The VFF is gearing up for its Annual Conference on 19-20 July in Ballarat with members having a unique opportunity to question representatives from each major political party.
“This year, the VFF is serious about ensuring our political leaders are responding to the needs of our farmers, and their rural and regional communities,” said David Jochinke, VFF President.
“Farmers attending the VFF Conference will have the opportunity to hear from, and question, the Premier, the Agriculture Minister, and the Leaders of the Liberal, National and Greens parties.
“This is a great line up of politicians, which reinforces the significant contribution our farming sector makes to the Victorian economy and community.
“Our farmers, like all our businesses, need certainty to operate,” Mr Jochinke said. “For too long we have been seeking basic services from government including fit-for-purpose roads to deliver produce to customers, and practical science-based regulations.
“The 2018 Victorian election is shaping up to be a major milestone in Victoria’s agriculture history. We want politicians to look beyond metropolitan Melbourne and a handful of regional centres and demonstrate their genuine commitment to rural and regional communities.
“I encourage all farmers to join us in Ballart to question our political speakers to make sure that every party is aware of our needs.
“The VFF is committed to ensuring that between now and 24 November, every candidate in rural and regional Victoria is aware of the challenges our farmers continue to face while basic services are not being delivered and business uncertainty remains,” said Mr Jochinke.
For media inquiries, please contact Andrew MacDonald on 0418 282 875 or (03) 9207 5524.
Media wishing to attend the 2018 VFF Conference should register their interest with Heather Smillie. The VFF’s election campaign will be launched at 11am on Thursday 19 July.