11 May 2020
- The Queensland Government last week announced it would freeze irrigation prices for a year and absorb dam safety costs as part of ongoing measures to support Queensland business and industry through the COVID-19 pandemic. More information HERE.
- The announcement will see Queensland irrigators’ water prices remain the same or fall and they will not have to contribute to dam safety costs, an outcome which QFF and its industry members have been continually advocating for. Read QFF’s media statement HERE.
- Now, with clarity regarding the long-term viability of some irrigation schemes and positive benefits for the productivity and profitability of Queensland farm businesses, farmers can continue producing the high-quality food, fibre and foliage consumers enjoy. Read QFF’s Queensland Country Life column HERE.
- QFF Water Policy Advisor Sharon McIntosh recently spoke to ABC Rural about the Queensland Government’s water price freeze announcement and the next steps. If you missed it, skip ahead to 8.13 HERE.
- “Put your own oxygen mask on first before you help others.” The same can be said about being led into the temptation to help adult children as we head into what has been described by the International Monetary Fund as a “deep recession”. Read more from QFF corporate partner Holding Redlich HERE.
- QFF industry member CANEGROWERS is urging a common sense, pragmatic and risk-based approach to prevent Queensland sugarcane being stranded at the roadside because of the state’s blanket ban on all driver testing during the coronavirus pandemic. More HERE.
- The Australian cotton industry’s second five-year Sustainability Report has revealed producing a bale of cotton now takes 48% less water, 34% less land, and 97% less insecticides than in 1992. Read more from Cotton Australia HERE.
- Impacted farmers in the Mareeba Shire local government area now have access to grants of up to $75,000 to assist with their bushfire recovery. For more information on eligibility for loans and grants for primary producers phone the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority on 1800 623 946 or click HERE.
- To take you through the new workforce measures introduced for agribusiness and commercial fisheries as well as accommodation and transport providers, the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries has created a webinar detailing the changes. Watch the webinar HERE.
- Fall armyworm has now been detected in Mackay and Dysart. Be alert but not alarmed. If you think you’ve seen fall armyworm, take some photos and call Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or speak to your local biosecurity or extension officer. More information and watch a series of webinars about the pest HERE.
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