In July, four months after Tropical Cyclone Niran, growers were finally able to access disaster relief grants of up to $75,000. 

The ABGC had previously raised concerns about the delay in opening the application process after more than 100 banana farms were damaged in March. 

“We were pleased to see this was eventually rectified and growers can now access these muchneeded funds,” ABGC CEO Jim Pekin said. 

The grants can help cover costs associated with equipment or materials, clean up, removing debris, and replacing fencing. The full amount is available through two applications – an initial amount of up to $15,000 and a subsequent amount of up to $60,000. 

“Many affected growers are still in recovery mode and will be for months to come. These grants will go some way to easing the severe financial burden imposed by this natural disaster and other challenges currently facing industry.” 

Applications for the grants close on December 17, 2021. Growers should visit the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority website for further details and to access application forms: https://bit.ly/3wJza2H