WELL below average rain and widespread drought across the Central Tablelands is having an effect on businesses in Bathurst.
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Currently 40.1 per cent of the Central Tablelands has been declared in drought, with a further 59.6 per cent at the onset of drought.
Many farmers have sold off all but their core breeding stock and they have been left hand-feeding for months.
Money is tight and debts are mounting, not just on the land but across the Bathurst central business district, Bathurst Business Chamber’s Stacey Whittaker said.
“It’s a lot quieter across the city with all different types of industries, whether it’s housing or retail,” she said.
“When the farmers are going well there’s money to be spent, but when the farmers are doing it tough there’s no money to be spent.”
Mrs Whittaker said the Bathurst local government area had weathered the downturn from the drought longer than other areas.
“Things are getting tough and people are watching what they spend,” she said.
Things are getting tough and people are watching what they spend.
- Bathurst Business Chamber's Stacey Whittaker
Town and Country Rural Supplies Bathurst is among the businesses finding it tough, owner Vicki Wilson said.
“They’re watching the money they spend, or don’t spend,” she said of Bathurst’s farmers.
Ms Wilson said many had already destocked their properties and while they might still be buying feed, vaccinations, drenches and other products, less of it was needed.
“People aren’t buying as much … it does affect your business,” she said.
Mrs Whittaker said the retail sector had been affected for a while, especially stores that sell what would be considered “luxury” items when times are tough, while others had cut back staff hours.
“I think there’s a bit more pain to come, but the farmers have been doing it tough for a long time,” she said.
People aren’t buying as much … it does affect your business.
- Town and Country Rural Supplies Bathurst owner Vicki Wilson
Mrs Whittaker said her own business, Bathurst Real Estate, had cut back on the amount of sponsorship it provides to community groups due to the slowing economy.
And, while shopping online may be cheaper sometimes, she urged people to shop locally.
“Getting a good deal online is good in the short term, but you’ve got to look at it in the long term,” Mrs Whittaker said.
Where to go for help
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78
- Rural Adversity Mental Health Program, www.ramhp.com.au
Drought assistance in NSW
THE DroughtHub website states that it provides a one-stop online destination for information on a vast range of services and support available to primary producers, their families and communities to prepare for and manage drought conditions.
“The NSW Government is committed to working closely with farmers, industry and stakeholders and has delivered a $300 million drought package to ensure NSW is better prepared for future drought conditions,” it reads.
“DPI makes every attempt to ensure the information supplied is current, however the individual circumstances of DroughtHub users should be taken into account when considering the linked service.”