Farmers connect at drought outreach event in Barcaldine

More than 206 tonnes of livestock pellets were donated to 118 farmers at Barcaldine Showgrounds, while locals also enjoyed a free BBQ lunch and the opportunity to connect with a range of services.

The community event was joint effort between the National Recovery & Resilience Agency, the Rapid Relief Team and Rotary.

“We are driven by our values of care and compassion. We are only happy that we could provide some support in a small way and join forces with the great folk from Rotary and the NRRA” RRT Director Lester Sharples said.

“The most important part of today was the chance for the community to get together, connect and share a story or two over a cup of coffee,” Lester said.

“With drought, COVID-19 and everything else going on in the world, it can feel like a particularly isolating time, especially out in the Bush.

“These events are a great chance to bring the community together and remind each other that we are not alone – and the power of friends, family and neighbours,” Lester said.

In addition to the opportunity for farmers to take advantage of a free one tonne bag of livestock pellets, a range of services were also on hand including rural and financial aid, veterinary support, mental health and financial counsellors and more.

“As a service organisation Rotary is committed to supporting our communities through hard times and recovery. It was fantastic to see so many of the community at the Showgrounds today and the chance to have a chat, check in and see how everyone was going,” Rotary spokesperson David Pearson said.

Rotary also provided $500 debit cards to eligible recipients in need.