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Australian farmers suffering through the worst drought on record are being offered the next best thing to rain -- a free holiday.
The Australian Farmers' Assistance Program, the result of an alliance between Federated Farmers of New Zealand, Australia's National Farmers' Federation and Jetstar airlines, will provide Australian farmers with some respite from the drought in the form of a holiday many could not afford to take during the holiday season.
"New Zealand farmers are well aware of the effects of drought, so we understand what Australian farmers are going through, albeit the severity and scale of the Australian drought is much worse than any New Zealand farmers have experienced," said Federated Farmers of New Zealand president Charlie Pedersen.
"We can't give Aussie farmers what they really need -- rain -- but we can help some take a break from the enormous stress."
The program will be coordinated by the Australian Farmers Federation and over the past week the organisation has been in contact with their state member associations in an effort to publicise the programme.
"When times are tough, farmers stick together, and we certainly appreciate New Zealand farmers understanding and thoughts very much. This is a shining example of the Anzac tradition...digging in and giving each other a helping hand when its needed most," said Australian National Farmers Federation president David Crombie.
"Not only does drought cause economic hardship, but it also has a massive social toll as well. The offer from New Zealand farmers could provide a very important circuit-breaker to relieve the pressure on Australias drought-stricken farm families."
Australian airline Jetstar are providing 100 return flights to affected farmers and their families from drought affected areas.
- NZ HERALD STAFF
