Farmer’s fight in Senate

HUNDREDS of cattle are distressed and without water as a dispute between a Far Northern beef baron and a major bank reaches a Senate Inquiry.

Tablelands Beef Australia director Jim Davidson claims unfair treatment by Suncorp Bank has led to his eviction and animal cruelty at his property, where 630 angus and brahman cattle are now without water.

But a bank spokesman says a receiver is only appointed as a “last resort”.

The Malanda-based grazier lodged a submission to the Senate Inquiry on Lending to Primary Production Customers detailing his battle with the bank this week.

He claims Suncorp Bank unfairly treated him by freezing his accounts and evicting him after a former bank employee allegedly made unauthorised transactions.

Mr Davidson’s fight with the bank has gone on for three years.

He said the bank’s management practices were “scandalous”.

“They are trying to get me out of my house and sell all the farms,” Mr Davidson said.

“The other serious underlying issue was I had been put in default between the bank managers spending most of the account money and the period I could not sell any cattle.

“Also the mere fact that the receivers had been called left a black mark that cannot be removed. That’s my credit history ruined for any future refinance.”

Receivers BDO declined to comment.

Mareeba detectives are investigating the allegations made against the former employee, who worked with Mr Davidson.

Mr Davidson said foreign investment opportunities had been thwarted by the bank’s actions.

The company owns 3200ha and 3000 grass-fed cattle that it sells for slaughter and live export.

A Suncorp spokesman said the bank considered many factors, including the customer’s ability to meet their financial obligations, the protection of assets and animal welfare.

“When a customer is unable to meet their financial commitments, we explore all available options to assist,” the spokesman said.

Suncorp has not been contacted by the police in relation to any investigation.