During last week farmer’s drought forum, Tasmania’s peak advocacy body for agriculture, TasFarmers, announced the appointment of three King Island drought coordinators to help the island respond to and manage some of the worst drought conditions in 50 years.
Farmers identified the need for an island-based drought coordinator to avoid duplication of efforts and the need for centralising the sourcing of feed and managing logistical issues.
Funding for the positions has been provided by the Tasmanian Government and the TAS Farm Innovation Hub. TasFarmers CEO Nathan Calman said the role will initially before the next four months, however, this may be extended for a further four months based on the drought recovery heading into Spring.
“Deb Delaney has now started with us and will be working in this role on a full-time basis, supported one day per week by both Steph Ellis and Abbey Lewis,” Mr Calman said.
“We are pleased to be able to appoint three local King Islanders to be based on the island supporting local primary producers.
“Since March, we have seconded Jacquline Shipton into the interim drought coordinator role to support all producers across Tasmania, while we have recruited for the permanent roles based on King Island.
“The great work started by Jacquline here will help the island coordinators get off to a strong start and we thank her for her efforts here,” he said.
Tas Farm Innovation Hub director Sandra Knowles said Hub staff have visited King Island on several occasions to meet with farmers and discuss their needs now and into the future.
“We are pleased to be able to work with TasFarmers and NRE to enable the employment of these local coordinators to help farmers navigate the challenges and make the right decisions for their businesses,” she said.
TasFarmers recognises freight on and off of the island remains a significant challenge. Our coordinators will play an important role in forecasting freight movement requirements for livestock, feed and fertilizer. They will also play a significant role in connecting producers with other services and supports that are available during this difficult period.
King Island Residents can get in touch with King Island Drought Coordinators by phoning 0447 370 417 or emailing drought@tasfarmers.com.au