So far, the Local Land Services has received more than 120 reports of losses, equating to more than 27,000 hectares or just under six per cent of farming land affected in the Forbes local government area.

There have also been some reports of stock losses.

However, this may not be the full extent of the 2016 flood – and LLS incident controller Craig Ridley has urged farmers to ensure they report losses, even if they are not planning on claiming relief funding. 

“The more reports that are made, the more information we can send to the minister, and the chances are greater of relief being available in the future,” he said.

He added that there was no need to wait until the waters had fully receded to make the report. Information can be amended. 

To report agricultural damage or losses, contact LLS on 1300 795 299 or email emergency.centralwest@lls.nsw.gov.au

Crop and stock losses across NSW have been estimated at $720 million with $680 million of that from crops. Authorities expect that figure to rise. 

Although some landholders have made reports, Local Land Services (LLS) and the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) anticipate many more have taken a hit.

Meanwhile, across the Central West residents are being told floods can claim lives and devastate families as and after they subside.

They are being urged to reach out to family members, loved ones and friends impacted by flooding, “especially if they have not heard from them in some time”.

Flood victims feeling despondent and contemplating self-harm or suicide should seek and accept help, according to the Western NSW Local Health District’s Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) consultant Di Gill.

Ms Gill said help could be obtained during “these difficult times of flooding or at any time” by calling the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. To learn more about RAMHP visit ramhp.com.au.