Flooding across New South Wales' Hunter and Mid North Coast presents additional challenges for farmers recovering from previous rounds of extreme weather, according to the NSW peak farm body.
Rebecca Reardon, Vice President of NSW Farmers, noted that water levels were still rising in affected areas and farmers were preparing for further impacts. "Farmers have done a great job of preparing for this event, but it's important they reach out for help if they need it," Reardon stated.
Resources from the Department of Primary Industries and Local Land Services are accessible via social media to assist farm operations during these conditions. Reardon encouraged farmers to connect with these resources, adding, "This is another flood we didn't need, so it's important we all look out for each other – and it's always better we're safe, than sorry."
The ongoing rain and flooding have already impacted farm communities. Reardon reported, "Fences and farm infrastructure have already been damaged again, roads are cut or ruined, and paddocks and crops have now been waterlogged for months on end." She further highlighted the prospects of confronting cold conditions that could limit pasture growth, complicating the availability of fodder for the approaching winter.
Farmers are advised to notify any flood damage to their properties via a survey issued by NSW DPIRD to expedite recovery assistance. Local Land Services are available to support farmers in completing this survey.
For more information:
Eliza Fessey
NSW Farmers
Tel: +61 (0) 427 411 220
Email: [email protected]