February 8, 2012
Improved seasonal conditions across East Gippsland have pleased State Agriculture, Food Security and Water Minister Peter Walsh who visited East Gippsland last week.
Local issues such as feral animal control, food production, water security, and pest plant management all fall within Minister Walsh’s portfolio.
Minister Walsh said it was pleasing to see improved pasture conditions for farmers after a decade severely affected by low rainfall.
“A number of East Gippsland primary producers have done it tough after a number of years of drought,” Minister Walsh said.
“Thankfully increased rainfall over the past 18 months has helped to provide local farmers with a strong start to 2012.”
Minister Walsh said a Department of Primary Industries report released last week indicated that Victorian food and fibre exports increased by $1.3 billion to $8.07 billion in 2010-11.
“The end of the drought and stronger commodity prices, together with new access to the Indian market for dairy farmers, are the key factors in an exceptionally strong showing for Victorian food and fibre producers,” Minister Walsh said.
“Our exports increased during a difficult economic time when the Australian dollar reached parity with the US dollar.
“This demonstrates the high quality and high demand for Victorian food, wine and fibre, and is a fantastic result for our farming communities.”
During his visit Minister Walsh met with Senior VFF representative, Chris Nixon and local MPs Tim Bull and Darren Chester. The trio raised a number of issues with Minister Walsh on behalf of local farmers.
Mr Bull said, the Victorian Coalition’s commitment to commence aerial baiting for wild dogs will begin in May if it is approved by the Federal Government.
“The devastating impact of wild dogs on the livestock of local farmers is well documented,” Mr Bull said.
“Along with other key measures, such as the reintroduction of Lane’s leg-hold traps, the Coalition is looking forward to using an aerial baiting program as part of more strategic approach to tackle the wild dog problem.”