VICTORIA's chief veterinary officer, Hugh Millar, has been awarded a Public Service Medal, as part of this year's Australia Day Honours.
Dr Millar was recognised for his outstanding public service to the general public and livestock industries.
Milk to step up
MURRAY Goulburn suppliers could receive a milk price step-up as early as today. The co-operative's board is expected to meet today and milk price will be high on the agenda.
ACCC gets teeth
THE Australian Competition and Consumer Commission will be given new powers to stop "creeping acquisitions" and big supermarkets locking up local land.
Competition Minister Craig Emerson last week said the ACCC would be able to reject takeovers of small businesses where there was a substantial impact on local markets.
Clearing dispute
THE Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal will adjudicate on a dispute over native vegetation at an all-day hearing at Edenhope in June.
Edenhope farmer Rob Tuncks has refused to pay a $550 fine imposed by the West Wimmera Shire council for allegedly clearing vegetation on 2ha of his land.
New RASV boss
STEPHEN Spargo has been appointed new president and chairman of the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria board. Mr Spargo replaces John Fox, who is moving to Brisbane with his family. Mr Fox will remain on the RASV board.
Nufarm nod
THE board of chemicals supplier Nufarm will recommend shareholders accept Japan's Sumitomo Chemical Company's plan to acquire a stake of up to 20 per cent in Nufarm at $14 a share.
Nufarm shareholders will vote on the offer at a meeting on March 2.
