Council & Business
3 November, 2022
Over $1.2 million worth of damage done to rural properties by weather, council estimates
Extensive damage amounting to over $1.2 million has been done to rural properties in the Pyrenees region by recent storm and flood events, and is expected to have flow on effects to the local economy and delays to much of the planned harvesting and...
Extensive damage amounting to over $1.2 million has been done to rural properties in the Pyrenees region by recent storm and flood events, and is expected to have flow on effects to the local economy and delays to much of the planned harvesting and shearing activities, according to Pyrenees Shire Council.
Farmers have shared their concerns and needs for support in recent discussions with Pyrenees Shire manager economic development, Ray Davies, at recent drop-in sessions in Natte Yallock.
“This waterlogged state is just devastating for our agriculture community,” Mr Davies said.
“They can’t yet repair things like fences and sheds because the grounds are too muddy and they can’t begin harvesting with these paddocks being so wet.
“Many growers have crops damaged. The ones that can salvage some of their produce will also struggle because heavy vehicles can’t get access into the farms because the road conditions are too muddy.”
According to council, growers are estimating that the extent of the damage won’t be fully understood until harvest is completed.
Crops along the Avoca River to Natte Yallock, as well as at Mt Emu have suffered extensive damage. Council is currently investigating the extent of damage done to what is likely hundreds of kilometres of fencing.
“Shearing activities may be up to five weeks behind schedule, because some property owners can’t get sheep to sheds and yards without walking them through water or are simply unable to,” Mr Davies said.
“Council is hearing some pretty hard stories about the impact of this sustained wet. In some cases, farmers have got insurance, but they’re finding it doesn’t cover riverine damage, or theirfencing.”
The council stated it will work with Agriculture Victoria and other agencies where necessary to assist the agriculture sector recover from recent weather events.
“We’re putting people in touch with the business funding supports that are on offer from government, as well as encouraging people to connect with free local financial counselling to help work through what to do next,” Mr Davies said.
Once wet conditions clear and the ground dries, council will work with both Blaze Aid and local prison Landmate crews to start the process of repairing fences at the northern and southern ends of the shire.
Depending on further rain events, it could take another three to four weeks before works can begin.
For support, call council on 1300 797 363 or drop in to the Avoca Flood Recovery Resource centre at 122 High Street to find out more about financial relief assistance for flood affected farmers.
Rural Financial Counselling Services (Vic West) 1300 735 578 can help with what to do next. It’s a free, local, confidential service.
You can also contact the Flood Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760 for clean-up services, financial, mental health and other support.