Tweed farmers have been doing it tough since Cyclone Oma tore through the region earlier this year, causing more than $1.8 million worth of damage.
However, financial relief is on the way for landholders affected in parts of the Tweed Local Government Area (LGA).
Today, Nationals MP Geoff Provest announced an agricultural natural disaster has been declared for the hardest hit parts of the Tweed electorate.
“Cyclone Oma caused severe damage to eight horticultural properties, with the banana industry the most impacted,” Mr Provest said.
“Damage included farm infrastructure and tree losses, with bananas having a production loss of 12 to 18 months and avocado nursery stock taking two to three years to regrow.”
Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall said producers impacted can now access loans of up to $130,000 at a concessional interest rate for those in urgent need of replacing and repairing damage.
“These measures will ensure that those primary producers have some financial relief to help with restoration costs not covered by insurance in the aftermath of the severe storm event,” Mr Marshall said.
The declaration applies to the parishes of Cudgen, Terranora, Mooball and part of Billinudgel in the Tweed LGA.
Primary producers affected by the 22 to 24 February 2019 cyclone are encouraged to contact the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593.