Emma Pritchard

Clarence Valley primary producers who have been impacted by flooding associated with Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred are being encouraged to apply for assistance by the Aussie Hay Runners as they prepare to journey to Northern NSW in the coming weeks.

Transporting thousands of bales of donated hay sourced from various locations throughout Victoria, a convoy of more than 200 heavy vehicles will deliver premium fodder to be distributed to flood affected landholders from Kempsey to Kyogle as they continue to experience feed shortages due to flood-damaged paddocks, erosion, and waterlogging, while recovering from the most recent natural disaster.

Founded by Linda Widdup in 2019, Aussie Hay Runners, a grassroots charity run by a dedicated team of volunteers, has assisted in the delivery of over 51000 bales of premium hay to those in need from regional communities across the country.

In the past six years they have made multiple journeys to the Clarence Valley, delivering over 6000 bales of hay to local farmers.

On Friday, April 4, 52 heavy vehicles transporting 1872 bales of hay are scheduled to arrive in Clarenza, with deliveries to be made throughout the region the following day.
“Over the years, we have built strong relationships with many farmers in the Northern Rivers region, and our thoughts have been with them as they face yet another natural disaster,” Ms Widdup explained.

“Planning is well underway to get fodder rolling north and onto the properties of impacted landholders.
“At Aussie Hay Runners, we are more than just hay deliveries – we stand beside our farmers, reminding them they are not alone and providing them with support as they prepare for and recover from natural disasters.

“To those impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, I say we will be there.

“We have got your back.

“Stay safe and know that help is on the way.”

The $2.82 million freight cost for the Aussie Hay Runners upcoming journey to Northern NSW is subsidised through the Natural Disaster Donated Fodder Transport Subsidy, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and administered by the NSW Rural Assistance Authority (RAA).

The Aussie Hay Runners are also supported by the Heyfield Lions Club.

Clarence Valley primary producers who have been affected by the recent flooding are encouraged to register online at www.ruralconnectag.com.au/farmers-registration to apply for assistance from the Aussie Hay Runners.

For further information, please visit the Aussie Hay Runners Facebook page.