AUSTRALIA's beef producers say while there are forecasts of a La Nina inspired rainy summer ahead, the drought should not be forgotten.
Cattle Council of Australia president Tony Hegarty said the Bureau of Meteorology's forecast would raise spirits on cattle stations across the eastern states, the damage of the recent drought will take years to repair.
Some producers have faced nine years of dry conditions and it has hit them hard," Mr Hegarty said.
Others have missed out on the recent rains, despite a wetter than usual year so far.
Likewise, entire states will not benefit from La Nina rains, such as WA and the NT and the areas affected will vary.
The La Nina declaration is very welcome and will make a big difference to producers.
Mr Hegarty said multiple years of drought would take more than one season to fix.
"We must stay focused," he said.
Governments must continue supporting those facing dry conditions and those getting back on their feet.
Its also important we continue programs to build resilience in rural communities, such as the Commonwealths Future Drought Fund.
BOM's latest climate outlook shows a high chance of above average rainfall across the eastern two-thirds of Australia in the OctoberDecember period.
Most of northern Queensland and the Northern Territory is forecast to have a more than 70pc chance of above-average rainfall.
