Rural Aid, a dedicated charity organisation, has launched its 2025 Mates Day Campaign with a heartfelt goal: to raise $500,000 to support Australian farmers devastated by disasters. The funds will go toward providing essential aid, including financial support, hay, clean drinking water, practical volunteer assistance on farms, and crucial mental health services for those in disaster-stricken farming communities.
This year’s campaign runs from Monday, February 17, to Wednesday, March 19. It’s a call to action for Australians to step up and offer a helping hand to farmers who are battling the devastating impacts of fires, floods, droughts, and plagues. These farmers are not just facing environmental devastation, they are fighting to rebuild their livelihoods, their homes, and their futures.
“Australian farmers face unimaginable challenges to feed us, often enduring extreme weather just to grow the food we rely on,” said John Warlters, CEO of Rural Aid. “Their resilience is nothing short of extraordinary. Each meal we eat tells a story of perseverance, hope, and the sweat and tears of those who work tirelessly, often at great personal cost.”
Rural Aid’s farm recovery events are at the heart of this campaign. Each event brings together up to 30 volunteers who dedicate a week to help rebuild farms in disaster-affected areas. These events do more than just fix damaged properties, they restore communities. Volunteers from all walks of life join forces in an inspiring show of solidarity, reminding farmers that they are seen, valued, and deeply cared for.
The work carried out during these recovery events is nothing short of remarkable. In just a few days, volunteers can complete up to five years’ worth of work, offering farmers vital on-the-ground assistance. This campaign is more than just a fundraiser. it’s a lifeline for farmers who have given everything to keep the nation fed and clothed.
“The strength of our farmers is something we should all admire,” said Mr. Warlters. “Rural Aid is here to make sure they never have to face these challenges alone. We are deeply grateful for every contribution, no matter the size. Your support directly helps our farmers rebuild and recover when disaster strikes, giving them hope for the future.”
Together, we can help these farmers rebuild not just their farms, but their lives. Every donation, every moment of your time, and every show of support will make a profound difference in the lives of those who nourish our nation.
Source: Beefcentral.com
Off the back of last week’s update on the El Niño declaring itself, RaboResearch general manager Stefan Vogel dropped some serious insights at Ekka Beef Week in Brisbane.
Here is what local producers in our region should keep on their radar, along with where the big opportunities lie.
As we move through the second half of 2026, climate models have indicated an active El Niño pattern establishing across the Pacific Ocean. For producers across Regional NSW, we know an active El Niño heading into spring and summer 2026/27 brings distinct challenges for rainfall, pasture growth, and stock management.
There’s a reason you can’t drive through town on a sunny weekend without catching a whiff of ironbark smoke in the air. The low-and-slow BBQ movement has completely taken over many Aussie backyards and it’s doing far more than just changing how we cook.
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