Drought assistance support to help primary producers rebuild after rain

The Ag Expo returns to Southern Downs where one-on-one expert advice will be available to primary producers affected by the recent drought. Details:

Southern Downs Ag Expo will provide support to primary producers affected by the recent drought. Pictured: Andy Williams, Hidden Creek Winery

Following years of crippling drought for many Southern Downs primary producers, a new council-led expo will bring together leading government and not-for-profit agencies to offer support and advice to affected producers.

The Southern Downs Ag Expo will return on June 3 where agency specialists and local suppliers will be open to discussions about drought assistance opportunities.

At the trade stalls producers will be able to meet one-on-one with experts to discuss the latest developments and investigations in agriculture including bio security, waste management and casual labour hire.

Rural Aid, Drought Angels and RHealth will be in attendance to let locals know of the assistance programs they have on offer.

Southern Downs Councillor Cynthia McDonald knows first-hand the continual challenges local primary producers are facing.

“The recovery process of our local agriculture and business sectors will take some time as the repercussions of years of drought have caused massive downturn in the productivity in these sectors,” she said.

“The Southern Downs region has finally received some very much needed rain and for this we are very appreciative.

“However this done not mean the drought has broken, and as a community, we need to start the rebuilding process.”

Councillor McDonald urged those affected to reach out at the upcoming expo and forge a new path for the future.

“Support from council and our local agencies can provide the vital link for information on available assistance specific to primary producers.”

The free event will be held at the Stanthorpe Civic Centre at 8.30am on Thursday, June 3.