Farmers Flocking to FarmSafe

Farmers Flocking to FarmSafe

The incentive of improving farm safety and reducing their ACC levies has farmers flocking to an innovative programme which aims to help reduce the rate of serious injuries on farm.

The FarmSafe Programme is a one day interactive seminar bought to farmers by Federated Farmers of New Zealand (Inc) and ACC, in association with Agriculture ITO, Agriculture New Zealand and Telford Rural Polytechnic.

1700 farmers have already enrolled in the FarmSafe programme. By the end of April it is estimated the total number of farmers having attended the courses since it was launched in July 2002 will be pushing toward 4,000.

Self employed ACC levy payers have the added incentive of receiving a cheque for $65 simply by completing the programme. All those who complete the programme successfully, go in the draw to win one of three XLR 125 two-wheel farm bikes with helmets from Blue Wing Honda valued at $4,695 each.

"This is an outstanding result, and credit must be given to the way that farmers have embraced the programme," says Federated Farmers Project Manager Bruce Cottrill.

"It is also a direct result of the synergies created by ACC working with the Federation, and drawing on this organisation's expertise and close links with its' members.

"The cost of serious farm accidents to the individual, their families, and the economy is too high. It is fantastic to see farmers taking positive steps to address the issue."

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