NSW Farmers is giving politicians a chance to make their pitch to voters on key issues with its Regional Debate series.
Designed to focus on critical issues ahead of the state election, the Muswellbrook debate on Wednesday night will feature Regional Roads Minister Sam Farraway, Shadow Minister Jenny Aitchison and Shooters, Fishers, and Farmers spokesperson Robert Borsak.
NSW Farmers Policy Director Kathy Rankin said everyone was seeing the impact of damaged roads across rural, regional, and remote areas, and people wanted to hear how each party planned to tackle the problem and deliver a long-term solution.
“We want to hear from all sides of politics about their plan to repair and improve critical road and rail infrastructure,” Ms Rankin said.
“You don’t have to look far to find a pothole-riddled road after all the rain and flooding last year, and we are finding our ageing rail infrastructure is struggling to keep up with demand.
“The farmers growing our food and fibre need fit-for-purpose infrastructure that won’t wash away in the next downpour, as do the people who live in our regional towns.”
Polling commissioned by NSW Farmers revealed the number one issue for voters was the cost of living with high food and grocery costs likely to make an impact at the ballot box, and Ms Rankin said the topic of damaged roads was coming up in conversation right across the state.
“We’re all talking about it, and everyone knows there needs to be a fix – but this isn’t just something you can throw money at and declare ‘job done!’,” Ms Rankin said.
“We have all seen the pain that supply chain disruptions can cause for people, and one of the fundamental links in those supply chains are roads, rail and ports that get goods from farms to consumers and export markets.
“The message we are getting out to decision-makers and voters is that a more strategic investment to deliver fit for purpose road and rail infrastructure is critical to keeping food affordable, and to secure a sustainable and functioning agriculture sector.”
The Regional Debate: Infrastructure will be held at Muswellbrook RSL from 6pm to 8pm on Wednesday, February 15.
Seats are strictly limited, reserve yours today! Visit https://form.jotform.com/holleyt/regional-debate-muswellbrook-rsvp to register for the event.
