Rural Aid supports Gannawarra Giving Account
Published on 28 August 2019
Queensland-based charitable organisation, Rural Aid has donated $3,000 to the Gannawarra Giving Account.
Rural Aid co-founder, Tracey Alder announced the donation last week during a visit to Kerang as the charity extends the reach of its high profile support programs into northern Victoria.
The announcement was made at a meeting of the Gannawarra Resilience Committee - a network of 21 agencies led by Gannawarra Shire Council planning and coordinating community support across the Gannawarra as the ongoing dry conditions continue.
“The Gannawarra Giving Account is a local initiative to support our farming families, particularly to enable children to access sport and recreation activities,” Mayor Lorraine Learmonth said.
“The donation from Rural Aid has given the Giving Account a great start with the initial goal to raise $5,000. The balance of the Gannawarra Giving Account is now $4,281, so we are well on the way to achieving our initial fundraising goal.”
The Gannawarra Giving Account is held by Northern District Community Health, which will oversee the distribution of funds in partnership with Council and Rural Financial Counselling Service – North West.
“There are events currently being organised to encourage local giving to the Gannawarra Giving Account, including 5 Ways to Wellbeing Walk and Talk events planned for Mental Health Week in October,” Mayor Learmonth said.
“People can continue to donate to the Gannawarra Giving Account either by phoning Northern District Community Health on (03) 5451 0200 or visiting www.givenow.com.au/gannawarragivingaccount.”
Founded in 2015 to provide direct support to rural Australia, Rural Aid is well known for the Buy a Bale campaign, with this extending to include Farm Rescue, Farm Army and Gift of Music programs. Rural Aid also provides financial and practical support to farmers.
In addition, Rural Aid chooses up to 10 towns and communities, including farms, each year for a week-long rejuvenation event. Nominations are now being called for the 2020 campaign.
“I encourage communities from across the Gannawarra Shire to nominate their town for this initiative. It would really boost community spirit to have a Rural Aid volunteer team working with one of our communities in 2020,” Mayor Learmonth said.
Farmers and communities across the Gannawarra Shire are encouraged to register with Rural Aid online at www.ruralaid.org.au, by phoning 1300 327 624 or contacting local Rural Aid representative, Suzie Jacobs on 0476 719 874.
CAPTION: Rural Aid co-founder, Tracey Alder (second from right), joined Mayor Lorraine Learmonth (second from left) in announcing Rural Aid's support of the Gannawarra Giving Account.