Torbay calls for disaster declaration in Gwydir Shire

Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay is calling for a Natural Disaster Declaration in the Gwydir Shire Council area after fencing, sheds and yards were destroyed by the recent bushfires.
He said that the fires, which have been burning for up to three weeks, are continuing in many parts of the Tablelands with the western regions including Bingara, Bundarra, Coolatai and Yetman, particularly hard hit.
“I have met and spoken to many landholders in the western parts of the Tablelands who, having battled drought for the past two years, now find themselves having to watch bushfires take what little stockfeed and water remained,” Mr Torbay said.
“I have been told that some landowners have also lost many kilometres of fencing, sheds and yards to the fires in the past week.
“This is a heartbreaking situation and I am asking the NSW government to declare a natural disaster in those areas worst hit and I have put a strong case to the Minister for Emergency Services on behalf of Gwydir Shire Council.”
The MP said fires continued to burn across the region and the continuing hot weather was a concern to fire fighters and landholders.
“I am monitoring the situation and if other areas need to be considered I will contact the Minister again to provide further relief.”
The Natural Disaster Relief Scheme provides assistance for primary producers and small businesses in the through transport subsidies and nominal interest loans of up to $130,000 for essential working capital.
Councils, trustees or parks or reserves, sporting clubs and not-for-profit organisations may also qualify for assistance if the application for declaration is approved.
Landowners suffering damage to infrastructure during the recent bushfires can contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority for further advice on what assistance is available on phone 1800 678 593 or visit the website at www.raa.nsw.gov.au