Tasmania’s peak farming body has appointed a full-time drought coordinator to assist producers struggling with the challenging dry conditions.
TasFarmers chief executive officer Nathan Calman said drought continues to be challenging as dry conditions persist across Tasmania and King Island and the organisation is actively taking steps to support the community.
Mr Calman said they have secured funding from the State Government and the TAS Farm Innovation Hub to appoint a community drought support coordinator. In addition to this TasFarmers has organised for a doubling in sailings by Bass Island Lines from this week to assist producers.
Mr Calman said TasFarmers has also been advocating to government and Tasmanian Irrigation for the need of an extension to irrigation water beyond the typical end of irrigation season at the end of March.
“The 12 irrigation schemes extended by Tas Irrigation will provide additional water, aiding livestock health during the mating season and addressing drought challenges,” he said.
TasFarmers are also appointing Jacqueline Shipton as the full-time contact point for the drought. “So, if you are a farmer on King Island, Flinders Island or mainland Tasmania and you need assistance, we encourage you to contact Jacqueline who has a wealth of knowledge and experience,” he said.
“TasFarmers will support a coordinated response and Jac will be able to provide valuable assistance to landholders.
“In the coming weeks we will also have a full-time person on King Island.
“We all know farming has challenges and the current dry season is no exception. As each person navigates situational stress differently, we encourage farmers to look out for each other and ask for help if you need it.”
TasFarmers strongly encourages people who need support to contact Rural Alive & Well.
Either call directly on 1800 729 827 or contact them via their website at http://www.rawtas.com.au