DWYER LAUNCHES SUPPORT PROGRAM FOR LOCAL FARMERS

 DWYER LAUNCHES SUPPORT PROGRAM FOR LOCAL FARMERS

Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has launched a funding program to help support local farmer recover from the destructive floods.

“The recent severe flooding has had a devastating impact on our local communities, including the dairy farmers in the Manning and Hastings region. These hardworking families are facing enormous challenges as they recover from the damage to their homes, livestock and livelihoods,” Mr Dwyer said.

“In conjunction with participating registered clubs and the Mid Coast Dairy Advancement Group Inc (MCDAG), 50 cents from every schooner of beer sold over the counter and 50 cents from every cup of coffee sold will go directly to local dairy farmers through a dedicated recovery fund, administered by the MCDAG.

“A number of clubs are doing their own fundraising events and will donate all proceeds to our funding program. 

“The area from the Manning Valley Catchment, including Hannam Vale, through to the Macleay in the north and Gloucester in the west, contributes around 25% of our state’s milk.

“The $25,000 in Category C grant funding is not enough to get these farmers back on their feet and to pay for vets, replacement of fencing, stock and fodder. With winter now with us, farmers will need ongoing support for four to six months to purchase fodder,” Mr Dwyer said. 

“In developing this support project, I have worked closely with Clubs NSW and with local farmers to ensure we encourage clubs to get behind this simple but powerful fundraising effort.

“There are approximately 12 Dairy Farmers in the Manning Valley catchment and a further 10 in the Macleay, that have been severely impacted. Funds will be distributed on a need’s basis, on a criteria determined by MCDAG.

“I encourage as many people as possible to support this initiative so that we can all get behind our local farmers to give them a hand to rebuild their lives and livelihood,” Mr Dwyer said.
 

This campaign will run from 1st July 2025 to 31st October 2025.