.
The various German Rottweiler Clubs amalgamated to form the Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub (ADRK, "General German Rottweiler Club") in 1921. This was officially recorded in the register of clubs and associations at the district court of Stuttgart on 27 January 1924. The ADRK is recognised worldwide as the home club of the Rottweiler.
In 1931, the Rottweiler was officially recognised by the American Kennel Club. In 1936, Rottweilers were exhibited in Britain at Crufts. In 1966, a separate register was opened for the breed. In fact, in the mid-1990s, the popularity of the Rottweiler reached an all-time high, with it being the most registered dog by the American Kennel Club. In 2017, the American Kennel Club ranked the Rottweiler as the eighth-most popular purebred dog in the United States.
Technical description.
The "Fédération Cynologique Internationale" gives the following description of the Rottweiler standard: "Rottweiler breeders aim at a dog of abundant strength, black coated with clearly defined rich tan markings, whose powerful appearance does not lack nobility and which is exceptionally well suited to being a companion, service, rescue and working dog." This breed is all about balance, endurance, proportionality, intelligence and strength. The various standards in place for the Rottweiler's physical appearance specify these characteristics.
Head.
The skull is of medium length, relatively broad between the ears. The forehead line is moderately arched as seen from the side, with the occipital bone well developed without being conspicuous. The stop is relatively strong. Frontal groove not too deep.
The Rottweiler nose is well developed, more broad than round, with relatively large nostrils and always black. The muzzle should appear neither elongated nor shortened in relation to the cranial region. The ratio between the length of the muzzle and the length of the skull is about 1 to 1.5. The nasal bridge is straight, broad at the base and moderately tapered.
The lips are black and close fitting with the corner of the mouth not visible. The gums should be black, or as dark as possible. Both the upper and lower jaws are strong and broad. According to the FCI Standard Rottweilers should have strong and complete dentition (42 teeth) with scissor bite, the upper incisors closely overlapping the lower incisors. The zygomatic arches should be pronounced (but not exaggerated).
Upper and lower jaw strong and broad. Strong, complete dentition (42 teeth) with scissor bite, the upper incisors overlapping the lower incisors.
The eyes should be of medium size, almond-shaped and dark brown in colour. The eyelids are close fitting and should not droop. The ears are medium-sized, pendant, triangular, wide apart, and set high on the head. With the ears laid forward close to the head, the skull appears to be broadened. The skin on the head is tight fitting overall. When the dog is alert, the forehead may be slightly wrinkled.
Faults:
Hound-type head. Narrow, light too short, long, coarse or excessively molossoid head; excessively broad skull, (lack of stop, too little stop or too strong stop). Very deep frontal groove.
Foreface long, pointed or too short muzzle (any muzzle shorter than 40 percent of the length of the head is too short). split nose; Roman nose (convex nasal bridge) or dish-faced (concave nasal bridge); acquiline nose, pale or spotted nose (butterfly nose).
Pincer bite. Molars of the underjaw not standing in one line.
Severe Faults:
Too molossoid type and heavy general appearance.
Neck.
The neck is strong, of fair length, well-muscled, slightly arched, clean, free from throatiness, without excessive dewlap.
Body.
The back is straight, strong and firm. The loins are short, strong and deep. The croup is broad, of medium length, and slightly rounded, neither flat nor falling away. The chest is roomy, broad and deep (approximately 50% of the shoulder height) with a well-developed forechest and well sprung ribs. The flanks are not tucked up.
Tail.
The FCI 2018 Standard states:
Historically the tail was traditionally docked at the first or second joint. However, docking is now banned in most countries and this is reflected in the FCI Country of Origin Breed Standard.
Although once "preferred" in early Standards, in 2018 the FCI Standard was amended to classify the Natural Bob Tail (aka "Stumpy") as a "Disqualifying Fault" along with "kink tail, ring-tail, with strong lateral deviation."
Limbs.
When seen from the front, the front legs are straight and not placed close to each other. The forearm, seen from the side, stands straight and vertical. The slope of the shoulder blade is about 45 degrees. The shoulders are well laid back. The upper arm is close fitting to the body. The forearm is strongly developed and muscular. Pasterns are slightly springy, strong but not steep. The front feet are round, tight and well arched, the pads hard, nails are short, black and strong.
When seen from behind, the rear legs are straight and not too close together. When standing free, obtuse angles are formed between the dog's upper thigh and the hip bone, the upper thigh and the lower thigh, and the lower thigh and metatarsal. The upper thigh is moderately long, broad and strongly muscled. The lower thigh is long, strongly and broadly muscled, sinewy. The hocks are sturdy, well-angulated, not steep. The hind feet are slightly longer than the front feet. Toes are strong, arched, as tight as the front feet.
Gait.
According to the FCI Standard:
According to the American Kennel Council the traditional gait of a Rottweiler is a trot. Therefore, the Rottweiler is a trotter. Trotting in this breed is by no means a fault and is required. This movement comes naturally to the Rottweiler and should appear as such; any deviation may lead to a disqualification in the show ring. While walking, the Rottweiler's legs, both front and hind, should move in a straight forward and backward manner. As with the straight movement of the legs, the path the Rottweiler moves in should also be straight. The Rottweiler's gait is all about balance and effectiveness as the breed is still used as a herder today.
Coat.
The coat consists of an outer coat and an undercoat. The outer coat is of medium length, coarse, dense and flat. The undercoat should be present on the neck and thighs. The undercoat must not show through the outer coat. Rottweilers living in hot climates may have acclimatised and may be missing the undercoat. Rottweiler coats tend to be low maintenance, although they experience heavy shedding before their seasons (females) or seasonally (males). According to American Kennel Club breed standards, a Rottweiler's coat is short and straight. A coat that is long or wavy is considered a flaw to the AKC.
Colour and markings.
The colour and markings of a Rottweiler are very distinctive. According to the FCI Standard a Rottweiler is always "black with clearly defined markings of a rich tan on the cheeks, muzzle, throat, chest and legs, as well as over both eyes and under the base of the tail"
The American Kennel Club calls for mahogany or rust-colored markings that do not take up more than ten percent of the dog's body color. All Rottweilers standard to AKC specifications have one mahogany dot above each eye on the inner brow ridge, on the cheeks, one strip on each side of the snout; cheek markings do not cross over the bridge of the nose, the top of the nose should remain black. The markings on the face should move down onto the dog's throat. On the chest, a Rottweiler will have two downward-facing triangular marks. On each front leg, the marks will stretch from the forearm to the toes. On the hind legs, the markings will begin on the inside and move outward onto the stifle, then out onto the hock stretching to the toes as well. AKC standards recognize that the black base color is not completely voided on the rear pasterns. There is a patch of rust or mahogany underneath the tail that resembles a triangle as well. A thin strip of black should be present on each of the Rottweiler's toes.
Size.
Technically a "medium / large" breed, according to the FCI standard the Rottweiler stands 61–69 cm (24–27 in) at the withers for males, 56–63 cm (22–25 in) for females, and the weight must be between 50 and 60 kg (110 and 132 lbs) for males and 35 and 48 kg (77 and 105 lbs) for females. Weight must be relative to height.
Temperament.
In the breed standard published by Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 2018, the Rottweiler's behaviour/temperament should be:
In the American Kennel Club's "Official Standard of the Rottweiler," the Rottweiler's temperament should be:
According to the American Rottweiler Club:
Rottweilers are a powerful breed with well-developed genetic herding and guarding instincts. Potentially dangerous behaviour in Rottweilers usually results from irresponsible ownership, abuse, neglect, or lack of socialisation and training. However, the exceptional strength of the Rottweiler is an additional risk factor not to be neglected. It is for this reason that breed experts declare that formal training and extensive socialisation are essential for all Rottweilers. According to the AKC, Rottweilers love their owners and may behave in a clownish manner toward family and friends, but they are also protective of their territory and do not welcome strangers until properly introduced. Obedience training and socialization are required.
One study published in 2008 found that male Rottweilers have higher confidence, sharpness, and defense and play drives than females.
A 2008 study surveying breed club members found that while Rottweilers were average in aggressiveness (bites or bite attempts) towards owners and other dogs, it indicated they tend to be more aggressive than average toward strangers. This aggression appears correlated with watchdog and territorial instincts.
In the "Rottweiler Handbook", Joan H. Walker states that "The Rottweiler is very territorial", meaning that the owner will have to regularly work with the dog to control its territorial aggressiveness.
Working style.
According to the American Kennel Club, Rottweilers have a natural gathering style with a strong desire to control. They generally show a loose eye and have a great amount of force while working well off the stock. They make much use of their ability to intimidate.
The Rottweiler often carries the head on an even plane with the back, or carries the head up but with the neck and shoulders lowered. Some females lower the entire front end slightly when using their eyes. Males also do this when working far off the stock in an open field. This is rarely seen in males when working in confined spaces such as stock yards.
The Rottweiler has a reasonably good natural balance, force-barks when necessary, and when working cattle uses a very intimidating charge. There is a natural change in forcefulness when herding sheep. When working cattle, it may use its body and shoulders and for this reason should be used on horned stock with caution.
The Rottweiler, when working cattle, searches out the dominant animal and challenges it. Upon proving its control over that animal it settles back and tends to its work.
Some growers have found that Rottweilers are especially suited to move stubborn stock that simply ignore Border Collies, Kelpies, and others. Rottweilers use their bodies to physically force the stubborn animal to do its bidding if necessary.
When working with sheep, the Rottweiler shows a gathering/fetching style and reams directions easily. It drives sheep with ease.
In some cases, Rottweilers have begun herding cattle without any experience at all.
If worked on the same stock for any length of time, the Rottweiler tends to develop a bond with the stock and will become quite affectionate with them as long as they do as it directs.
The Rottweiler is also exceptionally suited for and is commonly used in many dog sports including Agility and Schutzhund.
Health.
Rottweilers are a relatively healthy, disease-free breed. As with most large breeds, hip dysplasia can be a problem. For this reason, the various Rottweiler breed clubs have had X-ray testing regimens in place for many years. Osteochondritis dissecans, a condition affecting the shoulder joints, can also be a problem due to the breed's rapid growth rate. A reputable breeder will have the hips and elbows of all breeding stock X-rayed and read by a recognised specialist, and will have the paperwork to prove it.
They will also have certificates that their breeding animals do not have entropion or ectropion and that they have full and complete dentition with a scissor bite.
As with any breed, hereditary conditions occur in some lines. The Rottweiler is very prone to osteosarcoma, which is among the most common causes of early death in Rottweilers. For unknown reasons, Rottweilers are more susceptible than other breeds to become infected with parvovirus, a highly contagious and deadly disease of puppies and young dogs.
If overfed or under-exercised, Rottweilers are prone to obesity. Some of the consequences of obesity can be very serious, including arthritis, breathing difficulties, diabetes, heart failure, reproductive problems, skin disease, reduced resistance to disease and overheating caused by the thick jacket of fat under the skin.
Breed surveys in the US, UK and Denmark, and UK vet data puts the average lifespan of Rottweilers at 8 to 10 years.
As with the vast majority of large-breed dogs, Rottweilers are also predisposed to dilated cardiomyopathy.
Media portrayal.
The portrayal of Rottweilers as vicious or malevolently aggressive dogs in several fictional films and TV series, most notably in "The Omen", along with sensationalist press coverage, has created a negative image of the breed.
Some films and television shows, such as "Lethal Weapon 3", the 1998 film "Half Baked", and the hit HBO show "Entourage", have portrayed Rottweilers in a positive light. They are also featured in the children's book series "Good Dog, Carl" by Alexandra Day.
In an event widely reported by the media, a two-year-old UK Rottweiler named Jake owned by Liz Maxted-Bluck was recognised for his bravery by the RSPCA. The dog was out walking with his owner when they heard screams. Jake chased off a man as he molested a woman on Hearsall Common, Coventry, in July 2009. He located the attacker and his victim in thick scrub, chased off the attacker, led his owner to the scene, then stood guard over the victim until the police arrived. The attacker was convicted of serious sexual assault and jailed for four years. Jake was nominated by police for the bravery award and medallion after the incident. Det. Con Clive Leftwich, from the Coventry police station, said: "From our point of view Jake the Rottweiler stopped a serious sexual assault from becoming even worse."


Victorian Farmers Federation

The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is an Australian non-profit membership based advocacy and lobby group that represents farmers in Victoria. The organisation represents its members in lobbying state and federal government on policy matters that affect farmers and regional communities. The VFF is a member organisation of the national farm lobby group the National Farmers Federation.
History.
Farmer Unity.
In response to the need to unite all farm lobby groups, the VFF was founded in 1979 as the Victorian Farmers and Graziers Association (VFGA) - the merger of three organisations: the Victorian Farmers Union (VFU), the Graziers Association of Victoria (GAV) and the United Dairyfarmers of Victoria (UDV).
This third iteration of the VFU was established in 1968 following the merger of the Victorian Wheat and Woolgrowers Association (VWWA) established in 1938, and the Victorian Branch of the Australian Primary Producers Union (APUV) established in 1940.
The GAV's roots went as far back as 1890, when during a shearing turmoil, the Pastoralists Union of Victoria and Southern Riverina was formed. The main concern at that time was the strength of the Amalgamated Shearers Union and it became apparent that pastoralists had to unite as a counter measure. In 1907 the Riverina farmers split to form a separate organisation and some 18 years later, in 1925, the Pastoral Association of Victoria became known as the Graziers Association of Victoria.
The first VFU was established in 1879, in response to 1878 Victorian closer settlement legislation. It ceased in 1880. This was replaced by the Victorian Farmers' Protectionist Association, founded in 1887 and becoming the Victorian Farmers' Association in 1891 before fading away. The similar Victorian Chamber of Agriculture existed from 1899-1900. The second VFU existed from 1916-1927. In 1926, a large number of Mallee wheat farmer VFU branches broke way to be come the Primary Producer's Union, (with some additional support in other parts of the state).
In 1986 the VFGA changed its name to the Victorian Farmers Federation to come into line with the other national and state farming organisations.
Fighting for a Fair Go.
During the 1980s, the introduction of wide combs for shearing caused enormous unrest in the pastoral industry as did the so-called 'Mudginberri dispute' which became a landmark in terms of challenging the labour efficiency in abattoirs. The VFGA was very proactive and lobbied hard on both these issues. A crippling drought in 1982/83 caused enormous hardship for Victorian farmers. Again the VFGA fought hard for its members. Farmers gained access to subsidies for fodder and also for transport of livestock and fodder.
Victorian farmers were becoming increasingly restless and frustrated. They believed that neither the government nor the general public understood their plight. An enormous rally, organised by Benalla farmer Ian Cuming and involving about 40,000 farmers, paraded through the streets of Melbourne in June 1985 under the banner of 'Farmers Fighting for a Fair Go'. This display of unity and determination established a firm base from which to lobby both state and federal governments and helped bridge the gap between city and country people. The Melbourne rally was followed by a national farmer rally in Canberra which led to the establishment of the NFF's 'Farmers Fighting Fund'. This fund has helped finance various significant campaigns waged by Australian farmers.
VFF and Landcare.
Under its first female president Heather Mitchell OBE, the VFF became instrumental in the formation of Landcare. Landcare was created in 1986 and grew from groups of Victorian farmers coming together to tackle natural resource management issues on a district and regional basis. The VFF retains a very a close link with the Victorian Landcare network. There are now about 1,000 Landcare groups and over 20,000 Landcare members in Victoria, most of whom are also VFF members.
Structure.
The VFF has approximately 200 branches spread across the state to which all its members belong.
All members are part of a Commodity Group which have their own Policy Councils and representation on the VFF Board of Directors.
The VFF consists of seven Commodity Groups
The President and Vice-President of the Federation are democratically elected by members every two years at the VFF Annual Conference.
The Policy Council is chaired by the President and includes representatives from each Commodity Group and the Chairs of its sub-committees: Water Council, Farm Business & Regional Development Committee, Ag Vet Chemicals Committee and the VFFIA.
The Victorian Farmers Federation Industrial Association (VFFIA) is a registered organisation under the Fair Work Act and represents members of the VFF in employment matters.
Farrer House.
Since its foundation the headquarters of the VFF has been located at 24-28 Collins Street, Melbourne, in close proximity to Victoria's Parliament House and other government offices. In 1949 the Victorian Wheat and Woolgrowers Association (VWWA) purchased a 4-storey building at 26-28 Collins Street. In 1951 the VWWA resolved to name the building 'Farrer House' in honour of the pioneering Australian agronomist and plant breeder William Farrer. In 1967 the VWWA purchased the remaining terrace building at 24 Collins Street and works began to demolish the buildings to be replaced with the present multi-storey office building.


William Thorne Buckland

William Thorne Buckland (1819 – 17 January 1876) was a 19th-century Member of Parliament in New Zealand.
Buckland was born in 1819 or 1820. His mother was Elizabeth (née Mortimore) and his father was the broker John Buckland; they were from Devon, England. The auctioneer Alfred Buckland was a younger brother.
Buckland arrived in New Zealand in 1841 from South Australia, and was a butcher in Auckland, then a farmer in the Waikato. He married Susan Channing on 13 April 1843 at St Paul's Church in Auckland.
Buckland was appointed to the Auckland Executive Council of the Auckland Province in November 1856 (the source does not state and end date), and was again appointed from February to July 1857. He was elected to the Auckland Provincial Council for the Raglan electorate in November 1861 and served until 1869. From 1869 to 1873, he represented the Franklin electorate. He had no intention of standing for the Provincial Council again but happened to ride past the nomination meeting in Newmarket for the Eden electorate. There was only one nomination thus far for the two available positions, and Buckland was talked into being nominated. As the number of nominations matched the number of available positions, he was declared elected unopposed, and served until his death.
He represented two South Auckland electorates; first the Raglan electorate from to 1866, when he retired to go overseas. He then represented the Franklin electorate from 1871 to 1875. He was nominated for the 1876 election and gave a speech at the nomination meeting on 10 January 1876, but withdrew his nomination before the end of the proceedings. The "Auckland Star" suggested that the sole purpose of his nomination was that he could make a speech in opposition to Sir George Grey. Buckland left for the Waikato immediately afterwards to support Alfred Cox in his candidacy in the electorate. However, he became ill with symptoms of heat stroke and returned to his home in Remuera.
He died at his home in Remuera, Auckland aged 56 years after that brief illness. He was buried at St Stephen's Cemetery in Parnell. His wife had died in September 1871; she had committed suicide after having become depressed. Their sons Frank and John Buckland were both elected to the parliament in the ; their daughter Elizabeth Mary married prominent Dunedin doctor and historian Thomas Morland Hocken. Jessie Buckland was his son John's daughter.


E. W. Lampson

Elbert Wellington 'Ab' Lampson (May 17, 1904 – October 5, 1997) was an American politician who was a member of the Ohio House of Representatives.
Lampson, a native of Ashtabula County, was the son of E.C. "Chet" and Pearle Evans Lampson. His grandfather was Ohio Lieutenant Governor, Elbert L. Lampson.
Politics was important to Lampson, who served 10 years in the Ohio House of Representatives. He was chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee when the first state income tax was passed in 1970. He convinced 12 fellow Republicans to cross party lines and join minority Democrats in passing the legislation. The decision later was reaffirmed in a referendum vote by Ohio citizens.
After that term, he retired from the General Assembly. During his first term in the General Assembly in 1963, he was voted one of six outstanding freshman legislators by a bipartisan board.
Mr. Lampson lived most of his life in Jefferson, Ohio, and moved to Florida in 1979. He graduated from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio in 1927. He was a two-year letterman on the college track team, winning medals in the Drake Medley Relays in 1926.
During his early years in Jefferson, he became active in numerous organizations, being the youngest man to hold the top office of the Jefferson Masonic Lodge. He also organized and was a charter member of the Jefferson Exchange Club. He was a volunteer firefighter, Jefferson Grange member and past patron of the Sunshine Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. He also was a member of Ashtabula Elks Lodge 208, Sons of the American Revolution and the Ashtabula County Historical Society. He also was active with the Ashtabula County Fair, serving as fair board secretary from 1938 to 1946. He was director of the board for several additional years.
A desire for bigger, better fairs in Ashtabula County led him to an active role in the Ohio Fair Managers Association, which he served as president from 1947 to 1949. He was the only Ashtabula County native to serve in that organization.
Lampson joined Gazette Newspapers, a family business, in 1927. Among its publications are the Jefferson Gazette, the Conneaut Courier and the Pymatuning Valley Area News. Mr. Lampson was active in newspaper organizations, and served as past president of the Buckeye Press Association, and as trustee, president and chairman of the board of the Ohio Newspaper Association. He served the latter group from 1951 to 1976.
In 1953, Mr. Lampson helped found the Jefferson Development Corp., of which he was a director for 30 years. He also served as a precinct committeeman, a member of the County GOP Executive Committee and was, from 1942 to 1954, a member of the Ashtabula County Board of Elections.
In 1966, the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce named Mr. Lampson "Outstanding Citizen of the Year." He was the first second-generation family member to be so honored, his father, Chet, having received the honor in 1952.
Source: Obituary, Ashtabula Star Beacon, Oct. 8 1997


Nordic Paper

Nordic Paper AS is a Norwegian industrial company, operating in Norway and Sweden. It was founded in 2001 when "Peterson Scanproof", a branch of M. Peterson & Søn which consisted of production units in Greåker (formerly owned by Greaker Industrier) and Säffle, was merged with a paper factory in Geithus, owned by Norske Skog Union.
The craft paper producer M. Peterson & Søn retained ownership after the reorganization into Nordic Paper, together with Norske Skog Union's parent Norske Skogindustrier. In 2006 both Peterson and Norske Skogindustrier backed out, in favor of numerous investors.
As a result of the ownership change, the factory in Geithus was closed. However, two kraft paper factories in Bäckhammar and Åmotfors were acquired.


Warbreccan

Warbreccan Station is a pastoral lease that operates as a cattle station. It is located about north of Jundah and south west of Longreach in the outback of Queensland. The Thomson River runs through Warbreccan giving it of double frontage. Currently the property occupies and area and has a two bedroom homestead with a three bedroom unit attached to it. A separate three bedroom open plan overseers home is located close by. Numerous creeks and permanent waterholes are found throughout the country which is a mix of pebbly black soil open downs to the south and mulga land in the north. The downs are grassed with a mix of Mitchell and Flinders grasses.
In 1885 the proprietors of Warbreccan, Affleck and Simson, purchased 20,000 ewes to stock the property.
Approximately 2,380 sheep were stolen from the property in 1923 when it was owned by the Australian Pastoral Company. Three men were charged with the crime after trying to sell the stock to a nearby landowner.
The Felix Pastoral Company acquired the property in 1924 and remained owners until placing the property up for auction in 1971.
In 1936 the station was placed on the market along with the 64,000 sheep and 15,000 head of cattle that it was stocked with. The property had a 24 stand shearing shed and 15 bores fitted with windmills.
Warbreccan encompassed an area of and subdivided into 16 main paddocks, when it was put on the market in 1971 From 1963 to 1971 it had been stocked with an average of about 20,000 sheep and 600-900 cattle.