New Rural Aid counsellor to support flood-affected North-West Queensland communities
Rural Aid has reinforced its commitment to supporting farmers and rural communities across North-West Queensland with the appointment of Cloncurry-based counsellor and community representative, Kylie Braes.
Ms Braes’ appointment follows the devastating floods earlier this year, which caused widespread property damage and significant livestock losses, placing ongoing financial and emotional strain on farming families.
Based in the North-West Queensland region, near Cloncurry, Ms Braes will provide on-the-ground support to farmers and their families, working across local towns and LGAs to deliver counselling services and strengthen Rural Aid’s connection with local communities.
The role has been made possible through a $500,000 partnership contribution from Evolution Mining, in support of Rural Aid’s work with farming families and rural communities across the region
Rural Aid CEO John Walters said Ms Braes’ appointment is a vital step in ensuring ongoing support.
“The floods had a profound impact on farming families across North-West Queensland, and recovery is still ongoing,” Mr Walters said.
“Having Ms Braes on the ground, someone who understands life on the land, means we can deliver practical, timely support where it’s needed most and ensure farmers know they’re not facing these challenges alone.”
“We’re incredibly grateful to Evolution Mining for their partnership and helping us expand support where it’s needed most.”
Ms Braes and her husband manage a large cattle station near Cloncurry, giving her firsthand insight into the challenges faced by primary producers, from climate variability and isolation to the emotional toll of natural disasters.
Ms Braes said she is passionate about supporting her community during recovery.
“This region has been hit hard, and the floods have taken a real toll on many families, both financially and emotionally,” Ms Braes said.
“Being part of the agricultural community myself, I understand the pressures farmers are under, and how important it is to have someone local who understands those challenges and is there to listen.”
“I’m proud to be working with Rural Aid to support our communities and help people navigate the challenges ahead.”
Ernest Henry Operations General Manager Jason Floyd said Evolution Mining’s $500,000 investment is focused on delivering practical, local support where it will have the greatest impact.
“Our investment is about ensuring farmers and their families have access to meaningful, on-the-ground support as they recover from the floods and rebuild for the future,” Mr Floyd said.
Rural Aid continues to deliver support across disaster-affected regions, including financial assistance, hay support and mental health services. Assistance is available now for farmers. 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. 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.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au