SA storm devastates crops in Riverland, MPs view losses

Crop losses from severe weather late last week are being assessed by growers in the South Australian Riverland, as state politicians head to the region to consider what can be done to support hard-hit primary producers. Agriculture Minister Leon Bignell flew to the area near the state’s eastern border for talks with primary industries officials and Opposition Leader Steven Marshall also headed there to discuss crop damage with regional MP Tim Whetstone and growers. The industry body representing grape growers said some had lost up to 80 per cent of their crop as severe winds and hail lashed the region on Friday.