Geelong’s port helps out with drought relief

GEELONGPORT, along with Tasmanian Ports Corporation (TasPorts) and Bass Island Line, have worked together to assist drought-stricken farmers in New South Wales.

The farmers of Tasmania have donated almost 450 tonnes of hay to a hay bale drive across northern Tasmania.

The donation was transported over Bass Strait last month to farmers affected by the drought in southern and central western New South Wales.

To support the campaign, GeelongPort, in partnership with TasPorts, waived all wharfage charges associated with transporting the cargo from Devonport in Tasmania to Geelong.

Bass Island Line (a subsidiary of TasPorts) carried the donation on their vessel John Duigan at no charge.

“What we are seeing in NSW is disturbing. To have 100 per cent of the state in drought and the emotional and physical toll it is having on our farmers is simply devastating,” GeelongPort general manager of operations Adam Gordon said.

“To be able to assist the farmers and their communities in some way is important to GeelongPort. It’s vital to rally together and show support for drought-affected communities who are doing it tough.”

TasPorts chief operating officer Anthony Donald said TasPorts and Bass Island Line were perfectly positioned and willing to support the initiative.

“When TasPorts heard of the Tasmanian farmers’ struggles shipping the hay bales across the Bass Strait, we offered to ship the cargo at no charge.”

“We are happy to be supporting our local farmers, who are pitching in to assist other Australian farmers around the country during this difficult drought.”