“National Agriculture Day is a great opportunity to recognise the achievements of the agriculture sector – despite the tough conditions battling drought and fire”, NSW Farmers’ President James Jackson said today.
“We know that conditions have been harsh for many, and the daily management decisions have been challenging.”
Farmers across NSW are resilient and the 2019 Performance Data and Insights launched by Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall today is positive.
NSW primary industries output in 2018-2019 is estimated at $15.9 billion. While the annual value of crop production declined 48% to $2.5 billion, the value of livestock and livestock products grew by 4% to $6.7 billion.
Given the weather conditions that farmers are facing and the ongoing challenges of accessing fodder and water this is a positive message for our state’s farmers.
Increases in farm gate prices by up to 7% and strong global demand for our high quality produce means that the planning and continual focus on improvement across the Agriculture sector is being rewarded. However this figure includes the increased sale of animals due to drought all be it at good prices.
On National Agriculture Day I applaud farmers across NSW for their commitment and dedication in the face of a challenging environment.
“I echo the words of the NSW Minister for Agriculture who today encouraged us all to buy local and support our primary producers, both now and in the lead up to Christmas and holiday celebrations. “
“Our farmers produce some of the best fresh food and fibre in the world.”
