July 4, 2016
Queensland dairy farmers have welcomed the announcement by milk processors Norco and Lion (Dairy Farmers brand) that they won’t be lowering the farmgate price paid to farmers in Queensland.
This is despite price reductions by other processors in southern States.
Parmalat’s (Pauls brand) current price is set in place until December, and their suppliers will receive notification in the coming months for milk payments from January 2017.
Queensland Dairyfarmers Organisation vice-president Ross McInnes thanked Lion, Norco, and consumers who had supported dairy farmers by buying branded milk.
“The campaign encouraging consumers to boycott the $1 per litre milk and buy branded milk has so far been overwhelmingly successful, but it is by no means over,” he said.
“Dairy farmers in Queensland have been heartened that the public has rallied around local milk producers by doing what they can do best, choosing with their wallets.
“It is important that the community are aware that their choices at the checkout are making a difference and the announcement by Norco and Lion is proof of that.
“We encourage everyone to keep buying branded to support farmers from every producer as this the best way to ensure our farmers get a fair price for their product.
“Given the recent uncertainty and turbulence in the national dairy industry, QDO thank all processors for their continued support of Queensland dairy farmers.
“Norco and Lion’s decision not to reduce farmgate prices in Queensland is a vote of long term confidence in the local industry and shows their ongoing commitment to dairy in this State.
“On behalf of all Queensland dairy farmers, QDO says ‘thank you’.”
