A Western NSW group of organic lamb producers has been awarded a $60,200 grant to undertake a feasibility study to establish a collaboratively owned pellet mill.
The Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, welcomed the funding, as part of a 
$1.3 million grant round to support new cooperative and collaborative business arrangements and boost farmgate returns. 
He said the project will also obtain expert advice on the lowest cost organic ration to finish Dorper lambs.
“This project was selected as it will leverage the existing strong partnership and develop the ability to manage risk and value-add in existing high-value organic lamb export-orientated businesses,” Mr Coulton said.
“The Coalition Government is helping more farm businesses to get their co-operative off the ground and enjoy the benefits these provide.
“Co-operatives support better and fairer farmgate returns, allowing farmers to pool their resources and gain greater control of the supply chain and more bargaining power.
“We want farmers right across the country to have access to information and experts needed to properly consider whether a co-operative or collaborative arrangement is right for them.
The Coalition Government’s $13.8 million Farm Co-operatives and Collaboration Pilot Program, delivered through Southern Cross University, funded this grant round. 
Mr Coulton said the pilot also provides a range of information, resources and expert advice and assistance to help farm businesses make up their own minds about what’s best for them. 
“This is yet another initiative delivered through the Government’s $4 billion Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper.”
For more information on the grant recipients visit farmingtogether.com.au