Forum for drought-hit farmers

19 December, 2006

Almost 2,000 farmers visited NAB branches around Australia last week to take part in a televised forum with a panel of experts offering practical advice on coping with the drought.

Organised by NAB's Agribusiness division, the Taking the heat out of the drought: a practical approach to drought management forum was broadcast live from NAB's internal television studio to its branch network.

Farmers had the opportunity to phone in questions to the panellists: Wayne Carlson, General Manager Agribusiness, NAB; Dr Roger Stone, Queensland Department of Primary Industries Climate Centre; Sandy McEachern, Senior Consultant, Holmes Sackett & Associates; and Matthew Koval, General Manager - Drought and Exceptional Circumstances branch, Department of Agriculture, Forestries and Fishing.

"The majority of NAB's 550 Agribusiness Managers come from rural backgrounds and off farms, so we know drought is tough," said Wayne Carlson.

"However, NAB believes the majority of farmers struggling with the drought are viable in the long term. Agribusiness Managers are working with customers to review budgets and cash flow, and encouraging discussions with other advisers as well," he added.

The forum dealt with questions including:

  • When is drought-breaking rain likely?
  • Is this an example of climate change?
  • How can I minimise the impact of the drought on my business?
  • What assistance is available from governments and elsewhere?
  • What can I do to be in a good position to re-plant and/or re-stock when it rains?

In addition to listening to the discussion and asking questions, the forum was a chance for Australia's farmers and their families to get away from home for an evening and socialise with others in the district.

The Australian Bankers' Association and the Grain Growers Association have produced a new book for the farming community Financing Your Farm - A Practical Guide to Financial Growth. It is a guide and reference when planning, financing and managing farm businesses, providing independent information, useful tools and accounting case studies for farm businesses. Find out more.

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