Historic First Hay Drop for Kangaroo Island as Drought Pressures Mount
In a major milestone for drought support on Kangaroo Island, Rural Aid will conduct its first-ever hay drop to local farmers facing continued hardship due to the prolonged dry conditions.
While Rural Aid has previously delivered water to the island, this marks the first time hay will be transported to assist livestock producers doing it tough.
Over two days — Wednesday, 18 June and Wednesday, 25 June — 238 bales weighing a combined 154 tonnes of hay will be delivered to 19 farmers across Kangaroo Island. Two B-double trucks will be transported via ferry to the island on each day to complete the delivery.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters will be on the island for the historic first drop.
“This hay drop represents a significant and much-needed show of support for our farmers on Kangaroo Island,” Mr Warlters said. “They’ve battled through some of the toughest seasons on record, and this delivery will help ease the burden during a critical time. It’s a privilege to stand alongside these resilient communities and let them know they’re not forgotten.”
Rural Aid extends its sincere thanks to the State Government through Primary Industries and Regions South Australia (PIRSA) for their vital support in funding the transport of the hay to the island.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the State Government for making this delivery possible,” Mr Warlters said. “Their backing has helped us remove a major logistical hurdle and bring real, tangible help to where it’s needed most.”
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven said the State Government is proud to support this important initiative with Rural Aid.
“Kangaroo Island’s farming communities are a vital part of South Australia’s primary industries sector, and we are committed to assisting them through the ongoing drought,” Minister Scriven said.
“We greatly appreciate the work Rural Aid and the other charities with which we have partnered are doing to deliver donated hay. It’s a fantastic display of government and community working together to get fodder where it’s needed.”
Rural Aid’s hay drops are part of a broader effort to support farmers through practical assistance, financial aid and mental wellbeing support.
Help Us Help More Farmers
Rural Aid relies on the generosity of everyday Australians to continue delivering critical support to farming families across the country.
To donate, visit www.ruralaid.org.au/donate or call 1300 327 624.
Every donation, big or small, makes a difference.
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