A reprieve from the region’s drought conditions for local farmers is now on the table thanks to Gunnedah Shire Council.
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The council has agreed to waive water fees for rural charities such as Aussie Helpers to support local farmers struggling through drought.
The drought support measure was brought forward by Gunnedah mayor Jamie Chaffey at the October council meeting.
“The motion put before you councillors is to waive the water fees for Aussie Helpers until February 28 next year and to look at further drought support measures,” Cr Chaffey said.
“There’s no doubt things are very tough for our farmers in the shire and this support will enable many to continue maintaining their breeding stocks.
“The impact on economic viability of producers because of this drought is considerable.”
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Although his fellow councillors welcomed the motion, Cr Gae Swain moved to amend it.
“I am concerned this water may not be used in the most effective way,” Cr Swain said.
“If we identify that the water is to be used for domestic uses, such as for bathing and washing, then I think this is a great idea.
“However, I am very concerned that once you start carting water for livestock it can set very unreal expectations.”
Cr Ann Luke said the decision to waive fees for some organisations may disadvantage other water carriers.
“I think by allowing some organisations to cart water for free, it may be very restrictive to other local water carters,” Cr Luke said.
“I think it best just to limit the waived fees to domestic water use for the shire’s farmers.”
The amended motion passed by a margin of six votes to two.
Cr Chaffey said the council should be seeking to support livestock as well as farmers.
“A lot of this shire’s farmers are feeling the stress of this drought at the moment,” Cr Chaffey said.
“I think that stress stems from the hard work those farmers have put into their stock and now they need the help from us as a council to keep their stock going.
“In my opinion, the cost from a council perspective is insignificant in comparison to helping local farmers maintain their stock.
“I think we should support both our farmers and their stock.”
Anyone seeking assistance with domestic water is urged to contact Aussie Helpers.