FARMERS affected by the recent Keilira fire will be given a helping hand this weekend as BlazeAid volunteers descend on the district to help rebuild farm assets.
The volunteer-based organisation helps clear, repair or replace fences that have been lost as a result of natural disasters on farmland.
Establishing a camp at Kingston’s Gall Park from Saturday morning, BlazeAid is encouraging community members to help rebuild the rural community with work to start on Tuesday.
Keilira BlazeAid coordinator Mary Howarth said volunteers can work as much or as little as they desire.
“You can work for one day or weeks,” she said.
“It is all up to what time you feel you can donate to the cause.
“We are usually in town for around three months, so there will be plenty of opportunity to lend a hand.”
Property owners will supply their own fencing material, with the volunteer groups assisted by fence contractors, focusing on rebuilding boundary fences to contain stock.
Recalling one of her first BlazeAid experiences, Ms Howarth said the entire volunteer group ended the day in tears.
“We had the farmer walk over crying asking us why we were here,” she said.
“He could not believe people he did not even know would support him in his time of need.
“I think that is one of the most important things to come out of the experience, we are not only there to rebuild fences, but we lend support as well.
“When you have gone through something like a bushfire and you sit there thinking about all of the work that is ahead of you to rebuild it can get overwhelming.
“I think knowing there are a group of people ready to ease that burden is really important.”
Those who are unable to volunteer fencing can donate equipment such as high viz vests, safety glasses, gloves and wire cutters or by offering to help with cooking for the volunteers.
Alternatively, cash donations to the cause are also welcomed.
Member for Barker Tony Pasin encouraged community members to join in the process after recently volunteering for BlazeAid in the Adelaide Hills.
“I meet some wonderful people and I was really impressed with the organisation’s professionalism and what was being achieved,” Mr Pasin said, adding he would join in the Keilira event.
“You do not need any fencing experience, just a willingness to give it a go and learn on the job.”
Contact Ms Howarth on 0429 367 538 for more information.
