Cattle producers in flood-affected areas in North West Queensland will receive additional support with the Commonwealth and Queensland Government announcing a strategic master plan for the removal of livestock carcasses. 

Assistant Minister for Home Affairs Senator the Hon. Linda Reynolds visited Richmond today to sign the Carcass Disposal Strategic Master Plan and meet with local mayors from Richmond, Cloncurry, McKinlay, Winton and Flinders. 

Assistant Minister Reynolds said the strategic plan is a critical element of the disaster response.  

“Queenslanders have been devastated by these catastrophic floods, with widespread impacts and heartbreaking stock losses that have devastated the local economy,” Assistant Minister Reynolds said. 

“The Commonwealth recognises the debilitating blow to the castle industry and rural communities after years of drought, and whose return to financial stability is intrinsic to the region’s success. 

“All levels of government are working closely with non-government organisations and local producers to ensure cattle producers are receiving the required support.

“This plan will ensure the health and wellbeing of the community and enable producers to begin rebuilding their lives.”

Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development the Hon. Mark Furner MP said the Commonwealth and Queensland governments have worked hand-in-glove to ensure farmers and rural communities remain actively supported as they move forward.

“Whilst the enormity of stock losses won’t be known for some time, we already know the situation is dire for many disaster-weary farmers,” Minister Furner said.

“This strategic plan is intended to relieve just one aspect of the hardship caused to the local communities by the death of hundreds of thousands of cattle, although we acknowledge there is a long road ahead.”