Helping our farmers

When it’s time for a rare week of R&R, the farmers often support us by holidaying on the coast. So, it’s only fair that we think of them by giving something back in their time of need.

And Rainbow Beach and our region is doing just that. Representative, Tony Stewart ventured through Barcaldine to Longreach last week, all loaded up with provisions for farmers.

"It's really bad,” Tony shared. “There is no stock. No water. Any pasture is black. It's a lot worse towards Winton as well. It's a big area. I'm told if you fly over - it looks like the moon.”

Tony said that with farms totally destocked, the situation is desperate. "It's pretty sad. There is absolutely no income - they are just looking to put food on the table."

On a positive note though, there have been terrific donations of food and supplies for families out there.

A big thank you to the following for donating to the drought-affected area around Longreach: Rainbow Beach IGA, Mitchells Fruit and Veg Gympie, Rainbow Cooloola Wholesalers, Ruth Modin, Rainbow Beach Hotel, Tin Can Bay Sleepy Lagoon Hotel Social Club, Dean’s Ice Works, Good Price Pharmacy Warehouse Gympie, and Rainbow Beach Meats.

The Progress Association gave $2000 of Food Vouchers from IGA - from the Spring Festival, thanks to generous donations received for the event.

Drought Support case worker from Centacare, Rex Fegan, was very appreciative, “A big thanks to Tony Stewart and everyone in the background, as I could get these goods to folk that need it the most.

“I handed over $1000 worth of IGA Gift cards to be distributed amongst the neighbours surrounding Gydia Park.”

Once again thank you to all who have helped these people in need.