Call for farmers to get involved in ‘FarmDay 2010’

AUSTRALIAN farmers – across all states – are being asked to throw open their gates to a city family for a day in May as part of breaking down barriers to metropolitan understanding of modern farm practices. FarmDay provides city families with a unique hands-on experience and insights from farmers who can answer all those “where does that come from?” and “why do they do that?” questions, dispelling myths in the process. FarmDay will run over the May 29-30 weekend. “The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is proud to be an official supporter of this great initiative,” NFF President David Crombie said. “We know many Australian farmers are concerned about the perception of their sector in metropolitan mindsets, so this is their chance to get actively involved in turning those misconceptions around. “The NFF has been pressing the case for modern farming and is getting results. Independent market research shows that metropolitan perceptions of farming have improved dramatically, with 94% of metropolitan people supporting farmers in proactively managing environmental challenges, including climate change, and that they make an important economic contribution to Australia. “There is much greater understanding and awareness of modern farming as environmentally-friendly and responsible, widespread recognition that farmers “do things differently today” and that the sector is ultra-efficient, technologically advanced and internationally competitive. “But our research also shows there is an information gap in many peoples’ understanding about “what” modern farmers are doing to achieve these successes. What better way than for people to witness it first-hand during FarmDay? “We encourage all Australian farmers who are positive and passionate about their industry to take part in FarmDay and seize the opportunity to showcase where and how the high quality food and fibre our city counterparts enjoy every day actually comes from. “Around 400 metropolitan families participated in FarmDay last year. Survey results show that city people left farms with not only a greater understanding of how modern Australian farms operate, but more aware of the role farming plays in their daily lives.” FarmDay founder, Deb Bain, said the intent of FarmDay is to foster ‘fun, friendship and understanding’ and offer farmers a voice in the urban community. By actually meeting a farming family and enjoying a day mucking in with the jobs on the farm, city families not only come away with an excellent insight into modern farming but with stories they’ll pass on to many of their city friends. “The farmers that take a day out and step back to view their business through the eyes of a city family come away with a more positive view of their industry and are happy to have contributed towards developing a greater understanding of farming practice in Australia,” Mrs Bain said. “It is an enlightening experience all round.” To learn more about, or to participate in FarmDay, farmers should visit the http://www.farmday.com.au[FarmDay website]. Alternatively, farmers can call 1300 367 036. FarmDay is also proudly supported by Meat and Livestock Australia and the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. [ENDS]