MEDIA RELEASE 6 July 2023
MP Sarah Mansfield applauds innovation and climate leadership of Buloke farming and agriculture community.
Greens MP for Western Victoria Sarah Mansfield visited Buloke Shire last week to see firsthand the impressive innovation and environmental initiatives happening across the farming and agriculture sector in the region.
During her visit, Sarah spent time with not-for-profit research organisation Birchip Cropping Group (BCG), neighbouring Burrum Biodynamics, and a regenerative farm just outside of Rupanyup.
At BCG, Sarah enjoyed a tour of the facility with CEO Fiona Best and Board Chair John Ferrier and discussed the benefits of farmer-led research and trials in developing sustainable farming practices that best suit the region and the farmers.
Stopping in at Burrum Biodynamics, Sarah received a warm welcome from a group of local farmers and landholders to discuss the key issues in the area, which include proposed transition lines and renewable energy projects.
In addition to understanding the complexities of the local issues, Sarah heard more about the demand for locally-grown grains and pulses which are produced and distributed by Burrum Biodynamics and in high demand across the state.
Keen to learn more about the diverse ways farmers are producing food and adapting to climate change, Sarah visited a regenerative farm outside of Rupanyup. As the Agriculture Portfolio holder for the Victorian Greens, Sarah was particularly interested in the flow-on effects of regenerative farming on productivity, soil health and the biodiversity of surrounding areas.
Prior to entering Parliament, Sarah worked as a GP in Geelong. She served as a councillor at the City of Greater Geelong from 2017 until she was elected to state parliament as the Greens’ first-ever MP for Western Victoria in December 2022.
Sarah is passionate about improving access to affordable housing and healthcare, taking action on the climate crisis, and protecting the natural resources in Western Victoria.
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QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO DR SARAH MANSFIELD
“I really want to thank the local community for such a warm welcome and inviting me in to learn more about the amazing work they’re doing in farming and agriculture.
“The strength of the innovation in this region is that it’s locally-led by farmers and specialists who understand the nuances of the land and what the needs of farmers and the community really are.
“It’s so encouraging to see people who clearly care so much about ensuring their regions can respond to the impacts of climate change with solutions that are focused on building strong communities, food security and farming practices that will see them into the future.”
MEDIA CONTACT
Melanie Drummond
EMAIL: melanie.drummond@parliament.vic.gov.au
PHONE: (03) 5222 1941
