Rural Aid Launches Mates Day Campaign: Help Aussie Farmers in Need
Rural Aid is proud to announce the launch of its annual Mates Day Campaign, running from Monday, 17th February to Wednesday, 19th March. This year, the charity is aiming to raise $500,000 to support Aussie farmers in their time of need. The funds raised will go towards vital programs that provide financial aid, hay, clean drinking water, practical on-farm volunteer assistance, and mental health services for disaster-affected farming communities.
After years of relentless hardship—fires, floods, droughts, and plagues—our farmers continue to battle the devastating, ongoing effects of these crises. Many are struggling to recover, and Rural Aid is asking all Australians to lend a hand to help rebuild farms, restore hope, and renew strength in the bush.
“Australia’s farmers go through so much to put food on our tables, often battling extreme weather conditions to produce the best produce in the world. Their resilience is truly remarkable. Every plate of food tells a story—one shaped by perseverance, hope, and hard work,” said Rural Aid CEO, Mr. John Warlters.
This Mates Day, Rural Aid is calling on Australians to donate to help provide vital assistance such as farm recovery events. These events are crucial in helping farmers rebuild their livelihoods and get back on their feet after the devastating impact of recent disasters.
Farm recovery events involve up to 30 volunteers spending a week in a disaster affected community to provide hands-on assistance for farms in the area. They go beyond rebuilding farms—they rebuild communities. They unite people from all walks of life in a powerful show of solidarity. They remind our farmers, who work tirelessly to feed and clothe the nation, that they are deeply valued and cared for.
The recovery events offer practical, on-the-ground support helping farmers complete up to five years of work, in just a few days. Your contribution can make a vital difference by providing farmers with the resources they need to rebuild their futures.
“The resilience of our farmers is extraordinary. Rural Aid is here to ensure they don’t have to face these challenges alone,” said Mr. Warlters. “We are incredibly grateful to all those who give, no matter how big or small. Your support ensures farmers can rebuild and recover when natural disasters strike.
Make a difference this Mates Day—donate today and help ensure Australia’s farmers continue to thrive. Donations can be made at https://matesday.ruralaid.org.au/.
Together, we can help our farmers and rural communities rebuild after natural disasters.
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.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au