Category: News

Rural Aid Delivers Urgent Lifeline to Queensland Farmers Amid Devastating Floods

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Queensland is currently grappling with severe flooding, with record-breaking rainfall inundating large parts of the state. Major flood warnings have been issued for multiple rivers, including the Thomson, Barcoo, Bulloo, Paroo, and Warrego, as water levels continue to rise. Vast areas of western and central Queensland have been submerged, with floodwaters surpassing levels seen during previous major flood events.

The devastating impact on agriculture has been immense, with a significant number of livestock lost and much of the farmland destroyed. Stock losses are expected to reach into the hundreds of thousands, compounding the already difficult conditions caused by ongoing droughts. This disaster has left farmers across these affected regions in urgent need of support to recover from the extensive damage and ensure the survival of their remaining livestock.

Rural Aid has swiftly mobilised to deliver critical relief to affected farmers. In collaboration with the Queensland Government, Rural Aid is ensuring that resources and aid are being directed to the most impacted areas. A key initiative has been the airlifting of bales of hay by helicopter to farmers who have been cut off by the floods. These airlifts provide essential sustenance for stranded livestock, which is a lifeline for farmers unable to transport feed due to the devastating conditions.

Beyond immediate food relief for livestock, Rural Aid is also addressing the financial strain on farmers. Farmers from across the state have already been issued prepaid Visa cards, providing them with direct financial assistance to help them cope with the economic challenges they are facing.

Rural Aid CEO, Mr John Warlters, who is currently in Charleville coordinating relief efforts, said, “The flooding in Queensland has created an incredibly challenging situation for farmers. We’re doing everything we can to provide immediate support and ensure farmers have the resources they need to care for their livestock. The scale of this disaster is overwhelming, but with the ongoing generosity of the public, we can make a real difference for those impacted.”

Mr Warlters added, “I’ve seen firsthand the strength and resilience of the farmers here, but the road to recovery will be long. Rural Aid is committed to supporting these communities every step of the way.”

Rural Aid’s support extends to long-term recovery, with a variety of ongoing initiatives aimed at helping farmers rebuild and recover. The public can contribute to these efforts by donating through the Rural Aid website at www.ruralaid.org.au/donate. Donations will play a crucial role in providing ongoing support to farmers, helping them recover and rebuild in the wake of this disaster. Affected farmers can also register for assistance at www.ruralaid.org.au/services-provided/ or can call 1300 327 624.

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

Rural Aid’s Mates Day Campaign Raises Over $400,000 to Support Farmers

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Rural Aid is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of its Mates Day campaign, which has raised over $400,000 to support farmers and rural communities affected by natural disasters, droughts, and other challenges.

Rural Aid’s CEO, Mr John Warlters, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support shown by donors from across the country. “The response to Mates Day has been truly inspiring,” said Mr Warlters. “Thanks to the generosity of Australians, we’re able to provide practical support for farmers through programs such as our Farm Recovery Events that help to rebuild infrastructure, provide essential supplies, and offer ongoing mental health support to farmers and their families. This support is crucial for farmers as they continue to face immense challenges.”
 
“We’re excited to announce new dates for the upcoming Farm Recovery events,” said Mr Warlters. “These events are a powerful way for volunteers to get involved in recovery efforts and directly support the hardworking farmers who are rebuilding their lives and livelihoods.”
 
Following the postponement of the Coraki, NSW event due to ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, Rural Aid has updated the schedule for the Farm Recovery events. These events provide invaluable hands-on assistance with tasks such as fencing, property repairs, debris removal, and other critical recovery activities. They also provide an opportunity for volunteers to connect with farmers, offering both practical support and emotional solidarity during a difficult time.
 
The updated dates for the upcoming events are as follows:

  • Bairnsdale, VIC – 4-10 May 2025
  • Eudunda, SA – 15-21 June 2025
  • Coraki, NSW – 20 July – 2 August 2025

“These events are about much more than just physical recovery—they foster a deep sense of community and resilience,” Mr Warlters continued. “For many farmers, these events provide not only practical help but also a vital sense of hope and connection with others who care about their recovery. It’s a chance to be part of something that truly makes a difference.”
 
For more information on how you can donate or register as a volunteer for the upcoming Farm Recovery Events, please visit www.ruralaid.org.au or call the Rural Aid office on 1300 327 624.

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

Rural Aid Calls for Donations to Support Farmers Affected by Natural Disasters

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Rural Aid is calling on Australians to open their hearts and support farmers impacted by natural disasters like ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which has caused widespread destruction across South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales.

The cyclone has left farmers facing significant damage to crops, homes, and infrastructure, compounding the ongoing struggles in many rural communities. Also needing assistance are regions facing other disasters, including severe flooding in North Queensland and the ongoing drought continues affecting farmers in South Australia. These serious challenges make it critical for all Australians to step forward and assist our farmers in need.
 
Rural Aid on the Ground: Assessing Damages and Delivering Support
 
Rural Aid is already on the ground assessing the damage caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and working closely with local communities to determine where help is needed most. As a Australia’s leading rural charity, the organisation is committed to providing tailored and immediate relief and long-term support to farmers and rural communities affected.
 
How Donations Help Farmers and Rural Communities
 
Rural Aid has a long history of providing critical services to rural communities, including financial assistance for recovery, the provision of hay and water for livestock, and emotional support through its mental health services. Through public donations, Rural Aid is able to deliver practical help to those in need.
 
“We are extremely grateful for the ongoing generosity of Australians who continue to support farmers in their time of crisis,” said John Warlters, CEO of Rural Aid. “Your donations can make a real difference – providing immediate and long-term relief, helping to rebuild, and offering a lifeline to those going through some of their darkest times. The impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has been severe, and we will continue to be there for those who need us.”
 
Mental Health Support for Farmers
 
Rural Aid understands the significant emotional toll that these disasters take on farmers and their families. As part of its commitment to mental health, Rural Aid offers free and confidential counselling through its support services. These services are crucial for helping farmers cope with the stress, anxiety, and grief that often follow such traumatic events.
 
Farmers and their families are not just dealing with physical damage to their homes and livelihoods – they are also facing mental health challenges. Our mental health services are a critical part of our support, ensuring they are not left to navigate this crisis alone,” said Mr Warlters.
 
Farmers Impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred Encouraged to Register for Assistance
 
Rural Aid urges all farmers affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred to register for assistance as soon as possible. By registering, farmers will receive the support they need, whether it be financial aid, water, hay, or mental health services.
 
For more information or to register, visit www.ruralaid.org.au/services-provided/ or call 1300 327 624.
 
“We are here to help, and the first step is for farmers to reach out and let us know what they need,” said John Warlters. “We want to ensure that no one is left behind, and that we can direct the right support to the people who need it most.”
 
How You Can Help
 
Australians can make a difference by donating to Rural Aid, with funds going to where it’s needed most. Right now we are supporting farmers affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the aftermath of flooding in North Queensland, and the ongoing drought in South Australia. Every donation, large or small, helps provide vital relief and long-term recovery assistance to farming families in need.

To donate today, please visit: https://matesday.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.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au

Rural Aid Receives Over $145,000 from ALH Hotel’s Parma for a Farmer Campaign

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Rural Aid is thrilled to announce that over $145,000 has been raised in ALH Hotel’s February fundraising campaign, Parma for a Farmer. The campaign saw a $1 donation for every Parma sold across ALH’s network of over 350 pubs across Australia.

On Monday, 17 March 2025, a cheque for the raised amount was presented by ALH to Rural Aid, marking the successful completion of the month-long campaign. This generous donation will provide vital support to Australian farmers, particularly those affected by drought, floods, and other natural disasters.
 
The funds raised will go towards assisting Australian farming families by supporting their mental health, financial stability, and overall wellbeing during tough times.
 
“We are deeply grateful for the support from ALH and their guests. This incredible donation will make a significant difference in the lives of farmers and their families, especially those doing it tough. We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who enjoyed a delicious Parma, knowing they were helping to raise much-needed funds for Rural Aid,” said Mr John Warlters, CEO of Rural Aid.
 
“We are delighted to have contributed to Rural Aid for another year, supporting their efforts in raising vital funds to farmers in need,” said ALH National Group Executive Chef, Mr David Finlayson.
 
“A huge thanks to our partners B&E Foods, McCain, Primo Foods, Fonterra, and FTA for their generous contributions too. By providing essential products like schnitzel, chips, ham, cheese, and parmi sauce, they’re a huge part of this campaign and their support is greatly appreciated,” Mr Finlayson added.
 
Rural Aid relies on the generosity of individuals, corporations, and businesses to provide vital support for our farmers. Please donate today at www.ruralaid.org.au/donate.

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 ALH Hotels:
ALH offers a diverse hospitality experience including sports bars, bistros, restaurants, cafes, accommodation, nightclubs, live sports, racing and electronic gaming. Our hotels are located in capital cities and urban and regional centres across Australia.

ALH employs over 15,000 people across Australia at more than 350 licensed venues. Our main business activities are pub operations such as bar, foods, accommodation, functions and entertainment. ALH is committed to supporting local communities and improving the lives of Australians through initiatives like this partnership with Rural Aid.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au

Rural Aid Supporting Farmers Affected by Cyclone Alfred

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With Tropical Cyclone Alfred now expected to make landfall late on Friday, impacting Southeast Queensland and the North Coast of New South Wales, Rural Aid is prepared to provide support for farmers in the affected regions.

As the cyclone approaches, Rural Aid urges farmers to stay informed by regularly checking local council disaster dashboards, the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), Windy.com, and other emergency service updates. These resources provide essential weather forecasts, safety advice, and evacuation procedures.
 
Farmers in impacted areas are encouraged to take immediate action to ensure they are prepared for the storm.
 
Mental Health Support During Disasters
 
The impact of disasters extends beyond physical damage, affecting mental wellbeing. Rural Aid reminds farmers and primary producers to prioritise their mental health during this time. Stress can build before, during, and after such events, and seeking support early is crucial. Rural Aid offers free, confidential counselling services to assist primary producers during this challenging period.
 
Rural Aid’s dedicated counselling support line is staffed by trained professionals from Monday to Friday, 9am–4pm AEDT.
 
Disaster Assistance from Rural Aid
 
Rural Aid offers comprehensive support to assist farmers in navigating this challenging time.
 
Rural Aid provides practical advice and resources to help farmers prepare for the approaching storm.
Following the storm’s passage, Rural Aid will offer long-term recovery assistance, including hay and domestic water deliveries, financial support, and help with rebuilding efforts.

Fodder

In the aftermath of the cyclone, many farmers may face challenges in accessing feed for their livestock. While Rural Aid will coordinate fodder deliveries to support farmers in need as soon as possible, it is important that farmers take immediate action to ensure they receive the help they require.
 
In addition to registering with Rural Aid, we encourage all affected farmers to reach out to the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) or the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) as soon as possible for immediate support. These agencies are key points of contact during this initial phase and can assist with immediate needs.
 
Additionally, it’s crucial for farmers to complete the relevant disaster surveys. This will help identify the most affected areas and support the process for declaring disaster zones in the states.
 
Here are the links to the necessary surveys:
 
Queensland DPI Agriculture Disaster Impact Survey
https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/a65512900348401a812e57d743e4c104
 
NSW Primary Industries Natural Disaster Damage Assessment (PiNDDA)
https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/emergencies/emergency/community/primary-industries-natural-disaster-damage-survey
 
By registering and completing these surveys, you will help ensure the necessary support is directed to the areas that need it most. Rural Aid is here to assist, but your early action is vital to accessing all available resources.
 
Registration and Support
 
Farmers in affected areas are encouraged to register with Rural Aid to access a wide range of support services, including financial assistance, water deliveries, and mental health support. By registering, farmers gain immediate access to critical aid that can make a significant difference during tough times.
 
For more information or to register, visit www.ruralaid.org.au/services-provided/ or call 1300 327 624.
 
Statement from Mr. John Warlters, CEO of Rural Aid:
 
“Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to bring challenging conditions to farmers across Southeast Queensland and the North Coast of New South Wales. Rural Aid is committed to supporting these farmers with fodder, financial assistance, and mental health resources. Farmers in the affected areas are urged to register with us as part of their readiness plan to ensure they receive the help they need during this time.”

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