A joint State Government and Livestock SA program to provide fodder support to bushfire-affected livestock producers around the state will continue with extra funding.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Tim Whetstone said to date approximately 3,000 tonnes of hay has been distributed under the program, co-ordinated by Livestock SA, across Kangaroo Island, Cudlee Creek and Keilira fire areas.
"Getting fodder as quickly and efficiently as possible to livestock producers in fire-affected regions has been a critical priority for both the State Government and Livestock SA as we recognise it as an important part of the recovery process," said Minister Whetstone.
"To ensure the flow of fodder continues, the Marshal Liberal Government is providing an additional $60,000 to cover the transport costs for another 30 trucks of donated fodder from the drop off point at Cape Jarvis to Kangaroo Island. This is on top of the $120,000 we announced in late January to assist with ferry costs.
"What makes this a great recovery initiative is seeing the support coming in from other producers across the state as generous fodder donations continue to flood into the Cape Jervis drop off depot.
"The Australian Defence Force has also played an important role in assisting with the distribution of fodder across the island. I would like to thank producers and other organisations who have either donated fodder and/or transport services to support this recovery effort."
Chief Executive Officer of Livestock SA, Andrew Curtis said the Cape Jervis depot, which has been the staging post for delivery to affected Kangaroo Island properties, will operate until the end of February when the current emergency fodder program is due to end.
"After emergency fodder distribution concludes on Kangaroo Island at the end of the month we will work in partnership with service providers and producers to support long term recovery arrangements as we are also doing in other fire affected areas," said Mr Curtis.
"Assistance through the provision of fodder donations has made a big difference to fire affected producers, giving them one less thing to worry about as they work through the aftermath of a fire.
"We are also aware that in addition to our emergency fodder assistance, private donations have also been made directly to producers impacted by the Keilira, Cudlee Creek and Kangaroo Island producers."
The Cape Jervis donation depot which is now located on Fishery Beach Road just off Main South Road, is only open by appointment. Landowners wishing to donate emergency fodder are advised to contact Livestock SA on 8297 2299 to arrange delivery times.
Livestock producers and owners still needing fodder and agistment assistance should contact their local recovery centre or Livestock SA on 8297 2299.
Further information is also available at www.livestocksa.org.au
