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Current Drought

Thursday 12 October 2006

Today's papers carry stories that indicate many farmers will have no farm income this year due to the current drought. Tim Colebatch's report in the Age suggests that the drought could be the worst ever experienced and could deepen further. Many areas have not actually recovered from the drought of 2003.

The Treasurer Mr Costello is reported to say that even if the rain came now, it is too late for this seasons crops.

Our Lady Help of Christians. Artist: Paul Mooney

According to a report by Ellen Whinnett and Jacqueline Freegard in the Herald Sun farmers in northern Victoria have started selling stock, abandoning crops and even selling land as the drought worsens. Victoria's Treasurer My John Brumby has warned all Victorians to get ready for some tough months ahead with this coming Sunday 15 October as the day many farmers will be forced to make hard decisions if no rain falls.

The Herald Sun story indicates that 220 towns and cities out of 397 are now under water restrictions. The Age also carries a report that suggest it is likely Melbourne will soon move to stage two water restrictions.

Media contact: Jim O'Farrell 0412 213 692

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