Media Release

Member for Kennedy Bob Katter says a visit to cane farms affected by a record wet harvest season is imperative for Agriculture Minister Joe Ludwig to gain a full understanding of the impact.

Losses that could see the national crop down 20 per cent have led Mr Katter to contact Mr Ludwig, urging him to visit as a matter of importance.

“We’ve had phone calls from people who are seeing no light at the end of the tunnel – they’re desperate,” Mr Katter said.

“There are people on suicide watch – our farmers see no way out of debt.

“Paddocks have been waterlogged, rail lines flooded and the sugar content of the cane left in the ground has been deteriorating rapidly.

“The danger of mill closures is very real. Many hundreds of jobs – our mill workers, contractors and harvesters – could be placed in serious jeopardy. The flow-on effect is huge.

“The government cannot be allowed to stand by and watch.

“While I don’t take anything away from the people who have suffered through floods down south, it must be recognised that there is a need for support up here too. Human lives are at risk.”