TasFarmers appoints full-time drought coordinator

Tasmania's Peak Body for Farmers says drought continues to be challenging as dry conditions persist across Tasmania and is actively taking steps to support the community during this difficult time

TasFarmers CEO, Nathan Calman said we have through engagement secured funding from the Tasmanian Government and the TAS Farm Innovation Hub to appoint a community drought support coordinator. In addition to a doubling in sailings by Bass Island Lines from next week have also been able to lobby for an essential extra sailing to King Island over Easter.

Moreover, TasFarmers has 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.

Mr Calman said, “The twelve irrigation schemes extended by Tas Irrigation will provide additional water, aiding livestock health during the mating season and addressing drought challenges.

“We are also appointing Jacqueline Shipton from within the team 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.“

“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,” Mr Calman Said.

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: https://www.rawtas.com.au/.