Скачать или смотреть First Rural Aid hay drop arrives for 19 drought-stricken KI farmers

Rural Aid delivered its first shipment of 120 square hay bales to Kangaroo Island on two B-double trucks on a SeaLink ferry.
The donated hay arrived on Wednesday, July 18 and was taken to a distribution point at a Haines property and allocated with the assistance of Primary Industries and Regions South Australia.
A second delivery of another 120 bales arrives on Wednesday, June 25.
Rural Aid chief executive John Warlters accompanied the historic first drop of hay, which will be distributed to 19 drought-stricken farmers.
“It’s first for a Rural Aid, we have delivered emergency household drinking water previously but not fodder,” he said.
“Drought conditions continue to prevail here on the island and for many local farmers they’re talking it's the driest in the 70 odd years they’ve been on the island, so it’s much needed.
“We are very grateful for the support of PIRSA in helping us out from a freight perspective.
“And then we are going to do it all again next week. Another 120 odd bales, another couple of the semis on the ferry over here to Kangaroo Island and we know the farmers very much need the hay at this time.”
The hay run is being supported by the state government’s $6 million Drought Donated Fodder Transport Assistance Scheme, which helps charities with their transport costs to deliver donated fodder to farmers who need assistance to feed their livestock.
So far, the State Government has funded the transport costs of charities to deliver more than 9800 tonnes of donated hay to 1200 farmers across South Australia.
The State Government is actively working with Rural Aid, Need for Feed, Rapid Relief Team, Farmers Relief Agency, and the SA Dairyfarmers’ Association, whose participation provides specific support to dairy farmers across South Australia.
Primary producers are encouraged to contact participating organisations directly to understand what types of fodder are available and to register their interest.
For more information about drought assistance visit: pir.sa.gov.au/drought-support
Rural Aid’s hay drops are part of a broader effort to support farmers through practical assistance, financial aid and mental wellbeing support.
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, dedicated to providing practical support and vital services to farmers and rural communities.
Since its establishment in 2015, the charity has been a lifeline during times of crisis, delivering essential services such as mental health support, hay, domestic water, and community engagement.
As the organisation celebrates 10 years of service, it continues to partner with farmers to navigate challenges, recover from hardship, and build stronger, more resilient futures, shaping a brighter future for rural Australia.
Rural Aid relies on the generosity of everyday Australians to continue delivering critical support to farming families across the country.
To donate, visit www.ruralaid.org.au/donate or call 1300 327 624.