Media Releases

HELICOPTER REVIEW WASTES MORE TIME WHILE LOCUSTS THREATEN CROPS
John Brumby and his ministers are putting Victorian farmers at risk by needlessly delaying amendments to regulations banning helicopters from landing in a farming zone.
Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Deputy Leader of The Nationals Peter Walsh today criticised the Brumby Government for announcing a review, when it is action that is needed to help farmers.
“After public pressure the Planning Minister has announced a review of the regulations which prevent helicopters from landing or taking off in a farming zone without a permit,” Mr Walsh said.
“This is just more talk from Labor when what is needed is action to help farmers.
“The Minister should just admit he made a mistake and get on with the job of fixing these regulations.”
Mr Walsh said Labor’s delays could jeopardise the state’s response to the impending locust plague.
“Farmers need these regulations changed now so that they can spray locusts when they hatch,” Mr Walsh said.
“The Planning Minister is stalling this decision unnecessarily while the Agriculture Minister Joe No-Helper is again invisible.
“It is ridiculous to suggest that landholders should simply obtain an ancillary land use permit every time they need to employ the services of a helicopter operator.”
Mr Walsh said John Brumby and his ministers had lost touch with the needs of Victorian farmers.
“Despite their incompetence, surely John Brumby’s ministers are able to see sense and amend these ridiculous regulations immediately,” Mr Walsh said.