The latest Tasmanian Food and Beverage ScoreCard was released earlier this week by the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment.
The scorecard is based on the Agricultural Census of 2010/11 which presents the most accurate picture of the state of food production in Tasmania, so it is a snapshot of the past rather than an indicator of what is happening now. It also excludes non-food production such as poppies, pyrethrum and wool. Nonetheless, the story it tells is certainly an interesting one.
In launching the report, Bryan Green, the Minister for Primary Industries noted that Tasmania is a major source of food for Australians and we are doing our bit to feed the world. “Tasmanian farmers and growers are feeding almost two million people, with the vast majority of produce being exported interstate or overseas,” he said. “The ScoreCard also demonstrates the ongoing strength of this sector, which has risen steadily in value over the past seven years despite the challenges of rising production costs and the need to be internationally competitive in a very difficult economic climate.”
The data shows that we consume 25 per cent of what we produce here; we ship 50 per cent to mainland states; and we export 25 per cent, mainly to Asian countries.
The gross value of agriculture and fisheries production continued to rise, with an increase of more than 6% during the year 2010/11 to $1.75 billion, an rise of $105 million on 2009/10. Once packed and processed, production is worth $2.85 billion.
Serious floods, low international commodity prices and the appreciating Australian dollar all impacted on farm returns in 201/11. Crop income declined by $82 million, largely as a result of high summer rainfall and floods. Livestock income was $155 million higher due to increased output and higher prices for farm milk, and higher returns from beef and wool sales.
The vast majority (93%) of Tasmania’s food trade revenue is generated by just 10 categories – beef, confectionery, salmon, potatoes, dairy, beer, lobster and abalone. All other foods represent some 7% of trade revenue.
Growth in the value of salmon production has averaged just over $1 million per week for the last seven years, a truly amazing performance. Dairy production was our bright spot; and much of the expansion being planned is in that sector, aided by the roll-out of irrigations schemes. Berry production too showed solid growth; as did beer. Vegetable and beef production were down, but the value of packed and processed beef was up.
There’s a message in all this.
Farmers in Tasmania have clearly demonstrated their efficiency and reliability as suppliers of quality foods and other agricultural products. The data also confirms the strength of the sector in underpinning the Tasmanian economy, with growth averaging 6.4% each year for more than a decade. The rate of growth in the value of production has exceeded inflation over that time. The gross value of the food and beverage value added portion of agriculture and seafood is estimated to have increased by some $1 billion in the last 10 years.
No other industry sector can match that performance.
However, if we are to keep the wheels of the economy turning, we need to see more than lip service to the importance of our farmers. It is time that we saw some meaningful – and bankable – recognition. Removing some of the unnecessary regulatory burden would be a good start. Including farmers in discussions about issues that will impact on their homes and businesses would be another good step forward eg planning schemes. Keeping an open mind on new industry options and technologies would also be a plus.
It’s really not that hard – and the benefits to all Tasmanians will clearly be seen.
Jan Davis’ Tasmanian Country column today
