Truck loads of hay to help flood recovery

A GROUP of interstate truck drivers who have helped hundreds of farmers across the country will roll into Lismore with 250 loads of donated fodder.

The Victorian-based Aussie Hay Runners are visiting areas impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred to provide relief to farmers and their livestock.

The convoy will visit Lismore and surrounding areas over the next few weeks.

Aussie Hay Runners founder Linda Widdup coordinates the drop offs, with Lismore one of its main areas since the floods in 2022.

“Over the years, we have built strong relationships with many farmers in the Northern Rivers region,” she said.

“Our thoughts have been with them as they face yet another natural disaster.

“Planning is well underway to get fodder rolling north and onto the properties of impacted landholders.

“At Aussie Hay Runners, we are more than just hay deliveries. We stand beside our farmers, reminding them they are not alone and providing support as they prepare for and recover from disaster.

Storm and flood affected landholders are invited to register their interest on the Aussie Hay Runners Facebook page.

The $2.82 million freight cost is subsidised through the Natural Disaster Donated Fodder Transport Subsidy, jointly funded by the federal and state government under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Lismore MP and recovery minister Janelle Saffin said the donation will play an important role for farmers over the next few months.

“This is about regional communities coming together to support their fellow Australians in times of need,” she said.

The hay runners have recently partnered with Rural Connect Ag to assist in managing all registrations and host recovery support service events.

The group has spent most of the year helping drought-stricken farmers in South Australia.

Drop off points at Lismore, Kyogle and the Richmond Valley will be organised once the group is on the road.