31 Oct 2018
Words ResortBrokers

Letting Them Know The Coast Cares

Our brokers cover a lot of territory on their travels. So, when Gold Coast - Northern NSW agent Greg James had to head to Moree to conduct an inspection, it provided the perfect opportunity to lend a hand to a mate helping drought-ravaged farmers.

Knowing his friend, Dave Randle of Gold Coast Care Packages, had been collecting goods to donate to struggling farmers, Greg loaded his trusty van to help deliver the generous donations.

Bound for Narrabri, Greg, Dave and another friend Bruce Hale hit the road with more than four tonnes of food, water and other necessities on board the van, two utes and a covered trailer, also donated for the purpose.

Meeting them at the other end were Darrel Tiemens of the Narrabri Rotary Club and Presbyterian Church minister, Pastor Sam Smith from the Shared Table. They’re working together to see the donations distributed to those in need through a Neighbour in Need coupon system.

“They couldn’t believe the amount that had been donated by Gold Coast businesses, individuals and school children,” Greg said. “They appreciated it so much.”

Donated goods included bottled water, tinned food, noodles, cereal, long life milk, flour, rice, dog food, a range of toiletries, and many more essentials. The items are being delivered to farmers as well as to farmworkers who are often overlooked by other assistance efforts.

Greg says, while Gold Coast Care Packages usually dedicates its efforts to helping the homeless, the plight of the farming community had really tugged at their heartstrings.

“Dave doesn’t want any recognition,” he said. “He and everyone who pitched in just want to help those in need and inspire others to show some compassion. It was a real privilege to be able to play a small part and help ensure these donated goods made it to where they are so needed.

“It certainly was an eye-opener. I was told, even if the rain came tomorrow and crops planted, the awful impact of this drought on the area would be felt for another three years.”

In a cruel reminder of how fickle the weather can be, when the convoy departed the Gold Coast with their valuable cargo, the rain was bucketing down.

“We really hoped we could take it with us,” Greg said. “But I’m afraid it stopped around Warwick, before we even made the New South Wales border.

“To all the people who donated, once again many thanks. Your donations will go a long way in assisting farmers, farm hands and their families through these challenging times.”

Neighbours in Need is a registered tax-deductible project run by the Rotary Club of Narribri in partnership with the Rotary Clubs of Wee Waa and Boggabri under the umbrella of the Rotary Australia Benevolent Society.

For more information visit www.neighboursinneed.com.au or Gold Coast Care Packages at www.facebook.com/goldcoastcarepackages