A convoy of 90 trucks carrying more than 6000 bales of donated hay has arrived on Eyre Peninsula, with the hay to be distributed to more than 400 farmers impacted by the drought.
The State Government provided $2 million to cover the transport costs to bring the fodder from Norseman in Western Australia, across the Nullarbor, to Wudinna.
The Donated Fodder Transport Assistance Scheme - funded through the State Government's $73 million Drought Support Package - helps charities with the cost of transporting fodder to farmers who need help to feed their livestock.
The hay run is the latest the State Government has supported through working with Need for Feed, Rural Aid, Rapid Relief Team, Farmers Relief Agency, and the SA Dairyfarmers’ Association.
The South Australian Government has also waived biosecurity inspection fees for all drought-affected farmers importing hay from interstate. Inspections are still conducted to ensure biosecurity measures are maintained.
Wudinna District Council Mayor Eleanor Scholz said the hay run reminded farmers that they were not alone.
"It's been a tough season, the rain hasn't come when we've needed it, feed costs are through the roof, and a lot of people are feeling the pressure," she said.
"This kind of support lifts local spirits."
Farmers Across Borders co-founder Sam Starcevich said: "With the South Australian Government’s Donated Fodder Transport Scheme and imported fodder inspection fees waived, collaboration with Need for Feed and a number of community donations, this has truly been a team effort."
Primary producers are encouraged to contact participating organisations directly to understand what types of fodder are available and to register their interest for future deliveries.
For more information on drought assistance visit pir.sa.gov.au/drought-support
MORE STORIES LIKE THIS:
