The Victorian Farmers Federation Disaster Relief Fund has collected donations reaching over $80,000. In a new partnership, BlazeAid will be matching the Victorian Farmers Federation dollar-for-dollar to fund critical fence repairs in Victoria’s fire affected south west.
Victorian Farmers Federation will begin with an initial contribution of $15,000, and BlazeAid will use the combined $30,000 to fund a Poles & Wire Drive to help farmers in need re-fence their farms. Affected farmers are encouraged to contact BlazeAid to register their need for fence repairs.
BlazeAid is a volunteer-based organisation that works with rural communities to rebuild after natural disasters and has been working with south west farming communities in response to the March 2018 fires. “BlazeAid has been doing fantastic work in the south west. We are excited about this partnership and grateful to BlazeAid for matching VFF Disaster Relief Funds dollar-for-dollar so we can continue the recovery process in affected communities” said David Jochinke, President, Victorian Farmers Federation.
The Victorian Farmers Federation will also be working with the Aussie Helpers charity to direct funds from the VFF Disaster Relief Fund directly into farming families impacted by the south west fires.
“Aussie Helpers has worked so hard to support farming families across Australia. We’re confident that they have the experience and connections to make every dollar count on the ground in communities affected by the south west fires” said Mr Jochinke.
The March 2018 fires in south west Victoria burnt thousands of hectares, killed over 2,000 livestock, and damaged hundreds of farm businesses. The extent of the devastation triggered the Victorian government to declare the fires a ‘state emergency’. In response to the fires, the Victorian Farmers Federation activated the Disaster Relief Fund to collect donations from the public who wanted to support affected farmers.
“We are overwhelmed by the volume of donations to the VFF Disaster Relief Fund. The donations demonstrate a depth of support for farmers, not only from our regional communities but also supporters in the urban centres and internationally.
“On behalf of affected farmers, we are so grateful to everyone who has donated to the VFF Disaster Relief Fund” said Mr Jochinke.
Media Contacts:
David Jochinke, President, Victorian Farmers Federation, 0427 834 524
Heather Smillie, Stakeholder Policy & Advocacy Officer, 0400 874 589