Member for Murray Austin Evans attended and addressed a public rally in Deniliquin on 27 August 2018 to explore options for NSW Murray Irrigators who have a zero water allocation.
The rally, organised by the Speak Up campaign, was widely supported by the community with over 500 people in attendance.
It was unanimously passed at the rally to push for access to an early allocation for NSW Murray general security farmers. The following letter has been widely distributed.
27 August 2018
Open Letter
To all Australians
A public meeting in Deniliquin this week was attended by a true cross section of our community and highlighted a vital issue for our nation. Currently NSW Murray Valley General Security Irrigation licences are on zero percent water allocation, while the major storages have considerable quantities of water. As a consequence, our farmers are unable to finish winter crops which are dying, or grow fodder for their drought stricken colleagues.
Farmers in the NSW Murray Valley understand there are rules that govern water sharing in the Southern Basin, however NSW Murray Valley are urging the Federal and NSW State Governments, with their Water Managers to explore every possible avenue to take immediate steps to access an early allocation for NSW Murray General Security Farmers.
This will enable the winter cereal crops to be finished and stock fodder to be grown, however they must have immediate access to water. This will not only help with drought relief but also provide a flow on effect to the regional economies.
This is a critical situation and we urge politicians along with regulatory bodies to investigate every avenue to assist with drought relief. This needs to happen now.
Yours sincerely
NSW Murray Valley Rally Attendees (estimated between 500 and 550)
The following organisations also endorse this open letter –
Edward River Council
Rice Growers Association
Murray Valley Private Diverters
Murray Irrigation Limited
Speak Up Campaign
Southern Riverina Irrigators
Berrigan Shire Council