Two Wyndham councillors have vowed to drive tractors down Spring Street to get the state government to deal with issues facing Werribee South farmers.
At last week’s meeting, councillors expressed concerns about the long-term viability of farming at Werribee South, pledging to lobby state and federal governments to deliver greater certainty on water supplies.
Farmers currently pay for 100 per cent of their water rights, but they say they receive only 10 to 15 per cent of their allocation.
They add that the water they receive is salty.
Referring to a council-organised meeting with farmers two weeks ago, Cr Heather Marcus said there needed to be more action.
CR HEATHER MARCUS
“The water is high in salinity, causing a lot of concern,” she said. “It’s affecting their soil and their crops.”
On Southern Rural Water’s planned upgrade of irrigation channels, Cr Marcus said the state government needed to guarantee water security.
“This infrastructure is only part of the solution; it’s only a very small part of the problem. The state government has clearly indicated Werribee South is an ongoing agricultural area so they need to come to the party and make sure there’s enough water.
“Some say this is not a council issue; yes it is,” Cr Marcus said. “Farming has been a part of our city for many years. It’s been employing many people for many years.”
Cr Peter Maynard echoed his colleague’s sentiments.
“If Heather is on a tractor down Spring Street, I’ll be on the one right behind her,” Cr Maynard said.
“Farmers don’t want just this infrastructure upgrade; what they want is good-quality, reliable water.”
