Rural Aid, Media Release, 9 June 2025
In the wake of devastating floods, Rural Aid is rallying around Western Queensland’s farming communities with a powerful message: you are not alone.
From 10–17 June, Rural Aid will be on the ground in Thargomindah, offering hands-on mental health support, meaningful connection, and a good dose of joy—reminding families that brighter days are ahead.
Leading the visit is Rural Aid’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager, Myf Pitcher, who will spend the week checking in with local primary producers and their families, offering compassionate counselling and emotional support.
“When people are doing it tough, sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is simply show up and listen,” Ms Pitcher said.
“We want every farmer in the region to know—your struggles are seen, your resilience is admired, and Rural Aid is here to walk beside you.”
In response to the ongoing need for mental health care in the region, Rural Aid is also actively recruiting a dedicated counsellor to be based in Western Queensland, ensuring flood-affected families have consistent, local access to wellbeing support into the future.
Alongside emotional and community support, Rural Aid is delivering essential household water tanks to families whose supplies were impacted by flooding, as well as hay drops to support livestock on struggling properties. This practical assistance provides critical relief to families facing immediate challenges in the aftermath of the disaster.
As part of the visit, Rural Aid ambassador Josh Arnold will bring his trademark energy and positivity to Thargomindah on Friday 13 June, performing for students, families and staff at Thargomindah State School, before taking the stage at the Shearers Shindig. The much-loved local event is a highlight on the community calendar, offering a welcome chance for locals to come together, share a laugh, and enjoy some well-earned downtime after a difficult few months.
This multi-layered support is made possible thanks to the generous backing of Rural Aid’s corporate partners like leading Australian energy infrastructure business APA Group, whose commitment in this region ensures help reaches families when and where it’s needed most. But to keep delivering this vital aid—whether it’s water tanks, hay, counselling or community connection—Rural Aid also relies on the generosity of everyday Australians.
Public donations play a crucial role in helping farmers not just survive the aftermath of disaster, but regain their footing with dignity and hope.
“If you’ve ever wondered how you can help a farmer facing hardship, this is how,” said Ms Pitcher.
“By donating to Rural Aid, you’re helping us put counsellors in communities, and hope in the hearts of families who need it most.”
Together, we can help Western Queensland get back on its feet.
How to help
- Donate: Members of the public can contribute to the Rural Aid Disaster Assistance Fund at https://support-now.ruralaid.org.au/.
- Register for help: Impacted primary producers can register for assistance at https://faa.ruralaid.org.au/.
About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, dedicated to providing practical support and vital services to farmers and rural communities. Since its establishment in 2015, the charity has been a lifeline during times of crisis, delivering essential services such as mental health support, hay, domestic water, and community engagement. As the organisation celebrates 10 years of service, it continues to partner with farmers to navigate challenges, recover from hardship, and build stronger, more resilient futures, shaping a brighter future for rural Australia.
About APA Group:
APA Group is a leading Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) listed energy infrastructure business, committed to securing Australia’s energy future through sustainable practices. APA Group is proud to support flood-impacted farming families in Western Queensland and is a valued partner of Rural Aid, creating positive social impacts in communities where it operates or plans to develop infrastructure.
