FARMERS will lose out following the government’s announcement on council mergers, according to NSW Farmers’ president Derek Schoen.
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“Our members are completely opposed to forced amalgamations unless specific benefits can be outlined,” Mr Schoen said.
“Whilst we are pleased to learn that Walcha and Tamworth have had a good hearing, we are concerned for the rest of our members in areas like Guyra, Cootamundra, Harden and others.
“We are always talking about the farmgate price in agriculture these days – but what leads to the farm gate is the local road. And the local road is managed by the local council. This is why the amalgamation of local councils is so important to farmers.”
Mr Schoen said farmers often contributed a high level of council rates when set against the services that they are able to readily access.