Emergency fodder for producers affected by Queensland bushfires

Emergency fodder for producers affected by Queensland bushfires

• Five road trains of fodder are being sent to affected areas.
• Producers are encouraged to fill out a Disaster Impact Survey so needs can be assessed.
• Advice will be provided about how best to manage livestock.

Primary producers significantly affected by bushfires in Queensland will soon be able to access emergency fodder.

The recently established Bushfire Fodder Taskforce has contracted Rural Aid to provide five road trains of fodder to affected areas.

Two road trains are expected to arrive in the Carnarvon Gorge area on Friday night, while the other three will arrive in the Burnett region from interstate on the weekend.

Multiple properties have been damaged and thousands of cattle are considered at significant risk of animal welfare issues in these regions.

The exact locations of where the fodder is to be delivered are still to be finalised.

Biosecurity risks are being considered and managed as part of the process. Sourced fodder will have an appropriate weed hygiene declaration, however, properties receiving hay acknowledge the risk of weed seed contamination at their own discretion.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner:

“The Palaszczuk Government is moving quickly to ensure primary producers have what they need when they need it, including fodder,” he said.

“Producers who have been affected by the bushfires are strongly encouraged to fill out a Disaster Impact Survey so their need can be properly assessed and prioritised.

“So far, we have had more than 60 businesses complete the survey, and the number continues to grow.

“I understand that while other areas, such as Tara on the Western Downs and Miriam Vale near Gladstone, have been heavily affected by the bushfires, Local Disaster Management Group feedback is that those areas have enough fodder supplies for the time being.

“And I want to assure producers that extra road trains will be sought as required.”

The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) will be providing advice to landholders on recovery options tailored to their individual circumstances.

DAF will continue to carefully monitor the situation.

Primary producers can also access disaster assistance loans up to $250,000 and freight assistance up to $5000.

Products sourced from the Fire Ant Biosecurity Zones must comply with movement control requirements.

Other support available includes:

• Emergency hardship assistance
• Free mental health support 
• Free financial counselling
• Drought preparedness grants and loans

For information on applications and assistance, visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au or call 1800 623 946. Contact DAF on 13 25 23 for freight subsidies.

For more information, head to Queensland bushfires | Business Queensland.

For grabs from Minister Furner, click here.

ENDS

Media contact – 0417 296 116