Farmers who are still recovering from the June floods will have more ability to access relief funding from the thanks to a generous donation from Incitec Pivot the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association (TFGA).
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Incitec donated $50,000 to the TFGA in June after the devastating floods and on Tuesday, the TFGA announced it would donate $45,000 of those funds to the Rural Relief Fund.
“After due consideration we felt that the most equitable way to disperse these funds was through an existing structure like the relief fund,’’ TFGA CEO Peter Skillern said.
The fund is managed by Rural Business Tasmania (RBT). It has played an important role in supporting farming families and their communities during this tough time
“This should be a reminder to us all that the damage from the floods in June is an on-going issue for many parts of the Tasmanian community.”
The remaining funds will be used for community barbecues to give back and bring some positivity.
Rural Business Tasmania chief executive Elizabeth Skirving the fund had received about 200 applicants over the past six to eight months and had dispensed about $300,000 in relief funds.
The funds were used for fencing, fodder, animal welfare, including veterinary bills, and personal relief, for example to pay bills.
The region hardest hit has been the North-West Coast, with requests for assistance predominantly from dairy farmers.
In addition, Ms Skirving said RBT’s rural financial counselling service had experienced a 50 per cen spike in demand and requests for assistance after the extended dry period and the floods.
Anyone wanting to support the Rural Relief Fund should consider donating at selected IGA stores, at any ANZ branch, online at www.ruralbusinesstasmania.org.au/Rural-Relief or by phoning 1300 88 3276.
For a confidential discussion about the Rural Financial Counselling Service call 1300 88 3276.