Originally published May 21, 2005
AUSTRALIAN Prime Minister John Howard jetted into Mildura virtually unannounced as he began a flying visit to drought-ravaged south west New South Wales.
A veil of secrecy surrounded Mr Howard’s visit and only a handful of onlookers were at the Mildura Airport to greet the Prime Minister, some of those still unaware of the high profile visit.
Member for Farrer Sussan Ley flew in from Albury about an hour before the Prime Minister’s arrival to formally greet him, while it is understood last minute contact could not be made with Member for Mallee John Forrest who was absent and believed to be in the Wimmera district.
Few others were officially informed of Mr Howard’s visit until an hour before his aircraft touched down.
While in the region Mr Howard visited properties north of Wentworth and said he would take his first-hand knowledge of the drought back to Canberra.
He said the Federal Government would discuss what “reasonable” measures could be undertaken to assist farmers.
The Prime Minister mingled with about 20 farming families enjoying coffee and scones, however the focus of the gathering rarely strayed from the sole purpose of his visit — the drought.
During a rare break from individual discussions with farmers, Mr Howard told the gathering at the Bunnerungie Homestead that they were vitally important to Australia.
“My reason for coming here, and elsewhere in western New South Wales, today is to try to learn a little bit more so that I can talk to my colleagues about it,” he said.
“I admire your courage and I can honestly say that we won’t forget you.”
Mr Howard said it was too early to speculate what additional drought relief measures might be.
