Berries Australia supports the recent compliance activities undertaken by water regulator NRAR in the Coffs Harbour region which found that 18 of the 21 targeted growers were not complying with the conditions of their harvestable water rights, including some significant breaches.

Berries Australia Executive Director Rachel Mackenzie said Berries Australia absolutely supports the actions of the regulator in targeting non-compliant growers and sending a strong message that they are serious about enforcing water regulations.

“Such regulatory activity assures the community that the industry is being properly regulated and these regulations are being enforced by the NSW State government,” Ms Mackenzie said.

“While it disappointing there were breaches it should be remembered that this was a targeted compliance activity focusing on growers who were strongly suspected of being non-compliant.”

“As an industry body we have no interest in making excuses for those who do the wrong thing and by doing so give the majority of growers who are doing the right thing, a bad name.”

“We will continue to work with NRAR and other regulators to ensure growers understand their obligations.”