Freer Farm

The Tasmanian Liberals share the concerns expressed by Rural Industry Training and Education Board member, Mike Badcock, about the uncertain future of Freer Farm.

Mr Badcock’s comments today reflect the concerned feedback that we are receiving from many people in the agricultural industry about the sale of the Clark and Freer training farms.

At the same time that the Premier is talking about creating a southern food bowl for Australia it is absolutely amazing that we have such a high level of uncertainty about the future of these farms.

The Tasmanian Liberals are absolutely committed to retaining the Freer Farm and given the way the two farms have in the past operated together, to ensure that they are operationally efficient we would like to see the University of Tasmania retaining the Clark Farm.

There is no reason why the operation of the farms couldn’t be leased out at the same time as ensuring they are available for training.

If the Freer Farm is sold now, it is unlikely that there will come a day where the Government can buy back the farm.

I will be visiting Freer farm and the training and education facilities at Hellyer College within the next month to personally meet with staff and students and acknowledge the concerns of people working and studying in the area over the lack of vision and leadership being shown by the Premier and Minister for Education.

Mr Bartlett should at the very least rule out the sale of Freer Farm and make a fresh commitment to skills and training in rural industries.
Sue Napier MP Shadow Minister for Education