A farm hand that is.

While the Eugowra Events and Tourism Association focuses on just that – events, tourism and community projects – a number of its members have offered to help Eugowra farmers feed their stock so they can go away for a weekend.

The idea came about following a conversation the group’s vice president, and a former farmer himself, Jack Barnes had with a producer.

“I was talking to a cocky and he was saying he and his wife can’t get away for a weekend because they were stuck on the farm feeding stock,” Jack said.

“There’s seven of us out of about 30 who used to be farmers and we can spare a weekend to feed stock.

“This is a tough time on the land and we want farmers to know that they can take a few days off to go away for the weekend with the family or time off to attend a family function or even just to go to the movies, and we can feed your stock and keep an eye on things.”

Jack said the seven willing helpers have agriculture or machinery operating experience and are ready to assist.

“This is a free service and can be totally confidential if need be,” he said.

The offer of help has been extended to farmers in Eugowra only but Jack is hoping association’s example will inspire others to do the same in their communities in Parkes and Forbes.

Any farmer in the Eugowra area interested in utilising the help of the group, please contact Jack Barnes on 0418 760 949 or Ron Hay on 0428 592 486.

Meanwhile rain this week also provided the local farming community with a break.

Weatherzone.com.au is forecasting more falls into next week with a slight chance of rain at this stage forecast for Monday and Tuesday and a high chance of rain on Wednesday.

Up until 9am yesterday Forbes had received 5.6mm with a further 12mm up until 1pm and steady rain continuing to fall.

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