Premiership Winner Corey Jensen Joins Rural Aid as Ambassador

Posted on 5 March 20265 March 2026

Australian rural charity Rural Aid is proud to announce rugby league premiership-winning forward Corey Jensen as its newest ambassador, strengthening the organisation’s connection with regional Australia and the communities it serves.

A proud Queenslander who grew up in Bowen, Corey maintains strong family ties to the region’s agricultural and horticultural industries. His firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by farming families and rural communities makes him a natural advocate for Rural Aid’s mission.
 
Corey has built a reputation as a hardworking and respected forward at the highest level of professional rugby league. Since making his top-flight debut in 2017, he has earned recognition for his consistency, resilience, and commitment both on and off the field. Last year, he achieved the ultimate success in the game, playing a key role in a premiership-winning side.
 
Rural Aid Chief Executive Officer John Warlters said Corey’s appointment comes at a crucial time for rural Australia.
 
“Corey represents the values we see every day in the bush – hard work, humility and strength,” Mr Warlters said.
 
“Having someone of Corey’s profile join the Rural Aid family helps us shine a national spotlight on the very real challenges facing farmers and rural communities, from natural disasters and financial stress to mental health pressures.
 
“Importantly, Corey understands these challenges because he has lived them through his family and his upbringing in a regional town like Bowen. His voice will help bridge the gap between the city and the country.”
 
As an ambassador, Corey will support Rural Aid to help inform the public about the vital work we do and the challenges facing farming communities. Through his role in professional sport, he will help amplify conversations about the pressures facing primary producers and the importance of standing behind rural Australia.
 
Through his involvement, Rural Aid aims to further elevate the stories of farmers on the land, encourage community support, and drive practical assistance, while also ensuring farmers and their families know Rural Aid is here and ready to help when it’s needed most.
 
Corey said he was proud to represent Rural Aid and give back to the communities that shaped him.
 
“I’m extremely honoured to be associated with an organisation like Rural Aid. My wife is from a grazing family and is a qualified veterinarian who travels a lot to remote cattle farms, so I’ve seen and heard first-hand how tough and challenging life can be on the farm,” Corey said.
 
“The work never ends, and success on the property can be heavily reliant on the weather, which in turn can’t be controlled. From drought to floods, families’ livelihoods can be heavily affected. Having an organisation like Rural Aid is vital to assist these families in any way possible when unexpected events occur.”
 
Rural Aid provides critical support to farmers and rural communities across the country, delivering financial assistance, mental health counselling, water and hay, and ongoing support before, during and after natural disasters.
 
For more information about Rural Aid and its programs, visit www.ruralaid.org.au.

About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading charity supporting farmers, their families and rural communities. Across the country, we provide practical, timely and meaningful assistance through a team of passionate, committed professionals who understand the unique pressures of rural life.

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

Rain Brings Cautious Optimism to Drought-Affected Farmers

Posted on 4 March 20264 March 2026

Recent widespread rainfall across parts of New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia is providing cautious optimism for drought-affected farming communities. Farmers have welcomed the break in dry conditions, with early signs of improved soil moisture and minor pasture response in some regions.

However, the situation is far from uniform. Large areas remain in drought, and for many, one rainfall event will not be enough to change seasonal outlooks. In other pastoral regions, floodplains and low-lying areas, heavy falls have created new risks, with flash flooding, runoff and localised damage to fences, roads and infrastructure widely reported.
 
Rural Aid Chief Executive Officer John Warlters said while the rain offers relief, farmers are remaining cautious.
 
“This rain is a welcome reprieve for many, but the heavy downpours in some areas can create flash flooding and sudden access problems,” Mr Warlters said.
 
“It is a reminder that recovery is rarely straightforward. Some communities are seeing relief, others are dealing with new challenges, and many are still waiting for their long-awaited rain.”
 
Throughout the prolonged drought, Rural Aid has provided practical and financial support to thousands of farming families, including hay drops, domestic water deliveries, mental health counselling and direct financial assistance.
 
“Our focus has always been to stand with farmers through the tough times,” Mr Warlters said.
 
“Whether it’s drought, flooding or the difficult months in between, Rural Aid will continue to support rural communities every step of the way.”
 
Rural Aid Counsellor Dorothy Crosby, based in Quorn SA, has been speaking directly with farmers across affected regions and says the emotional impact of this season remains complex.
 
“Farmers are telling me they feel relieved to finally see rain, but that relief is mixed with uncertainty,” Ms Crosby said.
 
“For some, it’s the first decent fall in a long time and it brings hope. For others, especially where the rain has been heavy, it’s created new worries around flooding, access and damage to infrastructure.”
 
Ms Crosby said the recent rain has left many farming families feeling quietly optimistic.
 
“Farmers are feeling hopeful and are looking to the forecast for more rain in the coming week to really build on what’s fallen.”
 
“While there’s still a long road ahead for many, this break in the season has lifted spirits and given farming families a much-needed sense of optimism.”
 
Rural Aid is urging farmers still experiencing drought, as well as those impacted by flooding or infrastructure damage, to seek support. Assistance is available nationwide, and the organisation continues to monitor conditions closely as the situation evolves.
 
Farmers can access support now by calling 1300 327 624 or visiting www.ruralaid.org.au. Rural Aid is here to help.
 
As farming communities navigate the ongoing impacts of floods, fires, cyclones and prolonged drought, Rural Aid is also calling on Australians to back its Together with Farmers, Every Step of the Way Appeal.
 
Rural Aid’s disaster and recovery support is made possible through the generosity of individuals, businesses and corporate partners. Donations to the appeal help fund practical assistance, wellbeing support and essential services for farmers in need.
 
To donate and stand with farming families, visit www.everystep.ruralaid.org.au.

About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading charity supporting farmers, their families and rural communities. Across the country, we provide practical, timely and meaningful assistance through a team of passionate, committed professionals who understand the unique pressures of rural life.

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

Support Available for NT and Western QLD Farmers After Flooding

Posted on 4 March 20264 March 2026

Leading rural charity Rural Aid is encouraging farmers across the Northern Territory and Western Queensland to reach out for support following recent flooding across parts of the region.

Many producers are beginning clean-up and recovery efforts as they assess the impact on livestock, fencing, sheds, access roads and other essential farm infrastructure.
 
With unsettled weather conditions continuing in some areas, Rural Aid is reminding primary producers that assistance is available and encouraging anyone impacted to get in touch.
 
The charity is also calling on the broader community to stand behind affected farmers. Donations made through the Rural Aid website help ensure producers can access support quickly, begin recovery work, and maintain Australia’s food and fibre supply.
 
Rural Aid Chief Executive Officer John Warlters said Rural Aid is closely monitoring conditions across the NT and Western Queensland.
 
“We know flooding events can place significant pressure on farming families and rural communities,” Mr Warlters said. “Recovery can take time, and the impacts aren’t always immediately visible. We want producers to know support is available. If you’ve been affected, please reach out — our team is here to help.”
 
Rural Aid provides a broad range of free services to farmers, including:

• Financial assistance for immediate or unexpected expenses
• Professional counselling and wellbeing support for farmers and their families
• Hay deliveries for livestock during recovery periods
• Water deliveries for drinking and household needs
• Volunteer support through the Farm Army and Farm Recovery Event programs to assist with on-ground recovery tasks

Assistance is available now for farmers in the Northern Territory and Western Queensland. Call 1300 327 624 or visit www.ruralaid.org.au. We’re here to help.

About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading charity supporting farmers, their families and rural communities. Across the country, we provide practical, timely and meaningful assistance through a team of passionate, committed professionals who understand the unique pressures of rural life.

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

Rural Aid Calls for Volunteers to Roll Up Their Sleeves For 2026 Farm Recovery Events

Posted on 26 February 202626 February 2026

Rural Aid has released its 2026 Farm Recovery Event (FRE) program, delivering practical, hands-on support to farming communities impacted by floods, fires, cyclones and ongoing drought.

These week-long events bring together volunteers from across the country to help restore damaged farm infrastructure, improve productivity and support the wellbeing of farming families doing it tough. From fencing and repairs to property clean-ups and gardening, volunteers play a vital role in helping farmers get back on their feet.
 
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the Farm Recovery Events are about more than physical repairs.
 
“Each Farm Recovery Event provides meaningful, practical support that helps farming families move forward after incredibly challenging seasons,” Mr Warlters said.
 
“Our volunteers don’t just rebuild fences or clear debris, they help restore hope. When farmers see people turning up to lend a hand, it reinforces that they are not alone. That sense of solidarity is incredibly powerful.”
 
The 2026 program will deliver six events across disaster-affected regions: 

• FRE 1: 8–13 March | Natimuk, VIC
  Supporting farmers recovering from recent fires, along with repeated floods, storms and prolonged dry conditions.
• FRE 2: 26 April – 1 May | Mangrove Mountain, NSW
  Assisting a community still rebuilding after the 2022 floods, with on-farm support aligned to long-term recovery efforts.
• FRE 3: 31 May – 5 June | Loxton, SA
  Providing targeted assistance in the Riverland region as drought continues to impact farm viability and livestock management.
• FRE 4: 19–25 July | North QLD (TBC)
  Helping remote communities affected by monsoonal flooding and ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, where recovery remains slow and access remains challenging.
• FRE 5: 23–28 August | TBC
• FRE 6: 18–23 October | TBC

Final locations for the August and October events will be confirmed by 30 June.
 
Farmers consistently express deep gratitude for the support provided through Farm Recovery Events. Beyond the tangible improvements to their properties, many say the greatest impact is knowing that others care enough to show up and help.
 
Mr Warlters said volunteering at a Farm Recovery Event is a powerful way for Australians to stand alongside farming families.
 
“Volunteering your time and skills can make an immediate and lasting difference,” he said.
 
“It’s a chance to give back to the people who put food on our tables and keep regional communities strong. We encourage individuals, community groups and corporate teams to get involved in 2026.”
 
First-time 2025 Farm Recovery Event volunteer Liz Meloury, who assisted at the Wingham event last year, said the experience was both humbling and rewarding.
 
Ms Meloury said volunteering helped ease the emotional and physical burden carried by many farmers.
 
“It’s incredibly important because it takes some of the weight off farmers and helps them feel less overwhelmed,” Ms Meloury said.
 
“There’s the physical repair work we do, but just as important is giving farmers the opportunity to talk about what they’ve experienced. Having someone to listen really matters.”
 
“It shows them there are people out there willing to help, that they’re not forgotten and they’re not in this alone.”
 
Rural Aid is now calling for volunteers to register their interest for the 2026 Farm Recovery Events. No prior farming experience is necessary, just a willingness to lend a hand and be part of a supportive team environment.
 
To learn more or sign up to volunteer, visit www.ruralaid.org.au/volunteers.
 
As farming communities continue to recover from a relentless season of floods, fires, cyclones and ongoing drought, Rural Aid is also calling on Australians to support its Together with Farmers, Every Step of the Way Appeal.
 
Programs such as the Farm Recovery Events are only made possible through the generosity of the public, businesses and corporate supporters.
 
Donations to the appeal will help fund practical recovery assistance, wellbeing support and essential services for farmers in need.
 
To donate and stand together with our farmers, visit www.everystep.ruralaid.org.au.

About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, committed to supporting farmers and rural communities through good times and tough. Since 2015, Rural Aid has been a vital lifeline in times of hardship, delivering practical assistance such as mental health counselling, hay, drinking water, and community connection initiatives. Now celebrating 10 years of service, the organisation continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with rural Australians, helping them overcome hardship, build resilience, and create stronger, more sustainable futures.

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

Together With Farmers, Every Step of the Way

Posted on 19 February 202619 February 2026

This summer has brought severe flooding across north-west Queensland, destructive fires in Victoria and Western Australia, cyclones causing damage across parts of northern Australia, while drought continues to affect much of southern Australia. For many farmers, the impacts of these events will be felt long after the immediate damage is done.

Rural Aid is providing assistance to farmers affected by these disasters, including financial support, mental health counselling, hay, water and hands-on assistance. This support will remain available as farmers work through the long and complex process of recovery, which can take multiple seasons or years.
 
As a charity, Rural Aid relies on the support from the community to help to provide practical assistance like hay, water, financial relief, and counselling, while also funding volunteer farm recovery events that bring real help and real hope to communities in times of adversity.
 
By standing with Rural Aid, you help ensure farmers get the support they need, not just in times of disaster, but throughout the long journey of recovery.
 
“Recovery doesn’t have an end date,” said Rural Aid Chief Executive Officer John Warlters.
 
“Farmers and rural communities may still be dealing with damage, debt and emotional strain years after a flood, fire or drought. Donations from the community allow Rural Aid to keep supporting them for as long as it takes.”
 
Third-generation farmer Heather Green from Peak Hill in central west New South Wales said the hardest part is what comes after the disaster.
 
“The floods and droughts come and go, but it’s everything that follows,” Ms Green said.
“It’s the clean-up, the rebuilding and finding the strength to keep going year after year.”
 
Rural Aid is calling on Australians to support farmers through the lasting impacts of disasters and the extended recovery period that follows.
 
“Your support ensures we can stay beside farming families not just through disasters, but through the long road back to stability,” Mr Warlters said.
 
To donate today visit www.everystep.ruralaid.org.au.

About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, committed to supporting farmers and rural communities through good times and tough. Since 2015, Rural Aid has been a vital lifeline in times of hardship, delivering practical assistance such as mental health counselling, hay, drinking water, and community connection initiatives. Now celebrating 10 years of service, the organisation continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with rural Australians, helping them overcome hardship, build resilience, and create stronger, more sustainable futures.

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