Rural Business Support’s Lachie Hood will be in the NT next week to assist farmers in the wake of concerning events.
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“The recent closure of the Darwin meatworks, the impact of Indonesia’s ‘5 to 1’ rule soon becoming clearer and the 25 per cent decline in live cattle export prices in recent weeks are challenging some cattle producers,” Mr Hood said.
“For citrus growers, the Citrus Canker virus and resultant temporary ban on fruit leaving the NT means some business plans may need to be looked at again and decisions made about how to weather this industry hurdle.
“For some in the fishing sector, an oversupply of barramundi is causing uncertainty and fishers are concerned about the future viability of their business.”
With events across several industries beginning to bring unease Mr Hood’s return to the Northern Territory is about meeting with industry groups and providing business support.
“Whatever the situation, whether a business is in a perceivably strong position or not, RBS can provide support to eligible primary producers – at no cost to them – to help them move forward.”
RBS CEO Brett Smith says the organisation’s support staff understand the issues NT producers have to deal with.
An inaugural RBS Business Stakeholder Meeting was held in Katherine in March of this year.
The meetings were about future-proofing businesses and promoting the services provided to the local community.
“We know the kinds of adverse events that NT producers can face, having supported farmers affected by the live cattle export ban, banana freckle and the cucumber mottle mosaic virus,” Mr Smith said.
“We understand that the last few years have gone pretty well for producers – but things can also change pretty quickly.
“Now is a good time for producers to sit down with an RBS representative to look at how their business is going to manage those challenges that either are already causing concern, or that might be looming on the horizon.”
There are still spots available for producers to catch up with Mr Hood on his visit.
To make an appointment call 0439 286 550, or email l.hood@ruralbusinesssupport.org.au