LIFE on the land is so precarious at times it’s become a cliche via Dorothea Mackellar’s famous poem that includes a reference to Australia’s droughts and flooding rains.
With that in mind, one national charity and support agency is calling on land holders to get on the front foot ahead of summer and register their information before disaster strikes (and touch wood it does not).
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said listing with the agency now means should the worst happen, accessing support could be made easier.
“Disasters don’t wait, and neither should farmers,” he said. “We want farmers to take that step now, to be prepared.
“Getting registered with Rural Aid means we know who you are and where you are and if you need support, we can talk through what help may be available.
“We know farmers have a lot on their plate, but getting registered now is one less thing to think about if a fire or other disaster comes your way.
“Whether it’s a bushfire, flood, storm or drought, Rural Aid is here to help farmers and their families through the challenges that life on the land brings.
“So don’t wait, get registered with Rural Aid now and if you need a hand, we’ll be here.”
The call comes on the back of predictions by the Bureau of Meteorology suggesting a hotter and dryer summer is set for parts of the country bringing with it increased bushfire risk.
As part of its mission to support farmers, Rural Aid offers a range of services in the wake of a disaster.
They include financial assistance to help cover urgent or unexpected costs, counselling and mental health support, and emergency water and hay deliveries.
Rural Aid also offers access to on-the-ground groups like Farm Army and Farm Recovery Event programs, as well as assisting with clean-up and rebuilding.
Darrell Littlehales is a cattle farmer from Ashford on the New South Wales’ Northern Tablelands.
He urged people to seek help from Rural Aid if needed.
“Anyone seeking assistance, most definitely get in touch with Rural Aid,” he said. “Don’t be ashamed.
“The process is very easy. You just apply over the phone and they’ll be back in touch. It’s a big help. It’s an easy organisation, great people doing a great job.”
