Wednesday 30 June 2010

Farmers and rural businesses are making farming history with an innovative new alliance Ag-Biz, which aims to deliver better prices, and grow local communities.

Combining their years of experience on the land, Farmers have united with small businesses to deliver their communities a 'fair go' from governments, and better deals from supermarkets.

Ag-Biz is an independent organization born out of the frustrations of agriculture's inability to influence government policies. As farm numbers have reduced, it's vital that we unite with business in order to regain political clout.

Ag-Biz chairman, Doug Chant, a Western District dairy farmer, says the time has come for farmers to follow the lead of the US farm lobby – among the strongest lobby organization in the world – and stand up for their livelihoods and the rural communities that support them: "Business is in need of strong voice and together we will be heard.

"Through Ag-Biz we will give a coordinated voice for all those in agriculture. Our goal is to deliver a greater share of the consumer dollar back to the farm gate," Mr Chant says. "This will enable the sustainability, and most importantly the profitability, of our farming businesses – which will flow on to small businesses that service agriculture."

Mr Chant says Ag-Biz's first job is to grow membership, sending a strong message to Australia's new PM Julia Gillard, and Victorian Premier John Brumby: Farmers have had a gutful of hard labour for poor prices.

Ag-Biz membership is open to farmers and other business that support agriculture. It also offers low cost membership for agribusiness employees, and the wider community who want to show support for agriculture and clean, green food.

CONTACT: Doug Chant, Ag-Biz alliance Chairman Tel: 0419 588 733

posted 30 Jun 2010 00:37 by The Secretary

Ag-Biz Alliance is newly formed and is in the process of developing a network of businesses that are prepared to champion our cause by acting as Ag-Biz Alliance Champions.

To date, every business approached, has been very supportive of the principles of Ag-Biz. A united approach by Farmers and Business as a lobbying block will create a fresh new model with stronger representation and real political clout. Those employed in agriculture and communities who support agriculture will all benefit from a strong rural sector.

Join us to maintain the viability of our food production, the food quality and safety which is currently being put at risk.

New Champions are being sought in every town.

If you would like to be part of this new and exciting organisation representing farmers and rural businesses please contact your local farm supplier OR one of the following contacts. We hope to open a branch in your town very soon.

Ag-Biz Alliance
PO Box 352,
Colac,
Victoria, 3250