Livestock producers who have been impacted by bushfires in the Mid-Western region have accessed emergency fodder at the Australian Rural Education Centre (AREC) at Mudgee since 27 December 2019.
The emergency fodder distribution point at AREC will close at midday on Saturday, 4 January 2020.
NSW Local Land Services (LLS) and the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) established the emergency fodder distribution point to provide emergency fodder in support of animal welfare needs in the critical initial stages of the emergency.
Incident Controller at the Bathurst Local Command Centre, Andrew Mulligan, said staff at the emergency fodder distribution sites and fire grounds have been working tirelessly to provide emergency fodder and stock water, animal assessment, stock euthanasia and burial, livestock feeding and management advice and care of animals in evacuation centres.
“The emergency fodder distribution point provided immediate assistance to livestock producers impacted by the bushfires and allowed them to assess their situation and make plans for their stock,” Mr Mulligan said.
“Support for impacted primary producers and communities will continue as long-term recovery support commences. Support will continue to be provided through the Agriculture and Animal Services Hotline on 1800 814 647.
“NSW DPI Rural Resilience officers are also available to support fire affected primary producers – they are there to listen, learn and link rural communities, families and individuals with the most appropriate services and information.”
Anyone wishing to contact the Rural Resilience team can find their local contact by visiting the NSW DPI website.
In many instances, the bushfires have fast-tracked the need for farmers to make tough decisions. Some useful information on livestock safety in emergencies, including your options after a natural disaster emergency, can be found by visiting the NSW DPI website.
If you need advice to help you make decisions about whether to feed or sell your livestock please contact one of the Agricultural Advice staff at Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 from 8:30am on Monday, 6 January.
