NSW Government extends assistance as storm bill hits $20 million

The damage bill from the pre-Christmas storms in the State’s Central West is at $20 million dollars and rising as farmers count the cost of devastating flood waters, Acting Minister for Primary Industries, Linda Burney, said today.

The NSW Government today extended its Natural Disaster Assistance to include Carrathool, Bogan, Gilgandra, Warrumbungle, Narromine, Cobar and Walgett Local Government Areas.

"After battling more than seven years of drought farmers in these districts are now facing the devastation of flooding rains," Minister Burney said.

"Violent storms on 21 December dumped torrential rain across a swathe of NSW.

"The floodwaters have left behind them a scene of destruction and the NSW Government is committed to helping affected farmers wherever possible.

"West of the Warrumbungles at Tooraweenah 320 millimetres fell within six hours ripping fences apart, flooding houses, stranding livestock and destroying valuable pasture needed to sustain farm animals through summer.

"At Tullamore 220 millimetres fell in about six hours casing widespread destruction of farm infrastructure such as machinery and shearing sheds and dam walls."

Minister Burney said the NSW Department of Primary Industries had set up a hotline – 1800 814 647 – and was encouraging farmers to report damage so an accurate assessment could be made.

Damage or losses reported so far include:

• 3,000 kilometres of fencing;
• 5,500 sheep, 400 cattle;
• 40 farm houses flooded of damaged;
• 60 machinery or shearing sheds; and
• Thousands of kilometres of internal gravel farm roads washed away.

NSW DPI with the State Emergency Service (SES) has 17 helicopter operations dropping feed to stranded stock or removing animals from danger.

"An online register of fencing contractors will be available at the NSW DPI website for farmers to access," Minister Burney said.

"The State Government's Agricultural Natural Disaster Relief Arrangements provide loans of up to $130,000 to eligible recipients.

"These loans are at 2.85 per cent per annum with a two year interest and repayment free period.

"This allows for landholders to replace and repair property and infrastructure, including damage to crops and pasture."

The Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) is responsible for administering Natural Disaster Assistance. Farmers should contact the RAA on 1800 678 593.