BQP fieldsman Mark Jagger has urged producers to ensure they do all they can to protect themselves, staff and family, after the sad death of a farmer due to COVID-19.
Mr Jagger reported that one of BQP’s elderly farmers had passed away after contracting the virus. “It has upset all of us and our thoughts are with his family,” he said.
Mr Jagger reminded farms to take all the necessary precautions to protect vulnerable staff and family members. “Don’t take risks, take precautions. Please ensure you have good biosecurity measures in place for yourself and others,” he said.
He said there appeared to be a perception within farming that COVID-19 was a disease of cities and towns that wouldn’t get to them if they don’t venture off the farm. However, this is not necessarily the case, especially where people were coming onto farms, he said.
He added that, while some people working on the farm might not be vulnerable to COVID-19, that does not mean the rest of the family or workforce is safe.
“All sensible precautions should be taken with staff and family members regarding who and what come through the main gate,” he said.