The NSW Nationals have welcomed additional support for cane growers across the Northern Rivers to remove dangerous debris dumped by last year’s catastrophic floods.
The NSW Environmental Protection Authority confirmed farmers in the region will be able to have their waste collected for free once their crops have been harvested.
NSW Nationals Leader Dugald Saunders said the move will take unnecessary pressure off growers who have already been through so much.
“Our cane farmers have suffered through a devastating deluge and just when they are about to start harvest, they have to deal with the hazardous materials that were left behind,” Mr Saunders said.
“The NSW Nationals pushed the Labor Government for more action to be taken to remove the debris so our primary producers can get on with their jobs and do them safely.
“It is great to see these calls have been heard and I would encourage all farmers to start stockpiling your waste in a safe and accessible location, so it is ready to be taken away as soon as possible.”
Shadow Minister for Emergency Services and the North Coast Gurmesh Singh said the support will bring some relief to communities that are still trying to recover.
“Cane farmers were finding everything from caravans to gas cylinders and washing machines on their properties, as they were preparing for harvest,” Mr Singh said.
“It was unfair to ask them to shoulder the financial burden to dispose of this rubbish and we believe this is the right decision to support them on the long road to recovery.”
Nationals Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, said with the harvest in full swing, this is welcome news for sugar cane farmers across the Northern Rivers.
“This is a win for the farmers and the environment,” Mr Williamson said.
NSW Cane Growers Association Chairman Ross Farlow said the support will make harvest a lot smoother for growers.
“This won’t only alleviate the financial burden to get rid of the rubbish, but it will also take the hassle out of having to transport the waste to the local tip,” Mr Farlow said.
“This time of year is very busy for our farmers and we welcome this assistance that will save them both time and money as they push ahead with harvest after the devastating floods.”
