Last Chance to Support South Australian Farmers – Christmas Appeal Closing Soon
As Rural Aid’s annual Christmas Appeal draws to a close this week, it is the final opportunity to support South Australian farmers who are still grappling with the severe impacts of ongoing drought.
The need for assistance remains critical, with farming families and rural communities continuing to face devastating challenges. Every donation helps provide much-needed relief, from food and water supplies to essential services and support for long-term recovery.
Rural Aid urges Australians to make their contribution before the appeal concludes, ensuring that those in need can receive vital assistance to help them navigate these difficult times.
Funds raised through the Christmas Appeal are providing essential emergency supplies, including fodder for livestock, fresh drinking water for families, and critical mental health services. In 2024 alone, Rural Aid has delivered over 1,500 bales of hay to South Australian farmers, as well as 374,000 litres of fresh drinking water. Recent hay drops have provided much-needed relief to farmers in the Mid-North of South Australia, but the situation remains dire and the need for donations continues.
John Warlters, CEO of Rural Aid, expressed his gratitude for the generosity shown so far. “We are deeply thankful for the response to this year’s Christmas Appeal, but the reality is that the need is still great. Together, we can continue to provide hope and relief during what has been an incredibly difficult year.”
Mr Warlters said every farmer’s journey was unique and support was being directed to multiple states. “In Queensland, this has included delivering hay to bushfire-affected farmers at Forsayth in Etheridge Shire and financial assistance to grain growers at Jandowae who lost crops to severe storms, while in drought-parched western Victoria, Rural Aid continues to offer a ‘hand up’. This week’s heat wave conditions would only add to the hardship for producers where ever they were.”
Leon Hams, a farmer from Canowie Belt in South Australia, shared how Rural Aid’s assistance has been a lifeline. “Rural Aid has provided vital relief, especially with the rising cost of hay. Without their support, I would have had no choice but to heavily destock. This donation has been a huge help, not just for farmers, but for the local communities who depend on agriculture. Thank you to everyone who has donated.”
Mr Hams also urged his fellow farmers to reach out for help. “Don’t try to do this alone. Connect with other farmers, and if you’re in need, register with Rural Aid. There’s support available, and it’s important to ask for it.”
There are only days left to contribute to this vital appeal. To donate and make a real difference, visit: https://buyabale2024.ruralaid.org.au
About Rural Aid
Rural Aid is Australia’s most trusted rural charity. We stand with our farmers when they need us most. Rural Aid provides critical support to farmers affected by natural disaster through financial, wellbeing and fodder assistance. Rural Aid’s community programs help create more sustainable communities by building stronger futures for all Australian farmers. Find out more at www.ruralaid.org.au
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au