East Gippsland farmers and farm businesses have a breadth of knowledge that often can go untapped … until now.

East Gippsland Shire Council has identified the opportunity for local farmers, families, businesses and companies to bring this knowledge to the table for theagriculture sector, and ultimately the region’s benefit.

The new Agriculture Sector Advisory Committee will commence in 2021 and now’s the time for 10 skilled and passionate individuals to put up their hand as community representatives.

Mayor Cr John White said the new committee will have broad focus on matters of significance to the agriculture sector and provide advice to Council on the delivery of initiatives, funds and programs that support the agricultural sector across the region.

“We are looking for representatives of companies, businesses, families and single practitioners who are actively engaged in the agriculture sector in East Gippsland. We know the talent is out there, so please put your name forward.

“East Gippsland has some well-established industry events, and significant knowledge across various agriculture and horticulture sectors.There is a willingness to ensure the prosperity and sustainability of agriculture in our region.”

The committee will comprise a maximum of 15 members, of which 10 will be representatives of families, businesses, companies, and single practitioners actively engaged in agriculture. These members will be broadly representative of the sector to generate the widest possible range of views and will have direct and ongoing input into shaping and developing East Gippsland agriculture program.  

The committee will also include a representative from Agriculture Victoria, East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority and Food & Fibre Gippsland plus two councillors (one being the Mayor).

Cr White said the creation of the new advisory committee is consistent with Council’s practice of having a range of advisory and consultative bodies in place to successfully support areas of its operations, and ultimately build a stronger sector.

“The new advisory committee commencing in 2021 will replace the current East Gippsland Drought Reference Group,” Cr White said.

“The work of the Drought Reference Group has been significant. The group has provided valuable advice and insights into how Council could most effectively support the community during the prolonged drought,” Cr White said.

“It has also helped drive advocacy to the Victorian and Australian governments in respect of funding and longer-term actions to help ensure the sustainability of the agriculture sector.”

The agriculture sector is responsible for 9.7 per cent of the region's jobs. Total annual economic output is estimated at $4.686 billion, with agriculture, forestry and fishing contributing $572.994 million (12.2 per cent).A further $740.997m (15.8 per cent) is contributed by manufacturing.

Nominations must be lodged by September 9 (now closed), using the Expression of Interest form on our website. For further information phone Kaylene Wickham, Drought Assistance Officer, on 5153 9500.