The local dairy industry has been one of the hardest hit by the crippling drought, according to MidCoast Council mayor David West.
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Dairy farming in the region is vital to the NSW milk supply, which makes the situation more ruinous.
"About one-third of the milk produced in NSW is done here," Cr West said. "The drought has been absolutely devastating for that industry."
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The number of dairy farmers continue to dwindle across NSW, with other contributing factors including the farmgate milk price and deregulation of the industry. But that's a story for another day.
The effects of drought have been felt by this community for some time, Cr West said.
As local producers replenish their stocks, it's highly important to keep money locally. Those impacted by the drought have also suffered through the COVID-19 and the respective economic downturn that comes with it.
"We need to help prop up the smaller stores which will also prop up the local economy," Cr West said.
"Look at your local butcher- you might pay marginally more but the quality will be better and it will be a better outcome for them."
He said the ShopMidCoast campaign is one measure council is taking to help businesses bounce back, whether the hardship was caused by drought, bushfires or the coronavirus pandemic.
"We've worked together with local business to set up our own ShopMidCoast online business directory, so please take a look today and shop local wherever and whenever you can," Cr West said.
"I'm confident that whatever this virus throws at us, and whatever measures NSW Health introduces, Mid Coast locals will continue to cooperate and look after each other."
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