Member for Gregory Lachlan Millar, is reassuring graziers in the Barcaldine Regional Council area, after a mistaken email was sent from Ergon Energy.

Emails were sent from Ergon Energy to local landholders on Monday, informing them that “We’ve received confirmation from the Queensland Government Department of Agriculture and Fisheries that the drought declaration for your property or area was revoked on 17 May 2018.” and “that from this date you are no longer eligible for the Queensland Government’s Drought Relief from Electricity Charges scheme.”

“I was extremely concerned, when a number of residents contacted me, worried as to what this means for their businesses” Mr Millar said.

“Barcaldine, as with the rest of Western Queensland, is in the grip of a prolonged drought.

“I’ve been in contact with the Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and his office assure me this was an honest mistake by Ergon Energy.

“Graziers who have received this email shouldn’t worry, but should contact Ergon to rectify the issue.

“Barcaldine Regional Council area still remains Drought declared and will continue to receive Queensland Government’s Drought Relief from Electricity Charges.

“These emails have caused great stress for all involved, and I’m calling on Ergon Energy and the Minister to apologise to Barcaldine graziers.