Member for Nanango, Deb Frecklington, says the Labor Government’s announcement that Barambah Creek Farmers now have water security is nothing but fake news.
Mrs Frecklington said some local farmers from the Barambah Creek Groundwater sub-areas had actually been given reduced water licence volumes following negotiations with the Department of Natural Resources.
“These negotiations with the Department have been taking place since 2017, but it appears the method used by the Government to calculate the entitlements has not delivered a fair result,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“It became obvious that cracks started to appear in this process in late 2019 when several producers approached me with their concerns.
“So, it is very disappointing that the Minister thinks these licences give people confidence to expand their businesses as it is completely false.
“In fact, some of the entitlements do not allow for the current sustainability of their farming business, let alone the growth of that business.
“This is extremely concerning, as this area through Mondure, Wheatlands, Byee and Wooroonden is an important part of the South Burnett economy and an extremely productive and fertile area.
“It is very concerning that after such a long time negotiating these licences with the Government that many farmers are not getting a fair deal.
“I would call on the Minister to urgently reconsider the allocations for those who are disappointed with their outcome,” Deb said.
“The LNP is the only part in Queensland that has a plan to create new water infrastructure throughout the state including the New Bradfield Scheme.
“As well as building more water infrastructure, the LNP will also slash the price of water for 1 July 2021 for the more than 5,000 SunWater irrigators by almost 20% - including the more than 160 on the Barker Barambah Scheme.
“Unlike the LNP, Annastacia Palaszczuk has no plan to provide the long-term infrastructure and structural reform farmers need to ensure they will have access to affordable water.
