The area of NSW in drought has fallen to  80.3 per cent and widespread rain has seen optimism return to some areas of the bush.

I am happy to hear that rain across NSW is finally beginning to make a dent in this one in 100 year drought. Paddocks that were once dust bowls have been revitalised by widespread
rains and nearly 100 per cent of NSW received average rain in May.

The area of NSW considered marginal is 10.4pc (up from 9.8) the satisfactory area is 9.3pc (up from 6.9), while drought is down to 80.3pc (from 83.3).

DPI agronomists are reporting that above average temperatures and a lack of frost have resulted in excellent germination, establishment and growth of crops. In fact, about 90 to 95 per cent of the forecast 4.72 million hectare winter crop has been planted. And experts predict the size of the winter crop may in fact increase on the back of improved seasonal conditions, positive price outlooks for most crops and rapid pasture growth.

However, we must not lose sight of the fact soaking rains are still needed to consolidate soil-moisture profiles, especially in the south, central and western areas.

Budget

THE State Government has delivered a major boost to NSW Primary Industries, allocating $472.8 million for operational and capital works in the 2007/08 Budget. This is an increase of more than $50 million on last year’s.

This budget reflects the State Labor Government’s real commitment to our drought stricken primary industries. I am pleased to say that this further support for our primary industries comes on top of more than $300 million already committed in drought support measures.

The key investment areas for the NSW Department of Primary Industries in 2007/2008 include: 

• $111.6 million for agricultural extension and educational services, fisheries management, maintaining animal welfare and building productive regional relationships;
• $99.5 million for the development of industry safety, bio-security and emergency response capability, including;
• $8.2 million in Government grants to fight noxious weeds across the State;
• $2.4 million to cover the NSW contribution towards eradication of red imported fire ants being undertaken by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries;
• $139.7 for operational costs relating to applied research and technology to help boost the profitability and sustainability of the State’s primary producers.