26 January 2012
Thursday 26 January 2011 (Canberra) – Australia Day is a special day for Australians with many gathering together to share a meal and a day off. As they prepare their Australia Day feast; cut up a fresh salad, and top pavlovas with some of the world’s best fruit, CropLife Australia asks them to take the opportunity to think about how all this amazing produce came to be on their family table. It’s not by accident.
“Australia’s hard working farmers in a 24 hour/7 day a week /52 weeks of the year job, strive to meet our nation’s food demands. Their commitment to excellence can only be honoured with the critical help of supporting industries, such as the plant science industry. It is important to recognise that these supporting industries are critical to Australia’s future agricultural success”, said Australia’s peak plant science industry, Chief Executive Officer of CropLife Australia, Matthew Cossey.
“The plant science industry is a vital component of agriculture, helping farmers by supplying modern tools and innovative technologies that assist with maximum productivity and yields of our favourite foods. Without these tools, up to 50% of Australian food crops would be lost. Imagine celebrating special events like Australia Day without enjoying fresh and safe ingredients, including the hops and grapes!
“Australian agriculture is helping to feed, not only lucky Australians with the local production of 93% of our total food supply, but the world, exporting up to 60% of crop production.
“Food security is a huge challenge for the world and Australia’s innovative plant science sector is striving to do our part in meeting the increased demand for food in other nations. By the year 2050, the world’s population will exceed 9 billion and this will require further agricultural productivity increases. The plant science industry will be doing our part to ensure that Australian farmers will have access to the latest innovative agricultural chemical and biotechnology tools and products”, he said.
Australian agricultural products are exceptional and in the Year of the Farmer, it’s time to show our support and thanks on this Australia Day, to the farmers and to recognise the importance of agriculture and those supporting industries that play such a vital role in our lives.