With the state in the grips of drought, the Red Cross decided to hold its NSW Divisional Advisory Board regional conference in Dubbo.

Regional Manager John Pocius said the Red Cross has been working hard to ensure the health and well-being of farmers across the state.

“We’ve been working in partnership with Country Women’s Association (CWA) to ensure money is distributed directly to the farmers. 

“Farmers can apply for assistance through the CWA for up to $3000 for food, household bills, anything to assist a farmer that allows them to focus on core business rather than day to day survival.

“We encourage farmers to not to be too proud and apply. 

“This is money the community has put together for farmers, it is about connection and we want to be sure farmers know it is not a hand out it is a hand up.”

More than two dozen Red Cross local branch members attended the conference.

Tomingley Farmer and Red Cross volunteer Sue Strahorn said talking to farmers is as important as fundraising.

“Farmers are all going through a lot of stress but the ability to communicate is really important to keep them well and healthy,” she said.

“It is important to have empathy because we all understand each others positions, although each is different the stress and anxiety is the same.

“The biggest problem with this drought is that we don’t know when its going to end which increases the anxiety of farmers.”