While many southern NSW farmers were busily finishing one of the best harvests they have seen in years, they were also celebrated on Friday as part of National Agriculture Day.
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In a year where many crop farmers have rebounded from drought with favourable growing conditions and a promise of higher than average yields, politicians, locals and others in the agriculture industry said "thank you" to a farmer on the national day.
Closer to home member for Farrer Sussan Ley donned an "I love farmers" badge during a press conference in Albury while Wodonga-based Victorian Senator Bridget McKenzie posted a message to social media.
"It is time to thank a farmer who produce fabulously safe, nutritious food not just for us here in Australia but export it right around the world," she said.
"Times are tough, we have experienced drought and bushfires in our regional communities but ag has a really bright future and I am excited about what we are going to be able to achieve together. So take the time out to thank a farmer."
Speaking yesterday as part of the Commonwealth Bank's ag celebrations, regional and agribusiness executive general manager Grant Cairns said the demand for financing new farming equipment was up more than 100 per cent in NSW, including southern NSW and the Riverina.
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"For many of Australia's farmers, this year has been a rebound from drought with favourable growing conditions, a successful winter crop in many regions and strong optimism about yields and quality of harvest," he said.
"Over the past few months we've seen financing in the sector increase dramatically - largely driven by farmers purchasing agricultural machinery for this year's crop season.
"We've seen asset finance for ag machinery, particularly tractors and harvesters, increase significantly. Across the country, new asset financing for tractors is up 119 per cent - the highest volumes seen in the past three years, and financing for harvesters is up 108 per cent."
Federal Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said the future for agriculture was looking up.
"It has been a tough year for all Australians, with drought, bushfire, and a pandemic," he said.
"Our agricultural industries and communities have again shown their strength and flexibility in both responding to these emerging challenges and taking advantage of new opportunities.
"We're putting our shoulder to the wheel with the agricultural sector to reach its goal of a $100 billion industry by 2030."
