Mayor Ken Halstead handed the cheque to Co-op CEO Craig Perkins before he visited Mayberry Farm in Burrawang, just one of the properties in the district affected by prolonged drought conditions.

“We’re currently witnessing one of the cruellest droughts to hit our state in recent years. Right across NSW, including here in our Shire, farmers are facing an incredibly tough time,” said Cr Halstead.

“The Bowral Co-op is to be commended for setting up this wonderful initiative. Not only are they coordinating this appeal, but they’ve committed to ensuring that all funds raised go towards our Shire’s farmers,” he said.

The donation to the Co-op was part of a mayoral minute supported by all councillors at the last council meeting which also deferred rates for local farmers until next year.

Mr Perkins said the Co-op drought appeal had received in excess of $40,000 in donations from the community and ensured that all monies raised would go back into the district.

Read more: Chevalier College donates $15,000 to local drought appeal

“The generosity of Southern Highlanders never ceases to amaze us. It shows that everyone across our Shire understands the plight our farmers face,” said Mr Perkins. 

“This donation from council provides a real shot in the arm for our drought appeal. Combined with monies already collected, these funds will be made available to all eligible local farmers,” he said.

Cr Halstead encouraged the Southern Highlands community to continue their support.

“I urge anyone with there ability to spare a few dollars to contribute to this vital cause. It may only be a small gesture in the grand scheme of things, but we believe that it’s important we rally behind our farmers,” he said.

Donations to the Bowral Co-op Drought Appeal can be made to BDCU Alliance Bank: Bowral Co-op Drought Appeal, BSB: 802-101, Account No. 1000-725-17. 

Read more: Here are just some of the organisations running drought appeals in our region and beyond