General News
5 June, 2025
Despite drought, farmers generosity shines
DESPITE our region facing its own difficulties with drought, local farmers have given generously to a hay drive to assist flood affected farmers in Queensland.
Natte Yallock Landcare have organised three road trains of hay to go to the flood affect area near Toompine south of Quilpie.
The Bulloo River which runs through the region was up to 35 kilometres wide during the floods, with widespread implications for local residents and livestock.
The first load of hay was transported four weeks ago and another two road trains left last week from Moama.
The hay has been delivered to Pearce Edwards farm as it was the only farm at the time that trucks could get into.
Up to eight neighbouring farms have access to the hay and take it as required.
At a recent Landcare meeting, Pearce Edwards spoke via the phone to update members and answer questions.
He also thanked Natte Yallock Landcare members on behalf of the farmers in the flood affected region for their generous donation.
Landcare member John Handley spoke to one farmer who said that he had lost 2500 full wool sheep and 25 rams along with 65 kilometres of fencing. Fencing is an enormous issue for farmers in the flood affected region as they try to contain livestock.
BlazeAid have indicated they will be in the region for a long period to assist with fencing.
This has been a great effort from the Natte Yallock, Bealiba and Dunluce area, almost every farmer with big square bales has donated between 10 – 20 bales of good hay – an incredible gesture in a year when hay is scarce. 203 bales of hay equates to approximately 120 tonnes at $350 per tonne. A total value of $42,000.
Some farmers who didn’t have hay have donated fuel to help get the hay north.
Anyone who would like to donate money to help with the fuel costs for this cause can contact Tony Mortlock, Secretary of the Natte Yallock Landcare Group on 0419 002 307.