A WILD storm which lashed the Innisfail district on January 17 damaged some banana plantations.
High wind gusts up to 90km/h and hail damaged crops around the town, with some growers suffering severe damage.
About 25 growers were impacted, with some losing up to 80 per cent of their crop.
Queensland agriculture minister, Mark Furner, announced that impacted banana producers would be eligible for disaster recovery assistance.
Mr Furner said some plantations at Innisfail sustained damage ranging from minor to severe.
Around 25 growers have suffered at least some damage from the winds, which reached 90 kilometres per hour
- Mark Furner
"Department of Agriculture and Fisheries staff have spoken to impacted growers, inspected crops and report that around 25 growers have suffered at least some damage from the winds, which reached 90 kilometres per hour," Mr Furner said.
"Most growers experienced minor damage, but a small number suffered significant damage to their current crop which will take at least eight to 10 months to get back to full production.
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"Primary producers affected by a natural disaster can apply for an Individual Disaster Stricken Property (IDSP) declaration.
"An IDSP gives access to freight subsidies up to $5000 from DAF, and Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority Disaster Assistance loans of up to $250,000 available at a concessional interest rate. While this assistance won't make up for the loss of income, these measures will help with repairs."
For more information visit daf.qld.gov.au or call 13 25 23. Information on preparing banana crops for a natural disaster can be found on the Australian Banana Growers' Council site.
