A LOWER Darling River horticulture group is hoping a five-year wait for finalisation of a Federal Government water buyback will be completed by November.
The NSW Government approached the landholders in 2014, telling them that under a water savings project a reliable supply of water could no longer be ensured.
The process has dragged on since, however Federal Department of Agriculture valuers visited the properties a month ago and are deliberating their outcomes.
However, Member for Farrer Sussan Ley — who is also Environment Minister — is confident a resolution is imminent.
“It’s vital it’s done in a timely manner and I’ve had ongoing conversations with the Lower Darling Horticulture Group (LDHG),” Ms Ley said.
“I’m in close touch with two ministers’ offices and I think we’re in a good place at the moment for everyone to appreciate that we need to have this solved and sorted by November.
“I will work very hard to make sure that happens.”
Six family-owned properties in the Pooncarie region are part of the LDHG — Court Nareen Station, Camborn Station, Jamesville Station, Tulney Point Station, Burtundy Station and stone fruit property Connargee.
Rachel Strachan, of Tulney Point Station, said the horticulturists were desperate for a resolution.
“It’s beyond frustrating and it’s been crippling for us not being able to make any long-term business decisions because all of our cash flow and our assets are tied up in the horticulture business,” she said.
“So it hasn’t allowed us to progress any of our business decisions.
“We have had a moving target of resolution now for five years, that has failed to come to an outcome.
“It has been really cruel, mentally and financially.”
Alan Whyte, of Jamesville Station, said the buyout incorporated four stages — the capital value and effect of shutting down the business; the physical removal costs of trees or vines; the transfer of high-security water licences to the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder and a loss-of-income component to cover the changeover period.
“We are hopeful that by the end of this financial year things could be sorted,” Mr Whyte said.
“There is a level of bitterness that this has taken so long.”
