Published Sunday, 11 February, 2007 at 05:00 PM
Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries
The Honourable Tim Mulherin
DPI&F READY TO HELP WATER-LOGGED FARMERS
Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries officers across north and far north Queensland are geared up to help the region’s primary producers get back to business as flood waters recede.
Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries Tim Mulherin said Queensland’s primary producers were well-known for their resilience in times of adverse weather.
“It’s important that our primary production sector is aware of the range of services and expertise that is available to them, particularly those industries that are still recovering from Cyclones Larry and Monica last year,” he said.
“DPI&F has appointed two industry development officers in Far North Queensland, based at Kairi and Mareeba, to assist primary producers with issues such as risk management and diversification. A third industry development officer will also be appointed to South Johnstone by the end of February to assist coastal producers.
“Along with our other services, including farm financial counselling and extension officers, the Department can provide information on future management options, particularly for water-logged agribusinesses.
“Cyclone Larry-affected producers who are now facing potential flooding issues can apply for low-interest loans until December 2007. They should speak to one of our officers if they would like to review their position.
“Producers can also seek advice from the Department regarding stock movement requirements and animal welfare.
“There may be stock isolated by floodwaters and facing possible starvation. I would urge all producers in such circumstances to promptly report this to DPI&F so appropriate action can be taken.”
Mr Mulherin said DPI&F’s biosecurity inspectors and scientists would remain vigilant during the post-flood period, looking for signs of exotic pests and diseases.
“As we have seen before with Papaya fruit fly and black Sigatoka, pest and disease incursions can be devastating for our primary production areas.
“It’s vital that we are constantly on the lookout so we can respond as quickly as possible to any discovery to minimise the disruption that these outbreaks cause.
“This includes the enforcement of restrictions on the movement of banana planting material.
Mr Mulherin said producers could do a lot to help themselves.
“If you have produce that is held up by road closures please contact your local Council to confirm which alternative routes may be open,” he said.
“Also, when cleaning up your property be observant and note the state of plants and livestock behaviour. Monitor any changes in the coming days and weeks, and let the DPI&F officers know if an animal appears to be ill.”
Flood-affected producers can also visit the DPI&F website, which has some simple planning tips on managing emergency situations such as cyclones and floods to help limit the damage and make the recovery easier and quicker. Just go to www.dpi.qld.gov.au and access Emergency and Disaster Assistance on the home page.
For further information, please contact the DPI&F Business Information Centre on 13 25 23.
Media: 32396530
Minister for Primary Industries and Fisheries Tim Mulherin said Queensland’s primary producers were well-known for their resilience in times of adverse weather.
“It’s important that our primary production sector is aware of the range of services and expertise that is available to them, particularly those industries that are still recovering from Cyclones Larry and Monica last year,” he said.
“DPI&F has appointed two industry development officers in Far North Queensland, based at Kairi and Mareeba, to assist primary producers with issues such as risk management and diversification. A third industry development officer will also be appointed to South Johnstone by the end of February to assist coastal producers.
“Along with our other services, including farm financial counselling and extension officers, the Department can provide information on future management options, particularly for water-logged agribusinesses.
“Cyclone Larry-affected producers who are now facing potential flooding issues can apply for low-interest loans until December 2007. They should speak to one of our officers if they would like to review their position.
“Producers can also seek advice from the Department regarding stock movement requirements and animal welfare.
“There may be stock isolated by floodwaters and facing possible starvation. I would urge all producers in such circumstances to promptly report this to DPI&F so appropriate action can be taken.”
Mr Mulherin said DPI&F’s biosecurity inspectors and scientists would remain vigilant during the post-flood period, looking for signs of exotic pests and diseases.
“As we have seen before with Papaya fruit fly and black Sigatoka, pest and disease incursions can be devastating for our primary production areas.
“It’s vital that we are constantly on the lookout so we can respond as quickly as possible to any discovery to minimise the disruption that these outbreaks cause.
“This includes the enforcement of restrictions on the movement of banana planting material.
Mr Mulherin said producers could do a lot to help themselves.
“If you have produce that is held up by road closures please contact your local Council to confirm which alternative routes may be open,” he said.
“Also, when cleaning up your property be observant and note the state of plants and livestock behaviour. Monitor any changes in the coming days and weeks, and let the DPI&F officers know if an animal appears to be ill.”
Flood-affected producers can also visit the DPI&F website, which has some simple planning tips on managing emergency situations such as cyclones and floods to help limit the damage and make the recovery easier and quicker. Just go to www.dpi.qld.gov.au and access Emergency and Disaster Assistance on the home page.
For further information, please contact the DPI&F Business Information Centre on 13 25 23.
Media: 32396530