More than $70,000 has been raised by clubs across the Mid North Coast to support farmers still recovering from last year’s floods, in a show of community support across the region.
Member for Myall Lakes Tanya Thompson said the fundraising effort highlighted the strength of local communities and their willingness to support those doing it tough.
“Communities right across the region were hit incredibly hard by these floods and many families are still working to rebuild their lives,” she said.
The funds were raised through contributions from a wide range of local clubs, including Club North Haven, Club Old Bar, Club West (Taree West Bowling Club), Kempsey RSL, Kempsey Bowlo, Crescent Head Country Club, Laurieton United Services Club, Westport Club, Panthers Port Macquarie, Gloucester Memorial Club, Club Harrington, Port City Bowling Club and Wingham Ex Services Club.
The initiative has provided much-needed support for farming families, particularly within the dairy sector, which plays a significant role in the region’s economy.
“For many families here, dairy farming is part of everyday life and a big part of our local economy,” Mrs Thompson said.
“When farms are impacted, it flows through the whole community.”
The funding will help farmers continue recovery efforts following widespread flood impacts, which damaged infrastructure, reduced production and placed financial strain on many operations.
Mrs Thompson said the contribution from clubs reflected a broader community effort to ensure farmers were not left behind.
“This is about communities backing each other and making sure local families get the support they need,” she said.
She also acknowledged the role of organisations working directly with farmers on the ground.
“Groups like the Mid Coast Dairy Advancement Group are working quietly in the background, making a real difference and helping farmers get through very tough situations,” she said.
The fundraising effort comes as many farmers continue to rebuild more than a year after the floods, with recovery ongoing across parts of the Mid North Coast.
While the immediate emergency has passed, challenges remain for producers dealing with the long-term impacts of lost income, damaged land and disrupted supply chains.
The support provided through the fundraising effort is expected to assist with recovery costs and help sustain local farming operations as they work toward full recovery.
The initiative has also reinforced the role of community organisations, including local clubs, in supporting regional resilience during times of crisis.
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