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