Helping Central Coast farmers rebuild: Rural Aid heads to Mangrove Mountain
Rural Aid is calling on Central Coast primary producers and volunteers to take part in its upcoming Farm Recovery Event (FRE) at Mangrove Mountain, running from 26 April to 1 May, as the region continues to rebuild following the devastating 2022 floods.
The week-long event will deliver hands-on, practical support to farming families still facing the long road to recovery. Volunteers from across Australia will work to restore damaged infrastructure, general farm repair work, and provide much-needed assistance for those who have faced challenging times.
From fencing and repairs to property clean-ups, gardening and general maintenance, the work completed during these events plays a vital role in helping farmers regain momentum after a disaster.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the Mangrove Mountain event highlights the importance of ongoing recovery support for regional communities.
“Recovery doesn’t end when the floodwaters recede. For many farmers, the impacts are long-term and deeply felt across their businesses and personal wellbeing,” Mr Warlters said.
“These Farm Recovery Events are about more than just practical help – they’re about showing farmers they’re not alone, and that there are people willing to roll up their sleeves and support them.”
Support available for all primary producers
Rural Aid is encouraging all primary producers in the Mangrove Mountain and broader Central Coast region to reach out for support, emphasising that assistance is not limited to traditional farming sectors.
“Our support extends to all primary producers – whether you’re involved in livestock, poultry, horticulture, apiculture, aquaculture, or other agricultural industries,” Mr Warlters said.
“We encourage you to get in touch, we’re here to help. These events are designed to meet the diverse needs of regional communities.”
Primary producers who could use a helping hand can contact Rural Aid on 1300 327 624 or visit www.ruralaid.org.au.
Volunteers needed for Mangrove Mountain recovery effort
At the same time, Rural Aid is calling for volunteers to join the Mangrove Mountain FRE. Located just over an hour from Sydney, the event offers a meaningful opportunity for individuals, families and groups to make a tangible difference in the lives of farming communities.
No prior experience is required, with volunteers of all skill levels welcomed.
Rural Aid volunteer Gaylene Ingram, who recently took part in a Farm Recovery Event in bushfire-affected Natimuk, Victoria, said the experience was both practical and deeply rewarding.
“We cleaned up around the house yard, cleared trees, fixed steps on the shearing shed and even repaired guttering – jobs the farmer often doesn’t have time to get to,” Ms Ingram said.
“Our team had a mix of skills, from farming to roofing and plumbing, and everyone just pitched in wherever they could.”
“It’s been a very rewarding experience. The volunteers are amazing people and it feels so good to give back to a community that’s had a disaster.”
Farmer Michael Sudholz, who received support during the Natimuk event, said the assistance made a real difference during a challenging time.
“It’s the sort of help you just can’t get to on your own when everything else is going on,” Mr Sudholz said.
For more information about volunteering or to sign up today, visit www.ruralaid.org.au.
About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading charity supporting farmers, their families and rural communities. Rural Aid delivers practical assistance during drought, fire, flood and other disasters, helping farming families stay on the land and protect their livelihoods. Through disaster relief, mental health support and community development programs, Rural Aid works with partners, supporters and volunteers to strengthen rural communities and ensure farmers have the support they need to recover, rebuild and remain connected.
Media note:
Rural Aid representatives will be on site at the Mangrove Mountain Farm Recovery Event and available to assist media with coordinating interviews with volunteers and farmers. Vision and imagery from the event will also be made available.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au