VICTORIAN Farmers are disappointed that the Labor government has ditched the alpine grazing trial in the high country before even giving it a chance.
Newly appointed Environment Minister Lisa Neville made the announcement yesterday and claimed that “the science is already in” on cattle in the state’s alpine region.
But Victorian Farmers Federation Omeo Branch president Simon Turner said Minster Neville’s decision show’s a lack of respect for mountain cattlemen and a 200 year long tradition.
“The Minister, without any consultation whatsoever has decided to ditch a 200 year old tradition which the previous Coalition government invested in,” Mr Turner said.
“Clearly this Minister does not comprehend the dual benefits it has- with grazing reducing fuel loads and the risk of bushfires.
“We are entering what has been touted one of the most dangerous fire seasons on record, and now to have our Environment Minister disregard the trial is alarming.
“Cattle grazing in the high country of Victoria is a 200 year tradition that was almost lost with a ban in 2005.
In March 2014 the Commonwealth Government granted permission for the Victorian Government to reintroduce 60 cattle to the Wonnangatta Valley on a trial basis.
“It’s disappointing that the trial has been ended prematurely without industry consultation”, Mr Turner said.
Media Contacts
Simon Turner, VFF Omeo Branch President 0427 595 325
Tom Whitty, VFF Media Manager 0417 165 784
