Helping severe weather-hit farmers get back on their feet

Community resilience has come to the fore as farming communities continue to rebuild following months of devastating weather events, from flooding in Queensland and New South Wales to drought in Victoria and South Australia.

Rural Aid is among the organisations that have stepped up to help farming families in the affected areas through the delivery of water tanks, hay and fodder. Rural Aid’s efforts have been backed by supporters around the country which has included a $100,000 donation by CommBank.

“Everything we do, delivering practical and emotional support to farming families, is powered by donations,” Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said.  

“Support from organisations like CBA means we can get hay to feed livestock, water tanks to help in drought and flood, and counselling services to support mental health. It’s about showing rural Australians they are seen, valued, and supported.” 

Farmers on the frontline

Collin Gould, a farmer in the Northern NSW town of Coraki described how at one point during the floods that devastated the region, the water reached the blades of his windmill.

He has now been rebuilding from flood damage for months although at times with little respite as the region faces more wet weather. 

“We’ve had constant repairs, fencing, trees with root rot, and paddocks too wet to work. You’re lucky if you can even get cattle into the yards,” Mr Gould said

“If it wasn’t for Rural Aid and their sponsors, we’d probably have ‘for sale’ signs out front and no buyers.

“The support has made a real difference, not just for us, but for so many in this area.”

On his farm in Booleroo on the Southern Flinders Rangers of SA, Andrew Bastian has faced significant challenges feeding his livestock after the region faced prolonged drought, but he remains positive.

“There have been days where you sort of smile and pick the roses. Unfortunately, there's someone out there worse off than what you are,” Mr Bastian said.

“Just smile, be brave, and keep loving the country and the job that we do.”

Volunteers offer support 

CBA employees have been rolling up their sleeves and heading to local farms to support farmers directly, helping with everything from fence repairs and property maintenance to simply lending an ear to those impacted by severe weather.

“Part of volunteering with Rural Aid is not only going and helping the farmers maintain properties and build fences,” said Stacey Casagrande, a Regional and Agribusiness Banking account manager. 

 “It’s also about talking to them and understanding what they’ve been through on a day-to-day basis.”

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