THE regional community is rallying behind drought-stricken farmers south of Tamworth by organising a convoy of trucks laden with hay.
Volunteers are expected to head off this morning for the 2800km round trip to three farms crying out for fodder.
The convoy – which will leave from Glencoe district – is expected to include two semi-trailer trucks, one small truck, as well as four utes and trailers.
This comes as Grant District Council also steps forward to help communities struggling with drought conditions.
At its meeting this week, the rural-focused council decided to donate $2000 for the hay run and $30,000 collectively for communities in New South Wales, Queensland and drought-ravaged areas of South Australia.
The funds will be funnelled from its $150,000 disaster relief fund, which was set up following the devastating Ash Wednesday bushfires that swept through the district.
The money will be allocated to assist community projects benefiting communities in drought areas.
According to hay run organiser Bradley Bignell, the majority of hay is being donated by his family, as well as the Hodge family at Burrungule.
Some smaller donations are also being considered for the trip, depending on space.
The total fuel bill for the journey is expected to be in excess of $7000.
Convoy organisers have also been seeking food vouchers for struggling farmers.
“The freighting vehicles have been generously donated, along with manpower by local businesses and families within the South East,” Mr Bignell said.
This manpower will include farmers, freighters and Grant District Council employees.
Mr Bignell said some of the volunteers were also hoping to stay in the area in the days ahead to lend farmers a hand on their properties.
