Tasmanian Growers Voice Displeasure

Tasmanian potato growers have voiced strong opposition to the Australian Broadcasting Corp., for not being able to grow more early process potatoes for Simplot's french fry plant on the island.

They are unhappy with the fact Simplot imported about 12,000 tons of potatoes from Victoria and New South Wales this year for processing into fries.

Grower Phillip Richardson said the Tasmanian growers have not been given a chance to fill the void so Simplot can avoid having to import potatoes even though they have suggested they would like the opportunity.

"We used to do it for quite a few years, but as Simplot has increased in quantity, they consider that we're not able to produce all that they need early in the season," he said.