Andrew Gee (Calare, Independent) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

The Alpha Road Hill End bushfire in March of this year was absolutely devastating for our region. Today I'd like to thank all of the generous people and organisations who came together to get relief for farmers so quickly and effectively.

Our Hill End hay drive was coordinated by local farmer Penny Hundy, who had the key assistance and support of Lions disaster relief coordinator Anne Jones and the Geurie Lions Club. I acknowledge Peter Sargent and the team at Bathurst RSL Club, which donated just over $19,000. And Tony and Rose Spina donated an amazing $10,000. Thank you, Tony and Rose. Generous donors of feed included Belinda and Brian Fanning; Natalie and David Amos, with the help of Tim Arnold; Stafford Orange; Will and Sue Johnson; Jaimie Zell; Rowan Chandler; Pete Rothwell; David and Andrew Taberner; and Alistair McDonald. Generous monetary donations came from Mudgee Lions, Ilford Public School, Kate Doherty, Nicole Hendy, K and Y Thurtell, M Roth and B and S Donoghue. Business supporters included Sussex Transport, Gilgandra Truck and Engine Repairs; Nutrien Ag Solutions Mudgee; and also On-Trac Ag in Orange.

Once again, I'm calling on the New South Wales government to activate the $75,000 special disaster grants for Hill End as a matter of urgency. It should have been done by the last New South Wales government, and it needs to be done by this one. So please, Premier Minns, step up and deliver this vital relief for our region.