The sold out gala dinner will raise money to fund fuel of the trucks delivering the feed.

Organiser Jacob Rofe said the last Burrumbuttock Hay Run in April saw more than 200 trucks head to drought-stricken farmers in Queensland.

“It cost more than half a million dollars in fuel,” he said.

“The drivers donate their trucks and time, and all the hay is donated as well, so we’re raising money for the fuel costs.”

Organised through the Southern Highlands Rotaract Club, the gala night is the largest event club members have organised for the region.

Member Paulo Sembrano said many Highlands businesses had become involved with the dinner.

“There will be raffle prizes, entry door prizes, silent and live auctions – with about 80 per cent of the prizes donated by local businesses,” he said.

“The live band, The Webb Duo, have donated their time to the event, and the Mittagong RSL has donated the venue.”

He said the organisers were “overwhelmed” by the public response.

“We’ve had much less participation at our previous events, so having a sold out event is fantastic.”

The hay runners are still unsure where they will deliver the much-needed feed.

The original plan was to assist dairy farmers in Victoria who have been affected by reduced milk prices, but the recent floods in Forbes and the surrounding area has caused them to reconsider.

Mr Rofe said they would know where to send the hay closer to the run.

“Mother Nature will probably keep us guessing until the day before,” he said.

The gala night will be held October 1 from 6.30pm at the Mittagong RSL.

To become involved with the Southern Highlands Rotaract Club, or to donate, email info@southernhighlandsrotaract.com. 

Sponsors and donors of the event are: