We’ve all seen the appeals and heard the stories of people digging deep to help our farmers.
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But, how do you access that help? That was the phone call the Advocate received last week, so we’ve compiled a quick list.
If you know of things we should add to it, email renee.powell@fairfaxmedia.com.au
Buy a Bale
The Buy a Bale western campaign has raised almost half a million dollars in just two months.
You can apply for assistance, including a delivery of fodder, online at www.buyabale.com.au or by phoning 1300327624.
They also have other assistance such as financial counselling available.
Farm Rescue
When you’re flat out feeding sheep and a harvest doesn’t look likely, there are jobs that just don’t get done.
Rural Aid, Farm Rescue and local business owners Kim Lowe and Herb Beer of K&H Interiors and Design want to help the Forbes farming community by doing some of these jobs.
They’re bringing a “farmy army” of volunteers to town in October with the skills, time and resources to do those jobs you just can’t get to.
There’s an information night and fundraiser auction in Forbes on Friday August 10.
Nominate online at farmrescue.com.au
Government assistance
The NSW Government is offering fodder and livestock freight subsidies.
You can find out more online at droughthub.nsw.gov.au
The Federal Government on Sunday announced that farmers on the Farm Household Allowance would receive extra assistance, including two lump sum payments of up to $12,000 for couples.
The package also included a relaxing of assets tests to allow more farmers access to the assistance. Call the Farmer Assistance Hotline on 132 316.
Grassroots Blueprint
This project has been set up as a long-term farmer connection by local dairy farmer Sally Downie.
But right now, she’s got a good partnership with the Salvation Army and local businesses to help out where they can.
Contact Grassroots Blueprint on Facebook to find out more.
Drought Angels
Forbes’ Lou Green is planning a Farmers Ball on October 20, raising funds for Drought Angels.
This regional charity provides stock feed, financial and moral support to farming families in times of natural disasters.
To find out more go online to droughtangels.org.au/
Livestock feeding advice
Drop in to the Central West LLS office in Sherriff Street Forbes every Wednesday morning from 9am to 11am.
You’re welcome for a cuppa and a chat, with the greatest need so far for advice on feed requirements in these tough conditions.
They’re hosting a more formal workshop on making livestock decisions in drought at the Forbes Inn on August 21.
To RSVP please contact Mel Kiel on 6846 4569 or projects@littleriverlandcare.com.au.
