News floods
Australian milkers hit hard by water disaster
Australia's east coast is suffering the worst flooding in XNUMX years. It is devastated in the affected areas in the states of Queensland and New South Wales. Australian farmers are also being hit hard. Although it is still difficult to estimate the extent of the damage, hundreds of companies have been badly affected.
Australia has had an exceptionally wet summer, due to weather phenomenon La Niña. The heavy rainfall reached a climax last weekend. In the meantime, sixteen people have drowned and there are fears for worse. Tens of thousands of people have been forced to evacuate, while 300.000 must prepare for this, according to the authorities.
(Milk) farmers in the affected areas are trying - as best they can - to protect their livestock and farms. According to Australian media, many farmers have evacuated the animals to higher areas. But not everyone escapes the water violence. Images shared via social media show cows being dragged along by the water. Tractors and other machines are also drifting. One of those affected is dairy farmer Paul Weir from Lisdore (New South Wales), he explained fixed on image that 150 of his 300 cows were sucked away right in front of him by the water violence.
Dumped milk is reimbursed
The extent of the damage is still difficult to estimate. An agricultural journalist in Australia thinks that some 475.000 cows are stabled in the affected areas. This amounts to approximately 2% of the dairy herd in the country. Dairy cooperative Norco says half of its 200.000 member companies in New South Wales and Queensland have been affected. The damage to some companies is almost unimaginable, says a spokesperson. Helicopters are now supplying closed businesses with feed and medicines. The company promises that the dumped milk will also be reimbursed. It is estimated that this is about XNUMX litres. Affected dairy farmers also receive subsidies to compensate for the damage.
Dairy farmers who did keep it dry are also experiencing the consequences. The milk collection has come to a standstill in some parts, because roads and bridges are damaged. Cereal crops have also been damaged. Meat concern JBS was forced to close a factory.
Wouter Job
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