Image caption: Sheep finding food on travelling stock route east of Grenfell, Central West, NSW
Regional Development Australia (RDA) Central West is calling on all levels of government, business and the community to remain focused on the ongoing impacts of the drought across the Central West. This position was formally reiterated at the most recent RDA Central West board meeting.
Convening in Bathurst last month, the board of RDA Central West moved a motion to ensure supporting the communities impacted by drought and supporting the provision of key services was the priority focus of the organisation for 2020.
RDA Central West Chair, Ms Christine Weston said that recent rains in some regions have been most welcome, but the recovery from the drought is a long and ongoing process.
“As a farmer I have directly been impacted by this debilitating drought on a daily basis. It hammers output, productivity and confidence.
“The recent rain has provided a temporary boost for some communities, but we are nowhere close to the road to recovery. This is why drought support and recovery is the key priority for RDA Central West in 2020, said Ms Weston.
“There continues to be sad drought-affected consequences, such as the closure of Trundle’s grocery store and farmers across the region are still spending thousands a day on stock feed, the economic and social impact on our communities has been immense.”
RDA Central West is focused on driving regional competitiveness, boosting human capital and supporting sustainable communities.
Events already supported by RDA Central West in recent months have been a succession planning workshop in Parkes, a social media forum in Condobolin, and later this month RDA Central West will host two skilled migration information sessions, and a business breakfast event.
“Everything we do is about building the capacity of our region and its people. In times of drought we need to support the people, places and projects which will recharge and rebuild capacity.”
Ms Weston took the opportunity to remind residents to shop local and support their community when they can, and encourage family and friends to visit, stay and shop in the Central West.
“Backing local Central West communities and businesses drives jobs, boosts confidence, and by visiting our region it is a simple way to show your support, and say we are here and we want to help,” said Ms Weston.
RDA Central West acknowledges the efforts and drought response measures already announced by both the State and Federal Governments.
Media Note: Please contact RDA Central West if you would like further comment from Ms Christine Weston, RDA Central West Chair or any images: t. 02 6369 1600 e. admin@rdacentralwest.org.au