The Australian Banana Growers’ Council continues to advocate for farm businesses struggling to find workers in the current climate. No images? Click here  3 November, 2020 ContentUpdate on worker shortages Update on Worker ShortagesThe Australian Banana Growers’ Council continues to advocate for farm businesses struggling to find workers in the current climate. ABGC want to hear how the worker shortages are affecting you. Have your say at the ABGC Annual General Meeting to be held next Thursday 12 November, Tully and District Senior Citizens Club, 19 Blackman Street, Tully, 5.30pm onwards. A member BBQ follows the AGM. Please contact ABGC on 07 3278 4786 to RSVP for COVID purposes. In addition, the Queensland and Federal Governments have introduced campaigns aimed at encouraging Australian workers to consider taking up jobs on farm. New cash incentives From 1 November, Australian workers may receive up to $6000 to relocate for farm work. Links on how to apply and more details can be found in the Fact Sheet here. #pickQld The #pickQld State Government campaign is focussed on attracting and retaining seasonal workers across Queensland’s agriculture sector. To see what work is available when, and in what regions, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/about/pickqld or call 13 25 23. Media coverage ABGC is aware of recent negative media coverage in Far North Queensland regarding the Seasonal Worker Program. We are working closely with relevant authorities to ensure people are informed about the realities of the Program and its importance to both the banana industry and the community more broadly. ABGC has produced and distributed a fact sheet to address and correct some key concerns raised in media coverage. Who to contact If you’re concerned about the workforce shortages, you can contact ABGC on 07 3278 4786 to discuss current available options. You can also talk to your local QAWN (Queensland Agricultural Workforce Network) officer for further solutions to worker issues.
Reminder: Roadshows get under way this week!Innisfail and Tully kick off the National Banana Roadshow series later this week, with presentations coverage a range of key industry issues, including variety trials and innovation. There’s still time to RSVP for later events – Murwillumbah, Coffs Harbour and Mareeba growers should reserve your place by November 16. QLD growers contact Shanara Veivers shanara.veivers@daf.qld.gov.au or phone/text 0400 870 731 NSW growers contact Tom Flanagan tom.flanagan@dpi.nsw.gov.au or phone/text 0437 654 633 More details here.  
Contact Details Also, it is important for membership purposes that growers advise ABGC if they change trading name or their agent (wholesaler) or add one, and also to let their agent know.
Unit 3, South Gate East Commercial Centre 250 Sherwood Road ROCKLEA QLD 4106 PO Box 309 BRISBANE MARKET QLD 4106 Tel: 07 3278 4786 | Fax: 07 3278 4938 Our e-bulletin is distributed to our subscribers. Update your preferences below, or if our e-bulletin has been forwarded to you and you would like to join our subscription list, please email Communications Officer Amy Spear at amy.spear@abgc.org.au with your contact details. |
