MANSFIELD BLACKBERRY CONTROL BACK ON TRACK

A Department of Primary Industries blackberry control program at Mansfield is back on track following the successful intervention by Member for Central Highlands, Graeme Stoney and Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes.

Mr Stoney recently raised the issue in Parliament and Dr Sykes made representations to the Minister for Agriculture and senior DPI staff.

The project had been suspended after the DPI decided not to replace two Mansfield staff who had taken alternate positions with the Department of Sustainability and Environment.

“I was pleased to receive a phone call this week advising that the blackberry control program was recommencing immediately,” he said.

“In this case, common sense has prevailed with the DPI recognising the importance of continuing blackberry control right through the summer and early autumn period.

“What is of concern to me is that there seems to be an underlying funding shortfall in the department which is putting pressure on critically important programs such as the control of blackberries and Patterson’s Curse.”

“Earlier this year we saw eight jobs go in the Mallee; I wonder what is in store for north east Victoria?

“I call on the State Government to deliver on its claims that it is getting serious about weed control and to ensure adequate resources for field workers.”

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989