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Truckies answer call for help from farmers in South Australia

Aussie Hay Runners (AHR) are preparing to make their first run into South Australia to help farmers there cope with extreme drought conditions.

Rainfall deficiencies in SA over the last eight months are the highest since records began, said AHR founder Linda Widdup.

“Farmers in South Australia are the least confident in our great nation; almost half expect this situation to continue to worsen,” Widdup said.

“Many are struggling daily and some are facing conditions they may never recover from.”

Although hay prices continue to soar and good quality fodder is hard to find, AHR have secured top quality hay from all around Victoria and will be heading to SA to help desperate farmers in their time of need, said Widdup.

Twenty-six trucks are now preparing to transport 832 bales of donated hay valued at $164,160 helping 52 farmers, their families and in turn their communities.

“It’s really important in these very hard times the hay we take is top quality with the highest nutritional value possible as these animals have been struggling for months,” Widdup said.

“Combined, our trucks will travel almost 50,000 kilometres reaching 13 different locations to ensure those who need help the most, get it.”

Trucks will meet on Friday, November 1 in Ararat and on Saturday will convoy to Tailem Bend where they will be welcomed by the Lions Club of Tailem Bend who will generously provide lunch.

Trucks then head far and wide to their designated areas, ensuring the worst affected areas get help: Australia Plains; Callington; Dawesley; Loveday; Mannum; Mt Mary; Monarto; Morgan; Mulgundawa; Parilla; Robertstown; Sutherlands; and Truro.

“It’s not a hand out – it’s a hand up,” as Widdup always says.

“There are always areas in need of help and our logistics team work hard planning and scheduling.

“There are always farmers needing help, so if you can, please make a donation. We guarantee 100 per cent of your donation will be used to purchase hay”.

To follow the convoy and find donation details visit the AHR Facebook page here.

AHR was established in 2019 by Widdup, who lives in country Victoria, after watching the impact of the devastating effects of drought.

Now in her fifth year with a small group of dedicated volunteers and a large group of drivers, they are proudly supported by NSW Rural Assistance Authority, Scott Stevens, Heyfield Lions Club and Ray Akers, Gippsland Hay Relief.

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