Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, has announced $776,300 in funding for Tenterfield Shire Council to help control problem weeds.

Funding is being provided under the Liberal Nationals Government’s Communities Combating Pests and Weed Impacts During Drought Program which aims to reduce the impact of priority weeds in the area, namely serrated tussock and blackberry.

“Our local councils play an important role in pest management and weed control around the New England Electorate,” Mr Joyce said.

“Their contribution not only helps improve our natural resource outcomes, their involvement in such activities help provide employment opportunities and drive wealth back into the economies of drought communities”.

Mayor of Tenterfield Shire Council, Cr Peter Petty expressed his thanks to the Local Member for the success of the grant funding.

“Tenterfield Shire is fair dinkum in combating the issues of these problem weeds,” Mayor Petty said.

“This funding will allow for the employment of six additional staff and purchase of associated plant, including drone technology.

“In this time of drought it is important that we get on top of the weed problem, but equally important to provide employment opportunities for members of our agricultural community who are doing it tough. I see this as a win, win situation,” Mayor Petty concluded.

(ENDS)