Thoroughbred Breeders of the Hunter Valley continued its Protect Our Industries campaign this week with a press release calling for Governments and alternative Governments to stand up for Australia’s agricultural community.

Tony O’Driscoll, who is spokesman for the of the Thoroughbred Breeders of the Hunter Valley, said regional Australia is struggling under the pressure of too many competing demands on our land, water supplies and environment.

“The Hunter Valley is one example where increasing encroachment of mining operations is threatening the future viability of Australia’s premier thoroughbred breeding industry,” he claimed.  “The Hunter Valley is internationally recognised as Australia’s breeding capital yet negative encroachment from mining exploration is threatening our future viability and the health and welfare of our employees, livestock and region.

“The sustainable use of our limited and precious resources calls for rational, cool headed decisions that recognise the responsibility we all have to leave a sustainable legacy for future generations.

“As key managers of the land, our efforts deserve to be recognised and we deserve to have certainty so we can plan and invest in the future with confidence.”

The Thoroughbred Breeders of the Hunter Valley is calling for a strategic holistic plan for the future of the Hunter Valley.  

“Agriculture is the backbone of our nation.  Farmers, food producers and livestock breeders all make significant contributions to the everyday lives of all Australians, to our standard of living and regional, state and national economies,” O’Driscoll said.

The Thoroughbred Breeders of the Hunter Valley including Arrowfield, Coolmore, Darley, Vinery and Yarraman Park are supported by the Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Association Inc, NSW Breeders’ and Thoroughbred Breeders Australia.

In January 2010 they launched the Protect Our Industries campaign to educate politicians and decision makers about the importance of our industry and the contribution it makes to regional, state and national economies.

Information on the campaign can be found at www.htba.com.au/protectourindustries.