Farmers do much but get so little in return

GREAT letter to editor “Give farmers a fair go” ( TB, 5/ 12).

Not only do Australian farmers receive less government support on subsidies and tariffs but also the local and state charges are also higher than other competitors.

This leads to a major problem of mental health and well being in these communities.

No matter how hard they work, there is no relief for these people. Not only financially but the weather and also trying to hold a normal family life together.

An example I can use is the global sugar situation.

Farmers in my region have to deal with the prices of electricity, rates, water and all other inputs. Meanwhile, the weather ( no rain) and the sugar price is being distorted by economic super powers of India and Indonesia.

There is the long- term affect of continuous daily irrigation all year round and they end up being paid well below cost.

Many put on happy faces but deep down are hurting and enter a downward spiral and some even take their lives.

Due to drought, the need to feed animals and irrigate crops destroys family lives.

No holidays, no family visits and no physical and mental relief.

However where do they turn to? Who understands the issues?

Everyone just soldiers on and continue in the daily grind without any real help with groups out there understanding the real issue and anyone offering to help. Disgusting, in my view. You begin to ask for help but hit stumbling blocks as no one really wants to take it on.

It’s like having 10 fingers on your hands – one feeds the other nine but yet gets no help financially and mentally. A Farmer, Brandon. Name and address supplied

but withheld by request.