Rural Aid Australia, Media Release, 1 March 2022

Australia’s most trusted rural charity, Rural Aid, is urging farmers to register with the organisation for disaster assistance, in the wake of the devastating floods in Eastern Australia.

Hundreds of farmers in Southern Queensland and Northern New South Wales have been inundated by torrential rain and life-threatening floods.

Growers watched on helplessly as their beloved crops were swallowed by rising floodwaters. Graziers risked their lives to move stock to higher ground, as rivers swelled to record highs.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said it’s been a terrifying ordeal for many.

“The unrelenting rain over Southern Queensland and Northern New South Wales has been distressing and dangerous,” Mr Warlters said.

“Our hearts go out to farmers who’ve had years of hard work washed away before their eyes.

“Rural Aid stands ready to assist our registered farmers as they face yet another crisis.”

Farmers across the Northern Rivers, Darling Downs, Wide Bay and Burnett are feeling the effects of this disaster.

Mr Warlters said Rural Aid Counsellors and Community Representatives had been busy calling our registered farmers in the affected areas.

“Rural Aid is committed to helping primary producers recover through wellbeing, financial and fodder assistance,” Mr Warlters said.

“For now, the most helpful thing Rural Aid can do is to check-in with our registered farmers, and urge unregistered farmers to sign up.

“When it’s safe to do so, Rural Aid counsellors will visit their farmers’ properties in person, to lend an ear and a helping hand.”

Primary producers are being encouraged to register with Rural Aid and in doing so can access a suite of assistance – be it financial, counselling, fodder, domestic water, or access to volunteers.

Farmers are urged to register online at www.ruralaid.org.au or by calling 1300 327 624.