AgForce has locked in dates for a series of consultation workshops to discuss the future of the Lake Eyre Basin (LEB) and the State Government's proposal, encouraging everyone to mark them on their calendars.
Because the Government's consultation plan is completely inadequate, AgForce has stepped in to ensure the views of those living, working and investing in the region are considered in the sustainable development of this potentially far-reaching regulation.
Consultation workshops will be conducted in Longreach and Winton (Tuesday, 28 January), Boulia (Wednesday, 29 January), Birdsville (Thursday 29 January), Windorah and Eromanga (Friday 31 January), Quilpie (Saturday 1 February), Thargomindah (Sunday 2 February) and Blackall (Monday 3 February).
AgForce Stand Up for Regional Queensland Program Manager Andrew Freeman said feedback gathered at the workshops would be incorporated into AgForce's submission to the State Government, due on 8 February.
"Whether you are a producer, a local business owner, a mine worker, a truckie, or a council worker, the State Government's LEB proposal will likely impact on you and your family," Mr Freeman said.
"It could well lead to huge tracts of inland Queensland being needlessly limited in terms of agricultural resource development opportunities.
"The Government isn't going to give you the opportunity to have a say in what happens to your community, your family, so we will.
"Whether or not you are an AgForce member, come along to one of our free workshops to find out what the Government is proposing and how it may affect you.
"We want to find out from you what your vision is for this unique region, what environmental values you feel need to be protected, and what economic and employment opportunities you want to see.
"We encourage everyone who lives and works in this vast part of Queensland to share with us their hopes, concerns and vision for the future of this important natural wonder.
"We realise that there are many and varied views on the issue and encourage everyone to be honest, thoughtful and respectful when expressing theirs.
"We will then pass your feedback on to the State Government as part of our submission."
