Dairy Deregulation

Dairy Deregulation

Many farmers rallied at the National Party Conference, held in Tweed Heads on the weekend, to convey their dissatisfaction in relation to the current uncertainty surrounding the dairy industry. However, I would like to again reinforce the fact that the National Party and the Coalition is committed to securing a State-based package as we believe it will give struggling farmers the boost needed to adapt to a substantially reduced farm-gate price and avoid massive social dislocation. I cannot believe that all Members who represent dairy farmers, regardless of their political party, did not support amendments. The fate of dairy farmers across NSW now hinges on the vote of the Country Labor Members and the independents in the Upper House.

$1 million For Cellulose Valley

Last week The Hon Harry Woods, Minister for Regional Development, announced the State's backing for the Cellulose Valley Technology Park, a world's first for natural plant products, through its $1 million funding package. Flow on effects such as 400 jobs will result from the injection of funding as well as being directed towards infrastructure development costs, such as establishing internal roads, electricity, telecommunications and water. The market for medicinal herbs is growing at an encouraging 35% each year, which will accentuate and promote locally grown herbs as well as boosting business expansion. The Park will also attract sophisticated skills to the region along with significant investment from international pharmaceutical and research groups.

Lismore Hosts Investors

I would like to thank and congratulate Minister Harry Woods for his support, and through the NSW Department of State and Regional Development, in organising the fourth Regional Business and Investment Tour that visited Lismore last week. The 18-member team took part in a three-day tour designed to showcase regional investment opportunities. A crucial part of the tour's plan was to address one of the major impediments to economic growth for country businesses - that being access to capital. Building bridges between country NSW and the mainstream investment community are advantageous in ensuring businesses get a fair deal.

Primex 2000

Once again, the chief agricultural field day and largest commercial exhibition in Northern NSW was a great success. The main objective of creating an atmosphere that instigates positive contact between buyers and exhibitors is obviously being achieved annually with the exhibition now enjoying its 16th year. The opening was officiated by The Hon Warren Truss, Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry who was impressed with the showcasing of the best of Australian agricultural equipment and livestock, in addition to highlighting the hard work and commitment of primary producers.

Urbenville Unites

I was pleased to be able to attend a very unique community gathering at Urbenville and join with residents to celebrate the 70th Birthdays of 30 both present and past residents. The concept was brought to reality when locals decided that instead of there being many small parties for the milestone birthday there should be one big party for all. The rain did not deter the ex-residents from travelling from afar and locals enjoying reminiscing with old friends and the making of new ones.

Capital Assistance Program

There has been considerable delay in the release of application forms for the Capital Assistance Program, however, I wish to notify all sporting groups that once forms are finalised they will be available from my office upon request.

Trust Board Vacancies

Applications are invited from persons interested in being considered for appointment as a member of the Trust Board to manage the affairs of the Tuntable Creek Public Hall Reserve Trust. The closing date is 17 July, 2000

I will be visiting West of the Range Towns on Monday 3 July, Kyogle on Tuesday 4 July and Casino on Friday 7 July. For an appointment or further information on above, please telephone Karen or Bronwyn on 6621 3624.