Council donates $10,000 to Bowral Co-op Drought Appeal

21 August, 2018Posted in: Community
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Wingecarribee Shire Mayor Councillor Ken Halstead has handed over $10,000 to the Bowral Co-op as part of Council’s commitment to helping local farmers during the drought.

“We’re currently witnessing one of the cruellest droughts to hit our State in recent years,” he said.  “Right across New South Wales, including here in our Shire, farmers are facing an incredibly tough time.”

“With this in mind Council is of the opinion that now, more than ever before, it’s imperative we support our farmers and lend a hand however we can.”

The donation is part of a Mayoral Minute supported by all Councillors which also sees Council defer rates for local farmers.

Joining the Mayor for the announcement was CEO of Bowral Co-op, Mr Craig Perkins.

“This donation from Council provides a real shot in the arm for our Southern Highlands Drought Appeal,” Mr Perkins said. “Combined with monies already collected, these funds will be made available to all eligible local farmers.”

Since establishing the Southern Highlands Drought Appeal, the Bowral Co-op team have collected $40,000 in donations.

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

Mayor Halstead encouraged residents to continue to dig deep during the drought.

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

“I urge anyone with the ability to spare a few dollars to contribute to this vital cause.”

Staff of Council will also be collecting gold coin donations on Friday 24 August with all monies raised to be forwarded to the Bowral Co-op Appeal.

“It may only be a small gesture in the greater scheme of this crisis, but we believe that it’s important we all rally behind our farmers,” the Mayor added.

Application forms for Drought Assistance can be found on the Bowral Co-op website.  Hardcopy application forms are also available in store.

Donations can be made to the BDCU Alliance Bank – Bowral Co-op Drought Appeal via BSB: 802-101, A/C: 100072517.

For more information on the Southern Highlands Drought Appeal, including how to apply for financial assistance, visit www.bowralco-op.com.au/drought-hub or contact the Bowral Co-op directly on phone 4861 8400.