The Northern Tablelands region was in severe drought before the bush fires and unfortunately the drought continues. The bush fires have fast-tracked the need for landholders to make very tough decisions.

Image - Ian Trow from Northern Tablelands Local Land Services loading emergency fodder for bush fire affected farmers at the Emergency Fodder Collection Point at Tenterfield Showground.

Local Land Services have been operating the emergency fodder collection points for bush fire affected landholders at the Ebor Sportsground and Tenterfield Showground for the past week and will continue to do so next week.

As part of the Agriculture and Animal Services Functional Area (AASFA), Local Land Services and the Department of Primary Industries are responsible for the welfare of animals when responding to bush fires. We source emergency fodder for a short period following a bush fire as a short-term solution to assist farmers with a little more time to make alternative arrangements for feeding stock.

To access emergency fodder please contact the:

Agriculture and Animal Services Hotline on 1800 814 647 to register your request.

Producers are also encouraged to call the hotline to report damage and stock losses, as well as request assistance. Available help includes:
• Emergency fodder
• Emergency stock water
• Veterinary assistance
• Stock destruction and burial
• Livestock feeding and management advice

If you need advice to help you make decisions about whether to feed or sell your livestock please contact Local Land Services on 1300 795 299.