IT’S already been a long haul but the 250 prime movers and 400 trailers delivering hay to drought-stricken farmers in Central Queensland have finally hit the road.
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The convoy of trucks left Darlington Point in southern NSW at 6am this morning and will have a stopover at Wyandra tonight before continuing the journey to Ilfracombe where they’re expected to arrive at 3pm Friday.
The truckies have been joined by a crew of mechanics, autoelectricians and first aid officers, as well as the Rotary Club of Dubbo West who will man the barbecue.
Burrumbuttock Hay Runners organiser Brendan “Bumpa” Farrell said the charity hay drive had been supported by two last-minute huge donations from fuel companies.
”We had BP donate $50,000 and Caltex has come on board with $15,000 as well,” Mr Farrell said.
More than 13,000 hay bales have been donated for the trip – 1000 more than expected – and another 30 trucks have joined in the effort in the past few weeks.
While the fuel donations have been a welcome relief, the truck drivers will still be out of pocket and have to fund part of the trip.
Organisers are still calling for donations despite the trucks already being on the road.
“People can still donate because there are many more hay runs to do – the drought isn’t going away any time soon,” Mr Farrell said.
About 600 farmers are expected to receive hay, but it’s not the only delivery for the convoy.
The hay runners have organised hundreds of rose bunches for the farmers’ wives, donated by a Sydney florist.
A pop-up health check centre has also been organised at Ilfracombe.
“If these farmers are coming all the way into Ilfracombe they may as well go and get a health check,” Mr Farrell.
“We wanted to do more than just deliver hay and that’s why we’re doing the extra stuff like flowers – just to let the farmers and their families know that some people care about them and what they’re going through.”
To donate, visit the Burrumbuttock Hay Runners Facebook page or direct deposit to:
BSB: 062 438 Account: 10211156 Description: Drought Appeal
