James Gooden Advocates For Riverina Farmers Amid Worsening Drought Conditions

Independent candidate for Riverina, James Gooden, has made formal representations to members of the NSW Parliament on behalf of local farmers as widespread drought conditions continue to devastate the region.

With nearly all the Riverina now classified as either drought-affected or in full drought, farmers are facing critical shortages of fodder, grain, grazing and fodder options, and water. Dams are drying up, water levels are critically low, and little water remains to keep their livestock and properties going.

“Farmers across the Riverina are doing it tough, and the situation is worsening by the day,” James said. “We are seeing people having to make impossible decisions — selling their breeding stock or trying to source feed from places that are already under pressure themselves.

On top of that, water is running out, dams are drying up which is forcing farmers to make tough decisions.”

Local saleyards have recorded record sales of sheep and cattle in recent weeks, reflecting the severe pressure on farming families.

James has raised these urgent concerns with members of the NSW Parliament, who will visit the Riverina on May 4 — the day after the federal election. Representations on the matter are expected to be made to Parliament on May 6.

While forecasts are predicting rain over the coming weekend, James warned that the challenges are far from over.

“Any rain will be gratefully received, but let’s not be fooled by a green tinge,” he said. “There will be no usable feed on the ground for at least a month, and ongoing limited growth due to cool weather; we will effectively enter a green drought. The stress on farmers and rural communities will continue.”

James is inviting members of the media to meet with him to discuss the ongoing drought conditions and the urgent needs of Riverina farmers.

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