The Tasmanian Government is working with Victorian port owners and operators as a matter of priority to ensure critical stockfeed can be shipped to drought-hit Tasmanian farmers on King Island.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said that while it is disappointing that Colac Otway Shire Council has now walked away from supporting Tasmanian farmers on King Island, the Tasmanian Government will continue to work around the clock to secure shipping for the much-needed feed.
“Everyone had been working hard to get the arrangements in place to ship the hundreds of bales of hay secured from the mainland to drought-affected areas in Tasmania.
“It is extremely disappointing that the Council has made the decision to walk away, despite senior Tasmanian officials dedicating significant time and resources to work with the Council to address any concerns they had and to find a way to open the port in these exceptional circumstances.
“While the Council did not notify our Government, or farmers of their intention to pull the pin before issuing a public statement, I have requested our officials to continue discussions with the Council while we search for alternative options as a matter of urgency.
“We will not abandon our farmers in their time of need and will provide the necessary resources and supports.
“The Tasmanian Government will continue to back our farmers and find a way for our farmers to urgently access this stockfeed, particularly for those enduring difficult conditions on King and Flinders Islands.”