Farmers’ resilience recognised this National Ag Day!

There’s no doubt 2018 has been a challenging year for farmers across NSW who are facing one of the worst droughts in over 100 years, but it’s their value as high quality producers of food and fibre that is being recognised this National Ag Day.

NSW Farmers’ President James Jackson said today was about celebrating the country’s agricultural sector and recognising that despite the hard times, farmers’ determination and innovation should never be underestimated.

“Farmers across the state, and indeed many parts of the country, are making tough decisions every day as this drought continues.

“They are decisions that impact farmers and their local communities financially but also physically, mentally and emotionally.

“But their resilience must be commended, and the community’s support no doubt is playing a vital role in helping farmers get through this tough period.

“The generosity Australians have shown drought affected farmers has been overwhelming and the farming community is very grateful,” Mr Jackson said.

This National Ag Day, NSW Farmers’ Association also wants to recognise the growing international demand for the state’s high quality food and fibre.

“The latest figures by the Department of Primary Industries show that prior to the impacts of drought, exports had grown by 22% year on year to $6.3 billion.

“We often take for granted being able to buy a box of cherries at the local markets, or top quality lamb, pork or beef for the Sunday roast but that’s not the case for millions of people across the world, and now more than ever we’re seeing countries, like China, with a growing middle-class showing great interest in our clean and green food.

“We’re living in a state with one of the most active food bowls in the southern hemisphere, and that’s something to celebrate this National Ag Day,” Mr Jackson said.

NSW produces a variety of food from blueberries, bananas, avocadoes and stoned fruit, to nuts, grains, wheat, red meat, poultry and oysters. It’s also home to award winning dairies and internationally recognised fibre producers.

Today marks the second year National Ag Day is being celebrated.

Date: 21 November 2018
Media Contact: Kathleen Curry | Public Affairs Director | 0429 011 690