Mayor supports ginger growers

Mayor Mark Jamieson has thrown his support behind Sunshine Coast farmers fighting to protect the local ginger industry.

The Mayor said he shares the concerns of growers that local crops could be put at risk by Fijian imports.

"This region produces 80% of our country’s ginger – so it has the most to lose if the imported product brings pests and diseases to Australia," Mayor Jamieson said.

"More than 6000 tonnes of ginger is grown on the Sunshine Coast each year and we need to protect the crop from potential problems."

The Mayor made the comments at the unveiling of the Buderim Ginger Factory’s Community Honour Walk at its Yandina factory.

"Ginger has been an important part of this region’s history and I want that to be the case for many years to come."

The Federal Department of Agriculture’s has released a risk analysis which could lead to the importing of ginger to Australia from Fiji.

Farmers have until September 10 to respond to the report, then it’s up to Fiji to fulfil the quarantine criteria.

It follows a similar report which could open the door for Malaysia to export pineapples to Australia.

Local growers have also opposed that proposal because it could also see local crops exposed to pests and diseases.