This was the message from NSW Farmers president, James Jackson on National Agriculture Day.

And the day was about celebrating what primary producers do every day, not just on one day. 

“There’s no doubt 2018 has been a challenging year … we are facing one of the worst droughts in 100 years,” Mr Jackson said. 

“Farmers across the state are making tough decisions every day as this drought continues,” he said. 

Mr Jackson said National Agriculture Day was also an ideal time to identify the growing need for rural produce. 

“The latest figures by the (NSW) Department of Primary Industries show that prior to the impacts of drought, exports had grown by 22 per cent year on year to $6.3 billion,” Mr Jackson said. 

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Meanwhile, National Agriculture Day celebrations were high on the agenda in the Riverina. 

AgriFutures Australia, the Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation and Regional Development of Australia (RDA) Riverina NSW held a barbecue in Wagga on Wednesday. 

AgriFutures Australia general manager, research and innovation Michael Beer said it was an opportunity to highlight the importance of research and innovation in the important quest to feed more people.

Acting director of the Graham Centre, Associate Professor Marta Hernandez-Jover said, research plays a key role in helping primary industries to continue to grow and support regional communities.

RDA Riverina chief executive officer, Rachel Whiting said, agriculture is the main driver of the Riverina. 

“Celebrating this fact is a fantastic opportunity to say thank you.”