Reaching out a helping hand to our local producers

Western Downs Regional Council’s new drought assistance program Reach Out will offer support options and advice to primary producers right across the region in late September and early October.

The program provides practical opportunities for local producers to meet confidentially and face-to-face with several relevant drought assistance agencies at no cost.

With drought continuing to affect our region and weather forecasts indicating a further wait before decent rainfall, it is hoped this program will provide relief of the stress and frustrations people may be feeling.

Agency representatives from a range of organisations including Drought Angels, RHealth and Queensland Department of Agriculture will be available to assist with funding applications, financial planning and mental health support.

Council Spokesperson for Community and Cultural Development Councillor Kaye Maguire is supportive of the program and encourages community members to take advantage of these sessions.

“This is an important initiative which can help our farmers and producers and assist them as they work through the struggles they face during this continuing dry time,” she said.

“The sessions are completely confidential and free of charge, making them easily accessible for those wanting to know more about how they can be helped from drought assistance programs.

“To make it even easier, timeslots can be booked according to the time people can spare, this may only be 10 minutes but it’s important to get in touch to secure a time as soon as possible.”

Individual sessions will be available to book between 9.30am to 4.30pm in Wandoan on 24 September, Miles on 25 September, Tara on 1 October and Jandowae on 2 October and numbers are limited so bookings are essential.

For more information on the sessions or how to book, contact Council on 1300 COUNCIL or visit www.wdrc.qld.gov.au/reach-out

Session times

Contact: Sharon Cruickshank P: 07 4628 5354 E: [email protected]

Contact: Sharon Cruickshank P: 07 4628 5354 E: [email protected]

Contact: Jess Wilson P: 07 4678 7805 E: [email protected]

Contact: Brendan Hawkey P: 07 4679 4308 E: [email protected]

Organisations attending:

• Department of Human Resources • Drought Angels • RHealth • Lifeline • Queensland Department of Agriculture • Queensland Country Women’s Association • Rural Financial Counselling Service

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Media Contact: Brianna Allen | Communications & Marketing Officer | 0419 208 600