Crash prevention devices for quad bikes will be easier to access for dairyfarmers with the announcement of the latest funding project from the SA Dairy Industry Fund.
Using proceeds from the sale of SADA Fresh milk, the fund has allocated $100,000, with rebates of up to $800 available to buy an operator protection device to use with quad bikes and all-terrain-vehicles.
SA Dairyfarmers’ Association’s John Elferink said safety was a common theme when speaking about potential fund projects.
“It has been raised with us on a number of occasions,” he said.
“Prior to the state election it was suggested as a possible policy the government could address but no side of government made a commitment.
“The system exists in NSW and Vic, but rather than wait, we’re stepping into the breach.”
Mr Elferink said there were two approved devices – the Quadbar and the ATV Lifeguard – based on the similar scheme in Vic.
The rebate is available to all farmers that live and operate a dairy business in SA, possess a SA dairy licence, have no more than 10 full-time employees, own a quad bike for work purposes and use dairyfarming as a substantial source of income.
The rebates will be available to claim during the 2018-19 financial year, while the new or used quad vehicles can have been bought at a time prior to the rebate.
“I would expect there is a fair bit of take-up as it is a generous scheme,” Mr Elferink said.
“We are endeavouring to make sure as many farms as possible avail themselves of the scheme for the sake of running safe businesses.”
- Details: To find out more about the scheme, contact Mr Elferink at dairyindustryfund@sada.asn.au or 08 8329 2399.