The Greens candidate for the Federal seat of Gippsland, Deb Foskey, says her campaign will focus on climate change and the potential for rewarding jobs in a well-managed environment.

“Gippsland is one of Victoria’s food bowls. This summer brought ruin to some reliable crops – corn and other vegetables – and it was a wake-up call to farmers,” Dr Foskey said.

“The reality of climate change was brought home to Gippslanders by record temperatures in the second summer of a serious drought.

“This summer, farmers reported dying plants, spoiling fruit and corn cobs and suffering stock and poultry. In paddocks without shelter trees, cattle, sheep and horses had to endure killing heat.

“Vegetable growers on the Lindenow flats had to rely on stored water as restrictions on irrigation from the Mitchell River were introduced. This threatened our food production industry as Gippsland supplies 60 per cent of Victoria’s vegetables.”

Dr Foskey said some major rivers ceased running, meaning there was less fresh water to keep the Gippsland Lakes healthy, Meanwhile, large fires burned out of control throughout summer, however Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, and Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester, didn’t utter the words ‘climate change’.

“In this they echo their colleagues and National Party policy, which continues to spruik mining and other resource extraction industries as the only employment options for rural and regional electorates,” Dr Foskey said.

“The Bureau of Meteorology predicts that temperatures will continue to rise in Gippsland, with more days of dangerous extreme temperatures.

“Gippsland voters will have to look beyond the Nationals if they want action to prevent runaway climate

change and mitigate its impacts. “The Nationals cannot represent their communities while they cling to an unscientific view of the world that ignores scientific evidence. “While the rest of the world makes plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and avoid climate catastrophe, the Nationals remain hooked on industries which are part of the problem.”

Dr Foskey says the Greens are the only party with a comprehensive plan to tackle climate change.

“We will bring new jobs in renewable energy, environmental management and services like health and education, which are under-resourced in Gippsland,” she said.

“I expect to meet many people in this election campaign who fear their politicians have deserted them just when a change of direction is needed.”

PICTURED: Deb Foskey.