The update was part of a series of forums held by the National Australia Bank (NAB) throughout the Central West this week.

NAB’s general manager of agribusiness Khan Horne said times were tough for some, but the bank had confidence in the industry and its customers.

“NAB has always taken a long term view of agribusiness, because we understand its ups and downs,” he said.

“Drought, rising fertiliser and fuel prices, higher interest rates and a stronger dollar are all impacting farmers’ returns. However with strategic thinking and good advice we know farmers can continue to increase productivity and profitability.”

Mr Horne said this year marks 150 years since National Bank of Australasia, one of NAB’s founding banks, began operations.

He said the Central West district was close to his heart, as he had spent time in Bathurst and Moree as well as six years as NAB’s regional manager of agribusiness in Dubbo.

“Back then, agriculture and mining were the mainstays of the local economy,’’ he said.

“I’m sure that in another 150 years they will still be making an important contribution to the Central West.

“It is the farming families of Central West NSW who will drive agriculture,” added Mr Horne.