Locals are continuing to fundraise to support drought affected communities with Bangalow and Mullumbimby having a particular focus on the Gwydir Shire.
Kimberlee Thompson, a local community support worker from Mullumbimby, is now out in Bingara getting hands on to assist Suzy Webber, Gwydir Shires social services manager.
‘Suzy is working with and regularly consulting with the school, community members, farmers and community services organisations to offer support throughout the Shire.’ Cattle feed, powdered milk for calves, working dog food and money to buy essentials are just some of the things that have been sent out to the drought affected communities from Mullumbimby and Bangalow.
‘We are still collecting money so that we can buy the things theses communities need,’ said Jenelle Stanford from the Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce.
When they eat the same feed as the cattle it gives them issues with their digestion and other problems with their liver and gums.
‘We should be really proud of our local Co-op company,’ said one local Marion Toms.
‘They have organised a massive series of feed drops into the drought stricken areas, even as far as Cobar-Pilliga.
Local farmers who have donated feed from their paddocks include Frank and Gail James, Rob Adie, Peter Buckley and Brook Thomas; Alec Noelle of Byron Bay Tree Services helped with cutting fodder.
This portrayal of Aussie goodwill and empathy is humbling.’ Bangalow fundraiser The township of Bangalow is pulling together a Bangalow to Bingara fundraiser on October 6 that aims to raise funds to assist farmers, families and businesses that are being affected by the drought.
‘A parishioner had seen the article in The Echo about the drought so we voted to donate all the money we raise at the garage sale this weekend towards the drought through the Mullumbimby Chamber of Commerce drought relief fund,’ said parish secretary Sue Williams.