FLOOD ASSISTANCE EXTENDED TO MANNING, HASTINGS AND CAMDEN HAVEN
INDEPENDENT MP for Lyne Rob Oakeshott has welcomed today’s extension of Commonwealth flood assistance to the Port Macquarie-Hastings and Greater Taree local government areas.
“Four of the five valleys in the Lyne electorate are now included in the Government’s financial assistance package through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA),” Mr Oakeshott said.
“Support is available to flood-affected residents, business owners and primary producers in the Manning, Hastings, Macleay and Camden Haven areas.
“Families who have had their homes or essential household items damaged or destroyed should contact NSW Community Services, Disaster Welfare Services on 1800 018 444.
“Eligible small businesses and primary producers can apply for concessional interest rate loans of up to $130,000 through the NSW Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593, while loans of up to $25,000 for voluntary, non-profit organisations can be sought through NSW Treasury on (02) 9228 5198.
“Transport freight subsidies of up to 50 per cent are also available to help primary producers moving livestock and fodder. Inquiries can be made with the NSW office of Industry and Investment on 1800 814 647,” Mr Oakeshott said.
ENDS
Media contact: Garth Norris – 6584-2911, 0429-787320
FLOOD ASSISTANCE ANNOUNCED FOR THE MACLEAY - ROB OAKESHOTT MP
WITH fast-flowing flood waters throughout the valleys of the Mid-North Coast, Independent MP for Lyne Rob Oakeshott has welcomed today’s announcement of Commonwealth financial support for communities affected by serious flooding.
“I confirm and support the announcement this afternoon of disaster assistance from the Federal Government for individuals, businesses and primary producers in the Macleay Valley,” Mr Oakeshott said.
“We also have a watching brief on the same for the Hastings, Camden Haven and Manning areas, and continue to talk to the Federal Attorney-General about this.”
Mr Oakeshott urged Mid-North Coast residents to act on advice from emergency services, listen closely to radio reports and to help neighbours where necessary.
“The work of the State Emergency Service, police and other emergency workers will be critical for the next 48 hours,” Mr Oakeshott said.
“They are going to be incredibly busy and I urge all residents to assist where possible. The best assistance of all is to follow their advice.”
“I also encourage people to use local radio for regular updates.
“ABC Mid-North Coast, Radio 2MC/Star FM, 531AM, 2RE/MAX FM and all community stations will be providing regular updates.
“As well, it goes without saying that if we can all keep an eye out for neighbours, particularly those with disabilities and the elderly, this will help enormously.”
Mr Oakeshott also expressed condolences on the tragic death of a 37-year-old Hillville man, believed to be in relation to the heavy rains.
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Media contact: Garth Norris – 6584-2911, 0429-787320
NATURAL DISASTER DECLARATION FOLLOWING STORMS IN MACKSVILLE AREA - Andrew Stoner MP
Farmers affected by storms which hit the Nambucca Shire earlier this year can now apply for Agricultural Natural Disaster Assistance, Deputy Premier and Member for Oxley
Andrew Stoner said today.
“Severe wind, rain and hail storms struck the Talarm, Utungun and Congarinni area to the west of Macksville on 19 January, causing an estimated $320,500 in losses and damage,” Mr Stoner said.
“Stock were lost and major damage was caused to trees, vegetation, fences, farm sheds, farm houses, power-lines and public facilities.
“Agricultural damage included the loss of six cows and a pumpkin crop, and the destruction of farm sheds and cattle yards.
“About 40 kilometres of fencing was damaged or completely lost and hundreds of trees destroyed.
“There was also considerable debris left in the path of the storm.” Agricultural Natural Disaster Relief Arrangements have now been implemented for the
Nambucca Shire.
“Affected landholders in the Nambucca Shire can now apply for Agricultural Natural Disaster Relief Assistance through the NSW Rural Assistance Authority,” Mr Stoner said.
“The assistance comes in the form of loans of up to $130,000, at 2.77 per cent interest per annum, with a two-year interest and payment free period.
“The loans provide for replacement or repairs to property and infrastructure, including damage to crops and pasture.”
Potential applicants should contact the RAA toll-free on 1800 678 593 to clarify eligibility criteria, or any other issues relating to this assistance, or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au.
