The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Local Land Services officers have set up emergency fodder distribution points across the State to assist farmers suffering livestock feed supply issues in drought and bushfire-affected areas.
The Minister for Agriculture, Adam Marshall said landholders should act early and contact the Agriculture and Animal Services Hotline to access a range of support at this difficult time.
“It’s heartbreaking to see our farmers, who are already suffering through drought, to now have to deal with these terrible fires decimating their land, stock and fences,” Mr Marshall said.
“In response, we’re establishing fodder distribution points and dramatically increasing the number of boots on the ground to help,” he said.
“Fences and infrastructure can be rebuilt, but lives cannot, so I urge everyone in fire affected areas to have a plan and act as soon as possible.”
Mr Marshall said in the Coffs Harbour region, emergency fodder distribution points were operating at Grafton, Kempsey and Macksville, and in the Northern Tablelands, services were available at Glen Innes and Walcha.
“Additional fodder points will be established across the State over the coming days.”
He said DPI and Local Land Service Officers were assisting landholders to manage animal welfare-related issues such as: free emergency fodder and stock water; animal assessment and veterinary assistance; stock euthanasia and burial; livestock feeding and management advice; and care of animals in evacuation centres.
“We’ve already had up to 1,800 animals in care at more than 20 livestock evacuation centres across the state and more than 170 staff are now engaged in the effort,” Mr Marshall said.
The Agriculture and Animal Services Hotline number is 1800 814 647.
