The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) has welcomed the activation of Category C assistance for farmers beginning the recovery process following damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Niran.
Farmers in the Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Hinchinbrook, Mareeba and Tablelands local government areas are eligible for grants of up to $25,000 jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
QFF CEO Dr Georgina Davis acknowledged the Queensland and Australian Governments for their timely response, as farmers begin the process of assessing the impact of the destructive weather event.
“While banana growers have been the most heavily impacted, initial reports have identified significant damage to sugarcane, passionfruit, avocados, production nurseries and tree crops with between 20 and 100 per cent crop losses, as well as plant machinery and equipment damage,” Dr Davis said.
“As more information comes to hand, QFF will continue working closely with government to ensure the appropriate levels of support are available to farmers.”
“QFF is in the process of creating an Industry Support Network of people with knowledge of farm practices and business processes, to take on a supporter role to galvanise those who have experienced loss or disruption as a result of a disaster like Tropical Cyclone Niran, and who need a helping hand as they recover.”
“In the meantime, we encourage impacted farmers to contact their relevant industry body or the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) to complete an impact assessment.”
The Category C recovery grants are available from QRIDA at qrida.qld.gov.au or by calling 1800 623 946.