DROUGHT DECLARATION OVER REMAINDER OF KILKIVAN SHIRE

Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries Tim Mulherin has approved declaration of the remaining portion of Kilkivan Shire (east of Wide Bay Creek) under state drought processes, following recommendations from the Local Drought Committee.

The declaration took effect from October 1, 2006.

This part of Kilkivan Shire was drought declared on May 24, 2002 and revoked from drought status on March 12, 2004. Meanwhile, the part of the shire west of Wide Bay Creek has remained drought declared since October 28, 2000.

Mr Mulherin said rainfall in the area east of Wide Bay Creek has been well below average and pasture is low in quality and quantity. Dams throughout the area are extremely low and most creeks are no longer flowing.

This latest declaration brings the area of Queensland officially drought declared by the State Government to 65 shires and 4 part shires, which is equivalent to 60.6 per cent of the land area of the State.

Mr Mulherin said primary producers who are in a drought declared shire or hold an Individually Droughted Property (IDP) declaration can apply for assistance through the Drought Relief Assistance Scheme.

“DRAS provides freight subsidies to eligible primary producers on transport of fodder and water for livestock during drought and on livestock returning from agistment and animals purchased for restocking after the drought,” he said.

Application forms are available on the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) website at www.dpi.qld.gov.au or from their local DPI&F office. Completed forms should be returned to the local biosecurity inspector.

Mr Mulherin reminded primary producers that farm financial counsellors were available to help them understand their financial position and assess options for improvement and he urged producers to contact counsellors sooner rather than later.

“Farm Financial Counsellors also assist producers in negotiations with financial institutions and with referrals to professional service providers for help with matters of a legal, accounting or social nature,” he said.

For further information about DRAS, Farm Financial Counsellors and other drought assistance measures, producers can contact the DPI&F Business Information Centre on 13 25 23.

Media:David Potter 32396530