A GROUP of truck drivers are hoping to 'bale' out farmers in drought-stricken Queensland.
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The Burrumbuttock Hay Runners group embarked on their 1860km journey on Wednesday.
During the last trip in January, just under 5000 bales of hay was delivered and lasted farmers in need nine days.
This time, volunteers will deliver between 12,000 and 15,000 bales of hay which will provide around three weeks of relief.
Burrumbuttock Hay Runners participant Heath Willis said the trip was about more than material support - it was about mateship.
Mr Willis said once the group distributed the hay, they intended to go out for a meal with the farmers.
"It's not just about the hay, it's about mental health," Mr Willis said.
"We want to get them off the land and take the pressure off their mind for a while."
Pressures for farmers include but are not limited to financial hardship, family expectations and a perception that farmers who do are unable to provide are letting their families down.
Mr Willis said the convoy was the volunteers' way of showing gratitude.
"This is our way of saying thank you to the farmers for holding on - without them we don't eat," he said.
"Everything is donated, even down to signage - we'd like to thank the community for their support."
To stay up to date with the journey, 'Like' the Burrumbuttock Hay Runners Facebook page or view Fairfax Media's rolling coverage here.
The group's next trip will be in three months, delivering to Thargomindah in Queensland.
Donations can still be made to the Burrumbuttock Hay Runners:
Rotary Club of Sydney
BSB: 062 438
ACC: 10211156
Description: Drought Appeal
Or send Cheques Payable to "The Rotary Club of Sydney Drought Appeal"
Post to Rotary Club of Sydney, GPO Box 1523, Sydney NSW 2001
