If you need proof of the resilience of Tasmanian farmers, look no further than an index of confidence in the rural community.
While the latest Commsec survey showed the general population of Tasmania pessimistic about the economic outlook, and while retail sales are weak, Rabobank paints a completely different picture of our farmers.
Driven by strong commodity prices, Tasmanian farmer confidence has improved for the second successive quarter, according to the Rabobank Rural Confidence Survey.
It has found 89 per cent of primary producers in Tasmania expect the agricultural economy to improve or stay the same over the next 12 months, up from 73 per cent recorded in the previous quarter.
Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association chief executive Jan Davis said today it demonstrated farmers’ extraordinary ability to bounce back quickly from adversity in the shape of drought, then flood, lost crops and uneconomic prices.
“On the back of rising sheep, wool, beef and dairy prices many farmers have had the best growing season for years,” Ms Davis said.
“Most farmers are optimistic that their business performance will be maintained or improved in the coming 12 months.
“Agriculture is responsible for one in 10 jobs in Tasmania. When all about you appears forlorn, look to the land for inspiration,” she said.
Jan Davis http://www.tfga.com.au/
