Headlines
More Drought Support for Farmers
07-04-08
Tasmanian Premier Paul Lennon, today committed to urgently investigate additional measures to help farmers hit hard by drought.“I have made it one of my key priorities to drought-proof Tasmania.
“Over the coming three years there will be a $220 million dollar investment in strategic irrigation projects.
“While that will ensure the long term viability of rural communities, I recognise a range of additional shorter-term measures are needed to help farmers and rural communities cope with the effects of the current drought,” Mr Lennon said.
"Many farmers now face a failed autumn season. This means less available feed over winter and also means crops normally sown in autumn may not be planted."
Mr Lennon said that he had asked Primary Industries and Water Minister David Llewellyn, to provide urgent advice on practical measures which might alleviate the social and personal impacts of the prolonged dry.
Mr Llewellyn is arranging a special meeting of the State Drought Taskforce to consider further options for short-term support to ease the pressures on drought-affected rural communities.
He expects the taskforce to meet soon.
The announcement was made a concert at Woodsdale Football Oval, arranged by Aussie Helpers, a volunteer organisation who make it their business to help farming families doing it tough.
The Premier was given the honour of introducing the star attraction, Australian of the Year and Patron of Aussie Helpers, Lee Kernaghan.
“It gives me great pleasure to welcome Lee Kernaghan to Tasmania.
“Lee has a real connection to country Australia.
“He has lent his voice and support to farming communities around the country who are suffering in these dry times,” Mr Lennon said
The Premier also paid special tribute to Aussie Helpers, who have spent the past week travelling around Tasmania providing drought aid for farmers, and a little pampering for their wives.
“Aussie Helpers embody the Australian spirit of no matter what, helping out your mates,” he said.
The Premier announced his Government would provide $10,000 to assist Aussie Helpers conduct a hay and supplementary feed drive in Tasmania.
“It gives me great pleasure to extend the assistance my government has already provided to Aussie Helpers.
“This $10,000 will go towards purchasing much needed feed,” he said.
The Tasmanian and Australian Governments have provided $2.5 million so far in interest rate subsidies to farmers. In addition, Centrelink advises that 190 farming families in the drought declared areas are receiving family payments under the drought declaration which have totalled $1.15m to date.
A State Government marquee was on site at Woodsdale for those who wanted more information about planned irrigation projects and current assistance available.
For information on Aussie Helpers visit www.aussiehelpers.org.au
Title: More Drought Support for Farmers
Author: Paul Lennon, MP - Tasmanian Premier
Source: http://www.media.tas.gov.au/release.php?id=23423
Date: April 6, 2008
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