July 7, 2014
Agriculture Minister John McVeigh is urging producers affected by drought to begin sourcing molasses and putting other measures in place now to deal with an expected El Nino weather pattern in the coming months.
“Unfortunately for Queensland, after 18 months of severe drought there is no sign of a reprieve and we must prepare ourselves for the possibility of a delayed wet season,” Mr McVeigh said.
“About 75 per cent of the State is drought declared. The latest advice from the Bureau of Meteorology is that an El Nino pattern is expected to develop, increasing the likelihood of the current drought conditions continuing into 2015.
Mr McVeigh said graziers should start planning accordingly.
“Now is the time to reassess pasture and cattle numbers and develop a dry season plan,” he said.
“Plan ahead for supplements and molasses, establish contracts or purchase when there is greater availability and lower prices.
“(The State) government first announced a drought assistance program in May 2013 and we will continue to assist our farmers through this tough time.
“Federal Government drought concessional loans are also available for a term of five years with interest rate of four per cent.
“The loans will be for up to 50 per cent of eligible farm business debt, to a maximum of $1 million. Farmers should contact QRAA for further information on freecall 1800-623-946 or visit www.qraa.qld.gov.au”
AgForce general president Ian Burnett said he supported the call for primary producers to take steps to secure supplementary feed for the anticipated ongoing dry.
“Queensland has been severely impacted by this drought and all forecasts indicate we are in for another tough 12 months ahead,” Mr Burnett said.
“It is imperative that we look to secure supplies now to avoid missing out on molasses and other feedstuffs when it is too late.
“While we hope it rains and this feed will not be required it is better to have the molasses in the tank and to prepare for the worst case scenario.”
