Drought Information

Council is working closely with a range of other government and non-government bodies to support people throughout the drought via a range of activities including the dissemination of information, etc.

Council’s own website has a comprehensive section on drought information – www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

The State Government’s Department for Primary Industries has an excellent website – www.dpi.vic.gov.au

There are a range of funding opportunities available and more information on these and other resources are available on the websites. Examples of funding opportunities include:-

1. On-Farm Productivity Improvement grants – grant of up to $3000 per farm business to assist farmers in EC areas (which is the entire shire) to implement on-farm infrastructure to enable drought proofing and assist future gains. Applicants must meet EC Interest Rate Subsidy (off farm asset test of below $75,000) and applications need to be received by 30 June 2008. Examples include:-

Fodder storages and systems, eg. Silos, silage bunkers, hay sheds
Reticulated water systems using water troughs for stock (nb. Not available to undertaken irrigation improvements)
Feed pads or feed troughs to minimise losses

2. Emergency Volunteer Support – practical support for volunteers/community organisations providing emergency relief for communities suffering the effects of the drought. Types of activities that can be included for funding include:-

Increased personal and counseling support for volunteers.
Recognition of the contributions made by volunteers in drought affected communities, eg. Community BBQs. etc

I encourage you to visit these web sites. They are updated with drought information regularly so that you keep abreast of resources available to assist you through the drought.

JODI BJORKSTEN, Grants Coordinator
Strathbogie Shire Council, PO Box 177, EUROA, VIC 3666
Ph: 03 5795 0000 Direct Line: 03 5795 0016
Toll Free: 1800 065 993 Fax: 03 5795 3550
Email: jodi.bjorksten@strathbogie.vic.gov.au
Website: http://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au

For details/interview call the Editor on (03) 5798 1858