Queensland-based national charity Drought Angels has undertaken a rebrand to Farm Angels to better reflect the broad range of services and support the organisation undertakes, supporting farming families no matter the challenge they face.
Founder and 2021 Queenslander of the Year Natasha Johnston began the charity a decade ago in response to hearing about how many farmers’ lives had been claimed by the overwhelming stress of drought conditions.
“When our small charity took its first steps back in 2014, the grip of drought held our nation tight,“ she said.
“Across Australia, farmers fought tirelessly against an unrelenting dry spell. I couldn’t bear to hear of the fatal toll it took on so many farmers and their families that I was compelled to do something for these hard-working people, who we rely on to feed and clothe our country, and who were left feeling like they had no support or way out of crisis.
“And so Drought Angels came to be, showering our farmers with care, support and resources as needed. As history has shown us, every drought eventually yields, which unfortunately often makes way for floods which are equally devastating.
“While we have weathered many storms during this time, our mission has grown beyond just aiding through drought conditions. We’ve constantly expanded our services to meet the evolving needs of the farming community, ensuring we provide support not just through drought, but through any hardship they face.
“Our rebrand to Farm Angels better represents the extensive range of support we provide and signifies our commitment to stand by our farmers, no matter the challenge. We believe that while conditions are tough, and so are our farmers, and just because they can handle a hell of a lot, it doesn’t mean they should have to. While there’s never an easy day on the land, Farm Angels helps to make the really tough days a little easier,” Natasha said.
Farm Angels chief executive officer Jason Law said it was ‘business as usual’ for the charity which has raised over $24.1 million dollars and supported over 10,000 primary producers and their families across 1300 rural communities across Australia.
“Farmers face many challenges and crises on a daily basis including drought, flood, fire and plagues as well as mental health issues. According to a 2021 study, one farmer commits suicide every 10 days. That’s 59 percent higher than the rate among non-farmers which is very concerning and something we will continue to address.
“With growing concerns around climate change, we want our farmers to know that they are not alone and we are always here to help,” he said.
“We always need our farmers, and we recognise that sometimes they need us too. With the tough conditions they face year-round, it’s important that we have the support and resources to offer a hand, and we can’t do that without the financial donations and volunteers who back our charity.
“With the end of financial year approaching, we ask the Australian public to consider donating to support our Aussie Farmers at farmangels.org.au”
