Media Release

KAP Leader and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter inspected cane paddocks in Ingham last week that have been impacted by “yellowing cane” leaving farmers concerned as they struggle to understand the cause.

The “yellowing cane” was first identified on a single property in Ingham in November 2012 and has since spread to several properties in the Ingham region. Neighbouring cane growing regions, the Burdekin and Mulgrave, have also had reports of “yellowing cane”.

Farmers impacted by “yellowing cane” said that the cane leaves are turning yellow and the root stock subsequently dies.

Mr Katter said that this could be the straw to break the camel’s back as cane farmers are still recovering from cyclones Yasi and Larry, repeated flooding and cane smut.

“It’s very strange what is happening to the cane on these farms,” Mr Katter said.

“I met with a number of farmers in Ingham early last week and they were incredibly distressed and concerned about their financial standing as they showed me their crops.

“These farmers have been dealt another blow. Those that have this “yellowing cane” are predicting that they will only be able to harvest half their crops. The other half is useless.

“If the cause of the yellowing cane is not diagnosed and corrected soon, it could spell financial ruin for them.

“It’s definitely infectious as you have seen it spread from one farm in November last year to a significant number of farms in the Ingham and neighbouring regions in a six month period”.

Mr Katter said that the “yellowing cane” needed urgent attention and that he would be putting further pressure on Government for short and long-term solutions to aid the farmers.

“I will be calling for a National Levy on all agriculture so when an outbreak like this occurs, farmers can expect and receive financial relief.

“These farmers need quick access to federal funding both in terms of dollars and removing bureaucratic road blocks. This will enable scientists to get on with the job of diagnosing the cause and providing a treatment plan.

“Above all, the farmers need rural debt relief and we sincerely thank the Treasurer and the Government for taking this step in the right direction with the Farm Finance boost but much more is needed.”

Mr Katter said that it was important for all farmers that have identified “yellowing cane” in their crops to come forward and be included in the studies towards finding a cure.