Through September and October, a series of community barbecues were held, with the intention of bringing local farmers together.
The Look Over the Farm Gate – Help a Mate! initiative had events in Neerim South, Ellinbank, Buln Buln, Longwarry, and Trafalgar. The events were an amazing opportunity for farmers to support each other with the stresses of farming in dry season conditions, as well as provide access to important support resources.
Mayor of Baw Baw Shire Cr Danny Goss said the sense of community amongst local farmers is obvious.
“There is no denying farming is a tough job, even more so in the harsh and dry conditions we are experiencing now. It’s great to see farmers taking a few hours off their land to relax, connect, and access important support services,” said Cr Goss.
He also thanked the Lions Clubs and Country Women’s Associations for providing catering, adding that “the opportunity to share a meal and talk to each other was appreciated by all attending.”
All local primary producers were invited to attend. Information and support services from the Baw Baw Shire Council, Head2Health, Agriculture Victoria, GippsDairy and Lifeline also attended the events.
This is a particularly important time to provide support for Victorian farmers. Much of the state has been experiencing rainfall deficiencies since 2023 which has continued through winter and spring this year.
Many primary producers are being stretched financially as they must source and pay for limited supplies of water, as well as hay and grain from as far away as Western Australia.
This series of events was delivered by council with funding from the state government through Agriculture Victoria and the National Centre for Farmer Health. These community events are part of the $67.2 million drought relief package provided by the state government earlier this year.
