With Queensland's bushfire season, the upcoming summer rains, and the looming cyclone season, farmers across the state are gearing up for a season of unpredictable challenges. It's a crucial time for primary producers to ensure the safety of their families, workers, and livestock.
The recent warmer winter weather has raised concerns about an increased bushfire risk, highlighting the need for preparedness.
To assist Queenslanders in facing these imminent natural challenges, disaster guides have become valuable resources. As the state prepares for potential adversities, proactive planning emerges as the key to resilience against nature's trials.
By taking steps now, producers can reduce the risk of disaster damage and financial loss.
The Queensland Government has disaster guides to help primary producers get ready for disaster season.
Tips include photographing assets in their pre-disaster condition and ensuring everyone on the property is familiar with the evacuation plan in the event of a natural disaster.
Producers should also ensure livestock have access to higher ground or are moved to safer ground or shelter with access to food and water ahead of an event.
Make sure you’ve got a financial plan including having adequate insurance cover, reviewing how you will manage orders, refunds and cancellations, and keeping financial reserves and emergency cash.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that a high fire danger is likely to impact Queensland over the coming months.
“As a primary producer it’s critical you have plans to help support your business during a bushfire, as well as cyclones and floods,” Mr Furner said.
He urged pet owners not to forget about family pets in household or farm emergency plans.
“Keep emergency phone numbers handy for your local council, veterinarian, animal welfare agency and pet and advisory services and make sure your pets can be properly identified if they escape,” he added.
“If moving pets to safety, make sure you take plenty of food and clean water, bowls and toilet litter or old newspapers.
“If they are to be left at home, secure them in an appropriate confined space, preferably inside, elevated and under cover, and provide access to ample food and water.”
For more information on flood and cyclone preparations, such as local evacuation routes and public shelter arrangements, contact your local council.
Information on disasters for small business including primary producers is available at business.qld.gov.au/disaster-hub.
Primary producers who have been impacted by a natural disaster can report the impacts in the Queensland DAF Agriculture Disaster Impact Survey.
The survey helps DAF to contribute quickly to applications for assistance under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Assistance Arrangements.
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