It has been 10 days since Channel Nine broadcast their Farm Aid telethon from the Dubbo Showgrounds and more than $9 million has been raised for Australian farmers.
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Local organisations, residents and businesses supported the day as part of their on-going commitment to drought relief.
Dubbo and District Branch Can Assist secretary Prue Thompson said Nine’s ‘Fighting For Our Farmers Drought Relief Appeal’ was “brilliant”.
“I think every little bit helps, the farmers are really in a desperate situation.”
“We raise funds to provide help for people with cancer who have to travel for cancer treatment.
“Cancer doesn’t say, ‘oh gosh there’s a drought – no one can afford to be sick right now.’
“Farmers aren’t people who readily ask for help, they need to be shown the help is there.”
CWA Macquarie Group Representative Wendy Morris said it was good to see the community supporting the initiative.
“The work that’s been done here is important, the CWA also supports a drought plan, the Drought Aid Fund with a maximum of $3000 available per eligible drought-affected individuals or households.
“We were happy to support this today, it’s good to see the music and actors, and people realising we are in a big issue with the drought.”
Ms Morris said farmers who had been preparing for years for the drought and drought-proofing their farms should be commended.
“It’s about everyone here today, this issue is ongoing so please check on your neighbour, it is a tough time.”
NSW Farmers Dubbo chair Shane Kilby said they were grateful for the Today Show helping to bring the drought to national awareness.
“We are working with government, working on policy and lobbying very hard to get as much support for farmers as possible.”
Village Bakery supported the day by donating meat pies to the Channel Nine crew. Today Show host Karl Stefanovic said, “the pastry was exceptional and meat had good consistency, Timmy Gilbert's had 10”.
“We've always supported local causes; we’re donating a dollar from every loaf sold until the 19th of September, all proceeds are for drought relief,” Village Bakery staff member Andrew Caskie said.
“This was our way of saying thank you for the exposure for the people on the land.”
