Our regional and rural communities have been through some tough times over the past few years, with drought, bushfires and floods having a massive impact on communities. Through Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) the government has provided $500 debit cards to farming households who are finding it tough due to drought.
The Rotary Club of Goodna, Qld, was issued with 20 debit cards, which were distributed to needy families in the community of Tara, located in the Western Downs Region of Queensland. The region has been devastated by drought and bushfires since February last year. The drought and fires have destroyed properties, livelihoods and possessions, and left many residents in distress and hardship. Many are still struggling to rebuild their lives and their homes.
The cards can be used at any local business on groceries, food or other household bills, thus supporting the local economy. The cards have been distributed in Tara by Goodna Rotarians Michelle and Christine Trace, with the assistance of the Brighten Foundation, an independent charity providing support for the homeless and vulnerable people.
PICTURED: Members from the Rotary Club of Goodna, Qld, have been distributing $500 debit cards to farming households who are finding it tough due to the fires and drought.
“The response we got was phenomenal. It really struck a chord and reminded us why we are doing this,” Michelle said. “These people have lost everything due to the drought and bushfires and are very grateful saying, ‘you’ve come at the perfect time, we were feeling quite hopeless’.”
“On the first day we heard from Cliff, who told us his story,” Christine said.
“Cliff was one of the individuals who lost everything and did not get approved for a $50,000 grant due to his dwelling not being council approved. We sat with Cliff for about 45 minutes hearing about his struggles, how he’s coped with the grief by getting a new furry friend named Velvet, the kitten.”
On the second day the Rotarians met members of the Bennett’s Rural Fire Brigade just after an approved burn. The first officer, who’s house was burnt alongside his fathers, has been struggling with the cost of water to fill his 200-litre tank for the household.
Carmaine’s house was also burnt out. She had been struggling to pay for food, however, was reluctant to accept the $500 debit card because of the amount, saying, “I’m sure there is someone more worthy of receiving this. Yes, we are struggling but there are others out there doing it worse off.”
When asked why she wasn’t worthy of the assistance, she had no answer.
“We sat down with her and spoke for a little. She then admitted that she and her husband are in dire need of support, and accepted the assistance,” Michelle said.
The next day, Michelle and Christine visited the disaster recovery housing complex to knock on the doors of those who hadn’t been home on the first attempt.
“We were lucky and managed to catch all bar one,” Christine said. “Dee and her husband initially refused the debit card. But after signing for the card Dee, who was nearly crying, asked ‘Can I give you a hug?’”
“While support for those affected by the drought and bushfires has been heartwarming, there needs to be more,” Michelle said. “It’s a reminder that while the generosity seen is remarkable, the need for sustained and diverse support is crucial as communities rebuild and heal.”
From financial donations to volunteer efforts by the likes of the Rotary Club of Goodna and the Brighten Foundation, the community has rallied to provide aid and comfort for those in need.
“The generosity shown reflects a deep sense of solidarity and empathy, offering hope during such challenging times. It’s a powerful reminder of the resilience and compassion that emerge when communities face adversity together,” Christine said.
MAIN PICTURE: The community of Tara, located in the Western Downs Region of Queensland, has been devastated by drought and bushfires since February last year.