The resilience and strength of our local farming community was on full display last week as more than 200 farmers gathered in Jamestown for the Farmers Community Connect event.

Organised by the Rapid Relief Team (RRT), the initiative provided much-needed relief to struggling farmers facing some of the driest conditions in memory.

A convoy of 27 trucks, driven by RRT volunteers, rolled into town carrying 1,562 donated hay bales—an incredible gesture of support for those doing it tough.

Among the attendees was Tony Piccolo MP, who praised the effort and acknowledged the generosity of both RRT and the broader community in standing by local farmers.

“These farmers are the backbone of our state, and they continue to battle incredibly challenging conditions,” said Mr Piccolo.

“It’s heartening to see organisations like RRT and community members rallying behind them, which reminds farmers that they’re not alone and there is hope in their resilience.

“While this doesn’t stop the pain our agricultural communities are feeling, our State Government continues to invest in initiatives like these to provide some continued relief.”

RRT Operations Manager Mick Dunn said it’s not just the farmers that are helping one another, but communities across Australia rallying to support one another.

“As the RRT convoy travelled across NSW and Victoria into South Australia, the roadside support from the community was incredible – people were waving Aussie flags and holding up signs, cheering us on,” said Mr Dunn.

“But the real heroes here are the farmers – they are being challenged by some of the driest conditions they’ve ever endured, and RRT wanted to remind them we are all behind them ready to offer our support.”

Northern Areas Mayor Sue Scarman welcomed the event, commending RRT for its generosity in coordinating truckloads of hay.

“It’s a generous act that will help provide some relief to farmers who are so desperately in need,” said Ms Scarman.

RRT’s initiative was made possible through a $195,000 grant from Malinauskas Labor State Government, which helped subsidise transport costs for the donated fodder.

In addition to government funding, RRT contributed over $250,000 to cover hay donations, volunteer efforts and catering.  

Each farmer received an allocation of premium-grade cereal hay and an RRT Food Box filled with pantry staples.

Guests also enjoyed a free barbeque breakfast and lunch, with volunteers serving up bacon and egg rolls, RRT Signature Burgers and fresh coffee.

Various drought relief support services, including representatives from Primary Industries South Australia (PIRSA), were on-site to offer advice and assistance.  

This event marks RRT’s 33rd Farmers Community Connect initiative, continuing its long-standing support for farmers affected by drought, fire, and floods.

For more information about RRT and how to get involved in future events, visit www.rrtglobal.org