SIX reports of crop loss and fencing damage in the Cabonne Shire area, including Canowindra and Molong, have been made to Local Land Services.
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This was among more than 350 reports of flood damage losses that have been registered with Central West Local Land Services – the state’s estimated damage bill now stands at $720 million.
According to Central West Local Land Services, some 145,314 hectares of pasture losses have been reported across the state, with more reports expected.
Local Land Services Central Tablelands endangered species team leader Tim Seears said it was important for all flood damage to be reported.
“You can certainly contact Local Land Services. We do need to know what damage is out there,” he said. “We’ve got staff who can give advice as to how people can manage those pastures back.”
NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Local Land Services members are urging primary producers to report all damage following recent flood events.
Assistance for farmers under the natural disaster relief and recovery arrangement includes concessional interest rate loans of up to $130,000 for those in urgent need.
These loans can be used for essential working capital replacement and repair of damage caused to the property and associated improvements.
The repayment term is preceded by a two year interest and repayment-free period.
Freight subsidies are available for primary producers for up to 50 per cent of the cost of transporting fodder to an affected property and stock to and from agistment. The maximum subsidy available is $15,000 per annum.
NSW DPI State Emergency Coordinator Simon Oliver said extensive aerial surveillance continues across the vast area of flooded agricultural land in the Central West.
“Over 1.3 million hectares of land is currently under water, and it is only expected to increase as the catchments are saturated and the rain continues,” he said. “We have conducted aerial mustering and fodder drops to stranded livestock and these are expected to increase due to the prolonged flood conditions. Many areas are expected to remain inundated for several weeks.”
To apply for a concessional loan, grant or freight subsidy, contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593 or visit raa.nsw.gov.au. Information: Central Tablelands Local Land Services on 1300 795 299.